Chapter One

Thomas Stephens, MD, PHD sat alone at a table for four, waiting. He was low on funds again and it was the fault of one person, one person who would rue the day he ever testified against him. He lost his medical license in the state of Maine because Seth Hazlitt, MD was a self-righteous, sanctimonious hypocrite. He would pay. He would make him regret ever crossing him. His lucrative practice dried up before he could even get a locum to take his place. His staff left immediately. His girlfriend broke things off but that was no great loss. She was costing him too much anyway.

No, his greatest loss was his home. Five thousand square feet over three levels. He had studied over the plans and loved every inch of his house. His decorator was worth every dime. His precious house was his pride and joy. He had just started collecting artwork and sculptures for his home. After growing up in the foster care system he knew he was going to be successful one day. If it was the last thing he ever did, he was going to make Seth Hazlitt's life miserable.

Seth Hazlitt dropped his mail on the counter before opening his refrigerator and pulling out a few ingredients. He was making dinner for Jessica tonight, in her kitchen of course, and he had bought all the ingredients during his lunch hour. He hummed a tune while packing everything up and then went to shower.

He paid careful attention to his hair and clothes. He knew he would be teased if others knew but he wanted to look put together yet casual. He shaved and put on a dab of cologne as well. Jessica had a way of moving close to reach around him and he wanted to smell good.

Last night went very well. It was a simple dinner of lobster ravioli, salad, and dinner rolls from Sassi's bakery but when Jessica thanked him, as she always did, she kissed his cheek and she hadn't done that before. Now a kiss on the cheek isn't world news or anything but any kiss from Jessica was cherished. She had been so relaxed about it too. "Thanks for the dinner, Seth. It was wonderful." Then she leaned forward and kissed his cheek while her hand was on his shoulder. Her lips were soft and when he got home, her lip print was on his cheek.

His feelings for Jessica had grown over the years, they were more than friends in his opinion but not lovers. They weren't even dating but they took trips together, with separate accommodations. They spent most of their free time together, antiquing, fishing, or just playing chess after dinner. Conversation flowed and there was always a lot of laughter. He could pinpoint the exact moment when he fell for her.

Christmas Eve three years ago at the holiday dinner the town council held. As they were leaving they were spotted beneath the mistletoe and as tradition dictated, they kissed. Jessica had been so at ease about it. Maybe it was the three glasses of wine she drank but he didn't think so. As soon as the shouts and calls announced they were under the mistletoe, she gave a laugh and reached for him. She placed the perfect kiss on him. Not too long, not too short and her mouth parted just before the kiss ended. She then gave him a hug and a smile, grabbed his arm and walked out of the hall with him. She didn't even turn around to acknowledge the clapping. He still dreamt about that kiss. He was amazed at how nonchalant she had been. When he knew they had to kiss, he froze not knowing how she would feel about it or if he should kiss her cheek.

He knew he wasn't the most handsome of men. He was older now so it was easier to be honest with himself. He always thought Jessica would prefer a taller man, a thinner man, someone that wined and dined her and took her places. Well, they did go out for meals but not at Michelin rated restaurants. He just couldn't afford to eat out in fancy places often. Sure, he could have breakfast every morning at the diner without breaking the bank but he was trying to eat better, exercise, etc.

He didn't have many close friends. Sure, he knew everyone in town and was on friendly terms with most people but he only had one confidant, Jessica, and he didn't want to risk losing her.

Thomas looked up as a tall, thin man walked toward him.

"Edgar?"

"Hello Doc," the man took a seat and passed an envelope to Thomas.

"What's this?" Thomas asked curiously.

"My bill," Edgar replied. "I finished the job an hour ago. When I was scouting the place, the perfect opportunity arose and I didn't want to chance it again."

Thomas stared at the man before reaching in his jacket pocket and pulling out an envelope filled with cash.

"That's all of it," he rose and walked away. Hopefully things will be different in a week or so.

With dinner simmering on the stove, Jessica led Seth into the foyer and opened the coat closet. She reached in and pulled out a small gift wrapped box and handed it to him.

"Jess, it's not my birthday," began Seth.

"I know that, Seth," she injected. "I didn't want to wait three months to give it to you. It's just something I came across in the city and thought you'd enjoy."

"Thank you," he said, beginning to open it. Inside was a fisherman standing on the deck of a boat, rod in hand. The cast iron metal made the object heavy. He looked at Jessica questioning.

"Seth, it's a bank! It was made in 1887!" she exclaimed. Pulling a dime out of her pocket she placed it in the slot for it and they watched as the fisherman cast his rod, took the coin, and dropped it in the 'bank'.

"This is great, Jess!" Seth fished a coin from his pocket and watched it again. "I might have to set this up at the office. I'll be able to collect my fees quicker," he laughed. "Thank you, I mean it."

He leaned forward to peck her lips and was surprised when she pressed her lips to his prolonging the kiss slightly.

"You're very welcome, now let's eat." She caressed his cheek lightly then turned to go back to the kitchen, he was slow to follow.

What did that kiss mean? If he hadn't stopped it would they still be kissing? He ambled back to the kitchen and began stirring the contents of various pots while Jessica set the table. His mind stayed on the kiss throughout dinner but there wasn't an increase in tension or an appreciable reaction from Jessica. She acted as she normally did.

After dinner they had a chess match with Jessica winning due to the distraction in his mind.

"Another match, Seth?" She began setting up the board again.

"It's after nine, Jess. I had better be heading home," he announced.

"I'm not ready to call it a night," she stated imploringly. "Please?"

"Alright Jess but you could have ended the night a winner." He took a seat and looked at the board. "I'm going to beat your socks off this time."

She smiled at him and made her first move. She won the second game as well and Seth chuckled at the look in her eyes.

"Okay woman, you finally beat me two games in a row."

"Seth, you mentioned the other day that you were going down to Virginia?" asked Jessica as she cleared the board and put away the pieces.

"Ayuh, going to a convention on mind healing. I have to stay on my toes, you know." Seth pushed in his chair and turned to face her. "Why?"

"If it isn't too late, I'd like to go."

Seth raised his eyebrows at her. "I wouldn't mind the company on the drive but I don't think it would interest you much. I know how you feel about hypnosis." He looked doubtful.

"Well, I don't want to go to your meetings but I might base a book in Virginia and I'd like to look around. We can meet for dinner each night and you can tell me about your day." She smiled at him. "I'm sure I can get a room where you're staying or at a hotel nearby."

"I planned to leave very early Thursday morning. It's nearly a ten hour drive. Registration is that evening with cocktails and an official welcome. It only lasts about an hour and you'll be welcome to attend. It's mostly standing around talking."

Seth inwardly sighed. He wanted Jessica's company but now he'd probably have to pack a tuxedo, another suit, shirts, and shoes because she would expect to dine in fancier restaurants than the ones he indulged and this inexpensive trip was going to become expensive, double or triple what he planned. It was worth it to have time alone with Jessica but he was going to have to cut back on expenses for a few months.

"Seth, Seth? Where have you gone?" Jessica was standing beside him with her hand on his shoulder. She was smiling softly and gave his shoulder a squeeze.

"Sorry Jess," apologized Seth. "I was wondering if I should rent a car instead of taking mine."

Jessica looked at him shrewdly and he tried to remain unfazed about the expense. She turned him to face her. "Seth, I don't want to complicate matters. It isn't necessary that I go with you."

Seth smiled reassuringly. "Woman, you can't back out now. I'm making plans."

"Well, we'll split the cost on the car, then." She raised her hand. "No arguments."

Seth did a few quick calculations in his head. It would make it more reasonable if they split the cost but he wasn't comfortable.

"Seth, we've been friends too long to let a few dollars interfere in our lives." She gave him a quick hug and whispered in his ear. "I cherish you far more than the cost of a rental car."

Seth cleared his throat. "Er Jess, yes, we can split the cost, er…are you feeling okay?" Jessica had touched him more tonight than all of last week. Even now her arm was across his back keeping him close to her. She was watching him closely too. Of course, she never missed anything with those sharp eyes of hers.

"May I still come?" she asked, looking deeply into his eyes.

Seth felt like she could look into his soul, her gaze was so deep. "Yes, I'd like you to come, Jess." He didn't mention the expense. He was looking forward to ten hours alone with her. "We'll have a good time."

Jessica had a small, secret smile on her face and Seth wished he could read her mind. Women were much more clever than men in his opinion. It was late now. After ten, he'd better head home. Jessica seemed reluctant to end the night but agreed it was late. She gathered up his gift while he put on his jacket. She thanked him again for dinner as she walked him to the back door.

Seth held his breath. Would she kiss him again? He opened the door and turned toward her. "Safe home, Seth," she said quietly, then kissed his cheek.

"Goodnight Jess," he smiled as he left.

It was a kiss on the cheek, you old goat he cautioned himself. Had something changed or was he reading too much into it? Jessica didn't seem different from usual. She dressed the same, spoke the same, it was just the kisses and the touches that he didn't understand. They weren't lingering touches but they seemed intimate. He dwelled on Jessica far too long and woke up late.

After a busy day of seeing patients and doing his rounds at the hospital, he returned home to begin packing. He was always fussy when he was meeting with other colleagues. Using his trusty garment bag he packed three suits, his tuxedo, and two pairs of shiny black shoes. He pulled out his largest suitcase and packed his shirts, underwear, socks, and t-shirts. He filled his toiletry kit with his needed items and tossed it in the suitcase as well. He put a pair of his pajama pants and shower shoes inside then went over his list of needed items. Remembering he needed cufflinks, ties, and a pullover sweater, he packed those items as well.

He would pick up the rental car tomorrow, pack the car with his and Jessica's luggage, get a good night's sleep, and arrive at Jessica's around 5:15 AM on Thursday morning.

Unfortunately, it didn't happen that way. It took a long time to get the rental car so he was late to the office, which ran into his lunch time so he couldn't load the car until after work. When he went by Jessica's she wasn't home so he ran to the grocery store to buy snacks, went by her house again and she still wasn't home so he had dinner at the diner. Finally she was home when he drove by for the third time. She had gone to get her hair done at Loretta's. It did look nice but why can't women wash their own hair? Naturally, she still had to pack. With him chivvying her along, it didn't take too long and he loaded up her gear.

"Now woman, be ready to go at 5:30. I'll be here at 5:15 on the dot."

"Ay, ay, captain," she saluted with a smile. "I'll just sleep naked to save me time dressing in the morning." She laughed charmingly at the look on his face. "Now dear, I'll be ready with a travel cup of coffee for you." She leaned forward and kissed his cheek. "Now hurry home and get to bed." She patted his behind and winked at him.

Seth stared at her unsure of what was going on. She seemed in a very good mood. She patted him on the butt! She never did that before. With slow steps he went to the car and started for home.

It would have been great if he fell asleep immediately once he got into bed but he didn't. He had showered to save time in the morning, took out his clothes to wear, and since she would never know he slept in the nude.

He woke when the alarm rang and although he didn't sleep as much as he wanted, he was excited about the day. He shaved with his spare razor, dressed after washing his face, brushed his teeth, and checked himself in the mirror. A little aftershave in case she was close to him and he was out of the door. She was ready when he arrived at her house and she provided him with a thermos of coffee and she had another one for herself which he assumed held tea. She had bottles of water in a cooler with a few pieces of fruit but he packed his own snacks so he wasn't worried.