A/N: sorry for the delay RL is rearing its ugly head again, but its a long one so I hope that makes up for the wait. It's in Sam's POV so sit and enjoy.

Rumors of My Death
Pt 34

I fight the darkness.

I try to open my eyes; to wake from this unwanted slumber.

My brain starts to respond, its finally doing what I ask when one word brings me back to reality.

Pete.

I open my eyes and try to yell but there is a gag silencing me. I struggle but it is no use, I've been tied to a chair.

I look around trying to see where I am.

No clue.

I look down and gasp.

Gone are Jack's over sized sweatshirt and sweats to be replaced by a wedding dress.

A dress Pete had wanted me to purchase; a dress he demanded I buy saying he knew I'd look beautiful in it.

It was hideous. Too puffy for my taste and the beading was overkill.

I try to catch my breath.

This can't be happening. They said he was dead. How could he have survived?

This repeats over and over in my head as I try to figure out where I am.

I close my eyes and try to recall my last memory before the darkness claimed me.

I remembered getting out of Jack's truck, Janet and Cassie volunteered to go and get my stuff since I was leery about going back to my house. They said they would be back in a flash and we'd be on our way to Jack's cabin to have at least one girl's day before the rest of our family came up.

I waited and impatiently honked the horn. When there was no response, I went looking for them and found them lying unconscious on my bedroom floor.

I was about to call Jack when I heard Pete behind me, asking if I had missed him.

I didn't react, I was too stunned. I spun around and faced my nightmare and the reality of him being alive overwhelmed me.

I blurted out that he was dead. He starts towards me. I tried to find a way out of that room but he was too quick.

He grabbed me by the neck I thought that was it; that he would end my life and my one chance at happiness. He covered my face with a rag saturated with chloroform. I tired to fight but it was useless. The last thing I remember was wondering if Cassie and Janet were dead and if Jack, Daniel and Teal'c would ever forgive me for causing them the pain of losing Janet again.

I bite the gag to hold back the tears. Were they dead?

What had he done with them? Did he make them pay for my mistake? I struggle but the ropes are too tight.

I start to take deep breaths; I need to stay calm and get the hell out of here. I need to find out what has happened to Janet and Cassie. I needed to save them. Nothing else mattered.

I wondered if anyone even knew we were in trouble.

Our family would know something was wrong when we didn't respond or when we didn't check in. I knew I had to buy some time.

They were expecting us to call on the way up to the cabin. Daniel was concern about us driving and had Janet promise him that she would call every few hours.

When Pete came back I would have to buy some time. I looked around the room and wondered how I was going to do that or if he would come back not ask any questions and just finish the job.

I tried not to think about that but it was hard not to. Things changed so quickly that in a blink of an eye your life could be turned upside down.

Yesterday I thought my best friend and the man I truly loved were together only to find out it was all a misconception on my part.

Janet had found her knight in shining armor… but it wasn't Jack.

Daniel had confessed his feeling for her the day of her re-birthday and she couldn't be happier. She had finally gotten what she always wanted and Daniel seemed finally at ease knowing Janet still cared for him as much as he cared for her.

My Knight in shinning armor had told me that I was the woman in his heart and always had been; that he loved me and wanted only me.

I couldn't believe that after all I had done to him he still loved me.

After Janet left, we stayed on the roof; I pulled him towards me and showed him how much I longed to hear him say that to me.

He was hesitant at first saying he wanted to be sure that this was what I wanted. I cupped his face and told him what was in my heart and confessed everything.

I told him that Pete was a mistake; that I had attempted to fill a void I knew now could never be filled by anyone but him. I told him that I was substituting Pete's love for the one love I knew I could never have. When Pete proposed, I explained, I was settling because I thought he no longer wanted me in his life.

Jack held me and whispered how stupid he was to think that he could move on without me. He said he realized that he had lost the best thing in his life by encouraging me "to get a life". He apologized again and again for everything that had happened and took responsibility for me being hurt, this was so typical Jack.

I said that was all in the past; that tomorrow was another day, a day to start fresh and to celebrate our love.

I said I would retire, that I would become a consultant to the program so that we could be together.

He shook his head saying that he had achieved more then he thought possible in his career and that he was ready to hang up his stars his letter of retirement was already in Hammond's hands and that he would not chance losing me again.

I remembered our first kiss, so gentle and sweet; it was perfect. He smiled at me and asked if this was real if I was truly here in his arms, kissing him. I giggled and he chided me to stop. This only made me giggle more.

I close my eyes now trying to hold on to those sweet memories.

Had that only happen last night?

Too have everything you ever wanted only to have it yanked away so quickly.

Oh God, I prayed that Jack or my family would find us in time.

I have to get a grip, I have to be ready. I needed to act like the soldier I was. I needed to find Cassie and Janet and get us the hell out of here. I need to form a plan.

I scan the room I'm being held in. It's large; a king size bed takes up most of the right side of the room and there's two doors and one window. One of the doors must be a bathroom so the other must me a closet.

I look towards the bed and cringe at what I see there.

It's white lingerie; he must have bought them for me. I realize he has this all planned out in his sick mind; wedding then the wedding night. I finally realize where I am.

I'm in the house he bought for us my Wedding present from him.

I try to recall any detail he told us that day he attacked Janet and me but nothing comes to mind. He didn't give me many details only that he bought the damn thing.

I feel the tears start to roll down my face. This is entirely my fault; if I had not been blind to his obsessive, abusive moods I would not have placed my family in danger nor would I be here tied to a chair waiting for my lunatic ex fiancé to finish the job.

"Get a grip," I whisper to my self.

How long had I been in this room? I can't see any daylight, the curtains are dark and there is only a small lamp that illuminates the room.

There is no clock so I don't know what time it is. I could have been out for hours or worse days.

I suppress the sob that wants to escape and start to struggle with the ropes. I try to get free and almost tip backwards.

The binds are too tight. I will have to wait until he decides to return.

My mind is racing, wondering how he had survived the crash. How he had escaped injury and how he knew I would be coming to my house?

I start to tremble.

Had he followed us home from the base? Had he been waiting at my house for the right opportunity? How had he eluded detection?

All these questions are racing in my mind and the solution is simple.

"Because we thought he was dead and who would be looking for a dead man"

Did anyone else know he was alive?

My lip starts to quiver and the only thing I can think is I want Jack.

He would make this right he would not let Pete hurt me again. He had promised me last night that I would always be safe. But that was before he knew the maniac lived.

How would he react when he found out Pete was alive?

I couldn't bear to think of all the pain and anguish he would feel when he found out we were missing.

I knew he would blame himself for letting us out of his sight. He was not keen in letting us go ahead without them but we talked him into it.

This could set him over the edge and I wish it didn't have to be. I'm scared for him but it doesn't compare to the fear I'm feeling right now.

My nightmare would return and I didn't think I could face him.

My emotions are about to over power me when I hear Jack's voice in my head telling me not to be afraid and to just hold on he would find us.

I cling to that thought as I hear a door open behind me.

I know its Pete.

I can't cower; I need to show him that I am not afraid of him even though I am. I need to focus on Jack and finding a way out of this hell. I have to find Janet and Cassie and get them away from here.

I look down and wait, trying not to tremble as I feel him behind me. He's so close I can feel the heat coming off his body. I don't say a word and wait for him to speak.

He reaches to the side of my face and pulls the hair over my ear then comes close and starts to whisper.

"Hi babe, feel better after your nap?"

I didn't move nap what nap, you kidnapped me knocked me out and now are asking me if I felt better after my nap my mind screamed.

I needed to stay calm.

He pulls my face towards him and smiles.

He starts to check the ropes to make sure they are still secure.

He frowns and shakes his head at me.

"I see you tried to get out of your binds Samantha. Naughty, naughty girl. You'll wrinkle your dress and it's such a pretty dress don't you think?"

My stomach churns I don't think I can pull this off. He's looking at me and still smiling.

"I know exactly what you're thinking and the answer is yes. When we got here I carried you over the threshold of our new home. If I know one thing about you Samantha it's that you are a stickler for traditions and for me not to carry my new bride into her home would be bad luck."

I don't respond how can I? The gag is in my mouth

After all that he had done he still remembered to carry me over the threshold of our new home? He had lost touch with reality? I could use this to escape. I had to make sure I was convincing or all would be lost.

He stood up and outstretched his arms.

"So, how do you like our bedroom? I decorated it all by myself got us a queen size bed so I could cuddle with my wifey every night. The king size would have been too big don't you think? I got you that mattress you said you've been eyeing at the furniture store and the comforter is the same color as your eyes. Don't you think it's great? Didn't I do a good job? All for you baby. Nothing but the best!"

He wanted praise for his good deeds. I was thankful for the gag so I didn't have to answer him.

"I've been working so hard on this project. I did all the work painted every room to make it our home. Oh and I even painted the kitchen yellow just like you wanted it. Remember on one of our first dates you said you wanted a yellow kitchen and I remember everything my true love wants. I'll show you the rest later after we've talked."

I try not to cringe as I hear what he just said.

Yellow kitchen? When had I said that? It must have been when were discussing what we wanted for our future.

I couldn't believe he actually painted it yellow and that he remembered.

If he only knew that yellow kitchen's reminded me of the last house my dad was assigned to before mom was killed. I remembered the kitchen because I had to repaint it after my father told me my mom had died and I threw the cookies and mix against one of the kitchen's wall and it had to be redone.

That was my punishment for acting out.

Dad was distraught but he kept his emotions in line and he had expected me to do the same.

I hated yellow.

Yellow reminded me of the day I lost my mother it reminded me of the day my family was shattered beyond repair.

But he didn't know that. I had probably mentioned it to appease him and if he ever found out the truth I was afraid of what he would do.

I nod, listening to him prattle on I need to make him believe that I am grateful for his hard work and that I'm happy he is alive.

He stands in front of me. He fingers the lace on my shoulders then his fingers trail to the beading of the bodice of the dress. He starts to pull on the dress from the hem to shake out the wrinkles. When he's done he looks up.

"Your dress fits perfectly I knew it would, do you like it Samantha?"

I have to gain his trust and nod again.

"Good, I told you, this is a better dress then those plain Jane ones you picked. You should listen to me more often, Sam; I know what's best for you."

He pulls a chair from behind me and sits in front of me.

"Now there are some things we need to clear up between us. I am still a little upset with you but will accept your apology for what happened the other day. You should have never interfered with what I did to that meddling bitch. She got what she deserved and you got what was coming to you. You know I don't like to be disobeyed and I will not tolerate that once we are married. You need to remember your place and if you think I will let a slip up like that go unpunished, you are wrong."

Oh God, he was going to hurt me. I didn't lose eye contact with him and finally bowed my head cowering like he wanted me to showing him that he was in control and that I would not put up a fight.

He doesn't say anything and I'm afraid to look up not wanting to see the blow as it connects to my face.

He picks up my chin.

But, since I'm in a forgiving mood, I will let that slide consider it one of your wedding gifts."

I nod and release the breath that I've been holding.

He stands up and placed his hands behind him and starts to pace.

"But sweetheart, what I heard you tell your precious General on the roof at his house last night, well, I don't know if I can forget or forgive that so easily."

I close my eyes and will myself not to scream.

Oh my god, he had been at Jack's last night.

I recalled exactly what I had said and realized he was going to kill me. My throat starts to constrict and I'm finding it hard to breath but still I open my eyes.

I had to know what Pete had heard. I had to know if he had harmed Jack or had he made him pay for my actions and words.

Pete was capable of anything at this point and I clung to the hope that he had left before he heard my confession. I prayed that Jack was unharmed.

I turned to him and he watches me for my reaction. I know my eyes betray me and I can see him take pleasure in this.

He walks over to me caresses my cheek and traced my lips. I try to hold still as he stops and looks down at me.

"So, I was a mistake?"

Before I could try and mumble something he slaps me.

My cheek explodes with pain and I think I might pass out from the blow.

He grabs my chin and squeezes it and starts to scream at me.

"You are such a whore! How could you spew those lies! You don't deserve to live for the way you treat me! I should make you pay for the pain you've caused me. God Samantha why do I still love you? After everything you've done to me? What spell have you cast on me that I still want you? Answer me!"

He pulls off the gag and waits for me to say something.

I turned away knowing that whatever I said he would twist it around. There were no correct answers.

He grabs my chin again I felt him squeeze harder. He pulls my face towards him.

"Say something! Say it was all lies; say you didn't mean any of it. Take back that our love was a mistake! Tell me that you still love me. Tell me that I am the reason you live and with out me you are nothing! Tell me that I am the air you breathe that I saved you from your life of loneliness. Tell me that you are loyal to me and only me .You need me Samantha like I need you. You are my life and I can't believe you would say that everything we've had has been a mistake! Tell me they coerced you to say that. God Sam don't tell me you pretended to love me!"

He looks crazed. He looks like he was about to go off the edge and take me with him.

I knew what I had to do. I summoned all my resolve and looked up at him and whispered "Pete?"

I swallow the blood that is starting to slide down my throat. The inside of my cheek is bleeding and I'm finding it hard to speak. But I keep looking at him.

He waits to see what I will say next I have to play this smart or I wouldn't be able to save anyone.

"Is it really you? They told me you were dead. Oh my God! They lied to me; I knew you would never leave me I told them this but they wouldn't believe me. Pete is it really you? You're the only man I ever wanted and now that we are together again we will never be apart. I'm sorry, they made me believe you were dead and when I saw you at my house, I was speechless, overjoyed and angry My so called family lied to me; they said you died in the crash. I tried to get away to see with my own eyes but they wouldn't let me. I knew it was a lie and I was so weak that I let them convince me it was true even though deep in my heart I knew it wasn't true. You weren't there to show me the way. Babe, can you ever forgive me for believing their lies? Can you forgive me for being so feeble minded that I was disloyal and believed the lie?"

He looks skeptical. But had loosened the grip he had on my chin.

I needed to continue.

"I knew you would come for me. I had to make them believe I was with them or they would never let me leave the mountain. I had to lie and tell them what they wanted to hear. I'm sorry you had to hear those lies but that's all they were…lies. I would never betray our bond, our trust."

I waited to see if he bought my story.

Tears stream down my face. He uses his thumb to brush them off.

He thinks they're for him. They're for me and my family. If he's harmed them then I will be begging him to finish the job.

He lets go of my chin and cups the cheek that he had just slapped. I leaned into it. I needed him to trust me.

He stoops down to get closer and is smiling.

"I knew it! They tried to keep us apart. I knew it was all lies. You know how much I value loyalty. If you don't have that then there is no bond. You would never betray me Sam. You love me too much. I told you they don't want us to be together, they are all plotting to keep us apart. Joe, the department, your family and the military they are all against us! Don't they see that our love is more powerful then they could even imagine? What we have is special we're soul mates Samantha and nothing can keep us apart. We are destined to be together, you would do anything I ask of you as I would do anything you ask of me."

I nodded and he got on his knees.

"Did they hurt you? I'll kill them if they did. I'll make them sorry for keeping you from me especially that bastard, General O'Neill he'll get what's coming to him I can guarantee it."

This comforts me. He didn't say I've taken care of the General so this gives me hope that he is still alive.

I smile and kept up the charade.

"You're right Pete I let the General, Cassie and Janet interfere. Janet doesn't understand what we have and I let her lead me away from you. I listened to her lies and that's why I attacked you the other day. I'm sorry Pete; I deserved what you did to me. Can you forgive me for that?"

He caressed my check and I could see a ghost of a smile on his face. I turned in and kissed his palm and he tilted my chin up to him and kissed me.

I try not to show my disgust as he deepens the kiss.

He pulls away.

"Yeah, I forgive you sweetheart, it's all her fault. No, it's their fault. If they had just left us alone none of this would have happened and we'd be living happily ever after like I always wanted. They don't know how deep our love and loyalty for each other is. They are stupid in thinking they could keep us apart."

I nodded.

"Pete if I can just talk to Janet…tell her to stop interfering in our lives…and tell the others to leave us alone, they will. I think they just need to hear it from me…that I don't want them in my life any longer, that I am angry at them for lying to me about you; that I want no part of them or the Air Force, that I want to retire and finally marry my soul mate."

I looked at him and tried not to falter.

He had to believe me and if I wavered he would know everything I just said was a lie.

He looked shocked.

"You'll retire? You'd give up your career for me?"

I nod.

"That was going to be my wedding present to you Pete; I was going to retire so we could start a family. That's all I ever wanted to be the mother of your children, to make a home for us, to be the perfect wife and to be at your beck and call."

He cupped my face. I stared at him and pray that he believes me.

"You wouldn't be lying to me would you Sam?"

He started to squeeze my face and I flinched.

"No Pete I wouldn't do that to you. God when I thought you had died… I was devastated. I lied to escape them to see if the lies they told were true. Pete, please believe me when I tell you that I love you. That there is no other man like you and that you are the air I breathe. I am loyal to you heart and soul."

He kept staring at me.

"Pete? You do believe me right? Please tell me you believe me Pete, I don't think I can stand it if you say no. Please sweetheart, are you hurt do you want me to tend to your injuries?"

He didn't say a word so I continued.

"Babe, how did you survive the crash? How had you fooled everyone to believe you were dead?"

I called him babe he loved when I called him babe. I didn't lose eye contact. He continued to stare at me waiting to see if I would show him that I was lying to him.

He turned away and crossed his arms over his chest.

"I survived the crash by staging it Sam. There is a body in the cab but it wasn't me it was someone else. I stole the truck pretended to be stranded and some guy stopped and I shot him. Put him in the cab of the truck put the truck in drive and watched it as it went over the side. It was so easy. I took his car and no one was the wiser. They all think it was me that went over the side. I've been monitoring the chatter. It was perfect."

Oh my god, he had killed someone.

He was beyond reason. He was unpredictable and this was bad. I had to stay cool and wait for my opportunity to escape or render him unconscious.

I smiled, "Thank God you weren't hurt. I cried when they told me you were dead. I couldn't believe it. I knew deep in my heart you wouldn't leave me you told me our love was forever and I was so lost and I…."

He smirked.

"I told you Samantha you're mine and no one or nothing can keep us apart. We will be married and we will be bound for eternity. You don't worry about anything only the things I tell you to worry about."

I smiled and nodded he was accepting all my lies.

I needed to get more information.

"So is the preacher coming here? Or are we going to the church?"

He turned around and slapped me.

My head snapped back and I gasped.

"Didn't I say not to worry about that? That's my business you just answer the man when he gets here and performs the ceremony. God! Didn't I tell you that you don't know your place? I swear Sam if it takes the rest of our lives you will learn your place and never ask things that don't concern you. "

My lip was bleeding and I tried to move back. I wanted to scream but I couldn't I was stuck with this maniac and all looked lost. .

He jerked my chin up and started to wipe it with his sleeve.

"Dammit Sam! Stop bleeding! I swear you're such a pig you're going to ruin your dress. If you would just learn to shut that big mouth of yours then you wouldn't be punished."

He made the bleeding stop but my head was aching.

"Now don't say anything. Do you understand? I'm going to untie you and show you around the house when I ask you something that's when you answer. Do you understand me? We're clear on this right?"

I nodded my head and whispered, "Yes."

He cut the ties that bound my hands with a knife he pulls from his back pocket. He picks up the hem of my dress and cut the binds on my ankles.

He caresses my leg and I try not to flinch.

He looks up and smiles.

"Later you'll show me how happy you are that I didn't die."

I nod.

"Come on sweetheart let me show you the rest of our new home."

He pulls me towards him and put me in front of him. He drags me down the hall and stops me in front of a door.

He covers my eyes with his hand and whispers, "open the door and walk in babe, you're going to love it trust me."

I nod and dread what I would find through the door. Would it be Janet and Cassie? I prayed they were still alive and not dead I could not deal with Janet's death again and if Cassie were gone too, the pain would be unbearable.

He pushes me forward and he's behind me.

My eyes are still close as he removes his hands away and whispered for me to open them.

I take a deep breath and did as he says

I am speechless and cover my mouth with my hand.

The room was a nursery.

It was painted blue with two cribs in it. I looked around and it had a nursery rhyme border and everything matched. He had our lives all planned out.

He had insisted we have children right away but I told nixed the ideal telling him I wanted to wait.

In his sick mind he knew he would get what he wanted or I would pay for my disobedience.

"Well do you like it? I copied it from that home magazine you had at the house. I knew you liked it you had it ear marked and we said we wanted kids right away so I went ahead and got it done. Won't this be the envy of everyone? Aren't I the best husband to get my wife the perfect nursery?"

What magazine? I racked my brain and it came to me. I had gotten that magazine from the infirmary. I had never earmarked any page. I just picked it up to pass the time but he must have thought I was looking through it. I swallowed and answered.

"Yes, it's beautiful. I'm speechless."

He came up behind me and put his arms around me and started to nuzzle my neck.

"We can start working on Pete Jr. right after the preacher leaves. I'm going to have you every day until you're pregnant with my child. Then as soon as he's born will try again for another then another and you get the picture don't ya babe. I want you to be the mother of my babies and I want lots of babies so you won't have time to worry about your stupid career."

He started to grope me and I didn't flinch. If he only knew what I had done last night he wouldn't be doing what he was doing to me.

I close my eyes and remembered my tender time with Jack.

I had seduced the poor man and he had loved ever minute of it. I was through waiting I told him. I had acted with out care for what would happen. I woke up the next morning in his arms and thought I was in heaven. I knew he would never hurt me, I knew that he loved me for me. I kissed him and whispered I loved him. He smiled smugly and said he knew.

I held onto that memory.

Willing him to find me and rescue me from this hell.

"Hey penny for your thought but I know what you're thinking. You can't wait to start our lives together. Patience Sam all good things come to those who wait. Come on there's more."

I nod and follow him out of the room.

He shows me the next room it was empty. He said he wanted me to decorate this one since it would be his office and wanted my touch in this room.

I squeezed his hand.

He smiles and kisses it.

"This is a new beginning for us Sam. I know that with out anyone's influence you'd come around. I knew you still loved me. You just needed a little push to understand. You do love me don't you Sam."

"With all my heart Pete, you are my soul mate."

He pushes me against the wall and started to kiss and grope me. I kissed him back to show him that I meant what I said.

My heart was crying out for Jack and I pretended it was him to get me through this.

"We better stop I don't want to mess up your dress and we'll have plenty of time for our honeymoon. He did you see that lingerie I got you, I can't wait to see you in it and then out of it."

I nodded afraid to speak knowing my voice would betray what I really felt.

"Come on sweetheart let me show you the kitchen. You are going to love the yellow I painted it."

I followed him down the hall and tried to find any sign of Cassie and Janet.

We had gone through the whole house but for two doors. I wondered what was behind them or who was behind them.

He had his hand at the small of my back and guided me through the dinning room and stopped me in front of another door.

"Okay I hope you love this room. It still smells like paint but I know you understand. Sam, close your eyes and I'll guide you in."

I did as I was told and he took me in.

He whispered to open my eyes and I did.

It was a kitchen, a yellow kitchen. Everywhere you looked was the color yellow. Dishes, storage jars, and appliances it was overwhelming.

"I knew you would love it. I can tell by your reaction. See if you just follow my rules things will always be like this Sam. I'm not a bad guy. You know I don't always fly off the handle for any reason. I can be very accommodating. I can make you happy if you just give me a chance. This love we have, there are no words. You are my life Sam and I know I am yours."

I wasn't listening I was looking out the windows to the back yard nothing but greenery, no neighbor's just trees and grass.

I moved towards the windows.

He was right behind me and clasped my shoulder.

"It's beautiful it looks like it goes on forever."

I closed my eyes. I had spoken out of turned and waited to be punished. He clamped down harder on my shoulder and pulled me away from the window.

"Well if you must know wife we are far away from the nearest neighbor we have a beautiful creek that runs in the back pass the trees and nobody to on either side of us. It's secluded so if you decided to go back on what you said earlier…"

I turned around, "why would I do that? I was just admiring my new home. Don't you want me to be happy here Pete?"

I had to play on his emotions.

He stared at me and relaxed the hold on my shoulder.

"I just wanted to be sure we wouldn't be disturbed you know how loud you can get, I won't ask anything else."

I bowed my head to show him I was submissive.

He tilts my head up and was smiles.

"I'm just a little cranky sweetheart; I apologize for jumping to conclusions. Come I have one more room to show you."

I nodded as he led me through the living room. It was decorated with flowers and candles.

"Do you like? This is where the ceremony is going to take place. I'll light all the candles and it will be perfect. All for my Sam, everything I do I do it for you. The disciplining the yelling it's so that you will learn from your mistakes. It's not like I like yelling at you Sam. I have a tender side and you've seen it. I can be romantic."

I grabbed his hand and squeezed it.

"It's perfect, thank you for doing this for me no for us. This will make our wedding day special. I have no words Pete. You just keep surprising me. Thank you."

"We are going to make this work aren't we Sam? I know you love me I will make you happy you'll see. I love you and with out anybody interfering in our lives we will live happily ever after. Will be man and wife soon and no one can take you away from me."

He pulls me towards him and kisses me.

He pulls away takes my hand and pulls me towards another door.

"We will live happily ever after as soon as we just tie up a few loose ends and then we can start to enjoy our life together."

He opens the door to stairs that led down to a basement.

I pull back and he pushes me forward.

I hated the dark.

He knew this I had told him about my fear of it and of dark places like this.

As a child Mark had locked me away in our basement to torment me. It took me years to get over my fear and now Pete was showing me that he was in charge and that he could inflict pain anytime he wanted.

I hesitated and he shoves me in. I grab onto the railing of the stairs.

He was right behind me as I continued downward.

It was dark and I tried not to let my fear over take me.

He pushed me and I stumbled down the last steps.

"You're so stupid Sam, can't even make it down a couple of steps."

I got up. He had a flashlight.

"You're wondering why where here aren't you. This is just something for you to keep in mind when you don't obey me. I know your fear of the dark and basements. Mark told me all about you being locked in one when you were a child. Did you forget sweetheart? I got a big kick out of it Miss Tough as Nails killing aliens at a drop of a hat was afraid of the dark. Oh and since were here I thought I'd let you catch up with your friend."

He flashed the light toward the opposite wall and I cried out.

"Janet!" I gasped

She looked up and I wanted to go to her but didn't. I was paralyzed with fear and afraid what he would do if I took a step towards her to help.

He had her tied to a post. Her head bobbed down and I couldn't see how badly injured she was as I heard a muffled scream.

I turned as Pete flashed the other side. It was Cassie I bit my lip to stop myself from crying out.

She was on the floor chained to another post. She struggled with her binds and was crying. Her face was bruised and she looked terrified.

Pete came up behind me and put his arm around my waist.

"See I'm not such a bad guy sweetie, I didn't kill your friends… yet. I know once we eliminate everyone that wanted to keep us apart then we will be happy. Don't you see it's the only solution, it will be done so we can move on."

I had to do something.

"You're right Pete. But why would we have to harm them I can just talk to them and they will leave us alone they are nothing to us, they are just jealous that they can't find happiness like we have. I don't think we need to bother with killing them."

He pulled out a gun from the back of his pants.

I took a step in front of Cassie. I would not let him hurt her if it meant my death then so be it.

"They have to be eliminated Sam its simple, then that General of yours, Daniel and that alien. Then we have no one to worry about keeping us apart."

He was walking towards Janet and I went towards them.

He lifted Janet's face and slapped it to get her to wake.

I flinched and covered my mouth with my hand to stop me from crying out.

Her eyes opened and stared at me. I nodded my head no hoping that she got my message to close her eyes to pretend to be out. But she didn't she continued to stare at Pete who had grabbed her chin.

"Finally awake I see. God you've been such a pain in my ass Dr. Lady. You come back from the dead and I still don't know how the hell that happened but my lovely bride will tell me soon enough. You almost ruined our lives, your whiney bitch of a daughter was always a pain but you, you take the cake. All you needed was a strong hand to keep you in line. No wonder you're divorced no one could put up with your bossy attitude and your unwillingness to obey. You never learn your place if you did then maybe some man would have taken pity on you and made you his wife again."

Janet continued to stare not making a sound, Pete stepped closer and Janet spit on him.

"Bitch!"

He slaps her again turns to me and hands me the gun.

If you love me and want a life with me you will obey me and kill her. If she never turned up alive we wouldn't be having these problems and we would have lived happily ever after."

I stared at the gun and at him then to Janet.

I looked up at him.

"Do it! Show me how much you love me. Show me your loyalty Sam kill this bitch so we can start our lives together."

I stepped forward away from him and pointed the gun at her. Her eyes grew wide I don't look at her and hope she doesn't move.

Cassie's muffled screams could be heard behind me.

"Shut up you'll be next don't worry you'll be joining your mother real soon. Do it Sam!"

I pick up my other hand to steady my self. Janet closes her eyes and whispers my name. I hesitate but pulled the trigger.

I waited a full second before I pulled it again and again. The chamber was empty.

I turned around and looked at him.

"Pete?"

He was shocked and whispered.

"You do love me. You would do anything I asked wouldn't you Sam. You have remained loyal to me and our bond. I thought you would have turned the gun on me and tried to escape. But you didn't. I'll never doubt you again sweetheart I love you."

He pulls me into his arms as I drop the gun.

I was shaking the bile was starting to rise into my throat. I had to remain calm I had to pretend that I was worthy of his trust.

My hunch was proven correct, he was testing me to see what I would do if given the chance to escape. If I had been wrong I would not have hit Janet I was aiming for the wall behind her and if I did have bullets the second one would have been between his eyes.

He cupped my face and kissed me gently.

He let me go and went over to Janet.

"I told you she would do it. I told you she was loyal to me and only me. All of you are nothing when it comes to me. She proved it right now. If I had bullets in that gun you'd be dead again. Taunting me that she doesn't love me that I'm not the man for her who's taunting who now? Just wait till the ceremony is over she'll be down here again to finish the job permanently."

As he was speaking I looked at Cassie. She was looking at me confused at what had just happened. I shook my head and whispered at her to trust me.

I pleaded with her with my eyes and she nods. I smile and turn around.

"Come on sweetheart the preacher should be here soon and we'll come back to really finish the job when he's gone. I'm so proud of you. You've proven to me your love and loyalty you are truly worthy of my love now I would be proud to call you wife."

I looked to Janet and willed her to hang on I turned over to Cassie who had grown quite and did the same.

We went back upstairs he doesn't let go of my hand. He's whistling and pulls me to the living room.

"He should be here any minute. We need a wedding song I hope you like endless love its meant for us because that is our love for one another endless."

"That would be perfect, whatever you want Pete."

"When its over will celebrate have some married couples fun then get rid of those two downstairs. It's so easy we'll do it together no one can stop us we are a force to be reckoned with."

I touched my face. "I think I should freshen up before the preacher gets here I want to look my best for you Pete do you mind me going to the bathroom?"

"You look beautiful enough and if he asks will say you had an accident at work. He knows you work for the military so he wont be asking any unnecessary questions. Come on lets go to the kitchen you can use the sink there to wash up."

I picked up my dress and followed him. I had torn on the side when I stumbled down the steps. It made a pocket between the dress and the lining. I could use this to hide a weapon. I covered the hole wit the rest of the dress and looked around for something to use.

He handed me a yellow dish cloth and I wet it. "I'll go get you a mirror okay I know you wont be happy till you see for yourself that you look fine."

He left me in the kitchen alone and I searched frantically for a weapon. I opened the drawers and found a knife. It wasn't too big and I slip it into my makeshift pocket. I open more and found a box cutter. I hid this too in my pocket. I heard footsteps and closed the drawer and face the sink, pretending to wipe my face.

"Here you go sweetheart. I have your purse too. Make your self more beautiful if its at all possible. You're a natural beauty Sam."

I smiled, "you're too kind with your compliments I could get use to this."

He went to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of champagne.

"I've been saving this for a special occasion and well I think me getting married again should be it. You're nothing like my ex-wife Sam, she didn't listen to me and had the gall to accuse me of being possessive. Can you imagine that. She just didn't understand me like you do. She can't hold a candle next to you babe, your one of a kind and your mine."

He put down the champagne on the counter and pulled out two flutes.

"You're bouquet is in the refrigerator I got you white roses. I hope you like them. I'm going to put on my tuxedo if there's a knock on the door don't answer it Sam. Do you understand me?"

I nodded.

"I'll be right back."

He left I needed to get to Cassie and Janet. To free them and to let them escape. I walked to the bedroom and Pete was pulling out his tuxedo.

"Pete, why don't you take a shower so you'll be more comfortable. I'm sure the preacher won't be here that quickly. I want my man to be clean and beautiful when we finally tie the knot."

"That sounds good. But remember don't answer the door Sam, you'll pay if you disobey me."

"I promise, I'll just go to the kitchen and finish my makeup okay."

He stared.

"Haven't I proven myself to you yet Pete? Are we going to start this marriage with distrust? I am loyal to you what else do you want me to do to show you this?"

He nodded, "I'm sorry babe, just pre-wedding jitters. Go doll yourself up and I'll be right out."

I moved to the hallway and waited to see him go into the bathroom and the water turned on.

I ran to the basement forgetting my fear of the dark.

"Janet? Cassie it's me," I whispered as I made it to the last step.

"Sam? Are you okay? Where is he? You need to untie Cassie and me so we can escape."

I followed her voice, "I'm sorry for all of this Janet I would never have shot you. I was aiming for the wall behind you I had to do it."

"I know Sam you wouldn't have done it and I knew he would try to do something to prove your loyalty."

"Will get out of this I promise. I can't untie Cassie she has handcuffs on…"

"Pick them Sam I know you can do it get her out of here. Do it now Sam, I know you're scared the bastard took great pride in tell us that you're afraid of the dark and especially basements. Come on you can do it."

I pulled the knife out of my makeshift pocket and untied her from the post. I help her sit.

I crawled over to Cassie and bumped into her I found her face and pulled off the gag.

"Cassie, are you okay he didn't hurt you…"

"Oh Sam are you okay I thought he was going to kill you. Then when he made you shoot mom, I nearly died. Mom! Are you okay I can't see you mom please say something."

"I'm here sweetheart Sam is going to get you out of those cuffs and then you are going to go no arguing Cassandra as soon as we find a way out your gone."

I pulled a pin from my hair bent it fit into the lock of the handcuffs. It took me longer since I couldn't see what I was doing. I finally heard the click they slid off.

She pulled me into a hug.

"Help me with your mom."

"No! I said to find a way out of here now do it!"

"Mom.."

"Cassandra! Do as I say!"

"Janet, I'm about to be married and then we're going to have our honeymoon. During this time get out do you hear me. I don't have much time I have to get back he's showering. I'll keep him entertained just get out and bring help."

"No we all go or none of us do!"

"It's my mess I'm going to fix it and I don't want both of you to suffer any more. He trusts me. I have to get back upstairs. Just knowing you are free is enough to give me courage that we might get out of this alive. Call Jack call for help. Don't wait for me Janet your responsibility is to Cassie and to get her to safety. Were in the middle of nowhere its all grassy hills and trees. There's a stream of some sorts through the trees I'd go that way if he finds you gone he'll go to the main road."

"Sam…"

I grabbed her and hugged her, "When the time is right go. Don't worry about me. I'll be here waiting for the Calvary."

"I can't Sam, I wont leave you."

"Janet don't you see he's lost all touch with reality he's…"

The lights turned on.

"He's right here Sam and very disappointed in you."