"Now just a minute there girl I don't know what you just talked yourself into with those mental calisthenics you were just doing but Ranger loves you and he wants you to stay with him. Don't jump to any conclusions and I will tell you where he is."

"Well are you going to tell me or what? Don't just stand there Tank for god sakes tell me."

He just stood there for a brief moment before giving me a exasperated sigh. "He is in New Orleans setting up a new office there. He always personally handles the opening of a new office. In fact he was getting ready to board the plane when you called."

"You mean he postponed leaving to help me?"

"Yes Stephanie, he did. You are very important to him, but this was business he had to take care of. If you are going to be in his life you are going to have to accept that this is just the way things are. He will be there for you but he also has many other responsibilities to take care of. I am not saying this to make you feel bad I just want you to get a better idea of what you are getting into with Ric. He said that he would call you as soon as he could tomorrow, alright."

Wow that has to be the most I have ever heard him say at one time. I just stood there not really knowing what to say trying to absorb all this information. I am not sure how long I was standing there when I was brought out of my reverie by Tank clearing his throat and handing me a plain white envelope. I took it from his hand with a confused look.

"What's this?" I asked as I slowly examined the envelope. It was awfully thick but other than that there wasn't anything extraordinary about it.

Tank just shrugged his shoulders, "Ranger didn't say and I didn't ask. He just told me to give it to you so that's what I did. You ready to go?"

"As ready as I'll ever be I guess."

Tank turned around and headed towards the door to the parking lot. I had to double time it just to keep up with his longer stride. By the time we got to the SUV I was winded to say the least. I really need to start running or something. Hmm maybe or something. I hopped into the SUV and was buckled in before I turned my attention back the envelope. "I wonder what it is." I thought to myself. Well I guess there is only one way to find out. I opened the envelope to find a set of keys a Rangeman credit card and a note. Hmm curious. Well I guess the note will explain these so I should probably read that first. I infolded the piece of paper to see a hand written note from Ranger. That of course instantly put a smile on my face. What that man could do to me without him even being here. I gave a small sigh and read the note.

Babe,

I'm sorry that I had to leave like that but I had to take care of some business. I hope that you can understand I wouldn't have left if I didn't have to. The keys are for my apartment at the Rangeman building and also for my Truck so you don't have to drive big blue. Also, since you won't be able to get into Morelli's for awhile I gave you a Rangeman Credit card so you can replace anything that you need. Have fun shopping, No worries. If there is anything that you need, ask Tank or any of the other guys. They will be able to help you. I will call as soon as I can.

R

P.S. I meant what I said this morning Babe.

I finished reading the note and looked over to Tank. "It says here that if I need anything that I am to talk to you."

"Uh yeah sure Bomber, you got something in mind?"

"Actually, I do." And I gave him what I thought to be a innocent smile. However he didn't seem to be convinced of my innocence.

"You got that look in your eyes Bomber I am not sure I am going to like this."

"Oh come on Tank don't be such a chicken. It's just a little shopping." I said and waved the credit card at him.

Tank looked petrified at the suggestion of shopping. I figured I would have to sweeten the deal for him a little. "And afterwards we can stop at Pino's and have pizza, on Ranger."

He looked slightly confused until he actually took a look at the card that I held in my hand. I saw the moment he realized that it was a Rangeman card.

"You sure about that? I mean Ranger may not be too happy about this."

"Hey he said to 'replace anything I need" to 'Have fun' and 'no worries'. Hell, he practically gave me permission." I said Smiling.

Tanks face broke out into a huge smile "You know Bomber I like the way you think."