RangeMan's Wall of Honor

by Manchester's Stubborn Pansy

Stephanie has been gone three years but returns to save Ranger.

RangeMan's Wall of Honor.

Written by: Manchester's Stubborn Pansy

Stephanie has been gone for three years but something sends her running back to try and save Ranger for a change.

Stephanie's POV:

I had managed to disappear for three years. I realized Joe Morelli was a serial cheater. He just wanted me around when no one else was available. Ranger was just using me for a convenient sex partner. I wanted more and neither guy truly wanted who I truly was.

I decided to stay at my father's fishing cabin. It is outside the Burg. Not only that but thanks to my friend Hector I was able to get a new identity. I also started a home investigation service.

Neither Joe or Ranger have found me OR neither of them ever truly cared enough to look.

People had forgotten that about a year before I chose to leave that I caught a drug lord worth over 5 million dollars. That is when I decided to find out what "I" wanted out of life. If I need groceries I go into Ewing. I am not as well known there. They have decent places to eat. But I am beginning to like my solitude. Yeah right! Stephanie Plum a hermit?

I needed time for soul searching and using Daddy's small boat I could find it.

I have come to the conclusion I need to learn to stand on my own two feet and make my life to fit "my" views not anyone else's view. I am worth something but neither Joe or Ranger thinks "I am enough". Why not? What am I missing that all the other women seem to have found?

I am driving into Ewing for groceries. I get the supplies then I go to eat at the local IHOP. I was sitting there with my sandwich and a man walks up to me.

"Stephanie?"

"Sorry you have the wrong person."

"I was sent by Hector to tell you to call him ASAP!"

"Why? I told you I am not Stephanie."

"You won't remember me by I am Leon Craft. We worked as partners for almost 6 months so I DO know who you truly are. Hector said it was urgent. He even told me to tell you that Pierre is currently searching for you and to be sure and cover you tracks."

"Leon, I didn't want to blow my cover so I changed my name." Leon hugged her tight. "I would never mistake you for anyone else."

I looked up at him. "Why did he send you?"

"Because it is my day off and he knew I would never do or say anything to hurt you. Hector is in the middle of a gang war right now."

"Are the guys alright?"

"Doing the best to contain everything."

"Tell Hector I will call him from the safe room he built for me."

"We miss you."

"I love the guys but I just got fed up with both Morelli and Ranger."

"Well, Morelli has moved on but not changed his cheating ways. Ranger on the other hand is more inside his shell. He really has turned himself into a robot. He has zero feelings and almost as much compassion. He is a machine."

"Sorry to hear that. Only Ranger can change Ranger."

"Will you ever come back to Trenton?"

"Not in the foreseeable future. I am learning to run my own life and get what makes me happy."

Leon bent over and wrote his phone number on her napkin.

"Call me. I will keep your secret."

"I will have to think about making any contacts from Trenton."

Leon looked down at her. "You know I love you too."

"I know we had an attraction but I will not totally cut you out of my life as long as you promise to keep my secret."

"I need to get back to Trenton. I promise to keep your secret."

"Be careful. Thanks for bringing the information to me."

"We will be in touch?"

"I promise to call you one way or the other."

Leon leaned over and kissed my cheek. With that gorgeous smile of his and then he was gone.

All I could think was he is still gorgeous. Still has a nice ass! Down girl.

I paid the bill and went home to call Hector.

I entered the safe room. There is no recording ability in this room. Not to mention it is soundproof.

"What is so urgent, Hector?"

"Trenton is in the midst of a full blown turf war. RangeMan is being stretched too thin even with contract workers."

"This affects me how?"

"Steph, it isn't the turf war that is the problem. It is Ranger! He tried to sign up for a suicide mission but Tank notified Ranger's handler that he is mentally unstable and not fit for ANY mission. After talking to Tank the handler agreed and put a notation in his file so he will not be offered any mission until further notice."

"What do you want me to do about it?"

"Steph, do you still love Ranger?"

"Hector, you know there will never be another man for me. Why?"

"I have bugged Ranger's apartment without his consent."

"YOU BUGGED RANGER'S APARTMENT? What brought this on?"

"You would not even know this Ranger. But I have some recordings I think you need to hear."

"Why?"

"They are about how Ranger feels about you and how he is blaming himself that you ran."

"You must think it is important or you wouldn't have sent Leon. What are you NOT telling me?"

"Last night when I was reviewing the recordings I heard Ranger say "If I can't have you, Babe, I might as well kill myself...no one will ever replace you. I miss you but I can't find you to apologize. I am lost without you. It isn't you I am afraid of it is I who am not good enough for you. God, help me! I love you, Babe where ever you are?"

I was in tears.

"What should I do, Hector?"

"That is why I asked you if you still loved him. It has scared me enough I have been having him tailed if he ever leaves the building. He has yet spotted any tail. I have had him tailed for almost a year now. He has never once spotted one tail. He is a member of the walking dead."

"How can I help?"

"I will send Leon to your house this afternoon with the recordings then we will decide how to bring you back to his life if you agree to it. I hate to put this much pressure on you but if you don't want back in his life we will end up burying him!"

"Send me those recordings!"

"Thanks, Steph. You are our last hope of saving Ranger from himself. You will be shocked at his fallen stature."

"Why didn't you mail the info?"

"I didn't want anyone tracking it back to you or for it to get into the wrong hands and using against us somehow."

"You were right, Hector. I do love that man with every ounce of life in me. I will do my best to wake him up."

"You know the Merry Men miss you too. This is not the same company you left. It is a bunch of broken men. Hopelessness is standard fare around here."

"Hector, I never meant to destroy RangeMan by leaving."

"Steph, You were our leader as much as Ranger. Besides YOUR methods worked better that the military way with our clients."

"Send me those recordings! I will get back to you as soon as I hear them."

"Thanks, Steph. You are Ranger's last hope of surviving much longer."

"I will let you know what I think."

They hang up.

I burst into tears. Deep sobs tearing my stomach apart.

I have been so busy worrying about myself I never once dreamed that I meant that much to Ranger.

Never once did I ever imagine my leaving would destroy Ranger, the man.

I cried myself to sleep. I had been asleep about 2 hours when the doorbell rang.

Leon was standing at the door with a package in his hand.

I opened the door and let him in.

"Hector, left me with orders not to leave you alone while you hear these."

"What about trackers on your car or phone?"

Hector made sure there were none. My phone is off and the battery removed per orders."

"Come on. Sit down. Can I get you anything to drink?"

"No thank you."

I sat down and put the disc into my laptop.

I heard some normal sounds of Ranger in his apartment.

"Have you heard these?"

"No, only Hector has."

We went back to listening. About a hour into it we heard Ranger open another beer. I never thought about counting how many he had drunk already.

Ranger walked over to his desk. I heard him open his top drawer.

He used to keep my picture in his top left drawer.

"Babe, I am so sorry. I was such a dick head to let you ever think you were not everything I ever wanted. But you never understood it was me who was afraid. What if I couldn't make you happy? But I never realized how destroyed I would be if you left. I always thought you would come back. But you are still gone. I have no way to find you and beg you to try again. What if you said "no"? My life stopped the day you walked out on me. God, Babe, I still love you so much. Somehow my body keeps breathing but I don't feel like I have any life left in me. I can't take much more. Babe, "If I can't have you, Babe, I might as well kill myself...no one will ever replace you. I miss you but I can't find you to apologize. I am so lost without you. It isn't you I am afraid of. It is I am who is not good enough for you. God, help me!"

I hear his head hit his desktop and the rest of the recording was Ranger breathing and snoring because he is so drunk.

Once again I am crying uncontrollably.

Leon pulled me close and let me cry.

Finally I pulled myself together.

"I have to go see Ranger. I can't let him kill himself!"

"What do you want to do?"

"Let me call, Hector."

"Hector, I want to see Ranger but by himself."

"Steph, are you sure?"

"Hector, only I can fix this. He is more miserable than I am. I am not doing this out of pity. I love him more after I listened to the tapes than I did before. I never meant to destroy him. I never knew he felt that deeply. I thought I was only a sexual partner."

"Steph, I can set it up if you are sure."

"How soon?"

"Give me some time to think of a plan."

"Wait a minute,Hector. I have an idea of my own. Can you drive Ranger to Pat's Diner? That is where we first met. Make him come in alone. If we are to rekindle this affair then let's go back to square one?"

"Girl, you are playing dirty!"

"You can either wait on him or leave which will force him to let me drive him somewhere."

"He has a meeting until 4 pm. When he gets back I will tell him that him and I have an urgent meeting and I will forcibly carry him if I have too. "

"I will be there. Thanks Hector. I love you."

"Us Merry Men have never stopped loving you, Stephanie. Please work this out with the Boss. He is too good of man to lose to this broken heart he is carrying for you."

"First step is getting past his ego. I will do my best."

They hung up and Leon spoke up.

"Stephanie, Ranger's looks will scare you. Nothing Bobby or any of us men have done has helped we have given up trying to reach him."

"Thank you for helping Hector."

"I am Hector's right hand man but Hec never told me he had bugged Ranger's apartment until Hec couldn't find the time to do this himself. Hec said it couldn't wait on him to get free. Hector is afraid he will do something stupid. That recording has even me scared."

"I promise to try to fix this if Ranger will let me."

"I sure hope he will listen."

At 4 pm I am sitting at our table at Pat's Diner.

I see Hector pull in.

Ranger is arguing with Hector outside. Hector convinces him to come inside.

I thinking I am holding my breath. I am scared either he won't hear my out or worst yet actually turn me down. Damn his ego to hell he is so stubborn sometimes.

Ranger walks in and looks around.

I stand up to get his attention.

Shock does not begin to describe the look on his face.

Not to mention he is petrified!

He approaches the table.

"Ranger, will you sit down so we can talk?"

"Babe."

"Yes, Batman. Please hear my out, PLEASE!"

I can see that word still works on him.

He sits with his back to the walk.

He orders only black coffee. I order a cola.

"Ranger, let me start off by saying "I am sorry I ran out on you. I was being selfish and only thinking of myself. I didn't get my way so I threw a childish fit and left. But I also made it impossible for you to find me. Talk about acting like a two year old."

"I don't blame you, Babe."

"Well I blame ME! Can you ever forgive me? I still love you more than I did when I walked out. I have not had one day without you on my mind."

"You are forgiven. There is nothing to forgive."

"Ranger, I always felt I wasn't good enough for you. You are rich, I couldn't pay my bills half of the time."

"Like I cared. I could take care of that."

"Yeah, you had to cover up the fact I couldn't clean or cook? What kind of woman is that they can't even take care of their man?"

I saw Ranger flinched when I said "their man".

"Babe, I also felt I was not good enough for you. I felt my past made me unworthy to even consider making you mine."

"Ranger, did you ever think that it was up to ME to decide if you are worthy in my eyes? Ranger is your military twin. Darling, I didn't fall in love with the military! I fell in love with Carlos the man hidden from view by the Ranger persona. I loved it when we were alone because you became a softer, gentler and more man than I ever thought would fall for me. I loved Carlos long before I gave Ranger a second look."

Ranger smiled at me.

"Babe, I am guilty also."

"How do you figure that?"

"Babe, I wanted to give you the world. I wanted to prevent anyone from hurting you. I failed. Because I still hurt you."

"Carlos, listen to me. The world can be bought and sold many times over. What you gave me was priceless and beyond any amount of money."

"What was it that I gave you see as so priceless?"

"Darling, you were so busy trying to impress me you forgot I was already in love with Carlos. He was the "MAN" I wanted! My question to you is how can you win what is already yours? Aren't you fighting yourself?"

Ranger smiled again.

"In other words I guess I was fighting a losing battle?" He chuckled.

"Darling, you already owned me mind and soul. What else was left to win. Open your eyes and realize Ranger lost but Carlos has beaten the famous Manoso!"

"Babe." He gave me a 200 watt smile.

"Darling, I have never wanted another man but Carlos Manoso. Ranger included. I only tolerated Ranger because he was holding the love of my life captive. It got to the point where I honestly thought I would never have a chance with Carlos so I left because Ranger would never release Carlos to be free for me to love. It broke my heart but I couldn't take the hurt any longer."

"What are you offering?"

It was Ranger's turn to hold his breath.

"I would be the happiest women on this planet if Carlos still wanted me and was willing to fight for us as a couple."

"Babe, you always could tell the difference between Carlos and Ranger. I used to love it when you called Ranger down."

"Carlos, what do YOU want to happen?"

Carlos was afraid she would turn him down but he still wanted her so badly.

"I get the reference to this being our starting point. I am afraid to ask for what I want."

"I would give you the world if you ask."

"Can we start over, Babe. I have never stopped loving you. No woman ever came close to destroying the inner man like you did when you walked away."

"Did it ever occur to you that Ranger continued on. Only Carlos was the one suffering?"

Shock once again showed on his face.

"Did you go to work every day?"

"Yes."

"Who did you take to work? Ranger or Carlos?"

"Ranger."

"Then Ranger never got hurt but BOTH you and I were almost destroyed. I promise if you will give us another chance I promise never to walk away from you, Carlos, again together we can teach Ranger some new tricks. He just might find out he is only second best to MY CARLOS!"

Tears rolled down Ranger's cheeks.

"Why the tears, Darling?"

"I never thought I would ever see you again. Much less having a second chance with you. I do love you, Babe. I have never stopped loving you. Yes, Ranger went to work but his heart wasn't into it."

"Is there a chance for us to repair this relationship?"

"I want to try again. Maybe this time we will understand each other better."

"Before I promise to give it another try you have to promise me you won't be mad at Hector."

"Hector?"

"He has always known where to find me but he gave me the time I needed to heal. But he is also the one to tell me you were falling apart and he did so because he was afraid the depression was getting too strong."

"Then he knew I would be meeting you today?"

"Yes. But before you yell at him. This meeting was MY REQUEST."

"Your request? Why after all this time?"

"I was tired of hurting that medicine couldn't touch. I was so lonesome for you that I was tired of hurting. I thought if we talked and still couldn't piece it back together it would help both us to put an end to both of our suffering."

"Would you honor me with a date tonight so we can actually restart this relationship again?"

"Where did you have in mind?"

"A local restaurant maybe."

"I have a better idea. Hand my your phone, please."

Ranger handed her his phone.

Stephanie punched number 2 on speed dial into the phone.

Tank answered. "YO".

"Ranger is off line for 24 hours!" Then I hung up on Tank.

Ranger broke out in a full fit of laughter.

"You didn't even tell him who you were."

"None of his business. You are mine for 24 hours. Think you can keep me occupied for 24 hours?"

Ranger has a 1,000 watt smile on his face.

"Babe, you have a dirty mind."

"Will Carlos object?"

"NO!"

"Then Carlos take me to our Someday house in Point Pleasant, PLEASE WITH SUGAR ON TOP."

"It will be my pleasure. But Hector dropped me off."

"Part of MY plan. "I" get to kidnap Carlos and Ranger can't do a darn thing about it."

"Are you sure you are really my Babe?"

"When we get to Point Pleasant you can check it out for yourself."

"Then let's stop wasting precious time."

Ranger paid the bill and I showed him my current ride.

I handed him the keys.

"I will let you drive. I think Carlos has had his fill of my being in control for one day."

Ranger laughed again.

"Not without a kiss to seal the deal."

"Sounds like a good deal to me."

The kiss seemed to take forever before air was required.

"God, I love you, Babe."

"I love you too, Batman. When we get to Point Pleasant Batman will have to wait outside as only Carlos and I will be allowed inside."

Carlos was smiling ear to ear.

"Yeah leave Batman here for Ranger to pick up. I am sure we won't need his help because I don't want to be saved from Carlos."

"Only you, Babe." He shook his head.

Carlos made the trip to Point Pleasant in record time! Hmm, thank goodness all cops must have been busy.

IN THE MEANTIME:

Back at RangeMan.

Tank is dumbfounded.

Lester walks by Tank.

"What is wrong, Tank?"

"I am not sure." Still stunned.

"What happened?"

"A woman using Ranger's phone called my cellphone and said "Ranger is off line for 24 hours". Then she hangs up."

"Who was it?"

"I don't know. She didn't say."

"Let me get this straight... A woman you don't know called and said Ranger was off line for 24 hours. Then she hangs up. You didn't recognize the voice?"

"Right."

"The last time I saw Ranger this morning he was not in good shape. He could verily function much less being up for sex."

"Lester, you of all people know regardless of how tired we are we are always ready for sex when it is offered."

"There has to be another reason for that call. Did you call to confirm with Ranger?"

"No. The call just came in."

Lester called Ranger's phone.

It went to voicemail.

Lester went to the control room.

"Can you tell me where Ranger is right now?"

The monitor did some keystrokes and no tracker was showing for Ranger.

"No tracker found for Boss Man."

"Who was the last man to see Ranger. We saw him come in after the meeting but do not know where he went after that."

"Check the monitor views. See if you can find out where he went and with whom."

"Yes, sir."

They checked all monitors and could not find any view of Ranger leaving the building."

They had a missing leader. Is he missing of his own free will or was he actually kidnapped. Now comes the problem...how do we find Ranger? They checked the garage and all of his vehicles were accounted for. Now what?

Lester hit the code for Core Team immediate meeting. They all met in Ranger's office. They scrambled the audio.

"What is the problem Bobby asked."

"We do not know if Ranger has left of his own free will or if has been kidnapped."

"KIDNAPPED? BY WHOM?

"We don't know. Tank received a call from an unidentified female telling him "Ranger is off line for 24 hours." She did not identify herself. Tank did not recognize the voice. None of Ranger's trackers are active, All vehicles are accounted for. We have checked the monitor's views and we see him in his office then from there on there is no record of him anywhere. He has just vanished."

Hal said. "We can't report him for 24 hours how are we supposed to find him? Hector can you monitor his finances in case one of his cards are used."

"I will. What if Ranger chose to walk away because of this woman?"

Bobby said, "Hector, you and I both know this man is in no shape to be engaging a woman.

Hector had to be careful not to crack a smile.

"Evidently he thinks he is up to it. Beside isn't this the first step to get over Bomber. We all know he has not had sex from the night she left."

Lester said, "So you think this is a good sign?"

Hector said, "Possibly. Maybe if it works out we can get "our" Ranger back."

Bobby said, "You have more faith than I do. But since we can not report him missing until after 24 hours so let's wait him out. If he has scared us this way I call first mat time."

The group decided there was not anything they can do about it.

BACK AT POINT PLEASANT:

Carlos pulls the car into the garage.

He turns to me.

"Babe, Please don't pull my chain. I wouldn't survive if you are."

I pulled his face to mine.

"Carlos Manoso, I love you. I would never hurt you that way. Please Darling, believe me I have wanted this from the day I walked out."

I initiated the kiss and it felt like Carlos shattered around me. We both stared into each other eyes.

I saw that he truly loved me.

"Carlos, please take me inside. I want you to truly be MY MAN. I want you to forgive me and PLEASE take me for the world to see that I belong to you. I want to be known as YOUR WOMAN."

"Babe, If you can forgive me for being so bull headed then I will be proud to let the world know Carlos Manoso is in love with Stephanie Plum and the trash talk about you better stop. You are mine if you will have this worthless man."

"Carlos, you are not worthless. In my eyes you are the perfect man for me. I don't need you to change for me. I just want you to love me the inner person not all those labels the Burg uses for me."

"You have taught me to look at the character of the person. I agree with you that I am guilty of letting Ranger take too much control. Look what he nearly cost me? Babe, I never want to lose you again. PLEASE take me back. Make me whole again."

"Carlos, do you think we can go inside and seal our deal. I need you so badly."

"Your wish is my command."

Carlos opened her door and led her inside the house.

Once inside he picked her up and carried her into the Master bedroom.

The first round was hard and fast but oh did their bodies remember each other!

The night was full of loving, talking and making plans.

"Babe, what are we going to do about RangeMan? You know the men will all want you back. Are you willing to come back to work for us?"

"It won't cause you any trouble?"

"Babe, having you within touching distance will make me feel like a whole man again. You would be surprised at how empty my heart has felt without you in it. This night feels like a dream I am afraid I am going to wake up from."

I kissed him and stared into his eyes.

"Carlos, this is our new start. Let's use the past as a reminder to never to do that again. I just want to spend every moment with you but we both know we can't do that. But Darling, let's stop trying to find any road blocks we can imagine and decide we are a team and will fight them together."

"Babe, just being able to hold you again has returned the light to a world I thought would remain dark forever."

"Darling, don't you realize you think I bring light into your world? You do the same thing for me!"

Carlos just stared at her dumbfounded.

"Darling, all I ever wanted was a man to love me for me. You always did that for me. When I see a problem you always helped me find a way to see how to handle it so I get some of what I need. You are my light also!"

"Babe, I realized after you left that my ego was part of my problem but Babe maybe you can help me prevent a recurrence?"

I climbed on top of my Cuban Sex God.

"What would my Cuban Sex God think if I controlled you for once?"

"For you Babe anything."

I bent over and kissed him and his hands started milking my hanging breasts. I sure didn't object.

I started kissing him from the chin down.

I started sucking on his nipple and I heard him moan.

"Want me to quit?"

"No. It feels so good."

I took care of the other nipple then worked my way down to his stomach.

I licked and sucked on his belly button.

Carlos was moaning but when my fingers brushed across the tip of his penis he about came unglued.

I licked off the pre-cum and proceeded to make love to his appendage.

I could tell he was close to cumming so I backed off and switched to massaging one ball and sucking the other ball.

Carlos was lost in new sensations.

I then rubbed his perineum ( the area between his balls and his rectum).

"Babe, you better stop or I am going to shoot my wad and I want it IN you not ON you."

I straightened up and sat down on that hard appendage.

Carlos started moving my hips up and down with my own movements.

"Cum with me Babe!" Then he yelled "Babe" as he exploded inside me.

I laid down on his chest and looked up at him.

"Am you still dreaming, Darling?"

"I think you are my Angel. That was fantastic. You know I never let a woman control me before."

"It just proves Carlos showed me your vulnerable side and I love this softer Carlos."

"Babe, I was always afraid a woman would hurt me some how that is why I wanted to be in control."

"You realize we have talked more in less than 24 hours than we ever did before?"

"You make it easy, Babe."

I leaned up with him still inside me. I kissed him deeply.

"Playing with fire, Babe"

"That is alright you can be my personal firefighter."

"What if I start the fire?"

"Then just don't be in too big of a hurry to put it out."

"You are incorrigible."

"But I will always make sure you are satisfied before I leave."

"Babe, you never failed in that area. Can I tell you a secret?"

"This meeting all about getting secrets out in the open."

"You are the only woman who left me with a craving I can never forget or get enough of."

"And see I thought I would never be good enough to please you."

Carlos smiled at me.

"Babe, you are more woman than I will ever need for a lifetime."

"Can I hang around long enough to find out?"

"Watch it, Babe. I just might take you up on that idea."

"Maybe later, Mr. Manoso. Let's enjoy ourselves with right now first."

"Babe, it is go good to have you back. I never realized how empty my whole body felt without your touches until we came here."

"Darling, I have been just as empty without you too."

"We should get us some food."

"I like the feast I just had."

Carlos chuckled.

"Babe, there wasn't too many calories in your feast."

"Darling, best feast I have had in three years!"

Carlos pulled me back down to him.

He hugged me tight and kissed my cheek.

"If we don't leave soon RangeMan will turn me in as missing."

"You still have shower skills?"

"They might need some practice. Haven't used them in 3 years."

We did our shower escapades. TWICE.

I still even had clothes in the closet.

I spritzed them with cologne and wore them anyway.

On our way back to RangeMan we discussed how to approach RangeMan.

Ranger decided when he got within distance he would scramble the cameras and no one will see them enter the garage. He parked Stephanie's car in the spot he had never taken away.

They enter the lobby. A new man was on the desk.

"Cecil, this is my girlfriend. I will be getting her her own fob. She will be living with me on seventh floor."

"Yes, sir."

They rode the elevator to the fifth floor.

Carlos kissed her for good measure.

He opened the door.

He stepped out with Stephanie's hand held tightly in his.

Lester spotted him.

"Where the hell have you been?" Then he recognized who was standing beside him.

"Stephanie! Where did he find you?"

"He didn't find me. I came back for him."

"You should have told us Boss."

"None of your business, only mine!"

Carlos pulled her to him.

"She is all mine and I don't share!"

Tank heard the commotion and came out of his office.

"Where have you been we were worried."

"Off line like you were told."

"But a female told us not you."

"She has every right because she owns me. Huh, Babe?"

At the sound of the word "Babe" Tank was speechless.

"One of your cats steal your tongue, Tank?" I asked.

Tank grabbed me and gave her a bear hug.

"Hands off MY GIRLFRIEND!"

"When did this happen?"

"Yesterday. I told you he was off line for 24 hours."

"That was you?"

"You forgot me that quickly?"

"I never put two and two together."

Lester spoke up.

"I think we need to know how this happened?"

"None of your business, Santos. Just know it is going to be permanent real soon so they will be no repeat performance EVER!"

The men who knew Stephanie were floored but said nothing.

"I just wanted to stop by and tell everyone I am off line for another 24 hours before you yahoos called the cops."

"We did have a meeting about you being missing." Lester said.

"Call off the dogs."

"We thought you chose to leave or you were kidnapped."

"Right on both counts. I chose to go with her and she can kidnap me any day she wants."

"What happened to Ranger?"

"He is on leave of absence. Right now Carlos is in charge."

All the men were dumb struck. Who was this man?

Carlos led her to the elevator and got off on sixth floor.

Carlos knocked on the door.

Ella answered the door.

"Carlos, what can I do for you?"

"There will be two for lunch and dinner on seventh floor."

"Two?"

"Am I still welcome, Ella?"

"Stephanie!" Ella grabbed her and hugged her.

"I came after him. He agreed and we have decided we are better together than apart."

"I am so happy for you both. Pineapple upside down cake coming up."

"Thank you, Tia. Maybe now this building will recover as well."

"I am happy for you, Ranger."

"Tia, right now I am Carlos. Stephanie has showed me Ranger was suffocating Carlos. With her help Carlos will be out more but I will still answer to both."

"You two still look good together."

"I feel better with being able to touch her whenever I need to have her close."

"Proud of you Stephanie." Ella said.

They went up to seventh floor.

They were settling in when there was a knock on the door.

Carlos opened the door to find Hector standing there.

"Can I come in?"

"Sure, Hec. What can I do for you?"

"Not fire me for what I am about to tell you."

"Not until you tell me what you have done."

"Ranger, you were sinking so deep into depression you had me worried. I went against every rule of RangeMan."

"What did you do?"

"I bugged your apartment. I recorded you for weeks until I heard what you said about killing yourself. I copied the recording and had it hand delivered to Stephanie. She listened to it and she decided she felt the same way you did. She was miserable too. It was her idea to set up the meeting at Pat's Diner. That is why I refused to go in."

"Darling, listen to me. I can see how you would feel that we ganged up on you but look at me! I did not lie to you. I love you and I was lost without you. Remember we said no secrets any more? Well, Darling, I have thought of suicide often myself. But to hear it in your words made me realize I too was being selfish demanding you change to suit me but I wouldn't change so you would feel better about MY safety. I asked you to forgive me and you said you would. Then Darling, forgive Hector for saving both of our lives."

"Boss, I have been having you followed for over a year. At no time did you ever notice a tail. I knew right then Ranger was in too deep that you did not catch one tail. So I started monitoring your apartment because I knew you like to sort things out loud so I was hoping to find some way to help you. But to think RangeMan could lose you because of a broken heart I had to try and fix it. Yes, I have known where she was. She has been watched by my friends so she was at no time ever alone. No one but Stephanie has ever heard the final recording. I honestly thought you meant to carry out the threat."

"Hector, I agree you broke company rules but I also understand your reasoning. I was beyond drunk that night. I had truly already made plans on actually carrying it out. I couldn't understand why you wouldn't come in at Pat's Diner."

"That was my fault."

"Your fault, Babe?"

"Yes, Darling. I thought if Hector was to drop you off you would have to ask me to take you anywhere. Like I said I was petrified you would turn me down so I tried to cut away that one area of escape."

Carlos chuckled.

"So technically you kidnapped me?"

"Yeah."

Carlos kissed me.

"Thank you my love. Best kidnap I ever had."

I kissed him back.

"I agree. Best kidnap ever."

"Am I fired, Boss?" Hector asked.

"Not unless you want an earful tonight. Get rid of the bugs. Tonight is strictly PRIVATE!"

"Give me five minutes and I will take them with me right now."

"That was a gutsy move, Hec. But thank you. You saved my life."

"It is like any mission. We don't leave any man behind. We love you, Boss. Losing you in a mission would be hard enough but to lose you when I knew where the solution was just was not an option in my book."

"You are a brave man, Hec."

"No, just a man who had the tools to set up the meeting. The rest was up to you two."

"Seeing her there was a shock. But it was just what I needed."

"I held my breath when you came in. I was afraid you would walk away and I would lose you again."

"I couldn't handle losing you knowing you were truly still alive."

"I am glad it worked out for the two of you."

"Hector, do you think the guys would be upset if I came back to work for RangeMan full time?"

"They will be over the moon. This building is dark without you in it."

"That is the same thing Carlos said."

"I hate to mention bad things but what about Joe Morelli. He is still a man whore."

"Babe, what do you want to do about him?"

"After all this time I am free to choose who to partner with. Either he leaves me alone or I will take him to court for stalking."

"We will deal with that later."

Hector got up to leave.

"Thanks, Boss,"

"No. Thank you, Hector. You gave me the best gift I ever got."

"But Boss, you could have turned her down."

"You don't honestly believe I would do that do you, Hector?"

"I sure was hoping you wouldn't turn down that offer. You may be stubborn but you are not STUPID!"

"Not with Babe as my prize!"

" I am happy for you both."

Hector left as Ella was rolling the cart down the hall and Hector left the door open.

They ate their lunch and Carlos disappeared shortly.

He reentered the kitchen. Carlos knelt by my chair.

"Babe, I bought this the day I first met you the very first time. Will you marry me?"

I put my arms around his neck and kissed him.

"Yes, since it is Carlos is the one asking."

Carlos put a ring on that finger that looked like a royal jewel.

"I still think I am dreaming."

I kissed him again.

"Maybe eventually we both may believe it is real."

"I never knew you to be so forward before."

"I wasn't but being on my own I learned I am worth something. Then if I don't like something then I need to say so. It is my life and I deserve for life to go my way once in awhile."

Carlos smiled at me.

"You have changed and so have I. I realized you are my soulmate."

"I love you too, Carlos. There is not another man I want in my life."

"Let's go to bed."

"You are still horny?"

"I have 3 years to make up for."

"Let's go then."

AT THE MORNING MEETING:

Tank was in charge.

"Men, for those who don't know Ranger has been located safe and sound. He chose to leave of his own accord. He has also returned of his own accord. He is safely back at RangeMan. Now I need the daily reports. They were reported on."

The Conference Room door opened and Ranger and I entered the room to stunned silence by some of the men.

Ranger spoke to the men.

"Men, most of you know who is standing beside me. To those new men I would like to introduce you to Stephanie Plum. She is my GIRLFRIEND. I demand total respect for her. She will be living with me on seven. To those who know her you know what Babe means to me. We are once again a couple and I still expect you to respect her enough to not ask what happened before. We are starting a new life together and she and I have discussed her working for us full time again."

A crowd cheer went up.

I blushed!

"Men, thank you for welcoming the love my life back to RangeMan. I apologize for my past behaviors. I was one of the walking dead and I no longer cared. Well seems as if Hector and my Babe actually set me up! Babe staged a kidnap of me! Yeah! Who would have believed Ranger could allow himself to be kidnapped? The old Ranger would not have allowed it. But my Babe has always seen the man behind Ranger's persona. But let me tell you this woman has actually stopped me from committing suicide. I am serious. I had it all planned out but she came along before I could carry it out. So Men, this woman has earned the upmost respect. Even from this stubborn man who was offered her love the first time then I was too afraid to accept it. There is no way I will ever make that mistake a second time."

Ranger picked up my left hand.

"This ring means Ranger has admitted defeat. It seems she didn't fall in love with Ranger."

"HUH?" was the voices reply.

"Yes. Ranger was defeated by the man who he has been holding captive of for so many years Ranger had forgot about him. I stand before you this morning as Carlos Manoso. I am the man this woman wants to marry. I am, as Carlos Manoso, the one who proposed and she will take MY name not Ranger's. I will try to bring Carlos to the office more often. She is a good trainer. She has taught me we need to be less military around our clients. They are already scared so why scare them more with the military tactics? Thank you for listening to my ramblings but I stand before you a very happy man and I want to welcome her back to RangeMan maybe she can heal this whole company again. We all love you, Babe."

Ranger hugged her to his side.

The men gathered around to welcome her back.

Lester and his mouth had to say something.

"Beautiful, let me know if you need help controlling this fool."

"Lester," I looked up at Carlos's face. "I don't believe I need any help. Not to mention you don't have the right skills it takes so thanks but no thanks."

Lester was shocked at the new me. He shut up real quick!

The meeting was dismissed.

Carlos and I went to his office.

He shut and locked his door.

"Babe, I love you so much."

He kissed me and I gave into him.

"Thank you, Carlos, for those words. I am afraid you have me on too high of a pedestal I might fall off of it."

"If you do I will always be here with open arms to catch you."

"Why didn't we do this the last time?"

"We were too busy running from each other. Not to mention we both have grown up a lot in those years."

"I love you, Carlos. I was proud of you for telling the men how vulnerable you had become. If their leader can admit his faults then maybe they won't be so hard on themselves."

"It is all credit to you, Babe."

He kissed me again.

"Just so you know I never filled your office. May I escort you to your office?"

"Thank you, Carlos."

"So you really like Carlos better than Ranger?"

I smiled at him.

"Who wants to make love with a man with a corn cob stuck up his ass? I don't think that man can hold a candle to my Carlos!"

Carlos laughed at me.

"Babe, you are pulling the tiger's tail."

"I didn't touch Ranger's but if it is your tail then I know how to settle you down."

Carlos couldn't help but break out into full blown laughing.

"I love this new you, Babe. I am not sure I will be man enough to handle you."

"No problem. I will be glad to teach you how but personally I happy to have my own Cuban Sex God back. I honestly think you have plenty of skills to fill that bill. But sorry this is work time and I am wasting your company's time flirting with the Boss."

Carlos kissed me and left me alone.

All I could do was smile as he left. We had never been this sexy around each other at work or in private and I loved it.

I found out that my screen name or password had never been taken out of the system.

Lester brought me some folders that needed researched.

I fell into a comfortable routine.

It was lunch time before I knew it.

Carlos, invited me to the break room for lunch.

It was good to be back and to feel I was still accepted by Merry Men.

They seemed to enjoy having me back among them.

By the end of the day it was as if I had never left. I truly felt part of the team again.

At the end of the day Carlos came by to pick me up.

"Babe, are you up to setting the Burg gossips on fire?"

"What did you have in mind?"

"Supper at Pino's. Let the Burg tongues start wagging."

"I am up for that. I sure did miss those meatball subs."

"They will kill you, Babe, but let's go show the Burg what true love looks like."

Ten minutes later Carlos drove up and parked right in front as was normal for him.

They went inside with his arm around me and holding me close.

The whole restaurant got as quiet as a funeral home!

I just turned to them.

"Go about your business we don't need your help. When you spread your gossip you better make sure you are telling the whole truth this time. I am engaged to Carlos Manoso so ladies keep your eyes to yourself. He is mine."

Carlos led us to their normal table.

Carlos smiled at me.

"I love this new Babe even more than the other version."

"Why?"

"With this new version I never have to guess what you are thinking. You just state it for all to know.

Mr. Pino came out to welcome Stephanie back.

He personally made her sandwich and brought it to her.

"How long will you be staying, if I might ask?"

"Forever, Mr. Pino." I showed him my ring. I will be marrying the alter ego of Ranger."

Mr. Pino looked confused.

"I fell in love with the man behind the Ranger persona. Ranger will just have to learn to share with Carlos, here. Carlos is more man than all of Ranger's bluster."

Mr. Pino laughed out loud.

"She called you Carlos. So will I. Carlos I have never seen you look this happy. So I am on your side."

"Mr. Pino, thank you. I am the happiest man in the world right now."

"I will leave you alone to your food. Miss Stephanie, welcome home."

"Thank you, Mr. Pino. I am just as happy as Carlos is."

"Then I am happy for the both of you."

They began to eat in peace when Joe Morelli showed up.

"Cupcake, when did you get back in town?"

"Yesterday. But whether I am here or not is none of your affair, Joseph. I am engaged to Carlos. I came back to town and deliberately choose him over you so I am politely asking you to leave me alone."

"You know we always work it out."

"Joseph, listen to me. I came back and I chose Carlos over your man whore ways. I am warning you. Either leave me alone or I will go to court and charge you with stalking. You take your choice so I don't have to drag your name through the gutter because your dick thinks it owns this town. Just go away, Joseph."

Joe turned on his heel and walked away.

Carlos was sitting there with his mouth wide open.

I lifted his jaw back in place for him.

"Problem, Carlos?"

He just shook his head.

"I am in awe of you. Before it would have been a yelling match. Instead of me defending you. You defended yourself better than I could have."

"I wanted to defend myself and not make MY MAN to do it for me. I was the one verbally attacked. Then "I" should be the one to defend myself. If it had got out of hand then you could have stepped in to help. I have learned self esteem."

"I see that. I am beyond proud of you, Babe."

"Why does he always have to ruin my happy mood?"

"It is a control feature, Babe."

"Then guess his controller is permanently out of order."

Carlos smiled and shook his head.

"God, I love you, Babe. Ready to go back to work?"

"I would go anyway with you."

We went back to RangeMan.

We got into a leisure routine at work.

Ranger was teaching me about client meetings.

He actually let me try to do them.

He was surprised at how much more I got them to agree to. I used Psychology on them and used Him for Eye Candy. They no longer saw him as scary but naming him my fiancee did not hurt. Especially when I told them all his men were built like him and they loved protecting their possessions as much as they enjoying serving our Country. Some are still under contract to the government. If the government trusts then they could trust them too. They are highly trained security people.

At the end of the week I managed to gain six contracts for a total close to $500,000 in yearly income.

"Babe, you are awesome! I would never got them to agree to those upgrade systems."

"I told you military tactics scares normal people. The softer approach works better."

Carlos pulled me close.

"Babe, I have a problem maybe you can help me with."

"What kind of problem, Darling?"

"I found out that Tank has been assigned a mission that will take almost six months. Would you consider filling in for him while he is gone?"

"Do you think I can really handle everything you both deal with?"

"Knowing you I believe you will find a way to find better ways of doing things and still make it happen."

"What does Tank say?"

"He doesn't know about the call up yet. Are you willing to go with me to tell him so he can show how he does his job?"

"Sure. I am not sure I know enough but I am willing to try."

"You amaze me every day. My ole Babe would fight me say she is not capable."

"Self Esteem really has helped me. I know I will have plenty of questions but with you behind me I know I won't fail."

"I will be here to help you."

"Then let's go tell Big Guy and see if he agrees with us."

They knocked on Tank's door.

"Enter."

We go in and sit down.

"What do I owe this honor?"

"I came to deliver some bad news to you."

"How bad?"

"In two weeks you will be deployed for a six month mission to South America."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, but I also came to offer Babe's help to learn your job so when you come back you won't have a backup like before."

"Are you sure Little Girl?"

"I would like to try if you let me."

"Ranger, what did they do with the Steph we knew?"

"She grew up while she was gone. I suggested the offer and she agrees with me. But only if you will be comfortable with her doing your work while you are gone."

"I see no reason why she can't try. She knows most of our forms and what is required. This will mean longer hours Little Girl."

"I know Big Guy. But when I got back with Carlos I knew this was going to be a true partnership so since RangeMan is his company then I want to help any way I can and I feel any way I can help I want too offer my help."

"I like this new Little Girl."

"Thank you, Tank."

"OK. Tomorrow you will become Tank's shadow."

"I may have to grow over night for that."

"Babe!"

"He is taller and wider than I am."

Both men cracked up with laughter.

"I think our light is back, Carlos. She never caused this much laughter before."

"Laughter never hurt anyone. But I am willing to try to learn it quickly since we have a deadline."

"OK. Tomorrow you will become number two boss."

"I am not up for the title yet but I will try not to screw it up too much."

They all stood and Tank came around the desk and hugged me.

"I am so glad you came home. I have actually missed you."

"I am so glad I came back too. This really feels like home to me."

"I will see you Tomorrow."

We left and went up to seven.

The rest of the day was relaxing just enjoying each other.

Just snuggling in bed just seemed to drain the tension out of us.

We were enjoying feeling skin to skin.

We both agreed we both loved this new relationship much better than the old one.

Today I became Tank's shadow.

Now I see why he is always complaining about the paperwork. There is tons of it.

Most of the forms I already knew.

Tank was patient with me and my constant questions.

At the end of the day Tank was amazed at how much I had retained.

This went on for one week then Tank let me handle everything. I did forget a couple things which Tank explained why they were needed.

By the end of the second week Tank declared me competent.

None to soon. Two days after my being declared competent Tank's call out came.

Let's just say I didn't get much sleep that night.

But I slept in Carlos's arms and he kept telling me he knew I could do it.

The first day on the job by myself was scary.

I did find a way to create a new form to condense three forms into one.

It will make the job easier.

It is time for Tank to come home:

Tank walked into his office and the first thing he noticed was the desktop was clean!

Stephanie was on the phone. She hung up and gave Tank a hug.

"How was the mission?"

"Total success. Mission accomplished and the culprits locked up. How did you

handle the pressure?"

"Handled it just fine. I have left you a diary of what I have done. You will find I have condensed 3 forms into one and I left a diagram and a description of how it changes things for the better."

Tank sat on the couch.

"What is left for me to do?"

"Everything is caught up. You can relax for the rest of the day if you want."

"What about payroll?"

"It is done. I have each supervisor turn in a daily report and it is recorded at the end of each day and the form updates itself."

"Does that cover overtime, hazard pay and taxes?"

"Yes and no more physically totally the columns the computer does it for you."

"Hell, you don't even need me then."

"You know better than that. This place wouldn't be the same without you. I almost forgot to ask...any casualties?"

"None."

"Fantastic. I will let you get to checking out the new forms. You can even double check my work if you like."

"I trust you. Little Girl. How are you and Ranger doing?"

"Now you are home we will plan our wedding. Carlos will want you to be the best man. But our wedding would be complete without you."

"How much has Ranger changed while I am gone?"

"Check with men they will tell you they enjoy it more when Carlos is in charge. We also have a therapist on call for every time a capture or surveillance goes wrong so the men do not carry the guilt over things they could not control."

"Has it helped?"

"Yes. We had 4 episodes while you were gone and we held a group meeting after the individual meeting and Hal and the others were able to explain their actions and what they failed to take into consideration. They have jointly come up with tactics to cover those circumstances. It helped prevent another mishap two weeks later. So this alone helped prevent future problems."

"Little Girl, this company would really fall apart without you with us. Your insights are higher than all of our military intelligence."

"Thank you, Tank. You know my Spidey Senses just pop up but they are usually always right so I go with them."

"What has the Burg said about you being back?"

"They talked at first but without Morelli feeding them false information they have left me alone."

"What about Joe?"

"Since I threatened him at Pino's right after I got back no one has heard much about him."

"Maybe the Burg is better off."

Stephanie got up to leave.

"Little Girl, You have no idea how it feels to come home knowing I don't have to work day and night to get caught up. You are the best."

Tank hugged Stephanie.

"Welcome home, Big Guy."

I spent the rest of the day back in my office.

I called Ella for a special meal tonight on seven.

"Any special reason?" Ella asked.

"Tank is home so that means Carlos and I will have more free time for ourselves."

"Any requests?" Ella asked.

"Make things Carlos likes and I will do the rest."

"Then we don't need desert?"

"No desert needed!"

"God, I am so glad you are back! This is a fun place again."

"Thank you, Ella."

That night supper went off without a hitch.

Carlos was off guard. He knew Babe was up to something.

"Babe, what are you up to?"

"You promised me a vacation after Tank got home."

"Yes, I did. What did you have in mind?"

"I would like to plan our wedding with Ella's help and use my vacation for our honeymoon. I was hoping for at least a week."

"Babe, just give me a date and Ella and I will make it happen for you."

"Can you get a week off? It can't be a honeymoon without a groom!"

"Babe, Do you honestly think I will let my new bride out of my sight for a whole week? We lost 3 years I won't lose another week without you in my life."

I hugged him.

"I love you, Carlos."

"Babe, I will take care of the honeymoon for you."

"Thank you, Carlos."

"What else do you have in mind?"

"I have been preoccupied with Tank's work and my own I thought you and I could relax in bed this evening."

"You expect me to object?"

"I was hoping you wouldn't. You need to relax and I was hoping that you would let me be in control at least once tonight."

"Girl, you just got my full attention!"

"Then let's go to bed for desert."

Carlos picked up my hand and led me to the bedroom.

Neither of us came out until almost work time the next morning.

Three Weeks later:

Ella and I have our heads together and we have laid out most of the wedding plans.

The wedding will be on RangeMan's roof top. The empty lot next door with be the reception area.

Ella and I have spoken to our local priest and with my annulment already agreed to by the church. The priest has agreed to officiate the wedding.

Luis is building an arch as a backdrop. With the Cuban flowers of Butterfly Jasmine and Mariposa.

I chose to go back to traditional bridal white because this will be my last wedding.

Ella explained about the traditional money dance.

I agreed to that BUT all money will be donated to the RangeMan's Hotel for homeless veterans.

We worked out all the details and only had one week until the big event.

Ella and I even had a company coming the day before to set up two big tents.

Today is the wedding day:

I stayed on the sixth floor with Luis and Ella last night.

Ella had kept my wedding dress in her apartment to keep Mr. Nib Nose from seeing it.

It was bridal white, form fitting, Dotted with seed pearls and prism sequins.

I chose a full veil just as if it was my first wedding.

I got dressed and looked at myself in the full length mirror.

I was always afraid of commitment.

Now I am ready to commit for a full life time. What changed?

"Carlos Manoso happened. I don't know how but he has scaled every wall I ever erected around my heart. The best part...I don't regret that one bit. God, this man is gorgeous inside and out. He lives to make me happy and to protect me in ways I never knew I was in danger from. That and he makes life fun and worth living with him in it."

"Daughter, it is time." Ella said

I take a deep breath and walk with Ella and Luis to the stairs.

I waited at the door until Luis told me it was time.

The wedding march started and Luis opened the door.

Ella and Luis escorted me down the aisle.

Carlos never looked more handsome in his Armani suit.

Carlos' eyes never left mine.

The priest asks "Who gives this woman to this man in marriage."

Ella and Louis said in unison. "We do."

Louis handed my hand to Carlos' hands.

We turn to the priest.

I was in a daze but I knew when it was time to say "I do."

Carlos kissed me.

We turned to face the RangeMan's Merry Men.

"May I present for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Manoso."

A cheer went up.

Carlos and I walked up the aisle and started the receiving line.

Almost every Merry Man hugged me.

Carlos did nothing but growl.

I squeezed his hand and whispered in his ear.

"I go home with you, remember?"

"I still don't like any man, even my own, leering at you."

"They are only looking at the shell so stop worrying, Batman."

Carlos smiled at me.

"I will accept that but you can't make me like it."

I kissed his cheek.

Carlos led me to the tents.

It was full of Cuban foods and made Carlos feel so special.

The dancing started.

Carlos and I had our first dance together.

Half way through the song Lester cut in.

Lester pinned a $20 bill to my dress at the bodice.

He stuck his fingers into the bodice to do it.

"Hands off, Lester."

"If you ever change your mind, Steph."

I slapped him.

"Leave me alone."

Another Merry Men took over.

Carlos noticed the change in my face. He was on immediate alert.

After about an hour my dress was covered with bills.

Carlos rescued me.

"Babe, what did Lester do?"

"I took care of him. Don't worry, Darling. I would never let him ruin OUR wedding day."

Carlos kissed me.

"I love you, Mrs. Manoso."

I put my arms around his neck.

"I like the sound of that name, even better than Babe."

"You do? Remind me to use it more often."

"Sounds like a turn on to me."

"Later, Babe."

After another hour we decided to leave the party.

Carlos took me to seventh floor.

"We leave for the honeymoon tomorrow once we wake up."

"Darling, thank you."

"Don't you want to know where we are going?"

"No. I just want to rape your body. I will worry about tomorrow when tomorrow gets here."

"You are my new Babe. I think I am more in love with you than I used to be."

I put my arms around his neck.

"Mr. Manoso, You have been and will always be the love of my life."

"Let's consummate this marriage."

Carlos picked me up and carried me to the bedroom.

There was no sleeping that night but I sure was not objecting.

The honeymoon:

You didn't honestly think I was going to give you a blow by blow did you?

We all know what happens on honeymoons.

If you don't then you must be too young to read about it anyway.

We Return to RangeMan:

Everyone is glad we are back. Especially Tank!

It is work as usual.

A/N: (I know you are wondering about the title of the story I chose. Hang on a little longer and I will explain.)

We have been home two weeks.

Carlos, Binky and Hal were doing nighttime surveillance. Something went wrong and Carlos got shot. Thanks to his Kevlar vest he was not serious injured but Binky was not so lucky. The gang member shot Binky in the head and he died instantly.

I was beside myself. They had Carlos in X-Ray and doing CT Scans.

Finally they brought Carlos back and said he had 2 bruised ribs and he could go home under Bobby's care.

Once we left the hospital Carlos was in Ranger mode but I understood why.

"We have to notify Binky's sister of his death. She can bury him or we will have RangeMan pay for it and bury him here in Trenton."

"Do we have her phone number?"

"It should be in his personnel file."

"You check in with Bobby and I will check the file."

"No, Babe. This is something I have to do."

"OK. You go talk to Tank and I will get the information for you."

We got to RangeMan and went straight to Tank's office.

I used Tank's laptop and got the phone number.

Ranger placed the call and Binky's sister said since he was raised around Trenton she felt he would want to stay close by. Ranger told her that RangeMan would pay for the funeral. She still felt Binky would prefer to be in Trenton. Ranger told her that he would let her know when the funeral would be.

The funeral was set for three days later:

Binky was a member of the local Baptist Church and they would be in charge of the actual funeral.

RangeMan bought the burial plot and paid for all of the funeral expenses.

The community really turned out in force for Binky's funeral.

The TV network had local coverage of the funeral.

Ranger gave the eulogy.

"Most of you have met Binky or you wouldn't be here. Binky was a gentle man. He was a decorated military hero. He saved a whole platoon. He was wounded but yet he saved sixteen men. Binky has served this city for almost seven years. Some members of the "Burg" have called him a "thug". But Binky donated two percent of his weekly salary to three local charities. Binky will be sadly missed by those of us who worked with him closely. But his family feels this is where Binky would like to reside. It has been my honor to know this man. Rest in peace, Binky. You will never be forgotten by your RangeMan's brothers. We at Rangeman will continue Binky contributions in his honor."

Carlos came back and sat beside me. I held his hand in mine. I could tell that Carlos was deeply moved by the lost of one of his men. I would miss Binky also. He was a sometime partner when my life was in danger, sometime helper when I wanted to surprise someone. But most of all Binky was a good secret keeper and the best therapist I have found yet. I will truly miss him.

We went to the graveyard. RangeMan had bought him a burial plot among other veterans so Binky would be in good company.

We had a quick grave site ceremony. Most of the Burg did not attend this ceremony but almost every one of Binky's RangeMan brothers were there. He was buried with full military rights.

Right as his casket was put into the vault and lowered into the ground an idea hit me on how best to honor him at RangeMan.

I had kept my ideas to myself and thought them through and how was the best way to put them into use.

I brought up the subject to Ella to get her opinion.

She loved my ideas.

She called her husband to see what he thought.

Luis liked the idea and suggested we used the conference room on the first floor where civilians were allowed for meetings. Luis was willing to do the renovations if the Core Team would allow them.

That night I decided to mention my ideas to Carlos.

After supper, while still at the table I decided to mention my idea to Carlos.

"Carlos, I have kept something from you. I needed to think it through before I mentioned it to you."

"Babe, you aren't leaving me again are you?"

"NO! But with the loss of Binky I think we need a room to honor all of our RangeMen while they are alive so they can feel our love."

"Explain your idea, Babe."

"I have talked to Luis and he thinks we need to convert the first floor conference room into a room of honor. I would like to have 8 by 10 pictures framed of each of the RangeMan on the force. I want to include Binky in the pictures. I would like to put engraved plaques on each picture to document their military history. On Binky's picture should have a black bow in one corner and his plaque should state he was killed in the line of duty. What do you think?"

"Babe, I don't think that room is big enough to handle that many pictures. But before you get your feelings hurt I love your idea. We could put as many pictures as possible in that room but any overflow could be put in the hallway leading to the conference room."

"I never thought about how to fit the pictures into one room."

"Babe, I also think we need to keep the Core Team's pictures out of the public view. But those pictures could be put in the third floor Conference Room. You never know who our enemies are. This would give us a level of security around who they really are."

"I understand giving them a more secluded honor. What floor do you want your picture to be on?"

"Babe, everyone here in town knows I am the owner so it can be in the First Floor Conference Room. I think the men would appreciate the fact you want to honor them at all."

"Then Luis and I have your permission to redo the Conference Room?"

"Yes, Babe. I love you for even thinking of honoring us. But we need really need to check with the Core Team for their approval also. You can bring it up at tomorrow's meeting and see if there is any objections to your idea."

I got up and went over and sat on Carlos' lap.

"I love you, Carlos, Thank you for agreeing with me."

I kissed him and Carlos, ever the sex god, kissed me senseless as usual. I sure won't object to that!

We went to bed for our nightly work out.

The next day at the morning meeting I told the men of the honor room I wanted to make so anyone who came into the Conference Room would know how important the men were to this company. I also mentioned Carlos' idea for the Core Team to be put in the third floor Conference Room, which is the room the morning meetings were held.

The men also liked the idea of including Binky in the First Floor Conference Room as well.

When asked the men all agreed. No one objected.

I thanked them for being agreeable.

Luis and I started planning the design of the room. It took me two weeks to get the rooms the way I wanted. I gave Carlos a print out of how I was going to display the pictures and the order they would be hung.

Carlos agreed but he threw me a curve ball.

"Babe, I like your plan but I want one more picture hung on the third floor."

"Who did I miss?"

"You, Babe! You are as much the soul of this company as I am. Your picture should be among those pictures. But I don't want it on the first floor in case someone recognizes you and we pick up another stalker for you."

"But I don't think I do that much."

"Babe, remember when we first got back together you were told by several people including Ella that having you back could heal this company. The men are all happy to have you back with us. Please put your picture there. You can run this company just like Tank and I can. Then you deserve the honor as well."

"Since you said "Please" I will do it YOUR way."

"Since you doubt me then tomorrow we will ask the guys tomorrow and let THEM decide. I bet you everyone will agree with me."

"I will let the guys decide. I still don't think my picture should be included but what will it cost me if I lose the bet?"

Carlos laughed at me.

"Babe, I will come up with an appropriate punishment if you lose."

"Carlos, sounds like you already have something in mind."

"Babe, I will make sure you will never learn to doubt me."

Carlos laughed.

I knew where his mind was leaning.

If it was anything like I what I was thinking it would be welcomed punishment.

The next day's meeting:

After the regular meeting Ranger asked one last question.

"Men you know of Babe's honor pictures we discussed yesterday. But I ask her to put her own picture on the third floor honor room. But is seems as if Babe thinks her picture should NOT be put there. It is up to you guys to decide if Babe should be included along with us.

The men voiced their opinions.

Carlos called for a verbal vote for yes. There was a loud chorus of "YES".

Carlos asked if anyone objected to me being included.

Not one person spoke up.

"Babe, I win you lose. Your picture IS to be included."

"I am outnumbered. So I will let you pick the picture I use.

It took me three weeks to get all the pictures enlarged and framed. Plus getting the plaques printed up.

Luis and I got the pictures hung and called Carlos into to view the new honor room.

Carlos walked into the First Floor Conference Room and was immediately hit with awe of how the room had been converted into one that spoke of Honor loudly. It almost took his breath away.

"This room is gorgeous, Babe. I am proud of you for having the idea and creating something that takes my breath away."

Carlos pulled me close to him.

"I love you, Babe."

"I love you too. I am glad you liked the room."

"I truly like the way you have treated Binky's picture. I am sure he would appreciate the way you honored him. R.I.P. Binky. We still miss you."

Later that night Carlos told Tank he would be off line for 48 hours and so would I.

Tank didn't understand but agreed to it.

Carlos drove me to Point Pleasant.

I was suspicious.

Once inside the house Carlos locked the door behind us.

"Babe, I have decided your punishment will be 24 hours in bed with me."

"That is punishment?"
"I intend to try every known position on you. I want to make love you until we both are too tired or sore to move. That is why I ask for the extra 24 hours so you or I don't walk funny when we go back home."

I had to smile at him.

Carlos took my hand and led me to the bedroom and we did spend that night and most of the morning in bed.

Carlos lived up to my expectations of a Sex God!

Life goes on for us as normal and ten years later both Carlos and I can't get enough of each others bodies. But neither of us has ever mentioned the idea of leaving each other again either. I have never known this kind of happiness in my life. If you ever find a man who can make you actually crave him then snap him up and don't make the same mistake I made. Run TO him NOT from him!

I hope you like the changes in Stephanie and Ranger.