You can find the NC17 version here http://www.voy.com/39259/
CHAPTER 13
TWO DAYS LATER
Sara steps out onto the back patio smiling at the sight of Ian staring out at the woods. She walks over to him wrapping her arms around his upper chest. "Hey"
"Hello" Ian brings her hand to his lips "Is Zeke up yet?"
"No." Sara kisses his neck "What's wrong?"
"I wish we could stay here."
"I know. Tomorrow we go back to our lives"
"We don't have to go back to what our lives were." Ian says softly
"What do you mean?"
"You can come back with us."
"Ian," Sara sighs, "we've had this conversation before."
Ian turns around "Sara I know you want to come back."
"Yes of course I do. I would love to come back and be with Zeke." 'With you.'
Then come back.
At the words echoing through her mind, Sara runs her fingers through her hair looking away.
Sara, look at me.
At the request Sara looks at him scowling "Don't do that Nottingham!" she snaps
"Sara we can keep Zeke safe if we are together." He cups her cheek "No one would risk trying anything as long as we are together."
"How do you know that Ian?"
"Like you pointed out... I'm now one of the richest men in the world." He says with slight disgust. "But not only because of that but because it has been written numerous times that together we are stronger. Don't let your fear of possibilities keep Zeke from having his mother... from giving us a chance to be a family." He brushes her cheek with his thumb "You know we belong together... the three of us."
I know that you feel it Sara.
"I don't know what I feel." Sara says softly as she brushes her fingers over his jaw.
Ian is about to reply when his sensitive hearing picks up the sound of Zeke crying inside. He glances at the house then back at Sara, "You know how I feel about you Sara." After a moment he tilts his head towards the door "Zeke's awake." He kisses her forehead
Sara watches as Ian walks inside 'How do I feel about him?' she sighs shaking her head walking inside. She goes into the kitchen to prepare Zeke's bottle. She smiles as Ian enters carrying a sniffling Zeke. "Hey baby" as Zeke holds his arms out to her she takes him "Oh morning baby." she kisses Zeke's cheek moving to put Zeke in the playpen when the boy protests. "OK, OK" Sara cradles him against her chest rubbing his back "You just want Mommy to hold you for a while huh?" she smiles faintly at Ian then presses her lips to Zeke's head. "OK we'll wait on breakfast until you wake up some more."
HOUR LATER
Sara sets Zeke in the playpen then returns to the kitchen where Ian is putting away dishes.
Ian glances at Sara sitting on the counter top. He closes the drawer walking over to Sara he cups her cheek. "What is on your mind?"
"A lot of things are on my mind." Sara shrugs, "Zeke, the world, this" she glances at her wrist "Mostly this whole thing between us." She meets Ian's eyes "I know its there but is it me or is it this?" She glances at the Witchblade watching as Ian's fingers brush over the back of her hand. She lifts her eyes watching him, "Is it me who has feelings for you? Or is it the Witchblade?"
"It is part of you Sara. You might not have always worn it but it is in your blood."
"What if it no longer saw me as the Wielder?" she asks hesitantly
"You are the rightful Wielder Sara."
"Is that why you want to be with me?" She asks her eyes narrowing
"If you weren't the Wielder I'd still love you. The fact that you are the Wielder just increases everything I feel for you." He brings her hand to his lips "I love you Sara Pezzini regardless of this." He touches the Witchblade stone.
Sara takes a deep breath just as Zeke starts to cry. "I better go see what he wants." she kisses Ian gently then hops off the counter.
Ian watches as Sara picks Zeke up comforting the boy. 'These last five days are just what all of us needed especially Zeke. He has missed Sara so much. So have I.'
"What's wrong baby?" Sara asks. As Ian joins them, the baby squirms reaching for his father. "You want Daddy huh?"
Ian takes the boy then settles on the floor with some of Zeke's toys. "What should we play with first?"
Sara lies on the couch watching as Ian sits beside the couch playing with Zeke. 'He's such a good Dad. Zeke adores him.' She smiles at the sight of the grinning and laughing baby. When Ian looks at her Sara sees the intense love in his brown eyes causing her heart to skip a beat. She gives him a faint smile watching as he turns his attention back Zeke. 'I wish I could understand how I feel about him. He loves me. Do I love him or does the Witchblade that loves him? I admit I am physically attracted to him and sexual attraction is intense to say the least. But do I love him? Ugh, I don't want to think about that. It's my last day with my baby.' She moves to the floor joining Ian and Zeke "Hey you two"
Zeke grins waving his hands
Sara pulls Zeke into her lap kissing him, "Oohh how's my Zeke?" she grins rubbing her nose against his causing Zeke to laugh.
AFTERNOON
Ian enters the bathroom standing in the doorway he watches Sara sitting in the bathtub.
Sara opens her eyes looking at Ian "I take it he's asleep."
Ian nods walking over to the tub he crouches down reaching out he touches her cheek.
Sara turns her cheek into his hand her lips brushing over his palm. "Waters getting cold" she says
Ian stands helping Sara out of the tub he grabs a towel wrapping it around her. "Are you OK?"
Sara shrugs "Just feeling a little tired. I think I'm going to take a nap." she walks into the bedroom "Join me?"
"Sure." Ian follows her removing his shirt and pants as Sara pulls on a tank top and shorts as she crawls into bed he joins her. He curls his body around hers pressing his lips to her hair knowing she doesn't want to talk.
Sara closes her eyes enjoying the feeling of being in Ian's arms.
Ian listens as she slowly drifts off to sleep. "I love you Sara." He says softly.
EVENING
Sara smiles watching Zeke crawl over Ian as he sits on the floor, "Zeke, are you using Daddy as a jungle gym?" She laughs picking up the baby who squirms to be let down. She kisses Zeke's cheek then sets him down.
Ian grabs Sara's hand pulling her down on his lap.
Sara laughs and stops when she sees the faint smile on Ian's face.
Seeing the amused look on Sara's face, he tilts his head "What?"
"Nothing, its just I rarely see you smile."
"I never had much of a reason to smile before I met you." Ian admits shyly
Sara presses her lips against his "I like seeing you smile." She says against his lips. She laughs when she feels Zeke trying to crawl onto her lap. She looks at Zeke, "Want to sit with Mommy huh?" She lifts Zeke onto her lap as she remains on Ian's lap. "Done using Daddy as a jungle gym huh buddy." she runs her hand down Zeke's head as he rests his head on her chest.
Ian presses his lips to Sara's hair watching as Zeke snuggles into Sara's chest.
Sara wraps her arms around the cuddling baby. "Oh you are just in a cuddly mood." She presses her lips to Zeke's head. She watches as Zeke sticks his fingers in his mouth his other hand going to the Witchblade stone. "What's wrong Zeke?" She wonders concerned at the baby's uncharacteristic silence.
"I think he knows." Ian says softly running his hand over Zeke's head.
"He's just a baby Ian."
"Sara, Zeke is more than just a baby. He is a combination of us... and this." Ian touches Sara's wrist careful not to move Zeke's fingers off the Witchblade. "We don't know how advanced he is because of this. He might not fully understand words but I think it is possible that he is connected to this."
"And it is connected to us."
Ian nods
"So you think it's possible he knows that after tomorrow he won't see me for a while."
"It is possible. We won't know until he's able to understand and explain."
Sara brushes her hand over Zeke's head saddened by the thought that her baby might be able to see what she sees. "I know he sometimes almost senses when I'm having a nightmare connected to the Witchblade but I wasn't sure whether he was connected to it to this extent."
"To some extent the Witchblade allowed you to conceive. Therefore in a way he is also a child of the Witchblade."
"I guess." She says reluctantly
"Sara everything will work out. For all we know he might not be as connected to it as we are. We won't know until Zeke is able to tell us what he sees or feels."
Sara gazes at her son and nods. When Zeke looks at her, as he sucks on his fingers Sara smiles, "Like those fingers huh."
Ian brushes his finger down Zeke's cheek This is right Sara. This is how we should be.
At the words drifting through her mind, Sara rests her head on Ian's shoulder, her eyes on Zeke. "Maybe... one day." She murmurs
CHAPTER 14
NEXT AFTERNOON
"Bye" Sara says hugging Ian
Ian presses his lips to her head "I do love you Sara."
Sara closes her eyes taking a deep breath "I know." She tilts her head kissing him lightly before pulling away. She opens the back passenger door getting in she looks at Zeke who is sitting there chewing on one of his plastic toys, "You be good for Daddy, OK baby? I'll see you soon." She leans down kissing Zeke's forehead, "I love you Zeke." She brushes her fingers down his cheek.
Sensing the extreme sadness Zeke whimpers reaching for his mother.
Sara sighs straightening up she steps out of the car looking at Ian.
Ian brushes her hair back "Be careful my Lady."
Sara nods "I will. Take care of him." She presses her lips against his then steps away "Bye" She says softly as she goes to her bike straddling it she puts on her helmet.
You know where to find us when you are ready to return.
With a final look at Ian Sara starts the bike revving it she peels away.
Ian lifts Zeke out of the car seat brushing away the tears falling down the baby's cheek. "We'll see her soon."
Zeke whimpers
"Its time to head home though home isn't complete without her." Ian says sadly. He looks at Zeke "Well its time to hit the road." He sets Zeke back in the car seat handing the baby his forgotten toy buckling Zeke into the car seat he closes the door getting back into the driver seat. He starts the car glancing at Zeke in the backseat sniffling unhappily. "It will be OK Zeke. She'll be back."
LATE EVENING: 1111 FAUST
"How was your visit?" Mrs. Ellis inquires watching as Ian sets the sleeping Zeke in the crib.
"Good. We took Zeke out to explore the woods." Ian answers softly as he covers Zeke with a blanket. "How did it go here?"
"The same as it always is. How is his mother?" Mrs. Ellis asks as Ian stands over the crib watching Zeke sleep.
"She is well. I think she is getting weary of travel."
"Do you think she will return?"
Ian shrugs "I do not know. It all depends on Sara." 'And the Witchblade.'
"I will go have Cook heat up your dinner."
"Thank you." Ian says softly his eyes on Zeke as he sleeps.
LATE NIGHT: HOTEL ROOM
Sara tosses her backpack into the corner of the room flopping on the bed with a sigh. 'I miss my baby.' She looks at the glowing stone "Any chance you can help me figure out what I feel about Ian?"
*Different versions of Ian in different times and places.*
At the quick succession of flashes she scowls, "That's a lot of help. What about this Ian? Is what I'm feeling for him what you invoke? Or am I" she swallows "actually in love with him?" She sighs rubbing her forehead "I really want to figure this out, especially if I'm ever going to return to my baby. It wouldn't be fair to Ian if I don't know how I feel for him.
I know the past Wielders have loved him, but is it me who has feelings for him you or me? Or is he right that you have always been part of me regardless of my becoming the Wielder?" She groans "No more thinking. I need a shower."
WHILE LATER
"Where are you Sara?" Ian inquires as he stands at the window beside the crib.
"A town about sixty miles away from the house." Sara answers
"Are you OK?"
"It's just hard to see him and say goodbye." She sighs, "How is he?"
"Asleep." Ian glances in the crib "He cried for a while on the way to the airport. He was unhappy in the plane."
"Poor baby."
"He misses you."
Sara closes her eyes "I miss him too." 'And you.' They talk for a while then reluctantly they hang up. Sara lies in the bed staring up at the ceiling her fingers absently touching the stone as she drifts off the sleep.
With a final look at Zeke, fast sleep in the crib Ian makes his way out of the nursery to his own bedroom. Setting his phone on the nightstand taking a deep breath he lays on the bed staring up at the ceiling. I love you Sara.
TWO MORNINGS LATER
"Is something wrong with Zeke?" Mrs. Ellis inquires entering the nursery where Ian is walking the floor with a silent Zeke. "Is he sick?"
"I don't think so; I think he just misses Sara." Ian answers
"Why don't I take him?" Mrs. Ellis suggests, "Your breakfast is getting cold." She moves in to take Zeke from Ian. As Ian hands Zeke over to her Zeke starts crying and squirming reaching for his father.
"He did the same thing when I put him in the crib to clean up after changing his diaper." Ian says taking the crying Zeke from Mrs. Ellis once in his arms the boy stops crying.
"I guess he's just clingy today." Mrs. Ellis muses.
"I guess" Ian shrugs
"I'll have Cook put your breakfast in the oven and I will bring his bottle up." Mrs. Ellis walks out of the nursery leaving Ian with Zeke.
Zeke grabs a fistful of his father's shirt he rests his head on his father's shoulder sticking his fingers in his mouth.
MIDAFTERNOON
Sara sits in the Denny's Restaurant staring out at the rain as she takes a sip of her coffee. Hearing laughter, she looks over at a table to see a woman sitting with a toddler and a man. She smiles faintly at the laughter of the child 'They look like a happy family.'
"You could have that," a voice says
Sara winces at the voice knowing who it is. She brings the mug up to her mouth covering her talking "With whom? Nottingham? Not the most functional relationship in the world."
"Nor is it the most dysfunctional." Elizabeth Bronte points out "You have the love of the man we all wait for and belong with. You have the chance to be with him."
"I don't know if I can."
"He won't leave you if that is what you are worried about. He is loyal to us Sara, always has been. All you need to do is trust your heart and his. It may be hard for you to love him but think about how it is for Ian. He still does not fully understand how much he loves you but he is not afraid too. You are his heart and soul... as he is yours if you would allow him in."
"Are you telling me that I can return to New York and be near my son?"
Elizabeth nods
"Will he still be in danger because of this?" Sara nods at the Witchblade
"He will always be in danger. Not just because of the Witchblade but because of the world."
"Then why did it want me to leave New York in the first place?"
"At the time Ian was not ready to be the Father or lover that he is now capable of being."
"If I had stayed against its wishes..."
"Your son never would have been born." Elizabeth acknowledges.
Sara winces at the knowledge looking away she turns to speak to Elizabeth only to find her gone. Suddenly feeling exhausted Sara stands digging a couple bills out of her pocket she tosses them on the table and walks out of the restaurant. She runs through the rain to her hotel room digging her key out she enters the room. She removes her wet jacket kicking off her boots she crawls into the bed. She picks up the phone dialing a familiar number.
"Woo" Danny greets after the second ring
"Hey Partner."
At his friend's voice, Danny smiles. "Hey, long time no hear. Where are you?"
"Around. You busy?"
"Not for you. Why?"
"Danny, can I ask you something?" She says hesitantly
"Ask me anything."
"How did you know that you were in love with Lee?"
"Uh wow that's a question. Why are you asking me?"
"Who else would I ask?" Sara returns
"OK." Danny drawls, "I'm not sure. It was a combination of events why?"
"I'm just confused."
"About your feelings for who I think?"
"Nottingham?"
"Who else would it be?"
Sara chuckles "Yeah."
"Why are you thinking about this?" Danny inquires, "Are you...?"
Sara sighs, "I'm trying to figure out my feelings for him. My whole life my intense feelings of love never last... the guys leave me... or die. But with him... it's different."
"How so?"
"He puts up with everything mean I've ever said to him. He forgave me for not telling him about Zeke. He's different."
"True." Danny agrees
"Sorry for throwing this all on you. I just needed to vent."
"It's OK. I understand. How are you?"
"Besides confused?" Sara groans, "I'm fine. I miss Zeke. I miss New York. I miss you guys. Hell, I even miss work. How are you?"
"Good. Work isn't as... interesting without you."
"How are Lee and the kids?"
"Great!" Danny smiles "Their growing like weeds. Mikey got an A on his recent book report. Una made the basketball team."
"Good. How's Lee?"
"She's good. Una asked when you were going to visit again."
"Tell her I will eventually." Sara and Danny talk for a while then she hangs up. She sits on the bed staring at the phone then dials the memorized number.
1111 FAUST
Ian watches as the rain falls outside his bedroom window while Zeke naps next to him on his bed. Carefully he brushes his hand over Zeke's head. As he hears his phone ring Ian silently groans moving off the bed hurrying over to his desk grabbing the phone before it can ring a third time. "Yes?"
"Hi."
Ian smiles faintly returning to the bed. "Hello Sara."
At the almost purr Sara involuntarily shivers "How's Zeke?"
"He is sleeping." Ian looks at Zeke "He had a bad night."
"Is he OK?" Sara asks concerned.
"He's fine" Ian assures "just a little clingy. He woke up in the middle of the night and since he cries whenever I try to put him in the crib or leave the room without him. He even became upset when Mrs. Ellis was going to keep an eye on him."
"So where is he?"
"He's asleep next to me." Ian answers, "I tried putting him in the crib when he fell asleep but he woke up. He finally fell asleep again about twenty minutes ago. I decided to do some ready while he's asleep."
"Is it raining there?"
"It is pouring. I had to bring the dogs in its so wet."
"I thought Irons dogs didn't go outside."
"His rarely go outside. They live in the bunker. Mine are the outside dogs and they only come inside when it rains."
"I thought you had only the one Rottweiler after the hounds."
"The one you saw me with was Branchus. I didn't want to take both of them out."
"So how many dogs do you have?"
"Two Branchus and Ares. Then there are the two hounds, Artemus and Hades."
Sara chuckles "Interesting names."
"Why name a dog Phil when you can name it after a Greek myth or one of the best characters in literary history."
"Did you forget that you're talking to the person who named a child Ezekiel?" Sara reminds
"Good point." Ian looks at Zeke "Though it fits him."
"I know but still my poor baby could be tormented by the mean nicknames when he gets to school."
"He can just hit whoever teases him."
"IAN!" Sara exclaims
"I'm kidding my Sara." Ian chuckles
Sara smiles at the sound
"What?"
"What, what?"
"I can practically feel you smile." He says slightly puzzled
"You can?" Sara asks also feeling puzzled
"Yes. I don't know how to explain it though. What are you smiling about my Sara?"
"I was just thinking that I like hearing you laugh."
"Oh really?" Ian says amusement evident in his voice.
"Yep, guess it's because I rarely hear it."
"Before you I never had much of a reason to laugh." Ian admits
"Well I like hearing it." Sara says, "So what else has been going on there?" she asks changing the subject.
"Not much. Gabriel stopped by yesterday to deliver something I had him look for and played with Zeke for a while."
"What did you ask him to look for?" Sara asks curiously
"A certain knife I have been looking for to add to my collection."
"You have a collection of knives?"
"Swords, axes, knives" Ian says dismissively.
Sara shakes her head "Why can't I summon up any disbelief with you?"
"You know me better than anyone."
"Oh come on I still don't know much about you. You know everything about me."
"True I do." Ian agrees
"That's not fair." Sara grumbles
"Ask what you want." Ian offers
Sara smiles "Maybe later."
"Anytime."
Sara cradles the phone against her shoulder.
"Is something wrong?"
"No. I'm just getting tired."
"Have you been sleeping?"
"Yeah; as much as I can with this thing."
"Get some sleep then."
"I should. Tell Zeke I love him. I'll talk to you later."
"Sleep well my love."
"Bye" Sara says hanging up the phone.
Ian closes his phone setting it on the nightstand. Shifting to his side, he looks at Zeke who is still sleeping beside him. He rests his head on his arm drifting off to sleep as he watches his son sleep.
HOUR LATER
Zeke opens his eyes looking around he grins rolling over he pats at his father's face cooing.
Feeling the small hands patting at his face Ian opens his eyes "Hello Zeke." He sits up lifting Zeke onto his lap "Looks like we both got some sleep." He looks at the clock "What should we do now?"
Zeke pats at his father's face tugging at his hair
"Zeke no." Ian gently untangles Zeke's fingers from his hair. "Don't pull." He kisses Zeke's fingers "I talked to your Mommy. She told me to tell you that she loves you."
Zeke looks around hopefully
Ian smiles sadly "Sorry but Mommy's not here right now." At the look on Zeke's face he leans forward kissing the boy's forehead. "Why don't we go get you a bottle" Ian stands with Zeke on his hip "You must be hungry."
CHAPTER 15
DAWN: HOTEL
Sara tosses and turns in her sleep lost in the clutches of the vision.
*Sara stands before Elizabeth Bronte "We've already talked today? Why again?"
"You are still unsure about everything."
"Of course I am."
"Why?"
"It's not fair to Ian for me to return when I don't know how I feel about him."
"Why are you not sure?"
Sara shrugs "Lots of reasons."
"Like what?"
"He tried to kill me."
"He has also died to protect you." Elizabeth says
"I know. It's not that easy for me to know how I feel about him. Part of me is falling for him but another part of me knows what he was raised to be. What Irons forced him to be."
"Does it matter? He has given up his old life."
"I know." Sara says twisting the Witchblade absently
"Sara the question is not about his past but do you love him for him? You need to answer that question. Do you Sara Pezzini, Wielder or not, love Ian Nottingham regardless of his past?"
Sara looks at the Witchblade then back at Elizabeth giving a hesitant nod "I think I really do."
Elizabeth smiles nodding "Return to them. They need you."*
Sara awakens with a gasp her eyes going to the Witchblade seeing its glow she smiles "I love him." She throws off the covers quickly pulling on her clothes. Sara moves about the rooms gathering her things shoving them into the backpack. She pulls on her boots and jacket shouldering her backpack she grabs her helmet opening the door she wheels the Buell outside closing the door behind her. She leaves the Buell on the walkway running to the front office. She enters to find the office empty going to the desk she hits the bell.
"Oh good morning Ma'am" the desk clerk greets "Checking out?"
"Going home" Sara says
The desk clerk types on the keyboard "OK I see you made a couple calls."
Sara nods "Total?"
"Total of hotel room and phone is 55."
Sara hands the clerk the credit card Ian had set up for her. As the clerk hands her the receipt she signs it. "Thanks."
The desk clerk watches as the woman hurries out of the office and shakes his head. He watches as the woman peels out of the parking lot on a motorcycle.
COUPLE OF HOURS LATER: 1111 FAUST
"Good morning Zeke" Ian greets entering the nursery after his morning exercise and shower to find Zeke sucking on his fist.
Zeke just stares up at his father kicking his legs.
Ian sighs lifting the baby out of the crib "I take it you're still unhappy." He kisses Zeke's cheek allowing the boy to pat at his face then lays Zeke on the changing table. "What should we do today? Its still raining so there is no playing outside with the dogs today. We have all morning to figure out what to do today but first let's get you changed and fed." He rubs Zeke's stomach getting the baby to squirm "Some time today you need a bath." As he changes the baby, he hears a knock at the door. "Yes" he calls
The door opens and Naomi enters "Mrs. Ellis sent me up with Ezekiel's bottle."
Ian tilts his head at the table next to the rocking chair "Just put it on the table."
Naomi sets the bottle on the table "How is he this morning?"
"Still waking up but it looks like he's still not his usual self." Ian answers
"Poor little guy. Probably doesn't like this nasty weather." Naomi says walking out of the room.
After snapping the sleeper up Ian lifts Zeke off the changing table, "Do you want your bottle?" Ian sits in the rocking chair offering the bottle to Zeke. When Zeke finishes his bottle, Ian settles on the floor with the infant to play with the toys.
Leaning back, Ian watches as Zeke crawls around going from toy to toy. "Can't make up your mind huh?" He says amused at the look on Zeke's face.
Zeke tosses his toy aside crawling back towards his father. He stops looking at his father then looks back at his toys. After a few seconds, Zeke crawls over to the open toy box pulling himself to his feet looking inside at his toys.
Ian reaches out holding the top of the toy box open so it doesn't hit Zeke on the head. "Still looking for what to play with?"
Zeke glances at his father then standing on his tiptoes, he peers inside the box then grabs a toy a brightly stuffed pig with a rattle. He sticks the ear of the pig in his mouth balancing himself with one hand on the toy box he reaches with his other hand for his father grunting.
Ian moves the baby onto his lap "Is this what you wanted?" He shakes the pig rattle eliciting a small smile from Zeke. "You like this toy huh?"
Zeke sticks the ear back in his mouth leaning back into his father's chest.
Ian brushes his fingers through the dark brown hair covering Zeke's head. "I know you miss her. I miss her too." After trying to get Zeke to play for half an hour Ian sighs, "Alright lets go downstairs."
Early afternoon, Ian is downstairs in the med lab buttoning his shirt as Immo reads his chart.
"How are your headaches?" Immo inquires glancing at his employer/patient.
"Same as always." Ian shrugs
"Have you been sleeping?"
"Yes"
"You are in perfect health." Immo says "Like always." He gives Ian an encouraging nod.
Ian nods in return then walks out of the room. He makes his way upstairs going to the kitchen where he finds Zeke sitting in his playpen silently playing with his toys as Cook sits at the kitchen table looking through cookbooks.
Cook looks up "Hello Master Ian."
Ian inwardly flinches at the name that Irons had ordered the household to refer to him as since childhood. Ian nods in greeting
"Would you like lunch now?"
"Not right now. I have errands to run can you keep an eye on Zeke for a while longer?"
Cook nods "Go ahead."
"I should be back in time to put him down for his afternoon nap." Ian reaches into the playpen stroking Zeke's head for a few seconds. He nods at Cook then makes his way out of the kitchen to the garage.
COUPLE OF HOURS LATER
As the rain continues to pour outside Ian tosses his pen aside looking out the window. He glances over to see Zeke asleep in the swing chair. He stands going over to the window he leans against the wall watching the rain. I miss you sweet Sara.
I miss you too. Sara smiles faintly hearing those words echo through her mind.
In his bedroom Ian starts in surprise when he hears Sara respond. 'She did it. She never does that.' He closes his eyes concentrating on his love. Where are you sweet Sara? After a few minutes of waiting for a response, Ian opens his eyes with a sigh. He runs his hands over his face then he moves to the floor to meditate.
Around 8 that night Sara drives through the city in the rain and crowded streets, her mind on one thing... her family. She glances at her wrist seeing the excited colors she smiles 'You miss them as well.' In response, she feels the familiar purr thrum through her body. "Soon" she murmurs.
Sara feels her excitement and apprehension rise as she nears Faust Street just outside the city. She stops down the street from the mansion taking a deep breath she closes her eyes concentrating. Ian
Inside the mansion, Ian tilts his head feeling a familiar presence. "Sara?" He whispers as the familiar voice fill his mind, he looks at Zeke who is asleep in his arms then stands carrying the boy over to the crib lying him inside. He sits back in the rocking chair closing his eyes he concentrates Sara?
Who else would it be Stalkerguy?
At the teasing tone of the nickname Sara gave him Ian smiles faintly Where are you?
Open the front gate Nottingham it's pouring out here and I've been driving since dawn.
Jolted by the knowledge Ian bolts out of the rocking chair hurrying out of the nursery he runs down the hall to the stairs hitting the button for the security gate.
Mrs. Ellis hears the pounding of footsteps out of the sitting room to see Ian rushing down the last flight of stairs "Ian what is going on?" she demands
Ian stops in his tracks looking at his former Nanny "Sara's back." he announces bounding out the front door.
"Ian don't..." Mrs. Ellis trails off as the young man runs out of the house into the rain. She shakes her head "That boy."
Just as Ian makes it down the front stairs as Sara turns the Buell off and removes her helmet and backpack. In the rain the two stare at each other for a second then they find themselves in a passionate embrace kissing. Ian pulls back staring down at Sara in the rain "Sara what are you doing here?" He asks taking her face between his hands.
Sara smiles at Ian brushing his hair back "I missed you and Zeke."
Ian looks away briefly, "Are you staying for good?" he asks hesitantly
Sara kisses him lightly "Yes. I'm back... for good."
Hearing that Ian smiles faintly, "I love you Sara." He says searching her eyes
Sara brushes her lips over his palm "I love you Ian." She says softly.
"You do?"
"Yes." Seeing the light flash in his eyes she smiles leaning up she kisses him sweetly as she runs her hands down his bare arms. "Finish this conversation inside?" she tilts her head towards the open door "We're soaked and I want to see my baby."
Ian pulls Sara close capturing her lips in a searing kiss. "I love you"
Sara smiles against his lips "I love you." She whispers slipping her hand into his she picks up her backpack and walks with him inside. "You changed this place." She remarks as they walk into the foyer.
Ian shrugs "It was time for a change. His quarters upstairs and downstairs are still the same. Just took out some of the more... gaudy items."
"Ian how many times do I have to tell you when you go outside in the rain wear a coat?" Mrs. Ellis chastises.
Ian looks down, "Yes Ma'am." He says sheepishly
Sara snickers at the look on Ian's face only to get a glare from him.
"Now you two go get cleaned up. I will bring up some coffee." Mrs. Ellis says walking out of the foyer.
As Mrs. Ellis leaves Sara looks at Ian, "I like her." Sara smiles following Ian up the stairs.
"Sara you like anyone who makes you coffee." Ian teases bringing her hand to his lips.
"Do not" Sara grumbles. Once they reach Ian's floor Sara finds herself in Ian's arms pressed back against the wall his lips on hers in a demanding yet loving kiss. She drops her backpack her arms going into his shoulders.
Ian pulls back lips inches from Sara's he brushes her wet hair back "I missed you."
"I missed you too." She brushes her lips over his "Where's Zeke?"
"He is sleeping. First let's get you warmed up and in some dry clothes."
"Good idea." Sara laughs, "Though I'm going to need help getting out of these jeans." She looks down at her soaked jeans.
Ian follows her gaze and chuckles picking up her backpack "Come on." He leads Sara to his room.
Sara smiles at the decor plus the added baby toys with a swing chair. "Minus the baby stuff this room definitely fits your personality Nottingham."
"I haven't cleaned up Zeke's toys today." Ian says almost apologetically, "You should see what he did to the room up here I use as a study. There are toys all over the place." He drops the backpack on the tile floor just outside the bathroom. He walks into the bathroom turning on the shower. He returns to the bedroom to see Sara remove her jacket. "The shower is ready."
Sara nods removing her jacket handing it to Ian then removes her gun and holster putting it on the dresser along with her wallet. She rubs her hands together
"Cold?" Ian asks after dropping Sara's jacket down the laundry chute.
"Yeah." She nods rubbing her hands together she laughs in surprise as Ian picks her up carrying her into the bathroom and sets her on the counter. Sara shivers as Ian unties her boots pulling them and her socks off.
Ian drops the boots outside the bathroom then closes the door turning his attention to getting his love out of her wet and cold clothing. He leans in brushing his lips over hers as he unbuttons her jeans sliding the zipper down.
Sara lifts her hips bracing herself as Ian pulls her wet jeans down her legs with little effort. She hops off the counter stripping off her sweater and underwear she leans up kissing Ian "Thanks. It would have taken me forever to get my jeans off on my own."
Ian quickly looks her naked body trying to keep his own body from responding. He tilts his head towards the shower "Get into the shower and get warmed up."
"Join me?"
Ian nods "Just going to go put the clothes in the laundry chute."
Sara kisses him "Don't take too long." She steps into the shower sighing at the feeling of the warm water falling over her. She opens her eyes as she hears the shower door open and turns to see Ian step into the shower.
Ian runs his hands down her arms "Warmed up?"
Sara nods wrapping her arms around his shoulders brushing her lips over his. "Getting there." She murmurs against his lips. She shivers feeling his hands caress her back and shoulders. She gasps feeling his lips trailing over her jaw "Ian" she sighs pressing closer to him.
(Sex part go here http://www.voy.com/39259/
Sara nods kissing him lightly as she steps out of the shower.
Ian steps out behind her grabbing another towel he quickly dries his hair then wraps it around his waist. He reaches out pulling Sara back against his chest lightly kissing her shoulder.
Sara smiles feeling him nuzzle her shoulder. She reaches up cupping his cheek she looks in the mirror watching the sight of Ian hugging her.
Ian releases Sara as she grabs another towel to dry her hair "I'll go see what I can find for you to wear until your clothes are dry." He walks out of the bathroom to his bedroom to find a tray of coffee sitting on the table by the window and Sara's backpack gone with her toothbrush, make-up bag, brush and other assorted items on the table as well. He opens one of his dresser drawers removing a pair of pajamas bottoms he pulls them on then searches for a pair of sweats and a T-shirt for Sara. He looks up to see Sara standing in the doorway of the bathroom drying her hair with the towel. "These should work. Mrs. Ellis brought some coffee up and took your backpack downstairs."
Sara takes the offered clothes returning to the bathroom she removes the towels hanging them up she pulls on the clothes. She looks at Ian leaning against the doorframe watching her. She smiles at him
Ian holds out his hand "Come on."
"Where?"
"You said you wanted to see Zeke."
Sara takes his hand kissing his cheek "Yeah I do."
Ian leads Sara out of the bedroom across the hall to Zeke's room. He opens the bedroom door entering the dimly lit room.
Sara smiles at the room furnished with a crib, dresser, changing table, bookcase, and a rocking chair with a toy chest nearby. She walks over to the crib to find Zeke fast asleep. She reaches in brushing her finger over Zeke's cheek smiling as he turns into her touch. She glances at Ian then looks back at Zeke. "How has he been?" She asks softly
"He's been acting different. He hasn't been interested in his toys or playing. He hasn't been his normal cheerful morning self the last two days. He wasn't quite as clingy today as he was yesterday. Last night it was two in the morning before I was able to put him down without him screaming and crying."
"Poor baby." Sara whispers blinking back tears.
"He's going to be happy to see you in the morning." Ian says reaching out he brushes a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. "He is going to be really happy to see you every day."
"So am I." Sara turns towards Ian "I never wanted to leave him... it was just something that had to be done."
Ian nods "I know. We can talk in the bedroom."
With a final look at Zeke, she follows Ian back to his room. "He has a lot of toys." She remarks
Ian shrugs "Mrs. Ellis pretty much bought everything in the store for a child his age." He smiles faintly "I think she sees Zeke as the closest she will have to a grandchild so she likes to spoil him. I had Fredrick donate some of the toys to a local shelter." He gives Sara a mischievous smile "Mrs. Ellis doesn't know though."
Sara shakes her head "Something tells me she might know."
"If she does she hasn't said a word."
"He has everything a little boy could want."
"No, now he does." Ian takes her face between his hands "He now has his Mother back." He leans in kissing her lightly. "I love you." He murmurs
"I love you too." She laughs as Ian sweeps up into his arms. She threads her fingers in his hair kissing him passionately as he lays her on the bed.
Ian brushes his lips over Sara's face and down her neck listening to Sara's sighs. He lifts his head looking at his beloved as he slips his fingers under the sweats sliding them down her legs.
Sara gasps as Ian presses a kiss to her navel before slowly pushing the shirt up as his lips move over her exposed skin. She removes the shirt tossing it aside her hands going to his hair as his lips brush over her breast. Sara inhales sharply as Ian's lips trail down her body nuzzling and pressing light kisses to her middle. "Ian" she squirms
MIDNIGHT
"No." Ian murmurs
Sara gasps startled awake as she feels herself thrown into a vision of Irons and Ian.
*Sara stands in the library watching as Irons slaps a young Ian so hard the child falls to the floor. She winces wanting to comfort the child.
"I have told you Ian to stay out of that room!" Kenneth yells angrily, while he hauls Ian to his feet by his arm wrenching it hard.
Young Ian yelps in pain
Sara gasps as though feeling his arm being dislocated. "Ian" she whispers watching as Irons pulls the boy out of the room.*
Sara pulls herself out of the vision looking at Ian muttering and whimpering in his sleep. She brushes her hand down Ian's cheek "Ian" she says softly knowing how he reacts to being woken from his nightmares. She smoothes his hair back wanting him to open his eyes but sensing how involved he is in the nightmare she kisses his forehead wrapping her arms around him. She looks at her wrist "Please let this work!" She pleads closing her eyes she concentrates trying to get Ian to open his eyes. Ian it's OK. It's just a dream. Open your eyes.
Through his dream, Ian hears Sara call for him to wake up. He struggles then finally pulls himself out of the nightmare he opens his eyes "Sara" he whimpers turning he wraps his arms around her waist burying his face in her neck.
Sara presses her lips to his hair blinking back tears as she feels his tears. She rubs his back "Shh baby it's OK." She whispers slowly rocking him listening as he drifts back to sleep in her arms. She presses a kiss to his head as she shifts lying back down with her arms wrapped around him.
CHAPTER 13
TWO DAYS LATER
Sara steps out onto the back patio smiling at the sight of Ian staring out at the woods. She walks over to him wrapping her arms around his upper chest. "Hey"
"Hello" Ian brings her hand to his lips "Is Zeke up yet?"
"No." Sara kisses his neck "What's wrong?"
"I wish we could stay here."
"I know. Tomorrow we go back to our lives"
"We don't have to go back to what our lives were." Ian says softly
"What do you mean?"
"You can come back with us."
"Ian," Sara sighs, "we've had this conversation before."
Ian turns around "Sara I know you want to come back."
"Yes of course I do. I would love to come back and be with Zeke." 'With you.'
Then come back.
At the words echoing through her mind, Sara runs her fingers through her hair looking away.
Sara, look at me.
At the request Sara looks at him scowling "Don't do that Nottingham!" she snaps
"Sara we can keep Zeke safe if we are together." He cups her cheek "No one would risk trying anything as long as we are together."
"How do you know that Ian?"
"Like you pointed out... I'm now one of the richest men in the world." He says with slight disgust. "But not only because of that but because it has been written numerous times that together we are stronger. Don't let your fear of possibilities keep Zeke from having his mother... from giving us a chance to be a family." He brushes her cheek with his thumb "You know we belong together... the three of us."
I know that you feel it Sara.
"I don't know what I feel." Sara says softly as she brushes her fingers over his jaw.
Ian is about to reply when his sensitive hearing picks up the sound of Zeke crying inside. He glances at the house then back at Sara, "You know how I feel about you Sara." After a moment he tilts his head towards the door "Zeke's awake." He kisses her forehead
Sara watches as Ian walks inside 'How do I feel about him?' she sighs shaking her head walking inside. She goes into the kitchen to prepare Zeke's bottle. She smiles as Ian enters carrying a sniffling Zeke. "Hey baby" as Zeke holds his arms out to her she takes him "Oh morning baby." she kisses Zeke's cheek moving to put Zeke in the playpen when the boy protests. "OK, OK" Sara cradles him against her chest rubbing his back "You just want Mommy to hold you for a while huh?" she smiles faintly at Ian then presses her lips to Zeke's head. "OK we'll wait on breakfast until you wake up some more."
HOUR LATER
Sara sets Zeke in the playpen then returns to the kitchen where Ian is putting away dishes.
Ian glances at Sara sitting on the counter top. He closes the drawer walking over to Sara he cups her cheek. "What is on your mind?"
"A lot of things are on my mind." Sara shrugs, "Zeke, the world, this" she glances at her wrist "Mostly this whole thing between us." She meets Ian's eyes "I know its there but is it me or is it this?" She glances at the Witchblade watching as Ian's fingers brush over the back of her hand. She lifts her eyes watching him, "Is it me who has feelings for you? Or is it the Witchblade?"
"It is part of you Sara. You might not have always worn it but it is in your blood."
"What if it no longer saw me as the Wielder?" she asks hesitantly
"You are the rightful Wielder Sara."
"Is that why you want to be with me?" She asks her eyes narrowing
"If you weren't the Wielder I'd still love you. The fact that you are the Wielder just increases everything I feel for you." He brings her hand to his lips "I love you Sara Pezzini regardless of this." He touches the Witchblade stone.
Sara takes a deep breath just as Zeke starts to cry. "I better go see what he wants." she kisses Ian gently then hops off the counter.
Ian watches as Sara picks Zeke up comforting the boy. 'These last five days are just what all of us needed especially Zeke. He has missed Sara so much. So have I.'
"What's wrong baby?" Sara asks. As Ian joins them, the baby squirms reaching for his father. "You want Daddy huh?"
Ian takes the boy then settles on the floor with some of Zeke's toys. "What should we play with first?"
Sara lies on the couch watching as Ian sits beside the couch playing with Zeke. 'He's such a good Dad. Zeke adores him.' She smiles at the sight of the grinning and laughing baby. When Ian looks at her Sara sees the intense love in his brown eyes causing her heart to skip a beat. She gives him a faint smile watching as he turns his attention back Zeke. 'I wish I could understand how I feel about him. He loves me. Do I love him or does the Witchblade that loves him? I admit I am physically attracted to him and sexual attraction is intense to say the least. But do I love him? Ugh, I don't want to think about that. It's my last day with my baby.' She moves to the floor joining Ian and Zeke "Hey you two"
Zeke grins waving his hands
Sara pulls Zeke into her lap kissing him, "Oohh how's my Zeke?" she grins rubbing her nose against his causing Zeke to laugh.
AFTERNOON
Ian enters the bathroom standing in the doorway he watches Sara sitting in the bathtub.
Sara opens her eyes looking at Ian "I take it he's asleep."
Ian nods walking over to the tub he crouches down reaching out he touches her cheek.
Sara turns her cheek into his hand her lips brushing over his palm. "Waters getting cold" she says
Ian stands helping Sara out of the tub he grabs a towel wrapping it around her. "Are you OK?"
Sara shrugs "Just feeling a little tired. I think I'm going to take a nap." she walks into the bedroom "Join me?"
"Sure." Ian follows her removing his shirt and pants as Sara pulls on a tank top and shorts as she crawls into bed he joins her. He curls his body around hers pressing his lips to her hair knowing she doesn't want to talk.
Sara closes her eyes enjoying the feeling of being in Ian's arms.
Ian listens as she slowly drifts off to sleep. "I love you Sara." He says softly.
EVENING
Sara smiles watching Zeke crawl over Ian as he sits on the floor, "Zeke, are you using Daddy as a jungle gym?" She laughs picking up the baby who squirms to be let down. She kisses Zeke's cheek then sets him down.
Ian grabs Sara's hand pulling her down on his lap.
Sara laughs and stops when she sees the faint smile on Ian's face.
Seeing the amused look on Sara's face, he tilts his head "What?"
"Nothing, its just I rarely see you smile."
"I never had much of a reason to smile before I met you." Ian admits shyly
Sara presses her lips against his "I like seeing you smile." She says against his lips. She laughs when she feels Zeke trying to crawl onto her lap. She looks at Zeke, "Want to sit with Mommy huh?" She lifts Zeke onto her lap as she remains on Ian's lap. "Done using Daddy as a jungle gym huh buddy." she runs her hand down Zeke's head as he rests his head on her chest.
Ian presses his lips to Sara's hair watching as Zeke snuggles into Sara's chest.
Sara wraps her arms around the cuddling baby. "Oh you are just in a cuddly mood." She presses her lips to Zeke's head. She watches as Zeke sticks his fingers in his mouth his other hand going to the Witchblade stone. "What's wrong Zeke?" She wonders concerned at the baby's uncharacteristic silence.
"I think he knows." Ian says softly running his hand over Zeke's head.
"He's just a baby Ian."
"Sara, Zeke is more than just a baby. He is a combination of us... and this." Ian touches Sara's wrist careful not to move Zeke's fingers off the Witchblade. "We don't know how advanced he is because of this. He might not fully understand words but I think it is possible that he is connected to this."
"And it is connected to us."
Ian nods
"So you think it's possible he knows that after tomorrow he won't see me for a while."
"It is possible. We won't know until he's able to understand and explain."
Sara brushes her hand over Zeke's head saddened by the thought that her baby might be able to see what she sees. "I know he sometimes almost senses when I'm having a nightmare connected to the Witchblade but I wasn't sure whether he was connected to it to this extent."
"To some extent the Witchblade allowed you to conceive. Therefore in a way he is also a child of the Witchblade."
"I guess." She says reluctantly
"Sara everything will work out. For all we know he might not be as connected to it as we are. We won't know until Zeke is able to tell us what he sees or feels."
Sara gazes at her son and nods. When Zeke looks at her, as he sucks on his fingers Sara smiles, "Like those fingers huh."
Ian brushes his finger down Zeke's cheek This is right Sara. This is how we should be.
At the words drifting through her mind, Sara rests her head on Ian's shoulder, her eyes on Zeke. "Maybe... one day." She murmurs
CHAPTER 14
NEXT AFTERNOON
"Bye" Sara says hugging Ian
Ian presses his lips to her head "I do love you Sara."
Sara closes her eyes taking a deep breath "I know." She tilts her head kissing him lightly before pulling away. She opens the back passenger door getting in she looks at Zeke who is sitting there chewing on one of his plastic toys, "You be good for Daddy, OK baby? I'll see you soon." She leans down kissing Zeke's forehead, "I love you Zeke." She brushes her fingers down his cheek.
Sensing the extreme sadness Zeke whimpers reaching for his mother.
Sara sighs straightening up she steps out of the car looking at Ian.
Ian brushes her hair back "Be careful my Lady."
Sara nods "I will. Take care of him." She presses her lips against his then steps away "Bye" She says softly as she goes to her bike straddling it she puts on her helmet.
You know where to find us when you are ready to return.
With a final look at Ian Sara starts the bike revving it she peels away.
Ian lifts Zeke out of the car seat brushing away the tears falling down the baby's cheek. "We'll see her soon."
Zeke whimpers
"Its time to head home though home isn't complete without her." Ian says sadly. He looks at Zeke "Well its time to hit the road." He sets Zeke back in the car seat handing the baby his forgotten toy buckling Zeke into the car seat he closes the door getting back into the driver seat. He starts the car glancing at Zeke in the backseat sniffling unhappily. "It will be OK Zeke. She'll be back."
LATE EVENING: 1111 FAUST
"How was your visit?" Mrs. Ellis inquires watching as Ian sets the sleeping Zeke in the crib.
"Good. We took Zeke out to explore the woods." Ian answers softly as he covers Zeke with a blanket. "How did it go here?"
"The same as it always is. How is his mother?" Mrs. Ellis asks as Ian stands over the crib watching Zeke sleep.
"She is well. I think she is getting weary of travel."
"Do you think she will return?"
Ian shrugs "I do not know. It all depends on Sara." 'And the Witchblade.'
"I will go have Cook heat up your dinner."
"Thank you." Ian says softly his eyes on Zeke as he sleeps.
LATE NIGHT: HOTEL ROOM
Sara tosses her backpack into the corner of the room flopping on the bed with a sigh. 'I miss my baby.' She looks at the glowing stone "Any chance you can help me figure out what I feel about Ian?"
*Different versions of Ian in different times and places.*
At the quick succession of flashes she scowls, "That's a lot of help. What about this Ian? Is what I'm feeling for him what you invoke? Or am I" she swallows "actually in love with him?" She sighs rubbing her forehead "I really want to figure this out, especially if I'm ever going to return to my baby. It wouldn't be fair to Ian if I don't know how I feel for him.
I know the past Wielders have loved him, but is it me who has feelings for him you or me? Or is he right that you have always been part of me regardless of my becoming the Wielder?" She groans "No more thinking. I need a shower."
WHILE LATER
"Where are you Sara?" Ian inquires as he stands at the window beside the crib.
"A town about sixty miles away from the house." Sara answers
"Are you OK?"
"It's just hard to see him and say goodbye." She sighs, "How is he?"
"Asleep." Ian glances in the crib "He cried for a while on the way to the airport. He was unhappy in the plane."
"Poor baby."
"He misses you."
Sara closes her eyes "I miss him too." 'And you.' They talk for a while then reluctantly they hang up. Sara lies in the bed staring up at the ceiling her fingers absently touching the stone as she drifts off the sleep.
With a final look at Zeke, fast sleep in the crib Ian makes his way out of the nursery to his own bedroom. Setting his phone on the nightstand taking a deep breath he lays on the bed staring up at the ceiling. I love you Sara.
TWO MORNINGS LATER
"Is something wrong with Zeke?" Mrs. Ellis inquires entering the nursery where Ian is walking the floor with a silent Zeke. "Is he sick?"
"I don't think so; I think he just misses Sara." Ian answers
"Why don't I take him?" Mrs. Ellis suggests, "Your breakfast is getting cold." She moves in to take Zeke from Ian. As Ian hands Zeke over to her Zeke starts crying and squirming reaching for his father.
"He did the same thing when I put him in the crib to clean up after changing his diaper." Ian says taking the crying Zeke from Mrs. Ellis once in his arms the boy stops crying.
"I guess he's just clingy today." Mrs. Ellis muses.
"I guess" Ian shrugs
"I'll have Cook put your breakfast in the oven and I will bring his bottle up." Mrs. Ellis walks out of the nursery leaving Ian with Zeke.
Zeke grabs a fistful of his father's shirt he rests his head on his father's shoulder sticking his fingers in his mouth.
MIDAFTERNOON
Sara sits in the Denny's Restaurant staring out at the rain as she takes a sip of her coffee. Hearing laughter, she looks over at a table to see a woman sitting with a toddler and a man. She smiles faintly at the laughter of the child 'They look like a happy family.'
"You could have that," a voice says
Sara winces at the voice knowing who it is. She brings the mug up to her mouth covering her talking "With whom? Nottingham? Not the most functional relationship in the world."
"Nor is it the most dysfunctional." Elizabeth Bronte points out "You have the love of the man we all wait for and belong with. You have the chance to be with him."
"I don't know if I can."
"He won't leave you if that is what you are worried about. He is loyal to us Sara, always has been. All you need to do is trust your heart and his. It may be hard for you to love him but think about how it is for Ian. He still does not fully understand how much he loves you but he is not afraid too. You are his heart and soul... as he is yours if you would allow him in."
"Are you telling me that I can return to New York and be near my son?"
Elizabeth nods
"Will he still be in danger because of this?" Sara nods at the Witchblade
"He will always be in danger. Not just because of the Witchblade but because of the world."
"Then why did it want me to leave New York in the first place?"
"At the time Ian was not ready to be the Father or lover that he is now capable of being."
"If I had stayed against its wishes..."
"Your son never would have been born." Elizabeth acknowledges.
Sara winces at the knowledge looking away she turns to speak to Elizabeth only to find her gone. Suddenly feeling exhausted Sara stands digging a couple bills out of her pocket she tosses them on the table and walks out of the restaurant. She runs through the rain to her hotel room digging her key out she enters the room. She removes her wet jacket kicking off her boots she crawls into the bed. She picks up the phone dialing a familiar number.
"Woo" Danny greets after the second ring
"Hey Partner."
At his friend's voice, Danny smiles. "Hey, long time no hear. Where are you?"
"Around. You busy?"
"Not for you. Why?"
"Danny, can I ask you something?" She says hesitantly
"Ask me anything."
"How did you know that you were in love with Lee?"
"Uh wow that's a question. Why are you asking me?"
"Who else would I ask?" Sara returns
"OK." Danny drawls, "I'm not sure. It was a combination of events why?"
"I'm just confused."
"About your feelings for who I think?"
"Nottingham?"
"Who else would it be?"
Sara chuckles "Yeah."
"Why are you thinking about this?" Danny inquires, "Are you...?"
Sara sighs, "I'm trying to figure out my feelings for him. My whole life my intense feelings of love never last... the guys leave me... or die. But with him... it's different."
"How so?"
"He puts up with everything mean I've ever said to him. He forgave me for not telling him about Zeke. He's different."
"True." Danny agrees
"Sorry for throwing this all on you. I just needed to vent."
"It's OK. I understand. How are you?"
"Besides confused?" Sara groans, "I'm fine. I miss Zeke. I miss New York. I miss you guys. Hell, I even miss work. How are you?"
"Good. Work isn't as... interesting without you."
"How are Lee and the kids?"
"Great!" Danny smiles "Their growing like weeds. Mikey got an A on his recent book report. Una made the basketball team."
"Good. How's Lee?"
"She's good. Una asked when you were going to visit again."
"Tell her I will eventually." Sara and Danny talk for a while then she hangs up. She sits on the bed staring at the phone then dials the memorized number.
1111 FAUST
Ian watches as the rain falls outside his bedroom window while Zeke naps next to him on his bed. Carefully he brushes his hand over Zeke's head. As he hears his phone ring Ian silently groans moving off the bed hurrying over to his desk grabbing the phone before it can ring a third time. "Yes?"
"Hi."
Ian smiles faintly returning to the bed. "Hello Sara."
At the almost purr Sara involuntarily shivers "How's Zeke?"
"He is sleeping." Ian looks at Zeke "He had a bad night."
"Is he OK?" Sara asks concerned.
"He's fine" Ian assures "just a little clingy. He woke up in the middle of the night and since he cries whenever I try to put him in the crib or leave the room without him. He even became upset when Mrs. Ellis was going to keep an eye on him."
"So where is he?"
"He's asleep next to me." Ian answers, "I tried putting him in the crib when he fell asleep but he woke up. He finally fell asleep again about twenty minutes ago. I decided to do some ready while he's asleep."
"Is it raining there?"
"It is pouring. I had to bring the dogs in its so wet."
"I thought Irons dogs didn't go outside."
"His rarely go outside. They live in the bunker. Mine are the outside dogs and they only come inside when it rains."
"I thought you had only the one Rottweiler after the hounds."
"The one you saw me with was Branchus. I didn't want to take both of them out."
"So how many dogs do you have?"
"Two Branchus and Ares. Then there are the two hounds, Artemus and Hades."
Sara chuckles "Interesting names."
"Why name a dog Phil when you can name it after a Greek myth or one of the best characters in literary history."
"Did you forget that you're talking to the person who named a child Ezekiel?" Sara reminds
"Good point." Ian looks at Zeke "Though it fits him."
"I know but still my poor baby could be tormented by the mean nicknames when he gets to school."
"He can just hit whoever teases him."
"IAN!" Sara exclaims
"I'm kidding my Sara." Ian chuckles
Sara smiles at the sound
"What?"
"What, what?"
"I can practically feel you smile." He says slightly puzzled
"You can?" Sara asks also feeling puzzled
"Yes. I don't know how to explain it though. What are you smiling about my Sara?"
"I was just thinking that I like hearing you laugh."
"Oh really?" Ian says amusement evident in his voice.
"Yep, guess it's because I rarely hear it."
"Before you I never had much of a reason to laugh." Ian admits
"Well I like hearing it." Sara says, "So what else has been going on there?" she asks changing the subject.
"Not much. Gabriel stopped by yesterday to deliver something I had him look for and played with Zeke for a while."
"What did you ask him to look for?" Sara asks curiously
"A certain knife I have been looking for to add to my collection."
"You have a collection of knives?"
"Swords, axes, knives" Ian says dismissively.
Sara shakes her head "Why can't I summon up any disbelief with you?"
"You know me better than anyone."
"Oh come on I still don't know much about you. You know everything about me."
"True I do." Ian agrees
"That's not fair." Sara grumbles
"Ask what you want." Ian offers
Sara smiles "Maybe later."
"Anytime."
Sara cradles the phone against her shoulder.
"Is something wrong?"
"No. I'm just getting tired."
"Have you been sleeping?"
"Yeah; as much as I can with this thing."
"Get some sleep then."
"I should. Tell Zeke I love him. I'll talk to you later."
"Sleep well my love."
"Bye" Sara says hanging up the phone.
Ian closes his phone setting it on the nightstand. Shifting to his side, he looks at Zeke who is still sleeping beside him. He rests his head on his arm drifting off to sleep as he watches his son sleep.
HOUR LATER
Zeke opens his eyes looking around he grins rolling over he pats at his father's face cooing.
Feeling the small hands patting at his face Ian opens his eyes "Hello Zeke." He sits up lifting Zeke onto his lap "Looks like we both got some sleep." He looks at the clock "What should we do now?"
Zeke pats at his father's face tugging at his hair
"Zeke no." Ian gently untangles Zeke's fingers from his hair. "Don't pull." He kisses Zeke's fingers "I talked to your Mommy. She told me to tell you that she loves you."
Zeke looks around hopefully
Ian smiles sadly "Sorry but Mommy's not here right now." At the look on Zeke's face he leans forward kissing the boy's forehead. "Why don't we go get you a bottle" Ian stands with Zeke on his hip "You must be hungry."
CHAPTER 15
DAWN: HOTEL
Sara tosses and turns in her sleep lost in the clutches of the vision.
*Sara stands before Elizabeth Bronte "We've already talked today? Why again?"
"You are still unsure about everything."
"Of course I am."
"Why?"
"It's not fair to Ian for me to return when I don't know how I feel about him."
"Why are you not sure?"
Sara shrugs "Lots of reasons."
"Like what?"
"He tried to kill me."
"He has also died to protect you." Elizabeth says
"I know. It's not that easy for me to know how I feel about him. Part of me is falling for him but another part of me knows what he was raised to be. What Irons forced him to be."
"Does it matter? He has given up his old life."
"I know." Sara says twisting the Witchblade absently
"Sara the question is not about his past but do you love him for him? You need to answer that question. Do you Sara Pezzini, Wielder or not, love Ian Nottingham regardless of his past?"
Sara looks at the Witchblade then back at Elizabeth giving a hesitant nod "I think I really do."
Elizabeth smiles nodding "Return to them. They need you."*
Sara awakens with a gasp her eyes going to the Witchblade seeing its glow she smiles "I love him." She throws off the covers quickly pulling on her clothes. Sara moves about the rooms gathering her things shoving them into the backpack. She pulls on her boots and jacket shouldering her backpack she grabs her helmet opening the door she wheels the Buell outside closing the door behind her. She leaves the Buell on the walkway running to the front office. She enters to find the office empty going to the desk she hits the bell.
"Oh good morning Ma'am" the desk clerk greets "Checking out?"
"Going home" Sara says
The desk clerk types on the keyboard "OK I see you made a couple calls."
Sara nods "Total?"
"Total of hotel room and phone is 55."
Sara hands the clerk the credit card Ian had set up for her. As the clerk hands her the receipt she signs it. "Thanks."
The desk clerk watches as the woman hurries out of the office and shakes his head. He watches as the woman peels out of the parking lot on a motorcycle.
COUPLE OF HOURS LATER: 1111 FAUST
"Good morning Zeke" Ian greets entering the nursery after his morning exercise and shower to find Zeke sucking on his fist.
Zeke just stares up at his father kicking his legs.
Ian sighs lifting the baby out of the crib "I take it you're still unhappy." He kisses Zeke's cheek allowing the boy to pat at his face then lays Zeke on the changing table. "What should we do today? Its still raining so there is no playing outside with the dogs today. We have all morning to figure out what to do today but first let's get you changed and fed." He rubs Zeke's stomach getting the baby to squirm "Some time today you need a bath." As he changes the baby, he hears a knock at the door. "Yes" he calls
The door opens and Naomi enters "Mrs. Ellis sent me up with Ezekiel's bottle."
Ian tilts his head at the table next to the rocking chair "Just put it on the table."
Naomi sets the bottle on the table "How is he this morning?"
"Still waking up but it looks like he's still not his usual self." Ian answers
"Poor little guy. Probably doesn't like this nasty weather." Naomi says walking out of the room.
After snapping the sleeper up Ian lifts Zeke off the changing table, "Do you want your bottle?" Ian sits in the rocking chair offering the bottle to Zeke. When Zeke finishes his bottle, Ian settles on the floor with the infant to play with the toys.
Leaning back, Ian watches as Zeke crawls around going from toy to toy. "Can't make up your mind huh?" He says amused at the look on Zeke's face.
Zeke tosses his toy aside crawling back towards his father. He stops looking at his father then looks back at his toys. After a few seconds, Zeke crawls over to the open toy box pulling himself to his feet looking inside at his toys.
Ian reaches out holding the top of the toy box open so it doesn't hit Zeke on the head. "Still looking for what to play with?"
Zeke glances at his father then standing on his tiptoes, he peers inside the box then grabs a toy a brightly stuffed pig with a rattle. He sticks the ear of the pig in his mouth balancing himself with one hand on the toy box he reaches with his other hand for his father grunting.
Ian moves the baby onto his lap "Is this what you wanted?" He shakes the pig rattle eliciting a small smile from Zeke. "You like this toy huh?"
Zeke sticks the ear back in his mouth leaning back into his father's chest.
Ian brushes his fingers through the dark brown hair covering Zeke's head. "I know you miss her. I miss her too." After trying to get Zeke to play for half an hour Ian sighs, "Alright lets go downstairs."
Early afternoon, Ian is downstairs in the med lab buttoning his shirt as Immo reads his chart.
"How are your headaches?" Immo inquires glancing at his employer/patient.
"Same as always." Ian shrugs
"Have you been sleeping?"
"Yes"
"You are in perfect health." Immo says "Like always." He gives Ian an encouraging nod.
Ian nods in return then walks out of the room. He makes his way upstairs going to the kitchen where he finds Zeke sitting in his playpen silently playing with his toys as Cook sits at the kitchen table looking through cookbooks.
Cook looks up "Hello Master Ian."
Ian inwardly flinches at the name that Irons had ordered the household to refer to him as since childhood. Ian nods in greeting
"Would you like lunch now?"
"Not right now. I have errands to run can you keep an eye on Zeke for a while longer?"
Cook nods "Go ahead."
"I should be back in time to put him down for his afternoon nap." Ian reaches into the playpen stroking Zeke's head for a few seconds. He nods at Cook then makes his way out of the kitchen to the garage.
COUPLE OF HOURS LATER
As the rain continues to pour outside Ian tosses his pen aside looking out the window. He glances over to see Zeke asleep in the swing chair. He stands going over to the window he leans against the wall watching the rain. I miss you sweet Sara.
I miss you too. Sara smiles faintly hearing those words echo through her mind.
In his bedroom Ian starts in surprise when he hears Sara respond. 'She did it. She never does that.' He closes his eyes concentrating on his love. Where are you sweet Sara? After a few minutes of waiting for a response, Ian opens his eyes with a sigh. He runs his hands over his face then he moves to the floor to meditate.
Around 8 that night Sara drives through the city in the rain and crowded streets, her mind on one thing... her family. She glances at her wrist seeing the excited colors she smiles 'You miss them as well.' In response, she feels the familiar purr thrum through her body. "Soon" she murmurs.
Sara feels her excitement and apprehension rise as she nears Faust Street just outside the city. She stops down the street from the mansion taking a deep breath she closes her eyes concentrating. Ian
Inside the mansion, Ian tilts his head feeling a familiar presence. "Sara?" He whispers as the familiar voice fill his mind, he looks at Zeke who is asleep in his arms then stands carrying the boy over to the crib lying him inside. He sits back in the rocking chair closing his eyes he concentrates Sara?
Who else would it be Stalkerguy?
At the teasing tone of the nickname Sara gave him Ian smiles faintly Where are you?
Open the front gate Nottingham it's pouring out here and I've been driving since dawn.
Jolted by the knowledge Ian bolts out of the rocking chair hurrying out of the nursery he runs down the hall to the stairs hitting the button for the security gate.
Mrs. Ellis hears the pounding of footsteps out of the sitting room to see Ian rushing down the last flight of stairs "Ian what is going on?" she demands
Ian stops in his tracks looking at his former Nanny "Sara's back." he announces bounding out the front door.
"Ian don't..." Mrs. Ellis trails off as the young man runs out of the house into the rain. She shakes her head "That boy."
Just as Ian makes it down the front stairs as Sara turns the Buell off and removes her helmet and backpack. In the rain the two stare at each other for a second then they find themselves in a passionate embrace kissing. Ian pulls back staring down at Sara in the rain "Sara what are you doing here?" He asks taking her face between his hands.
Sara smiles at Ian brushing his hair back "I missed you and Zeke."
Ian looks away briefly, "Are you staying for good?" he asks hesitantly
Sara kisses him lightly "Yes. I'm back... for good."
Hearing that Ian smiles faintly, "I love you Sara." He says searching her eyes
Sara brushes her lips over his palm "I love you Ian." She says softly.
"You do?"
"Yes." Seeing the light flash in his eyes she smiles leaning up she kisses him sweetly as she runs her hands down his bare arms. "Finish this conversation inside?" she tilts her head towards the open door "We're soaked and I want to see my baby."
Ian pulls Sara close capturing her lips in a searing kiss. "I love you"
Sara smiles against his lips "I love you." She whispers slipping her hand into his she picks up her backpack and walks with him inside. "You changed this place." She remarks as they walk into the foyer.
Ian shrugs "It was time for a change. His quarters upstairs and downstairs are still the same. Just took out some of the more... gaudy items."
"Ian how many times do I have to tell you when you go outside in the rain wear a coat?" Mrs. Ellis chastises.
Ian looks down, "Yes Ma'am." He says sheepishly
Sara snickers at the look on Ian's face only to get a glare from him.
"Now you two go get cleaned up. I will bring up some coffee." Mrs. Ellis says walking out of the foyer.
As Mrs. Ellis leaves Sara looks at Ian, "I like her." Sara smiles following Ian up the stairs.
"Sara you like anyone who makes you coffee." Ian teases bringing her hand to his lips.
"Do not" Sara grumbles. Once they reach Ian's floor Sara finds herself in Ian's arms pressed back against the wall his lips on hers in a demanding yet loving kiss. She drops her backpack her arms going into his shoulders.
Ian pulls back lips inches from Sara's he brushes her wet hair back "I missed you."
"I missed you too." She brushes her lips over his "Where's Zeke?"
"He is sleeping. First let's get you warmed up and in some dry clothes."
"Good idea." Sara laughs, "Though I'm going to need help getting out of these jeans." She looks down at her soaked jeans.
Ian follows her gaze and chuckles picking up her backpack "Come on." He leads Sara to his room.
Sara smiles at the decor plus the added baby toys with a swing chair. "Minus the baby stuff this room definitely fits your personality Nottingham."
"I haven't cleaned up Zeke's toys today." Ian says almost apologetically, "You should see what he did to the room up here I use as a study. There are toys all over the place." He drops the backpack on the tile floor just outside the bathroom. He walks into the bathroom turning on the shower. He returns to the bedroom to see Sara remove her jacket. "The shower is ready."
Sara nods removing her jacket handing it to Ian then removes her gun and holster putting it on the dresser along with her wallet. She rubs her hands together
"Cold?" Ian asks after dropping Sara's jacket down the laundry chute.
"Yeah." She nods rubbing her hands together she laughs in surprise as Ian picks her up carrying her into the bathroom and sets her on the counter. Sara shivers as Ian unties her boots pulling them and her socks off.
Ian drops the boots outside the bathroom then closes the door turning his attention to getting his love out of her wet and cold clothing. He leans in brushing his lips over hers as he unbuttons her jeans sliding the zipper down.
Sara lifts her hips bracing herself as Ian pulls her wet jeans down her legs with little effort. She hops off the counter stripping off her sweater and underwear she leans up kissing Ian "Thanks. It would have taken me forever to get my jeans off on my own."
Ian quickly looks her naked body trying to keep his own body from responding. He tilts his head towards the shower "Get into the shower and get warmed up."
"Join me?"
Ian nods "Just going to go put the clothes in the laundry chute."
Sara kisses him "Don't take too long." She steps into the shower sighing at the feeling of the warm water falling over her. She opens her eyes as she hears the shower door open and turns to see Ian step into the shower.
Ian runs his hands down her arms "Warmed up?"
Sara nods wrapping her arms around his shoulders brushing her lips over his. "Getting there." She murmurs against his lips. She shivers feeling his hands caress her back and shoulders. She gasps feeling his lips trailing over her jaw "Ian" she sighs pressing closer to him.
(Sex part go here http://www.voy.com/39259/
Sara nods kissing him lightly as she steps out of the shower.
Ian steps out behind her grabbing another towel he quickly dries his hair then wraps it around his waist. He reaches out pulling Sara back against his chest lightly kissing her shoulder.
Sara smiles feeling him nuzzle her shoulder. She reaches up cupping his cheek she looks in the mirror watching the sight of Ian hugging her.
Ian releases Sara as she grabs another towel to dry her hair "I'll go see what I can find for you to wear until your clothes are dry." He walks out of the bathroom to his bedroom to find a tray of coffee sitting on the table by the window and Sara's backpack gone with her toothbrush, make-up bag, brush and other assorted items on the table as well. He opens one of his dresser drawers removing a pair of pajamas bottoms he pulls them on then searches for a pair of sweats and a T-shirt for Sara. He looks up to see Sara standing in the doorway of the bathroom drying her hair with the towel. "These should work. Mrs. Ellis brought some coffee up and took your backpack downstairs."
Sara takes the offered clothes returning to the bathroom she removes the towels hanging them up she pulls on the clothes. She looks at Ian leaning against the doorframe watching her. She smiles at him
Ian holds out his hand "Come on."
"Where?"
"You said you wanted to see Zeke."
Sara takes his hand kissing his cheek "Yeah I do."
Ian leads Sara out of the bedroom across the hall to Zeke's room. He opens the bedroom door entering the dimly lit room.
Sara smiles at the room furnished with a crib, dresser, changing table, bookcase, and a rocking chair with a toy chest nearby. She walks over to the crib to find Zeke fast asleep. She reaches in brushing her finger over Zeke's cheek smiling as he turns into her touch. She glances at Ian then looks back at Zeke. "How has he been?" She asks softly
"He's been acting different. He hasn't been interested in his toys or playing. He hasn't been his normal cheerful morning self the last two days. He wasn't quite as clingy today as he was yesterday. Last night it was two in the morning before I was able to put him down without him screaming and crying."
"Poor baby." Sara whispers blinking back tears.
"He's going to be happy to see you in the morning." Ian says reaching out he brushes a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. "He is going to be really happy to see you every day."
"So am I." Sara turns towards Ian "I never wanted to leave him... it was just something that had to be done."
Ian nods "I know. We can talk in the bedroom."
With a final look at Zeke, she follows Ian back to his room. "He has a lot of toys." She remarks
Ian shrugs "Mrs. Ellis pretty much bought everything in the store for a child his age." He smiles faintly "I think she sees Zeke as the closest she will have to a grandchild so she likes to spoil him. I had Fredrick donate some of the toys to a local shelter." He gives Sara a mischievous smile "Mrs. Ellis doesn't know though."
Sara shakes her head "Something tells me she might know."
"If she does she hasn't said a word."
"He has everything a little boy could want."
"No, now he does." Ian takes her face between his hands "He now has his Mother back." He leans in kissing her lightly. "I love you." He murmurs
"I love you too." She laughs as Ian sweeps up into his arms. She threads her fingers in his hair kissing him passionately as he lays her on the bed.
Ian brushes his lips over Sara's face and down her neck listening to Sara's sighs. He lifts his head looking at his beloved as he slips his fingers under the sweats sliding them down her legs.
Sara gasps as Ian presses a kiss to her navel before slowly pushing the shirt up as his lips move over her exposed skin. She removes the shirt tossing it aside her hands going to his hair as his lips brush over her breast. Sara inhales sharply as Ian's lips trail down her body nuzzling and pressing light kisses to her middle. "Ian" she squirms
MIDNIGHT
"No." Ian murmurs
Sara gasps startled awake as she feels herself thrown into a vision of Irons and Ian.
*Sara stands in the library watching as Irons slaps a young Ian so hard the child falls to the floor. She winces wanting to comfort the child.
"I have told you Ian to stay out of that room!" Kenneth yells angrily, while he hauls Ian to his feet by his arm wrenching it hard.
Young Ian yelps in pain
Sara gasps as though feeling his arm being dislocated. "Ian" she whispers watching as Irons pulls the boy out of the room.*
Sara pulls herself out of the vision looking at Ian muttering and whimpering in his sleep. She brushes her hand down Ian's cheek "Ian" she says softly knowing how he reacts to being woken from his nightmares. She smoothes his hair back wanting him to open his eyes but sensing how involved he is in the nightmare she kisses his forehead wrapping her arms around him. She looks at her wrist "Please let this work!" She pleads closing her eyes she concentrates trying to get Ian to open his eyes. Ian it's OK. It's just a dream. Open your eyes.
Through his dream, Ian hears Sara call for him to wake up. He struggles then finally pulls himself out of the nightmare he opens his eyes "Sara" he whimpers turning he wraps his arms around her waist burying his face in her neck.
Sara presses her lips to his hair blinking back tears as she feels his tears. She rubs his back "Shh baby it's OK." She whispers slowly rocking him listening as he drifts back to sleep in her arms. She presses a kiss to his head as she shifts lying back down with her arms wrapped around him.