CHAPTER 17

Jemma stood before the mirror, studying her reflection and the remaining traces of the attack she had suffered at Carlin Everston's hands. The bruises that had marred her face were almost healed; the bruising and bite marks around her neck, although healing, were still very much evident. Although she had faced her fear by facing Everston and reclaimed her sense of self, as well as tearing down the barriers that her fear had erected between she and Aaron, Jemma still worried over what today would bring. Sensing she was no longer alone, Jemma turned to find her husband standing in the open doorway, his arms crossed over his chest as he leaned against the door frame, studying her. Smiling timidly, Jemma offered;

"A penny for your thoughts."

Despite what they were about to face, Aaron felt nothing but contented as he studied his wife. There was no doubt that Jemma was a strong woman, but what Everston had put her through was something that would break most women. Jemma, on the other hand, was different, although her spirit had most assuredly been bent, it most assuredly had not been broken. Closing the distance between him and his wife, Aaron wrapped his arms around her to pull her into an embrace as he inhaled deeply, breathing in what he considered her scent, a combination of lavender and fresh flowers. Aaron held her tightly for a moment before pushing her away just enough to look into her eyes as he cupped her chin in his hand;

"I was just thinking about how proud I am of you, sweetheart, that's all."

Jemma frowned slightly as her eyes shifted downward;

"For what? Being a nervous wreck about today?"

Taking her face in his hands, Aaron shook his head vehemently as he ordered;

"Look at me, Jemma Elysia! First of all, never hang your head for anyone, not even me, darlin. Second of all, you being nervous is completely understandable, but despite it, you're determined to do what has to be done. Not to mention the fact that, rather than letting your fear over what took place control you, you took control of it. That, my darling little love, is why I'm proud of you."

Brushing his lips against hers, Aaron pulled back to smile;

"Well, that and several hundred other reasons."

Noticing the slight smile she allowed to lift the corners of her mouth, his own smile reflecting his relief, Aaron nodded as he placed a kiss on her forehead;

"There, that's better! I don't like seeing such a beautiful face without a smile."

Despite her determination in the matter, Aaron wasn't surprised when she reached up to take his hand in hers, her smile fading as she admitted in a quiet, timid voice;

"Aaron, darling, I'm scared. What if he does what he threatened to do and manages to convince the judge and jury that it was, somehow, all my fault? I don't care about what anyone else thinks, but if he goes free he might make good his threat on our babies."

Taking both of her hands in his, Aaron brought them to his lips before reminding her;

"Jemma love, I promise you, THAT is not going to happen! With the evidence that Barnabas gathered against him in San Francisco, plus the affidavits that Kassandra's attorney gathered from those women, and that's before your testimony and Kassandra's affidavit, Carlin Everston will be spending a long time, if not the rest of his life behind bars, sweetheart."

Jemma almost gasped when her husband's eyes darkened to almost coal-black and narrowed to slits of hatred as his voice took on a harsh, deadly tone;

"And even if, somehow, he were to manage to avoid prison, I can promise you, darlin, he won't avoid me."

Noticing the mask of worry she wore as a cloud of fear crept into her eyes, Aaron, seeking to divert her attention, forced a smile as he took her arm to lead her to the stairs;

"Stop looking so grim, my little love, everything will be just fine, you'll see."

Remaining silent, Jemma fervently prayed that her husband's words would prove prophetic, especially since she couldn't shake the feeling that he would take matters into his own hands if they didn't.

Lottie, with Candy, Julie, and Peggy's help, hurried to make certain the chairs were properly arranged as well as water for the impromptu judge's bench. Placing a pitcher on the table the prosecutor would be using, Candy asked hesitantly, addressing the question to her companions;

"Do you think that Jemma's going to be alright? I know she's been a lot better since she confronted Everston, but this is just so much...different. I mean, she'll have to tell what happened in front of, almost, all of Seattle."

Shaking her head in sympathy, Candy lamented;

"You know how some people can be, what if everyone looks at her differently once they hear the details of what happened?"

Her own nerves wracked due to her worry for her adopted daughter, Lottie whirled to face the three women before her, her face a mask of stubborn determination as she decreed;

"The only ones who would DARE be that way towards that girl are people who are morbidly curious and need to be horsewhipped if they so much as look at her the wrong way. And, if her husband or brothers don't see to it then I'll do it myself."

Taken aback by her outburst and flash of temper, Julie slowly approached Lottie to place her arm around the older woman's shoulders, the concern on her face evidence of her feelings for the young woman she looked on as a sister as opposed to a sister-in-law. Clearing her throat, Julie reminded;

"Lottie, you know that we all feel the same way as you about this. We don't think of Jemma as our sister-in-law, we think of her as our sister and we love her too. But Candy only said what we are all thinking, including you; none of us want to see Jemma suffer anything more if it can be helped in any way."

Shaking her head, Julie sighed sadly;

"She's been through far too much as it is."

Taking a step forward, Peggy placed her hand on Lottie's arm as she pointed out;

"Lottie, we know how much you love Jemma, you're the only mother she's ever known so you also know how strong Jemma TRULY is, and that's thanks, in large part, to you. But, as Julie said, Jemma has been through a lot and we just want to be as prepared as possible to make sure we're there for her if she needs us."

Placing her arm around Julie and reaching her hand out to Candy and Peggy to draw them closer to her, Lottie gave them a motherly hug before wiping a stray tear that had managed to escape down her cheek before taking a deep breath;

"You three are right, Jemma's a very strong young woman, but there's something that I don't think none of us has considered; at least I didn't until this morning."

Puzzled, Candy demanded;

"Lottie, what could we have overlooked?"

Lowering her head, Lottie looked up, pinning each one in turn as she pointed out;

"Jemma wasn't conscious of everything that happened, and as bad as what she has to testify was, can you imagine what it might do to her when she has to sit there and listen to someone else testify to what took place while she was knocked out?"

Understanding dawning on the three younger women, Julie, Candy, and Peggy turned to look at each other, their eyes wide as Julie voiced their mutual conclusion;

"Oh dear Lord, Lottie! That means that Jemma has to not only relive what she remembers about what she went through that night, but she has to hear her husband, brother's, uncle, and Clancey testify as to what they witnessed."

Bringing her hand against her chest, Candy speculated;

"She doesn't know, does she? Jeremy hasn't said anything to her, I know that for a fact."

Peggy shook her head as she volunteered;

"Neither has Josh, although he mentioned something once or twice about debating if he should talk with Jemma, but when I asked him the other day if he ever had that discussion he said that THEY had decided against it."

Julie, recalling a discussion that she had with her husband and brother, explained;

"I know that Aaron was going to tell her everything, but he made the comment that, when he offered, Jemma told him she knew all she needed to know. Jason said that he wished she wasn't being so stubborn, but if she was that adamant there was nothing any of us could do."

Any further conversation of the subject was brought to an abrupt halt as the doors to the saloon opened to admit a large number of people, eager to claim a good seat for the trial. Placing a mask of neutrality upon her features, Lottie turned to the trio to advise;

"Alright, ladies, no matter what let's not forget, we're here to support Jemma."

Having set up a temporary office in Lottie's back parlor, Andrew Evans sat reading over the notes he had prepared for his role as prosecutor in Carlin Everston's trial. He was a heavyset man in his mid-forties who had made the determination early in life that hard, physical labor wasn't the way he wished to make his way in the world; that being the case he had dedicated himself to the pursuit of a more noble and less strenuous line of work. Given his natural tendency for glibness and his penchant for utilizing eloquent words, he felt the most logical choice was to pursue a legal career; something that had proven lucrative for him so far, especially after he had been engaged to serve in a variety of legal capacities for the Washington territory, including that of the territory's prosecutor.

Evans was familiar with Seattle thanks to his dealings with the town in the past, that being the case he was also quite familiar with the couple sitting in front of him as well as the young woman's three brothers. Making certain that he had all of the necessary documents, Evans organized them neatly before closing the folder and looking up to study Jemma. Taking a moment to appreciate the young woman in front of him, at least until he noticed the looks he was receiving from her brothers and, most especially, her husband, Evans asked solicitously;

"Now, my dear I know that this is something you're unfamiliar with, but I don't want you to let it concern you in the least. I can assure you, Carlin Everston will not get away with what he's done to you, or those other poor unfortunates."

Noticing her agitation, neither Aaron nor her brothers were surprised as Jemma slid forward somewhat in her chair to pin the prosecutor with her eyes;

"Mr. Evans, while I certainly appreciate the work you're doing to put this man where he truly belongs, I think we need to understand each other. The only thing poor or unfortunate about me is that I was in the wrong place at the wrong time and managed to somehow attract the attention of someone as heinous as Carlin Evans. Unlike those other women and despite the physical abuse, I was fortunate enough to escape a much worse fate at that man's hands. But make no mistake, Mr. Evans, I want that man put where he won't pose a threat to my children or any other female ever again."

Even though he knew of Jemma Bolt Stempel's reputation, Evans wasn't quite prepared for the demonstration he had just witnessed of her determination. However, given the circumstances, Evans could understand her zealousness to see Carlin Evans placed behind bars. Bracing his forearms across the desktop, Evans sought to assure Jemma;

"Mrs. Stempel, I promise you, my goal is the same as yours; to see that man behind bars. My hope is that considering his record and with the help of the affidavits, the judge will see fit to sentence him to a very lengthy term in the territorial prison."

Leaning forward somewhat, Evans' tone became more sympathetic as he vowed;

"I'm going to make certain that the judge is well aware of the threats that man made against your children, Mrs. Stempel."

Taking his pocket watch in his hand, Evans directed;

"Judge Pryor likes to start promptly on the hour, so might I suggest we go out and wait for his honor."

Taking his wife's arm, Aaron suggested;

"Sweetheart, you go ahead out with your brothers, I'll be along in a minute."

Ignoring everyone else's presence when he saw the fear in her eyes as they widened in panic, Aaron placed his hand on her cheek;

"It's alright, Jemma love, I promise. I just need to talk to Mr. Evans for a moment and then I'll be right out, in the meantime Jason, Josh, and Jeremy will be out there with you."

Understanding her fear, Evan's rushed to put her mind at ease;

"Mrs. Stempel, they won't bring Everston in until the trial begins, and even then, he'll be under heavy guard."

Interpreting the look in her eyes as she turned to face him once more, Aaron answered her unspoken question;

"I'll be by your side before they bring him in and I'll be there every step of the way, sweetheart, I promise."

Placing a kiss on her cheek Aaron suggested;

"Go ahead, darlin, I'll be along directly."

Noticing the glance his younger brothers were giving him, Jason stepped up and extended his arm to offer;

"Pixie, would you mind being seen on your grumpy old brother's arm?"

Jason's lips turned up in a slight grin as he noticed the timid smile she wore for his benefit. Giving it a slight pat, Jason placed a kiss on her cheek as he praised;

"That's better! You're much too pretty to wear a frown, baby sister. Now, let's go get settled and wait for Judge Pryor."

Once Jason has escorted her out, Aaron turned to Evans, as did Jeremy and Josh to demand;

"Mr. Evans, isn't there any other way? Can't she be excused after she gives her testimony; does she have to stay and hear our testimonies?"

Although he understood the man's concern for his wife, Evans remained determined in his decision;

"Yes. Mr. Stempel, she does! I understand your concerns for your wife, sir; but I think there's something you,"

Facing Jeremy and Josh, he included them in his statement;

"all of you need to understand. This case is hinged on three main points; testimonies, yours and your wife's, the investigative reports you commissioned, and the affidavits from the other victims. Now, the main point is your wife's testimony, however, we have a slight disadvantage because of the fact she was rendered unconscious; luckily, we have her brothers, uncles, Captain Clancey's, and of course your testimonies to fill in the blanks. But, from what you've told me, she isn't aware of what took place between the time she was knocked out and the time she regained temporary consciousness, seeing her reaction when she hears what took place will give a great deal of weight to those reports and affidavits, something that will tip the scales further in our direction."

Seeing his brother-in-law's frustration with the situation, Josh placed his hand on Aaron's shoulder;

"I'm no happier with it than what you are, Aaron, but hearing Mr. Evan's explanation, I can understand the necessity for it."

His face reflecting his agitation, Aaron huffed;

"Oh I understand the necessity, Josh, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. Especially when it means Jemma has to be put on display just so everyone can see how she reacts. Josh, do you realize that my wife, your sister, is not only going to have to relive the horror of what she remembers, but she's about to have her feelings over what happened while she was out cold, events she knows nothing about I might add, put on display for all of Seattle to see. I'm not happy about that, at all."

Jerking the door open, Aaron hurried to join his wife to wait for Judge Pryor's arrival. Staring after him, Evans turned to the two younger Bolt brothers to observe;

"He's certainly nothing, if not blunt; isn't he?"

Slowly blowing out the breath he had been holding as he realized the truth of his brother-in-law's statement, Jeremy replied, in a grim tone;

"Yes he is, Mr. Evans, even more so when it comes to our sister, especially when it comes to our sister and his concerns for her. I just hope that he's not as right as I think he may well be over how our sister might react."

With that, Jeremy and Josh followed Aaron's example, leaving Evans hoping and praying that his prowess in his chosen field would aid him well and that he would be able to make good his promise to put Carlin Everston where he truly belonged; behind bars.

Making certain that she would be as far away as possible from the table where Carlin Everston would be placed, Jason settled his sister in her chair, leaving the one to her right at the end empty for her husband as he took the one on her left. Noticing her nervousness, Jason leaned over and took her hand before assuring her in a lowered voice;

"I promise, Pixie, I'm right here. Don't worry, Aaron will be out in a minute."

Despite having noticed her preoccupation, Jason couldn't help but be proud of the way she was handling the matter at hand. To anyone else she appeared quite calm and quite composed; however, to those who knew her well, such as her family, the old adage of appearances being deceiving was quite accurate where Jemma was concerned at the moment. Something Jason had no doubts about as he noticed her almost palpable relief when the door to Lottie's back parlor opened and closed and Aaron quickly closed the distance to claim the chair next to his wife. Throwing Aaron a look of concern that carried an unspoken question shared between the two over top of his sister's head, Jason's heart sank somewhat as Aaron gave a slight shake of his head in response to their mutually held concern.

Aaron was about to speak when Ben Perkins, called the court to order as Judge Pryor appeared at the top of the staircase;

"Please stand; this court for the territory of Washington, the town of Seattle will now come to order to hear the case of Washington territory versus Carlin Everston, the honorable Judge Winston Pryor presiding."

Everyone remained standing until Judge Pryor took his chair and directed;

"You may be seated."

Once everyone complied, Judge Pryor read over the case file in front of him;

"In the case of Washington territory versus Carlin Everston, Mr. Evans are your witnesses present, and are you prepared to present your case?"

Rising, Evans nodded;

"The territory is sufficiently prepared and ready to present its case, your honor and my witnesses are present."

Giving a slight nod of his head, in acknowledgment, Judge Pryor briefly remarked;

"Very good! Now, is the defendant's attorney present and ready to proceed?"

Having remained standing, Evans raised his hand to catch the judge's attention as he spoke;

"Um, your honor, the defendant declined to secure an attorney on his behalf and has chosen instead to handle his own defense."

Well aware of just what the possibilities of Everston defending himself might be, a murmur could be heard throughout the makeshift courtroom. However, everyone else's reaction held little meaning for Aaron; his wife's reaction, however, was another matter as Jemma grabbed his hand before turning to look up at him, her eyes filled with panic and worry at the idea. Aaron held her small hand between both of his as he leaned a bit closer to reassure her;

"Jemma love it's alright, I promise. You know the old saying; any man who represents himself has a fool for a client."

Despite the picture of casual confidence he presented as he sat back in his chair, his long legs crossed, Aaron was just as concerned; not for himself but for his wife. His concern was highly evident as he retained his grip on her hand, his fingers laced through hers as Judge Pryor ordered;

"Very well, Mr. Evans. Mr. Perkins, have the defendant brought in."

Motioning towards the doorway, Ben called;

"Bring in the defendant!"

Under Big Swede's, Corky, and Harve's careful watch and guard, Carlin Everston was walked in to be seated at the table designated for the defendant. Once he was seated, Judge Pryor addressed;

"Mr. Everston, I understand that you've chosen to act as your own legal counsel?"

Rising from his chair, Everston gave a slight nod;

"Yes, your honor."

The pride Aaron felt for his wife, which was no small measure, increased considerably as she remained calm, her face the picture of calm when Everston threw a glance in her direction before continuing;

"I feel that MY side of the events that took place can only be properly defended by me, your honor."

Deciding to close any possible escape route that the man sitting in front of him might think open to him, Judge Pryor advised;

"Mr. Everston, I want you to understand; you were advised that you would need to seek legal counsel and if you were unable to do so the territory was willing to do so for you. You've elected to decline that offer and represent yourself instead. I want you to understand that whatever decision is made today will be final. Do you understand that?"

Although he blanched somewhat, Everston nodded;

"I understand your honor."

Satisfied, Judge Pryor waved his hand towards Evans;

"Alright, Mr. Evans, let's begin."

Rising from his chair, Evans nodded;

"Yes, your honor."

Glancing over his shoulder to give him a knowing look, Evans called;

"The territory would like to call Aaron Stempel as its first witness."

Her face a mask of confusion, Jemma whispered;

"Aaron?"

Shaking his head, Aaron rose from his seat to turn to his brother-in-law;

"Jason..."

Raising his hand, Jason shook his head;

"I know, Aaron, don't worry."

Turning to her brother as her husband took the witness stand, Jemma demanded;

"Jason, what's going on? I don't understand."

Leaning closer, Jason explained in a hushed tone;

"Pixie, there are things that happened when you weren't conscious when Everston tried to attack Aaron. Evans is just having Aaron testify to that."

Patting the hand she had resting on the arm of her chair, Jason tried to comfort;

"That's all, don't let it worry you, baby sister."

Motioning to the Bible as he approached the makeshift bench, Judge Pryor ordered Aaron;

"Place your right hand on the Bible, Mr. Stempel."

When he had complied, Judge Pryor charged Aaron;

"Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth; so help you God?"

His voice and the look he wore leaving no doubts as to just how seriously he took the oath, Aaron declared;

"I do!"

Satisfied, Judge Pryor waved towards the witness stand;

"Have a seat, Mr. Stempel."

Nodding towards Evans, the judge advised;

"Proceed, Mr. Evans."

Stepping into his role as prosecutor, Evan's began his litany of questions;

"For the record, please state your full name and occupation."

His mood already aggravated over the idea of what, he knew, Jemma was about to be forced to deal with, Aaron answered;

"Aaron George Stempel, I own the sawmill here in Seattle."

Bobbing his head slightly, Evans continued;

"Now, Mr. Stempel could you tell the court how you know the defendant?"

His jaw tightening as his eyes locked onto Everston, Aaron's tone left no doubts as to his feelings for the man;

"The bastard almost killed my wife when he tried to rape her."

Scowling as he banged his gavel, Judge Pryor bellowed;

"ORDER, ORDER IN THE COURT!"

Although there was no mistaking the commiserate look in the old gentleman's eyes as he pointed the gavel towards Aaron, the hard edge in his voice left no doubt as to his sincerity as he directed sternly;

"Mr. Stempel, while I certainly understand your feelings in the matter, let me remind you there are ladies present in the court today; including your own wife, sir."

Willing himself to calmness, Aaron's eyes were automatically drawn to Jemma's. Seeing the concern shining in the twin emeralds, the anger in Aaron's own dark eyes soon turned to contrition. Taking a deep breath before counting to ten, Aaron exhaled a carefully measured sigh as he offered;

"I apologize, your honor, and I apologize to any of the ladies present who I might have offended with my language, especially my wife. I can only offer my feelings regarding the matter as my excuse."

Satisfied with Aaron's apology, Judge Pryor nodded;

"The court sympathizes with your sentiments, Mr. Stempel."

Facing the prosecutor, Judge Pryor directed;

"Please continue with your questions, Mr. Evans.

Consulting his notepad, Evans turned to Aaron;

"Mr. Stempel, in your own words, please tell the court what took place on the night of Jeremy and Candy Bolt's anniversary party, specifically from the time Carlin Everston was confronted about his fraudulent actions regarding the inheritance left to his daughter by her mother and grandfather."

Making certain his voice was loud and clear, Aaron relayed the events, sparing no details, including Everston's comments about Jemma. Walking back and forth in front of the witness stand, Evans paused to turn and face the crowd, his face a mask of disbelief as he demanded;

"Do you mean to say, Mr. Stempel, that Mr. Everston ACTUALLY accused your wife of being some type of witch who should be burned at the stake? And what did he base this accusation on, sir?"

Trying to maintain a neutral tone of voice, Aaron answered;

"He said that she 'tempted' him and that she did it intentionally. He even said that the day our son, Jacob fell off the pier into the water, my wife was glad of the fact."

Judge Pryor's gavel could be heard over the low roar of murmurs from the crowd as he brought order to the court before encouraging Evans to continue. Coming closer to the witness stand, Evans asked;

"Mr. Stempel, did Mr. Everston mention WHY he felt your wife would be glad about such a thing?"

Frustrated, Aaron sighed;

"Jemma looked up just in time to see our son toddling close to the edge of the pier, Everston and his daughter were supposed to be keeping an eye on him, they sat him down, not realizing Jacob had started walking. When she saw him getting so close to the edge and knew he was about to fall in, she took off running towards the water and removed everything but her underclothes as she ran. She knew she was going to have to swim fast to get to our son and her dress and petticoat would have prevented her from doing that."

There was very little question as to just how much hatred Aaron had for the man as he glared at Everston;

"Everston said he believed my wife was glad for what happened because it gave her the opportunity to show herself off because he saw her in her wet underclothes."

While some of his reaction was partly for effect, the wide-eyed look of disbelief Evans wore was genuine as he clarified;

"Do you mean to say, sir that Mr. Everston's accusation was based on the idea that your wife had intentionally 'tempted' him?"

At Aaron's nod, Evan's pushed forward;

"Not only did he believe she intentionally tempted him by diving into the water in her underclothes, mind you to save the life of her child, but he also believes that she was HAPPY for the opportunity? An opportunity, I might add, that could have resulted in the tragic loss of your son."

Aaron's attention was automatically drawn to his wife as Jemma gasped at the statement before turning her head to lean against her eldest brother's arm as Jason lifted his arm to place it around her shoulders before taking her hand in his as he tried to comfort her. Clasping his hands tightly together as he lifted his eyes towards the ceiling in an attempt to try and remain as calm as possible. He was so preoccupied with his attempt to maintain control over his temper, Aaron found himself starting a bit as Evan's issued;

"Mr. Stempel! I asked you if that was correct?"

Nodding, Aaron affirmed;

"Yes, Mr. Evan's that was correct."

For the remainder of his time on the witness stand, Aaron recounted his search for Jemma after her disappearance, Everston's attempt to attack him, and the condition in which his wife had been found. Aaron spared no detail, even down to his physical retaliation against Everston for what he had made Jemma suffer. During his testimony, Aaron quickly found he had to avoid looking at his wife in order to continue with his statements. When he was finished, one look told Aaron that his earlier concerns regarding her reaction when she learned what had taken place while she was unconscious were well-founded. Despite her best attempts, there was no mistaking just how shaken Jemma was by what she had just heard, something that tore at Aaron's heart. Motioning to Evans, Aaron lowered his voice to maintain privacy between him, Evans, and Judge Pryor as he glanced pointedly at his wife;

"Your honor, I know it's asking a lot, but before this continues..."

Seeing the exact reason for Aaron's concern, Judge Pryor nodded;

"I agree, Mr. Stempel. I think a recess is more than called for."

Consulting his watch before banging his gavel, Judge Pryor ordered;

"Court's in recess, we'll reconvene in fifteen minutes."

Placing himself where Everston would be out of her line of vision, Aaron approached his wife to offer her his hand;

"Come on, sweetheart."

Allowing him to lead her to the backroom, Jemma remained quiet until the door was closed behind them, something that worried Aaron, but not nearly as worried as he was when she turned to look into his eyes, her eyes reflecting her feelings as she asked sadly;

"Why, why didn't you tell me?"

Cupping her cheek, Aaron shook his head;

"Darlin, I couldn't! I tried to get Evans to let you be excused, except for your testimony, but he said he couldn't. You were having such a hard time dealing with what you experienced and remembered that I just couldn't bring myself to tell you."

Worried as she remained so quiet and still, Aaron placed his arms around her shoulders to hold her in the protective circle of his embrace as she lowered her head against his chest. Although he wasn't surprised as he felt her slight shoulders begin shaking as if she were crying, Aaron soon found himself shocked as his wife suddenly placed her hands against his chest, pushing him away a bit before wiping furiously at her eyes as she vehemently shook her head before declaring;

"NO! I am not going to let that man do this to me, not again!"

Taking her husband's hand between both of hers, Jemma's smile reflected the love she felt for him;

"Honey, it's not your fault and I'm not angry at you about it, but I refuse to be that man's victim."

Reaching into her bag, Jemma pulled out her handkerchief to dip in the water pitcher before wiping the tears from her face. Glancing in the small decorative mirror over the basin stand and satisfied that her appearance was none the worse for wear, Jemma took a deep breath before turning to her husband;

"Do I look alright?"

Unable to fully express the pride he felt for the show of strength and determination she was showing, Aaron placed his hand against the side of her neck as his thumb caressed her cheek. The hint of a warm smile gracing his mouth and his voice full of loving sincerity, Aaron praised;

"You're just as beautiful as you've always been; in some ways, even more so, sweetheart."

Pulling his watch from his vest pocket, Aaron huffed slightly;

"I guess it's time."

Aaron took her arm as he opened the door;

"Let's go, darlin."

When the court was brought once more to order, just as they knew would be the case, Evans called Jemma to the stand. Seeing that she was a bit nervous, never having been called on to testify to anything before, Judge Pryor tried to calm her;

"Now, Mrs. Stempel, don't worry about anything. All you need do is just tell us what happened in your own words; alright, my dear?"

At her nod, Judge Pryor motioned towards Evans to administer the oath, once that was done he asked;

"Could you please state your full name for the court please?"

Clearing her throat slightly, Jemma spoke in a clear, calm voice;

"Jemma Elysia Bolt Stempel."

Despite the trauma she had endured at the man's hands, Jemma found she was able to get through her testimony by distancing herself, something that seemed to work quite well, until she reached the point of her story involving Everston's threats against her children, something that found those present gasping in shock at the very idea that the man had made such threats against, not just one, but three small, innocent children in an attempt to force their mother's compliance with his heinous desires. Before calling Jemma to the stand, Evans had made quick work of his list of witnesses, which included the Bolt brothers, Duncan, and Clancey. In each instance, when presented with the opportunity for cross-examination, Everston declined the offer. Finally, Evans advised the court;

"The territory has no further questions for this witness, your honor. Mrs. Stempel may be excused if the defense has no questions at this time."

Given his lack of interest to cross-examine the other witnesses, everyone found themselves surprised, to say the least, when Everston raised his pencil, a Cheshire cat smile with just a tinge of a sneer lifting his lips as he interjected;

"Oh, but I do wish to cross-examine Mrs. Stempel, Mr. Evans."

Swinging his glance towards Judge Pryor, Everston reminded;

"And I do believe, your honor, that it's my right."

Hearing the slight slur in his tone as he addressed him, Judge Pryor's mouth became a thin line of frustration as he reluctantly admitted;

"I hardly need you to remind me of the law, sir! I'm quite aware of your right to cross-examine this young woman."

His face reflecting his displeasure at allowing it, Judge Pryor offered Jemma an apologetic look;

"Even if wish it were otherwise."

Facing Everston, Judge Pryor reminded;

"But remember, Mr. Everston, YOU'RE the defendant here, so I would watch what you do, VERY carefully."

His own suspicions raised, Aaron wasn't surprised as his brothers-in-law leaned closer around him as Jason whispered;

"Aaron, I don't like this!"

Trying to keep his voice low, Jeremy issued;

"Neither do I! That man's put Pixie through more than enough!"

Bracing his arms across the back of his sister's vacant chair, Josh demanded;

"Aaron, isn't there anything we can do? I'm with Jason and Jeremy; I don't trust Everston as far as I can throw him."

Turning his head slightly as he glanced out of the corners of his eyes at him, his voice low, Aaron affirmed his position;

"Then this is something we're all in agreement of, Josh; because I don't trust that man either."

Narrowing his dark eyes to mere slits as he turned to look at Everston;

"Especially around my wife."

Jemma, determined not to allow the man any more power over her, retained her mask of calm neutrality as Everston began firing questions at her. Although she remained calm throughout her cross-examination, one particular question of Everston's found her taken off guard as he stopped in front of her, his arms crossed over his chest to demand, a cold lecherous sneer on his lips;

"Tell the truth, Mrs. Stempel, aren't YOU really the guilty party here? Why don't you admit to everyone here how you flirted and did everything possible to draw my attention to you?"

Horrified at even the suggestion of the idea that she wanted his attention, Jemma shook her head furiously;

"NO! IF ANYTHING, I DID EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO AVOID YOU AND YOUR 'ATTENTION'!"

Finding her agitation amusing, and forgetting himself, Everston mocked;

"Oh come now, Jemma dear! This has gone far enough, it's time for you to admit your true feelings."

Despite her initial determination to remain as calm and composed as possible, in light of the man's blatant accusation, Jemma found the heat of her ire rising. And, despite her intentions, to the contrary, she found she could no longer hold her tongue; something that became blatantly obvious as the fire of her temper made her eyes appear even more brilliant and bright just before they narrowed in hatred;

"So you want me to tell you my 'true' feelings, do you? FINE! I'll be more than happy to tell you how I REALLY feel, Mr. Everston!"

Her hatred for the man in front of her growing by the second, Jemma began;

"As it just so happens, Mr. Everston, my true feelings are that I abhor you. I've tried never to hate anyone, because I was taught that it was wrong to do so. However, I find you nothing more than a greedy, cruel, arrogant, lecherous excuse for a man who thinks nothing of using threats and fear to try and exert control over a woman; even to the point that you would threaten the lives of innocent children. You think you're a man whose above anyone else when the truth is you're nothing but a coward. There! Now you know my 'true' feelings about you, does that make you feel any better, Mr. Everston?"

Despite his previous confrontation with her, Everston had held the firm belief that he could regain the sense of power he had felt he held over Jemma Stempel by simply 'grilling' her in front of almost all of Seattle. He had been so certain of his theory that he had chosen not to have an attorney defend him, not that he felt anyone could possibly prove as eloquent in the situation as he felt he could. However, he had not counted on the determination the young woman in front of him seemed to possess, something that went against his carefully laid out plans and, even now, found him seething in fury; so much so that he forgot his surroundings as his rage became solely focused on one target. His chest rising and falling in his hatred, Everston slowly edged his way closer before hissing in hatred;

"How dare you, you little bitch! I can see I didn't teach you enough of a lesson during our last encounter, a mistake I won't make again."

Moving more quickly than what anyone, even Aaron, could fathom, Everston rushed at Jemma. His hands outstretched to wrap about her neck as he tackled her, knocking the chair she was sitting in backward to find them both landing on the floor as he pinned her to the floor, his hands still tightly wrapped around her throat as he swore at her;

"IF I CAN'T BREAK YOU, YOU LITTLE WITCH, I'LL KILL YOU!"

Stunned as she was knocked backward from where she sat, Jemma clawed and scratched at the hands choking off her air before striking out with her fist to land a solid blow against Everston's left cheek just under his eye. Although time seemed to come to a halt as everyone, including the ones who had been charged with guarding Everston, had been frozen in shock, it was only mere seconds later before the man found the hand he had raised to strike Jemma held in a grip of iron as Aaron thundered;

"NO BY GOD, NOT THIS TIME!"

Snatching the man's arm, Aaron flung him backward away from Jemma. Having noticed the others moving towards them as he launched himself from his chair, Aaron was certain Everston would be restrained, that being the case he had no qualms about turning his back to the man as he knelt next to his wife to see to her;

"Sweetheart, are you..."

Before he could finish, Aaron found his statement interrupted as his wife's eyes widened before yelling;

"AARON LOOK OUT!"

Grabbing her by her shoulders, Aaron rolled quickly to the side, taking Jemma with him as he gave thanks for his quick reflexes as they narrowly missed being struck with the chair Everston had grabbed in his attempt to retaliate against Aaron for, what he considered, his interference. Seeing the insane hatred in the man's eyes, he wasn't surprised when Everston tried to engage the men who tried to restrain him in a physical confrontation. However, his lack of shock soon turned to panic as Everston managed to take hold of a pistol that had been dropped during the altercation and, noticing the direction of his intense stare of hatred, Aaron wasted no time in placing himself between the man and his wife as he rushed to tackle Everston, effectively knocking the gun from his hand to send it skittering across the floor. Corky, in his rush to try and help subdue Everston, inadvertently, ended up tripping Aaron, giving Everston time to snatch one of the broken chair legs from the floor to lift it over his head like a club as he stood over Aaron.

Despite the volley of noise that had erupted, thanks to Everston's actions, everyone in the makeshift courtroom became deathly silent as a shot rang out. Although everyone was shocked, none was more stunned than Everston who was still clutching the broken chair leg like a club, prepared to strike at Aaron, as he stared in disbelief at the source of the gunshot. Pulling the hammer back once more, Jemma cocked the pistol she had pointed straight at him. Finding what small amount of bravado he still possessed, Everston challenged;

"You wouldn't dare, dear Jemma! And even if you did, I'm quite certain you'd miss by a mile."

Certain of her target, Jemma squeezed the trigger to place a bullet in the post just behind Everston's head, something that found his eyes widening in frightened disbelief. Jemma shook her head as she stated her position;

"I told you before, my name, at least as far as you're concerned, is MRS. STEMPEL! Now, THAT was a warning shot and unless you'd like to find out just how accurate I can be, I suggest you drop that chair leg. Let me assure you, Mr. Everston, you'll have a bullet in you before you manage to strike my husband; do I make myself clear?"

Seeing his hesitation and, despite proof to the contrary, the disbelief in her adversary's face, Jemma shook her head as she recalled the night he had attacked her and the threats he had made against her children. Those factors, combined with the threat he presented to her husband, Jemma pulled the hammer back to cock the pistol once more before venturing;

"Maybe I should just save the territory the trouble, not to mention making certain I never have to worry about you posing a threat to me or my family, ever again."

Fear replacing his cockiness, Everston began stammering;

"B but...you wouldn't."

Aaron, seeing just how serious Jemma was in her intent, quickly picked himself up off the floor. Snatching the chair leg from Everston's less than firm grip, Aaron tossed it away before advising;

"The best thing you can possibly do right now, Everston is to just keep your damn mouth shut. I wouldn't push her right this second if you want to live."

Unaccustomed to seeing this side of her, yet knowing that discretion was the better part of valor, those who had rushed forward to help subdue Everston, including Jason, Joshua, Jeremy, Duncan, and Clancey, stood silent, knowing that it was best to let Aaron handle the situation.

Although Aaron was secure in the fact that his wife would never hurt him, he approached her slowly and carefully trying to reason with her;

"Jemma, sweetheart come on let me have the gun, you know this isn't what you want to do."

Her chest heaving with the effort to contain her emotions, Jemma could only shake her head as she reasoned;

"But don't you understand? This way we never have to worry about what he will or won't do, or worry if he'll try to hurt our babies."

Noticing how she was beginning to tremble, Aaron leaned in closer as he pleaded;

"Darlin, I promise you, he'll never get close enough to hurt our babies or us again."

Coming up beside her, Aaron slid his arm around her waist as Jason came closer, his hand outstretched;

"Come on, Pixie, don't let him win, sweetie. Aaron fought too hard to stop this man and you and he both fought to keep you from becoming his victim, please don't let it all have been in vain."

Slowly, Jemma disengaged the pistol's hammer before offering it to her brother who blew a sigh of relief as he took the weapon in his hand. Determined in his course, Judge Pryor advised;

"I've seen more than enough to render my decision."

Pointing to Corky, Swede, and Harve, the judge ordered;

"I want that man kept under lock and key until I can arrange for his transfer to the territorial prison in Olympia."

Aiming his gavel towards Everston, Judge Pryor informed him;

"You, sir, should reconcile yourself to adapting to life behind bars. Because I can assure you, I plan to see to it that you remain behind them for quite some time to come."

Waving towards the door, he ordered;

"Take him out of here and make sure he's kept locked up and secured. Court dismissed!"

Banging his gavel to bring an end to the proceedings, the old gentleman waited until Everston had been removed before approaching the couple. Taking Jemma's hand in his, he sought to assure her;

"I'm sorry for what you've been through thanks to that monster, my dear, but I can assure you that he'll never pose a threat to you or your family ever again. I'll see to that personally."

Noticing how quiet she remained as she offered a slight nod of appreciation, as well as just how pale she had grown, Judge Pryor turned to the crowd still gathered to declare in a loud voice;

"I said the court is dismissed! Aside from those directly linked to the case, everyone else must leave this establishment in the next minute or be fined for contempt of court."

Motioning to Evans, Judge Pryor advised Lottie;

"Miss Hatfield, as always, thank you for your hospitality. Mr. Evans and I need to go wire the Marshall in Olympia and arrange for that...man's transfer to the prison there; where I can assure you all he'll remain. Aaron and Jemma's children will see adulthood long before that man sees the outside of those prison walls."

Anxious to see to their errand, Judge Pryor and Evans left the saloon. Even though he was puzzled by the judge's behavior, Aaron soon gained an understanding as he too noticed just how pale his wife had quickly become. Before he could formulate a plan, Allyn, having noticed what was taking place from her seat as a potential witness, hurried forward to suggest;

"Take her home, Aaron and I'll be there as soon as I get my bag."

Worry etching her face, Lottie approached the couple and, carefully, studying her adopted daughter's face placed her hand against her cheek before turning to Aaron to suggest;

"Go out my back door, Aaron, and get her home as quickly as you can. Don't worry about the babies, we'll look after them."

Nodding his appreciation for their thoughtfulness, Aaron placed his arm around his wife's shoulders;

"Come on, love. I think you've had more than enough for one day, let's get you home."

Watching as they left, Candy, Julie, Peggy, and Biddie all crowded forward as Julie spoke for the group;

"Lottie, Jason what's going on? We don't understand, he's going to prison, but why did Jemma look so strange?"

Realizing he was still holding the pistol. Jason handed it to Josh as he explained to his wife;

"Yes, Julie sweet the man's going to prison for what he did. However, didn't you notice the look on Pixie's face when she held that gun? She wasn't joking, she was really prepared to shoot the man to make sure he wouldn't pose a threat to her, Aaron, or their children ever again."

Trying to grasp just what had happened, Candy theorized;

"She's in shock, isn't she, Jason?"

Nodding, Jeremy answered;

"Yes, Candy, she is. Even though it was with the idea of protecting her family, Pixie actually considered pulling that trigger and taking that man's life. Grant you, she was pushed to it but as tender-hearted as she is, realizing what she almost did is something she never thought herself capable of, not unless it was a case like it was with Blake Anderson where it was down to a life or death struggle."

Her heart aching for her, soon to be, sister-in-law, Peggy rationalized;

"But, Jeremy that man almost killed her, tried to accost her in the worst way imaginable, attacked Aaron out of fear of discovery, and threatened her children; then, on top of it, he attacked her and tried to attack her husband in front of the entire town; NO ONE could have or would have blamed her for pulling that trigger."

His voice soft, yet firm, Josh shook his head as he reminded his fiancee;

"Peggy love, you're right no one would have blamed her if she had pulled that trigger, but Pixie would have blamed herself. But a big part of the problem is that, while she's upset with herself for considering what she almost did, she's even more upset that she didn't. The physical harm he brought to her, she'll gloss over that part, but when she thinks about how he threatened her babies and tried to attack her husband and that she DIDN'T pull that trigger, she'll feel even more guilty that she didn't because she'll see it as her failure to do everything possible to protect her family."

Biddie, strangely quiet, lamented;

"Poor Jemma! No matter what she did in this case she was going to end up being tormented."

Duncan, who had noticed Barnabas' contemplative silence, addressed the man;

"Barnabas, I've noticed you've had nary a word to say about the matter, man. Mind sharing yer thoughts?"

Having found himself the focus of everyone's attention, Barnabas cleared his throat nervously;

"I was just thinking, Lord Bolt, if there might not be some way we can help ease Miss Jemma's mind about all of this."

An idea formulating in his mind, Clancey's bushy eyebrows shot up as his eyes almost bugged out of his head;

"Mr. Webster, would ya be having access to that there information Aaron had ya bring with ya from San Francisco, sir?"

At Barnabas' nod, Clancey turned to Lottie;

"Lottie me darlin, I do believe I have an idea just how to help the little darlin."

Catching on to Clancey's train of thought, Lottie ordered, "Barnabas, go get that information, please. Biddie put the closed sign on the doors, we have some reading to do!"

Aaron never thought to see the day that he would be grateful that Seattle wasn't the large, thriving metropolis that he dreamed it might someday become; however, he realized that day had come. Hurrying to get Jemma home as quickly as possible, Aaron's gratitude regarding Seattle's sparse population multiplied infinitely as the possibility he had been frightened of occurred. Once he understood that she was suffering from a type of shock over what she had considered doing earlier, Aaron had been anxious to get his wife home, away from prying and curious eyes. Holding her close to his side, his arm around her shoulders as he half guided, half carried her, Aaron could feel her trembling increase as he tried soothing;

"Jemma sweetheart, it's alright, we're almost home."

Although he had prayed for it to be otherwise, Aaron wasn't surprised, only concerned, when he felt her leaning more heavily against him just before a cry of anguish escaped her lips as her legs gave way beneath her. Holding her tighter against his side to keep her from falling to the ground, Aaron swung her limp body up into his arms. Feeling her arms loop tightly about his neck as she buried her face against it, Aaron felt as if his heart was caught in a painful contraction as he felt Jemma's body shaking with her sobs of anguish. Patting her back as he hurried to close the remaining distance to their home, Aaron comforted;

"It's alright, Jemma love! I promise it's alright, darlin."

Hearing the sound of heavy footsteps on the porch, Holly, who had volunteered to keep an eye on the Stempel and Bolt children, rushed to the door to throw it open. Her eyes going wide as her jaw dropped open, her voice full of concern, Holly demanded;

"Well, what in tarnation happened?! What's wrong with Jemma?"

Shaking his head furiously, Aaron issued;

"Not now, Holly! Let Allyn in as soon as she gets here, please."

Quickly making his way to their bedroom, Aaron was about to place his wife on their bed when she clung to him even tighter to beg;

"NO! Please, just hold me."

Unable to deny her request, Aaron sat on the edge of the mattress, continuing to cradle her in his arms, uncertain of what the best course of action might be to help her. Before he could make a complete mental list of all his options, their door opened as Allyn hurried in, a bottle of brandy in her hand along with her medical bag. Seeing the state her patient was in, Allyn hurried to pour a generous portion of liquor into the water glass on the bedside table before offering it to Jemma as she ordered sternly;

"Jemma, I want you to drink this, but I want you to sip it, not gulp it."

Seeing her reluctance to follow her dictate, Allyn worried she might have to become stern with, not just her patient, but her friend; but, thanks to Aaron, Allyn was relieved of the possibility. Taking the glass, Aaron brought it to his wife's lips as he cajoled;

"Come on, Jemma love please drink at least a little, it'll help you calm down, darlin."

Her eyes full of concern as she looked into her husband's eyes, Jemma tried pushing the glass away as she reminded him in a shaky voice;

"B...but the baby...Alex."

Understanding her worry, Aaron turned to Allyn, who, also understanding Jemma's concern, rushed to assure her;

"Jemma, I promise you this won't hurt Alex when you nurse him, all this will do is help calm you down."

Trying to rationalize with her, Allyn took her hand;

"Think about it this way, Jemma; you can't help your children in this condition."

Relying on her instincts in her confused and distraught frame of mind, Jemma naturally turned to her husband for direction. Bringing the glass to her lips, Aaron nodded his encouragement;

"It's alright, love. You know Allyn wouldn't have suggested it if she thought it would hurt you and I wouldn't let you do it if I thought for one second there was a possibility of such a thing."

Placing her hand around the glass, Jemma began sipping its contents slowly, however, she was soon eagerly taking much bigger sips, anxious for the effects to take hold. Noticing just how quickly she was beginning to drink from the glass, Aaron restrained her a bit as he warned;

"Easy, sweetheart! You're not used to drinking, you'll make yourself tipsy."

After she had drained the glass, Allyn poured a half glass more, something that found Aaron raising an eyebrow in silent question. Motioning towards the glass, Allyn explained as Aaron encouraged his wife to drink;

"I know it seems strange, but the brandy will help relax her; which, I might add, will help keep her calm. She's in shock over what happened right now and before you can get through to her you have to get her to calm down."

Although he could appreciate her logic, Aaron was far from happy at the prospect of allowing, let alone, helping his wife become inebriated. Seeing the liquor was having the effect they had hoped for. Allyn nodded in satisfaction;

"Good! She's a lot calmer now."

Her face a mask of apology, Allyn offered;

"I wish there was more that I could do to help her, Aaron. But I'm afraid that, outside of pouring her a glass of brandy, there's nothing else I can do to help."

Placing her hand on his shoulder, Allyn lifted her own slightly;

"I'm sorry, Aaron, but the burden of helping her rests on your shoulders."

Despite his awareness that she didn't mean her statement in the way he took it, Aaron narrowed his eyes as he challenged;

"Please don't think that I don't appreciate everything you've done to help her, Allyn; but NEVER use the word burden when referring to my wife or children again."

Cradling her closer to his chest, Aaron dropped a kiss on the top of Jemma's head before shaking his own to vow;

"Jemma and the kids are the farthest thing from a burden there is. No matter what we go through, she's always been nothing but a blessing to me, just as our babies have been since the day we learned we were expecting them."

Silently chastising herself for her poor choice of words, Allyn apologized;

"I'm sorry, Aaron you know I didn't mean it the way it sounded. I simply meant that being the only one who can really get through to her when she's like this, it all rests on your shoulders to help her. But I know you wouldn't have it any other way."

Taking up her bag, Allyn advised;

"I'm going to go now, but if you need me for any reason don't hesitate to send for me."

After Allyn had left their room, Aaron was shocked as Jemma stirred in his arms somewhat to ask in a strangely calm voice;

"Am I a burden?"

His dark eyes full of love and tenderness, Aaron cradled her closer to his chest as he brought his hand up to brush the stray curls and wisps of her hair away from her face with the back of her fingers before shaking his head slowly;

"No, my little love, you're the farthest thing from a burden that I could have ever imagined. If anything, you're an angel I was lucky enough to be blessed to fall in love with and marry."

Lifting her arm to take his hand in hers, Jemma brought it against her lips to place a soft kiss against the rough skin of his knuckles before holding his hand against her cheek. Her voice strangely calm, Jemma shook her head before sighing;

"I let him win, didn't I?"

Before Aaron could answer her question, a familiar voice interjected from their bedroom doorway;

"No, Pixie, you didn't."

Surprised by Jason's appearance, Aaron demanded;

"Jason?"

Recognizing the folder his brother-in-law held up for his inspection, Aaron exclaimed;

"Jason, what the hell..."

Motioning to his sister, Jason exclaimed;

"She has no idea of just what's in here, does she, Aaron?"

Aaron shook his head;

"No, Jason, would you want Julie seeing what's in those reports?"

Folding his arms across his chest, Jason admitted;

"No, Aaron, I wouldn't. However, Julie hasn't been through what Pixie has, and I think that if she understands just what she was dealing with, it will help her a great deal."

Although he understood the shock she had been through, Aaron was certain that when she calmed down she would be just fine; THAT was his hope. However, what he tried to convince himself of and what he knew was taking place were two different things; his wife was nothing if not tenderhearted, something he knew would find her warring with herself intellectually and emotionally over what she had contemplated doing and what she had chosen not to do. As badly as he hoped that wouldn't be the case, he soon found himself faced with the fact his hope was a futile one when Jemma spoke, her tone one of pleading;

"Darling, Jason's right. I know you've been doing your best to protect me, you always have, but you can't protect me from myself."

Fairly certain he already knew the answer as he hooked his finger under her chin to look into her eyes and saw the wealth of conflicting emotions, Aaron asked, his voice ripe with worry;

"Sweetheart, what do you mean, 'protect you from yourself'?"

Jemma clasped her hands together tightly as she sought the right words to explain;

"I failed, Aaron! I failed you, our babies, and myself."

Worry furrowing his brow, Aaron demanded;

"Jemma love, how in the world could you think such a thing? You've NEVER failed our family, EVER! Why would you even think that let alone say it?"

Her voice barely a whisper, Jemma confessed;

"Because I couldn't pull that trigger; it's a double-edged sword."

Seeing the confusion on her husband's face, Jemma tried to find a better way to explain her meaning;

"Honey, when I saw him standing over you with that broken chair leg all I could think of was keeping him from hurting you or our babies, but I couldn't pull the trigger. I feel like I failed our family because I didn't kill him. But then when he said the things he did to me I wanted nothing more than to kill him. I feel like I'm losing my mind; one minute I'm mad at myself because I couldn't pull the trigger, but the next I'm horrified because I wanted to kill him."

Lifting his head to face his brother-in-law's look of worry with a matching one of his own, Aaron shrugged slightly in a silent question. Taking long strides, Jason entered the room to grab the brandy bottle as he tucked the folder under his arm before ordering;

"Come downstairs, I think it's time she knew."

Holding the brandy decanter out for their inspection, Jason ventured;

"Somehow, I think we'll all need a good dose of this before we're thru this."

Some hours and at least two more brandies later, Jemma finally closed the folder after having read its contents. Her face pale, Jemma wet her lips before letting a shuddering sigh escape her as she placed her hands flat, one over the other, on top of the folder as she glanced about the table and remarked;

"As bad as what he did to me was, compared to what these poor women suffered at his hands, what he did to me looks like a blessing compared to what he did to them."

Picking up one of the reports, Jemma begged for understanding;

"But please tell me how, just how is it that this man was allowed to go free?"

Turning to her husband, Jemma pointed out;

"I mean, honey there isn't just one or two cases; we're talking about at least a dozen cases here that seem to go back for years, and THAT'S just what Barnabas was able to find out about when you asked him to investigate. Aaron, if we found out about these poor girls, how many others do we NOT know about?"

Her brow furrowing in bewilderment, Jemma turned to each of the faces around the table before stopping at her eldest brother;

"But there's something I don't understand, Jason. You said that this isn't something that you would want Julie seeing, but in my case, you felt it would help me; what did you mean?"

Leaning forward, Jason rested his arms on the tabletop as he locked eyes with his sister;

"Pixie, I knew that considering just how tenderhearted and loving you are, what happened when you had that pistol in your hand was going to torment you, no matter what. And, as you admitted yourself upstairs, I was right."

Waving his hand across the documents scattered across the table, Jason shrugged as he admitted;

"Normally, I wouldn't have wanted you reading what's in these papers, but I thought, and hoped that, if you knew just what sort of...man it was you faced this morning, it would help end your torment."

Reaching his hand across the table to place it over his sister's Josh ventured;

"Sweetie, you've always been very tenderhearted, but you've also been very protective over those you love. We knew when we saw that pistol in your hand that, between you wanting to pull that trigger and how hard you fought not to pull it, it was going to prove a double-edged sword for you."

Having refilled her glass, Aaron slid it closer to his wife as he encouraged;

"Here, sweetheart, considering everything that's taken place, and what you just read in those reports, I think you can use this."

Taking the glass Jemma took a long sip before admitting;

"I felt like a monster because I wanted to kill him. But, when I didn't pull the trigger I felt like I failed as a wife and mother; this man was a threat to my family and I couldn't stop him."

Her heart breaking for the raw pain she saw in the girl's eyes, Lottie rose from her chair to stand over her adopted daughter as she cupped her chin in her hand to tilt her head so that she could look into her eyes;

"Jemma sweetie, you didn't fail anyone! If anything, you've saved quite a few."

Jemma shook her head as she exclaimed in frustration:

"Lottie, I don't understand!"

Interpreting the look Lottie threw in his direction, Aaron turned his chair to take her hand in his as he placed his free hand along her cheek;

"Darlin, do you remember the night you were attacked, when you came to and stopped me from killing Everston?"

Slowly, Jemma nodded as she remained silent, letting her husband continue;

"Well, that was my chance to kill him and stop him, mind you, no one would have blamed me considering what he did and what he TRIED to do to you. Now, you knew that he had threatened our sons and daughter, but you still stopped me and begged me to send for the marshal, why did you do that, love?"

Staring at her husband in disbelief that he would even have to ask her such a question, Jemma gave a slight shake of her head;

"Wh...why do you even have to ask me that, honey? I didn't want that on your conscience, because you're better than that, Aaron. Had we been in a life or death situation, like we were with Blake Anderson, that would have been one thing; but, thankfully, you were able to prevent that and we had another means at our disposal to stop him."

Leaning closer, Jemma placed her hands on either side of her husband's face, her eyes reflecting the deep love she felt for him as she vowed;

"I didn't want that man to win by forcing you to kill him, even if it would have been justified. I can't help but think that he wants to turn and make everything as corrupt as what he is, You're too good of a man, darling, I just couldn't let that happen."

Lifting an eyebrow in question, Aaron pursued;

"You think I'm a good man, love, even though I wanted nothing more than to end that man's life for what he did to you?"

Her chest heaving with her effort to control her disbelief, Jemma shook her head furiously;

"Of course I think you're a good man. You felt that way because you love me and because of what he did to me, not to mention what you found out he did to those other poor women. You could have ignored me and just killed him but you didn't and that's what makes you a good man, my darling heart."

Placing his hand over one of hers, Aaron curled his fingers around hers before turning his face to brush his lips against her palm;

"Sweetheart, you realize you did the exact same thing, don't you? You didn't fail, love, if anything you won because you didn't let him turn you into the monster he is. Darlin, he was desperate, you beat him and he's never had that happen at a woman's hands before. Like you told him today, every assumption that he's made where you're concerned was wrong; he was pushing you to bring you down to his level and you didn't take the bait."

Ignoring the presence of those around them, Aaron took her face in his hands as he offered softly;

"You won, my little love, you beat him! Not only did you win for yourself, but you won for all of those poor women before you. Not to mention, thanks to you, sweetheart, he'll never hurt anyone else, including his own daughter. You didn't care what anyone said about you and you didn't let Everston intimidate you. You were determined that you were going to bring that man to justice and you did just that."

Interpreting the meaningful side glance Aaron threw in his direction, as well as noticing that his sister was beginning to feel the effects of the brandy she had consumed to counteract the earlier shock she had suffered, Jason announced;

"Considering that it's getting dark outside and the day that we've all had, especially Pixie, I'd like to suggest that we leave Aaron and Jemma in peace."

Glancing towards Jeremy and Candy, who had already made their minds up on the matter, in an unspoken question, Jason suggested;

"All things considered, Jeremy and Candy were going to ask if they might take the twins, Molly and Christopher have been begging for them to spend the night again."

Noticing the glassy look in her eyes and understanding the reason for her silent nod, Aaron spoke for them both;

"That's fine, Jeremy, Candy; Amie and Jacob love spending time with all of you."

Given her profession and his experience, Lottie and Clancey, eager to help, rose from their chairs as Clancey offered;

"Ya know, Lottie me love, I don't get to see near enough of them there little angels. Why don't me and you go and get the little nippers ready, that way everyone can settle themselves for the evening."

Before he knew it, everyone was performing like a well-oiled machine as they made certain the children were cared for, even down to Julie and Candy taking Jemma into the living room to help her tend to Alex while Lottie, Clancey, Duncan, and Holly got the twins ready to go with Candy and Jeremy. Eager to lend their support Biddie and Peggy worked to prepare a cold supper for Aaron and Jemma, anxious to relieve Jemma of the chore for the night. While everyone else was busy with their tasks, Aaron, Jason, Josh, and Jeremy were busy helping Barnabas reorganize the file Jason had his sister read. Concern making his voice a bit rougher than normal, Jason couldn't help but ask;

"Aaron, I understand Allyn's reason and the logic behind it, but you do realize that, considering she's never had more than a sip of liquor before today, given the amount she's had today..."

Helping his brothers-in-law and Barnabas as they gathered the papers scattered on the kitchen table together, Aaron nodded;

"I know, Jason, I know. Believe me, the idea of, not only, allowing but encouraging my wife to tipsiness isn't something I'm overly thrilled about. But, if it helps her get over the shock of what she's been through I don't care if she drinks the entire bottle."

Raising an eyebrow in contemplation, Josh speculated;

"Uh, you have noticed that she's becoming a little unsteady, or am I mistaken?"

Shaking his head, Aaron admitted;

"No, you're not, I could tell by the look in her eyes. I'm afraid my wife's a little bit drunk; but, she's past the shock and she no longer feels guilty over what happened when she had the pistol in her hand today. THAT'S the main thing."

Handing Barnabas the stack he had just straightened and organized, Jeremy whistled low;

"You know she's probably going to have a hell of a hangover in the morning, don't you, Aaron?"

Finished with gathering the papers, Aaron placed his hands on his hips;

"Well, Jeremy, it's not like I haven't had to nurse one or two of those myself in my day; if she does, I'll help her deal with it. For tonight, once you all leave, I'm going to try and get her to eat something, and then I'll put her to bed."

After everyone had left them alone for the night, Aaron managed to convince his wife to eat, at least, a little. Given the amount of brandy she had consumed it came as no surprise to Aaron, as he noticed the trouble she seemed to be having keeping her eyes open, that when he suggested they retire for the evening, she readily nodded her head. Knowing how picky she was about how the kitchen was left, Aaron made quick work of putting the room to rights before helping her up from her chair;

"Come on, sweetheart let's get you to bed."

Leading her towards the staircase, Aaron was glad he had taken her arm as she stumbled just before looking up, her words slightly slurred as she ventured in a mumbled voice;

"Honey, I think I've had a little too much brandy. I'm not quite sure, but I think I might be a little aknee...ineeb...in...tipsy."

Even though he wasn't thrilled with the reason for it, Aaron couldn't deny finding amusement at her attempt to describe her present condition. Deciding to take the direct approach when she stumbled, Aaron swept her up into his arms. Placing a kiss on her forehead as she laid her head against his shoulder, Aaron chuckled;

"I think that may well be a very distinct possibility, my darling love."

When he reached their bedroom her helped her change from her dress to her nightgown before pulling the pins from her hair, letting the burgundy colored mass fall down her back. Seeing the trouble she was having trying to brush her hair, Aaron eased the brush from her fingers to offer softly;

"Here, love, let me."

Leisurely, Aaron drew the brush through the waving and curling strands until her hair was soft and shining. Glancing at her reflection in her dressing table mirror, Aaron could see the trouble she was having keeping her eyes open. Dropping a kiss on the top of her head, Aaron ordered;

"Just sit still a minute more, sweetheart."

At her nod, Aaron hurried to turn the covers of their bed back before returning to where Jemma sat at her dressing table. Noticing how she was leaning her head back more and more as she fought to keep her eyes open. Shaking his head at her stubbornness, Aaron brushed his fingers against her forehead to push her hair from her face as he brushed his lips against the same path his fingers had just traced before leaning close to her ear to whisper;

"Give it up, darlin. Besides, you need the sleep."

Aaron lifted her from her chair to settle her in their bed before getting ready to retire for the night himself. Slipping into bed next to her, Aaron took his wife in his arms and, noticing she was still fighting sleep, reached up to smooth his fingers across her brow before placing his lips close to her ear;

"Shh, love, just go to sleep, sweetheart."

Placing a kiss on her cheek, Aaron could tell she had finally given in as her breathing became more even and her face relaxed as she let sleep claim her. Watching her as she slept, Aaron pulled her closer as he voiced aloud in amusement;

"Good night, my little love, I don't envy you the headache you'll probably have in the morning."

Brushing a stray wisp of hair from her face, Aaron chuckled;

"You might be a tipsy one, but you're still an angel to me."

Satisfied that the events of the morning had seen the last of their trials and the danger Carlin Everston presented to them cleared from their lives, Aaron closed his eyes and found his first restful night of sleep in quite a while.