Chapter 9: Embrace the Future, Remember the Past

"Where there is love, there is life."

Ghandi

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That evening the group headed out to a new club. Adam being himself decided to catch up on some research instead. Emma and Orion were sitting at a table watching everyone dance. Jesse seemed to be doing fine with a little redhead. He waved at them before heading out of the club with his new friend.

"Nice to see someone scoring." Remarked Orion. Emma was busy looking at Brennan and Shalimar as they danced around each other to the beat.

"It's about time." Orion looked over at the pair. "I was beginning to wonder what was wrong with them." He smiled at looked at her. The dancing pair came over and sat down as the music picked up.

"Where's Jesse?"

"He left with the redhead." Brennan stared at him.

"How'd you know they'd hit it off?" He ran his finger around the rim of his glass.

"I have my ways." Before anyone could say anything he changed the subject. "So did they find anything at the base." Brennan shook his head.

"Nah. It seems that whoever they were they cleared out in a hurry. According to Adams sources they place was a mess."

"Good riddance." Orion wasn't easily convinced.

"They'll be back." Shalimar dead-stared him.

"Always the pessimist." He took a sip of his drink.

"Hope for the best, prepare for the worst and take anything in between." The song finished and a much slower track began.

"Dance with me." Shalimar pulled him onto the dance floor. As they started dancing she gave him a quick peck.

"What was that for?" She smiled up at him and rested her head on his chest.

"For giving me the strength to risk everything on a dream."

"We aim to please. So how are things working out for you?"

"We're going to take our time and not rush into it." He pushed back from her and stared.

"OK who are you and what have you done with the real Shalimar?" She laughed and gave him a playful slap.

"Very funny."

"I try." Brennan came out onto the dance floor.

"May I cut in."

"Fine." Said Orion. "But I don't think I'm your type." They all laughed and he headed over to Emma.

"You like toying with people don't you?" He slid into his seat.

"I'm sorry."

"The kiss what was that about?"

"Merely a thank you for some advice." She looked from him to her friends and back.

"You didn't." He finished of his drink. "You did something didn't you." Instead of answering he pulled her onto the dance floor. As they moved he brushed a loose strand of hair from her face.

"I need to tell you something."

"OK." Her voice did nothing to hide the worry behind it. He smiled her.

"My friend, I hate to do this, but our friendship just can't last. The time we shared together has all faded in the past. I told you this would happen our friendship was bound to end. Although I know you care, I can't consider you a friend."

"What?" He put a finger to her lips.

"Ssh. Please don't try to argue, but try to understand that time can change two people like the tide can change the sand. Our friendship has been lovely, but you see it just wouldn't do. For now I see you in a different way. I've fallen in love with you." A single tear rolled down her check. She pulled him to her and they embraced with all that they were.

Adam stared at the image in front of him. Orion had remembered the man from the speeding air plane and had been able to identify him for Adam.

"So old friend you're still alive." He turned away and began to walk through the quiet halls of Sanctuary. "But remember as I told you before. Every time you threaten one of my children, I'll be there. You hear me Mason I'll be there."