I do not own EUReKA. I miss them so.

The Law of Attraction

Chapter 8: Mind Games

The news of Jack, Allison and Stark's love triangle spread throughout town like wildfire. They weren't sure who'd started it, but word had grown exponentially. So much so, that Allison received a call from Eurkea's military liaison, General Mansfield. He wanted to know if any of the shenanigans he'd heard had a ring of truth to them. Allison wasn't trying to hide it from him, in fact, she'd planned to let her superiors know as soon as she'd gotten the chance. Caught off guard, she gave as little detail as possible. She stated that she and Sheriff Carter had recently begun dating and assured him that it would have no effect on their job performance. Mansfield wasn't totally convinced, but he yielded to Allison's expertise. She reminded him that they hadn't let him down so far, and they didn't intend to. It did make her wonder. Who had been so quick to alert their superiors?

You would think that working and living in a town primarily filled with geniuses, there'd be a marginal level of maturity. On the other hand, they were human after all and it shouldn't have been a revelation that not everyone would be ecstatic about their union. Those who where curious were wise enough not to approach in search of details. Those in the loop consisted of Zoë and Jo, and even they didn't know everything. It came as no surprise to anyone that Stark chose not to confide in anyone; not even Henry, a long time friend. The one person in Eurkea he routinely shared his deepest thoughts and feelings with no longer was available to him. Allison often felt he sheltered himself intentionally, creating an emotional barrier. In hindsight it made sense; if you don't care for people, you can't get hurt. Though, she was concerned with how it effected him. Never one to wear his heart on his sleeve, it was hard to tell exactly what he thought. Frankly, she'd said all that she needed to. If there were occasion for him to come to her and bare his soul, she would be there for him without a doubt. But, therein lie another dilemma.

As she and Jack fell into a groove, they hadn't taken into account who else would be affected by their union, whether positively or negatively. In general, everyone went about their daily lives unaffected. What they hadn't considered was Zoë. Regardless of the fact that the majority of students at Tesla had above average intelligence, that didn't mean they were any less cruel than your normal teenager. Zoë, fiercely independent took it all in stride. More than capable of handling herself, she was quick to remind them that just because her father was Sheriff didn't mean she was opposed to kicking a little ass. Jo ever protective of Jack and Allison immediately squashed any rumors, assuring anyone in earshot that anymore gossip heard would not make her happy. Trust, you didn't want to be on Jo's bad side. Other than that, it was smooth sailings...or so they thought.

Nathan's attitude was what she found most peculiar. He didn't brood, nor try to rationalize with her. Oddly, he treated Jack exactly as he always had; as a nonentity. Allison surmised he'd come to grips with the reality that they were truly over. Moreover, it took a lot to ruffle Nathan's feathers so that he acted out. That cold rigid exterior he'd built was a honed skill which helped him to remain focused. Allison had seen the softer side of him and knew how open and compassionate he could be. She wished he'd share that side of himself. Maybe he wouldn't be so lonely. She wanted to remain friends; allow him to remain a positive influence in Kevin's life, but wasn't sure how he felt about the idea. She wanted to talk with him, but knew he needed time to grieve for their relationship. Though she cared deeply for him, she couldn't dwell on how sensitive he might be with their current situation. Anyway, she was too busy enjoying what she and Jack had to be invested in anything else. Almost as if no time had passed they started right where they'd left off. The only difference this time was that the entire town was now aware of it. Dinner dates at Café Diem, late nights spent at each others homes, Saturday afternoon excursions with Kevin and Zoë; it was like a fantasy come true.

Lost in thought, Allison was jolted back to reality upon spotting Nathan. As she moved toward him, she tried hard not to predict what his response would be. He was a brilliant man and she valued his opinion on many a subject. How could she convince him that they could maintain a friendship? After days of scant communication, she cornered him as he was leaving the facility.

"Nathan! Can we talk for a minute?" Her hands cupped together, she appeared repentant.

He turned toward her, his brilliantly white smile on display. "Sure Allison, you know I always have time for you."

She really didn't expect him to turn her down, he was too much of a gentleman for that.

"Nathan, we really haven't had a chance to talk about...this, any further and I wanted to clear the air. I know this is difficult for you, just as it is for me. I realize you don't believe that, but it is. We've had some great times, but I need to know that we're okay."

He inched closer to her, yet still far enough away as not to invade her personal space.

"Allison, you shouldn't have to ask that question. We're both adults, and while I don't agree with your choice, I can live with it."

She doubted it, but didn't press the issue. "I appreciate that Nathan. You don't know how much that means to me."

Allison, thinking that was the end of their conversation, smiled in gratitude for his decency and began to walk away; she didn't get far.

"Besides...I can wait."

Something about his tone stopped her dead in her tracks. "What do you mean you can wait?"

Closing the gap, there was no discerning that his intent wasn't platonic. When he raised his hand and placed it tenderly on her cheek, she flinched. It wasn't out of disgust or fear, it was because he'd startled her. She hadn't expected him to be tender with her and would have been less shocked if he'd slapped her across the face; not that he ever would.

"What I mean is that I can wait until your relationship with Carter falls apart."

Visibly stunned, her graceful features morphed. Brow furrowed, eyes squinted, mouth pinched tight, her skin flushed from the rush of blood. "Falls apart?"

"Allie, you need to face facts. You and Carter will never work. After the initial high and the newness wears off...you'll come to your senses. At first blush, you may think you're a match made in heaven, but we both know better.

Allison couldn't help but raise her voice; caring less if any one in their vicinity heard. She knew Nathan almost better than he knew himself; this wasn't rational Nathan, it was jealous Nathan. Yes, he was vain and arrogant, but even this was a new low for him.

"Nathan, I understand you're upset, but that's just cruel!"

"No, it's honest." He craned his head forward so that his eyes met hers, "I'll allow this foray to the dark side, and when it's over I'll be waiting."

Allison was beside herself. He stood there for how long she didn't know with that superior look on his face. Did he think she'd agree? Thank him for being so understanding, allowing her this opportunity to sow her wild oats? If she wasn't such a lady, she'd tell him what he could do with his opinion.

Instead, she glared at him, her eyes cold; demeanor to match. "You're wrong. Jack and I will make it."

"Allison Blake, I know you almost better than you know yourself. Better than you'd dare to admit. This won't last."

He turned on her, leaving her there, dumbfounded. He'd hurt her and she knew it had been his intent. She could have argued him on his point, but what would that accomplish? Sure, she'd sometimes think to herself, how would she and Jack's love affair develop? Believe her, she didn't want to take part in orchestrating another doomed relationship. Though she vowed to not let what Nathan had said upset her, she couldn't help but internalize his words.

She was meeting Jack for dinner tonight and though just the sight of him always brightened her mood, this time she found it hard to focus. Nathan's words had made their mark and sadly, she bore it's scar.

Arriving at the café, she spied Jack off in one corner deep in conversation with Henry. Almost as if he sensed she was nearby, he turned; that unmistakable sparkle in his eye that he reserved only for her. Excusing himself, he came to greet her.

"Hey sweetie," leaning over, he quickly bussed her on the cheek. "I have a table ready for us."

Allison followed him, and the gentleman that he was, he pulled out her chair for her. Now sitting across from him, she was suddenly gripped by fear. Goddam Nathan for making her open that door again; the one where she was unsure. Her foolish attempt to hide her feelings from Jack didn't go unnoticed as he remarked instantaneously about her mood.

"What's wrong?"

Sheepishly she answered, "Nothing." But never did she look into his eyes.

"Allison, I know you. Somethings wrong. I can see it all over your face."

That was the second time today a man claimed to know her. "Do you? Do you really know me?"

She hadn't meant for it to come out as harshly as it did, but the sting of her delivery was evident by the furrow in his brow.

"I'm sorry Jack. I'm just not very hungry all of a sudden."

"Are you feeling okay? Do you want me to take you home?"

"No, I'll be fine. I just need to be alone."

Without another word she sprung from her chair and took the short jaunt home.

Not ten minutes later she pulled into her driveway. Entering, she headed straight for the wine cabinet, uncorked a red zinfandel and took a swig directly from the bottle. The powerful, full-bodied flavor soothed her soul as it effortlessly slid down her throat. Kevin was over at a friend's and would be home within the hour. For now, she was all alone. As she took her second long sip, her doorbell rang. She hadn't been expecting anyone, but really, should she have been surprised who it would be?

Flinging the door open, her feelings were mixed. Upset that he'd followed her, yet elated that he had. "Jack."

"Can I come in?"

Allison opened the door wide, Jack trailed her as she sat down on the sofa. He took the seat next to her, their knees practically touching.

"Allie, did I do something?"

Her head rose sharply at his accusation. "No, what would make you think that?"

Head tilted to the side, his "are you kidding me" expression was difficult to ignore.

He appeared to see straight through her and she knew if she wasn't honest it would only fester.

"I had a row with Nathan."

Bristled, she was touched by his protective nature. "Did he hurt you?"

"No, of course not. It was just a silly argument."

"What was it about?"

Biting her lip, she hesitated before confessing. "Us."

He stood abruptly. Shaking his head, he blew out an exasperated breath. "Are we back here again?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Stark! Is it always going to be a battle between the two of us for your love?"

"Jack, that's not it."

"Then please, tell me. What is it?"

"I'm not confused. I don't want Nathan back. It's only...something he said rattled me."

"About you and I?"

She nodded, ashamed that Nathan unwittingly had managed to come between them.

Jack didn't even try to hide his frustration. "Unbelievable!"

"You know what, I think I'd better go before I say something I shouldn't." Allison watched as he backed up, intent on leaving.

"Wait!" Rushing in front of him, she blocked his exit. "Jack, you have to admit that we're different. What if this doesn't work? What if I fail again?"

"You fail...? Allison, this is a relationship. We are in this together. You act as if you're the only one whose been through a bad breakup or lost someone you've loved."

Allison didn't need to ask who he was speaking of. He had told her the story of Angela Fairfield and that fateful day. She was touched that he'd shared such a difficult, heartbreaking event in his life with her. It made her feel special because she was only one of few people who knew the truth.

"Jack, we promised to be honest with each other, so this is me being honest. I'm scared. Jack, I love you, but if this doesn't work out, I don't know that I will be able to survive the damage to my heart."

"Bullshit!"

"Excuse me?" It was apparent that she wasn't used to being talked to in that manner.

"That's right, I said bullshit. I have just as much invested in this as you. Let me ask you something. Do you think I would ever hurt you intentionally?"

"No."

"Do you know that I have been in love with you from the moment I saw you?"

"Yes."

"So tell me, what makes you think my feelings for you would ever change?"

"Because I've been here before. The players were different, but the outcome was the same."

"So Stark plants one small seed of doubt in your head and now you're willing to give up on us...on me."

"No! But let's be realistic, something could always go wrong."

"No shit! Something could always go wrong, but then again," He drew nearer to her, a noticeable shift in his carriage, he lifted her chin with the cusp of his hand, "it could all go right."

Allison gazed into his endless electric blue eyes; lost in their intensity, she melted. Then he kissed her, and it felt so right, and just that easily all of her fears had been dissuaded; Nathan's prediction forgotten. Jack ended up staying the night with her, their union reunited, they expressed their love for each other over and over again.

Allison woke the next morning to see him still asleep at her side, the subtle rise and fall of his bare chest warmed her. He was peaceful; content. How could she have ever lost faith in this man? The same man who would risk his life for not only his loved ones, but the community as a whole. Allison eased out of bed and into the bathroom reluctantly, in order to get her day started. She had a lot on her agenda today; meetings, a demonstration from one of the medical technology labs, as well as a meet and greet with some students from Tesla.

Exiting the shower, she nearly crashed into him. Sidestepping her, he swept his hand out gallantly, allowing her to pass. Allison crinkled her nose at him and just as he headed for the shower himself, she swatted his bottom. That's when she realized what had been missing from her other relationships; the playfulness. It's not that her first two marriages weren't filled with good times, but she'd also married men who were immutable. Jack was spontaneous, carefree...fun. And as if making her point, he sidled up behind her, his lips on her neck, smooth strong hands resting on her abdomen as she stood in front of the closet, clad only in her underwear. Allison leaned back into his embrace, able to feel his manhood pressed against the small of her back through the luxurious cotton towel.

"Now, now Sheriff. We don't have time for that."

"I know, but I can't help myself. I promise, if you let me, I'll be quick."

"No," Jokingly, she commanded him, "get dressed!"

"Yes, ma'am."

After dressing, Allison headed downstairs to make breakfast for them. By now, Kevin was used to seeing him at their house early in the mornings. Something told Allison that Kevin even enjoyed the fact that Jack was around. She couldn't explain it, but they had an unexplainable connection. Obviously, his charming personality had not only had an impact on her as she watched Kevin sidle up next to him at the kitchen counter. As Jack threw an arm over his shoulder, Allison could have sworn she heard Kevin chuckle.

Her morning couldn't have started off better; breakfast and quality time spent with two of her three favorite men, her dad being the third. Bellies full, they parted as Allison left to drop Kevin off at school; Jack headed off to pick up his usual morning coffee from Vincent.

Still reflecting on his evening with Allison, he stopped short at the entrance of Café Diem.

Just inside, working furiously on his handheld tablet sat Stark. He and Jack had perfected the dance of avoidance, but really, how long could that go on. Squaring his shoulders, Jack decided to be the adult and call a truce.

Approaching his table, Jack said a few hello's along the way, but Stark, pretentious as ever, never even bothered to look up.

"Stark."

Glancing up from his work, he barely acknowledged Jack's presence as he returned his attention onto his tablet. "Sheriff, what can I do for you?"

Jack noted the annoyance in Stark's voice, but then again that's how he usually addressed him; as if Jack were a piece of gum stuck on the bottom of his shoe.

"Can I sit?"

"It's a free country."

Jack paused, thinking to himself, "Fuck it. Why even bother?"

But he had to do this, not for himself and definitely not to make Stark feel better, but for Allison.

Taking a seat, he started right in. He didn't intend on pussyfooting around; the less time spent with Stark, the better.

"Look, I came over here to offer an olive branch. I know the situation didn't turn out the way you'd hoped, but...here we are. We've never been friends, but we can at least be civil. Well, in Allie's presence anyway."

Jack didn't miss the cringe and tightening of Stark's jaw when he said Allie instead of Allison, like he used to.

"Gee Sheriff," Jack took note of his condescending tone, "I didn't think you knew what an olive branch was, let alone how to use the word civil properly in a sentence..."

Jack would not be bated, letting his sarcasm slide.

"...and no we've never been friends as I would surely never have anything in common with the likes of you."

Jack hunched over the table, his voice hushed so as not to attract any further attention on them.

"I understand exactly what you're trying to do. A man like you who's respected, accomplished; you're trying to save face. How bout I let you in on a little secret. Your juvenile mind games don't effect me. I couldn't care less if you make fun of me or what you've done in your life, but you mess with Allison again, and I will kick your pompous ass all over this town."

Nathan mimicked his stance; a fire in his eyes.

"Is that a threat Sheriff Carter?"

And without hesitation, Jack answered, "Yes, Dr. Stark it is."

Stark's stone-faced expression turned into a sinister grin which darkened his features.

That same look would strike fear in anyone else, but Jack merely stood, retrieved his coffee and left out, hoping that would be the end of his dealings with Stark; at least for today. Unfortunately, as it was in Eureka, a crisis always loomed around the next corner and one would soon bring them back together in a most fortuitous way.

Next - Chapter 9: A Gentleman's Agreement