Title: Nothing's as it Seems…- Chapter 3, Back from the Grave

'If revenge is a dish best served cold, then put on your Sunday finest and prepare to feast!' Those few words echoed in Jades head as she drove into LA. Those were the words that Carmen always scrawled on a piece of paper and left with each body, like her sick and twisted calling card. Well she didn't get the chance this time. Jade took comfort in that.

********

Something about the nights events still bothered Jade as she drove towards Community General. Something was just off. But maybe it was nothing. Maybe Carmen really was dead and the hunt was finally over. It had consumed so much of her life, it was hard for her to try to think about focusing on something other than Carmen Parks. The chase had been such an integral part of her life for so long that she found it hard to think of anything normal. And yet her mind drifted off to the picture of a smiling Steve Sloan on his father's mantel place. A picture, that's all it was, nothing more. And yet it made her think of things that had be dormant for such a long time. Feelings that she had been afraid to let surface. Things that if she thought about them further would lead her down a road that she felt she was just not ready to venture down. Or was she? What was wrong with her?

"Maybe I am losing my mind finally." She said out loud as she blinked wearily and looked at the time on the dash, it was about 2 a.m. No wonder she was tired. But all could think of right now was to get to the hospital and see how Shane was doing. She would also check on Steve, she did want to meet him after all. Just the thought made her stomach tingle. What was happening to her? Shane had told her long ago, that to move on was not a betrayal to Dean. And yet for so long she hadn't wanted to move on. Hadn't really found anyone that we wanted to even think about moving on with. She thought she had closed that door for good. What was different now? Was she ready to think about opening it again? Ah, that was the real question. She pondered it as she drove further into LA.

********

"How is Steve, James?" asked Mark excitedly as he rushed into the ER of Community General.

"He is going to be just fine. He was actually pretty lucky, considering what he went through. But he can tell you all that. As for Steve physically, he has a few bruised ribs, and a gunshot to the right shoulder. He was lucky the shot went right through. So just a nice bandage and a nasty looking scar. The other fella wasn't so lucky I am afraid." He said pausing, giving Mark a time to digest all the information.

"Who was the other one?" asked Jesse, when he and Amanda had caught up to Mark.

"Um lets see," he said looking down at the chart in his hands, "Oh yeah FBI Agent Shane Phillips."

"Oh my god. He is the guy I met earlier today with Jade Marshall." Said Mark with a look of dread on his face. "What happened? Where is the she?" He asked in an almost panic.

"Well he took a bullet to the lower left abdomen, ruptured his appendix. It actually went right through his Kevlar Vest. Shesh! He's in surgery now. And as for the other agent, I am afraid I have no idea. But he might." Said the doctor pointing to the Retired General still on the bench just down the corridor from them. "Thanks James, please keep me informed as to Mr. Philips status." Said Mark as he watched James walk back into the O.R. Mark, Jesse and Amanda walked over to the General.

He saw them coming and stood up to greet them. "Don Simpson." He said extending his hand to Mark, "heard your conversation." He said smiling warmly.

"Mark Sloan." Said Mark smiling at the older man. Jesse and Amanda both introduced themselves before Mark suggested, "why don't we go into the waiting room and you can tell us what happened."

Don thought that was a good idea and the four of them walked into the room and waited there for Steve to be released.

"Are you related to anyone here Mr. Simpson?" asked Jesse.

"No why?"

"I was just wondering why a complete stranger would wait and see how other complete strangers are doing." Said Jesse sort of sheepishly, wondering if he was out of line or not.

"Now son that is a fair question. Well being retired Army I am used to panic situations and believe me what I experienced tonight would definitely qualify for that. Well someone had to wait until that young man's partner returns and fill her in. Besides they are from out of town so they don't know anyone here that would know to fill her in. I figured that since they let me come in with him that I should at least wait until she arrives and fill her in.," he said explaining to them. They all nodded in agreement. He then continued to explain briefly the night's events from where they pulled him over, how he got to ride with Shane and the chase in the forest and how he ended up in Community General. "By the way how is your son, Steve?"

"Going to live, I'm afraid." Said a weary Steve leaning on the doorpost.

"Steve!" Mark exclaimed as he jumped up and gave Steve a big hug. Both Jesse and Amanda did the same.

"Wow now that's some welcome." Said Don Simpson as he just watched the happy reunion, then walked over and shook Steve's hand to welcome him back also.

"How is he?" asked Steve regarding Shane.

"Too soon to tell. He's still in surgery."

"By the way, who is he, besides a cop of some rank?" asked Steve again. "In all the confusion that's all I was able to discern."

"He is FBI Special Agent Shane Philips. He and his partner Jade Marshall saved your life tonight."

"The FBI huh? Wow." Said Steve as the information sunk into his head. Obviously something major was up if the FBI were involved. "Where is his partner now? I never did get a chance to thank her for saving my life." Finished Steve.

"She saved your life?" asked Amanda stepping forwards curiously, but didn't carry it too much further after a quick glance from Mark. Now was not the time to think about suggesting anything.

"Yeah. But she took off before I could even say thanks." He said somewhat sadly. Don nodded in agreement.

"She went after that other woman." Said Don getting up to leave. "Well I have to teach a class of army brats tomorrow morning. But here is my number," he said writing it down and handing it to Mark, "please call me and let me know how that young man turns out." He said shaking their hands again and left.

"It would be my pleasure." Said Mark watching the man leave.

"Well I have to go and do some rounds. But I'll see you both tomorrow. Steve, glad your okay man." Said Jesse getting up to leave and hugging his best friend once again.

"Yeah I should get going also. I have some reports to fill out and then I need to get home and see CJ. The babysitters going to cost me a mint." She said smiling to both Mark and giving Steve a hug also and then left with Jesse.

Mark and Steve both stood in silence in the small room for some time, neither wanting to speak, just happy to be back reunited. Then they both started at the same time.

"Dad I…" Steve started.

"Son I…" Mark Finished. They both laughed. "Me first Dad." Said Steve. Mark just nodded his head yes and they both sat down at the small table.

"I am sorry for the argument we got into before I left. I am also sorry that I at least didn't listen a bit. I seem to have a terrible track record when it comes to women." He said smiling as Mark put an encouraging hand on his son's arm. "Tell you what, from now on you can be my social director. What do you say?" he laughed.

"I think I'll need extra life insurance." Said Mark laughing also. "I am sorry also son. I shouldn't always try to interfere where I am not asked. Old habits die hard I guess. There was just something off right from the start. I just couldn't let it go this time." He said sighing. Silence again.

"Well this time I guess I am extremely grateful. I just hope his partner is okay." Said Steve slumping back into the chair breaking the mood.

"Yeah me to. I really liked her." Said Mark quietly.

"You met her? When?" asked Steve incredulously.

"They both came to the house looking for you or Sara. That's how they knew to go to the cabin. Lucky for both of us they came along when they did. What happened out there in the forest son? Where did she go? And what happened to Sara?" asked Mark.

Steve went on to explain everything from the scene in the cabin, to the chase, to the fight in the woods, to Jade running off after Sara, with Mark just listening dumbfounded at times. Poor Steve, he kept thinking over and over. What would it take to make him get over this? To take his mind off this bad experience and move on?

"I just wish I had a chance to thank her…" his voice trailed off.

********

Jade put the car into park and headed in the hospital in at a quick walk. She didn't even take the time to look at her rather disheveled appearance in the mirror.

"Where is patient Shane Philips?" she asked excitedly to the desk nurse.

"Are you Jade Marshall?" asked an older doctor walking up to her, he name tag read 'James'.

"Yes I am. How is he doctor?"

"Well he is still in surgery. His appendix burst from the gunshot wound. They are still trying to flush the toxins out of his system. If that goes well, then he should be in the recovery ward in the next few hours. But time will be true judge. His other vital organs are still in tact, thank goodness. Why not go home and try to get some sleep. We'll call you if anything changes." He offered softly.

"I don't live here besides, I'd like to wait and see if he's okay." She said back in a snap.

"I'm sorry. Of course. There is a waiting room down the hall if you'd prefer with some large couches and a fresh coffee pot." He said and headed back in the O.R.

Jade was sorry she snapped at the doctor. He was only doing his job after all. And if she had done her's properly Shane would be fine and Carmen would be on death row. But she failed miserably; she sighed as she headed for the small waiting room.

When she reached the room she spied Mark sitting alone at the table, waiting for someone.

"Doctor Sloan?" She asked somewhat pensively.

He looked up and his face broke into a broad smile. She was indeed alive. He breathed a sigh of relief. "Agent Marshall right?" She nodded yes. "I'm so glad that you're okay." He said standing up to greet her.

"Yeah I'm fine alright. My partner on the other hand…" her voice trailed off. She quickly regained her thoughts and asked, "how is Steve?" a little nervously.

"Why not ask him yourself." Said Mark as he gestured to the tall man walking down the hall towards them.

Jade turned around and caught her breath. Steve was even better looking in real life. Tall, well built and had the same easy going smile his dad had. Even though he looked like he had been through hell and back he still was handsome. She felt her face flush a little and her hands go warm. Great and I look like a mess, she scolded herself.

Steve, who had spied the woman talking to his dad, quickly grabbed his coffee and headed back double time. I hope this is Agent Marshall. He took one look at the rather disheveled woman and smiled. She was rather stunning in spite of everything. Tall with long dark hair and definitely a good build. He felt his face go a bit red and had to look down to hide the embarrassment. He reached the room as her and his father finished speaking.

"Hi." He said nervously. Get a grip Steve he told himself.

"Hi." She echoed just as nervously. Get a grip Jade!

Mark noticed the uncomfortable silence between this girl and his son and decided to interfere. "Steve I'd like you to finally meet Agent Marshall." Said Mark.

"Jade." She said extending her hand. She was usually so outgoing and forthright with no hesitation in introducing herself to anyone much less a local cop. But for some reason her brain failed to send her mouth the words. What a lameo I am, she thought. Hope he doesn't notice.

"Steve." He said taking it in his large hand. He felt the spark immediately. Although tired there was a definite spark in her eyes and that warmed him instantly.

Jade too felt the spark from the connection. This wasn't supposed to be happening. How could a simple greeting effect her so instantly? She felt her face starting to go flush again and quickly pulled her hand away. "I'm glad that it wasn't a death wound she gave you." Jade finished quietly looking past him towards the O.R. then back at his shoulder.

"Thanks. And I'm sure he'll be okay." Said Steve softly. "By the way I never did get a chance to thank you for saving my life. You ran after Sara so fast that I didn't even have time to stand up." He said almost laughing.

"Carmen." She corrected.

"Sorry?"

"Her real name is Carmen Parks." She said finally feeling very tired. She needed to sit down or she felt like she was going to fall down on the floor. Mark really wanted to know the whole story now, but sensed it wasn't the correct time, besides he noticed the sudden weariness and was quick to act. "Why don't you sit down I'll go and see how Shane is doing." He said gently grabbing her elbow and helping her to the table.

"Thanks." She muttered as she sat down.

Steve felt sort of awkward when his dad left, but he couldn't bring himself to leave the room. He wanted to ask about Sara/Carmen, but since his dad; who was usually quick to ask about these details left it for now, he could do not less. Besides there was something about her that he felt drawn to. Something that made him feel, that if he left the room or pressed this subject it would be a big mistake right now. There will be time for the whole explanation, that he would make sure of. So instead he quietly sat down at the table across from her without saying a word. He just sat there and studied her. She was tall and well built. Her long dark hair, which was messed up, kept falling in her face. Long well groomed fingers kept pushing it back, to reveal sparkly green eyes. Yes she was stunning. If she looks this good, this tired, I wonder what she looks like at her best. He felt his face go flush again at the mere thought. But would he ever see her at her best? After tonight would she just walk out of the hospital and out of their lives? Gone forever? Probably yes. He sighed sadly and looked down.

Jade saw Steve look down. Obviously some thought made him flush for some reason. She also took the time to study him. How is sandy brown hair kept falling to one side covering one of his deep blue eyes. His hands looked strong and powerful as did the rest of him. A girl would definitely feel safe in those arms. And the T-shirt he now wore did nothing to hide his well-built physique and she felt her face go flush at the mere thought of what he might look like under it. She too looked down in embarrassment.

"I hate to ask, but did you catch her?" Asked Steve sheepishly. He knew this was a tough subject, but he just had to know what happened to Carmen.

"Well sort of. Her car hit a cement embankment off where Johnson road meets highway 93 and exploded in the ravine below." She said almost sounding bitter. Why hasn't he pressed me for details regarding her yet? What is he waiting for? Can it be that is just being careful with my feelings? Or maybe his own? Is he still in love with her?

"Well I guess your job is done here then huh?" He asked not really wanting an answer.

"Yeah I guess so." She said sadly.

"But?" He offered, quick to note that there was some slight hesitation in her voice.

"But something just doesn't add up. I'll take a drive back to the wreckage tomorrow when it's light and see exactly what happened. Maybe back to the cabin as well, when my brain is functioning normally." She said standing up.

"You don't think she's dead?" He asked startled as he watched her stand up.

"I'm not sure. I guess I am just tired." She said with a heavy sigh leaning on the doorframe, "just so very tired."

Steve's heart sank at hearing her words. She sounded so sad, so lost and so tired. What really happened out there? He found himself wanting to hear all about her and this case even more now. But he knew that now wasn't the time. But when? He had to make sure he had more time with her. But when? Why not tomorrow!

"Want some company to the crash site tomorrow? An extra pair of eyes might not hurt. And I do have the key to the cabin. Plus I have some time off." He offered casually. At least he hoped it sounded that way.

Jade smiled at the offer. Normally she viewed the local cops as mere hindrances. But this was different. She was actually glad he offered and she wanted him to come. But there was still a little voice in the back of her head that said he would be no different than the others and would never compare to Dean. But she pushed it aside and answered him, "that would be great. Thanks for the suggestion." She smiled turning back to him. She was about to make another remark when Mark came rushing into the room, "they just finished the surgery. He's going to the recovery unit."

"Is he going to be okay?" She asked impatiently.

"Well seems to be for the moment, but the next 24 hours will tell the real story. But you can go and see him for a bit if you want to." Mark offered knowing full well that nothing could have stopped him from preventing her.

"Yes I need to see him." She said without looking back as she ran to the elevators.

"Is he really going to be okay dad?" Asked Steve standing up to join his dad in the doorway as they watched the elevator doors close taking Jade away from them.

"I think he is going to be just fine son. He's quite a fighter and that's what will help him recover fast."

"That's great."

"So what do you think of Jade Marshall?" Mark asked his son.

"I think she's pretty terrific from what I have seen so far." He smiled.

"I think so to. I just wonder how long she's going to be here for?" Asked Mark.

"Probably not long enough." Sighed Steve. They both stood in silence in the room waiting for Jade to return.

********

Jade walked quietly into the private recovery room that Shane was in. She felt her heart break as she looked at him hooked up to all those tubes and monitors.

"You can go and talk to him for a bit if you like." Offered Jesse Travis coming up behind her, "I won't mind." He smiled.

Jade pulled up a chair and sat down looking sadly at Shane.

"I shouldn't have left you." She half sobbed as she took his hand and gently stroked it. "I shouldn't have let the case become more important to me than you." She paused wiping away stray tears. She sat in silence for some time before continuing, "and I…well um…oh brother…I never meant to imply that you were the traitor. Next to myself I know that you'd never betray the job or me. So I am, sorry." She stopped. "I only wish you could hear me." She said putting her head down.

"You suck at apologies." Came a faint voice.

Jade looked up in surprise to see her partner with a half smile on his strained face. She smiled and got up and hugged him.

"You gave me quite a scare you know. Never do that again. Okay?" She said laughing softly.

"Okay." He said closing his eyes again. They sat again in silence for a bit longer. She knew it was time to leave.

"I'll let you get some sleep. But I'll be by in the morning to make sure you eat all your Jello." She said smiling and stroking his hair. He just nodded and drifted to sleep, letting the drugs work their magic. Jade held his hand for a bit more not wanting to let go. When she finally did, she bent down, planted a soft kiss on his cheek and turned to leave.

"Since I am on tonight I'll make sure you're notified if something changes. But take my word for it, he's going to be just fine." Said Jesse softly.

"Thanks for everything. I really appreciate it." She said hugging him and headed for the elevators. Time to get some sleep myself. As she walked down the hall she spied a mirror finally looked at herself in the mirror. A small shriek escaped her lips. This is what I look like? And he was blushing? I must have finally lost it! Better leave here quick. Hope they don't see me. She laughed and got in the elevator.

The elevator doors opened to reveal Steve and Mark standing by the reception desk waiting for her. They both smiled warmly when they saw her. Naturally, she sighed.

"Well I guess it's time to call it a night." She said turning to leave quickly realizing that she was a mess.

Steve walked to her and gently said, "so what time will you be by tomorrow, well actually later this morning?" he softly laughed.

"Well I want to check on Shane as soon as I get up so after that sometime." She said yawning.

"Well I would like to come with you to see if he's okay and then we can leave from here together." He suggested.

"You want to come with me to see how he's doing?" Jade asked pleasantly but somewhat taken aback by his offer.

"Yeah of course." He said and she beamed. It was the right answer and they both knew it.

"How about 9 a.m.?"

"Wow do you guys ever sleep?" He laughed as he realized it was well past 3 a.m. and 9 would come fast.

"Oh I am sorry. I am used to very little sleep. Bad dreams I guess." She half laughed half stated looking down. Mark was quick to notice. There was an underlying reason there, and Jade was careful not to give it away, but Mark knew something was wrong. And was determined to find out.

"No 9 a.m. is fine. I am an early riser myself, so that will be no problem." He laughed.

"Can I walk you to your car?" He offered already guiding her out the door, she was too tired to protest. Mark just said goodbye and watched them go. It was too soon to tell anything yet, but he knew two things for sure, he liked Jade and so did Steve. But what did she think? And would she just break Steve's heart in the end?

They walked out of the hospital in silence, letting the cool air alert them from their quiet thoughts.

"Where are you staying?" He asked.

"The Hilton downtown. Courtesy of the FBI." She smiled.

"Must be nice. Whenever I have to travel I usually get the royal luxury of a Motel 8." He laughed back.

They both stood there and laughed until Jade broke the moment, "well I think you need some real rest. I'll see you at 9 a.m. And hopefully I'll be a bit more human. Then be really afraid." She laughed quietly.

"I'm already looking forward to it." He said smiling as he closed her car door. Steve stood in the parking lot until she drove out of sight. He sighed and walked back into the hospital to collect his dad and head home for some sleep himself. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough. Actually, it was tomorrow, but 9 a.m. seemed like it would take an eternity to arrive.

********

"Just look at the way the sun pours through the curtains my dear. And this suite will come with all the furniture if that's what you like. Plus it's right on the beach. And it's a good quiet neighborhood." Said the elderly lady landlord to the young woman who stood in the small basement suite facing the Malibu Beach. It was the perfect spot just down from the Sloan house. She smiled to herself and pulled out her deposit. Yes this was going to work just fine, thought Carmen.

********

But 9 am did arrive with Jade knocking on the Sloan door right at 9 a.m.

"Gee I could time my watch by you." Said Mark smiling as he opened the door to greet her.

"What can I say. Punctuality is one of my many flaws." She laughed and walked into the large house. Jade stopped for a brief moment. She never noticed it the first visit but she did now. It was large and roomy yet it felt safe and cozy. Like a real home. It had been so long that she had forgotten what a real home felt like. So long indeed. It was decorated very tastefully. Lived in and yet not cluttered. Nothing out of place.

"Steve will be up shortly. He's just had a few things to finish up." Said Mark breaking her thoughts. "Want some coffee?" he said walking up the stairs and heading to the kitchen before she could say no. Jade felt compelled to follow.

"Any chance of getting it to go?" She quipped

"Why yes dear lady. One cup of coffee to go, coming right up." He said comically.

Jade laughed and felt herself relaxing. She liked Mark Sloan. He was so easy to get along with. So comfortable to be around. She didn't have to put up any walls or pretenses around him. In fact she felt herself wanting to relax around him. It was a long overdue feeling. It was definitely welcomed. I wonder where Steve is, she thought. And as if on cue she heard him coming up the stairs whistling. Immediately she felt her stomach muscles tighten. Did she really have butterflies?

Steve reached the landing and was immediately hit with the smell of a woman's cologne. It was CK Contradiction. His favorite! He smiled and started to whistle. So she was here. He felt a bit of nervous apprehension start to take over. These feelings were so different from those with Carmen. With Carmen it was so fast it hit him like a bullet, oh bad choice of words he mentally beat himself. But with Jade he found that he wanted to take it slow and relish in every new feeling and sensation in getting to know her. I just hope I have the time I need, he sighed and headed into the kitchen.

"Good Morning Agent Marshall." Came his voice as he entered the kitchen. Jade turned and felt a huge smile cross her face almost instantly. "Good morning Detective Sloan." She said returning the formalities. Man he looks good. Steve was dressed rather casually in a pair of Levi's and a white shirt. "Please call me Jade. Other wise you'd have to address me as FBI Special Agent Jade Marshall. Way to long." She said laughing.

"Ah yes, deal. As long as you return the favor."

"Sure Steve, that would be just fine."

"Smells great dad." He said walking over to Mark who was enjoying watching the scene unfold before him. Steve poured himself some coffee while he made a mental note of what Jade looked like today. Her hair was neatly combed and pinned on one side with a small silver heart barrette. She wore a pair of khaki pants, a white mock turtleneck sweater and her black suit jacket. Formal and yet somehow youthful. Either way she was beautiful.

"By the way Shane is doing fine. Complaining about the food though." Said Mark breaking the moment.

"Oh?" Said Jade looking up. "When did you hear this?"

"Well much like yourself I too am an early riser. I called and checked as soon as I got up. Jesse gave me all the details. He said to tell you that Shane wants a big Mac, fries and a spinach shake for breakfast." He said laughing.

"Yup, definitely back to normal. Thank goodness." She laughed and then sighed.

"By the way they have to run a few more tests and things today on him so Jesse said not to come by until later."

"Oh-okay." Jade said stuttering. "Well I guess we can go later. I would really like to swing by the cabin first if that's okay with you Steve?" She questioned.

"Just lead the way. After all who am I to interfere with an FBI investigation?" He said putting up his hands in mock surrender.

Jade was amazed at the ease she felt around Steve and Mark. Like she belonged there, like she always had and always would. Like she was a part of the family and it was an accepted thing. She warmed to the thought. Even Dean's parents never made her feel that at ease. Damn! She scolded herself mentally. She would have to learn to stop the comparison. If she were ever to move on she would have to close that door, it wouldn't be fair to the other party. It wouldn't be fair to her either. She had to leave before she caved in completely. She needed to keep her hard outer shell in tact. That is kept her alive so far. Alive but alone. She didn't know what would happen if someone managed to penetrate it. Would she ever find out?

"Well shall we go?" She asked Steve who was just finishing his breakfast.

"Sounds good. I have the key with me. Thanks for the breakfast and coffee dad. See you for supper."

"You, you two eat together also?" Asked Jade stunned.

"Yeah why?" Asked Steve surprised.

"I have just never come across it from where I live is all. I think it's great, don't get me wrong. It's just that you two have such a great relationship. It's very rare nowadays." She stopped realizing that she was rambling. She looked up to see to surprised faces staring back at her, as if she was talking a foreign language. "I guess I sound pretty ridiculous. Sorry. So ready to go?" She asked and turned to leave.

"Wait Jade." Said Mark catching up to her. "We work very hard to make sure that we have a close relationship, and most of the time it works. And I guess nowadays it's pretty rare. But we wouldn't have it any other way. By the way where are you from anyways?"

"New York." She signed and laughed.

"Yes, well I can see how that would be a foreign concept to you then." Mark laughed and walked back to the coffee pot as Jade went to smack him on the shoulder and she ended up hitting the air. She just laughed.

"Did you want to join us for dinner?" Asked Steve rather anxiously, causing Mark to arch a brow in amusement. Obviously Steve didn't want her back on a plane to New York anytime soon.

"Um, well, okay. That is if it won't be to much trouble." Jade stuttered not really knowing what to say.

"No trouble at all. It would be trouble if you ate as much as Steve." Laughed Mark.

"Thanks dad. Time to go." Laughed Steve and headed for the door. Jade thanked Mark, assured him that she would be there for supper and followed Steve outside to her car.

"Wow look at the choices in car's. Can you see the difference." Said Steve laughing looking at the two identical Crown Victorias parked in the driveway. The only difference was that Jade's was black and his was grey.

"Yup. Let it never be said that good taste and law enforcement goes together." She quipped.

"Yes let it never." He smiled. "Want to drive?" He offered.

"You want me to drive? Why so you can berate me, the 'woman' driver?" She asked somewhat sarcastically.

"Actually I was serious." He said in a serious tone. She was obviously used to being picked on by the male members of her FBI team. That was not fair thought Steve. It made him mad.

"Oh." She said softly. "Well if you want to give your shoulder a rest, I'd be happy to." She said going around to the drivers' side.

"Actually I just wanted to be chauffeured around today. What better chauffeur than a good looking intelligent FBI agent." He said smiling and opened the side door.

Jade was going to make a comment but thought the better of it as she felt her face go red at the compliment. He thinks I'm good looking? Really? Jade had never considered herself in any other category than 'not bad'. She felt she wasn't the kind of woman that men fall head over heels for. But she smiled back and closed the door.

"But my shoulder could use the rest also." He said putting on his seatbelt.

"How good are you at directions?" She asked somewhat nervously.

"I am an officially licensed side seat driver." He said proudly. And he proved to be so. Steve wasn't the kind of direction giver that only gave a seconds notice, Jade really appreciated it. In fact the more time she spent with Steve Sloan she found herself wishing it was more time. He was really getting to her.

They rode towards the cabin in silence. Jade explained bits and pieces of the case to him, always keeping in mind that there was still a mole there were looking for and that most of the information was FBI Classified Confidential. He understood and did not press her about it. He was shocked at some of the details however, and wondered how Carmen could really be that person that she described.

"Are you sure you're okay coming back here?" She asked as they pulled on to the road that would lead up to the cabin.

"Yeah." He said looking out the window. "I mean I never really got to enjoy the place. It's too bad, because it was my first time up here and its so beautiful and peaceful, but I don't think I could come up here alone. It would be to weird."

"Yeah I guess." She said looking ahead. There was an awkward silence in the car for the next few minutes until they reached the cabin.

"Hey looks like we are not the only ones here." He said pensively.

Jade stopped the car and they both jumped out to investigate the small pickup truck that was parked in the bushes. Jade went to one side while Steve to the other. They both opened the doors at the same time. The little truck was clean except for the usual items in most vehicles like a map, windshield scraper and a set of jumper cables. It had various bits of trash and junk scattered throughout but nothing to clue them to who the driver was.

"Maybe it was her helper from last night."

"What happened to him? What happened last night in there Steve?" Jade asked in a remembering that her and Shane had seen two sets of footprints in the cabin, but failed to see the body. They had assumed he left.

"Well he was waiting for me when I came back to the cabin with the wood. He hit be from behind and then the next thing I new I woke up groggy and expertly tied up on the floor. I saw Sa..Carmen shoot him and I thought she put his body outside the door. He must have driven up here but because his truck was hidden and it was dark and I failed to see it when I went outside to get the wood. I can't be sure how he was there."

"So the body is possibly still here? You could have mentioned these details first thing this morning. Or even last night. What, they don't teach you locals the importance of the details in a murder case." She said getting mad. She drew her gun and headed for the cabin.

"Yeah well I forgot okay. It must have slipped my mind, I mean I did almost die last night. I think I had other things to worry about. And after, I was saved I did have the small task of trying to save your partners life. Which you did not stick around to do, I might add." He said getting mad also, but regretting those last words as they came out.

Jade stopped in her tracks. It had happened again. This same spot. This same kind of argument. A pointless one. Why did she let these things happen all the time? She turned around to face the man behind her. She didn't want another argument and was sorry that one had started. Steve, even though mad did not look it she thought. Was he just showing her that he wasn't going to be walked on? Like she always thought she had to prove about herself?

"Steve I…" she started.

"Look Jade…" He started at the same time.

They both stopped and smiled as they realized how childish they just acted. Before he could react she started.

"Steve I am sorry. I didn't mean to minimize the fact of what happened to you last night, it must have been awful. It was my fault that Shane got hurt and I guess I have a hard time coming to terms with that. I also didn't mean to make fun of your station. It was not called for and I should know better. Trust me it usually takes a lot for me to lose my cool. Call it lack of sleep or stress or just an 'occupational hazard' this time around."

"I am sorry also. I guess I should have mentioned these details last night, but I felt that you had just experienced so much, that this would wait a bit. But I guess you Fed.'s do things a bit different than us locals. And I can appreciate that. I am sorry for getting mad as well. I never get mad." He said walking up to her.

The distance between them could be measured in inches, but neither minded, it was almost welcomed. And under different circumstances would have led to something better, but not this time. This time was business.

"And you know it's not your fault that Shane got shot. It was Carmen's. Not yours." He said gently rubbing her arms with his hands to reassure her that all really was okay.

"I guess this case is just finally getting to me." She sighed and looked sadly into the distance beyond him.

"It's been longer than two years hasn't it?" Asked Steve remembering what she had told him earlier.

"Seems like it has been an eternity." She said and pulled away and headed back for the cabin.

"Right." He said under his breath and followed her with his gun drawn as well.

They entered the cabin somewhat carefully. The body was not outside the door so it must still be inside.

"Check the hall closet, beside the outside door." Motioned Steve to Jade. She carefully made her way towards the door. She gently opened it with one hand while the other hand held the gun, just in case. Steve was right behind her, a little too close it would turn out. Jade felt the door get stuck on something so she gave it quite a tug and before she could step back, the body came crashing out on top of her making her yelp as she fell backwards onto Steve and all three of them crashed to the floor as the body landed beside them. Jade hurriedly pushed the body off of her and rolled over Steve onto the floor beside him.

"Shesh!" She said sitting up on the floor looking at the body.

"Well no need for cuffs." He said lightly.

"Yeah bummer." She laughed.

"Oh you like cuffs do you?" He said pulling her back on top of him. Steve didn't know what came over him as he grabbed her by the waist and pulled her on top of him. Jade fought a bit but soon found herself straddling his muscled chest. A position that she was not totally uncomfortable with. In fact she felt the excitement all the way down to her feet.

"Only on the living. Maybe you'll experience it one day." She winked and went to get off of him. Steve didn't let go. He didn't want to let go. The excitement he felt was something more than just sexual. It was deeper and he found himself wanting to kiss her really badly. And so he did.

Jade tried to pull herself off, but was caught in his grasp and was unable. She looked into his eyes and realized that for the first time in a long time, she wanted it. But it was more. More than just a mere sexual encounter. She wanted to get to know him. For him to know her, all of her, the real her. And not to be scared away. She wanted to kiss him and before she could react, she was kissing him.

Steve pulled Jade down and planted a firm kiss on her soft lips. She struggled at first, but then gave in wholeheartedly. She dropped her gun and wrapped her arms around his head as he dropped his and wrapped his arms around her waist forgetting about his sore shoulder. He made the move to turn over but something stopped him. It was the body.

That's when reality came crashing back for both of them.

They both looked up, saw the dead body, realized how silly they must look and started to laugh.

"Good thing we brought a chaperon." She said getting up and laughing. She helped him get up. He stood up and looked her in the eyes, "next time we won't need one." He offered in a serious tone.

They stood for awhile and looked into each other's eyes for what felt like ages, but was in reality only a few minutes. She looked into his eyes. Jade wanted to drown in those pools of blue. The kiss was not awkward but pleasurable. It had been a long time since she gave herself willingly to a man other than Dean. But she found herself wanting to, wanting more. Needing more? Perhaps. But he had made the offer. Would she accept? Could she accept? Damn this case! Damn him! He was breaking down all the barriers that she had fought so hard to put up and keep in place. They had kept her safe when Dean was gone. It had kept her sanity in tact. But it had also kept her alone. And now she found a man who wanted to break them down, with a vengeance. And she found herself wanting him to. In fact she, at one moment thought he couldn't do it fast enough. Maybe it was the mountain air. It was affecting her thinking. Or just being alone with him up here. Either way it happened and she was not ashamed of it. It felt natural, and she wanted more.

Steve stood mesmerized by the green windows before him. The windows into her soul. He wanted inside. To know her, to feel her, to be part of her. He wanted her. He had never felt such an intense connection with a woman before this. This felt right. The kiss was perfect. He was not sorry he did it, in fact he wished it were under different circumstances. And he meant his offer. It was a serious offer and he hoped it would be honored. She was hiding something though. Some kind of pain, he could tell. He wanted to know what it was, help her over come it and he wanted into her heart. She put up barriers, he could sense, but with time he hoped he could tear them down. But how much time would he have? Would he be able to break them down only to lose her to some other case that would drag her back to her home in NY? Yes she didn't belong out here. Or did she? Could she live out here? Did she even want to? Did she even want to be with him?

The reality of the moment brought them back as one of the guns clattered on the floor, when she moved her foot.

"Well I guess I should go and call it in." She said pulling away regretfully. She was glad for the cool mountain air that helped her mind to focus again on the case as she headed for the car. She opened the door and grabbed the radio to call for a bus to transport the body and a tow-truck for the vehicle.

He looked around for anything that wasn't taken last night. He had unpacked the truck earlier this morning and came across his bag and Carmen's. He would turn it over to Jade tonight. It was now evidence.

"How can I go for dinner tonight? I could hardly control myself just now?" She muttered under her breath. "But his dad will be there. So I won't get into trouble." She started to reason to herself. She was going to continue when she spied Steve coming back to the car. He was smiling. She found herself smiling in spite of herself.

"The locals will be here soon." She said casually.

"Locals huh?" He laughed and smiled at her. And there it was. The events that just took place just happened. There was no awkwardness, nothing to be ashamed of. Something totally natural. And now they just carried on as if it was just a side distraction to an otherwise busy day. Like it was part of their natural routine.

"Sorry, bad habit I guess. So who is our chaperon?" She curiously asked.

"His name is Peter Watson. I grabbed his wallet. Besides a stick of gum, a set of keys, and his wallet he had nothing else of interest on him. But I'll let our 'local' ME be the final judge of that." He said stressing the word local.

Jade smiled in spite of herself. "Ever heard of him before?" She asked almost suggesting that he might be a local felon.

"Nope. Probably just some guy she contracted this job to. All in all I'd say she got her money's worth." He said rubbing his head and remembering the past nights events all to clearly.

"Sorry you had to go through all that. Must have been hell." She said getting back into the car.

"Almost." He said closing his door and looking at her.

"Almost? Which part of that was okay?" She asked playfully.

"The part where you saved my life. But I know what you were hinting at, gutter mind." He teased.

"Gutter mind?" She stammered her face going red. "Like I am alone in that!" She teased back.

"Guilty as charged." He put up his hands in surrender. He pulled them down quickly making a face of pain. "I guess I should stop doing that otherwise I'll be seeing a doctor very soon." He said starting to gently rub his shoulder.

"Yeah me too. Sorry." She said feeling bad that she had caused him any amount of pain. "Shall we go?" She suggested.

"Yup. Our work is done here. Lets check out the crash site." He suggested.

With that she put the car in reverse backed away from the cabin and headed back down the dirt road. They drove for a bit more in silence each contemplating what happened in the cabin.

********

"What are you researching now Mark? I thought you were proved right about Sara and the case was over. Isn't she dead?" Said Jesse coming into Mark's office. It was about 11 a.m.

"Well yes that part is, however, something is still bugging me about this whole thing. I did find some interesting details. Her real name as I learned last night from Jade is Carmen Parks. I was able to find some details about her, but most of it is classified." He said rather glumly.

"Well they're FBI files, what did you expect?"

"Well even my friend in the FBI was not able to access her files."

"What does that mean?" Asked Jesse sitting down in front of Mark's desk leaning forward with interest.

"That this case goes a lot higher and possibly deeper than we might think. My friend has pretty high clearance and he was surprised that they were classified. He thinks it was at the director's level. Now why would the director of the FBI be classifying files about a rather usual serial killer, by FBI standards, and not any other cases with the same MO?"

"Why?" Asked Jesse stupefied.

"Why indeed. Now that's the question he have to answer."

"Do you think Jade and Shane are involved in some way?" He asked.

"I hope not." Said Mark putting on his glasses again, "but then again, nothing's as it seems Jesse." With that he turned back to his computer to find out all he could about Carmen Parks, Shane Philips and Jade Marshall. He hoped beyond all reason that Jade was not involved, but he had this sinking feeling that to a certain degree she was. But just how involved? Or was she just being used? By whom? And for what purpose? He needed to find out, there were just too many unanswered questions to let this one go.

********

"Hmm 11 a.m., everyone should be at work by now." Carmen said as she walked very quickly towards the Sloan residence. She crept around to the backdoor and had no trouble picking the lock. "Gee Doctor Sloan don't you want to take better care of your valuable possessions?" She laughed as she walked in. She was careful to make sure that her presence wasn't known when they got back. I wonder where Steve sleeps? She looked around the house, quickly checking each room, but careful not to touch anything. Then she spied the stairs that led to the suite downstairs. She followed them and found herself standing in the middle of Steve's small living room. Not bad, she thought. Now where is it? Ah there, she said and walked over to his table. She smiled and went to work. Not long now.