Caleb sat in the overly bright classroom staring out of the window. Miss Coombs had brought him to school after they had left Gail's house and she was now droning on about the upcoming election for Sheriff. Caleb could not care less about an election, besides Lucas had always been Sheriff and he would continue to be for as long as he wanted. He had no doubt that Lucas would win the election and everything would continue on as usual.

When Miss Coombs had finished talking about the election, she started to talk about career day. 'So, what I need from you all is to have a word with your parents and see if they will come to class to talk about their careers. Only one parent is required, so either your mother or father will do. I expect a list of who will be attending by the end of tomorrow' Selena said.

Caleb felt as though he was being watched and looked around the class. Everyone was staring at him and it made him feel uncomfortable.

Selena walked slowly towards Caleb and placed a hand on his shoulder. 'If you want to have a word with someone like Sheriff Buck to come and talk for you Caleb, that would be fine' she said reassuringly.

Caleb looked up at her defiantly, 'My daddy wouldn't be coming if he was alive and that wouldn't have mattered to you, I don't see why I have to find someone else just 'cause he's dead'

Selena took a step back and before she could come up with a response to the comment, the lunch bell rang. All the other children rushed out of the classroom with their bags, Caleb held her gaze for a moment then hurried out like everyone else.

Selena could feel her heart racing, part of her felt sorry for Caleb as he had been through so much; however, another part of her wanted to see how far she could push him before he started to behave a little more like Lucas. She chose to leave him be for now and decided to head into town for her lunch, a little birdie had told her that Gail Emory seemed to be entertaining a handsome stranger today and she would not miss that for the world.

Caleb sat alone at the far end of the school yard on a large bench, reading a Stephen King novel that he had borrowed from his cousin. Gail had told him that she did not approve of him reading horror stories; however, she had stumbled across the book 'Desperation' when she was fifteen and she had been a huge fan of Stephen King ever since. She had explained that all the stories were fiction and as long as the books did not frighten him or keep him awake at night, she would let him read a few books which she believed the content was not so scary.

At the moment he was reading 'The Gunslinger' and he was thoroughly enjoying it. He found himself thinking about the main character Roland and how he was a loner chasing the man in black. Gail had told him that she loved Roland and how he just kept going, even though he did not know what was in store for him. The character was driven towards something that was bigger than him and found the courage to continue on his path. She said it was important to continue with your journey and not let anything hold you back, you may not get a happy ending but at least you could be proud that you gave it all you had.

Caleb believed his cousin was right, even though some days it was hard to go forward and he wished he could go back to how things used to be with Merlyn. They had a hard life with their daddy, but she was alive and they had each other. He knew he had his cousin, Lucas and all the other adults that seemed to take an interest in him; however, he still missed the normal things he used to be able to do with Merly.

Caleb was trying to focus on what was ahead and not the past, which is why he was branching out with his activities. Instead of wasting time with Boon running around the playground, he chose to read instead. Gail had told him that she knew there were more important things than this level of schooling; however, she expected him to still try like everybody else. She said he just had to make it through this stage, then he could begin to consider what he wanted to do with his life and what he wanted to learn. Lucas had told him something similar so he was trying to be the good student everyone expected him to be, until he could get out.

'You shouldn't be in such a rush to get out of here Caleb' Merlyn said from behind him, 'It's nice here and there is nothing for you to be concerned about'

Caleb turned towards his sister, smiled and put his book away. 'What are you doing here Merly? I thought we were only meeting at the cemetery?'

Merlyn took a step towards her brother and stroked his face, he could not feel her hand but she could feel his warmth. 'I got bored waiting, besides something's happening and I want to make sure you stay out of it' she said.

Caleb wrinkled his forehead at his sisters warning, he had a bad feeling in the pit of his stomach which he did not care for. 'What's happening Merly? Does it affect me?'

Merlyn shook her head, she should not have come here and she had been warned about interfering with the events which surrounded her living relatives. 'Just you stay clear of people Caleb. It's not for you to get involved in anything, whether it be family business or not!' and with that she disappeared.

Caleb watched the spot where his sister had been, then turned around when he was sure she was not coming back. Sitting back down on the bench he began to replay what his sister had told him, what could she mean about him staying clear of people? He chose to shrug off the warning and continue reading his book, after all he only had an hour before class began again.

Gail sat comfortably on a bench overlooking the Trinity river, she had found a secluded spot for her and Gregory to talk business; however, he was more concerned with purchasing an ice cream to cool himself down, clearly he was not used to the southern heat.

Gail had known Gregory for years, he was a big shareholder at her paper and they had met at a small function after she had submitted her first story. Gregory had taken a shine to her after she had proven how driven to succeed she was, he had told her on more than one occasion that he admired her courage and her prowess. There had been a time when they had became romantically involved; however, she had learned the hard way never to mix business with pleasure and the possessiveness he displayed when she wanted to pursue a story was more than she could handle, so she had ended their relationship as her career was more important at that time.

When they parted ways, Gregory chose not to be around her office any more and decided to go on lavish holidays, or extravagant business trips. It was around that time when Gail had a pregnancy scare and it brought her back to reality, she had vowed never to get involved with anyone she worked with and pulled away from all relationships that came her way. She had found that she preferred her own company and did not need a man, it was far easier being free and in control of her own life.

It had been almost two years since Gail had seen Gregory and it was strange that he was here. Her editor Barton had called her to say he was not impressed that she was still in Trinity and he wanted to know what she was doing, as there were a number of stories that he wanted her to cover in Charleston. Gail was not ready to leave Trinity just yet, there was still something calling to her here that she wanted to get to the bottom of; therefore, she had told Barton that she was working on a story and she would be back when she could.

To say Barton was unhappy that she had not returned to Charleston was an understatement, he had hung up the telephone but then sent her a formal meeting invitation via Email. Gail was used to Barton's overreactions, hell she had dealt with enough of them in her time and she truly believed he would just send Christie over to Trinity to get her. It was clear that she had completely misjudged the situation and she was shocked when she had received a text message from Gregory this morning, confirming where they were meeting.

Gail had chosen a public place to discuss whatever they needed to discuss, she knew better than to agree to a formal meeting on Gregory's terms. He was a typical experienced executive who had made his fortune by destroying the little person in board meetings. No, she would do this on her terms and she would remain in control. She had chosen the secluded spot by the river just off the pier, as although it seemed private there was a walk way close by and more than one way to exit should he try to make her feel trapped.

Gregory came back holding two ice creams, he leaned down to hand her one then sat next to her on the bench. 'This is a very nice place...a little dull for your usual liking though' he said and licked his ice cream.

Gail shrugged, 'You know better than to judge a book by it's cover Greg, you think I'd waste so much of my time here if it was that dull?' she said and licked her ice cream.

Gregory turned towards Gail and placed his hand gently on her arm. 'In all seriousness, what are you doing here Gail? Barton is down two of his head reporters with you gone and Christie busy with the baby, I know you put your job above everything else and it's not in your nature to settle in a sleepy little town like this.'

Gail stared out into the river, it always soothed her and the motion of the water helped clear her head. Had this have been a few years ago the touch of his hand on her arm would have disarmed her defences, luckily for her it was only Lucas that could have that affect on her recently which meant she had the upper hand here. She took a deep breath and turned towards Gregory, 'I don't need to explain myself, especially to you. I'm still giving Barton stories...'

'Are you?' he interrupted. 'Last I heard, a candidate for Sheriff isn't really big news. You've turned down stories with political intrigue, theft, infidelity...Jesus Gail, your falling so far down the ladder it's going to be impossible for you to climb back up if you keep on this path'

Gail stood up and walked towards the water, part of her knew he was right. All the sacrifices she had made and everything she had built in Charleston would be gone if she did not go back soon. This town was like a drug, every time she saw sense and thought she wanted to leave it would pull her back. She could not just leave Caleb and she was sure there was more here to uncover if she kept digging. Gail was torn, she missed her life in Charleston; however, she felt drawn to Trinity and was not ready to leave.

Before Gail could respond to Gregory's comment, she heard a familiar voice and sighed in exasperation.

'Well, well...what do we have here?' Selena asked as she sauntered down the path and towards the bench where Gregory was sat.

Gail turned towards Selena and tried not to let her agitation show to Gregory. 'It's a little early for school to be finished isn't it Selena?' she asked.

Selena smiled at Gregory, then turned her attention towards Gail. 'I felt the need to come out for a breath of fresh air after your cousin snapped at me earlier, you really should nip that in the bud Gail' she said, over exaggerating.

'Oh yes, the cousin' Gregory said and stood up, 'You really need to introduce me to your kin Gail'

Gail shook her head, it felt like she was fighting a tag team. She could handle one unreasonable person, but not two right now. She cursed Caleb for giving Selena a reason to be here, she was the last person she needed snooping around. Gail could feel herself getting angry, her anger always took over when she felt like she was being cornered. She chose to ignore Selena and decided to focus on the reason she was with her present company. 'You don't need to meet my family Greg, let's talk business shall we? You've come all the way down here from Charleston, but for what? What couldn't be discussed over the telephone or by Email?'

'Ok...' he said, 'Your previous record with the paper can only take you so far, we need you back and we won't take no for an answer. All your excuses to stay in this town may fool Barton, but I know you well enough to tell when you're stalling. You need to decide whether you're coming back to your real home in Charleston and the paper, or are you staying here in this town?'

Gail stood tall and met his stare, she would not give him the satisfaction of knowing she was upset. 'So that's it? Well, at least I know where I stand'

Gregory moved closer and placed his hands on her hips, ignoring Selena. 'Don't be stubborn Gail, the paper doesn't want to lose you and neither do I. Other than your cousin, there is nothing else here for you. I know you...I know that you don't like to be trapped and you love adventure. Your talents are wasted in this little town, you need to come back home with me.'

Gail let his hands rest on her hips for a moment, then pulled away, 'You don't get to tell me what to do any more.' she said and turned towards the water.

Gregory watched her and shook his head. 'I'm leaving for Wilmington, I'll be back next week and will need your answer by then' he said and walked away from the river.

'I don't respond well to ultimatums' Gail called after him and Gregory just waved off the comment as he walked further away.

Selena stood still watching Gail intently to see what she was going to do next. If she had heard right, the lovely Miss Emory had the choose between Charleston and Trinity for good. This would be interesting, there was no way Lucas would let his little pet go so easily. She smiled to herself, this could be just the thing to get Lucas back on her side.

Gail turned towards Selena and saw the smug smile on her lips, she approached the women and leaned close so her lips were nearly touching Selena's ear. 'I dare you to speak about this to anyone' she whispered, starred at her for a moment then walked away.

Selena smiled as she watched Gail walk away, it would solve a lot of her problems if the woman decided to leave; however, if she did not tell Lucas there would be hell to pay and she was actual beginning to enjoy the heated banter she was having with Gail these days. Selena decided to ponder over the quandary as she headed back to school.

Ben pulled up outside the Town Hall and waited for Lucas to step out of the passenger side of the car. Lucas had a look on his face which always worried Ben, the look which indicated that he was going to have some fun at someone else's expense and Ben wanted no part of it. He sat in the drivers seat, hoping Lucas would enter the building without him; however, when Lucas just stood still at the bottom of the steps, he knew he was waiting for him to get out of the car.

When Ben had joined Lucas at the front of the building, they both walked up the steps and through the entrance. It was a bright building full of large windows which let in a lot of light, Ben had never cared for this place as he felt like the staff seemed far too superior for their roles.

'Quick to judge there aren't you Deputy?' Lucas said reading his mind and walked straight through the entrance hall to the Mayor's office. The Mayor's receptionist tried to stop Lucas from entering the office; however, he flashed his usual charming smile and whispered something in her ear, which prompted her to step aside and blush.

Ben shook his head and followed close behind Lucas, he wanted no part of the game Lucas was undoubtedly going to play; however, he knew he did not have a choice and it was better if Lucas was focusing on someone else rather than him.

When Ben entered the Mayor's office with Lucas, he could see the concern displayed straight away on the Mayor's face. Clearly he was not expecting a visit from the Sheriff and it was obvious that he did not know what to do with this sudden intrusion. Lucas just laughed and signalled for the Mayor to stand up and extended his hand out for a hand shake. The Mayor shook Lucas's hand and sat back down behind his desk, as if the distance between them could shield him from whatever Lucas had planned.

'How are you John?' Lucas asked taking a seat and signalling Ben to do the same.

'I'm good thanks Sheriff, to what do I owe the pleasure?' John asked nervously.

Lucas smiled, 'Glad to hear things are good, how is little Josh and the wife these days? I hear Mary broke her rib the other night, I hope she's making a speedy recovery.' Lucas said, ignoring John's question.

John shifted uncomfortably in his seat at the sight of the judgemental stare he was getting from Ben. 'Mary is fine Sheriff, she just had a little accident' he lied.

Lucas nodded, of course he knew that Mayor John had come home drunk the other night and decided to use his wife as a punching bag; however, that was none of his business yet. He never understood what a man could gain by beating on someone so much smaller than him and it was something that Lucas could never see himself doing. Sure he had forced his hand with Judith Temple, but that was different and he truly believed she had left him no choice. 'It's a shame such an accident had to occur to your lovely wife' Lucas said, turning his attention back to the Mayor, 'I'll tell you what, to make her feel better why don't you all join me and Ben for dinner tomorrow night? It would be fun and poor Mary wouldn't have to slave over a hot stove for a change'

'What?' Ben asked confused. He did not know what Lucas was thinking bringing him into this game, but he did not like it.

Lucas paid no attention to Ben and focussed on the Mayor, 'Come on John, it'd be nice for your family to get out, especially after Mary's 'accident'. It will show the townspeople you're a lovely happy family'

John shook his head, he did not know what Lucas was playing at with this spectacle, but he wanted no part of it. 'I couldn't intrude on you good men Lucas...I'll have to pass'

Lucas leaned forward in his chair and stared into the man's eyes, clearly the Mayor had assumed the invitation was optional. 'Oh I insist Mayor' he said and let his twin come out to play.

John held Lucas's gaze for a few seconds, then felt a burning sensation in his head which forced him to shift in his seat. It felt like his eyes were burning from the inside out and he began to rub them vigorously in an attempt to dismiss the painful feeling. A sharp pain travelled through his brain and it took all of his will power not to scream out in agony.

Ben could see that there was something wrong with the Mayor and went to stand up to help; however, Lucas signalled for him to stay seated. The Mayors face began to turn red and his eyes became blood shot with the constant rubbing. Lucas stood up and smiled, then the pain the Mayor was feeling started to ease.

'Well that's settled then, I'll send your receptionist the details. It'll be a family affair so little Josh and Mary will be attending, I'll make sure they have some company so they don't get bored' Lucas said with a wink and left the office.

Ben stood up, nodded towards the Mayor then followed Lucas. When they left the building Ben stopped in front of him, 'What was that? I ain't going to some fancy dinner' Ben said.

Lucas shook his head slowly and turned towards his Deputy, 'Don't drop the loyalty ball here Ben, you will be there. You will bring Ben Jr and that pretty little Nurse of yours too...' Lucas smiled when he saw the look of concern on Ben's face. 'Don't look so worried Ben, there will be other unwilling participants there too so you won't be alone.' and with that he walked down the steps and got into the passenger side of the police car.

It was 12:00am and Gail could not sleep. She had called Lucas earlier and decided that she could not deal with the constant questions regarding Gregory, it was clear that he was jealous of the affection Gregory had shown her and she could not really blame him for acting that way. Gail did not want an argument, that would indicate their relationship was more than strictly physical, so she had told Lucas to leave her alone for the night as she wanted to try and get an early night; however, that had not worked, as she had been tossing and turning since she got into bed. She found herself having a light nap for about half an hour or so then waking up again. This was becoming tedious.

Gail was stubborn and she knew it. She would not consider the ultimatum she had been given by Gregory, her boss would just have to fire her if that was what they wanted. She had tried to put the whole situation out of her mind as she just wanted to get some sleep, but she could not stop thinking about the events of the day. Not only did she have to deal with Gregory, she had missed her appointment at Juniper House and cursed herself for not planning her day properly.

Just as Gail was about to drop off again, she felt something brush against her foot. She shifted her position in the bed slightly and began to drift off again, then she felt a gentle nip on her left heel. Gail opened her eyes and peered at the bottom of her bed; when she saw the lump under her cover and felt another nip on her heel, she pulled herself up in the bed slightly. 'If this is a burglary, my assailant is acting very strangely' she said pulling up the covers to confirm her suspicions.

Lucas smiled when he had been unveiled, 'You caught me Miss Emory. Breaking and entering, that might be something you want to report to the local Sheriff' he said sarcastically and pulled Gail's legs gently to bring her back to a laying position.

Gail tried to fight and protest then just lay back, she was tired and she did not have the strength right now to be mad at him. When Lucas was happy that she had given in, he began gently nipping and kissing her ankle, then continued the motion up her leg until his lips met the inside of her thigh. Gail let out a small moan and reached down in an attempt to pull him up towards her, but he shook her off and began kissing between her legs. Gail tried to defiantly pull free from his grip; however, Lucas held her where he wanted, then began to nip and lick her. She could not control herself much longer and she yelled out for him as she came.

When he had gotten his desired reaction, Lucas began to kiss and nip Gail again. He started on her stomach, then moved slowly up her body until he reached her breasts. It made him smile how easily he could get her aroused; however, she did always try to resist letting go, which made this more of a challenge. He began to gently suck her nipple and smiled when he felt her shift underneath him due to the pleasurable sensation. He could tell she was trying her best not to yell out again, but he had no doubt that she would surrender to him soon.

Gail let her hands move up Lucas's back and to his head, she was trying to keep some form of control here but was failing miserably. She gripped his hair and pulled his head back, so his lips were no longer on her breasts. She bit her lip when she saw how much he wanted her and took a deep breath to clear her head. 'I thought I told you not to come tonight Sheriff' she said in a scolding manner.

Lucas pulled himself up so his lips were just inches from hers, 'I respected your wishes Darlin', but it's past midnight now and this is a brand new day' he said and kissed her cheek.

Gail laughed and opened her legs wider so his body could rest comfortably on top of hers. 'Oh please, that's your reasoning?' she asked and inhaled deeply when he shifted slightly, as she felt his manhood close to entering her.

Lucas felt himself grow harder and resisted the urge to enter her straight away, instead he just rested on top of her. 'That's my story Miss Emory and I'm sticking to it' he said and nipped at her lips.

Gail ran her hands down his back and pulled him closer, to indicate that she wanted him inside her. When Lucas just continued to nip and kiss her, she began to get agitated and wondered what he was waiting for.

'Patience Darlin'...' he said reading her mind, '...I'm not finished playing yet.'

Lucas reached his hand down between her legs then gently pushed his finger inside her. When he heard her moan and felt how ready she was for him, he had to resist the urge to take her. It was taking all of his self control but he needed to wait for the perfect moment for her to agree to his request.

The suspense was killing Gail, she was already frustrated with the lack of sleep she had gotten and it felt like her whole body ached for Lucas to enter her fully. She realised that most women would be grateful for this level of foreplay; however, Lucas was taking it too far and she felt like she was ready to explode.

'Don't worry love, we'll get there soon. I just have some business to discuss first.' Lucas said and pushed another finger inside of her.

Gail bit her lips to stop from calling his name, she could tell that he was toying with her and clearly had an end game here. She would not give him the satisfaction of outwardly showing how much she craved him at this moment and managed to gather some of her self control back, in an attempt to beat him at his own game. Reaching down to his manhood, she gently grabbed him then roughly started to move her hand up and down. When she heard his soft moan, she knew he wanted her as much as she wanted him and gave a little smile. 'Business you say...' she said panting, '...and what business would we have to discuss Sheriff?'

Lucas gently placed another finger inside her and used his thumb to play with her too, trying to regain the upper hand. 'Well, seen as you unveiled the new candidate for Sheriff, which I was unaware of, I'm having to make an effort this year. I have dinner plans with the Mayor and I want you to join us Miss Emory.' Lucas said breathing heavily.

Gail knew that this was not the time to be making decisions and he was clearly trying to distract her so she would not be able to fully consider what he was asking. She tightened her grip on him and began to move faster, she could not help it and she cursed herself for enjoying this playfulness so much. Lucas lowered his head into her neck to stifle another moan, she loved the effect she was having on him. 'Unaware huh?...you must be losing your touch Sheriff. You know I don't like our rendezvous's to be public, what's in it for me if I agree to this dinner?' she asked as she nipped his ear.

Lucas chose to ignore her first comment and raised his head to stare seductively into her eyes, 'You get me...however you want me' he said and kissed her passionately.

Gail pulled out of the kiss after a moment, 'Mmm...however I want you?' she considered out loud and nipped at Lucas's ear again. 'I could have you however I want at any time, Sheriff' she whispered.

There she went using his title again, that was all it took for Lucas to lose control. He pulled his fingers out, moved her hand off him then pushed into her deeply. Gail was surprised by the sudden movement and gave out a load moan. Lucas smiled and decided to try a different tactic, he began to move in and out of her vigorously. When she gripped his back and dug her nails into his skin, he knew she was close and so he pulled out of her. Gail yelled out in confusion and frustration, but he just smiled. 'Say yes' he panted and kissed her neck.

'You son of a bitch' she said and shook her head.

Lucas entered her and began the vigorous motion again, then pulled out just before she came. 'God damn it Lucas!' she shouted and dug her nails deeper in his back.

'Say yes' he said and bit her lip playfully.

Gail was ready to explode, this had gone on for long enough and he was not playing fair. She wanted to be infuriated with this stunt; however, she could not blame Lucas for playing to his strengths and part of her wanted to applaud his tactics. 'Yes!' she said and Lucas entered her again. She could feel his smug grin on her neck and she cursed herself for letting him win this. It felt so good to have him inside her though and it did not take long for them both to come together.

When the game was finally over and Lucas had succeeded, she lay on his chest and drifted off to sleep while Lucas grinned triumphantly.

-To be continued-