What Do I Do Now?

by wordsaremyescape

When Martin finds that Sandy has suddenly up and left, leaving Aaron in his care he goes to the only place he knows for help. Will this allow Ruthie the chance to tell him how she really feels? MARTHIE! NEW PENNAME!

24. 23: Stress, Secrets, & Stupidity

A/N: OH MY GOSH!!!! I almost jumped about six feet when I realized what day it was! Its two year today that this story unfolded. I personally can't believe it. –tear-- So without further interruption, here's the long awaited chapter!

Disclaimer: I own nothing but Luke!

The minute the door slammed in haste a blanket of thick tension gripped those left behind. The silence that fell on everyone was a clear sign of fear. No words had to be stated for the sisters to understand what was really happening here. Ruthie was gone. Her giving heart had betrayed her. She had only set out to help a friend in need. Now only minutes later she was no where to be found. The three remaining sisters simultaneously reached for one another silently begging the others for strength. Lucy saw Carlos begin passing out of the corner of her eye.

"Carlos, you should really sit down. You're not really helping my urge to puke right now. My eyes keep darting back and forth watching you." Carlos spins in her direction eyeing her carefully, his panic filled eyes going soft momentarily for the short blond. "Are you alright Lucy? Do you need something?"

"Yes Carlos. Do me a favor and stop burning a hole in the floor."

"I can't…" he whispered, his voice trailing. He then proceeded to rake his fingers through his hair nervously. What if they don't find her? he thought. This is all my fault. If I didn't have Rose where the stupid hat…My family's misfortunes lie on me alone…

"Please Carlos," Mary whispered seeing the fear in her husband's eyes. "I know you're worried. We all are. If I weren't pregnant I'd be leading the pack of angry Camden's looking for Ruthie right this minute. The truth is I can't. All we can do is wait for her to come to us."

"She's seventeen Mary! Deus meu! She's out there somewhere scared out of her mind! For all we know he could have found her!"

"You think we all don't have that exact same thing running through our heads Carlos? I'm digging for all my inner strength to stay right here where my husband asked me to stay. I'm not looking to protect myself from anything that could happen. I could be out there ready to gouge the idiot's eyes out with a screw driver the size of Texas and not worry about what happens to me. We're staying here for the sake of the children," Lucy said close to tears. Carlos stopped dead on his pacing track to face the three women. His eyes once again softened at the lost look in Lucy's eyes.

Quietly, he walked over to them kneeling down in front of them. Upon closer inspection he could see his wife gripping Sarah's hand until both were almost white in color. He also saw Mary fighting back tears as she bit her lip. Gently helping his wife stand he wrapped his arms around her. True to form Mary didn't fall apart. She simply stood there in the warmth of his arms. It was as though she felt the heat of his embrace coating her fear with Novocain. Deep inside she knew it was there but the minute he held her she felt at peace.

"Lo siento Amor," he whispered. "I just can't stand waiting. "I've already…I can't do it again," he whispered quietly so that only she could hear. Mary nodded against him in understanding. "One of us has to stay calm in this mess," he chuckled.

"Just stop moving. Sit with us. The more you move the more they do," she said pointing to her belly. "That only makes my bladder work harder," she sighed. A smile played on his lips as he rubbed his wife's rounded stomach carefully mumbling to himself before placing a light kiss on the protruding swell. "Stop moving girls. For your mommy, just stay still okay? Here I'll make you guys a deal. If you stay quiet I will too, okay?" he pleaded at a level that was inaudible to anyone who wasn't really paying attention. A light sigh was heard behind him from none other than Lucy and Sarah. Carlos smiled, moving Mary away carefully so he could set her in his lap while taking his place between Sarah and Lucy.

"They'll find her," Sarah said to no one in particular. Even though it was directed at no one in the room it still allowed the four an extra level of hope. A light shuffling was heard above them and Carlos turned slightly to see Charlie dragging his way down the stairs. "What's wrong miho?" he asked his son as he walked into the living room.

"I couldn't sleep Papa," he mumbled. "I heard you yelling and walking back and forth," he said.

"I'm sorry," he apologized.

"What's going on? Are you okay?" he asked.

"Of course I am. Everything's fine," he said.

"No it's not. Something's wrong. There's always something wrong when you walk back and forth like that." The four looked up at the little boy somewhat surprised at his keen observations.

"I'm just thinking," he said.

"Why does everyone look so sad?" he asked. Small smiles were shared at his innocent question. "Where is everybody Daddy?" he asked.

"They're out looking honey," Mary said softly.

"Looking for who?"

"You know what? Why doesn't Daddy make you a nice big mug of hot chocolate while we go get tucked back into bed?" Mary asked looking for anything to prevent her from having to tell her little boy that his aunt was in trouble.

"No," he defied simply. "Mommy I'm a big boy. I can handle it. What happened? Where's Auntie Ruthie?" he asked. "Wasn't she supposed to be back by now?"

"Yes. She was supposed to be back a long time ago," Lucy said bringing him to join them on the couch. Seeing as there was no room left to sit Charlie hesitated.

"There's no where to sit," he pointed out. Lucy smiled pointing to her lap. "I'm gonna hurt the babies," he said.

"If you're really careful they'll be okay," she said. He nodded carefully and positioned himself so he left a little bit of space for fear of squishing them. Charlie brought his feet up out of habit and cuddled into her.

"Mommy what's wrong with Auntie Ruth?" he whispered.

"We don't know love. Your uncles are out there looking for her right now," she told him.

"Did the bad man take her?" he asked. The four adults shared a look of confirmation before Charlie saw everyone stay silent, leaving his question unanswered. The silence that went with it allowed the little boys eyes begin to water. Sarah waddled over, squatting as best she could.

"Hey buddy she's gonna be fine," Sarah promised rubbing his cheek with the pad of her thumb.

"Auntie Ruth's a Camden sweetie. We're built tough as nails," Lucy said hugging him.

"It feels like we don't ever get to see her anymore," he whispered. "Now a bad guy's got her and…and," his statement was left unfinished as his strong, big man shield fell away as he dissolved into tears.

"She'll be home soon son. With everyone looking for her she'll be home in no time," Carlos said confidently. Even though it was meant for him Carlos' statement rang as a comfort to those who sat huddled around him. The one question on everyone's minds remained the same. How long would they have to wait to bring their sister home? How long would it be before their family was complete? How much waiting would they have to do before the glue that was Ruthie Camden, would put this shattered family together again?

"Didn't he go to jail?" Charlie asked weakly.

"He was supposed to," Mary mumbled. "He knew he'd done something wrong so he ran," she added. Mary felt Carlos stiffen under her, a hard, determined look in his eyes. She knew very well what he was thinking and smiled.

"If I have it my way he'll be deported the minute he's convicted. I'll be dead by the time he touches mi familia!" he growled. Charlie jumped slightly at the sharpness of his father's tone.

"He will. He'll pay in every way that's legal in the justice system for what he's done to her," Mary said.

"Daddy why do you look so sad? You just said she's coming home, didn't you? She is coming home, isn't she?" he asked.

"Of course she is," he confirmed. "I'm just worried about her," he said.

"Are you going to be walking back and forth again?"

"I'm going to try not to," he smiled.

"I won't be able to sleep," Charlie confessed. Mary nodded knowing full well that the waiting party wouldn't be able to see sleep until she was found either. Secretly she hoped that his body would give out at some point while they awaited her arrival. As it stood no one really had the strength to argue with him.

"What do you think we should do while we wait?" she asked him.

"Go Fish!" he said excitedly, his eyes brightening significantly at the idea.

"Let me go see if I can find some cards," she said groaning as she struggled to lift herself up off her husband's lap.

"I'm gonna win Mommy," he said sliding off Lucy's lap not too far behind her.

"Not if I do first," she said.

"But I always win when I play with Daddy."

"Oh but wait. You haven't played me yet, have you? I'll have you know I was the best Go Fisher in the family. I'd kick your aunties' butts every time. Isn't that right, Luce?" she hollered.

"Good luck buddy. You're gonna need it," Lucy laughed. Two seconds of silenced passed before an earth shattering scream was heard from the baby monitor.

"Looks like someone's not too happy," Lucy pointed out as Aaron made it very clear he was no longer asleep. With a sigh Carlos rose from the comfort of the couch.

"I'd better get him before we have two screaming babies on our hands," he said. Skipping the steps two at a time, Carlos rushed up to Martin and Ruthie's room. Reaching the door and opening it carefully, emptiness echoed in every corner. A pang of sadness hit him when he took in the almost non existent smell of Ruthie's perfume. His silent moment of remembrance was quickly shattered by Aaron's unhappiness. "Hey Aaron," he whispered lifting him gently from the bed that was surrounded in a sea of pillows. "Shh," he said softly, bouncing him a little. This only seemed to make the situation worse because his tiny face only got redder, his cries more desperate.

"Ma-ma!" he wailed. The way it came out made it sound like the poor little boy was being dragged through fire and torn apart piece by piece.

"I know bud. It's just not the same without her, is it?" Aaron replied by throwing his head back and forth repeatedly, as if agreeing with him and the sirens of sadness began yet again. This time he noticed him throw his fist in and bite down hard, emitting yet another whimper. Here we go again he sighed. This was a sure sign that more teeth were on the way. "Hey, hey shh," he prompted softly, "We're not gonna bite those, okay?" He only replied with another round of agonizing pain. Carlos wasn't sure whether it was his teeth or lack of Ruthie. Knowing how she affected him, he opted for both "We're going to put gel on those instead okay?" Sticking his pinky in as a temporary soothing method Carlos slipped into the baby bag in search of the numbing medication. "Shh Aaron. You're going to have to work with me here, okay? Open wide for Uncle Carlos, come on." The spacing in Aaron's mouth wasn't a problem, for he was still screaming immensely. It was finding a way to calm him down enough to actually do the application that would be the problem.

Silently he began to hum the opening bars of an old Spanish lullaby. It took a while but soon Aaron's sirens had minimized to whimpers as he watched in fascination at Carlos' mouth moving.

"There we go," he whispered. "Nice and big," he coaxed, massaging the coolness onto his gums. "Better?" he asked. Seeing him still whimpering some Carlos remembered the other piece and dug inside the diaper bag blindly. Feeling the chill of an ice pack he came out with the teething ring. "Much better than your hand, huh?" he chuckled as he saw Aaron clamp onto it. This only last a couple of minutes before he removed it again, his face returning to the crimson tinge Carlos was greeted with earlier.

"Ma-ma!" he called out again hoping that if he was loud enough she would actually show herself.

"She's not here yet big guy, but she will be soon, I promise. While we wait why don't we try and get some sleep?" he suggested. Not liking the idea he threw the ring across the room kicking violently as the pleas for Ruthie continued. "Soon Aaron. Mamma will be home soon," he whispered. He didn't want to wait. He wanted Mommy now. Where was Daddy? He needed Daddy. This man was nice but he wasn't Daddy. He tried calling out for him but nothing came out. Instead he repeated the only word he knew.

"Ma-ma!" In his frantic search for Ruthie he again saw Carlos' mouth moving. Not having a clue what came out the screaming only increased. Carlos was soon losing strength in his battle to keep the little boy calm. His need for sleep was quickly gaining on him. Of course Aaron clearly wouldn't let that happen.

"Mama will be home soon," he repeated soothingly rubbing his belly in hopes of comforting him. That clearly did very little. How in the world did Martin do it? he thought. In seconds it dawned on him. Martin was the boy's father. The second most constant person in his life. Carlos of course was neither. He'd have to find his own way to quiet him down, on instinct the bars to the old Spanish lullaby resurfaced. He went without using words knowing that for the next few years they would be lost on him anyway. His brain at the moment wouldn't let him remember them. Picking up the forgotten ring he again began to hum. After about ten minutes Aaron had succumbed to loud whimpers. After a half hour struggle Aaron fell into a fitful sleep. As he watched him settle Carlos silently hoped that they would find Ruthie soon. This much stress on a little boy at missing his mother was no where near necessary. He knew that as soon as they did find her they would all rest much easier. Come home Ruthie he pleaded silently. Come home soon.

*~*~*

Downstairs a calm silence fell on the sisters as they sat mesmerized at hearing what came through the monitor. Mary smiled when she saw that his father's soothing tones had Charlie snoring quietly next to them.

"Wow," Lucy whispered. "I had no idea he could sing like that," she added. Smiling, she could see that Sarah's eyes were becoming misty. "I mean I knew he was good with kids but I've never heard him keep his calm like that."

"It really comes as second nature to him. He was the oldest of all his siblings. He helped raise all of them. He used to do that with Charlie almost every night he was up before the sun. I knew he did it to let me sleep but I found myself waking up every time if only to listen to him talk." A flash of recognition shined in Lucy's eyes.

"Is that why he's all bent out of shape over Ruthie?" she asked. Mary nodded, propping her feet up on the coffee table.

"She's the youngest of all of us. That need to protect her is much stronger. It only gets worse when you consider the fact that she's female and out there with a psychopath he becomes a lion on anyone he sees as trouble."

"I barely heard him earlier but he mentioned something about not having to go through something again," Sarah said. "What exactly does that mean?" Mary's eyes clouded with unshed tears.

"When he was about twelve, he lost his little sister to phenomena. Seeing as he was the oldest male he took it upon himself to look out for everyone. Making sure his mom was resting along with his sister so that nothing should come up while he was away, he took the opportunity to play outside for a little while. He told me that only ten minutes into it he could feel in his gut that something was wrong. Not wanting to look like an idiot while he played street ball with the neighborhood boys, he ignored it but promised himself that the minute the game was over he'd go home. Ten minutes later the game ended and he was packing to leave. His best friend Franco had teased him calling him a sore loser because they had in fact lost. Pride won over and he played two more games, finally winning the last. The minute the last goal was made he ran home. Eager to tell his mom that he'd made the winning goal he charged inside.

The minute he got inside he could feel there was something off. In a small house that was usually roaring with voices wad dead silent. When he finally shuffled into his mother's room he saw her curled up in a ball crying quietly. He remembers voicing all the comforts he knew but they failed. After ten minutes of trying he finally saw her huddled with little Sophia next to her and smiled. Almost instantly he felt something fall inside him. His mom was crying. Normally she'd smile at the little girl talking about anything and everything knowing that she was the only one who had yet to find out what it was like to argue like the rest of her kids had. He then noticed something off about Sophia. She still looked peaceful in sleep but her color was off. Naturally, he panicked. He tried calling her name, he tried CPR but nothing worked. Eventually his mother looked at him tearfully, urging him to stop. Carlos looked at her like she was crazy. Why would he give up? She wasn't breathing. What else was he supposed to do but hope that something would open her eyes? During one of his final chest compressions she took his hand and stopped him. Looking into her eyes he fell apart. He knew that look. It was the exact same look he got when he found out his father died three years before.

It was then he knew that nothing would work. It was a bitter realization that allowed him to see that he had lost her. Being that he was the oldest and they had a house full of screaming kids to look after, he was the one who had taken the most care of Sophie. His name was the first one she spoke. She was always the most excited of all to see him when he walked through the door.

For months he blamed himself. He continued to believe that her death was his fault. Had he not gone out to play like he wanted, she would still be here. What he couldn't come to terms with was the fact that it wasn't him; it was a spiking fever that no one could cure that took her. He still feels he could have saved her. Carlos still wakes up screaming her name sometimes. It's always the same dream. His battle to save her always fails."

"That's why he's so invested in Ruthie," Sarah stated. It wasn't a question, it was fact.

"She's seventeen. About the same age that Sophia would be if she were still here," Mary said. "Even though they're not related by blood that lion comes out around her. He doesn't say it but I know that it's a way to make up for what he couldn't do to save her. Now that she's missing it's resurfacing," she said.

"Not only that, but it's not just him anymore," she said. "It's all of us. It's an entire army of crazies that need their glue to stay sane," she said.

"I just want to warn you guys. He's going to be like this for as long as she's out there. He's going to be worried sick, he's going to pace, until she actually walks through that door."

"Imagine what'll be left of the jerk when they all get his hands on him. Martin and Carlos will probably throw the heaviest punches," Sarah said.

"That's just the way he is," Mary smiled.

"I'm so glad you got your act back together," Lucy sighed.

"I was stupid to look past the fact that he's really the best thing to ever happen to me," she whispered.

"He makes you sparkle," Sarah smiled.

"And it's not that craptasic Twilight shimmer either," Lucy said.

"Not to mention he's so much better looking," Sarah said.

"Hey back off!" Mary growled. "He's my man!"

"Backing off," Sarah said raising her hands in surrender. "I get the doctor anyway…" she said dreamily.

"Well I beat all of you. I get the cop," Lucy said

"Ex-cop," Mary pointed out.

"So? He still looks great in uniform," she said rolling her eyes. "Even better without it," she giggled.

"Okay!" Mary shouted. "I really don't need to picture my brother…like that thank you very much."

"I'll just keep Matt to myself then," Sarah said.

"Now that I think about it, Matt's even worse. I grew up taking baths with him," Mary said.

"Oh the years have done him well Mare. Really well," Sarah told her.

"I should hope so. I'm related to him."

"We did well girls didn't we?" Mary asked.

"Your man's the one who provides the Latin flava,' Lucy pointed out.

"Please don't say it like that again," Mary said cringing. "You sound like a rapper," she added.

"I'm just sayin'. Do you think they'll find him Mare?" Lucy asked seriously. Mary turned to her sister hugging her gently.

"Of course they will. We've got almost all of Glen Oak on our side. I can pretty much guarantee that. Until they do, Ruthie will do what she does best, hold strong and kick any idiot into the middle of next week who chooses to do anything with her. T-Bone won't know what hit him."

"I have a feeling he'll want to be buried six feet under once he knows what he's dealing with," Sarah laughed.

"It's not a guess Sarah; it's an extremely strong possibility. Kevin can be the stupidest moron on the face of the earth sometimes, but he's defiantly smart enough to know when he needs to step up and protect."

"And he will," Mary added.

"I still laugh until my stomach hurts when I picture what they did to Rose," Lucy said. "I thought Kevin was stupid. Rose wouldn't know fun if it bit her in the butt. I mean seriously. Who can't even stand a little dancing and joking around?"

"I almost choked when I saw her reaction to the fact that he's on medication," Sarah said.

"I know. The great thing is there's nothing wrong. That's just who he is naturally. Making her think so though, is really fun. I had a feeling Dad wanted to tell him off for the table dancing."

"He was enjoying it too much Luce, just like the rest of us. Otherwise he would have said something."

"He's the only one we can't argue with when he goes into stupid mode," Sarah said. "He's a light to this whacked out family. If weren't for him we'd all be climbing the walls right now. The only reason we aren't is because it's the memories he gives us that are able to distract us," she added.

"I think that's the first thing that attracted me to him. He's big and scary but if you dig down deep enough you find the little kid he never grew out of."

"It's the same with Carlos. He's a clown but when it comes down to it he knows how to love me like I've never been loved before. History shows that kids are his weakness. I don't fight who he is because I know every dimension of him. Slowly, you guys are too. When we found out we were having girls he panicked for at least a month."

"He won't let those little girls out of the house," Lucy laughed.

"Kevin's no different Luce. Savannah's existence has changed him. It's added a layer of love that only little girls can put in their fathers," Sarah said.

"If any date survives the family in general it'll be a miracle," Mary giggled. "I'm surprised you being the quiet little mouse that you are, can put up with this craziness Sarah."

"I've always wanted a bigger family. If you remember, it's just me. Being a part of this has made me realize how much I need it. The three ring circus that is the Camdens is just an added bonus. One I can't see myself living without anymore," she said.

"You're the only one who hasn't had to go through inspection," Mary said. "The boys loved you almost instantly."

"Not to mention that we had one more for team estrogen," Lucy pointed out. Hearing another yelp of painful cries from the baby monitor Lucy's eyes filled with tears. "He misses her so much," she whispered.

"It's natural for boys to bond with their mothers but this is, this is unimaginable," Sarah whispered. "It's like he's having his heart ripped out," she said softly, brushing her eye.

"They have a routine," Lucy said. "I heard Martin try the same thing a few hours ago with no luck," she added.

"What exactly is their routine?" Mary asked.

"While they're saying goodnight he'll wrap his hand around her finger and hold it there for about a minute before letting his eyes close. I think it's a safety thing for him. Holding on, he's just making sure that she's there. She would have been back in time to tuck him in before we all went to sleep. Since she never showed up he's feeling lost. Not having Martin here's probably not helping."

"He must be pulling his hair out right now. Looking for her and coming up with nothing must be killing him," Sarah said sadly.

"Martin's extremely level headed but when it comes to Ruthie he changes. He's more protective, more willing to do anything and everything to make her happy. We may not be too pleased with how quickly their moving but I can see it in both their faces. It's like they both have a blaring sign above their heads that screams "I found him" or "She's the one for me". I think that's the reason Dad was so willing to let them be together, why he didn't fight them when he saw that they were sharing a bed. He's trusted Martin from day one to keep her safe."

"I'm kind of surprised he doesn't already have a ring on her finger," Sarah said.

"Oh he will. Soon he'll be looped into the Crazies club and he'll smile the entire time. Ruthie's his light at the end of his darkest tunnel. I still remember the day Aaron was born. We were all there to lend our support. We might as well not have been there at all. He only had eyes for her. Ruthie was his life jacket, the only way he'd be able to handle something so life changing. I saw the way they sat together. Martin was holding onto her as if he was going to fly away into insanity if he didn't. You didn't have to hear them exchange any words. I don't even think they did. She just stood there and let him hold her the minute he was born. I don't know how long they stayed like that but they returned holding onto each other. Poor Martin's knuckles were turning white. I could see it in Ruthie's face. The pain, the betrayal had all disappeared if only for that moment. She put everything aside and stood by him with every bit of strength she had in her," Lucy said.

"Her heart just gets bigger and bigger," Mary said. "My little sister makes me look so bad in comparison," she laughed.

"Oh but it gets even bigger. When Sandy wasn't home—which was almost always—she'd be there with him. Even when Sandy was there she'd still show up to help. She'd fight her saying that she was very capable of taking care of her own son but Ruthie always won out. Martin would say nothing. He'd just watch as she stepped into the house making a beeline for the nursery. Sandy would be pissed for days. Those standoffs are usually what sent her packing. That's why I wasn't entirely surprised when Aaron first called her his mom. In reality that's exactly what she was. He didn't understand any different. She loved that little boy even though it hurt her to remember where he came from."

"She really puts all of us to shame," Sarah said.

"She's one of the strongest people I know," Lucy whispered.

*~*~*

Now blindfolded, Ruthie could feel herself being jostled around inside the car as they hit the most speed bumps and potholes she'd ever seen in her life. With the haphazard way she was thrown in she felt her back crack loudly at its stiffness. On instinct, her kicking and screaming continued. This of course worked to no avail as the car dragged her further away.

"Let go of me!" she bellowed finally having spit out the gag that kept her silent on the way over.

"Yeah, like that's gonna happen," she heard T-bone reply as he walked her further to her unknown destination. Even though she was blind to anything in front of her she felt bile rise in her throat as she pictured his victorious smirk. You won't be smiling for long she thought as she gave another fierce kick at the door hoping that the pressure would break the lock.

"Why put up the struggle sweetheart? You know there's no escaping me now," he laughed. The way the word 'sweetheart' rolled off his tongue made her stomach role. T-Bone wasn't Martin. Instead the man she thought she loved had become a venomous snake. In some ways Ruthie found this to be a good thing. There was only one Martin in her world. She smiled despite the situation when his face flashed in her head.

"What do you plan to do with me anyway?" she asked. The car came to a sudden halt, throwing her forward.

"Patience is a virtue Ruthie. You'll just have to wait and see. I have a bit of a surprise for you too. Oh joy she thought taking this moment to roll her eyes seeing as he wasn't paying attention. "But only if you're good." Yay rebellion she thought. She knew with the way things were going what he had planned for her wasn't a belated birthday present. This only prompted her to stay as rebellious as she could while at the same time trying to play along. If I play along I'll get out of here faster she reasoned early on.

"What, you finally have my birthday present?" she asked struggling against the rope that kept her tied.

"You could say that," he said.

"I can't wait," she grunted.

"Oh you'll love it, believe me." I'm sure I will she thought sourly. "Now be good or else no present," he demanded. "Not to mention I could always use this," he smiled thrusting the mouth of the gun just inches from the side of her head. Ruthie could feel sweat building as the fear surfaced in her. She tried her hardest to keep from shaking but didn't really succeed. "Why so shaken up Roo? Are you scared?" he asked menacingly. Regardless of having the fear of death at her doorstep she scowled. She hated the nickname. Yet somehow she loved it every time it past his lips. Call me that again and you get one more between the legs she thought. No one calls me that she thought angrily.

Again Martin's face came across her eyes and she felt tears prick at its corners. He's the only one who will ever be allowed to. Her heart sank when she realized just how much she missed him. She felt it shatter when she noticed just how long it had been since she'd seen either of them. Ruthie hadn't been home to tuck him in like she'd promised. Aaron, she knew by now was throwing the biggest fit imaginable. It wasn't the pain she heard but his giggles that brought her to tears. God help anyone who's trying to sleep in that house she thought.

"Aw why are you crying?" he asked. "I haven't even done anything. Yet." As that last word rang through the confines of the car she yelped when she felt him take hold of a mass of her hair and begin to pull. Resuming her kicking fest (she had gone without screaming since she knew he would shoot if she made noise) she heard her feet meet grass as he pulled her at an angle. For only a couple of minutes she wondered why she wasn't being thrown over the shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Quickly she let that question slide. This way, she could actually find out where the hell she was. If she was discreet about it (not that he noticed much as it was) she would call for help with any descriptions she could form with just her feet.

The smell of cigarette smoke was potent as she realized they were nearing some kind of hut. Her assumptions were corrected when she felt her feet hit concrete. Ruthie soon felt herself being thrusted into a chair and heard him click the safety on the gun before backing away.

"Can you at least take off the blindfold?" she asked.

"Now why would I do that?"

"So I'd be able to see," she thought rolling her eyes.

"Why would you need to see anything?" he growled.

"Oh I don't know. Just in case I need to go to the bathroom or something and need to actually find my way there. You don't expect me to go for hours on end without a bathroom break do you? I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had a few accidents when I was little. They aren't all that comfortable. I'm sure you at least know what I'm talking about right? You're not that much of a moron." Ruthie wanted to kick herself for her choice of words. Instantly she felt the metal against her temple again as the safety clicked off.

"I'm this close to shooting one of these puppies into your brain," he growled.

"Oh but you wouldn't, would you? Then you wouldn't be able to give me my surprise," she reminded him applauding herself for thinking so quickly on her feet.

"Just sit there and be quiet!" he roared, ripping the blindfold off.

"Let there be light," she mumbled. More loudly she said "Like I have any other choice. It's not like Clark Kent's going to crash through those doors, kick your sorry ass and save me," she said.

"Watch your mouth!" he snapped angrily.

"Yes master. What ever you say master," she mumbled bitterly. At her last remark, which thankfully he hadn't heard he saw him spin around in the direction of the next room. "Oh I see how it is. You're not even going to offer your guest of honor a glass of water, or a snack or something? You should know better. When I'm hungry I'm not happy and I haven't eaten anything since I left home like fours hours ago." Of course it really had only been about two but he didn't know that.

"Dinner won't be served for a couple of hours. Quit whining and let me go get some air. I have to make a call."

"Hey that reminds me. Since I'm pretty much in jail here being held against my will, do I at least get my one phone call?"

"No but don't worry. I'll let the family know you got here in one piece. If you cooperate that's how it'll stay. If you fight me you might be delivered in multiple different ways."

"Why do I suddenly feel like hangman?" she asked.

"Shut up!" he bellowed.

"Shutting up," she said clamping her mouth shut. As he was turned away she smiled to herself. Maybe if I irritate him enough, he'll get sick and tired of me and let me go. I mean I know I'm almost dead here but pissing him off like this is kind of fun. Now I see why Kevin enjoys it so much she added mentally. She also silently thanked her big brother for his annoying streak that had over time rubbed off on her. "Oh and tell who ever it is that your calling that I said 'hi'."

In the next room, T-Bone whipped out his phone tapping his foot impatiently for the pick up on the other end.

"Hello," they answered.

"That was brilliant," he said not even bothering to greet them in the same fashion.

"What, no hello?" they asked.

"I don't do formalities," he said.

"That's pretty obvious. How's she holdin' up?"

"Other than annoying the crap outta me, pretty well. I've got her sitting on the chair right now."

"Yay she's joined the club!" they chanted.

"What the hell does that mean?"

"Never mind. Seriously, what's with the attitude? I thought you'd be all cotton candy and rainbows when you got your hands on her."

"She wasn't an easy catch," he groaned.

"Now are we still talking about Ruthie here? It sounds like you just referred to a fish."

"Will you stop being such a smartass?"

"Okay I'll dumb it down for you next time. Remind me to do so."

"Okay I have one final assignment for you before we can actually get this show on the road."

"What can I do for you? I mean it's not like I haven't done everything already but whatever."

"I need you to go to the Camdens with the letter I wrote."

"Did you actually write it in English this time?"

"What other language would it be in?"

"I don't know, pig Latin?"

"Very funny," he said flatly.

"I try."

"Now do as I say while I go have some fun with our guest."

"Hold on, before you go, where did you put the dead tree?"

"There are no dead trees! It's a damn note!"

"That's what I meant moron. I just wanted to see if you'd get it. Clearly you didn't."

"I swear if one more person calls me that…"

"What, a moron?" they laughed.

"Just get the damn note. You know where it is." With that he slammed his phone shut stomping over to where Ruthie still sat. "Well, well, well. Looks like I finally get what I want," he sang. "And you're actually doing as I say," he gasped.

"Again what other choice do I have?" she asked dead panned.

"None, really."

"Why are you even doing this?" she asked. "I thought you loved me. Why would you want me tied up and gagged? I thought love meant not wanting harm on those you cared about."

"It's the only way," he whispered.

"No T-Bone there are so many other ways. Why did you choose to rip me from my family?"

"It was the only way I could get you away from him. He's no good for you," he whispered. A red flag flew up in her head at the mention of Martin. Her bull-headedness was only seconds from showing itself in defending the man she loved. She knew that would only make things worse than they already were. As much as it would hurt her, she had to play along.

"There are a lot of things that aren't good for me T-Bone. Smoking, drinking, drugs but I don't hide in a corner to get away from them. I don't lock myself in a room hoping that if I do they won't touch me."

"He touched you all the time. He left you broken once and he would do it again. I was only trying to keep you safe. I didn't want to see you heartbroken again. We could make a life for ourselves. Just you and me and forget that he even happened. I love you Ruthie I just wish that it didn't take all of this to actually get you to understand it." She didn't understand it. Ruthie didn't understand his logic at all. If he loved her he wouldn't be acting like this. If he really cared about her he wouldn't be holding a gun inches from her preparing to shoot if she made one wrong move.

As messed up as he was, seeing him like this brought sadness over her. He would never understand the true meaning of love. He would never fully get that loving someone didn't mean violent acts like kidnapping. He would never do what Martin did to her. He wouldn't send butterflies fluttering at the mere mention of his name in the pit of her stomach.

I love you Martin she thought imagining for just one second as T-Bone's face was replaced by his. Even if it was only for a second it allowed her to hope. It allowed her to keep faith that soon enough he'd hold her again and T-Bone would pay for everything he'd ever done to her.

"There is always another way," she reasoned.

"Not this time," he growled.

"That's what you don't under—" Ruthie's reply was cut short by a sound smack across the face.

"Now you listen Ruthie Camden and you listen good. Don't you ever disrespect me like that again do you understand? I know a hell of a lot and I don't need bitches like you telling me any different!"

"I still want to understand why you went through all this trouble," Ruthie said preparing her fist next to her as she waited for her next opening.

"Well you can just keep wondering because you're never going to know. Now do you want dinner or am I going to have to shove it down your throat?"

"But you just said—"

"I know what I said! I just figured since you're actually kind of behaving yourself I'd reward you but I can see you just want to continue to be difficult!"

"I'll take it now," she said. T-Bone nodded roughly, stepping behind her. Taking hold of her wrists he pulled her up as he undid the rope that kept her still. Once one of her hands were free she found her opening. Swinging her right hand up (which thankfully had more punch) she socked him in the jaw making him stagger backwards. In his state of shock she started off at a run. This escape was quickly shortened by the fact that he yanked her back whipping her around, his fist aiming directly at her nose. Quietly thanking whoever it might have been that gave her lighting fast reflexes, she ducked letting T-Bone's blow make contact with thin air.

"You missed me," she smirked. Furious at his miss he opted to kicking her in the leg. She couldn't move fast enough this time and the blow sent her sprawling on the ground beneath her.

"How'd I do this time?" he asked giving a swift kick to her ribs. This instantly made her groan and tighten herself around the injury.

"Not...too…bad," she gasped.

"You can forget about dinner at all!" he growled. With that, those where the last words she heard before being greeted with the inside of her eyelids.

*~*~*

Even though it sat in his hands Martin still called her one more time. He let it ring in his hands, again playing their song while he waited. Soon he was greeted by Ruthie's voice prompting him to leave a message. A lump formed in the back of his throat as he just stood waiting after the beep. If you are satisfied with this message please press one the automated voice said.

"No," he thought. "I'm not happy with this message. I want to hear her voice, damnit!" He felt a hand on his shoulder that he quickly threw off. That same hand gently took the phone away.

"I know," Kevin said. "We all do Martin. We all do."

"I had her in my hands Kevin. I had her in my arms and I let her go! I promised her I wouldn't and I lied to her! I'm a mess Kevin. I can't just stand here and wait, I have to do something, anything. I just need her back. I don't have to go home and see that at this very minute my son's a mess without her. The feeling's gone ten fold knowing that my little boy's in pain and it's my fault. I can be dragged through the fires of hell but I'll be damned if Aaron has to suffer for my stupidity.

I can't breathe Kevin. Every time I try I see her face. I hear her telling me how much she loves me, how much she trusts me. To know that I betrayed that by letting him take her…" Martin kicked violently at a standing trash can knocking it over quickly.

"You didn't know he'd take her Martin," he whispered.

"She was still injured and I let her walk down there alone! I could have at least driven her there to see with my own two eyes that she made it okay," he snapped.

"What's done is done Martin. All we can do is keep looking and keep hoping.

"I'm sick and tired of waiting!"

"I know. Go home. Go be with your son. He needs you now more than ever."

"I can't just sit at home waiting! I have to do something!"

"You are. You're being a father to your son. He's already gone without Ruthie. Don't let him go without you too," Kevin said. "We'll find him and I promise you that I'll have him dead and buried within the first hour."

"Not before I have a shot at him," Martin growled.

"I'll save you a spot in line," he smiled.

"I better be first," Martin said.

"Oh you will be," Kevin promised. "In the mean time I'll take this to the station to see if they can trace the message.

"I'm going to go home. I can't be here anymore," he said.

"I'll update you the minute something changes," Kevin said.

"Thanks Kevin."

"Tell Lucy not to panic and if she wakes up tell Savvy I'm out doing superhero stuff."

"Will do."

"We'll find her Martin. We always do."

*~*~*

Martin returned to an uncharacteristically silent house. Walking into the living room he saw that Charlie was awake playing a game of Go Fish (and winning) with Mary.

"Got any twos?" she asked. He shook his blond ringlets with a smile making his mother dig the pile for another card. Soon all eyes were on Martin.

"Did they find her Uncle Martin?" Charlie asked dropping his hand and going in for a hug.

"Not yet little man. They're still looking," he told him letting the little boy wrap his arms around him. Letting him wrap his small legs around his waist, Martin finally turned to Carlos. "How'd he do?" As if to answer his question a whimper was heard from the monitor, which quickly escalated into a sharp cry.

"Like that," Carlos said sadly.

"He's been crying a lot," Charlie pointed out. Martin smiled settling him on his feet. As he turned toward the stairs, he heard Mary call out for threes before he bolted up to his bedroom. As Carlos had promised, Martin was greeted with his red-faced little boy.

"Hey buddy shh," he whispered brining Aaron up, settling him on his shoulder. The minute he did he felt him take a crab-like grip of his shirt. "I know Aaron. I left you and I'm really sorry. It won't happen again, I promise. I had to go look for her, okay?"

"Ma-ma," he sobbed. Martin sighed bringing himself down on an empty space in the bed.

"Yeah we haven't found her yet but we're trying really, really hard. I know you miss her," he whispered massaging his back calmly. "You can loosen up big guy, I'm not leaving anymore," he said gently as he removed his clamped fists from the collar of his shirt. He was only free for a counted ten seconds before his grip returned. Martin yawned, the night activities finally getting the better of him. As he opened and closed his mouth slowly Aaron released another wail. This one seemed to say How can you even think of sleeping? Mommy's still not here!

"Can you close your eyes for me bud? Please? Daddy's really tired." His son's bloodshot eyes stared back at him, unmoving. All that was heard now was a string of whimpers he wouldn't let go of.

"You wanna go try sitting with Uncle Simon for a little while?" he suggested. Aaron's face turned beat red for ten seconds before he clamped onto Martin for dear life. " Okay, okay I get it. Shh," he whispered. As his fingers brushed his forehead he could feel a slight fever again. As a physical example Aaron squirmed uncomfortably, wails as loud as sirens coming from his mouth. Where's Ruthie when you need her? Martin thought with a sigh. Rising from the comfort of bed, he rummaged in the diaper bag for the gel and ring before sitting up with Aaron who of course had yet to let go.

"Alright Aaron. Daddy's on his own this time so you're going to have to cut him a little slack, okay?" he said gently. "Shh," he said rubbing his back comfortingly. "Give me a minute to figure out how I'm going to do this," he said offering him his pinky. Aaron gladly took to it and bit down hard. Martin grimaced in slight shock at his strength. "You've got quite bite on you, huh?" Aaron whimpered around Martin's finger and spat it out seconds later. This of course allowed him to bring about the full on cry.

"Ma-ma!" he shouted flailing.

"I know," Martin whispered, not sure at this point what else to tell him. "Open," he coaxed rubbing his back gently. Aaron only allowed a two minute window before he began to cry yet again. "Are you too warm?" he asked. He knew of course that he'd get no answer but tried anyway. Carefully he laid him down removing his sleeper. This left Aaron in only his diaper which he noticed quickly needed changing. "That might be half the problem," he chuckled. Groaning momentarily, he moved over to the small changing table in the corner.

In a fit of anger Aaron's legs remained glued shut, allowing Martin no room for performing a task that would normally only take three minutes. He remembered that, only hours before Ruthie had distracted him in a way that only she could. Seeing as she wasn't here it would make it that much harder.

"Just two minutes son," he pleaded softly. "We need to get you clean. Then maybe we can try and get some sleep," he added. Like before at one point Aaron only left him a two minute opening before reaching desperately for him. "One second Aaron," he mumbled. The minute he finished he let Aaron nuzzle him sadly. He'd always joked about fighting Ruthie for snuggles but this wasn't the way he wanted them. Not while they were both mourning a temporary loss.

When was the last time his little boy had smiled? He remembered it clearly. It was right before she left. Despite being woken from sleep the minute he laid eyes on her his own lit up. His tiny hands playing with the bounce of her curls. He looked calm, relaxed, at peace. All he needed was her to hold him and everything else fell away. Have that ripped away from him and Aaron screamed bloody murder every chance he got. He could only imagine what Carlos had to face having them both gone. Martin himself could feel a deep void as his eyes zeroed in on her side of the bed.

"Ma-ma," he whimpered.

"Me too big guy, me too," he whispered finally letting his eyes close as Aaron cocooned into him, placing his fist in his father's open hand. Even with closed eyes he knew that neither would sleep very well that night. He only prayed for a half hour of rest before the next emotional battle hit them.

*~*~*

In the silence that continued in the Kinkirk living room fell silent yet again. Charlie beamed as he quietly folded his last victory. He did a small victory lap after realizing that he had beat Mary fair and square (over the course of the evening she had only come out with one victory, giving Charlie the other four).

"I win Mama! I win, I win, I win!" he chanted. Mary smiled seeing the wide grin that played on his lips.

"Yes you did baby. You beat me again," she said with an exasperated sigh making him giggle.

"And again, and again, and again, and again," he said doing another victory dance. The dance itself was just bouncing in place a few times but it was clear the little boy was elated.

"Okay, okay calm down monkey. The babies are trying to sleep," Mary scolded gently. Stopping Charlie spun plopping himself down in her open lap. "Watch the babies," she whispered. Leaving open space like he had done with Lucy he did his best to snuggle into her.

"Te amo Mama," he whispered.

"I love you too Charlie," she said kissing his temple.

"I'm gettin' tired," he mumbled.

"Did you want something to eat before you went back up?" she asked. He shook his head sleepily letting his head fall back on her shoulder. "I can't carry you up sweetie," she whispered.

"Can I just stay here?"

"You're bed's much warmer love," she whispered.

"He's gonna wake up again," Charlie groaned. Mary smiled sadly, eyeing the baby monitor that sat on the coffee table. Even though Martin had gone up for more than an hour now, if one really paid close enough attention they could hear his faint callings for Ruthie. Although he hadn't said a word since asking for an update she knew Martin hadn't had much luck getting sleep himself. It wasn't so much that Aaron couldn't find peace. It was an unspoken understanding that he too was suffering just as much in silence.

"He misses his mommy honey," she told him.

"I thought Auntie Ruth didn't have a baby," he said looking up at her confused.

"She didn't," Mary said.

"So how can…?"

"Do you know what adoption means Charlie?"

"Yeah Tommy said that his little brother was ado…adopted," he said.

"Do you know what it means?" Mary asked again.

"Not really. All he said was that his Mommy and Daddy didn't look like him or something," he said.

"That's the way it works sometimes. Adoption just means that the little boy or girl didn't come from their Mommy and Daddy."

"So why does Tommy call them that? Why does Aaron call Auntie his Mommy when she didn't even have him in her tummy?" Charlie asked still not fully grasping the concept.

"His Mommy and Daddy took care of them since he was a baby, right?" she asked slowly. He nodded. It's a strong possibility that he doesn't know his real parents. His parents right now are the only ones he knows."

"So his real Mommy didn't love him, did she?" Charlie asked sadly making a smooth transition from his friend to his cousin.

"I don't know buddy," she said softly. "What I do know though is that Auntie Ruthie loves him a lot. So does Uncle Martin."

"Is Uncle Martin his real Daddy?"

"Yes he is."

"I really like him. He's not as crazy as Uncle Kevin or Daddy but he's really, really nice. He makes Auntie Ruthie really happy…" Mary wiped away a corner tear and smiled. It always surprised her how observant a boy of his age was. Any adult could see what Martin and her sister do for each other. Very rarely did a five year old notice it.

"I think he does," she said softly.

"Even if they don't get married can I still call him my uncle?" he asked.

"Of course you can," she said. "I don't think you'll have to wait very long though. Between you and me he'll be asking her really soon."

"Does that mean I might have to wear a suit?" he pouted.

"Maybe," she chuckled.

"I'm just glad I love them so much," he mumbled. "Otherwise I wouldn't do it," he said.

"Yes you would."

"You'd make me," he groaned.

"Yeah I would. But there'd be cake and food," she pointed out.

"Daddy and Uncle Kevin would eat it all before I could even have anything good," he mumbled. Mary had no reply. She only sat there holding him close as his head fell back on her shoulder.

"Goodnight baby," she whispered. Those last two words went unheard however because the minute his head fell so did his eyes. Having no other choice but to hold him for the time being she settled back on the couch letting her eyelids fall as they rested. She opened her eyes only minutes later feeling a familiar presence above her and she smiled.

"Is he asleep?" Carlos asked. She mumbled a yes and soon felt the weight of her son disappear. Her hands on instinct wrapped around her swollen stomach. "I'll take him up," he whispered.

"He won't go," she said. "He says the screaming's too much for him, that he won't be able to sleep."

"So where would we put him," Carlos wondered.

"Just lay him on the love seat. If he chooses to wake up again it'd be easier."

"Easier for who?"

"Do you really want to argue with him if he does wake up again? You know he will."

"No thank you," Carlos mumbled. "I already had to fight Aaron just to get him to rest. That took about three hours."

"Aaron can't talk yet honey. He can't tell you what he wants. Charlie can have full conversations with you."

"He looked so broken Mare…

"I can imagine."

"I don't know what they'll do if we have to go through another night of this. What they'll face if we can't…"

"We'll find her," Mary whispered.

"I should have done something…"

"What could you have done sweetheart?"

"I could have stayed…" It suddenly dawned on her that they were no longer discussing Ruthie. Carlos had easily glided from one sister to the other.

"Come here, sit with me," she said patting an empty space next to her.

"I let her go," he whispered.

"You were twelve years old Carlos. It was going to happen whether you were there or not."

"She was my baby sister, my baby. I can't lose her again," he whispered.

"You won't. She'll come home."

"I won't rest until she does. For my own mental health I want to see it with my own eyes," he said.

"Ruthie will come home," she repeated.

"I need to keep my hands busy. Did you want anything while I'm in the kitchen?" he asked. She looked down to see that he was wringing his hands nervously. Gently, she cupped her hand on his stopping the process.

"Surprise me," she whispered. He nodded practically shooting up from his place on the couch. "She'll be fine," Mary said again. Carlos nodded not completely convinced. Seeing the exchange Lucy rose as well.

"I'll help," she offered. Carlos nodded distractedly walking quickly to the swinging door. Before getting inside Lucy saw her sister mouth a 'thank you' and she nodded. As she entered the kitchen Lucy had a moment of shock go through her. She was only ten seconds behind him and Carlos was already rummaging around, a band of clanging pans in his wake. For a minute she was thankful their kids had learned to sleep through anything because at this very moment that is what was most needed. She only let two minutes pass before seeing a safe window of opening. Lucy quickly took advantage of that and came up behind him. Slowly, she removed the pan from his hands, setting it down carefully. Seeing that his hands were now empty, Carlos' eyes darted in confusion. Soon they settled on the short blond. Her eyes seemed to tell him everything.

"She told you, didn't she?" he asked. It came out more as a statement than a question. Lucy nodded. After stopping for a second his haste continued. He quickly took hold of the pot that was taken from him and continued on. It was so loud that again Lucy had to wait for the appropriate time to tell him to stop. Until then she watched, a saddened look playing on her face that she made sure he didn't see.

"Carlos?" she called gently. Her calling seemed to fall on deaf ears for he continued as he was. "Carlos?" she repeated softly. This time she came up behind him again taking the pot from his grasp. A moment of anger flashed over his face before transforming into a knowing sadness. "You wanna talk about it?" she asked softly. The saddened man shook his head but allowed her to lead him to the kitchen table where they sat in silence. Ten minutes must have passed before she saw her brother's eyes fill with tears.

"She's gone…" he whispered. Even though it had been almost twenty years since, the wound opened with newfound pain. "My baby girl's gone and it's my fault. If I would have…If I would have just taken better care of her she wouldn't have died…"

"Carlos you were just a kid yourself. You didn't know any better than what you had already done for her."

"I didn't have to leave!" he said bitterly. "I did anyway. While I was gone she got worse and worse until eventually the heat was too much. Sophia's fragile little body gave out because there was no one there to lessen the pain. That someone should have been me."

"Did you love her?" she asked gently. He looked up at her as though she had just grown a second head.

"What kind of question is that? Of course I loved her!" he growled. "With everything I had! I made sure she had everything she needed because she was the only one who couldn't speak for herself. She only looked for people to be there for her. I was there at her every cry, her every need! My madre was swamped with everything else going on. I was the man of the house. I was supposed to look out for everyone under that roof and I failed."

"You did the best you could…" she said.

"But it wasn't enough! That was his response to every endeavor I ever made. Every time I came home happy that I had done well in school, when he saw that it wasn't perfect, those were his exact words. Of course my father was drunk off his ass seven days a week, so what did he know? As a little boy all I wanted to do was please him. Every time I tried he'd tell me I could always do better. When he died, inside I was selfishly happy. I felt lighter, like I didn't have this hawk over my shoulder making sure I did everything perfectly. After the happiness passed I finally felt like I'd betrayed him. Like I wasn't good enough. That he'd finally given up on me. I thought my father's death was a way of saying 'I can't do this anymore; you're on your own.' I don't know why but for months it broke me inside. It took me until she was born to finally burry that pain. I thought she was my redemption. My gift from God that was going to let me prove to my father that I could do it. In her final breath of life, I failed her. I let her go. Everything I'd done to try and save her was lost. Every breath I gave wasn't good enough."

His final words caught on his tongue as he fought the fist inside his mouth. With one large gulp he crumbled. Tenderly, she took his shaking hands keeping them still in her own. The rhythmic shaking of his body made her get up quietly and come up behind him. Feeling her arms circle around him the dam broke. Silence fell over the two while Lucy just held him. She could tell by the way he reacted to her that he didn't need words. She respected those wishes by staying quiet and just there. After about five minutes, Carlos finally raised his head.

"Thank you," he whispered. She only smiled kissing his temple. "I'm sorry you had to sit through all of that," he said.

"Hey it was either that or here your one man show. I'm sorry dude but drums aren't for you," she laughed. Despite the heavy cloud he too laughed.

"It's really just a pastime," he smiled.

"Well try and do that during the daytime. Less cranky people to disturb," she said.

"I'm feeling a bit like Savannah," he said.

"How so?" she asked.

"Remember the night of the fire?"

"You mean my husband's attempt at making something we could all actually eat? Yeah I remember."

"She'd come in from hurting herself and to make her feel better I suggested she wear the hat."

"She wouldn't take that thing off. Even while we were at the table," Lucy said.

"I just feel like I need to do something stupid, just to forget this," he said.

"Go look at Kevin when he gets home. I think that's all you'll need," she said.

"Maybe," he chuckled.

"Every time I had her try and take off the sombrero she'd look at my like I was crazy," Lucy laughed.

"As if you aren't enough already," Carlos mumbled.

"Let's take this as your "Get out of Jail Free" card and I'll try not to smack for that," Lucy said with a playful glare. "The point is, after a while she told me something about bad luck if I stuck it on the counter…"

"Actually, I told her not to stick it on the floor. She took it a little too far," he smiled. "It's not widely done but in my house growing up, if someone dropped a hat on the floor it usually meant a string of bad luck."

"So that episode the night that Rose was here…"

"I wanted to mess with her too and I did. Inside though, I knew something was wrong. My little brother did the same thing a week before she died. He knew what that meant and didn't mean too but it still happened."

"Carlos, everything happens for a reason. Maybe she was only supposed to live a short life to give that chance to prove yourself to your father," Lucy reasoned.

"It still hurts. I hear her little voice in my head every now and then,"

"She loved you."

"I just can't lose her again."

"None of us can Carlos. She keeps us all out of the nuthouse. Ruthie's are voice of reason. She's a fighter. She can be vulture if she needs to. What's most import is she's got a family who loves her. More importantly, a little boy who can't be without her. She's going to fight. She's going to find a way out of where ever the hell she is. We just have to wait."

"I hate waiting," Carlos mumbled.

"You're talking to the queen of impatience here," she said. "But we have to let them do their job. Let them find her."

"Thank you Lucy," he said softly.

"You're more than welcome."

*~*~*

It had only been a couple of hours before the house had gone completely silent. Exhaustion finally won them all over. Kevin stumbled in, not having rested once during their search. He, like Martin begged to take his anger out on something that wouldn't hit him back. After hours in the dead of night they still came up with nothing. He opened the door to see them all lying haphazardly around the living room. Opening the door further as quietly as he could he quietly laughed at himself. Taking a giant breath of air he uttered the three words he would soon regret

"HONEY I'M HOOOOOOOOME!" resonated through the house. He smirked when he saw a simultaneous jump.

"Kevin I swear to god. Do you really have to do that?" Mary groaned throwing her empty mug of the earlier made hot chocolate at him. Miraculously her weapon didn't break and missed Kevin by an inch.

"Okay that's it!" Lucy growled. "Out of my house!"

"But I live here!" he defended.

"Not for the next few hours. I got like zero sleep last night alright? You of all people should know first hand as to why that is," Martin said sleepily as he tried to waken enough to comfort his screaming son. "Shh Aaron its okay. Uncle Kevin's just being an idiot."

"Again," Sarah chimed sleepily.

"Hey I resent that!" Kevin shot back. They were soon greeted by Eric who had made his way from next door.

"What's going on over here? We could literally hear you next door."

"Kevin did it!" Simon growled sleepily as he shuffled down the stairs. Luke only looked up at Simon's misfortune and snuggled into him, falling right back to sleep. "I'm glad one of us got some kind of sleep," he mumbled. "When it wasn't this guy, it was yours who wouldn't let me sleep," Simon said glaring over at Martin.

"I tried man, believe me I tried. It was a battle for both of us," he yelled trying to be heard over Aaron's incessant cries. "Shh buddy its okay," he whispered.

"Ma-ma!" he wailed, his features quickly darkening to a blood red.

"I know, shh. She'll be home soon," he promised, tenderly kissing his forehead. "Daddy's got you," he whispered. It was then that Aaron's flailing hands became fists that quickly gripped him. "Come on big guy, quiet down, okay? Shh. Let's trying going back to sleep, hmm?" Gently laying him over his shoulder, Martin felt Aaron's falling tears pool at the crook of his neck as they slowly made their way down.

"Ma-ma," he whimpered his reddened eyes nowhere near ready to close.

"I really don't know what to do anymore. He didn't sleep all night. My eyes would close for just five minutes before he had another panic attack. When he finally did close his eyes it was about four in the morning and even then I could hear him wanting her. How are we supposed to get any sleep while she's not here?"

"Have you tried giving him something of hers? It's the smell that gives him comfort. It's not so much that she's there, it's the fact that her scent lulls him to sleep," Simon said. The family exchanged a few looks before letting their stares aim themselves at him.

"When did you get so smart?" Kevin asked.

"It comes with shrink territory," Simon said. "It's one of the first things taught in child development. Because they're so young they get used to something. When that something is taken away from them they don't know how to deal with it. They're used to consistency."

"Okay Einstein, we get it," Lucy said rolling her eyes.

"That's what Aaron's feeling right now, isn't it, a blank?" Simon nodded. "And until that blank is filled he's going to continue freaking out like this, right?"

"The only way to fix it until he gets the real thing is to get as close as you can with a substitute."

"I'm not exactly sure here but could it be that he's suffering from acute insomnia for lack of Ruthie. He won't fall asleep without that filled in blank. He's staying awake hoping that at some point she'd show up?" Kevin thought out. Lucy and Mary shared a minute of shock before they all saw Matt nod.

"I seriously thought I'd never say this but Kevin might actually be right."

"Oh my god, call the press. My husband's becoming smart," Lucy gasped.

"Don't get too excited. This doesn't happen often. Now if you guys will excuse me I need to recharge my brain so I can hopefully say a few more smart things in the future. Speaking of which, where's Savannah?" he asked.

"That girl could sleep through an earthquake," Lucy laughed.

"She's still asleep?" Mary asked lying her head back down. "Give the girl a metal," she mumbled quickly falling back into sleep.

"I think I might go join her," Kevin said heading up the stairs. Before making his way up he turned, sharing a quick glance with Martin. "Wake me up about a week from now," he groaned.

"Or when lunch is served," Lucy said.

"That works too. If the station calls with anything let me know." Slowly he dragged his way up the stairs making it past Simon on his way. "At least one of us got a decent sleep," he said smiling down at Luke.

*~*~*

A few hours passed before the Kinkirk house slumped into the living room. Despite Simon's suggestion Aaron continued his cries. At one point Martin actually panicked himself when he realized how hoarse his little boy's voice had gotten. Making his way downstairs, Martin was greeted with Kevin's smiling face.

"Good morning!" he sang.

"You are way too happy," Martin groaned as he prepared a bottle for Aaron who had yet to let him breathe.

"Is there something wrong with being happy? I mean I could be all sad and depressed if you wanted."

"No, it's okay. Loud voices when you've barely had any sleep really don't help, that's all," he said opening the microwave as it beeped.

"No luck with the substitute?" Kevin asked growing serious. Martin shook his head.

"It worked for about an hour. The minute he opened his eyes all hope was gone. I think he was looking for her face and when he didn't find it he flipped. I wouldn't hear the end of it. I don't think he'd even let me go to the bathroom if I needed to. It's just getting worse. I don't know what to do," he admitted.

"I think at this point, all that can be done is your best. Just be there for him. Both of you are missing a big piece of yourselves right now and even though it can't be filled until she gets back you have to numb it as best you can," Kevin said placing a stack of pancakes in front of Martin.

"Thanks," he smiled forking up a piece. Aaron had taken to feeding himself with momentary protest. "Let me get something to eat bud, "he said.

"Ma-ma," he said roughly.

"She'll be home real soon big guy, real soon," Kevin smiled.

"Have you heard anything?" Martin asked feeding Aaron a piece of pancake.

"Sgt. Michaels called about an hour ago. He should be here in a few minutes. He wants to get a search party together. The station can't cover everything," he said.

"I wanna be out there. I wanna find her," Martin whispered. "I'd also love the opportunity to wring his neck!" he growled.

"I'm sure you do. Just hang tight. Stay with him. We'll bring her right over," he promised.

"If I'd have just listened to her…" Martin trailed.

"Listened to who?" Kevin asked.

"Ruthie. The afternoon before she left, she practically begged me. I kept telling her that I couldn't yet, that it was wrong, and that I couldn't do it to her yet. Not to mention the fun Dad would have in giving me a lecture if got wind of what happened."

"She wanted sex didn't she?" Kevin asked. Martin nodded.

"It wouldn't have been just sex Kevin. As crazy as it sounds she's the one for me. I want to give her that. I want to be able to make love to her, I do. There are so many chances I could have had. The night Luke was born, the afternoon of our debate, before she left for the Dairy Shack. It was all there and I let it slip by out of my own fear to hurt her. I keep convincing myself that she's too young, that I want to marry her first. What scares me the most is the idea that I won't ever get to do that. I might never be able to show her how much I love her, I might never be able to put a ring on her finger, I may never get the chance to grow old with her…"

"Don't you dare think that!" Kevin snapped. "She's not gone. She's coming home today. Not tomorrow, not next week, today. Don't think that I don't see it Martin. Don't think that I'm blind to the hundred watt smile that only you can give her. I may be dumb but I sure as hell ain't blind. You're going to marry her, you're going to have you own little rug rats not too soon after. Heck, you've got an early start right there in your arms."

"I want to Kev. I want to so badly. Half of the reason I was up last night was due to regret of not giving her what she wanted."

"Talk to Dad, I'm sure he'd understand. I personally don't care what you do as long as you're safe. She could walk right through that door this very minute and you two could go at it like bunnies without a single word from me," he laughed.

"I could smack you so hard right now, you know that right?"

"Yeah, but you wont," he smirked.

"What's stopping me?" he asked

"You love me," he sang.

"You know I don't really have a choice here, right?"

"Seeing as you're destined to join the Camden brotherhood, yeah I know."

"Thanks Kevin, for everything."

"I know you'd do the same for me," he said before getting up to join his wife in the living room.

*~*~*

A full hour passed before a knock at the door was heard. Collecting his plate that had long since emptied, Martin got up to answer it. He suddenly felt at ease when he saw that Sgt. Michaels had finally shown up,

"Did you find anything?" he asked with a yawn as he tried to comfort Aaron who whimpered in the crook of his neck.

"We traced the text message and found it to be a blocked number."

"Great so it's back to where we started," Martin said.

"Not necessarily. We know where he has her. We just can't get there yet."

"Well if you know where she is why aren't you going to get her?" Martin bellowed.

"Calm down son. We're doing the best we can," Michaels said calmly.

"With all do respect Sgt. Ruthie's out there with a lunatic doing who knows what or being forced into god knows what situation. We need her home and we need her home like yesterday."

"That's why I'm planning a search party. I'm working to gather everyone I can think of to go looking for her. She might even come home on her own."

"She's got injuries lining her body like a road map because of this idiot. She's got a sprained ankle which she can't walk on. I have proof of that through the fact that I've carried her everywhere. I highly doubt she's going to be making it here on one foot."

"It's possible. We've run a background check on T-Bone and he himself has a criminal record peppered like a road map. On the plus side, he's never actually killed anyone."

"And that's supposed to make me feel better how exactly?"

"She's not going to die Martin. From what I've seen of his behavior he's showing serious signs of a schizophrenic. General behavior of mental illness like this will make him believe that everyone's out to get him. It could have spiked from childhood trauma or something that happened recently. The more serious cases include trauma that is more deeply rooted. Seeing as his father was an alcoholic he could very well be seeking protection from the pain. Since Ruthie was his last real relationship, he feels like she's the only one who can do the protecting. He's become paranoid to the point of kidnapping because that's the only way he feels she'll listen to him."

"But he's hurt her," Martin pointed out. "Didn't you just say that he wouldn't do anything to her?"

"Someone suffering from mental illness like this often hear voices in their heads that ask them to do such things. Failure to obey them brings fear to the doer. In this case it's acts of physical violence. We're not sure what he's done to her beyond her previous injuries. We can only hope that he hasn't gone much further."

"Can you say that in English Sarge? You know for the slow minded people like me?" Kevin asked coming up behind them.

"Maybe a few Spanish words here and there so I don't fall asleep trying to figure out what you're telling us," Carlos added taking Aaron who miraculously reached for him as he showed himself. Martin's eyes flashed with shock as he carefully handed him over. Taking this small bit of freedom Martin rose and headed toward the kitchen. He'd only gone two feet before Aaron realized where he was going. He screeched in protest making the officer cringe for a second.

"I can't even go two feet, can I?" Martin sighed. Already too familiar with this development, Martin took him back from Carlos and let Aaron take hold of him. "Well it was nice while it lasted. Even though it was like five seconds," he mumbled. "I'm not going, alright? Calm down Aaron. Daddy's not going. Kevin will do it instead," he told him smiling at Kevin's flustered expression.

"Why is always me?" he asked.

"This is payback for the Happy Meal with way too much happy this morning," he said.

"Sad and depressed it is then," he mumbled. "Lucy does tell me I look pretty good in black though. I might actually take you up on the suggestion."

"Thanks Kevin, I owe you one," Martin said.

"Try like ten," he said jogging over to the kitchen.

"Thanks for trying Carlos. Now I'm getting a pretty good feeling of what it was like for her. The little guy won't let me breathe," he said.

"Babies will do that to you," Michaels put in.

"I mean I knew babies were dependant but this is just sad," Kevin said as he came back to join them.

"That it is," Martin said. "This is why I'm really hoping we find her soon. I can't do this by myself anymore. The sad thing is that it hasn't even been twelve hours."

"Everyone's here to help," Sgt. Michaels pointed out.

"Oh believe me, we've tried. He's stuck to Martin like super glue."

"I'll start making the calls right now then," Sgt. Michaels said. With that, he closed the door behind him as he left.

*~*~*

Pulling the automatic clutch, they pulled out of the car slamming it behind them. Taking the spare key T-Bone offered as well as spare ID, they slid into the booth.

"Now where the hell would he keep the stupid thing?" After ruffling through a few piles of papers the demanded note was found hidden at the very bottom. Instead of finding just the single piece a second joined it. "Oh joy. He just had to write it in code, didn't he? You know, it wouldn't kill him to maybe consider writing it in the oh so famous English language we all know and love. He always has to make things so damn complicated."

As they drove past the Dairy Shack, a hand-made sign caught their attention. Volunteers Needed. For further information visit the police department or church. As much as they wanted this to work in their favor, something inside gave way to pity for the Camdens. Harboring a twinge of regret, they proceeded.

*~*~*

Making a quick search of the area the warehouse door was opened to reveal a very clearly battered Ruthie. Blood was seen dried on the fold of her lip. It was clear T-Bone had in fact had his fun yesterday. The bloody nose had come from some form of resistance. A feeling of satisfaction surfaced in the onlooker took in multiple fresh bruises. The only T-Bone would have even done this would be if she fought him. Her present image was an extremely clear indication that she just wasn't going to sit around and wait.

"You? I really never would have imagined he'd get you pulled into this," Ruthie said when she took on her one-person audience.

"Oh hi Ruthie, how are you?"

"Isn't it pretty obvious how I'm doing?" she laughed. "How did he convince you to even do this?"

"Look, at first I was totally into the idea. I mean an eye for an eye right?"

"I didn't take anything from you. If anything you took it from me!" Ruthie shot back.

"I did no such thing Ruthie and you know it. I wanna help you okay? He's really starting to get on my last nerve about this whole thing."

"Now you know how I feel," she mumbled.

"I was only doing what I thought was best," they defended.

"Doing what was best for who exactly? You? It's always been about you hasn't it?"

"I never said that."

"You've implied it. What did he promise you?"

"He told me that if I did my job right I'd get what I always wanted."

"Which was what?" she asked even though she had a very clear idea of what was on the line. The thought made her stomach turn.

"Right now that doesn't matter."

"Oh right. Could it be because he's in the next room and if he hears you, you could lose your chance at the grand prize?"

"What did I tell you about speaking to our guest?" Both sets of eyes snapped up to the next room where T-Bone stayed invisible.

"Here, take this. I'll be back when I can get him to leave." A folded piece of paper fell in the palm of Ruthie's hand and she looked at it skeptically. Unfolding it carefully she observed its contents. With knit eyebrows she folded it back up again. "What the heck am I supposed to do with this?" As she stuffed it in her pocket for later examination faint voices could be heard on the other side of the door. Dragging herself over quietly, she crammed her ear up against it.

"What the hell took you so long?" she heard T-Bone's very obvious voice growl. "You were gone for like two hours!"

"I might have decided to watch a movie, get some ice cream, the works," they replied. Ruthie could hear the smirk in the second voice and smiled.

"We don't have time for that! Do you realize the risk you ran at getting caught?"

"What's life without a little risk taking?"

"I don't know if you remember this but my ass is on the line. One wrong move and I could be spending the next who knows how many years in a cell. If you're not careful you could be sitting right there with me. All because you wanted some damn ice cream!"

"You wouldn't know sarcasm if it punched you in the face, would you? It took me longer than I thought to find what you wanted. I'm sorry if my need for fresh air bothers you."

"We're only a mile and a half from town. How the hell could it have taken you so long! I mean seriously. If you want your cut of the deal you're going to have to do as I say from here on out, are we clear?"

"Crystal." She soon heard the angry stomps of T-Bone's signature boots coming her way. With a quiet gasp she pulled herself back into her previous position. When he opened the door she saw that he was none too happy with what he was given. The paper and pencil in his hands made her smile.

"Ooh do I get to color?" she asked.

"Sure. Do what you want. Make it pretty. I'm going out for some air. Don't even think about moving!" he snapped. "Watch her and make sure she doesn't do anything stupid."

"Oh joy I get to babysit. Hey, do I get paid?"

"We'll see. See you in about an hour."

*~*~*

In late afternoon Martin made it to Eric's office. By now it was safe for the family to make their way back into the house. Noticing that Eric was still busy (probably a sermon for this week), he debated whether or not to go along with his plan. As he backed away slowly Aaron made the choice for him. Cooing happily he busied himself by playing with his hands. Martin smiled noticing that this was the first time in a while he hadn't screamed over something.

"Hey Martin, hi Aaron. What can I do for you?" Eric asked as he settled the phone in its cradle from a phone call that just ended.

"Hey, are you busy?"

"Not at the moment. What did you need?" Martin sighed sitting himself down on the opposite chair.

"I…I kinda wanted to talk to you about something. The only problem is that I don't know how you'll take it…"

"Well tell me what it is and we'll see what we can do," Eric said sitting back in his chair.

"I'd totally understand if you hated this idea but out of respect for you I think you should know," Martin continued.

"Okay, go ahead."

"I've thought about this a lot. And when I say a lot I mean I've been going over it for months. I know it goes against value but Mr. Camden I…"

"What's with this Mr. Camden? I've been just fine with you calling me Dad. Mr. Camden makes me feel like the Kernel," he laughed.

"Dad I…I know that you and Mom would not be particularly happy with this but I…"

"Come on Martin, you can tell me," he coaxed.

"I was wondering how you'd feel if I gave her what she wanted as a late birthday present."

"Well," he chuckled. "I don't see the big deal in that. As long as it's not too overly extravagant I'd sure she'd love whatever it was that you'd buy her."

"No Dad. I can't buy this. I'd have to actually physically give it to her," he said. The reverend's eyes widened in realization making Martin blush a light pink.

"You'd like to…have sex…with my daughter…" Eric said slowly.

"Yes sir."

"It isn't a game Martin."

"I understand that."

"Do you even know if she's ready for such a step?" he asked slowly.

"She's told me so on more than one occasion. I keep putting it off asking her to let me put a ring on first or find a moment where I could make it special enough for her."

"You do remember that this isn't the way it's supposed to happen, right?"

"Dad I have a prime example right here in front of you. That's why it took me so long to finally come to a decision."

"And what have you decided?"

"I want to give it to her. Yesterday was the most eye-opening for me. It's not about the sex. It's a promise to her. Sleeping in that bed alone last night hurt me. I remember reaching out for her and coming up with just the sheets between my fingers. We don't have to be doing anything. She just has to be there and she wasn't. Going without her has made me realize how much I need her, how much Aaron needs her. I've never seen him hurt so much. He voiced as best he could both our pains. Your daughter fills a void that no one else can for us. It's not so much me, it's him too. I can't watch him suffer anymore than he has to."

"And sleeping with her would solve this problem in what way?" Martin was surprised to see that he wasn't angry, simply asking.

"I think for us it would be a sense of permanence. I'd love to be married to her before we go there. At least that's what I kept telling myself. As wrong as it is I don't think either of us could wait any longer."

"You two were always rebellious weren't you?" Martin blushed again with a small smile.

"We don't mean to be."

"I may be her father Martin but I've always taught them to make their own decisions. I can see how committed you are to her and from what you've heard she's determined to get it soon. God forgive me for saying this but you have my blessing Martin."

"Thank you sir. You have no idea how much this means."

"There are a few rules," he added. "One, your protected, two you hurt her as little as possible. The last thing I want is to hear how much pain you put my baby through, and three you use good quality flowers. Make sure it's not the cheap stuff that dies within two hours of buying it. Beverage and music is up to you but please, make it decent. None of that pop/rock junk you kids listen to today. Make it soothing, memorable."

"I've already thought this entire thing out." Eric smiled.

"So you're saying that you would have gone through with it whether I said yes or not?"

"There was a strong possibility. I love her Dad, more than anything. I only want to make her happy."

"Oh and one more rule. Please for the love of all that is holy, I don't need another grandchild yet. I've already got four. Six that aren't even born yet. I mean my heart can only take so much."

"Oh believe me. It'll be a long time before that happens."

"That's good to know. In the mean time I'll just keep eating my Cheerios hoping that they keep my heart strong enough."

"Don't forget the fact that they lower your cholesterol," Martin pointed out.

"That's always a plus," Eric said.

"Thank you Dad. You have no idea how much this means," Martin said.

"I think you've already said that," he smiled.

"I know I have but still."

"I'm putting more trust in you then I did them Martin. It might do in part because I helped raise you but don't let me regret this."

"I would never. I only want what's best for her. What's best for all of us," he smiled letting Aaron clamp onto his finger.

"I'm going to go see what's for lunch, care to join me?"

"Sure." As they reached the swinging door it came out almost whacking Eric in the face. He jumped back holding his chest with a gasp. Seeing what had happened on the other side Kevin panicked.

"Oh crap! Sorry Dad. Are you okay? Is it your heart? Do you want me to call the hospital?" Kevin asked, all in one breath. He was relieved to see him smile and laugh.

"No Kevin I'm fine. Just startled me is all."

"Lucy's so gonna kill me," he groaned.

"What'd you do?" Lucy asked coming down the stairs.

"Nothing!" Kevin said too quickly.

"Martin, what'd he do?"

"We were coming in for lunch, Kevin was coming out. The door swung out kind of fast and scared him," Martin explained. With a scowl, Lucy came over smacking Kevin soundly.

"Ow Luce I didn't mean to!"

"What were you thinking? You know he's got a bad heart. You could have put him in the hospital!" she growled.

"I already checked to see if he was having problems. I even offered to call the hospital. I covered all my bases I swear."

"Lucy honey, I'm fine," Eric chuckled.

"Thankfully but one wrong move and this goob could have put you under cardiac arrest!"

"Nothing happened sweetheart, calm down," he laughed.

"Cheerios anyone," Martin offered.

*~*~*

Ruthie glanced at her caretaker skeptically who was going through the mystery paper with her.

"What does all this mean?" she asked.

"It was part of our kidnapping code. He figured that the weirder the letters looked the less likely it would be that someone figured it out. He freaked out a while ago when I wouldn't give him the key. Ironically, he's the one who came up with it and has yet to memorize it."

"Do I even wanna know what's on it?" Ruthie asked.

"Where we are," they said simply.

"That's a great question. Where the heck am I?"

"About two miles from town. He made sure that this place had no satellite signal to stay in hiding. Personally I would have taken you much father but, that's just me."

"T-Bone's not the brightest star in the sky. It's times like these where a flaw like that is appreciated," Ruthie said.

"I really didn't think it'd get this out of hand," they sighed.

"This is T-Bone we're talking about here," Ruthie pointed out.

"Yeah I know. It just got worse and worse," they said.

"Hey seeing as we're kinda sorta teaming up right now, do you think you could do me a favor and get me a glass of water or something?"

"If you run I'm screwed," they said.

"Trust me I wanna get outta here. Preferably in one piece. If that means waiting for my next opening through you then I'm all for it."

"Boy am I grateful Kevin's a cop. I'm starting to actually learn to think like one. Can I see the code again?" she asked as they offered it to her. "Some of these are sadly so obvious," she laughed. "You think you could do me a huge favor?"

"What can I do that wont get me shot by Ted Bundy over there?"

"If I code this out could you get it to them? Just something to let them know I'm okay?"

"I seriously thought you'd never ask."

*~*~*

By six o'clock that night, the entire community was gathered around the Camden home. Sgt. Michaels stood on the port step giving strict instruction before releasing the search parties.

"Please, if anyone, anyone at all has any small piece of information you are to report back to the house immediately." The large group gave a nod in understanding. "This is Ruthie we're talking about here. It is demanded that you take extreme caution if you see Theodore. He is known to be armed and extremely dangerous."

"It says here that his last call was made using a disposable phone with a selected number of hours on it. It's no longer in service so my best guess is it's already been used up," informed a tech boy. He looked to be about Ruthie's age with heavy set wire rimmed glasses.

"Thank you Thomas. When was the last call made?" he asked.

"Roughly ten minutes ago sir. They ordered in from the Dairy Shack."

"Alright A and B take the south end, C and D take north. Kevin, you and I are going down to get a couple burgers," he said.

"I knew there was a reason why I loved this job so much," Kevin mused. As the crowd dispersed the ringing of the officer's phone stopped them.

"Yes, this is Sgt. Michaels. What was that?...You…Great, we'll be right there." Turning to the anxious crowd the usually serious officer let a wide smile cross his face. "They found her." The crowd erupted in cheers as the sergeant quickly stopped their celebration. "We don't know if this could be misleading or not. Let's keep with the plan. It's a nine in ten shot that we've found her." The tanned police man searched frantically for his keys each time coming up empty. "Now where did I put my damn keys?" he mumbled.

"Your jacket pocket sir," a woman called.

"Thanks," he smiled jogging to his squad car, Kevin not too far behind.

*~*~*

The cool chill of the night air was extremely inviting as her feet met the ground below her. The breeze that flew by bit at the cut on her check which made her cringe for only a second. Still she smiled. While her coded letter was being delivered she used that alone time to pick a couple locks and find her way out. Even though her breath came in short gasps she pushed forward. The faster and farther she ran, the more time she had to separate herself from him. She knew she only had a small set time before he found out she wouldn't be coming to dinner.

Ruthie had no idea how long she had been out here. Considering the distance she traveled on her injuries, she knew she had a long way to go. As her legs fell to jelly under her, she let herself fall. Raising her head, she saw a head of wispy hair in the shadows.

"Ruthie," Mrs. Binks called frantically. "Ruthie!"

"Mrs. Binks!" Ruthie called between big breaths of air. At the calling of her name, she saw the woman pick up speed. Not that she could do so very affectively given her age but Ruthie smiled at the familiarity of the woman. As she approached Ruthie pushed herself up off her resting place and went in to hug her neighbor. "I've never been more grateful to see you," she cried.

""You've created quite a mess for yourself young lady," she scolded hugging her tightly.

"I know," she said.

"You've got the whole neighborhood looking for you," she said.

"Oh my gosh," she whispered, tears gathering in her eyes.

"You look a mess deary. The minute we get to my house you're getting tea and a nice long bath," she demanded.

"With all do respect Mrs. B. I'd much rather do those at home."

"Can you even make it that far?" she asked.

"With a little help I think I could. I just want to be home," she said softly.

"Understood. Now in my search they gave me this gadget," she said pulling out a cell phone. "I have no idea how on earth to actually use it but I suggest that you make a very important call as we get there," she said. With shaking fingers, Ruthie took the phone dialing a number that would forever be etched in her memory.

*~*~*

In the bedroom Martin struggled with yet another diaper changing. It really didn't help that Aaron had gone back to screaming.

"One more minute buddy, then you'll be all done," he said. The ringing of his phone made him jump an inch and a half in surprise. "Now who could that be?" Martin thought as he finished. He quickly lifted Aaron up onto his hip as he answered the call.

"Hello?"

"Martin?" Ruthie asked.

"Oh my god, Ruthie is that you?" he asked as he ambled down the steps.

"Yes," she said simply. Martin could hear the tears in her voice which brought on a fair amount of his own. He felt a smile stretch across his face that made his cheeks hurt.

"Hey Aaron, guess who this is?" Martin said excitedly. It was at that very moment that Ruthie felt herself almost sob.

"Ma-ma!" he cheered. Martin nodded kissing his forehead quickly. Were it not for the fact that she was slowly making her way home she would have stopped right there simply to marvel at how good it felt to hear their voices.

"That's right baby, its Mommy," she said tearfully.

"Ma-ma!" he laughed happily. A clog the size of a fist formed in the back of her throat. That little voice, that giggle that she fell asleep to in that cold warehouse room she was finally able to hear for herself.

"I know baby. I'll be home to see you in just a few minutes. I love you," she grinned. Martin took the phone back to his ear. "Martin I don't have much time but Mrs. Binks is helping me home. I would talk to everyone but the longer I stay on the phone the longer it's going to take me to get there. Just tell them that I'm okay and that I love them," she said. Martin smiled as the grin on his little boy's face returned, his head lying lazily on his father's shoulder.

"I will sweetheart. Come home quick, we miss you, we need you," he whispered. "I love you," he said softly.

"I love you more," she replied.

"Impossible," he smiled. As Martin hung up he felt a slight spring in his step. As they neared the landing, a smile the size of Alaska fell on Aaron's face.

"Okay we totally missed something," Mary realized. "Isn't he usually screaming right about now?" When she saw a smile that mirrored his on Martin's face her eyes widened.

"Where is she?" Carlos asked desperately. He had stopped yet another round of pacing (or burning a hole in the floor from the looks of it) when he noticed a change in the air.

"She's on her way home, right now," Martin beamed.

"By herself?" Carlos asked incredulous. "Isn't that the exact same idea that got us into this mess?"

"Mrs. Binks is helping her over," he clarified.

"Oh thank god," Lucy said letting the tears fall.

"Someone, call Mom and Dad," Sarah demanded.

"Already on it," Simon said punching the familiar number in his phone, a jubilant Luke on his lap. Even though he had gone without saying a word his excitement was read in his eyes. Waiting anxiously for someone to pick up at the house Simon drummed his fingers.

"Hello?" Eric answered.

"They found her," Simon said.

"You better not be playing games with me son. My heart won't take it," Eric said seriously.

"I'm serious Dad. They found her. They found our baby sister."

"Oh thank the lord," he heard him mumble. "Which house?"

"Lucy's."

"We're coming over right away," he confirmed. As Simon hung up, Simon saw Carlos kneeling on the living room carpet mumbling a prayer in his native tongue. He saw Mary squatting down beside him as best she could.

"They found her," he whispered. "Gracias Senor para este milagro," he thanked silently. "Thank you Lord for this miracle," he recited a second time, not quite believing that it was true.

"I told you so," Mary whispered hugging him tightly.

"I don't think I can wait. I'm going to go meet them halfway. Who's with me?" Matt called. Martin was quickly the first to raise his hand. Not too far behind Simon's hand shot up. "Okay let's bring her home guys."

"Yeah sure, leave me with them. Again," Carlos groaned. They all laughed seeing the happiness in his face.

"Sorry bro. You just have a way with the ladies," Simon chuckled.

"Uh huh, sure," he drawled taking an offered Luke from Simon.

"We appreciate you," Matt called as he walked out the door.

"Just go get her already," he said impatiently. After quickly throwing both his and Aaron's coats on, Martin brought up the rear. As they speed-walked halfway down the block, Martin could see the unmistakable silhouette topped with curly brown hair.

"Ruthie!" he called desperately. She saw a head jerk up in his direction and who he knew to be Ruthie move just a little bit faster.

"Martin!" she called back. His name on her lips allowed him to push further at a much higher speed.

"Ma-ma!" Aaron called out loudly. Ruthie felt the welcome visit of another round of tears as her little boy called out to her. When they were barely three feet away, Martin charged at her. As startling as it was to have the heavy weight come at her all at once she allowed herself to fall into Martin's arms. It was there that she allowed herself to finally fall apart entirely.

"Shh baby, we've got you," he whispered thickly. "You're safe now," he said gently.

"I missed you so much," she sobbed.

"You have no idea how much we missed you," he said softly. "Let me look at you," he demanded. Ruthie giggled pulling away only a little. "Just as beautiful as I remember," he whispered.

"I look terrible," she laughed. "And as far as I'm aware I've only been gone a day."

"A day without you is a lifetime Roo," he said kissing her deeply.

"Have you been reading Hallmark again?" she asked. She got no response. Instead Martin fed at her hungrily, the two barely coming up for breath. "I love you," she whispered.

"I love you so much more," he said going in for another one.

"I think I left some cookies on the stove. I believe its best if I just…leave now," Mrs. Binks said slowly.

"Oh I'm sorry," Ruthie said blushing once Martin allowed her freedom.

"No apology necessary dear. Just please be careful out there. These old bones aren't as good as they used to be. I might not be able to find you next time."

"Oh no. You can guarantee that she's never leaving my sight again," Martin promised holding her to him.

"I hope so," Ruthie smiled.

"Thank you Mrs. Binks," Martin said.

"Anything for the Camdens," she smiled. "Be safe now," she called as she crossed the street to her small home.

"I'm really scared to find out what she meant by that," Ruthie mumbled.

"Ma-ma!" Aaron squealed letting himself almost fall face first into her. Ruthie was quick to grab him and hold him at airtight distance peppering his tiny body with longing affection

"Hi baby," she whispered. "Mommy missed you," she smiled. Not missing the opportunity he clasped his fists around her neck letting his head fall on her shoulder.

"Ma-ma…Ma-ma…Ma-ma home," he said softly.

"Yes sweetie, Mama's home," she grinned wiping her moist cheeks with her free hand. The little family formed a tight huddle and stood there for a good five minutes in simple, comfortable silence.

"Okay as beautiful as this is we're here too ya know," Simon called over her shoulder.

"What are your brothers, chopped liver?" Matt added insulted.

"Only the best kind," she laughed hugging them both in turn with all the strength she could muster.

"Mom and Dad are worried sick," Matt said.

"Not to mention the fact that Carlos might still be on his knees thanking every god on the planet for bringing you home safely," Simon added.

"For all we know he could be trying to find a way to thank Medusa," Matt chuckled.

"I just need a bath," Ruthie laughed.

"How badly did he hurt you?" Martin asked seriously.

"Just a few more cuts and bruises," she said.

"I've missed you so much Roo," he whispered.

"Hey you weren't the one stuck in there with a psycho. I think that gives me a free pass to win the "I Missed/Love You More" game," she said.

"Please don't remind me," he pleaded. "I can't imagine what the monster's done to you," he said.

"Okay break up the love fest," they heard Kevin holler. "Did someone call a search party?"

"Yeah but he—" Ruthie began.

"—showed up late," Martin finished.

"You have no idea how much I missed that," he said.

"You're welcome," they chimed together.

"And that," Simon added.

"Just don't do it so much. You might scare the neighbors, Matt laughed."

"Do we care?" they asked.

"No," Simon said.

"Let's get you home to get a good look at you," Matt suggested.

"Yes doctor," she said rolling her eyes. Matt smiled, glad to see that nothing much had changed in the last twenty-four hours.

*~*~*

"Okay correction. This is hospital territory," Matt said running his hands along her abdomen carefully. She winced when she felt him touch her ribs gently.

"Ow," she whimpered letting a couple of tears slip by. Martin held her as the coarse check continued. "It hurts. Like a knife stabbing my insides," she whispered. By now everyone was surrounding her trying to find some way to comfort her pains.

"Well something's defiantly stabbing you," Matt said. "From what I can tell you've got several broken ribs, a sprained ankle, and a broken arm."

"What in the world did they do to you baby?" Annie asked tearfully.

"It looks like they did a hell of a lot," Kevin muttered.

"Kevin, language," Lucy snapped.

"Sorry," he muttered.

"We'll be more sure of what's been done with a few x-rays. I'll see if I can get this completely covered by insurance."

"Thanks Matt," Eric said.

"I'm just glad she's home in one piece," he said.

"Believe me, I think we all are," Mary said.

*~*~*

"What the fuck happened? I leave you alone for one minute with her and this happens!" T-Bone growled into the phone. He had just come back in from his few minutes of air to find the vacant room just that, vacant.

"Well I'm sorry if I had to take a bathroom break every once and a while. It's not like my bladder could go with your demands!" The caller smiled at the small piece of news.

"I tied her back up! There was no room for mistakes in our plan! It was flawless!"

"Yeah well every plan has its glitch. I'm deeply sorry for your misfortune but I have to go now."

"Where the hell are you—" T-Bone's accusation was cut short when he heard the click on the other end. "Goddamit! You can forget about our little deal then! See if I care!" he growled before throwing the phone across the room. Two miles away, his partner looked in on the reunited family and slowly walked up to the door.

*~*~*

"So what the heck did I miss while I was in the clutches of Dr. Evil?' Ruthie asked.

"Nothing much. It mostly consisted of mopping and crying and worrying ourselves half to death," Carlos said easily. Lucy eyed him carefully rolling her eyes at how easily he had said so. She specifically remembered how torn up he had been. Now he was acting as if the whole thing was just a walk in the park.

"Don't forget the lack of sleep over it," Martin put in. "I swear I think I got a consistent hour, maybe two in last night." Aaron had no complaints as he watched Ruthie, making easy fun of playing with a lock of her hair. She smiled, kissing his forehead tenderly.

"I did almost kill Dad though," Kevin said. "That's about as interesting as it got," he said.

"Oh I wish I could have seen that," she laughed.

"We could show you," Kevin suggested.

"Oh great," Martin moaned.

"Oh let them have their fun," Annie smiled. "It's been too tense around here lately."

"As long as I don't have to be in it I don't care how stupid they look," he said.

"I'll be Martin," Carlos volunteered.

"Okay that leaves me as me obviously. Because I'm just that awesome. Matt can be Dad. And Mary get's to play my wife."

"Lucky me," Mary drawled.

Kevin skipped over to the dividing door while Matt ran over to the other side. Mary stationed herself at the stairs leaving Carlos to talk animatedly with Matt about his love of tacos. Ruthie laughed as she rubbed Aaron's back in comfort hearing him let out a soft whimper.

"Shh it's okay buddy. It's just your uncles being crazy." Aaron squirmed into a comfortable corner of her body letting his eyes close again. It had been about three hours since she'd returned and he still kept hold of her for dear life. You're defiantly going to be cuddling tonight, aren't you sweetie?" she thought.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a boisterous round of laughter. Looking up to see what she'd missed she heard Kevin rambling in a high soprano tone.

"Oh crap! Sorry Dad. Are you okay? Is it your heart? Do you want me to call the hospital? Are you dying? Oh god, oh god, oh god," Kevin asked, all in one breath. He was relieved to see him smile and laugh. "What, do I look like a clown to you?" he asked desperately. "I don't have the rainbow wig. ANSWER ME DAD! Please I don't want to die!" Kevin then proceeded to pretend to cry. By this time the entire room was booming.

"No Kevin I'm fine. Just startled me is all. I didn't expect you to crash through the door like that. You could have actually put a hole in it."

"Lucy's so gonna kill me," he groaned.

"What'd you do?" Mary growled stepping into the scene. "Why am I going to kill you Kevin and where is that sandwich I asked for like two hours ago?"

"Nothing!" Kevin said too quickly.

"Martin, what'd he do?"

"We were coming in for lunch, Kevin was coming out. The door swung out kind of fast and practically took his face off," Carlos explained. With a scowl Mary came over smacking Matt soundly.

"Ow Luce I didn't mean to!"

"What were you thinking? You know he's got a bad heart. You could have put him in the hospital! Not to mention the plastic surgery he almost needed to put his face back on," she growled.

"I already checked to see if he was having problems. I even offered to call the hospital. I covered all my bases I swear. I could call for cosmetic consulting too. Just say the word. Just please don't hit me. I love you!"

"Lucy honey, I'm fine," Matt chuckled.

"Thankfully but one wrong move and this goob could have put you under cardiac arrest! I don't even wanna think about putting a new face on you. I love you just the way you are. 'Cause you're my Daddy," Mary finished.

"Nothing happened sweetheart, calm down," he laughed. "And who's to say a new face would be such a bad idea? It could put a whole new spin on my marriage. Younger, more exuberant…better in bed," he smirked.

"Cheerios anyone," Carlos offered.

"So not what happened," Martin laughed shaking his head. The family was still in stitches of laughter when they finished. Aaron who clearly woke from all the noise watched the second half, a smile not coming off his face. Ruthie grinned, tears of joy coming down her cheeks as he let out full belly laughs. The ones she so clearly remembered. For a minute, it hit her that was she not so lucky it could have been weeks, months until she saw these faces again. The faces of those she loved. It didn't matter that he had no clue what he was laughing at. It would take him a while to fully understand the family dynamic as it was. It was the fact that as she held him, Martin's arms wrapped tightly around her she remembered just how much she loved this family. Seeing his mouth stretch open in a wide yawn Ruthie shared a look with Martin who lifted her effortlessly off the couch.

"I think someone's getting sleepy," she whispered.

"I think someone needs a bath," Martin clarified. Ruthie glared at him punching him playfully.

"Are you trying to say that I smell bad?" she asked hurt.

"No baby I mean he does," Martin said gently.

"I'm just trying to figure how I'm going to actually bathe seeing as he has yet to separate himself from me," she said eyeing Aaron.

"Together, I guess is the best way to do it," Martin said.

"Oh if Dad knew what was going through that pretty little head of yours right this minute," she giggled.

"Excuse me but I am not pretty."

"What are you then?"

"Handsome, hot, smokin'? Pick your adjective. I just hate being called pretty. It's so….girlie," he said his face twisting in disgust.

"Well I'm sorry but I quite enjoy being a girl," she shot back.

"And for that I'm glad because you weren't I'd have to go gay," he said.

"Oh and we really don't want that do we?"

"I sure don't. I don't know about you but I'd like the opportunity to do a little Sheet Salsa sometime in the near future. Now if I was a guy, do you think that'd be possible?" Martin smiled as a familiar blush coated her cheeks.

"I would never," she said sounding offended.

"I love you. Every single part of you," he whispered running his fingers gently along her exposed stomach and kissing it tenderly. Ruthie shivered at the contact and clamped her legs together in resistance.

"You know I can't handle myself when you're like that," she said roughly.

"No one's going to see anything," he said huskily.

"I love you Martin I really do but I really don't want to unwrap in a bathtub. Especially with him here."

"I never said I was going to," he whispered.

"Then what exactly are you doing?" she asked.

"Undressing you," he said obviously.

"Undressing leads to dancing honey. Please stop before I change my mind," she begged.

"What are you going to bathe in, your clothes?" he asked rolling his eyes. "I'm just being slow and gentle. I don't want to hurt anything. Imagine what the doctors would have to say about you when you come in tomorrow with three or four more breaks."

"Well you don't have to tease me about it," she giggled.

"Oh but that's half the fun," he pouted.

"Just get me in the tub Martin."

"Alright, alright. See if I have fun with you anymore," he grumbled.

"You will whether you like it or not," she laughed. Oh you have no idea he thought.

*~*~*

As the water cooled and Aaron splashed a few more times, one of those hitting Ruthie right in the face, Martin carefully lifted the two out. Being wrapped snuggly in a blanket Aaron leaned himself against her, miraculously on her good side.

"Isn't it so nice to be squeaky clean?" she crooned kissing his forehead. He smiled letting his fingers collect the dripping water and bringing it to his lips. After a second Ruthie saw him bite down hard and instinctively yanked it out of his mouth. "No baby, you don't wanna do that. You'll hurt yourself," she said gently. Ruthie was then met with the familiar twist in his features.

"More teeth sweetheart?" she asked him tenderly.

"Yeah, ironically those happened last night right after you left," Martin sighed.

"Well we're going to fix that, aren't we sweetie?" she asked him drying his eyes with the pad of her thumb.

"Ma-ma," he whimpered.

"Shh I've got you baby. Mommy's got you. Martin could you--?"

"Already got it," he called as he rose from the diaper bag. Coming over he knelt down in front of them as Ruthie sat him facing forward. "Open up little man," he coaxed. Aaron shook his head pulling at the towel that wrapped around Ruthie. Bringing it back up quickly Ruthie kissed his temple.

"Open up for Daddy sweetheart," she said softly. "Big and wide. Mama's right here," she reminded him. Letting out a minor whimper in protest Aaron did as he was told while holding onto Ruthie for dear life. "I'm not leaving baby shh. You can let go honey," she said calmly. Aaron shook his head placing the hand she had just been removed right back to where it was. When Martin finally finished Aaron dug his face into her shoulder. "I know it hurts sweetie," she whispered as she handed him the iced ring. He took to it with his free hand letting remaining tears trail down his face.

"All done buddy," Martin told him kissing his temple.

"There we go. All better, hmm?" she asked tenderly. "Now why don't we all try and get some sleep? I don't know about you but Mommy had a very, very interesting night. One in which she quickly discovered the floor isn't made for sleeping on. So why do we all just lay back and cuddle for a little while?"

"I really like the sound of that one," Martin said coming up beside her.

"I missed you," she whispered.

"I missed you more," he replied. Aaron let out a squeal, which sent them both laughing.

"Okay apparently he wins this round," Martin said. "And rightfully so. You just kept telling us how much you missed Mommy, right big guy?" he smiled. "He wouldn't let us hear the end of it," he chuckled.

"Ma-ma…home."

"That's right little man. Mommy's home."

*~*~*

Eric almost floated into his office a few hours later, elated to finally have his family pieced together again. A moment of surprise passed before he took in who was sitting in the room.

"Hello Meredith. How nice to see you. If you're looking for Ruthie she's already asleep in her room. I'll let her know you came by though," he promised.

"Actually Reverend, I was hoping to see you about something," she said.

"Well, alright. What can I help you with?"

"Mr. Camden I think…I think I did something bad. And when I say 'bad' I mean really bad."

A/N: There we go! --Wipes brow-- Over 50 pages and more than 20,000 words! What better way to bring in the New Year, right? Hopefully all of you had a lovely holiday season, I know we did :) Please forgive us for any errors. We wrote this entire thing out to make it in time for WDIDN's birthday with not very breathing room. You know how this works! Let us know. Good, bad, horrific? You be the judge.