Mark Sloan pulled back the curtain and peered out into the black night. A storm was raging, and tremendous waves repeatedly crashed against the shore. Living by the beach was wonderful, but watching the power of the ocean as it smashed onto the rocks reminded Mark of the unpredictability of nature. Dropping the curtain back into place Mark turned back to face the room, bright and airy it began to calm the uneasiness which had been fluttering in the pit of his stomach since the storm had started.

"Dad? Do you know where I put the dip for the chips?" Steve's voice boomed, pulling Mark's attention away from the storm and back to reality. He was in the kitchen preparing to 'cook' dinner. Amada had already arrived, slightly wet but none the worse for wear, and Jesse was due any time now. Sauntering into the kitchen Mark smiled at Steve, bent backed, rummaging through various jars and packets.

"It's in the back behind the salad bowl" Mark said, a wide grin making his blue eyes sparkle as Steve jumped, obviously surprised by the closeness of his father's voice. Steve stood up, rubbing his head with one hand and clasping the tray or dip in the other.

"Don't sneak up on me like that!" He ran a hand through his light brown hair, an expression of mock indignation on his face.

"What are you two up to?" Amada walked into the kitchen, smiling at her two friends.

"Oh, nothing. Dad's just trying to give me a heart attack is all."

Amanda laughed at Mark's countenance of wide-eyed innocence, and soon enough Steve couldn't help but join in.

"So where's Jesse?" Amanda asked, peering at the delicate gold watch which adorned her wrist. He was already a half-hour late, and where food was concerned you could usually guarantee Jesse's presence plenty early.

Mark too peered at his watch, "I don't know, he should be here by now." The uneasiness returned and he made his way to the front window to look out into the dark night. The sky was black, and the rain came down in a deluge. Wherever he is, Mark thought, I hope he's here soon.

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Opening his eyes Jesse blinked dazedly, once, twice, a third time. His vision was foggy and his head throbbed painfully. Unbuckling his seat belt sent a wave of pain creasing through his chest and Jesse gasped for breath. Placing his hand gingerly over his ribs Jesse felt a tender line that followed the pattern of the seat belt. He leant back in his seat and tried to control his jagged breathing and the increasing sense of panic which began to engulf him.

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The car pulled slowly to a stop. The driver emerged and slammed the door shut with a bang. Seemingly oblivious to the driving rain, he walked purposefully round to the front of the car and bent down to examine the bonnet. Wiping a finger over the scratched paintwork he nodded to himself. The other vehicle had damaged his car. He stood up and glanced towards the red sports car which lay motionless at the side of the road. First he had been forced to slam on the brakes when the idiot had swerved into his path, and now he had made him scratch his paintwork. Checking that the road was empty the man strode across it to confront the moron who had damaged his car.

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Author's note:

Thanks you so much for your kind reviews! Sorry to leave it on another cliff hanger, but it all adds to the suspense…. Next chapter up soon!

Sarah