A/N: I do not own or will ever own anything by Bethesda Softworks or by Obsidian and Fallout New Vegas. This is just about a regular solders journey through New Vegas and NCR.
(As a warning I am aware the grammar is rough at best...believe me I know. If you can read through it and still make sense of it, then that's all I am asking for.)
Chapter 24
Six Months Later
Arriving in front of the large gates of Camp McCarren Tristan spotted sergeant Joshua Privey and his five men guarding the entrance.
"How are you doing this morning Joshua?"
"Fine colonel, just fine."
"Glad to hear it,"he said offering the late twenties man a warm smile before turning around to his military escort,"thanks for the escort sergeant May."
"It's part of our job,"added the female staff sergeant.
"True. But I still appreciate your efforts."
"I will make sure to pass along your sentiment to the rest of the misfits."
"Could you? That would make me so happy,"he added in a fake excited tone."
"Sometimes you can be an ass colonel...no disrespect meant, sir."
"Relax Mags,"he said giving her an amused grin,"I would imagine my wife would be inclined to agree with you."
"That she would,"she said raising her hand and saluting him.
Saluting her back, Tristan made his way up to the gates and into the main camp of the NCR. Looking around at the camp he couldn't help but feel a bit of pride at the fact this was his camp now.
It had been six months since general Oliver's plot to weaken the NCR and assassinate President Kimball had been stopped. Major general Hsu went about making sweeping changes to the NCR and it's position within New Vegas. Camps were now ordered to maintain a constant wave of patrols and were now authorized to deal with problems on the spot. Caravans were now given military escort to help combat the robberies and lost deliveries that plagued the area while Oliver was in charge.
Out of the corner of his eye Tristan spotted a young woman wearing a blue beret and blue NCR trooper uniform fast approaching him. Holding her clipboard close to her chest she stopped once she was right in front of him and gave him a quick salute.
"Rachel, what's going on?"
"I have a few things that need your attention sir."
"Corporal Kimball, I thought I made it clear about bothering me when I first arrive. Unless it was from Major General Hsu, Brigadier General Moore or my wife...it was to wait until after I completed my rounds."
Nodding her head, the twenty our year old shifted through a few pieces of paper on her clipboard. "Major general Hsu has asked that you be available for lunch. He has something important he would like to discuss with you. Brigadier general Moore has requested you stop by some time next week. She would like to talk to you about reinforcements. And finally your wife called ahead and demanded you to make sure your evening is clear and I quote (get your ass back home sooner than later)."
Chuckling, Tristan reached out and placed a hand on the young corporal's shoulder. "I am sorry for snapping at you."
"It's not a problem colonel Walker."
"Rachel, remember what else I told you?"
"Yes...Tristan."
"Thank you. I will see you in my office."
"Of course sir."
Giving her a quick salute, Tristan couldn't help but be amused by her determined attempts at making sense of his orders. Corporal Rachel Powers Kimball was President Kimball's niece an a Administrative assistant in the army. After given control of Camp McCarren the president wanted to help him get adjusted to running a military camp by sending one of his best AA's. Corporal Kimball turned out to be a godsend for Tristan. Without her help and administrative skills he would have been lost in paperwork and numbers for days.
Thankfully she wasn't too harsh on him and was able to guide him through those difficult first two months until now he felt completely comfortable running the camp. Taking a deep breath, Tristan slowly made his rounds around the camp. First he came to a group of fresh recruits being instructed on proper weapon maintenance. After offering his own advice and a telling a quick joke he quietly moved on.
Approaching the shooting range he spotted 2nd lieutenant Robert Haley observing some basic drills.
"Good morning Bob."
"Good morning colonel Walker. Come to observe us?"
"Something like that."
"You hear that. Colonel Walker is watching you. So you better impressive him or else I will have you running laps all morning around the camp. Do I make myself clear!"
"Yes sir!" They all said at the same time.
Folding his arms across his desert ranger armor, he watched the men and woman fire their guns at their respective targets. Once each person finished firing the last of their rounds Tristan nodded his head in approval.
"Not bad lieutenant. I can see an improvement every time I come around. Although,"he said pulling out his marksmen carbine and firing it without looking through the scope at the furthermost target,"You seemed to miss one bull's eye,"he added in an amused tone before shouldering his weapon and moving on.
After Checking in and talking briefly with head medic Jamie Meeks, Tristan finally started to make his way towards the main terminal building. Along the way he spotted major Dhatri leaning against the nearby wall smoking a cigarette.
"Major, enjoying the morning air."
"Not really. I have been feeling a bit under the weather lately."
"Do you need to take some time off?"
"No, nothing like that. Just makes my day's that much longer."
"Fair enough. See you in a few."
"Of course."
Heading inside, he went up the broken escalators and into his office. Taking off his marksmen carbine, armor, and duster Tristan went over to his table and sat down. Immediately corporal Kimball presented with a stack of papers that required his signature. After signing them he was then given another stack required his attention. Ranging from patrol and scout information to changing the ration delivery days, he was kept busy for the next hour until he heard a small alarm going off on his watch.
"Damn. It's ten already,"he said getting up and stretching a bit.
"It is indeed. Do you want me to go ahead and prepare a few things."
"Sure,"he said grabbing his duster and clipping his gun belt back around his waist.
Once or twice a month he along with his top advisers would sit down and have a meeting to discuss anything they felt was important. Taking a drink from a bottle of apple and pear juice that Cass had made for him, he made his way out of his office and across the hall. Opening the once holding room now turned meeting room he spotted his advisers.
Major Marie Pappas was his second in command and head of all Military Police in New Vegas. Major Ryan Dhatri was third in command and was in charge of troopers inside and around McCarren. Captain John Monroe was head of Military Intelligence and in charge of their advance scout unit. Tech and Supply Officer Maria Reyes was put in charge of the entire camp's logistics. And finally veteran ranger Amy Stella and her two ranger comrades were who were now stationed at his camp.
Wanting to further the cooperation between the army and the rangers, chief Hanlon decided placed two to three rangers at every major camp. There they could along side the troopers put an end to any dangerous situations that might come arise. It was only a few days ago Stella was promoted to veteran status and given her sequoia.
"I am sorry I was away when you got promoted Amy, congratulations,"he said walking over to her and offering her his hand.
"It's not a problem Tristan,"she said shaking his hand in return.
"Can I see your sequoia?"
Looking down at her new pistol, the veteran nodded her head. "Sure."
Examining the pistol up close, he could see the words "For Honorable Service" on one end of the barrel while the other said "Against All Tyrants" on the other side.
"Impressive,"he said spinning the revolver around before handing it back to her.
"My thoughts exactly."
"Okay, before I bring up a few things...is there anything any of you would like to say first."
Looking around the room, he spotted major Pappas standing up. "Yes, Marie."
"I've been running the numbers and it I feel it's best we increase the rotation of MP's between the camps from once a month to three weeks. That way we can have an ease the time it takes between each rotation."
Nodding his head, Tristan turned to his assistant. "Rachel, write that down."
"On it."
"I will talk with the major general about this as soon as I can major. You have my word."
"That's good enough for me colonel. Oh and Captain Boyd asked me to thank you for all your help with the Omertas."
1st lieutenant Carrie Body was promoted to captain and given Marie old post of being in charge of the military on the strip. For Tristan, he did this for multiple of reasons. One, she deserved a promotion. Two, the major also deserved a promotion and deserved a chance to move on. And finally he knew having one of his ex-lovers around will be make Cass uncomfortable so it was simply easier to place her someone else.
Looking around the room, he waited for anyone else to voice their opinion on anything that was bothering them. It was then Tech/Supply Officer Reyes stood up.
"What's on your mind Maria?"
"I've noticed of lately a rash of supplies has been missing. It's nothing major...just a few cans of Pork and beans, empty casings, abraxo cleaner etc. I want your permission to purse these inquires as soon as possible."
"Of course. You have my full support to deal with who ever is responsible as you seem fit. And to help you, I will have captain Monroe lend you some of his agents. Will that work?"
"It will indeed. Thank you colonel Walker."
Once again he looked around the room to see if anyone else had something to say. After waiting for a minute he finally stood up. Taking a swig from his fruit juice, Tristan turned towards captain Monroe.
"I've read your reports and passed along the information you gave me about the Great Khans to brigadier general Moore. As for now just try and maintain a safe distance from them."
"What happens if they decide to not too?"
"Remove them. We are under no restrictions to eliminate anyone who would dare threaten us."
"Understood sir."
"Major Dhatri, how has your fire ant problem near Allied Technologies Offices coming along?"
"A little slower than I would like but were making progress. No fatalities in over two weeks."
"Good,"he said nodding his head,"just make sure we don't risk any gaps along your patrol routes. We need veteran ranger Stella and her rangers free as soon as possible."
"I will make sure it get's done."
Finally he turned to the veteran herself. Amy Stella technically didn't have to answer to him, but seeing how they were friends there was a mutual respect between the two.
"Anything you would like to add Amy?"
Leaning back into her chair, the forty something year old woman offered him a wide grin. "Oh nothing. Just wanted to wish you a happy birthday."
Seeing her amused grin Tristan simply shook his head before sighed heavily. "If that is it, I believe this meeting is done. As always if you have anything that needs me attention my office is always open to you. Now, if you will excuse me I have to prepare a meeting with the major general Hsu."
Leaving the meeting room Tristan and Rachel quickly made there way back into his office. Walking over to his desk, he picked up a photo his graduation First Recon sniper class. Glancing over at the pictures of Amy, Andrea, Manny, Boone and finally Jen, he could help but sigh to himself. It was still hard to believe that half of them were dead.
"How old are you today, sir?"
"Twenty five."
"Wow. I sometimes forget how young you are."
"Understandable corporal. I have been in the military for over nine years. Been an STF agent for over seven years and served on the front lines for over four years. Trust me...I feel a lot older than my age would say."
Nodding her head, the blacked hair woman put down her clipboard and grabbed her cup of black coffee.
"I am glad to see that you like my sister's special brew."
Taking a sip from it, Rachel lowered the mug from her face. "I do indeed. Thank you for getting it for me."
"Well I wanted to thank you for all your hard work."
"You did that by getting me a raise sir."
"Well this is just because I wanted too. Sometimes it pays to know people in high places."
"Is that why my uncle likes you so much?"
Chuckling, Tristan set down the photo back on his desk. "Nope. I gained your uncles appreciation for saving your cousin Steven's life. Then his respect for my STF work. Finally I gained his admiration for stopping the treason plot here in New Vegas."
"Fair enough. I think that's enough soul searching today colonel Walker. What do you say we get back to some of these reports we need to finish before the major general arrives?"
"As always I can count on you to get me back on the task at hand."
Three hours later Tristan was standing outside next to sergeant Privey just as the major generals military trucked arrived outside the gates of McCarren. With James needing to get around New Vegas as quickly as possible president Kimball gave him four re-purposed military trucks to use at his leisure. One was used as his primary means of transportation. The other was a backup. While the last two was used carry much need supplies or information where ever major general deemed it necessary.
Piling out of the truck, he spotted two rangers, two heavy troopers, and two first recon snipers all setting up a defensive position.
"I see you like quite a diversity array of troops for your personal guard."
"What can I say Tristan...you've made quite an impression on me."
"Is that a good thing,"he asked while shaking his hand.
"I think only time will tell,"he said back before letting go of his hand.
Fallowing him into the camp Tristan led the major general through the tents and into the main terminal. Heading through the terminal and into the mess hall he made sure they had a booth all to themselves.
"So what's on today's menu?"
"Brahmin or Bighorner meat. Your choice with a side of pork and beans and maize."
"Wow. That's better food then we had when I was in charge here."
"All thanks to you sir."
Smiling back at him, Tristan and James took their seats in the booth opposite of each other. After getting their lunch brought to them by the head cook they both began to eat and make small talk just as friends. It was after they were done eating he couldn't help but notice that general Hsu hadn't mention one thing about why he wanted to talk.
"You okay James?"
"I am good,"he said while giving him a fake smile,"so how is your daughter and wife doing?"
"Cass is doing very well. And Jen is fine. Remember you held her in your arms last week."
"Sorry I forgot,"he said taking off his general's beret,"been pretty busy lately."
Looking around, Tristan slowly leaned in. "What's going on James?"
Sighing heavily, the major general put a hand on his shoulder. "Let's talk...in private."
Nodding back at him, Tristan stood up and led them to back outside part of the camp. Moving past the back part of the training grounds they entered the main radio tower.
"Tech sergeant Griller, I need to use to this place for a bit."
"Of course colonel Walker,"he said standing up and turning to the rest of his radio team,"come boys. Lets go and get an early lunch."
"Don't worry. I will make sure Officer Reyes won't chew you out for all of leaving your post at once."
"Thanks colonel,"he said as he and rest of his team left the radio tower.
Once he heard the door finally close, Tristan turned on his old friend. "Alright, what's this about?"
"The situation with the Legion is far more urgent then we had originally predicted. I had a few veterans make it across the Colorado and report back their findings. Apparently the original Caesar (Edward Sallow) died a month ago. Where not sure how but it appears he had been suffering terrible headaches for a while. Anyways, Legate Lanius (The Monster of the East) has assumed complete control over the Legion in the area. He has been pressing the legionaries hard and massing soldiers and slaves closer and closer to the dam. It's only a matter of time before they attack it,"finished general Hsu.
Running a hand through his goatee, Tristan gave the major general a somber look. "We knew this day was coming. All our efforts to stabilize the region would not go unnoticed. At least now we have a fighting chance."
"True. But I don't know if we have enough manpower to hold the Dam if the Legion attacks in force. And with Lanius now being the new Caesar, he will not stop until they have either won or are completely wiped out."
"What about the reinforcements we got from president Kimball?"
"The patrols, which are needed has spread our forces thinner than I original had thought. Almost all the reinforcements have been assigned to help fill in gaps in our lines. Also the recruitment of a New Vegas militia has been slow to say the least. Most citizens still don't trust us, and I imagine they won't for some time to come,"he said walking over to the nearby windows and staring out into the distance.
Fallowing the general over to the window Tristan gripped the nearby railing before looking out. "What do you need me to do?"
"Tristan, I need you to become the NCR's new ambassador?"
"Ambassador? Why?" He asked slightly confused.
"If the Northern California Republic is to win this second battle of Hoover Dam and the war itself, we are going to need all the help we can get. You have the respect of the people and many groups around here that would usually would never work with us. I know you were suppose to be retired from doing things like this, but I am afraid this must done or else New Vegas will fall,"he said turning to look him in the eyes.
Staring back at his friend, Tristan took off his officer's First Recon beret and sighed heavily. "If I agree to this...what would be my limitations?"
"None. You will have complete authority to authorize treaty's, deals, and alliances as you see fit. Understand, I am putting a lot of faith and trust in you that you will do what's right for the NCR and New Vegas. We have lost too many good men and women to simple pack up and leave."
"I agree general. We've invested too much now to leave. Just...let me talk to my wife first."
Nodding his head, general Hsu put his general's beret back on his head. "I understand colonel. Take the rest of the day off. By tomorrow I need to know of your decision."
"Understood sir."
"Oh and Tristan?"
"Yes sir?"
"Happy birthday."
"Thanks."
"Tell Cass and Jen I send my love."
"Will do sir."
Watching the major general leaving, Tristan knew in his heart what the right decision was. But before he agreed to do something like this it was important to him that he get his wives approval. It was because of her that he quit the STF and it will be because of her if he agreed to take up this new task.
Walking past Dinky the dinosaur, Cass stared out at the long ruined highway number 95 that was in front of her. Squinting from the sun's strong glare, she spotted a few NCR troopers going about their patrols along the highway. Taking off her cowboy hat, she wiped some of the sweat of her brow and put her hat back on.
Grabbing her vault 21 canteen off her gun belt, she opened the top and drank about 1/3 of the purified water that was in it. Looking down at her side, she saw Hawke faithful sitting next to her.
"You want some girl?" She asked shaking the canteen.
Barking back at her, Rose slowly poured some water into the dog's mouth. Watching her lick her lips, she bent down and gave the smart dog a few quite pats on the head.
Turning around, Cassidy stared at the town she was now sworn to protect. After giving birth to her daughter on November 22 2281, she began to feel antsy once again. Sitting around and doing nothing was never her style nor did she have the patience for it. So when the newly elected mayor of Novac Cliff Briscoe asked her to become the town's sheriff, Cass couldn't refuse.
Making her way past Dino-Dee lite motel entrance, she made her way into the Sheriff's office which use to ranger Andy's former room. Opening the door, she spotted two of her deputies a male ghoul named Bill and an a Asian woman named Jessica Lang talking near the refrigerator. A third deputy (Jacob Stevens) was fast asleep on one of the nearby cots.
"Sheriff Walker, back so soon?" Asked Bill.
"Nope. Just had to use the restroom."
"Right? And I am a virgin,"stated Jessica with an amused look on her face.
"Keep it up Lang. Last time I checked we still need a volunteer for sewer duty."
"Shutting up now,"she said very quickly before going back to her sunset sarsaparilla
"Awe, what's about matter Jess? Ghoul got your tongue,"teased Bill, causing Jessica to glare daggers at him.
Chuckling to herself,Cass made her way over to the bathroom and closed the door. After using the toilet she quickly left the Sheriff's office and went back to doing her rounds. Looking directly in front of her and in the far left corner of her property she spotted the two large tents the NCR had set up for the time being. Staff sergeant Maggie May and her so called ban of ten Misfits where stationed her until a more permanent housing could be beat for them in Novac. While Sergeant May and her group were under the direct command of captain Haggerty and her company at Helios One. Their main mission was to protect the roads leading up to the 188 to the north and the roads leading south to Nipton.
Staring at the large NCR flag that now hung in the middle of their property, Cass simple shook her head with an amused grin on her face. Passing by the Soup Kitchen Diner, she could see a few building projects that were going on near the railroad tracks. On her right was the former residence of Jeanie May Crawford which now had been turned into a Follower's Medical clinic.
Leaning up against the wall and drinking a bottle of wine was Arcade Gannon (The head doctor) who had volunteered to lead the Novac branch. Immediately Hawke race past her and up the small set of steps before stopping in front of Arcade in an excited manner.
"Easy girl, I've got a bit of a headache,"he said while gently petting her.
"Hawke, come."
Turning around, Hawke quickly jogged her way back to her side. "Arcade, long morning?"
"Miss Walker, no. More like long night."
"You know drinking in the morning after being drunk the previous night is never a good thing right?"
"I know,"he added by giving her wide grin.
"What's so funny?"
"Oh nothing. Just that I remember giving you this kind of advice myself before."
Laughing, Rose gave the good doctor/scientist a brief wave before moving on. Heading back up the street, she turned right and went down the road a bit before coming up to No Bark's old place. Looking up at the bright purple and blue Neon sign that said 188 Trading, she walked into the new general store which was being run by Samuel Kerr and his daughter Michelle Kerr.
The Kerr's had been losing business ever since Novac had suddenly began to grow and proposer. And with no one locally having the means nor the experience to open a store up, mayor Briscoe asked them to set up shop here in Novac.
"Good afternoon sheriff Walker, and is that Hawke with you"said Michelle from behind the counter as she glanced down at her dog.
"Good afternoon Michelle. And Hawke is helping me with my rounds today. Isn't that right girl?"
Giving her one quick bark, Cass smiled down at her before looking back up at the store owner." How are you doing today?"
"Much better I must say. My father is sleeping right now. But he wanted to remind me to thank you for dealing with those thieves last night."
"It's not a problem. I was up anyway...so wasn't a big deal."
Nodding her head, Cass walked around the store checking out the wares when suddenly she spotted Veronica staring at stealth boy which was locked behind a glass counter.
"Renata, what a pleasant surprise."
"Cass,"she said jumping a bit before turning around with a startled look on her face.
"Did I scare you?" She asked before hugging her good friend.
"A little,"she said with an amused smile on her face.
Staring down and back the stealth boy, Rose caught on what she was doing. "Oh I get it"
"Get what?" She asked harmlessly.
"Your buying a gift for you new girlfriend aren't you?"
"What? No, I, I, I,"
"Your stalling Veronica."
"I know,"she said as a small blush suddenly appeared on her cheeks.
For the most part these past six months have been very busy for Veronica. Offering her services and advice to the NCR and Followers of Apocalypse. It was while at Camp McCarren she met and developed a bit of a crush on head researcher Angela Williams. Unfortunately the OSI's director of Easter operations Thomas Hildren would never take her advice seriously and would make sure that Williams was too busy for them to ever get any time alone. But when Tristan got Hildren transferred to Hoover Dam leaving Williams in charge at McCarren they finally got a chance to hang out. After several months of talking and being friends, Veronica finally summoned up the courage to tell her about her non-like friend feelings for her. That was barely a month ago and their new relationship was still going strong.
"Well since your here...do you think Angie would like it?"
Cass had never used a stealth boy before but she knew what they did and new they were not cheap. Looking down at the price tag, she saw the five hundred cap price the Kerr's had marked on it.
"While I imagine she would be appreciate the gift, I think that's a little too expensive."
Sighing, she finally nodded her head in approval. "True. Although I didn't hear you say the same thing about your wedding gift I got you."
"That's different and you know it."
Grinning back at her, Veronica placed a hand on her riot gear duster covered shoulder. "I know. I just wanted to tease you a bit."
"Your lucky your my friend chatterbox."
"Don't I know it,"she said continuing to grin back at her.
Grinning back at her, Rose turned and left Tristan's cousin to her shopping. Going farther down the road she could see Helios One off in the distance but the sight of Nova's cemetery was the reason she had come this way. Looking at the headstones, she spotted two in the center which always drew her attention.
One was Tristan's first wife Jennifer Lisa Walker and the one next to hers Craig Boone. With today being Tristan's 25th birthday he knew wouldn't want to make a big deal about it. For Jennifer died exactly five years ago on this day as well. Cass knew that the pain her husband once felt over losing her was gone, she knew it was still hard on him whenever his birthday came around.
While she understood this and respected his wishes of not celebrating his birthday. Rose was going to try her hardest to get him to change his mind. Giving the two graves one last look, she made her way back up the road and towards Alex's motel room. Spotting her last two deputies, Manny Vargas and African American woman named Ash leaving the dino-dee lite gift shop.
"Hey Manny!"
"Yes Cass!"
"Your in charge for the rest of the night. I've got some important plans I need to attend too."
"Not a problem Sheriff."
Reaching inside her riot gear pants pocket, she pulled out the spare key that Alex had given her and unlocked the door. Coming into Tristan's old apartment she spotted her six month pregnant best friend asleep on the bed.
Boone's death hit her hard. For the first few months she completely devoted most of her time to running her smuggling business. While she was able to double her profits very quickly Alex was going to burn herself out, something that Tristan pointed out to her. So after a few fights, long conversations and some tears, Cass was finally able to get through to her. It was in the last two months she noticed her best friend was finally starting to act like her old self once again. Albeit now being pregnant she couldn't do everything she use to.
More importantly right next to the bed was a small crib that had her daughter Jennifer Rose Walker in it. Walking over to the crib and past Hawke (who had been sitting quietly in front of it) she could see her daughter was sleeping as well. Bending down, she picked her up and gently placed her head against chest.
Looking down at her small puffs of dark reddish and brown hair, she could see her eyes slowly opening to reveal her blue gray eyes.
"It's okay sweetheart, mommies here,"she said gently rocking her daughter until she closed her eyes once more.
Looking up from her child, Cass could see a sleepy Alex slowly waking up. "Is time for you come by already?"
Looking over at the clock, she could see it was only a little after 2:00. "No it's not even four yet."
"I have something special planned for Tristan's birthday."
"That's right, sorry I forgot,"she said swinging her legs over the side of the bed and pushing herself up.
"Well considering he's not your husband I don't expect you to remember that little fact."
"True,"she said before going over to the counter and grabbing some bighorner jerky.
"Did she give you any trouble this morning?" She asked looking down at her sleeping form.
Shaking her head, Alex grabbed the baby bottle that had her breast milk in it for her. "Nope. She was a bit fussy, but after I changed her diaper and feed her it was no problem."
Taking the bottle from her, Cass put one of her many duster's pockets. "So...how are you doing?"
"I am doing better Cass. Trust me, I am over the worse now."
Seeing a sincerer look in her brown eyes, she gave her a brief smile in return. "I am glad to hear it. Well I better head home. I've got some things to do."
"Yeah, I bet you do,"she said with an amused look on her face.
Giving her best friend a quick wink, Cass left the motel room with Hawke. "Come on Hawke, we've got to prepare your father's surprise."
Grabbing the soup spoon that Veronica had given to her, Cass slowly and carefully stirred her homemade chili she had been cooking for over four hours now. Looking over at the clock she could see it was almost five. Which meant Tristan would be home any moment. Unbutton one of her buttons on her red and while long sleeve T-shirt, she spooned herself a bit of the chili. Taking a sip, she quickly shook her head.
"Not quite yet."
Putting the lid back down the cooking pot, Rose set down the soup spoon on the counter and made her way back into the living where Jennifer was laying in her crib.
"How's she doing Hawke?" She asked the dog who was busy keeping an eye on her while she was busy with the dinner.
Seeing Hawke wag her tail in an excited manner Cassidy leaned over the edge of the crib to see her daughter wide awake. Picking her up, she carefully brought her over to the couch and sat down. "Someone's up late tonight."
Staring back at her, she couldn't help but smile back. If someone would have told her a year ago she would be wife and mother she would have told them they were out of their fucking mind. But as she sat their staring at her beautiful daughter's face, she knew this was the best thing to ever happen to her. Hearing the door unlocking Cass turned around to see her husband finally make his way home.
"About time soldier boy...what happen to being here sometime around four?"
"Something important came up."
Seeing the tired look on his face Rose decided to not purse her teasing. Watching him walk over to the gun cabinet and put away his weapons, she offered him an encouraging smile before turning back to Jennifer. Rocking her child back forth she suddenly felt him put his hands on her shoulders.
"Can I hold her?"
"I guess,"she said standing up and passing her to him,"after all, you are her father."
"Thanks Cass,"he said leaning over and kissing her softly,"I love you too."
"Not as much as I love you."
Smiling back at her she saw him turned his complete attention on their daughter. "Hey sweetie, daddy's back."
Hearing her giggle slightly, Cass went around the edge of the couch to see Jen with her tiny hand had grabbed a hold of his right thumb. "How the hell did you get her to do that?"
"I don't know. Maybe's it's because she's going to be a daddy's girl."
"In your dreams soldier boy. Jen's going to take after her me."
Laughing, Tristan bent down and kissed the top of their daughter's head. "My little angel."
Passing Jen back to her, Cass could see she was getting ready to start crying. Rocking her gentle in her arms she was able to calm her daughter down before she could shed a single tear. Walking back over to the couch she sat down and slowly unbutton her shirt. Exposing her right breast, she brought Jen up to her nipple and felt her latch on.
Letting her feed on her milk for a unknown amount of time she finally felt Jennifer remove her mouth from her nipple. Looking down at her face she could see a little access milk was on the side of her mouth. Leaning over, she grabbed a nearby towel and wiped the excess milk of her face. Butting back up her shirt, Cass looked up to see that Tristan had changed into his pre-war clothes as well.
"Can you take her? I've really got to check on our dinner."
"My pleasure,"he said before taking Jennifer from her and sitting down on the couch with Hawke quickly hopping up near his feet.
Grabbing the soup spoon once again she stirred the chili and grabbed a small sample of it out of the pot. Taking a sip, she nodded her head. "Yep. That's perfect."
Turning off the burner, Cass grabbed the edges of the pot and removed it from the heat source. Walking back over to the couch and sitting down next to her husband she could see that Jen had already fallen asleep in his arms.
Laying her head on his shoulder she felt him wrap his left arm around her shoulder. Closing her eyes, she sighed in content. "Tristan, I know you don't like to celebrate your birthday...but I got you something."
Opening her gray eyes, she could see he was staring down at their sleeping daughter. "You didn't have too."
"I am aware. But I wanted too."
Looking at her he offered her a warm smile. "By all means."
Standing up, she made her through the kitchen and into the storage area. Grabbing the gift of the counter she made her way back into the living to see that Tristan had put Jen back in her crib. Taking her seat next to him Rose gently placed the box into his lap. Seeing Hawke sniff the package Cass chuckled lightly back at the dog.
"Silly girl. Always thinking with your nose."
Laying her head back down, Tristan smiled back at their dog before proceeding to open the gift. Watching her husband slowly take off the lid she saw him look strangely at the back of a pre-war book. Picking up the book, he met her gaze before flipping it over.
On the cover was the words (OUR FAMILY) with a picture of them kissing on their wedding day. Their wedding which was only ten days ago was a low key affair that they had right here in there house. Glancing down at the white formal wear dress that Veronica and Alex had picked out for her Cass turned to see Tristan staring down at the photo book with excited look on his face.
"Cass..."
"Shh,"she said putting her finger on his lips,"just open it."
Flipping open the book, she watched him look through a series of pictures of them. Flipping past the pictures of them as kids he suddenly stopped and pointed at one. In it, Cass and Tristan were holding up a contract while shaking hands.
"I remember that one. It was taken right after we signed our contract to back your caravan company."
"Indeed,"she said smiling back at him.
Watching him flip past several other pictures he finally came to one that made him look at her with a surprise look on her face. Immediately Cass knew why he was staring at her like that. In the photo book she included a few from Tristan wedding to Jen. Including one of all three of them together.
"Don't question it soldier boy...just keep looking."
"Yes ma'am"he replied with an amused look on his face.
Moving through to some more recent ones Rose spotted him chuckling at the picture he had taken off her after she got all dolled up from her girl night with Veronica.
"You actually put this one in here."
"Yes, even though I don't think it's a good picture of me. I knew you like it."
Grinning back at her, Tristan started flipping through the rest of the photo-book until he came to the last page that had photos in it. Looking down, she could see him running his fingers of the last picture. In it was all of them. Tristan had his arm around her while looking down at her. Cass was holding their one month old daughter while staring at him as Hawke was sitting down in front of Tristan looking at Jen.
Closing the photo-book, he took a few extra moments to look at the cover photo one last time before setting it down on the coffee table. Standing up, he held his hand out to her. Giving him a curious look, she slowly took his hand.
"Hawke, watch over Jen for us?"
Jumping off the couch, the smart dog circled around the crib before curling up and laying down in front of it. Leading them down the hallway and into their bedroom, Cass barely turned around from closing the door when suddenly he crushed his lips against hers. Responding immediately to his kiss she eagerly started kissing him back. Pushing her up against the door, she felt him unbuttoning her long sleeve shirt until he completely exposed her breasts to him.
Never breaking the passion filled kiss, she easily slipped off his long sleeve blue and white shirt before grabbing at the bottom of his whiter under shirt. Taking his hands away from her body he held up his arms and let her remove the shirt over his head. Running her hands over his back, Cass stopped a little when she felt him touch her now extra sensitive breasts.
Being gently with them he quickly removed his mouth from hers and started kissing and sucking on the side of her neck. Panting, Rose was nothing more than putty his hands as he started kissing her entire body making her shudder in pleasure.
Reaching her pants, she felt him unsnap the button and pull them down to her ankles. Feeling him stop with his hot kisses, she looked down to see a slight surprise look on his face. In her lust clouded mind she didn't know why he was giving her that look. It was she remembered she hadn't put on any panties after her bath.
Giving him a seductive grin, she was quickly forced to close her eyes when she felt his tongue on her vagina. Bracing herself against the door, she could feel his tongue licking the her folds with an increase intensity with every lick. When he pushed his tongue inside her Cass immediately reached down and started running her fingers through his hair. Panting eve more, she could feel an orgasm fast approaching from her husband's skillful tongue. Finally she felt the dam breaking and cried out at as her orgasm ripped through her body.
Pulling his tongue out of her she opened her eyes to see him staring up at her. The passion and desire she saw in his blue eyes quickly made her ready for round two. Pulling him up, she started to immediately kiss again even though she could taste herself on his lips. Pushing him back towards the bed, her hands went to work removing his own pants. Once she got them unzipped she pulled away from his kiss to yank them down the rest of the way. Letting him step out of his pants she grabbed the top of his boxers and quickly removed them as well.
Staring at him at his naked body Cassidy only hesitated for a second before crushing her lips against his once more. Feeling his tongue inside her mouth she felt him pick her up by the ass and swing them around. Gently laying her on the bed, she could feel his penis brush right up against her wet outer lips causing her moan.
Before she react he slide into her in one quick motion causing her to moan into his mouth again. Immediately he started to thrust quickly inside her, which was exactly what she wanted. The way it started Cass didn't want their loving making to be slow. No she wanted hard and fast.
Feeling him getting deeper and deeper into her willing body she started to grip his back in pleasure. Taking away his mouth from her lips, he quickly attached himself to the sensitive side of her neck/collar.
"Faster Tristan! Faster!"
His response was immediate as she felt him increase the speed of his thrusts until he was pounding away against her. Wrapping her legs around his waist, she suddenly felt him reach even deeper into her causing the pleasure to shoot up even more.
"Oh God Tristan!" She shouted when her second more intense orgasm suddenly overwhelmed her body.
Clamping down on his penis, she felt him thrust one more time as far as he could into her before feeling the first burst of his semen hitting the back of her womb. That was quickly fallowed by a second, third and slightly smaller fourth and finally even smaller fifth one. Feeling her womb bloat slightly from the amount of semen he had pumped into her. Cass knew she would have been impregnated had she not taken the anti-pregnancy pill when she got home.
Recovering from the intense amount of pleasure she was feel still feeling from their amazing love making, she finally opened her eyes once again.
"My God soldier boy,"she said still breathless,"where did that come from?"
"I don't know. I just really wanted you."
"Remind me to never stop you when you really want it,"she said causing both of them chuckle slightly.
Pulling himself out of her, he slowly laid down next to her. Lifting up her tired body, she laid her her head on his sweaty chest and waited for her breathing to finally return to normal. Tracing her finger across his chest Cass felt him him lead down and kiss the top of her head.
"You know I love you right?"
Taking her head off his chest, she looked up to meet his blue gaze. "I know. I love you too."
Seeing a troubled look on his face, Cass gave a confused look. "What's wrong?"
"Major general Hsu offered me a new job."
"A new job? Why?"
"He wants me to become the NCR's new ambassador."
"What about ambassador Crocker?"
"He would become my emissary."
"Is this a permanent job?" She asked wondering what Tristan's boss was thinking.
"No,"he added by shaking his head,"I am to recruit as many allies as I can for the upcoming battle with the Legion. Afterwords, I will go back to my post at Camp McCarren."
Sighing heavily, Cass finally understood what was going on. The NCR was going to need help if they planned on winning the war with the Caesar's Legion. And with her husband's eminence reputation around New Vegas he was the best candidate to get the other major groups to work with them.
"I don't understand. Why are you troubled by this?"
"Cause it would mean going back out there and putting myself in unnecessary danger again. Something I promised you that I was done doing."
Giving him a sympathetic look, Rose lifted up her body until she was level with his face. "Tristan, your apart of the army and I am a sheriff...were always in danger."
"I know but..."
Kissing him, she silenced him before he could finish his sentence. Pulling back from her kiss, he placed a hand on the side of his cheek. "While I do want you around for a long time, I know we have everything riding on this upcoming battle. The only way we can live the rest of our lives in something close to what you call peace is by defeating the Legion here. If that means you have to get back out there...then so be it. You have my full support. And besides, I will be right there with you whenever you need me."
Smiling down at her he took her hand on his cheek and gave it a soft kiss. "What about your job?"
"Manny and others can cover for me. I think helping to save the entire area takes president over being a sheriff over one town."
Nodding his head in agreement, Tristan pulled her body into a tight side hug. "Thanks. I told James I wouldn't agree to this unless I had your support."
Pulling back, Cass offered him a small grin. "And I appreciate that. But this needs to be done if we plan on living the rest of our lives here in New Vegas."
"Indeed."
"Well I am glad that's settle,"she said pulling away from his body and climbing out of the bed,"cause I am hungry."
Picking up her clothes, she went to work in putting them back on until she was fully dressed Glancing over to the right, Rose could see her husband was also fully dressed as well and was staring at her with an amused look on his face. "Besides, I know you want to a lot of effort in making that chili for me."
"Damn right I did. You better enjoy it."
"Oh I am sure I will my love, I am sure I will."
Beaming back at him, he came over and took her hand in his. "What?"
"Nothing Rose. Just thank you for making my birthday something I want to actually remember."
"It's not a problem soldier boy. I will always be there for you."
A/N: If you haven't read my Part One story, I recommend you do. As some of the characters and background might not make any sense to you. I welcome any reviews or comments about my story.