A/N Everything you recognize belongs to Janet Evanovich. Thank you to Kathy's amazing beta skills, Heather for all her sound advice and encouragement and Lisa who did a little of both! Without you all, this story would not have happened. A special Thank you to Sonomom who fixed my errors with technical ultrasound language. You are a talented writer and a wonderful person! Thank you for the amazing reviews!

~Chapter 6

***Apr 6

I hate this part of the business. I have had meetings all day. I look at my watch, 1650 hours and I still have one more to go. I'm meeting with Jeanne Ellen. She called and asked if I could meet her at Sebring's Bond Office. I haven't done a lot for Sebring lately. I assume they have a high bond they need Rangeman for. Jeanne Ellen is a capable BEA so I can't think she would bring us in if it weren't a big deal.

I arrive at Sebring's office on the other side of Trenton. I expected Sebring to be there with Jeanne Ellen but it seems to be just us judging by her car being the only one in the lot. The door is unlocked and I enter. Jeanne Ellen comes out of the conference room to meet me at the door. She approaches me and I hold my hand out to shake and she bypasses my hand for a hug and kiss on the cheek. She has never been that forward but I hide my surprise.

"Thanks for coming," she says, not letting go of me. I nod my head in response. I make no move. I was expecting her to give me a file. Sit at the conference room table and discuss a high bond FTA then have Sebring make an offer. Imagine my surprise when she flat out propositions me. I didn't show it but I'm shocked. We have worked together in the past and have flirted a bit but nothing over the top. What she's asking me is for a sexual relationship with no expectations of anything more and she's currently running her hands along my chest.

Ordinarily, I don't shit where I eat and if Steph weren't currently filling this role, I would be tempted. Jeanne's the ideal candidate. She lives the lifestyle, knows the risk and can take care of herself but most importantly, I have no interest in her. That has always been my choice in women. I don't want to become attached. I don't want to answer to anyone. I have a business that I need to focus my time on.

"I appreciate your offer but I have that roll filled currently," I tell her, keeping any and all emotion out of my voice.

"Ahh the Bombshell Bounty Hunter," she guesses correctly. I neither confirm nor deny. She's still running her hands up and down my chest. I get myself under control. I don't respond to her words or actions. She continues.

"Well, you better be careful. She is a product of her upbringing and will want the marriage and family thing. It's in her DNA. She's also not above tricking you to give her what she wants. Any woman with a uterus will trap a man if she wants it badly enough. I have a career so I'm a safe bet. I'm also secure financially. I'm truly just in it for mutual gratification," she states moving her hands down slowly. I grab her hands and stop their descent.

"Like I said, I appreciate your offer but I'm not interested." I repeat.

"Too bad," she responds and takes her hands off me. "That's all that I wanted to discuss with you. Have fun doing all the boyfriend things she's going to rope you into."

I turn to leave and she speaks again. "Just be careful that her mother doesn't get wind of how much you're worth. You're quite the catch for those kinds of people."

I keep walking. I don't want t Jeanne Ellen to see that she's pissed me off. I don't appreciate the implications that I'm only wanted for my money and status. Stephanie does know how much I'm worth and she hasn't seemed to let it affect anything. She's not a gold digger and I don't like her implying that she is.

I arrive back early and go to the gym to work off my irritation. I think about Steph and her expectations. I know I have been clear about what I want from her but I can't help thinking that she's going to want marriage and children someday and someday we are going to have to part ways because of it. My thoughts are not helping my irritation so I shut them down and continue to beat the heavy bag.

***Apr 7

I sit in my office on Seven and finish up quarterly evaluations for Boston. I look at my watch and smile. I have plenty of time to shower and get ready to pick up Steph. I'm taking her to Rossini's for dinner. It is a thank you for her help finding a skip who had been jerking us around. I was ready to hold his mother hostage when Steph figured out how he kept evading us. The asshole had a cousin working the corner on Stark selling dime bags while playing lookout. He would call and tip him off every time we made an attempt to grab him. He wasn't a high bond but he was making us look foolish and I can't have that. She got involved in the case when Lester complained that we failed a fifth time to bring this punk in.

"It's like he knows you're coming," she said and retreated back to her desk. Forty five minutes later, she brought us the names of relatives and known associates. Unfortunately, there were too many lowlifes to check out so we just used personal vehicles and varied our route and the little weasel was sitting in his shitty living room playing Call of Duty on a 75 inch TV.

I finish getting ready with only fifteen minutes to spare. I have on black dress pants and a black cashmere sweater. The required black jacket completes my outfit. I'm going for business casual although business isn't going to be on the agenda for later tonight. I have something else in mind. Something more like flavored oils and relaxation.

I pull up to Steph's shithole apartment and double park in the front. All the residents are in for the night and barring any late night Metamucil runs, I'm pretty safe parking here. I take the steps two at a time and reach her door and let myself in.

I hear the sounds from a rock station blaring from her Bluetooth speaker and smile as I hear her singing along. She doesn't have a very good singing voice but not for lack of effort. I stand and listen for a few moments, waiting to choose the perfect time to reveal myself as she suddenly pops out into the main living area seeing me and the smile on my face. I blank my face quickly but it's too late. She knows I've been here long enough to hear her singing. A bright red blush colors her face and she closes her eyes tight. I reach her in four strides and pull her in for a hug and kiss the top of her head. God, there's not much I don't like about her.

"Ugh. I can't believe you heard me," she mumbles into my chest. I put my hands on the sides of her face to make her look at me.

"I wouldn't change a thing about you," I tell her and kiss her lightly on the lips. It was just a brush and I pull back. I don't want to be late for dinner and judging by the fact that she doesn't have any makeup on and she's still in a robe, I have to keep her on task or we'll never make it.

She turns and retreats back into her bedroom to finish getting ready. Surprisingly ten minutes later, she comes back out with her makeup complete and holding two dresses. "Which one?" She asks and I look back and forth. One is my favorite red dress and the other is an electric blue wrap dress that has me intrigued. I do love the red dress but this blue dress has me thinking she'll be a present for me later. Plus, any blue color makes her eyes look amazing.

"The blue one," I tell her and she seems surprised. She leaves with a 'huhn' and appears five minutes later with her shoes dangling in her hand.

"You look sexy." I tell her and help her put on her shoes. I can't help but wish I'll get to help her out of her shoes later tonight. If all goes well, we'll be doing just that and more back at Haywood.

Over dinner, we talk about work and she asks me about Julie. I confide in her that Julie is fast approaching the unreasonable teenage stage and according to Rachel, things have been rocky.

"I remember those years," she says. "I don't know much about Rachel, but she'll get through it. She seems patient." We think about that for a moment before she adds "just reason 246 why I shouldn't have kids. Could you imagine me with a teenager? I don't know if I would jump off the roof with them or drive them out to the woods and leave them for dead," she says and I smile.

After dinner, I pay the bill and we head outside to the valet, dessert packed up to go. I want a little more privacy to enjoy dessert and I have plans of actually eating the tiramisu. All of it depends on Steph though. "Come back to Haywood with me?" I say, mixing a command with a question. She nods her head but doesn't look at me. I need to get her to relax, she needs persuasion for what I have in mind.

We arrive at Haywood and take the elevator up to Seven. I open the door and drop my keys in the dish. She walks in the apartment ahead of me and takes the dessert to put it on the breakfast bar.

"Do you want to eat your dessert now or wait a bit?" I ask going into the kitchen to pour us some wine. I rarely have more than a few sips when we are in public but here, in the safety of my building, I can indulge.

"I would like to wait. I ate too much" she complains.

"I know just what you need," I tell her and prep the room. This is just the opening I need to set the mood. I put on some classic dance songs and light some candles.

I hold out my hand to her and pull her into my arms. "If we dance, you'll feel like eating your dessert before you know it." I say starting to move with her in my arms. She puts her arms around my neck and pulls me close. I love the way she fits in my arms. With her heels on, she's close to my height and we fit nicely together. 'The lady in Red' song begins and she pauses.

"Why didn't you pick the red dress? I thought that it was your favorite," she asks, moving back to look at me.

"I was intrigued by the wrap," I tell her, and pull her back into me. "I feel like it's my birthday," I whisper in her ear and feel her shiver. Yes, everything is going very well. Happy Birthday to me.

We dance a few more songs and the sexual tension is at an all time high. I lead her back into the kitchen and we sip wine and talk about nothing important while she starts eating her dessert. I enjoy listening to her and before she's done, I'm beyond ready. I pull her out of her seat and walk her into the bedroom knowing I'll come back for the uneaten dessert a little later. I was able to unwrap my present first and we spent the rest of the evening finishing her dessert and giving each other massages with scented oil by candle light. I fall asleep thankful Steph is giving in with only the smallest amount of pressure. I'm also thankful she got the shot, giving us unrestricted access. Life is very good.

***Apr 9

Two days later, Rangeman is in total chaos. Les is gone. Kelsey is gone. The office comes to a screeching halt. I call Stephanie and ask her to come in. I found out from Tank that Kelsey is pregnant and has taken off. Les just ran out presumably to search for her.

"I'm here, what's up?" she asks, walking through my open door. "Kelsey is gone and she's supposed to run several reports for me. I haven't learned how to use this particular piece of software yet and I need you to teach me. I hate not knowing how everything works." I tell her.

"Where's Kelsey?" she asks and even though I wanted her to run the reports first, I fill her in on the limited details I got from Tank.

"Why would she be running from Les?" she asks. "It doesn't make sense. Why wouldn't they be trying to work it out?"

I stay silent while she continues thinking out loud. "Unless, Les said he didn't want to have anything to do with them...but that doesn't make sense. If that were true then he wouldn't be chasing her." She keeps up the discussion with herself. "Are we sure Les is going after Kelsey? What if he's running in the opposite direction?"

"According to Tank, Les said that he'll be offline. He didn't give a reason" I

SPOV

"Okay so we are back to why would Kelsey be running? Maybe one of them wanted to end it and the other disagrees." I surmise. "That doesn't sound like Les. He's a responsible guy so maybe Kelsey wants to end it and Les doesn't? We need to find Les and try to help. No matter what, we need Les to know we have his back."

Ranger takes a deep breath and says. "Fine. We can look for Les," he relents. I think he really wanted to get his work done. Too bad. Les is more important.

"Okay, let's check out his place," Ranger and I head down to his apartment on four. . I use my key, and grin as Ranger raises an eyebrow at me. "Oh, I have been blackmailing Les for ice cream. It's no big deal." I open the freezer door to show him several pints of my favorite flavors. Ranger shakes his head.

We start to search. I'm searching through drawers and cabinets. Ranger is doing the same. "So neither have a tracker on them?" I ask.

"No," he replies, and I think about that for a moment. "So, I'm the only one with constant monitoring?" I ask stopping what I am doing to look at him.

He sighs. "Les's car has a tracker but it's been disabled."

"We are going to talk about this later." I tell him, irritated that I'm the only one who cannot go offline for any reason. "What about his cell?" I ask.

Ranger freezes. He pulls out his phone and makes a call in Spanish. The entire call took less than 5 seconds. I stare at him questioningly. He looks at me and tells me he is asking Hector to see if he can locate him by his phone.

We continue to search his bedroom and I pull open a drawer with some questionable stuff in it. "You can search this drawer." I tell him.

He smirks and I move to the dresser. I am not touching his bed or the drawers next to it. I move to the bathroom and find the drawer that was Kelsey's. I found a packet of birth control pills and upon further inspection, see that it is current and up to date. She has been taking her pills so it looks like she was at least being responsible. I feel a little bad for her being thrust into this situation. I still don't like her and wouldn't trust her for anything but I can feel bad that she has to deal with this. She must be freaked.

"We need to look at her phone. Can Hector hack into...whatever to see who she calls? She must have a friend or sister or someone she confides in. I bet she went there." I tell Ranger. I'm not sure what I would do. I have Mary Lou to confide in, I guess, but she may be busy. My sister or mother? No way. The girls at the bond office? Also, no way. It would be all around the Burg in seconds after I turned my back. Jeez, I need to get better friends. The only true friends I have are Ranger and the Merry Men. I can trust them with my life but I couldn't tell them I was pregnant? Not if it was Ranger's. I would be screwed.

He pulls out his phone and calls Hector back, I assume. The conversation was a little longer this time but still under 10 seconds.

When I was thinking about what I would do, I kept coming back to the fact that I would want to talk to Ranger. Why would Kelsey be running from Les? Wouldn't they handle it like adults? I know Kelsey is much younger than us but still, she's a grown up.

Ranger's phone beeps with a location. We know where Les is, or was, when he switched his phone off. At least we have somewhere to start. We jump in the Turbo and head toward Princeton. That's where Kelsey's from. "I think we need to start with her parents first." I tell Ranger. He hands me his phone and tells me what to do to look up her employment file. He's able to get into Rangeman files from his phone. Interesting. I guess he really is the job. I was able to find her and pull up her information. Her home address is an apartment in Trenton but her previous address is probably her parents. It's an address in Princeton. "I think this is it." I tell Ranger and we speed off to that location.

When we arrive, I see Les's car parked on the street in front of the nicely appointed brick colonial. The neighborhood is upper middle class and the cars confirm it. I sit in the car and wait.

"Okay, now what?" Ranger asks.

"I think you should go to the door and knock." I tell him. "You're his cousin and his boss and you were worried about him." Ranger looks pained.

"Fine, I'll go and make sure he's ok." I say as I get out of the car. If I expected Ranger to follow, I would have been disappointed. Good thing I didn't. Jerk.

I ring the doorbell and it is answered a few minutes later by an older gentleman who I can only assume was Kelsey's father.

"Hello, I am a friend and co-worker of Les and Kelsey. We're worried about them and wanted to make sure everyone was ok." I tell him.

He opens the door and lets me enter. "They're this way," he says, frowning. I guess I can't blame him since this is a pretty big bomb that was dropped on him today. I enter the kitchen where everyone is sitting. The mood seems tense and it gets even more tense when I enter

"What are you doing here?" Kelsey asks, not disguising her dislike. I wasn't prepared for this reaction.

"I...I was just making sure you guys were okay." I say, now embarrassed that I came all this way and they seemed to be working it out.

"We're fine. You can leave now," she replies.

"You both left in such a rush...I'm sorry I intruded. Please let any of us know if there is anything we can do," I say backing up ready to turn.

Les jumps out of his seat and says "Wait, thanks but we're okay." He follows me out as Kelsey starts in again.

"If you want to be with me and our baby, then you have to make a choice," she yells at his back. He freezes and looks at me sadly. I'm shocked. What in the world is going on? Why is she acting so jealous? I don't have feelings for Les. What in the heck is going on?

I give him an it's okay look, and he turns and tells Kelsey.

"I already told you I am with you 100%. I'll do anything for you and the baby." I take that as my cue to leave so I turn toward the front door and am ushered out by Kelsey's father who didn't hide his dislike of me.

"What just happened?" I ask the air around me..

I get in the car, still a bit stunned. I relay all of what happened to Ranger. "Something is wrong. I feel it." I say to him. "I don't know what it is but something is very wrong."

The ride back to Haywood is silent. I'm pretty sure Ranger regrets taking me out there and I certainly regret going. I help him with the reports he needs but I can't focus on anything else. All I can do is wonder what the hell happened that made Kelsey hate me so much. I'm really sad that Les is in this situation and hope it all works out for him. I still can't shake the feeling that there is something going on though. I leave early, not being able to get anything done, I just want to go home and forget this day ever happened.

I'm sitting on my couch staring blankly at the TV, my thoughts still focused on the scene this afternoon

From Les: Thanks for trying to help. Kelsey and I are getting married and then we are going to transfer to Boston. We are going to raise the baby there.

From Steph: Congrats. I just want you to be happy.

From Les: We are going to be. I'm choosing to dedicate my life to Kelsey and the baby. Please don't try to contact me. Goodbye

What the heck? I analyze every sentence. We are 'going to be' sounds a lot like I'm not happy now but I will be? Then he makes a big deal stating that breaking off contact is his choice. Finally I'm asked not to contact him and then a goodbye. My head is spinning. This can't be real.

***April 10

SPOV

I tossed and turned all night. When I thought about what Les said, my Spidey sense was screaming. Was the text from Les or did Kelsey send that? I don't think I fell asleep until around 4:00am. I can't believe I'm even awake now, I think as I look at the alarm clock flashing 7:00am. Ugh. I would crawl back under the covers and call in sick if I thought I could get back to sleep. Unfortunately that isn't going to happen so I just roll out of bed. My mind is still racing and I feel like I need to do something. I shuffle into the kitchen and start a cup of coffee. I pick the smallest option so it's very strong. Once I get it down, I start another and take it into the bathroom with me. I do the bare minimum to get myself presentable.

Forty minutes later, I lock up and head into Rangeman. I have to do something but what? I make a beeline to Ranger's office and knock on the door. I breathe a sigh of relief when I hear him say "Enter".

I come in and close the door behind me. "Something isn't right." I blurt out. "With Les. Something is very wrong, I can feel it."

Ranger is searching my face.

"I don't know what it is but I'm telling you. We have to do something." I beg.

He sighs. "Les is a big boy and he can take care of himself," he tells me and I want to scream.

"What did he say to you?" I ask him. Ranger looks at me thoughtfully. "I'm worried about him. Kelsey's reaction is not normal." I plead.

Ranger takes a deep breath and begins. "Les called me last night and asked if I could transfer him to the Boston office. He said he and Kelsey needed a fresh start. He said they would be getting married in three days in Princeton at her family home. He asked if I would be his best man. I agreed to everything."

"He texted me last night and basically said goodbye and not to contact him anymore," I say, filled with frustration. A million thing are going through my head as I try to process this new information. "Why all the drama? Les wasn't going to leave her for getting pregnant on accident. Les is going to marry her. He's moving away for her. Why does it all have to be done in three days? Why would she insist on him breaking all contact with me? When have I ever acted like he was anything other than an annoying brother? Her hatred of me is off the charts. I have never done anything to her to warrant this." I bite my lip. I haven't said this out loud. I came to this conclusion somewhere in the early hours of the morning, and in a moment of insanity I blurt it out. "I think she's tricking him." I hold my breath waiting for Ranger to look at me like I'm crazy.

"Babe," he answers, and I honestly don't know what he means by that.

"Please, Ranger. Please let's find a way to prove she isn't telling the truth." I implore.

Ranger is quiet. I'm hoping he's trying to figure out a way to help and not how to tell me diplomatically to butt out. Honestly, it could go either way. The silence stretches into minutes. I get up. I'm going to have to find another way.

I put my hand on the door and Ranger says "Wait. What did you have in mind?"

Relief washes over me. I turn back to him.

"I have an idea. I don't know what to say other than thank you." I tell him honestly. "I know I can't do anything. I can't contact him. I don't want to put you in a position to get shut out of his life so it has to be something that will force his hand."

"You have really given this some thought, he says, surprise touching his words.

"I didn't sleep much last night," I admit. "How about we bring Bobby on board to recommend that she go to an OB-GYN to 'make sure' everything is alright?" I say using quotes around 'make sure'. "No. That will take too long to get an appointment and any blood work will take even longer to confirm anything." I say answering my own question. Ranger looks at me oddly. "What? I have a sister and best friend with seven kids between them. I think I know how this works." He relaxes his forehead at my answer. "Oh, move over." I tell him and lean over his shoulder to open internet explorer. I type in Pinterest and look at ideas for ultrasound photo baby ideas. I find one that fits what I want. "Look at this. It's a framed picture of a bunch of ultrasound photos from the beginning all the way through. Do you think Bobby can borrow an ultrasound machine? If he can then Ella can give them this as a gift and Kelsey will have to agree. If she doesn't, it will look very bad and Les will get suspicious. You can even help by stating how Ella would be offended if they don't do it. I'm pretty sure Ella would help. Then we can make sure the baby isn't too far developed to be Les's," I say, pleased with myself. "And, if everything checks out then no harm done, no relationships ruined." I add, thinking sadly that my relationship has already been ruined.

Ranger shakes his head. "You are one devious woman."

I sit on his lap and wrap my arms around him.

"Good thing I only use my powers for good." I say before planting a big loud kiss on his lips. He tries to wrap his arms around me but I scurry out of his grasp. "Oh no, mister. We have work to do. Call Bobby up here and I'll go find Ella. We need them to get this to work. Ella will be the key. We need to get everything in order before they get married. Chop chop. Why are you still sitting there? Make the call." I say as I hurry out the door. I think I heard him say something about me being bossy. Ha! That serves him right. He gets pretty bossy himself.

I find Ella in the break room with her food cart, and tell her that we need her in Ranger's office as soon as possible. "Can I put this food in the fridge first?" she asks. "It will only take me a few minutes."

"Sure." I tell her and help her with her task. With both of us working we cut the time down by half. She brings the cart with us as we walk through the control center to Rangers office. Bobby arrives a few seconds after us.

I ask Bobby and Ella to sit on the couch. I need to pace to get this out. I start at the beginning explaining how Kelsey has disliked me from the moment she started here. I continue with the comments she has made to me in private and the faces that she doesn't hide from me. I tell them about going to her parents house and how she acted. About the massive rush to get married. I tell them about Les's text messages.

"Her reactions are so over the top I think she's hiding something. I don't want Les to get hurt. I know something is wrong, I can feel it." I say passionately. Both Ella and Bobby remain silent so I continue. "I have a plan that will protect Les and there is no downside. You won't risk ruining your relationship with Les if I'm wrong." I pause, waiting for everything I have said to sink in.

"Ella, you're Les's aunt. You're family. You're sweet and creative. You're going to give Les and Kelsey a gift. It's going to be a photograph." I say spinning around Ranger's monitor. "You found this on Pinterest and thought this would make the perfect wedding gift for the happy couple. It's a bunch of ultrasound photos that chart the development of the baby. Bobby, I need you to borrow an ultrasound machine and do the first one. If I'm right, she is not going to want Les to see the ultrasound before they get married and they're getting married in three days. We have three days to pull this off. Bobby, can you get your hands on an ultrasound machine?"

He thinks for a minute. "Yes, I believe so. I have a friend I can ask."

"Ella? Can you do your part?" I ask her. She doesn't even hesitate.

"Yes. I can pull it off. I will do it for Les and you, my dear. You are looking out for my nephew. I thank you for that." She says and smiles at me. I love Ella!

"So if everything checks out then we have given them a great gift. If it doesn't, well then..." I trail off looking at the floor.

"Okay" I say, gathering my strength "I'll look into buying them the rest of the ultrasounds in Boston from you Ella. Bobby, get that machine here pronto. Ella, get your cover story ready to set up your gift. Ranger, figure out a time to get the happy couple here to execute the plan and let Bobby and Ella know so they can coordinate." I order and the three of them look at me like I am speaking Swahili.

Bobby grins and shakes his head. "Bombshell. You missed your calling, you would have been a master strategist." He pauses as he gets up and walks to the door. "Don't say it, I have my orders. I'm going..." He mutters as he walks out of the office.

Ella gives me a hug on her way out. She whispers in my ear. "You're a good person. We're lucky to know you."

Once we are alone in his office Ranger says "Babe, you never disappoint."

"Thank you for believing me. Thank you for helping me. I promise I won't ruin your relationship with Les."

I smile at the plan and the fact that everyone is on board warms my heart. I finally feel like I can breathe. I know the fatigue is going to hit me hard and I want to get my part done before I crash. I tell Ranger I have to get to work and I leave after giving him a quick kiss. He smiles back and I take that as my cue to leave.

At my desk, I do a quick search of ultrasound clinics in Boston and make a few calls. I finally find one that will allow me to buy a package of 10 ultrasounds that occur approximately every three weeks starting as soon as they get a positive test. I figure we are doing the first one or two here at Rangeman so the 10 in Boston should get them through to birth. The happy couple will have to sign lots of forms stating they understand this isn't a diagnostic test blah blah blah. No problem. I put the gift certificate on my credit card and shake my head. Ugh. I must really love Les because I just went into massive debt for him. Just when I think I'm pulling into the black, something pops up and pushes me back in the red again.

I write up my findings and start a group text. I finish my report reminding everyone that this is a secret and must remain a secret so that no relationships are ruined.

Ranger has asked Les and Kelsey to come in to get things started with their replacements so that the transition can begin as soon as possible. They have paperwork to sign and so forth.

Ella takes her assignment and runs with it. She has thrown together a mini Rangeman shower for Les and Kelsey and has planned decorations and food and everything...in two days! She's amazing!

Bobby found out some interesting things as well. Little known fact. The ultrasound you see on the belly with the transducer thingy and gel are not done until the baby is bigger. I shuddered at the description that Bobby sent us over the group text. Reason 124 why I am not having a baby. Oh and the ultrasound is going to be here by tomorrow morning and he is researching how to do the ultrasounds and what to look for in case there's a problem. Go Bobby!

I'm so pleased that everyone has gone above and beyond. I feel like this is the best option we have to get to the bottom of this crazy mess.

***Apr 11

RPOV

I really hope this doesn't backfire, I think for the tenth time today. With Babe, anything's possible. She's probably a nervous wreck waiting to hear what happens.

Everything is arranged and Les and Kelsey are due any minute. I get the call that they're pulling in. I give the order and we all wait quietly. Ella has done an amazing job decorating the conference room. We have a table full of gifts and the ultrasound next door in the infirmary. Bobby thought it would be more convenient since they are a bit invasive this early. I wasn't with my Babe when she read the text but she told me all about it. I smile at her outrage. I wasn't around when Rachel had the ultrasounds done but I did receive a couple in the letters she sent to me.

I usher Les and Kelsey into the conference room under the guise of signing forms and as soon as I open the door everyone yells "Surprise!"

Les smiles and Kelsey's eyes go wide as if she is stunned but both look pleased that we planned this surprise for them. Les can't stop grinning. Kelsey seems to be happy after glancing around. Was she making sure Steph wasn't here? Probably. I'll be observing Kelsey closely. I look at my watch, it's been thirty minutes and I want to get this show on the road so I clear my throat to get everyone's attention.

"Excuse me." I say loudly so that everyone will listen. "I want to congratulate Les and Kelsey on their exciting news. I know I speak for everyone in saying we wish you love and happiness as you navigate these next steps in your lives. We will miss you around here. Les, as my cousin and my brother, I have nothing but love and respect for you. Kelsey, welcome to the family and I wish you both all the best. Okay, enough of that. Now open your gifts so we can get back to work," I say and I hear murmured laughter. Ella ushers the couple over to sit by the gift table and brings them their first gift.

The gifts are mostly cards with a few packages in between. Ella holds her gift until the end. When Les opens it he looks at the framed photo of 12 little ultrasound photocopies, and gets an odd look on his face.. Kelsey, I observe, stiffens a bit. It's barely noticeable but I see it. Ella steps up and hands Les the envelope.

"Mi sobrino, I have a very special gift for you and your bride. I have purchased a package for you to replace these photocopies with photos of your baby" she announces, pointing to the ultrasound photos. "The location is in Boston but it's only for 10 pictures. Bobby has brought in an ultrasound machine so you can start with one today and if you are still here in three weeks the next one and so forth. You need 12 photos to fill this frame so you will want to start soon. I for one can't wait to see your little one. Plus we can make sure everything is okay in case you are waiting until Boston to see an OB," she says, laying it on thick. Kelsey is starting to show signs of stress. Interesting.

"I have everything set up next door. " Bobby begins. "I don't have any experience with this but I really just need to get a photo. From what my buddy said, it's going to be really small. I'm pretty sure I can find it." he says with a wink. He had planned to act like he didn't know what he was doing so that she wouldn't be scared to have it done. The last thing we want is for her to refuse because she is nervous that Bobby will pick up on any paternity issues. He knows if he plays dumb too much she could refuse based on the fact that he doesn't know a transducer from a speculum. Shit. I really have to stop listening to Steph ramble about girly things.

I've been observing Kelsey and she has yet to smile. She looks downright nervous and I'm certain she's going to refuse. I chance a glance at Les. He has this dumb ass smile on his face. Perfect.

"Les? What do you think? Do you want to see that little Rangeboy or girl you helped create?" I say, trying to tip the scales in our direction. She can't possibly refuse if Les pushes for it.

"I don't know." Kelsey begins her voice laced with doubt. "I don't think it's a good idea..." Les is pulling her out of her chair and out the door. Yes! He's fully on board with this plan.

"Please? I really want you to do this. It's safe and I trust Bobby with my life. He's a brother to me. I'm dying to see what he or she looks like right now. I know it'll be small but I want to have a photo for the frame. I want to see every stage," he says, practically dragging her into the infirmary. Only Ella, Bobby and I have followed them.

"What if Bobby can't find it. It'll be a letdown and I don't want anyone to feel bad," she says. That's odd. I thought she would be concerned the baby would be too big, not too small. I see Bobby's eyebrow raise. I think she's hiding something.

Ella jumps right in and says. "Nonsense. No one will feel bad. Just let him try. If he can't find it then no harm done. We'll get a sonographer in here to do it as soon as we can arrange it," she says, ending Kelsey's argument. Check.

"I have to use this metal wand so you'll have to change into a gown. Kelsey, you can insert it and you will be completely covered. Les, take this gown and have Kelsey change in the bathroom. Ranger, you and Ella are outside. I'll call you once I have the baby on the screen IF they are comfortable with having you there. It's a little invasive and their decision," Bobby says to us.

Kelsey and Les head to the bathroom with Kelsey whispering to him. He's continuing to move her along so she's going to have to have it done or Les is going to question her. The rest of us share a look. Bobby mouths "I know what to look for."

I'm a little disappointed that I don't get to stay for the show. I'm convinced that there is something going on. I can appreciate Steph's anxiety. I usher Ella in the hall to wait.

BPOV

I have spent the last two days learning about all things ultrasound. I know how to use the equipment, basic anatomy and what I should be seeing. I even got to practice a couple of times. I looked at early ultrasound photos so I'm pretty confident I'll pick up something unusual. Kelsey seemed to be very nervous about having this done. Ordinarily one would be excited to have an ultrasound. Any chance to see the baby on the screen would appeal to most women. Apparently Kelsey isn't most women. I think we have played it well and everything's in place. If she objects now, Les will balk.

Les and a reluctant Kelsey are back and Les helps her up on the table. I grab a sheet and lay it over her lap. I hand her the metal probe and tell her to insert it part way up. I go stand behind the curtain and listen to the two whisper back and forth.

"This isn't a good idea."

"I want to see it."

"It's icky"

"It's normal and the only way we are going to get a picture this early."

"What if he can't find it?"

"Then we will try again in a few days."

"After we get married?"

"Whenever you want."

They pause and I take that opportunity to ask if they're ready.

Les says "Yes" and looks the part of the doting father. Kelsey looks ready to bolt. I ask if they will allow Ella back in and Les gives a notable shake of his head so I continue.

"I'm just going to push this in a little farther," I tell her. I push buttons on the machine and hit record. If I were to miss something important and we need a real diagnosis I can take this to a radiologist and have them evaluate it." I study the screen and just start to make out some structures I recognize. "Sorry Kelsey, I'm sure the reward of seeing your baby will be worth it," I tell her but keep looking at the screen. I get my orientation, but I'm not seeing what I'm supposed to see. I don't find a developing fetus. The endometrial layer is thin and doesn't look right for an early pregnancy. There is no gestational sac in the uterus or outside of it. I see both ovaries. I'm looking in all the right places, but there is no gestational sac. There is no baby, and this doesn't look like a pregnant uterus. I look for a few more minutes to make sure. Well isn't this an interesting turn of events? I'll be damned. Bomber and her instincts.

I can feel Les's energy. He's practically bouncing off the wall. "So where is it bro? Where's my kid?" he asks.

"It's not there." I say incredulously. It's all I can say.

Kelsey speaks up. "Wasn't I supposed to drink water? Maybe that's why you can't see anything."

"No, the internal is done with an empty bladder." I answer.

"So you just couldn't see it. I can come again when there is a real doctor to do the test," she says, emphasizing real.

I pull out the wand and set it on the table. I need to figure out a way to break the news to Les.

"Go get changed and I'll talk to Les about when I can get the sonographer in here. It won't be for a couple of days at the earliest."

While she is gone, I whisper to Les. "I am about 95% sure there's no baby. I saw the entire uterus and there is no baby." I pause to reiterate my point. "In my professional opinion, she's not pregnant or was not pregnant this cycle. Since I am not 100% sure, I will absolutely get a sonographer in here for another ultrasound to confirm it for you. It's up to you bro. I'll do whatever you want." I stop talking when I hear the sounds of Kelsey opening the bathroom door.

Les finally speaks to her. "Honey, I'm a little concerned that there's something wrong. Can I have Bobby draw blood so he can check to make sure everything's alright? I'm worried you are having a miscarriage." It was like someone flipped a switch. She went from panic to psycho in two seconds flat.

"NOTHING IS WRONG WITH THE BABY!" she screams. "The reason this asshole can't find a tiny little dot in all that mess is because HE IS INCOMPETENT. The baby is FINE damn It! We can get married and everything will work out." she continues to rant. "I knew I shouldn't have gone along with this stupid plan. From now on, you are not coming to my appointments. I will handle everything by myself. It is none of your business." she continues, but by this time I'm in the hall. I don't have to listen to this shit. I finally see the Kelsey that Bomber described. I mouth 'Wow' to Ella and Ranger in the hall and I hold up one finger. We can still hear her ranting from the hallway clear as day.

Kelsey storms out and Les follows her. He doesn't quite look so happy about her rant and I believe the situation has revealed enough that Les will get his answers. When we're alone, I fill Ranger and Ella in on the latest lack of findings.

"Send the recording to a radiologist to confirm. I want to be 100% sure in case we need to assure Les that he isn't taking a risk walking away from a lunatic female, pregnant with his child." Ranger says to me.

"I'll do that right now. I have a friend at the VA who owes me a favor. Hopefully I'll hear back this afternoon." I respond, going back into the office to get the file off the machine in a format that I can send.

SPOV

I have eaten everything in the house waiting to hear how everything went. I have been going back and forth thinking my plan was genius and then thinking it was the dumbest idea ever. It's only been an hour. What can possibly be taking them so long. I knew I would be anxious. I probably should have gone with plan A: get drunk. I let out a breath. I wanted to be fully aware when I hear the bad news. I'm convinced that Les is going to figure out my plan, blame everyone and move away and then everyone will hate me. I look at my watch. It's only been ten minutes since the last time I checked. I look in the cabinet again. Maybe I missed a Tastykake? Just then my stomach starts to churn. Maybe I shouldn't have eaten the three pints of ice cream and the half box of Butterscotch Crimpets and the entire sleeve of cookie dough. I throw myself on my bed disgusted. I should've just minded my own business. I should've gone after my skips. I should have gotten drunk. I should have ... I hear the locks tumble and bolt off the bed. I meet Ranger in the living room.

"Babe, you're looking pretty scary," he says with a grin.

"Just tell me what happened." I say firmly, not finding any humor in my seriously agitated state. I wait. His smile grows and I am about two seconds of releasing my crazy on him.

"Okay" he holds up his hands. "We were able to get her to consent to the ultrasound. We played it just like you suggested. Bobby believes that Kelsey isn't pregnant. He isn't 100% sure but close enough. He's getting a radiologist to confirm this as we speak. Les left with Kelsey but he didn't look like he believed her excuse about Bobby being inept."

"Bobby isn't inept!"

"I know that and Les knows that. We have to let this play out," he says calmly.

"How can you be so calm about this?" I ask, still vibrating with nerves.

"Because worry is a useless emotion. It won't change the outcome." Ranger pulls me to him and hugs me.

"We'll know soon though. You should have heard her. She was ranting about how Bobby was inept, how she'll handle everything and that it's none of Les's business. It was an eye opener for all of us. She pretty much convinced me of her guilt right then and there," he says.

"Yeeesh. That's how she was to me at her parent's house. It wasn't as bad as that but definitely on the crazy side." I begin to relax a little - part of me is glad I'm bringing all of this to light but part of me knows Les is going to be crushed by this.

"Come on, I'll take you to lunch." Ranger says.

"Pass. I may have been stress eating and now I feel like I need to throw up." I say with a grimace.

"You really need to learn to channel your emotions Babe. Worrying is toxic and so is the junk you ate I'm sure. Why didn't you go for a run?" he asks.

Huh? "I never thought of doing that. My thoughts were to eat everything in sight, drink heavily or immerse myself in work."

"All three of those were unwise. You would have been unfocused at skip tracing and in danger on the streets. Drinking, you would have ended up in the same state you are in now - ready to puke," he says, highlighting my misery.

"I can think of another way to distract you and release some pent up energy," he says.

"Pass. I don't want to puke on you. Next time, I'll find a man-whore and work out with him." I say pulling the tiger's tail. Ranger growls and pulls me close. Something catches our eyes and we both look down. I think some Crimpet crumbs fell out of my crazy hair onto his boots.

He shook his head and left after that. He surprisingly returned a little bit later with a few grocery items. They were all things you had to get from a farm so I wasn't too excited about him shopping for me. The bottle of Pepto at the bottom of the bag was extremely appreciated. He didn't stay long saying he had to get some work done.

By dinner, I'm feeling human enough to eat. I make myself a salad and am just sitting down to eat when I hear the locks tumble again.

Ranger strides in carrying a food bag from Panera. I put my fork down and jump up to set him a plate. His salad looks way better so I put mine in the fridge and make plates for each of us. When we get settled Ranger begins. "So, the radiologist confirmed what Bobby suspected. There never was a baby. I called Les and asked him to meet me so I could break the news. He was already on his way back in. He was pretty sure something was wrong and he tried to calm her down to discuss it. He took exception to the 'none of his business' comment and they had a blow out. She told him he had to break off communication with everyone, his family, Rangeman. He wouldn't agree and she threw him out and called off the wedding. When he got back to Rangeman, I met him in the lobby and brought him up to Seven. I didn't want any of this recorded or witnessed firsthand. I told him about the radiologist's report and he said that he pretty much figured something like that was going on but he had to make sure in case she was telling the truth about the baby. So, Babe, you did good. He has no idea this was planned. He has no idea that any of us suspected. He's just dealing with the break up and the fact he was being played," he says and my heart flips. I'm still a little sad that Les is hurting but I'm glad everything came to light.

"I wish I was wrong" I admit to him. "Les seemed so happy."

"He wouldn't have been happy for long. He would have been miserable," he says and I absorb that. It would have been hell for him.