Lilith and Ficfangirl are awesome. All errors are mine.

Welcome new followers, favorites and readers. Thank you for the PM's and reviews. They were insightful and funny. To those who have been around since the beginning, you're encouragement means the world to me. Thank you.

~ J *+* D ~

"Though the sex to which I belong is considered weak – you will nevertheless find me a rock that bends to no wind."

~ Elizabeth l ~

Chapter 29

Bella

Sitting next to Edward, watching him as he sleeps, I marvel at how long his eyelashes are as they rest against his cheekbone. They too are tinged with the various shades of brown, red and gold as his hair, which has grown quickly since the first night I met him two months ago. I wish the yellow and greenish bruises which stain his handsome face and upper body would fade. They're a constant reminder of all that he's been through and I desperately want him whole again. 'Patience, Bella. Patience!' I silently scold myself, shaking my head and try to think pleasant thoughts.

One immediately comes to mind, as I quietly snicker, thinking of this morning's conversation. It's amusing that Alice and I were on the same wavelength with our desires of future intimacies. In the past, both of us had talked about a happily ever after. Usually our idle chitchat and daydreams were in the form of fairy tales. I would dream about my prince racing in and slaying my dragon. My hoary beast was in the form of Riley Biers. My prince would strike him with his golden sword and poof…he'd vanish in to thin air.

I would be free to become the person I was always meant to be. A girl able to walk fearlessly in the world and not locked away in a prison tower of her own making. Instead, I'd learned well how to be the others - Billy the ruffian; Tanya the ballad singer and even Angela the nun. I'm just learning to be me and I'm finding I like who I am.

The ironic part is, it's not a prince who helped me to come out of my shell. He's a fallen priest, a convicted murderer and an escaped felon. The type of man you hear girls giggle about and parents tell those same girls to 'stay away from the likes of them, only loose women with no moral value would associate with such a man.' I knew I was no such person. More importantly, I knew Edward wasn't any of those men. Gazing down upon Edward's peaceful face, I silently christen him my King of Hearts. He truly rules over mine and I will never regret it.

Thinking back on this morning, my original intent was to talk to Esme about bandaging Edward's ribs with the idea of using the same type of contrivance I use to bind my breasts. The separating fastener Alice used on my clothes has helped me change quickly from one form of dress to another. If we used this same fastener for binding Edward's ribs, it would put less stress on him and his wound when his bandages were changed. However, Esme pointed out that the fasteners were too long and would cover the infected sores on his back. They would heal more quickly with salve and fresh air. She did, however, think the idea was an interesting one.

Edward is becoming restless and my hand automatically runs through his clean, soft hair. A contented sigh escapes his full lips and a small smile lifts in the corners. His reaction, in turn, causes mine to turn up. He truly is a fine specimen of a man and, while he sleeps, I'm able to openly admire him. His nose has a little bump from where it was broken. Once he starts eating better his shallow cheeks will fill out and his cheekbones won't look so sharp. I do have to watch myself to keep from letting my hands wander to his broad shoulders, his finely muscled arms, his chiseled chest or his defined stomach. So many options to choose from. It's rewarding to know he will fully recover and the world won't be deprived of such a beautiful man.

A shudder runs up my spine when I remember my fear at seeing the changes in him during our last visit or worse yet, during the extraction. It was all I could do to keep from breaking down during the long drive. The hours felt like days. Edward was so deathly pale and quiet, I dreaded the worst. I was both relieved and troubled when I was told I couldn't be in the room while Carlisle and Esme tended to his injuries. Relieved because I know I would have cried as they repaired the holes from the bullet. I was troubled because if he lost the battle and I wasn't there to hold his hand in the final moments of his life, he wouldn't know someone cared for him as deeply as I do. Fate was on our side and I believe the Cullens are miracle workers. They saved him and, in turn, saved me from certain heartache.

It's been three days and Edward is making amazing progress on his road to recovery. The first day was trying. Even though I knew he would be sleeping a lot, there were times I wanted to poke him from his stillness to reassure myself he was still alive. I did restrain myself when I found that if I stopped playing with his hair, he would became restless. I stayed up all night doing just that or lightly touching his face to ensure he got the rest he needed.

It was also eye opening because it was the first time I was ever kissed by a man on the mouth. My stomach did a crazy flip, my toes curled and I felt warm all over. If he wasn't injured, who knows, I might have attacked him. When suppertime came, I tried to tempt him with the broth Esme made for him and he refused to eat. I jokingly bargained with him. 'If you drink it all, I will reward you with a kiss.' I honestly thought he would tell me it wasn't worth it, but I was so wrong.

It got his attention and his eyes sparked to life. He took the bowl from me and within eight large gulps he drank the broth and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. He handed me back the bowl, asked for the cup of water, drank a sip, smiled and pointed to his mouth.

He looked so proud that I giggled at first. It was also a bit nerve wracking, but I had to pay up. Not that I didn't want to kiss him again. I did! I was out of my element at following through with such a bold statement. But, I gave myself a quick pep talk, lowered my head and gently touched my lips to his. He raised a hand behind my head and kept me where he wanted me. Gently moving his lips against mine as he pulled me closer and it was sheer ecstasy.

When we broke our seal and rested our foreheads together he murmured, "I like your reward system."

I lightly giggled, "I like your kiss. I didn't think you would take me up on the offer."

"Only with you is that an offer I will not pass on, Bella." His warm breath fanned my mouth as he murmured, "Your lips are so soft. Promise me we'll be doing this again."

"I promise, if…" I quietly laughed when he opened his eyes and they shot to mine.

"If what?" He whispers.

"If you promise to eat everything put before you and get better soon," I smiled, now positive he would.

"I promise. In fact, I think we should seal the deal." He grinned and recaptured my lips once again in a very satisfying pact.

~ J *+* D ~

From that point on, Edward refused to take his meals with anyone else. No one knew about our reward system and I wasn't about to tell. Besides, I benefited from it just as much as he did.

Edward was awake when I entered his room yesterday afternoon with his meal. Actually, it was my startled yell at Peter that woke him. He was extremely agitated when I came in and I worried he was in pain. I set the tray down and immediately went and sat on the side of the bed next to him. "What's wrong? Are you in pain?" I softly inquired, as I cupped the side of his face and inched my fingers towards the side of his head. Next thing I know, I'm engulfed in a tight, warm embrace. With my free hand I quickly grabbed onto the headboard trying to keep my balance, fearing I might put too much pressure on his stitches or hurt his ribs. He didn't let go though. I felt his heart beating wildly against my chest and couldn't help but ask again, "Edward, what is it? Are you okay?"

"I am now. I heard you shout and I was concerned. I was afraid something was wrong." He shivered and tightened his hold. "I felt so helpless trying to figure out where my clothes were and a way to help you with only a sheet as a weapon." He exhaled loudly. "Things seemed to settle down out there and I've been going stir crazy in here wondering what was going on," he mumbled into the crook of my neck.

And then he softly kissed me below my ear. I relaxed instantly and relished the quivers that danced along my skin when I understood his distress. "I'm sorry you were anxious." My breathing was unsteady due to the sensations he created. "Peter's arrived. I guess the others were playing a practical joke on him and I wasn't in on it. I'd just woken from a nap and he startled me." My toes curled and I almost couldn't talk anymore as I reassured him, "Everything's fine."

He wouldn't release his hold when I tried to pull back. It was as if he'd taken up residence nestled in my neck. His light beard tickled, his lips continued to press light kisses and my heart fluttered. "I can feel the pulse of your heart. It's beating fast," he mumbled. "Right here," proving his point by kissing there again and my heart leaped to a quicker tempo.

"You do that to me," I whispered, savoring the intimacy.

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" his husky voice vibrated against my skin, as he placed little kisses along the area as if trying to discover if he could make the beat harder, or faster, or maybe both.

"It's a very good thing." And it was, but I'm still worried about his injured ribs. I battled my senses for control and tried for a distraction, "I brought you your lunch. Your soup will get cold if you don't eat it now."

He ignored me as he spread tiny kisses up to my ear, which caused me to tremble, and I softly moaned at how good it felt. "I like what I'm doing right now. I like holding you next to me and kissing you right here." He found my weakness and all I wanted to do was melt into him.

"How about this? You eat your soup and I'll let you do this again. Maybe I'll even return the favor so you know exactly how good it feels," I gasped out a compromise.

"Are you changing the terms of our pact?" He breathed out his question on the wet patch he'd created. It warmed my skin and sent blood rushing to my head.

"It's an addendum. I don't want to miss out on the kissing part," I deftly negotiated.

"Agreed." With one final squeeze he reluctantly removed his arms and I was able to safely move away. Lightheaded and giddy, I picked up his bowl and when I turned to look at him again, he had become pensive.

"What is it?" I asked, concerned by his abrupt broodiness.

At first, he was hesitant to answer, his beautiful green eyes revealed uncertainty and concern. It was so unexpected, I instantly had those same emotions running through my head. I thought he liked our kissing? Maybe he's changed his mind on the bargain? How will I be able to be near him? His eyes held mine captive as he whispered, "I've never felt like this before. If that was inappropriate or I'm pushing you too far, Bella, you only need to tell me. You know you don't have to do anything you don't want to."

I sighed in relief as I cleared my head from its wild tangent. "Edward, I like your kissing. It's something new to me. You make me feel wanted and cherished." He smiled sweetly and started to speak, but I held up a finger to hush him and hurried on. "I also need you to get stronger. We're going to need to leave here soon." His expression changed again as his forehead furrowed in confusion.

"We can't put Carlisle and Esme in harm's way. The law was here yesterday and we all think they will be back. That's the only reason I wanted you to stop and eat." Worry was firmly etched his brow. No one wanted to tell Edward about the visitors. I didn't either, but it was better for him to know how much we needed him to regain his strength and quickly.

After a few moments, understanding settled in and he accepted my reasoning. "Fine, I'll eat and start moving around more. You're right, Carlisle and Esme need to see us gone and soon. They've done so much as it is – everyone has."

His gaze roamed my features as if memorizing them and when his eyes locked with mine, his were debating if he should speak his next thought. Finally, his decision made, he quietly began, "Bella, you need to know that I have never once desired to show affection to anyone before you. I never once wanted or needed to feel the touch of another human being. You've given me comfort and have made me feel cherished." He paused for a moment to give me time to absorb his words.

When I smiled, he continued, "I don't have firsthand knowledge about relationships or how they work other than for being truthful and faithful. What I need to know is if you think there is a chance of one for us. Is that even something you want?" His eyes willed mine to speak the truth.

"Yes," I whispered my simple and honest answer. I was happier than I could ever remember being. To prove it, I leaned down and whispered, "Let's seal it with a kiss." We moved at the same time and I felt his smile in the sweetness of the kiss. Suddenly, it changed and became more passionate. When I pulled back, we were both breathless and pure joy was sparkling in his eyes. I'm sure mine reflected the same sentiment.

~ J *+* D ~

Today he's more lucid and we've spent hours talking. We're two people getting to know one another. Sitting side by side, pillows behind us, leaning up against the headboard, I finally tell him my story. He learns about the birth of Billy, the reason behind Angela and Tanya and how the Warden fit into the picture. He isn't happy about that aspect. He immediately understands the security I feel when I put on the disguises. He admits he felt naked when he was divested of his cassock upon his initial incarceration. Putting on prison garb was foreign to him and with his new prison name, he found he could lose himself, making it easier to accept that one life had ended and the chain gang was his new beginning.

He enlightens me more about his crisis of faith and reiterates his intention to never return to the church. Circumstances have led him down another road. For now, he looks forward to the future in the hopes of seeing his judgment day. I confess that he is the catalyst allowing me to come out of hiding. When I admit Riley still frightens me, it's Edward who soothes me in a warm embrace. "You would have made a good priest. You're very good at comforting."

He chuckles deeply. "I learned it from you. As a priest, I would never have embraced or even touched another person like I do you. You make me feel special," he murmurs into my hair and gently tightens his hold.

"You are special," I return as I lightly kiss his jaw.

"So are you," he replies with a catch in his voice.

It's my turn to take advantage of my position, kissing his jaw, up his neck, finding his pulse point, and nipping at his earlobe. He groans in pleasure. A knock on the door instantly puts a halt to our play as I immediately pull back. Edward's eyes are still closed and I wish mine were too, when Carlisle enters the room.

"Are you okay, Edward?" Carlisle asks, eying his patient and then me, sitting so close to him. I blush at his inquisitive eyes.

Edward smiles and finally opens his. He gazes at me for a moment and then focuses on Carlisle as he replies, "Getting stronger by the hour, Carlisle, thank you." His tone changes and becomes somber. "Thank you for everything you've done for me and everyone here. Bella told me about the visitors you had. I can't be a burden on you. How much longer do you think it'll be before I'm in good enough shape to travel?"

Carlisle sits on the other side of the bed and pulls back the blanket and the padding on his stomach, revealing his wound. It's not as angry looking as it was yesterday, but still red and swollen. "Your body is healing remarkably well, considering all you've been through. The one good thing about working on the chain gang is, it made you strong. I'd give it a day or so more. I don't think the deputies will be back that soon. If the other properties around here haven't seen anyone suspicious, I'm hoping they won't come back at all. We'll get you up and walking around tonight and see how you feel," Carlisle replies as he applies fresh salve and new padding back on the wound and replaces the sheet and blanket to his chest.

He stands up from the bed and glances back at us from one to the other. "Just don't strain yourself and you should be fine." He smiles and winks as he leaves the room, closing the door behind him. I think I blush from the roots of my hair all the way to the tips of my toes. When I raise my eyes to Edward's, I can see his cheeks are pink also and it's the first natural coloring I've seen on him in days.

"I feel like a kid caught with her hand in the candy jar," I mutter, embarrassed.

"You still owe me a kiss for eating my meal," Edward reminds me, ignoring my comment, as he grabs my hand and entwines ours fingers. I lean towards him and before our lips meet, I accidentally lick his and mine at the same time. My mouth had become dry due to my discomfiture. But oh, the results were revealing; so stimulating. I lightly gasp and he's kissing me more forcefully.

We pause to catch our breaths and he pulls me closer as he licks my lower lip. He groans when I open my mouth a bit more and I breathe in his warm breath. My heart flutters when I feel his warm tongue seeking entrance. It's a foreign invasion of a pleasing nature. I tentatively move mine against his and the feeling is oh, so very good.

We reluctantly stop our explorations when we need to breathe again. We're learning, Edward and me. We're two novices in life's lesson of intimacy. As I make Edward comfortable for a nap, I think back to the earlier conversation I had with Esme and Alice. Yes, I can see where the benefits lie in the items she gave us. I smile down at Edward as he closes his eyes. I hope he'll want to continue our explorations.

~ J *+* D ~

"Love sought is good, but given unsought, is better."

~ William Shakespeare ~

Rose

It's Thursday morning and I'm helping set the table for breakfast, feeling like the ninth wheel in this house filled with perfectly matched couples. Not that I'm jealous, no, far from it. I'm envious if anything, especially of Edward. We had a conversation yesterday while Bella was taking a catnap. He was surprisingly alert considering the drugs he'd been given. Carlisle is already weaning him off the laudanum, striving to keep him awake longer during the day. Getting him to walk around to stretch his muscles so he will be exhausted and sleep through the night. Carlisle doesn't believe in the concept of complete bed rest until injuries are fully healed. He feels it's harder for patients to regain their strength, if their muscles became weaker or atrophy from nonuse. His philosophy is, the sooner the patient is up and about, the sooner they will recover.

Edward's mind and body grew accustomed to pain while he was in prison. Something I tried hard not to think about. Not that he told me the grim details. Those I learned by seeing the bruising and swelling of his face, and from Jasper's detailed account of his treatment. We didn't talk about the trial and I didn't enlighten him about the things I'd discovered. Not that Edward had asked about his case or our investigation. We were both keeping tight-lipped about certain subjects. They would need to be discussed, but not now. Now was the time for healing and looking to the immediate future.

With that thought in mind, I'd asked, "Do you plan on returning to the priesthood?" I was curious, since it was obvious that Bella was in love with him and he seemed to return her feelings. They were always holding hands or touching in some way. They looked very cozy with each other. I shuddered to myself with a vision of him rejoining and mocking his vows or turning into Mr. Newton.

If that was the case, then I felt it only fair he let Bella know now and let her down easy. It didn't surprise me one iota when he gave me a derisive snort, followed by an emphatic, "No!" I marveled and wondered at his attitude. He explained it by simply stating, "I don't believe in the things I used to. Beliefs change, people change, as does one's life. I'm not sure of my future occupation. Bella and I have only just started discussing it. But, I want her in my life and the church would frown at the idea if I were a priest." And he smirked playfully at me.

I smiled with him and didn't have the heart to tell him about Mr. Newton. Instead, my mind clicked on what he just said. I smiled wider when I realized Edward is just as besotted with Bella. It's wonderful to see and I'm truly happy for them.

~ J *+* D ~

As I'm placing another plate on the table, my mind returns to the here and now. I hear what everyone else does, the sound of a vehicle coming up the drive. We're all on high alert listening to the dogs barking up a storm. Fearing the law has returned, Jasper, Alice, Peter and Charlotte disappear upstairs. I follow Esme and Carlisle out the front door and onto the veranda. My heart leaps into my throat when I recognize the driver. I rub my eyes in confusion and Esme calls the dogs to her. I'm positive I'm seeing a mirage. I gasp when I realize he's real and he's here.

Esme must have heard me, as she whispers, "Do you know who he is?"

"Yes, it's Emmett McCarty, the guard from the prison. He's the one who's been watching out for Edward and Jasper. He's Bella's and Alice's friend," I ramble as I watch him slowly get out of the truck, cautious of the dogs, while shutting the door. My eyes roam over his body and then search his face. His expression is serious at first, as he looks me up and down. Then his smile is brilliant as our eyes connect.

"I think he's just as happy to see you, as you seem to be to see him," Esme chuckles. "Carlisle, let's leave these two alone to say hello." From the corner of my eye, I see her grab Carlisle's arm and command the dogs to come, returning inside the house and leaving me alone to welcome him.

I can't move. I don't understand this frozen stance I'm maintaining. I'd thought of this exact moment, when I'd see him again, and all the things I'd love to do. Simple things like running and jumping into his arms. Now that he's actually here, my feet refuse to move. Luckily, his do, as he slowly ambles up the steps.

"Hi, Rose. I wasn't sure you'd be here. It's good to see, again," he greets me as he walks closer. Then when he's inches from me, he quietly probes, "Are you my personal welcome committee?"

His captivating voice is paralyzing me. It took a moment for my brain to understand his words. I stand still, my heart pounding, simply staring at his handsome features. I'm finally able to quietly offer, "Yes, Emmett. I'm your personal welcome committee." Then my senses explode and I act without thinking. I grab his face and pull it down to mine. I kiss him hard as he pulls me tightly into his warm, strong embrace and kisses me back just as hard.

When we take a moment to breathe, Emmett kisses me on my forehead and mumbles, "It's so good to see you, Rose, so very good."

"You, too, Emmett. I've been worried about you. But you look well. When do you have to return to work?" I ask between placing little kisses along his jaw line.

"I don't, but I'll go into all the details when everyone is together. I assume everyone is still here. How's Edward?" he asks as he squeezes me once more and then moves me back.

"He's doing very well. Bella has been practically his sole caregiver. And trust me when I say, it's his choice of nursemaids," I lightly chuckle. Emmett's look is one of amazement, his smile genuinely happy at the prospect of Bella and Edward becoming closer.

There's a knock on the door from inside the house. We both look over and move further apart as it suddenly opens and Alice is beside him in a flash, hugging him tightly. "Emmett, it's so good to see you. I've been so worried."

"It's good to see you too, Alice. Seth and Nettie send their best." He returns her embrace softly and kisses her cheek.

Next, Alice is tugging on his arm, telling him to come inside as everyone is anxiously waiting to greet him. I smile at them, knowing I'd be getting to spend some alone time with him later. I can share for now.

Everyone is happy to see Emmett as he returns greetings. He's introduced to Carlisle and Esme who graciously welcome and thank him for helping Edward and Jasper. He profusely thanks both of them for taking care of Edward and for housing the rest of the group.

"It's the gang, Emmett." I laugh as he squints his eyes and furrows his brow at me. "That's how everyone here seems to be referring to themselves lately, 'The Gang.'"

Jasper joking suggests, "The Whitlock Gang."

"Why do you get top billing?" I teasingly argue.

He flashed his wicked smile, "I can play nicely. Do you have another suggestion? The Rose Gang, perhaps? Do we look pretty and smell sweet?"

I wrinkle my nose at him. "How about the Masen/Whitlock Gang? It's because of the two of you that we're all here together," I suggest, wondering how he'll handle second billing. He actually smiles and nods his head, until Peter butts in.

"No can do, Rose. I would follow Jasper to the ends of the earth. Edward hasn't proven himself yet, so the name has to be the Whitlock/Masen Gang." He's so adamant in his stance all I can do is laugh, which creates a ripple effect throughout the sitting room where the laughter explodes. I think Peter was very proud of himself.

~ J *+* D ~

While I set another place at the breakfast table, Emmett went in to speak with Bella and Edward. About ten minutes later he returns to the dining room with a contented smile on his face. I know that expression, it's one that says the fickle hand of fate has finally changed and the future is looking brighter. Edward is alive and doing 'remarkably well' as Carlisle would say, and Emmett helped play a key role in making it happen.

Once everyone is seated with their plates filled, all eyes focus on Emmett. He explains what happened with the other guards, including the death of Lahote. Yes, Crowley intentionally shot him. When we're told that the Warden had basically hired Lahote to take out Edward, most of us lose our appetites. We sit in stunned silence when Emmett mentions he has proof and how it came about.

He looks at me, and his next remark leaves me knowing my face must show my need to view these documents. "I'll give you the letters and notes from both Edward's and Jasper's files after breakfast." I quell my curiosity for now as he continues his story including his firing by the Warden and having his home searched for Edward and Jasper, not once, but twice. The second time, Emmett became furious and the search party agreed the Warden was off his rocker if he thought a guard would harbor escaped convicts in his own home. The search was still continuing and so far none of the inmates had been found. Peter told him about Silver and Slider. Emmett smiled at Peter and simply replied, "Thank you."

Emmett explains that he had followed Seth's advice to be seen around town after the escape. Emmett went so far as to show up in two of the local bars, pretending to drown his sorrows and complain about the unfairness of it all. He spoke to any who would listen that he did not do anything wrong, but the Warden had an issue with him because of some singer named Tanya that he'd never even flirted with. A few off duty guards had witnessed the Warden's infatuation with Tanya and agreed with him. One said that the Warden would probably be happier if he knew McCarty left town and was no longer a rival for Tanya's affections. The others agreed. Emmett made a big production of finally coming to terms with his decision to leave for a while to escape the Warden's harassment. The guards said they would make sure word got around to the Warden that it was their idea to run Emmett out of town. Hopefully, the Warden will leave his home alone and get over his immense dislike.

It was the outcome Emmett was trying to achieve and he succeeded. He didn't want to leave with questions hanging in the air. Having someone tell him to leave for a while appeared smarter. That was last night and here he is this morning, making good on his promise.

~ J *+* D ~

After breakfast, Emmett and I hold hands as we take a walk behind the house. "What are your plans now, Emmett?"

He ducks his head and then smiles shyly at me. "Well, to be honest, I needed to see that Edward was still alive and everyone was safe. Then I planned on catching a train and heading for Houston."

A thrill shoots through me at his words, but I don't want to assume I understand his meaning. I need him to say exactly what he wants. So I tease, "What's in Houston?"

He stops our progression into the fields as he takes my free hand in his, his eyes watchful of mine. "Nothing now. You're standing right in front of me." My heart stops. Then it starts pounding with a vengeance. "Rose, I've never been as attracted to a woman as I am with you. I want to get to know you. I want you to give me a chance to see if the attraction is mutual. Is that something you'd be willing to investigate?"

Oh, he didn't play fair using my occupation in his confession. Not that I would quibble about its use – not at all. His thoughts are in line with mine and I'm not about playing games. "Most assuredly, Emmett. You see, I'm very attracted to you, too. Do you think I'd have greeted you the way I did if I felt differently?" I raise a brow at him.

He smiles as he shakes his head. "No, no, I don't. I just want to be open with my intentions. I'm a straightforward kind of guy. I don't want this to be a little diversion for you. I want to help you clear Edward and Jasper. Once that's fulfilled, I want to see if there could be a future for us."

A future for us! My heart stops again. He doesn't know anything about my history. He doesn't know that I'm well off. He's only seen me as a person who's working to save a man from an unjust system. He knows me as a woman who has helped in hiding criminals. He only knows me as a woman trying to right a wrong and taking chances with her own career. He's not trying to tell me to give up what I'm doing and to settle down with him. He's talking about the future once we get this situation put to rest. I'm not window dressing. He's the first man, aside from Sam, to see me as a valuable human being.

Emmett hasn't taken his eyes from mine as I work through my list. He's patiently waiting for my answer and this too, is endearing. "Yes, Emmett. I'd very much appreciate your help. Yes, I look forward to getting to know you better. And yes, I'd like to see if there is a future for us." I softly smile as I release one of his hands and cup his face, rising on tiptoes to bring us closer. He meets me halfway and lets me have my way with him.

When we break apart, I remember my musings from earlier this morning. I'm no longer a ninth wheel. I truly believe I've met my equal and I'm light-headed with hope.

We continue our walk and discuss what I've been up to. When I mention the letters from Demetri, he informs me he's well aware of their content. I ask if he knew that Eric Yorkie was a member of the jury that convicted Edward. No, he didn't and this stuns him. He asks me if I knew that Maria paid a visit to Jasper and when he wouldn't meet with her, she made a deal with the Warden to make his life miserable. This I did know, courtesy of Demetri's letters. What a vile woman!

In the end, we both agree it's time to leave the Cullens in peace. Emmett suggests, since Bella still needs to play her role as Tanya tomorrow night, Edward and Jasper should stay at his house. He and Seth will ensure their safety. I counter with Emmett coming with me back to Houston. I need to check in with Sam and I want to talk to Mrs. Stanley and Mr. Newton again. Something is still not being said from those two and I want it resolved. I also feel confident that if Emmett didn't return to town, there was less likelihood of his home being searched again. It sounds like Tanya would keep the Warden busy and his thoughts of Emmett would fade into the background. He agrees.

When we return to the house, we voice our opinions, making plans to leave and continue with the investigation. Jasper is first to voice his agreement. He informs us, Peter and Charlotte are leaving in the morning to find them a place to stay in New Orleans. On the way, they will stop by his home to ensure it's still safe and sound. Peter and Charlotte can send a telegram to Emmett's home letting them know if all is well. If not, they will find another safe house. He offers everyone else the option of staying at his place, as long as it's still safe, but it's long past time for him to pay Maria a visit.

Surprisingly, Carlisle is the next to ask if he and Esme can join the gang. For the time being, he wants to continue monitoring Edward's recovery and, they also need closure on the events that changed all of our lives. Of course, everyone is delighted to have them come along.

Peter hands me the letters from Demetri to pack in my bags. When Peter and Charlotte leave in the morning, they will take Emmett and me to the train station. Emmett didn't want to leave his truck at the station and suggests Bella could drive it back to their home. Jasper and Alice will be in the touring and Carlisle and Esme will drive their own vehicle. They will caravan back to Emmett's house watching for any roadblocks still in place looking for the inmates.

Emmett had only hit one on the way to the Cullens. Peter pulls out his trusty map and Emmett points out the location. An alternate route to avoid the roadblock is determined and Peter writes down directions for each of the drivers. It's hard to think about the potential of Edward or Jasper being caught at an unforeseen roadblock and returned to the prison, if not killed on sight. But, with the two of them in separate vehicles, the chances were reduced to only one hypothetically being captured and Carlisle and Esme would be in the clear.

The rest of the day found all of us helping the Cullens close up their home. Draping the furniture with dust cloths, shuttering and boarding up windows and cleaning out perishable food from their cupboards. Those were packed to take with them. We didn't know how long they'd be gone, so it was better to be prepared and the task is completed quickly with so many helping hands.

Esme asks Alice if she can bring her dogs with them and Alice readily agrees. They're very loving animals; just protective of their owners. Alice actually feels better having them with her. Especially, since Emmett wouldn't be with them. Esme hugs her hard for allowing it.

~ J *+* D ~

Friday morning dawns brightly. We all packed the evening before. This morning, we eat a simple breakfast of toasted cheese sandwiches. Before Emmett, Peter, Charlotte and I say our goodbyes, I leave instructions on how to get in touch with Emmett and me. Then we hit the road.

It's a pleasant drive and the conversation flows freely. We pass the same roadblock Emmett had yesterday and I'm thankful the others will take an alternate route. When we arrive at the train station, I hand Peter my contact information. If they need anything, all they have to do is wire me or come in person.

Peter and Emmett grab our bags from the back of the truck while Charlotte and I embrace each other as we say our goodbyes. When the bags are set to the side, I do the same with Peter and Emmett with Charlotte. In the short time I've known them, we've become good friends and I'm going to miss them dearly. Peter, with a cheeky grin, says, "I'll be in contact with you once we've found a suitable house that can accommodate the Whitlock/Masen Gang in New Orleans." I laugh at the lovable goof. Then he becomes serious as he wraps an arm around Charlotte's waist. "You two stay safe."

"You too, both of you, stay safe." With a final wave at Charlotte, we turn and head into the depot. Emmett buys us our tickets to Houston. His friend at the counter even threw in a sleeping berth at no extra charge after he took one look at me. This just might be the best train ride I've ever taken and I smile up at Emmett, letting him know exactly what I think about our upgrade.

~ J *+* D ~