TMWolf: Alrighty update time! I wasn't actually sure I would get this in since things have been hectic at work, but I'm finally done and get to go on my vacation to visits friends, yay! Decided to go ahead and not make ya'll wait for the chapter even though I hadn't written the next one already. However, that does mean part II of this three-yes, THREE parter, will not be for a while. Not sure how long, but probably no update for three weeks. Maybe. It all depends, really, but we'll see how it goes. In the meantime... hopefully this chapter will tide you over ;)

As always... how I write the canon is based upon my interpretation of it!

Now for reviews... also as always-you guys are sooooooooooooooooooo good to me! Seriously, your reviews always bring a smile to my face, and I'm so glad ya'll are enjoying this story! :) Please don't hesitate to leave any comments, ask any questions, or even write a critique! I'm happy to hear what you have to say or answer anything (if it doesn't spoil the story)! To answer my lovely guests, though:

FA1CON93: Hahaha the revelation will be this chapter, so hold tight! I love your guesses, though! Luckily for you, you'll get the answers to all of them this chapter! ;)

Guest: HERE MORE FOR YOU! XD

infectioner751: I couldn't reply directly, so guess I'll do it here hehe. No worries! I don't take it seriously, and I totally understand the feeling xD I enjoy the love/hate I instill in people, so feel free to say so ha ha. Your sweet release is coming, though, promise!

Kise-cchi: Hmm... as far as I know, no! No one has done any fanart. Or, well, technically I have made fanart... but I guess then it's not fanart lol! I would be so totally honored if you made some, though! Seriously, please go ahead! xD I won't stop you, ha ha. And awww-you're making get all mushy! You're going to turn me into a puddle with kudos like that staaaaahp! xD *flails*

Laurel: Thanks so much! Well, you won't need to wonder for much longer-you'll get your answers very soon! ;)

Rebel: Hehehe I do love to torture ;) And aww, thanks so much! I'm so glad you think so! I love your hypothesis about the Clock, too! Keep on thinking on it! There's going to more hints and revelations to come about it, so keep on at it! xD And I hope I keep ya'll suspense! I gotta keep ya'll coming back for more ;)

Okay that's all the reviews, so... Rascal Flatts - Bless the Broken Road is the chapter title for this three parter, and the lyrics fit perfectly. Big thanks to my friend Captain Alice Hook for giving it to me! She's writing an AltairxOC fic, Firewall! Go read it, too! :'D

Now, enjoy guys!


51 - Bless the Broken Road I


March 20, 1481

Venice, Italy

Things hurt.

That was the first thing Catherine was aware of when consciousness returned to her. Her entire body ached, and it felt like a huge weight was on her—at least an entire planet. Her lungs ached when she tried to suck in air, and the light, despite being just through the slits of a curtain, agitated her eyes. She closed them and let out a soft groan, and noted she sounded a little hoarse. Not much, but enough. Weakly, she lifted her arm and brought it to her face. It was a labored effort, but not as much as she had thought it would be. She hoped that meant her fatigue was only temporary and she would be able to sit up soon enough.

She was starving, too, she realized. And thirsty. How long had she been out? Hours? Maybe. It had to be midday now. Or had it been days? Weeks? She felt like she'd been out for that long. God, what had happened? It was hard to think back, but the memory was there; she just had to scrounge through it a bit more.

There.

Flashes of images—mostly of the lights. They had been everywhere and she'd cut so many. Occasionally the world went back to normal and she recalled the burning agony that had consumed her. Her memory was spotty, though, and it occurred to her that it was possibly because she hadn't been conscious the whole time. She certainly didn't remember going to all the different spots her mind brought back to her. She also didn't remember how many men she had killed. It was more than one—at least five, but she had a feeling it was far more. The notion made her stomach churn unhappily and she regretted what she had done. Yet, at the same time, she knew it was what she had to do. It had been the only way to save everyone.

They had been saved—right?

Catherine made to push herself up, but the struggle was immense and she fell back down the first time. She hissed as she paused, but then lifted her arms back to her side. They shook as she pushed, eyes squeezed shut and teeth grit, but slowly she eased up from the mattress. She let out a deep sigh as she leaned back against the headboard and let her head fall on it. She took in slow breaths, steeling herself, and then properly opened her eyes. She had to blink a little to get used to the dim light, and then looked around.

She didn't recognize the room. It certainly wasn't the one back in the thieves' Den, nor was it Ezio's. It wasn't the one in Fontina's place, and she didn't think it was from the Den at all. The material of the bed alone was too lavish in comparison, and the walls were lined with book shelves and paintings—ones that were somewhat familiar. Where was she? Better yet, who had brought her here? Pressing through her memories she drew up the one right as she had lost consciousness, and recalled a figure of light. They had called out to her, she knew, and she thought they had looked familiar, but the light made it impossible to tell. They must have known her, though, and been a friend—how else was she alive? How else would she be in a nice bed, and in new clothes at that? How else could she not be dead?

The redhead glanced to her nightstand, and it was then a flicker of recognition came over her. She knew the tiny little model that was standing there—a miniature carved from wood by her favorite artist. It was one of Leonardo's little "fun" sculptures; this one a small dog. She managed to get it into her hands and touch at it, taking in what it meant—that she was in Leonardo's home. His workshop. This was most likely the guest room. So did that mean her friend was the one who found her? God that must have been a fright for him. No doubt he was worried sick. Did anyone else even know where she was? Did the Thieves? Did Ezio? She needed to get up and tell them.

"Or not," she grunted as she tried to move, but found it took way too much effort. In fact, it practically exhausted her and she had to lean back against the headboard after she collapsed. Well, this was going to be troublesome, but at least her throat and lungs didn't hurt when she spoke. Her head shot up when she heard the door open, though—she winced slightly as the quick motion made her dizzy—and couldn't help smiling when a familiar face appeared.

"Ah—! Catherine! You are awake! I cannot believe it!" Leonardo exclaimed, racing over, and embracing her at once. The redhead made a short yelp instinctively, pain shooting through her, and the artist released her, eyes wide with concern. "Oh, no, I am so sorry! Please forgive me—where are you hurt? Do you feel alright? Please, do not move much. You must be exhausted! You were asleep for almost four days!"

"Wait—days? Four days?" Catherine balked, and Leonardo's excitement finally settled. He stood back upright, a sad smile on his face as he nodded.

"Yes—nearly four. I… well, we feared you might… not wake up at all. The doctor was unsure of what was wrong and there had been so much blood, but your external injuries were not bad at all—in fact they already healed, but you were so weak and sickly…"

The redhead sighed as she shut her eyes for a moment and then looked to the artist, "Leo, I, uh… I don't remember everything from that night I passed out. I thought I remember someone calling out to me, but…"

"It was I," Leonardo smiled lightly this time. "I heard a commotion outside. There was an uproar in the city, and when I came out to see what it was I… well, you suddenly appeared and collapsed. There was blood all on you, and I knew I had to get you inside before anyone else noticed you. Thankfully none were around, and I was able to carry you inside. I called for a doctor to tend to you as soon as I could, and then I managed to find Ezio. He sent for a woman I did not know, but she changed your clothes and bandages and apparently knew of medical remedies, too."

"Fontina," Catherine murmured, earning a curious look from her friend. "She's a… she's an ally. Part of the Thieves Guild. She's like their care taker or something. Wait... you said… Ezio? He's okay?"

"Yes, he is doing very well. He hardly left your side. In fact, I had to force him away to eat something not an hour ago. I think he fell asleep instead. He was slumped over on the table when I last saw him, anyways. Good grief, he almost worried himself as sick as you," her companion chuckled, bringing a blush to her cheeks. Catherine's heart raced a little, too, and skipped a beat as more memories returned—specifically those about the young man; of how he'd been at the brothel; of how he'd been flirting. Or she was sure he had been. Yet, he was so worried about her. That meant he cared, right? But then why? Why was he with those women?

"Catherine?"

The redhead's eyes shot up to meet the artist, whom looked concern. She smiled sheepishly and waved it off.

"Sorry, I got lost in thought."

"It is no trouble, and now let me go wake Ezio. He will be so happy to see you have woken and are alright! I will see about getting you a meal, too," Leonardo beamed, and before she could stop him, he was gone out the door. Catherine groaned, not sure what she was going to do. All her plans had been waylaid by her venture and what she had seen, and now she wasn't sure if she was going to be angry, sad, or feel nothing at all when he came. She dreaded it all the same, and the feeling only grew worse and worse with each passing second until, at last, the door opened again.

She held her breath when she saw him, standing there in his white shirt and dark pants; hair loosened and unkempt like his clothes; an unshaven stubble; a few dark lines under his eyes. He looked almost as haggard as she was, but his dark irises lit up at the sight of her. Whatever had made him pause before released its hold and he came right over. She looked down at first, nervous suddenly, but glanced up when he sat down beside her. The second their eyes met he pulled her into his arms, albeit far more gently than Leonardo. The artist must have told him about her weak condition, and so while he held her close, he did not keep it too tight. His head buried into her neck and he let out a deep sigh. Despite her earlier apprehension and the anger she had felt that night, she managed to lift her arms and return the embrace; grasping at his shirt to keep her limbs up. She let her head fall onto his shoulder, too, and closed her eyes. Truthfully, she knew she couldn't not want this—couldn't not savor every second of it. She still loved him.

Catherine didn't know how long they stayed like that, but he finally pulled away, although kept his hands on her shoulders; steadying her. One hand reached up to cup her cheek, eyes searching for something—for answers, perhaps.

"You're really alright," he murmured, and even his voice sounded tired.

She breathed out slowly, leaning into his touch as she nodded, "Yeah. Weak… and really tired… but I'm okay."

"Thank God… I was… I thought… I thought I lost you this time—truly lost you. The doctor and Fontina didn't know what was wrong. They said you bled from inside and then you took with fever…" he went on, shoulders sagging with his worry laid bare. He let out a sigh, as if releasing the last of what held him down, but it was not to be as he looked at her again. This time there was a hint of determination and he squeezed her shoulder gently. "Catherine, what happened that night? Antonio said you made some plan to stop the guards, but then no one knew what was going on in the chaos. I tried to come find you after you saw me, but Ugo found me first and said I had to hide, but then the screams and madness started. People are saying they saw a phantom fighting the guards, and then Leonardo… he found you hurt… what happened?"

"I, ah," she began, looking down briefly and grasping at the bed sheets. "Well… I overheard a group of guards mentioning they were going to overrun the Den—that the thieves they'd captured were just to lure us out and track us back to where we were staying. So I told Antonio and he got everyone out, and I decided to help buy them time. And…. Well, I did. I used all our tricks to get as many as I could. I, ah…. I don't know how many I did, but it seems like everyone made it out okay?"

He nodded, "They did. We lost no one—just almost you. Catherine, why? Why did you do it alone? Why did you put yourself in such danger?"

"I—I had to. It was... It was my duty to keep them all safe—the thieves, Antonio, and you… So, I…" she began, but her words faltered, and they stopped completely as he grasped her shoulders.

"Catherine, you did more than could ever be asked and paid a far higher price that you did not have to. You didn't have to do this—any of this. Yet, you did," he interjected and paused for a moment before looking at her firmly. "You remember how you owe me one request? From when I beat Rosa's climbing challenge?"

She frowned, puzzled, "Um… yes…?"

"Then I'm using it now. I want you to tell me the truth—now and always. No more lying; no more avoiding; no more secrets. I promise to do the same. I want us both to be honest with each other. So, I ask again: why did you risk your life like that? Even I am not worth you sacrificing yourself for. So why?"

Catherine didn't answer right away. She couldn't. His words just got to her; made her weak; made every wall she ever made break and crumble under her bubbling emotions. Oh, she knew part of her reason had been to help the others, but she knew, deep down, she had done it just for him—to protect him. She wanted to keep him safe above all else, and it was because, despite anything she had seen or heard or knew, she loved him. Even after seeing him there at the brothel she loved him, and while she probably could have thought up something else to tell him, his demand made it too hard. She had set herself too strong in her need to tell him, and it was a losing fight against her fears and the part of her telling her not to. So it all came forth, in the form of tears and a choked sob.

"You want to know why? It's because I love you, you stupid idiot!" she rasped, fingers in a death lock around the sheet as she squeezed her eyes shut. "Even after everything—all the women, and the flirting, and seeing you smiling and flaunting yourself around those whores the night of the attack right after I nearly let you kiss me—I still love you and I have for so long, but God dammit, Ezio, I can't keep doing this! I can't keep hoping you feel the same! I can't keep hoping I'm not just going to be another one of your fucking conquests, and I just—it—!"

Her words were stopped not by another sob, but rather a crash of lips against hers. Two hands held her face close, although she wouldn't have been able to pull away just from the shock. She couldn't even return the affection because of it, and only stared stupidly with wide eyes as he pulled back, an elated grin on his unkempt mug.

"You foolish woman. All that—the flirting and flaunting and teasing… all of it was to make you finally say those damned words! I have waited so long to hear them!" Ezio laughed, rubbing her cheek with his thumb.

Catherine stared for a moment, dumbfounded, "I—wait—wha—what?"

"I went to the brothel that night to get that scent you like—the lavender one. I wanted to encourage you to take that leap of faith. I thought you would have by now, but you've been so stubborn! Do you even know what you do to me? Do you know you've made me incapable of looking at any other woman the same because of you? None hold a spark to your flame, and I am but a moth inescapable drawn to it."

"Ezio, you… you…"

"Yes, my dear kitty-'Cat. I love you," Ezio grinned, and then kissed her once more. It was gentler this time, but the passion was infinitely greater. She could feel it, and as the reality dawned upon her, she kissed him right on back. Her hands left the sheets to grasp his shirt, and when his own hands moved to her waist to wrap around them, she brought her fingers to his shoulders. They ventured to his hair next, running through it as they kissed again and again. The fire that had been sparked in their play in the water was rekindled ten-fold, and she grew hungry for more. She wanted him—badly. She knew he wanted her, too, and not like the others. No. He loved her. He loved her. God, she'd waited so long to hear it, and now she had and knew it was true and there was no greater joy she had ever felt than before.

She honestly couldn't contain it, and suddenly let out a sob that turned into a gasp for air she hadn't realized she'd needed. She needed one or two more after that, too, and panted lightly as Ezio held her close. She felt the same need in him; in the way he held her, but he hesitated; watching her; worried. She chuckled, planting a quick one on his lips, and then kept her forehead pressed to his.

"Sorry, I just… I've waited probably a lot longer to hear you say the same… and kissing is more exhausting than I realized," Catherine snickered, and then laughed lightly when he suddenly loosened his arms.

"Shit, I was so happy, too, that I forgot—are you alright? I didn't hold you too roughly did I?" he inquired, rubbing her sides gently.

She flushed a little, a stupid smile on her face as she shook her head, "No, no I'm fine. I'm really happy, too—which is why I'm crying by the way, so don't worry. Or, well, I am tired still, but that's because I was out for so long. I already feel better, though."

"I admit… I had hoped to ravage you the moment you confessed," Ezio mused with a playful smirk that made her heart race and cheeks warm all the more. "But I suppose I can contain myself until you are better."

"You're terrible," she smirked, but then raised a brow as he began to shift. He kept his warm around her while he moved, lounging on the bed beside her. He lightly tugged her down then, settling her on top of his chest. He made sure her head was nestled beneath his—no doubt to make it perfect for nuzzling her. Catherine smiled, draping an arm on his chest. "Okay, maybe not so terrible."

"Oh, no, I am the worst, and I will show you yet," he growled playfully as he suddenly tipped her chin and stole a quick peck. "You are to be mine now, and I will not let you regret nor forget it. No other will have you … but by God, woman—did you have to make me wait so long?"

"Me?" the redhead balked, pressing up suddenly. She winced at the sudden motion, but Ezio was there at once. He helped ease her down and this time turned so they faced one another. He rubbed along her side gently—something she found she quite liked.

"Yes, you. You've been so damn stubborn! I've been trying everything to make you confess! I thought the time we kissed in the river would do it, but then you pulled away again! You made it unbearable!" he laughed.

Catherine rolled her eyes, "Oh, please. You were far worse! Do you know how long I've been in love with you? Years! Hell, I started having feelings the moment we met!"

"What?!" the young man exclaimed and this time he was the one to sit up. "Why did you not say anything?! I had hoped you'd fancied me back then, but I thought you didn't! You can't seriously mean you had feelings for me that you kept hidden for five years!?"

"Hey, that was mostly your fault, you know," she huffed, pouting into the pillow. Ezio settled back down, though propped his arm on the bedding, brow quirked. She sighed softly, looking down for a moment, and then back to him. "I mean… well, I wasn't sure I would ever see you again when I left to Monteriggioni, so I didn't say anything then… and after you came… well, I knew you still had feelings for Cristina. You weren't ready to move on from that, and then you were always flirting with the city women. I know you slept with a few. I thought maybe after you had let Cristina go when we went back to Firenze you might maybe come to like me, too… but… well, you never showed any signs. You kept fooling around with courtesans or other women… and then that one fight we had where you said no man would ever want me—I know, I know… you didn't mean it, but… it stuck with me for the longest time.I told myself you only really saw me as a friend or sister or you just wanted to sleep with me, and when I compared myself to all the women you did show interest in… well, I saw how different I was so I thought maybe that was why you didn't have any feelings for me.

She paused to look down again, pulling her legs up slightly, "And then… well, I was always afraid of being rejected by you. I knew I wouldn't be able to handle it like I did before… so I was always scared. I only actually just got the courage the night of the attack to finally tell you, but then… well, y'know. I got put into this bed."

"Five years," the young man hummed, and shook his head with a laugh. He soon had his arms wrapped back around her, pulling her close once more. He tilted her chin up to give her a long, deep kiss, which she relished in. She loved the way in which his arms embraced her so perfectly, too; how she seemed to fit right against his side as if she belonged there. She did, though, she realized. She was his, and now—now he was hers.

Ezio parted their lips, smiling down lovingly at her, "I suppose I did make it difficult… and I admit I did hold feelings for Cristina for some time, but over the years I've come to realize I loved her more for the memory—of the life I once had and yearned for still. She represented that, but I let it go. And the others… well, I suppose I didn't love you right away. I felt something, but I never appreciated it back then. At some point, though, things changed. As I told you, I cannot look at any other woman the same. You feared I did not love you because you weren't like the other women—I love you because you aren't like them. I love you for all that you are, Catherine. You have done what none of them have been able to, and I only wish you had understood my hints better. I dropped so many!"

"Flirting with other girls and sleeping with them is not a hint."

"Well, really that was just to make you jealous. I always loved how it riled you up."

"Yes, well… it worked," Catherine smiled, leaning up to steal another kiss and then settling down. She sighed as she closed her eyes, her vigor from earlier starting to wane. He seemed to sense it, adjusting positions just slightly so as to keep her held close just right. She opened her eyes for a moment, a thought coming to mind. "And um… sorry, I'm… so tired. Honestly, I feel like I'm going to fall asleep again now. I know you wanted to… uh… you know."

Ezio chuckled, "Don't worry, kitty-'Cat… I will gladly show you all you have been missing out on once you are better. You are well worth the wait. For now, rest as long as you need. I will be here, and I will never leave your side or make you doubt again. My heart belongs to you, my love, and I would not have it belong to any other."

Catherine's heart raced all the more and she couldn't help the stupid smile that appeared on her face. She was all too happy to lay her arm across his chest and utilize his warm frame as a pillow. Oh, they had slept in the same bed before, but this—this was so much different. So much better. She had wanted this for years now; to have someone hold her; to have someone love her, and now she had it.

"I'm all yours, Ezio, and I'm never letting you go," she said softly, closing her eyes, and losing herself to the warmth of his body and the gentle, soothing movement of his hand along her hips.

Neither noticed the door to the room shut, a gentle smile on the face of a friend who was glad to see his work come to fruition.

-O-

Catherine stirred some time later, and by the candle that was the only source of light—Leonardo must have brought it or something—she knew it was night time. She still felt tired, but not like before. She wasn't nearly as weak, and she was awfully hungry. Thirsty, too, but she would mend that later. For now, she focused on the fact she was enclosed in a familiar pair of arms and nestled up against a firm, warm body. A smile appeared at once, and the lightless and joyous feeling from before came over her. She knew it was love and knowing she was loved in return, and it was something she'd wanted for so long now. Before she had only known the emptiness of rejection, but now her affections were returned and allowed to swell.

The redhead's smile remained as her eyes flicked up to the rugged face of the man she loved. His bangs had grown a little too long, and fell over his face. His beard had grown much darker since the night of the attack, and he looked in need of a shave. Yet, she liked it, too; it made him look more mature and gruff. It made her mind imagine all sorts of things, too—like how it would feel against her skin, and she didn't mean her cheeks. Oh, she could think of all kinds of things he could and would do to her now, and she would gladly give in. Already, she succumbed to one desire; drifting her fingertips along his shirt. It was rather loose—enough so his chest was fairly exposed. As such she took advantage, letting her hand roam across the hard, tanned flesh. He was a little hairy, but not overly so. No, it was just right, and she took great pleasure in admiring him; feeling what was hers now.

She hesitated when the muscles underneath moved—flexed. Her eyes shot upwards, and she found Ezio's were open now, watching her with the tiniest of smirks. She flushed and stopped her machinations, turning her head into his shoulder to hide some.

He chuckled, "Touch as much as you like, kitty-'Cat. It is yours do so with. Only, tell me if I should remove my shirt entirely to satiate your curiosity."

"You don't have to go that far… although I do like what I see," she grinned cheekily, earning a laugh and a kiss.

"Then allow me to give you a taste of what I have planned for you," he rumbled huskily, lips moving from hers, only to place light pecks along her jawline. Each was electrifying, and the moment his affections reached her neck, shivers shot down her spine. She gasped instinctively, and she felt him grin against her skin. "Oh, yes… I will enjoy ravaging you."

He nipped her, earning another gasp and a clutch of his shirt in her hands. He placed more kisses along her neck, more firmly now, and drew his fingertips along her side slowly—sensually; torturously. She made a sound she didn't know she could, and the throbbing she'd just barely come to know thrust itself upon her full-force. God, the things he was making her feel and want to do! And all he was doing was making out with her neck. It was practically embarrassing.

Not as embarrassing, however, as how loud her stomach growled just as he shifted his body so he was angled more on top. He paused, allowing time for her stomach to sing the song of its people. He raised a brow as he sat up, and she had to shove her face into her hands with a pitiful groan.

"I'm ah… hungry," she coughed sheepishly, looking anywhere but at him. The young man laughed—loudly—and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before slipping off. She sat up, watching him take up another candle and use the one on her night stand to light it.

"I'll see about getting something to help with that," he told her before walking out the door. Catherine watched him go, her embarrassment turning into an almost giddy smile. She even buried her face into the pillow, giggling stupidly to herself. It paused as, briefly, she wondered if this was all a dream, but then she told herself it wasn't. This was very much so reality, and at long last the thing she had wanted more than anything was in her grasp. Ezio loved her—truly loved her. He wasn't lying; she could sense it—see it in his face. It made her heart soar.

Sighing with content, the redhead pulled herself up, noting she definitely wasn't as weak as she'd been earlier. Her strength was coming back more quickly now that she was conscious, and she hoped it would increase even more once she got some real food and drink into her. There was the aftermath of what transpired that night to deal with, after all, and she couldn't very well be of much use if she couldn't use a weapon let alone sit up easily in bed. However, she'd been badly hurt apparently, so it would take time. She winced, though, noting why she'd come into this state. It seemed at long last there was a price to pay for her use of the artefact besides guilt, and she hated admitting she'd had a sinking feeling about said price for a while.

Catherine reached for her pocket, expecting to find the device, but realized these weren't her normal pants. In fact, they were undergarment ones—she hadn't even realized she was only in underwear—and had no pocket. As such, she had no Clock. Panic followed suit, and was only barely contained by the memory that the device would return to her—that it was programmed to. How else was she supposed to do what she was brought to do? Unless she had finished the task that night? But then she wouldn't still be here, would she? God, there were so many questions again!

"Here we are… Leonardo kept this warm on the stove for us both. Some stew, and then I got milk for you instead of wine," Ezio spoke up as he pushed the door open, a tray of food in his hands. He set himself down across from her, placing the tray on the bed. He handed her the jug of milk, at which point he must have noticed her concern, because he pulled it back and looked at her with his own concern. "What is it? Are you alright?"

"I… um… no… my, ah… Clock. It's gone. I must have…" the redhead replied, eyes dropping. They lifted, though, when Ezio ruffled through a pocket and pulled out the very item. She gasped and took it with a sigh of relief. "Thank-you. I was about to have a freaking panic attack…"

"I knew you would be worried about losing it, so I was able to take it while the doctor and Fontina took care of you… It was strange, though—they mentioned they tried to before, but apparently couldn't. They said it was too hot, and you held it too tight despite being unconscious, but I was able to take it with ease," he mused, and the panic returned. She set the item down into her lap before taking the stew, hoping to hide behind it and that he would drop it with the shrug she gave in response. However, when she looked up at him, she saw he was staring at her, as if trying to figure it out, yet perhaps hoping she would say so. She didn't dare tell him, though—not about what it could do and what it did to her. However, she knew he would press. He always did, and now that she knew he did love her, she would expect nothing less. Still, she wish he wouldn't.

She braced for the question as he exhaled slowly.

"Catherine… that night… there were… very… strange things happening. People say they saw a phantom—a visage of a woman appearing and disappearing. At least fifteen guards were killed; all with their throats cuts, all in a very similar way. And then when Leonardo found you… he said you seemed to appear out of nowhere and just collapse. You had no wounds, but you bled still… and then their words about your Clock," he began, watching her closely. Slowly, he reached out to tough her hand, looking at her with such love and concern that guilt swashed over her. "Catherine, you told me the Clock brought you here—that it brought you back through time… but… that's not all it can do is it?"

"Ezio…" the redhead sighed, head dropping. It was lifted when the young man took hold of her chin with his fingers gently.

"Remember what we promised? No more lies. I want to know if this thing is hurting the woman I love."

Again, her body sagged, and she closed her eyes to compose herself. She pulled her chin free a moment later and took the Clock into her hands. She stared down at it for a while, rubbing at the surface. For a moment, she wondered if the hand had always been where it was on the three—she could have sworn it was always on the twelve mark—but shook the thought away as she looked back up at the young man.

"Okay… you're right. The Clock didn't just bring me back through time… it can control it. Sort of," she began, and sighed when Ezio's brows scrunched with confusion. "I'm… it's hard to explain, but… it… it's like it takes me to another… place. One where all of you don't move and you're made of lights. It's crazy and amazing and I don't understand it, but, you're all made of these strands of lights that detail you."

"Like my Vision—only, they move."

"I—wait, you can see the lights?"

"Only when I concentrate a little, and things don't stop moving—it's how I find people in the crowd or figure out who is an enemy or ally. But this Clock… it takes you to that place?"

"I—uh, yes… I'm taken there, but I'm not made of lights. Just everyone else. And I can manipulate them. I… well, the easiest is by cutting. When I do that it cuts the real thing, like… um… well, do you… do you remember your battle with Vieri?" she asked, and he nodded with a frown. "Remember when his hand was suddenly cut clean? That… that, um, was me. The Clock activated and brought me to that place for the first time, and I cut his arm to save you. I didn't know it could do that then, but after that… well, the Clock would activate when I needed it—generally if I or you were about to die, and it let me manipulate the lights. Like the attack a few nights ago. All those men? I… I used the Clock to stop them. Cutting the neck is the easiest, which is why I did it…

She paused to lower her head, pressing her palm to it, "I'm… I'm not proud of it. Actually, I hate using it, but… I had to. To protect you. To protect everyone."

"And it did this to you—put you in this state? Nearly killed you?" the young man pressed, grasping her shoulder a little roughly, but she knew it was only because he was concerned.

"I… I wasn't sure—until now. I had suspicions, but… well, I know it could stop me from doing things. It kept me from saving Lorenzo's brother, and from killing Rodrigo, and then I thought the headaches and nosebleeds were just from being hit or exhaustion, but… well, after all this… I… I think it's taking a toll."

"Then you can't use it anymore," Ezio growled.

Catherine looked up at him, "I have to—I'm supposed to protect you."

"Why? Because some 'god' told you to!?"

"No! Not anymore, anyways. Originally, yes, to go home, but I love you, Ezio, and I'd do anything to keep you safe."

"Not this, though!" he exclaimed, taking her head in his hands. Her heart ached to see the agony in his eyes. "Never this… I could not bear to watch you like that again—I can't bear even the thought of you coming to such harm because of me! Catherine, you can't keep using it. You can't."

"It's not always up to me—it will activate on its own something. If you're about to die or I am… And sometimes it's just for a moment; a split second, which doesn't do anything. Times like with the attack are rare and last resorts."

"Then we have to find a way to control it better."

She smiled weakly, "I have been. Mario and I have been secretly training with it. I'm sorry we didn't tell you, but I was scared of this power. I was scared of what it could do, and what you would think of me having it… I couldn't bring myself to tell you or anyone else, but Mario already knew about me and what it was, so he helped me. I'm sorry for lying about it all this time… but I've gotten to where I can activate it when I want, but… some of it is still beyond my control."

"Then we'll find a way. We'll work smarter and better so neither of us will be in those moments. I won't let it bring you more harm. I won't nearly lose you a third time," Ezio growled with determination, pressing his forehead to hers. God, she wanted to believe he could, but deep down she knew it was probably a lost cause. Forces beyond their understanding were at work. Still, she set the Clock down to reach up and touch his hand cupping her face.

"Okay. We'll find a way. I hate having it, anyways. I honestly do. No one should have this power… and I abused it with those guards. I killed all those men so… so easily."

"You did what you had to protect us, even if it was damned foolish and I won't let you do it again. You saved us, though—all of us. All the thieves are safe because of you, so know some good did come of it," Ezio smiled warmly, kissing her brow. She smiled back, but she didn't feel all that much better. Oh, she felt relief their allies were safe, but it was overrun by so much else. How could she tell him she couldn't think of a way? That she had no hope for another way? That she knew she would have to use it again?

"So everyone really is alright?"

"Yes, everyone… but let's wait to talk of more later. You need to eat and gather your strength. Just promise me you will do all you can to not use the Clock?" he asked gently, rubbing her cheek.

She met his gaze for a few, long moments before nodded, "Okay. I'll do what I can."

"Thank-you, my love," he sighed, and kissed her deeply.

She returned it in earnest, and then at long last she was able to finally down some of the delicious food. Already it strengthened her, and she relished in the warmth and fullness it gave her. The milk was equally good, but in the end she still yawned once she finished her food and sighed with content. Ezio was all too happy to set their bowls and tray aside, so as to bring her into his arms again. She hummed with delight as he draped her on his chest, arms clasped on her lower back. She could hear his heartbeat, which served as a soothing rhythm while she nuzzled under his chin.

"God, I wish I hadn't waited so long now—this is way too nice," she chuckled before yawning again.

Ezio chuckled back, rubbing her back gently, and placed a kiss on her brow, "Indeed it is. And this is only the beginning."

"You want to 'ravage' me, right?" the redhead snickered as she lifted her head, leaning up slightly.

He smirked, "Oh, indeed… and so much more. You do know what that entails, right?"

"Of course I do," she huffed, flushing as she pouted and glanced away briefly. "You mean sex."

"Oh, ho. And here I thought virgins were so innocent."

"Just because I've never had sex doesn't mean I didn't want it."

A brow raised, "Oh?"

She flushed harder, "I—er… I may have… thought about it… a lot. Lately. About you, uh… and I… having sex."

"And just what did you think about exactly?" he grinned, brow waggling now. She mumbled her reply at first, making him laugh. Playfully, he reached down and squeezed her rump. She squeaked lightly in surprise and pouted at him. He laughed again, "Come now, you don't need to be shy around me, anymore. I'm more than happy to fulfill your every desire… when you're well, of course. Although, by God I will be so tempted after I know exactly what you want me to do to you."

She huffed, "Well, if you must know… a lot of things… like… well… I, uh… I've always wanted you to, um… hold me… up. While you… y'know."

"My God—you want to be so wild right away? How am I going to resist you?" Ezio smirked, squeezing her rump again as he gave her a quick kiss. His hands returned to her back, rubbing once more.

"Once I'm better you won't have to," she mused, and then pouted when the young man looked back at her with amusement. "What? I told you I've thought about it. And, I mean, I'm like twenty-four and you're the first guy I've kissed. I'm ready to, y'know, take the next step now that I know you feel the same. I trust you, too, which helps. I know you'll do it right by me, and… well, I want to do right by you, too, so knowing you feel the same… Or, at least, I'm hoping you'll be patient with me as I learn things…"

"Good God, kitty-Cat, stoop. You're going to be the end of me and destroy my patience," Ezio mock-groaned, head falling back in suit.

"What? Why? Wait… is… do you have a boner right now?" the redhead balked, glancing down as she felt something press against her that hadn't been there before.

"Now do you understand what you do to me? How hard it's been enduring your stubbornness?"

"Then you shouldn't have made it so difficult and just kissed me or something!"

"I had to be sure! Otherwise you'd hit me, and I… I didn't want to ruin what we had, either. I didn't want things to change for the worse if you didn't feel the same," Ezio frowned, tugging her a bit closer. Catherine stared for a moment before smiling gently and leaning forward to kiss him tenderly. He happily returned it, adding a touch of passion to it.

"Well, now you know… and I'll take that new bump down there as a compliment. At some point we'll have to do something about it," she chuckled with a wink.

Ezio's eyes widened slightly and laughed, "It seems I have underestimated the tigress within you. I'll have to tread carefully."

"Don't worry—you'll have the advantage for a while. I'm already getting tired again," she snickered back before lying down atop him.

"Then rest. I've got you. We'll wait for as long as you need, my love," the young man rumbled as he drew the sheets over them both and then rest his arms on her lower back. "Just… please don't make me wait too long?"

"You know that's just going to make me make you wait longer, right?" she grinned.

"Dammit."

"Oh, please, did you really think I would be so easy after confessing?"

"…I… might have hoped…?"

"I'm going to ruin you."

"Brave words, kitty-'Cat. Brave words. You will regret them."

Catherine laughed, "I hope I do."

And as she closed her eyes, content to sleep in the arms of the man she loved, she knew there were great things to come. Indeed, she would regret her words, but truthfully? She was looking forward to it.


I set out on a narrow way many years ago
Hoping I would find true love along the broken road
But I got lost a time or two
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through

I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you
That every long lost dream lead me to where you are
Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms


50 End


TMWolf: And there's your confession, guys ;) How long have we waited now?

A long damn time.

It was worth it, though, and this is just the FIRST chapter. I've got three full of romance and fluff to make up for all that time xD Anyways, to answer some questions: Ezio was NOT at the brothel to visit the women. He went to get an incense for Catherine-to set the mood, ha ha. She just saw him at the wrong time. All his flirting and teasing with other women (such as as about Caterina)? All to make 'Cat jealous and make her confess faster. Yes, Ezio loves Catherine. He really, really does. And he's not letting her go ;)

Anyways, I think I've said enough. Hopefully this will keep you animals satiated until my next update. Again, it's going to take a while, but you'll get more romance soon enough ;)