Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

164. Chapter 164

Chapter 164

Kevin was at his office that Saturday preparing for court on Monday. He only had until noon, though. While he loved the peace and quiet that came with being alone in the office to work, he didn't like being away from home on a Saturday. Amber was in town for a bridal consultation and the kids were with Anatoli who'd taken them to the tribe to be with family. The plan was Kevin and Amber would be going to Forks that afternoon as well. He walked out of his office a moment to get coffee when he overheard his phone ring. He left his mug in the break room returning to his office to answer the phone assuming it was Amber or the kids.

"Kevin Black," Kevin answered.

"Mr. Black, this is the Front Desk Manager for the 5th Avenue Apartments. We've been asked to call you because your niece Jaedynn is in the hospital."

"What? Why? What happened?" Kevin asked.

"We're being told she was attacked, sir, but I'm afraid that's all the more information we've been given on the matter. We've been informed she's at the New York Presbyterian Hospital in Hudson Heights."

"Thank you," Kevin said and quickly hung up the phone. He was about to call Nathan first, but then realized he needed to get family there as soon as possible, so he called the phone number to the Forbes dormitory. Someone answered but it was another student that Kevin urged to get Levi immediately. He waited a few minutes before the phone was picked up again.

"Dad? Is everything alright?"

"I just got word Jaedynn's been put in the hospital," Kevin said.

"What happened?!"

"I was told she was attacked; they didn't say, but I'd bet Alex is the culprit. I'm going to call Nathan, but I want to get someone there as soon as possible and you're the closest. Can you get there?"

"I'll get there; don't worry. Where is she?"

Kevin relayed the name of the hospital and with that information handy, Levi got to the station and onto the next train to Manhattan. Once he was off the phone with Levi, Kevin dialed the number to Nathan's house but no one was answering. He looked at the clock: Nathan would be at the station by now and possibly on patrol but Kevin called the station just in case. He got Nathan's voicemail, so he called Boris, told him what happened and to get Nathan ASAP, then Kevin called the bar. He waited a few rings before there was an answer.

"This is Ada," Ada María answered.

"Ada, it's Kevin. I just got word Jaedynn's in the hospital. I'm being told she was attacked."

"What?! Where is she?" Ada María asked.

"New York Presbyterian; it's in Hudson Heights. I called Levi and told him to get there as fast as he can. I left a message with Boris and he's looking for Nathan now."

"I'll get back to the house and pack. Thank you," Ada María managed to hold her composure and disconnected the phone before rushing out of her office. Gabriel, Ariel and Nadeshka were out front cleaning.

"Mom, what's going on?" Ariel asked.

"Your sister's in the hospital. Alex attacked her."

"That son of a bitch," Ariel said and came around the bar. "Nadeshka, please get one of the other bartenders in and look after the place."

"I'll take care of it," Nadeshka promised as Ariel, Ada María and Gabriel left the bar and rushed home. By the time they made it back, Nathan was already home having received the news and was already packing a suitcase.

"Nathan," Ada María began.

"Kevin called grandpa. He checked and there's a plane leaving for New York at 1."

"The boys and I are coming with you," Ada María said.

"That's fine; just pack," Nathan said and Ada María did just that.

Ivory, having received the news that was going around, insisted that she was coming as well and burrowed a suitcase from Ada María and packed some of Jaedynn's clothes both for her use and for Jaedynn's. Within the next ten minutes, they were all packed and rushing out the door by which time the whole tribe had heard what happened. They made it to the airport and there were enough seats available for them to get on the 1 o'clock flight. Meanwhile, Roshad finally made it to the hospital and went to the front desk in a rush.

"I'm looking for Jaedynn Black," Roshad said. "I was told she was taken here."

"What was she brought in for, sir?"

"She was attacked and rushed here."

"So she was brought to the ER," the woman said and picked up the phone to call the correct desk. She was on the phone a moment before ending the call having the information she needed. "Alright, sir, I've been informed she's currently in intensive care and doctors are not allowing visitors at this time. However, if you wish to wait, you can go to the Emergency waiting area. I can direct you there if you like."

"Yes, please," Roshad said. The woman gave Roshad the directions and he rushed to the Emergency waiting room, spoke with the front desk again to tell them he was there and was told to wait. He waited about a half hour before he was approached again.

"Sir," a man in scrubs walked up to him, "You said you're here for Miss Jaedynn Black?"

"Yes," Roshad said. "Is she alright?"

"She's out of danger now," the man said. "Her injuries were not so severe as the paramedics had relayed."

"Can I see her?" Roshad asked.

"Not right now, sir," the doctor said, "Only family is permitted to visit at this time."

"I am family; I'm the child's father," Roshad blurted out.

"Miss Black's child you mean?"

"Yes," Roshad said. "I got a call that she was attacked and I came here as fast as I could. Please, tell me I can see her. Is she alright? What about the baby? Is the baby okay?"

"The baby is safe," the doctor said. "She didn't sustain any injuries near the uterus and the baby looks normal. Do you mind waiting one moment sir?"

"Fine. My name is Roshad Javadi by the way," Roshad said, getting anxious and impatient as the doctor nodded and walked away. He waited another five minutes before the doctor returned, waived for him to follow him and Roshad was led where Jaedynn was being held.

"Roshad?" Jaedynn asked and tried to sit up but was still sore. Roshad rushed to her and carefully held her, but released her the moment she yelped with pain.

"Jaedynn, what happened?" Roshad asked in a panic.

"Alex found out," Jaedynn said briefly.

"What did he do?" Roshad asked.

"He pulled out a switchblade on me," Jaedynn said. "I bit him, but he stabbed me in the shoulder and my ribs. The doctor said the baby is safe."

"Yes, he told me," Roshad said and rested his forehead against hers. Just then, two officers walked into the room.

"Miss Jaedynn Black?" one of the officers said. "I'm Detective Abrams, this is my partner Detective Li. We're just here to ask you a few questions about what happened this afternoon."

"Have you arrested him?" Roshad asked immediately.

"I'm afraid not," Detective Abrams said. "Miss Black, we're being informed your live-in boyfriend is the one that attacked you; is that correct?"

"Yes," Jaedynn answered.

"A Mr. De La Vega?"

"Who? No, his name's Alex Vayez," Jaedynn said.

"The name on the lease is Ernesto De La Vega. Do you know who that is ma'am?"

"No, I don't," Jaedynn said, "But that's not his name. His name is Alex Vayez."

"Li, we got samples of the blood leaving the apartment?" Detective Abrams asked.

"Yes, we did," he answered.

"Good; we'll check the database. He probably has some priors," Detective Abrams said. "We were able to create a composite sketch with information given to us by neighbors and the landlord. We will keep searching for him and once we have some suspects in custody, we'll need you to look at a lineup."

"Okay," Jaedynn answered.

"Miss Black, can you tell us what happened?" Detective Li asked.

"I arrived back at the apartment around three. Alex was home and he asked where I was. I told him I'd gone to the park, but he confronted me about spending the night at my Uncle's apartment. Then he said his mother caught Roshad and I in the park playing soccer together. Alex accused me of cheating on him, I admitted I was and he grabbed me by the neck and slammed be against the wall. I overheard him take out a switchblade and I kicked him off me. He came at me again and hit me, then," she stopped herself a moment trying to think what to say next, "I bit him when he came at me again and that's when he stabbed me in the shoulder then in the ribcage once I was on the ground. I think it was Martha; she slammed on the front door to the apartment, so Alex ran out, Martha saw me and stayed with me until the paramedics arrived."

"And how are you involved, sir?" Detective Li asked Roshad.

"I'm who Jaedynn was with yesterday and today," Roshad said.

"Ah. So you're the other man that Mr. Vayez found out about?" Detective Abrams asked.

Roshad's eye twitched a little but he said, "Yes, sir." Jaedynn took a hold of his hand and that calmed him down. "Jaedynn was trying to move her things out of the apartment so she could leave. Mr. Vayez has a history of aggression, but I did not realize he would do something like this to her."

"And what was your name?"

"Roshad Javadi," Roshad answered.

"Thank you, sir," Detective Li said. "Well, Miss Black, that's all we needed for now. We'll keep looking for Mr. Vayez and we'll let you know once we need you to come to the station."

"Let me give you my information; she will be staying with me," Roshad said and Jaedynn didn't argue. Once he gave the officers the information, he asked, "What else do you need from the apartment and I'll get it."

"I'm afraid you can't go there, Mr. Javadi. The area is still a crime scene."

"Afterwards, then," Roshad said.

"Just some clothes," Jaedynn answered.

"Let me know when we can get those," Roshad said to the detectives.

"Of course, Mr. Javadi," Detective Abrams said. "We'll be in touch." The officers left the room and Roshad pulled a chair close to the medical bed.

"I made sure your uncle was called. He'll relay the word," Roshad said.

"I'm sorry about all this," Jaedynn said.

"Don't apologize; you have nothing to apologize for," Roshad said and kissed her hand. "Just focus on getting better."

"I'm getting better too fast," Jaedynn said. "By the time I got here, the doctors thought I'd been attacked days ago. I'm still really sore and they freshened the cuts so they could add stitches and got pictures, but it looks like police were able to confirm the attack happened today."

"Wait, you mean you heal as I do?"

"Yeah," Jaedynn nodded.

"Well, thank God for that," Roshad sighed. "I got here as soon as I could. The doctor said only family could visit so I told them I was the baby's father."

"It's alright," Jaedynn asked. "At this point, Alex thinks you are."

"Let him think it then," Roshad said. "I'm sorry to demand you stay with me."

"It's alright," Jaedynn said. "Honestly, I was going to ask if I could."

"You're welcome to stay," Roshad assured and kissed her hand. "As is your family once they make it here. I don't know who's coming, but I assume relatives will be coming in droves."

"Not exactly how I wanted everyone to meet you," Jaedynn said.

"One thing at a time," Roshad said. "Right now, it's more important that you heal."

Another hour later, Levi made it to Manhattan and got on a taxi asking to be taken to the hospital as soon as possible. Rush hour had passed by then but the streets were still congested and the trip took roughly 45 minutes. He was dropped off at the entrance to the Emergency room and went straight to the front desk.

"Is Jaedynn Black here? I got a call from my dad that she was hurt. Is she alright? Can I see her?"

"May I have your name and relationship to the patient, sir?"

"Levi Black. I'm her cousin," Levi said.

"I will check with the doctor to confirm if you can go in. She's been stable since six and her boyfriend is with her so-"

"What?! Get him out of there! He's the one that did this to her!" Levi yelled. "What room is she in?!"

"Sir, I need you to stop yelling. One moment and I'll page the doctor." Levi ignored the man and went past the doors and started looking. He overheard security being called but he kept looking until he found Jaedynn, but when he entered the room, he was extremely confused.

"Mr. Javadi? What are you doing here?" Levi asked.

"Young man, I need you to come with me," a security personal said after approaching Levi.

"No, please, let him stay," Jaedynn said. "He's my cousin."

"Miss, he barged in without authorization. I'm afraid he's going to have to leave," the security officer said.

"The front desk told me your boyfriend was here! Sir, I rushed in here because her boyfriend's the one that attacked her, so I thought-"

"I understand, young man, but I still need you to come with me," the security guard said.

"Please can you let him stay?" Jaedynn asked again.

"I'll tell you what: I'll bring him back to the waiting area, we'll talk to the doctor and if he gets clearance, then he can come back," the security guard said and Levi finally left with the guard, still thoroughly confused.Levi was kept in the waiting room for another half hour before the doctor gave the green light to come back. The security guard led Levi back to Jaedynn's room before retreating again.

"Mr. Javadi, what are you doing here?" Levi asked again once the security guard left. "How do you and Jaedynn know each other?"

Roshad and Jaedynn glanced at one another briefly, then Jaedynn said, "Roshad and I met about 2 weeks ago. It was the same day I found out I was pregnant actually. We met at that Cajun restaurant I like and we started spending time together."

"Does Uncle Nathan know about this?"

"No," Jaedynn said. "I told Ivory, but I asked her not to say anything just yet."

"So I take it Alex found out and that's why he attacked you?"

"Pretty much," Jaedynn said. "I was trying to keep this quiet so I could get my things out quietly, but obviously that didn't work."

"For God's sake, Jaedynn, why didn't you just shove all your shit in the back of your car and leave?!" Levi asked in a bought of frustration.

"Because I didn't want him getting wind of it and stopping me. Given I found out he had his mother spying on me, I'd say I have good reason to have suspected that," Jaedynn said.

"Alright, alright, nothing we can do about it now," Levi groaned and sat down in a chair in the corner of the room. "I think it goes without saying that Uncle Nathan will be on the next flight here. What about the baby? Is the baby okay?"

"The baby's fine," Jaedynn said. "They did an ultrasound and everything's normal. The knife didn't get near that area."

"I hope you realize how lucky you are right about now," Levi groaned then looked up at Roshad. "Can I make a suggestion? You may want to get going before Uncle Nathan gets here. That man will be out for blood once he knows Jaedynn's okay; I don't know if you want to get caught up in all that."

"You let me worry about that," Roshad said. "I'll need to run out for a bit to call home but after that I'm coming back." Levi looked at Roshad a moment then looked at Jaedynn.

"Is he your…" he trailed off and Jaedynn nodded. Levi sighed heavily. "Alright. We'll deal with it as we go. Wasn't exactly what you were expecting when you decided to come to America for an extended vacation I take it?"

"It's certainly been eventful," Roshad answered.

"I'd still suggest keeping yourself out of sight for the most part, at least once Nathan gets here," Levi said. "Trust me; the last thing the man will want to do is meet you and if the staff refer to you as her 'boyfriend' like they did to me, you might be dead before Nathan realizes the mistake."

"I'm sorry; it was the only way they would let me see her," Roshad said.

"It's fine," Levi said. Then Evalynn rushed into the room and everyone looked up at her. "I see word got back to you?"

"Yeah, daddy called me," Evalynn said and went right to Jaedynn. "Are you okay? What happened?"

"I'm fine," Jaedynn said. "I'm already more or less completely healed. Just a little sore. The baby is fine too."

"Have the police caught him?"

"No, not as far as I know," Jaedynn said. "I'm beginning to suspect they won't."

"Hey, don't think like that," Levi said. "Wait, isn't your grandpa a tracker? He could find him!"

"I already asked," Evalynn said. "Grandpa can't find him by tenor since they never met but he'll be able to search once he smells the blood at the apartment." Evalynn finally noticed Roshad. "Who are you?"

"Roshad Javadi," Roshad answered and bowed to her. "It's a pleasure to meet you albeit under less than favorable circumstances."

"Who is this guy?" Evalynn asked Jaedynn.

"He's my imprint," Jaedynn said. Evalynn was surprised and eventually looked at Roshad.

"Couldn't get here a year earlier could you?"

"Evalynn, shut up," Jaedynn said. "I'm sorry about her."

"Don't worry about it; it's a stressful situation," Roshad said.

"Does Uncle Nathan know about him?"

"Not yet," Jaedynn said.

"I already suggested he keep out of the way once Uncle Nathan gets here," Levi said to Evalynn. "Did Uncle Kyle happen to say whether or not Uncle Nathan's on his way yet?"

"Oh, he's on his way," Evalynn said. "By the time daddy got a hold of me, Uncle Nathan was packed and on his way to the airport. Barring incident, I'd say he'll be here in the next two hours at most. Jaedynn, have you talked to the police yet?"

"Yes, I already spoke to them over an hour ago," Jaedynn said. "They said the apartment is still a crime scene and they're looking for Alex but he gave the land lord a fake name."

"Of course he did," Evalynn said.

"What happens if we can't find him?" Levi asked.

"We'll find him; I'm sure of it. I'm more concerned about him somehow finding a way to weasel out of this."

"There's no way he can," Levi said.

"Not necessarily. There are witnesses to him running away, but no witnesses to the attack itself and by the time she got to the hospital, her wounds probably healed enough that a doctor could state their records show she couldn't have been attacked today as she says."

"And what exactly would he say all the blood in the apartment is from? A ghost did it?" Levi asked sarcastically.

"I don't know," Evalynn said. "I'm just saying we need to be prepared for him to argue no fault when this goes to court."

"Fine. We'll go to court and send him to prison for attempted murder and assault," Levi said.

"That's assuming a jury finds him guilty. What I'm trying to explain is a lawyer may be able to argue that Jaedynn's injuries upon arrival to the hospital aren't consistent with her story or witness testimony and therefore he shouldn't be found guilty," Evalynn explained.

"So you're saying he might get off for this?!"

"The potential is certainly there," Evalynn said, "but that would also be under the assumption he gets a good lawyer. I doubt he'll be able to get more than a public defender but that doesn't mean that public defender isn't good at his or her job. He could also claim it was 2nd degree assault rather than attempted murder. Being 2nd degree – or spur of the moment – would categorize it as a class D felony, so he'd only be looking at 7 years in prison at most if he was found guilty."

"God damn it," Levi muttered. "This wasn't attempted assault, though. It was attempted murder."

"Again, it'll depend on how the lawyer can spin it. You're a lawyer's son; you know as well as I do how lawyers can and will spin things for their clients to get a lesser sentence."

"Can we not talk about this, please," Jaedynn requested ruefully. She didn't want to think about this right now, least of all the mere possibility he could get off for what he did.

"Sorry," Levi said and rubbed the back on his neck. "Do you know when you'll be discharged?"

"No one's told me yet," Jaedynn said. "Once I'm released, I'm staying with Roshad."

"I say stay at dad's place," Levi said.

"You guys can stay there. I'm staying with Roshad," Jaedynn insisted. "I don't want to argue with you guys."

"Fine, fine, we won't argue," Levi said.

"How long have you two been seeing each other?" Evalynn asked.

"About two weeks," Roshad answered. "Regardless of time, I can assure you I love her."

"Now's not the time for that, Mr. Javadi. With all due respect," Levi said. They were interrupted once again when an older black woman walked in holding Jaedynn's purse.

"Oh my Lord; Jaedynn, are you okay?" Martha cried and ran over to Jaedynn to hug her.

"I'm alright, Martha," Jaedynn said. "Thank you for calling Roshad."

"I was so worried," Martha cried, "There was blood absolutely everywhere. The cops are still there and they've been questioning all of us since the paramedics took you. I told them everything I knew."

"Thank you, Martha," Jaedynn said then looked at Roshad and her cousins, "This is my neighbor Martha. She's the one that called the police for me."

"You have our gratitude," Evalynn said and shook Martha's hand. "I don't suppose you've received any updates as to whether Alex was caught or not?"

"Not that I'm aware of," Martha said. "The doctor only just gave me clearance to come in here. Oh, Jaedynn, I brought you your purse. They're being attentive now, but they'll be demanding your insurance card before long."

"Thank you," Jaedynn accepted her purse and made sure her wallet was up top for when said insurance card was needed.

"Has anyone contacted your parents?" Martha asked.

"I made sure they were notified," Roshad said. "They should be here in a few hours."

"Good," Martha said. "I hope it's alright if I stay a while, but I'll get out of your hair before your parents get here."

"It's no trouble," Jaedynn said.

Martha stayed at Jaedynn's side for about an hour before Levi suggested she and Roshad get going to avoid Nathan, assuming that he'd be there soon. The two of them spoke pleasantly while they went outside. He hailed her a taxi and insisted on paying for her ride. While he was helping Martha, a taxi came up that was filled with people. A young woman that sat up front was the first to exit the car. She handed money to the driver telling him to keep the change and ran into the hospital just as three men and one more woman exited the car.

"Ariel, Gabriel, get our luggage out of the back; I'm going inside," one man ordered and retreated into the hospital after the first young woman.

"Sir, can you give us a hand?" one of them said to the driver who got out of the car.

"I can help if you like," Roshad offered and got their attention.

"Thanks, appreciated," one of them said and Roshad came over.

"You have a good evening, Martha," Roshad said.

"Thank you, dear. Keep an eye on her for me. You've got my number if anything changes," Martha said and by the time Roshad got to the other taxi, her car drove away. Roshad took two suitcases out right after the two men and placed them on the curb.

"There should be two more," one said and reached into the trunk to grab the last two suitcases. He closed the trunk and thanked the driver. "I'm sorry to bother you, but could you help us get these into the building?"

"Absolutely," Roshad answered and took the two he'd retrieved. The woman grabbed one and each young man held one while they went inside. The two people that had exited the car first were at the front desk already.

"Stay here," the woman said and ran up to the desk, leaving the suitcase she'd carried with them.

"Do you think they caught him yet?" one of them said.

"If they haven't, we'll start looking," the other said. "I'll drag that son of a bitch to the station with my teeth."

"Ariel, Gabriel," the man from before yelled, "Come on. They're letting us in."

"Coming," the man with the curlier short hair said. "I'm sorry to trouble you but would you help us get these to my sister's room?"

"Of course," Roshad answered. "I'm Roshad Javadi by the way."

"Gabriel Black," the man answered as they grabbed their luggage. "This is my brother Ariel."

"Good to meet you," Roshad said and followed the group through the hallways back to Jaedynn's room. Nathan rushed in and went straight to Jaedynn giving her a hug.

"Thank God you're okay," Nathan said, "I was so scared I lost you."

"I'm okay, daddy," Jaedynn said.

"Did they catch him?" Ivory asked.

"No, I don't think so," Jaedynn said. "The police questioned me earlier and they said they're still looking."

"Jaedynn," Gabriel said once he and Ariel were in the room. They both approached her bed and hugged her. Ada María got her hug in and then proceeded to hold Jaedynn's hand the whole time.

"My grandpa is searching for him," Evalynn spoke up.

"He knows who he's looking for?" Nathan asked.

"No, but he'll go to the apartment, smell the blood and he'll know what to do from there," Evalynn said. "Once grandpa finds him, he'll make sure Alex gets brought into custody."

"Good," Nathan said. "Don't worry, Jaedynn; Alex won't get away with this. We'll make sure of it. And not a word about dropping the charges."

"It's okay, Uncle Nathan; this will constitute a minimum of aggravated assault so the charges can't be voluntarily dropped," Evalynn said.

"Good," Nathan said. "How are you healing? Do you think you'll be back to normal by tomorrow? What about the baby? Is the baby okay?"

"I'm healing fine," Jaedynn said, "And the baby is okay. I'm already back to normal I'm sure."

"The injuries were recorded by the paramedics and the staff, so hopefully they'll hold up in court," Evalynn said.

"We'll make it hold up in court," Nathan muttered stubbornly then glanced back at Roshad. "Who are you?"

"We asked him to help bring the luggage with," Ariel said. "Thanks for your help; you can go now."

"No, he stays," Jaedynn said.

"It's alright, Jaedynn," Roshad said, "I need to call home. I'll be back in no less than two hours okay?"

"Alright," Jaedynn said. Roshad walked out and Nathan was looking at her.

"Who is that?"

"His name's Roshad Javadi," Jaedynn answered. "He's one of Uncle Kevin's neighbors at the 5th avenue apartments."

"That's Roshad?" Ivory asked. "Well, I'm not usually one for men with facial hair personally, but he's kind of cute."

"Ivory, stop," Jaedynn said.

"How do you know about that guy? Who is he?" Nathan demanded.

"You going to tell them or should I?" Ivory asked.

"One of you fucking tell me!" Nathan yelled and Ada María placed a free hand on his wrist.

"Don't yell, Nathan. Just breathe," she said. "Jaedynn, who is Roshad?"

"He's my imprint," Jaedynn answered.

"Oh, for fuck's sake," Nathan groaned and rubbed his face. "When did this happen? Why didn't you tell me about this?"

"I wanted to sort things out with Alex before I told you," Jaedynn said. "I didn't want you having a bad opinion of him because of Alex."

"Sort things out? Jaedynn, he nearly killed you! Do you understand that?!"

"Yes, I understand that," Jaedynn answered. "Alex found out about Roshad and attacked me."

"And now we have no idea where that little bastard is," Nathan said.

"Grandpa will find him, Uncle Nathan; I promise," Evalynn said.

About then, one of the doctors on staff came in and the family stood back while he evaluated Jaedynn's injuries. Although her injuries had all but completely healed by now. The doctor had to review his notes three separate times thinking he must have the wrong patient.

"This is…." The doctor said after evaluating her again and confirming, again, that he indeed was in Jaedynn Black's room, "this is remarkable."

"She healed quickly; fine. Will this affect whether or not the man that did this to her goes to prison?" Nathan demanded.

"That would be a question for a judge, sir," the doctor said. "We have thorough documentation of her injuries and what's happened since she came here, but….I'm a little more interested in what was done that she healed this quickly."

"She's just a fast healer," Nathan said. "How long will you need her to stay?"

"I mean…..seeing as she's basically healed from what I'm seeing, we can release her come morning," the doctor said, still flabbergasted. "We'll do one more ultrasound for you in the morning just to double check on the baby, okay?"

"Thank you, doctor," Jaedynn said and the doctor walked out.

In the meantime, Roshad got a taxi to take him back to his apartment so he could call home. He had a sneaking suspicion that if he tried calling home while at the hospital, the operator wouldn't permit oversea calls. Once he returned, he got up to his unit as quickly as possible and dialed the number to the house in Tehran where Ashti was staying. He waited seconds before she answered.

"Azizam?" he heard his mother's voice.

"Hello, maman," Roshad answered. "What time is it in Tehran?"

"7 a.m." Ashti answered. "I tried to call you earlier, but there was no answer."

"I know, I'm sorry. I was out," Roshad said. "I'll need to leave again soon but I wanted to make sure I called."

"Where are you going?"

"I need to return to the hospital."

"What? Why do you need to go to the hospital? What happened?" Ashti asked in a panic.

"A friend of mine was in an accident and I want to visit her," Roshad lied. Now wasn't the time to tell her about Jaedynn's specific circumstances.

"A friend? You mean that young woman you told me about? What happened?"

"She tripped while coming down some stairs and twisted her ankle," he continued to lie.

"Oh no," Ashti said, "Tell her I said I hope she feels better soon. Speaking of, when are you introducing her to us? When do we meet her family? When are you getting married? I assume you're marrying this girl?"

"Slow down, maman," Roshad said, "I actually met her family today. At least her father, mother and siblings, but one thing at a time. Is everything alright with you?"

"Everything's fine. I just miss you," Ashti said after a brief sigh at Roshad's dodge of the marriage question.

"I miss you too, maman," Roshad said. "Listen, I need to get back to the hospital but I'll talk to you again soon, okay?"

"Sooner rather than later, alright Azizam? I want more information about this young woman."

"I know, maman," Roshad said. "I love you."

"I love you too, Roshad," Ashti said and they ended the call.

Having spoken with his mother, he returned downstairs to hail a taxi and rushed back to the hospital. When he returned and went to Jaedynn's room, the whole family looked right at him and Nathan appeared less than eager to see him.

"You're Roshad Javadi, right?" Ivory said. "I'm Ivory, Jaedynn's sister. It's nice to meet you."

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Roshad said with a light bow. "I'm sorry this is how we're meeting, but I'm happy to finally meet all of you. I've heard only good things."

"Wish I could say the same," Nathan muttered.

"Daddy, please," Jaedynn said.

"How did you and my daughter meet and when?" Nathan asked.

"About two weeks ago, sir," Roshad answered. "We met at this Cajun restaurant in Harlem."

"You live on 5th avenue? Same apartments as my brother?" Nathan asked.

"Yes, sir," Roshad answered.

"What the hell were you in Harlem for?" Nathan asked.

"Daddy, stop," Jaedynn said. "You're interrogating him."

"You're God damn right I'm interrogating him," Nathan said then returned to looking at Roshad waiting for an answer.

"I had heard of the restaurant and wanted to go," Roshad answered calmly.

"Uh huh," Nathan said, "Are you human?"

"Half, sir," Roshad answered.

"Then what the hell were you doing going to a restaurant in the first place? You don't eat," Nathan said.

"Daddy, stop it," Jaedynn said.

"I'm new to the city. I haven't been to New York in thirty years so I was touring the island," Roshad answered.

"How old are you exactly?"

"I'm 422 years of age," Roshad answered.

"Jesus Christ; you're older than my damn grandfather," Nathan muttered.

"Daddy!" Jaedynn said.

"Roshad, I'm stepping out to get some air," Levi said and stood from the seat in the corner.

"I'll join you," Roshad agreed then looked at Jaedynn, "Unless you rather I stay." Jaedynn took a moment to consider, wanting so bad to ask that he stay but then she sighed, her shoulders slumped and she nodded her head, so Roshad stepped out with Levi going outside. "This certainly wasn't the impression I wanted to give," Roshad said once he and Levi were outside.

"Uncle Nathan's upset about what happened obviously," Levi said. "This really wasn't the best time for him to meet you; figures he manages to get here earlier than I thought."

"I don't blame him," Roshad said. "I'd do the same had it been my own daughter."

"Thank you for understanding," Levi said. "Forgive me for stating the obvious, but I highly doubt Uncle Nathan will let her stay in your apartment."

"I understand," Roshad said. "I gave the doctors my contact information and address, so I will keep you all updated."

"I'll make sure they have dad's number as a secondary," Levi said. "Well….I know it might not seem like it at the moment, but we're grateful you were able to make sure we got word of what happened."

"I'm grateful Martha was able to notify me," Roshad said and then took a deep breath. "I swear I didn't know Alex was this dangerous. Had I known, I'd have been more insistent about helping her get things out of there."

"It's not your fault," Levi said. "Just tread cautiously with Uncle Nathan right now."

"Of course," Roshad replied. Meanwhile, back in Jaedynn's hospital room, she was frustrated but didn't say anything. The room was deathly quiet for a while before someone finally broke the silence. Unfortunately, it wasn't a family member. Instead, it was one of the officers from earlier.

"Miss Black? May we speak for a moment?" Officer Abrams asked.

"Sure," Jaedynn said.

"Are you the officer working the case?" Nathan asked.

"Yes, sir," Detective Abrams answered. "I just wanted to ask you a few more questions. Are you a relative?"

"I'm her father," Nathan said.

After a moment of staring, Detective Abrams said, "Okay then. It would seem that Mr. Vayez was previously arrested for reason of kidnapping but the charges were dropped."

"I went with him willingly, so I had the charges dropped," Jaedynn said.

"We were not in agreement with this decision," Nathan muttered irritably.

"I see that," Detective Abrams said and pulled out a small notebook. "I've been informed we have a man in custody under suspicion of the attack. So far he's refusing to talk, but he's still disoriented."

"You're sure it's Alex?" Nathan asked.

"Honestly, I don't think so," the detective said. "This guy was basically dragged into the police station by this Russian guy saying he was a suspect in a stabbing. He more or less matches the descriptions we received but the problem is your neighbors all affirmed that he suffered an injury to the shoulder and the crime scene confirms that. He doesn't have any injuries. Did you inflict any injuries to him, Miss Black."

"I bit him," Jaedynn said, though did not go into full detail about that.

"According to the neighbors, that bite looked more like a dog bite," Detective Abrams said, "but we couldn't find a dog in the apartment or evidence of a dog."

"He came at me with a knife, I defended myself in every way I could," Jaedynn said.

"I don't doubt it, Miss Black," Detective Abrams said. "Although I'm being told by the staff that when you arrived you had partially healed injuries."

"Did you talk to the paramedics?" Jaedynn asked.

"Yes, I have; they confirmed you'd suffered stab wounds to the ribcage and shoulder," Detective Abrams said. "I'm just wondering the reason for these discrepancies, unless you're telling me you're a member of the X-Men or something."

"I'm a fast healer, always have been. I don't know what else to tell you," Jaedynn said defensively. "Alex would be too for that matter."

"Officer, my daughter was attacked by her boyfriend and nearly killed. I'd appreciate it if you didn't get fucking snarky," Nathan said.

"Just asking questions, Mr. Black," Detective Abrams said. "Now, Miss Black, you said Mr. Vayez is also a fast healer? What do you mean by that?"

"I don't know, officer. I just heal quickly and I never cared to question it. Frankly, I think it's a good thing. Whatever causes it, Alex seems to be the same way."

"I guess we can have the doctors do more investigating into the matter," Detective Abrams said.

"With all due respect, detective, I'm not comfortable with my daughter answering anymore questions until she has a lawyer present," Nathan said.

"As you wish, Mr. Black," Detective Abrams said and put his notebook away. "It's my understanding you're being discharged tomorrow. Can you come to the station tomorrow with your lawyer?"

"I will contact my brother and see what we can work out," Nathan said. "I would like to go to the station and I'll identify the man you have and whether or not he's Alex Vayez."

"Let's get going then," Detective Abrams offered and Nathan walked out with him.

"I'll be back once I identify him," Nathan said before leaving.

"Good to know grandpa pulled through," Evalynn said but then sighed heavily, "Shit. Alex healing completely slipped my mind. This isn't going to help."

"His blood is at the crime scene though," Ariel said.

"Sure, but he could just as easily claim that was from another injury that he's since healed from," Evalynn said. "The physical evidence isn't exactly on our side right now. At this rate, we'll be lucky if this even gets before a jury."

"This is horseshit!" Gabriel yelled.

"Hey, try to relax. Uncle Kevin's pulled miracles out of his ass before," Evalynn said.

"Here's hoping," Ariel said.

Nathan in the meantime followed the detective outside and got into the patrol car. Once they arrived at the station where Alex was supposedly brought, the detective made sure it was recorded that Nathan was there, who he was, how he was related to the case and his reason for being there. Nathan called Kevin while he waited for the officers to get the suspect. While Kevin couldn't be there physically, he affirmed he was happy to be there over phone call. With that agreed on, Nathan promised to call again the following day when Jaedynn was brought in and waited another few minutes before Detective Abrams returned to bring Nathan to a room with a window through which only Nathan and the detective could see.

"That's him," Nathan said the moment he saw Alex there. He was in clean clothes and didn't look like he had a scratch on him which Nathan found intensely frustrating, but he knew it was him. "That's Alex Vayez."

"You're sure?" Detective Abrams said.

"Yes, I'm sure. That was my daughter's boyfriend," Nathan said.

"Alright. We'll proceed with assault charges."

"Assault nothing. He's guilty of attempted murder," Nathan argued.

"The DA will review the facts of the case and this will likely go before a judge first for a preliminary hearing to determine the merit of the case," Detective Abrams said. "He's still refusing to talk so we haven't received his side of things."

"Little bastard's smarter than I thought," Nathan muttered. "Do you know if he has a lawyer?"

"He's not asked for one but a lawyer will be assigned to him."

"Won't do him a damn bit of good; I guaran-damn-tee you that," Nathan said. "My daughter and I will come back tomorrow and we'll have our lawyer on the phone with us."

"That'll be fine," Detective Abrams said.

Nathan finally left the police station and made the trip back to the hospital. The rest of the evening was spent trying to relax and get some sleep before Jaedynn was discharged in the morning. Roshad helped Ariel, Levi and Gabriel get all the luggage back to Kevin's apartment while Nathan was still at the police station. No one was in the mood for small talk, so the drive from the hospital to the Upper East Side was extremely quiet. Levi let them all in with his key and got all the luggage to his room, Heather's room and his parents' room.

"Thanks for helping with all this, Mr. Javadi," Levi said once everything was situated.

"It's no trouble," Roshad said. "I'm afraid I don't have much but I can order food if anyone's hungry."

"No need: I'll go to the deli and get myself something," Levi said. "Ariel and Gabriel are more vampire than human, so they don't really like anything except blood."

"At least let me pay for your dinner," Roshad offered.

"It's alright, Mr. Javadi," Levi said, "I'll take care of it."

"You said it's Roshad?" Ariel asked.

"Yes," Roshad said. "You are her brothers, right?"

"Yeah," Gabriel said. "Where were you when all this happened?"

"I was at home," Roshad answered calmly. "Jaedynn spent the night here and in the morning we went to the park to play ball and afterwards, she took the taxi back to the apartment she shared with Alex. An hour later, I got a call from Martha that Jaedynn had been attacked and was being taken to the hospital. I told the front desk to inform Kevin and then made my way to the hospital. They wouldn't let me see her at first saying only family was being granted access, so I told them I was the child's father."

"What?" Gabriel asked.

"I told them I was the baby's father so they'd allow me access. Jaedynn and I have already discussed me taking over that role anyway."

"But you're not?" Gabriel asked.

"No," Roshad answered and, to their surprise, he was clearly saddened by it. "Regardless, I already decided I would be this child's father."

"You're sure?" Ariel asked.

"Yes, I'm sure," Roshad said.

"That works I guess," Gabriel said. "It's not like we can let Alex anywhere near the baby."

"So where are you from? You're not from here I assume," Ariel said.

"I'm from Iran," Roshad said.

"And what brings you to America?" Ariel pressed.

"I needed to get away from home for a while; I needed space," Roshad said. "My mother has been rather insistent about me remarrying but she doesn't really understand that I won't marry another human. I can't go through that again."

"So you were married?" Gabriel asked.

"Yes, three times," Roshad said. "My first wife Aida, my second wife Fatimeh and then my third wife Miriam. My first two wives died of old age but Miriam died in childbirth. Of my wives, she's the one I married because I loved her and not an initial desire for monetary gain. I loved all my wives but Miriam was special. At least to me. So when I lost her, it hurt too much and I wasn't willing to go through that again. The fact that all my children aged and eventually passed away just cemented that feeling."

"How many children do you have?" Ariel asked.

"I had 10," Roshad answered. "9 sons and a daughter."

"And they're all dead?"

"Yes," Roshad answered. "My eldest lived to 123 and my youngest lived to 110."

"Quite a lifespan," Ariel said. "So you're more or less an expert when it comes to children?"

"I wouldn't call myself an 'expert'. No parent is ever truly an expert. You just adjust to your children's individual needs and some are more difficult to adjust to than others."

"Regardless, you're no stranger to raising kids?" Ariel asked.

"Correct," Roshad answered.

"It's a start," Gabriel said, "but don't expect dad to like you any time soon."

"Now isn't the time for that. I know," Roshad said. "So long as he knows I'm here for Jaedynn and the baby in every way possible."

"Thank you for that," Gabriel said then looked at Ariel and Levi. "I guess we'll stay here. I'm turning in for the night."

"I'll grab something to eat and be right back," Levi said. "I'll walk you out, Mr. Javadi."

"Thank you," Roshad answered and followed Levi out of the apartment.

Roshad wanted so badly to go back to the hospital, but Levi highly recommended against it saying Jaedynn really needed to be with her parents and sister. Roshad complied and returned to his own apartment but decided he would return in the morning. Come morning, Roshad left for the hospital bright and early. When he made it to the hospital, he was shown to a different room where Jaedynn's parents and sister were asleep on some chairs. Jaedynn was asleep in her hospital bed so Roshad didn't try to wake her and stood off to one side. Although seemingly within moments of arriving, Nathan stirred in his chair and opened his eyes seeing Roshad.

"Good morning, Mr. Black," Roshad said respectfully.

"Just call me Nathan," Nathan said in a groggy groan as he sat up straighter in the chair. "Lord knows you're older than me."

"Age doesn't mean I can't be respectful," Roshad said. Nathan glanced around and then stood from his chair.

"Come outside with me," Nathan said and left the room. Roshad followed after until the two of them were outside in the crisp autumn air. "Jaedynn says you're her imprint."

"Yes," Roshad answered.

"She's explained to you what that means?"

"Yes, she has," Roshad said, "and the feeling is mutual."

"In that case, let's cut the bullshit and start from the beginning. First of all, where are you from?"

"Iran," Roshad answered.

"And what brings you to the US?"

"I needed space from family," Roshad said, at this point feeling like a broken record but answering calmly. "You see, in my lifetime, I've been married three times. My first two wives died of old age but my third wife died in childbirth and it was extremely painful for me. Our daughter was all that made it possible for me to heal even if only a little. When my children were passing away of old age, it cemented my feelings that I didn't want to be put through that ever again, so I decided I would not marry again. At least, I would not marry another human. My mother is of a different opinion. I was heartbroken when my third wife died, but when my daughter died, it was too much to bare. Since then, I've been depressed and my mother feels if I remarry, it will make me happy again."

"You didn't agree?"

"No, I did not," Roshad said. "My first wife Aida was my mother's favorite, but my third wife Miriam was the one I loved the most. I loved all my wives, but Aida and Fatimeh I married because they came from very wealthy families and I was trying to cement myself in society. Miriam I married because I was in love with her. She came from a good family, but that wasn't as important to me. I just cared that I was in love with her. So when I lost her, it hurt the worst of my three wives. I had no intention of ever remarrying but then…..this will sound strange, but one day a few months ago when I was at the market with my mother, I saw this American but…..he was wounded." That seemed to catch Nathan's immediate attention.

"What did he look like?" Nathan asked.

"He was tanned with black hair, wore an American army uniform and he looked to be wounded in the neck and his chest," Roshad said. "I kept feeling this horrible chill on the back of my neck and the first time I saw him, it startled me but the moment I looked away then looked back, he was gone. Then that night when I had returned home, I looked in my mirror and there he was, but when I turned around he wasn't there. That night, I had an unusual dream. I was in Manhattan and was led to that Cajun restaurant by a pure white cow and when I arrived, there was Jaedynn crying into her hands. The cow that led me to the restaurant turned into a woman and comforted Jaedynn so she was no longer crying and looked at me. The American told me to go to her. I don't know how, but I knew I loved her. She said her name was Jaedynn and when I woke, I made arrangements to come to America as soon as possible."

"I see," Nathan said absently for a moment. "So you're aware of our power?"

"Yes," Roshad said. Nathan stared at Roshad a moment as if trying to decide what to do next.

Eventually, Nathan said, "I think there's a shop inside that sells coffee. Let's sit down and really talk."

"Of course," Roshad agreed and they went back into the building to find the little shop that sold coffee and food for family members. Nathan bought himself a coffee and bagel then the two of them found a spot outside to sit down.

"So what is it you do for a living?" Nathan asked.

"I own saffron fields in Fars and deal in spice trade," Roshad said. "I own other fields that cultivate different spices like turmeric, but saffron is my favorite. It is also what I inherited from my first father-in-law."

"So for 400 years, you've been a spice peddler?"

"Not that long," Roshad smiled faintly. "Before that, I produced precious jewels and sold them. You see, I was born to nothing. My mother fell pregnant with me by no choice of her own when she was just fifteen and was cast from her home to fend for herself. My father was a vampire but I never knew him nor did my mother. She was fortunate that Bastet and Rashida found her and were able to care for her during her pregnancy. When I was born, I changed her, Bastet became the closest to a father I ever knew and I was raised in the streets of Tabriz with nothing to my name. Then I discovered my power."

"What power is that?"

Roshad turned to grab a stone that was surrounding some of the flowers. He brushed the dirt off that stone then held it in his closed hands. Then he opened his hand again to reveal a ruby that was the same size as the rock he'd picked up. Nathan stared in awe and what he just saw. Then Roshad closed his hand again, used both hands to cover the ruby and when he opened his hands, he now held a tiny cluster of jade forget-me-knots complete with appropriate colors. To finish, he closed his hands over it again and pressed his palms together then revealed a coin of Persian gold complete with an image of a sultan's face pressed into it.

"I'm an alchemist. I cannot create something out of nothing and I cannot altar the state of living matter like plants and animals, but I am able to change non-living matter into anything I wish. Rocks to jewels or gold, precious metal to brass and copper, sand to marble – anything I need. I was just a boy when I discovered my power and when I did, it was like the whole world was in my grasp. Or it could be. So I used my power to create a home for myself, my mother, Bastet and Rashida, I began making and selling jewels and jewelry to earn money legitimately and I made myself the richest man in Persia just from grains of sand. I married my first wife Aida hoping to earn a proper living for myself and she blessed me with six sons. Many years after she passed away, news spread that one of the sultan's granddaughters was prepared for marriage so I decided to throw my hat in as it were. I won her heart and we married. She gave me three more sons. Years after she died, I met Miriam by chance. I was enchanted by her, introduced myself to her and began courting her. We married and she became pregnant right away, but it was difficult for her. By the time she was about to deliver, she was always tired and in pain. When she went into labor, it was a nightmare from the start. She was in so much pain, there was more blood than I'd ever seen; the midwives wouldn't let me near her until Miriam demanded my presence. She died in my arms moments before our daughter was born."

"I'm sorry," Nathan said.

"Thank you," Roshad said. "This may sound awful, but if we'd had a son, I don't know if I could have loved that boy the way I loved my other sons, but we'd had a girl. I named her after her mother and did the best I could. At the time, I'd decided I would never remarry no matter what. My mother didn't argue at the time, but when 200 years passed of never remarrying and my melancholy never passing, she started badgering me about it. She had the best of intentions I know, but after what happened with Miriam, I didn't want to experience that ever again. That dream of Jaedynn had been the first in a very long time that I'd felt love for anyone much less with such passion."

"So you came to America on a whim?"

"I'd intended to come here sooner, but I needed to obtain a Visa before I could stay here for any significant length of time. I have my B-2 Visa right now which is more of a tourist Visa but it lasts a year. I can apply for a green card while I'm here; I will just need to prove it wasn't the original intent."

"It'll probably look better to immigration if you wait a few months before applying," Nathan said. "So how will you run things from America?"

"That's something I'll need to iron out with my associates and Bastet," Roshad said. "I will need to return to Iran frequently but it's nothing I can't handle."

"Okay. So you make honest money; it's a good start," Nathan said. "You're aware Jaedynn's pregnant I assume?"

"Yes, I'm aware. She told me from the beginning. She and I already talked about it and I will be this child's father. I told the staff as much so they'd let me see her when I arrived and I told the gynecologist I'm the father so I could be with her during her first ultrasound."

"So you've more or less assumed responsibility," Nathan said. "And you're positive?"

"Absolutely," Roshad said.

"Good to know," Nathan said. "So are you prepared to up and move to Washington then?"

"I am," Roshad said. "I'm leasing the apartment on 5th avenue for the year so I just won't renew it or buy the apartment. I will take care of everything."

"Whatever you need to do," Nathan said.

Nathan finished his coffee and bagel while asking Roshad a few more questions pertaining to his life and his work. Once he finished his coffee, he bought several more to bring to Ivory and Ada María assuming they'd likely woken up by that point as well as another bagel to give to Ivory. They returned to Jaedynn's room and everyone was still asleep so they had a few hours to wait. Another hour passed and a ultrasound tech came to the room and woke Jaedynn so they could perform one more ultrasound to check on the baby. Everything looked normal and her wounds had completely healed, again, much to the shock of the staff and they eventually discharged her. Before leaving the hospital, Nathan called home to check if Kevin was ready. He answered and affirmed he'd be in his home office waiting for their call, so Nathan hailed two taxis.

"Jaedynn and I are going to the police station. You guys go to Kevin's place and wait for us okay?" Nathan said.

"I would like to join you at the police station if I may," Roshad said.

"I would like that," Jaedynn spoke up, looking at Nathan.

"Fine," Nathan said and the three of them got into one taxi while Ivory and Ada María got into another.

Once they made it to the police station, they had to wait about an hour before the interrogation room was ready for them complete with a phone. Roshad and Nathan were asked to stay out in the waiting area while Jaedynn was taken to the room and given the opportunity to call her lawyer to be present during the interview. It was quickly becoming clear that – because she'd partially healed by the time the paramedics arrived and healed more so by the time she made it to the hospital as well as the identified suspect had no injuries or weapons at the time of his arrest – the police were taking her story with a heaping tablespoon of salt. Apparently Alex was still not talking and the police were waiting for an attorney to be assigned and to arrive so they could get his side of the story. They made her identify Alex as well and she affirmed again they had the right man which seemed to just further their suspicions that she was either lying about exactly what happened or she had been disoriented and confused at the time of the attack. The officer started asking questions along those lines and Kevin often stepped in to tell Jaedynn she didn't need to answer something or that the cop needed to follow a different line of questioning. It was several uncomfortable hours of repeating the story over and over again until the officer was satisfied she'd given all the information she could and said she could leave.

"We'll keep in contact with you, Miss Black," the officer said. "Mr. Vayez will speak with his assigned lawyer and we'll go from there."

"You don't believe me do you?" Jaedynn mumbled solemnly.

"Miss Black, I believe that you and Mr. Vayez certainly had a tumultuous relationship and I believe that it's gotten violent before. We saw the blood in the apartment and the witnesses at the scene confirmed Mr. Vayez fled the scene and you were bleeding on the floor. The issue is your testimony is inconsistent with both your injuries and his. Or his lack of injuries."

"So what you're saying is a jury isn't likely to believe me."

"There's no telling what a jury will think. It'll be your lawyer's and his lawyer's responsibility to convince them either way. First the judge will need to determine the merit of the case."

"How long before a jury will see this?"

"Again, it'll depend," the officer said. "I know this is frustrating Miss Black, but all we can do is go through the motions. I would highly recommend a restraining order to start."

"Yes, I would like a restraining order issued," Jaedynn affirmed.

The officer helped Jaedynn file a restraining order against Alex. She asked about filing a restraining order against his mother, but then realized she didn't know Rita's last name and it also occurred to her that, at least as far as the state was concerned, she was already dead or presumed dead. Just to check, she asked if there was a Rita Vayez on file, but there was not one. Alex had said Vayez had been his father's name and he'd never mentioned what his mother's last name was. On top of that, the woman was changed back in the forties, so it wasn't likely the police would have her on record even if Jaedynn knew the woman's last name.

"Will this ensure he can't come near the baby either?" Jaedynn asked.

"Is he the father?"

"Yes," Jaedynn admitted with a heavy heart.

"It'll prevent him from coming near the baby for the time being, but it could potentially be overturned or a judge could issue him visitation rights of some nature. It'll depend on the circumstances and what the court deems in the child's best interest."

"Is there any way I can make sure he doesn't come near the baby? Besides this order?"

"Again, you'll need to take it before a judge. Believe me: I know after all this you're just trying to protect your baby but you have to remember it's his baby too and a judge might argue he's entitled to some form of visitation. Supervised visitation is a possibility but the judge would outline that. My best recommendation is take this before family court, present your case and go from there."

"Alright. Thank you," Jaedynn said. The officer led Jaedynn outside where Nathan and Roshad were waiting and took her back to the apartments. "I was planning to stay with Roshad," she said when Nathan tried to take her to Kevin's place.

"No. You're staying with us," Nathan said.

"Daddy-"

"It's alright, Jaedynn. He's right," Roshad assured. "If you're all hungry, I can make dinner. Just give me a chance to run to the store for a few things."

"That'll be fine," Nathan said.

"I'll come get you once I've returned from the store," Roshad said.

"That's alright. We'll wait until dinner's ready and you can bring it over," Nathan said.

"Really, it's no trouble," Roshad said. "I love having company and I think we could all use a pleasant night in."

"That really won't be necessary," Nathan said.

"Daddy, please, can we just go to his place? He loves to entertain and I think we could all use a little entertainment," Jaedynn said.

"Will there be belly dancers and pomegranate juggling?" Nathan asked sarcastically.

"Daddy!" Jaedynn yelled.

"I'm afraid I can't juggle and I am not aware of any trained belly dancers in this area, but I can promise good food and pleasant conversation," Roshad played along with a handsome smile.

"I'll tell you what," Nathan said, "go get everything you need, I'll check with everyone and by the time you return, we'll have an answer."

"I told you my brother is a bartender, right?" Jaedynn said. "I'll ask him what he needs and he can make drinks for everyone. Excluding me obviously, but you know what I mean."

"Absolutely," Roshad smiled and followed them to Kevin's apartment.

Jaedynn told Ariel the current plan and asked what he needed to make some drinks for everyone. Roshad suggested something that used pomegranates and, while Ariel never had pomegranates and didn't know what it usually paired with, he told Roshad to buy vodka, lemons and some tonic water and he'd take it from there. Levi and Evalynn did not stay, needing to return to school but they gave Jaedynn and everyone else a hug and shook Roshad's hand before leaving. Roshad left to do some shopping and returned with everything he'd need including the ingredients Ariel told him to get, dropped it off at his place then walked to Kevin's apartment to inform everyone he'd returned. Nathan's prior objections were overruled and they went to Roshad's place to enjoy some desperately needed relaxation time.

"Do you have some Collin glasses?" Ariel asked once they were in the apartment.

"What are those?" Roshad asked.

"They're those tall slender glasses you would put a Tom Collins or High Ball in," Ariel explained and vaguely demonstrated with hand movements.

"I'm afraid not, but I can make some."

"I'm sorry?" Ariel asked, confused.

"I can make some," Roshad repeated. "How many will you need?"

"Um….five?" Ariel said. Roshad nodded his head and went to the living room, grabbed five marbles out of a bowl he was keeping them in and returned to the kitchen to get to work. One at a time, he turned the marbles into glasses that resembled what Ariel had described while he, Gabriel, Ada María and Ivory watched in awe. "Holy shit."

"Are these correct?" Roshad asked, presenting the tall, long, slender glasses.

"Yeah," Ariel said and accepted one. "How'd you do that?"

"It's a gift," Roshad said. "Before you proceed, I believe your father said he expects pomegranate juggling."

"That won't be necessary, Roshad," Nathan said.

"No, no, I insist. I aim to please," Roshad said and picked up three of the pomegranates he'd bought and tried – in vain – to juggle them. It was a miserable display that lasted all of ten seconds but it was enough to make Nathan start laughing.

"You can stop, Roshad. I've been entertained," Nathan said.

"Glad to hear it," Roshad smiled and put the pomegranates on the counter. "I'll help you get the seeds out."

"Yeah, you're going to need to walk me through this. I've never used fresh pomegranate. Just grenadine."

"Everyone has their own trick. I'll show you mine," Roshad said. He cut off the very top of the pomegranate doing his best to avoid the seeds inside then cut seams along the skin in four spots. Then he pulled the sections apart to reveal several seeds inside surrounded by a vibrant red pouch of juice. Grabbing a wooden spoon, Roshad turned the fruit upside down and started smacking it causing the seeds to fall out into a large bowl. "Whatever that doesn't force out, you'll need to pick out by hand," he explained once he was done then proceeded to pull the segments apart again and pull out the remaining seeds.

"I think I've got it," Ariel said and grabbed the knife and wooden spoon from Roshad.

"So what's for dinner?" Ivory asked.

"Fesenjan," Roshad answered.

"You'll have to explain what that is," Ivory smiled.

"It is a stew made with chicken, walnuts and pomegranate molasses," Roshad explained.

"That sounds a little weird," Ivory said hesitantly.

"I promise it's good," Roshad smiled. "Whenever I entertain at our home in Chalus, I always ensure this is made."

"Where's Chalus?" Gabriel asked.

"It's by the Caspian Sea in Iran," Roshad said. "My home there is by the water but we have a field of Pomegranate trees nearby too. It's not vast enough to make molasses to put for sale; those fields are a little further south, but I serve the fruit to guests. They get as big as your head before they're picked and whatever doesn't get served to guests I'll make into molasses for later use or as gifts."

"So you throw a lot of parties I take it?" Ada María asked with an inviting smile.

"Yes I do," Roshad said. "I don't have a lot of family except my mother, Bastet and his mate Rashida so I look for any excuse I can to have people over. I throw a party for Eid Al-Fitr and any other holidays I can, I host a Fútbol tournament in the summer for my employees and their families, I hosted a party both years Iran's Fútbol team won the AFC – you name it."

"Do you follow the FIFA World Cup?" Ariel asked.

"Of course, but Iran has not made it to the World Cup just yet. We will, though," Roshad said.

"We root for Brazil," Gabriel said. "They're the best team in the world."

"Forgive me, but that title belongs to the Melli team of Iran," Roshad smiled.

"I'm sorry, are you trying to start some shit?" Gabriel asked. "Cause if you want to start some shit, we can just step outside."

"Why bother? I have room; we can fight in here," Roshad played along.

"That won't be necessary, Roshad," Ada María smiled and patted Gabriel's back knowing he was only joking. "Please accept my apologies; my sons and I might not be Brazilian by blood, but I lived in Brazil for over sixty years and we return there every year. We are avid Fútbol fans and we take the sport very seriously."

"I completely understand Mrs. Black," Roshad said.

"Please, call me Ada. We are all friends here," Ada María said. "So, Roshad, I do not recall if we asked: are you Muslim or Christian? Christianity is practiced in the Middle East I assume?"

"Yes, it is," Roshad said. "I assure you we have Christians, Jews and Muslims just like the rest of the world. I was raised Muslim but I am not a practicing one. I follow some of the doctrine: I don't drink, I don't cook or serve pork or shell fish, things like that. Some things can't really by helped like my need for blood, but I do what I can. It's more so to keep my mother happy than anything else if I'm honest."

"So your mother's devout?"

"Oh yes," Roshad chuckled. "Short of wearing a Burka at all times, my mother is always covered head to toe. She covers her mouth and nose, she wears layers of colored silks, and her hair is always covered: the works."

"I thought that's what a Burka was," Ada María said.

"Not necessarily. Burka's are a little different. They are completely shapeless and they're almost exclusively black. My mother prefers to keep covered but she cannot resist wearing bright colors and wearing dresses with some shape. In public my mother is as good as blind because of her power, but when she's just with me or she's alone, she can open her eyes and see what she's wearing."

"What is your mother's power?" Gabriel asked.

"She inflicts intense pain on those she looks upon. She has no control over it and I'm the only one immune to her power."

"I wonder if it's physical or mental," Nathan said. "My grandmother is a shield and she can defend against mental powers but not physical."

"That I'm not sure. When I've seen her actively use it, it rarely kills. If it does, it's because the victim suffered a heart attack."

"So be wary when we finally meet your mother?" Ada María said.

"She will keep her eyes closed, I promise. And she will warn you before she opens her eyes. You see, she can only hurt you if you're looking back at her."

"Ah," Ada María said, "that sounds like a mental power. We'll have to test it with Bella. That's Nathan's grandmother."

"We shall see," Roshad said.

"Speaking of," Ada María said, "When do we get to meet your family?"

"That'll depend on a few things," Roshad said. "I'm afraid the circumstances are potentially very touchy."

"Touchy?" Gabriel asked.

"Yes," Roshad said. "As I said, my mother is devout. If I tell her the full story of mine and Jaedynn's relationship, she will exert as much control as she can over it for decency's sake and I don't want her doing that. I want to be a part of the pregnancy as much as I can be but since we're not married, doctrine generally requires modesty and celibacy and if I try to help her through the birth, it would be frowned upon."

"So she would basically take that part of things over from you?" Ivory asked.

"Exactly," Roshad said. "She's chomping at the bit to meet Jaedynn, but she knows very little about her at the moment. I wanted to have a chance to meet all of you and win Nathan's approval before we entertained any possibility of marriage."

"Slow down there, Romeo," Nathan muttered and looked at Ariel. "You almost done with those pomegranates?"

"Almost," Ariel said. "Can one of you grab me a muddler so I can make the drinks?"

"One moment," Roshad said and went to grab another marble, turned it into a muddler and handed it to Ariel.

"That works too," he said, accepting the muddler with a confused stare still unused to Roshad's power.

Ariel proceeded to make everyone their drinks, Jaedynn and Roshad excluded, and they all continued to talk while Roshad made the Fesenjan and saffron rice. Ada María more or less took over getting to know Roshad: asking him questions about his life, his work and his family, asking about hobbies and anything else that came to mind. Others chimed in whenever they could and Roshad used the opportunity to ask everyone else questions and get to know them. By the time dinner was served, Nathan was grumpily admitting to himself he actually quite liked Roshad. He didn't say it out loud, though. Ada María, on the other hand, made no attempt to hide that she was fond of Roshad and once Ariel and Gabriel were really able to talk soccer, they started liking him too. Roshad offered that they could all go to Central Park the next day and 'settle things' as it were which Gabriel and Ariel happily accepted. Ada María promised she would play on Roshad's team, not wanting him to play alone against her boys and Roshad thanked her for her generosity.

Nathan was observing the whole time. He would speak sometimes but focused more on watching Roshad. He really was nothing like Alex. Granted Nathan had met the man once and spoken to him for less than ten minutes, but in those ten minutes, he'd learned enough to know he didn't like Alex. Roshad was another matter entirely. When he had company, he was clearly in his element. He was charming, pleasant to speak to, always eager to tell a joke or a story, a very generous and mindful host and when they'd been alone, he'd displayed he was a man of strong character. Contrary to Alex, Roshad also seemed eager to get to know everyone. It was a welcomed change.

"So you've been to Spain but never Portugal?" Ariel asked.

"I'm afraid I have not," Roshad lamented, "But I would love very much to go. Have you ever been?"

"No, but it's on our list of things to do," Ariel said. "We just need to make sure we bring grandpa."

"Yes, and listen to the man vent about how much Portugal has changed since he left," Gabriel said. "Did Jaedynn tell you Grandpa Raphael was a count."

"Was he? Jaedynn, why did you never tell me this?" Roshad asked and Jaedynn shrugged with a light smile.

"It never came up," Jaedynn said.

"Grandpa Raphael 'never came up'? Honestly, Jaedynn, what's the matter with you?" Gabriel asked.

"You're right, I'm sorry," Jaedynn said.

"I take it he's a character?" Roshad asked.

"'A Character'. Thank you for putting it so delicately," Nathan said and Roshad chuckled.

"Grandpa's not for everybody," Ariel said. "Like I'd mentioned, he used to be a count and he has no problem reminding those that know him. He was cousin to the Hapsburgs."

"Oh really?" Roshad rose a brow. "He did not inherit their….distinct features I hope."

"No, not at all," Ada María smiled. "Seeing as you've lived quite the long life, have you ever met them?"

"No, I've not," Roshad said. "I've only heard of them."

"Thankfully, Grandpa was spared some of those more exaggerated features and by virtue so were we," Ariel said.

"Diluting the gene pool certainly helped," Gabriel said. "Oh! So true story. One time when we visited Brazil, Grandpa and Grandma were in the area so we were all able to go out together. We went to a restaurant and the busboy came by to do some cleaning and he went for my glass of water. I wasn't done and was just going to tell him he could leave it, but grandpa tells this man, 'Put that down! Shoo!' I couldn't believe it and neither could this busboy. He just ran off and I say to him, 'Grandpa, you can't just shoo a human being' and he says to me, 'Why the hell not?!' Straight faced! Without a shred of irony!" Roshad started laughing.

"Since we're going down that line of storytelling," Roshad said after he'd finished laughing, "My wife Fatimeh was granddaughter to the Sultan. One of many albeit, but that's neither here nor there. Anyway, it was always a mixed bag with her family, but she had cousins and other relatives that weren't very kind to my staff, but seeing as I had no real clout among them being a 'simple spice vendor' to use their words, I never really said anything and just paid my staff generously for their troubles. It came to a point when they started looking forward to Fatimeh's family visiting."

"Yeah, I bet," Ariel said with a chuckle. "I can picture a server being talked down to and just taking it with a big smile."

"Oh, they did," Roshad smiled. "They were good to our family. So anyway, my eldest with Fatimeh – Kaseem – was around her side of the family quite often. Elder's privilege and what not. It led to occasions where Kaseem's behavior was not to our liking if I'm blunt, but it was always firmly corrected. However, there was one occasion in which my mother was visiting and he called one of the servants an old hag. My mother pulled off her shoe and slapped that boy across the face so hard he saw stars."

"Yeah, I bet he did," Ivory said. "I've never been hit with a shoe by a vampire but I'm sure it's unpleasant."

"It is," Roshad said. "I can assure you it is. I took care of discipline most of the time, but if any of my children were acting out of line and I needed an extra boost, I would just tell them grandma will visit and give a piece of her mind. That would set them straight."

"Your mother sounds like a delight," Ada María giggled. "So, if I may, what have you told her about Jaedynn? You said you've kept that information limited."

"I've told her I met Jaedynn at a restaurant, we're getting to know one another, and she has a unique family heritage that offers immortality," Roshad said.

"Have you talked to her?" Ivory asked Jaedynn.

"No. She doesn't speak any English," Jaedynn said.

"What about Bastet and Rashida?"

"They speak English," Roshad said.

"Okay, good," Ada María said. "When were they changed? Do you know?"

"I don't know the exact date. I just know the two of them were changed towards the end of the Ptolemy Dynasty."

"Oh wow," Nathan said, now very intrigued. "So their first language is Ancient Egyptian?"

"Yes," Roshad said. "I think Bastet knew Latin before he was changed but all other languages he learned later."

"By chance, do you know what he did as a profession?" Nathan asked.

"He was a soldier," Roshad said and then he smiled. "He's very superstitious too. He and Rashida both still worship their ancient Gods."

"So your homes have several God statues I take it?" Nathan asked.

"Not large ones," Roshad said. "Bastet and Rashida have a room in our house at Chalus that is devoted to paying homage to the Gods. Whomever they need to pray to, that's who's statue they put on display on the altar."

"Does your mother have her own room for worship too?" Gabriel asked.

"Oh no, she just goes to Mosque," Roshad chuckled. "I confess I do not go to Mosque very often and maman will give me an earful for it."

"Maman?" Ivory asked.

"It's mother in Farsi," Jaedynn explained.

"Will your mother be alright with you seeing a non-Muslim?" Nathan asked, looking at Roshad very closely.

"It is a matter I will need to discuss with maman, but seeing as I'm hardly devout myself, I would not ask Jaedynn to convert. If maman has any complaints, she will voice them to me and only me."

"Given she only speaks Farsi, I would assume that goes without saying," Gabriel said.

"Let me worry about maman," Roshad said. "I promise, she's not a bad woman; quite the contrary. She's merely zealous. I'm afraid being her only child only exacerbates that. When the time is right –"

"Let me stop you there," Nathan spoke up, "What will the 'right time' be exactly?"

"After the baby's born," Roshad answered. "As I'd mentioned previously, I want to be involved with the pregnancy in every way I can whether Jaedynn and I have married or not. If maman knew about the pregnancy now, she would take that role over. I don't want her to do that. Jaedynn and I decided I would take the role of this child's father and I will do everything I can. If I'm to do that, I need space from mother for the time being."

"And you don't think your mother might form a low opinion of Jaedynn because of all this?" Nathan asked, perhaps a little combatively.

"If she has any complaints, she will voice them to me and only me," Roshad repeated.

"Is she aware you're planning to move here permanently?"

"Not at this time, no," Roshad said.

"I'm going to be honest with you, Roshad: it sounds like you really haven't thought any of this through," Nathan said.

"You're right; I haven't formed a set plan of how we will go about this, but I can promise you I'll take care of everything," Roshad said.

"I appreciate your optimism, but I need something more tangible seeing as you've already decided you're taking on the role you've said you will be," Nathan said.

"I understand and I will work on that," Roshad said. "In fact, when I make the move to Washington, I will consult Kevin about changing my B-2 Visa to a Green Card. I will get in contact with Bastet right away and we'll figure out what to do where it relates to my work."

"Good," Nathan said, sitting up a little straighter. "It's a start."

"When do you think Jaedynn will be able to come back? Won't this whole thing with Alex retain her in New York?" Ivory asked.

"I'll talk to Kevin about it," Nathan said. "If she has to go to and from New York for a while, we'll figure it out. We'll ask Kyle if you're alright to fly or if you'll need to drive. We'll need to drive back anyway so we can get your car home."

"Right," Jaedynn said and rubbed the back of her neck, "about that. My car was stolen a few days ago."

"What?!" Nathan yelled.

"It was stolen," Jaedynn said. "Alex told me he'd gone to use it, couldn't find it and then reported it stolen."

"Bullshit," Nathan muttered irritably, "that little fucker probably stole it himself."

"I already reported it to my insurance company and right now it's pending. They said they need to wait two weeks before they can issue me the compensation. They want to be sure the car isn't recoverable," Jaedynn said.

"Fantastic," Nathan said sarcastically. "This is hardly the time for you to need to buy a car."

"I know," Jaedynn said.

"I'll help you get a good deal," Roshad promised.

"Have you ever dealt with a used car salesman, Roshad?" Gabriel asked.

"A salesman is a salesman no matter what he sells," Roshad smiled and then looked at Jaedynn again. "Don't worry about a thing. When it's time to buy a new car, just tell me what price range you want to stay within, what you're looking for and I'll make sure the dealer gives you a fair price."

"I don't know if you can out-charm a used car salesman, Roshad," Gabriel said.

"Honestly, Gabriel; it hurts that you have so little faith in me," Roshad teased.

"In all fairness, Roshad, I barely know you," Gabriel said.

"Jaedynn," Nathan spoke up, "did the insurance company at least say how much they would give you for the car?"

"They told me $750," Jaedynn said. "At this point, I'm just relieved the car was paid off already."

"That'll be a decent down payment," Nathan said. "Your job at the station is still all yours if you want it back."

"I'll think about it," Jaedynn said. "I feel weird going back after what's happened. I'm sure I'm the talk of the tribe for all the wrong reasons as it is."

"Don't worry about that," Nathan said.

"There's always work in the city," Ivory suggested. "Maybe I could get you a job at Macys."

"I'll pass on that. I've heard too many of your horror stories," Jaedynn smiled.

"Hey, everyone should work in customer service for at least a year. Give you perspective on what employees of the service industry need to go through," Ivory said.

"Or you can work at the bar and help me carry drunks back home," Gabriel joked.

"I don't know how long I'd be useful. I doubt bar patrons want a pregnant woman walking around," Jaedynn said.

"Shit, that's right," Gabriel said. "Sorry, I forgot about that for a moment."

"We'll figure it out," Nathan said. "Hell, you've been working at Kevin's law firm all this time; maybe you can just continue doing so. Have you liked working there?"

"It has its moments, but I like working there. It's partially thanks to Liz if I'm honest. She's been really sweet," Jaedynn said. "I really would like to keep working until November like we planned."

"I don't know if I'm comfortable with that," Nathan said. "I'd rather get you out of New York right away. I'll contact the police tomorrow about getting the last of your things from the apartment and we're all going back to Washington." Jaedynn didn't say anything after that. All things considered, she wasn't about to argue with him. Since Jaedynn wasn't saying anything, there was a brief but awkward silence in the room.

"Dinner's fantastic by the way," Ivory finally spoke up, breaking the silence. "I would have never guessed pomegranate would taste good with chicken."

"I'm happy to hear you like it," Roshad said.

"So are you planning to fly to Washington?" Ariel asked.

"I will make the arrangements right away," Roshad smiled. "Can you recommend any hotels while I look for a place?"

"I know a few in Seattle, but I imagine you'd want to stay in Port Angeles," Ivory said. "Unless you don't mind staying at the Inn back in Forks. That'll put you within ten miles of the tribe. Jaedynn will be returning home at least until we figure out where she wants to work."

"I'll do that," Roshad said.

"You won't be hit with a financial penalty for breaking the lease on this place will you?" Jaedynn asked.

"It's nothing," Roshad assured. Then the phone rang. "I'm so sorry; will you excuse me?"

Nathan shrugged dismissively while Roshad left the table to go answer the phone in his bedroom, assuming he already knew who was calling given the hour. They could all hear him answer the phone first in English then shift to Farsi.

"I assume that's his mother?" Nathan asked.

"Yeah," Jaedynn said. "I guess she calls daily for updates."

"She's a bit of an Eagle Mom I take it?" Ivory asked.

"It seems like it," Jaedynn said. "I'm terrified to meet this woman. I'm scared she won't like me."

"Any complaints she has are to go through Roshad," Nathan said. "I expect him to stay true to that."

"He will and I know he will," Jaedynn said, "but he can't force her to like me."

"One thing at a time, Jaedynn," Ada María said and took Jaedynn's hand to give it a reassuring squeeze. "Let's focus on getting you home. Anything related to Alex and going to court we'll deal with in stride."

"At this point I don't even really want to go to court. I think the cops don't believe me," Jaedynn said.

"It's not that they don't believe you," Nathan said. Despite his irritation, he knew where the police were coming from. "The issue is your story and the physical evidence are inconsistent and while there's a witness to Alex fleeing, there are no witnesses to the attack itself. You were the only one that had documented injuries but they were documented in such a way that it looks as though you were injured before and already healed. I'm hoping the consistent documentation of the progress will help but I don't know. My concern is once Alex has a lawyer, he'll be able to spin this so that he gets off. You filed a restraining order. That'll only be in your favor, so it's a start. If he makes bail and then tries to come near you, we'll be able to arrest him again for violating the restraining order. Regardless, I'd rather get you out of New York."

Meanwhile, Roshad spoke with his mother. She asked about Jaedynn and how she was recovering from her accident and he relayed she was better and was released from the hospital that morning. He went so far as to inform her that he was having dinner with her immediate family now and that things were going well, omitting any reference to their reason for being there, Alex and the assault and so on. He relayed that Jaedynn was not Muslim but Ashti had known that already. She wasn't terribly thrilled with knowing they were Catholic but did not complain too much all things considered.

"So when do I finally meet this young woman?" Ashti finally asked after Roshad gave her all the latest updates.

"Soon, maman," Roshad said. "I promise you will meet her very soon."

"What about returning home? She is coming to Iran after all; will her family be alright with that?"

"We haven't gotten that far, maman," Roshad lied. "I can't exactly demand Jaedynn uproot when I've only just met her father."

"You are making a good impression I hope," Ashti said. "Remember: the way to a good woman's heart is through her father."

"Yes, maman, I know; I think he's starting to like me," Roshad said.

"Starting to? Why did he not like you from the start?"

"Mr. Black is a protective father; that's all," Roshad said. "Jaedynn's the youngest of his daughters and the last to marry. He's bound to be very particular."

"Naturally," Ashti said. "I did not realize she was the youngest of many daughters."

"She's the youngest of three," Roshad said. "And she has two brothers. Ariel is her elder and Gabriel is younger than her by a few years."

"So she has five siblings, yes?"

"Exactly," Roshad said.

"And what does her father do for a living?"

"He works in Law Enforcement," Roshad said.

"Good, that's good," Ashti said. "And her brothers? What are their professions?"

"Ariel is a bartender and Gabriel is a bouncer. They both work at the bar their mother owns."

"A bar?" Ashti said, immediately sounding less than impressed. "As in one of those shady establishments that sell alcohol?"

"Don't say it like that, maman. Mrs. Black is the entrepreneurial type and has owned her own business both in Brazil and America for decades."

"I thought alcohol consumption and selling was illegal in America."

"It used to be – that was back before the war," Roshad said.

"Oh," Ashti said, "Well, so long as it's honest work. You said Jaedynn works?"

"Yes, she works for her uncle's law firm," Roshad said.

"And what of children? Have you both discussed children?"

"At length," Roshad said but then continued, "we will absolutely have children."

"Excellent," Ashti said, a smile in her voice. "I want to speak with her. I will contact Bastet so he can translate. I assume she does not speak Farsi am I correct? Will she be available to speak tomorrow?"

"Maman, please, I know you want to speak with her, but I do not want to just spring you on her," Roshad said.

"Who's springing? I'm your mother; I deserve to speak with her."

"Yes, you do, maman, but let me ask if she is comfortable speaking with you before we schedule a time."

"Honestly, Azizam, what do you think I'm going to do to the poor thing?" Ashti asked. "Why are you so worried about introducing me to her? You're starting to make me think you're ashamed of me."

"No, no, no, no, maman, Allah forbid," Roshad reassured and smiled a little. "I would just prefer to ask her if she would like to talk rather than tell her you two are going to talk. Do you understand what I mean?"

"I suppose," Ashti said. "Well, regardless, I want to speak with her. The sooner the better. I will still inform Bastet to come to Tehran so he's available to translate once you finally let me speak with her."

"That'll be fine, maman," Roshad said. "I need to let you go for the night. They are still over and I do not want to keep them waiting much longer."

"Ah, yes, don't be rude," Ashti said and Roshad almost chuckled a little. "I will talk to you tomorrow, Azizam. The moment it is possible, I want to speak with her."

"Yes, maman," Roshad said. "I will speak to you tomorrow, maman. I love you."

"I love you too, Azizam," Ashti said and they finally disconnected. Roshad groaned a little and rubbed his face. When he finally returned to the dining room, everyone was talking about what the next few days would entail.

"I'm so sorry to leave you like that," Roshad said once he'd returned and was taking his seat.

"It's fine," Nathan said. "That was your mother?"

"Yes," Roshad said.

"How is she?" Jaedynn asked.

"Eager," Roshad said, "she's insisting she wants to talk to you. I told her you and I would discuss that and get back to her."

"I don't know how far we'd get. Neither of us understand each other," Jaedynn said.

"Bastet would interpret. Maman will demand he come to Tehran so he's available to translate once you're ready to talk. I did not agree to a time frame."

"I appreciate it," Jaedynn said. "I'm not sure I'm ready to talk to your mother yet."

"It's alright; I won't rush you," Roshad said.

"You said you aren't planning to introduce them until after the baby's born?" Nathan asked.

"I do not mind them speaking so long as maman doesn't know about the baby yet," Roshad said. "Ideally I want my family to come here so we can all meet. I have the least number of people to introduce so it's only reasonable fewer people have to travel."

"Agreed," Nathan said.

They remained at Roshad's apartment for another few hours finishing dinner. They eventually left and Roshad walked them back to Kevin's place so they could turn in for the night. Jaedynn insisted she wanted to go to work the following day while the others would stay at Kevin's apartment. However, Ada María, Gabriel and Ariel fully intended to spend more time with Roshad the following day for that soccer game. When Roshad said goodnight to them and to Jaedynn then finally left, Ada María pulled Jaedynn aside and said, "Him I like." On the one hand, the following few days were nice. Jaedynn returned to work on Monday and Liz, having heard about what happened through the manager, was shocked to see her but actually cried a little and gave Jaedynn a big hug. Jaedynn insisted she and the baby were alright but she'd be leaving New York sooner than anticipated, though what day that would be exactly was yet to be determined at the moment. Roshad was a frequent visitor spending loads of time with her family, especially her brothers who developed quite a fondness for him when they had a really good, competitive game together. Even Nathan was becoming much more friendly towards Roshad despite his best efforts to keep the man at arm's length for the sake of observing him.

On the other hand, the past several days were a living nightmare. Nathan called the station the next day as promised and confirmed he was clear to go to the apartment to retrieve the last of Jaedynn's things so long as a cop was present. However at that time he learned that Alex had finally started talking now that he had a lawyer, but was claiming the fight between him and Jaedynn had not occurred as she was claiming it had. He was, evidently, claiming that Jaedynn said she was leaving him, they argued – specifically over the baby – Alex claimed that Jaedynn had injured herself in an effort to terminate the pregnancy, he'd grabbed the knife and fled the scene to make her stop and he'd gotten rid of the knife, again, to try to make sure Jaedynn wouldn't hurt herself or the baby. Nathan's reaction to this story was less than quiet or composed. He was furious. His next call was to Kevin and he spent the next fifteen minutes screaming at him about what Alex was claiming happened. The worst part was Kevin confirming that, based on what he knew of the case, Alex's Lawyer wouldn't have a terribly difficult time using the evidence to argue that's what occurred.

When Jaedynn heard about what Alex was claiming happened, she just started crying. She wanted this to be over and it was looking like it wouldn't be any time soon. She was able to speak with Kevin herself who assured her that they would figure out a plan of attack and no matter what happened, Alex would never come near Jaedynn again. He was still in custody but it was very likely his lawyer would try to argue he be released on bail, though whether or not he could post that bail would be another matter. However, it was also very likely that Alex's lawyer would argue to a plea deal in which Alex could get off with a six months to a year in jail. The fact that the charge had been reduced to a misdemeanor due to lack of evidence, limited witness accounts and conflicting stories was another blow. Gabriel, Ariel and Ivory flew back to Washington on Tuesday, but Nathan and Ada María remained, determining they would not leave until Jaedynn came with them. By Friday, a date was set for Alex to go before a judge regarding the assault – no jury: just a judge that would hear the evidence and determine sentencing.

"I just want this to be over," Jaedynn said through her tears. She'd just received the latest update on the matter from Kevin and had retreated to Roshad's apartment. Roshad held her in his lap on his couch comforting her after she'd relayed the whole story to him.

"I know, Jaedynn," Roshad said soothingly. "I swear everything will be alright."

"It really doesn't feel like it," Jaedynn said. "I'm so stupid."

"Don't say that," Roshad said firmly and hugged her a little tighter. "You had no way of knowing this would happen and he took advantage of you." Jaedynn cried a little harder and Roshad soothed her as best he could, rocking back and forth on the couch.

It took until mid-October before Alex was finally put before a judge. In the meantime, Jaedynn had to go about day to day. Nathan and Ada María were with her the whole time as was Roshad. She received the pay-out for her stolen car at long last and that was put aside for when she needed to buy herself a new car. She had one more ultrasound with the doctor for her 12-15 week appointment. By then she was barely showing save for a bare pooch at her lower abdomen. She could still wear her normal work clothes but her pants were too snug and she had to stop wearing them. Roshad joined her at the doctor for the ultrasound and it was the one of those rare moments in recent weeks that they could have even a moment of calm. The technician applied the gel and placed the large wand on Jaedynn's swollen belly until an image came on the screen and this time, the outline clearly showed a baby's shape.

"There's your baby," the technician said and started pointing out the baby's spine, head, feet and anything else she needed to measure. After all the initial measuring was done and she knew everything was normal and the baby was healthy, she asked, "Would you like to know the sex?"

"Yeah," Jaedynn said. Roshad squeezed her hand and she reciprocated while the technician moved the wand around until she found what she was looking for.

"It's a boy," the technician said and Jaedynn started tearing up.

"It's a boy," Jaedynn repeated and rubbed her eyes.

"Did you two already have a name in mind?" the technician asked.

"Kamron," Jaedynn said and then looked at Roshad. "I think Kamron Javadi sounds nice."

"Kamron's very cute," the technician smiled and returned her attention to the screen all the while Roshad was visibly touched by Jaedynn's choice of name. "Alright, Miss Black, you're all set for today. Kamron is growing normally and everything looks as it should. We have your new doctor's information so we'll have everything forwarded to him alright?"

"Thank you," Jaedynn said. The technician printed another picture of the baby and gave it to Jaedynn to keep. She then cleaned Jaedynn's belly to get the gel off and congratulated Jaedynn and Roshad again before walking out.

"May I see the picture?" Roshad asked and Jaedynn handed it over. He looked at it with a smile. "Kamron," he said. "I think he looks like a Kamron."

Jaedynn giggled, "I do too." Roshad looked at her, his hazel eyes filled with love.

"You really want to give him my name?"

"Yeah," Jaedynn said, "I really do." She leaned over and gave him a tender kiss that he reciprocated. He released her hand so he could touch her face then trailed that hand into her hair. After they'd kissed for several moments, Roshad pulled his lips away from hers so he could rest his head over her belly, his ear over the protrusion and his eyes on her. "I love you," Jaedynn said.

"I love you too," Roshad smiled, "both of you."

The day finally came when Alex would be put before a judge and Kevin flew in for the trial. Sadly, Kevin was well aware the evidence they had would not support an attempted murder charge as much as he and Nathan desperately wanted. As such, Kevin's goal was to convince the judge that Alex did indeed assault Jaedynn with a deadly weapon, converting his charge from a misdemeanor to a felony so it could go before a Jury and Alex receive a much longer prison sentence. By contrast, Alex's lawyer would argue that the evidence simply didn't support Jaedynn's story and that he should receive a lighter sentence. Roshad asked Jaedynn if she wanted him in court with her and while she was extremely tempted, she asked that he remain at home. She couldn't explain why, but she just didn't want Alex seeing Roshad nor did she want Rita seeing him. However, when they'd arrived at court, she noticed Rita was demonstrably absent. She realized she wasn't the least bit surprised and for a moment, Jaedynn couldn't help feeling sad for Alex. The woman couldn't even be bothered to be there for her son when he was facing jail time. Jaedynn stayed as far from Alex as she could, sitting at the very end of the table with Kevin sitting beside her while Alex was at the other table with his own assigned lawyer. The Bailiff announced the case number, the name of the judge that was presiding and ordered all in attendance to be seated before handing the case over to the judge.

"Alright," the judge began once he had the case in front of him, "Mr. Black, you claim your client was attacked at knife point by the defendant, she suffered two stab wounds – one to the shoulder, another to the ribcage – and the defendant, Mr. Vayez, then fled the scene. You are requesting the charges against him be changed from Assault to Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon at which point the case would go before a jury of Mr. Vayez's piers. Is that correct?"

"That is correct, your Honor," Kevin answered.

"Mr. Chamberlain," the judge continued, "You claim your client, Mr. Vayez, did not attack the Plaintiff but instead the Plaintiff inflicted the injuries upon herself following a heated argument. You state he admits to fleeing the scene with the weapon in question, however Mr. Vayez is claiming it was in an effort to prevent further injury to the Plaintiff or the child in carry. You state your client has agreed to plead guilty to Assault and serve the maximum sentence for that crime. Is that correct?"

"That is correct, your Honor," Mr. Chamberlain answered and the judge nodded in acknowledgment.

"Mr. Black, we'll start with your client. Please state your evidence for the court."

"Thank you, your honor," Kevin said.

To start, Kevin called Martha to the stand to give her account of what happened. She relayed what she'd overheard from her apartment, including swearing she'd heard a dog, then told how she'd gone to Alex's and Jaedynn's door, banged on it and moments later Alex ran out of the apartment covered in blood and Jaedynn was naked on the floor. Mr. Chamberlain made sure it was asserted that while Martha had overheard the incident, she did not see the incident occur and could therefore not be used to prove Alex was the attacker instead of Jaedynn being responsible for her injuries. The responding officer and paramedics, the two detectives and the hospital staff were also called to the stand to give their testimony. The officers confirmed that Alex's blood was found at the scene and Jaedynn's injuries were able to be proven to ultimately have occurred the day of the alleged attack. However, Mr. Chamberlain was always able to point out lack of tangible proof that Alex was responsible. No matter what they threw at the judge, Mr. Chamberlain was able to reiterate that it did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Alex had actually attacked her. The issue remained that they could not prove events played out the way Alex was saying either – hence why, Mr. Chamberlain argued, Alex was willing to plead guilty to Assault. Nathan became more and more irate as the proceedings played out.

"Thank you, gentleman. I've heard your arguments and I've reached a decision. Will the Defendant and the Plaintiff please rise?" Mr. Chamberlain encouraged Alex to stand which he did as did Kevin and Jaedynn. Once standing, the judge proceeded. "Mr. Chamberlain, I have a very hard time believing that Miss Black self-inflicted these injuries as your client asserts. However," the judge said, "you are correct that there are no witnesses to the crime itself, no weapon or clothes from the crime were found and Mr. Vayez did not display the injuries Miss Black is claiming she inflicted. That does not, however, change the fact that Mr. Vayez fled the scene of a crime. Therefore, it is the decision of this court that Mr. Vayez will serve the maximum sentence of 1 year in prison for the crime of Assault, 1 year in prison for the crime of disposing of evidence for a total of two years without the possibility of parole and is expected to pay a fine of $850. Court is adjured."

Jaedynn just stared forward in disbelief. Kevin couldn't pretend he was surprised but it didn't lessen the blow. Alex exchanged a few words with his lawyer before two officers took him away. Even after Alex was taken out of the room, Jaedynn felt like the world was collapsing around her. She jumped when she felt Kevin put his hand on her shoulder in an attempt to offer comfort.

"I'm sorry, Jaedynn," Kevin said.

"It's not your fault," Jaedynn mumbled.

"Come on; let's get out of here," Kevin said gently to her. Nathan was still in shock and hadn't moved since the judge laid down the sentence. Kevin had to force the man out of his seat so they could all leave the courthouse.

"This is insanity," Nathan finally said once they left the courtroom. "Insufficient evidence my ass; he fucking stabbed her! What does the judge want? A God Damn recording?"

"Just breath, Nathan," Kevin said. "He's still being sent to prison, so it's a small victory at least."

"A 'victory' would've been sending the bastard to the electric chair," Nathan said. "I swear if he ever sets foot in Washington again, he'll find a grave spot by Sgt. Lovejoy."

"Just take a deep breath, Nathan," Kevin said.

Ada María stayed quiet and was hugging Jaedynn as they were leaving. Jaedynn was completely speechless the whole time they were returning to the apartment all while Nathan and Kevin were arguing. Looking at the taxi driver, Jaedynn couldn't recall ever seeing a man look so uncomfortable in her life. He couldn't get them to the apartment fast enough and even looked tempted to comp the ride if only for the sake of getting them out of the car as fast as possible. Kevin and Nathan quieted their arguing if only because they were entering the apartment and didn't want to cause a scene, meanwhile Jaedynn followed them all upstairs.

Roshad stepped out of his apartment overhearing everyone in the hallway once they reached their floor and when she saw him, Jaedynn went right to him so she could hug him. She'd finally started crying and Roshad held her close trying to sooth her. Ada María was the one to relay to Roshad what happened and from there, he focused entirely on just comforting Jaedynn. He didn't say anything. There really wasn't much to say or anything he really could say. All her could do was hold her. He ignored the phone when it rang and ignored it still when he heard his mother's voice leaving a message. Jaedynn didn't seem to notice and he wasn't about to disrupt her. Jaedynn had still not been ready to speak with Ashti. Perhaps she was being unfair to the woman, but Jaedynn wasn't prepared to deal with someone's mother. She certainly wasn't prepared to talk to her now. Jaedynn ended up spending the night at his apartment and didn't stop crying until she finally fell asleep that night. When she woke, it was to the smell of herbs and spices. She felt like something was on top of her and when she opened her eyes, she saw a little tray hovering over her lap with a plate of what looked like a browned pancake with herbs visible, a bowl of pomegranate seeds and the golden milk tea that was still piping hot. Roshad was sitting on the edge of the bed beside her.

"Good morning," he said. "How are you feeling?"

"Like shit," Jaedynn said as she sat up in bed. "I'm sorry. Here you made me breakfast in bed and I'm complaining."

"It's alright; yesterday was a really rough day," Roshad said. "I know it's not much, but I thought some breakfast might lighten your spirits."

"It does," Jaedynn said and finally smiled lightly at him. "I promise, it does. So what's this?"

"It's kuku sabzi," Roshad said. "Basically, it is an omelet cooked with leeks, some cilantro and parsley, and some green onion. That's how I make it at least."

"It sounds like exactly what I needed," Jaedynn said. Jaedynn was about to start eating when she started feeling something very strange. When she realized what it was, her eyes lit up and she dropped her fork. "Roshad, give me your hand," she ordered and Roshad did as she asked. She pressed his hand to the part of her lower belly where she'd started feeling the little movements.

"The baby's kicking?" Roshad realized and tried to get closer. "Can you move this?" he asked, indicating the tray and Jaedynn moved that aside so Roshad could come closer. When he was touching her, he was having a hard time feeling anything, so he pressed his hand more firmly and brought his ear to her belly. "Kamron?" Roshad said and began gently tapping his finger on her belly. He said something in Farsi and Jaedynn smiled at him while her hands laced through his hair and rested on his shoulder, going up and down along his arm. She finally felt another gentle movement and this time, Roshad could feel it too. "There you are, Kamron," Roshad whispered and rubbed the spot tenderly. "Enjoy the gentle kicks while they last. He'll only get stronger."

"I hope so," Jaedynn smiled. Roshad wrapped an arm around her so he could tug her down the bed making her lay back and Roshad climbed up so he was on top of her, his ear and hand still against her belly. "I think he went back to sleep," Jaedynn said after a minute passed with no further movements.

"Possibly," Roshad said, a bright smile still on his face. He finally lifted his head away and came around to sit behind Jaedynn on the bed, lifting her back to sit upright against his chest and brought the tray back to sit over her lap. Then the phone rang and Roshad actually groaned a little.

"Is that your mother?"

"I assume so. She has been calling since I ignored her first nightly call. I think I've sent her into a panic by now," Roshad said and answered the phone, staying behind Jaedynn while she ate her breakfast. Roshad was on the phone with his mother for several minutes although what he was talking about she had no idea. When he finally hung up the phone, he did so with a sigh of exasperation.

"Is everything alright?" Jaedynn asked.

"Yes, everything's fine; she's just upset with me," Roshad said.

"For not calling her back?"

"That and she's complaining I keep giving excuses for why she can't speak with you," Roshad said.

"I'm sorry to keep refusing but I'm just not ready to speak to her," Jaedynn said.

"Don't apologize; I realize it's a lot to ask right now," Roshad said. "Besides, it's not as though we can be fully and completely honest with her at the moment. Don't worry about maman; you don't have to speak with her until you're ready."

"I appreciate it," Jaedynn said. "I love you."

"I love you too," Roshad smiled and kissed her neck.