Okay well…as I'm rolling here's chapter four. :) Hope you like it. Thanks so much for reading as always.

You are so puzzling to me

Chapter Four

Flashback

Sam pulled the car to a stop on the side of the road and saw Pete's vehicle instantly knowing that he was home. She grabbed her purse and retrieved her keys before exiting the car.

Still hurt from the image of Aadi and Jack together, she entered the house to find candles lit and the gentle sound of music drifting thorough the air.

Sam closed her eyes and inhaled deeply- breathing in the scent of the fragrant burning candles. She felt two arms slip around her waist pulling her in close.

'Hey beautiful.' Pete smiled against her neck.

'Hey.' Sam grinned, enjoying the feel of his arms around her.

'This is really nice.' Sam said appreciatively. 'You did all this?'

'Don't sound so surprised.' Pete laughed. 'So, can he come? Did he accept the invitation?'

'Oh…um…I'm not too sure. He said he'd like to but he's really busy you know?'

'No, not really. I don't see why he can't come…I mean…he should know how much it means to you.'

Sam nodded. 'Yeah…I know.' She said disheartened.

'Hey. You okay?' Pete asked her, concern evident in his voice. 'I mean, it just seems that you've been under a lot of stress lately- and I know I've hardly been around much with this case and everything…but are you sure we're not moving too fast with this whole wedding thing? We can always give it some more time Sam if you want—'

Sam shook her head. 'I'm ready Pete. I'm ready for us to start a life together—'

'Do you love me?' Pete asked completely out of the blue.

'Of course Pete.'

'No, do you really love me Sam? I need to know. This is your chance to tell me. Now is the time.'

Sam stared into his eyes searching through the depths of his soul. She knew he loved her- he cared for her more than she ever felt she deserved. But deep down, she knew she didn't truly love him. He was laying everything out in the open and she had to tell him- because she cared for him and she had to honest with him.'

'Pete…I, it's just—'

'I know Sam. I know.' Pete gave her a small smile.

'You will always have a place in my heart Pete.' Sam said softly and leaned forward to give him a last kiss.

'And you will always be in mine Sam. Always remember that, okay?'

Sam nodded, pushing back the tears.

Pete gathered his things and paused briefly at the door.

'Take care Sam.'

She nodded in silent agreement. He turned to leave.

'Pete…I'm so sorry.' She whispered, her heart tearing in two.

Pete smiled. 'Don't be Sam. I've always known. He deserves you. He's a good guy. Trust me, I know. I'm a cop.' He grinned.

There was a short pause.

'Good luck?' Pete suggested.

'You too Pete.' Sam said softly.

End of flashback

Sam snapped out of her thoughts and glanced at the clock. It read 7:15. It would take her at least a half hour to drive to the base. She pulled her gaze away to catch view of her purse and keys lying on the counter. Grabbing the needed items, she rummaged through her house for her uniform to change into. Five minutes later she was ready and hurried out the house to her car.

Sam hopped into the drivers seat and pulled the car away from the sidewalk. She decided to talk to Jack if she got their early. She needed to tell him that she was happy for him, and that she moving on in her life too- despite everything that had happened.

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Okay. Well. Yes. Awful spot to end I know. I love feedback. Good, bad, awful…I really appreciate it. :) Thanks so much for reading. Next chapter is on the way soon… hopefully the conclusion. I just need to fix it up a bit. Thanks:D

-Trina