Ch 36 The Lost Ones
1 ~Family Ties~
From the moment Jenny walked into the diner, she was cold. She did her best to ensure her guard was up, her heart fully protected, and her emotions in check. She was ready... And yet less than a minute after sitting down at the table she was ready to bolt.
"This was a mistake," she abruptly stood up.
Her father anticipating her retreat gently held her arm. "Jennifer, please... Wait. I know you don't owe me a thing. I'm just here to listen to whatever it is you need to say."
"I have hated you for as long as I can remember," she began. She suddenly felt quite bold and justified. "I've had many conversations with you in my mind asking you... Why did you abandon us... How you could just walk away from your family... But now that you're sitting in front of me, it doesn't even matter."
"But you asked me here... So if there's something you want to know. You can ask," he was calm as he took a sip.
"Why did you leave us? Was it because of mom?"
"When her illness kicked in, I didn't know how to handle it. I started drinking," he put down his coffee and leaned on the table as he recalled this time in his life. "Eventually I joined the army so I could get the medical benefits and sober up. After years overseas, I came back and life had moved on.
"Abbie and me were in foster care. Mom killed herself in a mental institution."
"I know... And I've lived with the shame of what happened for decades."
Jenny didn't want to hear his excuses. She was here for Abbie and was eager to get to the point. "What was it like for mom before you left? I mean… it was so bad that you started drinking?"
"Ah... She was perfectly normal for years. After Abbie was born she became a little over protective... Said your sister was special. It was more than just normal overprotective parenting... But then things really got intense after you were born. Your mom slowly became unraveled. One minute she was loving and affectionate, the next, she was angry, suspicious... Then she'd become withdrawn, depressed."
Jenny got a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. It was so similar to Abbie's recent behavior. But it seemed that Ezra didn't know about the supernatural. Jenny wondered what part of her mom's condition was from demon fighting and what part was actual mental illness.
"You said it got worse after I was born?"
"Docs thought it was postpartum depression exacerbated by her paranoid schizophrenia. She was certain you and your sister were going to die if we didn't do something."
Jenny was quiet now her mind was processing.
"I'm not here looking for absolution or forgiveness," he sighed. "Just know it wasn't anything you did... Or your sister or mother. It's important you both hear that from me."
Ezra knew that her mother really was seeing demons. He hadn't seen the demons, but he was well aware of who he and Lori were... Who the Seven believed Abbie was... And who Jenny was. He had to leave, but he didn't know how to explain that to Jenny. He spent the last twenty-five years trying to figure out how he would tell his girls the truth... And now he failed again.
He also knew about Jenny moving in and out the mental hospital. He wondered if her visit tonight was prompted by her concerns about her own mental well-being... Or worse… if it could be Abbie.
"I'd like to see Abbie."
"I'll ask her, but I don't know..." Jenny hadn't mentioned this visit to her sister. Abbie was already being paranoid. She wanted to help her sister not make things worse. "I have to go. I have a ride waiting for me and I've taken enough of your time."
"Thank you for meeting with me. And please... I want to stay in contact."
"I have to go," Jenny was up and out the door before giving him a definitive answer.
Ezra watched from the shop window as Joe Corbin emerged from his truck and gave Jenny a hug. August Corbin's boy... Somehow, that wasn't a surprise to him... but it could also be a bad thing.
2 ~Deepest Desires~
It had been a stressful afternoon for Abbie. She at first felt ganged up on, then blind-sided by the revelation that there was a problem with the Thura not sending her and Ichabod to the garden. She was relieved in a way to at least know why she felt crazy. But as she slept that night, it was clear knowing was a far cry from having a solution.
She woke up early after a fitful night's sleep. Her heart was racing and she could hardly catch her breath. Another beautiful dream turned nightmare... It was the third dream that night. Ichabod had her on lock down with a long lanky leg and arm wrapped around her to keeper from bolting. She reached for her cell phone on the night stand, which caused him to hold her tighter.
"Seriously," she whispered with a huff. She reached again, this time accidentally waking him.
"Lieutenant..." He groaned, barely opened his eyes. "It's still early..."
She managed to wiggle most of the way out from under him and grabbed her phone. "It's after five. I can't really sleep anyway."
He sat up as she got out of bed, "Another nightmare?"
"Same as always," Abbie stretched. "No big deal. I'm awake now. I'll just get my morning run in early..."
"Excellent idea, Lieutenant. I shall join you, and we can talk." Ichabod hopped up from bed, grabbing his robe.
"There's nothing to talk about really," Abbie brushed it away as she rummaged through her drawer for gym clothes. "We were in the castle, having a great time then cue the demons, crying baby, bloodshed and death. End of story... Or nightmare rather."
Ichabod couldn't disagree more. Last night was not the time, but this was a new day. They had the whole night to come to terms with their situation. Now it was time to start trying to heal. To talk about the things that were bothering them and hopefully move forward.
Yesterday Abbie had suggested that he had done wrong by her while they were married. Her words had wounded him deeply. He needed to know if she truly felt that way, or if it was the hormones.
"Lieutenant, I understand your desire to put the events of this past mission behind us." Ichabod went over to her and took her hands in his. "But under the circumstances..."
"Meaning my mental instability..." she quipped.
"No... I mean... for the time being, the Thura is unable to undo what was done," Ichabod politely corrected her. He looked down at her hands in his with pause, taking a breath to reassess his approach. "You are a woman of great strength and even greater pride... But after what we two have endured, a time to confer and reflect may be what is needed to help us both to move forward."
Abbie knew that this mission had messed with him too, but he was dealing with it... accepting it, the way that he should; the way that they had been working on after all their time apart. She had already been at that place where dealing with the tragedies with strength and perseverance had become her norm. Now her inability to get a handle on her emotions was taking her in the wrong direction and she was powerless to fix it.
"I just don't want to talk about it." She sighed. "The angels didn't say that I was ready because I behaved like this... or because I needed to rehash every traumatic event. They said I was ready because I know how to suck it up. I just have to force myself to get there again. That's all."
"We would be remiss if we did not at the very least attempt to... Oh..." Ichabod gasped as Abbie slipped her hand from his and untied his rode. A gentle nibble at his ear followed. "Lieutenant..."
"We have a whole extra hour. I can think of a hell of a lot of things we can do with our mouths besides talking," She purred in his ear, as her hand traveled down past his navel to the trail of soft hair on his lower abdomen.
An instant flash of heat seared through his body, as his member reacted to her touch. She was doing it again. He knew it. He needed his brain to take over and snuff out the burning desire to bend her over the dresses. His heart was pounding as she wrapped her hand around his cock. He instantly grabbed her wrist forcing her hand loose.
She shot daggers at him with her eyes as she reversed the hold he had on her and gripped his wrist. He tried to pull away but she was pretty strong and pulled him back to her, jostling the dresser as her rear hit it.
"Lieutenant!"
"Captain!" she peered up at him, then turned her back to him. She pressed her body against him and felt him throbbing. She took his hand and placed it between her thighs.
He swallowed hard as. He looked up and saw their reflection in the mirror; her soft brown eyes peering at him. Her hands playfully fondled her body, as he stood behind her; desperate for her. "Abbie..."
She widened her legs, knowing she had already broken his resolve. "I said, no talking."
His breath caught and eyes softened, as he watched her lips part as she let out a slow hot breath at his touch. In then out, Abbie's body began to rock against him. He watched her in the mirror, coming undone in his hands. She was coming hard.
"Oh Crane that feels good..." She mumbled moaned and groaned as she clung to the dresser.
"No talking!" He repeated with mock authority.
She watched the look of pure desire in his eye, as he bent her over and had his way with her, unable to resist any more.
He needed her.
As she looked in the mirror her mind began to see images of her other life... The life she lived with him two thousand years ago. She was younger and so was he. Still handsome as ever, making love to her like she was his one real joy in life. Everything felt good in this moment... In that moment.
He brought her back to this moment with him.
They could feel each other's heartbeat, feel each other's breath hear each other's thoughts.
There was one thought that Abbie tried to push away, bury deep inside her, but it kept creeping up... She wanted him, all of him as much as he wanted give all of himself to her. She wanted too much. And he could hear it... He could feel it.
"I want to have your baby..." She whispered in his ear.
It was one thing to feel it welling up inside her... But hearing her say the words shook him to his very core. "Abbie..." He held her cheek looking her in the eyes; looking for truth in her words.
"No talking..." her voice was barely audible. She kissed him hard pressing her tongue inside his wide open mouth.
He was desperate to give her anything she wanted... What he really wanted.
Abbie laid there, with Ichabod still on top of her... inside her; hearts racing, desperate to get a deep breath.
She was shaken by her own words, suddenly sober and down from the intense intimate high. Surely it was the heat of the moment, the out of whack hormones... not her real feelings. She didn't mean it. In that moment the desire for a baby was so strong it overwhelmed her. But in this moment, all she could think was thank god for her birth control.
"I need a shower..." She pushed him up enough for her to squirm from beneath him.
He was still stunned silent, and desperately tried to gather his thoughts, "Abbie... We should talk about what just happened."
"There's nothing to talk about! I don't want to have a baby with you."
"Waite... Abbie you said the words..." He was confused. "You know how much I want..."
"Just stop," she shook her head. "That would be ridiculousness. We both know it can't happen. So let's drop it!"
"Treasure, please," he gently tried to take her hand but she snatched away from him. It was as if she flipped a switch... Again.
"Damn it Crane! Can you just stop, please?"
"Abbie!" He hurried out of bed after her, but she went into the bathroom and locked the door.
Abbie ignored his pleas from the other side of the door, as she started the shower. At some point the knocking and begging stopped. She tried so hard not to dwell on it as the hot water from the shower coursed down her body. She tried to remind herself that she did not want a baby. That would be a disaster. It was perhaps not a real desire, just the postpartum hormones messing with her mind and body; making her think she wanted things she didn't want.
In her mind she knew how this would all end, as visions of Ichabod's lifeless body began to flood though her mind followed by visions of Hendry taking his sword and trying to kill her baby.
Her heart sank into her gut. "Not my baby..." she had to remind herself. She sank down to the ground, pulling her knees to her chest, and burying her face. The sound of the shower water drowned out her sobs.
3 ~ Troubled Mind ~
"Take it easy killer!" Joe was only half joking as he held the full size punching bag steady.
The stress showed visibly in Ichabod's eyes and across his face. His jaw clenched between strikes. "Apologies."
"You want to talk about it?"
He felt as if he were going to explode if he didn't let out his frustrations. He wanted to talk more than anything, but with Abbie. He didn't want to unload all of his emotions on Joe. So the punching bag would have to do.
"Crane?" Joe questioned after Ichabod took another strike and kick.
It didn't take much coaxing. Ichabod bent over, resting his hands on his thighs and let out a deep breath. "She refuses to acquiesce and permit me even a brief conference about what she and I are going through... As if I couldn't understand the difficulties of returning to the present day under such problematic circumstances."
"Well... You might get some of what she's going through, but she's got a unique set of issues going on on top of all of that. Did you try talking to her this morning?"
"Of course," Ichabod grumbled. But it went awry rather abruptly... So I took my leave."
"You left?" Joe questioned.
"Well, yes. To be fair she locked herself in the water closet and refused to come out."
"Huh?" Joe folded his arms and looked at his friend. "You left and now you're here kicking the hell out of a punching bag instead of dealing."
"I have been making every attempt to 'deal', as you say. But she refuses me at every turn. I do not know what more I can do. Her preference is that I leave her be."
"You think that's what she wants? Wow... For a guy who's a genius you can be kind of dense, you know that."
"Well thank you very much," Ichabod's tone reeked of sarcastic offense. "This talk has been rather helpful indeed."
"Dude, you're the one that left..."
"I don't know what else to do?"
"You figure it out! But you don't bail!"
Ichabod stood straight up and looked at Joe curiously. "Has something happened?"
"Yeah..." Joe let out a sigh. "Jenny went to see her dad last night. "She was hoping to find some answers... Something that might help Abbie get through this."
"Oh..." Ichabod was quite surprised. "And how does Miss Jenny fair after said visit?"
"It shook her up, to be honest. Look the guy said when their mom took a turn... He started drinking then he took off." Joe huffed.
"I have no intentions on abandoning Abbie."
"You better not, Crane." Joe paused for a moment as he watched Ichabod. Something in his expression gave him away. "You're not doing so good either are you?"
"No..." Ichabod admitted. He felt his struggles paled in comparison to Abbie's and his concern for her overshadowed any concern he had for himself. But know he felt like he was cracking under the pressure. "I have not truly felt like myself since our return. It is quite troubling."
"Why didn't you say anything?" Joe was mad at himself for not seeing it sooner. "I mean we joked around about you hitting the gym all the time. And we know you've still got all that excess testosterone... But dude, if you're really feeling out of whack, we need to know."
"My concerns since our return have been focused on Abbie." Ichabod shook his head. "I'm grievously worried for her."
"Then why did you leave this morning?"
"Shamefully, I became so frustrated; I was mere seconds away from striking the wall with my fist."
"What?" Joe was surprised. That wasn't like Ichabod at all.
"Trust... It was not a proud moment for me. I know that she does not mean the things that she says... Or rather I hope she does not..." Ichabod hesitated to say more. "I don't know what to do."
"I'll see what I can do to find a specialist who can help." Joe offered.
"We fight demons. I'm not quite sure who would be qualified to help with such a unique case."
"I think we'll have to leave out that part."
A million miles away... back to another time, another reality. That's where Abbie's thoughts were while she sat through the morning briefing; Baldre Bre, with the king Callie and Aidan... a baby squirming in her belly and Ichabod by her side. She was happy there...before a while anyway. Or back at the Basilica at Netherbourne with Ichabod and his mother Anne.
Sophie had to tap her leg to nsap her back to the present day. "You okay, Mills?"
"Yeah... I'm fine."
It wasn't true, but what else could she say. Now she was back in her office mulling over her case load, and thoughts of the present day troubled her. She had prepared herself to deal with Ichabod and his prying and questioning, after her shower. But when she got dressed and went downstairs, he was gone.
His absence had unnerved her... Scared her; leaving a deep sinking feeling in her gut; a familiar feeling that shook her.
The buzz of her cellphone startled her from her distracted state. She looked at the call. "Amy Wong: Netherbourne Estate?"
"Hello?" Abbie was surprised to be getting a call.
"Hello Abbie, It's Amy at Netherbourne."
"What can I do for you?"
"Well, first I have a question for you then I ask that you hear me out but if I'm overstepping feel free to let me know."
"Sure Amy. What's up?"
"I know that you and Ichabod have postponed your nuptials. Are you to still planning to wed?"
"Um, yes... I think... Eventually. But we don't have a date or anything..."
"Well, then I was wondering what you thought about having the ceremony here. Ichabod and I tossed around the idea before but there wasn't enough time. However if we started planning now I could have a pretty spectacular event arranged for spring."
"I... I'm not sure," Abbie had no idea. Of course she had left all of the wedding planning up to Ichabod before. All she did was pick a dress. "What did Crane say about this?"
"I've tried calling him all morning to run this by him but haven't heard back yet. Just so you know, this would be the perfect venue for your wedding. Not to mention it would be a huge promotional win for the estate by establishing Netherbourne as a premier spot to host a wedding. Ichabod is practically royalty here."
Abbie looked up when she heard a knock at her office door. It was Jenny, and she waved her to one in. "I'd have to talk to Crane about it before saying yes."
"Very well. In the meantime I'll email you both some dates and details to go over to help you decide if it's something you may want to do."
"Yeah, that's a good idea. We'll get back to you soon." Abbie hung up and rubbed her temple.
"What was that about?" Jenny asked curiously.
"That was Amy Wong... She's just tossing out some ideas about having outer wedding at the Estate in England."
"Oh, that actually sounds pretty cool."
Abbie took a deep uncertain breath, "It does actually. It'd be a great idea."
"That is, if a wedding is still happening?"
"Uh... I don't know," Abbie started fidgeting through her case files. "She caught me off guard. I've got a ton of work to focus on so wedding stuff isn't even on my radar. Reynolds wants to meet in a few, to discuss this case, and I am supposed to have gone through this file already."
"I saw dad, last night," Jenny blurted out.
Abbie was stunned.
"I wasn't sure when to tell you... If this wasn't the right time..."
"It's never the right time," Abbie rolled her eyes.
"You're different since you got back. I know you're hurting. I just don't want anything causing you more pain."
Abbie grabbed her file and stood up. "That's not your call."
"I know, but I don't know how to help you," Jenny took a deep breath. "He wants to see you."
"And what'd you tell him?" Abbie pursed her lips as she went to the door.
"That I'd talk to you."
"And you did," Abbie was cold as she walked out the door, but something stopped her. This couldn't have been easy for Jenny. She turned back to her sister. "What did it feel like... Seeing him?"
"It wasn't easy."
Abbie gave Jenny an understanding nod and left. If her mind wasn't distracted enough before it really was now. This was huge, no matter how hard she tried to act like it was nothing.
"You with us Abs?" Daniel asked as he and Sophie discussed the case.
"Yeah, of course," she nodded.
"Good. Look you and Sophie are on the inside now. Our sources say they've already pegged Abbie as Jenny's sister. It's only a matter of time before they figure out Sophie is FBI too. That's no problem. Play the part of a dirty agent with them. They like thinking they've got moles on the inside keeping them in the know. And that they can go to you if they get into trouble. Some of these smuggled artifacts are worth multi-millions of dollars, and some are very dangerous. You could be called out at any time. So be ready."
"That won't be a problem," Sophie assured him.
"We're good," Abbie agreed.
"Good. Sophie, you can go. I just need to talk to Abs for a second."
"Sure... I'll catch up with you later Mills." Sophie quickly made her exit.
"Is this assignment going to be a problem?"
"No, Sir. I can handle this assignment and running the BAU department just fine."
"I mean, your sister and her boyfriend. They're on our radar."
"Hey, it won't be a problem. Jenny is a PI. Her involvement is helping people recover lost and stolen artifacts. She's not a smuggler. And neither is Joe. They're good kids. And they'll stay out of trouble."
"I know how much you care about them. And I care about you, so I'm giving you the heads up."
"Thanks Danny."
She pulled out her cell phone as she left Daniel's office. A text from Ichabod was showing reminding her that the Irving's were coming for dinner.
4 ~ Daddy's Girl ~
She hadn't been able to get it out of her head all morning. Jenny had slung the door wide open, and now Abbie was here, parked outside the diner in Rochester. She'd spied on her dad enough while Ichabod was in England, to know exactly where he'd be.
She sent a quick text to Ichabod to tell him she was paying a visit to her dad but that she'd be home in time for dinner. Now she just needed to take a deep breath, strengthen her resolve and walk in.
When she walked in he looked up and knew exactly who she was.
"I'd ask how you found me, but you are a Federal Agent," Ezra recognized her immediately.
Abbie was all business; determined not to give him anything. "I should have called."
"I'm glad to see you," he stood up to greet her but Abbie maintained her safe space.
"I came here to ask you about Mom," Abbie motioned her hand for them to sit. "When she began to unravel, what were the first signs? And how fast did it come on."
"Well, I don't remember how it started," he began. "It was superficial at first. She was always a little overprotective of you. But things escalated after Jenny was born. She'd be fine one minute, then having hallucinations the next. It was like she was living in two different realities."
Abbie's no nonsense expression softened as his words started to sound eerily familiar.
"She started pushing me away... wouldn't let me in."
"That's when you left us."
"I started thinking maybe I was the problem..." Ezra stopped himself. He knew he was the problem, and that Lori's break from reality was because she really was tormented by demons. "I thought if I wasn't around, things would get better. But truthfully, I was scared as hell."
"So was mom. She faced it all alone... she died alone..."
Abbie let out a soft fake laugh, and followed it with a smile. "Maybe that's in the cards for all of us Mills women... To die crazy and alone..."
Ezra hated hearing her talk like this. As he feared, it was Abbie who was struggling. "That's not going to happen to you..."
"You don't know that!" She scoffed. "You have no idea who I am."
"You don't know about me either Abbie." He was very serious. "Our family... We're strong people. I've made mistakes... Had the hell knocked out of me... But I'm still standing."
Ezra watched as Abbie's demeanor changed again. This time she tensed up, and he felt something inside him break as he sat listening to her.
"You know... I remember your voice... You used to read stories and sing songs," she fought the urge to break down in tears. "I loved that voice."
"I'm sorry you haven't heard it in a while... But if you're going through something difficult, I want to help."
"I have people for that now," she tried to smile as she stood up and left. "Maybe one day."
His heart swelled with emotions and regret as he watched her leave. But there was no time to lament on what could have or should have been. Abbie was the second Witness and she was in trouble. Corbin was gone and that left Walters to keep an eye on her. He never trusted Walters the way he trusted Corbin to look after his girls. Walters was a bit shady and Ezra knew he had ulterior motives.
He pulled out his cell phone and called. "Walters it's me Ezra."
"You shouldn't be calling me..."
"You're supposed to be looking after my girl!"
"We are."
"Then why is she coming to me asking me questions about her mother's condition."
"She's no longer your concern Ezra. Just give her enough information to pacify her curiosity and let her go."
"Are you avoiding my calls because it's been a while since you checked in," Walters didn't even wait for Daniel to say hello when called.
"It's been busy," Daniel really was hoping to keep avoiding Walters but it was getting harder.
"Any problems I need to know about?"
"What do you mean?" Daniel pretended he had no idea what he could be calling about..
"Our asset, Agent Mills... I heard she's changed. She's not as stable as she once was."
"I know she's been going through some stuff, but I had a psych evaluation done and she passed. Mills is going to be fine."
"Under you keen eye, I'm sure."
"How is she working with Agent Foster?"
"They make a good team."
"Has she asked to involve her friend Mr. Crane in any more cases?"
Daniel hated the mention of Ichabod and scoffed. "I thought that was the point of having her and Foster paired together now... So we don't have to worry about Mr. Crane."
"We would prefer if Agent Mills used her discretion when it comes to involving him. Be sure she knows she can. We are curious to see how she does. Understood"
"Of course."
5 ~ Friends
"A fairy tale wedding in a castle," Cynthia mused. "I'd definitely be down for that."
"Netherbourne is more of an estate Manor House than a castle," Ichabod tried to downplay it.
"You are going to do it right?" Macey grinned eagerly. "I've never been to England.
"I don't know," Abbie smiled as she twirled the pasta around her fork. She did her best to engage in the conversation, but time and time again she felt herself drifting away deep in her own thoughts.
It wasn't until Ichabod picked up her plate to clear the table that she snapped back.
"All done," he asked.
"Yes... Thank you," she smiled and tried to re-engage the conversation.
Joe gave Jenny a look.
"Hey, Crane, I'll take those. I've got desert... Macey, you mind helping me ice the cake?"
"Sure," Macey could take a hint. It was time for the gang to talk.
Cynthia joined them in the kitchen, leaving Joe an opportunity to talk with Abbie. Abbie wasn't sure what was up, but she really wasn't in the mood to be ganged up on.
"I should go help in the kitchen," Frank offered.
"No, please stay," Abbie insisted. "What's going on?"
"A friend of mine at the hospital recommended a specialist for you." He handed her a card.
She read the card. "A psychotherapist Joe? Really?"
"Yes really," Joe had his serious face on and wasn't going to back down.
"I don't need this. I just need to tighten up and pull it together.
"Abbie, it's been over a month now and you're not getting better. And neither is Crane." Joe pointed out.
"Crane?" Abbie was a bit surprised as she looked at him. "I don't understand."
"Because, you are hardly around Abbie. Did you know he's been having trouble sleeping. He goes to the gym two and three times a day to workout when he's not at the college giving a lecture.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Abbie asked him.
"I have tried many times to open the pathways for discussion, but each time you refused to permit me."
Abbie looked down, rubbing her temple and fighting the urge to burst into tears. "I'm sorry."
"It is not your fault Lieutenant," Ichabod took her hand to reassure her that he understood. "The situation we find ourselves in is rather precarious."
"But still, I should have noticed..."
"Abbie, nobody is blaming you," Joe made sure to drive the point. "If a little extra testosterone is messing with Crane, I can only imagine what you must be going through."
"A psychotherapist though?"
"I think it's your best option to figure out how to manage," Frank spoke up. "Look, every one of us has had something supernatural wreak havoc on us. We've all needed help. This time we don't have a supernatural solution or answer. So we have to use conventional methods."
"He's right Abbie," Joe agreed. "Until the Thura is back online, this is your best option.
"So how would this even work?"
"You'll get some blood work done... That will let them know how off your hormone balance is... and probably another psych eval."
"Isn't that going to be a problem? As soon as they check my medical records they'll know I've never actually been pregnant."
"Umm... Yeah..." Joe had forgotten that small detail.
"I can help," Macey said entering the dining room. "I didn't mean to eves drop. I have really good hearing. I can hack into your medical files and change them to say whatever you need. No one will ever know. That's what we're doing for my legs. As soon as we can use magic again, I'm going to walk."
Abbie didn't feel good about having a teenager computer hacking for her. "Macey, we can't ask you to do that."
"Really it's not a big deal. It's small stuff compared to what I actually know how to do. Just like when I hacked the cell servers for you."
"When you did what?" Abbie had no idea.
"Umm... We needed a little help hiding the fact that you weren't with Sophie from your boss. Did we forget to mention that?"
"Macey is far too young to get involved with this," Ichabod explained.
"We had her dad's permission." Joe looked innocently.
"Hey, she insisted," Frank had already conceded to the fact that Macey was one of the smartest people he knew and that when she got her mind set to do something, she was going to do it. "That's part of the reason we came back."
"I want to be a part of the team," Macey pulled her wheel chair up to the table. "And before you say no or that I'm too young, just know that I already went toe to toe with my dad on this and I won. You can use me. I know my stuff. You name it, I can hack it. And this is without using witch powers. When I allowed use magic again, I can do it here with you guys keeping an eye on me... Or I can do it on my own."
"You have all thought this through... even Cynthia?" Abbie asked.
"We have," Frank nodded soberly. "If she's going to do this, I don't want her guessing or making huge mistake. She needs to learn properly and be in the know."
"Ok... But baby steps. It's still dangerous," Abbie looked worried.
"Evil has already come after me twice. Being out of the loop isn't going to keep me safe."
6 ~ Distractions ~
"It's really nice having Frank and his family back in town," Abbie said as she walked into the kitchen with the last of the dishes.
Ichabod looked up at her with a soft smile as he took the dishes and loaded them into the washer. "Indeed, it seems as though our team is coming together once again. We have, all of us, endured a great deal. It is good that we should be able to commiserate together."
He sat on the barstool at the counter and paused as if waiting for her to speak next or make some great confession.
Abbie looked at him and folded her arms. She could see nothing but love and concern for her in his eyes. "Huh... So what's on your mind, Crane? Go on and ask."
Ichabod smiled with a sigh, relieved at least that she was allowing him to ask. "You saw you father today..."
"I did... And I'm still processing it," she started to move around him, but he took her hand and stood her between his legs as he sat.
"By your tone I can assume you wish to shelve this topic for later discussion..."
"You got it."
He gently rubbed her hand with his thumb, quietly waiting for her to say something more on her own.
She took a deep breath, unable to resist the way he looked at her and the way he held her hand. "You know it's been hard for me lately... Adjusting to being back this time... It's getting to me. And he was there when Mama started to lose it. I just needed some answers."
"And have you given further thought to the specialist that young Corbin has rendered his recommendation?"
Abbie looked away, worry written all over her face.
"Lieutenant, please..."
"Crane," she began but she instinctively paused and tried to force herself to be forthcoming. "It didn't work out so well for my mom."
"Your mother had the misfortune of not having the support of loved ones who knew the truth of what she was dealing with."
"I don't know..." She stopped again. She really didn't want to talk about it. It was making her miss her mother, which made her miss her baby... The baby. The feelings and thoughts began to jumble within her and within seconds she felt overwhelmed.
Ichabod watched her intently. He so keenly observed her walls going up, and cursed to himself. "Tell me what concerns you Treasure," he tried to coax her to continue to open up.
"It's just hard... And I'm trying ok."
"We do not have the ability to garner a supernatural solution to the supernaturally caused problem we currently face. We must turn to conventional methods of temporary relief." Ichabod made his plea.
But Abbie was done talking about this.
"I can think of a few ways to get some temporary relief," she slid her free hand up his thigh and placed a tender kiss on the lobe of his ear. "I bet you can too."
He had an immediate reaction to her sensual touch and her warm breath against his cheek. And damn she smelled so good. But he forced himself to resist the thoughts of her straddling him on the barstool or him bending her over the counter and having his way with her.
"Lieutenant, perhaps after we finish the discussion we have begun..."
Abbie looked at him incredulously. She ran her hand up a little more feeling the firmness of his clock as a dead giveaway. "Are you saying you don't want to screw right here, right now. Because I can tell you do."
Ichabod let out a deep breath and coldly removed her hand from his person. It was killing him to do so, but he wasn't going to let her out of the conversation so easily. "We are in the middle of a discussion..."
"Fine," Abbie put both hands up and backed away. "You don't want to have sex... That's cool. But I'm done talking about this. So... I'm going out for a beer."
"I beg your pardon... You are leaving?"
"Yes. I want to relax and let loose... Not keep talking about stuff that's bringing me down. You took sex off the table, so I'm going out for a damn beer. You can stay or come with, but I'm going."
Ichabod's expression changed. He'd much rather have sex than go out for beers. But he also didn't appreciate being manipulated. "A moment, Lieutenant. I believe I would like to reconsider."
"Too late."
"Abbie we need to talk about what is happening to us."
"Are you coming or not?" she had her keys and was already putting on her jacket."
"Very well."
Sophie leaned across the pool table, cue stick strategically angled between her fingers ready to strike the while ball. Ash watched with a slight smirk, knowing he was about to be beat. With a swift push, she made a near perfect shot, sinking the eight ball or the win.
"Oh... Yes! That is game!" she had to do a little loathing as a few by standees clapped at her victory. "You owe me drinks for the rest of the night."
"Gladly," Ash grinned before planting a steamy kiss right on her lips.
The claps faded to a few cat calls and whistles, at the affectionate display. Her mind was a buzz as he led her to the bar.
"You better not have let me win," she said only half joking.
"You won fair, my Nekoti," he promised.
That was the second time he'd called her that "my Nekoti" and she was curious. "So are you going to tell me what that means?"
He smiled as Mike handed them their beers. "Someday I will tell you... If I'm right about you."
"Now, I'm really curious," she pulled out her phone. "And of course google translate doesn't have Shawnee."
Ash let out a laugh. They were rare, but he had a very nice laugh, that made Sophie grin sheepishly, and blush.
"Do you have plans for the 28th?" He asked.
"Thanksgiving? I had plans will Crane and Mills. They invited me over, but things have been sketchy with me and Mills lately I, I don't know... You don't celebrate Thanksgiving do you?"
"No... We are having a National Day of Mourning at Plymouth. It's a four hour drive. It's a bit far from the grounds that I protect, but I can stat for a short time. Long enough for the noon ceremony. And I can have you back in time for Dinner with the Witnesses."
"Oh... Wow, I'd love to go with you, but Are you sure I won't be imposing?"
"I'm sure," he took her hand. "it would mean a lot to me if you came with me."
"Ok," she smiled. "Is there something I should bring, or do? What's the friend protocol for this?"
"Well, you are the first girlfriend I've ever brought with me. All I need is you my Nekoti."
"So I'm your Girlfriend?" Sophie questioned.
"You must know I care for you."
"I wasn't sure how much... Things have been moving kind of slow."
"I wanted to take time to get to know you. I didn't want to make the same mistakes I made in the past," he confessed.
"Then, there's something you should know, about me," Sophie wanted to get everything out in the open. She was upset with herself for not bringing it up sooner. "I'm bi."
"Bi-sexual?" Ash asked.
"Yes. I like girls and guys," she confirmed.
"Ok," he nodded as he was thinking. "But you are ok with being monogamous? As in just you and me."
"Yeah..." Sophie smiled. "I'm good with that."
"Agent Foster, Mr. Ash... Greetings this fine eve," Ichabod greeted the pair as he and Abbie walked into Mabbie's.
Abbie held up two fingers to Mike, indicating she and Ichabod would have a couple of beers.
"Good to see you Ichabod... Abbie," Ash nodded.
"I thought you two had dinner plans tonight." Sophie enquired trying to get a feel for Abbie's mood.
"We did and it was splendid, if I do say so myself," Ichabod couldn't help but gloat a little.
"Crane is becoming quite the chef," Abbie agreed. "You will both find out at dinner in a couple of weeks if you can still make it."
This was good, Sophie thought. "Definitely. We will totally do that."
Mike popped a couple of beers and handed one to Abbie and the other to Ichabod.
"Um... Foster, I've been meaning to talk to you about something," Abbie gave Ichabod a look.
"Might I interest you in a game of billiards?" Ichabod asked Big Ash.
"Sure," Ash grabbed a fresh beer. "Lead the way."
Abbie noticed a little sparkle in Sophe's eyes as she watched Ash leaning over the pool table to take the first shot.
"I take it things are going good with you two," Abbie took a swig of her beer, hoping to break the ice.
Sophie smiled taking a moment to move her attention from Ash back to Abbie. "Yeah... It's good. Slow... But good. What about us, Mills? I know you think I overstepped my bounds... And maybe you're right. But I was trying to be a good irk partner... And friend."
"I get that," Abbie took a deep breath, "And I owe you an apology. If you hadn't been so persistent, we wouldn't know what was wrong with us. I also want to thank you for covering for me with Danny, while Crane and I were gone."
"We're all a part of this team. I'm happy to help you guys where ever I can."
"Good... because I may need you to cover for me again. Crane and I are going to see a specialist and Danny can't find out about it."
"You're going to see a specialist... like a therapist?"
"Yeah. Until the Thura is fixed, we have to find a practical way to deal with this. I don't know if it's Postpartum, split personality, PTSD or what, but..." Abbie paused. Her thoughts went immediately to her ending up like her mother. And that was something she still couldn't really talk about. "But... Umm.. I gotta find a way to press on, you know."
"I hear ya," Sophie nodded. "This supernatural stuff can really do a number on you. I know firsthand."
"Yeah... I just wish the supernatural would stop screwing with my life. It just keeps taking..." She stopped herself again.
Abbie could feel the sadness beginning to overwhelm her again, and took another drink. Her attempts to toughen her expression failed. Sophie intuitively knew, as did Ichabod who looked up at Abbie sensing the shift in her mood.
*Abbie* Ichabod tried to reach out to her. He was certain Abbie had heard him but she didn't respond. It was as if she was slipping away, and it sent an immediate panic through him.
Sophie knew she needed to say something. She placed her hand on Abbie's arm, trying to draw her back. "You know the Supernatural isn't all bad. It brought you and Crane together."
And just like that, Abbie was back. She nodded in agreement as she looked over to Ichabod. Their eyes connected for a moment, as she couldn't imagine her life without him.
7 ~ Rage On ~
It was often that Abbie was the one in the pair to over-do it. On the rare occasion that there was bit too much drink being had, it was usually Ichabod who over indulged. Abbie was an adorable drunk, even though she insisted she was just a little buzzed.
Ichabod helped her up the stairs and to her bathroom as she hummed 'Be My Lover' in perfect tune. She was still humming as they brushed their teeth, and she tossed a few sexy eyes his way; making it clear she was in the mood.
"Be my lover..." She sang as she turned to him and began loosening his tucked shirt from his breeches.
"Lieutenant, I should get you to bed," he said as he gently removed her hands from his waist.
"That's what I'm hoping you do," she grinned, reaching for him again.
"Abbie... You need to get some rest. You are more than slightly inebriated."
"Oh, come on you and I have both been way drunker than this and had some pretty damn good sex," she teased.
Her grin faded to a perplexed grimace, when she saw the seriousness on his face.
Now Abbie was annoyed. "You seriously don't want to do it right now?
"It is not only you current state of intoxication that gives me pause, but also what occurred this morning. Let us rest tonight and discuss it in the morning when we are both sober."
"What? Because I said I wanted to have your baby? I didn't mean it... It slipped out. I'm over it."
"Well I am not!" Ichabod snapped. "You cannot say such things and believe I am not affected . You know it is a great desire of mine for us two to have a child. When you say such things in the moment... I want to believe it is your desire as well, and that we could..."
"It's not gonna happen. I'm on the birth control shot."
"Which, I happen to know is near expiration."
"And I have an appointment next week. In the meantime you can wear a condom."
Ichabod's jaw clenched with frustration.
"What, you're above wearing a condom?"
"Of course not," he scoffed. "You do not understand how it hurts me when you say such things. And it is more than that. I know that you have been using sex to deter from talking too deeply about what has been happening to us. It pains me that after we are intimate, you become angry or start to cry..."
"I'm done!" Abbie really didn't want to get into this. She had already agreed to see the therapist, and felt that should be enough for him. "Do whatever you want! I've got a vibrator that will do..."
"Damn it Abbie!" Ichabod's fist hit the bathroom wall denting it in.
Abbie let out a yelp, feeling as if her heart jumped from her chest. She stared at him jaw dropped; his outburst taking her by complete surprise.
"What the hell Crane!"
"Apologies... Damn..." he held his bruised hand as the pain struck him. "I don't know what has come over me."
Abbie was shaking, "don't try to blame this on Ivor's testosterone or feelings... because you never behaved like this before!"
Ichabod looked at her as if she had memory loss. "Of course I did... As did Ivor! Have you romanticized our entire experience in Persia and Baldre Bre?"
"No! I lived it just like you did! And you didn't go around punching walls when you didn't get your way!"
"I didn't have to Abbie! I lobbed off men's heads! I slaughtered demons! I devastated entire villages and killed... 47 people with my own hands, and by my own sword."
"No... I would have known... You would have told me..."
"How could I, Abbie! Ivor and I both knew we had to keep as much of this from you and Abbelle as possible. I saw the look in both of your eyes when Ivor first took off Garl's head after he tried to murder you and Abelle."
"It was shocking to see, but we understood..."
"No you did not," Ichabod said adamantly. "Because you stood in my way after Princess Mór had you kidnapped. They tried to rape you, and yet you looked at me with horror when I cut off her husband's head!"
Abbie felt sick as his words conjured up images in her mind that flashed between Mór's husband and August Corbin.
"I cut off king Macborn's head and cheered Aidan on has he cut off his sons head. When Kassidy told Hendry to..." Ichabod couldn't even say the words. Seeing Hendry raise his sword to Abbie's pregnant, belly sent a blinding rage through his body. "I wanted her dead. I did not even hesitate to run her through."
"Ok... That's enough... That wasn't you!" Abbie couldn't process all of this. She went into her room and sat on the edge of her bed, as Ichabod followed.
"But it was me, Abbie! It was the same me that I had learned to keep under control during my journey to find the Thura. Before that I cut off death's head, nearly killed Solomon Kent with my fists... And I choked Colonel Sutton so hard I broke his neck! Since we came back I have been struggling to control myself." He paced in front of her, speaking as if he'd been desperate to let it all out.
"Abbie, I have been so very frustrated. I can't separate the feelings that were me in 500 BC from the man whom I have become since our journey as Witnesses began. And I have been so disheartened by the fact that I cannot help you. I see you hurting... I can feel you hurting, but you push me away... And all I can think of is that if it is this bad for me; how terrible this must truly be for you."
Abbie had no idea it was this bad for him. She was still shaking and on the verge of bursting into tears. She could tell he had more to say, he needed to tell her everything. But this was already more than she could deal with.
"You... You should put some ice on that."Her voice went flat as she looked at his swelling hand.
"What?" Ichabod looked completely confounded. She was completely disengaged now. "Treasure..." He reached out to her.
But she shrugged away. "Don't..."
Ichabod went from red to ghost white as he blinked back tears. Her walls were up, and she was shutting down on him. It was too much. She had said she didn't want to talk about it and he had practically vomited his problems all over her.
Not only was Abbie not emotionally in a good place to hear him, but now she felt horrible. She hadn't been there for him at all. She watched him walk away and slam the door behind him, but said nothing to stop him.
"Damn!"
She heard him swear from the hallway. But still she didn't go after him. She simply crawled under the covers and silently cried.
A half an hour later, she heard a knock at her door. She looked at the clock and saw it was almost two in the morning.
"Abs, it's me," Jenny called out as she opened the door. "Ichy called me. He said..."
"Jenny..."Abbie sat up and held out her arms.
"Oh Abs..." Jenny ran to her sister's bedside. She put her arms around her and just let Abbie cry without having to explain anything. "It's going to be ok."
8 ~ Nekoti ~
Sophie and Ash left the bar at closing time. They talked all night and hadn't even realized the time. Now outside of her apartment, they stilled talked.
"You're ex-girlfriend started dating the girl you had a crush on... Wow."
"Payback for me dumping her. But now they're engaged. She actually invited me to her wedding." Sophie laughed like it was unbelievable.
"You're going to go right," Ash asked almost encouraging her.
"No... That would be super awkward."
"Come on... I'll be your plus one. I'll dress just like this... Jeans boots leather jacket..."
"Oh... She would be so livid. You are too sexy! And she always thought I'd end up with a guy," Sophie grinned then blushed a little at the way Ash lit up when she said that. The thought of the two of them ending up together, sounded really nice to him.
"You know I will confess I was a little intimidated when you told me you were bisexual."
"Really? Why?"
Now Ash was blushing a little. "It may be stereotyping to say... And I apologize if it's offensive..."
"No go ahead. I'm curious."
"The rumor is that women know better than men, how to do... certain things for a woman."
Sophie let out a laugh. So now she knew he'd been thinking about taking things to the next level. "That is stereotyping... But true nine times out of ten."
"Ouch..." Ash looked down embarrassed at himself for bringing it up, but glad Sophie didn't seem to mind.
"But that's usually because guys don't take the time to learn." Sophie's tone softened. "You strike me as the kind of guy who doesn't mind taking his time."
"The pleasures of life can be enjoyed more when we take our time." He closed the gap between them, kissing her tender lips as her back pressed against the door.
"Do you want to come in?" She asked taking a breath between kisses.
"Yes."
"Do you want to stay?" She whispered.
"Yes."
She took him by the hand and walked him to her bedroom. Once in the room he reached along the wall and turned on the lights.
"I didn't invite you in to hang out," she teased.
"I know," he growled as he kissed her.
"Beautiful Nekoti..."
"Good morning my Nekoti," Ash stroked Sophie's cheek, waking her from her sleep.
She stretched then curled up to him as he pecked her cheek then lips. It was their first morning waking up together, yet it felt so natural. "Good morning. Can I interest you in breakfast?"
"I'd like that," he nodded. "but I cannot stay too long. I'm meeting a buyer for the bike I just restored."
"Ok," she gave him a peck then hopped up. "I'm not the best cook, but I can whip up an omelet."
"Sounds perfect," he got up and pulled on his boxer briefs. "I'll lend you a hand. I'm actually pretty decent in the kitchen... Sophie?"
She was standing perfectly still as if in a daze. Ash had seen this once before. He made it to her side just as she started to sway, and carefully laid her on the bed. She could be like this for hours. He would have to reschedule his appointment. There was no way he was leaving her side.
9 ~Thanksgiving~
"Hold fast Witnesses. We have not forgotten you. Help is coming."
That was the message from the Angels that Sophie received over two weeks ago. And since then... nothing. Whatever help was coming the Witnesses were ready for it and desperately in need of it.
They'd gone to two therapy sessions. Abbie's lab work revealed slightly elevated HGC still in her system, but her hormones were completely unbalanced. The therapist was good. Abbie thought she had the voice of a new first grade teacher, which wasn't so bad. It made it easier to listen to her at least.
What wasn't easy to listen to was the list of symptoms and Abbie having to answer yes to every single one. The mood swings, crying and feelings of hopelessness were easy enough. But there was no way to explain the thoughts of someone or something trying to cause harm to her or the baby she no longer had; especially when actual demons and a mad man with a sword quite literally tried to kill her. Her diagnosis was indeed Postpartum Depression after Perinatal loss.
Ichabod was much better at hiding the supernatural extent of his situation having had to hide his entire life from modern day conversation. The therapist agreed that he had found some good outlets to help temper his aggression, so the kick boxing classes would stay and talking was good.
Abbie was a harder case. She didn't want to do meds, so talk therapy was her best option. And she had to avoid vices such as abusing alcohol or turning to sex for avoidance and temporary gratification... which at the moment the sex part wasn't a problem since Ichabod freaked out on Abbie.
"Hey Joey, you want to lend me a hand setting the table?" Abbie asked as grabbed the plates and scooted around Ichabod.
"Sure," Joe grabbed some decorations and gave Ichabod a shrug.
"I'll... Just oversee the basting of the turkey," Ichabod tried not to be offended. Abbie wasn't saying very much too him lately.
The turkey was roasting wonderfully and everything looked and smelled delicious.
"I'm back," Jenny entered the kitchen door with. Grocery bag in hand. "I can't wait to taste this Apple-cranberry Crumble of yours."
"It is a most devine dish," Ichabod took the bag and pulled out the contents. He curiously raised an eyebrow as he tried to be nonchalant with his question. "So... How fairs all things between you and your sister?"
Jenny returned a curious raised eyebrow. "Things are better. I think the therapy is helping. Sophie says the same thing."
"Oh..." Ichabod pretended not to be bothered as he peeled the apples.
"I take it things are still... strained between the two of you." Jenny knew he wanted to talk.
"I have tried to apologize a hundred times it seems... She says she understands and yet, here we are at this strange place. We exist together. I love her... And I know that she loves me, but..."
"You freaked her out Crane," Jenny cut in. "She told you she wasn't ready to talk. She opened up as much as she could and then you unloaded on her."
"I had been repressing my feelings, making every attempt to spare her the ordeal which had been burdening me... I just..."
"Verbally vomited all your dark dirty secrets knowing she wasn't in an emotional state where she could hear it."
"Have you been speaking with our therapist?" he asked.
"No. Just Abbie." Jenny pulled out a casserole dish for Ichabod's next culinary creation. "It wouldn't be easy for anyone to hear her fiancé had a blast lobbing off heads and slaughtering people."
"I didn't enjoy it!" Ichabod scoffed harshly. He jerked the knife and inadvertently cut his hand. "Damn!" He burst as the knife and apple dropped to the ground.
"Ichy... Here, let me help you." She grabbed a clean towel and handed it to him.
"What's wrong," Abbie hurried into the kitchen.
"It's just a cut. I shall be just fine..." Ichabod started to say but stopped when Abbie took his hand.
"Let me see," she removed the towel to take a look. "Joe?"
"It's deep but he won't need stitches. Just a bandage," Joe observed.
"Ok... That's good." Abbie sighed with relief.
She still held Ichabod's hand in hers as she waited for Joe to retrieve the first aid kit. He felt like a neglected puppy finally getting a touch of attention. And he was fully prepared to milk every ounce he could get.
"I'll do it," Abbie took the bandage from Joe and carefully began cleaning away the blood.
"Joe..." Jenny whispered cuing him to leave them be, and the two quietly exited the kitchen.
Abbie took her time, quietly taping the cut shut then wrapping the bandage around it. "Does it hurt?"
"It does a bit," he confessed, moving a little closer to her.
Abbie closed her eyes for a moment and enjoyed the feeling of his warm breath on her cheek. When she was done, she turned his hand to see the nearly healed bruise on his knuckles from punching the wall.
"Does this still hurt?" She asked, but it wasn't really his hand she was asking about.
"Everyday, Treasure."
She started to remove her hand, but now he held on. "Abbie, I am truly sorry..."
"Crane... We're good."
"It does not feel as if we are 'good'. We don't talk... You've hardly touched me until this moment..."
"I'm trying... Really hard..."
"Let me in Abbie. I love you."
"I love you too," she tried to explain.
He caressed her cheeks, tipping her head up gently so he could see her beautiful brown eyes. His gaze wandered from her eyes to her soft plump lips. He missed the way they felt and their sweet taste. He drew closer, and for the first time in two weeks she did not resist.
The doorbell rang, and Abbie pulled away.
"Happy thanksgiving!" They heard Cynthia and Macey chime when Jenny answered the from door.
"We have company," Abbie turned towards the hallway to greet her guests.
"Abbie, wait..." Ichabod tried to coax her back, but the moment was over. "Damn!" he swore under his breath.
He watched the house from a distance. She had company arriving. The Irving's were practically family. Of course they would be there. The sun was beginning to set now as another guest approached.
Next to arrive was Cori. She was single again after seeing the video of Pandora and realizing that she was posing as her girlfriend Dorie. She had briefly set her eyes on Sophie, but the past few weeks Sophie and Ash seemed to be solidly attached.
The new couple was next to arrive. Sophie was practically beaming and Ash hardly took his eyes off of her. Jenny and Abbie both knew that look. Things were getting serious between the two. Ash wasn't one to celebrate Thanksgiving. The first was last year for Jenny, and this year
Dinner was splenic. Ichabod truly outdid himself, to everyone's delight. They went around the table telling stories of their childhood. Laughter filled the house, even from Abbie who genuinely smiled and laughed for the first time since their return. When she reached over and took Ichabod's hand, he felt a great lifting a sense of relief, deep within him. He was grateful that today was better.
When the doorbell rang again everyone looked at Abbie and Ichabod.
"Are you expecting additional guests, Treasure?" He asked her as he got up from the table.
"No... You get desert. I'll get the door," Abbie offered as she stood with him.
"Very well," Ichabod gave her a smile.
The bell rang again.
"Just a minute," Abbie called out as she excused herself from the table.
"Happy Thanks..." Abbie started as she opened the door. But she was at a loss for words when she saw her father standing there.
"Happy Thanksgiving Abigail," he smiled. There was an awkward pause. "May I come in?"
"I um.. Yeah... Sure..." Abbie was almost too stunned to speak. She was feeling almost normal for the first time in a very long time... And now she felt a strange weight pressing upon her.
"Abs, who's at the... door?" Jenny was stunned to see Ezra walking into the dining room. "What are you doing here?"
"Jennifer, I'm glad you're here. After we met at the diner you two have been on my mind. And I found something I thought you might want to see. I came to bring you this... I didn't mean to interrupt your dinner. We had our inner early."
"You mean your new family," Jenny didn't mix words.
Everyone shifted uncomfortably in their seats. Abbie and Jenny didn't bother to introduce him.
"Here we are... We have baked Apple-Cranberry crumble or homemade pecan pie..." Ichabod boasted as he walked into the dining room. He paused and looked from the stranger to Abbie as he put down the tray.
"Crane... This is Ezra Mills." Abbie waved her hand giving the half hearted introduction.
"Oh... Mr. Mills. My name is Ichabod Crane." He quickly whipped his hand then held it out to hake the man's hand.
Jenny promptly sat next to Joe and grabbed his leg as he started to stand. She shook her head no at him. He had no intentions of letting Ezra back into her life.
There was more awkward silence before Ichabod spoke up. "This is Joe Corbin, Agent Sophie Foster, Big Ash, Frank Irving... his wife Cynthia and daughter Macey and Miss Cori Young.
They all nodded and mumbled their hellos, followed by more silence.
"You came to drop off a book?" Abbie coldly got right to the point.
"Um yes... It's actually a photo album. He opened it has he handed it to Abbie.
Her demeanor changed when she saw the pictures of her and Jenny as babies with their mother. She slowly held out her hands to take the album from him. They had very few pictures of their childhood because they were shuffled around in the foster care system and no pictures from when they were babies.
Jenny got up and went to Abbie's side. Both silently stared at the pictures on the pages.
"That's the three of you the day we brought Jenny home," he pointed. "And this is Jenny at a year old and Abbie just turned three."
"I've never seen these..." Jenny gasped.
They were quiet as Abbie turned the page.
"Your mother was amazing... Beautiful..."
"And you left her," Jenny said flatly.
"Jenny..." Abbie whispered.
"Well, I best be going. I have some others stuff I'd like to bring by sometime. If that's ok."
Abbie nodded as she forced herself to close the album.
"We don't want to keep you from your family. I'm sure they're missing you," Jenny took the album and handed it back to him.
"No keep it, please." he held up his hands. "It was nice seeing you again girls. Nice to meet you Crane... Everyone." He then turned back to Ichabod. "Take care of my daughter."
10 ~ Unexpected ~
Ezra walked out and immediately pulled out his cell phone to call Agent Walters.
"Ezra... I was about to enjoy a slice of pie with my granddaughter," he sounded a bit annoyed. "This better be important."
"I just paid a visit to my girls..."
"On Thanksgiving? Ezra don't torture yourself. Let them be."
"Let them be?" Ezra's voice rose as he sat in his car on the corner of the street. "It's a supernatural magnet at her house! Frank Irving is a helper... His wife and daughter are witch breed. Joe Corbin is a Windego! And you sent agent Foster here to Sleepy Hollow? You had to know that she would be drawn to the Witnesses."
"Ezra calm down. Of course we knew. It's time to let things happen as they should." Walters spoke in a calming tone.
"She's not ready. My girls need me."
"You made your choice Ezra. You walked away."
"You made it seem like I didn't have a choice. I did what I did to keep my girls safe!"
"Of course you had a choice Ezra. And you left. Now stay out of the way. You can not stop what's going to happen. Dragging up the past will only hinder Abbie, Jenny and Sophie. You're a distraction, and you'll do more harm than good if you interfere."
"They need to know the truth!"
"I'm warning you Ezra. Stay out of it. It's coming. There's no stopping it. Abbie has a team in place. You tell them the truth now and it could break them."
"Damn you Walters! If anything happens to Abbie or Jenny..."
"Whatever happens is what's meant to be," Walters' voice grew dark and almost sinister. "Stay away from the Witnesses!"
"Desert smells delicious," Jenny went back to her seat ready to forget all about Ezra's visit.
The mood of the dinner party changed. Abbie sat staring at nothing, hardly engaging in conversation. Ichabod tried to hold her hand but she didn't respond to his touch.
"We better get going," Frank finally announced after getting. Hint from Cynthia that the party was over.
"Same here. It's a tradition to go to Mabbie's after Thanksgiving Dinner. Any takers?" Jenny asked.
"Sounds like a plan," Sophie chimed in, then turned to the Witnesses. "How about you two?"
"I'm uh..." Abbie hesitated.
"Lieutenant, shall we join our compatriots for a pint of ale to end the eve?"
"I have some things to take care of around here. But you all go and I might catch up with you later."
"I shall remain as well," Ichabod did not even hesitate. "Enjoy the rest of the eve my friends."
"Everything was really good Crane," Sophie spoke up before Abbie could try to encourage Ichabod to go. "Probably the best thanksgiving meal I've ever had."
"I agree. Thanks for everything," Joe chimed in as he gathered his and Jenny's jackets.
"Are you sure you don't want to go Crane?" Abbie asked.
"My place is by your side," he took her hand. "You and I have our own tradition for the holidays. That is that we be together. Rest assured, I have no intentions of changing."
The doorbell rang again as everyone was gathered by the front door.
Jenny was helping Macey put on her jacket and was standing closest to the door. "You expecting anyone else, Abs?"
"No..." Abbie was hoping that Ezra wasn't popping in again. She could tell by the look on Jenny's face, her sister was hoping the same thing. One visit was enough. It was a day to be with friends and family, not be reminded of the tragedy that was their childhood.
"I'll get it," Jenny offered. "Oh my god..." Her jaw dropped when she opened the door.
"Not exactly, Jennifer." said the familiar voice with the cocky yet sexy smirk.
Everyone gasped and stood shocked, by the unexpected guest.
"Orion!" Macey beamed and wheeled her chair right by Jenny. She threw her hands up, in full expectation of a hug from the angel that saved her life over a year ago.
"Young Macey!" Orion obliged her with a hug. "What a lovely young woman you are growing to be."
He stood and looked at all the shocked faces. "What? Did Sophia not give you the message that I was coming?"
"The angels said help was on the way..." Sophie had never met Orion, but she instinctively knew who and what he was.
"And here I am," he turned to the Witnesses and flashed a smile. "Hello Abigail."