ON A WING AND A PRAYER

BY

kd bard

Ebook by

PDAFiction.com

DISCLAIMERS

COPYRIGHT: Cass and Rox are figments of my imagination... Yep - I created them all by my 'lil ole self. They do resemble a certain warrior and bard in appearance, and maybe even in mannerisms, but other than that, they are original creations, and are

Copyright, 1999

by kd bard

Character or name resemblance to 'real' people currently living or dead is completely coincidental. Download it, print it out and share it if you'd like, but be sure to include the disclaimers.

SUBTEXT: This story is alternative in nature. If you don't know what that means, then you really need to find out before you start reading. The ladies in this story meet and really like each other ... I mean ... they REALLY, REALLY, REALLY like each other. This story does contain some mildly graphic sex scenes. If you're offended by this statement, then you'll be offended by the story. If you're not old enough to be here, then please go find some Disney stories to read. If love is illegal where you live, I strongly suggest you move.

VIOLENCE: Domestic violence plays a focal part of this story. If you are currently in an abusive situation... please get out now! Abuse is a crime that can not be tolerated... stop the cycle with yourself or someone you love.

TIME LINE/CONTINUITY: This is a brand new alternative fan fiction, set in modern day time, starring a couple of new leading ladies. This story can be found on my home page at

http://homepages.together.net/~warriorx/WebPage.htm

along with a host of other good stories. Enjoy!

AUTHOR'S NOTES: I strongly believe that love is love, regardless of how it is packaged, so please don't flame me for believing in something so wonderful. All flames will be immediately extinguished by a tour through the city's sewer pipes, however, I do beg for constructive criticism. Send all feedback to

warriorx@together.net.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: A very big thanks to those of you who took the time to find my booboo's ... Mom, Marn, Mel, Ili, Beck, Rosa. I really appreciate it - you've saved me once more from looking like a literary idiot! Thanks to Little Warrior for listening to my disjointed rambling while I worked through the hard parts, and for helping me practice... ah... ah... I mean, proof the really 'good' parts (^^). Special thanks to Ili for providing the Spanish translations (the English versions are provided in brackets []). Finally, a warm thank you to MQ and BG for their technical wisdom and spiritual guidance.

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO READERS: I want to thank all of you for your patience while I have laboriously worked out this story. I know it has been customary for me to post stories on a more frequent basis, but my life has gone through drastic changes over the past few months... changes that are largely good, but traumatic, nonetheless. A new love has entered my life ... a love that has given me the courage to express my true heart ... a love that will endure for the rest of our lives. I love you my Little Warrior. An old love has left ... the end to a lesson well learned. Family illness, and unprecedented family love ... all of this has worked to change my life in ways I can not describe.

Thank you all.

--kd :-)

ON A WING AND A PRAYER

CHAPTER I

"NOW, LET'S SEE, Alien Insurrection, Planet of Lost Souls, Galaxy Ten ... Hey, what's this?" Cass commented as she removed the volume in question from the shelf and read the title. "Stargazer II, humph, interesting title," she said as she opened the book and read the inside sleeve. "Sounds like the name of a space ship. Let's see what the cover says ... 'Part II of a tale of bittersweet love ... human meets alien ... falls in love ... yadda, yadda, yadda, struggle to fit into each other's worlds ... for more information on the author, see the back sleeve and cover'," she finished reading before opening the back cover of the book. "Roxanne Ward, native New Englander, living on the seacoast of Maine, author of several best selling science fiction novels, including Starflight and Stargazer. Ms. Ward brings her own brand of romance to the science fiction arena ... must read novels ... romance interlaced with mystery and intrigue."

Cass closed the book and looked at the cover once more. It was black with stars shooting outward from the center. Stargazer II was listed in bold silver letters across the top of the page. Sounds interesting, Cass thought. But not much good without Part I. Holding the book in her hand, she searched the shelf for Stargazer . After ten minutes, she came up empty. "Damn!" she said under her breath. Oh well, she thought, reaching forward to return Stargazer II to the shelf. I'll look in the bookstore in San Jose tomorrow, she thought.

As she was returning the book to the shelf, the back cover caught her eye. Retrieving the book once more, she turned it over in her hands and looked at it. There, staring up at her, was the most magnificent pair of emerald green eyes she had ever seen. Cass felt her heart lurch in her chest. The nearly translucent eyes were set in a wholesome face, framed by a pixie cut mane of red-gold hair. The eyes smiled up at her as she took in china doll features, slightly upturned nose, full lips bent into a crooked smile, rosy cheeks, and bright sparkle emanating from the depths of green.

"Wow!" Cass said out loud, oblivious to the odd looks she was receiving around her. "Be still my beating heart!" she commented audibly, as a flush rose into her face.

She stood there for several long moments staring at the picture, until she was shaken out of her trance by a firm hand on her arm. "Hey lady, if you ain't gonna buy it, then hand it over. I've been lookin' for that sequel for some time now," the voice said.

Cass looked at the man. "Ah ... Yes, I'm buying it, sorry," she said as she forced her feet to move in the direction of the register.

Cassidy Marie Conway, what are you getting yourself into this time? What good is this book without Part I? Acting on impulse again, aren't you, girl? You know that leads to nothing but trouble! her inner voice, which Cass had affectionately nicknamed "the Enforcer" or "E" for short, scolded as she handed over $23.95 to the clerk and accepted her bagged purchase. Cass walked through the mall, having an internal conversation with herself, her hands gesturing as though she had a visible conversant in front of her.

Look, I know it seems like impulse, but the book looked too good to pass up ... I'll find Part I in San Jose tomorrow, she reasoned.

Like hell it looked too good! What looked too good was the picture of the author ... always a sucker for a pretty face, huh, Cass? Enforcer egged on.

Cass' inner voice first made its appearance during the trouble with Patti. The voice was a protector of sorts, always looking out for her, especially in matters of the heart. Sometimes she listened, but today, she shook it off as she made her way to her rented car and drove to the Dallas airport.

*  *  *

Upon landing in San Jose, Cass went directly to where she had left her car parked in the employee's parking lot. Opening the door, she threw her bags into the front seat and climbed in behind them. It was sweltering hot again, temperatures were in the low 100's, and her car felt like a kiln. It had been locked up in this heat for the past two days, and the heat build up in the car made it smell like it was about to ignite ... it certainly felt that way to Cass.

"Okay, Cass, time for dinner," the woman said to herself as she started the car and threw it into gear after first turning the air conditioner on high.

Cassidy Conway seldom ate at home. In fact, she never ate anything she had to cook -- always afraid she would poison herself ... afraid of dying alone from her own cooking, so she was a familiar sight in the diners located within a five mile radius of her condo.

"Hey Cass!" Angela said as Cassidy entered the establishment and went directly to her usual table.

"Hi Angie!" Cass replied, a comfortable camaraderie having long been established between herself and the proprietor.

Angie automatically brought a cup of coffee to Cass' table and placed it in front of her. "Tough flight? You look beat," Angie said.

"I love you too, Ang ..." Cass said, reaching up to touch the side of the woman's face. "You sure know how to make a girl feel good, my friend!" she added.

Angie chuckled and walked away, thinking to herself that Cass' beauty was in a class all itself -- all six feet of her. Cassidy Conway was indeed a beautiful woman. Her regal height gave her a commanding presence. One of the most notable features were her long, shapely legs and hips --'legs that go on for miles' as Angie was fond of saying, that led to a finely tapered waist and generously firm breasts. Her face was exquisite -- finely chiseled features, great bone structure, and eyes so startling blue, they looked surreal. The package was topped by a mane of long and flowing black hair. The effect was breathtaking.

"What can I getcha tonight, Hon?" Angie asked, holding her order pad in front of her.

"Oh, I don't know, Ang ... Why don't you bring me the clam chowder and chef salad ... light Italian," she said, closing the menu and handing it back to the waitress.

"Okay, Sugar ... it'll be right up," Angie said as she went to place Cass' order.

Cass sat there waiting for her meal, drumming her fingers on the table and looking around with a bored reticence. Finally, her mind drifted to the package she had purchased earlier that day in Dallas. Rising to her feet, she called out to Angie that she'd be right back, and went to her car to retrieve the book. Returning to the table, she laid the book down and off to the side, with the back cover facing upward, the emerald green eyes staring right at her.

"She's a pretty one," Angie said, startling Cass out of her trance.

"Huh?" Cass asked, embarrassed at having been caught daydreaming.

"I said she's a pretty one. Good writer too. Can I see the book?" she asked.

Cass reluctantly handed over her prize to the woman, and watched nervously as Angie looked the cover over. "Stargazer II, Hey, I just finished Part I of this series. You'll have to lend it to me when you're finished. Roxanne Ward is a very good writer!" Angie exclaimed.

"You just finished Part I?" Cass asked, suddenly very alert.

"Yeah. I assume you read it, since this is Part II?" Angie asked.

"Well, actually -- no. I was going to try to find it in town tomorrow. Would you consider lending it to me?" Cass asked.

"Sure, I'll give it to you when you come in for breakfast tomorrow morning, okay?" Angie offered.

"Ah, Ang, is there any way I can get it tonight? I'd kind of like to get started reading it as long as I've got a couple of days off," Cass said.

Angie placed her hands on her hips and looked closely at her customer and friend. "What is it about this book that you are in such a hurry to read it, Cass?" she asked, handing the book back to her.

"Noth.... Nothing in particular," Cass stammered, her attention focused on the back of the jacket cover once more.

Angie followed Cass' gaze. "Oh, I see," she said, a knowing smile crossing her lips. She had known for a while now about Cass' inclinations toward women.

"What?" Cass said innocently, blushing at being caught.

"Well, like I said, she's a pretty one ... you've got good taste, Cass," Angie observed, causing Cass to blush even more.

*  *  *

Cass returned to the diner that evening at closing time and followed Angie home. After two cups of coffee and more conversation than Cass really wanted, she left for home with Stargazer tucked securely under her arm.

Turning the faucets on, Cass filled the tub with slightly hot water and fragrant bath oils, intent on spending the next hour relaxing and reading. Tying her hair into a knot on top of her head, she slipped into the warm water, sliding her long frame under the surface and placing a rolled up towel between her neck and the edge of the tub. Reaching over to the stool she had pulled up beside the tub, she grabbed Stargazer and started to read.

Six hours later, in the wee hours of the morning, sitting in a tub of cool water, she snapped the book closed -- finished. Cass leaned her head back into the towel, feeling the stiffness in her spine from sitting in that position for so long. Her butt cheeks and legs had long since lost all sensation as her skin shriveled up on her feet. She sat there in solitude, tears flowing down her cheeks at the dilemma the lovers in the novel faced. One human, one alien, faced with the prejudices of both worlds, star-crossed lovers, destined to live in each other's hearts and minds, but impossibly separated by space and time.

Cass reached out and placed the novel on the stool, then wiped the tears from her cheeks. Very carefully, she maneuvered herself into a sitting position, knowing she would dance around like a fool when the prickly feeling finally returned to her butt and legs. Reaching out, she grabbed the towel and methodically dried herself off as she stepped out of the tub. Sure enough, the feeling returned, bringing with it, an insatiable tingling that lasted for several minutes. Cass clung to the towel rack in agony for the duration, until finally, it subsided and she was able to walk around normally again. Then, still totally naked, she picked up the book and headed to her bedroom where she placed it on her dresser and threw a T-shirt over her head, before climbing in between the sheets of her freshly made bed.

Sleep was a long time coming. Cass laid there staring at the ceiling, thinking about the lovers, and thinking too about the woman who created them. "Roxanne ... Roxie ... Rox," she sounded the name out on her lips, liking the sound of it. "Roxanne Ward, native New Englander ... seacoast of Maine," she mumbled as she finally drifted off to sleep.

*  *  *

Ah, Saturday morning, Cass thought as she stretched herself awake. Cass loved the weekends. As part of her contract with the airline, she didn't fly on the weekends. As a result, she was seldom booked for a flight that kept her away from home for more than two days. Due to her bilingual abilities in Spanish, she covered a great deal of the flights into Mexico and Central and South America, and occasionally, a flew domestic routes. It just so happened, that yesterday's flight to Dallas needed coverage, and she was available, so in order to enjoy a change of pace, she accepted. Lying there in bed, she thanked her lucky stars that she had accepted the flight -- otherwise, she may not have found Stargazer II.

Climbing out of bed, she reached her arms high above her head and pressed her palms toward the ceiling, then clasped her hands together and leaned her torso side to side, stretching her abs and shoulders. "God, that feels good!" she said, returning her arms to her side and shaking them out before moving into the kitchen to set up the coffee pot with 'Raspberries and Cream' flavored coffee.

Slipping a pair of boxer shorts on under her T-shirt, she stepped out into the hallway of her condo and sprinted down the stairs to retrieve the morning paper from her mailbox. Unrolling it, she scanned the front page as she made her way back into her apartment. Finding nothing of real of interest, she threw the paper on the kitchen table and poured herself a cup of the fragrant coffee.

"Nothing like a good cup of coffee to start the morning," Cass said, savoring the raspberry flavor as she carried her 'morning cup of ambition' into the living room and sank into the overstuffed chair in front of the TV. Reaching for the remote, she clicked the TV on to the weather channel, just in time to catch the local forecast. "Damn! Rain today. In this heat it will be so humid the air conditioner won't touch it," Cass complained to no one in particular.

Cass suddenly stopped and realized what she had just done. "Great! Now I'm talking to myself! Cassidy, you've got to get a life," she said, feeling very alone at the moment. Clicking off the TV, she reached for her coffee and sat back in her chair, allowing her mind to wander back to a time when she wasn't so all alone, but wished she had been....

It was three years ago when it all finally came to an end. She just couldn't take it any more. The abuse was intolerable. She found herself a beaten and battered woman, physically and emotionally. Patti was so loving at first. The first two years they had together were wonderful ... full of love, adventure, travel. There were rarely apart, and the love they had for each other shone on their faces.

Cass and Patti seemed to be made for each other. Both were six feet tall, and complimented each other in every way. Cass was dark, Patti was blonde. Cass' creamy skin covered intricately toned muscles, while Patti was tanned and muscular, having spent many hours in the gym lifting heavy weights. Cass was friendly and outgoing, Patti was distant and stoic, except around Cass, with whom she was outwardly affectionate. Both women were strong willed, determined, and independent.

Cass sipped her coffee, contemplating what had gone wrong in their relationship. After two wonderful years, things suddenly went sour. Patti started coming home late from the gym, turning the stoicism she showed to the world, on Cass. The silence was deafening for the dark haired, blue eyed woman. Cass considered herself a communicator, always verbally reinforcing her love for Patti. She cherished the long talks she shared with her love on a regular basis, especially while lying in each other's arms at night in bed, after making love. All that changed during those horribly destructive months.

Patti suddenly became confrontational instead of loving, supplying short, sarcastic answers to questions, making Cass feel ignorant and small, that is, when she would speak to Cass at all. Most of the time, Cass was met with the silent treatment, never really understanding what she did to warrant such abuse. Cass spent this time starving for loving feedback, but receiving cold, silent, hateful looks instead. Patti was obsessed with working out, putting on more and more muscle and growing meaner and meaner with each inch of muscle gained.

Finally, it happened. Cass questioned Patti's late arrival one night and Patti struck her, sending her flying over the coffee table, striking her head on the edge of it and cutting it wide open. The drive to the emergency room was tense, filled with apologies and promises never to let it happen again. That was the first of many times. Then, after several months of broken promises, Cass packed her bags and left. Two days later, Patti was found dead in her car outside the gym, overdosed on a combination of drugs and steroids. Cass never forgave herself for Patti's death, believing that her actions drove Patti to suicide.

That was three years ago ... three lonely years running away from personal commitments. Yes, she had enjoyed brief encounters with women she met on her flights, but none of them held any promise of permanency ... an arrangement that was perfectly acceptable to Cass. For the past three years, she had been happy with her solitude. Now, however one chance encounter with a promo picture on the back of a science fiction novel changed all that.

Taking a deep breath, Cass rose from her seat and freshened her coffee. Standing at the kitchen counter, with her backside leaning against the cupboard, she stared straight ahead, eyes unblinking, as she sipped the brew and tried desperately to chase away the memories of those final nightmarish months with Patti.

Never again, Cass. Do not give your heart freely, girl. You will only be hurt and disillusioned. protect yourself, Cass. Build those walls -- they will keep you safe, Enforcer said over as over as she once again established a firm resolve to stay uncommitted and uninvolved in a serious relationship.

Feeling better about her decision, Cass refilled her coffee cup, then reached for the package she had brought home with her the night before. Reaching inside, she pulled out Stargazer II, and carried it into the living room where she settled herself in the overstuffed chair once more, curling her long shapely legs under her. Reaching up to turn on the light next to the chair, she took one more look at the back cover before opening the book and beginning to read.

*  *  *

Cass was captivated. Never before had she read a science fiction novel with such emotional impact. Science fiction generally came in two flavors; either highly technical, detailing the operation of a space ship and fighting with nuclear and laser-based weapons, or they tended to lean toward the horror aspect of monstrous aliens. Cass loved science fiction, mainly for these reasons. With this genre, she was able to escape into a fantasy world without having to deal with the emotional side of life.

Stargazer had left her emotionally tender as she sat crying in the tub of cold water last night. Stargazer II was no different. She quite literally could not put the book down, even going so far as carrying it with her into the kitchen as she retrieved a container of yogurt from her refrigerator and returned to her seat in the living room. Nearly the entire day was spent curled up in that chair. A rainstorm raged around her, flashes of lightning periodically illuminating the room, while an emotional storm raged within her heart.

Cass was totally out of control emotionally by the end of the story as the two lovers lay in each other's arms, their last breaths mingling as one, professing their love and devotion to each other beyond the realms of physical existence. Great sobs wracked her body as the lovers died, creating an ache in her heart so intense that she was quite literally unable to stop sobbing. Closing the book and placing it on the end table, she unfolded her long frame from the chair and went to bed. Climbing under the covers, she pulled her knees tightly into her chest, and allowed the pain and suffering from her time with Patti to return. The sense of loss she felt when Patti died was enormous. As abusive as Patti was, she still loved her. Their separation was devastating. Her death nearly killed her. That same sense of loss washed over her as Cass thought again of the dying lovers at the end of Stargazer II, sending new waves of pain and tears down upon her tortured soul. Finally, physically and emotionally exhausted, she fell into a deep sleep, escaping the horrors that had invaded her heart and soul.

*  *  *

Cass rolled over and looked at the digital clock on the nightstand. 7:16 illuminated the face in bright red letters. Sitting up, she rubbed her hands over her face and through her hair. Wow, I must have been really tired to have over slept like that. I'm normally up by 6:00 am!, she thought. Climbing out of bed, she shuffled into the kitchen and found a half pot of coffee still on the hot plate. Stopping short, she stared at the coffeepot, a look of utter confusion on the face.

Cassidy, you're slipping girl. Good thing there was still coffee in the pot. You could have burned down the whole condo by leaving it on all night like that, Enforcer said as she reached over and clicked off the pot.

Her stomach growled loudly, protesting that the container of yogurt she ate earlier was just not enough to sustain it for such a long period of time. "All right, all right, I'll feed you... just settle down, okay?" she said out loud as another rumble rolled up from the depths of her stomach.

Cass really was a terrible cook, so she depended on pre-packaged foods for the rare occasion that she actually ate at home. Shuffling over to the sparsely stocked pantry, she grabbed a package of crackers, then retrieved a brick of cheese from the refrigerator, checking first that it didn't contain any green moldy spots before slicing off several pieces to eat with the crackers. Arranging her treat on a paper plate, she carried it into the living room and sat down in her favorite chair. Reaching over to place the plate on the end table, she noticed Stargazer II sitting there where she had left it, causing a new wave of emotional pain to wash over her. Taking a deep breath, she admonished herself for her reaction. Damn it, Cassidy, get a hold of yourself ... it's just a story.

Reaching for the remote, she turned on the TV, which was still tuned into the Weather Channel. "The storm that hit the area earlier today caused extensive damage in outlying regions, with downed tree limbs causing power failures ..." the forecaster droned on.

Cass was about to turn the channel when the forecaster's words finally sunk in. "The storm that hit the area earlier today ..." Today? she thought. Did he say, TODAY? Clicking furiously through the channels, she found the one that previewed the cable channel offerings and looked immediately to the bottom left corner of the screen where the digital time was faithfully displayed. It read 7:42 pm.

"Holy shit!" Cass exclaimed. "It's still Saturday. I must have slept the whole afternoon away," she said to the empty room. "Cassidy, you are in big trouble here, girl. Talking to yourself, crying yourself senseless over some story, sleeping the day away ... you need to get a grip before you really lose it," she said.

Putting the half-eaten plate of food aside, she reached down and picked up Stargazer II and turned it over to look at the author's picture on the back. "I'll bet you don't have this problem," she said to the picture. "You probably live a very simple, happy little life in your picturesque New England town, surrounded by friends and family ... probably a husband and a couple of kids ... sitting in your little hammock on the beach, lap top at hand, writing away, while the kiddies build sand castles around you, and the hubby is off earning a living for his wife and children."

Sometimes Cass longed for such a life, but knew in her mind that it would never happen. Beside, she had decided not to let herself fall in love again. The devastation and despair she suffered through with Patti had taught her a lesson about life, about trust ... and she wasn't about to expose herself to that level of pain again.

Cass reached out and ran a finger over the face on the book cover. "You are certainly a beauty," she heard herself say, "and very talented too," she concluded, melancholy feelings of longing and lost love filling her heart. "I wish I could tell you how much this story touched me," she added, opening the back cover and once more reading the short bio on the author. Suddenly, a sentence caught her eye, "Visit her web site at www.roxie.com, or send her an e-mail at Rox@starship.com."

Butterflies suddenly invaded Cass' stomach. God, do I dare? she thought to herself as she stared at the e-mail address. What would it hurt? she reasoned. Just a brief note telling her how much I enjoyed the book - that's all. She probably wouldn't answer back ... writers are a busy lot after all.

Resolving to do it before she lost her nerve, Cass went to the spare room she used as an office and powered up her computer. She sat there fidgeting in her chair, nervously going over what she wanted to say while she waited for the program to boot. Finally it was ready. Logging onto the Internet, she went to her mailbox and selected 'New Message'. Addressing the note to Rox@starship.com, she composed a brief note, reading it over several times before she was comfortable enough to send it.

"Dear Ms. Ward.

Just a brief note to let you know how much I enjoyed the Stargazer series. They touched a part of my heart I have kept closed and guarded for several years. You are a very talented writer, and I hope to read more of your work soon. By the way, you are a very beautiful woman. I hope you have someone who appreciates you.

Sincerely,

Cass Conway"

Taking a deep breath, Cass pressed the 'send' button, knowing immediately the action was irreversible. She suddenly regretted the boldness she felt when adding the last two sentences to the note. Shrugging, she said out loud, "Oh well, she'll probably just file it in the recycle bin anyway."

Her stomach once again announced its presence as she powered down the computer. Glancing at the clock on the desk, she noted that it was 10:03 pm.

Wow! I can't believe it took you two hours to write three lines! Cassidy, I'm starting to worry about you big time! Enforcer said. Jesus, girl. Get a grip ... pull your life together. You need to get laid - yeah, that's it. You have all this sexual tension just building up, making you crazy. Go on out, find yourself some willing chick and do the Nasty all night long. You'll feel better in the morning, Enforcer encouraged.

Cass shook her head, clearing her mind of such thoughts. Go to bed Cass ... tomorrow's another day.

With that, she turned off the desk lamp, took a quick shower, and crawled into the bed she had left unmade from earlier in the day. Within moments, she was asleep, dreaming of red-gold hair, emerald green eyes and alien lovers.

CHAPTER II

ROXANNE OPENED ONE eye and glanced at the nightstand. 6:00 am was illuminated in bright red numbers across the face of the clock. Damn! Why do I always wake up before the alarm? she asked herself. Rolling stiffly out of bed, she planted her feet securely on the floor and slowing eased herself into a standing position, grunting and groaning along the way. God, I hurt this morning, the thought as she shuffled slowly to the bathroom.

Bathroom chores finished, she shuffled into the kitchen to set up a pot of coffee before pulling a robe over her nightshirt and slipping her sandals on to retrieve the morning paper. Rox had a general idea how she looked that morning, she knew her red-gold hair would be sticking up at all angles and her face all puffy looking, but she didn't even bother looking into the bathroom mirror ... there wasn't much that she could do about it anyway ... it would take time ...

Shuffling back into the house, she sat down at the table and scanned the paper. Nothing of real interest caught her eye, but it was a good way to pass the time while she waited for the coffee to finish brewing. Finally, it was done. Struggling to her feet, she walked over to the cupboard and reached for a clean coffee cup. Filling it, she painfully made her way outside and sat in the glider on the deck to enjoy her brew.

Rox loved her home. She purchased it two years ago with the proceeds from Starflight. It was a beautiful three story Victorian, sitting directly on the beach. Immediately after the purchase, she had the deck added to the back. It had since become her favorite place to sit and think, contemplating life, love, happiness and sorrow. The smell of the ocean and the sound of the seagulls in the early morning filled Rox with a feeling of hope and renewal, while the sunsets, lighting the sky with brilliant shades of red, provided peace and serenity after a long day of writing.

Rox was basically a loner. She had relatively few friends, except Nikki. Nikki was the only one who really knew her, knew her heart, and accepted her for what she was. She loved her friend very much. They had been close since college. It was her best friend she turned to when she realized the direction her heart was taking her in. It was Nikki she ran to when things became too rough to bear ... who came to her at all hours of the night when she called, needing to be held and comforted. Nikki was a wonderful friend, very understanding and accepting. Nikki's partner, Jerri was very protective of Rox. She had offered on several occasions to 'take care' of her problems for her, but of course, Rox wouldn't allow it . Her life already felt out of control enough, without Jerri taking over for her.

Rox's thoughts were suddenly brought back to reality by a seagull cawing nearby, hoping to be fed. Smiling at the bird, Rox threw her hands out to the side in a gesture that said, "Sorry bud ... no breakfast here!", and watched it fly away.

Tilting her cup skyward, Rox finished her last sip of coffee, then struggled to her feet to retrieve another. This time, however, instead of returning to the deck, she slowly climbed the two flights of stairs to her office in the attic. Like many of the house situated by the ocean, and long since inhabited by sea captains and their families, the top floor of Rox's home contained a lookout room, complete with a widow's walk circling the periphery. The side of the room facing the ocean was floor to ceiling windows with French doors opening onto the walk. Rox loved to stand in front of these windows and watch the ocean rage before her whenever there was a storm. It provided her with a sense of excitement that made her catch her breath and filled her with such wonder and awe at the power of nature that it often brought tears to her eyes.

Rox had spent long hours redecorating her office space. The same company that had built her deck was commissioned to install a floor to ceiling stained glass window on the west wall so that the afternoon sun would shine through in brilliant colors. The room was large and airy, one end was set up with her desk, book cases and reference library. The window end of the room contained an arrangement of chairs, couches, end tables and scatter rugs. The couch facing the windows was actually a hide-a-bed that Rox had used on occasion when she had written well into the night and didn't want to disturb Chris by coming to bed so late. She even had a small kitchenette installed to limit interruptions in her writing for basic necessities, such as eating.

This morning, Rox planned on an early start to her writing. She had lost valuable time the night before ... time consumed by heart wrenching events ... events that seemed to be happening with more frequency and regularity of late. Taking a deep breath, she turned on her computer, thinking that she really had to get her life under control.

*  *  *

"Roxanne, god damn it. I want an answer when I talk to you," the voice boomed from the doorway.

Rox was so absorbed in her writing, that she had shut out the outside world. At the sound of the voice, she looked over her shoulder toward the door to her office. "I'm sorry, Chris, what was it you said?" she asked apologetically.

Chris appeared in the doorway, hands braced against the door frame, anger covering stoic features. "I asked you where my blue work shirt is. Find it for me, NOW!" came the demand.

"Chris, I'm in the middle of a chapter, it's in the dryer, please go .... Arrgh!" Rox choked out as Chris crossed the room in three steps and grabbed her by the throat.

Pulling Rox's face in close, Chris spat out, "I told YOU to get it. I won't put up with your shit Rox ... don't push me if you know what's good for you. Now get my shirt!"

Rox nearly fell to the floor as she was suddenly released. "All right, all right," she said, fighting back the tears. "I'll get it."

Before doing her errand, Roxanne turned back to the screen and saved her story, then turned the computer off. She did not like leaving a file open on the screen with Chris around. She didn't trusted Chris when it came to her computer. She was afraid that she'd come back and find all her hard work erased from the hard drive.

Chris noted the time Roxanne was taking to secure her work. "You know, Roxanne, I am really beginning to think you care more about your computer and your writing than you do about me," Chris said.

Knowing another confrontation was at hand, Roxanne did what she could to avoid it. "Chris, sweetheart, don't be foolish," she said, hoping to avoid the issue, although in her heart she really did feel that way about her work. It pays the bills, Chris. That's more than I can say about you, she thought to herself.

"Then get your ass moving and get my shirt. Oh, and I need some money. I'm meeting the guys after work for a few drinks. I'll be home late. Don't wait up for me." Chris said nonchalantly.

Roxanne hated giving money to Chris, who worked only when it was convenient. The only benefit to handing over the money was that it meant Chris would be gone for several hours, and would give her some piece and quiet, so as usual, she relented ... again. Reaching for her purse, she handed $40 to Chris, who shoved it deep into a pocket without as much as a thank you.

Taking a deep breath, Rox rose from her chair and painfully made her way down three flights to the cellar. Why am I so stiff and achy this morning? she thought. What made last night different from all the other times she had been knocked around? Maybe it was the way she fell over the coffee table? Yeah, that must be it, she said as she gingerly descended the stairs to the laundry room to retrieve Chris' shirt.

*  *  *

"Okay baby, fire up," she said as the computer booted up. Rox drummed her fingers impatiently as she waited for her Star Trek wall paper to appear. It was only 8:00 am, and with Chris out of the house for the whole day and most of the night, she'd have a chance to really put a dent in her new book. Finally, the system was ready. Grabbing the mouse, she selected "Netscape Navigator" and logged onto the Internet to check out the writer's chat group she was currently engaged in. Finding no one home, she finally remembered that it was Sunday and that the chat group normally took that day off. At least someone gets Sundays off, she noted to herself, wondering why three weeks ago, Chris suddenly began working weekends. There was some big construction job the company had won a bid on ... at least that's what Chris told her. Rox secretly suspected that Chris was having an affair with another woman.

Rox was brought back to reality when she noticed a small envelope icon flashing at the bottom right corner of her screen. Humph... e-mail! she said to herself. I wonder whose calling? Reaching for the mouse, she double clicked on the envelope and opened her mail.

She had three pieces of mail, one from the science fiction mailing list she had subscribed to, one from her mother, and one from 'cconway@flyboy.com'. Probably fan mail, Rox thought as she read the first two e-mails. The one from the mailing list was a poll to rate the popularity of recent sci-fi hits, including Men In Black, Alien Resurrection. and Lost In Space. I'll answer that one later. The note from her mother was a reminder that she and Chris had been invited to dinner next weekend. I hope the bruises have faded by then ... hell, I've got to figure out how to avoid new ones between now and then! Finally, the last note was indeed fan mail. It read:

"Dear Ms. Ward.

Just a brief note to let you know how much I enjoyed the Stargazer series. They touched a part of my heart I have kept closed and guarded for several years. You are a very talented writer, and I hope to read more of your work soon. By the way, you are a very beautiful woman. I hope you have someone who appreciates you.

Sincerely,

Cass Conway"

A very beautiful woman? Rox thought. You should see me right now. I look great in black and blue, she thought as she sat back and read the note one more time, trying to ascertain what the person was like who wrote it. Okay, let's see ... 'flyboy.com' ... probably a military pilot ... I'd say ... 40'ish ... single and heartbroken, judging by the 'guarded heart' comment. He's obviously a sucker for a pretty face ... I really need to put a different picture on my jacket covers ... the one on Stargazer II was drawing way too many letters from whackos.

Rox sat back and thought about when that photograph was taken. Two years ago, just before Chris came into her life. She had just published Starflight, and was quite surprised by its success. Rox loved science fiction, but the one thing she always felt it was lacking, was emotion ... specifically, romantic emotion. Science fiction was typically about technical jargon and fighting aliens, all of which fascinated her, and sci-fi did have the ability to invoke emotions, but those emotions usually covered things like fear and suspense. Never had she read a good sci-fi novel that included romance, so she set out to publish one herself.

Rox loved to write. While in high school and college, she enrolled in creative writing and poetry classes, and excelled in all of them. She was the editor of the high school yearbook and worked at the campus newspaper in college as a journalist. When she graduated from college with a degree in Journalism, she moved to Portland and landed a job as a copy writer in the local newspaper office. While she enjoyed her job, she felt that it stifled her creativity, and she said as much to her parents on a visit home to Rockland one summer after nearly two years on the job. Having always been supportive of their only child's dream, they insisted she come home to live and take the necessary steps to establish herself as a published writer. Rox just couldn't refuse, so at the age of 24, after two years of living independently, she moved back home and started writing Starflight. A year later, it was published, and soared to the top of the sci-fi best seller list.

Right after Starflight was published, she met Chris. Chris was a supervisor for the construction company Rox hired to build her deck. She fell head over heels in love at first sight. Chris was average height and muscular and very good looking ... 'a real charmer' as Roxanne's mother loved to say about her beau. If you only knew, Mama, Rox thought. Rox's parents absolutely loved Chris, and Chris spent a great deal of time intentionally charming her parents ... to keep the suspicions at bay.

Roxanne sat back and sighed. Now here she was, two years later, nearly 27 years old, and living as a battered wife. Gods, how did I get myself into this mess? Better yet -- how do I get out? she thought as she stared at the computer screen, which by now had blurred beyond reading. Blinking several times to bring the things back into focus, she finally realized that she hadn't answered the fan mail still on the screen on front of her.

"Okay Roxanne, get a grip," she said out loud before starting her reply.

Grabbing the mouse, she selected "reply" at the top of the screen, then poised her hands over the keys. Shit! What do I say to this guy? she thought. Do I tell him the truth and say -- No I don't have someone who appreciates me... No, I live with this brute who beats me on a regular basis - come rescue me? Or do I lie and say, life is wonderful? Gods, I hate to lie! she thought.

After several more minutes of staring at the screen, she settled for something in between:

"Hi Cass!

Thank you so much for taking the time to write. I really appreciate hearing from readers who enjoy my work.

Thank you also for the compliment on my appearance. It's been a while since I've been told that I am beautiful. It was like salve for my soul. It came at a time when I sorely needed it.

I am glad you enjoyed the Stargazer series. I am currently working on my next novel, and hope to publish it latter in the fall.

Thank you again for writing,

Rox Ward"

Taking a deep breath, Rox pressed the 'send' button, knowing immediately the action was irreversible, and suddenly regretting the unwritten plea for sympathy she had added to the note. Shrugging, she said out loud, "Oh well, he'll probably just file it in the recycle bin anyway."

CHAPTER III

SEVEN AM, SUNDAY morning, the sun shone in through the slotted blinds, falling across the bed in striped formation. Feeling the heat from the sun's rays, Cass rolled over and pulled the sheet over her head.

"Go away!" she said to the sun, knowing full well that it wouldn't listen to her.

The sunbeams persisted, raising the temperature of her skin beneath the sheet.

Damn it, Cass. You should of closed the blinds last night! her inner voice shouted. Sitting up suddenly, she sat there, legs out straight and apart, her upper body resting on her hands which she had splayed slightly behind her on each side of her body, the sheet draped casually over her legs. Her eyes were closed ... her head leaning on her right shoulder ... her long hair falling partially across her face. Cass sat like that for several moments, until her head rolled backward, causing her to jerk awake once more.

"Damn!" she said, out loud this time as she pulled her knees in to sit cross legged, propping her elbows up onto her knees and dropping her head into her hands. Rubbing her hands over her face, and scrubbing the sleep out of her eyes, she sat up straight again and rolled her head around on her shoulders. "Wake up, Cass," she said. Finally awake, Cass threw off the sheet and climbed out of bed, padding over to her dresser to retrieve her spandex running shorts and bra. Moments later, she was dressed and heading out the door for her Sunday run, a utility belt strapped around her waist to hold her money and water bottle.

Stopping at her mailbox to stretch before starting her run, she reached in for the newspaper and unrolled it, scanning the headlines. "Columbian Drug Dealer Eludes Authorities" read the banner. Cass briefly glanced at the article. "Columbian drug lord, Carlos Santonio eluded police Saturday as guerrillas opened fire, providing him with ground cover, while killing one policeman and injuring two others. Santonio is wanted on several charges of drug trafficking and smuggling in the United States and Central America."

"Fricken drug dealers!" Cass mumbled. "They all need to be hung by their balls," she added, rolling the paper up and shoving it back into her mailbox. I'll read that after my run, she thought, heading out.

Cass ran her normal five-mile route, which led her to Angie's diner for breakfast. Stopping outside the door, she took a few minutes to cool down and stretch again before entering and going directly to the ladies room to splash cool water on her face. Angie saw her come in and greeted her with her usual good morning smile and promise to have a coffee waiting for her when she came out. True to her word, a cup of strong black coffee was sitting at her usual table, along with a breakfast menu.

Moments later, Angie stopped at her table. "What'll it be this morning, Gorgeous?" she asked, smiling.

Cass looked up at the waitress, who was smiling at her disarmingly. Indicating the coffee that had been waiting for her at the table, she said to the woman, "Ang, if you weren't already married, I'd kiss you."

"Well, sweetness, If I wasn't already married, I'd let you," Angie replied causing Cass to chuckle. "What can I interest you with this morning?" she asked again.

"Let's see ... I'll take the vegetarian omelet, wheat toast, side of home fries," she said.

"Hungry this morning, huh?" Angie commented as she wrote down the order.

"A container of yogurt and a few crackers just didn't cut it yesterday," Cass replied.

"You know Cass, you need to settle down with someone who can cook. It would save you a lot of time and money," Angie observed.

"No thanks, Ang ... I kind of like being foot loose and fancy free," Cat said

"And lonely?" Angie asked.

Cass looked at her through narrowed eyes.

"Oh oh... kind of overstepped my bounds there, huh? Okay ... I know when to retreat - I'll be back with your order in a few minutes," Angie said, as she turned and practically ran to the kitchen.

Cass sat there looking at her hands clasped together on the table.

She's right you know. You are lonely. You really do need to find someone to share your life with, Enforcer said, just do it cautiously ... be careful who you choose.

I won't expose myself to that again, she replied internally.

You also can't go through the rest of your life alone and miserable. Get a life Cass! Not everyone you meet will be like Patti! Those one-night-stands you pick up occasionally are only good for one thing and you know it ... you need someone to have a meaningful relationship with, Enforcer chided again.

"I can't" exclaimed Cass out loud, eliciting stares from the other patrons around her.

Cass looked around nervously, the slid down into her chair, trying to make herself as invisible as possible. Damn it Cassidy, get a grip! Her thoughts were interrupted by Angie returning with her breakfast.

"Okay, one veggie omelet and a side of home fries. How 'bout a refill on that coffee?" Angie asked as she put Cass' plate down in front of her.

"Only if you join me," Cass said, half asking, half pleading.

Angie looked at her friend and saw the quiet desperation in her eyes. "Sure Sugar," she said smiling, grabbing Cass' coffee cup. "I'll be right back," she added.

Moments later, Angie was back with two full cups of coffee. Sliding into the seat opposite Cass, she began the conversation with a question. "So, did you get a chance to start the book?"

"Started and finished!" Cass said, "all in one night ... in a tub of cold water!"

Angie smiled. "It was a good book. Couldn't put it down, could you?"

Cass shook her head no as she chewed a mouthful of home fries.

"When are you going to start Part II?" Angie asked.

Cass just looked at Angie with a pathetic smile, catching her bottom lip between her teeth.

Angie looked at her incredulously. "You're kidding, right? Don't tell me you've read that one already too!?" she exclaimed.

Cass nodded her head.

"Cassidy Conway! Is that all you've done since you got home Friday is read?" Angie asked, shocked.

"Ang ... I couldn't help myself ... they were so good!" she replied.

Angie reached over to place a hand on Cass' arm. "Cass, darlin', I'm worried about you. Here you are, a beautiful young woman, and you spend your entire weekend holed up in your condo reading. Sweetheart, you've got to get out and meet people. How are you ever going to meet Ms. Right if you aren't out there looking?"

Cass put her fork down and wiped her mouth with her napkin. Placing it back in her lap, she sat back in her chair and looked at Angie. "Angie, I'm afraid. After Patti ..." she began.

"Patti wasn't your fault, Cass. I could tell she was using near the end. When the two of you came in for the occasional dinner, it was obvious that she was high on something. And beside, that was three years ago. It's time you put all that behind you and move on. You need someone to share your life with. Life is too short, sweetie ... don't waste it," she finished.

Cass just nodded her head solemnly then drank the rest of her coffee. Putting the cup back on the table, she threw some money down to cover the tab, then stood up and kissed Angie on the cheek. "Thanks Ang. It feels good to know someone cares."

"That, I do, Cass. You know I'm here for you, right?" The older woman asked.

Cass smiled. "Thanks," she said, squeezing the waitress' shoulder. "I'll see you around dinner time, okay?"

"Italian meatloaf on the menu tonight - your favorite!" Cass heard her yell as she left the restaurant, smiling.

Cass walked the distance back to her condo as a leisurely pace. Stopping at her mailbox, she retrieved the newspaper and climbed the steps to her apartment. Throwing the paper on the coffee table as she walked by, she headed directly to the bathroom where she stripped off her running clothes and jumped into the shower. Not expecting any visitors, she donned a pair of black high-cut bikini briefs and a short black tank top that came to just above her navel. The under clothes accentuated her long slim legs, slender waist and full, firm breasts.

Curling up on the couch, with her legs tucked under her, Cass reached for the paper and started scanning the various articles. Beside the article on the Columbian drug lord, there wasn't much to hold her interest. The only reason she was even remotely interested in that article was due to the fact that she flew quite regularly into Bogota. Not finding anything else to hold her interest, she fished the crossword puzzle out of the classified section and discarded the rest of the paper.

For the next hour, she absorbed herself in the crossword, until finally, she had completed it. Putting that aside, she sat there on the couch, looking around for something to do. Spotting the remote control, she reached for it and clicked over to the TV preview channel. Surfing through the listings, she found something that peaked her interest ... Fried Green Tomatoes, Sunday, noon. Damn! I really DO need to get a life! Cass told herself. Here it is only 10:15 am, she thought, looking at her watch, and I've already run out of things to do. This really sucks!

Cass got up from the couch and started pacing. Come on Cassidy ... think! Shopping? Nah ... I hate to shop. Movies? Nah ... too early in the day. Reading? Nah ... I've read everything .... Wait! Cass stopped dead in her tracks and looked toward her spare room. "I wonder ..." she said out loud before heading to her office.

Booting up her computer was never a task Cass had given much thought to, until now. She never realized before just how long it took for it to complete the boot-up and log-in cycle. "Come on you piece of sh.... ah, finally!" she exclaimed as she clicked on 'new messages' and waited once again for the system to query the server for new mail. "God damned system!" she shouted in vain. "Aarrgghh! It's about time!" she said when a list of new mail was produced. "Two pieces of new mail ... Okay, let's see who they're from," she mumbled as she selected her in-box. "Let's see, a piece of advertisement, and ... YES! Rox@starship.com. She replied. I can't believe it!" Cass exclaimed as she hurriedly clicked on the mail icon next to the address.

"Hi Cass!

Thank you so much for taking the time to write. I really appreciate hearing from readers who enjoy my work.

Thank you also for the compliment on my appearance. It's been a while since I've been told that I am beautiful. It was like salve for my soul. It came at a time when I sorely needed it.

I am glad you enjoyed the Stargazer series. I am currently working on my next novel, and hope to publish it latter in the fall.

Thank you again for writing,

Rox Ward"

Cass read the response three times. Something doesn't feel right about this, she thought. This part right here..., she thought as she touched a line of text on the monitor with her finger. '...like salve for my soul ... It came at a time when I sorely needed it,' I wonder what she meant by that? she thought.

Whoa ... take it easy there Cass. Don't go jumping in without testing the water. This chick could mean trouble ... remember Patti? Remember ... take it easy ... take it slow, Enforcer reminded her.

Cass sat back in her chair and read the note once more. The words 'remember Patti' flashed across her conscious mind. With her heart in her throat, she reached for the mouse and moved the arrow to the upper right hand corner of the screen. Clicking on the "X" there, she logged off, then proceeded to shut the computer down.

Getting up out of her chair, she paced back and forth in front of the computer, arms crossed around her middle. Why do I feel this way? It's a piece of e-mail! She lives on the other side of the continent for Christ's sake! Pacing back and forth a few more times, Cass stopped and took a deep breath. Okay, Cass, you can do this. She thought, suppressing her inner voice. This is not Patti, it's Rox. You don't even know her ... she can't hurt you. Reaching for the mouse, she once again, went through the long and torturous routine of booting up the computer and logging into her inbox.

She sounds harmless enough, Cass thought, reading the note again. Okay, I'm going to do it, she said to herself as she clicked on 'reply'.

"Hi Rox,

Thank you for taking the time to respond. I really didn't think you would. I know writers are very busy.

I can't imagine why it's been a while since someone has complimented you on your looks. The photo on your book cover is absolutely stunning. I initially bought the book more for the picture than the contents, however I was captivated by both once I started reading. You are truly a talented writer.

I am looking forward to your next book this fall.

I will understand if you are too busy to reply to this second note, but I had to reiterate what I thought of your beauty and your work. Both are truly stunning.

Thanks again for replying,

Cass Conway"

Without hesitation, Cass hit the 'send' button, then sat back and sighed. There! she said to herself. I wonder if she'll respond to that one. I hope she gets the message that I think she's beautiful. It sounds like she really needs to hear it right now. I wonder why?

Cass glanced at her watch ... 11:45 am. "Why does it take me so long to respond to an e-mail?" she asked herself out loud, realizing it had taken her more than an hour to do so. "Oh well, at least it killed some time. My show's coming on in 15 minutes... just enough time to pop a bag of corn and settle in," she said before heading to the living room.

CHAPTER IV

ROX WAS VERY pleased with herself. She glanced at the digital clock on her desk -- 2:44 p.m. was illuminated on the LCD. In the six hours that she had actually been writing today, she had produced two chapters, and now it was time to take a break. She hadn't eaten all day, and besides, she needed to start dinner in the event that Chris came home early. If dinner wasn't ready on time, all hell broke loose. She had learned early on to be prompt with the evening meal. If Chris did choose to stay out late, then she'd heat it up when her 'other half' finally did come home. Rox was secretly hoping that it would be late and she'd be in bed by the time Chris came home. She stood a better chance of escaping a confrontation when that was the case.

Closing the word processor on her computer, she shut the system down and went in search of a snack. Shuffling into the kitchen, she retrieved the bologna, pickles, cheese, a tomato and the mayonnaise from the refrigerator. Throwing it all together into a sandwich, she leaned back against the counter and took a big bite, closing her eyes and savoring the unique combinations of flavors. She remembered the first time Chris saw her eat one of these sandwiches. Accusing her of being pregnant ... which of course HAD to have happened because it was ASSUMED she was unfaithful ... Chris beat the living tar out of her, then forced her to take a home pregnancy test, which of course came out negative. Rox never did receive an apology for the beating ... she also never ate that sandwich again in Chris' presence. She saved this particular delicacy for times like this, when Chris wasn't home.

Finishing up her snack, she cleaned up the evidence and put the remaining food stuff back into the refrigerator before taking a roast out of the freezer and placing it in the microwave to defrost. Grabbing a diet soda from the refrigerator, she headed painfully back up two flights of stairs to her office to continue working on her book. She would come back to the kitchen in about an hour to put the roast into the oven.

Before starting back up on her book, Rox decided to check out her e-mail, finding two new pieces of mail. The first was from her publisher, asking for her weekly status on the new book. Rox was happy to report that it was coming along nicely, and that she had made significant progress this past week. The second e-mail was from cconway@flyboy.com. Ah, Cass, she thought as she double-clicked on the mail icon.

"Hi Rox,

Thank you for taking the time to respond. I really didn't think you would. I know writers are very busy.

I can't imagine why it's been a while since someone has complimented you on your looks. The photo on your book cover is absolutely stunning. I initially bought the book more for the picture than the contents, however I was captivated by both once I started reading. You are truly a talented writer.

I am looking forward to your next book this fall.

I will understand if you are too busy to reply to this second note, but I had to reiterate what I thought of your beauty and your work. Both are truly stunning.

Thanks again for replying,

Cass Conway"

Rox smiled. "Thanks Cass, I really needed that," she said out loud. So he thinks I'm stunning, does he? she thought. Well, I guess I used to be ... before Chris, that is. I seem to have this permanent bluish tint to my face these days. Well, we're supposed to go to Mom and Dad's next weekend, so that means no beatings this week, Rox thought as she read Cass' note again. So you bought my book based on the picture alone, huh? My publisher was right - sex sells. I wonder how many other guys have bought the book for the same reason? Oh well, I'm glad you at least liked the story, she thought.

Rox hesitated before answering. "From the sounds of it, this guy doesn't really expect a response, Gerald ... but, what the hell. What can it hurt?" she said to the stuffed giraffe she had sitting on her desk next to the computer. Gerald the giraffe was a gift from a fan who purchased her first book two years ago, and it had been a constant writing companion ever since. Clicking on the 'reply' button, she responded ...

"Hi again Cass!

I am never too busy to respond to an appreciative fan. Thank you for your kind words ... but you are being far too generous in your appraisal.

Has anyone ever told you not to judge a book by it's cover? Buying my book solely based on the picture on the back cover was risky ... the book could have turned out to be crap. But ... I am glad that you did, and even gladder that you enjoyed the story.

By the way, I noticed your userid is 'flyboy.com'. I assume you are a pilot? Just curious.

Later!

Rox"

Rox hit the send button and watched as the note became irrevocably un-retrievable. Sighing deeply, she exited out of e-mail and entered her writer's chat room, where she spent the next two hours trading information and advice with fellow authors. Being a relatively new author, Rox gained a great benefit from the chat room. It allowed her to communicate and seek the advice and council of veteran writers, most of whom had best sellers at one point or another in their literary careers. Finally, at 5 pm, Rox logged off the 'Net and opened her word processor. For the next five hours, she threw herself into her story, totally absorbed in her latest tale of alien love and intrigue. Finally, thoroughly exhausted, but elated with her progress, she went to bed.

*  *  *

Rox was dreaming. She was in a field of flowers, wearing a diaphanous gown of cream colored crepe, billowing in the breeze. Walking slowly through the field, she stopped often to pick flowers, smelling each one before adding them to the growing bouquet in her arms. Every now and then, she would glance up at the sky and smile into the sun, basking in the warmth on her skin. Suddenly, from across the field, she saw a form approaching. It didn't seem menacing. The closer it got, the more Rox was convinced that it was a woman. Someone taller than herself, with long dark hair. She too wore a diaphanous gown of cream colored crepe. Rox thought to herself that is was odd they were dressed alike. The woman was not picking flowers, as she was, but Rox did notice that she was carrying something ... something resembling a sword. Is she a defender of some sort? Rox asked herself as the woman neared.

Rox continued to pick flowers, feeling no fear from this intruder. The woman continued her slow approach. Soon, she was close enough for Rox to see that she was very beautiful. Tall and slender, with long dark hair and piercing blue eyes. The woman walked toward her with self assured confidence. Rox wondered once again if this woman was a defender, or savior. Stopping directly in front of Rox, the woman looked down into her eyes and smiled.

"Who are you?" Rox asked, looking into azure depths.

"I am the other half of your soul," the woman answered.

Rox looked at her puzzled, her hand immediately going to her chest, her palm laying flat against her heart. "My soul?" she asked. "I didn't realize it was missing."

"I have always possessed it ... through countless generations in time. I have known and protected it through many lifetimes. Each flower in this field represents one of our lives together. Those you hold in your arms are ones already passed ... those yet to be picked are yet to be lived. We are soulmates, past, present and future," the woman explained.

"Why are you here?" Rox asked.

"I am here to rescue you -- to protect your current life," the woman said.

"But there is no danger here," Rox replied, looking around.

"Danger is approaching ... let me protect you," the woman said, driving her sword deep into the ground beside her and taking Rox's face in her hands.

Rox was captivated by the sea of blue she was staring into, unable, and unwilling to move away.

The woman slowly lowered her face. Rox's pulse increased exponentially at the woman's touch alone. Her kiss would surely cause her to lose consciousness, as soft lips descended slowly to within a hair's breath of her own.

"Roxanne! Roxanne, you bitch! Where are you?" screamed the voice as Rox jolted awake, sitting upright in bed.

Rox was totally disoriented as she reached to touch her lips, the woman's warm breath still evident on her skin. Her eyes darted around in the dark trying to determine where she was. Finally, she realized that she was at home and in bed. Glancing at the clock on the bedside table, she noted the time was 3:08 am. She also realized at that moment, that the voice she had heard call out her name, was Chris ... on a rampage.

"Oh my god, no..." Rox whispered into the dark as Chris burst into the room. She was suddenly sick to her stomach.

"You filthy bitch!" Chris roared. "You filthy, good for nothing, god damned bitch!"

Rox couldn't see well in the darkness. "Chris, what is it?" she said in a tiny, fearful voice.

"What is it? What is it? I'll show you ... what, bitch!" Chris said, grabbing a handful of Rox's hair and painfully dragging her out of bed and into the kitchen. Once there, Rox was thrown up against the counter, where she crumpled to the floor..

"There - that's what!" Chris said, pointing to the microwave.

Rox climbed back to her feet, looking confused, until all of the sudden, she remembered the roast she had put in there to defrost earlier that afternoon. Rox's face immediately took on a look of sheer terror. God, no!! she thought to herself as Chris grabbed her and slapped her across the face, sending her flying across the room and into the refrigerator. The next thing Rox knew, the belt was in Chris' hand and her back was on fire.

CHAPTER V

IT WAS 2 PM by the time Cass' show was finished. Even though she had seen Fried Green Tomatoes several times, it always left her crying. "Poor Idgie!" she whimpered out loud. "To lose the love of her life like that. Thank god she still had her son." The movie reminded Cass of the type of relationship she had with Patti ... Patti was so Idgie ... before things went terribly wrong. The major differences, were that in real life, it was her Idgie that died, and there was no child left behind to love. She was alone with her memories and her pain.

Cass pointed the remote control at the TV and pressed the power button, switching the set off. Still holding the remote, she curled up on the couch and wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. Resting her head against the arm of the couch, she stared straight ahead and let her mind wander back to better days.

They had decided on a picnic lunch. Packing the basket with sandwiches, fresh fruit, wine, cheese and crackers, they made their way to the river's edge, where they spread a blanket and sat cross legged, facing each other. For the next several hours, they talked and ate, feeding each other bits of food, grapes, and sips of wine from long stemmed glasses. An occasional kiss would pass between then, tongues raking across fingertips as a morsel of food was slipped into the other's mouth. By the time the meal was over, the aura of sexuality surrounding the ladies was palatable, the atmosphere charged with sexual energy. Reaching forward, Patti pulled Cass into her lap, Cass' long legs straddling Patti's waist. Chest to chest, they faced each other, eyes locked in sexual combat as their hands roamed up and down each other's torso. Placing a hand on the small of Cass back, Patti gently lowered her to the blanket, covering her mouth with her own, and laying directly between the legs of her dark haired lover, her right leg stretched out, left knee bent and supporting her weight as she pressed her abdomen into Cass' core. "I love you, Cass," she whispered hoarsely as she devoured Cass' mouth. For the next several hours, the ladies caressed and loved each other to distraction, until both were sated and weak with sexual fulfillment.

Cass was brought back to reality by the sound of the telephone ringing. Snapping into awareness, she wiped the moisture from her cheeks with the back of her hand before reaching over to lift the receiver.

"Hello? she answered.

"Hi Cass, this is Angie. Just calling to see if you'd mind bringing Stargazer II with you when you come to the diner tonight ... I'd like to read it," she asked.

"Ah ... sure Ang," Cass said, sniffing back another tear. "Sure ..."

"Cass, are you all right?" Angie asked, concern filling her voice.

"I'm fine, Angie ... really," she said, not sounding too convincing.

"Cass, I'm off early tonight. You're coming home to spend the evening with Roger and I, okay? It sounds like you could use the company," Angie offered.

"No, really, Angie. I'm fine," Cass countered.

"I won't take no for an answer - capishe?" the older woman said firmly.

Silence.

"Cass?" Angie asked.

"Okay ... Okay. For a couple of hours," Cass agreed. "And Ang ... thanks. I'll see you for dinner round 5 p.m.," she added before hanging up.

*  *  *

A couple of hours quickly turned into four as Cass unlocked her condo door at precisely 10:09 p.m. She always enjoyed spending time with Angie and Roger. Roger was quite a character. She swore he could make a stone statue smile. The childless older couple had unofficially adopted her when she suddenly started showing up alone at the diner at regular intervals for meals. Angie had seen her in the diner before with Patti, but she always seemed to be preoccupied with the attractive blonde woman, obviously very much in love. It wasn't too long before Angie noticed a change in Patti and immediately suspected drug abuse. For the next several months, there was no sign of Cass nor Patti, until one day, Cass came in alone, looking very drawn and tired. Her forlorn state went straight to Angie's heart as she immediately took the dark haired beauty under her wing, where she has remained ever since.

Re-locking the condo door and throwing her keys on the coffee table, Cass went straight to the bedroom, stripping her T-shirt and shorts off along the way. Moments later, she had crawled into bed and pulled the covers up to her chin, falling into a deep sleep.

Cass opened her eyes and found herself laying in a field of wild flowers. Looking up, she noticed the sun shining overhead, warming her skin with its touch. Blinking several times, she rubbed the sleep from her eyes and sat up, noticing that she was wearing a diaphanous gown of cream colored crepe. Rising to her feet, she turned around in circles, looking all around at the apparently endless field of flowers. Suddenly, she noticed that she was holding a sword in her hand. Lifting it, she examined the weapon. The blade was approximately two feet long, the handle black and gold, and studded with milky colored gems. It was perfectly weighted, and almost seemed to be made especially for her.

Not knowing where she was, she began to walk, slowly strolling through the field of color. As she walked, visions came to her ... visions of past, present and future lives. Suddenly, everything was clear. She had a purpose, a goal, a mission. Continuing to walk, she eventually noticed a figure in the distance. She felt she was being pulled in the figure's direction. As she approached, she realized it was a woman, small in stature, with short red-gold hair and emerald green eyes. The woman was picking flowers, inhaling the floral aroma of each one before placing it in the growing pile in the crook of her arm.

She approached the woman and stopped in front of her. The woman did not seem to fear her, however, her own heart was beating out of her chest at the beauty of this small cherub.

"Who are you?" the woman asked, while looking directly into Cass' eyes.

"I am the other half of your soul," Cass heard herself answer.

The woman raised her hand to her heart. "My soul?" she asked. "I didn't realize it was missing."

"I have always possessed it ... through countless generations in time. I have known and protected it through many lifetimes. Each flower in this field represents one of our lives together. Those you hold in your arms are ones already passed ... those yet to be picked are yet to be lived. We are soulmates, past, present and future," Cass explained.

"Why are you here?" the woman asked.

"I am here to rescue you -- to protect your current life," Cass said.

"But there is no danger here," the small woman replied, looking around for the danger Cass spoke of.

"Danger is approaching ... let me protect you," Cass said. Driving her sword deep into the ground beside her, Cass found herself reaching forward and taking the small woman's face between her hands. Her heart was pounding in her chest at the excitement and intensity of emotion that was coursing through her veins.

The woman seemed unable and unwilling to resist Cass' advances. Instead, she stood there, apparently captivated by the moment, tilting her face up to eagerly accept the lips that were descending toward her own.

Suddenly Cass bolted awake, sitting up and looking around disoriented. It took a moment for her to realize that was in her bed. She looked at the digital clock on the night stand ... midnight. Throwing her legs over the side, she sat up and rested her elbows on her knees. Dropping her head into her hands, she sat there for long moments, trying to remember the dream. The details were sketchy at best. The only thing she could remember in detail, was the face of the young woman. Lifting her head and looking straight ahead at nothing in particular, she whispered one word ... "Rox."

*  *  *

Cass had a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach. Something was wrong ... she could feel it. Standing, she walked back and forth at the foot of the bed, trying to make sense of the dream. I wish I could remember more of it, she mused. Something about a sword ... soulmates ... past, present and future lives ... what does it all mean? she asked.

It means you're losing your marbles, girl! Enforcer piped in. Get a grip Cassidy! Soulmates? Past, present and future lives? Give me a break! Don't tell me you're gonna fall for all that spiritual mumbo jumbo are you? Geesh! You need help ... and you need it bad. Do something before you completely lose it, Cass. Enforcer encouraged.

Cass couldn't get the image of Rox out of her mind. Why would I dream about Rox? she asked herself. It must be because Angie and I spent hours talking about Stargazer I this evening. I have Rox on the brain ... yeah, that's it, she reasoned.

Cass went to stand in front of the window, looking out into the darkened, star-less night. Why do I feel so unsettled? My gut is twisted in a knot. Something is wrong. But what? "Damn!" she whispered into the night.

Wide awake, Cass paced back and forth, trying desperately to get the petite redhead out of her mind. Finally, acknowledging it as a wasted effort, she decided to take the opposite approach and to check her e-mail to see if the author had responded to her last note. Going to her office, she pressed the power button on the hard drive, then turned and left the room to retrieve a cool glass of water, knowing she would strangle the computer with her impatience if she had to stand there and watch it boot up. Moments later, she returned and logged onto the Internet.

"Okay Rox, talk to me," she said as she selected 'new messages'. There it was ... one new message from Rox@starship.com. Cass' heart flip flopped in her chest with excitement. Opening the mail, she read:

"Hi again Cass!

I am never too busy to respond to an appreciative fan. Thank you for your kind words ... but you are being far too generous in your appraisal.

Has anyone ever told you not to judge a book by it's cover? Buying my book solely based on the picture on the back cover was risky ... the book could have turned out to be crap. But ... I am glad that you did, and even gladder that you enjoyed the story.

By the way, I noticed your userid is 'flyboy.com'. I assume you are a pilot? Just curious.

Later!

Rox"

Cass smiled. She's curious about me, she thought. Cool! For some reason that small spark of interest from someone she didn't even know filled her heart with a giddiness she couldn't explain.

"All right, you asked ... I deliver," Cass said as she selected 'reply' at the top of the screen.

"Hey Rox!

Thanks again for replying. I really appreciate it.

You are right ... I am a pilot. I work for Southern Lights Airline out of San Jose ... I fly mostly into Central and South America ... occasionally a domestic flight. I was flying a domestic flight when I found your book in Dallas.

As far as the book turning out to be crap ... not a chance. How could someone as beautiful as yourself produce anything but perfection? I was not disappointed by the book, nor the picture. I was captivated by both.

The book cover says you are from the seacoast of Maine. If you don't mind sharing, what town do you live in? Are you directly on the ocean? I love the ocean, especially at night ... especially in the rain.

Anyway, thank you again for replying. I really do appreciate it, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Cass "

Pressing the 'send' button, Cass sat back and smiled, then frowned. Why are you constantly in my thoughts, Roxanne Ward? she asked herself. Sighing deeply, she reached over and selected the shut down routine for the computer and watched as it slowly went to sleep. That's exactly what I need to do... I have an early flight tomorrow, Cass thought as she dragged herself to bed.

CHAPTER VI

ROX OPENED HER eyes and peered into the darkness. Her cheek was lying against something hard and cool. Total silence enveloped her. Slowly lifting her head, she felt the skin on the back of her neck crinkle into painful folds, sending bolts of fire down her back. She stopped all movement, body frozen in statuesque stillness as she allowed the wave of pain to pass. Rox, you have to get up. You can't spend the night on the floor. Come on, you can do it, she told herself as she once again put her body into gear.

The skin on her back felt like it was ripping, shredding like a linen sheet stretched too far, as she slowly climbed to her feet. Holding on to the edge of the kitchen table, she stood there for several long moments, praying that the fire on her back would soon be extinguished. She nearly lost the contents of her stomach as she stood there weak kneed, white knuckles gripping the edge of the smooth wood surface, while tears streamed down her face and puddled on the table below. Several moments later, her stomach settled as she slowly righted herself and moved carefully into the living room. There was no sign of Chris. She assumed her abuser had gone to bed.

Making her way to the downstairs bathroom, she turned on the light and immediately winced as the bright light caused her to tightly screw up her face ... a gesture she found extremely painful through the bruises and cuts she found there when she looked into the mirror. The first thing that crossed her mind when she saw the state her face was in, was how she could possibly explain what had happened to her parents. There was no way they could find out about this. They loved Chris ... they thought Chris was the best thing that had ever happened to their little girl. She couldn't disappoint them with the truth ... not when her father had so little time left. She refused to send him to his grave with the knowledge that his little girl was living in an abusive situation. No, she would live with it ... make her excuses to get out of dinner next weekend ... then make it up to them ... somehow.

Knowing there was no way she could navigate the stairs, she moved slowly across the living room carpet and sat gingerly on the edge of the couch. Very carefully, she lowered herself down and lay on her side, placing her bruised face on the throw pillow. Reaching up, she pulled the quilt off the back of the couch and haphazardly arranged it over her hips and legs. Finally, she forced herself to relax, slowly releasing the tension, one body part at a time. The pain slowly eased as she committed herself to sleep.

*  *  *

Rox was startled awake the next morning by the phone. Jumping up suddenly at the sound, she quickly crumpled back into a painful heap on the couch, trying hard to catch her breath and answer the phone before the caller hung up. Fighting tears and gasping for air, she picked up the receiver.

"He... Hello?" Rox rasped into the phone.

"Hey Rox! Are we still on for shopping today?" the caller asked.

"Nik...." Rox cleared her throat, "Nikki?" she answered.

Several long moments of silence.

"Nikki?" Rox asked again in a weak voice.

"Oh god ... Rox ... not again! I'll be there in five minutes, love ... don't move, okay?" Nikki said desperately.

A dial tone came from the phone long before Rox could take another breath to answer. Looking at the receiver and fighting back tearful memories from the night before, she shakily reached out and placed the receiver back in its cradle. That's when she noticed the note by the phone.

"I'll be out of town for the next few days on a job. C," was all it said. No apology, no explanation. If truth be known, Rox was surprised there was a note left at all. It was unlike Chris to show even that much consideration for her feelings.

Rox took a deep painful breath and closed her eyes. Minutes later, the front door burst open, admitting a 5'2" fireball.

"God damned, son of a bitchin' bastard!" Nikki cursed when she saw the state her friend was in. "Chris, you mother-fucker ... where the hell are you?!" she yelled into room.

Rox looked up from her position on the couch, tears clouding her vision. "Gone ..." was all she could say.

Going immediately to her side, Nikki sat next to Rox on the couch and took her into her arms, holding her tenderly as the red head cried out her sorrow into her friend's shoulder.

"It's okay, Baby ... cry it out, love," she said, placing light kisses on Rox's forehead. Tears were pouring down her own face and she rocked her friend back and forth. Several moments later, Rox 's breathing stilled as she fell into a light sleep against her friends' shoulder.

Nikki was shaking with anger as she silently examined her friend. Reaching over, she brushed Rox's golden bangs off her forehead, noting multiple cuts and bruises on her face and neck. "Sweetheart, why do you stay in this relationship?" she whispered to the sleeping woman through her own tears.

Nikki closed her eyes and rested her head on the back of the couch, remembering the first time she met Rox. She was very different than she was today... eager, bright, assertive, independent, dedicated ...

Rox was very much an advocate of women's rights. As a journalism major, and reporter for the campus newspaper, she made a point of giving women's issues a lot of press, which didn't always sit well with certain groups on campus. One group in particular, called 'The Gentleman's Club' took offense to what they considered her anti-male campaign. One evening, while crossing campus at dusk, Rox was accosted by a member of the club. Cornering her in a secluded alcove of the fine arts building, he proceeded to teach her a lesson by attempting to rape and sodomize her. Before he had the chance to do anything however, he found himself the recipient of a two-by-four across his back.

Rolling off a still struggling Rox, he looked up and exclaimed ... "What the fuck!?"

"I'll what the fuck, you ... you filthy son of a bitch!" shouted the short blonde as the two-by-four landed once more across this chest.

Rox rolled to her feet and straightened her clothing as she watched this petite wild woman demolish the would-be rapist with the board. Finally rolling away from her and scrambling to his feet, he hurriedly limped away.

Throwing the board down, she looked at Rox. "Are you all right?" she asked.

"I am now, thanks to you," Rox said, extending her hand. "Roxanne Ward," she said, introducing herself.

"Nicole Davenport. Nikki for short," the blonde replied, breaking into a big smile while reaching out to shake Rox's hand. "I don't think he'll be bothering anyone else tonight," she added, watching him limp across campus.

Rox followed the direction of her eyes. "No, I don't think he will." Looking back at the woman she added, "Can I buy you a coffee Nikki Davenport? It's the least I can do to show my appreciation."

Nikki smiled. "Sure!" she said, as she walked away with Rox, and into a secure friendship that would still be strongly intact six years later.

"Rox, when Jerri finds about this, Chris is toast, you know that, don't you?" she whispered to her sleeping friend, while she reached up and wiped the tears off her own face with the back of her fist.

Jerri was Nikki's partner of six years, having met immediately after Nikki graduated from college. They were as different as night and day. Where Nikki was petite, with short blonde hair, light green eyes, and a fiery temper, Jerri was tall ... about 5'9" with dark shoulder length hair, olive colored skin, brown eyes, and a mild mannered disposition -- except when the people she loved were in danger. Jerri would NOT take kindly to the treatment Rox suffered at Chris' hands.

Jerri liked to say that she and Nikki 'completed' each other. Their love was so real and so strong, that it was almost tangible. Rox liked to tease them about how much time they spend in each other's 'personal space', kissing, caressing, holding each other ... not to mention that nearly ever time Rox called them, they seemed to be in the middle of playtime. If truth be know, Rox was very envious of the intense, devoted love her friends had for each other, and she could only hope that some day she too would be lucky enough to find someone to love and who would love her with the same intensity.

For the next couple of hours, Nikki sat there holding her friend, humming lullabies she had heard as a child, and lightly rubbing her hand up and down Rox's arm, while plotting her revenge on Chris.

*  *  *

"Mom ... Mom, I'm sorry. I know you and Dad were looking forward to dinner this weekend, but we just can't make it. Chris is out of town on a job, and it will be the perfect opportunity for me to catch up on my writing. My publisher is sending me e-mails daily, asking for status reports," Rox explained. "Yes, I know it's only Monday, and I suppose things could change before the weekend, but please don't plan on it. I know we promised, Mom, but it can't be helped. Maybe next weekend, okay? I'm sorry. Kiss Daddy for me, okay? All right Mom, I'll talk to you later, bye," Rox said, slowly placing the receiver back in the cradle and staring at it for long moments before looking up at Nikki, who had been pacing back and forth beside her.

Nikki stopped pacing and opened her arms to her friend, who went into them willingly. Wrapping her arms tightly around her injured friend, she noticed Rox stiffen. Nikki pulled Rox away from her and held her at arm's length by her upper arms. Narrowing her eyes, she reached up and unbuttoned Rox's night shirt. Too tired to fight her, Rox let her do it. After several moments, Nikki had the baseball jersey unbuttoned and pushed off Rox's shoulders, never breaking eye contact with the red head during the whole unveiling. Finally, Nikki broke contact by turning her friend around.

"Oh my god!" Nikki exclaimed as she ran into the bathroom to throw up.

While her friend was relieving her stomach of it's contents, Rox slowly and silently pulled the jersey back up and buttoned it, keeping her eyes downcast through the entire process. Moments later, Nikki was once again standing in front of her, lifting her chin with two fingers and looking into her face with such sympathy and love that Rox fell once more into her arms and just stood there, allowing her friend to hold her for long moments. Finally, Nikki kissed Rox's cheek then led her to a chair at the kitchen table and proceeded to go through the refrigerator looking for omelet ingredients.

"Nikki, I'm really not hungry," Rox protested.

Turning to face her friend, the little blonde answered, "Rox, you've got to eat. Look at you! When's the last time you ate a decent meal? For Christ's sake girlfriend, you're killing yourself. Between your job, your starvation diet, and that brute you're living with, you look like a third world refugee!" she exclaimed.

Rox cringed at the description. "I love you too, Nik," she said, trying to lighten the mood.

Nikki placed the bowl of beaten eggs on the counter and went over to wrap her arms around her friend's neck. Rox's hands came up to grasp Nikki's arms affectionately, as she leaned her head against her friend's.

"Rox, sweetheart, I am so worried about you. I half expect to see your name in the obituaries some morning," she said in a raspy voice. "Please walk away from this ... please!" Nikki pleaded.

"I can't Nik," she whispered back. "I won't break his heart like that. He's dying Nik ... the doctor's don't give him another six months. He thinks we're happy ... I can't shatter that illusion for him," she cried, more broken hearted at the prospect of losing her father to cancer than at the abusive situation she was living in.

"You will die before he does if something doesn't change soon, my friend," the petite blonde warned, drawing a startled look from her friend. "I'm sorry to put it so bluntly, Rox, but it's true. It's only a matter of time before Chris kills you."

Rox just stared at her hands clasped in front of her on the table as Nikki went back to cooking breakfast.

*  *  *

It was nearly dinner time before Rox could convince Nikki to go home, assuring her that she had recovered enough mobility throughout the day to take care of herself. Besides, she really was receiving e-mails from her literary agent asking for status reports ... just not as often as she lied to her mother about ... so she really had to get back to her writing. Kissing her soundly, Nikki made Rox promise to call her if she needed anything.

Finally alone, Rox sat down in front of the computer and rested her bruised forehead against the monitor screen while she patiently waited for the system to boot up. While she waited, the phone rang.

"Hello?" she said into the mouthpiece.

"Rox, this is Jerri. Rox ... I'm gonna kill that... that..." she sputtered.

"Jerri ... you'll do no such thing, do you understand?" Rox said to her friend. Damn it Nik ... did you have to get her all riled up too? she thought.

"Rox ... Chris can not get away with this ... it won't stop, you know ... until it's too late!" she warned.

"Jerri, please ...," she interrupted.

"No, Rox... you can't sacrifice yourself like this ... not even for your father!" Jerri said angrily.

"Jerri, I think that's my decision to make, all right? Now I love you dearly for worrying about me, truly I do, but it is my decision," she finished angrily.

Silence.

"Jerri?" she asked.

More silence.

"Damn it Jerri, answer me ... I don't need this shit from you too!" she yelled.

A slight pause ... "I'm sorry, Rox," came the reply. "It's just that ... well, it's killing Nikki and I to see this happening to you ... you don't deserve it," she said.

"No one ever does, my friend ... no one ever does. I'm okay, Jerri ... I'll be fine in a few days. Chris won't be back at least before Wednesday or Thursday. That will give me plenty of time to recover, and to figure out how to prevent this from happening again," she explained.

"The only way to prevent it, Rox, is to get rid of that good for nothing creep!" Jerri exclaimed.

Rox smiled at the fact that Nikki was so much more colorful in her expletives than her partner. "In time, Jerri ... in time," was all she said. "Goodnight my friend ... kiss Nikki for me, okay?"

"All right, Rox ... take care of yourself ... bye," Jerri said, hanging up the phone.

Replacing the receiver, Rox sat back and took a deep breath, and decided to read her e-mail before beginning to write. Clicking on 'get messages', she waited patiently as five new posts flooded in. Third on the list was 'cconway@flyboy.com'. Deciding to save that one until last, Rox quickly read and replied to the remaining four, most of which were short blurbs from her writers' chat room buddies. That out of the way, she clicked on the last remaining e-mail, then gingerly rested her sore back against the chair to take her time reading the post.

"Hey Rox!

Thanks again for replying. I really appreciate it.

You are right ... I am a pilot. I work for Southern Lights Airline ... I fly mostly into Central and South America ... occasionally a domestic flight. I was flying a domestic flight when I found your book in Dallas.

As far as the book turning out to be crap ... not a chance. How could someone as beautiful as yourself produce anything but perfection? I was not disappointed by the book, nor the picture. I was captivated by both.

The book cover says you are from the seacoast of Maine. If you don't mind sharing, what town do you live in? Are you directly on the ocean? I love the ocean, especially at night ... especially in the rain.

Anyway, thank you again for replying. I really do appreciate it, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Cass"

Roxanne lifted her hand to her mouth to stifle a sob when she read ... "How could someone as beautiful as yourself produce anything but perfection?"

With tear-filled eyes, she exited e-mail, shut down the computer, and went to bed to escape the nightmare that was her life.

CHAPTER VII

MONDAY MORNING. CASS wondered where the weekend went as she rolled over and turned off the alarm. Damn, I've got a flight into Veracruz today, she thought. That part of Mexico was beautiful -- situated on the Gulf coast, it was a popular tourist attraction, but it was a long flight, and it usually meant a layover for at least a day -- sometimes two. There were times that Cass wished she had never volunteered for specialized flights. At least commercial flights were on regular schedules ... but at the time, it was a good arrangement for her. Patti had just died, and the specialized flight job kept her busy, kept her mind off Patti.

Cass grumbled as she climbed out of bed and slipped on her spandex shorts and sports bra. Tying her Nike's tight, she stepped onto the treadmill and started the machine on 4.5 miles per hour for a 15 minute warmup. Soon, the had the belt moving at 8 miles per hour and had inclined the bed 10 degrees. For the next half hour, she ran, until she was drenched with sweat and her quads were twitching with over-exertion. Another 15 minutes of cool down and stretching, had Cass ready for the shower.

Standing under the spray, she supported her upper body with her hands against the wall and stood there, allowing the spray to cascade over her head, savoring the feel of tiny needle-like jets of spray bombarding her skin. Closing her eyes, she remembered all the times she had stood in this very spot, in this very position, with strict instructions to keep her hands firmly against the shower wall, as strong, callused hands slid over her skin, and ran up and down her legs, across her breasts and abs, only to slide down into her womanhood, while hot breath whispered words of love into her ear from behind. Cass threw her head backward and pressed her body into the invisible intruder as a moan escaped her lips. Suddenly realizing that she was alone, she straightened her posture and dropped her chin to her chest. Taking a deep breath, she felt a tightness in her gut. Reaching out for the soap and face cloth, and proceeded to cleanse her body and mind of the physical and emotional workout she had just given them.

Toweling herself dry, Cass couldn't keep her mind off her sense of loneliness. How she craved the feel of someone wrapped in her arms, of coming home to someone who loved her ... shared moments, feeding each other morsels of food in front of the fire place, shared kisses that turned into wild nights of passion, tender looks and caresses while watching a movie together on the couch. She stood there in front of the bathroom mirror, staring at her unseen lover as she held the towel in front of her. Angie was right, I am lonely.

Better to be lonely than heartbroken Cassidy ... remember that, Enforcer piped in. You'd better think long and hard before committing yourself again. You need a safe relationship ... one that can't hurt you. How about that e-mail chick you've been corresponding with? She's a whole continent away. How much safer can you get than that? Enforcer added.

Cass blinked several times before her surroundings came back into focus. E-mail. She said to herself. Rox. I wonder if she's answered my last post? Hanging the towel on the rack, she pulled her robe on and went to her office to boot up the computer. While she was waiting, she dressed in her uniform and combed out her long dark tresses. Coming back to the computer, she logged onto the Internet and clicked on her inbox. It was empty. Disappointed, she shut the computer down. She's got a life of her own, Cass. She isn't sitting around waiting for your calls, you know.

Cass finished preparing for work with a heavy heart. It was going to be a long two days in Mexico. She decided that if she hadn't heard back from Rox by the time she returned, that it was probably a lost cause. Sighing deeply, she pulled her condo door shut behind her and headed to her car.

Had Cass been thinking straight, she would have realized that she sent the note after midnight, Pacific coast time. Had Cass been a psychic, she would have realized at the very moment she send the note, Rox was being beaten senseless by Chris. As Cass sat there this morning, fretting about an empty inbox, Rox was wrapped in the arms of her friend Nikki, crying out her sorrow. Two coasts, two women, one lonely in her solitude, the other in her abuse ... both absorbed in their own private miseries.

*  *  *

It had taken most of the morning to load the cargo onto the plane. Cass was flying a goodwill mission into Veracruz, Mexico to deliver much needed medical supplies for the outlying regions of the port city. The area had suffered a severe drought that summer and most of the area's monetary resources had gone into maintaining the population's food stores, causing a shortage in other critical areas, such as medical supplies. It was nearly 3 p.m. before Cass' plane left the runway. With a stop over in Juarez , the flight would take approximately 6 hours, landing in the Veracruz area around 9 p.m. that evening.

Twenty minutes into the flight, Cass leveled the plane out at the cruising altitude and engaged the automatic pilot. Releasing her safety belt, she pressed the illuminated button to notify the passengers that they were now free to move around the cabin. Sitting back, she rested her head against the back rest and closed her eyes for a moment.

"Are you okay, Cass?" the flight attendant asked, placing her hand affectionately on Cass' shoulder.

Cass opened her eyes and looked up at the woman. Ginny was a tall, shapely woman with a wild mane of blonde hair, powder blue eyes and a beautiful smile that showed off deep dimples. She had been flying Cass' flight for the past six months, and made no secret of the fact that she thought the dark haired pilot was attractive.

Cass smiled. "I'm fine, Ginny. Just a little tired, that's all. Thanks for asking," she said. That certainly was the truth, she told herself. I did lose sleep in the middle of the night.

Ginny squeezed Cass' shoulder. "Can I get you anything, Captain? Coffee? A soft drink?" she asked.

"Coffee sounds good ... black," she said, smiling once more.

Hey Cass ... here's your chance -- she certainly seems willing! Enforcer urged. You've got a layover in Juarez ... all you need to do is get her alone in the cockpit ... he, he, he ... funny how they call it a cockpit, huh? Must be a reason for it, don't ya think? I'm telling you girl... you need to get laid -- it'll do us both some good. Whaddaya think?

Cass shook off the enticing thoughts as she turned her attention back to Ginny to accept the coffee that was being handed to her. There's not exactly enough room, or privacy in here for that ... she thought, glancing at her co-pilot. Maybe when we land in Veracruz? She smiled once more and let her hand linger a little longer than necessary, on the one handing her the coffee cup. Ginny looked down into blue eyes that nearly mirrored her own and read the promise in them. She smiled nervously, her heart fluttering at the prospect of a sexual encounter with the beautiful Cass Conway.

"I, ah ... I'd better get back to the passengers," Ginny explained, nervously turning to leave the cockpit.

"Thanks, Ginny," Cass said sincerely to the stewardess' retreating form. You've still got it, Conway! Enforcer bragged as she watched the blonde's swaying hips walk down the narrow aisle.

Sitting back in her seat, she sipped her coffee, sighing with deep satisfaction at the rich, full bodied flavor running down her throat. Ah, Ginny, I hope you make love as good as you make coffee, Cass thought as she took another sip of the flavorful brew.

As it turned out, Cass was caught up in security checks both on the plane and in the administrator's office at the airport during the layover in Juarez, and had no time to set up a date with Ginny for their night in Veracruz. I'll have to approach her on the flight to Veracruz, she thought to herself as she taxied the plane to the runway for take off. Moments later she had liftoff as the wheels gracefully rose from the runway and the plane made is assent into the clouds.

Once the plane was at cruising altitude and locked into auto pilot, Cass turned the controls over to the co-pilot and went in search of Ginny. After a ten minute search with no success, she approached one of the other stewardesses and inquired as to Ginny's whereabouts, only to learn that she had returned to San Jose from Juarez after receiving an emergency call from her family. Cass' brow creased in concern for Ginny, and in disappointment for a lost opportunity at sharing a night of mutual sexual fulfillment. Damn! she said to herself. I was looking forward to feeling alive again... I hope Ginny's family is okay, her conscience added as she returned to the cockpit.

Cass' flight landed on schedule in Veracruz. After filing her flight log and checking on the schedule for unloading her cargo, she arranged for lodging and then went in search of something to eat. An hour later, she was back in her room and laying across the bed, still fully clothed, hands behind her head, thinking of what might have been. Finally, overcome by jet lag an a lack of sleep from the night before, she drifted off to sleep.

*  *  *

Roxanne was still in bed early Tuesday morning when Nikki let herself in.

"Rox? Rox where are you?" she called through the house, knowing her friend was at home as evidenced by her car still in the driveway. "Rox?" she called again as she checked the back deck, living room and kitchen before heading to the stairs. Reaching the second floor, she went directly to Rox' room, knowing the guest rooms would be empty. "This house is way too big for you, Roxanne," Nikki said under her breath. Reaching Rox's door, she turned the handle and slowly pushed it open. She half hoped that Chris had come home last night ... she had a fight to pick with that son of a bitch.

Peering into the room, she found Rox spread out on the bed -- alone, the covers thrown off her upper body, coming to rest on her buttocks and legs. She was lying there on her stomach, with no shirt on. Her hair was half in her face, and her arms were tucked under the pillow. Nikki slowly approached the bed and stood there looking down at the criss-crossing welts across her friend's back.

"God, Rox. That must have been so painful," she said softly as she gently sat on the edge of the bed next to her friend. A tear of sympathy escaped her eye as she opened the bag she had brought and dumped the contents onto the comforter. Picking up the tube of soothing balm, she squeezed a generous amount into her hands and put the tube aside. Rubbing her hands together, she climbed onto the bed and straddled Rox's backside, being careful not to irritate any of the welts.

Rox began to stir as she felt Nikki's presence on her back. Bending over, Nikki whispered in her ear, "Shhhh ... It's okay, Roxie ... it just me, Nikki. It's okay, sweetheart ..." she cooed.

Roxanne immediately relaxed as Nikki smoothed the salve over her friend's back, gently rubbing it in, slowly moving her hands up and down the expanse of Rox's toned back. Rox moaned as the salve cooled the heated welts, and winced as Nikki's hands moved over the tender skin. "Rox, honey, you've got to think seriously about leaving Chris. If you could see your back ... god girl, it rips my heart out to think of how this must have hurt," her friend whispered in her ear as she bent low over her back to reach her shoulders.

Rox felt her eyes burn as her friend's words touched her heart, causing tears to well up and spill over.

When Nikki had covered Rox's entire back, she helped her slip a T-shirt over her shoulders, then laid down next to her on the bed. Gathering the injured woman up in her arms and holding her close, she kissed her gently on the temple and whispered again into her ear. "Rox, come home with me. Jerri and I want you away from here when Chris comes home," she insisted.

Rox closed her eyes tightly, allowing more tears to escape. "Nik, I can't. This my home ... I won't leave it ... I can't," she said in a small voice, burrowing her head deeper into Nikki's shoulder and tightening the arm she had thrown over her friend's midsection.

Nikki closed her eyes tighter and nodded, knowing the red head would respond that way. "Rox, we are so afraid for you. Please think about it, love. Okay?" she pleaded.

Rox just nodded her head and tightened her hold on Nikki once more.

"Go back to sleep Rox," Nikki said as she kissed her temple again, then reached down to pull the comforter over both of them.

*  *  *

Cass awoke in the middle of the forest, an intense feeling of foreboding settling in the pit of her stomach. Sitting up, she looked around, confused at her surroundings. Pulling her knees up, she rested her elbows on them and dropped her head into her hands. Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, she once again looked around. She appeared to be alone, however, the camping gear and bedding laid out by a now-cold campfire suggested that someone else had been there with her. Coming to her feet, she looked around and noticed a sword on the ground next to the bedroll she had been lying on. Reaching down, she picked it up and examined it.

Why does this look so familiar? she asked herself.

Looking around some more, she realized that she was no longer dressed in her flight uniform, but instead, wore leather trousers, boots, a shirt made of some type of thin muslin with long billowy sleeves that cuffed at the wrists and held together loosely with thin leather laces, and a leather vest. A heavy cloak lay near her bedroll. At her hip, was a leather sheath, which fit the sword like a glove as she slipped the weapon into it. For the first time, she realized that it was relatively cool. Reaching for the cloak, she draped it around her shoulders, the proceeded to start another fire to warm herself by so she could comfortably sit and think about where she was and how she got there.

As she sat by the fire, basking in the warmth radiating from the flames, she heard a distant scream in the forest. Instinctively throwing off the cloak and grabbing the sword, Cass ran toward the source of the scream. Within moments, she came across two figures struggling in the distance. As she neared the cloaked pair, she realized one was a woman, and she was being beaten unmercifully by her larger companion.

Jumping into the fray, Cass threw her body weight against the figure assaulting the woman, knocking them both to the ground. The beaten woman collapsed where she had been released, and lay there in a semiconscious state as Cass struggled with her assailant. Rolling around on the forest floor, Cass managed to land a few good punches on the attacker's chin, before she was shoved off onto her back. Rising to her feet, she was confronted by the assailant's blade. Pulling her own, they engaged in a battle of swords, neither having the upper hand as metal clashed against metal. Finally, Cass caught the handle end of her opponent's sword and managed to disarm the attacker, sending the weapon flying several yards away. Seeing an opening, she reached up sideways and kicked the attacker full in the face with the side of her right foot, sending them crashing to the forest floor in an unconscious heap.

Approaching the defeated warrior cautiously, Cass used the end of her sword to shove the cloak off the assailant's face. It was a woman, and she was out cold. Kneeling, she laid her own sword down by her side and reached over to completely expose the attacker's identity. The assailant was indeed a woman, with a heart-shaped face, pointed chin and wild medium length white-blonde hair. Her slight build sported red leggings with dark suede boots that laced to her knee, a loose fitting white shirt, also with long billowy sleeves, and a leather tunic that slipped over her head and was held together by a leather belt that circled her waist twice. She too wore a sheath on her side for the sword she wielded so skillfully in battle.

Cass' inspection of her foe was interrupted by the sound of whimpering nearby. In the excitement of battle, she had forgotten the assailant's victim, who lay in a heap few feet away. Checking once more that her attacker was still unconscious, she cut off a piece of the assailants' own leather belt, and used it to tie her hands behind her back before going to assist the fallen woman. The woman was lying on her stomach, her cloak lying in shreds around her shoulders, her hair in wild disarray, the cloak partially obscuring her face.

Cass reached out to touch the woman's shoulder. She recoiled in pain, crying out in terror, begging to be left alone. In soothing tones, Cass spoke to the woman as she carefully removed the cloak from her body. Her clothes beneath the cloak were also in shreds. Wondering what could have possibly damaged two layers of cloth like that, she cringed and fought to hold the contents of her stomach down as the answer was slowly revealed to her as she de-layered the woman's clothing. The woman had been whipped.

Carefully removing the rest of her clothing, she soaked part of the cloth in a nearby stream to cleanse the woman's wounds. Finally, having done the best she could with what little she had, she returned to the assailant's still unconscious form and removed her cloak. Returning to the beaten woman, she carefully draped the cloak over her back and gently rolled her over, pulling the woman into her arms in the process. Once she was settled in as comfortably as possible, Cass reached over and pulled the front of the cloak together then brushed the damp hair from the woman's battered face. The woman's eyes opened suddenly, revealing the most magnificent pair of emerald green eyes she had ever seen. Cass' brow immediately furrowed, then shot skyward as she realized where she had seen those eyes before.

"Rox!" she whispered.

Suddenly, a piercing sound pealed through the air.

"Son of a bitch!" Cass exclaimed as she bolted into a sitting position and looked around in alarm, until she suddenly realized the sound she was hearing was the travel alarm clock she carried with her on her overnight flights. Reaching over, she shut off the offending noisemaker, then laid back down on the bed.

Looking up at the ceiling, she realized she was soaked in sweat and breathing raggedly. Raising a shaky hand to her forehead, she pushed back her damp bangs and tried desperately to make sense of her dream. "Rox," she whispered again. "Why am I dreaming about you? Why does it all seem so familiar?" Closing her eyes, she tried hard to remember the dream. She remembered the forest, and the beautiful blonde attacker, and ... "God, Rox ... the whip marks!" Opening her eyes once more she stared at the ceiling. "Tell me it was just a dream," she whispered into the air.

Several moments later, she threw her long legs over the side of the mattress and sat up. Taking a deep breath, she realized that she had fallen asleep in her uniform the night before. "Damn," she said into the empty room. Standing, she shook off the effects of the nightmare as she removed her clothes and headed to the bathroom for a hot shower.

*  *  *

Roxanne felt the hair being brushed off her face. She was partially laying, partially sitting, in someone's lap. Her back hurt like hell. Opening her eyes, she looked up into a sea of blue, embedded in the most beautiful face she had ever seen. She had an intense feeling of deja vu as she looked up at the creamy skin, high cheekbones and long dark hair that framed the beautiful features. She closed her eyes tightly again to clear away the cobwebs in her mind.

"Rox?" the voice asked.

Her eyes flew open once more, to look straight into Nikki's green eyes.

"Nikki?" she said, painfully pulling herself into a seated position. Her eyes darted around the room looking for the blue eyed beauty she found herself staring at just moments earlier.

"Rox, are you all right?" Nikki asked.

Rox's eyes met her friend's. Confusion still clearly written across her features, she nodded her head, "Yeah ... yeah, I'm fine. What time is it?" she asked.

Nikki glanced at the digital clock by the bedside. "A little after 10 a.m. You must have been exhausted to have slept in so long, my friend," Nikki said, brushing Rox's hair back once more. "Here, let's get this T-shirt off again so I can rub some more salve into those welts," she instructed her friend.

Rox did as she was told, as she laid face down on the bed and allowed her friend to administer to her wounds. Nikki noticed the taciturn nature of her friend.

"Wanna talk about it?" she asked.

Roxanne shrugged her shoulders. "Not much to say, Nik."

"Why do I get the feeling this is not about Chris?" Nikki observed.

Rox lifted her head and looked back at her friend. "Am I that transparent, Nikki?" she asked.

"No, not really. It's just that you looked pretty confused when you opened your eyes a few moments ago. Wanna tell me what that's all about? I'm here to listen," she offered.

Roxanne allowed Nikki to finish rubbing the salve in before she sat up and put her T-shirt back on. Sitting cross legged on the bed, she faced her friend and took a deep breath. "Nikki, do you believe in dreams?" she asked.

"You mean, do I think dreams have meaning?" she asked for clarification.

Rox nodded her head.

Nikki drew her knees into her chest and wrapped her arms around them. "Gee, I don't know. I've never had a dream that's come true, but that doesn't mean it can't happen. Why, Rox? What were you dreaming about?" the petite blonde asked.

Roxanne looked down at the comforter, a little embarrassed. Glancing back at the friend, she said, "Nik, I've had this dream about a beautiful, blue eyed, dark haired woman coming to my rescue. It's happened twice now. Different dreams, but the same woman. I don't know what it means," Rox replied.

Nikki reached out and placed a hand on Rox's arm. "I don't know, Rox, but I hope to God that you don't have this dream with Chris around. This whipping will look like a slap on the hand in comparison. Rox ... Jerri and I really do want you to come stay with us for a while," she urged once more.

"I can't, Nikki ... please understand," she pleaded with her friend.

Nikki dropped her hand from Rox's arm. "Look, Rox, I know you want your father to believe you live an ideal, fairy tale world for the short amount of time he has left, but you're killing yourself in the process -- can't you see that? Sweetheart, I don't want you to become a statistic. Please come home with me," Nikki pleaded again.

Rox just kept her eyes diverted to the comforter, not answering her friend.

Nikki sighed. "All right, Rox," she said in a soft voice. "I can't force you." A slight pause ... "Rox, at least promise me you'll call the moment things start turning sour. Don't let them get out of hand again ... please. Jerri and I will be here before you have a chance to hang up the phone. Okay? Please promise me," she demanded.

Rox was crying ... tears falling onto her crossed legs and she nodded her agreement.

Nikki leaned in and wrapped her arms around Rox's neck. The top of Rox's head rested on the spot just above Nikki's breasts. Nikki rested her cheek on her friend's head and held her as she cried.

Moments later, Rox broke the embrace and sat up straight, wiping her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she smiled through her bruises. "Nikki, I really have to get to work. I have a deadline to meet on this next book. Why don't you go home and spend some time with that wonderful wife of yours before she has to go to work tonight. I'll be all right -- I promise," she said.

Nikki reached forward with both hands and drew Rox's face in for a kiss. Touching her forehead to her friend's, she said, "Promise me you'll call if you need me, Rox."

Rox thrust her chin forward and kissed Nikki on the nose. "I promise," she whispered.

"Okay," Nikki said as she released her friend and stood to go. Walking arm in arm out into the hallway, they parted company at the stairs to the attic. "I'll let myself out, Rox ... remember your promise -- okay?" she demanded.

"I'll remember," Rox said, smiling once more at her friend's protective streak.

One more hug and a couple of "I love you's" later, and Nikki was on her way home while Rox booted up her computer.

CHAPTER VIII

"OKAY, LET'S GET the e-mail out of the way before we get to work, Gerald," Rox said to her Giraffe friend as she clicked on the 'new messages' icon. "Huh... five messages, one old and four new. Damn, that's right, I never answered Cass' last post. I hope he doesn't think I'm rude, Gerald," she mused as she opened the post and reread it.

"Hey Rox!

Thanks again for replying. I really appreciate it.

You are right ... I am a pilot. I work for Southern Lights Airline ... I fly mostly into Central and South America ... occasionally a domestic flight. I was flying a domestic flight when I found your book in Dallas.

As far as the book turning out to be crap ... not a chance. How could someone as beautiful as yourself produce anything but perfection? I was not disappointed by the book, nor the picture. I was captivated by both.

The book cover says you are from the seacoast of Maine. If you don't mind sharing, what town do you live in? Are you directly on the ocean? I love the ocean, especially at night ... especially in the rain.

Anyway, thank you again for replying. I really do appreciate it, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Cass"

Rox stared at the screen debating about just how honest she should be with this person. Should she bare all and confess to living a life of pure hell? Should she confess that her last two books were based on her fatalistic belief that she was destined to form impossibly doomed relationships?

Taking a deep breath, she decided on a compromise.

"Hi again Cass!

You sound like you have a very interesting job. I hear Mexico and Central America are beautiful. Do you get a chance to do much sight seeing, or do you fly in and out? Some day I would like to travel ... to see the world ... to experience the beauty the earth has to offer. You are very fortunate to have that luxury.

I live in the town of Rockland, Maine, and yes, my home is situated directly on the beach. I love the ocean, and like you, I especially love it when it rains.

Thank you for the compliments on my work and my appearance. I'm afraid I'm not always as attractive as my picture may suggest. Circumstances don't always allow it. I am glad you were not disappointed with the story ... it was written during a time of traumatic upheaval in my life. Quite frankly, I am surprised it turned out as well as it did. I am currently engaged in another science fiction story with a romantic theme. I am afraid this one will be equally as difficult to write.

Sometimes my writing provides an escape from reality, the creation of a fantasy world where truly loving and dedicated relationships exist, where love is so intense and so real, it becomes tangible .... a world where people never hurt the ones the profess to love. It is a pity that print does not always emulate life, Cass. If you ever meet the woman of your dreams, reach out and grab her, treat her like a queen, and don't ever let her go. She will love you forever for it.

Look at me, philosophizing ... I am certainly in no position to be giving advice on love. Writing love stories certainly does not make me an expert on relationships. Forgive me for overstepping my bounds.

Well, you are probably very busy, and I have a book to write, so I will say adios for now.

Sincerely,

Rox"

"There, Gerald. That's one down and four to go," Rox said as she clicked the send button and opened the next file. Soon, with her e-mail out of the way, she settled in to write. As was normally the case, she became totally absorbed in her latest alien adventure and wrote well into the day, stopping only for nature calls and coffee.

As day turned to night, Rox decided to take a short break. Storm clouds had been brewing all day as the sky outside her lookout became dark and overcast with dark ugly clouds. Rox could feel the excitement of the pending storm building in her chest as she shut off all the lights in her office and threw the French doors wide open, allowing the wind to sweep in and swirl around her petite form.

Stepping out onto the balcony overlooking the ocean, she walked up to the railing and threw her arms out to the sides. Closing her eyes, she raised her face to the sky and smiled broadly, inhaling the salty scent of the sea as the wind whipped her hair into a frenzied array. Suddenly a clap of thunder loud enough to shake the entire house ripped through the night. Rox gasped, then let out a deep guttural scream from the recesses of her soul as lightning lit up the beach, the ocean, and everything in sight causing her hair to stand on end with static charge. Torrential rains quickly followed, drenching her to the skin as she stood there, arms spread wide, smiling ear to ear. Rox's chest was filled with such excitement, she thought she'd burst.

The sensation of rain pounding against her skin ... the claps of thunder vibrating through her very being ... the electric crackle of lightning causing her skin to tingle, all served to heighten the intensity of emotion and feeling she experienced to a point approaching an orgasmic climax. Rox knew that after experiencing an intensity of emotion such as this, she would be able to write well into the night. Sometimes, the excitement and energy generated by the a storm was enough to fuel her through several days of non-stop writing. Rox screamed once more as a simultaneous display of thunder and lightning danced across the sky. It would be a good night for writing.

*  *  *

"This is your captain speaking ... please buckle your seat belts. We are currently entering a region of excess turbulence. Remain in your seats with your seat belts buckled until the seat belt sign is once again turned off. As always, it is recommended that your seat belt remained fastened as long as you are seated. Thank you," Cass recited over the intercom as she maneuvered the plane through the storm. "Damn, I hate flying in storms," she exclaimed to her copilot.

"I know what you mean," the man replied. "Have you even flown a plane that was hit by lightning?" he asked.

"Oh yeah. The last time it happened, the static electricity made my hair stand on end. Thankfully, nothing vital to the plane's operating systems was affected. I wouldn't want to fly a crippled plane through a storm like this," she replied.

"I hear ya," the copilot said.

Cass' day did not get off to a good start. After waking up that morning from the strange dream, she arrived at the airport, only to discover the grounds crew at the Veracruz airport had staged an impromptu strike to protest long hours and low pay. The last thing Cass wanted was to be held over in Mexico because of a labor dispute. Even though she wasn't directly involved, she was nonetheless not very good at the waiting game, and was chomping at the bit late in the day when a temporary settlement was made between airport officials and the workers, allowing her plane to be loaded and fueled for the long flight home. To make matters worse, the weather forecast indicated potential storm conditions in southern California, directly in her fight path.

The storm forced Cass to fly as less than optimum speed, resulting in the flight taking nearly 90 minutes longer to complete than scheduled. It was 10 pm before she finally stepped through the front door of her condo and dropped into the nearest chair. Resting her head back against the cushion, she sighed deeply, glad to be home, as she kicked her shoes off, loosened her neck tie, and released the top few buttons of her dress shirt. Thank god she had the next day off, so she at least had the luxury of sleeping in ... something she was looking forward to after being away from home for nearly two days.

Cass closed her eyes and thought of the dream that had jolted her awake that morning. She had an uneasy, sick feeling in the pit of her stomach when she recalled the whip marks on the woman's back ... especially after realizing the woman was a dead ringer for Rox. Cass was sure her imagination was working overtime, and there was probably nothing to worry about ... and besides, she didn't even know Rox. For some strange reason, she had Rox on the brain and her subconscious mind was playing tricks on her. Yeah, that was it.

Subconscious mind or not, it didn't stop Cass from booting up her computer to see if Rox had finally replied to her post. She held her breath as the computer seemed to take ten times longer tonight than usual. She watched the screen intently as the logon process seem stilted for several seconds. Finally, the message came across the screen Failed to make connection ... try again later.

"God damned, mother raping son of a bitch!" Cass screamed at the computer. "Fricken technology ... can't even connect to the Internet without an act of Congress," she complained loudly as she slammed her fist on the desk. Facing the screen, she shook her fist at the monitor and said, "I'm gonna take a shower. If you don't work by the time I come back, you're out the fucking window... understand?" she threatened. The monitor just sat there and took the abuse, while Cass stomped off to take her shower.

Luckily for the computer, a connection was made relatively fast as the newly showered Cass, with a much improved attitude, sat in front of it. "That's better!" Cass mumbled under her breath as her inbox came up, displaying one new message ... from Rox@starship.com.

Cass was suddenly very nervous. Sitting back in her chair, she took a deep breath. Get a grip, Cass. Its just a chick that lives three thousand miles away. You're acting like a schoolgirl here. Christ, grow up, will ya! Enforcer scolded as Cass built up the courage to open the note.

"Hi again Cass!

You sound like you have a very interesting job. I hear Mexico and Central America are beautiful. Do you get a chance to do much sight seeing, or do you fly in and out? Some day I would like to travel ... to see the world ... to experience the beauty the earth has to offer. You are very fortunate to have that luxury.

I live in the town of Rockland, Maine, and yes, my home is situated directly on the beach. I love the ocean, and like you, I especially love it when it rains.

Thank you for the compliments on my work and my appearance. I'm afraid I'm not always as attractive as my picture may suggest. Circumstances don't always allow it. I am glad you were not disappointed with the story ... it was written during a time of traumatic upheaval in my life. Quite frankly, I am surprised it turned out as well as it did. I am currently engaged in another science fiction story with a romantic theme. I am afraid this one will be equally as difficult to write.

Sometimes my writing provides an escape from reality, the creation of a fantasy world where truly loving and dedicated relationships exist, where love is so intense and so real, it becomes tangible .... a world where people never hurt the ones the profess to love. It is a pity that print does not always emulate life, Cass. If you ever meet the woman of your dreams, reach out and grab her, treat her like a queen, and don't ever let her go. She will love you forever for it.

Look at me, philosophizing ... I am certainly in no position to be giving advice on love. Writing love stories certainly does not make me an expert on relationships. Forgive me for overstepping my bounds.

Well, you are probably very busy, and I have a book to write, so I will say adios for now.

Sincerely,

Rox"

"Oh my god," Cass whispered into the empty room as she read and reread Rox's words.

What is it Cass? Enforcer asked, sensing Cass' gut wrenching reaction to Rox's note.

I'm not sure. Something isn't right here. She's in trouble. I can feel it, Cass replied to the voice.

What the hell do you mean, she's in trouble. How can you tell that from a fricken note? Enforcer asked angrily.

Look! She says her life is in an upheaval. E, she's writes about fantasy worlds where everyone is loving a gentle and kind ... It is a pity that print does not always emulate life ... Can't you see it? Cass asked.

Be careful Cass, this dame could be trouble. Be afraid ... be very afraid. Remember what happened with Patti. Take this one slow and easy, pal, okay? Enforcer encouraged.

Cass nodded her head up and down as she read the note again. Okay, what to write back, she speculated.

Cass stood up and paced back and forth in front of the computer for several minutes. She wasn't sure what it was about this woman that had her so worked up. She didn't even know her. Why should she be so concerned about the personal welfare of a person she didn't even know? Cass had no idea what was driving her need to communicate with this woman, but the need was real ... as real as the loneliness that fed it. Sitting back down in front of the monitor, she decided to be up front and honest.

"Hi Rox,

I must say that I was a bit concerned with your last reply. You seem troubled ... depressed maybe. Call me paranoid, having never met you, but I sense you are troubled by something ... or someone. I would be glad to listen if you'd like to talk. I am a good listener. I don't want to intrude on your life if you'd rather not ... I just thought you could use a friendly ear right now ... your last post indicated that you might.

Please don't be angry with me for expressing my concern. If you'd rather not discuss it, just let me know and I'll never bring it up again. I will continue to be an avid fan of your writing, and of your beauty, regardless.

I am here to help if you need me.

Yours always,

Cass"

Cass sent the note, then sat back and reread Rox's note several more times. Each time, she felt this underlying sense of sadness, desperation. She hoped she did the right thing by offering her ear.

After several more minutes of staring at Rox's note, she reached for the mouse to shut the computer down. Just as she was about to start the shutdown process, the new mail indicator flashed on the lower right hand corner of the screen.

*  *  *

Roxanne had come in from the storm several hours ago, drenched to the bone, but on an emotional high that she knew would carry her through the night. Making her way down one flight of stairs, she stripped off her clothes and jumped into the shower, wincing as the jet spray abused her already tender back. Once her shower was done and she had donned a clean nightshirt, she returned to her office and resumed writing.

At nearly 1 a.m., she decided to take a much needed break. Standing up, she stretched her body as well as her bruises would allow, listening to her back crack in several places as she clasped her hands behind her and pulled up and back. Shaking the kinks out, she went over to the small kitchenette in the corner and made a cup of hot chocolate. Carrying it over to the computer, she set it down next to the keyboard, then sat down to resume writing. As her hands hovered over the keys, she noticed the exclamation point next to the tiny envelope in the bottom right corner of her screen. She had mail.

"Who would be sending mail this late in the evening, Gerald?" she asked her stuffed giraffe, a puzzled expression on her face as she clicked on the icon.

Cconway@flyboy.com appeared in the inbox. That was fast, Rox thought, not really expecting a reply to her earlier e-mail until the next day. Positioning the mouse pointer over the sender's name, she double clicked to open the note.

Rox read the note and immediately went into panic mode.

Oh my god! she thought to herself. I didn't expect him to pick up on my distress like that. Now what do I do? she asked as she pushed herself away from the computer and started to pace. What do I do? What do I do? she repeated. Okay, Rox. Calm down. It's only a concerned reader. So you gave a little more away in that last note than you intended. So what? So the guy wants to help. He's probably lonely and sees you as someone he can talk to from a safe distance. What can it hurt?

Rox read the post again and made a rash decision as she sat back down at the computer.

*  *  *

Cass stared at the new mail indicator for several moments before clicking on it, refreshing her inbox. There on the screen appeared the address Rox@starship.com.

"Huh?" Cass said out loud. "I just e-mailed her!"

Thoroughly surprised that she had received a reply back within minutes after sending her last post, Cass hesitated to open it ... afraid it would be a "Dear John" letter of sorts, asking her to discontinue corresponding with the author. Finally building up the courage to open the note, she double clicked on the icon next to Rox's userid. It read:

"Hi Cass... Do you have time to meet me in chat?"

CHAPTER IX

CASS JUST SAT there staring at the message. Chat? She wants to meet me in chat? she asked herself, suddenly feeling the urge to throw up. Oh my god ... I didn't expect this. Okay, Cass ... it's just chat. Stop being such a baby, she thought as she selected 'reply'.

"Hi Rox. I didn't expect a reply so soon. Sure, I'd love to chat. Name the place, and I'll be there," she typed before hitting the send button.

Moments later, the new mail message flashed again. "Go to this url: www.alienchat.com. I'll meet you there in a jiff."

With shaky hands, Cass entered the chat room, logging in as 'flyboy'. Come on, Rox ... Damn, I'm so nervous, she said to herself as she tried to be patient while waiting for the author to enter the room.

Within moments, the name 'alien' appeared on the screen.

"Rox?" Cass typed.

"Hi Cass!" came the reply.

"Hi yourself," Cass returned nervously, her heart beating furiously in her chest.

"How are you?" Rox asked.

"Fine, and you?" Cass replied, feeling really stupid with these polite, nerdy responses.

"I've been better," Rox typed.

"I sensed that from your last e-mail," Cass commented. "Are you all right?"

"For the time being," came the vague reply.

"Look, I know you don't know me, but I'm a really good listener if you want to talk about it," Cass offered.

No response.

"Rox?" Cass typed.

Several moments later ... "Cass, I'm having a bit of a problem right now that I need to work through, that's all," Rox replied.

"Is there anything I can do to help?" Cass asked.

"No, not really. It's kind of complicated. Let's just say that it's a situation I have to live with for a while," came Rox's reply.

"Well, if you need someone to talk to, you have my address," Cass offered.

"Thanks Cass, I really appreciate it," Rox said.

"So, you're working on a new book, huh?" Cass asked, changing the subject.

One could almost feel the sigh of relief in Rox's words as she typed, "Yes, I'm making pretty good headway. I had a bit of a setback due to an injury, but things are moving forward pretty steadily now," she explained.

Cass frowned at the mention of an injury, but brushed it aside and proceeded to engage in a hour-long discussion about the lack of romance in science fiction novels.

At the end of the hour, Cass was truly captivated by this woman she knew only in print. She found her to be bright, intelligent, kind and warm hearted, with a bubbly, outgoing personality that was truly contagious.

Rox felt all giddy inside. She found herself analyzing the feeling several times during the chat session, wondering why this person had captivated her so quickly. After all, she had only exchanged a few e-mails with him, but she found him to be bright, intelligent, kind and warm hearted, traits she had seldom seen in the men she had associated with in her past.

Finally, with the time approaching 2 a.m., Rox yawned, and realizing the time, she steered the conversation toward an end.

"Well, Cass. I must say I have enjoyed your company, but the hour is late, and I really must get some sleep if I plan to be productive tomorrow," she typed.

Cass looked over at the clock and was shocked to see 11 p.m. in red digits. Jesus, Cass, it's 2 a.m. where she is! she exclaimed to herself. Into the computer, she typed, "Rox, I am so sorry, I didn't realize it was so late. This three hour time differential can certainly fool you. I'd better let you go so you can get to bed. I really enjoyed our chat. I'd like to do it again sometime if you are available."

"I'd like that, Cass. Until later then, goodnight." Rox typed.

"Goodnight Rox," Cass replied.

Cass watched the screen as the words "alien has left the chat room" appeared on the screen.

Sighing deeply, Cass shut down her computer, then sat back in her chair. Picking up Rox's latest book that she had lying on her desk, she turned it over and looked at the promo picture. A smile came to her lips as she savored the warm feeling in her chest from the past hour spent with this beautiful woman.

Rox logged out of chat and returned to her manuscript. Finding it difficult to concentrate, she picked up her hot chocolate and walked out onto the widow's walk surrounding the third story of her home, and leaned against the railing. The storm had ended and the night was now cool but clear, with the stars so low in the sky, they appeared touchable. Looking out over the dark ocean, she sipped her drink, and savored the warm feeling inside her chest from the past hour spent with her new friend.

*  *  *

Wednesday morning rang clear and bright as the sun shone through the open shade to fall on Cass' face, heat from the rays waking the sleeping woman. Opening her eyes, she looked at the clock and groaned. "7 a.m.?? Why can't I ever sleep in on a day off?" she said out loud. She was scheduled for another two day trip into Mexico on Thursday and Friday, and as usual, home for the weekend, so she was really looking forward having this day off.

Laying there in bed, Cass' mind soon turned to the chat session from the previous night. She couldn't keep the smile from her face as thoughts of the red headed author invaded her consciousness. God, that woman is something else ... beautiful, intelligent, beautiful, intuitive, beautiful, informed, beautiful, she thought as her grin widened, and a warm feeling spread through her stomach and lower abdomen. Cass' eyes widened at the sensation. Wow! I haven't felt that ... I mean, REALLY felt that since ... well, since Patti! she admitted to herself.

Reaching her arms over her head, she stretched her long form, arching her back into the mattress, and thrusting her breasts toward the ceiling as a whimper of satisfaction escaped her throat. Climbing out of bed, she donned her running clothes and headed out for her normal 5-mile trek, ending at Angie's diner for breakfast.

Walking into the diner, she threw her arms around Angie and gave the older woman a big hug. Angie was a little taken back by the gesture, and looked into Cass' face questioningly.

"What?!" Cass asked mischievously.

"What are you up to Cassidy Conway? You look like the cat who ate the canary," she commented to the taller woman.

Cass smiled broadly. "Now that's one canary I would definitely like to eat!" she commented, blushing at her own brashness.

Angie noticed the blush as she walked the younger woman to her usual table. "New lady friend, Cass?" Angie asked, chuckling.

Cass blushed some more as she sat down and held the menu in front of her face. Angie wasn't to be dissuaded. Reaching forward, she pulled the menu down and leaned over into Cass' face. "You know I won't go away until you 'fess up," she said.

Cass was trying her best to hold back her excitement. She way dying to tell someone about Rox. Grinning broadly, she leaned in to meet Angie nose to nose. "Coffee first, gossip second," she said, holding her cup up to the waitress.

Angie smiled and grabbed her cup. "Be right back..." she said, running off to fill Cass' cup and grab one for herself.

Coming back to the table, Angie sat down and slid Cass' coffee over to her. Cass took her time stirring and tasting the flavorful brew. Angie was bursting at the seams with anticipation.

"Caaaaassssss...." she said menacingly.

Cass grinned evilly, then finally gave in, feeling sorry for her friend. "Rox," she said.

Angie's brow creased. "Rocks? What do rocks have to do with anything?" she said, confused.

Throwing her head back, Cass laughed out loud. "No ... no ... Rox, as in Roxanne," she said, placing a large hand over her friend's.

"Roxanne," Angie stated flatly. "Roxanne ... who? Come on, Cass ... a little more information would be good!"

"Angie ... Starflight? ... You know ... Roxanne Ward?" she said incredulously.

"Roxanne Ward ... the writer?" Angie asked, her mouth open in awe. Seeing Cass grin and nod her head vigorously, she added, "Just how did you meet her?"

"Well, I haven't actually met her yet, Ang. We've traded e-mail a few times, and talked for an hour in chat last night," Cass explained.

Angie sat back in her seat, her eyebrows lifted into her hairline. "Now what kind of relationship is that?" she asked.

Cass smiled. "A safe one, Ang. Don't you see, we get a chance to know each other a little better before meeting face to face. It's perfect," she said, taking another sip of her coffee.

"Weird is what it is!" Angie exclaimed. "Cass, what ever happened to boy meets girl ... er ... sorry ..., girl, meets girl, girls get to know each other, girls fall in love? You know - the old fashioned way to meet a mate," she complained.

"Progress, Ang, progress," Cass said as her stomach suddenly announced itself to the ladies.

Cass looked up at Angie with a slightly embarrassed flush on her cheeks.

"I guess I'd better progress my butt into the kitchen and feed that beast, huh?" Angie said jokingly. "How about the special this morning?" she asked.

Cass glanced over at the specials board and saw French toast, sausage and home fries listed there. "Sounds good to me!" she said, sending Angie on her way.

Sitting back in her seat and crossing her long legs under the table, Cass picked up her coffee cup and brought it to her lips. I wonder what you're doing right now, Roxanne Ward? she said to herself.

*  *  *

Roxanne carefully rolled over onto her side to look at the clock on the bedside stand. 11:30 a.m. Geesh, half the day is gone already, she admonished herself. Rox, why do you do it? You get to bed in the wee hours of the morning, then sleep half the day away.

Rolling onto her back, she looked up at the ceiling and tried to remember what had kept her up so late. A smile suddenly broke out across her face. Cass, she thought. Wow ... I can't believe we spent an entire hour talking like we were long lost friends. He really seems like a nice guy. I wonder what he looks like? she asked herself. Five minutes later, curiosity got the bet of her as she climbed out of bed and padded gingerly to the bathroom. Damn, I can't believe I'm still so sore. Nikki's right ... I really need to do something about Chris, she thought as she took care of bathroom chores then headed to her office.

Reaching down, Rox pressed the power button on her hard drive to boot up the computer. While it was powering up, she set up a new pot of coffee to brew, and retrieved a container of fat free yogurt from the small refrigerator on the shelf. As she stood in front of the computer eating her yogurt, she thought about what Cass would think if he saw her now. She was sure she looked a sight, with her hair standing on end and a collection of blue, purple and green hued bruises covering her face, neck and arms. She could only imagine what her back looked like after the whipping the other night.

Finally, the boot up was complete. Reaching over, she grabbed the coffee pot and poured herself a cup. Setting it on the desk, she sat down and logged on to the Internet. After selecting 'new message', she started composing ...

"Hi Cass,

I wanted to drop you a line to say that I really enjoyed chat last night. It has been a long time since I had such an interesting discussion about my work. My normal audience isn't usually interested in such things. I would very much like to chat with you again some time.

Btw.... you have an advantage ... you know what I look like, but I am at a loss. Wanna share?

Let me know when it is convenient for you to chat again. I work out of my home, so nearly any time is okay for me. Drop me a line and let me know.

I'll talk to you later,

Rox"

While she was rereading the message, she heard a voice call to her from the first floor.

"In the office, Nikki," she yelled loudly over her shoulder.

Moments later, the small blonde appeared at her left shoulder, out of breath from climbing two flights of stairs.

Rox looked at her friend. "You know, you really need to go to the gym ... you're out of shape, girl," she said, "although, the way you and Jerri go at it all the time, you shouldn't need exercise," she teased.

Nikki swatted her on the shoulder, causing her to wince.

"Ooohhh, sorry, Rox! I forgot about the whip marks ... sorry," she said again, looking over her friend's shoulder at the computer screen. "Cass?" she asked. "Whose that?"

Rox looked up at her friend and blushed. Nikki's eye brows took up residence in her hairline at the shade of her friend's face. "A new e-mail friend. We've been trading notes for about a week now ... met in chat last night. He seems like a very intelligent person," Rox said.

Reaching over, she placed two fingers under her friend's chin. "You look pretty in pink, Rox," Nikki said. "You must like this guy. I haven't seen you blush over anyone since you first met Chris."

Nikki looked at the screen again. "By the looks of it, you are planning on 'seeing' him again," she said, a bit cautiously.

Rox's eyes followed Nikki's line of vision to the note still on the screen. "Yeah, I guess I am," she admitted, smiling.

Turning her friend to face her, she looked into green eyes and said, "Rox, you know if Chris finds out about this, you'll be in big trouble. The whip marks on your back will feel like mosquito bites compared to what will happen."

Rox suddenly became serious. "I know, Nik. That's why Chris can't ever know ... 'kay?" she asked.

"I'll take it to my grave -- you know that, don't you?" Nikki asked her friend, who just nodded and hugged her in response.

Pushing the bangs off Rox's forehead, Nikki brushed her palm against her friend's cheek and said, "Okay, so tell me about Cass," she said.

"There's not much to tell. We've only chatted once ... and we spent most of the time talking about my writing. I didn't get a chance to even ask him what he looks like. The only thing I know for sure, is that he's a pilot ... see, his userid is cconway@fllyboy.com ... Ooohh, and I know that he flies a lot into Mexico and Central America." she finished.

"Well, that's certainly enough to base a relationship on," Nikki said sarcastically.

Now it was Rox's turn to swat her friend on the shoulder. "Nikki! No one said anything about starting a relationship! At this point, we're just friends."

"Just friends.... that's what you said about Chris two years ago," she replied.

CHAPTER X

IT WAS EARLY afternoon before Rox was able to convince Nikki to go home and let her work. Nikki was nervous because she wasn't sure when Chris was coming home. She didn't really want Rox alone when that bastard came back.

Nikki went straight home, then called Jerri at work to fill her in on the Cass situation. She also expressed her concern about Rox being alone when Chris got back.

"Sweetheart, call Rox and invite her to dinner tonight," Jerri suggested. We'll keep her out late. If Chris does come home today, maybe the son of a bitch will be sleeping by the time she gets there,"

"Jerri, my love, I knew there was a reason I keep you around!" Nikki exclaimed into the phone. "Well ... that and other things," she added coyly.

"Yeah, well, you can demonstrate those 'other things' when I get home tonight. Okay?" Jerri asked.

"Are you sure you want to keep Rox out late? I mean, it might eat into some of our 'quality time' together," the petite blonde said suggestively.

"There's only one thing I want to 'eat into' tonight, short shit -- and you know what it is!" Jerri teased.

"You are such a pig!" exclaimed Nikki into the receiver.

"Oink, oink!" came the reply. "Look, we'll keep Rox out till a respectable, but late hour, then we'll drive her home to make sure the house is safe before she enters. Okay?" Jerri added.

Nikki almost didn't catch that second part -- her concentration was too heavily focused on the first part of Jerri's statement.

"Respectable hour ... right ... okay, Jer. I love you sweetheart. Hurry home, okay? Maybe we can have appetizers before dinner," Nikki said in a sultry voice -- leaving no doubt as to what she meant.

After hanging up the phone, Nikki sent an e-mail to Rox ...

"Hey Girl,

Are you free for dinner tonight? I just spoke with Miss Gorgeous and she suggested I invite you over.

Let me know ... 'kay?

Love ya!

N"

*  *  *

Roxanne made significant progress on her story before taking a coffee break late in the afternoon. As was her usual habit, she carried her coffee out onto the back deck and sat in her glider, looking out over the ocean as she enjoyed the flavorful brew. She loved to spend time there where it was serenely quiet, save for the sound of the crashing surf and the cawing of the seagulls overhead. All of her novels and journal entries had their origins there. It was there that the first sparks of romance between her alien lovers began to take shape.

For some reason, the atmosphere inspired her creativity. It was part of what she loved about her home. Rox sat there staring at the ocean long after she had seen the bottom of her coffee cup, a gamut of emotions running through her mind. She felt trapped. Caught in a relationship that was cruel and controlling. She didn't love Chris ... not anymore ... not since the beatings. They had been together for nearly two years, however it had only been the last six months or so that the abuse began. It was about six months ago that Rox started suspecting Chris was having an affair. She supposed the beatings were a way of soothing guilt ... of transferring the blame to her. Many times, she thought of leaving, but each time, Chris would bring up how a separation would break her father's heart. Rox just couldn't do that. She loved her parents devoutly, and vowed to make her father's last few months as happy as possible ... even if it meant living in her own personal nightmare.

Taking a deep sigh, Rox reached up and wiped a lone tear from the corner of her eye. Rising stiffly from the glider, she headed back to work, refilling her coffee cup on the way.

Sitting down in front of her computer, Rox decided to check her e-mail before starting to write again. She had two new messages, an advertisement from her local server, and one from Nikki. Clicking on Nikki's note, she began to read.

Hhmm, dinner. Sounds good to me. I haven't seen Jerri in a few days. It should be a good visit, she thought as she clicked on 'Reply'.

"Hey Nik,

I'd love to come to dinner ... but are you sure you two can tear yourselves away from each other long enough to take visitors? After all, my little mattress queen, you and the big guy have the most active libidos in Maine!

Let me know what time.

Love ya back...

R"

Roxanne clicked on 'send', then sat back to see if Nikki was monitoring her mail. Sure enough, moments later, a reply appeared. Rox grinned broadly as she read her friend's response.

"Roxanne Ward ... you are almost as bad as my wife. If I told you what she said to me earlier, I'd bet I could see you blush right over the phone. So big guy and mattress queen, huh? Do I sense some jealousy here?

Dinner at 6 p.m. Jerri will pick you up around 5:30 p.m. on her way home from work, okay?

See you then,

N"

Roxanne couldn't resist. As crass and straightforward as Nikki could be, she blushed easily when confronted about her overactive sex life. Clicking on 'Reply' once more, she wrote:

"Hi again, Nik!

Oh yeah ... Big Guy and Mattress Queen ... I like it! BG and MQ for short. Hey! Maybe I can write a comic strip about the two of you ... no, no ... better yet, I'll write a full length novel. Yeah, that's what I'll do! MQ can walk around with a self inflating mattress in her pocket! Whenever she gets the urge (say 10 times a day at a minimum), she just whips it out, pulls a cord and poof! Instant playground! Of course, BG would have to be available and ready at a moment's notice ... but somehow, I don't think that'll be a problem ... and no toys with pointy edges -- don't want to pop the playground!

BG could carry a pager, so she'd know when MQ is 'wantin' her woman' ... no, wait! I have a better idea ... BG could have super hearing, like supergirl or the bionic woman or something. Then she could hear MQ pull the rip cord and know exactly when she was needed ... oh yeah ... this is getting good. Oh, oh!!! Another good idea -- maybe BG could even blink herself places... you know, like I Dream of Jeannie??? Cool idea, huh? Then, as soon as she hears the rip cord, she could just blink and whammo ... she's jumping MQ's bones in an instant! That will save BG some time trying to find a phone to call the little hussy!

Now ... let me see, BG needs a costume ... super girl, wonder woman ... nah, those costumes are too dorky ... Hey! What about ... yeah, that's it! What about a skimpy little dominatrix outfit instead of blue tights and red cape, or those corny little wrist bands and star spangled suit that Wonder Woman wears?? That would be cool ... Yeah, yeah ... I can see it now -- short leather skirt, skimpy halter that just barely covers the essentials, boots, whip, brass gauntlets and wrist bands ... definitely a sexy breastplate. Shit ... one look at her and Ziiiippp ... it wouldn't take very long for MQ to pull that rip cord! Oh boy ... this will definitely make the best seller list.

Now tell me Nik ... which of you wants to be the alien?

R"

Rox sat back and chucked to herself as she waited for her friend's reply. It didn't take long ...

"Jesus, Rox. What have you been smoking? What ever it is, save some for me, huh? This is hysterical! Wait until Jer sees it! Shit woman! I am red to the roots of my hair right now, but -- Wow !! -- what an imagination you have, my friend.

Seeing as BG has the super powers (hearing, blinking), then she should be the alien. I'll let her know when she comes home ... just do me one favor -- when you write this story, make sure BG has REALLY long tentacles ... okay? Jeeeeesus Chrrrrrist!, I can't believe I just wrote that! Nikki - you are becoming and evil, corrupt little hussy, aren't you? Must be the influence of a certain GIRLFRIEND of mine! :-)

I'm gonna log off now before I get myself into MORE trouble! Jerri will be there to pick you up around 5:30 p.m., okay, Hon?

We're having lobster, so bring a bib! Oh, and bring the salve with you - I'll rub it into your bruises again while you're here.

I'll see you in a few....

Love you,

Nikki"

Rox smiled once more at her friend's reply. Nikki was certainly a study in contrasts, she thought. One moment she's all fire and passion, the next, she blushing like a schoolgirl. That's why I love you, Nikky-girl, Rox thought as she logged off e-mail and returned to her writing.

*  *  *

It was nearly noon by the time Cass left Angie's diner. After eating a leisurely breakfast, she hung around and visited with the older woman for over an hour. She simply didn't want to be alone, so returning to her empty condo was not an option. When she wore out her welcome and kept Angie from her customers long enough, she headed over to the gym to work out and to get in a little Taekwondo practice. She had taken martial arts lessons for the past three years ... since Patti. She had decided she would never be defenseless again. She was an apt pupil, a quick study, and had just earned her first degree black belt a few months ago.

The gym provided Cass with a release valve. Located in the heart of San Jose, it was open 24 hours a day to cater to their Silicon Valley customers who worked odd shifts. There were many nights when Cass lay awake, nightmarish memories running through her mind, when she ultimately headed to the gym to work out her nervous energy, or to tire herself out enough to sleep. Her job required her to be alert, so the gym had been a godsend on several occasions, allowing her to get the sleep she needed to be fresh for her next flight.

Cass spent a couple of hours that afternoon working at the various nautilus stations throughout the gym, enhancing her already toned muscles. It was at times like this, when she understood Patti's drive for weight lifting. After finishing her workout, she had such a sense of euphoria from the endorphins, that she pushed her body further than ever while running through her Taekwondo routine. By the time she had finished, her aerobics wear was drenched with sweat and her damp bangs were plastered to her forehead.

Before leaving the gym, she ran into a friend she had met a few years back while Patti was still alive.

"Hi Cass!" he said. "Looks like you've had quite a workout."

Cass smiled. "Jason! Good to see you," she said, shaking his hand while running her gym towel over her forehead. "Where have you been ... I haven't seen you around the gym lately," she added.

"Oh, I've been around. Still flying?" he asked.

"Oh Yeah. I'm working for Southern Lights Airline now. No real complaints," she answered.

"Southern Lights? Where do they normally fly?" he questioned.

"Mostly on the west coast, some mid-west locations, and into Central America ... that's my normal route," Cass explained.

"Central America? Wow, that must be interesting," he exclaimed. "Why Central America?"

Cass ran the towel over her neck. "Well, I'm fluent in Spanish, and the flight schedule keeps me home on weekends ... and an occasional day off during the week, like today," she said grinning.

"Sounds like you've got it made," he replied. "Hey, uhm... would you be interested in dinner?" he asked.

Cass raised her eyebrow. Jason knew that she and Patti were a couple.

Seeing the silent question on her brow, Jason piped in, "Oh... oh, no, Cass. I'm sorry. All I want is dinner ... just between friends -- okay?"

Cass immediately relaxed and smiled at her friend. "I'm sorry, Jason. I'm afraid I haven't gotten out much since ... well, you know. Anyway, dinner sounds great. Can I meet you somewhere?" she asked.

"Why don't I pick you up at your place at ... say, 6:00 p.m., okay?" he asked.

"Okay. I'm in the Hillside Condos, unit 3, on Maycoumber Parkway. I'll see you at six," she said as she headed to the door.

"At six," he replied, raising his eyebrows up and down as he watched her retreating form.

The attendant at the desk looked at Jason and sneered. "You don't have a chance with her, you know. You won't get your hands within two feet of that gorgeous body," he said.

Jason looked at the man. "It's not her body I'm interested in," he said, grinning once more before heading to the weight room.

*  *  *

Cass arrived back at her condo around 3:00 p.m. and headed straight for the shower. Her body felt heavy with fatigue from her extensive workout as she stood under the spray. Cass, you overdid it again, she thought.

Cassidy Conway, when are you going to learn that you can't replace sex with exercise? Enforcer scolded. Damn it girl, you do this every time. Now you'll walk around for the next several days so sore, you can't move. Shit woman ... a little sheet action is what you need. That guy you've got a date with tonight is kind of cute ... so what if the equipment is wrong -- the desired result is the same. Go for it girl!

E, please back off. Jason is just a friend. Beside, you're right -- the equipment is wrong. I'm not interested. Cass replied.

Well then it's time to break down and buy some toys, don't ya think? Enforcer suggested boldly.

Cass just shook her head and blushed at the direction her alter ego's libido was heading, as she reached forward and shut off the shower. Moments later, she was toweled dry and heading to her bed. Plenty of time to take a nap before dinner, she thought as she laid naked between the cool sheets, drifting off almost immediately into the dreamscape.

*  *  *

Cass approached the red haired woman in the field of flowers. Walking straight up to her, she reached out and took the woman's face in her hands. Leaning in, she placed a very soft and delicate kiss on her lips. Her heart fluttered in her chest as bolts of electricity shot through her body at the contact.

"I want you," she heard herself whisper in the woman's ear.

The woman whimpered softly in response. Standing there in Cass' two-handed embrace, she closed her eyes and tilted her chin up for more, as a look of pure sensual joy crossed her features.

Cass lowered her face once more. Their lips touched, this time with more ardor, parting to admit invading tongues. Cass marveled at the wondrous taste of this angel before her as her tongue ventured deep into the red head's mouth.

Deep moans erupted from the woman's mouth as she hungry devoured the invading organ. The flowers she had been holding were suddenly forgotten as they scattered to the ground around their feet, allowing her hands to circle the taller woman's waist and pull her in close.

"Let me love you," the woman said as Cass released her mouth.

Now it was Cass' turn to moan as she threw her head back, allowing the smaller woman's probing lips access to her throat and neck. Cass' hands moved to the woman's shoulders and pulled her in tighter.

Reaching up to her neck, the red head tore open Cass' gown, exposing full, firm breasts, upon which she hungrily feasted. Cass was writhing in sexual agony as the woman suckled her breasts.

Cass suddenly felt bare hands caress her thighs. She was so caught up in her sexual haze, that she didn't feel the smaller woman lift her gown to expose the heated skin beneath.

"Oh my god!" Cass exclaimed as the woman slipped her hands inside the lace panties she wore, squeezing her cheeks firmly, and pulling her even closer.

Soon the panties were gone as was the gown, as small hands caressed the bulbous mounds, moving in circular patterns across her skin. The woman moved around Cass to stand behind her, wrapping her arms around the taller woman's waist and slipping her hands lower over her abdomen, closer and closer to the triangle of dark hair that stood guard in front of her treasure. Cass arched herself backward into the woman as her hands reached behind and pulled the woman closer.

Cass' breath caught in her throat as deft fingers slipped in between dark curls.

"Ahhhhhh" Cass yelled as she bolted awake, sitting straight up in bed, covered in sweat and strung quite tightly with sexual desire. Looking around, she frantically searched for her red haired lover. Realizing it was all a dream, she dropped her head into her hands and took several deep breaths. Oh my god, oh my god, she chanted in her mind, realizing her body needed sexual relief like a drug addict needed a fix.

Realizing too that she was drenched in sweat, Cass climbed off the bed and headed back to the shower. Standing under the cool spray, she replayed the dream over and over in her mind while her hands roamed freely over her own body. Leaning back against the shower wall, she lathered her body with soap, raising her level of sexual desire ten-fold. Finally, when the stimulation was more than she could take, she plunged her own fingers between her legs and brought herself to fulfillment, leaning heavily against the shower wall, knees week with orgasmic relief, as the red haired woman's face filled her mind and her heart.

*  *  *

After her shower, Cass dressed for dinner then powered up her computer to see if Rox had responded to her last e-mail. She had. Double clicking on the icon next to Rox's note, she read:

"Hi Cass,

I wanted to drop you a line to say that I really enjoyed chat last night. It has been a long time since I had such an interesting discussion about my work. My normal audience isn't usually interested in such things. I would very much like to chat with you again some time.

Btw.... you have an advantage ... you know what I look like, but I am at a loss. Wanna share?

Let me know when it is convenient for you to chat again. I work out of my home, so nearly any time is okay for me. Drop me a line and let me know.

I'll talk to you later,

Rox"

Cass smiled when she read the note. Yeah, I had a good time too, she said to herself. So, she wants to know what I look like. Okay, I'll just power up the scanner and send that picture of Brian and I. Its the best one I have of myself. I hope she isn't disappointed.

Clicking on 'Reply', Cass wrote:

"Hi Rox,

I really enjoyed our chat session too. I couldn't believe how fast the time flew. I hope I didn't keep you up too late.

I'm sorry to hear that you don't have someone to discuss your work with more often. I find science fiction so captivating and stimulating. I can't imagine why someone wouldn't want to discuss it -- especially with a talented writer such as yourself.

So, you want a description of me, huh? Okay, I hope I don't disappoint you. I'm nearly six feet tall, relatively slim, somewhat muscular from working out and from Taekwondo (I earned my black belt a few months ago). I have dark hair and blue eyes. That's about it. I'm attaching a scanned photo of myself and my co-pilot so you can see for yoruself. If you need to know more, just let me know.

I too would like to chat with you again. I am finding myself very enchanted with you, Roxanne Ward. You invade my thoughts at the oddest moments. It is a welcome invasion, mind you. I have not had any real companionship since the woman I was seeing passed away nearly three years ago. I have guarded my heart relatively close since. It seems good for it to be invaded again.

Well, I'm on my way to dinner, so I will bid you adieu for now.

I am looking forward to chatting with you again. Please let me know when it is convenient for you.

Cass"

Cass hit the send button, then powered down the computer. Off to dinner, she said to herself as she grabbed a light jacket and headed out the door to wait for Jason at the curb.

CHAPTER XI

AS PROMISED, JERRI picked Rox up at exactly 5:30 p.m. Climbing into the car, Rox leaned over and kissed her friend hello.

Jerri immediately noticed the bruises on Rox's face and neck. Taking Rox's chin in her hand, she turned the author's head side to side. "Damn it, Rox. Why does Chris feel the need to hit you like that? One of these days, I'm going to corner the son of a bitch and return the favor," Jerri exclaimed.

"Jer, please ... let's not get started on that, okay? I'd really like this to be a nice evening," Rox said softly.

Jerri placed her hand on the side of Rox's face and looked at her affectionately. Taking a deep breath, she forced a smile and said, "All right, Rox. I'll behave ... but I meant what I said. Nikki and I love you very much and it kills us to see that bastard do this to you." Jerri saw a slight flash of anger in Rox's eyes. Throwing up her hands, she said, "All right ... all right ... enough said. Let's go have some lobster, okay?"

Jerri flashed a crooked smile at Rox, instantly dissolving her anger. "Okay," Rox replied, a smile covering her own face.

Rox talked about her new novel all the way to Jerri and Nikki's place. Like Cass, her two friends were fascinated by science fiction, and even prouder, that their friend was a highly successful sci-fi author. Rox's over active imagination never ceased to amaze Jerri as she sat and listened to the summary of Rox's new book. Rox had an unspoken agreement with her two friends to allow them beta access to her new stories before going to the editor. On more than one occasion, they had made significant observations and suggestions that greatly improved the overall story.

"So when will this one be ready for beta?" Jerri asked anxiously.

"Well, if I keep writing at my current pace, it should be done in a month or less," she replied. "Getting a little anxious, are we, Jer?" Rox teased as her friend pulled into the driveway of her home.

"Anxious isn't the word for it, Rox ... and you know it, you little tease," Jerri shot back, turning off the engine.

Rox reached over and patted the side of Jerri's face. "Patience, dear heart ... patience," she said as she reached for the door handle.

Nikki met Rox at the door, taking her into her arms as she entered the kitchen. Jerri leaned over and kissed her wife as she hugged their friend. Nikki was wearing an apron with a huge, obviously female, lobster on the front of it. The head of the lobster was missing ... to be replaced by the head of the wearer, it's claws were curled up and pinching it's own breasts. The caption below the lobster said, "Lobsters Do It In A Pinch."

Rox laughed heartily when she stood back and took a good look at her friend. "Nikki, you look like you belong at a carnival!" she exclaimed with a chuckle in her voice before adding, "So what can I do to help?"

"Well, you can set the table it you'd like. Dinner will be ready in about 15 minutes," she said as she pointed Rox in the direction of the cupboard. "Oh, by the way, did you bring the salve?" she asked.

"Yes I did. It's in my purse," Rox replied as she retrieved the necessary dinnerware and headed into the dining room.

While Rox was setting the table, Jerri came up behind Nikki as she was retrieving the butter from the refrigerator. Seeing Nikki bent over to reach the lower shelves was more than Jerri could stand. Spooning herself behind her wife, she reached around and cupped Nikki's breasts, pinching the nipples firmly, while whispering in the blonde's ear, "Can I do it in a pinch, sweetheart?"

Nikki moaned and pressed herself back into Jerri, holding onto the open refrigerator door for support just as Rox came into the kitchen for napkins.

"You'd better close that door before your body heat melts everything in there," she said dryly. Retrieving the napkins, she nonchalantly sauntered by, acting as though seeing her two friends in the midst of foreplay in front of the open refrigerator door was an everyday event.

Nikki blushed and Jerri grinned as they were caught in the act by their friend.

"That's a pretty shade of pink, Nikki!" Rox called loudly from the other room.

"Oh groan!" Nikki said, turning and burying her face in Jerri's shoulder as she died of embarrassment.

Dinner was very pleasant. The three ladies complimented each other well, all of them trying to outtalk the others. They spent a couple of hours talking about Rox's new book, and about Cass. Rox's face took on a look of utter excitement when she discussed her new e-mail friend. Jerri was very interested in this Cass Conway ...and a little wary that her friend was setting herself up for a big disappointment.

"Rox, honey, Cass lives three thousand miles away, you realize that, don't you?" Jerri pointed out.

Rox frowned. "I know that, Jer," she said, sighing deeply. "Look, we've only exchanged a few e-mails, and met in chat once. I don't know what it is about this guy, Jerri. Something has clicked between us. I'm not saying it will develop into anything more substantial, but right now, it just feels really good. I need that right now," she pointed out.

Jerri nodded her head. Reaching out, she covered her friend's hand with her own and squeezed. "Yes, you do," Jerri agreed, looking again at the bruises on Rox's face.

After dinner, the friends worked together to clean up the kitchen. When the chores were done, Nikki turned to Rox. "Okay, sweetling ... time to apply the salve. Strip!" she commanded.

Jerri raised her eyebrows at Rox and said, "Pushy broad, isn't she? She bosses ME around like that all the time too! You two go ahead, I'll pour us all a glass of wine to enjoy while we watch the movie."

Rox laughed as they went into the living room. Stripping off her T-shirt, she laid down on her stomach on the floor. Nikki straddled her friend's backside and reached over to unhook her bra, pushing it off her shoulders. Jerri came into the living room at that very moment and got her first glimpse of the damage on Rox's back. Even knowing the damage was there, she was still so shook up by what she saw, that she almost spilled the three glasses of wine on the carpet. Shaking with rage, she managed to put the wine down, then started to pace back and forth, sputtering obscenities at Chris.

"Jerri! ... Jerri!" Rox said firmly from her position on the floor.

Jerri stopped pacing and looked at her friend.

"C'mere, Big Guy ... come keep me company while your wife tortures me ... okay?" Rox asked the angry woman.

Jerri approached the prone woman and laid down on her stomach so she was face to face with Rox. They were both lying there with their arms in front of them, hands overlapped, and chins resting on top of them, faces inches apart, while Nikki worked the salve into the abused skin on Rox's back. Jerri reached out and held Rox's hand as she winced from the pressure of Nikki's hands. Nikki bent over Rox's back and whispered apologies into her friend's ear when she was done, earning her a big smile and a thank you from a grateful Rox. Nikki helped her don her T-shirt once more, tossing the bra aside, then all three women retired to the couch to watch their movie.

Jerri sat on the couch with Nikki in her arms. Rox cuddled with them, laying her head on Nikki's leg as the blonde ran her fingers through her friend's red-gold hair, until she was fast asleep. Looking down on the sleeping woman, Nikki smiled and looked up at her wife. "Poor baby," she said softly.

Jerri just nodded, then leaned in to kiss her wife. "Let's not wake her. She can stay here tonight," she said.

Nikki nodded her agreement as they gently rose from the couch. Retrieving a pillow and blanket, they worked together to make Rox as comfortable as possible before turning out the lights and heading to bed.

*  *  *

Jason picked Cass up promptly at 6:00 p.m. in a brand new Corvette convertible.

Cass walked around the cherry red car and whistled. "Wow, Jason. You must be doing very well for yourself ... I'm sure this car didn't cost peanuts!" she exclaimed.

"Yeah, I'm not doing so bad," he said as he held her door open for her.

Sitting next to him in the car, she turned and asked, "So, just what are you doing for work these days?"

"Still working for the old man ... selling used cars," he said.

Cass turned her face to look out her window and frowned. I didn't know used cars paid so well. He's got to be making a mint to afford a car like this, she thought.

Jason bragged all the way to the restaurant about his assets ... a beach house in Malibu, stock and bonds, this new car ... If he did indeed own all of these things, he would have to be literally rolling in dough.

"Wow, I guess the used car business is more lucrative than I thought!" she exclaimed after he described his 30 foot yacht to her.

"Oh, it's not just the used cars ... I have become involved in some wise investments and business ventures," he bragged. "That's where the big money is."

"Indeed!" Cass replied, not knowing what else to say to this blow hard. She was beginning to regret going out with him. If he even suggested she hit the sheets with him, she's kick his assets good and hard.

Finally, they arrived at the restaurant, a ritzy, high visibility place with $100 dinners on the menu. Cass raised her eyebrows when he pulled the car up to the valet parking facility. Cass made good money ... more than most women her age, but never in her wildest dreams would she consider spending $100 on a simple entree, not to mention the $2,000 bottle of wine Jason ordered as soon as they were seated. Cass felt very uncomfortable all of the sudden, like something was rotten in Denmark. E, where are you when I need you... what's going on here? she asked her alter ego to no avail.

All through dinner, Jason quizzed Cass subtly about her job. At least he thought he was being subtle. He wanted to know every detail, right down to what her safety check routine was. Finally, sick of the questioning, she basically told him that the answers to most of his questions about flight schedules could be found on the company's web site. Curiously, after she shut down the inquiries, dinner ended rather quickly. The entire dinner came to $2,500, including a $300 tip for the waitress.

Cass looked at him with disgust when he made a show of tucking the tip into the waitress' cleavage. What a disgusting pig, she thought.

I'll say, Enforcer piped in. The man is a pimp! Why did you agree to go out with him anyway? the alter ego asked.

What??? You're the one who wanted me to jump into the sack with him ... so don't give me any shit about this date, you got it!!? Cass responded.

Hey, I've got needs too, you know ... If you'd only buy those toys I've been bugging you for, I'd back off! Enforcer reminded her.

E, go back into the hole you were hiding in when I needed you a while ago, okay? I can do without this kind of help, she reminded herself.

Finally, Jason and Cass were back in the Corvette and headed to Cass' condo. Pulling up in front, he reached over and shut off the engine, then turned in his seat to face her.

"So, when is your next flight?" he asked. "I'd like to take you out again."

Cass nearly choked on his cockiness. "Ah ... ah, I'm kind of booked up for quite a while. I fly to Durango for the next two days, they I have a couple of commercial flights, then....." she tried desperately to come up with excuses.

"How about next week some time?" he asked.

"Sorry, I make weekly trips to Mexico every Monday ... domestic flights, sometimes on Wednesdays, Guatemala on Thursdays ... I'm really very busy," she said.

"All right then, I'll leave my business card with you. Why don't you call me when you're free, okay?" he said, handing her his card from his father's used car business.

Cass gave him a nervous smile and simply nodded. Thanking him for dinner, she reached for the door handle to get out of the car. He grabbed her arm.

Looking over at Jason, Cass raised her eyebrows and said, "Is there a problem?"

"Can't a guy get a kiss from his date ... especially after dropping $2,500 on dinner?" he said smugly.

Cass leaned in to him so that her nose was a mere inch away from his. "You seem to have forgotten that I'm gay, Jason, and that I have a black belt in Taekwondo. Now I suggest you take your hand off me immediately - capishe!!?" she said vehemently.

Jason cringed at her words, quickly removing his hand.

Cass was out of the car in two seconds and heading to her condo as she heard Jason peal away from the curb.

"Neanderthal asshole," she muttered under her breath as she let herself into her home.

CHAPTER XII

ROX ROSE THE next morning around 9:00 a.m., not really knowing where she was. Opening her eyes, she looked around and finally realized she was on Nikki and Jerri's living room couch. She also realized that she smelled coffee. Sitting up, she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes and rose to her feet, stretching as far as her bruised body would allow.

"First stop, bathroom," she said under her breath as she padded in that direction.

The aroma of French Roast coffee called to her as she made her way into the kitchen. That's when she saw the note on the table. Picking it up, she read ...

Hey Sleeping Beauty,

Some of us work for a living and can't sleep all day ... (Rox smiled)

Help yourself to coffee and whatever you can find for breakfast. If anything in the refrigerator looks like a science project, or snaps at you when you touch it, it would be wise to leave it alone.

I'll give you a call later this morning. Please don't leave. I'll be home for lunch, so I'll drop you off at home on my way back to work ... okay?

We love you, Chickie,

Talk to you soon,

MQ

PS, I shared your new story idea with Jer ... she likes the idea of being the alien ... she especially likes the dominatrix costume. You are a nasty, wicked woman, my friend - don't ever change, we love you just the way you are! N.

Rox smiled at her friend's easy banter, then sighed enviously. Will I ever have a relationship like theirs? she asked herself. She could only hope so. Pouring herself a cup of coffee, she sat down at the kitchen table and crossed her legs at the ankles under her chair. Leaning on her elbows, and holding her coffee cup suspended in front of her, she thought about the intense, loving relationship her friends shared. They were true soulmates ... a blind man could see it. Nikki was a nurse and Jerri, an EMT on an ambulance crew. She recalled stories about how they would sneak kisses on the elevator, or meet secretly on the loading dock to make out. They were like teenagers in love, constantly touching, caressing, and expressing their love for each other. Rox so longed for that level of intimacy with someone ... someone she could call her soulmate.

Taking a deep sigh, she thought of her own relationship with Chris. Things had started out really good. Chris was very attractive to say the least. Rox was immediately attracted to the unkempt blonde hair and deep brown eyes. Rox had commissioned Chris' company to build her deck and remodel her office space and Chris was appointed foreman for the job. It wasn't long before they began 'seeing' each other ... an occasional dinner or movie, or just a quiet walk, hand in hand, along the beach. Rox was quite smitten.

Rox absentmindedly lifted the cup to her lips and sipped the flavorful brew. Closing her eyes, she recalled the first kiss she had shared with the blonde foreman. They had been walking along the beach at night. Rox had her bikini on, with a T-shirt thrown over the top. Chris was wearing rolled up blue-jeans and a a muscle T-shirt. They were both barefoot, walking along in the surf, the moon very bright overhead in a starless sky, a slight breeze blowing her then, long hair, around her face. As they were walking along hand in hand, Chris stopped abruptly and pulled Rox close. Placing callused hands on both sides of her face and lifting it skyward, lips met lips and tongues invaded moist crevices as Rox melted into a puddle at Chris' feet. That was the first night they had made love. Soon after, Chris moved in.

Things had been fine for the first year and a half that they lived together, although, it didn't take long for them to fall into a routine where Rox was taking care of Chris rather than being a partner. Between housework, laundry, meals, and being on call for Chris' affections, she was finding it harder and harder to make time for her writing. She found herself rising early in the morning to at least outline her ideas for the day, and then rushed through her housework in the morning to make time for writing in the afternoon. She knew her home was suffering from lack of attention, but she had deadlines to meet with her literary agent, so it had to be done. Unfortunately, Chris also noticed the degrade in their living environment, and was quick to call her on it, however, not quick to help improve it.

About six months ago, Rox noticed a change in Chris' behavior. How could she NOT notice it -- she wore the evidence of it on her face, neck and back that very morning. Suddenly, angry rages resulted from late meals or unfolded laundry. Soon, the hitting began. It had gone steadily downhill from there. Thank god for Nikki and Jerri, Rox thought to herself as she remembered the numerous times over the past six months when she had called her friends for comfort after Chris had beaten her and then left to hit the bars with the guys from work. So far, Chris hadn't hurt her badly enough to require medical attention, but Rox knew it was only a matter of time. Lowering her head to her chest, she allowed a tear to fall onto the table. Life was so unfair. Here she was, trapped in an abusive relationship, and the only thing that would free her from it was her father's death. Life sucks, she thought as she hardened her heart to her circumstances and rose to refill her coffee cup.

*  *  *

Cass rose bright and early as usual on Thursday morning, going first to check e-mail before starting her workout, only to be disappointed to find that Rox had not replied to her previous post. She sat there in her chair, shoulders rounded forward in defeat. Damn, she thought. I hope I didn't scare her away with that last post. Cass, you're such an idiot ... telling the woman she enchanted you. You know she's probably married with a bunch a kids. Why are you wasting your time here? she admonished herself. Go ahead and say "I told you so", E, go ahead ... she added.

Not necessary, Enforcer replied. You're doing a good job of beating yourself up -- you don't need my help.

Yeah, well, you'd think I know better than to form new relationships, after what happened with Patti. Cass said.

Turning back to the keyboard, she made a decision. "Okay Roxanne Ward, one more note then I'll leave you alone," she said out loud as she selected 'New Message'.

"Hi Rox,

Look, I'm sorry I was so forward in my last post. I don't want to push you into a relationship you don't want. It's just that I have never felt such an instant connection with anyone before like I did with you, and I was hoping that you felt the same way. I'm sorry if I have overstepped my bounds. You are probably involved in a loving relationship already. I certainly don't want to interfere with your happiness.

Please forgive me?

Cass"

After sending the note, Cass powered down the computer and headed to her treadmill. With a heavy heart, she powered up the machine and started working her anger and disappointment out. As usual, Enforcer was right there to keep her company.

What are you going to do if she brushes you off, Cass? Enforcer asked as she jogged along at an easy pace.

Throw the computer out the window, she responded.

Throw it out the window?! What will that accomplish? It's not the computer's fault you've got bad taste in women, Enforcer said bluntly.

Cass sighed deeply. God damn it, E. I don't have bad taste in women ... I've just been unlucky in love. My taste in women is just fine thank you very much! Tell me you don't think Rox is beautiful.

Wellllllll, maybe you're right -- yeah, she is very beautiful ... Patti was quite a looker too. Too bad she was a psycho bitch. Enforcer agreed.

Demon bitch from hell is more like it, E. If I had only been smart enough to see that she was into steroids and drugs ... maybe I could have helped her ... maybe I could have prevented her death, Cass surmised.

So, you're finally starting to realize that you weren't the cause of her death, huh? It's about time you lose that guilt and move on, Cass. It will interfere in all future relationships if you don't, Enforcer encouraged.

E, I can't help it. I will never forget how it felt to be so helpless at her hands. I will never allow myself to be so dependent and vulnerable again, and I will never forget how devastated she was when I left her, she vowed.

Not everyone is like Patti, Cass. If you keep looking behind you, you're going to stumble on what's in front of you ... get over it and move on ... it's been almost three years, Enforcer reminded her.

Cass reached over and shut off the treadmill, then stood there on the belt, leaning over the control panel, breathing deeply, sweat covering her overheated body. After several long moments of regaining her composure, she lifted her head and grabbed her towel. Wiping the sweat off her forehead, she reached for the water bottle and drank half it's contents before heading toward the bathroom.

Cass ... stop ignoring me. You know I'm right, Enforcer said.

Cass stripped off her spandex aerobics wear as she entered the bathroom, throwing it in the hamper by the sink. Reaching in, she turned the shower on, then stood in front of the sink and looked at her reflection in the mirror.

Damn it, Cass! Wake up and smell the coffee, E scolded. Look, we haven't been laid in eons ... I have needs too you know. That little episode of self gratification in the shower yesterday was not enough ... we need tenderness. We need to be held and caressed and told that we are loved. Cass ... if the cute little red head rejects you, find out why. A few well placed questions will determine if she's married. Shit, woman ... you don't even know if she's into chicks yet! You've got a lot of homework to do, my friend, and these polite little notes you've been sending are not going to get you anywhere ... capishe?

Sighing deeply, Cass lifted both hands to her face and rubbed vigorously. Get hold of yourself, Cass. Maybe E is right. Take a chance ... she's almost 3,000 miles away -- she can't hurt you.

Resolving to stop looking back, Cass stepped into the shower and washed the sweat from her body. The two day flight to Durango would allow her time to think. By the time she returned Friday afternoon, she should have some reaction from Rox to her last two posts ... she should have some indication about whether to pursue the relationship or not.

Freshly showered and dressed in her airline blues, she headed out the door, with higher spirits and a determined heart.

*  *  *

Rox made herself a fried egg and cheese sandwich for breakfast and sat curled up on the corner of Nikki's couch watching the weather channel as she ate. She watched with interest at the weather for the west coast, specifically California, wondering what Cass was doing at that very moment. Glancing at the digital time displayed at the bottom corner of the screen, she noted that it was 10:30 a.m. She's probably on her way to work, Rox, she said to herself ... just like YOU should be doing. That story will never be finished if you keep allowing interruptions like this, she scolded herself.

After finishing her sandwich, she stood up and stretched, then went into the kitchen to clean up after herself. Wiping her hands on a dishtowel, she looked at the clock once more and noted that it was only 11 am. Rummaging through the refrigerator, she found the fixings for salad and went to work throwing something together to feed Nikki for lunch. Opening a can of chicken noodle soup, she set it on the stove on low, and then looked once more at the clock. "Looks like I have time for a shower," she said out loud as she headed to Nikki and Jerri's room to find something to change into. She and Nikki were basically the same build, except she had a couple of inches in height on her friend.

Walking into their room, the first thing she noticed was the state of disarray their bed was in. The pillows were pushed up against the headboard and were nearly on top of one another. Her friends obviously slept very close together. For some reason, that simple arrangement of pillows struck a pang of loneliness in Rox's heart as she imagined her friends spooned together, wrapped around each other in a braid of love. Her bed had never looked like this. Chris simply retreated to the far reaches of the mattress after satisfaction was taken. No tender caresses, no vows of love and devotion. Just 'wham, bam, thank you ma'am', then roll over and go to sleep. Rox took a deep breath and pushed the thoughts from her mind as she made her friend's bed, then found clean underclothes, T-shirt and shorts to wear after her shower.

Rox was towel drying her hair when Nikki arrived home for lunch.

"Rox?" Nikki shouted as she came into the house through the kitchen door.

"In the bathroom, Nik!" Rox called out.

Nikki walked through the living into the downstairs bathroom and leaned against the door frame to watch her friend run her fingers through her short strawberry blonde hair, loosely combing it into place.

"I like your outfit," Nikki said, noticing the familiar clothing.

Rox grinned. "Thanks. I've got good taste in clothes, huh?" she said.

"Very good ... looks like something I would buy for myself," she quipped back.

"Are you hungry?" Rox asked, brushing the last errant lock into place.

"Very," Nikki replied as Rox threw her arm around her friend's shoulder and led her back to the kitchen, sitting her down in a chair. Moments later, Nikki had a bowl of hot soup and a crisp garden salad sitting in front of her.

"Wow!" Nikki exclaimed, looking at her friend. "Aren't you going to eat?"

"No, believe it or not, I just finished an egg sandwich for breakfast less than two hours ago. I'm really not hungry," she replied.

"Don't tell me ... you slept until, what -- 9:00 a.m.?" Nikki asked. Seeing her friend nod her head, she added, "Jesus, Rox, how can you sleep so late? You fell asleep on the couch about 10 p.m. last night. Do you realize that's 11 hours sleep?" she exclaimed.

"I don't know, Nik. I've always been a late sleeper," Rox said in her own defense.

"Bullshit. You slept so late because you don't take care of yourself. Rox, you are so torn between your work and your home and Chris, that you don't take the time to really take care of your physical needs. You are going to run yourself right into the ground if you're not careful," Nikki lectured.

Rox just looked down at the table and endured the lecture. She knew her friend was right.

Nikki set her fork down and reached over to take Rox's hand. "Rox, honey, I'm sorry for yelling, but damn it girl, I care about you, and I know you're not taking proper care of yourself. You need to make some changes, before you become seriously ill ... okay?" she said tenderly.

Rox just nodded, avoiding her friend's eyes.

A short time later, with lunch out of the way Nikki and Rox were in the car, heading toward the ocean. Rox was very animated as she filled Nikki in on some the ideas she had for her next chapter. Nikki enjoyed watching Rox's face when she talked about her work. It was the only real time she saw any passion there of late. She was grateful that she at least had that escape from her nightmarish life with Chris.

Nikki looked around carefully as she pulled into the driveway of Rox's home. No car other than Rox's. Thank God Chris isn't home yet, Nikki thought as she kissed her friend goodbye then drove away. There was no telling what would happen if that bastard came home to an empty house.

Rox waved to her friend and then climbed the front steps to her Victorian home and unlocked the door. The moment she stepped into the house, she felt a hand circle her throat and found herself slammed up against the wall next to door, looking straight into the brown eyes of a very angry Chris.

"Where the fuck have you been?" Chris said between clenched teeth.

Rox could barely speak, Chris was constricting her throat so tightly. Grabbing her attacker's hands, she tried desperately to pry them loose as she started to lose consciousness from a lack of oxygen.

Realizing that Rox was about to go down, Chris relaxed the death lock on her throat and watched her slide down the wall to the floor.

"Answer me, bitch!" Chris screamed, standing over the defenseless woman.

"I ... I wwaas at Nikki aaand Jerri's. They invited me to dinner last night. I ... I fell asleep on their couch," Rox explained in a raspy voice.

"Liar!" Chris yelled as a booted foot landed against Rox's left side, doubling her over in pain. "You were screwing around with them, weren't you? I saw you kiss that bitch before you got out of the car. You whore!" Another boot to the side.

"No ... Ch...Chris, please," Rox tried to protest between gasps. "No..."

Chris reached down and grabbed Rox by the front of her shirt, pulling her back to her feet. Rox could barely stand, her side ached so badly. Slamming her back up against the wall, Chris got right into her face. "Don't you fucking lie to me, bitch ... You couldn't wait until I left, could you. I'll bet you've been there fucking their brains out for the last four days, haven't you? I've seen the way you look at them, Rox... don't you dare fucking lie to me!" came the accusations. "You didn't think I was home, did you? DID YOU!!! No ... You didn't see my car, so you thought it was safe. Well, I've got news for you, Miss High and Mighty ... my car is at the job site, broken down ... I had to catch a ride home with one of the guys yesterday because my girlfriend wasn't home to answer the god damned phone!" The last few words were said in a near scream as hatred and disgust poured from Chris' dark brown eyes.

Rox was terrified as tears poured from her eyes. She could hardly see straight through the pain in her side, her breathing came in painful gasps, her left arm held in a sling-like position at her side to guard her bruised ribs from further injury.

"Chrris... I've been h..home wr....writing since you've bbbeen gone ... except for last night," she tried to say through her tears.

Chris drew back and hit her across the face in a backhanded swing, sending her sprawling across the floor.

Rox curled up into a fetal position on the floor, protecting her ribs, as blood poured from her mouth and nose. "Oh god ... Oh god," she moaned as Chris attacked once more.

Reaching down, Chris grabbed her right wrist and twisted, lifting her off the floor in the same motion. An audible snap could be heard as Rox cried out in pain.

"Shut up, bitch, before the whole neighborhood hears you!" Chris shouted in her face.

Rox continued to cry.

"God damn it, I said shut up!" came the next command as Chris once more hauled back and punched her in the face. This time, she fell against the stairs leading to the second story, and hit her head on the newel post, knocking her unconscious.

CHAPTER XIII

JERRI'S WAS RELAXING in the ER lounge, enjoying her lunch, when her partner motioned her over. He was on the phone taking an emergency call from his dispatcher.

"What is it, Mike?" she asked.

"Domestic battering -- woman unconscious ... 1163 Oceanview Terrace. Let's go," he said.

Jerri thought she was going to lose her lunch. "Oh my god ... Rox," she said, recognizing the address.

Moments later, Jerri and Mike were on their way to the ocean. As Mike pulled up in front of the three-story Victorian, Jerri jumped out of the ambulance even before it had stopped, and was running up the steps to the house.

"Rox!" she called frantically, pushing her way through the policemen who where at the scene. "Rox," she said again as she threw herself to her knees on the floor next to her friend, who was obviously in shock. Looking up at the policeman closest to her, she said, "Get me a blanket, quickly."

Moments later, Mike arrived on the scene carrying their equipment from the ambulance. He looked at his partner with deep concern in his eyes. "You know her, don't you?" It was more of a statement than a question.

Jerri's eyes filled with tears as she looked at Mike, nodding her head yes. Looking back down at Rox, she reached over and cupped the side of her friend face with her hand. "Rox ... Rox, honey, can you hear me?" she asked.

Rox's eyes fluttered open and she tried desperately to smile as she saw her friend's face. "Jer," she said in a faint voice.

"Don't talk yet, sweetheart. Try to relax, we'll have you taken care of in no time," she said, tucking the blanket in around her friend as she and Mike went to work taking her vital signs.

Jerri noticed the bruises around Rox' neck. Four parallel lines on the left side, one line on the right. The attacker was right handed. The purple bruise around her left eye was further testimony to that fact, as was the split lip on the right side of Rox's mouth, which was consistent with a back handed blow from a right handed person. Chris was right handed.

Jerri reached under Rox's head and felt around. Rox moaned. The call from dispatch said that the victim had been found unconscious by the mailman. As suspected, she found a large lump on the back of her friend's head.

"Where was she found?" Jerri asked the police officer by her side.

"She was laying half on and half off the stairs right behind you," he replied, pointing to an obvious pool of blood on the bottom runner of the carpeted stairs.

The injury Jerri found on her friend's head was consistent with a potential impact with the newel post at the bottom of the stairway, and with the bloodstains found on the bottom runner.

"Jer, she's going into shock," Mike noted as Rox began to visibly shake.

Jerri turned her attention back to her friend. "Okay, we need to get her transported to the hospital as soon as possible. Mike, I'll need a c-collar and backboard, stat." As Mike ran to the ambulance to retrieve the requested items, Jerri leaned in close to Rox. "How are you doing, my friend?" she asked.

"My wrist ... ribs ... hurts to breath. I'm so cold," she muttered as Jerri looked at the large welts on the left side of her chest, then tucked another blanket around her.

"Rox, your body is going into shock." Lifting her head to look out the open front door, she called loudly to her partner, "Mike, bring a straight board and ace to secure her wrist." Turning back to Rox, she tried hard to smile as she assured her friend that she was safe. "We'll be on our way in no time, love. Hang in there, okay?"

"Chris ..." Rox whispered.

"Chris ... Chris did this to you, right?" Jerri said, trying her damnedest not to lose her temper in front of Rox. "Chris was here when you got home?" she asked, looking around an empty house. Chris obviously split after knocking Rox out. The bastard probably thought you were dead, my friend, Jerri thought.

Rox just nodded and allowed a single tear to escape her eye.

"Well, you're safe now, Rox. I'll be by your side the whole way, okay?"

Soon, Jerri and Mike had Rox strapped down to the backboard, her neck in the c-collar, and her head taped securely to the board. Jerri took special care to be careful of Rox's ribs as she tied her down, effectively immobilizing the injured woman for the ride to the hospital.

*  *  *

Nikki felt her pager vibrate as she was going on break. Stopping at the nearest phone, she checked the number and dialed the emergency room. She had a standing agreement with the dispatcher that she'd page Nikki whenever she knew Jerri was incoming with a patient. Depending on how much time they had, she liked to meet Jerri for a coffee before she headed back out, or at the very least, a quick trip into a broom closet for an impromptu make out session. Nikki smiled as she thought about how good the timing was ... it was rare that they actually had a real break together.

Mike backed the ambulance into the emergency room bay just as Nikki was coming through the swinging doors into Triage. Jerri spotted Nikki in the corner of her eye as they rushed the stretcher in, containing a very battered Rox. She quickly gave Rox's status to the attending physician, and then attempted to intercept her wife before she saw the condition their friend was in. Unfortunately, she was too late.

Nikki lunged forward when she saw the red-gold hair of the person on the stretcher. "Rox! Oh God no ... Rox!" she cried as Jerri grabbed her by the shoulders and pulled her in for an embrace, blocking her view of the battered woman..

"Nikki ... no -- you don't need to see her just yet ... she'll be all right," Jerri whispered into Nikki's ear as she fought to keep the smaller woman from looking over her shoulder at their friend.

"Jerri, please. She needs me!" Nikki cried, fighting against her much bigger and stronger wife. "Please let me go," she begged.

"Nikki, please don't fight me on this. Let them do their jobs, sweetheart," she said, pushing Nikki away from the scene.

Nikki continued to fight her. Finally, Jerri just took her by the arm and dragged her out of Triage and into the nurse's lounge. Sitting her in a chair, she placed her hands on the armrests and leaned in until her nose was within an inch of her wife's. Jerri looked into green eyes that were filled with such pain she had a difficult time composing herself.

"Nikki," she said, "Rox will be all right. As far as I could tell without X-rays, she has a broken wrist and maybe some fractured ribs ... possibly a concussion ... but she will be all right. Okay?"

Trying hard to fight back tears, Nikki nodded, then rested her forehead against Jerri's. Without looking at her wife, she said, "Chris?"

"Yes," Jerri said.

Nikki started to cry. "It's my fault," she said.

Jerri dropped to her knees in front of Nikki and took the smaller woman into her arms. "No, Nik. How can this be your fault?" she asked.

"I left her there, Jerri! Don't you see ... Chris must have been hiding in the house. The only car in the driveway was Rox's ... I didn't know!" she said between tears.

Nikki felt Jerri stiffen at that revelation. Sensing the change in her wife she pulled her head back and looked at the hard set of Jerri's face as the taller woman stood erect and started pacing. "Jerri?" she asked.

Jerri was clenching her jaw and her fists over and over, as she paced. "Nikki, you could have been in the house when all this happened. You could be out there lying next to Rox right now," she said, pointing to the door to Triage. "I'm going to kill that bastard, Nik. There will be no hiding from this. Chris will rue the day Rox hired the construction outfit that son of a bitch works for. Chris will not get away with this," she ranted, her voice becoming louder with each word she spoke.

Nikki rose to her feet and approached her wife, intercepting her pacing midstream. Taking her by both arms, she forced Jerri to look at her. "Now you listen to me. You are not going after Chris. I need you with me, not rotting away in some jail cell. Do you understand? Look, you want me to let the triage crew do their jobs - right? ... well then you let the police to theirs. Promise me, Jer," she demanded.

Jerri looked over Nikki's head at the wall behind her, a stubborn set to her jaw, her hands on her hips, refusing to meet Nikki's eyes.

Shaking her lightly, Nikki demanded an answer. "Promise me, Jerri!" she said forcefully. "Please," she added in a soft voice.

Jerri took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and lowered her chin to her chest. Dropping her hands from her hips, she wrapped them around Nikki and held her close. "All right, I promise," she whispered in her wife's ear.

"Thank you," Nikki whispered back. "Now do you think we can check on Rox?" she asked.

Jerri nodded her head and took Nikki's hand before heading back to Triage.

*  *  *

"We'll need a cross table and lateral c-spine x-ray, abdominal x-rays and chest films here. I don't like the looks of that bruising on her side ... oh, and a CAT scan of her head too," ordered the attending physician as he removed the c-collar from Rox's neck. "What's the name of the brick wall you ran into?" the doctor joked as he looked into Rox's bruised face. Being careful not to move her neck, he examined the bruising pattern on her throat before meeting Rox's eyes once more.

Rox was silent, knowing she would cry if she tried to speak. Her ribs were killing her. She was already in enough pain ... she didn't need to add more by sobbing.

"What's your name, young lady," the doctor asked as he replaced the collar.

"Roxanne Ward," she said in a voice just barely above a whisper.

"Well, Roxanne Ward, I'm Dr. Syverson. You want to tell me what happened?" he asked.

Rox started shaking her head, causing the doctor to reach out to stabilize it. "Don't move your head, okay? We need to see if there is any spinal damage in your neck first. The technician should be here in a moment to take you to x-ray. Now, I'll ask you again ... do you want to tell me what happened?"

"Rox!" Nikki exclaimed as she and Jerri approached Rox's bedside.

Rox's eyes darted to the left ... at least the eye she could open. Her left eye was nearly swollen shut from the impact of Chris' fist. Rox immediately teared up and reached out to Nikki with her left hand. Dr. Syverson took Jerri aside to ask her about the procedures done at the scene, giving Nikki and Rox a few moments of privacy.

Nikki reached over and touched the right side of Rox's face, cradling her bruised jaw in a tender caress. Making no attempt to hide her tears, she leaned over and kissed Rox on the unbruised side of her mouth. "I'm sorry," she whispered to her injured friend.

Rox's brow furrowed in a frown, not understanding why Nikki was apologizing.

"Roxanne Ward?" the x-ray technician said from the doorway.

Nikki turned to the man, wiping her tears away at the same time. "Right here," she said, calling the man over to Rox's stretcher.

Moments later, Rox was wheeled to x-ray, where the necessary films were taken. In no time, she was returned to the ER where she found Nikki still waiting for her.

"Where's Jer?" Rox asked as Nikki once again took her hand.

"She's gone on another call. Rox, Chris did this to you, right? Chris was waiting for you in the house ... Gods, Rox, I'm so sorry," she said, starting to cry again.

Rox squeezed Nikki's hand. "Nik, Chris did this, not you. You have nothing to be sorry for," she said through clenched teeth, fighting hard to ward off the pain in her side, jaw, and head.

"But I left you there, Rox," Nikki explained tearfully.

"Nik...." Rox began before Dr. Syverson interrupted her.

"Okay, while we're waiting for those films, let's take care of this gash near your eye," he said. Looking up at Nikki expectantly, he asked, "Are you here to help, or hinder?"

Shocked into action, Nikki replied, "To help, of course!"

"All right then," he said grinning. "We'll need to put a few sutures in this wound."

Nikki immediately went after the supplies needed to stitch the gash in Rox's face, returning moments later with suture materials and Lidocaine.

Rox took one look at the needle of Lidocaine and passed out.

Nikki smiled at her friend. "You big baby," she said, under her breath as she assisted Dr. Syverson with closing the wound.

"It shouldn't scar too much," the doctor said as he placed four tiny sutures along the length of the split. Glancing up at Nikki, he added, "You seem to know her. Do you have any ideas about what might have happened here?"

Nikki nodded. "She's my best friend," she said, her voice cracking. Taking a deep breath, she continued, "She lives with this asshole that brutalizes her whenever the mood is right ... which happens to be more and more frequently these days," she said sadly.

"Why doesn't she just leave?" the doctor asked, putting in the last stitch.

"I can't tell you how many times I've asked her that very question ... it's a long story," Nikki replied.

"Ah, excuse me, I'm looking for a Roxanne Ward," a voice said from the doorway.

Dr. Syverson looked up at the uniformed police officer standing there. "This is Roxanne Ward, but I'm afraid she won't be able to answer your questions right now," he said.

"All right then, are Mike Schmidt or Jerri Lockwood around? I understand they were the EMT's who responded to the domestic violence call?" he asked politely.

Hearing Jerri's name, Nikki stepped forward. "Jerri's my wi.... my friend, but she and Mike are on a call right now. They should be back soon if you'd like to wait in the lounge," Nikki said nervously. Damn, I almost blew it there, she thought. Nikki hated keeping her relationship with Jerri a secret, except from a select few, but Jerri preferred it that way ... it made things at work less complicated.

Rox's x-rays arrived just as Nikki was finishing up washing the blood from the red head's split lip.

"Okay, let's see here," Dr. Syverson said as he examined the films carefully. "Lungs look all right, however two of the ribs are fractured. No fluid buildup in the abdomen. No obvious fractures in the vertebrae. Good. Looks like she was lucky this time," he said, taking the films off the light board. "We will have to set and cast that wrist, though," he added, "... after the CAT scan."

Nikki cringed at the doctor's choice of words, 'she was lucky this time.' He's right, Rox. One of these times that maniac is going to kill you, she thought.

About an hour later, the CAT scan was done, and Rox was once again, returned to the ER until the final diagnosis was made. This time, Jerri was there waiting for her while Nikki returned to work. She had returned about a half hour earlier and met with the police officer waiting in the lounge to provide details of what they found at the scene. Jerri suggested that he return later to interview Rox.

Rox had finally regained consciousness after fainting at the sight of the Lidocaine needle, and smiled at her friend as they once again parked her in one of the examination rooms to wait. She felt miserable. Never before had her entire body hurt so much, not even after the whipping she had received earlier in the week. She was glad Jerri was with her. She hated hospitals. It reminded her that it wouldn't be long before her father would live out his final days here ... take his final breaths. Tears formed in her eyes at the prospect.

"Hey, I can ask for some painkillers for you if you'd like," Jerri said, leaning in close to her friend.

"Drugs? Drugs are good!" Rox replied fighting tears. She didn't know what it was about her tall friend, but when Nikki was around, all she wanted to do was cry and be held, but when Jerri was with her, she had this driving need to put on a brave front.

Jerri bent over her friend again and whispered in her ear, "You know, Rox, you can cry in front of me ... I won't tell, okay?" she said, grinning and winking conspiratorially at her friend.

Rox chuckled, grabbing her ribs in the process. "Oh gods, don't make me laugh," she said. After a moment, she caught her breath and looked up into the concerned face of her friend who was sitting in a chair to her left, resting her elbows on the edge of the gurney while she leaned forward.

Reaching up with her good hand, she touched the side of Jerri's face and said, "I'm sorry Jer. It's just that I'm so used to being the caretaker, its tough to be the one who needs taking care of. It feels so weak to cry," she tried to explain.

"I know. Nikki is such a girl when it comes to crying. Me on the other hand ... well, I avoid it when I can, but sometimes its necessary ... like now." she said softly, reaching across Rox's body to brush the bangs away from her friend's eyes, which were now closed.

Jerri watched Rox's face and played with her hair affectionately as she cried, tears escaping her closed lids and running down the sides of her face to spill over onto the bed.

"That's it, love, let it out, " Jerry cooed softly as she continued to run her fingers through Rox's hair. Rox grasped Jerri's other hand and squeezed it tightly as she cried.

Soon, the crying subsided as Rox took a semi-deep breath, gasping at the pain in her side.

"Feel better?" Jerri asked.

Rox nodded.

"Good," came the reply as they were interrupted by the orthopedic surgeon.

"Okay, I understand we have a wrist to set," he said, looking at the patient lying on the gurney.

Jerri followed them into the cast room and held Rox tightly as they first numbed and then set the wrist. Rox came right off the gurney as the pushed and prodded the bones back into place, screaming out in pain during the procedure. Finally, the fiberglass cast was applied, with Rox insistence that all of her fingers and her thumb remain as free moving as possible. After all, she still had a book to write, and a dead line that wouldn't wait the six weeks she would have to wear the cast.

Finally, they returned to the ER where Dr. Syverson was waiting for them with the results of the CAT scan.

"Okay, you have a small subdural hematoma beneath the skull, near the point of impact. It's minor, but the risk remains for a cerebral hemorrhage or embolism. Several days of complete bed rest should take care of it ... most of which can be done at home ...," he said, seeing the panicked look on Rox's face at the mention of several days in bed, "... as long as you have help," he added.

"She has help," Jerri said immediately, drawing a teary smile from her friend.

"Good. I would like to keep you overnight for observation. If things look good in the morning, we'll release you and send you home. Okay?" he said.

Rox just nodded and thanked the doctor as he left the ER, saying that a nurse would be by shortly to escort her to her room.

CHAPTER XIV

CASS RAN FROM her car to the terminal, cursing herself for leaving her umbrella at home, and cursing the weatherman for a bad prediction of the morning weather. Now I'm gonna have to sit in that cockpit in damp clothes for next few hours, she grumbled to herself as she shook the excess rain off her clothing once inside the terminal.

"Nice day for travel, huh?" a voice laced with sarcasm said to her right as she stood at the control desk filing her flight plan. Glancing over, she saw her co-pilot, Brian Anderson, standing there, also a little damp around the edges.

"Forgot your umbrella too, huh Brian?" she asked chuckling.

"Damned weather man couldn't predict rain while standing in the middle of a thunder shower!" he exclaimed irritably.

"God, I hate to fly in this kind of weather," Cass said, handing the paperwork over to the flight controller. Looking at Brian again, she asked, "Have they loaded the cargo yet?"

"Just about done," he said. "You know, Cass, these goodwill missions are starting to wear thin. All cargo and few passengers. Not a lot of action on board, if you know what I mean," he said, winking at his ranking officer. Brian was tall, dark and handsome and considered himself to be a real lady's man, but for the life of him, he couldn't figure out why Cass wasn't interested. "But then, if I could just convince you to take the bait....." he said grinning, leaving the rest of the sentence hanging.

Cass reached up and patted the side of Brian's face. "In your dreams, Brian," she said, before turning and heading out to the runway.

Brian threw his hands up and whined, "Awww, come on, Cass. How can you resist this handsome face?" he said, half in jest.

Cass was very tempted to spill the beans, but decided against it. The fewer people that knew, the fewer questions she would have to field. "Let's just say, you're not my type, and leave it at that, okay?" she said over her shoulder as they dashed from the terminal to the plane.

Brian boarded the plane before Cass did, and went directly to the cockpit to start entering their flight information into the computer that controlled the auto pilot, while Cass checked the cargo status with the rest of the flight crew. As she climbed the last two steps and boarded the plane, she was met by Ginny, the attendant from her flight to Veracruz the previous week. Stopping just inside the entryway, she looked at the woman and smiled.

"Hi," she said, smiling broadly.

"Hi yourself, Captain Conway," Ginny replied.

"Cass ... call me Cass," she corrected, thanking the flight attendant for the towel she handed to her to wipe off the excess rain.

"Cass ..." Ginny repeated.

"I missed you on last week's flight home. I trust things are all right with your family?" Cass asked sincerely.

Ginny smiled. "Yes, thank you. My Mom rushed Dad to the hospital with chest pains ... turned out to be heartburn," she explained, blushing slightly under Cass' gaze.

Cass reached out and placed her hand on the woman's arm. "Good. I'm glad things worked out," she said as she turned to head to the cockpit.

"Ah ... Captain, could I get you anything once we're airborne?" Ginny asked hopefully.

Cass smiled disarmingly. "Coffee would be great," she answered.

"Black, right?" Ginny asked, raising her eyebrows innocently.

"Black," Cass said, answering with her own dancing eyebrows.

Cass stood there for a moment watching Ginny's hips sway back and forth through the tight dress as she walked away. With an uncomfortable ache in her groin, she turned away and entered the cockpit.

Cass old buddy, old pal ... we are gonna score tonight! Enforcer said with glee.

*  *  *

"Flight 203, you are cleared for take off," came the crackly voice over the radio.

"Well it's about time," Brian complained as Cass taxied the plane into takeoff position.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking," Cass said into the microphone to the small group of passengers on board. "We have been cleared for takeoff. Please be sure that your seat belts are fastened securely and that the trays in the seat in front of your are locked in their upright position. Be advised that when flying through a storm we will expect to hit a little turbulence, and highly recommend that your seat belt remain fastened throughout the flight or at the very least, while the seat belt sign above your heads is illuminated. The flight attendant will review safety and evacuation procedures with you in the unlikely event of an emergency. As always, thank you for flying Southern Lights Airline and have a nice flight."

"Th...th...th...that's all folks!" Brian said in his best Porky Pig voice.

"Let's Rock and Roll, kiddies!" Cass added as she opened the jet engines to full throttle and propelled the airplane down the runway. Within moments, they were airborne.

The ascent into the clouds was a rocky one. The 737 was considered a mid-sized plane and not as immune to the turbulence caused by storm fronts as the larger jumbo jets were. Soon, however, they were at a safe altitude above the storm, dramatically increasing the comfort level of the ride. When they were finally at cruising altitude, Cass turned control of the plane over to Brian, and left the cabin to use the ladies' room. Coming out of the washroom, she ran into Ginny.

"Captain," Ginny said shyly as she prepared the snack cart.

"Hi," Cass replied.

The two ladies stood there for a few seconds in awkward silence. Shifting from foot to foot, Cass finally spoke. "Ah ... Ginny, Would you be interested in having dinner with me when we land in Durango?" she asked.

Ginny smiled and reached up to push an errant lock of hair behind her ear. "I'd be happy to, captain," she replied.

"Cass. Please, call me Cass," she reminded the flight attendant again as she reached forward and pushed that same errant lock of hair away from Ginny's face.

Flustered at the almost intimate gesture, Ginny giggled and blushed.

"All right then," Cass continued. Knowing the airline would have booked the entire crew in the same hotel, she asked which room she was staying in.

"304," replied Ginny.

"304. Okay. I'll pick you up at ... 6:00 p.m. Is that all right?" asked Cass.

"6:00 p.m. is fine, cap ... I mean Cass. I'll see you then," she replied.

"I'm looking forward to it," added Cass.

"Me too." Ginny said.

The two women stood there awkwardly again, just looking at each other for a few moments. Finally, Ginny excused herself. "I ... I've got to get back to the passengers. Until tonight?" she asked.

"Tonight," Cass replied, heading back to the cockpit, very proud of herself.

Settling back down into her seat, Cass checked on the weather conditions on route to Durango and realized that they were in for a bumpy ride. It appeared that the west coast from Washington, through Central America was being hit by a severe storm front, and that they were about to fly into the worst of it.

About an hour into the flight, they hit an especially bad patch of turbulence which rocked the mid-sized plane side to side.

"Shit!" Cass exclaimed. "Why they insist we fly in weather like this is beyond me," she commented out loud.

"Anything for the almighty dollar, Cass," Brian said.

Cass reached for the microphone. "Ladies and gentlemen. Please fasten your seat belts and stow away all loose pieces of luggage, we are experiencing turbulence at this time," she said before clicking off the microphone and hanging it back up. "God damned weather!" she exclaimed as the plane was tossed around.

Suddenly, a loud crash was heard as the plane shuddered and dropped slightly in altitude.

"What the fuck!?" Brian exclaimed.

Quickly checking the controls, Cass determined that they had indeed lost altitude, and that one of the rudder controls was not functioning. "Shit!" she exclaimed. "I think we've been hit!"

"Hit? You mean by lightning?" Brian asked stupidly.

"Of course by lightning ... what else could we hit up here, a UFO?" she said sharply, suddenly thinking of Rox. "Damn!" she added before reaching for the microphone. As far as she could tell, the closest airport was in San Diego. "Okay, Cass, don't panic," she told herself as the door to the cockpit flew open.

"What happened!" shouted a very upset Ginny.

"We've been struck by lighting, Ginny, make sure the passengers are secure," Cass instructed. Ginny stood there, immobilized.

"Now!" Cass shouted as Ginny turned and left the cockpit in a hurry.

"Brian, hold her as steady as you can," Cass said as she reached for the microphone and switched the radio over to the emergency channel.

"Jesus Christ, Cass ... Jesus Christ!" was all Brian could say as he struggled to keep the plane level.

"Mayday, mayday. This is flight 203 out of San Jose, California on route to Durango, Mexico. We have been struck by lightning. I repeat, we have been struck by lightning," Cass said in a voice much calmer than she felt.

"Flight 203, this is the San Diego airport, we have you on radar, please state your condition," the radio crackled.

Cass closed her eyes and thanked the gods. "We are losing altitude and rudder control. As far as I can tell, we have been hit on our right wing section," she said, looking out the window on Brian's side of the plane and seeing ragged pieces of metal where the wing tip used to be. Suddenly, another jolt hit the plane, causing it to drop sharply. Cass dropped the microphone and grabbed the controls, helping Brian to stabilize the plane. Afraid to release the controls for any length of time, Cass quickly switched the microphone onto the speaker box so that she could talk without using her hands.

"Flight 203, we show a sudden drop in altitude. What is your condition," the radio crackled again.

"We've been hit again, San Diego," Cass said. Checking out the controls, she realized they had very little control over the steering. "Looks like ...."

In the middle of her explanation, the cockpit door swung open again, admitting a panicked Ginny. "Oh my god, Cass, we're going to die!" she screamed.

"God damn it Ginny. You're supposed to be seeing to the passengers. Now pull yourself together and get your ass out there!" she shouted to the woman. Once again, Ginny turned and left.

"San Diego," Cass said, getting back to her damage report. "We have lost directional control. It appears we have been hit again, this time on our tail fin." she explained.

"Flight 203, you are approximately 90 Miles north of the San Diego airport. If you can continue along this flight path and maintain your altitude, your arrival time should be approximately 20 minutes," came the crackle. "We are preparing emergency crews for a potential crash landing."

"On a wing and a prayer, we'll make it" Cass said under her breath. Turning to Brian, she said, "Okay, Brian, we need to hold her as steady as possible. All we need is twenty minutes."

Reaching up, Cass switched on the microphone to the airplane's passenger cabin. "Folks, this is your captain, speaking. As I'm sure you are aware, we have been hit by lightning. We have radioed the airport in San Diego and are now flying with that destination in mind. I ask that you remain as calm as possible, and to stay seated and securely belted into your seats. In the event of a crash landing, you will be instructed to remain seated and to lower your head into your laps, wrapping your arms around your legs. In the event of an ocean landing, your seat cushions can be used as flotation devices. Our estimated time of arrival is 20 minutes. Once again, please remain calm. We will do our best to land the plane as safely as possible. Thank you."

Taking a deep breath, Cass looked over at an ashen faced Brian, who was holding onto his controls with white knuckles. He glanced at her and smiled nervously. "We're gonna make it, right Cass?" he asked hopefully.

"We're certainly going to try Brian," she said.

Fifteen minutes later, they were making their descent into the San Diego airport.

"So far, so good," Cass said as she reached for the landing gear. Nothing happened. "Shit!" she exclaimed. "No landing gear. God damn it!" she shouted. Reaching once again for the radio, she reported their latest failure. "San Diego, this is flight 203. We have landing gear failure. I repeat, we have landing gear failure. Please be prepared for a crash landing."

"We read you, flight 203. Emergency preparations underway," came the voice from the radio.

Cass stared straight ahead spotting the airport in the distance. "Okay, Brian. We need to take her in easy. She's going to slide in on her belly, so we'll need to reduce speed as much as possible without allowing the nose to drop, okay?" Cass instructed, seeing her co-pilot nod nervously. Once more, Cass switched on the microphone to the passenger cabin. "Folks, this is your captain speaking. Unfortunately, we have landing gear failure, so a crash landing will be necessary. Again, I ask you to remain calm, and securely belted into your seats with your head in your laps and arms wrapped around your legs. Please do so now, and remain that way until the plane comes to a safe stop. Flight attendants please take your seats and prepare for the landing."

Cass' heart was in her throat as she watched the airport become larger and larger as they approached. She reduced their speed dramatically to the point where she felt like they were floating above the ground, while she struggled to help Brian keep the nose pointed slightly upward. Closer and closer they came ... slower and slower the plane flew ... almost drifting toward the runway. Finally, the tail end of the plane touched the ground as the friction caused by the contact threw them all forward in their seats. The force was so great, that it propelled Cass into the control panel in front of her, causing a deep gash above her right eye before whipping her backward into her seat once more.

The plane shuddered as the entire belly made contact with the ground, rolling the plane side to side. What was left of the wing tips alternately hit the ground, breaking off in pieces and scattering all over the runway. Momentum propelled the plane forward, counteracted only by the friction of metal against concrete as the giant bird slid along the runway on its belly through the foam that the emergency crews had spread moments earlier to prevent the plane from igniting into flames.

An eternity later, near the end of the runway, the plane came to a stop. An eerie silence filled the interior as the passengers looked at each other, amazed that they were still alive. Cass and Brian both remained in their seats, hands glued to the controls, looking straight ahead for long moments. Finally, a collective sigh of relief was released as a cheer rose from the passenger cabin.

The cockpit door flew open, and a very ruffled Ginny entered, tears running down her cheeks as she hugged and kissed Cass, and then Brian. Moments later, the emergency crews began evacuating the plane. Cass insisted on remaining on board until all the passengers had been safely removed, assisting in rescue efforts as much as possible. Several times, she brushed off attempts by the paramedics to look at the gash above her eye, until all of the passengers had disembarked. By the time she did allow treatment, she had blood all over the right side of her face and shoulder.

The moment her feet reached the ground, she was surrounded by TV crews, each one vying for an interview, while the paramedics finally forced her to sit still long enough to tend to the cut on her forehead. It was nearly 5:00 p.m. by the time the crew was debriefed by airport officials, and a special flight arranged to fly them all back to San Jose.

CHAPTER XV

"NIKKI, THAT ISN'T necessary," Rox said to her friend who was sitting on the side of her hospital bed.

"Yes it is. Dr. Syverson said you could go home tomorrow if you had help. Now, either you accept it, or you stay here. Your choice," Nikki said to her stubborn friend.

"Nik!" Rox whined.

"Don't you, 'Nik' me! Jerri and I discussed it and we both agree. If you won't come to stay with us, then we're moving in with you until you're able to take care of yourself," Nikki explained quite matter-of-factly.

Rox looked at Jerri who was leaning with her backside against the windowsill.

"Don't look for any sympathy from me, Rox. I agree with Nikki," Jerri said.

Rox threw her good hand up into the air. "I can't win with you two, can I?" she complained.

Nikki leaned in and kissed Rox on the cheek. "No you can't, so get over it. Jerri and I have both arranged to take the day off tomorrow. We'll be by early to get you. Okay?" she said, rising to her feet.

"All right. I guess I don't have any choice, do I?" she said in mock indignation.

"No you don't. Now scoot down there so I can tuck you in," Nikki commanded as Jerri chuckled from her seat on the windowsill.

Nikki is such a mother hen, the taller woman thought as she watched her wife take care of their friend. Walking over to Rox's bedside, she too leaned in and kissed the red head. "Sleep well, girlfriend. The nurse should be by soon to give you something to help you sleep. We'll be here bright and early tomorrow, okay?"

Rox nodded her head to her friend, trying hard not to cry. She felt like such a big baby. It was times like this when she wished she had her own Jerri ... someone who would hold her and comfort her while she cried ... someone who would chase away her doubts and fears ... someone who would make love feel good, not painful. Someone ... someday.

"I love you guys, Rox said as a tear rolled down her cheek.

"We love you too, sweetie," Nikki said from the doorway. Jerri smiled her concurrence. "We'll see you in the morning."

Nikki and Jerri passed the night nurse on their way out. Soon, the meds kicked in and Rox fell into a restless sleep.

*  *  *

Rox awoke in the middle of a forest. Sitting upright, she looked around and saw that she was alone, however, the camping gear and bedrolls indicated that there should be someone else there with her. Rising to her feet, she looked down at herself and noticed that she was wearing leather trousers, tucked into knee high boots, a long white muslin shirt with billowy sleeves, cuffed at the wrists and a large pointed collar, and a sash that circled her waist twice and tied at the side. Looking around, she found a couple of well worn cloaks, one much longer than the other, and a sword approximately two feet long with a black and gold handle, inlaid with milky white stones.

This all looks so familiar, she thought to herself as she walked around the campsite.

Suddenly, in the distance, she heard a moan. She stopped and strained to listen. The moan came again, this time louder. Following the sound, she soon came upon a figure laying on the ground, moaning in pain. Reaching down, Rox turned the person over and realized that it was a dark haired woman. The woman wore leather trousers, boots, a shirt made of muslin with long billowy sleeves that cuffed at the wrists, much like her own, and held together loosely with thin leather laces, and a leather vest. An empty sheath was attached to her side by a leather belt around her waist.

Brushing the hair off the woman's face, Rox soon realized that there was a deep gash above her right eye. Tearing off a piece of her shirt, she went to a nearby stream and soaked the material, returning to the injured woman to cleanse the wound. As she was washing away the blood, the woman stirred.

"Rox," the woman said.

Roxanne was startled that the woman knew her name.

"Do I know you?" she asked the injured woman.

"We have only met in our hearts, however we have spent many lifetimes together," the woman replied.

Thinking the woman was delirious from her injury, Rox ignored her strange ramblings and asked how she had injured herself.

"I fell from the sky," the woman replied.

Rox suddenly awoke, sitting up in bed so quickly that a dizzy spell overtook her, forcing her to lie back down for fear of toppling over and onto the floor. Placing her good hand on her forehead she breathed deeply until her heart beat returned to normal.

Fell from the sky? Rox said to herself as she tried to remember her dream.

Moments later, she succumbed once more to the medication and fell into a deep sleep.

*  *  *

Cass' plane landed in San Jose at nearly 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening. What had started out as a routine two day flight into Mexico, turned into a nightmare of the nth degree. In the ten years that Cass had been flying, she had never had to crash land a plane, until today. Sure, it was a required exercise in simulated flight training, but most pilots lived a life time without having to actually go through it. It was an experience that left her shaken to the depths of her soul.

As in San Diego, the airport was mobbed with reporters and TV crews, all wanting to get a first hand account of the crash landing, and to do an interview with Cass, who had quickly become a local hero. Cass was basically a private person, and all this publicity was giving her a headache. After trying to push her way through the throng of people for 20 minutes, she finally realized that the fastest way to get out of there was to do the interview ... only then, would they leave her alone. Ten minutes later, after each of the local TV stations had taped the common interview, they graciously allowed her to leave.

As she was heading out to her car, she heard a woman's voice calling her from behind. "Cass ... Cass ... wait up!"

Cass turned around to see Ginny heading toward her. After the day's harrowing experience and Ginny's lack of common sense during the crisis, Cass didn't feel much like entertaining the blonde. Besides, her head was killing her and the stitches in her forehead ached and itched. To top it all off, she was still wearing her blood stained uniform, and she desperately needed a shower.

"Hi Ginny," she said, stopping to wait for the flight attendant.

"Hi. Are you still interested in dinner?" she asked hopefully.

"Ginny, after today's flight, all I want to do is go home, shower, and climb into bed," she replied.

"Sounds like a plan to me!" Ginny replied happily.

"Alone ..." Cass added, seeing the disappointment on the woman's face. "Look, I'm sorry Ginny, but my head is killing me, and I need to sleep. Some other time maybe?" she asked.

Obviously disappointed, Ginny pouted and nodded her head.

"All right then, goodnight," Cass said as she walked to her car and climbed in.

Ten minutes later, she was walking through her condo, stripping off her clothes and discarding them wherever they happen to fall on her way to the shower. Standing under the spray, she finally released the nervous tension that had built up since that first lightning strike as realization of her own mortality came rushing in. No Cass, you're not going to live forever, E explained. We could have died today, if it wasn't for your piloting skills. Girl, life is too short to go on living it alone. Whaddaya say we do something about that? Let's e-mail the chick from Maine and ask her to marry us. Okay?

Cass chuckled to herself at the boldness of her alter ego. Oh, E, if it were just that easy, Cass thought as she rinsed the soap and blood out of her hair. I will e-mail her though. Hopefully, she has had time to respond to my last two posts, she thought as she reached out and shut off the water.

Moments later, feeling much better after her shower, a freshly bathed Cass sat in front of her computer waiting impatiently for it to boot up. After the computer had finally booted, she initiated the dial-up connection to log onto the Internet. After three failed attempts to connect, she called the 24-hour user help line and learned that her Internet server was down, and was not expected to be back up for several hours. Slamming the phone down in the cradle, she shut the computer down and stomped off to bed.

*  *  *

Rox was up and dressed long before Nikki and Jerri arrived to drive her home. The doctor had already come in and examined her, proclaiming her well enough to go home as long as she had help around the house for the next few days. She was given strict orders to remain in bed and to get plenty of rest. Sitting back against the array of pillows, she waited, surfing through the channels of the TV with the remote control. Just as she began to take interest in a newscast about a downed airplane in San Diego, she was interrupted by a police officer at the door.

"Miss Ward?" the officer asked politely.

Clicking off the TV, Rox turned to the officer and replied. "Yes. What can I do for you officer?"

"Miss Ward, I'm Officer Richmond, and I'm following up on the domestic abuse report we received yesterday from emergency room personnel. May I have a few moments of your time?" he asked.

"Yes, of course. Please have a seat," she said nervously, directing him to a chair by her bedside.

"Miss Ward, Do you live at 1163 Oceanview Terrace?" he asked.

"Yes, I do," she responded.

"And were you assaulted in your home yesterday by a one Chris Dalton?" came the next question as the officer read the name from his notepad.

Roxanne hemmed and hawed. "Ah ... ah ... I wouldn't exactly say assaulted. Yes, we argued," she said, quickly making up a story, "but assault is a little strong," she replied, not meeting the officer's eyes.

"Miss Ward, your injuries are consistent with domestic violence. We have reason to believe Dalton assaulted you." he charged.

Rox became indignant. "Officer Richmond, we argued ... okay? We were at the top of the stairs ... Chris grabbed me ... I pulled away and lost my balance, falling down the stairs. That is what happened." she lied.

"Miss Ward, are you saying that you don't want to press charges against Dalton?" Officer Richmond asked.

"That's exactly what I'm saying," Rox answered.

Officer Richmond looked at her for several long moments before he took a deep breath and said. "All right then, I guess I'm finished here." Standing, he closed the small notebook he was writing in, and slipped it, along with him pen, in his shirt pocket. Picking his hat up from the bedside table, he looked back and Rox and said, "Miss Ward, if you suddenly remember any new information, please call the precinct and ask for Officer Doug Richmond. All right?"

Rox looked down at the broken hand lying in her lap. "All right, thank you," she said in a small voice.

"Have a good day," Officer Richmond said as he left the room, passing Nikki and Jerri on his way out.

"Hey there, love," Nikki said, planting herself on the side of Rox's bed and kissing her friend on the cheek. "How are you feeling this morning?"

Rox didn't meet Nikki's eyes, but continued to stare at her broken wrist. "Fine," she mumbled.

Nikki lifted Rox's chin to force eye contact. "Roxie, what's wrong?" she asked.

Jerri, who had remained in the doorway watching the police officer walk down the hall, answered for her. "You told him it was an accident, didn't you Rox?"

Roxanne shook her chin free of Nikki's hand and looked down once more without answering.

Jerri threw her arms up into the air. "Well that's great! Just great! God damn it, Rox, why are you protecting that asshole?" she asked angrily.

"My father..." Roxanne began.

Jerri was at the foot of Rox's bed in two large steps. "NO! I don't want to hear about how you're protecting your father, Roxanne. How about protecting yourself for a change, huh?" she said loudly, leaning over the bed to make her point.

"Jerri, honey, please calm down," Nikki said to her wife, then turning to Roxanne, she added, "Is that right, Rox? Did you tell the police it was an accident?"

Rox closed her eyes and deposited several tears onto her cheeks as she nodded her head yes.

Nikki looked up at Jerri, who raised her eyebrows in an 'I told you so' gesture. Taking a quick breath, Nikki closed her eyes and dropped her chin to her chest, bringing her right hand up to massage her forehead. "Roxie ..." she began.

"Look, I know you mean well, and I love you both for it, but it's my life, okay? Now please ... I just want to go home," Roxanne said through pitiful tears.

Nikki stood up beside the bed. "All right," she said in a voice laced with defeat. "Let's go."

*  *  *

The ride to Rox's house was quiet and heavy with tension. Jerri drove as Nikki sat sideways in the seat beside her, constantly looking into the back seat at a very solemn Rox. Rox spent most of the drive looking out the side window, avoiding her friend's knowing looks.

As they stepped into the large open entryway, Rox turned to her friends and said, "Look, I really appreciate what you're willing to do for me, but it isn't necessary for you to stay."

"We're staying, Rox," Jerri said. "Nikki's already arranged for the week off to take care of you ... now I don't want to hear another word about it, okay?" Grabbing the two suitcases that she and Nikki had brought along, she headed up the stairs to settle into one of the guest rooms.

"Come on ... let's go make a pot of coffee before we tuck you into bed," Nikki suggested as she steered Rox into the kitchen. "Rox, please don't be angry with her ... she just cares about you so much ... she's just trying to protect you," Nikki said, trying to explain her wife's angry behavior.

Sitting heavily into one of the kitchen chairs, Rox placed her broken wrist gingerly on the table and sighed. "I know, but I ... damn it, Nik. He only has a few months left to live. It will be all over then ... I promise," she said.

Nikki walked over to her friend and wrapped her arms around her, pulling Rox's head in to rest just above her breasts. Placing a long firm kiss on Rox's head, she said, "Honey, you don't have to let your father's death signal the start of your life. Sweetheart, if he only knew you were living in such pain, he'd be the first to tell you to escape from it ... he'd be the first to kick Chris' ass. Rox, if you want your father to die happy, then let him die with the knowledge that you are truly happy, not living under a facade of happiness."

Roxanne wrapped her good arm around Nikki's waist and hugged her tight, finally allowing the deluge of emotions to escape the prison she had confined them to. Her body shuddered as the sobbed into her friend's embrace. Suddenly, she felt another pair of arms wrap around her as Jerri joined the fray, holding the two women who meant the most to her in her life.

Several moments later, Rox broke the embrace, feeling silly for acting like a helpless child. Wiping her eyes, she started to rise. "I've got to pick up the mail ... get the paper," she began.

"Sit, I'll get it," Jerri said as she pushed her smaller friend back into the chair, then went to gather the mail and newspaper that were in a heap on the living room floor from being shoved through the mail slot in the front door. Returning to the kitchen, she threw the mail on the table, then unfolded the paper and laid it flat in front of Rox.

Rox began to scan the headlines . "Boeing 737 Crash Lands In San Diego," the banner read.

"Hey! This was on the morning news while I was waiting for your two this morning," Rox said as she continued to scan the article. "Southern Lights Airline, flight 203, crash landed in San Diego yesterday afternoon, after being struck twice by lightning. The plane was on route to Durango, Mexico from San Jose, to deliver much needed medical supplies to the drought-stricken area. Airport officials attribute the safety of the flight crew and passengers to the skillful flying of pilot Cass Conway ... Oh my god!! Cass!!" Rox exclaimed, suddenly becoming dizzy and sick to her stomach. "Oh my god!!" she said again.

Nikki placed a cup of coffee in front of Rox and continued reading the article while Jerri rubbed her back, trying to calm her down. "Airport officials attribute the safety of the flight crew and passengers to the skillful flying of pilot Cass Conway, who was forced to land the plane without landing gear. Witnesses say the plane gracefully slid onto the runway, gliding several hundred yards, rolling side to side while pieces of the wings broke off and scattered afield. The plane came to a graceful stop near the end of the runway. Captain Conway refused to exit the plane, and refused medical help for a deep gash on the forehead, until all of the passengers had safely disembarked."

Nikki put the paper down on the table and looked at Rox. "Wow! Looks like your Captain Conway is a hero!" she said. "Are you okay, Rox?" she added, seeing the ashen look to her friend's face.

Rox just stared at the paper on the table, nodding her head. Finally, she looked at Nikki and then Jerri. "I have to get on-line," she said. "I need to send him an e-mail."

"Rox ... you're supposed to be resting," Nikki said, "not spending hours on the 'net."

"I won't spend hours. Nikki, I've got to do this. He almost died! I want him to know that I'm thinking about him," she said, and that I'm proud of him, her mind finished.

"Come on ... I'll help you navigate the stairs," Jerri said as she reached to help her friend up.

"Jer!!!" Nikki whined, exasperated with her friend and her wife.

"Nik, if it were me in that situation, wouldn't you do the same?" Jerri asked, immediately deflating Nikki's balloon.

Nikki just frowned, knowing she was defeated. "All right ... all right," she said. "But you're going to bed right after that, okay?" she said pointedly to Rox.

"Okay," Rox agreed. "I'll sleep on the hide-a-bed in my office," she added.

"Ah! What am I going to do with you?" Nikki exclaimed throwing her hands up.

Jerri and Rox tried hard to hide their grins as they made their way to the stairs.

"Well, its already noon. You have one hour, then I'm bringing lunch up to you. You got it?!" Nikki exclaimed as she watched her wife and best friend head for the stairs. "Kids today ..." she said under her breath as she went to work finding something for lunch.

*  *  *

"Oh my god ... did someone get the name of the guy that ran over me yesterday?" Cass mumbled to herself as she struggled to sit up in bed. Every bone and muscle in her body hurt. "Gee, it feels like I was in a plane wreck," she said sarcastically. Her legs hurt worst of all. Must be when I braced them on impact, she said to herself.

Cass, do you realize your talking to yourself again? Enforcer asked.

E, I've decided to live life to the fullest. After that fiasco yesterday, I really don't give a damn if I talk to myself or not anymore. At least I'm alive, she replied.

Just as she managed to maneuver her feet onto the floor, the telephone rang. Reaching over to pick up the offending object from the night stand, she brought it to her ear. "Hello?" she said.

"Cassidy Conway, I'm gonna kick your ass from here to kingdom come! Damn it, young lady! Why didn't you call me last night when you got in. For Christ's sake ... I pick up the morning paper, and there, across the headlines it says, 'Local Hero, Cass Conway Crash Lands Plane Safely'. Roger nearly had to pick me up off the floor after I read that! What have you got to say for yourself?" the voice said.

"Good morning to you too, Ang," Cass said dryly.

"I'll good morning you! You get your ass dressed and over here to the diner this instant - do you hear me? I need to see for myself that you're all right." Angie insisted.

"Can I take a shower first? It seems like my muscles aren't cooperating today," she commented, mirth filling her voice.

"I'm glad you think this is funny! You've got one hour. I'll have today's special waiting for you, all right?" Angie asked.

Cass smiled to herself. "All right Angie. One hour."

An hour later, Cass was sitting at her usual table, head in her hands, waiting patiently, as she got her ass reamed out for the second time that morning. Angie paced back and forth in front of her table, her hands flailing, as she vented her anger at the young woman. Finally, she stopped in front of the table, hands on her hips and said, "Well?"

Cass looked up sheepishly. Sitting back in her chair, she threw her hands up and exclaimed, "All right, Ang. You're right. I should have called. I'm sorry. The next time I have to crash-land a plane, I'll call you, okay?" she asked.

Feeling somewhat vindicated, Angie softened. "All right ... you remember that. Now, as soon as you're done your breakfast, I want you to tell me about this feat of yours that has earned you hero status, okay?"

Smiling, Cass said, "Yes, Mommy. Can I eat now?"

Angie swatted Cass on the arm, causing the younger woman to grasp it and howl out in mock pain.

Angie swatted her again. "There's another one for good measure!" she said before heading to the kitchen for Cass' breakfast.

Cass just grinned and watched her go.

CHAPTER XVI

THE TRIP UP two flights of stairs took more out of Rox than she cared to admit. Jerri sat her down at the terminal and booted up the computer for her as she caught her breath. While Rox logged onto the 'net, Jerri went over and pulled the hide-a-bed out of the couch, then descended the stairs one flight to the linen closet in the second floor bathroom to retrieve clean bed sheets and a blanket. Returning to the attic, she made the bed while keeping watch over Rox out of the corner of her eye.

Rox was massaging her ribs with her uninjured hand as she waited for the dial-up network to connect.

"Are you all right, Rox?" Jerri asked.

Rox nodded, not taking her eyes off the monitor. "Ribs ache ... I'll be fine," she said.

Finally she was in. Selecting "Netscape Communicator", she went directly to new mail. It had been Wednesday afternoon since she had last checked her mail, and here it was Friday morning. Rox sat patiently as the system retrieved a total of seven new messages for her ... two of them from Cass. Bypassing the other five, she went directly to Cass' first note.

"Hi Rox,

I really enjoyed our chat session too. I couldn't believe how fast the time flew. I hope I didn't keep you up too late.

I'm sorry to hear that you don't have someone to discuss your work with more often. I find science fiction so captivating and stimulating. I can't imagine why someone wouldn't want to discuss it -- especially with a talented writer such as yourself.

So, you want a description of me, huh? Okay, I hope I don't disappoint you. I'm nearly six feet tall, relatively slim, somewhat muscular from working out and from Taekwondo (I earned my black belt a few months ago). I have dark hair and blue eyes. That's about it. I'm attaching a scanned photo of myself and my co-pilot so you can see for yourself. If you need to know more, just let me know.

I too would like to chat with you again. I am finding myself very enchanted with you, Roxanne Ward. You invade my thoughts at the oddest moments. It is a welcome invasion, mind you. I have not had any real companionship since the woman I was seeing passed away nearly three years ago. I have guarded my heart relatively close since. It seems good for it to be invaded again.

Well, I'm on my way to dinner, so I will bid you adieu for now.

I am looking forward to chatting with you again. Please let me know when it is convenient for you.

Cass"

Roxanne sat stunned as she read the note. He's enchanted with me? she asked herself, feeling her heart flip-flop in her chest. Tall, dark, blue eyes. Wow, sounds like a dream come true. God, it looks like he's had a pretty rough life though. His companion passed away three years ago. I wonder if he loved her? Such were the thoughts running through Rox's head as she scrolled to the attached photograph.

"Wow, he is good looking!" Rox exclaimed, looking at a picture of a tall, dark haired man in a pilot's uniform, posing with an attractive woman, also dressed in flight blues. Hmmm, she's quite attractive too. I wonder if they have a history? she thought.

Jerri couldn't resist taking a look at the mystery man. Walking over to Rox, she looked over her shoulder and said, "Yeah, he's good looking all right, but I'm kind of partial to the lovely lady with him."

"You would!" exclaimed Rox, lightly elbowing her friend in the stomach. "You'd better not let Nikki hear you say that ... you'll be sleeping on the couch for a week!"

Jerri laughed. "Fat chance of that happening. She can't resist my beauty and charm!"

"Oh Pluuuuuuuease!" Rox said as she took a closer look at the picture. Where have I seen her before? she thought. She looks really familiar. She certainly is beautiful.

Shrugging off the feeling of familiarity, she decided to read the second post before answering either. Maneuvering the mouse to the "X" in the upper right corner of the screen she closed the note and struggled to align the pointer to the next piece of mail. "Damn it!" she said out loud.

"You okay?" Jerri asked as she watched her friend struggle with the mouse.

"Yeah ... it's just hard to do things left handed. Damned cast. How am I going to write with my hand in this contraption? And look, my fingers are all swollen up. Will it be like that for the whole six weeks?" Rox asked her friend.

"No. The swelling will be gone in a few days. Do you want some help typing a reply?" Jerri asked.

Rox turned to look at her friend with raised eyebrows as if to say, "you're kidding, right?", but instead thought more logically about the problem and furrowed her eyebrows into a frown.

"That was an interesting play of emotions," Jerri said as she saw the expressions parade across her friend's face.

Rox grinned. "I'm sorry, Jer. I just feel so damned helpless. Yeah, I might need some help. Let me read this other post first, okay?" she said.

"I'm in no hurry ... got the day off!" Jerri said as she threw herself down in one of the overstuffed chairs and crossed her legs.

Rox turned back to the monitor and clicked on Cass' second post.

"Hi Rox,

Look, I'm sorry I was so forward in my last post. I don't want to push you into a relationship you don't want. It's just that I have never felt such an instant connection with anyone before like I did with you, and I was hoping that you felt the same way. I'm sorry if I have overstepped my bounds. You are probably involved in a loving relationship already. I certainly don't want to interfere with your happiness.

Please forgive me?

Cass"

Rox stared at the note. "Nothing could be further from the truth, Cass," she commented out loud. Without turning around, she said, "Jer, I guess I need to take you up on that offer."

Jerri rose to her feet and came to stand behind her friend. Looking down at Rox for permission to read the note, she received her silent approval before allowing her eyes to scan the screen. When she was through, Rox clicked on the first note and allowed her friend to read that one as well.

"Go back to the second note, Rox," Jerri said. Scanning it one more time, she looked at the red head and said, "Sounds like this guy is pretty taken with you. How do you feel about that?"

"I don't know exactly," Rox said, flustered. "I have this tingly little feeling in the pit of my stomach when I read it ... kind of like butterflies," she said.

"Well, what do we know about him?" Jerri asked, trying to take an analytical approach to the issue.

"Well, I know that he's nearly six foot, dark hair, blue eyes, muscular, works out, has a black belt in Taekwondo. He's a pilot for a commercial airline, lives in San Jose, California, apparently very skilled in flying a plane, and crashing one by the looks of it, so he's probably cool under pressure. Considering he refused medical help until all the passengers were safe, he must be pretty gallant. That's about it. Oh ... oh ... I also know that he was in a relationship and that his companion died three years ago," Rox recounted.

Jerri listened carefully, then recapped what she had heard. "Okay, single, tall, dark and handsome, good job, even tempered, smart and respectful. Sounds like the perfect guy. He's also a safe distance away, so that will give you time to get to know him before he physically invades your life. I'd say, go for it!" she recommended.

Rox grinned. "I was hoping you'd say that," she said.

Jerri looked down at Rox expectantly.

"What???" Rox said, confused.

"I can't type if your butt is in the chair!" she said, stating the obvious.

Rox chuckled and gingerly rose from her seat, sitting in the chair Jerri had pulled along side her.

Settling down in front of the computer, Jerri selected 'reply' and sat with her hands poised over the keys. "Shoot!" she said.

"Ah.... ah ... okay... let me think," Rox said. "Okay, type this ..."

"Hi Cass,

I picked up the paper this morning and read about this heroic pilot named Cass Conway who skillfully saved a plane full of people from sure death. Know anyone by that name?

I can't tell you how it made me feel to know your life was in danger. I know we haven't gotten to know each other very well yet, but I too feel this connection you mentioned in your last post. I thank the powers above, that I didn't lose you so soon after finding you.

Please don't feel that you have overstepped your bounds. I am not currently in a loving relationship. In fact, I live with this brutal, mother-fucking, wife beating son of a bitch that my friend Jerri wants to pulverize..."

"Jerri! Erase that! Jesus Christ, woman, this is MY note, remember!" Rox scolded her friend.

"Gee Rox, you're no fun! I opt for telling it like it is.... maybe Cass will fly out here and kick Chris' ass for all of us!" Jerri whined.

"Jerri......." Rox warned.

"All right ... all right! I'm erasing it! Don't get your panties in a wad, Geesh!" Jerri said as she held the delete button down over the last sentence.

"All right, where were we. Oh yes ..." Rox said.

"Please don't feel that you have overstepped your bounds. I am currently not in a loving relationship. In fact, I am just ending a very dark and disturbing relationship with someone I am sure is being unfaithful to me. I too will guard my heart carefully from this point on, however, somehow, I feel that it would be safe in your hands. I am looking forward to knowing you better, and to see if my assessment is correct."

"Assessment?? Come on Rox... why so clinical? It sounds like your telling the guy you want to do his tax return or something?" Jerri inserted.

"Jerri!!" Rox said, aghast.

"Well, it does!" Jerri said, defending her self.

"Okay... Okay. Change it to ... I am looking forward to knowing you better and to see if my feelings are correct," Rox suggested.

"Better ... much better," Jerri commented as she typed the correction.

"All right... one more paragraph ..."

"You say that you are enchanted with me, and that I invade your thoughts. I too am enchanted. I long to know the sensitive, caring and compassionate person described in the news clipping from this morning's paper. I am truly impressed by your gallant nature, Cass Conway. I am looking forward to becoming your friend and companion.

Please write soon. I await your reply in hopes of starting a new and wonderful relationship ... one that is mutually satisfying and enjoyable.

You are in my thoughts,

Rox"

"Okay, Jer, read it back from the beginning," Roxanne asked.

"Hi Cass,

I picked up the paper this morning and read about this heroic pilot named Cass Conway who skillfully saved a plane full of people from sure death. Know anyone by that name?

I can't tell you how it made me feel to know your life was in danger. I know we haven't gotten to know each other very well yet, but I too feel this connection you mentioned in your last post. I thank the powers above, that I didn't lose you so soon after finding you.

Please don't feel that you have overstepped your bounds. I am currently not in a loving relationship. In fact, I am just ending a very dark and disturbing relationship with someone I am sure is being unfaithful to me. I too will guard my heart carefully from this point on, however, somehow, I feel that it would be safe in your hands. I am looking forward to knowing you better, and to see if my feelings are correct.

You say that you are enchanted with me, and that I invade your thoughts. I too am enchanted. I long to know the sensitive, caring and compassionate person described in the news clipping from this morning's paper. I am truly impressed by your gallant nature, Cass Conway. I am looking forward to becoming your friend and companion.

Please write soon. I await your reply in hopes of starting a new and wonderful relationship ... one that is mutually satisfying and enjoyable.

You are in my thoughts,

Rox"

"What do you think?" Rox asked her friend.

"Well, it doesn't make me cream my jeans, but it's a start," Jerri replied.

"Well, Jerri... what do you want me to do, tell the guy I want to jump his bones? Christ, I don't even know him yet!" Rox responded in a shrill voice.

"Whoa... calm down there Tiger ... I was only kidding. Rox - it sounds good. Not too pushy, not too desperate, but definitely interested. It's good!" Jerri said, trying to soothe her injured friend's temper.

"Do you really think so, or are you just saying that to shut me up?" Rox asked seriously.

"I'm just saying it to shut you up .... No! no! ... Rox, really, it's good," she quickly added when she saw the red head's temper begin to rise again.

"Okay, then... send it," Rox said.

Grinning, Jerri moved the mouse over to 'send' and clicked the button. Seconds later, the note was gone.

*  *  *

Cass was really in a lot of pain from being jostled around in the plane crash. So much so, that it took her forever to pull herself out of the chair when she finished her breakfast at Angie's diner. Of course, it didn't help that Angie sat and talked to her all through her breakfast, feeding her coffee after coffee, keeping her there long enough to get all the details out of her about the crash. Finally, after she had given the woman each and every detail at least three times, she called a halt to the cross examination and simply told Angie that she had to go home and soak in the hot tub.

Half way home, she cursed herself for walking instead of driving to the diner. Damn! And here, I thought I was in good shape, she told herself.

Not enough sex. That's it, you know. Not enough sex! Enforcer interjected.

What the hell are you talking about? What does sex have to do with a plane wreck? Cass said to her alter ego.

Well, what hurts the most? Your legs, right? Enforcer asked.

Yeah ... and your point is? Cass inquired.

Well your legs would be in better shape is you spread them more often... Hey... it can happen! Enforcer said, in defense of herself.

Oh for Christ's sake, will you take a chill pill and go to crawl back into your corner, please? Cass said to herself disgustingly.

Hey ... I'm just trying to help! Enforcer said defensively.

Your kind of help I don't need, Cass said as she unlocked the door to her condo and stepped inside.

Cass went directly to the bathroom and started filling the Jacuzzi with hot water, and scented bath oils. Standing in front of the full length mirror, she stripped her clothes off and stretched her arms straight over her head, bending her body side to side at the waist in an attempt to loosen the sore muscles before immersing herself in the hot water. Turning around to the left, she looked over her shoulder at the shape her body was in. Relatively pleased with what she saw, she turned to the right to look at the left side. It was then that she noticed the large bruises that extended from her shoulder blade to her hip bone, and then again from the top of her thigh to her knee.

"Holy Shit!" she exclaimed when she saw the bruise. Placing her hands against the mirror, she closed her eyes and dropped her head down, trying to remember the point of impact. She remembered being thrown violently forward into the control panel and cutting her forehead, and then roughly to the left against the side of the cockpit when the plane rolled that way. "No wonder you're all bruised and sore," she said to her reflection.

Finally, the Jacuzzi was filled and Cass gingerly slipped into the hot water. "Oooo, aahhh, ahhh, oooo," she complained against the heat as first her feet, then legs, buttocks, back, breasts and finally her arms and shoulders were immersed. She struggled to breathe, gasping in short breaths until her body acclimated to the temperature of the water. Finally, she allowed herself to relax as she leaned her head against the built-in foam headrest and allowed the massaging action of the churning water to chase away her soreness. Closing her eyes, she found herself wishing she had something to read. Recalling the last time she laid in the tub with a book, led her to thoughts of Rox.

"Roxanne," she whispered into the air, liking the sound of the name as it rolled off her tongue.

She imagined what it would be like to hold the petite woman in her arms ... to caress her skin ... to kiss her lips. Closing her eyes, she pictured their bodies entwined ... one light, one dark ... one tall, one short ... green eyes and blue, locked in a gaze of love. If she concentrated real hard, she could hear the woman call out her name in the throes of passion as she pushed her closer to the pinnacle of fulfillment.

This isn't fair, Cass! Enforcer said, snapping her back to reality.

What isn't fair? she questioned the voice.

You're trying to drive me crazy, aren't you? Enforcer complained. You'd better buy those toys real soon before I do something to embarrass you, capishe?

Gimme a break, E. I take care of you when its necessary, don't I? she asked herself.

Your definition of 'when its necessary' and mine, are not the same, unfortunately, Enforcer exclaimed.

Well, my friend, I'm starting to agree with you, and that in itself terrifies me! Cass said, as she reached forward and flicked the drain switch.

CHAPTER XVII

NIKKI CARRIED THE lunch tray up two flights of stairs, entering the attic just as Jerri was helping Rox settle into the hide-a-bed.

"Well, did you send your note?" Nikki asked as she placed the tray on the end table next to the bed.

Rox nodded as Jerri came up behind her wife to see what was on the tray. "That looks heavy, you should have yelled, I would have given you a hand," she said, taking in the assortment of fruits, breakfasts cereals, pastries, milk, coffee and dinner wear.

"Hey, I'm stronger than I look. I lug on patients all day, remember?" Nikki said.

"I've got something you can lug on," Jerri said, wicked eyebrows rising up and down, as her arms circled her wife's waist. Nikki grinned ear to ear.

"Ah, guys... yoohoo!! Over here?" Rox said, waving her good hand at her friends. "Can you save that for later? I'm kind of starved here?!" she added.

Still holding Nikki in her arms, Jerri looked down at Rox on the bed. "You're just jealous," she accused.

"You're damned right I am. Now cut that out and feed me!" the redhead demanded.

Nikki looked up at Jerri. "She's a bossy little shit, isn't she? Are you sure you want to stay here with her?" she asked, straight faced.

"Aarrgghh!!!" Rox yelled.

"All right, all right, pull the wedgie out of your butt... we'll feed you!" Jerri exclaimed.

Moments later, all three ladies were sitting on the bed with plates in their laps.

"So, what did the note say?" Nikki asked, plopping a strawberry into her mouth.

"It said that Rox wanted to fly to California and jump this guy's bones," Jerri volunteered. "Oh!" Jerry yelled as a grape hit her in the side of the face.

"It did not!" Rox said, grinning at her good aim, especially considering it was left handed.

Nikki gave Rox a high-five for good marksmanship.

"Hey, you're supposed to be on my side!" exclaimed Jerri to her wife.

"It was a good shot! Even you have to admit that!" Nikki replied. "Can't let good work go un-rewarded, now, can we?" she asked. "So, what did it say?" she asked again.

"Well, he was concerned that I was already involved in a happy relationship, and didn't want to do anything to disrupt it. I told him that wasn't the case, and that I was very interested in getting to know him," Rox explained. "Oh, and he sent a picture of himself with his co-pilot. He's really very good looking," she added.

Jerri looked at Rox with pleading eyes, begging her not to divulge her comment about the co-pilot. Seeing the distress in her friend's face, Rox couldn't resist. "... and his co-pilot is quite a looker too, hey Jerri?" she said, grinning ear to ear.

Nikki looked expectantly at her wife, eyebrows raised into her hairline.

"Ah ... ah, yeah, a real looker," Jerri replied, giving Rox a dirty look.

"Mind if I see?" Nikki said, rising to her feet to boot up the computer.

"No.. not at all ... you know my password," Rox said, maintaining eye contact with a squirming Jerri as she gave her friend permission to log on.

Jerri scooted her way over to Rox so that she was sitting side by side with the red head. Sitting next to her with her long legs stretched out in front of her, ankles crossed, hands clasped in her lap, she looked over at her friend and grinned. "You're lucky your wrist is already broken, little one," Jerri said evilly.

Moments later, Nikki turned from the computer screen to look at her wife, who wore the saddest pair of puppy dog eyes ever seen. Dropping her chin to her chest, Nikki began to chuckle. She just couldn't stay mad at her when she looked like that. "You are in so much trouble Big Guy," she said to her dark haired wife.

Jerry began to whimper like a puppy dog.

"Jerri... it won't work!" Nikki said, trying to act angry, but failing miserably.

"What if I roll over and play dead?" Jerri asked.

"Nope... still angry," the blonde replied.

"What if I sit up and beg?" Jerri offered

Nikki shook her head no, covering her mouth to hide her grin.

"How 'bout ..... how 'bout if I ride your leg?" Jerri said, sexy eyebrows dancing up and down on her forehead.

Nikki's eyes widened as big as saucers. Without breaking eye contact with her wife, she said to their friend, "Ah, Rox. Will you be all right here by yourself for a while?"

"Sure. There are three guest rooms... pick the one you want," Rox said grinning. "I'm just going to take a nap, so keep the noise down, will ya?"

Jerri was off the hide-a-bed in a jiff. Picking Nikki up and throwing her over her shoulder, she carefully negotiated the stairs, while Nikki held on for dear life and squealed all the way down.

Rox grinned as she slowly settled her aching body under the covers. Those two are just way cute. Someday I'll know that kind of love ... someday, she thought as she drifted off to sleep.

*  *  *

Cass put her body through 15 minutes of stretching exercises after she got out of the Jacuzzi, feeling 100% better than when she first stepped into the hot water. After toweling herself dry, she slipped a matching pair of blue briefs and sports bra on and went to power up the computer. Glancing at the clock, she realized that it was already almost noon. She couldn't believe Angie actually sat there and talked to her for three hours. While she waited for the computer for finishing booting, she picked up the phone and called pizza delivery then went to her room to slip on some shorts and a T-shirt. The last time she answered the door in her underwear, the condo association put her on notice for indecent exposure. The poor elderly gentleman who lived in the end unit was collecting association fees when she answered the door and she nearly gave him a heart attack.

Logging onto 'Netscape Messenger', she selected 'new messages' and waited nervously while the server went out to retrieve any new posts. She found herself crossing her fingers, hoping that Rox had responded to her previous two notes. Finally, one new message was displayed ... from Rox@starship.com.

"Yes!" Cass shouted out loud as she double clicked on the note.

"Hi Cass,

I picked up the paper this morning and read about this heroic pilot named Cass Conway who skillfully saved a plane full of people from sure death. Know anyone by that name?

I can't tell you how it made me feel to know your life was in danger. I know we haven't gotten to know each other very well yet, but I too feel this connection you mentioned in your last post. I thank the powers above, that I didn't lose you so soon after finding you.

Please don't feel that you have overstepped your bounds. I am currently not in a loving relationship. In fact, I am just ending a very dark and disturbing relationship with someone I am sure is being unfaithful to me. I too will guard my heart carefully from this point on, however, somehow, I feel that it would be safe in your hands. I am looking forward to knowing you better, and to see if my feelings are correct.

You say that you are enchanted with me, and that I invade your thoughts. I too am enchanted. I long to know the sensitive, caring and compassionate person described in the news clipping from this morning's paper. I am truly impressed by your gallant nature, Cass Conway. I am looking forward to becoming your friend and companion.

Please write soon. I await your reply in hopes of starting a new and wonderful relationship ... one that is mutually satisfying and enjoyable.

You are in my thoughts,

Rox"

Cass sat there, staring at the screen. Scrolling back to the top of the note, she read it again.

"Oh my god! Oh my god! E ... do you read what I read?" she asked her alter ego.

What, you forget how to read English, Cass? Get a grip, woman! What I read, is someone who's interested in getting to know you... maybe you'll even score - ya think? Enforcer offered.

Cass sat there for several more moments, reading the post yet a third time.

Hellllloooo! Anybody home??? Earth to Cass! Okay... it's real easy. Step 1, pick up the mouse. Step 2, click on 'reply'. Step 3, type "I want to jump your bones ... what time do I pick you up". Okay? Very simple, Cass... move your ass! Enforcer demanded.

Cass shook off the voice and poised her hands over the keyboard.

"Hi Rox,

I can't tell you how much your words mean to me. I was so afraid that I was pushing this relationship too fast and too far. For all I knew, you were married with children. The last thing I want to do is break up a relationship that is happily working. I am sorry for your heartbreak, but at the same time, elated that this opens the realms of possibilities for us. You have been in my mind, night and day. You invade my dreams, Roxanne Ward.

I'm afraid the newspaper articles are way overstated. I do not consider myself a hero. I was just doing my job. It is my responsibility to ensure the safety of the passengers, no matter what it takes. Of course, it would have been a lot easier if I had landing gear, but a belly flop was the only recourse. I thank the powers above that allowed me to live another day so that I would be here for you.

Do you believe in fate, Roxanne? I do. I believe that people are destined to be together. I believe that you and I have known each other in past lives, and will meet again in the future. Our karma dictates it. I know this probably sounds like a bunch of mumbo jumbo to you, but it is real. I feel strongly that our souls have met before. The connection we have both mentioned is evidence of that.

I want to know your heart and your mind, Rox ... and I want you to know mine. If we were indeed destined to be together, as I believe we are, we will cross the barriers of distance and time, and our souls will be one. Open your heart to me Rox. I promise to hold it near, caress it tenderly, cradle it lovingly, and protect it with my life. Trust in me, Rox. I will not hurt you.

Please write again soon,

You are in my heart,

Cass"

Cass moved the mouse pointer to 'send' and clicked the button. Her heart filled with such an intense feeling of joy and anticipation at this turn of events that she felt like running a marathon, sore body and all. Sitting there, holding her breath, she closed her eyes and allowed her heart to feel the sensation. Suddenly, her eyes snapped open and she jumped to her feet, staring at the computer.

"Oh my god!" she shouted. Pressing her hands against her heart, she took a deep breath and just stared at the screen. "It can't be. I've only known ..... it's impossible! It can't be!" she said, pacing back and forth for long moments. Finally, she realized that no amount of pacing would change the obvious.

She was in love.

*  *  *

Roxanne fought the urge for as long as possible, but finally, had to give in and get out of bed. After three failed attempts at convincing her broken ribs to let her sit up, she laid back down and yelled.

"Nikki! Jerri! Guys!! I could use some help here!" she yelled, waiting patiently.

Moments passed with no response.

"Nikki? Jerri? For the love of Zeus, if someone doesn't give me a hand, we're gonna have a bed to change!" she yelled.

"Geesh, woman! Hold your bladder, will ya?" Jerri exclaimed, taking the stairs two at a time.

"What to you think I've been trying to do?" Rox complained.

"All right ... come on," the taller woman said as she helped Rox to her feet.

"Some nurses your guys are... leaving your patient all alone like that!" Rox fussed, half grinning while she teased her friend.

"I'm not a nurse, I'm an EMT... blame it on Nikki - she's a nurse," Jerri explained.

"All right, I will." Rox agreed as she allowed her friend to help her down the stairs.

"I really gotta have a bathroom installed in the attic," she mumbled as she slowly made her way down the stairs. Reaching the second story, she inhaled as deeply as her injured ribs allowed. "Wow, that smells good, what is it?" she asked as she entered the bathroom.

Chicken with mushroom, wild rice and asparagus with garlic. It's one of Nikki's specialties," Jerri supplied through the bathroom door. "It's just about done too," she added.

"What time is it?" Rox yelled out, unsure of how long she had slept.

"Nearly 6 p.m.," Jerri said. "You must have been tired. You slept for three hours."

Rox washed her hands then opened the bathroom door. "Three hours? Damn!!" she said unbelievingly.

"Ready?" Jerri asked, taking her friends arm once more for the trip down to the first floor.

Nikki met them at the bottom of the stairs where Rox had to pause to regain her strength. "Roxie, maybe we should move your computer down into the living room until you can navigate without so much pain," she suggested, reaching up to brush the hair out of her friend's eyes.

"No, that's too much work. But I can use the laptop. I'll just sleep on the couch for the next few nights," Roxanne offered.

"That'll work. Then you won't have to worry about climbing two flights of stairs every time you want to eat," she said.

"Actually, I was thinking more along the lines of using it on the deck," Rox supplied. "You know how I like to sit out there and work," she added.

"That'll work too," Nikki said as she took Rox's arm and led her to the kitchen table. "Sit. You need to eat to keep up your strength," she said.

Soon, the ladies were enjoying dinner and sharing friendly conversation. At some point during the dinner, the topic turned to Chris.

"Where do you think Chris is?" Nikki asked.

Rox just shook her head side to side. "I don't know. I supposed I could call the job site tomorrow," Rox offered.

"What for? You aren't pressing charges, Rox. Once Chris realizes that, it won't be long before we get a visit," Jerri reasoned.

Rox hung her head, wondering to herself if it was a mistake to let Chris off the hook like that.

Nikki saw her friend's distress and reached over to cover her hand with her own. "Honey, we won't let you out of our sight, okay? Chris won't be able to get near you without one of us knowing it," she assured her friend.

Rox just nodded her head and chased the food around her plate. Putting her fork down, she proclaimed herself done and painfully pushed her chair away from the table. Rising to her feet, she picked up her plate and headed to the counter with it.

"Oh no you don't, Lady Jane. Jerri and I will take care of the clean up. You need to rest. Remember, the doctor said total bed rest for a few days?" Nikki instructed, getting up to lead her friend to the couch in the living room.

"But I want to do my e-mail," Rox complained.

"Does your laptop have a modem?" Jerri asked.

Seeing Rox nod, she asked for the location of the software to load her Internet account, them sprinted up two flights of stairs to retrieve the laptop and disks. For the next hour, Jerri and Rox sat side by side on the couch, loading the account into the laptop. Finally, they were finished and Rox was reclining happily against the arm of the couch, legs covered with a quilt, surrounded by fluffy pillows, and supporting the lightweight computer on her lap.

Nikki brought her a glass of iced tea and kissed her on the forehead after placing the tea within reach on the coffee table.

"A girl could get used to this," Rox grinned to her friend.

"Enjoy it while you can, Sugar." Nikki said as she curled up in the overstuffed chair and started reading a book she had found on the bookshelves in the guest room.

Jerri was off in another world laying on the floor of the living room. She had brought out her collection of Leggo's and was happily building an airport, complete with Cass' plane making a crash landing on the runway.

*  *  *

Roxanne went immediately to her inbox as soon as Jerri finished loading her Internet server into the laptop. She found herself nervously tapping on the keyboard as she waited. The laptop was much slower than her computer, considering it had only a fraction of the hard drive and memory of the larger machine. Taking a deep breath, she tried to quell her impatience, surprised at herself for even feeling that way. She was usually a very patient person. Christ, you'd think I was a schoolgirl in love, she said to herself. Whoa!!! Where did that come from? she asked herself.

Finally, the server delivered two new messages into her inbox. One from her literary agent, and the other from cconway@flyboy.com. She guiltily skipped the note from her agent, and immediately clicked on Cass' note.

"Hi Rox,

I can't tell you how much your words mean to me. I was so afraid that I was pushing this relationship too fast and too far. For all I knew, you were married with children. The last thing I want to do is break up a relationship that is happily working. I am sorry for your heartbreak, but at the same time, elated that this opens the realms of possibilities for us. You have been in my mind, night and day. You invade my dreams, Roxanne Ward.

I'm afraid the newspaper articles are way overstated. I do not consider myself a hero. I was just doing my job. It is my responsibility to ensure the safety of the passengers, no matter what it takes. Of course, it would have been a lot easier if I had landing gear, but a belly flop was the only recourse. I thank the powers above that allowed me to live another day so that I would be here for you.

Do you believe in fate, Roxanne? I do. I believe that people are destined to be together. I believe that you and I have known each other in past lives, and will meet again in the future. Our karma dictates it. I know this probably sounds like a bunch of mumbo jumbo to you, but it is real. I feel strongly that our souls have met before. The connection we have both mentioned is evidence of that.

I want to know your heart and your mind, Rox ... and I want you to know mine. If we are indeed destined to be together, as I believe we are, we will cross the barriers of distance and time, and our souls will be one. Open your heart to me Rox. I promise to hold it dear, caress it tenderly, cradle it lovingly, and protect it with my life. Trust in me, Rox. I will not hurt you.

Please write again soon,

You are in my heart,

Cass"

Rox smiled, and for some unexplained reason, tears sprang to her eyes as she read the tender passage, Open your heart to me Rox. I promise to hold it near, caress it tenderly, cradle it lovingly, and protect it with my life. Trust in me, Rox. I will not hurt you."

I will not hurt you. My god, that sounds too good to be true, she told herself as she closed her eyes and let a tear fall.

Suddenly, she felt a pair of arms circle her neck from behind, and a cheek press up against her own. "Are you all right?" Nikki asked tenderly.

Rox reached up and patted the arms around her neck. Leaning into Nikki's cheek, she quickly nodded. "I'm okay, love. Thanks," she said. "Nikki, he wrote back. Look," she offered, scrolling to the top of Cass' note.

Nikki read the note over Rox's shoulder, sighing deeply as she read the last line.

"God Rox, this guy is a real romantic, isn't he? How do you feel about this? Do you think you can trust him?" she asked.

Furrowing her brow, she thought for a moment before answering. "I don't know, Nik. It feels right ... from this distance anyway," she said.

Nikki nodded, her cheek still pressed up against Rox's. "Are you going to send a reply?" she asked.

Rox nodded.

"Need some help?" came the next question.

"Yeah, I think so." Rox answered.

"Okay," Nikki said, releasing her friend. She pulled the coffee table up to the edge of the couch so that it was directly next to Rox, then, taking the computer out of her friend's hands, she placed it on the table within comfortable reach of her own hands, but still within viewing range for Rox. "All right, what would you like to say?" she asked.

Rox began to dictate, while Nikki diligently typed word for word.

"Dear Cass,

It amazes me that we are so far apart, yet I feel so close to you. What is it about you, Cass Conway? Why does this feel so familiar? Why does this feel so safe?

Do I believe in fate? I believe in destiny. Kismet, if you will. What I feel for you is too familiar to be anything but fate. My friend Nikki, asked how I felt about you. I told her that this feels right. I too, feel like I have known you before ... that we share a connection of sorts.

Do I believe that we have known each other in past lives? I don't know. It would seem to be the only explanation for the sense of familiarity that I feel when I read your notes. I do believe our souls are bonded in some way ... across distance ... across time.

As I have told you previously, I am currently involved in a very dark relationship. I am bound to this person at the present time only to bring peace to my father, who is dying. He so badly wants to see me happy, and he believes that I am. I will continue to allow that belief until he is gone. Until then, I will endure the darkness, and wait for the light. I ask myself if you are that light, Cass. I feel in my heart that you are. I long to reach into the light, to embrace it, to let it guide me, and protect me.

You have asked me to trust in you, Cass. That is oh, so hard to do. But I find my inner voice telling me to do just that. I will listen to this voice ... I will take the risk and I will learn you heart ... I will offer you a piece of mine ... a piece that I have never given another living soul. I ask that you protect it carefully, my Warrior, for it bruises easily. I do trust that you will not hurt me.

I am looking forward to hearing from you again, Warrior.

Your Bard,

Rox"

"Now this is exactly why you're the bard and I'm not," Nikki said, reading the note over again. "God, Rox. This is so eloquent, so intimate. Damn, Girl! You are good!"

"That's good enough for me," Rox said. "Send it."

CHAPTER XVIII

MOMENTS AFTER SHE hit the 'send' button, the doorbell rang.

"Who can that be?" Cass said out loud.

You ordered pizza, you dumb shit! Enforcer reminded her, spurring her into action. Grabbing her purse, she went to the door and looked through the peephole. Sure enough, the pizza delivery boy was standing there, looking around impatiently while waiting for the door to open. Cass swung the door open, and Pizza Boy's chin immediately dropped to the floor.

"Hi!" she said, flashing him a nervous smile. "What do I owe you?"

"Ah ... ah .... " Pizza Boy said, looking wide eyed at the beauty before him.

"Hello!!" Cass said, waving her hand in front of his face.

Pizza Boy turned fifteen shades of red before regaining his senses. "Ah ... Ah ... $7.95," he said.

"Here's ten dollars, thanks," Cass said, shoving the money in his hand and grabbing the pizza. He was still standing there staring when she closed the door and carried the pizza into the office to eat in front of the computer.

Cass didn't dare venture too far away from the computer. She even left herself logged on, glancing at the screen periodically to see if Rox would reply immediately.

After about a half hour, Cass had finished her lunch and made a quick trip to the kitchen to discard the pizza box, returning immediately to her e-mail vigil.

After about another half hour of pacing in front of the screen, Enforcer had enough.

You are pathetic, Cass, the alter ego said.

What do you mean? Cass asked.

Look at you! You're acting like a pubescent teen, waiting for the phone to ring. Have you no pride woman? her protector asked.

E, I ... I ... Oh, hell. Who am I kidding. E, I'm going out of my mind waiting to see if she'll write back. What if I pushed it too far this time? she asked her alter ego.

Cass, this one's a sure thing ... a done deal ... This chick is like putty in your hands ... What are you fretting about? Look, if you appear too anxious, you might scare her away. You need to shut the computer off and go do something else. Okay? Enforcer reasoned.

Cass' brow furrowed into a frown. Like what? she demanded.

Well ... Chickie-baby is into sci-fi, right? How 'bout we go to the new Starwars movie. Heaven knows your nervousness can screw up a wet dream ... at least you'll be prepared to talk intelligently about something when she finally responds! Enforcer suggested.

Cass stood there contemplating the suggestion for several moments.

Well? Enforcer urged.

Throwing up her hands, she said into the empty room, "Okay, okay ... you win. Let's go." Grabbing some money and her car keys, she shoved them deep into the pocket of her shorts, shut the computer down, then headed out the door.

*  *  *

It was nearly 5:00 p.m. by the time Cass arrived home. She could hardly remember what the movie was about, having spent nearly the entire two hours sitting there daydreaming about Rox. Wow, I've been alone way too long, E. This woman, who just happens to be nearly 3,000 miles away, pays me a little attention, and whammo, I'm hooked. I cant' think of anything but her! She invades my dreams, she is in my mind constantly. E ... this is only Friday! What am I going to do for the next two days? I'll be comatose by Monday morning if I keep this up, she complained to herself.

You know what I think, Cass. It's all that nervous energy. You need to get la .... , Enforcer began.,

Don't even go there, E! I don't WANT to get laid ... well, I do ... but only by .... damn! Now look where my mind is going! Aarrgghh! she screamed internally. Maybe a nice cold shower. Yeah, that should do it, she thought as she charged into the bathroom, stripping her clothing off along the way.

Fifteen minutes later, Cass was sitting in front of her computer, shivering, hair still dripping wet, as she waited for it to boot up.

Ddddid you hhhave to mmmmake the wwwater ssso cccccold, Cass? Enforcer asked.

Cass just sat there staring at the screen, a terry cloth robe pulled tightly around her shivering form.

Finally, the computer finished booting up. Selecting 'Netscape Communicator', Cass once again, sat and waited. "I could reach her faster if I jumped in the jet and FLEW to Maine," she shouted at the computer.

You're dripping on the keyboard, Cass. Remember what happened last time when you spilled your coffee on it ... that was an expensive cup of coffee. You'd better go towel dry your hair, Enforcer suggested.

Exasperated with the speed at which the computer was scanning for new mail, she rose from her chair and did just that, returning moments later with a towel over her head, and to an inbox containing a post from Rox@starship.com. Checking the time of the post, she noted that it had just arrived about ten minutes earlier. With a shaky hand, she guided the mouse to the new mail icon and clicked.

"Dear Cass,

It amazes me that we are so far apart, yet I feel so close to you. What is it about you, Cass Conway? Why does this feel so familiar? Why does this feel so safe?

She feels safe? E! she feels safe with me. Wow! That's more than I hoped for right away. Cool! she thought.

Do I believe in fate? I believe in destiny. Kismet, if you would. What I feel for you is too familiar to be anything but fate. My friend Nikki, asked how I felt about you. I told her that this feels right. I too, feel like I have known you before ... that we share a connection of sorts.

Oh yes, we have definitely known each other before, Rox. We are soulmates ... I can feel it!

Do I believe that we have known each other in past lives? I don't know. It would seem to be the only explanation for the sense of familiarity that I feel when I read your notes. I do believe our souls are bonded in some way ... across distance ... across time.

Wow! E, she says she can feel the connection! Cass thought excitedly.

I CAN read, Cass. Geesh. You are a whipped puppy already, my friend! Enforcer teased.

As I have told you previously, I am currently involved in a very dark relationship. I am bound to this person at the present time only to bring peace to my father, who is dying. He so badly wants to see me happy, and he believes that I am. I will continue to allow that belief until he is gone. Until then, I will endure the darkness, and wait for the light. I ask myself if you are that light, Cass. I feel in my heart that you are. I long to reach into the light, to embrace it, to let it guide me, and protect me.

Oh my god. Rox, I'm so sorry, Cass whispered to herself. Rox. I WILL be your light. I promise.

You have asked me to trust in you, Cass. That is oh, so hard to do. But I find my inner voice telling me to do just that. I will listen to this voice ... I will take the risk and I will learn you heart ... I will offer you a piece of mine ... a piece that I have never given another living soul. I ask that you protect it carefully, my Warrior, for it bruises easily. I do trust that you will not hurt me.

She shoots, she scores! Raahhhhh, Yeeeeaaahhhhh! Enforcer cheered.

E, calm down, will ya? Look at what she says here ... look, she calls me her Warrior. Damn, Rox, what a simple word can do to me, Cass thought as her stomach clenched in anticipation of answering this post.

I am looking forward to hearing from you again, Warrior.

Your Bard,

Rox"

Cass sat back in her chair and took a deep breath. She was surprised to find her eyes welling up with tears. My Warrior ... Your Bard ... Rox, why am I so enchanted by you? How is it that you can take my breath away with a single keystroke?

Sitting up straight again, Cass reached over to poise her hands above the keys. Selecting 'reply', she started to type.

"My Dearest Roxanne,

I knew from the minute I saw your picture that you would affect my life forever. Your beauty simply took my breath away. I was a willing captive right from the start. You have never been far from my thoughts since that very day just two short weeks ago.

The fates have most definitely brought us together, dear heart. Yes, this does feel right, and safe and warm, and very, very familiar. I feel as though I have always known you, Rox. I feel as though you have always lived in a dormant part of my heart that was suddenly awakened when I gazed into liquid pools of emerald green looking up at me from the back cover of your book.

No amount of distance nor time will keep us part ... at least not in our hearts. Just think of me Rox, and my spirit will be there, in your mind and in your soul.

Rox, it pains me to know that you are living under a veil of darkness. Please tell me, my bard, what can I do to help? Please tell me that you are safe and well. I am so sorry that your father is ill. I am so sorry that you are living under the pretense of happiness to fulfill his dying dream. Roxanne, your life and your future are so much more important than that. I am sure your father wants to see you truly happy, not just living under a facade of happiness. Let me help you, Rox ... Tell me how to free you from this pain. Let me be that light you speak so joyously of. I want to be the one to guide and protect you Rox. Please let me.

I will never give you a reason to mistrust me, Rox, and I will never hurt you. I am honored to have been given a piece of your precious heart, a part that you haven't given to anyone else before ... and yes, I , your Warrior shall guard it and honor it with love. Thank you for entrusting me with such a wonderful gift.

Every moment that I await your call is like an eternity to my soul. Please speak your heart to me, Roxanne. I am here to listen, to help and to guide. I am so looking forward to hearing from you again. Please write soon.

Your loving Warrior,

Cass"

Cass, you are one six-foot tall mushball, you know that! Enforcer teased. Don't every change, buddy ... I love you just the way you are, she added as she reached over and clicked on 'send'.

*  *  *

As soon as Rox replied to Cass' note, she moved on to answer her agent's e-mail, sending him the bad news about her broken wrist, and warning him that it may result in a two or three week delay in the deadline of the book, however, promising to absorb as much of the slip as possible. That task out of the way, she decided to outline a few notes for the next chapter, typing one handed so Nikki could return to reading her book.

Just as she was about to log off the Internet, the mail icon flashed, indicating the delivery of new mail. Awkwardly moving the mouse with her left hand, she managed to query the server, and discovered that Cass had already replied to her post.

"Oh my god!" Rox exclaimed drawing the attention of her two friends. "He responded already. I only sent the post fifteen minutes ago!" she explained.

Cass' quick response peaked the interest of both Jerri and Nikki as they clamored from their respective positions, to Rox's side to read along with the red head.

"My Dearest Roxanne,

I knew from the minute I saw your picture that you would affect my life forever. Your beauty simply took my breath away. I was a willing captive right from the start. You have never been far from my thoughts since that very day just two short weeks ago.

Roxanne looked at her friends. "Has it only been two weeks?" she asked. "It feels like I've known him forever."

The fates have most definitely brought us together, dear heart. Yes, this does feel right, and safe and warm, and very, very familiar. I feel as though I have always known you, Rox. I feel as though you have always lived in a dormant part of my heart that was suddenly awakened when I gazed into liquid pools of emerald green looking up at me from the back cover of your book.

"Look, he called you dear heart," Jerri observed, pointing to the screen. "You've got him hooked, Rox ... now just reel him in."

No amount of distance nor time will keep us part ... at least not in our hearts. Just think of me Rox, and my spirit will be there, in your mind and in your soul.

I know Cass. I feel like you're here next to me right now instead of 3,000 miles away, Rox thought to herself.

Rox, it pains me to know that you are living under a veil of darkness. Please tell me, my bard, what can I do to help? Please tell me that you are safe and well. I am so sorry that your father is ill. I am so sorry that you are living under the pretense of happiness to fulfill his dying dream. Roxanne, your life and your future are so much more important than that. I am sure your father wants to see you truly happy, not just living under a facade of happiness. Let me help you, Rox ... Tell me how to free you from this pain. Let me be that light you speak so joyously of. I want to be the one to guide and protect you Rox. Please let me.

"I like this guy. See Rox, this is the same advice I gave you earlier this week. Now will you listen to me?" Nikki asked.

I will never give you a reason to mistrust me, Rox, and I will never hurt you. I am honored to have been given a piece of your precious heart, a part that you haven't given to anyone else before ... and yes, I , your Warrior shall guard it and honor it with love. Thank you for entrusting me with such a wonderful gift.

Rox covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a sentimental sob at Cass' reference to Warrior. Nikki and Jerri looked at each other and smiled their approval.

Every moment that I await your call is like an eternity to my soul. Please speak your heart to me, Roxanne. I am here to listen, to help and to guide. I am so looking forward to hearing from you again. Please write soon.

Your loving Warrior,

Cass"

Rox looked at her friends and allowed the tears to roll down her cheeks.

"Are you going to tell him about Chris, Rox? He is asking you to speak your heart," Nikki pointed out.

"Here, give me the computer, I'll tell him about Chris," Jerri volunteered.

"No ... No, I'll tell him ... when the time is right," Rox replied.

"What do you mean, when the time is right?" Nikki asked suspiciously.

"Nikki, I don't want a knight in shiny armor ... I want someone who will love me for me ... for what I am ... NOT because they have a sense of vengeance about domestic abuse," she told her friends. Seeing that they didn't quite understand her point, she continued. "Look, I don't want Cass to come here because he wants to beat the shit out of Chris. I want him to come here because he has fallen in love with me. Understand?"

"So what are you planning to do now?" Nikki asked.

"I'm going to speak my heart, Nikki," Rox replied. "But it is a long road from here to California. That's a road I will not travel at breakneck speed. I did that with Chris and look where it got me. No ... I will take baby steps, and sooner or later, if Cass truly is the light, his beacon will lead me to him," she explained.

"And just what do you mean by baby steps?" Jerri asked, eyebrows raised into her hairline.

"Chat," Rox said.

"Chat?" the ladies said at the same time.

"Chat," repeated Rox.

CHAPTER XIX

9:05 P.M. ROCKFORD, MAINE ...

Nikki and Jerri went upstairs to their room to give Rox some privacy after Rox insisted that she would be able to type relatively fast with her left hand.

"Rox, you know you're supposed to be resting. I know how addicting chat can be. Hell, Jerri spends hours at a time in there. Promise me you'll keep it short and get some sleep, okay?" Nikki insisted before kissing Rox good night and followed her wife to bed.

Rox distractedly mumbled her concurrence, then turned her attention back to the computer screen after wishing her friend a good night.

Once she was alone, Rox slowly and awkwardly composed a note to Cass inviting 'him' to into a chat session.

"Dear Cass,

Are you free right now to join me in chat? My heart is overflowing with emotion as I read your note. I want desperately to talk to you. If you are able to, please meet me at www.alienchat.com.

Rox"

After clicking on 'send', Rox brought up a host Internet session and typed 'www.alienchat.com', then sat and waited nervously. It wasn't long before 'flyboy' entered the chat room.

"Hi!" typed Rox.

"Hi yourself," came there reply.

"Cass, I have been touched deeply by your notes. It is as though you can see directly into my heart," Rox typed awkwardly, having to back up several times to correct mistakes she had made trying to type one-handed.

"I too have been touched by yours. Rox, I feel as though I have known you my entire life. In such a short time, you have become an irreplaceable part of my heart," Cass typed.

Rox gasped when she read the incoming note, then typed a reply. "My heart is in my throat right now, Cass. I am a nervous wreck sitting here composing this note. I have never felt this way before."

"Rox, you are going to think I'm crazy ... We have only known each other for a couple of weeks, but I feel so close to you," Cass said. "I have had dreams of you, Rox. I see your face every time I close my eyes, like it was imprinted on the inside of my eyelids. I have never felt this way before either." she confessed.

"Cass, you mentioned that the woman you were involved with died three years ago. I am sorry ... that must have hurt you terribly," Rox baited.

"Yes, she died from a drug overdose. I loved her very much, but the situation between us had degraded badly just before she died," Cass admitted.

"I am sorry to hear that. Have you dated much since?" Rox asked.

"Very little. No committed relationships. Patti left some deep scars on my heart ... some of which still bleed," came the reply.

"Cass, Why me? Why now?" Rox typed.

"I don't know Rox. For some reason, I feel safe with you. My heart is willing to take the chance," Cass replied.

Rox sat and looked inward, asking herself if she truly felt safe with Cass. Left hand poised over the keyboard, she typed, "I have looked into my own heart and have seen the truth of your words there, Cass. I too feel safe with you. Heavens knows, I have had reason not to, but I do."

"Rox, I sense there is something wrong. You mentioned in your last note that you are in a dark relationship. Talk to me Rox ... please tell me you are safe," Cass pleaded.

"For the time being, I am safe, Cass. I have two very dear friends staying with me right now. Please don't worry," Rox replied.

*  *  *

6:15 p.m. San Jose, California ...

Something is wrong here, E. I can feel it. Cass said to her alter ego.

I hear ya, Cass. I feel it too. Go ahead and ask her. Enforcer encouraged.

I don't know E ... I don't want to scare her away, but yet, I'm afraid for her. Why would she need her friends to say with her to keep her safe? she questioned herself.

Ask her, Cass. Notice how long it takes her to reply to your notes? I wonder why. It doesn't feel right to me either. Enforcer said seriously.

"Rox, I am worried about you. If you need your friends to stay with you, you must be in danger. Please talk to me," Cass urged nervously.

Pressing the enter button, she watched her note appear at the bottom of the cumulative list of correspondence between them then waited. After almost of full minute without a reply, she realized that Enforcer was right. It was taking an inordinate amount of time for Rox to reply to each line of dialogue. What the hell is going on here? Cass asked herself.

"Rox are you there?" she typed.

"Cass, please don't worry. I am safe. I will tell you about my relationship soon, I promise," came the immediate reply ... so quickly, it had to have been in transit as Cass was sending the last note.

Cass stared at the screen intently and waited. About thirty seconds later, another reply came across the screen.

"Yes, I am here. Wait...." it read.

Cass waited. A full minute later, another message appeared.

"Cass, I owe you an explanation..."

Yes ... Cass said internally as she waited for more.

"I am typing one-handed ..."

One handed? She's hurt, Cass! Enforcer concluded.

"My wrist is broken ..."

Son of a bitch! "HOW!" Cass typed.

Staring at the screen for long moments without a response, Cass once again poised her hands over they keyboard.

"Rox, how did you break your wrist? Rox, please talk to me. My stomach is in knots here. Please talk to me," she typed.

Again she waited.

"Please Cass, I'm all right. Really, I am," came Rox's reply.

Cass was becoming very agitated.

"Rox, I am sitting here imagining all kinds of horrors. Now, tell me how you broke your wrist or I will book myself on the next flight to Maine and find out for myself!" she typed.

*  *  *

9:25 p.m. Rockford, Maine ...

Oh my God. I can feel his anger right through the screen, thought Rox. What have I gotten myself into here? I don't need to leave one abusive relationship just to enter another.

Such were the thoughts that were running through Rox's mind as she read the last line of dialogue from Cass.

"Cass, please don't be angry. I have dealt with enough anger over the past several months to last a lifetime," she wrote.

"Rox, I'm sorry. Please forgive me. I am not angry with you. Sweetheart, please believe me," Cass replied.

Sweetheart? Rox thought, her stomach doing flip-flops at the endearment.

Before Rox could reply, another line of dialogue came across the screen.

"Rox, talk to me. I am sick with fear for you. Please talk to me," the note read.

"Cass, I'm sorry to have upset you. I fear that if I tell you how I was injured, you will become even more so. Know that I am safe ... please," Rox sent.

"Rox, please ..." Came an almost immediate response.

Rox sat back and stared at the screen for several moments.

"Rox?" Cass said.

Rox reached over and typed, "I'm here."

"Are you all right?" asked Cass.

"I'm okay, Cass. I am sorry for worrying you," Rox said.

"You've been beaten, haven't you?" Cass boldly demanded.

Tears came to Rox's eyes ... tears of hurt, anger and indignation. Soon, she was sobbing openly.

"Sweetheart, please talk to me!" Cass said in an urgent tone.

"I'm o...," Rox started typing, nearly blinded with tears.

"Rox, honey, what's wrong?" Nikki said as she came up behind her friend. She had been on her way to the kitchen for a glass of milk when she heard Rox crying. Wrapping her arms around her injured friend, she looked over Rox's shoulder at the monitor screen and read the last few lines of dialogue. "Looks like he guessed, huh?"

Rox nodded, unable to speak.

"May I?" Nikki asked, coming around to sit next to Rox and reaching for the laptop.

Again, Rox nodded.

"Is it okay for me to tell him what's going on, Rox?" Nikki asked her friend.

"Rox! Rox honey, please answer me!" flashed onto the computer screen.

"Nikki, he called me Sweetheart - twice! I ... I ... Nik, I'm afraid," Rox said, dissolving into tears against her friend's shoulder.

"I understand, love. Let me talk to him," she said. "He needs to know, okay?"

Once more, Roxanne nodded.

Nikki took the laptop from Rox and placed it on her own lap. Hands poised over the keyboard, she wrote ...

"Hi Cass, this is Rox's friend Nikki ..."

*  *  *

6:37 p.m. San Jose, California ...

Nikki? Cass thought. Rox mentioned her in one of her e-mails. Suddenly excited that she had someone on the other end that would tell her what was going on, she quickly typed her next line of dialogue.

"Nikki, where is Rox?" she asked.

"Rox is sitting right here next to me. She's too upset to type," Nikki replied.

"Nikki, talk to me, please. I am worried sick about her. What happened ... how was she injured?" Cass asked.

"Cass, for the past couple of years, Rox has been living with and abusive asshole. Things were fine between them for the first hear and a half or so, but lately, the beatings have been pretty damned regular, " she typed.

Oh my god! Cass thought.

Cass, let's charter a plane ... I wanna go kick this bastard's ass! Enforcer insisted.

"Get her out of there!" Cass typed back.

"We've tried, Cass. Believe me. My wife, Jerri and I have been trying to get her to leave for the past several months," Nikki replied.

"Why won't she go?" Cass asked.

"Cass, the more you get to know Rox, the more you'll realize that she is a very unselfish and dedicated person. Her dying father is under the illusion that she's happy. She won't shatter that belief for him. Quite frankly, she plans on staying in her current situation until the poor man dies," Nikki responded.

"No! She can't do that. Nikki ... please get her out of there," Cass wrote desperately.

"She won't go, Cass. Jerri and I are staying with her right now. We'll stay for as long as it takes ..." Nikki replied.

"Thank you, Nikki. Nikki ....?" Cass typed.

"Yes?", came Nikki's reply.

Cass took a deep breath and let it out slowly, before typing.

"I know this sounds incredible after knowing her for so short a period of time, but I think I'm in love with her," Cass wrote.

*  *  *

9:52 p.m. Rockford, Maine ...

Rox gasped when she read what Cass had written. Covering her mouth with her free hand, she looked at Nikki, tears of hope, and some of fear, rolled down her face.

"Oh my god, Nikki!" Rox exclaimed, half laughing, half crying.

Nikki was grinning from ear to ear. She didn't know why, but she liked this Cass Conway. "What do you want me to tell him, Rox?" she asked her friend.

"Nikki?" came the line of dialogue on the computer screen.

"We're still here, Cass ... brb," Nikki wrote.

"Rox?" Nikki said, looking at her friend. "How do you feel about him?"

"Terrified, excited, exhilarated, scared ... Nik, I ... I don't know for sure. He's so different from Chris ... different from all my past relationships," Rox explained.

"Yes he is," Nikki replied, remembering some of the idiots Rox had dated while they were in college together.

"Nikki, you're scaring me. Is Rox all right?" the computer screen flashed.

"Cass, please be patient. Rox is right here ... she's fine. We're having a little girl talk right now. Just hold your britches on, okay?" Nikki replied.

"Did I just get my ass kicked?" came the reply on the screen.

"Yes you did ... now, be patient... 'kay?" Nikki typed back.

"Yes Ma'am!" came the reply, followed by a smiley face.

Nikki grinned broadly at the response. Looking at Rox, she said, "I like him, hon. He seems like a really nice guy."

Rox smiled back through her tears and asked for the laptop back. Settling it onto her lap again, she began to type.

"Hi Cass, this is Rox again,"

"Rox! Thank god. Are you all right?" Cass typed quickly.

"I'm fine. I love you for caring. Look Cass, it's getting late. I'm under doctor's orders to rest, so I need to sign off," she typed.

"You love me for caring?" Cass asked hopefully.

"Yes I do," Rox replied, once again smiling through her tears.

Nikki had thrown an arm around her friend's shoulder and hugged her close, kissing her on the temple as she typed the endearment.

"I love you too, Rox," came Cass' reply.

Rox was crying openly now as she dropped her head to her friend's shoulder. Once more, Nikki reached for the keyboard.

"Hey Cass, Nik again. I'm afraid that last declaration just turned our friend here into a limp dishrag. I need to put her to bed, so I'll sign off for her... 'kay?" Nikki wrote.

"I understand Nikki. Tell her I love her. I'll contact her through e-mail tomorrow." Cass said.

"Tomorrow, then. Goodnight, Cass," Nikki said, closing.

"Good night, sweet ladies," Cass responded.

*  *  *

7:04 p.m. San Jose, California ...

Cass sat back and watched the screen until the message "alien has left the chat room" appeared. Reaching for her mouse, she scrolled back through the last several lines of dialogue and reread her conversation with both Rox and Nikki.

She loves me, E, Cass said to herself.

She loves you for caring, Enforcer pointed out ... but does she love you for YOU?

Cass' face furrowed into a frown. Good point, she said, good point. It is a start though, she thought hopefully.

That it is, old buddy. Now, what are we gonna do about this asshole that's been beating her up? Enforcer asked.

CHAPTER XX

NIKKI SHUT THE laptop down and placed it carefully on the end table next to the couch while she waited for Rox to come back from the bathroom. Watching her friend shuffle painfully across the floor toward her, she rose to her feet and took her arm, wrapping her other arm around Rox's waist as she lead her back to the couch. As they neared the stairs to the second story, Rox detoured in that direction.

"I thought you were sleeping on the couch?" Nikki asked as they headed toward the stairs.

"Nah, my bed is much more comfortable," Rox replied as she held on tightly to the railing with her right hand, and to Nikki's arm with her left. Slowly, they made their way up the stairs.

Rox was quite out of breath by the time they reached her room. After sitting her on the side of the bed, Nikki reached down and lifted Rox's feet up, swinging them up and under the covers as Rox slowly lowered her head to the pillow. Pulling the covers up, Nikki tucked her friend in then leaned over and kissed her tenderly. Sitting on the edge of the bed, she crossed her legs, then reached over and brushed the red-gold hair off her friend's forehead.

"What do you think of him, Nik?" Roxanne asked.

"I like him, Rox. He was really worried about you. How long did it take him to guess you were in trouble?" Nikki asked.

"About ten minutes," Rox replied.

Nikki nodded her head and smiled. "Sounds like he's pretty sweet on you already. He won't stand a chance once he actually meets you, you know," she said softly.

Rox frowned. "What do you mean?" she asked.

Nikki reached forward and ran her forefinger down the side of Rox's face. "Roxanne Ward, you have got to be one of the most outgoing, friendliest, compassionate people I know. Not to mention, smart, talented and very beautiful. Any man or woman for that matter, would be a fool not to fall in love with you on first sight," she explained.

Rox blushed. "Cut it out, Nik, you're embarrassing me," she said slapping her friend's hand away.

"Its true," she said leaning in until she was nose to nose with Rox, "and you know it," she added, dropping a kiss on her friend's lips. "I love you, sleep well," she whispered, kissing her again before getting up from the bed and heading for the door. Stopping, she turned around and looked at her friend, "Good night, Rox."

"Good night, Nik. I love you too. Kiss the Big Guy for me, okay?" Rox said.

"I will. See you in the morning," Nikki added before closing the door and joining her wife.

Nikki climbed into bed and snuggled up close to the taller woman. Jerri's arms instinctively circled the smaller woman, spooning herself in behind her. "Where've you been, love?" Jerri asked.

"I just put Rox to bed. She had a pretty intense chat session with Cass. Seems they're falling in love already," Nikki told her.

"So much for baby steps! She's easy to fall in love with. She's just way to cute for her own good," Jerri said, pulling her wife in tighter.

"Yes she is. Kind of like a tall dark warrior type I know and love," Nikki said, rolling back over to face her wife.

Jerri leaned in and kissed her soundly. "Hmmm, you taste good," she said.

"Make love to me, Jer," Nikki whispered passionately.

Jerri rolled them both over so that she way laying on top of her wife. Supporting herself on her elbows, she looked down into Nikki's face. "I love you, Nik," she said, placing butterfly kisses along her jaw.

Nikki threw her head to the right to allow Jerri better access to her throat as her wife slowly moved down, nipping at the tender skin along her collar bone. Reaching up, she grabbed Jerri's head and pulled her in closer. "God, Jerri, that feels so good," she said breathlessly.

Sitting up to straddle her wife, Jerri took Nikki's wrists and pinned them to the bed above her head. Nikki looked up into smoldering brown eyes, and knew she was in for a very passionate evening.

Two doors down, Rox smiled, then pulled the blanket up over her head to drown out the sounds of her friends making love. Soon, Cass, she thought. Soon.

*  *  *

Cass was running on pure adrenaline when she logged off the computer. It was only a little after seven p.m., so she decided to burn off a little energy by going to the gym, then stopping at the diner for a late dessert, and a much needed visit with Angie.

By 8:30 p.m., Cass had completed her workout and was ready to head over to the diner. On her way out of the gym, she once again ran into Jason.

"Cass," he called to her as she headed toward the door, gym bag slung carelessly over her shoulder.

Cass turned around sharply and noticed the obnoxious man coming toward her. "Oh hi Jason," she deadpanned.

"Cass, I wanted to tell you how much I admired your skillful performance in San Diego. A lesser pilot would have crashed the plane and killed everyone on board. You must be very good under pressure," he observed.

"It wasn't a performance, Jason -- it was a necessity. People's lives were at stake." she said, wanting to stomp him like a bug right where he stood.

"Well anyway, I just wanted to congratulate you on a job well done," he said in a cocky, self assured manner.

"Gee Jason, that means sooooo much coming from you," she said, totally wasting the sarcasm on his dense head.

"Maybe we can go out again?" he asked. "Here's my card, give me a call when you're free," he added, handing her the card then walking out the door.

Cass took a quick look at the card then flipped it into the trash can on her way out.

*  *  *

"Here you go, love," Angie said, placing a piece of hot apple pie topped with ice cream in from of Cass.

"Ang, its a good thing I work out. Otherwise, I'd weigh 300 pounds with the amount of food you feed me," Cass whined good naturedly.

"Oh quit your whining and tell me about his new lady friend of yours," Angie demanded.

Cass' face suddenly brightened at the mention of Rox. The glow was not missed by Angie.

"She must be something wonderful to cause even your face to glow like that," she observed out loud.

Cass bushed. "Ang, wonderful doesn't come close to describing her," she said, taking another big bite of her pie.

"Well, tell me ... how's it going? The last time we spoke, you had sent a couple of e-mails back and forth," Angie reminded her.

"Well, we're still doing the e-mail and chat thing, but it is no longer just a friendly, social exchange. Ang, I believe I am falling in love," Cass said, blushing to the roots of her hair one more time.

"How can you be in love. You haven't even met her yet face to face?" Angie said, disbelievingly.

"It's true Angie. Don't ask me how, I just know that I am. Ang, she's invading my dreams. I have had three dreams now where she figures prominently. Our chat session last night was so intimate, enlightening, personal," she said, "I have never been so sure of anything in my life," she concluded.

Angie could see the truth in Cass' words just by looking into her eyes. "So what else did you learn about her in this chat session of yours?" Angie asked.

Cass' face darkened. Putting down the fork, she sat back in her hair, hands still on the table, and looked seriously at Angie. "Ang, she is involved in an abusive relationship. Her life is in danger. Shit! She was typing to me last night with one hand because the other wrist is broken." Cass explained.

"Cass, forgive me for saying this, when you are obviously so smitten with this woman, but do you really need to be involved in such a volatile situation. I mean, considering what you lived through with Patti, do you really need a daily reminder by your side day after day?" Angie asked, concerned for her friend.

"There would be no daily reminders, Ang. Look ... both of us have come from abusive relationships. The last thing we would do is abuse each other. No ... if we were together, the memories of abuse would make our relationship more loving," she explained.

Angie reached across the table and brushed an errant lock of hair from Cass' face. "I hope you're right, hon. It's about time you settle down with someone who truly loves you," she said.

"Yes it is time, and I just know that Rox is the one, Ang. I have never felt this way about anyone before. She chases away this constant feeling of dread, longing and regret in the pit of my stomach. I feel light headed, giddy and excited when I think of her. Ang, I thought I was in love with Patti, but what I felt for her is nothing compared to what I feel for Rox," she explained.

Angie reached out and placed her hand over Cass'. "You know, there are different levels of love, sweetie. I'm sure you loved Patti, but obviously, Rox is your true soulmate," she surmised.

Cass just smiled and squeezed the hand that was resting on top of hers. "It's late, and I'm tired. I'm going to head home. Thanks for listening, Ang. I really needed someone to talk to tonight." Rising to her feet, she gave the older woman a kiss on the cheek and an affectionate hug before heading out the door.

"Good night, Cass," Angie said, thinking to herself that Cass wasn't going to like the cold Maine winters.

*  *  *

When Cass got home, she immediately went into her office and fired up her computer. She had told Rox that she would send her an e-mail in the morning, but seeing that it was about 10:00 p.m. on the west coast, she wouldn't see it until morning anyway. Sitting down at the computer, she started to write.

"Hi Love,

Rox, I want you to know that I have given you a piece of my heart that I never want you to return. I have never felt for anyone else, the way I feel for you. You are the other half of my soul Roxanne Ward. You complete me.

It breaks my heart to know you are living in an abusive situation. I thank the powers above that you have two friends who love you, and who are willing to stay with you to keep you safe. I wish I could be there myself, but I don't want to rush you, or make you uncomfortable with the pace of this relationship. Know however, that I will come to you immediately if you need me. My phone number is 408-555-1080. I generally fly Monday and Tuesday, and then again on Thursday and Friday, but I am home on Wednesdays and weekends. Please call if you need me, Rox. I really want to be there for you.

You are a brilliant writer, Rox. I can only imagine what it would be like to look inside your mind. I'm sure it is a wondrous and magical place. I desperately want to get to know you better ... to look inside and see the real Roxanne Ward. I know without a doubt that I would not be disappointed. I want to know your mind as well as your heart. I ask that you share them both with me. I will treat them with care.

I will let you go for now. Know that what I feel for you goes beyond friendship. I believe I am falling in love with you Rox. Don't ask me how this happened, especially since we have know each other for such a short period of time ... and especially since we have never met face to face, but I feel it in my heart. I know without a doubt that I love you, and I will cherish you forever. I hope I have not made you uncomfortable with this declaration. I couldn't bear to lose you.

Until later then,

With loving thoughts,

Cass"

There, Cass thought as she reread the note. "Pleasant dreams, Sweet Angel," she whispered as she reached over and clicked on 'shut down'.

Rising, she made her way to the bedroom, stripping off her T-shirt and shorts along the way. Slipping a nightshirt over her head, she climbed in between the sheets and laid down, letting out a deep sigh as she settled into the soft pillow and closed her eyes.

*  *  *

Roxanne was riding on a horse, behind a dark haired man. Suddenly, they came to a stop and she slipped off the horse's back. Walking around for a moment, she turned and looked at the man. He was very handsome. Talk and dark, and dressed in leather britches, vest and muslin shirt. He wore boots that laced to his knees. She was wearing a leather skirt and halter top, adorned with feathers. She too wore boots that laced to her knees. Is this Cass? she thought to herself.

"Where is she?" she heard herself say.

"She's in here," the man replied, pointed to himself.

She was confused, and shook her head side to side.

"Close your eyes," the man said. "Close your eyes and think of me."

Roxanne obeyed, closing her eyes tightly and clearing her mind. Suddenly, from the mist, rose a figure. A woman, dressed in a black leather battle dress and breastplate. She was beautiful. Tall and slim with long dark hair and strikingly blue eyes. Rox couldn't help but stare. This woman was breathtaking ... and she looked so familiar. Where have I seen her before? she asked herself.

For some unknown reason, Rox began to cry. "Why?" she asked. "Why did you leave me?"

Suddenly, the woman approached her, smiling. "I will always be here," she said.

Leaning in, the woman lowered her mouth toward Rox. Their lips touched, blending the essence of their love. Rox felt as though her insides had liquefied. A warmth spread from her chest to her groin. Her heart started to flutter, and her body shook uncontrollably with emotion.

As soon as the woman's lips contacted her own, Rox felt something change. Savoring the kiss for as long as she could, it was moments later before she opened her eyes. What she saw surprised her. She was kissing the tall, handsome man.

Rox looked around frantically. Where did she go? she thought as she continued to scan the area.

*  *  *

Jerri rolled off her wife, and onto her back, pulling the smaller woman along to rest on top of her. Both women were breathing heavily.

Nikki laid her cheek on Jerri's bare breast. "You're going to kill me one of these days, Jer," she said, panting. "God, that was good," she added.

"Hmmm. I aim to please, love. Had enough?" she asked.

Nikki's entire body was throbbing from post orgasmic relief, as small tremors continued to vibrate through her body. "Oh yeah," she said breathlessly, unable to move from her position on top of her wife.

Jerri leaned in and kissed her on top of the head. "Good, Now would you mind sliding off so I can use the bathroom?" she asked.

Nikki couldn't move. "Can't," she said.

Jerri just smiled and rolled onto her side, depositing Nikki on her back on the mattress next to her. "Some mattress queen you are!" she exclaimed.

Nikki just grinned as she watched her wife get out of bed. God, that woman is beautiful, she thought as she watched a naked Jerri head for the door. "Ah, Jer ... did you forget something?" she asked.

Jerri turned sleepy eyes back toward the bed and raised her eyebrows.

"We're not home, love. I don't think Rox will appreciate us walking around in our birthday suits," Nikki commented.

Jerri tilted her head back and looked at the ceiling. Letting a small chuckle escape, she padded back to the bed and reached for her nightshirt and panties before heading out once more.

Jerri passed Rox's room on her way back to Nikki and heard the red haired woman moaning inside. "Where did she go? Where is she?" came the desperate pleas.

Pushing the door open, she saw Rox thrashing about on the bed. Damn, she's going to re-injure her ribs if she keeps that up, Jerri observed.

Moving quietly into the room, Jerri climbed into bed and took Rox into her arms. Rox instantly settled down and burrowed into Jerri's embrace. "Shhhh," she cooed to the smaller woman. "Sleep, Rox ... you're safe, hon. Just relax and sleep." Soon, both women had fallen asleep.

Some time later, Nikki rolled over and threw her arm over her wife ... at least she threw it over the space her wife was supposed to be occupying. Sitting up and looking around, she realized that Jerri was missing. Slipping her own nightshirt and panties on, she went in search of the taller woman, finding her and her best friend wrapped in a loving embrace. Both women were sleeping.

Nikki stood in the doorway of Rox's room and smiled, thinking about how damned cute they looked. Tiptoeing silently to the bed, she too slipped in between the covers so that Rox was laying between them. As she settled in, Jerri opened one eye and smiled at her wife. "Nightmare," she said softly. Nikki smiled back and wrapped herself around both her wife and friend. Soon, the menagerie of dark, blonde and red were sound asleep.

*  *  *

Cass was sitting astride a horse. She felt odd. Her body was foreign to her. Wrapped around her, was Rox, sitting behind her in the saddle. She brought the horse to a halt, allowing Rox to slide off. She watched for a few moments as Rox walked around disoriented. Slipping off the horse herself, she straightened her clothing. Suddenly, she realized why she felt so odd ... she was a man! What the hell? she wondered to herself.

She walked a few feet away and shook her head. Suddenly, she felt Rox's hand on her arm.

"Where is she?" she heard Rox ask.

"She's in here," Cass replied, pointing to her chest. Why did I say that? she wondered.

She looked at Rox as shook her head in confusion.

Cass felt an internal struggle going on inside of her. Suddenly, she said to the petite red head, "Close your eyes, Close your eyes and think of me."

She watched as Roxanne obeyed, closing her eyes tightly. Cass felt very odd. Finally, after a few moments, things began to clear as she felt herself emerge from the inner depths of this man whose body she inhabited. Looking down, she noticed that the leather britches and vest were gone and she was now wearing a black leather battle dress and breastplate. Wow, she thought. I know I signed one of the e-mails "Your Loving Warrior", but I didn't mean it literally!

For some unknown reason, Rox began to cry. "Why?" she asked. "Why did you leave me?"

Cass felt Rox's pain and confusion and stepped forward to comfort her. "I will always be here," she said.

Leaning in, she lowered her mouth toward Rox. Their lips touched, blending the essence of their love. Cass felt as though her insides had liquefied. A warmth spread from her chest to her groin. Her heart started to flutter, and her body shook uncontrollably with emotion.

As soon as the woman's lips contacted her own, Cass felt something change. Savoring the kiss for as long as she could, it was moments later before she opened her eyes. What she realized surprised her. She was once again in the man's body.

Rox looked around, frantically scanning the area.

Cass suddenly bolted awake and jumped out of bed, feeling around her body with her hands. I feel like a woman, she thought as she headed to the bathroom to check it out in the mirror. Sure enough, she was definitely a woman.

E, did you dream what I dreamt? she asked her alter ego as she walked back into her bedroom, dazed.

I sure did. You know Cass, you really DO need to get.... Enforcer started.

Yeah, yeah, I know ... I need to get laid. Enough with the broken record, okay? she said sarcastically.

Go back to bed, Cass. Maybe you'll get to kiss her again ... this time, don't wake up, okay? Enforcer instructed.

Cass threw herself back down on the bed and stared at the ceiling for long moments before she drifted back to sleep.

CHAPTER XXI

ROX AWOKE TO find herself spooned in between her two friends. They had her trapped, unable to move a muscle. How the hell did this happen? she asked herself as she managed to work one hand free to scratch her nose. "Guys?" she said. "Ah, guys ... ah, Hello?" she said again.

"Go to sleep, Nik ... it's too early to get up," Jerri said as she threw her arm across both Rox and Nikki, once more trapping the hand she worked so hard to free.

"Aarrgghh!" Rox exclaimed as she turned her head to Nikki. "Nik! Nikki wake up!" she urged.

"Rox, go back to sleep," came the reply.

Suddenly, Nikki bolted upright in bed. "Rox?" she said looking at her friend. "How did you get in our bed?" she asked.

Rox grinned. "You're in MY bed, Nik. And so is Jerri," she observed.

Nikki frowned, trying to remember the previous evening. "Oh yeah," she said, running her hand through her short blonde hair. "You had a nightmare, Jerri came to your rescue ... I missed her, so I joined the two of you. Now I remember," she explained.

"I had a nightmare?" Rox questioned.

"Yes you did," Jerri said from her position on the other side of Rox.

Rox looked over at her other friend. "Did I say anything?" she asked.

Jerri rolled over onto her back and rubbed her eyes. "Yeah," she said, looking back at Rox. "You kept saying 'Where is she? and 'Where did she go?' Don't you remember any of it?"

"I remember riding a horse, and kissing a woman who turned into a man ... then she was gone!?" Rox said, confused.

"A woman who turned into a man?" Nikki deadpanned. "C'mere," she added, reaching over to feel Rox's forehead. "No fever. Are you all right, Rox?" she asked.

"I'm fine, Nik. The dream was so real. The man was tall and dark and very good looking. I remember wondering if it was Cass," Rox answered.

"Rox, just how hard did you hit your head yesterday?" Jerri asked.

"Some friends you are ... I invite you into my bed, and this is the way you treat me!" Rox said jokingly.

"Well, this friend could use some coffee ... and a trip to the bathroom," Nikki said as she climbed out of bed, then reached her hand back for Rox. "Coming?" she asked.

Rox painfully shuffled her way over to the edge of the bed and took Nikki's hand. Rising slowing to her feet, she groaned and said, "God, I feel like someone beat the shit out of me yesterday."

Jerri was right behind them as the trio made their way downstairs to brew their morning ambition and feed their caffeine addictions.

*  *  *

Bathroom chores out of the way, Rox powered up her laptop and selected "Netscape Communicator" to access her e-mail. Going directly to her inbox, she smiled broadly when she saw the note from Cass. Checking the date and time the message was sent, she grinned and said to herself, You couldn't wait until morning, could you Cass?

Double clicking on the note, she opened it and read:

"Hi Love,

Rox, I want you to know that I have given you a piece of my heart that I never want you to return. I have never felt for anyone else, the way I feel for you. You are the other half of my soul Roxanne Ward. You complete me.

It breaks my heart to know you are living in an abusive situation. I thank the powers above that you have two friends who love you, and who are willing to stay with you and keep you safe. I wish I could be there myself, but I don't want to rush you, and make you uncomfortable with the pace of this relationship. Know however, that I will come to you immediately if you need me. My phone number is 408-555-1080. I generally fly Monday and Tuesday, and then again on Thursday and Friday, but I'm home on Wednesdays and weekends. Please call if you need me, Rox. I really want to be there for you.

You are a brilliant writer, Rox. I can only imagine what it would be like to look inside your mind. I'm sure it is a wondrous and magical place. I desperately want to get to know you better ... to look inside and see the real Roxanne Ward. I know without a doubt that I wouldn't be disappointed. I want to know your mind as well as your heart. I ask that you share them both with me. I will treat them carefully.

I will let you go for now. Know that what I feel for you goes beyond friendship. I believe I'm falling in love with you, Rox. Don't ask me how this happened, especially since we have know each other for such a short period of time ... and especially since we have never met face to face, but I feel it in my heart. I know without a doubt that I love you, and I will cherish you forever. I hope I haven't made you uncomfortable with this declaration. I couldn't bear to lose you.

Until later then,

With loving thoughts,

Cass"

God, she said to herself. Just a few kind words, and I'm falling all over myself with desire. So, he wants to know my heart and soul ... well, the only place I really pour that out is in my writing and in my journal. Do I dare send my journal to him? Am I ashamed of what I have felt in the journal for the past several weeks? ... No, I'm not, came the reply. Okay, journal notes it is, she mumbled as she put off answering Cass' note.

Grabbing the mouse, she selected the word processor in her computer and double clicked on the folder labeled 'journal'. Once open, the folder displayed individual journal entries dating back nearly a year. Okay, let's start with the one I wrote earlier this week, Rox thought as she waited for the selected document. Going to the top of the screen, Rox selected the 'edit' icon and highlighted all the text in the file, then selected the 'copy' icon to place a copy of the text onto the clipboard. Then, selecting, 'new message', she opened a note and pasted the journal contents into it, adding introductory and closing comments. Addressing the note to Cass, she took the time to review its contents before sending:

"My dearest Cass,

You said in your last note that you wanted to see into my soul. There are only two places that I allow my soul to visit, the first is my writing, the second is my journal. I will share my journal with you. Cass, In these notes, I speak my heart ... you will truly know my soul as you read them. Most of what you will read are daily entries ... descriptions of my life during dark times. Please don't let this distress you. Know that this is a vehicle I use to vent my heart ... to help me survive the trials of my life. Damn, this is taking forever to type with one hand. I will be glad when the swelling has subsided enough to be able to use both hands. I have not made any entries since Wednesday, since I was in the hospital on Thursday and Friday. In any case, friend, here are my notes from earlier this week:

*  *  *

Monday

It is 9:30 p.m. I am sitting here on my glider on the back deck, my legs tucked under me, my laptop where it belongs. John Cougar playing from the CD on my computer. I am freezing. It is 80 degrees outside and I'm freezing. I don't feel well ... my body aches, especially my back. My nose is a chunk of ice. My toes are cold, goose bumps cover both arms. My fingers are like icicles. I slip them under the laptop where they soak up the warmth radiating from the bottom of the computer. Why am I cold?

Nikki was here this morning. Extremely upset at the condition I am in. She begged me again to leave Chris. I wish I could ... I wish it was that easy. It felt good to be held in her warm loving arms.

Why is it that people need contact? Especially women. What is it about the sense of touch that can convey so much emotion and feeling? Touch comes in many flavors -- soft and gentle, hard and abusive, rough and callused, sharp and stinging, firm and reassuring, warm and cuddly. Why is it that we want to be held when we are ill? We are the same people ... the same self sufficient, capable, individuals as when we are well ... why is the need so much greater at certain times? Why is the need so great that one can visualize the act and feel the warmth and erratic heart beat as though it was actually happening? The need for contact is very powerful indeed.

What am I missing? I ask myself that question a lot. Will I finally realize what I want from life when I am too old to have it? When I am too unattractive for others to seek it from me? That thought causes a lump to rise into my throat, making it difficult to breathe. I am tired as I close my eyes and lean my head against the swing.

*  *  *

Tuesday

Again, I sit here, on my deck, it is mid morning. I am enjoying the sounds of the ocean and a strong cup of coffee. I'm feeling a little better today, physically and emotionally. My spirits are a little higher, although I remain contemplative. Sometimes I think I spend too much time thinking, and wanting, and not enough time acting.

Nikki stopped by again this morning. She would still be here now if I hadn't sent her home to spend time with her wife. She is a good friend ... I love her dearly.

I spent significant time writing yesterday. Added another chapter to the book. I am pleased with the way it is turning out. Chris is out of town on a job, affording me the peace and quite I so desperately crave sometimes. The sunrise is painting the sky in one massive panorama of red. It is a beautiful sight to behold. A dog is barking in the distance. I take a deep breath and release it as a sigh. I am feeling melancholy ... I'm not sure why the mood strikes me, but sometimes it does.

*  *  *

Wednesday

Woke up at 6:30 this morning... My body is killing me again -- Why does it always hurt two days later instead of the next day? The pain was tolerable when I went to bed last night -- but this morning, it is nearly unbearable. Standing under the hot shower helped a lot.

Nikki came to visit with me again this morning. She is such a mother hen. I know she's afraid for me ... afraid that Chris will hurt me again. Soon, when my poor dear father finally finds peace from his pain, I too will be free. It breaks my heart to know that he will soon be gone. He has been a stabilizing force in my life ... I will miss him dearly.

Well, I'd better get to work ... deadlines to meet, publishers to keep happy. I have been invited to dinner at Nik and Jerri's this evening. I have a lot to accomplish before then. Until later ...

*  *  *

That's all I have written this week, Cass. As you know, I was in the hospital Thursday and Friday. I try very hard to faithfully keep my journal. I will gladly send it to you daily if you'd like. I want to be open and honest with you ... a good relationship can not be built on lies and suspicion. I am looking forward to seeing into your soul as well.

I will try to write today. We have not seen Chris since the beating on Thursday. Nikki and Jerri insist on staying with me ... I am never alone. Please don't fear for my safety.

Until later, then ...

Lovingly yours,

Rox"

Satisfied with the contents of the note, Rox selected 'send' and watched her soul disappear into the recesses of the Internet. Sitting back, she sighed deeply, then shut down the computer.

Jerri came up behind where she was sitting on the couch and leaned down to kiss her cheek. "You okay?" she asked.

Rox looked at her friend and smiled. "Yeah," she said.

Suddenly, Rox's stomach rumbled loudly, making both women chuckle.

"Come on ... let's go feed that beast," Jerri said, coming around the couch to help her injured friend up.

*  *  *

Cass rolled over and tried to make herself comfortable once more. Try as she might, she could not get rid of the burning ache in her lower abdomen. Finally giving up, she threw the covers off and climbed out of bed, plodding to the adjoining bathroom to relieve her bladder. Coming back into the bedroom, she sat heavily on the side of the bed. Reaching up to rub the sleep out of her eyes, she sighed deeply, then let her hands drop down between her legs, and her chin to her chest, scattering her dark hair into her face. God, I hate mornings, she said to herself. Glancing at the clock, she noticed the time was 9:00 a.m. Perking her head up, she furrowed her brow and thought, 9:00 a.m.? I went to bed around 11 p.m. ... ten hours of sleep... I shouldn't still be tired.

You don't remember the dream, do you? Enforcer asked.

Dream? Cass pondered before the memory returned to her. Oh yeah ... You know, that was a really strange dream. I mean, why would I be in a man's body?

You wouldn't be having penis envy, would ya, Cass? Enforcer teased.

Oh for Christ sakes! Cass yelled internally. Where do you come up with this stuff?

Ah ... Cass ... don't you mean, where do YOU come up with this stuff? Hellllllo? Enforcer mocked.

"Aarrgghh" Cass yelled out loud as she climbed to her feet and changed into her exercise clothes.

Forty-five minutes later, Cass was in the shower, washing off the sweat from her treadmill workout. She stood there with a towel around her middle, rubbing a second towel through her hair as she booted her computer and waited for her wallpaper to appear. She had scanned Rox's picture from the back cover of Stargazer II and stored it on her hard drive. Then, she identified the scanned photo as wallpaper, resulting in a smiling picture of Rox each time she booted up her computer.

"Damn, that woman is gorgeous!" she commented out loud as she sat down and selected 'Netscape Messenger'. Moments later, her inbox was presented to her, indicating two pieces of new mail. The first message was from the airline indicating that her flight to Durango that Monday was being rescheduled to take off an hour earlier than usual. The airline often did that with international flights due to scheduling problems in the foreign airports. The second post was from Rox.

Scanning the contents of the note made an uneasy feeling creep into her chest. This is a very unhappy woman, E. God, I wish I could take her away from it all, she thought.

Why can't you? Enforcer asked.

What do you mean, why can't I? Cass mocked sarcastically.

Why can't you? What's stopping you? came the next probing question.

Well, for one, I don't even know yet that she's into women. Like you said during chat, she said she loved me for caring... not that she loved ME. Remember. Secondly, she made it perfectly clear that she had to stay in her current relationship until her father was gone. What chance do I have? Cass asked.

Well ... you could always knock her father off ... get it over with ... whaddaya think? Enforcer suggested.

Cass slapped both of her palms into her forehead and shook her head back and forth in disgust at where her mind was taking her. Damn it Cass, just answer the note, she scolded herself.

She sat back for several moments, scanning Rox's note once more before penning a reply:

"My dearest bard,

I feel so privileged to be allowed a glimpse of your soul. Thank you so much for sending your journal. Yes, I would very much like to continue receiving daily entries. I feel like you are showing me a secret part of yourself, a part reserved only for those you hold dear. Thank you, dear bard for trusting me.

Rox, you have asked so many valid questions in your note ... you have the mind of a philosopher, and the soul of an Angel. I wish I had answers for you, but I don't. Why DO people need contact? I don't know. I suppose we need contact to measure our impact on others. Maybe even to validate our own self worth ... you know, the more people we physically touch, and the more people we have who voluntarily touch us, the higher our sense of worth. That's one possible theory. I think we draw comfort from touching ... we seek refuge in it. That's why we need contact even more when we are ill. We all want to be taken care of in one respect or another. Too many of us are the caretakers, never receiving anything in return... yes, even something simple as a touch to reward our efforts ... a kiss, a hug, a simple hand cupping your cheek. That type of touch validates us ... tells us that the world is a better place with us in it. I don't know, Rox. These are only my thoughts ... not based on fact ... nor on strong psychological doctrine ... just my thoughts.

I am glad to see that you are making progress on your new book. I'm afraid the cast on your hand will hinder your success ... unless you can get some help. Nikki seemed to do a very good job typing for you last night ... maybe she would be willing to help?

Rox, like Nikki, I too am worried about your relationship with Chris. I want so badly to rescue you from such brutality. Say the word, Rox, and I will be on the next flight to Maine. Please feel free to call my home whenever you need me. I have already given you the number, but here it is again ... 408-555-1080. My pager number is 408-555-0046. Please don't let Chris hurt you again, Rox ... please call me, and I will do whatever is in my power to stop it. Nikki has the right to be worried about you. What if Chris does return, Rox? What then? I am so glad Nikki and Jerri are staying with you. They sound like wonderful friends.

My bard, I feel a closeness to you I never thought I would feel again after Patti died. In the three years since her death, I have held a small sliver of my heart in reserve ... saving it only for Patti's memory. I find you invading that sliver, as you have invaded the rest of my heart. I can't stop thinking of you, Rox. I don't want to stop. Please promise that you will call me if you need me. I don't care what time of the day or night it is. If you can't reach me at home, please call my pager. If you need me Rox, I will find a way to get to you ... I promise.

All right. I will let you go for now. I am so looking forward to your next note.

Lovingly yours,

Cass"

Happy with the note, Cass selected 'send' and watched it disappear from her screen..

*  *  *

After a leisurely breakfast, Rox spent the next three hours sitting on the back deck, alternating between watching the ocean and awkwardly typing entries into her laptop for her new book. Try as she might, she was unable to erase the picture of the tall, dark haired man from her dreams. He looked very much like the picture Cass sent of himself, she speculated. She thought he looked quite dashing in the knee high boots, muslin shirt and vest. Complete with mustache and goatee, he looked very much like a musketeer.

Redirecting her attention to the written word, she lowered her head and concentrated on the laptop in front of her. The figure hiding behind the tool shed watched as Rox lowered her head and began typing. Standing guard like a gargoyle over its gable, unmoving, eyes rarely leaving the red-haired woman on the deck. Occasionally, a petite blonde or tall brunette would join her, sitting to enjoy a cup of coffee and chat, or to bring her lunch foods. Finally, when the red head moved gingerly into the house, the figure walked away, vowing to return later.

*  *  *

Cass sat back after shutting down the computer and stared at the blank screen. All she could think about was Rox and her abusive situation. Climbing to her feet, she started pacing back and forth, left hand on her hip, right hand massaging her chin. Damn, E, I'm worried about her. I have this uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. I wish I could be there with her right now, Cass speculated to her alter ego as she paced.

You realize you won't rest easy until you fly to Maine and check it out for yourself, Enforcer pointed out.

E, how can I do that? I have to work on Monday. I can't just pack up and go to Maine. Besides, she has her friends there with her ... she's probably relatively safe, she reasoned.

Admit it, Cass. You really want to be there because you have this overwhelming need to touch her, hold her, and tell her you love her. It has little to do with your protective instincts, said the alter ego.

Cass stopped pacing and frowned. Looking slightly over her left shoulder as though Enforcer was standing there, she raised her eyebrows and admitted to herself that her alter ego was probably right. Damn, I've got it bad, she admitted as she resumed her pacing.

CHAPTER XXII

JERRI KISSED HER wife good bye as she left Rox's oceanfront home to go to work. She was working the noon to midnight shift that day, and wouldn't be home until nearly 1:00 a.m. Nikki normally hated it when Jerri worked that shift, but this day, the circumstances were different ... she had Rox to keep her company through the long hours of the evening.

After seeing Jerri off, Nikki returned to the kitchen where Rox was sitting at the table enjoying a garden salad and grilled cheese sandwich. Nikki raised her eyebrows as she saw a place set for herself, and her own meal waiting for her. Coming up behind Rox, she wrapped her arms around the red head and hugged her affectionately, kissing her cheek in thanks.

"How did you manage to cook lunch with a broken wrist?" Nikki asked as she sat down.

"I have many skills," Rox said, wiggling her eyebrows up and down.

Nikki chuckled. "I'll bet you do," she replied pointedly. "How's the story coming?" she added.

Rox's face took on a glow as she talked about her work. "Wonderful ... I managed to write half a chapter this morning. That's pretty good considering I'm a one-armed bandit right now!" she exclaimed, lifting her fiberglass-encased hand as proof.

"Do you need some help with the typing, Hon? It might move along faster that way." Nikki observed.

"No, I don't think so. I'm doing okay ... besides, I have a really strange writing style. I'm forever going back to reread what I've already written ... tweaking things along the way. I jump back and forth so much, I'd confuse the hell out of you. I'll be fine on my own. Hopefully the swelling will go down in a day or so ... it'll be easier then. Thanks for asking though," she replied.

Nikki reached across the table to cover her friend's injured hand. "You know I'd do anything for you, Rox, right?" she said seriously.

Rox met her friend's green eyes and held them for several moments, a feeling of affection and love passing between them. "Yeah, I know, love. I can't thank you enough," she said.

Nikki smiled. "So, are you planning to write all day, or can I talk you into a little shopping?" she asked, shoving a fork full of greens into her mouth.

Rox sat back in her chair, hands poised on the table. "Nik, I really don't want to go out in public looking like this," she said, indicating the bruises that were painfully obvious on her face and neck.

Nikki nodded her head in understanding. "Well, how about a walk along the beach a little later? You really should get out of the house, Rox," she urged her friend.

"I think I might be able to manage that," Rox said grinning, " but can we make if for after dinner? I'm going to do my e-mail after lunch and them maybe take a nap before writing again this afternoon."

"After dinner is fine. What do you feel like having tonight? It's just the two of us," Nikki asked.

"Nikki, you really don't have to baby me like this ... I can cook my own dinner," Rox said

"Yes you can ... but you won't, and we both know it. Now don't argue with me. What would you like me to cook?" Nikki replied knowingly.

Seeing that she had lost the battle, Rox sighed heavily and said, "I don't know ... whatever you want, I guess."

"And just how do you make that?" Nikki asked, propping her elbow up on the table and resting her chin in her hand.

"Make what?" Rox asked, confusion etched across her brow as she looked at her friend.

"Whatever you want ... I'm not familiar with that dish," Nikki teased.

Rox grinned, and without breaking eye contact with Nikki, reached into her salad with her good hand and picked up a piece of lettuce, which she unceremoniously threw at her friend, hitting her on the cheek.

What ensued, was a full-fledged food fight. By the time they were done, their salad dishes had been emptied all over the kitchen and each other.

*  *  *

Rox waited patiently as the server retrieved her messages. Her eyes brightened as she saw the message from Cass. Clicking on the note, she scanned it quickly, then went back to take her time rereading it. Rox stopped at that place in the note where she saw the phone number. Do I dare? she thought, looking at the clock. Let's see, its nearly 1 p.m. here, so it's 10 a.m. there... he must be out of bed by now.

*  *  *

Cass begrudgingly dressed herself and waited for Angie to pick her up for a much needed shopping trip. Cass hated shopping, but she had to admit, she did need some new underclothes, and a pair of running shoes. Angie quickly volunteered to drag her through the mall. Moments later, she heard a car horn beep and stepped out onto the small balcony overlooking the parking lot. Sure enough, it was 10 a.m. and Angie was right on time. Groaning loudly, she grabbed her purse and headed for the door, only to be stopped by the ringing telephone.

Stopping dead at the door, Cass turned around and looked at the phone. Maybe its work calling ... then I can get out of this stupid shopping trip, she hoped. Walking the few steps between the door and the end table, she reached down and picked up the receiver.

"Hello?" she said into the phone.

Silence.

"Hello?" Cass said again, a little louder.

An audible click came from the other end of the line.

Cass pulled the receiver from her ear and looked at it questioningly as her brow furrowed. Then, she shrugged and mumbled something about crank callers before hanging the phone up and heading out the door once and for all.

*  *  *

Rox slammed down the receiver. "Oh my god," she said out loud. "A woman answered the phone."

"Huh? Did you say something, hon?" Nikki asked from the kitchen doorway as she wiped the last dish.

Rox was still looking at the receiver. "I said, a woman answered the phone," she replied, partially in a daze.

"A woman answered whose phone? Roxie ... honey, maybe you should take that nap now," Nikki suggested, coming into the living room to feel her friend's forehead.

Rox brushed her hand away. "Nik, I'm all right. A woman answered Cass' phone. He gave me his phone number in his last post ... I called, and a woman answered his phone!" she exclaimed, becoming agitated.

Nikki raised her eyebrows as she wiped her hands on the dishtowel. "I see," she said, nodding.

"What do you think it means?" Rox asked.

"It means he had a woman in his apartment. Maybe it was his mother, or his sister," Nikki suggested.

"Or his girlfriend!" Rox added. "Nik ... what do I know about this guy? He could be some whacko for all I know."

"Rox, he's an airplane pilot ... not a whacko," Nikki said, trying to soothe Rox's hurt.

"Are you saying air plane pilots can't be whackos, Nik?" Rox challenged her friend.

"No, I'm not saying that. Look, Rox," Nikki said, exasperated with her friend. "Why don't you skip your e-mail for this afternoon and get some sleep. It will still be here for you when you get up. Okay?"

Rox reluctantly agreed when a yawn gave away her true state of tiredness.

"You go on up ... slowly ... and hold on to the railing ... I'll power down the computer, then come tuck you in, okay? Hell, I may even join you," Nikki said as Rox turned and headed toward the stairs.

Nikki selected the 'start' command in the lower left corner of the screen, and then initiated the shutdown procedure. As she watched the computer shut down, she thought, You had better not be messing with my friend, or you're a deadman, Cass Conway.

*  *  *

Cass powered up her computer the minute she walked into her condo. The shopping trip had taken much longer than she would have liked with Angie insisting on stopping at a half-dozen stores, and then insisting on getting lunch as long as they were out. The end result was four miserable hours in the mall. Cass was about ready to blow a gasket when Angie finally declared herself done and they headed to the car.

Disappointment settled itself in the pit of her stomach like last Christmas' fruitcake when there were no new messages from Rox. Sitting back in her chair, she sighed deeply and just stared at the screen.

Staring at it won't make it happen, you know. Enforcer said.

What do you mean? Cass asked.

Staring at the screen won't make a note appear. Enforcer explained.

What do you think is wrong, E? came the next question.

Who says something is wrong? Maybe she's just busy. Maybe she's writing. Don't be so paranoid, Cass, the alter ego scolded.

E, what if that bastard has beaten her up again, and she CAN'T respond? Cass feared.

I don't know, Cass... I just don't know. Look, you're not going to be happy until you fly out there and check it out for yourself ... you know that, don't you?" Enforcer pointed out.

I can't do that E! Don't you see? How will it look if I suddenly appear at her door and a healthy Rox answers it? I'll look pretty stupid for being so paranoid, don't you think? Cass replied.

Suit yourself, Cass ... but don't complain to me when I say 'I told you so.' Okay? came the sarcastic reply.

Maybe I should send her another note ... no - that would seem desperate. Cass remarked.

You ARE desperate, aren't you? Geesh, Cass ... you sure are acting like it. Look ... why don't we go over to the gym and work off some of this nervous energy ... okay? Enforcer suggested.

Ah, E ... I really don't want to go to the gym, Cass whined.

Look, Cass ... you're wound up like a Cuckoo clock ... either we go to the gym, or we go out and get laid ... your choice, although I prefer the later, Enforcer demanded.

Cass stopped pacing and looked over her shoulder again. "I'll change into my gym clothes," she said out loud, heading for her bedroom.

Damn! Enforcer said under her breath, as Cass readied herself to go.

*  *  *

After a leisurely dinner of pasta marinara, salad and garlic bread, Nikki and Rox stepped onto the sand off the back deck to take a stroll along the beach. Both women had curled up together to take a two hour nap, their bodies wrapped around each other affectionately. Upon awakening, they laid on their sides with their heads on the pillows, facing each other, but not touching. For the next hour, they talked about everything imaginable, from Rox's books, to Chris, to life's philosophies. Rox so loved this time with her friend. They used to spend time together like this in college. While the other girls were out drinking, partying, and getting laid, Rox and Nikki would talk ... sometimes lying in bed like they were today, sometimes curled up on the couch, sometimes sitting rigidly on the floor ... their body language always seeming to reflect their subject matter. After their talk, Rox wrote for a couple of hours while Nikki prepared dinner.

Rox looked longingly at her computer before deciding to ignore her e-mail a while longer, and to enjoy the relaxing walk along the shoreline with her best friend.

"Nikki, Do you think I'm rushing things with Cass?" Rox asked.

Nikki pondered the wet sand that forced it's way between her toes as she walked barefoot on the edge of the surf. "Maybe, Rox. You HAVE only known him for what ... three weeks?" Nikki replied.

"It feels so much longer than that, Nik. It feels like I've known him forever. There's something about him that I can't put my finger on. It's almost like I've known him before. It all 'feels' so familiar, know what I mean?" Rox questioned her friend.

Nikki walked along quietly, contemplating her own situation. She had known Jerri for only a short time as well before she knew she wanted to commit her life to her. The difference was, she and Jerri met first and THEN fell in love, not the other way around, as was the case with Rox and Cass. "Roxie, I DO believe that people can fall in love quickly ... hell, I didn't know Jerri for much longer than you've known Cass before I was sure of my love for her," Nikki began.

"But ...?" Rox prompted.

"But, we had the luxury of meeting face to face and getting to know each other that way before we acknowledged how we felt," Nikki quickly explained.

Rox was silent as she thought about Nikki's comments.

Nikki looked over at her friend again. "Rox, what if the two of you meet and you're not compatible? What if you don't appeal to each other physically ... what then? I'll tell you what then," Nikki continued without giving Rox a chance to reply, "you'll end up getting hurt. Rox, honey, you give your heart too freely ... look at Chris. You gave your heart freely there too, and look where it's ending," she finished as they continued to stroll along the beach.

"Cass is different, Nik. I can feel it," Roxanne replied, looking into her friend's eyes pathetically before adding, "Of course, its all for naught if the woman on the phone earlier today is his girlfriend."

"Rox, you don't know that," Nikki observed.

"You're right, I don't ... maybe I should ask him," Rox suggested.

"Maybe you should," Nikki replied.

Rox stopped walking and looked into her friend's eyes. Smiling, she leaned in and kissed Nikki affectionately on the lips. "Thank you, my friend. You know I love you with all my heart, don't you?" she asked.

Nikki nodded her head and smiled as the two women locked arms and resumed their walk.

The solitary figure stood once more by the tool shed, watching the affectionate scene between the best friends. You bitch, the figure thought, you will pay for this ... for the lies and the humiliation ... you will pay. Anger rose like fetid bile in the figure's throat as plans were made to administer punishment on the unsuspecting victim.

*  *  *

Cass stood under the showerhead and washed the sweat from her body. Although the trip to the gym helped alleviate most of her frustrated anxiety, there was still enough hanging on to make her edgy. She wondered if Rox had responded to her last post yet. Resolving not to make herself crazy waiting, she climbed out of the shower, toweled herself dry, then glanced at the clock, trying to decide if she was going to go out to dinner or to order in. It was nearly 5 p.m. After towel drying her long dark hair, she hung the towel back on the rack and stood naked in the full-length mirror in the bathroom, looking at herself. Turning this way and that, she noticed that the large bruise from the crash landing was starting to fade. That done, she faced herself in the mirror again and sighed. Damn, I need to get a life, she said to herself. I hate eating alone ... I have living alone ... I hate being alone, she added as she grabbed some clothes and got dressed. Angie, I hope you're not to busy tonight, 'cause I plan on hanging around 'till closing time, Cass said to herself as she combed out her hair. Cass stopped and took a long hard look at her computer as she headed for the front door, almost giving in to the urge to log on and check her e-mail. Finally, she forced herself to put one foot in front of the other as she left her condo and headed down town for dinner.

*  *  *

"What can I get you, sweetling?" Angie asked her favorite customer as she sat down in the chair opposite Cass.

Cass looked up and smiled at her friend. "Uhm... how about the beef stew and salad?" she asked. "Oh ... and a coffee," she added.

"Good choice," Angie said as she wrote Cass' order down on her pad. Before rising to place the order, she looked at her 'adopted' daughter carefully. "Are you all right, honey?" she asked.

Cass furrowed her brow. "Sure, why do you ask?" she replied.

"I don't know ... you look a little preoccupied or something," Angie said a little hesitantly. "Look, let me go place your order, then I'll grab us both a coffee. Looks like you need to talk," she said, rising to her feet and walking away.

Cass smiled to herself. Angie was a real gem ... a true friend. It amazed Cass how she always knew when something was bothering her.

Moments later, Angie returned with two cups of coffee. Sitting down opposite Cass, she pushed one of the cups over to the younger woman and said, "Okay, spill it ... what's bothering you?"

"I don't know, Ang ... I guess I'm being impatient. I can't get Rox out of my mind," she answered.

"Ah ... Rox. I should have known. Have you heard back from her yet?" Angie asked.

"Not today ... it kind of worries me. Did I tell you that she lives in an abusive situation? The person she is living with has beaten her several times ... in fact, the last beating was just a few days ago. I'm really afraid for her, Angie," Cass explained.

"Is she alone?" Angie asked.

"No. A couple of friends are staying with her. I feel better about that, but ... I don't know. Damn, I wish I could be there with her," Cass confessed.

"Why aren't you? Why don't you fly to Maine and check it out. At least you'll have peace of mind," Angie suggested.

"That's what E suggested," Cass replied.

"E?" asked Angie.

Realizing that Angie didn't know about her alter ego, Cass tried to cover. "Ah ... ah ... E ... short for Elizabeth - a friend of mine at the gym," she said haltingly.

Angie looked at her friend through narrowed eyes. What are you hiding Cassidy Conway? she wondered to herself. Pushing the thought aside for a moment, she continued. "If it will make you feel better, Cass, go to her," Angie urged.

"Well, I'll give it a few more days. If things still don't feel right, then maybe I'll do just that. In any case, I have a two-day flight to Durango scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, so I can't do anything until at least Tuesday," Cass explained.

"Order up, Ang!" came the call from the kitchen.

Angie reached across the table and patted Cass' hand. "That'll be yours. After dinner, we'll talk some more, okay, love?" she suggested.

Cass just nodded her head in thanks and waited for Angie to retrieve her dinner. It was going to be a long evening.

CHAPTER XXIII

ROXANNE SAT AT her computer in her office and pondered what to write. She had argued with Nikki incessantly about letting her climb the two flights of stairs to the third story, and finally, her friend relented on the condition that she help her up there and back again.

How do I ask him? she questioned herself. Cass, do you have a girlfriend? Cass, are you playing cybersex games with my head? Cass, do you love me ... Whoa!!!! Where did THAT come from? she asked herself, her heart beating rapidly at the unexpected thought.

Rox rose from her chair and started pacing, her eyes never leaving her computer, as though it was an enemy about to pounce. By the gods ... Do I love him? she questioned herself. I do ... don't I? she concluded. How can that be? I've only known him for three weeks. Damn! she said as she started pacing once more. Oh gods ... what if he is playing games with my head? What if he's one of these kooks who pretends to be something he isn't to lure innocent women into dangerous situations? All right ... calm down, Rox ... think! You know he's legitimately a pilot ... his name was all over the newspaper earlier this week. But what about the woman in his apartment?

The petite red head was still pacing when Nikki climbed the stairs to the attic.

"Hey girl, can I interest you in a glass of ice tea?" she asked, handing the extra glass she was carrying to Rox.

Rox reached out and accepted the glass, avoiding Nikki's eyes. "Thanks," she said.

Nikki noticed the lack of eye contact immediately. "Whoa, Rox ... what's wrong?" she asked, placing a hand on Rox's arm.

"Wrong? What could be wrong? Here I am, covered in black and blue marks, a cast on my hand, madly in love with a man I've never met ... a man who is probably cheating on me this very moment! What could possibly be wrong, Nik?" she answered sarcastically.

Taking Rox's ice tea away from her, Nikki put both glasses down on the desk and then faced her friend. Taking her by the forearms, she turned Rox so that she was directly facing her. Reaching up, she lifted Rox's chin to look her directly in the eye. "Rox ... did you say you were in love with him?"

Rox's eyes immediately filled with tears as she met her friend's gaze. Nodding her head slightly she began to cry, falling into Nikki's embrace. "Nik, what am I going to do? I love him ... I can't help it, but I do. I know I haven't known him for very long, but ... but ... damn it, Nikki, what am I going to do?" she cried.

"Roxie ... Roxie, baby, shhhh. It's okay. Honey, please don't cry," Nikki said as she soothed Roxanne's tears.

After long moments, the crying subsided, and Rox stood in the circle of Nikki's arms, trying desperately to compose herself. "Are you all right?" Nikki asked, pulling back to look at her friend.

Rox just nodded, still avoiding Nikki's eyes for fear that she would break down crying again. "What am I going to do, Nik?" she whispered.

Nikki pulled her in for one more hug before leading her over to her desk. Sitting her down in the office chair, she turned the woman around until she was facing the computer. "Well, for starters, you're going to write to Cass and find out about the woman in his apartment," she said as she reached over Rox and booted up the computer.

"Nikki, I don't know what to say," Rox replied.

"Don't worry ... I'll help you think of something," her friend said.

Moments later, Rox had opened the 'new mail' icon and was poised to compose the note to Cass.

"Okay, how's this?" Rox said.

"Dear Cass,

Thank you so much for your concern. I too live in fear that Chris may return and cause more damage, personal and otherwise. Let me assure you that I am never alone. Nikki or Jerri, and sometimes both, are with me at all times. I don't believe I am in any grave danger.

I really do appreciate you giving me your phone number ..."

"Rox," Nikki interrupted. "Do you think you should give him your phone number?"

"No ... not unless he asks for it ... I want to make sure this will work out before I start giving out information like that," she observed.

Nikki just nodded as they put their heads together once more to continue the note.

I really do appreciate you giving me your phone number. Actually, I called it earlier today and a woman answered. Maybe a house keeper? In any case, you weren't home.

Cass, I need to be blunt here for a moment ... I need to know what your intentions are toward me. Cass, I am falling in love with you. If that love can not be reciprocated, then we must end this e-mail relationship ... I can't bear the thought of continuing with the facade if there is no chance that you will ever love me. Please don't be angry with me over this demand. I have lived in hell for the past six years, and it is about time I leave the confines of that prison and move on to brighter future. I know you have told Nikki that you love me ... but are you IN love with me?

Again, forgive my bluntness, but I need an answer to this question before we can go on.

I love you Cass, but I can not allow you to hurt me ... I have lived in pain for much too long already.

Please let me know where your hearts lies.

Rox."

"Wow... you weren't kidding when you said you needed to be blunt, were you?" Nikki observed.

"Do you think it will scare him off?" Rox worried, her brow knit together as she reread the last few paragraphs.

"Well, it will either scare him off or reel him in for life ... it all depends on how he feels about commitment, I guess," Nikki responded.

Rox looked at her blonde friend. "Nik, I can't let him hurt me. Chris has done enough of that to last a life time," she explained.

Wrapping her arms around Rox, Nikki leaned in and hugged her fiercely. "I know, sweetheart, I know. Okay then ... send it," she suggested.

Rox reached for the mouse and directed the pointer to the send button. In seconds, the note was on its way to Cass while the two friends sat there absorbed in their own thoughts.

It will kill me if he answers no, Rox mused.

I will kill him if he hurts Rox, Nikki vowed.

*  *  *

Cass left the diner at closing time, keeping Angie company for nearly three hours after she finished her supper. She dreaded the thought of going home once again to an empty apartment. Dragging herself through the front door, she eased her tall frame down onto the couch and reached for the remote control. After spending several moments channel surfing and finding nothing to hold her interest, she turned the TV off and threw the controller down on the coffee table. Throwing her head back and looking directly up at the ceiling, she sighed deeply.

Go ahead, Enforcer urged.

Cass did her best to ignore the voice.

Cass ... I know you can hear me. It won't do you any good to ignore me, you know, the voice said.

Aw, come on E, back off, will ya? Cass whined.

No ...... I don't think so. You know you want to, the alter ego forged ahead.

E!!!!! Cass countered.

Look Cass ... You don't exactly have a Super Bowl party goin' on here ... I'm bored. Now get off your ass and do it! Enforcer insisted.

God damn it, E! You aren't going to leave me alone until I do, are you? Cass asked sarcastically.

You got it, girlfriend. Enforcer answered as Cass rose to her feet and headed to the office.

Cass started pacing as she waited impatiently for the computer to boot up. After a few moments, she threw her hands up in the air, exasperated. "Why the hell can't these multi-million dollar semiconductor manufacturers make a computer that is ready the instant you push the 'on' button?" she complained out loud, as she started the even lengthier log on into Netscape Communicator. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the server finished delivering new mail to her inbox. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw Rox's addy.

Double clicking on Rox's note, she quickly scanned the contents.

Dear Cass,

Thank you so much for your concern. I too live in fear that Chris may return and cause more damage, personal and otherwise. Let me assure you that I am never alone. Nikki or Jerri, and sometimes both, are with me at all times. I don't believe I am in any grave danger.

I really do appreciate you giving me your phone number. Actually, I called it earlier today and a woman answered. Maybe a house keeper? In any case, you weren't home.

Cass, I need to be blunt here for a moment ... I need to know what your intentions are toward me. Cass, I am falling in love with you. If that love can not be reciprocated, then we must end this e-mail relationship ... I can't bear the thought of continuing with the facade if there is no chance that you will ever love me. Please don't be angry with me over this demand. I have lived in hell for the past six years, and it is about time I leave the confines of that prison and move on to brighter future. I know you have told Nikki that you love me ... but are you IN love with me?

Again, forgive my bluntness, but I need an answer to this question before we can go on.

I love you Cass, but I can not allow you to hurt me ... I have lived in pain for much too long already.

Please let me know where your hearts lies.

Rox."

Whoa Doggie! Break out the cold ones! Cass old buddy, looks like you scored big time! Enforcer said, verbally slapping her on the back.

"A woman answered my phone?" she said to no one in particular. E ... she said a woman answered my phone. I wonder who that was? she mused.

Fuck the woman, Cass .... well, not literally - Oh hell ... you know what I mean. Look! She said she's falling in love with you. the alter ego exclaimed.

"Cass, I am falling in love with you," she read again.

Suddenly, she jumped to her feet and pointed to the monitor. "Holy Shit, E!!! She said she's falling in love with me!" Cass yelled.

No shit, Sherlock! E replied. Hellllllo? Is anybody home?

Cass started pacing again, arms crossed in front of her. Oh Shit, Oh Shit, Oh Shit! Now what do I do? she asked herself.

You sit that cute butt of yours right down here and answer this note. Don't get cold feet now, Cass. This is what you wanted, remember? Enforcer chimed.

Nodding her head, Cass sat down in front of the keyboard and composed another response.

"My dearest Rox,

Reading your note invoked such a sense of love and longing, I could hardly contain it. Never in my wildest imagination did I think that you would return my love so quickly. Rox, I have been in love with you almost from the beginning.

Sweetheart, I know you have come from a very brutal relationship, and I understand your need to be blunt. Let me assure you, my love, that your heart is safe with me. I will never hurt you, Rox ... that is a promise ... I do not take my promises lightly.

How could I ever be angry with you for wanting to know my heart? In my last post, I asked that you share your soul with me ... I can not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do myself, so by all means, ask me anything you'd like Rox ... my heart belongs to you.

You asked what my intentions are toward you. Rox, I have never felt such intensity of love for another human being in my entire life. Thoughts of you fill my mind during every waking moment. What are my intentions? My intentions are to meet you one day soon, sweep you off your feet, and carry you away into the sunset on my golden palomino. My intentions are to make you happier than you have ever been for the rest of your life. My intentions are to love you, cherish you, and hold you near and to make love to you long into the nights and to carry your scent on my skin through the separation of time and space during the days. My intentions are to grow old with you, and to hold you in my arms as I take my dying breath. These are my intentions, Rox.

I love you with all my heart. I need to be with you. Just say the word and I will be on the next plane North.

You are my heart Rox. Come fly away and be my love.

Cass"

"What do you think?" Cass asked out loud.

I think you need to click on 'send'. Let'er rip, Cass. It's a great note. Enforcer replied.

*  *  *

Nikki slept soundly, curled up in the guest room with her arms and legs wrapped around the spare pillow. She often slept like this when Jerri had to work late. Being a light sleeper, she was partially awakened by the sounds of another body rummaging around in her room.

"Jer? Honey, stop making so much noise and come to bed," she said into the darkness, never lifting her head off the pillow.

Several moments of silence followed as Nikki waited for her wife to join her. When it became apparent that the taller woman wasn't coming to bed, Nikki sat up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes with the back of her fists before looking up into deep brown eyes. Her own eyes flew open wide as the club made contact with her skull. Moments later, blackness enveloped her.

*  *  *

"Nikki! Nikki!" Jerri cried, gently shaking her wife into consciousness.

Nikki's eyes slowly opened, the light from the bedside lamp blinding her with pain, causing her arm to automatically shoot up to cover her eyes.

"Oh my god," Nikki moaned as her hand found the lump on the back of her head. "What happened?" she asked looking around. Suddenly, she sat up, almost causing herself to pass out from the nausea that filled her stomach at the sudden movement. Falling back down onto the bed, she reached up and grabbed Jerri's arm. "Jerri ... where's Rox?" she asked desperately.

Jerri pushed Nikki back down onto the bed. "Shhh, settle down love, the ambulance crew is with her." she replied.

Nikki forced her way back into a sitting position at the news. "What? Jerri, I need to see her," she cried as she threw her legs over the side of the bed and attempted to get up.

"Stay down, Nik ... you'll see her soon enough. In fact, you'll be sharing an ambulance ride to the hospital with her. Please lay down," Jerri pleaded, her voice cracking with emotion for the woman she loved.

Nikki started to cry. "Oh god, Jerri. It was Chris. I saw the brown eyes and blonde hair just before I lost consciousness. Jer ... how bad is Roxie?" she asked faintly.

"Bad enough to be checked out in the emergency room, love, but it could have been worse. I think I interrupted the attack when I came home," she explained.

That news just made Nikki cry harder. Sitting up once more, she wrapped herself around her wife and buried her face in the taller woman's chest. "Jer, you could have been hurt too!" she exclaimed.

Jerri rubbed the smaller woman's back as she soothed her fears. "Yeah, well I wasn't, so don't fret over it, okay?" she said, as she continued to hold her wife close.

"Jerri, we're ready to go. Does Nikki need a stretcher?" asked a voice from the doorway.

Jerri looked back over her shoulder. "No Dan, I don't think so. I'll walk her down to the ambulance. We'll be right there," she told her fellow paramedic as she turned back to Nikki. "Can you make it with my help, or do you want me to carry you?" she asked the petite blonde.

Nikki reached up and cupped the side of Jerri's face, noticing for the first time that there were tears in the corners of the dark haired woman's eyes. Smiling slightly, she replied, "No, I'll just lean on you ... just like I always do, love."

Jerri leaned in and kissed the smaller woman tenderly before smiling and extending her hand. "All right then, let's go," she said as she helped Nikki to her feet and led her out of the room.

Nikki held Rox's hand all the way to the hospital as she sat leaning against the taller woman. Rox was a mess. Blood liberally coated the front of her nightshirt, face, neck and arms. Jerri was thankful that she was unconscious, saving her from having to deal with both her wife and her best friend being injured at the same time.

Reaching up, Jerri brushed blonde tendrils away from Nikki's forehead, causing the smaller woman to smile. "Are you all right?" she asked.

Nikki sniffed back a tear then shook her head yes. "It's just a bump, Jer," she said, feeling around for the lump on the back of her head. "Poor Roxie, on the other hand ...," she added, allowing the sentence to trail off.

"Honey, it looks worse than it is," commented Jerri as she reached over and touched the side of her friend's face. "As far as I could tell, she has a head wound ... which accounts for most of the blood on her, and she's been beaten again around the face and neck. Her vitals are stable, Nik. She's going to be very sore, and maybe a little self conscious about her appearance for a while, but I think she'll be fine." Jerri concluded.

Nikki looked at her wife and wondered how on earth she could keep such a clinical attitude when their best friend was lying there in front of them in serious trouble. She always knew it took a special kind of person to work on an E-Crew ... someone who could detach themselves emotionally when necessary. She just sometimes found it hard to understand.

Looking down at her friend, Nikki reached over and brushed a bloody strand of hair from Rox's face. A solitary tear fell as she closed her eyes and sniffed back the deluge that was sure to follow if she allowed the gates to open. "Jerri, what are we going to do?" she asked while wiping the tear from her face. Looking up at her wife, she added, "Some protector I was, huh? I didn't even hear Chris come into the house!"

Jerri wrapped her arms tighter around Nikki. "Don't blame yourself for this, sweetheart. If Chris is determined to get to her, it will happen, one way of the other. We can't protect her 24 hours a day," she said. "Besides," she added, "I'm not sure how much you could have done against Chris, seeing as you're so much smaller."

Nikki just nodded tearfully as she once again brushed tears from her face. After a few moments, she looked up at her wife and said, "Jer, I know you don't like to hear this, but she really needs a man around the house. Someone who can protected her against the likes of Chris,"

"Nikki, she doesn't need a man around ... what she needs is for Chris to be caught and put behind bars," Jerri said adamantly.

"Well, I still think she'd be safer with a man in the house," Nikki commented sheepishly, knowing how Jerri felt about women taking care of themselves.

Jerri was about to argue the point further when the ambulance pulled up to the Emergency room bay.

*  *  *

Several hours later, in the wee hours of the morning, Nikki and Jerri left the hospital. Climbing into a taxi, Jerri looked over at a very sullen Nikki and reached out to cover her hand. "Nik, she's gonna be all right. They just want to keep her overnight for observation. We'll be able to take her home tomorrow morning, okay?"

Nikki wasn't in the mood to be coddled. Pulling her hand away, she folded them in her lap, then dropped her chin to her chest. "Jerri, I'm tired. I just want to go to bed," she said softly.

Jerri just nodded, then reached around to pull Nikki's head in for a kiss to the forehead. "How's your head?" she asked.

"Hurts like hell," Nikki replied. "I'm going to take some drugs, then hit the sheets," she informed the taller woman.

"Good plan," Jerri answered, releasing her and sitting back in her seat for the ride back to Rox's house. "Do you want to go home for the rest of the night instead of going back to Rox's?" Jerri asked.

Nikki looked up slightly and shook her head no. "Our cars are at Rox's ... we might just as well stay there tonight," she reasoned.

"What if Chris comes back? I'm not a man ... I might not be able to protect us," Jerri said sarcastically.

Nikki caught the sarcastic remark, but chose not to respond to it verbally. A bit touchy, are we? she asked herself internally. I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to offend you, but Rox really does need someone in her life to protect her, she thought.

Suddenly, Nikki sat upright and creased her brow. "Of course!" she said out loud.

Jerri raised her eyebrows. "Of course - what?" she asked.

"We need to get to Rox's right away. I have an e-mail to send," she replied.

CHAPTER XXIV

NIKKI WAS OUT of the taxi as soon as it pulled into the driveway of Rox's home. Running into the house, she quickly powered up the computer then logged onto the Internet using Rox's user ID and password.

Jerri walked up behind Nikki as she patiently waited for the logon to complete. "What are you doing?" she asked.

"I'm taking care of Rox's security problems," Nikki replied.

Jerri responded with raised eyebrows. Not receiving a verbal response, Nikki looked up at her wife and said, "What?"

"How to you propose to do that?" she inquired.

"I'm sending a note to Cass. Jer, Cass has said twice now that he'd jump on the first plane north if Rox needed him. I'd say she needs him now... wouldn't you?" the blonde asked.

Jerri narrowed her eyes. "Nik, aren't you over reacting a bit? I mean, yes, Chris did manage to get into the house undetected last night, but now that the police are alerted, they're watching the place ... it won't happen again," she explained.

"We don't know that, Jer. And what if Chris stalks her and catches her away from the house?" Nikki explained as she entered Rox's password into the system.

"Honey, what makes you think Cass will just drop everything and fly here? He does have a job to do you know," Jerri said.

"Well, he said he would," Nikki responded. Turning in her seat, she looked up at her tall wife. "Jerri, why are you so against this? What are you afraid of?" she asked.

Jerri bent down and swung Nikki around in the chair. Leaning forward and grasping the arm rests of the chair, she looked Nikki in the face. "Nik, I'm afraid Rox will get hurt. I'm afraid this guy won't be for real. I'm afraid he won't live up to his word. Nikki, sweetheart, Rox doesn't need to be disappointed right now. She doesn't need to deal with the pain of rejection on top of everything else," Jerri explained.

"I don't think that will happen, Jerri. I have read all the notes he has sent to her. He either really loves her, or he's the greatest con artist in the world," Nikki said.

"That's what I'm afraid of, Nik. That's exactly what I'm afraid of," came the reply.

Nikki continued to maintain eye contact with her wife as she spoke. "Jerri, I have to do this ... for Rox's sake," she said adamantly.

Jerri narrowed her eyes and stepped back a bit. "Rox won't be thrilled about this, you know," she warned.

"I won't tell her," Nikki stated. "I'll delete it from the send file as soon as it transmits. Jerri, don't look at me like that!" she insisted as Jerri shook her head in disgust. "Jerri, she NEEDS protection. Obviously, you and I can't provide it. I don't know what else to do," she finished, teary eyed.

Jerri really hated to see Nikki cry. Throwing up her hands, she conceded. "All right, Nik. Do what you think you have to. Let's just cross our fingers that Rox doesn't get hurt," she said.

Nodding, Nikki turned back to the keyboard and typed the word 'HELP!!" in the subject line before starting to compose the to Cass.

"Hi Cass,

This is Nikki. As you can see, I am using Rox's e-mail account to send this note to you.

Cass, Rox is in serious trouble. Now, before you panic, let me say that she's safe at this very moment. In fact, she's in the hospital again, at least for the night. You see, Chris managed to break into the house undetected around midnight last night. Rox and I were the only one's home ... Jerri was working. Chris knocked me out cold and then attacked Rox in her sleep. Jerri interrupted the attack when she came home, but Chris managed to escape. The police have issued an APB, but so far, no luck finding the bastard.

Cass, she's a mess. She's not critically injured, but she does have a concussion, and she is so black and blue that even I didn't recognize her. It is such a pathetic sight, it makes me cry to see her.

You had said in your last note to her that you would jump on the next plane north if she needed you. Well, Cass - I would say that she needs you desperately right now. Last night's attack, while I was in the house with her, is evidence that she needs more protection than I can give her. Jerri is here with her during the day, but even an idiot like Chris wouldn't be stupid enough to attack during broad daylight. Jerri works mostly at night, so that leaves me here to protect her alone. Obviously, I am not capable of doing the job ... at least not by myself.

She needs you Cass ... please, if it is at all possible, find a way to come to her ... to be here with her, at least until Chris is caught and is behind bars. She lives in Rockland, Maine, at 1163 Oceanview Terrace. It's right on the ocean. Any taxi at the airport can take you there. Please hurry, Cass. There's no telling when Chris might show up again.

I will stay here with her and protect her to the best of my ability, Cass, but she needs more protection than I can give her. Please hurry.

Nikki"

Nikki hovered the pointer of the mouse over the 'send' button for a moment or two before finally clicking and sending the note on its way. Tilting her head back , she released a deep sigh and closed her eyes, feeling confident that Cass would come through.

Jerri watched the scene from her position behind Nikki. As much as it galled her to rely on outside help, she knew that she wouldn't be able to get Nikki to leave Rox home alone ... and as long as Nikki was going to insist on being there, she had to admit that having another person in the house was a good idea. Taking a step toward her wife, she placed her hands on Nikki's shoulders and started to massage them. Nikki burrowed her head back deeper into Jerri's abdomen as she released a satisfying moan at the pleasure being wrought down upon her shoulders.

After a moment or two, Jerri leaned in close to Nikki's ear. "Nik, sweetheart, you need to go to bed. It's nearly 4 am," she said tenderly.

Nikki nodded in reply, moaning softly once more.

"All right. Why don't you head upstairs. I'll grab a couple of pain relievers and some water, and I'll be right behind you, okay?" Jerri said before placing a kiss on her wife's cheek.

Nodding once more, Nikki rose to her feet and faced Jerri. Looking up into the taller woman's eyes, she saw only love and concern reflected back. Nikki smiled and folded herself into Jerri's arms, wrapping her own arms around her wife's waist and burying her face in the taller woman's chest. "I love you, Jer," she whispered, placing a kiss on the spot between Jerri's breasts.

"I love you two, sweet love," Jerri responded as she kissed the blonde head resting just below her chin. Pulling back, she held Nikki at arm's length and said, "Okay ... you head up stairs. I'll be there in a bit."

Nikki tilted her head up and accepted a kiss before turning to go. "Don't be long, love," she said as she walked away.

*  *  *

Cass couldn't believe it was almost 11 pm by the time she sent the note to Rox. Damn! she said to herself. Why does it take me so long to write a note to her. God! It seems like it takes a minimum of two hours each time!

Remembering that her flight to Durango had been rescheduled for an hour earlier the next morning, she decided to turn in to be fresh for tomorrow's flight. Deciding to shower before bed, she stepped into the bathroom, and stood in front of the mirror and stared at her own reflection for long moments, thinking only of Rox. Finally, she began to strip off her clothes, starting with her shorts and panties. Closing her eyes, she pulled her T-shirt over her head and held it close to her breasts. Suddenly, she felt warm hands touch her naked hips. She gasped for breath and dropped the T-shirt to the floor, but held her eyes tightly closed for fear the illusion would fade. Standing perfectly still, she waited for the specter's next move.

Very slowly, she felt the hands move upward to her waist, kneading the supple skin gently. Feeling the palms go flat against her skin, they moved very slowly past her waist to rest lightly on the skin on both sides of her navel. The hands pressed ever so slightly backward as she felt her bare backside come in contact with warm, soft curves. She wanted so desperately to open her eyes, but feared the act would chase her angel away. Instead, she leaned forward and rested her forehead on the mirror, as the hands on her stomach started a slow circular movement, massaging the musculature of her taunt abdomen.

Slowly, the hands moved upward until they each cupped a supple breast, pinching an erect nipple between thumbs and forefingers. Cass turned around and leaned her back against the mirror as she cried out her pleasure ... a moan escaping her lips, and her head arching back, sending cascades of long dark hair down her back. For several long moments, the hands kneaded her breasts, each pinch and caress sending bolts of desire crashing into her core. By the time the hands left the voluptuous mounds, Cass was writhing in agony born of desire.

Before she could catch her breath from the attack on her breasts, the hands started their trek southward, tracing a circular bath down the length of her abdomen, to stop at the top of her treasure. Cass' hips began to rock forward, of their own volition, urging the hands to continue their journey south. With only momentary hesitation, they did just that as one hand slipped between the dark curls, while the other circled behind and firmly cupped the bulbous mound of Cass' backside.

Cass moaned loudly as the hand slipped in and out of her slick folds, gently teasing her bud of desire as it passed over it's swollen mass. Deeper and deeper it explored, thrusting two, then three fingers deep into the well of desire. Cass' knees were so shaky, she was just barely able to hold herself up as she felt her body climb closer and closer to the peak of fulfillment. Faster and faster, the hand worked until a guttural moan escaped from deep within Cass' throat, and she screamed out the name of her savior. "Oh god! Rox!" came the cry as she plunged over the cliff and leaned heavily into the mirror to prevent herself from falling.

Finally, after the tremors began to subside, Cass turned toward the mirror and opened her eyes, only to briefly glimpse a wisp of red-gold hair over her shoulder. Looking quickly behind her, she realized that she was alone. Turning back to the mirror, she studied herself carefully as she removed her hand from between her legs and thought again of the red-haired pixie that had pushed her to the act of self fulfillment.

*  *  *

The incessant ringing was really getting on her nerves. Reaching over, she picked up the alarm clock and held up high enough to read the time illuminated in bright red numbers. Placing the clock back on the nightstand, she burrowed down into the covers once more, only to jump up seconds later.

"Holy Shit! Damn! My flight is an hour earlier this morning. Shit! I almost forgot!" she exclaimed as she quickly got out of bed and reached for the clothing she had laid out the night before. "God damn it! I should have set the clock for an hour earlier," she said, talking out loud to herself as she mentally thanked the gods that she had showered the night before. God, how I hate mornings! she sputtered to herself. Especially when I oversleep. Damn it! I won't have time to look at my e-mail before I go. Jesus Christ! Why did I ever agree to do these overnight flights anyway? she asked.

You agreed to them to take your mind off Patti, remember? her ever-present alter ego piped in.

E, you aren't going to lecture me about oversleeping again, are you? she asked sarcastically.

Oh no! Never. You actually got to bed at a decent hour last night. You did, however, tire yourself out pretty handily before jumping in the shower. But, you won't hear me complain ... no way, not me, oh no! I quite enjoyed that little trip to Elysia, Cass old buddy. We'll have to do that more often, don't ya think? Enforcer encouraged.

E, I don't have time to discuss this right now ... I'm running late. Have you seen my shoes? she asked herself.

Under the coffee table in the living room ... right where you kicked them off last night You're quite a pig you know ... if you'd pick up after yourself, you wouldn't be wasting time looking for shoes, Enforcer scolded.

Gimme a break, E ... I'm really in a hurry here, she replied as she found her shoes and slipped them on. After dragging a quick brush through her hair and applying a light shade of blush and mascara, she was out the door for a two-day drip to Durango.

*  *  *

Nikki awoke abruptly around 9 a.m. the next morning. Sitting up in bed and looking at the clock, she moaned and dropped her head into her hands. God, I can't believe I slept so late! she said to herself before remembering why. Allowing a frown to furrow her forehead, she reached up and felt around her head until she encountered the sore spot where she had been knocked unconscious the night before. Damn! she thought. If I hurt this bad, I can just imagine how Rox feels!

Climbing out of bed, Nikki decided to go after Rox without Jerri. The poor woman had worked until midnight the night before and had come home in the middle of Chris' attack on Rox and Nikki. She had to return to work for noon that day, and had only gotten about five hours sleep.

An hour later, Nikki was showered and ready to go. Leaning over Jerri's sleeping form, she placed a gentle kiss on the woman's cheek and whispered endearments in her ear. Jerri shifted slightly in her sleep and reached up, capturing Nikki with her arm and pulling her down onto the bed . Nikki had all she could do not to squeal and wake her up. Several moments later, she managed once more to wiggle out of the sleeping woman's embrace and to climb out of bed. After one more trip to the bathroom to comb out her hair again, she was on her way to the hospital to pick up Rox.

*  *  *

Rox paced back and forth at the foot of the hospital bed, waiting for Jerri and Nikki to pick her up, while the horrific scenario form the night before played over and over in her mind. All she knew is that one moment, she was sleeping soundly, and the next, she felt a sharp pain at the back of her neck as her head was whipped side to side by sharp blows to both sides of her face. Her assailant was sitting astride her waist reining blows to her face with both fists. It wasn't long before she lost consciousness, waking hours later in the emergency room at the hospital, looking up into the worried faces of Nikki and Jerri. It was becoming a habit, it seemed ... a habit she surely needed to break.

"Hey, girlfriend, are you ready to go home?" came the question from the doorway.

Rox turned around quickly to see Nikki standing at the entrance to her room, a teary-eyed smile on her face. Smiling back, she took two quick steps toward her friend and fell into her warm embrace. They clung together in quiet desperation as all the hurt and anxiety she had been feeling for the past several months bubbled to the surface and spilled out across her face and down her cheeks.

"It's okay, love. Cry it out. That's it, Roxie. Let it all go, sweetheart," Nikki cooed as she held the injured woman in her arms and stroked her hands up and down her back. "Come on, let's go home," she added as she led Roxanne to the door.

Moments later, they were in the car heading home. Reaching over, Nikki covered Rox's hand with her own. "Are you okay?" she asked.

Rox nodded slowly, her chin resting near her chest.

"Hey," Nikki said, reaching over once more ... this time to lift her friend's chin up. "Things will get better for you, Rox ... I promise," she said.

Roxanne looked intently at her friend. Furrowing her brow, she shook her head slightly side to side. "How can you say that, Nik? How can you be so sure?" she asked.

Nikki was tempted to tell her about the e-mail to Cass, but until Cass responded in some way, she didn't want to get her friend's hopes up, so she just took a deep breath and sighed. "Please don't give up, Rox. Things will get better ... believe me honey ... okay?"

Now it was Rox's turn to sigh, nodding her head slightly in an unconvincing gesture to Nikki, as she looked down at the hands clasped in her lap.

Moments later, they pulled into Rox's driveway. Looking around, Rox noticed her neighbors out and about doing normal everyday chores ... cutting the grass, weeding the garden. Subconsciously, she bowed her head and shielded her bruised face with her hands as she climbed out of the car. Several curious glances were directed her way as she made her way into the house.

"Take a picture ... it'll last longer!" Nikki shouted to the more curious of the group as they openly stared at her friend. Placing her hand on Rox's back, she ushered her into the privacy of her home, away from the prying eyes of unsympathetic neighbors. "Christ, that pisses me off!" Nikki shouted once they were inside.

"Nikki, they're just curious. That's all," Rox explained.

"They weren't curious when Chris was here beating the shit out of you for the last six months! Don't tell me it wasn't obvious to them that something was wrong. I didn't see any of them rushing to your aid then... so they can keep their nosy eyeballs to themselves now!" she sputtered vehemently.

"What's up?" came a groggy voice from the top of the stairs.

Nikki and Rox looked up to see a very sleepy Jerri coming down the stairs.

"Hi Baby," Nikki replied, approaching her wife on tiptoes to place a light kiss on her lips as she reached the bottom stair. "I was just commenting on how helpful Rox's neighbors are," she explained.

"Helpful, my ass!" replied Jerri as she checked Rox's bruises out with a professional eye. "They'd stand by and let Chris kill her as long as it didn't interfere in their own lives!"

"All right ... enough about my neighbors. I need to get to work. I still have a deadline to make, bruised or not!" Rox replied, brushing Jerri's hands away and heading for the stairs.

"Rox, I'm going to throw together some lunch and bring it up to you, along with an ice back for your swollen jaw, okay?" Nikki said.

"Nik ... I'm fine. Really. I just need to get to work," she replied.

"Damn it, Roxanne Ward! Why does everything have to be a battle with you? Just accept the help and get over it, okay? I'm not going away ... get that through your head. Now you can trot your little ass up those stairs and start writing if you want, but I'm still bringing you some lunch and an ice pack ... got it?" she scolded, pointing toward the stairway.

Roxanne and Jerri just looked at each other with raised eyebrows, and the smallest evidence of grins on their faces.

"Ah ... Rox ... I'd do what you're told if I were you. I've learned not to mess with her when she's PMS'ing," Jerri said.

"I AM NOT PMS'ing!" Nikki shouted to their backs as they retreated up the stairs, soft strands of chuckling left in their wake.

CHAPTER XXV

AFTER SETTLING ROX in front of her computer, Jerri returned to the kitchen to help Nikki throw together a simple lunch of veggie wraps, fruit salad and iced tea for the three of them. The conversation centered around Cass.

"Do you think he replied yet?" Jerri asked?

"I don't know. If he has, she hasn't said anything," Nikki replied.

"Oh she would definitely say something ... when she finds out, you're dead meat - you know that, don't you?" Jerri informed her wife.

Nikki winced, knowing Jerri was right. Rox was fiercely independent. In fact, she never did give her permission for them to stay with her ... they just insisted, and didn't give her any choice. That was the primary reason Nikki sent the note to Cass without telling Rox ... Rox simply would not have allowed it.

"You know, Jer, as independent as Rox is, she sure didn't use it against Chris very often," Nikki observed.

"It's amazing what you'll do for love, Rox. I mean, look at me ... I used to be independent too, and now ... well, now I'm quite PW'd," Jerri said, intentionally baiting her wife.

Nikki looked at her questioningly. "PW'd?" she asked. "What the hell is that?"

"You know ... pussy whipped," Jerri explained, trying very hard not to smile.

Nikki's jaw nearly hit the floor. "Pussy whipped! ... Pussy whipped! Jeraldine Lockwood, you are NOT pussy whipped!" she exclaimed.

Jerri winced visibly at the use of her formal name. "Jeeeeeeesus Chrrrrrrist, Nikki ... don't EVER use that name ... Please! ... and by the way - yes, I AM pussy whipped! I do things for you, and because of you, that I would never do for anyone else!" she insisted.

Nikki gave it some thought, and realized that maybe Jerri was right. Jerri had changed so much since they first met ... and she knew that her influence played a big part in it. The changes were largely positive, but Nikki could see where some of them had resulted in the loss of independence for the taller woman. "Jerri, do you ever regret changing for me ... I mean, you have made a lot of concessions ... sometimes at the expense of your own desires. Do you ever regret it?" she asked.

Jerri rinsed the fruit juices off her fingers and grabbed the dishtowel to wipe her hands. Walking over to Nikki, she held the ends of the towel in each hand, and easily looped it around the back of the smaller woman's neck. Tugging slightly, she pulled Nikki's face close to hers and kissed her gently. After a long, tender kiss, she pulled her head back and looked her wife directly in the eyes. "Nik, I love you with all my heart, but I would not compromise my values for anyone ... including you. The changes I made, I made willingly ... I made them because I needed to. The fact that they were changes you wanted me to make as well, was purely coincidental," Jerri explained. Seeing the doubtful expression on her wife's face, she continued, "Sweetheart, I don't consider the changes I made to be a loss of independence ... I see them as a concession to making the woman I love happy. If they had been changes I would have struggled with, I would not have made them. The truth is, I am happier now than I have ever been in my life. I owe that to you."

Nikki smiled and tilted her head up to place another kiss on Jerri's eager mouth. After a long passionate kiss, Nikki buried her face between Jerri's breasts and sighed deeply. "God, I love you, Jerri," she whispered. "I hope Rox can find this type of happiness too some day," she added.

"Well, Little Miss Busybody, your e-mail to Cass last night may have started the ball rolling in that direction. Let's just hope he catches it and rolls it back," Jerri commented.

"If he's smart, he will," Nikki replied.

Jerri just nodded and lowered her mouth for one more kiss before releasing the towel around Nikki's neck. "We'd better bring Rox's lunch to her before she wonders what we're REALLY doing down here," she said, wiggling her eyebrows up and down suggestively.

"Well, we COULD tell her that you were being pussy whipped," Nikki suggested.

"Literally?" asked Jerri.

"Oh Yeah!" returned Nikki as she stepped forward and molded her body against the taller woman.

"Care to give me a little demonstration?" Jerri suggested.

"It will be my pleasure, dear heart," Nikki replied as she slid her hand between Jerri's legs and lightly squeezed.

"Oh my god!" Jerri exclaimed as she nearly doubled over with carnal pleasure. "Do you think Rox can wait a little while for lunch?" she asked, bending Nikki over the table.

"Hey! I thought you two were making lunch ... what are you really doing down there ... making love on my kitchen table?" came a shout from the third floor.

Jerri buried her face in Nikki's shoulder and chuckled. "So now she's a mind reader too! Geesh!"

Nikki looked up at her wife. "Time to feed the beast, my love. I'll save the whipping for tonight," she replied evilly.

"I'm counting on it!" replied Jerri as she helped Nikki up off the table and grabbed the tray of food.

*  *  *

Rox, Nikki and Jerri sat around the coffee table in Rox's office, enjoying their sandwiches and fruit, while chit chatting idly. Nikki was desperate to know if Cass had replied to her late night e-mail, but was having a hard time finding a way to ask Rox about it without making the red head suspicious.

"So ... Rox ... have you heard from Cass lately?" Nikki asked as innocently as possible.

Rox narrowed her eyes at her best friend. "Nikki, are you up to something?" she asked.

Nikki nearly choked on her tea. "No ... no! Why do you ask?" she spat out.

"Because you get this odd look on your face whenever you're trying to hide something from me. I can tell when you're up to no good ... now, spill it!" she demanded.

"Rox, I'm not up to anything ... really! I was just .... wondering if Cass had written lately," Nikki asked defensively.

"Actually Nik, I'm not sure. I haven't even logged on yet. I'm so far behind on the book that I went directly to work without checking my e-mail," Rox confessed.

Nikki sat there staring at her best friend like she had a third eye in the middle of her forehead. "Rox, how on earth can you NOT check your e-mail? After that last note you sent to him, I'd think you'd be checking it hourly! Geesh, woman ... you must have nerves of steel!" Nikki exclaimed.

Rox considered her words. "God, Nik ... I was so caught up in the book that I forgot all about that. You're right though - I'd better get on line and check it out," she said, rising gingerly to her feet and shuffling to the computer.

Nikki and Jerri exchanged nervous glances as she sat down in front of the tube.

"Okay, let's see," Rox said out loud as she selected Netscape Messenger. "Three new e-mails ... publisher, publisher, Cass ... Here is it," she said, double clicking on the icon next to 'cconway@flyboy.com'. Nikki and Jerri looked over Rox's shoulder as she read the note from Cass. Nikki held her breath, wondering if it was a response to the note she had sent to Cass the previous evening.

"My dearest Rox,

Reading your note invoked such a sense of love and longing, I could hardly contain it. Never in my wildest imagination did I think that you would return my love so quickly. Rox, I have been in love with you almost from the beginning.

Sweetheart, I know you have come from a very brutal relationship, and I understand your need to be blunt. Let me assure you, my love, that your heart is safe with me. I will never hurt you, Rox ... that is a promise ... I do not take my promises lightly.

How could I ever be angry with you for wanting to know my heart? In my last post, I asked that you share your soul with me ... I can not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do myself, so by all means, ask me anything you'd like Rox ... my heart belongs to you.

You asked what my intentions are toward you. Rox, I have never felt such intensity of love for another human being in my entire life. Thoughts of you fill my mind during every waking moment. What are my intentions? My intentions are to meet you one day soon, sweep you off your feet, and carry you away into the sunset on my golden palomino. My intentions are to make you happier than you have ever been for the rest of your life. My intentions are to love you, cherish you, and hold you near and to make love to you long into the nights and to carry your scent on my skin through the separation of time and space during the days. My intentions are to grow old with you, and to hold you in my arms as I take my dying breath. These are my intentions, Rox.

I love you with all my heart. I need to be with you. Just say the word and I will be on the next plane North.

You are my heart Rox. Come fly away and be my love.

Cass"

Rox swallowed hard when she finished reading the note. Tears of joy filled her eyes as she reread the tender words of love. "Oh my god. I have never read anything so beautiful in my life," she said, covering her mouth with her hand to stifle a sob.

"Wow, Rox ... looks like this guy has fallen for you big time. How do you feel about him?" Jerri asked.

"I love him, Jer. Don't ask me how or why, but I do. I know we've only known each other a few weeks, but I really do love him. I can't believe he returns that love," she exclaimed.

"Oh, he more than returns it, Rox. This man is infatuated with you ... head over heels. Wouldn't you say, Nik?" Jerri remarked.

"Wha.... What? Oh yeah, I agree. Looks like your note didn't scare him away after all, Rox," Nikki said, quickly recovering from the disappointment of not seeing a reply to her earlier note.

Jerri looked closely at Nikki, accurately guessing what had her wife so preoccupied, before turning her attention back to Rox. "So, what's next? More chat? More e-mail? Maybe another phone call?" Jerri asked.

"Well, I should probably respond to this note for starters," Rox replied. "Then ... who knows?"

Posing her hands over the keyboard, she began to write as her two friends watched diligently over her shoulders.

"My Dearest Cass,

Your words bring such joy to my heart I can hardly contain it. I too am in love with you. I don't know how it could have happened so quickly ... we haven't even met in the physical sense, however, I find that you have become a vital piece of my life. I want desperately to meet you in person ... to touch you ... to feel your heart beating beneath my fingertips.

I do feel safe with you, Cass. I trust that you will never hurt me. I really need that in a relationship right now. I look forward to knowing your heart and soul, and to touching you with my own. I too promise to treat it tenderly and to never hurt you.

Your intentions are honorable, my love. I, the bard, find myself at a loss for words when I read the elegant prose penned by your own hand ... words of love and commitment ... promises of happiness and cherished moments. I too look forward to making love all night and carrying your memory with me throughout the days. I too wish to walk by your side through many years of life and love, only to lie in your arms as I take my dying breath. I am content in the knowledge that our love will endure the separation of life and death - only to meet again on the other side, where we will truly be together for all eternity.

I need you, Cass. I love you. Come to me, my love, and be happy in my arms.

Rox"

Rox sat back in her seat and read the note over one more time before clicking on 'send'. As the three women watched the note disappear into the far recesses of the Internet, Jerri leaned in and whispered into Nikki's ear, "If your note doesn't get him here, that one certainly will!"

Nikki just nodded her agreement as she leaned in and wrapped her arms around Rox.

*  *  *

It was well after midnight and Rox was still working on her story despite Nikki's protests that she needed sleep to help her recover from Chris' latest beating. Rox argued that she was already behind in her commitments and that she just had to work in order to make up for lost time. After several failed attempts to get her to rest, Nikki just gave up and joined Jerri in the living room where she curled up with a book. Jerri has just arrived home from work moments before and was unwinding by playing with her Leggo's on the floor.

"She's being stubborn, isn't she?" Jerri asked, looking up from the Leggo hospital she was building.

"You know Jer, I always thought that you were the most stubborn person I knew, but she's got you beat by a mile!" Nikki answered. "Damn, that woman makes my blood boil some times!"

Jerri chuckled and resumed her construction. "I don't know, Nik ... I'd say you run a pretty close second," she commented.

"What!!? Jerri, I'm not stubborn!" Nikki protested.

Jerri looked at her wife and raised her eyebrows into her hairline. Her expression said it all.

"Don't look at me like that! I am not stubborn!" the blonde repeated.

"Yes you are," Jerri replied.

"No I'm not!" Nikki retorted.

"Are too!"

"Am not!"

"Are too!"

"Am not!"

"Persistent too!" Jerri added, grinning and loving every minute of Nikki's ranting.

"I am not! Jerri, how can you say that? I try very hard to be patient and kind and understanding. I make a point of compromising whenever possible! I'm not stubborn ... I'm not!" Nikki said adamantly.

"Persistent too!" Jerri said again.

"Ah ... Ah ... Ah .... Aarrgghh!!! You did that on purpose didn't you?" Nikki demanded, finally catching on to Jerri's baiting.

Jerri just grinned guiltily.

"Why you little shit!" Nikki accused, getting up and crushing Jerri's Leggo hospital with her foot. "You forgot vindictive!" she added before stomping off to bed.

*  *  *

The early dawn hours of Tuesday found Rox still typing at her computer, having spent the entire night working on her book. She ran into Nikki in the second story hallway - both of them on their way to the bathroom.

"'Morning," Nikki said sleepily. "Did you sleep well, Rox?"

Rox looked guiltily at Nikki and slipped into the bathroom ahead of her friend.

Nikki stood there staring at the closed door. Narrowing her eyes, she suddenly realized what had just happened. Pounding on the door, she shouted at her friend, "Roxanne, don't you dare tell me you were up all night!"

"All right, I won't," Rox answered through the door.

"Damn it, Rox! Damn it all to hell!" She shouted, hands on her hips, as Rox opened the door. "Chris beat the living shit out of you yesterday ... remember!!? Christ, woman. You've got to let your body recuperate. Staying up all night is just plain stupid. What part of that don't you understand?" she asked angrily.

Now Rox was angry. "What I don't understand, is what gives you the right to dictate my life to me, Nikki!?" she shouted back.

"What gives me the right? The fact that I love you - that's what gives me the right, Rox!" Nikki replied.

Roxanne had no reply to that reasoning. Instead, she just dropped her head to her chest and reached up with her right hand to rub her forehead, left hand posed on her hip. Looking up into her friend's face, she allowed a slight smile to break the facade. "You're right, Nik. I'm sorry ... but I was on a roll. I simply couldn't stop," she explained.

Nikki allowed her anger to dissipate at her friend's apology. Dropping her own hands from her hips, she reached out and hugged Rox. "I'm sorry too," she said, "but you really do need to get your sleep, Roxie."

"I will. In fact, I'm on my way to bed right now. I'm beat," she explained.

"Literally," Nikki added, causing the two women to chuckle slightly.

"Wake me up around noon, will ya?" she asked her blonde friend.

"Noon ... got it. Now listen to your nurse and get your butt to bed," Nikki replied.

"Yes Ma'am!" Rox said, saluting Nikki military style before marching off toward her room.

Nikki shook her head side to side like an indulgent parent as she took care of her own bathroom chores and headed back to bed to snuggle up with her wife.

"What was the big argument about?" Jerri asked as she wrapped her arms around the smaller woman.

Nikki looked up into Jerri's face. "I'm sorry, love. Did we wake you?" she asked apologetically.

"Nature was calling anyway. So what was the argument about?" Jerri asked again as she threw her legs over the side of the bed and pushed herself into a sitting position.

"Jer ... She was up all night. She's just now going to bed," Nikki replied.

"Nik ... Rox is a big girl you know. She really is capable of taking care of herself," Jerri observed.

"Yeah, I know, but, Christ, Jerri - she was beaten up yesterday. Under normal circumstances, I would agree with you. I'm sure there have been countless nights where she has worked straight through, but she was healthy then. Don't you think that she needs to give her body a chance to recover before she pushes the limits of her endurance?" Nikki asked.

Jerri rose to her feet and turned to look down at her wife on the bed. "I won't argue with that logic, Nik, but sometimes you tend to push the limits of your friendship with Rox ... know what I mean?" she asked delicately.

Nikki's brow furrowed. "No, what do you mean, Jerri?" she asked pointedly.

Jerri leaned over the bed and rested her hands on both sides of her wife, coming face to face with the blonde. "Look, Nik ... I know you love Rox very much, but you tend to be a little over protective around her .... and ... and ..."

"And... what Jerri?" Nikki demanded.

"And maybe a little bossy," the dark haired woman finished.

Nikki's eyes widened. "Really?" she asked seriously, her eyes starting to tear. "God ... I didn't realize ..."

"I know you didn't, love. It's just that you've got such a big heart and you want so desperately for Rox to be happy. You've just got to realize that she is responsible for her own happiness, and no matter how much you do to protect her, she needs to make her own decisions. You're a wonderful friend, Nikki, but friends are supposed to lend support, and guidance, not step by step instructions. See what I mean?" Jerri asked, hoping secretly that she wasn't digging a hole for herself with her wife and lover.

Nikki turned her head to the side and stared at the wall, not answering.

After a long moment of silence, Jerri leaned in and kissed her wife on the cheek. "Nature calls ... I'll be right back, love," she said as she rose to her feet and left the room.

Nikki looked inward for several long moments. Is Jerri right? she asked herself. Am I bossy? Have I tried to control Rox's life? I only want what's best for her. I wouldn't ever do anything to hurt her. God ... what if Jerri is right? I need to talk to Rox when she wakes up this afternoon. I need to tell her about the e-mail to Cass. Jerri is right - it was wrong to send it without Rox's knowledge. Damn, I am such an idiot some times! Feeling better that she had resolved to set things right, Rox rolled over and drifted off to sleep.

Jerri returned to find Nikki curled up in a ball on the far side of the bed. Knowing she had hurt her wife's feelings, she climbed into bed and spooned herself tightly behind the smaller woman, pulling her in close. I love you little one, she thought. I'm sorry I hurt you, but sometimes you push the good Samaritan thing a little too far. I'd hate to see your relationship with Rox suffer because you care too much, my love. Nikki instinctively melded into Jerri's longer frame, allowing herself to be absorbed by her lover's body as both women drifted back to sleep.

*  *  *

Nikki reached over and shut off the alarm. 10:00 a.m. was illuminated on the dial. Damn! It feels like I just went to bed, she commented to herself as she rolled over and reached out to shake Jerri awake. "Jer, honey ... 10 o'clock, love. Time to get up," she said.

"But I don't wanna go to school," Jerri mumbled in her sleep.

Nikki chuckled as she shook her wife awake once more, this time leaning over the tall woman to kiss her gently on the cheek. "Jerri ... sweetheart, come on ... wakey, wakey!" she teased.

Jerri opened one eye and saw blue-green eyes looking back at her. Smiling, she said, "Good morning, Munchkin," before pulling Nikki's head down for a kiss. Releasing her wife, she opened her eyes again and said one word ... "Coffee!"

Nikki laughed and placed another kiss on Jerri's nose before climbing out of bed. "I'll go put a pot on ... get your buns out of bed ... 'kay?" she said, looking back over her shoulder as she walked out of the room.

Twenty minutes later, a freshly showered Jerri wrapped herself around Nikki and nuzzled her neck as the smaller woman stood at the kitchen counter pouring two cups of coffee.

"Hmmm, you smell good," Nikki replied, tilting her head to the side to allow better access to her neck.

"Good enough to eat?" teased the taller woman.

"That depends on whether you want to be late for work," Nikki replied, reaching behind to pull Jerri in closer.

Jerri accurately read the signs and pushed herself forward, trapping Nikki between herself and the counter, and grasping the smaller woman's breasts as she ground her hips into Nikki's backside.

"Oh god! Jerri ... if you keep that up, you will definitely be late for work!" she said as she pressed the back of her head into Jerri's shoulder.

"Hmmm," Jerri murmured.

Coming to her senses, Nikki turned around in Jerri's embrace and reached up to cup her wife's face between her hands. "Sweetheart ... you've got to go to work in a few minutes. Let me fix you some breakfast ... we'll continue this 'discussion' tonight, okay?" she suggested.

Jerri leaned in and kissed Nikki soundly. "No, you sit and let me make you some breakfast. How does a veggie omelet sound?" she asked.

"Sounds wonderful. I'll make the toast," she said.

A half hour later, Jerri was on her way to work after kissing her wife soundly and promising a night to remember when she returned early the next morning.

Closing the door behind her retreating wife, Nikki sighed and looked around the living room. Well, Rox won't be up for another hour yet... what to do ... what to do? she asked herself. Nikki really hated being bored. After tidying up the kitchen, she searched through Rox's bookshelves, looking for something interesting to read. Finding nothing that really caught her eye, she decided to let her mind wander to the one place she had been avoiding - Rox's e-mail. She was dying to know if Cass had responded yet to her plea for help. Without another moment's hesitation, Nikki bounded up the stairs to the third story and quickly logged onto the Internet, only to be disappointed when there was no reply from Cass. She immediately started having doubts about Cass' sincerity. "Where the hell is he?" she asked out loud. Damn him! If he's playing with Rox's heart, I'll kill the bastard! she thought before logging off. Glancing at the clock on the desk, she noted that it was nearly noon. I guess I'd better wake Rox up, she thought as she rose from the desk and descended the stairs to the second story.

*  *  *

Late in the afternoon, Nikki placed a glass of iced tea on the desk beside Rox, who was sitting there, typing away, diligently working on her book. Leaning in, she kissed her on the head then leaned over her shoulder to read the latest entries.

"I can't wait to beta read this thing for you," she remarked.

"Looks like it will be ready in a week or two," Rox replied. Suddenly, Rox stopped typing and turned her chair around to face Nikki. "Nik, have I told you lately how much I love you? You have been such a wonderful friend. Sweetheart, I don't know what I would do without you and Jerri," she said as Nikki blushed from the praise. "You know," she continued, "looking back on how we met, I realize now that my life would be very different if you hadn't come onto the scene six years ago and beat the shit out of that idiot who was trying to rape me. I owe you so much, Nikki. Thank you for being my friend," she finished.

Nikki leaned down and hugged Rox fiercely, causing the red head to wince from her bruises. "Oops, sorry," Nikki exclaimed, releasing her hold on Rox. "Hey, how about a walk on the beach. You really need to get some fresh air," she suggested.

"Sounds good," Rox replied as she shut down the computer. "Afterwards, I'll give you a hand with dinner ... or maybe we can just order take out," she suggested.

"Cool! Come on," Nikki said, reaching out for Rox's hand.

Soon the two friends were walking arm in arm along the beach, enjoying the setting sun, the light sea breeze, and pleasant conversation. Their heads dipped together on occasion, smiles on both their faces as they kicked up the surf and squished wet sand between their toes. The figure watched solemnly as the friends enjoyed their walk, angry thoughts of revenge tormenting the demented mind. Soon, Roxanne ... soon. You won't escape me this time, came the mantra as the figure watched the retreating silhouettes walk into the sunset.

CHAPTER XXVI

"MAN! WHAT A rough two days!" Cass whined out loud as she kicked off her shoes and dropped down onto the couch in her condo. Leaning her head against the back of the couch, she rested her feet on the coffee table and let out a sigh. "How can someone get so tired just by sitting?" she asked to none one in particular.

Cass, you know, you really need a housemate. All this talking to yourself is really making me worried. Enforcer piped in.

Suddenly, Cass' stomach growled loudly.

Whoa! Time to visit Angie! Enforcer exclaimed. No offense, my friend, but airline food really sucks! After two days of eating that swill, I'm looking forward to some home cooking. Get your ass in the shower so we can go to dinner! her alter ego demanded.

Cass did as she was told, thoroughly enjoying the warm spray of the shower massage against her skin. She couldn't believe how sore and stiff she was just from sitting for long hours in the cockpit ... and sleeping on hard hotel room beds. I really need to find another job, she thought, one that doesn't put me in the cockpit for such extended periods of time.

While towel drying her hair, Cass sauntered into the office to power up the computer.

Cass, what the hell are you doing? I thought we were going to dinner? Enforcer asked.

E, I haven't checked my e-mail for three days. I need to see if Rox responded to my last note, she replied. We can get some dinner afterwards.

It can't wait for a couple of hours? Geesh, Cass, you're pussy whipped all ready! Enforcer teased.

I am not! I'm just concerned that she may think I'm unresponsive. That's all, Cass explained.

Bull Shit! Enforcer exclaimed. You can't fool me Cass! You are pussy whipped. You're madly in love and you'll do anything to make her happy.

Cass threw her hands up into the air. All right! All right! So what if I am? Yes ... I'll do whatever it takes. Are you happy now? she asked sarcastically.

Whatever it takes, huh? Enforcer asked.

Whatever it takes, Cass reiterated as she selected the 'new mail' icon and waited for the server to complete its query.

Seconds later, the server delivered three pieces of new mail into Cass' account. As far as Cass was concerned, there was only one ... the one which read 'HELP!!' in the subject line.

"Oh my god!" she said out loud as she double clicked on the note and began to read.

"Hi Cass,

This is Nikki. As you can see, I am using Rox's e-mail account to send this note to you.

Cass, Rox is in serious trouble. Now, before you panic, let me say that she's safe at this very moment. In fact, she's in the hospital again, at least for the night. You see, Chris managed to break into the house undetected around midnight last night. Rox and I were the only one's home ... Jerri was working. Chris knocked me out cold and then attacked Rox in her sleep. Jerri interrupted the attack when she came home, but Chris managed to escape. The police have issued an APB, but so far, no luck finding the bastard.

Cass, she's a mess. She's not critically injured, but she does have a concussion, and she is so black and blue that even I didn't recognize her. It is such a pathetic sight, it makes me cry to see her.

You had said in your last note to her that you would jump on the next plane north if she needed you. Well, Cass - I would say that she needs you desperately right now. Last night's attack, while I was in the house with her, is evidence that she needs more protection than I can give her. Jerri is here with her during the day, but even an idiot like Chris wouldn't be stupid enough to attack during broad daylight. Jerri works mostly at night, so that leaves me here to protect her alone. Obviously, I am not capable of doing the job ... at least not by myself.

She needs you Cass ... please, if it is at all possible, find a way to come to her ... to be here with her, at least until Chris is caught and is behind bars. She lives in Rockland, Maine, at 1163 Oceanview Terrace. It's right on the ocean. Any taxi at the airport can take you there. Please hurry, Cass. There's no telling when Chris might show up again.

I will stay here with her and protect her to the best of my ability, Cass, but she needs more protection than I can give her. Please hurry.

Nikki"

Cass sat staring at the screen for several long moments before Enforcer broke her reverie.

Cass! Cass! God damn it, girl, snap out of it. Your woman is in danger. Get your ass in gear and do something about it! her alter ego scolded.

"Rox!" Cass said in a hoarse whisper. "Hold on sweetheart, I'm coming," she added as she rose to her feet and ran through the condo, grabbing her car keys as she headed for the door.

Cass ... did you get the address? Enforcer asked.

Cass stopped dead in her tracks, one hand on the door handle. "Shit! No, I didn't," she said out loud as she headed back to the office and selected 'print' on the message that was still displayed on the screen. She waited impatiently as the note printed out. "Come on ... come on ... print!" she urged, finally grabbing the piece of paper as it ejected from the printer.

Cass, aren't you going to shut the computer down? Enforcer asked.

"Fuck it! I don't have time," she replied as she headed out the door.

*  *  *

"Look, I don't care what it costs ... now book me on the next flight to Maine, damn it!" Cass shouted as she leaned over the ticket clerk.

The clerk nervously typed Cass' destination into the computer and waited for the program to provide available flight information as she chanced furtive glances at the tall anxious woman. As dreaded, there were no flights available for that evening.

"What?" Cass shouted. "Damn it! There has to be something. Here ... let me have the phone," she demanded from the timid clerk.

Cass quickly dialed a number and waited, impatiently drumming her fingers on the counter top. Finally, a connection was made. "Jimmy? Jimmy, this is Cass. Look, I need to book a flight to Maine for this evening. It's vital that I get on a plane tonight. Jimmy ... Jimmy, someone I love very much may be in danger ... I need to get on a plane tonight!" she insisted. "Look, I don't want to hear about special favors for pilots ... I need a flight out TONIGHT!" she yelled. "For Christ's sake, then rent me a chartered jet ... I'll fly it there myself!" she demanded. "Yes I'm fucking serious! ... Good ... all right ... when will it be ready? ... Two hours ... fine ... okay ... I'll be on runway three in half that time. Look, you'll need to find a replacement for my Thursday fight into Mexico. I don't think I'll be back until later in the weekend. All right ... and Jimmy - thanks, I owe you one. Good bye." Hanging up the phone, she thanked the receptionist and headed back home to collect an overnight bag.

*  *  *

Rox, I wish real life was more like one of your science fiction novels ... then I could just teleport myself to you instantly instead of flying for eight hours across the country. Damn! I wish there was a way to get to you faster, she complained internally as she waited for radio clearance to take off. It was nearly midnight before her flight had been cleared. I'm not going to reach you until 10 or 11 a.m. your time, she mused again. God, I hope I'm not too late.

Clearance was finally granted as she taxied the jet onto the runway. Minutes later, she was gaining altitude and was on her way to the East Coast.

Cass ... You know, you really should have gotten some sleep before taking off. You flew for six hours earlier today. How are you going to stay awake long enough to fly eight more? Enforcer asked.

Don't worry about me, E ... I'll stay awake ... I have to - Rox needs me. I can't afford to fall asleep, she replied.

I certainly hope so, my friend, you won't be much good to her dead! Enforcer pointed out.

Seven hours and 38 minutes later, Cass landed in Augusta, Maine, 35 miles northwest of Rockland. With the crossover in time zones, she touched down at 10:32 a.m. EDT. She was thoroughly exhausted and spent a good portion of the next 20 minutes in the ladies room at the airport, splashing cold water on her face to revive her tired body before hiring a taxi to take her to Rockland.

*  *  *

Well, Nikki, I've decided that you have to die too ... seeing as you never leave her side, the stealthed figure thought evilly as the pair drank coffee on the glider together. It was a beautiful morning and the best friends had decided to take their coffee outside as they sat on the glider and discussed ideas for the next section of Rox's book. Jerri had worked the night before and was still sleeping at 11 a.m. on this beautiful Maine morning, although she was not scheduled to work that day.

Nikki and Jerri had a long discussion the night before about Cass' unresponsiveness to Nikki's note. Nikki was convinced that Cass was not sincere in his declaration of love, and was debating about whether to tell Rox she had sent the note. Jerri was more ready to give Cass the benefit of the doubt, but left the decision to tell Rox, up to Nikki.

*  *  *

Jerri rolled over and looked at the clock. 11:17 a.m. Sometimes she hated working the night shift. It always seemed as if half the day was gone before she rolled out of bed. Throwing her legs over the side, she sat up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Rising to her feet, she went straight to the bathroom before heading downstairs for a cup of coffee. Filling her coffee cup, she peeked onto the back deck to say good morning to her wife and friend before heading back up stairs to shower. On her way to the stairs, she heard a knock at the front door. Reaching for the knob, she pulled the door open, to come face to face with a tall, dark haired beauty, who looked vaguely familiar.

"Hi!" Jerri said. "May I help you?"

"Rox ... I'm looking for Roxanne Ward," the woman said.

"She's on the back deck. May I ask who's calling on her?" Jerri said.

"Cass Con...." came the partial reply.

"You're shitting me!" shouted Jerri, taking a step backward. "You're Cass???!! Holy Fucking Mother of God... she's going to shit!"

*  *  *

"Rox, when was the last time you heard from Cass?" Nikki asked as she sipped her coffee.

"Ah, let me see, that would have been a few days ago when he sent his last note. Why do you ask?" Rox replied.

"Well....." Nikki started before she was interrupted by a yell from the living room.

"Rox... there's someone here to see you!" came Jerri's voice.

*  *  *

Jerri just stood there staring at Cass.

"May I come in?" Cass asked awkwardly, still standing on the front porch holding the screen door open.

"Sure ... sure, come in. Sorry about that," Jerri said, stepping back to let Cass enter.

"Well, you know who I am ... and you are...?" Cass asked.

Again, Jerri shook herself mentally for staring. "Ah ... I'm Jerri Lockwood - Rox's friend. Nice to meet you," she offered her hand, grinning ear to ear. Man! Rox is going to be shocked! she thought to herself. Wow, Cass, you're even better looking than your picture!

Both women looked at the door to the kitchen as they heard noises approaching from the other side.

*  *  *

Nikki looked at Rox. "Are you expecting any visitors?" she asked.

"Looking like this?" she commented, referring to her bruises, "No way! I wonder who it is?" Rox replied.

"Well, there's only one way to find out," Nikki replied, hoping against hope that it was Cass. Rising to her feet, she held her hand out to Rox. "Come on," she said.

"Nik, will you go see for me? I really don't want to be seen like this," she asked her friend.

"No Rox ... now come on, don't be such a chicken. Let's go," she said again, reaching for her friend's hand.

Rox finally complied as Nikki helped her to her feet and they entered the kitchen on route to the living room.

*  *  *

The door to the living room swung open as Rox and Nikki stepped through. Rox stopped dead in her tracks as she came face to face with a beautiful dark haired woman who towered over her by at least eight inches.

Nikki looked questioningly at Jerri, who just grinned in response.

"Oh my God, Rox!" Cass said in anguish, stepping forward to reach out for Rox when she saw the condition the red head was in.

Rox narrowed her eyes. Why does she look so familiar? she asked herself. "Do I know you?" she asked.

Cass was taken back by Rox's reaction. "Rox ... Its me ... Cass," she replied, still reaching forward with her hand.

Rox and Nikki gasped at the same time. "You can't be ... Cass is .... is..." Rox stammered, head darting side to side looking for an escape route. "Ah ... this can't be happening .. it can't be," she said, as she began to panic. Oh my god! Cass is a woman? A woman!? It can't be! her mind screamed.

Rox covered her hand with her mouth and started backing up against the door as Cass touched her palm to her cheek.

"Oh my god! No! Don't touch me!" Rox screamed, cringing visibly and brushing Cass' hand away. "Oh my god, oh my god..." she said again before turning tail and running back into the kitchen.

Cass looked at Jerri and Nikki in alarm.

"It leads to the beach ... if you love her, go after her," Jerri suggested as she pointed to the door.

Cass headed for the door as Nikki looked at her wife. "But ... but ... but ... Jer?" she said before starting after Cass.

"No, Nik ... let them be. This is bound to be a huge shock to Rox. Give them time. If they truly love each other, it won't matter," Jerri said, holding on to Nikki's arm.

*  *  *

Rox felt a desperate sense of panic rise in her chest as she ran across the sand toward the surf. Oh my god, oh my god! she panted to herself, her head swimming with confusion as she peered over her shoulder to see if Cass had followed her. All of the sudden Rox felt like she hit a brick wall as she ran into a figure standing right in front of her ... a figure that stopped her dead in her tracks at the edge of the water. "Chris!" she shouted despairingly.

"Hello Roxanne. My, you have such nice color in your face today," he said as he reached out and grabbed her by the throat.

"Chris!" she said again, grabbing onto his wrists as he lifted her off her feet by her neck. "Pl ... please ... don't!"

"You've humiliated me, Roxanne. You and your girlfriends. They're going to die too ... right after I'm finished with you," he threatened.

"No, Chr ... Chris ... please!" she cried again, trying desperate to take the pressure off her neck as her toes left the sand.

"Shut up, Bitch!" he screamed. "Don't tell me you didn't fuck them! I saw you kissing them! How could you?" he ranted as he closed his hands tighter around her neck.

"Rox! Rox!" came a voice from a several yards down the beach.

Chris looked beyond Roxanne's shoulder at the tall, dark haired woman running toward them, then looked back to Rox with raised eyebrows. "Another new prospect, Rox? What's the matter ... two aren't enough for you?" he accused.

"Arghghhrhghh, Rox choked out, trying desperately to pull air into her lungs as she fought to remain conscious.

Cass stopped short when she realized the precarious situation Rox was in. "Chris, put her down," Cass warned. "Put her down and walk away from her. I don't want to have to hurt you."

Chris looked at Cass and laughed. "You don't scare me, bitch. I don't know who the hell you are, but if you know what's good for you, you'll walk away and forget what you've seen."

"You son of a bitch!" Nikki screamed as she came running up behind Chris and jumped on his back. She had gone onto the back deck to watch the drama unfold between Cass and Rox, when she realized that Chris had made an appearance and was now threatening Roxanne's life. While Cass had him distracted, she ran off the deck and circled around behind them before Jerri could stop her. She managed to sneak up behind Chris and jump on his back where she was currently pummeling his head with her fists.

Chris dropped Rox into the sand and grabbed Nikki by the hair, bending over and depositing her in the sand next to the red head. Hauling back, he kicked her solidly in the ribs, in full view of Jerri who launched herself at him with a full body tackle, bringing them both to the ground. By the time he shook Jerri off and made it back to his feet, Cass had joined them and was faced off with him in a classic Taekwondo stance.

Chris stood there and laughed at Cass. "Am I supposed to be afraid of you, little girl?" he asked bitterly.

"Last time I looked, I wasn't exactly little," Cass said as she hit Chris in the jaw with the heel of her foot, sending him crashing into the surf. Jerri took the opportunity to pounce on him and bury her fists into his face several times before Cass finally pulled her off. Chris laid there in a pathetic heap as Cass and Jerri stood over him.

"Damn that felt good!" Jerri exclaimed, fists clenched by her sides. "I've been wanting to do that for months!"

"Jerri, please see to Rox and Nikki ... I need to find something to tie this bastard up with until the police come," Cass said.

*  *  *

"Rox, you stay here with Cass. I'll take Nikki to the emergency room to have her ribs checked out," Jerri suggested as Rox made a move to get into the backseat of Jerri's car.

"Jer...." Rox said pleadingly, not wanting to be left alone with Cass who was currently answering questions for the police. Chris was handcuffed securely in the back seat of the cruiser.

Jerri took Rox by the shoulders. "Rox ... I know this is uncomfortable, but you have to deal with it. Just listen to your heart, okay?" she said leaning in and kissing the red head on the cheek before climbing into her car.

Nikki had already settled into the front passenger seat and was leaning against the door, her arms wrapped around her middle. Leaning down to poke her head in the window, Rox kissed Nikki lightly on the head and whispered, "I'm sorry," to her friend.

Nikki smiled gently and assured Rox that she'd be okay, promising to call later from home. Rox nodded and waved as Jerri backed out of the driveway and headed to the hospital. The police cruiser left moments later, leaving Rox and Cass standing in the driveway, an uncomfortable silence between them.

Rox watched the police cruiser as it drove out of sight, avoiding direct contact with Cass' eyes. She jumped when she felt Cass' hand on her upper arm. Cass pulled it away immediately.

"I ... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you," she apologized.

Rox wrapped her arms around herself and nodded, dropping her chin to her chest. "It's okay," she said before adding, "Maybe we should go inside."

The pair moved into the house, the tension between them almost palatable. Rox did her best to keep a safe distance between them, wishing beyond all hope that she was anywhere but alone with Cass right now.

Once inside, Rox's manners kicked in. "Can I get you anything ... coffee, ice tea ...?" Rox offered politely as they stood awkwardly in the foyer.

Cass, this woman is Little Suzie Homemaker! Would you like some tea, kind sir? Enforcer mocked. Maybe this was a mistake? the alter ego suggested.

No, E. There's something else going on here ... I don't know what it is, but I intend to find out, Cass replied internally as she reached out and took Rox by the shoulders. "Rox ..." she began.

Rox immediately shook her hands off, flapping her own arms in the air repeatedly. "No! ... No, please, don't touch me!" she demanded as she moved away from Cass, crossing the room and wrapping her arms around herself once more.

Cass was thoroughly confused. This was not the woman she shared loving and intimate e-mails with. "Rox, honey, talk to me. What's wrong?" Cass asked, her hands spread out in front of her in a pleading gesture.

Roxanne looked her in the face for the first time and was immediately stunned by the brilliant blue of the taller woman's eyes. Their eyes held each other's for several moments, threads of attraction spanning the physical distance between them. Threads that scared the hell out of Rox.

"Rox ...?" Cass questioned once more.

"Cass ... you're a woman!" Rox finally answered.

Cass' brow immediately furrowed as she stood to her full height.

No shit Sherlock! So she finally noticed, huh? How the hell could she possibly think you were anything BUT a woman? With knockers like yours, even a blind man could see! Cass this woman is a head case ... run while you still can! Enforcer encouraged.

Cass shook off the offending thoughts and took two steps toward Rox, who immediately backed up the same distance. Cass stopped short and stared at the petite red head. "Rox ... I don't understand ... of course I'm a woman ... I assumed you knew ... I sent a picture!" she stammered, not fully understanding the implications of Rox's fears.

Rox's head snapped up as Cass mentioned the picture. Of course! she said to herself. She's the woman in the picture! I thought she was the man! Oh my god! Roxanne, you really fucked up this time! "Cass," she said to the woman, "I assumed the man in the picture was you ... I'm sorry," she said as her eyes filled with tears. "I'm so sorry."

Cass placed her left hand on her hip and massaged her forehead with the other hand. Sighing deeply, she tried to think back to what she had told Rox about the picture. I'm attaching a scanned photo of myself and my co-pilot so you can see for yourself, she recalled. Closing her eyes, she dropped her chin to her chest and mentally kicked herself for not at least mentioning Brian's name when she referred to her co-pilot. Cass, you're such a screw up! No wonder she was confused! she scolded herself. God, how can I fix this?

"Rox," Cass began, taking several steps toward the smaller woman before Rox stopped her once more. "Rox, please let me touch you ... let me hold you," she pleaded desperately. "I promise not to hurt you," she added.

Looking into the dark haired woman's eyes was almost her undoing. What Rox saw there went straight to her heart and filled her body with such a rush of heat, she thought she was going to faint. Raging confusion filled her heart and mind as she nodded slightly, giving the taller woman permission to envelope her in a loving embrace.

Cass slowly pulled Rox into her arms, holding her close and running her hands up and down the smaller woman's back. By the gods, she feels good in my arms, she thought as she buried her face in Rox's hair.

Helllllooooo!?? Enforcer interjected. Earth to Cass! Don't you get it? She's not into chicks!

Enforcer's words came crashing in on Cass with such force, she felt like someone had punched her in the stomach. Slowly, she relaxed her hold on the woman, tears clouding her vision as she took a step backward, trembling hands dropping to her sides.

Rox couldn't believe the sense of loss she felt when Cass released her. Part of her wanted to reach out and cling desperately to the taller woman. She felt so safe, so loved. The other part of her wanted to run away ... run as far as possible. This isn't supposed to be happening, she thought. Even as close as Nikki and I are, I've never even considered this type of relationship. God, why do I feel this way? Why does it hurt so much?

Rox's right hand flew up to cover her mouth, stifling a sob while her left arm circled her own waist, pulling in tightly to reduce the impact of her sobbing on her injured body.

"Rox ... I'm sorry ... I ... I..." Cass stammered through her tears. She had never felt such pain in her life. Her heart was literally tearing in two, her breath coming in short pants, eyes darting around wildly for some sign that this wasn't really happening. Never before had she felt such a sense of despair - not even when Patti died. "Rox, I love you," she finally managed to say. "I thought you knew ... I ..."

"Cass," Rox said through her tears. Taking a step forward, she reached up and touched the side of Cass' face. "I care about you too," she whispered. "The fact that you're a woman doesn't change that ... it does however, change the way I view what I feel."

Cass covered Rox's hand with her own and pulled it down close to her chest. "What do you mean?" she asked, tilting her head down so that her nose was within a hair's breath of Rox's.

Rox dropped her chin to her chest for a moment before looking up once more into the captivating pools of blue. "Cass, I have never been attracted to women ... I don't know if I can ... I just don't know," she whispered, shaking her head side to side.

Cass leaned her forehead against Rox's and closed her eyes, allowing the tears to run down her cheeks. Taking a deep breath, and swallowing hard, she resolved herself to the inevitable. "I understand, Rox. It breaks my heart, but I do understand," she said.

Rox pulled her head back and took Cass' face between her hands. Looking directly into her eyes, she allowed her own tears to fall as she sought the words to comfort this beautiful woman and to waylay her own fears. "No, Cass, you don't understand. I DO care for you, but these feelings terrify me. I have never felt this way for a woman before. I don't know if I can do it ... I need time," she pleaded.

Cass raised her head out of Rox's hands and took a step back. Reaching up, she wiped the tears from her cheeks with the back of her hand and forced a smile onto her face ... a smile that did not reach her eyes. Nodding her head, she spoke, "Ah ... maybe I should go. I'm sorry, Rox ... sorry that I messed things up so badly," she said as the started toward the door.

Rox beat her to it, slamming the door hard and blocking it with her body. "No, Cass. You're not going anywhere. You look like you're dead on your feet. When was the last time you slept?" she asked the tall woman.

"Rox, please," Cass said, reaching once more for the door handle.

"I said, NO!" Roxanne said forcefully, "now answer my question ... when was the last time you slept?" she asked again.

Cass placed both hands on her hips and debated about whether to physically move Rox out of the way, before reconsidering. "Rox..."

"Damn it, Cass Conway! I said you weren't going anywhere!" Rox declared loudly, still blocking the door.

Cass threw her hands up in defeat. "All right! All right! I haven't slept since Monday night, okay!" she confessed.

"Monday night? Monday night? Cass, that was two days ago for Christ's sake!" Rox ranted. "Jesus Christ, woman! The only place you're going is to bed," she said. Reaching forward, she took Cass' arm and directed her toward the stairs.

Cass resisted. "Rox, this isn't necessary ... really," she said.

"Oh yes it is," Rox insisted, turning Cass around once more and pushing her toward the stairs. "Cass ... you flew all the way across the continent to protect me from Chris. Please let me do this for you," she pleaded when it was obvious she was getting nowhere trying to maneuver the larger woman toward the stairs.

Cass looked down into the forlorn look in Rox's eyes, and knew she was powerless to resist.

"Okay ... I'll stay, but just for a short while. I'll take a nap, then I'll be on my way," she explained.

Rox didn't know what to say. A little voice inside of her told her to hang onto this woman for dear life, but the fear of facing the truth presided over her heart and demanded she let Cass go.

"All right," Rox said, "a nap it is."

CHAPTER XXVII

"HELLO?" ROX SAID as she picked up the receiver while pouring herself a cup of coffee. She had just gotten out of bed a half hour earlier and was ready to enjoy her first coffee while relaxing on the back deck.

"Hi Rox! How are you feeling this morning," came a grumpy voice.

"Nikki!" Rox exclaimed. "I'm pretty sore, and quite a sight to look at, but otherwise, I'm okay. How are your ribs?" she asked.

"Bruised and tender," she replied. "Rox, how did things go last night?" asked the anxious blonde.

"None too subtle, are we, Nik?" Rox giggled.

"Look, Rox ... my ribs hurt, my head is pounding, and I've got my period ... don't mess with me this morning - okay? Just answer the question!" she insisted.

"You got your period, huh? Well, that explains the frustration in your voice," Rox teased.

"Roxanne Ward!" Nikki yelled into the phone.

"Okay! All right! Chill, will ya?" Rox joked. "She went to bed after you left."

"Alone?" Nikki asked.

"Well, of course, alone! Geesh Nikki, what do you think I am?" Rox exclaimed.

"Right now, I'd say you're lucky ... six feet of gorgeous in your bed ... yep - I'd say you're damned lucky!" Nikki replied.

"Nikki, she's not in my bed ... she's in the guest room," Rox explained.

"Well, technically, that's your bed too," Nikki reached.

"Aarrgghh!" Rox exclaimed at her friend's logic. "Nikki, don't you have anything better to do with your time than harass me?" she asked.

"No," Nikki answered.

"Anyway," Rox continued, "she went to bed shortly after you and Jerri left yesterday, and she's been sleeping ever since."

"Rox, that was, let's see ... about 18 or 19 hours ago! She's STILL sleeping?" Nikki asked incredulously.

"Well ... she hadn't slept in about 36 hours before she got here, Nik. She was exhausted," Rox explained, starting to feel a little uneasy that Cass hadn't yet made an appearance. She decided to check on her as soon as she hung up with Nikki.

"So what happened?" Nikki asked.

"What do you mean, what happened?" Rox replied

"You know ... after we left. Things were pretty tense ... I hated to leave you there like that," the blonde winced.

"Well, we talked for a bit," Rox said. Sighing deeply, she continued. "Nik, I just don't know what to do. Damn it! I have feelings for her, but it scares the shit out of me!" she confessed. "Nikki ... help me out here. This isn't exactly my area of expertise."

"And you think it's mine?" Nikki asked sarcastically.

"Come on Nikki ... you're attracted to women ... tell me - how am I supposed to feel? How am I supposed to act? What am I supposed to do now?" she asked, all flustered, her free hand flying around in the air.

"Roxie, honey ... calm down. What do you mean, how do you act? Just be yourself for crying out loud. Geesh, do you think we use a manual with step by step instructions?" Nikki exclaimed.

"Well!!! I don't know, Nik! Cut me some slack here!" Rox whined.

"Okay, Rox. Look, there are no rules ... no expected behaviors. You just need to follow your heart," Nikki explained before pausing slightly. "Rox, this isn't about being gay ... it's about being in love. Okay ... so you're in love with a woman! Yes, that changes things, but it's still love - don't you see?" Nikki urged.

Rox was silent for several moments.

"Roxie?" Nikki asked.

"I'm here, Nik," she said, pausing again. "Nikki, I have so much to think about. Look, I'm going to run upstairs to check on Cass. I'll call you later this afternoon, okay?" she said.

"All right. Honey, call me if you need to talk ... promise?" Nikki asked.

"I promise. I'll talk to you later, Nik. Love you," Rox proclaimed.

"Love you too, sweetie, bye," Nikki said before hanging up.

Rox stood there holding the receiver in her hand, staring into space until the buzzing from the open telephone line broke her reverie. Snapping out of her trance, she reached forward and hung up the phone. Taking a deep breath, she headed for the stairs.

*  *  *

"Cass?" Rox said from behind the closed door. "Cass?" she said again.

Rox had climbed the stairs to the second story, nervously anticipating the upcoming conversation with Cass. She was beside herself with anxiety, and thoroughly confused about what she was feeling for this tall, dark beauty. Rox, calm down ... Nikki is right, she said to herself. This is about love. Forget that she's a woman for a moment. You would know just what to do if she were a man ... think! Take it slowly, she agonized as she approached the bedroom door and knocked softly. Several moments later, she was still standing in the hall, waiting for a response from the tired pilot. Finally, Rox reached down and gently turned the handle, slowly pushing the door open and peering inside.

The room was empty ... the bed was made.

Rox looked around the room frantically. "Cass?" she called out futilely, seeing no one in the room upon entering. Turning around, she ran out into the hall to check the second story bathroom. The door was wide open ... the room was vacant.

"Cass?" she said again, her voice a little more frantic.

Maybe she went exploring, her subconscious mind suggested, as she headed toward the stairs to the attic office. Taking the stairs as fast as her injuries would allow, she reached the top and looked around the empty room. She even investigated the widow's walk -- walking completely around the periphery of the second story -- but to no avail.

"Where is she?" she asked out loud as she stepped back into the office. Suddenly, she wondered if the tall woman had gone for an early morning walk on the beach. Walking back onto the widow's walk, she looked up and down the shoreline. Not only was Cass nowhere to be seen, but the beach was totally deserted. Rox frowned as she once more reentered the office.

Thoroughly confused as to Cass' whereabouts, Rox descended the stairs to the second story and returned to the guestroom that Cass had occupied the night before. Entering the room, she noticed something she hadn't earlier ... a folded piece of paper on top of the pillow. Walking cautiously toward the bed, Rox looked down at the paper for long moments before hesitantly reaching for it. Unfolding the note, she immediately noticed the strong, bold cursive penmanship. Her mind subconsciously registered the appropriateness of the strokes as she began to read ...

"My Dearest Rox,

I know this is taking the coward's way out, but I couldn't bear to say good bye to you face to face this morning. I have lost my heart to you, dear bard. I lost it the day I looked into emerald green eyes staring up at me from the back of your book cover. No one has ever affected me this way before.

As you came through the kitchen door and I looked into your face yesterday, my heart and soul completely surrendered to you ... they no longer belong to me. I saw something else in your face as well ... confusion, fear, anxiety. I didn't know at the time what caused those vile emotions ... I didn't know until later ... until after Chris was arrested and you confessed the confusion of my gender with that of my co-pilot, Brian.

I have so much to be grateful for in my life, the best of which was the opportunity to love you. I am sorry that I have hurt you ... that is the last thing I ever wanted to do. I will never forgive myself for deceiving you, dear love. It was not my intention to do so.

I am afraid Rox. I am afraid that I will never again find the kind of love I found in you. I am afraid that I will never feel again, the way I feel when I'm with you. When I lost Patti three years ago, I never dreamed that I would allow myself to fall in love again, but, alas, it has happened, and I have fallen so deeply, that I allowed that love to blind me to the possibility that you could not reciprocate. I have been a fool, and have caused you pain and discomfort in the process.

Once again, Rox, I'm sorry ... for deceiving you ... for hurting you ... for leaving the way I did ... but most of all, for not being what you want and need.

Oh, by the way, the offer still stands ... I will be here whenever you need me. Please don't hesitate to contact me by phone or e-mail. I will always be there for you, Rox ... all you have to do is call.

I love you Rox. I always will.

Cass"

A lone tear fell onto the page as Rox blinked. Oh my god, she said to herself. Damn you, Cass!

Sitting heavily on the edge of the bed, she allowed the note to float to the floor as she buried her face in her hands and started to cry. Finally, she threw herself back on the bed and stared unseeingly at the ceiling. Why does this hurt so much? she asked herself. I barely know her. She's a woman, for god's sake, she insisted to herself. I know I feel strongly for her ... but ... but ... she's a woman!

Rox continued to agonize over her feelings for Cass for the next half hour, alternating between anger, and regret ... anger winning out in the end. Finally she rose from the bed and climbed the stairs to the attic, after first retrieving Cass' note from the floor.

By the time the computer had finished booting up, Rox was in a rage. Sitting down in front of the screen, she selected Netscape Messenger and posed her hands over the keyboard, ready to vent. Selecting "New Message", she began to type.

"Cass,

When I awoke this morning and found you gone, my first instinct was panic, quickly followed by regret, and finally, by anger. You are right - you took the coward's way out. Damn you, Cass ... why did you run? You waltzed into my life, announced that you are in love with me, then, poof! ... you disappeared.

I am so angry with you right now ... how the hell am I supposed to react to that? Do you always drop bombshells on people and then run before they explode? You had no right to do that to me, Cass.

Yes, it is true, I mistook your identity ... How could I do otherwise? I have never been attracted to women ... at least not before you came into my life. I won't deny that this terrifies me. In fact, it scares the shit out of me ... and by the looks of your little mutiny, it scares you as well.

I don't appreciate you leaving the way you did. I would have liked to spend some time talking this over. You've made that just a little hard to do by putting 3,000 miles between us. Christ, Cass, I could just shake you!

All right, I'm going to end this note before I say something I'll really regret. Know that I still care deeply for you, and I really do want to continue our friendship. Please don't pull away from me now, I need your help to understand what I am feeling for you.

I'll talk to you later,

Rox"

Rox quickly scanned the contents of the note before clicking on 'send' and watching her anger recede into cyberspace. Sitting back in her chair, she felt her anger and anxiety ease as she logged off the 'Net and opened her word processor to continue working on her book.

CHAPTER XXVIII

"CASS!" THE VOICE shouted. "Cass, open the god dammed door!"

Cass slowly lifted her head off the pillow and looked around, not really sure where she was. Finally, the realized that she was in her own bed, and that someone was pounding on her front door. Glancing at the digital clock on the night stand, she noted the time - 9:08 a.m.

"Cassidy Conway, you open this door right now, or I'll bust it down!" came the voice. "Do you hear me!!?"

Cass sat up and rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. Rising to her feet, she half walked, half staggered into the living room and headed for the door.

Reaching for the doorknob, she heard the threatening words, "All right, Cass, I warned you!"

Cass opened the door just as Angie launched herself toward it, the momentum causing her to fly through the open doorway, landing face down on the floor. Cass just stood over the prone woman, with her hands on her hips. "You sure do know how to make an entrance, Ang," she said dryly.

Angie reached up. "Don't just stand there, help me up!" she exclaimed angrily. After Cass helped her to her feet, she turned on the tall woman. "Where the hell have you been? I've been worried sick!" she demanded. "You haven't answered your phone, you weren't at work, you didn't come to the diner for your meals ... Christ woman, are you TRYING to make me gray?"

"Angie, I was out of town," Cass explained.

"Out of town? For three days? Where did you go, Europe?" she asked sarcastically.

Cass walked wearily to the couch and sat down heavily. Dropping her face into her hands, she rubbed vigorously before running her hands through her hair. Suddenly, she looked up at her friend. "Did you say three days?" she asked. "What day is this?"

Angie sat on the coffee table in front of Cass and reached forward to feel her forehead. "Cass, are you all right?" she asked. "You don't seem to be running a fever," she added.

Cass endured the affectionate attention. "Ang, what day is this?" she repeated.

"It's Friday, Cass. You've been gone since Tuesday. The airline told me that your Mexico run arrived on time Tuesday night, but they hadn't seen you since. Cass - where were you?" the older woman asked again.

"Friday? Wow! I have just slept the past 19 hours away!" she exclaimed.

Angie leaned forward and took Cass' face in her hands. "Talk to me, sweetie. I have been worried sick about you. Cass, honey, where have you been?" she pleaded, looking directly into Cass' blue eyes.

Cass frowned as she remembered her harried trek across the country on Tuesday night, the tumultuous meeting with Chris on the beach, and her heartbreaking encounter with Roxanne later that afternoon. Her eyes welled up with tears as she closed them tight, hoping that Angie had not seen the torment in their depths.

"Cass, I can see the pain in your eyes," Angie said.

Damn! thought Cass.

"Talk to me, love," she urged.

Cass opened her eyes and allowed the tears to roll down her cheeks. The sight of this strong, competent woman exposing her broken heart was more than Angie could take. Rising to her feet, she moved to sit beside Cass, then opened her arms to the taller woman. Cass immediately fell into them and sobbed like an infant. Her heart wrenching cries tore through Angie's heart as she shed tears right along with the younger woman. After long moments, Cass calmed down and made an effort to compose herself.

"Now, Cass ... please tell me," Angie urged once more as she wiped her eyes with the back of her hands.

Cass sniffed loudly. "Maine .... I was in Maine," Cass said abruptly.

"You went to her? Cass, she isn't ..." Angie said nervously.

Cass immediately reacted, trying to disperse the older woman's fear. "No! No, Angie ... she's not dead. She's very much alive. Banged up, but alive," she said.

"Thank god!" Angie exclaimed. "So tell me about it. Why are you so upset?" she asked.

Cass rose to her feet and started pacing back and forth in front of the couch, Angie's head moving along with her, like a slow motion spectator at a tennis match. Angie was just about to lose patience with Cass, when she suddenly stopped pacing and looked at her.

"Angie, Rox isn't gay," she explained.

Angie was very confused. "Cass ..." she said haltingly. "What do you mean, she isn't gay?"

"She isn't gay, Angie. The bastard that's been beating her up is a man ... she has spent the past six years in a relationship with a man! Don't you get it? She's straight!" Cass exclaimed.

"But, Cass ... you sent her a picture. She said she was falling in love with you ... even after she saw the picture!" Angie reasoned.

Cass dropped her chin to her chest and sighed deeply. Very softly, she said, "I sent her a picture of Brian and I. She thought Brian was me."

Angie was stunned. She just sat there looking up at Cass. "Oh my god!" she managed after a few moments. "Cass ... I'm so sorry! God, honey, that must have been so difficult for you! How did Rox take it?"

Dropping to the floor right where she stood, Cass sat cross-legged and looked up at Angie. With an anguished voice, she answered her friend. "At first, she wouldn't even let me touch her. It broke my heart, Ang. In fact, she ran away from me when she realized who I was."

"You went after her I hope?" Angie asked hesitantly.

"Yeah, I did. I chased her right into the arms of the son of a bitch who's been beating her. We had a nice little Taekwondo encounter on the beach. Let's just say he won't be eating solid foods for a while," she explained vehemently.

"Serves him right. Is Rox okay? I mean, did he hurt her again?" Angie asked, concern tingeing her voice.

"A few more bruises on her neck, but nothing permanent. She was fine later that afternoon after the police took the bastard away," Cass explained.

"So what happened then?" the older woman asked.

Stretching her legs out in front of her and crossing them at the ankles, Cass leaned back and supported herself with her hands placed strategically on both sides of her reclining torso. "Well," she said. "Her two friends left us there together ... it was really awkward ... and we talked. She confessed to being confused about my gender ... and confused about what she was feeling for me."

"And just what IS she feeling for you, Cass?" Angie asked suspiciously. She wasn't sure she liked this New Englander who had obviously torn her friend's heart to shreds.

"She says she cares deeply about me," Cass said, once more leaning forward to sit cross-legged. "She's confused, Angie. She's never been attracted to women before ... she's scared."

"And you're heartbroken!" Angie observed. "Cass ..."

"No, Angie ... don't say it," Cass said, holding her hand, palm out, toward her friend on the couch. "I don't want to hear how she's breaking my heart. Angie, I set myself up for this. I never mentioned my gender in any of my notes. I assumed she knew ... and you know what they say about people who assume ... well, you're looking at the world's biggest ass," she chastised herself.

"You said you've slept the past 19 hours away. That means you got home Thursday afternoon. Has she tried to contact you yet?" Angie asked.

Cass sat up straight and tilted her head to the side. "Well ... I didn't hear the phone ring ...," she commented, her voice curiously trailing off.

"What about this wonderful e-mail you're always talking about?" Angie prompted.

"I haven't checked. I've been asleep the whole time," Cass replied.

Angie threw her hands out to the sides in a "Duh!!!" gesture. "Well???" she intoned.

Cass just looked at her friend and nodded. She unfolded her long legs and rose to her feet shaking off the deffects of the lack of circulation which was already causing her feet to prickle uncomfortably.

Moments later, Cass and Angie were sitting in front of the computer waiting for the server to deliver new mail into her in box.

"I thought modern technology was faster than this!" Angie commented impatiently.

Cass threw her hands up. "Don't even go there!" she warned her friend as her inbox chimed the signal for new mail. Sure enough, there was an e-mail from Rox.

Cass sat there in front of the monitor for a few seconds, nervously staring at the icon on the screen.

"Well?? Open it!" Angie demanded, hitting Cass on the arm with the back of her hand.

Reaching for the mouse, Cass selected the note, displaying it on the screen for both of them to read.

Angie leaned down over Cass' shoulder and digested the written words in front of her. Suddenly, she rose to her full height and swatted Cass on the side of the head with her open hand.

"Owww! What was that for!!?" Cass exclaimed, rubbing the spot that had come in contact with Angie's hand.

"You ran?" Angie said in disbelief. "You ran? I can't believe you ran! Cass ... of all the stupid things to do!" she exclaimed.

Cass swung her chair around to face her mentor. "Stupid? Did you say, stupid?" she challenged. "Angie, don't you get it? She's straight! She doesn't play with girls! I don't have the right equipment!! Capishe!!!??"

Angie took Cass by the shoulders and swung her back around to face the terminal. Pointing to the screen, she said, "Cass ... look at the note again. Look at it carefully. Read the last sentence one more time," she instructed, her hands still on Cass' shoulders.

Cass looked at the screen ... specifically at the last sentence.

"Please don't pull away from me now, I need your help to understand what I am feeling for you."

Rox's words finally sunk in as Cass gasped, and Angie dug her fingers deeper into Cass' shoulders for support. Reaching up, Cass covered Angie's hands with her own and whispered, "There's hope, Ang ... there's hope!"

*  *  *

Cass was pacing again ... this time in front of the computer. One hand was tightly hugging her own midsection, while the other one played nervously with her bottom lip.

"Damn it, Cass, you're making me nervous wearing a path in the rug like that. Will you sit down and answer the woman?" Angie demanded.

"I don't know what to say, Angie. I feel like such a fool, running out on her like that!" the dark haired woman whined.

"Well, you can start with an apology," Angie suggested, looking at the doubt in Cass' face. "Look Cass, if you do nothing, you'll always wonder. Are you willing to live with regret for the rest of your life?" she asked.

Listen to her, Cass, Enforcer urged. Look, she couldn't possibly have gotten that old without learning a thing or two! the alter ego pointed out.

E, why do you have to be so crass? she asked herself as she stood there staring at the computer screen, silently contemplating Angie's words.

Oh for Christ's sake woman! Quit your bitching! Now sit your ass down in the chair and write the God damned note! Enforcer demanded.

"Cass?" Angie prompted, a little worried at the trance-like state her friend seemed to be in.

Angie's voice snapped Cass out of her reverie. "Uh... sorry, Ang, I guess I zoned out there for a minute," she explained, running a hand through her hair. Looking at her friend with near panic in her eyes, she said, "Angie, I don't know what to say to her. I've been such a fool. I never gave her a chance. I don't blame her for being angry with me."

"Well from the sounds of that note, she a little more than angry," Angie deadpanned.

Yeah... you'll never get laid now! Enforcer added her two cents.

"Jesus Christ, will you butt out, E?" Cass said out loud before she could stop herself.

Angie looked at her friend skeptically. "Cass, maybe you should go back to bed for a while," she suggested.

Brushing off her slip-up, she pulled out the chair in front of the computer and sat down. "No ... No, I think I need to write this note," she said.

"Want some help?" Angie asked.

"Would you mind?" Cass asked hopefully.

"Not at all, sweetie, not at all," the older woman replied as she pulled a chair up close to Cass.

*  *  *

Roxanne was standing on her back deck, leaning against the railing, sipping a cup of strong black coffee as she looked out over the ocean. She had been pacing back and forth in front of the computer all morning. For the life of her, she just couldn't concentrate on writing as visions of long dark hair and blue eyes invaded her thoughts on a continuous basis.

Several times that morning, she had checked her e-mail for new messages, hoping that Cass would respond to her last post. Reading over the copy in her send file for the hundredth time, she once again chastised herself for being so harsh with the other woman. After all, it was SHE who turned and ran away from Cass at their first meeting. She could only imagine how that must have made Cass feel. Cass obviously had no idea that she had mistaken her for a man.

I wonder if I should call her? she thought to herself. No ... she probably won't talk to me anyway, she reasoned. Sighing deeply, she lifted the cup to her lips and drank the last of her coffee before heading back into the house.

The phone rang as she headed for the stairs.

"Hello?" she answered.

"Hey Rox! What's up?" came a voice from the other end of the line.

"Hi Nik. Nothing much. Just taking a coffee break," Rox replied.

"What time are you coming over tonight?" Nikki asked.

"Tonight?" Rox said, obviously confused.

"Dinner? Remember? You're supposed to bring your taco dip. Helllloooo! Is anybody home?" the blonde added teasingly.

"Shit! I forgot all about it! Yeah ... all right. Ah ... how about 6 p.m.?" Rox sputtered, embarrassed that she had forgotten their dinner date.

"Rox, are you all right?" Nikki asked, picking up on the nervous, hesitant tone in her friend's voice.

"I'm fine, Nikki. Just a little preoccupied," Rox confessed.

"You are bringing Cass along, right?" Nikki asked.

Silence.

"Rox?" she asked.

"No. She's gone, Nik," Rox admitted before snapping out of her funk.

"What do you mean, she's gone?" Nikki demanded.

"She's gone. I checked on her after we talked... the bed was made ... she left a note apologizing for leaving," she explained.

"Well that bites!" Nikki exclaimed.

"Look, Nikki, maybe it's better this way, you know? I mean, she's a woman, right?" she said defensively.

"And your point is?" Nikki asked incredulously.

"Ah come on Nik! You know what I mean! Man! I hate this love shit!" Rox exclaimed.

"Wanna talk about it?" Nikki asked.

"Maybe tonight at dinner ... 'kay? 6 p.m. sharp ... taco dip. I'll be there," the red head said light heartedly.

Nikki was not convinced. "All right Rox, we'll see you at 6 p.m. ... but we're NOT done talking about his, you got that?" she said sternly to the author.

"Got it," answered Rox. "I'll see you tonight then."

"Tonight. Love ya, toots!" Nikki quipped.

"Right back at 'cha, Nik," Rox chuckled. "See ya later, bye." Hanging up the phone, she headed up the stairs and back to work.

*  *  *

"Dear Rox,

I don't know where to start except with an apology for running off like that. It was a stupid and cowardly thing to do. I'm sorry. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. You are obviously very angry with me. I wouldn't blame you if you never talked to me again.

Rox, I don't know what came over me. I guess the prospect that you wouldn't love me too never crossed my mind. You have made me see how arrogant I really am. Again, I am sorry.

Please believe me when I say I never intended to deceive you. I automatically assumed you knew I was a woman. I was totally ignorant to the possibility of mistaken identity. I was a fool to have sent that picture of Brian and I. I completely understand how you assumed that I was Brian. I should have been clearer about things.

Where do we go from here? You said in your note that you need me to help you understand your feelings. I'm not sure I can do that without first understanding them myself. How DO you feel, Rox? You said in one of your notes that you were starting to fall in love with me. Does my being a woman change all that? Should I walk out of your life right now and never bother you again? I am willing to do that if it is what you really want. It will kill me, but I will do it ... for you.

Rox, I still love you with all my heart. I am afraid that I will never love another the way I love you. I want you to know that you can depend on me for anything. Just call, and I will find a way to be by your side.

Again, I am sorry for hurting you. I will never forgive myself for the pain and confusion I have caused. Please forgive me.

I love you,

Cass"

"How does that sound?" Cass asked Angie as the older woman scanned the note.

It sounds like you're pussy whipped - BIG TIME! interjected Enforcer.

Cass ignored her inner voice.

"It's a start, Sweetie. Send it and let's see what happens," Angie suggested.

Maneuvering the mouse to the 'send' button, Cass clicked and watched her note disappear from the screen. Sighing deeply, she logged off the 'Net and shut down the computer. Looking over at Angie, she asked, "Shouldn't you be at the diner helping with the lunch crowd?"

"Holy Shit!" Angie exclaimed looking at her watch. "Roger is going to kill me ... and it's all your fault. Just for that, you get your butt dressed and come help me!" she demanded.

Cass raised her eyebrows. "You don't really expect ME to cook, do you?" she asked in all seriousness.

"Are you kidding? I'd like to keep my customers coming back, thank you very much! No... I don't expect you to cook, but you sure as hell can wait tables!" the older woman reasoned.

"That, I can do, Ang," she replied. "I'll be ready in a jiff," she said running into her bedroom to change, very happy to have a distraction from thoughts of red-gold hair and green eyes.

CHAPTER XXIX

ROX WAS ON a roll. She had finally put thoughts of Cass out of her mind long enough to start writing again, when a rumbling from deep within her stomach interrupted her run.

"Damn!" she exclaimed out loud as the burning sensation that accompanied the rumbling became too uncomfortable to ignore. Looking at the clock on the desk, she suddenly jumped up, startled by the realization that it was nearly 3 p.m. and she still needed to make the taco dip for dinner. Quickly logging onto the 'Net, she checked out her inbox and was devastatingly disappointed to find it empty again. The burning feeling in her stomach turned to a sense of nervous nausea as she allowed a rush of regret to wash over her. After logging off the 'Net, she saved her work from that morning and shut the computer down.

Realizing she had only half the ingredients for the dip, she quickly donned a long sleeved shirt and jeans, a baseball hat and oversized pair of sunglasses, hoping to conceal the worst of her bruises. Little did she know that her obvious attempt at concealment would cause more stares than it would divert.

Glancing at the clock once more and noting that it was 3:04 p.m., she rushed down the stairs and out the front door for a quick trip to the super market.

At 3:06 p.m., at the exact moment that Rox pulled the door shut behind her, Cass' note arrived in Rox's inbox.

*  *  *

"Where do you want me to put it?" Rox asked, holding the cookie sheet heaped with taco dip.

"There should be some room in the 'frig," answered Nikki as she ushered her friend into the house, closing the door behind her.

Struggling with an effort that would have been a chore for three arms, Rox managed to open the refrigerator and slide the dip inside without dropping the shopping bag of Nacho chips she was also holding. Pushing the door shut with her foot, she threw the chips onto the kitchen table before struggling out of her jacket.

"What's for dinner?" Rox asked.

"Steak, baked potatoes and succotash," she answered as she scrubbed three large baking potatoes in the sink. "Jerri is on the back deck turning the steaks right now."

Coming up behind her friend, Rox wrapped her arms around Nikki and rested her head between the blonde's shoulders. The pair stood still, savoring the feeling of love and friendship for a long moment.

"Thanks for the invite, Nik," Rox said as she broke the embrace. "What can I do to help?"

"We're gonna eat out on the deck. Why don't you grab some dinnerware and set a place for each of us," she suggested.

"Consider it done!" she exclaimed as she collected plates, silverware, ice tea glasses and napkins, then headed out onto the deck.

"Hey girl!" Jerri called as she saw Rox.

Rox deposited the dishes on the table before walking over to the grill to collect an affectionate hug from her friend.

"Hi Jer," she said, her reply muffled as the taller woman pulled her into a tight embrace.

"I see she's put you to work already," Jerri commented as she saw the load of dinnerware on the table.

"Oh yeah ... just like Nikki ... invites me over, then expects me to do all the work!" Rox chuckled.

"She used to do that to me when we were dating, until one day, she put me to work cooking. That was the first ... and last time she ever did that! Flipping steaks is about as far as my cooking talents go!" she responded, grinning ear to ear.

"Sounds like Chris ...." Rox began, an uncomfortable silence descending over them. "Damn!" she added softly.

Jerri reached out and rubbed Rox's back. "It's okay, hon. It'll be a while before that doesn't happen any more," she assured her friend.

Rox just nodded before excusing herself to set the table ... a chore she completed in silence as Jerri watched her covertly from the grill.

*  *  *

"Nik, how did you know?" Rox asked as she scooped taco dip with a nacho chip and maneuvered it to her mouth. It was nearly midnight as the three friends sat on an assortment of pillows on the floor in front of the fireplace, the taco dip and chips sitting in the center of their tableau. A small fire cast a warm glow over their tea party as they wound the evening down.

"How did I know I was gay?" Nikki replied. "Rox, we've talked about this a dozen times!"

"I know we have, but humor me. What was the defining moment for you?" Rox inquired.

"Well," Nikki started, wiping her hands on a paper towel. "I've always known that I was different. As a teenager, all the other girls were fawning over Lief Garrett and Parker Stevenson. I just didn't get what they saw in those guys. I mean, I hung posters of them on my bedroom walls ... just like all the other girls, basically to fit in, but I just didn't get it! On the other hand I thought Linda Carter and Nancy McKeon were absolutely to die for! I really didn't understand what I was feeling at the time, Rox," she confessed, as she reached down to take a long draw on the straw extending from her soda can. "I can remember having a huge crush on my camp counselor and on a couple of the girls at school, but I really didn't associate those feelings with being gay at the time. Hell, I dated several guys in high school!"

"So when DID you know?" Rox asked.

Nikki grinned, looking over at the dark haired woman sitting across from her. "That's easy ... when I met Jerri," she replied seeing the smile in Jerri's eyes. "I knew the minute I laid eyes on her that what I was feeling was more than a mere crush. It was mind boggling ... it completely devoured me. Suddenly, all those latent childhood memories made sense," she explained.

"And how did you feel about that, Nikki? Were you scared?" Rox wanted to know.

"Terrified. I was raised with the traditional male/female image of romantic love. My parents were heavily involved in a very intolerant church. All my friends were straight. I pretty much felt like an outcast. But all of that was minor compared to how I felt when my body reacted so strongly to Jer's presence. God, she could turn me on with a smile! And the first time she kissed me ... well ... let's just say, thank god for panty liners!" Nikki exclaimed before continuing. "Rox, I had never felt that way before ... especially not with the boys I had dated. They made me feel dirty and used, and I hardly let them touch me! Look, my point is this ... when I met Jerri, my true nature was awakened. I could have tried to ignore it, fought it, and did what was expected of me by marrying a nice young man, but I didn't ... I couldn't. I had to accept what I was feeling as my truth, and learn to live with it. I was lucky to have Jerri. She was so gentle and patient with me," she explained as she reached out to cup the side of her wife's face.

Rox breathed deeply, a place deep inside of her touched by the depth of her friend's emotions. Turning to Jerri, she asked the same question. "What about you, Jer? When did you know?"

"I think I've always known," she replied. "When I was a teenager, I fell in love with my best friend. I didn't tell her for fear of rejection, but I knew ... I knew exactly what it was. I was obsessed with pleasing her. I couldn't do enough ... I couldn't spend enough time with her. If she knew, she never let on. I agonized for many months over her. Finally, I migrated toward several other girls in school who were either gay or bisexual, and in effect, joined their crowd. Unfortunately, they weren't the nicest girls in town, and soon, I was smoking and drinking and basically running wild. I was initiated into lesbian sex by these girls, and they weren't always nice about it. The wild behavior basically followed me into college. It amazes me that I managed to graduate! Anyway, I didn't actually calm down until I met Nikki," she explained, taking her turn at capturing her wife's smile. "Rox, it was love at first sight. Man! She melted my insides right on the spot. I couldn't breathe ... my heart was pounding so fast I thought it would explode. Suddenly, all I had learned about sex and love flew out the window. I couldn't imagine making love to Nikki as I had been taught ... it seemed so rough, so primative. The first time was very awkward for me. Here I was, the experienced one, fumbling around because I didn't know how to treat her gently. She was very patient with me ... we learned together how to please each other. Rox ... it was the most wonderful feeling in the world," she finished, directing her words at Rox, but maintaining eye contact with Nikki.

Rox looked from Jerri to Nikki and back again to Jerri. It quickly became apparent that she needed to excuse herself for the evening. "Ah ... Geesh! Look at the time!" she exclaimed brightly. Climbing to her feet as her friends continued to hold each other's gaze, she said, "I'll .... just .... let myself out," and quietly left the room, retrieving her jacket from the back of a kitchen chair as she heading for the door. Moments later she was pulling out of the driveway. Pausing at the end of the drive, she looked back at the house, she saw the lights go out, one by one on the lower level, and a lone light illuminate the second story bedroom she knew her friends inhabited. A sudden intense pang of envy shot through her like a bolt of lightning, causing her to catch her breath. Her mind instantly filled with images of Cass as she pressed the accelerator and headed home.

*  *  *

"Well, that's the last of them," Angie said as she closed and locked the diner door behind the last customer. Turning around, she looked at Cass who had dropped down into one of the booths and was resting her head on her crossed arms.

"Angie, I don't know how you do this every day. I'm exhausted!" she exclaimed.

"Well, you get used to it," Angie replied.

"Aarrgghh!" Cass exclaimed, moaning out her tiredness.

"All right ... get out of here ... go home ... go to bed. I'll see you for breakfast in the morning. Okay, sweetling?" Angie said, kissing her on the head.

Nodding her head, Cass dragged her tired body out of the booth and gave Angie a hug before wishing her a good night and heading home. Entering her condo with heavily measured steps, she chastised herself for being so out of shape. God, Cass ... looks like you need to spend more time at the gym. I can't believe you let a woman almost old enough to be your mother, run you into the ground! Turning on the shower, she slowly shed her clothes and stepped under the warm, massaging spray. Several minutes later, she was freshly showered and dressed in lace panties and an oversized T-shirt. Sitting in front of her computer, she towel dried her hair while she waited for it to boot up. Throwing the towel on the floor, she ran her fingertips through the unruly locks, until she managed to assemble them in a more orderly state of disarray. She knew if she let it dry like that, it would look like she had just spent the past few hours making mad passionate love with someone, but she didn't care ... she was home ... she had the weekend off, and she wasn't planning on going anywhere - so who the hell cared what her hair looked like. By the time she was done rearranging her hair, her computer had completed it's boot up, and she was ready to log onto the Internet. She was quite proud of herself for patiently waiting for the computer to cycle ... either that, or she was just too damned tired to care!

Unfortunately, Cass' patience was not rewarded as she was presented with an empty inbox. She stared at the blank page for long moments before she logged off and wearily dragged herself to bed. Sitting down on the edge of the bed, she dropped her chin to her chest and sighed deeply. I guess my apology didn't work, E, she mumbled to herself.

Well running off WAS a pretty shitty thing to do to her, Cass. I don't blame her for being angry, Enforcer chided.

"I know," Cass whispered softly as she stood up and reached to turn down the covers before climbing in.

*  *  *

Rox booted up the computer as soon as she got home, making a cup of hot chocolate as she waited for the system to cycle. When the boot-up was done, she selected Netscape Messenger and waited patiently for the dial-up routine to complete. Finally the server delivered three pieces of new mail to her in box ... one piece of junk mail, one from her literary agent, and one from cconway@flyboy.com. Rox's breath caught in her throat as she shakily reached for the mouse and directed it to Cass' note.

"Dear Rox,

I don't know where to start except with an apology for running off like that. It was a stupid and cowardly thing to do. I'm sorry. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. You are obviously very angry with me. I wouldn't blame you if you never talked to me again.

Oh Cass, I would never do that to you. God, I can feel the pain in your words. I'm so sorry, she thought, feeling guilty for chastising Cass the way she did.

Rox, I don't know what came over me. I guess the prospect that you wouldn't love me too never crossed my mind. You have made me see how arrogant I really am. Again, I am sorry.

Cass, honey, it's not about your arrogance ... it's about me misreading your notes ... misinterpreting your picture...

Please believe me when I say I never intended to deceive you. I automatically assumed you knew I was a woman. I was totally ignorant to the possibility of mistaken identity. I was a fool to have sent that picture of Brian and I. I completely understand how you assumed that I was Brian. I should have been clearer about things.

I know you didn't intend to hurt me, Cass. God, I wish we could start over.

Where do we go from here? You said in your note that you need me to help you understand your feelings. I'm not sure I can do that without first understanding them myself. How DO you feel, Rox? You said in one of your notes that you were starting to fall in love with me. Does my being a woman change all that? Should I walk out of your life right now and never bother you again? I am willing to do that if it is what you really want. It will kill me, but I will do it ... for you.

How do I feel? I wish I was sure. Please don't walk out of my life, Cass. How will I ever be sure about my feelings ... about where my heart truly lies if you leave me?

Rox, I still love you with all my heart. I am afraid that I will never love another the way I love you. I want you to know that you can depend on me for anything. Just call, and I will find a way to be by your side.

No, Cass. I won't hurt you like that again. You came to me once and I broke your heart ... I won't allow myself to do that again.

Again, I am sorry for hurting you. I will never forgive myself for the pain and confusion I have caused. Please forgive me.

I do, Cass ... I do.

I love you,

Cass"

After reading the note, Rox sat back in her chair and stared at the screen for several moments before composing a reply.

"Dear Cass,

I have been regretting my note to you since the moment I sent it. I am so sorry for its harsh tone. I'm afraid common sense yields to hurtful indignance when I am angry. Please forgive me.

Cass, I am so confused. I am feeling things now that are totally new and alien to me. I am scared ... I don't know how I'm supposed to feel. Nikki says that this isn't about being gay ... it's about being in love. I'm sorry Cass, but I just can't ignore the gay piece of this. Christ, this is hard!

I have never been attracted to women before ... plain and simple. What I feel for you scares the hell out of me. I don't understand it ... I can't imagine it. Cass, I am totally ignorant about lesbian love. Jerri says its the most wonderful feeling in the world ... how do I know if it's right for me? Damn it, I'm so confused!

I had a long discussion with Nikki and Jerri tonight about gay relationships, and about what to expect. They described their own experiences. So much of what they told me is terrifying ... and just as much of it is exciting and enthralling. Cass, I have always considered myself to be a diverse, objective person, but it is way easier to remain that way when I am not directly involved.

Cass, help me ... help me to understand what I'm feeling. I don't want to discount our relationship without exploring how I really feel. I don't want to be on my deathbed 60 years from now wishing I had given our relationship a chance. Talk to me Cass. I can't do this on my own. I need you.

Until Later,

Rox"

Rox read the note over one more time before sending it out. Glancing at the clock, she noticed it was nearly 2 a.m. Yawning loudly, she rose from her chair and made her way down one flight of stairs to her room where she promptly disrobed and slipped a baseball jersey over her head to sleep in. Crawling between the sheets, she pulled the blankets up under her chin and laced her fingers behind her head. For the next half hour, she stared at the ceiling, unable to sleep.

What do I really feel for Cass? she asked herself. She certainly is beautiful ... and intelligent ... and capable. Do I love her? I don't know... Is this what love feels like? Christ, Rox, you have got to get your life together, she thought. Maybe it's too soon to have a relationship. Maybe you need to give yourself some time to recover from the disastrous life you lived with Chris.

Rox rolled over onto her side and pulled her knees to her chest. Her mind continued to wander.

Nikki and Jerri seem so sure of their love. Will I ever have that kind of security in a relationship? Could I have that with Cass? Do I WANT that with Cass? she questioned. Christ, woman ... you need to confront your feelings ... you need to understand what all this means ... you need to understand the consequences of entering into this kind of relationship.

Rox suddenly sat up as a disturbing thought entered her mind. Oh god! What about Mom and Dad? What will they think? How do I tell them? 'Ah, by the way, Mom, Dad, I'm a lesbian!' Holy shit! How would they take it? Would they disown me? Can I send my father to his grave with that on his mind? God I hate this!

Rox pulled her knees up and dropped her forehead down to meet them, trying desperately to clear her mind of these disturbing thoughts. Soon, her eyes started to close as she nearly lost her balance and toppled onto her side, catching herself before she fell. Stretching out her legs, she laid down and pulled the blankets up once more. Within minutes, she was fast asleep.

CHAPTER XXX

7:00 A.M. SATURDAY morning found Cass already up, dressed and finishing her morning run. Having gone to bed so early the night before, she had awakened at 5:30 a.m., unable to fall back to sleep. After her workout and a leisurely breakfast with Angie, she ran home and showered, and by 9 a.m., was curled up comfortably on the couch, doing the crossword from the newspaper.

"Let's see ...," she said out loud, "five letter word for postal telecommunications,"

E-mail. Enforcer answered for her.

"E-mail ... that fits! Thanks E!" she replied. "E-mail .....," she said again, looking wistfully toward the office.

Do you think she's called, E? she asked herself.

Hell! You're a sucker for punishment - go check! Enforcer urged.

Rising to her feet, Cass crossed the room in three strides and pushed the door open. Seconds later, she was sitting in front of the computer, waiting once more for it to go through it's long boot-up process. Her leg nervously shook up and down as she made threatening gestures toward the CPU. Just as her patience was stretched to the limit, the boot-up completed, allowing her to select Nestcape Messenger. Knowing she would surely throw the computer out the window if she was forced to sit through the long dial-up process, she retreated to the kitchen and make a cup of coffee. By the time she returned to the office, the server had delivered one piece of new mail to her inbox. It was from Rox.

She replied E! Cass exclaimed to her alter ego as she opened the note.

Whoop-tee-do, Cass. Do you want me to cheer or do cartwheels? Enforcer asked sarcastically.

Ignoring her own caustic thoughts, Cass read the note three times, her heart rising higher in her throat with each pass. Clicking the 'reply' button, she began composing a reply.

"Dearest Rox,

Please don't apologize for your harsh tones. I sorely deserved them. I am generally not a coward, but I couldn't bear the thought that you had rejected me. I have never been so heartbroken in my life.

Rox, I know you're scared. I was terrified when I realized I was gay. It was all so new to me. It wasn't very well accepted by my family, nor by the community I was living in at the time. I know it's hard to separate the emotions from the gender... but Nikki is right, this is about love, and I love you with all my heart.

Rox, you are the only one who can decide if this type of love is right for you. I know how confused you are. The only way you will know for sure is to explore the possibility ... at your own pace. Please let me be the one you explore it with. I promise to be patient ... I promise not to push you into something you are not ready for. I know you may decide in the end that lesbian love is NOT for you. That is a chance I am willing to take.

Nikki and Jerri seem like wonderful friends, Rox. Learn by their experience. Jerri is right ... it is the most wonderful feeling in the world. To be connected to another human being on such an emotionally intimate level ... Rox, the physical side of lesbian love is such a small part of what it's all about. It is a blending of two souls, two hearts, two minds, on a level that isn't possible in male/female relationships. The physical expression only adds to the beauty. I so long to share my soul, heart and mind with you, my love.

Rox, I want to be with you. I love you. I want to help you understand these feelings. I want to be there to hold you when you open your eyes each morning. I want to make love to you each night. I want to hold you when you cry and take care of you when you're ill. I want to envelop you in a cocoon of love and protect you from the less pleasurable side of life. Rox, I want to dedicate the rest of my life to making you happy and whole. Talk to me, Rox.

I love you with everything that I am,

Cass"

Feeling very sure that Rox would see the love she had written into her words, she eagerly clicked on 'send', holding her breath as the note disappeared from the screen.

*  *  *

God, I really need to get to work on this book. My agent is going to kill me if I delay the deadline any more, Rox thought as she selected the word processor resident on her hard drive. She woke up at 9 a.m., and an hour later, started collecting research information through the Internet, for her next chapter on distant galaxies. In the middle of her research, Nikki called and invited herself over for lunch, promising to be there within an hour. Hanging up the phone, Rox absently selected her word processor, sending the Netscape icon to her toolbar in standby mode.

Rox was deeply absorbed in her research when Nikki poked her head into the office. "I'm taking orders ... got any requests?" she asked.

Rox looked up and graced her best friend with a brilliant smile. "Good Morning, Nik," she said. "I didn't hear you come in."

"You know, Rox. One of these days, leaving your door unlocked while you're squirreled away in this attic office is going to get you ripped off," Nikki warned. "You're lucky I wasn't a burglar or something."

Rox just shrugged and turned her attention back to the papers in front of her.

"Well?" Nikki asked.

"Well, what?" Rox replied.

"Lunch?" came the answer.

"Oh!" Rox said, embarrassed that she was so distracted. "Ah, hold on. I'll give you a hand. I need a break anyway." Pushing herself away from the desk, she rose to her feet and followed her friend down the stairs. Seconds later, an exclamation mark appeared next to the envelope icon on the bottom right corner of her screen. She had new mail.

*  *  *

"So, have you heard from Cass?" Nikki asked as she spooned some soup into her mouth.

"No, I haven't," Rox replied. "I sent a note last night apologizing for being so harsh in my last note, but no reply has come through as of this morning," Rox said, disappointment tingeing her voice.

"Maybe she's angry with you, Rox. You know, it was pretty rude of you to run away from her like that," Nikki pointed out.

Rox placed her fork down on the table and wiped her mouth. Looking at her friend with saddened eyes, she replied. "I know, Nik. I can't believe I did that. It's just that I didn't expect her to be a woman. I didn't know how to react! It scared the shit out of me," she confessed.

"How DO you feel about her, Roxie," Nikki asked anxiously.

Rox furrowed her brow, then shook her head side to side. "I don't know, Nik. I just don't know. I definitely feel something stronger than friendship, but I don't know if I'd call it love. It's all so confusing. Nikki ... up until now, the thought never crossed my mind that I could be gay. Aarrgghh! This really sucks! I just want to crawl into bed and wake up to have this all resolved. I really don't want to deal with it!" she exclaimed.

Nikki just nodded her head. "So what's the next move?" she asked her red headed friend.

"I guess I just wait to see if she responds to the note. What else CAN I do, Nik?" Rox asked.

"What do you WANT to do, Rox?" Nikki answered with a question of her own.

Rox threw her head back and closed her eyes, then opened them and stared at the ceiling for a moment or two before looking back at her friend. "I want this to be over. I want it to be resolved. I want life to be good again," she replied.

"Hmmph!" Nikki snorted. "I didn't hear you say you wanted her out of your life."

"No, I didn't, Nik ... I just don't know," she finished as she took her last sip of coffee. "Look, I gotta get back upstairs. I've got a book to write," she added rising to her feet.

"Mind if I keep you company for a while? Jerri's working until midnight, and it gets real lonely around the house all by myself," Nikki commented.

"Sure ... come on," Rox replied smiling.

"Let me clean up here first. You go on ... I'll be there in a few minutes," the blonde said as she wistfully watched her friend head toward the stairs.

*  *  *

Before returning to work, Rox fixed herself a cup of tea in the kitchenette area of the office and went onto the widow's walk to enjoy the ocean while she drank it. While she stood against the railing, she quietly contemplated her feelings.

Cass, why have you invaded my every thought? How can you walk into my life and completely turn it upside down? I have been forced to rethink my entire philosophy ... rethink all the beliefs that I have built my life around. Why am I allowing you to do this to me? Gods, I'm so confused, she thought.

Sighing deeply, she returned to her computer and sat down. The computer had thrown itself into sleep mode while she was having brunch with Nikki. Reaching down, she pressed the button on the front of the CPU and waited for the system to wake up. Within moments, she was presented once more with her word processor.

Just as she was about to start writing, she noticed the mail icon at the bottom of the screen indicating the presence of new mail. Reaching over with the mouse, she double clicked on the icon and opened her In box. It contained a note from Cass.

Rox sat there staring at the screen, her heart in her throat, as she read Cass' loving words. Tears rapidly formed in her eyes as she marveled at the fact that Cass was still so loving, despite the harsh treatment she received at the hands of the red head.

Cass, why do you love me? After the way I've treated you, I'm surprised you want anything to do with me, Rox thought as she reread the note once more. Taking a deep breath, she looked at her watch and agonized about taking time away from her writing. To hell with it, she thought. The book can wait. My heart needs attention right now.

Posing her hands over the keys, she began to write.

"Dear Cass,

Sweetheart, if anyone is a coward, it is me. When I first laid eyes on you and realized you were a woman, I was terrified. I didn't know how to deal with it, so I ran. I am so sorry. When I put myself in your shoes, I realize how devastated you must have felt. I am not in the habit of intentionally hurting people. I am very ashamed of my behavior and my cowardice.

Cass, how did you know you were gay? How did you deal with it? I have a queasy stomach just thinking about it. I have looked the relationship between Nikki and Jerri and often wished that mine with Chris was as loving and close, but it just wasn't possible. Is that because Chris is a man, or because he just wasn't right for me? It is all so confusing.

I don't know how my family would react. My father is dying. Would I be sending him to his grave with a broken heart if he knew? I can't do that to him ... not even for my own happiness. Christ, this is so frustrating!

Cass, you suggest that I explore the possibility before I make up my mind. Part of me wants to vehemently deny that I am gay. Another part of me is curious. That part of me wants to explore. That part of me wants to be with you, to learn from you. I know you would be patient, Cass. If I close my eyes, and imagine, I can see you holding me close, kissing me, making love to me. I am not ignorant to lesbian love. If you knew Nikki and Jerri like I do, you'd know why (it seems like every time I call them, I'm interrupting something, lol!). But to be honest, I really don't know if I'm ready for this, and I am so afraid of hurting you more if I agree to try, and then fail.

I so desperately want the emotional connection you speak of ... the blending of souls, but I am so afraid of hurting you and myself in the process. You can see who the real coward is, Cass.

Cass, what you offer is so tempting. I DO long to wake up each morning in loving arms. Heaven knows, I didn't have that with Chris. To be surrounded with love and tenderness is more than I can imagine. I have never known that type of relationship before. Damn it! Why is this so hard? Why can't I just say, 'Yes, Cass. Come to me, love me, and let me love you?' Why? I have so much to think about ... so much to deal with! I am so sorry to put you through this Cass. It must hurt you terribly.

Well, I really have to get to work on my book. My agent is becoming very impatient with me. So, I guess I'll sign off for now. You have given me a lot to think about, Cass. I know I owe you an answer. I will search my heart, and hope soon that I will be able to tell you how I feel. Thank you so much for being patient with me.

I'll talk to you later,

Love,

Rox"

Rox sat for long moments, staring at the screen after she sent the note, unaware that her best friend was standing in the doorway, watching her with concern and trepidation. Cass, please don't play with her heart, Nikki thought. She has been through so much ... she doesn't need more heartache. Sighing deeply, she made her presence known as she entered the room and settled on the couch to read while her friend worked furiously at her keyboard.

*  *  *

Cass paced the floor for several long moments after sending her note to Rox, hoping against hope that she would reply immediately. After a half hour, it became apparent that a timely reply was not forthcoming.

Woman, you are pathetic, E scolded. Look at you! Ever hear the saying, 'a watched pot never boils?'. If you keep staring at the monitor like that, you'll have the words 'Netscape Messenger' permanently burned into your retina!

E, it's been a half hour. Maybe she's read my note and blown me off. I know she's angry - heaven knows she has a right to be, Cass replied.

Maybe she's busy. She's in the middle of writing a book, isn't she? E asked.

Yeah, but ..., Cass started.

But what? Cass, you really need to get a life. You're playing with fire here, you know. Rox digs men. You're setting yourself up for a heartache, my friend, Enforcer warned.

I don't know that yet, E. She said that she has feelings for me. What if those feelings are love ... or what if they could develop into love? If I walk away, I'll never know, she explained to her alter ego. E, I don't want to be on my deathbed regretting my cowardice. I have to find out if she can love me ... I have to.

After a slight pause, Enforcer responded. Well, I guess we have some work to do then. I'll help you to compose the next note when she finally replies to your last one.

I don't know, E. You tend to get a little raw sometimes. You might just scare her away, Cass worried.

Look Cass, if this DOES work out with Rox, all three of us are going to be living together - so she'd better get used to me now! Enforcer reasoned.

Cass responded with a groan.

What was that for? I'm not such a bad person! I've kept you on the straight and narrow for years! E exclaimed.

Straight and narrow? You're kidding me, right? What about when you had us skinny dipping in the neighbor's pool in the middle of the night? Cass asked.

Yeah, but, it was hot ... and ... and you were only 10 years old at the time ... so who cares? Enforcer defended herself.

And what about when you talked us into sneaking into the drive-in theater in Cathy's trunk, huh? I was stuck in that trunk for six hours after Cathy broke the key off in the lock! Some advice that was! Cass complained.

Well, you gotta admit - that WAS a good idea at the time. How was I supposed to know you were claustrophobic? Enforcer complained.

And what about the time ..., Cass continued.

All right! All right! You've made your point. So maybe my advice hasn't always been good - but you gotta admit, we had some fun! Enforcer countered.

Yeah, I guess, Cass finally admitted, but we really need to be careful here, E. I don't want to lose her before I even have her, Cass reasoned.

Don't worry, my friend. I'll behave. In the meantime, you need to take your mind off the computer. Why don't you clean this pig sty. You know Cass ... you would think you were raised in a barn! If your Mom could only see this place ..., Enforcer scolded.

"Aarrgghh!!! All right, already! I'll clean it!" Cass screamed out loud, throwing her hands in the air and jumping to her feet.

Standing in the middle of the office, she look a long hard look at the room for the first time in several weeks. "God, it really IS a pig sty," she commented as she noted the dirty coffee cups on the desk, overflowing wastebasket, newspapers and magazines stacked in the bookcase , and dust bunnies hanging from the ceiling in the corner of the room. Christ Cass. No wonder E gets on your case! she thought as she started to clean.

Two hours later, hungry and covered with dust, Cass stood in the center of the room, very proud of what she had accomplished. She didn't realize how much she had neglected this room until she started cleaning it. Glancing over at the clock on the desk, she was shocked to realize it had taken her two hours. Sorely tempted to sign on to e-mail, Cass instead decided to give Rox a little more time to respond as she cleaned herself up and ordered pizza for lunch. Forty five minutes later, she was sitting in front of the monitor, freshly showered, with a small pepperoni, mushroom and sausage pizza sitting beside her, waiting for the computer to boot up.

Finally, Netscape Messenger delivered a note from Rox@starship.com to Cass' inbox. Reaching for the mouse, Cass opened the note and read it's entire contents ... twice.

Wow, Cass. She's really confused. That woman doesn't know if she's coming or going! Enforcer pointed out.

You're right, E. I have to be careful not to push her too hard. I don't want to scare her away. Damn, I hate this dating thing, Cass replied.

Yeah - especially with chicks who dig men! Enforcer responded.

E, she could be bisexual, you know. Give me a break, will ya? Cass exclaimed as she clicked on 'reply'. Now, what to write back ..., she mused. After a few moments, she began to compose.

"My Dearest Love,

I owe you an apology. I should have made it clear that I was a woman right from the start. I am so sorry. I can understand why you would be confused ... Cass is such a generic name. I think a little background on myself might be helpful. My full name is Cassidy Marie Conway. I am 29 years old (soon to be 30), and as you know, I live in San Jose, California. I am the oldest of two children. My brother Jeff died a few years ago in a car accident. Unfortunately, I have been estranged from my parents for the past several years. You see, they don't appreciate having a gay daughter.

You asked me how I knew I was gay. Well, I guess I can say that I kind of knew since I was a teenager. You see, I knew there was something different about me - I just didn't have a name for it at the time. While my girlfriends were playing with dolls and fussing with their hair, I was busy playing baseball with the neighborhood boys. In high school, I wasn't interested in women's gymnastics or in making out behind the bleachers with the football team ... I was interested in being ON the football team (it's too bad I wasn't allowed)! I didn't put a name to my feelings until I met Patti. She captured me heart and soul. I only wish I had seen through to her dark side before I allowed her to capture my heart.

Rox, I can't tell you why things didn't work out as lovingly as you would have liked between you and Chris, however, if Chris was as much of a macho ass hole as he was on the beach, then that may shed some light on the question. Honey, I have met women who act like Chris. There are lesbian relationships that end up just like yours. Occasionally, one partner dominates the other to the extreme that it becomes a 'husband/wife' type of scenario. My relationship with Patti was headed in that direction when she overdosed. As much as I hate to admit it, I allowed her to dominate me. I allowed her to treat me like Chris treated you ... right down to the physical abuse. The good news, Rox, is that there are just as many loving, equal relationships out there as there are unequal ones. What I am offering to you, Rox, is just such a relationship, should you choose to explore it. I don't want someone to dominate ... and I don't want to be dominated. I want someone to share my life and my love with - on a totally equal basis.

As far as how your family would react to the possibility that you are gay, it is always best if you have their support, however, this is your life, and your happiness we are talking about. If the gods are willing, you will be around long after your parents are gone. You can't live your life for them, or you'll wake up one morning after they're gone and regret that you didn't follow your heart. Rox, if they truly love you, they will at the very least, accept you as you are, even if they don't agree with your lifestyle. Obviously, I don't know your parents, so I am not in a position to make a judgment. As far as your father dying ... don't you think he'd rather die knowing you are happy? Think about that, Rox.

Honey, if there is even a small part of you that is curious, or that has felt something more than just sisterly affection for another woman, you owe it to yourself to explore. The type of loving relationship that is possible between two women just can't be described in words. It has to be experienced to be understood. It is so intense, and personal, loving and caring ... Rox, I love you. I want desperately to show you what my words so inadequately convey. Please don't worry about hurting me. I am going into this relationship with my eyes wide open. I know there is a risk that you may find that this type of love is not right for you. I understand that, and I'm willing to take the chance. You are worth any risk I may have to take.

Let me come to you, Rox ... let me love you, and allow yourself to love me. I'm not denying that it is a hard decision, but you can't make it without first experiencing it. Let me help you ... I promise to leave you alone forever if this is not for you, Rox. Please think about this.

I will wait forever for you, Rox. I know how scary this is. Just know that I love you, and I will never hurt you.

Good luck with your book.

With all my love,

Cass"

Cass reached for the last slice of pizza as she clicked on the 'send' button and watched her note start it's journey to Maine. Lifting it to her lips, she grimaced as she realized it was ice cold.

"Damn!" she said out loud, looking at the clock. "Shit! It's after 3:00 p.m. Why on earth does it take me so long to respond to Rox's notes!!?" she said, exasperated with herself.

Because you're not as smooth and direct as I am ... it's all that beating around the bush, Enforcer answered.

What do you mean by that? Cass asked, insulted.

Well ... Think about it! Damn, woman! You wrote her a book! the alter ego exclaimed.

All right smart ass, what would YOU have written? Cass asked.

Me? I would have said ... Bedroom - be there! Enforcer replied.

Oh yeah ... real smooth, E. She would have been gone in a heartbeat! Cass explained.

Hey - if she can't take the heat, she should stay out of the kitchen! Enforcer quipped.

E... eat shit and die, okay? Cass said sarcastically as she headed for the microwave.

*  *  *

"Rox ... dinner's ready!" Nikki called up the stairs. After a few moments with no response, she yelled again. "Rox!" Finally, after a few more moments, she went in search of her friend. As she entered the office, she noted Rox working furiously away at the keyboard.

"Rox, honey ... dinner's ready," she said in a softer voice.

No response.

"Earth to Rox!" the blonde said loudly.

Rox jumped. "Jeeeeessssuuuusss Christ Nikki! You scared the shit out of me!" she exclaimed, grasping her chest with her good hand.

"Well ... you weren't answering me! Do you always get this tuned out when you're writing?" Nikki asked.

"When I'm on a roll ... yes, I do," she replied, "sorry!"

"It's okay. Dinner's ready. Are you hungry?" Nikki said again.

"Yeah, I guess I could eat. Let me check my e-mail first, then I'll be right down," Rox offered.

"No ... I don't think so. Dinner's getting cold - and besides, you've been sitting at that thing all afternoon - you need a break. Come on ... e-mail will wait for an hour while you eat," Nikki demanded, giving Rox her best 'I'm in command' attitude.

Rox looked at her friend as she stood with her hands on her hips, an 'I dare you to challenge me' look on her face, and couldn't stop herself from bursting out laughing. "Oh Nik ... you are such a big wuss!" she laughed.

Nikki gave up her tough broad pretense and batted her eyelashes at Rox. "Well, I do declare my dear friend ... I am not a wuss!" she intoned in her best southern accent.

"Nikki Wuss Davenport ... Yep! It fits! Has a nice ring to it too, don't cha think?" Rox teased.

Nikki reached for a cushion from the couch and threw it at Rox, clocking her on the side of the head with it.

"Owwwww!" she complained before picking up the pillow. As she advanced menacingly on her blonde friend, who was matching each of Rox's forward steps with backward steps of her own.

"Oh no .... come on, Rox ... I was just kidding ... really!" Nikki pleaded, her hands out in front of her to ward off the imminent attack.

Rox continued her forward advance until she had backed Nikki up against the couch. Placing the index finger of her good hand on Nikki's shoulder, Rox slightly pushed, and watched her friend teeter on the back of the couch. After several seconds of watching Nikki fight for balance, Rox took the pillow she was still holding and whacked Nikki right in the face, sending her sprawling over the back of the couch onto the cushions below, landing on her back with her feet splayed in the air. She laid there for several moments, legs all akimbo like a turtle stranded on its back.

Rox couldn't help but laugh at her friend's position. "God, Nik ... it's a good thing Jerri isn't here, or I'd have to leave the room. If she saw you in that position, there'd be no stopping her!" Rox joked.

"Roxanne Ward, hmmph...!!! Damn you!" Nikki sputtered as she rolled off the couch onto the floor. Coming to her knees, she gave Rox a severe warning look, causing the red head to turn tail and run for the stairs before her friend could rise to her feet and follow her. Luckily for Rox, Nikki had tangled herself in the afghan that was thrown over the back of the couch, giving her several moments head start on the agitated blonde.

By the time Nikki reached the kitchen, Rox was standing there with two glasses of wine, holding one of them out in front of her toward her friend as a peace offering.

Rox smiled disarmingly at Nikki. "Truce?" she offered as she placed the glass in her friend's hand.

Nikki tried very hard to stay angry, but failed miserably as she grinned lopsidedly and accepted the wine from Rox.

"To friendship!" Rox said.

"To friendship!" repeated Nikki.

"To the sisterhood!" Rox added.

"Absofuckin'lutely!" Nikki responded, causing them both to burst out laughing.

*  *  *

It was late in the evening before Rox returned to her computer. Nikki had finally gone home after cleaning up the dinner dishes and kissing Rox goodbye soundly on the cheek. Reaching up, Rox took Nikki's face in her hands and placed a gentle kiss on her friend's lips. "Good night, Nik. Kiss Jer for me, okay?" she said, before shooing her friend out the door. "Drive carefully!" she called out after her retreating friend. Closing the door, she walked back into the kitchen and make a cup of tea before heading back to work.

Okay, I'll just sip my tea while I wait for you to boot up, she thought. Looking up at the stuffed giraffe beside her computer, she added out loud, "Well, Gerald, what do you think of all this? I mean, I have no problem being affectionate with Nikki ... in fact, it feels pretty good. Does that mean I'm gay? And what about Cass? She certainly is beautiful, isn't she?" Rox marveled at the ease with which she was able to talk about this issue. Of course, she was talking to a stuffed animal, but it was a start!

Taking a moment to contemplate the situation, Rox suddenly realized that she did indeed feel good about the idea. Closing her eyes, she tilted her head back slightly and imagined Cass' hands running up and down her arms and across her back. A sudden bolt of desire ran through her, causing her to shoot up out of her chair, eyes opened wide, head darting side to side as she struggled to breathe through the anxiety attack that gripped her chest.

"Oh my god! Oh my god!" she exclaimed and she clutched at her chest. Taking a deep breath, she extended her arms out to her sides and calmed herself down. "All right, Rox, you can do this ... calm down ... calm down," she scolded herself.

Moments later, her breathing returned to normal as she once again sat down in front of the computer. Placing both hands on the desk, on either side of the keyboard, she took a deep breath, then reached for the mouse. Clicking on 'Netscape Messenger', she sat back once more and patiently waited for the server to deliver new mail to her inbox. Among them, was a note from Cass.

Rox's heart skipped a beat as she opened the note. After carefully reading it several times, she composed a reply by answering each paragraph between the lines.

"My Loving Friend,

I owe you an apology. I should have made it clear that I was a woman right from the start. I am so sorry. I can understand why you would be confused ... Cass is such a generic name. I think a little background on myself might be helpful. My full name is Cassidy Marie Conway. I am 29 years old (soon to be 30), and as you know, I live in San Jose, California. I am the oldest of two children. My brother Jeff died a few years ago in a car accident. Unfortunately, I have been estranged from my parents for the past several years. You see, they don't appreciate having a gay daughter.

Cass, please don't apologize. I don't know why I assumed you were a man except to say that I was guilty of gender bias. You see, when I looked at your e-mail addy and saw 'flyboy.com', I assumed correctly that you were a pilot, but automatically thought 'man'. I am the one who should be sorry. I was an advocate of women's rights in college - I should have known better than to make generalizations.

I love your name. Cassidy ... it's wonderful! You are very close to my age ... I am 27, and an only child. I am sorry to hear that your parents are not accepting of your lifestyle. I can truly say that I don't know how my parents would react. I have told you that my father is dying. It would kill me to break his heart when he has so little time left. Cass, I don't know what I would do if I ever found myself in the position of having to tell him that I'm gay. Damn ... I wish this wasn't so hard. I wish I knew for sure the desires of my heart.

You asked me how I knew I was gay. Well, I guess I can say that I kind of knew since I was a teenager. You see, I knew there was something different about me - I just didn't have a name for it at the time. While my girlfriends were playing with dolls and fussing with their hair, I was busy playing baseball with the neighborhood boys. In high school, I wasn't interested in women's gymnastics or in making out behind the bleachers with the football team ... I was interested in being ON the football team (it's too bad I wasn't allowed)! I didn't put a name to my feelings until I met Patti. She captured me heart and soul. I only wish I had seen through to her dark side before I allowed her to capture my heart.

Nikki said something very similar ... she too felt different from the other girls. Jerri helped her to realize where her heart lies.

Rox, I can't tell you why things didn't work out as lovingly as you would have liked between you and Chris, however, if Chris was as much of a macho ass hole as he was on the beach, then that may shed some light on the question. Honey, I have met women who act like Chris. There are lesbian relationships that end up just like yours. Occasionally, one partner dominates the other to the extreme that it becomes a 'husband/wife' type of scenario. My relationship with Patti was headed in that direction when she overdosed. As much as I hate to admit it, I allowed her to dominate me. I allowed her to treat me like Chris treated you ... right down to the physical abuse. The good news, Rox, is that there are just as many loving, equal relationships out there as there are unequal ones. What I am offering to you, Rox, is just such a relationship, should you choose to explore it. I don't want someone to dominate ... and I don't want to be dominated. I want someone to share my life and my love with - on a totally equal basis.

After my experience with Chris, I would accept nothing less than an equal relationship. I've had more than my share of abuse. I'm sorry to hear that you had such a rough time with Patti. It sounds like we could both use a break from abusive relationships.

As far as how your family would react to the possibility that you are gay, it is always best if you have their support, however, this is your life, and your happiness we are talking about. If the gods are willing, you will be around long after your parents are gone. You can't live your life for them, or you'll wake up one morning after they're gone and regret that you didn't follow your heart. Rox, if they truly love you, they will at the very least, accept you as you are, even if they don't agree with your lifestyle. Obviously, I don't know your parents, so I am not in a position to make a judgment. As far as your father dying ... don't you think he's rather die knowing you are happy? Think about that, Rox.

I really don't know how my parents would react. We've never talked about gay relationships. I would hope they would accept me regardless, but like I said, I don't know if I'd want to take the chance of breaking my father's heart. I know I can't live my life for them, but even the thought of telling them something like that ... I just can't imagine it! Cass, I'm so confused! I don't know what I'm feeling ... I don't know what to think. I just wish I knew my heart better.

Honey, if there is even a small part of you that is curious, or that has felt something more than just sisterly affection for another woman, you owe it to yourself to explore. The type of loving relationship that is possible between two women just can't be described in words. It has to be experienced to be understood. It is so intense, and personal, loving and caring ... Rox, I love you. I want desperately to show you what my words so inadequately convey. Please don't worry about hurting me. I am going into this relationship with my eyes wide open. I know there is a risk that you may find this type of love is not right for you. I understand that, and I'm willing to take the chance. You are worth any risk I may have to take.

Oh, I am definitely curious! Cass, I feel things for you that I have never felt before - for a man or for a woman. I am very curious but I'm also afraid. I know what you're talking about when you speak of the loving relationship that is possible between two women. I see it every day between Nikki and Jerri. Sometimes I find myself envious of their love. I have so much to think about, Cass. I'm afraid of hurting you ... I'm afraid of hurting myself. I'm afraid of making a decision I might regret.

Let me come to you, Rox ... let me love you, and allow yourself love me. I'm not denying that it is a hard decision, but you can't make it without first experiencing it. Let me help you ... I promise to leave you alone for ever if this is not for you, Rox. Please think about this.

Cass, I feel so close to you. I don't know if it's love. Hell, I'm not sure I even know what love is any more. I thought I loved Chris, but I realize now that what I felt was dependence and fear. Do I love you? I really don't know. I DO trust you, Cass. I trust that you won't hurt me, and I know you would turn and walk away if I asked you to ... but I don't know if I want that. Christ, Cass ... why is this decision so hard? Cass, please give me some time to think about this.... I don't want to hurt you.

I will wait forever for you, Rox. I know how scary this is. Just know that I love you, and I will never hurt you.

Thank you so much for your love and patience, Cass. You don't know what it means to me. I know that you will never hurt me, and I will do my best never to hurt you. Please be patient with me ... I will give you an answer soon - I promise.

You are in my thoughts,

Rox"

After sending the note, Rox sat back in her chair, dropped her chin to her chest and sighed deeply. Cass, why do you enchant me so? She thought. Why am I so clear in how I feel about other things, but when it comes to you, I'm indecisive and weak?

Yawning, she reached for the mouse to shut down the computer, then slowly made her way down the stairs to her bedroom. Moments later, dressed in her oversized Epcot T-shirt, she climbed between the sheets and lay on her back staring at the ceiling. Visions of azure eyes and flowing black hair filled her mind. Closing her eyes, she thought back to when she allowed Cass to hold her in her arms. Suddenly, her body came alive as a wave of heated desire rushed through her. Arching her chest upward, her breath caught in her throat as her core throbbed with need.

"Oh my god, Cass!" she said out loud.

Breathing deeply, she tried very hard to bring herself under control. Involuntarily, her hands started to roam over her own body, each touch heightening her body's awareness of the carnal pleasure she was sure to experience at the hands of her tall, dark warrior.

Reaching under the hem of her shirt, she slipped her good hand inside the waistband of her panties and moved it downward to the center of her being, while her injured hand caressed the swollen nipples of her breasts. Eyes closed, lips moist from her tongue snaking across them, she tilted her head back as a moan of desire escaped her throat at the exact moment her fingers slipped between slick folds.

"Oh god!" she said again in a shaky voice as she plunged her fingers deep inside herself. "Cass, I need you," she shuddered desperately, arching her hips skyward with each trust. Within moments, she was writhing beyond control, her mind having taken over, nearly convincing her that Cass was right there with her, pleasuring her with every stroke of her own hand.

Finally her eyes closed, as the muscles of her neck strained ... her head thrown back as far as it would go ... knees bent and wide apart as her fingers worked furiously across her swollen bud. The fingers of her injured hand brutally pinched her nipples as her hips worked their way up and down in time with her self-pleasuring hand. Then, in a heartbeat, her hips stilled, suspended high above the bed as the first wave of orgasmic relief ripped through Rox's body. "Cass! Oh my god! Cass! I need you!" Rox screamed as her body plunged down onto the bed, then up again, only to suspend once more for the briefest of moments before plunging downward for the second time.

For several minutes, ripples of desire spread through her as she lay on her side, hand still embedded firmly between her legs, eyes closed, and sweat drenching her body beneath her shirt. Somewhere along the way, Rox drifted off to sleep while thoughts of a dark haired angel flitted across her subconscious mind.

*  *  *

Cass glanced at the clock. 9:00 p.m. flashed in bright red digits across the face. "Wow, I didn't realize it was getting so late ... time sure does fly when you're having fun!" she said sarcastically as she lowered herself into the chair in front of her computer thinking about her evening as she waited for the machine to boot up..

After sending the note to Rox earlier in the day, Cass decided to work off her nervous energy at the gym, then spend a few hours at the diner with Angie as she ate her dinner. While at the gym, she ran into Jason as she was packing her bag to leave.

"Hey Cass!" he had said cheerfully. "Looks like I'm about to put my life in your hands."

Cass looked at him with furrowed brow.

Kick him in the balls! Enforcer encouraged, causing Cass to smile slightly.

Before she could compose a reply, he continued.

"Yeah, I'm booked on your flight to Durango on Monday. I've got some business in Mexico ... a little schmoozing with my investors, if you know what I mean. Gotta keep the customers happy, you know," he said, full of self importance.

Cass gave him a wry smile and nodded her head. "That's nice, Jason. Look ... I've got a dinner date," she lied, "gotta run!" Giving him a disinterested wave, she left him standing there as she quickly jumped into her car and drove away.

After a leisurely dinner and warm conversation with Angie, she drove home and went straight to her computer where she was presently waiting, a bit impatiently, for the boot-up cycle to complete.

"Come on, Rox, be there!" she commanded hopefully as the server searched for new mail. Finally, the mail was delivered. "Yes!" she said, quickly grabbing the mouse as she saw Rox's note appear.

Cass read the note carefully, intense feelings of familiarity and longing clenching her stomach. Rox, why do I feel like I know you ... like I have known you forever? she thought.

Selecting 'reply' at the top of her screen, she composed a response.

"My Heart,

As I read your note, I experienced familiar pangs of desire, of longing, of need. Rox, I don't know how to say this, except that I think we are destined to be together. I feel this driving need to know you ... to be with you ... to love you. I feel like we have been together over many lifetimes. I know this sounds all 'new age' and stuff, but I really mean it. I have had dreams of you Rox. In my dreams, we are together in a field of flowers, each one representing a lifetime we've spent together, past and future. The dreams end abruptly as I lean in to kiss you. There have been other dreams too. Rox, I have never felt this type of connection with another human being in my entire life.

Rox, you once said that you believed in Kismet, and that our souls were bonded in some way. How else could the circumstances of our meeting have been arranged? We were 3,000 miles apart Rox, and yet somehow, we found each other. That is too incredible to be coincidental. Would we be defying the Fates by denying our attraction?

I don't know what to tell you about your family, Rox, considering I did not have a very good experience with my own. All I can say is that if they love you, they'll want you to be happy. I believe I can bring you the happiness you so desperately deserve, my love. Please let me try. I will be patient with you ... I will not hurt you. I long to show you the wonders and beauty that a relationship such as ours can experience. Please don't let fear close your mind to the possibility. I will treat you fairly, lovingly ... as an equal. There would be no room for abuse in our lives, that I promise you.

I know you are afraid, Rox. Afraid of the unknown ... afraid of hurting me if this is not where your heart truly lies. Rox, please take the chance ... allow yourself to explore ... allow yourself to really feel - probably for the first time in your adult life. I will show you what love is. I will show you how good our love can feel. Please don't be afraid of hurting me, Rox ... I know the risk I am taking. You are worth all the risks and hardships I could face in a lifetime. I am willing to gamble on us, Rox. This feels so right. How can something that feels this right be wrong?

Rox, I know you need time to think about this. I will wait patiently. I will be here when you are ready to seek your true heart. Let me guide you on this journey, Rox. I know the tunnel is long and dark, but I know the way ... let me hold my light high ... let it be a beacon to guide you straight into my heart, where I will envelope your love with my own. Take all the time you need, lovely lady. I will be here when you are ready to make the journey home.

I love you with everything that I am, Rox. Come home to me.

Cass"

Cass read her note over carefully before clicking on send. Sitting there in front of the monitor, her eyes glazed over as she stared unseeingly at the screen. I love you, Baby. Please accept my heart ... it is my most valuable possession, and it wants to belong to you. Good night, my love, she finished as she shut down the computer for the night and headed to bed.

CHAPTER XXXI

EARLY THE NEXT morning, Rox rose and decided to take a brisk walk along the beach before starting to work on her novel. She dressed in spandex shorts, a sports bra, ankle socks and running shoes. Grabbing a hand towel, she tucked it into the waistband of her shorts, then filled her water bottle before heading out. An hour later, drenched in sweat but feeling remarkably good, she ran up the steps of the back deck and stopped on her way to the bathroom to set up the coffee pot. That chore completed, she jumped into the shower and stood for long moments under the massaging spray, allowing the needle-like darts of water to pummel her tender skin until it was a healthy pink.

Grabbing the soap and washcloth, she began to bathe, spreading a thick blanket of fragrant lather across her arms, chest, back, thighs and shins until finally slipping the cloth between her legs.

"Ohhh!" she said, noting the tenderness. "I wonder...," her mind began until she suddenly recalled her bout of self pleasuring from the night before. A deep flush rose into her face from her neck as she once again remembered the thoughts of one dark haired pilot that had sent her into the depths of desire, and ultimately to self fulfillment.

"God, Cass. If you can do this to me from 3,000 miles away.... ," she mumbled under her breath as her knees weakened. She held onto the shower wall for support until the strength returned to her legs.

Finally, managing to get through the rest of her shower uneventfully, she stepped out of the tub and towel dried her body and hair. Dragging a comb quickly through her moppish red-blonde hair, she slipped an oversized T-shirt over her head, then headed into the kitchen for a cup of coffee before heading up stairs to write.

Rox settled down into the oversized office chair and sipped her coffee as she waited for the computer to boot up. Staring at the screen, her eyes glazed over as her mind was occupied by thoughts of the dark haired pilot. Cass ... Cassidy ... Cassidy Marie Conway. I really like that name. Sexy name - sexy woman. Wow! I can't believe I'm actually sitting here having these kinds of thoughts about a woman! She IS gorgeous ... no denying that! And those eyes ... Aarrgghh! Gods this is so frustrating! I don't know how to process these feelings... I've never felt this way before, she finished as the system finally completed the power up. Moments later, she was on-line selecting her e-mail.

Rox double clicked on Cass' note and began to read. After the first paragraph, her heart was in her throat. "My god, Cass... the dream! I've had it too!" she exclaimed out loud.

Continuing to scan the contents of the note, Rox became more and more emotional. My god, Cass. This is the most beautiful declaration of love I have ever heard. I'm supposed to be the writer here, yet you have voiced your feelings so eloquently, so beautifully. Thank you for this glimpse into your heart, she thought as she finished the note, barely able to see through the thick veil of tears that filled them.

Reaching for the mouse, she clicked on 'reply' then sat back and thought about what to write. Suddenly, words escaped her. Here she was, a writer, well skilled in prose, able to churn out a love story in record time, yet when it came to her own love life, she was speechless. She became more and more agitated with every passing minute that she sat there, literally unable to think of what to write. She had already written it all in her previous notes ... what more was there to put in print? She personally felt that the age of e-mail was severely damaging interpersonal communication skills. Finally, after staring at the screen long enough for the screen saver to appear, she gave up and turned off the computer.

Rising from her chair, she paced back and forth across the office until she came to a decision ... she was going to call Cass.

*  *  *

Cass suddenly jumped out of bed and stood in the middle of the floor, very disoriented. Looking directly at the illuminated 7:00 a.m. displayed on the clock, she started to panic.

"Oh my god! Oh my god! I'll never make my 8:00 a.m. flight! Damn alarm clock didn't go off!" she reasoned as she raced around, trying to find a clean uniform to wear. Suddenly the phone rang.

Agitated at the interruption, she picked it up and spoke gruffly into the receiver, "Yeah?"

"Well, a happy Sunday morning to you too, grump!" came the voice from the other end.

Cass pulled the receiver away from her ear and looked at it for a moment, a question mark on her face. Sunday? ... It's Sunday? she thought. Returning the receiver to her ear she spoke. "Who is this, and why are you calling so early?"

Early? Rox asked herself, looking at the clock, then suddenly realizing her error. "Oh god! Cass, I'm so sorry. This three hour time difference is so easy to forget. Please forgive me for waking you up ... go back to bed," she said, "I'll call back later."

"Whoa.... whoa... wait a minute! Rox?" Cass asked incredulously. "Rox, Is that you?"

"Yes, it is ... but I've awakened you. Cass, I'll call back later," she said apologetically.

"No! No ... I mean, I'm usually up by this time anyway. Please don't hang up," she pleaded frantically.

"Cass, are you sure?" the red head asked.

"Positive! So, to what do I owe this pleasure?" she asked as cheerfully as the morning hour would allow.

"Your e-mail," Rox replied. "Cass ... I have never read anything so beautifully touching in my life. I'm a writer, and I have never produced anything that could bring me to tears like your note did," she explained.

Cass sat down on the edge of her bed and frowned. "It wasn't supposed to make you cry," she remarked.

"You touched my heart, Cass ... in a good way. It was beautiful, and I had to tell you directly ... e-mail sometimes feels so out of touch," Rox explained.

"I know what you mean. Sometimes the written word just can't replace the sound of someone's voice," Cass agreed.

Rox was becoming a little impatient with the small talk. "Ah ... look, Cass, I really meant it when I said it brought me to tears. Do you really think we were destined to be together? I mean, could there really be something or someone out there controlling all of this?" she asked.

Cass thought about that for a moment before answering. "Rox, I don't really know what brought us together, but I don't think it was coincidental. I mean, we live 3,000 miles apart! How on earth could we have possibly met by accident? No, something is behind this ... something familiar ... I can feel it," she explained.

"You mentioned a dream, Cass," Rox began. "I have had the dream too. It sounds like the same one. I am in a field of flowers... millions of them, picking a large bouquet, when I see a figure approach in the distance. It turns out to be you. You explain to me that all the flowers in the field are our lifetimes together and that the ones in my arms are ..."

"The lives we have already lived," finished Cass. "Rox, don't you see? We've had the same dream. We are connected on some type of spiritual plane. We belong together," Cass concluded.

"Cass, this is scaring me. If that's true, then it means we don't have the control over our lives that we think we do. I don't like the sound of that," Rox confessed. "If it's true then someone or something out there planned for me to be with Chris ... planned for me to be abused for six years ... planned for you to be abused by Patti. For what purpose?"

"Rox, I'm not saying that this is the answer ... all I'm saying is that I don't think it is purely coincidental that we met. I think there is some other force behind it. Call it Fate, call it Kismet ... I don't know - but I don't think it's coincidental. I think it was meant to be," Cass explained.

Several moments of silence passed.

"Rox ... are you still there?" Cass asked.

"Yeah, I'm here," Rox replied.

"You got quiet on me. Rox, honey, talk to me. What are you thinking?" Cass prompted.

"I don't know, Cass. It's just that ... well, it's so hard to comprehend. I mean, the dream suggests that we knew each other in a past lifetime ... several of them in fact!" Rox exclaimed.

"Well, Rox, I don't know how you feel about me, but there is something very familiar about you -- as if I have known you for a very, very long time. I felt that in the dream, and I felt it when we met in Maine. I can't explain it, but it's true," Cass explained.

"I know it's true, Cass. I have felt it too," Rox said. "Damn! I wish I had the answers. This is very confusing and not a little intimidating!" Rox complained.

"I intimidate you?" Cass asked, surprise coloring her voice.

"No .... I didn't mean you intimidate me Cass ... I meant the situation does," Rox replied.

"Well then, how do you feel about me?" came the question from the dark haired woman.

After a long pause, Rox replied. "Cass, part of me is terrified ... part of me is intrigued ... and part of me wants to explore this further. My mind is a jumble of thoughts, my heart a menagerie of emotions. I am having a very hard time sorting everything out. You have awakened feelings in me that I wasn't even aware existed, Cass. You have sparked an interest and a desire that scares the shit out of me," Rox explained.

Cass sat patiently listening to Rox's explanation. When she was through, she very gently asked the question again. "Rox ... you have just explained in detail how you feel inside ... but how to you feel about me?"

More silence.

Moments later, Cass heard a sniffling from the other end of the line. "Rox ... are you all right?" she asked softly.

"I'm sorry, Cass," Rox said, sniffling once more. "I'm such a baby sometimes."

"Rox, sweetheart ... why are you crying?" Cass asked tenderly, wanting desperately to be in Maine, holding the red head in her arms.

"I don't know, Cass. Maybe because I don't want to hurt you ... maybe because I'm so confused. Cass - I don't have an answer to your question. I don't know how I feel about you. I know I care deeply for you, but my heart is in such a confused state right now that I just don't know!" she finished, the tears evident in her voice.

"God, Rox. I wish I could be there right now, holding you in my arms, and chasing away your tears. I'm so sorry for pushing you. You need time to realize your true heart. I'm sorry, Rox," Cass apologized. "Please forgive me?"

"There's nothing to forgive, Cass ... really," Rox replied before continuing. "Ah ... look, Cass, I need to get back to my book. I just wanted to hear your voice. Again, I'm sorry I woke you up."

"All right. I'm so glad you called Rox. Do you think you can give me your phone number so I can call you later? I'd really like to speak to you again," Cass asked.

"Sure ... it's 207-555-7231. There's an answering machine on the line, so if I'm not home, or too tied up to answer, leave a message - okay?" Rox replied.

"Great ... thanks for trusting me with the number, Rox. I can't tell you how much it means to me," Cass said.

"You're welcome. Well ... I guess I'll talk to you later, then," Rox answered.

"Okay. Oh, and Rox ... I love you," Cass stated softly.

"Bye, bye, Cass," Rox replied, hanging up the phone. Taking a deep breath, she leaned back, resting her head on the back of the chair. Closing her eyes, she slowly exhaled as she wrapped her arms around her own middle. Cass ... why am I allowing you to occupy my mind like you do? How do I really feel about you? Damn! Why does life have to be so complicated all the time? Running her hands through her hair, she did her best to shake off the feelings and turned her attention back to her writing.

Meanwhile, 3,000 miles away, Cass hung up the phone and threw herself backward across the bed. Covering her face with both hands, she rubbed vigorously, then dropped her hands onto the bed on either side of her head. She laid there for several long moments, staring unseeingly at the ceiling, her mind occupied with the red haired angel of her dreams. Rox, I love you with all my heart, she thought. I hope that someday soon, you'll be able to return that love. We are fated to be together, my love ... I just know we are. Closing her eyes, she allowed visions of Rox to invade her mind, and drifted off to sleep as fantasies of two women in love ... one fair, and one dark, acted out their performance in her dreams.

*  *  *

You're a chicken shit, Cass! Enforcer said boldly.

What did you say? Cass replied internally, more than a little angry with her alter ego.

I said, you're a chicken shit! Look ... you asked her for her phone number so you could call her back, and now you're afraid to use it ... you're a chicken shit! Enforcer said again.

You don't know what you're talking about. I just don't want to interrupt her writing. And besides, I talked to her already today, Cass explained in her own defense.

You talked to her what ... twelve hours ago? You said you'd call her later ... this is later, Enforcer reasoned.

I don't know, E. What if she's busy? She has a deadline to meet you know, Cass said.

Look, Cass ... you ain't never gonna get her in the sack if you don't talk to her! came the pointed response from her inner voice.

Christ, E! Is that all you think about? Cass asked impatiently.

Yes, replied Enforcer. Somebody's got to look out for our needs!

E, this relationship isn't entirely about sex. Its about fate, destiny, love ... the physical expression of that love is an afterthought ... or it should be anyway, explained Cass.

Okay, time out! So you're telling me that you don't want to do the nasty with this chick? Enforcer asked incredulously.

Well ... I didn't say that, exactly ... I just meant that it wasn't the most important part of the relationship, the dark haired woman replied.

What relationship? It won't exist at all if you don't make contact! Now call her! Enforcer demanded.

Okay! Okay! Geesh, you're such a bitch sometimes! Cass shot back.

You'll pay for THAT comment later, woman! But for now... get your ass in gear and call the hot little red head, the alter ego instructed.

Cass did as she was told, dutifully picking up the phone and dialing Rox's number. After three rings, she was just about to hang up when Rox picked up the other end.

"Hello?" Rox said cheerfully.

"Hi, Rox. This is Cass," she replied.

"Cass! Wow! I was just thinking about you!" Rox exclaimed and then thought to herself, we'll that's not a lie, since you've been in my mind continuously since we talked this morning!

"Really?" Cass asked hopefully. "Look, I know it's getting late on the east coast, but I just wanted to call to say how much I enjoyed our phone call this morning, and to wish you pleasant dreams before you turned in."

Rox looked at the clock on her desk. 10:08 p.m. illuminated the face. "Gee, it's early yet, Cass. I won't turn in for at least another three hours ... but I'm so glad you called now. It gives us time to talk before either of us needs to hit the sheets. You have to work tomorrow, don't you?" Rox asked.

"Yeah ... I've got a two-day flight into Durango, Mexico. I'm starting to dread these over night flights. I think I'll talk to my supervisor about a schedule change this week," Cass whined.

"Two days, huh? I'm going to miss you," Rox said in a soft voice as she leaned back and twirled her chair around in circles like a young girl, a sense of daring anticipation brewing in her chest at the obvious flirtation.

Cass had been pacing, the portable phone pressed firmly against her ear. She stopped in her tracks at Rox's last declaration. "You're going to miss me?" Cass asked hopefully. "Do you mean it, Rox?"

"Of course I do," Rox replied. Then, changing the subject abruptly, she added, "so, what did you do with yourself today?"

Cass was caught off-guard by the change in subject matter. Thinking back over her day, she came up with a quick answer, "Beside thinking of you all day? ... let's see ... well, I took my morning run, did some laundry, cleaned my house, ironed my uniform for tomorrow ... you know - boring stuff," Cass replied as she thought of all the domestic things she had finally caught up on to keep her mind off the east coast beauty with red-gold hair. "How was your day?" she asked.

"I made a lot of progress on the book," replied Rox. "I'm beginning to make up for some of the delay my broken arm caused. My editor is not very thrilled with my lack of progress, but heck, real life sometimes gets in the way of the fun stuff, you know what I mean?"

"Yeah, I do," Cass replied, unsure of what to say next. After a few moments of awkward silence, she continued. "Rox ... I don't want to push you ... and I don't expect a response right now, but I want you to know that you mean everything to me. You are my heart ... the keeper of my soul. I have never been so sure of anything in my life. When I described my day to you earlier, I left something out. I'm not much of a poet, but I wrote a poem for you. I'll send it along in an e-mail after we hang up," Cass said.

Rox raised a hand to her mouth to stifle a sob. Cass ... why do you touch me so? she thought as she closed her eyes and allowed a lone tear to roll down her cheek. Into the receiver, she asked, "Could you read it to me now?"

Cass was a little embarrassed by the request. "Wouldn't you rather read it in private?" she asked hopefully.

"I will ... later when you send it to me. Right now, I want to hear you read it to me ... please?" she said in a little girl voice.

The voice was Cass' undoing. "All right ... but I warn you - I'm not much of a poet," Cass replied.

Rox waited patiently as Cass retrieved the poem. "Ahem...," Cass said clearing her voice before starting.

"RESCUE MY SOUL

In the wellspring of my soul,

I see the flame of desire

burning brightly

In the oft darkened place.

It is a new eventuality,

This warm felt passion.

Foreign to my mind,

Alien to my being.

This fervor has a face,

With mane of gold,

And orbs of green,

And beauty like no other.

I drown consentingly

In the pools of green,

And cast away the lifeline,

For I revel in my fate.

I find myself drawn

To the Temptress' charms,

Needing her goodness ...

Needing her love.

I want to fill her body

With my soul

And become one

With her heart.

I wander incomplete

Through the deserts of life,

Desperately wanting her

By my side.

She quenches my thirst,

My longing and ache.

As she fills me with her love

And rescues my soul."

Cass finished reading the poem, then fell silent, terribly embarrassed.

Rox fell silent too, but for a very different reason. She had totally lost control of her emotions, as she sat there with tears streaming down her cheeks, too choked up to speak.

Taking Rox's silence as dislike for the poem, Cass began to apologize. "Ah ... I told you it wasn't very good," she began.

"Stop it!" Rox demanded, almost angrily through her tears. "Please ... Cass, I loved it. By the gods ... your words have a way of touching me like none others ever have," she said, sniffing loudly. "Cass, your poem is filled with such depth of emotion ... I ... I don't know what to say. It's beautiful. Thank you so much. I have never received such a wonderful gift. I will cherish it forever," she finished.

"You really liked it?" Cass asked unbelievingly.

"I loved it, Cass. Thank you again," Rox replied.

"You're welcome! I meant every word, Rox," Cass responded, a smile plastered to her face from ear to ear.

"I know you did," Rox answered, yawning loudly.

"Look, honey ... you're tired. I'm going to let you go to bed. I'll be out of town tomorrow, but back Tuesday afternoon. Can I call you then?" Cass asked.

"I'd like that, Cass ... I really would," Rox answered.

"Okay then ... until Tuesday. Good night. I love you Rox. Sleep well." Cass said.

"I will ... you too. Have a nice flight, Cass. I'll talk to you on Tuesday," replied Rox.

Moments later, both women had hung up and had retreated into their own private thoughts of the other.

*  *  *

Get a grip, Rox, the red head thought to herself. Your heart is beating a mile a minute! You really need to decide what it is you're feeling for this woman ... your entire future depends on it.

Rox yawned loudly once more as she powered down her computer and rose from her chair. Stretching like a cat brought back distinct reminders that she was not yet totally healed from the abuse wielded on her by Chris just a few days earlier. Deciding to take a hot shower to chase away some of the soreness, she descended one flight of stairs to the bathroom and stood there in front of the mirror, looking at herself. As she stood there, she imagined Cass walking up behind her and wrapping her arms around her waist, pulling her tightly against her chest. Her eyes closed involuntarily at the image as pangs of desire spread through her abdomen. Grabbing onto the edge of the sink for support, she dropped her chin to her chest, and took a deep breath to compose herself. Finally, after several minutes, she stripped off her clothes and quickly showered, then climbed naked between fresh sheets, where within minutes, she drifted off to dreams of dark hair and blue eyes.

*  *  *

Cass was so elated Rox liked the poem, that her adrenaline level skyrocketed. It was only 8:00 p.m. and she was nowhere near ready to sleep, so she powered up the computer with the intention of surfing the net for an hour or so, showering, then calling it a night.

If anyone had asked which sites she had visited, she would not have been able to tell them. She was so distracted by thoughts of red-gold hair and green eyes, that she was merely going through the motions of surfing. Finally, after losing patience she decided to send Rox a short e-mail to thank her for the phone call and to send along the poem she had been forced to read over the phone.

What started out as a quick two or three lines, turned into a full blown note.

"Hi my love,

How can one person change the life of another as deeply and thoroughly as you have mine?

I literally can not live without you, Rox. You have become part of me... as vital as my heart, as vital as the air I breathe. You have become necessary... a requirement to help me make it through my day. Your voice makes my heart flutter. My hands remember the feel of your skin. Your memory has been burned into my soul, sweet love. It is this memory that sustains me in our separateness. It is this memory that keeps me sane. It is this memory that I hold close to my heart, as I lay alone in bed each night, wishing with all that I am, that you were here with me.

It is my hope that the day is drawing near when we will be together, not as two halves of a whole, but as two complete entities merged into one. I have visions of the future, visions of joy, love and family. I have visions of a golden haired angel, voicing the words I do, as I slip a symbol of our love on her finger. I see nights wrapped in each other's arms, and days spent at work, day dreaming of green eyes and a smile so endearing, it takes my breath away to see it.

You truly complete me. There is a spot in my heart that has never been touched by anyone but you, and never will be touched again. You have gained reign over my heart ... it is yours to command. I am powerless to resist, nor do I want to.

I love you with all my heart, Little Bard. I hope the day will come soon, when we can fulfill our dream of being together. Until then, keep me close to your heart, and I will keep you close to mine.

I love you baby....

Your Warrior

Attachment: RESCUE MY HEART "

Cass read the letter several times before sending it on it's way to the woman she loved. Sitting back in her chair, she looked at the clock and noticed the late hour, realizing that she had to head to bed if she were to make her flight in the morning.

Logging off the Internet, she waited patiently as the wallpaper containing Rox's picture was displayed. Raising her index finger to her lips, she placed a kiss on the end of it, then reached forward to trace Rox's lips.

"Goodnight my love," she said softly as she powered down the computer and went to bed.

CHAPTER XXXII

AT 7:40 A.M. MONDAY morning, Cass absent mindedly made her way through the terminal and boarded the plane for her flight to Durango. Seating herself comfortably in the cockpit, she stared at the lights, gauges and dials on the control panel and let her mind wander to where she really wanted to be on that sunny Monday morning ... on the Atlantic Coast line of Maine, walking hand in hand along the shore with a beautiful reddish blonde beauty. Sounds of the flight attendants moving around in the cabin broke her reverie as she mentally shook herself and started her routine maintenance and safety check of the flight instruments prior to take off. Ten minutes into the check, the passengers started loading for the 8:00 a.m. flight.

"Hey, Cass!" a familiar voice sounded from the entrance to the cockpit.

Cass raised her face and saw Jason standing there, brushing off the flight attendant's insistent hand which was urging him toward the aisle of the plane.

"It's all right, Ginny," Cass said when she saw who was causing the commotion. "I'll take care of this."

Ginny nervously released Jason's arm and turned her attention back to the other passengers as Cass climbed out of the bucket seat and stood to her full height in front of Jason.

"How are you, Jason? It's good to have you aboard. Now, I'll have to ask you to be seated. We'll be ready for take off in a few minutes. You'll be able to move about the cabin after we reach cruising altitude," she explained, motioning for him to leave the cockpit area and to find his seat.

"How 'bout a personal tour of the cockpit later?" he asked suggestively.

Cass wanted to rip his throat out. Enforcer wanted to do worse. Cass, why don't we wait until we reach cruising altitude, then push him out of the plane without a parachute? Whaddaya say? the alter ego suggested.

Cass crossed her arms in front of herself and raised her eyebrows at Jason. "I'm afraid that's not possible, Jason. Regulations prohibit passengers from visiting the cockpit area while the plane is in flight," she explained.

"Even first class passengers? After all, it's customers like me that pay your salary," he said smugly.

Forget that last suggestion, Cass ... Let's throw him into one of the turbine engines instead! Enforcer urged, fueling Cass' already short temper.

Cass decided to fight fire with fire. Smiling smugly herself, she turned her back on him and started walking away, throwing the words, "Sorry ... no exceptions," over her shoulder. She could almost feel his hateful looks boring into her back at her curt dismissal of him. Moments later, she was strapped into her seat and finishing up the safety check with her co-pilot Brian.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking," Cass said into the microphone to the group of passengers on board. "We have been cleared for takeoff. Please be sure that your seat belts are fastened securely and that the trays in the seat in front of your are locked in their upright position. Be advised that this airline recommends that your seat belt remain fastened throughout the flight or at the very least, while the seat belt sign above your heads is illuminated. A flight attendant will review safety and evacuation procedures with you in the unlikely event of an emergency. As always, thank you for flying Southern Lights Airline and have a nice flight."

Clicking off the microphone, she turned to Brian and made a face. "I'm getting sick of making that speech ... next time, it's your turn," she said.

"Oh no ... not me! With rank, there comes privileges.... sorry!" he said, grinning ear to ear.

"Traitor!" Cass mumbled under her breath as she prepared the plane for take off.

After waiting for 10 minutes in a taxi position on the runway, they were finally in the air and gaining altitude.

When they reached cruising altitude, Brian put the plane in auto-pilot while Cass reached up and turned the seat belt sign off, indicating to the passengers that they were now free to move about the cabin.

"What's the weather look like between here and Durango, Cass? I really don't need a repeat of that joyride we took during the last thunder and lightning storm!" Brian exclaimed.

Cass chuckled as she checked the weather service reports. "Don't worry, Brian. Looks like clear sailing the entire way. Should be a pretty uneventful flight if I'm reading the signs correctly," she told him.

Brian released a visible sigh and relaxed in his seat just as the door of the cockpit opened. Cass looked up to see Ginny in the door way, a worried expression on her face.

"Yes?" Cass asked expectantly.

Ginny fidgeted. "Ah, Captain Conway, we seem to have a problem," she said.

Brian turned around quickly in his seat. "Don't tell me we've been hit by lightning ... it isn't even raining!" he said unbelievingly.

"What is it, Ginny?" Cass said as patiently as possible.

"Ah .... ah ...." stammered the flight attendant.

"Oh get out of my way!" demanded a gruff voice from behind the nervous woman.

"Jason!" Cass said sharply. "I thought I told you...." she began.

"I don't give a fuck what you told me, bitch! I'm in control here now," he spat out as he pulled a gun out of his jacket.

"Oh shit! Oh shit!" Brian repeated nervously, throwing his hands up in the air in surrender as Ginny fainted.

"Jason ... just what do you think you're doing?" asked Cass, annoyed with the inept idiot.

"What does it look like I'm doing? This is a gun ... you're a pilot ... we're in a plane. This is a hijacking, what else?" he said sarcastically.

"A hijacking? For what reason, Jason?" Cass demanded sharply.

"Cass, you'd better be careful how you talk to him," Brian warned under his breath.

Cass threw Brian an impatient look while she waited for Jason's answer. "Well?" she asked again.

"We're going to Bogota, Cass. Bogota, Colombia," Jason said smugly. "You see, I have a little business deal you're gonna help me with down there," he explained.

"Bull shit! I'm not helping you with anything!" Cass insisted.

Jason aimed the gun at Brian's left thigh and fired a shot into it. Brian immediately clutched his bleeding leg. "Fuck! He shot me!" Brian screamed as he fought to stop the flow of blood.

Cass' eyes widened as big a saucers, her stomach threatening an overall rebellion all over the cockpit floor.

Jason looked directly at Cass, an look of pure evil power in his eyes. "Now ... I suggest you cooperate - don't you?" he said, his voice as evil as his eyes.

Cass just nodded her head, her eyes not leaving Brian's bloodied leg. "He needs a doctor," she said.

"He'll get one ... just as soon as you land the plane in San Diego," Jason said.

Cass looked at him in confusion. "But I thought you said ....," she began.

"... that we're going to Bogota. Yes, we are - after we get rid of the deadwood. Now, we can either unload the plane on the ground in San Diego, or we can throw the passengers out one by one while we're still in the air. You choose. Either way, they're off the plane. I don't need unwanted complications on board during this flight. Do you understand?" he asked.

"Damn it, Cass. Do as he asks!" Brian said desperately as he removed his necktie and wrapped it around his leg to stop the flow of blood.

Cass' eyes narrowed as she turned her look back to Jason. "All right. I'll do as you say, but if you harm another person aboard this flight, all bets are off. You got that?" she warned.

Jason reached back and backhanded Cass across the face. Her head snapped quickly to the right, blood from her split lip spraying all over the cockpit door. Grabbing a handful of hair, he jerked her head back up toward his and hissed into her face, "Let's get this straight, bitch. You don't give the orders here ... I do! Understand?" Releasing her head abruptly, he took a step back and looked at her. "Now, I suggest you get on that radio of yours and let them know you're landing unexpectedly in San Diego. Call it engine failure... Call it anything you want, but if you tip the authorities off about the hijacking until we're back in the air, you are a dead woman. Capishe?" he demanded.

Cass reached up and wiped the blood from her mouth with the sleeve of her jacket, then proceeded to radio San Diego.

"San Diego, this is flight 7231 from San Jose, on route to Durango, Mexico, requesting an unscheduled landing," she said into the microphone.

"Flight 7231, this is San Diego. Is this an emergency? State the purpose of your request," came the crackly voice at the other end of the line.

"No emergency, San Diego. A slight malfunction of the panel instruments. Request a transfer of the passengers to another plane and a maintenance crew to look at the problem. Estimated time of arrival, one hour," she said as calmly as possible.

"Unscheduled landing approved, flight 7231. Estimated time of arrival, one hour," came the reply.

Cass clicked off the microphone and placed it back in its cradle as she shot a look of pure venom at Jason. He just grinned in response.

"Good girl!" he said in a condescending tone of voice. "You keep cooperating like that and everything will be fine."

Sitting in the navigator's seat behind Brian, Jason kept the gun trained on Cass as she turned her attention back to the control panel. Without taking her eyes from the controls, she started to ask questions. "Tell me Jason, how did you get the gun on board?"

Jason puffed his chest out like he had accomplished some great feat. "That was the easy part. I smuggled it on board in the food supplies for the plane. You see, I have connections with the company that caters to your airline," he said smugly.

"Why are you doing this, Jason? I can only assume it's for money. Something told me the used car business wasn't lucrative enough to keep you in the lavish style you were living," she chided.

"Bingo!" he said loudly. "Give that girl a prize! Oh yeah... it's definitely for the money -- lots of it. And you're gonna help me make it!" he said. "If you're a good girl and continue to cooperate, you might even get a cut of it. If not ... well, let's say one less freaky lesbian bitch in the world won't make a difference."

Brian's jaw dropped open at the mention of Cass being a lesbian. Realization was written all over his face as he recalled the countless failures he had experienced trying to seduce Cass. Cass just shot him a look that told him to keep his mouth shut, or else. Visibly snapping his jaw shut at the look, he turned his attention back to the throbbing in his leg.

"Okay," continued Cass, her back still to Jason, "so what do I have to do to earn this cut?"

Jason became excited at her apparent cooperation. "Now you're talking!" he said. "First, we get rid of wimp-boy here," he said, indicating Brian, "and all the passengers, then we fly to Bogota, pocket the cash load the shipment and airdrop it over Tijuana, Mexico, where the contacts will be waiting to smuggle it across the border. Then we land back in San Diego ... you tell the authorities that you and I escaped from our captors and flew the plane back. You get a cut of the take, and we go our separate ways," he finished.

Cass glanced back at the obviously delirious man. "So it's just that simple, huh?" she asked. "How much do I get?"

Jason looked at her suspiciously and thought long and hard before answering. Shit! I was afraid of this. I really need her to fly the plane. Damn! I'll have to give her a decent cut or she won't cooperate, he thought to himself. "Ah, how about 25% of the take?" he offered.

Cass raised her eyebrows. "25%? You expect me to take all the risk and you're only offering 25%?" she said in disbelief.

Cass, what the hell are you doing? Enforcer asked. You can't be seriously thinking about going along with this dufus!

Shit! Shit! The greedy bitch! Damn! Jason thought. "Okay ... okay! 30% and that's final," he offered.

Cass turned around completely in her seat and looked him straight in the eye. "No deal!" she said. "40% or nothing... it should be 50%, but you DID mastermind this whole thing, so that deserves a little reward."

Jason's chest rose with obvious pride that she acknowledged his crafty planning of this master plan. Nodding his head up and down, he pretended to contemplate the offer for a few more seconds, until he reached forward and shook her hand. "Deal!" he said.

Cass! You traitorous bitch! God damn it woman! What are you doing! Enforcer yelled loudly into Cass' conscious mind.

E! Calm down. Don't you see what an idiot this guy is? He thinks we're in on this now ... trust me. I know what I'm doing! Cass explained silently.

Grrrrrr! I knew we should have pushed him into the turbines... I knew it! Enforcer grumbled as Cass turned her attention back to the controls.

Checking the controls, she spared Brian a momentary look and saw that he was leaning his head back against the headrest, a pale hue to his face. Reaching over, she squeezed his knee and drew his attention to her face. Winking conspiratorially at him, she gave his a slight smile, then turned to Jason. "We'll be landing in San Diego in about 25 minutes. You'll need to wake Ginny up so she can ready the passengers for the landing," she instructed him.

Somewhere along the way, control of the situation had passed from Jason to Cass, with Cass consciously aware of who held the gun, and that the balance of power was teetering precariously between them. However, Jason did as he was told and gently shook Ginny awake, trying his best not to startle her into unconsciousness again. Once she was awake, Cass gave her instructions to remain calm, and to act as though nothing was amiss in the cockpit. She assured the flight attendant that as long as she cooperated and played her part, that neither she, nor the passengers would be harmed. Once Ginny learned that she and the passengers would be released in San Diego, she calmed visibly and set about carrying out her part of the charade.

Once Ginny had left the cockpit, Cass turned to Jason and smiled slightly, gaining even more of his confidence. "Almost there!" she informed him. "You'd better buckle in for the landing," she said, indicating the navigator's seat behind Brian. Again, Jason did as he was told, and within moments they were on their final approach to San Diego airport.

As soon as the flight touched down, shuttle busses were on the scene to escort the passengers to another flight. Along with them, went the flight attendants. Jason and Brian waited in the cockpit as the passengers disembarked. As the last passenger left the plane, Cass emerged and told the ground crew to back the luggage conveyor cart up the stairway. Giving her questioning looks, they nevertheless did as they were told as she went back inside and helped Brian to the stairs. When the ground crew saw that he was injured, they rushed forward to help Cass carry him down the stairs and settle him in the front seat of the cart. Then, she calmly turned to one member of the crew and pointed back up the stairs, where Jason was pointing a gun down at them.

"We're being hijacked," she said. Unless you want me, or one of you to end up dead, you'll take Brian and head back to the terminal now! If you resist or cause a scene before the plane is back in the air, he will kill me. He's already shot Brian ... he's not afraid to use the gun. Do you understand?" she asked.

She could see the fear in the eyes of the workmen as they struggled with the dilemma of leaving her on the plane with the hijacker.

"Please don't be a hero ... one or more of us will wind up dead!" she whispered. "Please just go."

Finally, the men retreated with their injured cargo while Cass reboarded the plane and prepared for take off. Jason settled himself in the co-pilot's seat while Cass communicated with the control tower, very smug and proud of his planning abilities, and his ability to talk Cass into willingly joining his cause.

"This is flight 7231 requesting permission for take off," she said into the microphone.

"Flight 7231, you have been grounded for faulty controls. Please abort take off procedures," the response returned.

"I repeat, this is flight 7231 demanding permission for take off ... we are being hijacked. I need immediately clearance. Is that understood?" she said firmly.

A slight silence followed her proclamation. Finally, the radio crackled once more. "Flight 7231, abort your take off procedure. The authorities have been notified and are on their way. I repeat ... abort your take off procedure."

"No can do, control tower. I am taxiing into position. Clearance for take off required immediately," Cass said once more.

"Abort take off procedures, flight 7231. Clearance denied!" came the reply.

Cass had had enough. "Look asshole. I have a gunman here about to blow my brains out if I don't get this bird into the air. Can I make myself any more clear than that? Clearance required, NOW!" she demanded.

More momentary silence. Finally, "Clearance granted, flight 7231. Do not break communication. The crisis team has just arrived. What is your destination?" asked the control tower.

Now it was time for Jason to lose patience. Grabbing the microphone, he shouted loud and clear. "Our destination is none of your business, Fuck Head! You'll have us on radar anyway once we're airborne, so what's the problem?"

"This is John Everet of the crisis control team. No reason to become upset, sir. What are your demands?" he asked.

"My demands are that you leave us the fuck alone and let my partner here fly the plane. Capishe?" Jason replied sarcastically.

Cass cringed at the term 'partner'. Christ, Cass! Now the entire world will think you're in on this! Damn it woman! What a mess. What do you think Rox will think of all this? You are blowing it big time, sister! Enforcer scolded.

Cass' eyes flew open wide as she simultaneously voiced the word "Rox" while she opened the jet engines to full throttle and propelled the airplane down the runway. Within moments, they were airborne.

CHAPTER XXXIII

EARLY MONDAY MORNING, Rox had an appointment with her editor to review the status of her new book. Her broken hand had set the schedule back several weeks, and the publisher was not happy about the delay. For two hours, she cooed and coddled the uphappy backers, assuring them that she would work overtime to make up the slip.

She had awakened that morning with just enough time to shower and make her 8:00 a.m. appointment. By the time she returned home, it was nearly 10:30 a.m. and she was starved. Heading straight to the kitchen, she quickly whipped up a fluffy vegetable and cheese omelet, an English muffin and a nice cup of rich butter rum flavored coffee. Carrying her gourmet fare up to her office, she set it down on the desk and proceeded to power up the computer, intent on working diligently on her book for the rest of the day. Her hope was to get far enough along in her writing, to be able to take a break to talk to Cass for a while the next afternoon when she returned from her flight to Mexico.

Unable to resist her e-mail before getting to work, she clicked on 'get messages' and patiently waited for the server to download new mail. As expected, there was a note from Cass:

"Hi my love,

How can one person change the life of another as deeply and thoroughly as you have mine?

I literally can not live without you, Rox. You have become part of me... as vital as my heart, as vital as the air I breathe. You have become necessary... a requirement to help me make it through my day. Your voice makes my heart flutter. My hands remember the feel of your skin. Your memory has been burned into my soul, sweet love. It is this memory that sustains me in our separateness. It is this memory that keeps me sane. It is this memory that I hold close to my heart, as I lay alone in bed each night, wishing with all that I am, that you were here with me.

It is my hope that the day is drawing near when we will be together, not as two halves of a whole, but as two complete entities merged into one. I have visions of the future, visions of joy, love and family. I have visions of a golden haired angel, voicing the words I do, as I slip a symbol of our love on her finger. I see nights wrapped in each other's arms, and days spent at work, day dreaming of green eyes and a smile so endearing, it takes my breath away to see it.

You truly complete me. There is a spot in my heart that has never been touched by anyone but you, and never will be touched again. You have gained reign over my heart ... it is yours to command. I am powerless to resist, nor do I want to.

I love you with all my heart, sweet bard. I hope the day will come soon, when we can be together forever. Until then, keep me close to your heart, and I will keep you close to mine.

I love you baby....

Your Warrior

Attachment: RESCUE MY HEART "

After reading the note, tears were streaming down Rox's face as she opened the attachment and read the love poem that Cass had so eloquently read to her over the phone the day before. Sitting back in her chair, she looked inward, and for the first time, really analyzed how she felt about the dark haired beauty. Closing her eyes, she tried very hard to imagine what a future would be like with, and without her. She quickly came to the realization that she simply saw no future without Cass. Every imaginable scenario included the tall pilot. Thoughts of a future without her caused intense pain and heartache.

Opening her eyes, she raised her hands to her mouth and stared at the computer screen. "Oh my god!" she exclaimed. "I'm in love with her! I love her!" Feeling very light headed and giddy, she dialed Nikki's number and promptly got the answering machine.

"Hi! No - this isn't Nikki this is a machine ... don't you hate that? Jerri and I are probably gone or asleep. Leave a message after the beep, and we'll get back to you! If it's an emergency, page me at 555-351-7100! Ta Ta For Now!" came the mechanical message.

"Nikki! I love her! I love her! I can't believe it, but I'm in love with her! Call me!" Rox said into the receiver before hanging up.

Moments later, the phone rang. It was Jerri, returning Rox's call. Rox was still sitting there, staring unseeingly at the computer screen.

"Hello?" Rox answered.

"Hey Rox ... I just listened to your message. Congratulations, girlfriend! It's about time you realize where your heart has been for the past several weeks. I'm really happy for you, my friend," Jerri said happiliy.

"Jer?" Rox asked. "I'm sorry, did the phone wake you up?"

"No. I was just getting out of the shower. I'm scheduled to work the noon to midnight shift, so I was up already. So Rox, what's the next step?" Jerri prompted.

"The next step?" Rox asked, still a little dazed at her self realization.

"Yeah - you know ... Cass, I love you ... I want to spend the rest of my life with you ... you know - that kind of thing," Jerri said.

Rox's head snapped up, her eyes wide. "God, Jer - I haven't thought that far ahead yet. Geesh ... help me out here - what DO I do next?" she asked seriously.

Jerri stood there, holding the receiver to one ear and towel drying her dark hair with the other hand. "Well ... you can start by calling her and letting her know. I'm sure she'd be thrilled with the news," Jerri suggested.

"Oh my god! How do I do that? Do I just blurt it out? Shit!" Rox exclaimed.

"Shit? No, shitting would NOT be a good way," Jerri teased. "Look Rox, just call her. Call her right now. No sense in waiting."

"I can't -- she's on a flight to Mexico until tomorrow," Rox replied.

"Okay, then you've got an entire day and a half to think of an approach. Call Nikki tonight and run it by her ... she'll be home by 5:00 p.m.," Jerri suggested.

"All right -- I'll do that. Thanks, Jer," Rox said before hanging up.

After several more moments of staring at the computer in a comatose state, she realized that her story was no further along than it was when she turned the computer on nearly an hour earlier. Snapping herself out of her trance, she logged off the Internet, opened her word processor and began to write.

Three hours later, Rox was startled by the sound of the telephone on the desk beside her computer. She was so absorbed in her new book that she had managed to tune out low volume external sounds, however, the sharp ring of the telephone refused to be ignored. Reaching for the receiver, she greeted the caller.

"Hello?" she said.

"Rox!" came the excited voice at the other end of the line. "Oh my god, Rox! I just heard the news!"

"Nikki?" Rox asked. "I see Jerri has been talking to you. Got any advice for me?"

"Yeah -- dump her -- NOW!" Nikki said vehemently.

"What??!!" Rox exclaimed. "Nikki ... how can you suggest that? I've just realized I'm in love with her!"

"Roxanne Ward, you don't need this kind of complication in your life! You can't be in love with her -- she's no good for you!" Nikki insisted.

"Nikki ...." Rox began.

"No Rox! Do you want to be running from the police all of your life? You can't do this!" Nikki begged.

Silence.

"Rox?" Nikki asked.

Regaining her senses, Rox lifted the receiver to her ear once more. "Nikki, what the hell are you talking about?" she asked.

More silence.

"Nikki! Talk to me!" Rox demanded.

"You don't know, do you?" Nikki asked.

"Know what? Nikki, I'm really getting pissed at you. Damn it! Talk to me!" Rox insisted.

"I was watching the TV in the nurses lounge and there was a news flash about a plane being hijacked. Rox -- it was Cass' plane, and according to the report, there's a chance that she's in on the hijacking," Nikki said.

Rox dropped the phone into her lap and sat back in the chair, her eyes bulging in disbelief.

"Roxanne, pick up the god dammed phone!" came Nikki's voice from the receiver in Rox's lap.

Rox reached down a lifted the receiver to her ear. "Nikki ... it can't be true. Cass wouldn't...."

"Wouldn't she, Rox? What do you really know about her? You were the one who was worried that she was an Internet whacko ... maybe you were right," Nikki suggested.

"No Nikki .... no -- I don't believe it. Nikki, I'm calling the airline. What channel did you say that report was on?" Rox asked.

"Channel 3 ... it was a news flash. They've been giving updates every half hour or so. Rox, I'm leaving work early today and coming straight to your house, okay? I don't want you to be alone. Jerri won't be home until about 1:00 a.m., so I'd be going home to an empty house anyway. I should be there in a couple of hours. Don't leave, okay?" she asked.

"All right, Nik ... I'll be here. And Nik ... thanks," Rox said.

"Honey, you know I only want your happiness. Maybe together we can understand this mess. Okay? I'll be there soon. Bye," came the reply as Nikki hung up the phone.

"Bye Nik," Rox said, placing the receiving back in the cradle. Looking at the work she had completed that morning on her book, she suddenly realized that all she had accomplished was for naught if she lost Cass. Oh my god, she said to herself. I may never get the chance to tell her I love her. With that, she dropped her face into her hands and began to cry.

*  *  *

Rox was sitting on the living room couch glued to the television when Nikki arrived two hours later. She sat there on the edge of the couch, her body stiff with tension, a handkerchief wrinkled with worry and damp with tears. Nikki immediately went to her friend and enveloped her in a hug, allowing Rox to release some of the tension and to lean on her for support as they watched the latest update together.

"And now, a late breaking update on this morning's hijacking of flight 7231 from San Jose, California to Durango, Mexico," the newscaster started as the ladies' attention remained riveted to the set. "When the news first broke of the hijacking, it was believed that pilot Cassidy Conway was a key participant in the event. The identity of the other hijacker is unconfirmed at this time, however, it is believed to be that of Jason Hayer, and acquaintance of the pilot. The plane landed in San Diego, California, shortly after 9:30 a.m. this morning under the pretense of faulty controls, and immediately proceeded to unload all passenger and crew members except the pilot, co-pilot and Mr. Hayer. Before take off, the co-pilot, Brian Anderson was unloaded from the plane by Captain Conway herself, and handed over to the grounds crew. Mr. Anderson had been shot in the leg with a mid-range caliber pistol. The plane then proceeded to take off again with Captain Conway at the controls. Suspicion was cast on Captain Conway when the second hijacker referred to her as "his partner".

"Nikki ... this can't be happening! Cass wouldn't DO that!" Rox whined as the news report continued.

"Since our report this morning, new news has come to light in an interview with co-pilot Brian Anderson. During the interview, Mr. Anderson indicated that Captain Conway was NOT a willing participant, and that she was blackmailed into cooperating with the gunman in order to save the lives of the passengers and crew," the reported stated.

Rox repeated tapped Nikki on the arm excitedly while pointing to the TV with her other hand. "See! See! I told you she wouldn't do that!" she said in a highly pitched voice.

"Shhhhh!" Nikki replied as she tried to listen to the rest of the report.

"The FAA is still treating Captain Conway's participation in this event as suspicious, however probable doubt has been cast on the nature of her involvement. The destination of the aircraft is unknown at this time, however, it is believed to have been heading toward Colombia. A brief investigation into Mr. Hayer's recent activities have uncovered potential involvement with Colombian drug lord, Carlos Santonio. More on this story as it becomes available," finished the newscaster before signing off.

Nikki pointed the remote control at the TV and shut if off, then threw it on the coffee table in front of the couch. Looking at Rox, she voiced her concerns.

"Well? What do you think?" she asked.

"I don't think she did it, Nik. Brian is probably right. He was there. He should know," Rox replied. Rising to her feet, she started pacing back and forth in front of the couch. "Christ, Nik... she's stuck on a plane with an armed mad man," she said, her arms flailing all around her.

Nikki also rose to her feet and stopped her friend in mid-stride. Wrapping her arms around the red head, she pulled her in close and tried to comfort her. "I sure hope you're right, Rox. I guess we need to give her the benefit of the doubt for now."

"Nikki, what are we going to do?" Rox asked desperately.

"Well, right now, we're going to wait and see what develops. What else CAN we do? We don't even know for sure where they're heading," Nikki reasoned.

Rox just nodded and let herself fall heavily back onto the couch. Grabbing the remote, she turned the television back on and began channel surfing to stay on top of any late breaking news. Nikki just stood there, watching her friend ... her heart breaking for the red head, and her mind screaming desperately for Cass' innocence and safety.

CHAPTER XXXIV

ONCE THE PLANE was at cruising altitude, Cass looked over at Jason and grinned. "We did it!" she exclaimed, raising her hand for a 'high-five', which Jason happily supplied.

"You were great, Cass!" he shouted. "Wow! Talk about a narrow escape! Our names will go down in the history books ... right next to Bonnie and Clyde's," he bragged.

Cass groaned as she thought of being immortalized in print next to Jason for future generations to see.

"You know, Cass," he continued, "we might want to consider skipping the country after we complete the shipment. I mean, we're gonna be branded as fugitives, and it might not be safe to reenter the US," he explained.

Cass pretended to contemplate the suggestion. Over my dead body! Enforcer piped in. "You might be right there, Jay ... We should give it some serious thought. By the way ... what exactly is in that shipment?" she asked.

Jason looked around as though there was someone else on board that might hear him. Then, in hushed tones, he said, "Drugs."

Holy Shit! Cassidy Conway ... you turn this plane around right now! I WILL NOT be involved in any drug deals! Enforcer demanded.

"Uhhmmm ... that's what I thought," Cass said calmly.

Look Cass ... you're already in big trouble for stealing this plane ... don't make it worse by becoming involved in drug dealing. Shit woman! Where is your head? Do you really think that sexy red head in Maine is going to want you with a criminal record? Do you really think she'll wait for you while you do time in the big house? Enforcer tried to make her see reason.

Cass felt a pang of sadness run through her as Enforcer reminded her of what she had to lose. If things didn't work out the way she planned, she would definitely lose Rox ... of that, she was very sure, but she couldn't let Jason, nor the Colombian drug lords succeed.

The rest of the flight went smoothly. Jason spent most of the time outlining his plans for Cass, including who his contacts were and what time he was to meet with them. Cass pointedly ignored the radio calls that constantly came across, the wires in an attempt to pinpoint their exact location. As they approached the Bogota public airport, Jason gave her new course coordinates to follow.

"What are these?" she asked, confused.

"The coordinates for the landing strip we're going to use for the pick up," he said.

"Landing strip? Jason ... where exactly IS this landing strip?" she asked suspiciously.

"Ah ... In the middle of the jungle ... but don't worry -- it's been cleared off real good," he said encouragingly.

"Cleared off? Damn it Jason! Just how big is this landing strip? This is a fairly good size plane ... we need lots of run way to land and take off!" she exclaimed.

"Well ... I don't know! 1500 feet? 2000 feet? How am I supposed to know?" he whined.

"Look, asshole," she said, grabbing the front of his shirt. "I'm in no mood to crash land another plane, you got that?" she said firmly. "If the 'landing strip' isn't long enough, I'm heading back to the public airport," she insisted.

Jason pushed her back and pulled out his gun. Holding it to her head, he threatened her once more. "You'll land this plane where I tell you to land it ... understand? If we damage the plane too much to fly it out, we'll buy another one -- heaven knows we'll have enough money to," he reasoned.

"And if I refuse?" she asked stubbornly.

"Then I put a bullet in that pretty little head of yours as soon as we're on the ground," he replied.

Cass sneered at him then looked at the new coordinates, resetting the plane's course in that direction. She was suddenly regretting her decision to become involved in this mess. Don't even say it E! she warned her alter ego.,

What? 'I told you so?' Nope ... not me ... I'd NEVER say that ... even though you sorely deserve it! Enforcer replied as the plane started it's descent into the jungle terrain.

Within moments, the landing strip came into view. "Oh my god!" Cass exclaimed. "You expect me to land the plane on THAT!?" she said, pointing to the roughly cleared out strip of jungle below. It looked just barely long enough, but the surface roughness was sure to cause some damage to the landing gear if she wasn't careful.

Jason looked through the windshield and silently admitted to himself that Cass was right ... it wasn't the most ideal place to land a plane -- but, it was too late to argue about it now. Gulping loudly and tightening his seat belt, he smiled reassuringly at Cass. "Sure ... you can do it, Cass. You're a good pilot. After all, you crash landed that plane in San Diego without losing even one passenger!" he pointed out.

"THAT was on a paved runway!" she reminded him as she lowered the landing gear and prepared for a rough landing.

Moments later, the wheels touched down on the rough surface and the plane shuddered down the strip as Cass completely reversed the engine thrust in an effort to slow the craft down before running out of space to stop. Jason hung on for dear life as his head bobbed up and down with every bump and divot the plane traveled across. Finally, within 100 feet of the trees at the end of the strip, the plane came to a stop. Jason made a sign of the cross in thanks for the rough, but safe landing before turning to Cass.

"Wow! I KNEW you could do it!" he exclaimed happily, reaching out to shake Cass' hand. "I knew you'd be the perfect choice for this job!" he added.

Cass looked at him through narrow eyes. "Just how long have you known you were going to do this, Jason?" she asked curiously.

"To be honest? Before you crash landed that plane. I chose you because you seemed like an easy in ... and because you seemed so calm and composed all the time. I thought you'd do well under pressure. Then, when you crash landed that plane... well, that sealed it for me!" he explained.

Cass shook her head from side to side, irked that she had been such an easy target. "Well, what now?" she asked as she freed herself from her seat belt.

"Our ride should be waiting for us in the trees. We meet with them, they take us to the compound, and we carry out the deal. As soon as the shipment arrives, we load it onto the plane, refuel, and head out," he answered.

"... As soon at it arrives? Do you mean we could be here for a few days?" she asked. "What if they spot the plane from the air?"

"Got it covered. You see, my business associates have hired some locals to cover the plane with foliage as soon as we disembark," he told her as he ushered her ahead of him out of the cockpit.

Opening the door, they were immediately greeted by natives, who provided a crude ramp for them to walk down from the plane. Several others were dragging large branches and vines toward the plane to carry out the camouflage plan.

As they reached the bottom of the ramp, Cass glanced over her shoulder to ask Jason where they would be staying while they were there. As she turned, she felt a sharp object come down on the back of her head, knocking her out cold.

"You, my dear, will be staying in a cell!" Jason said as he stood over her unconscious form.

*  *  *

"Rox, come eat something," Nikki called from the kitchen.

Roxanne had remained perched on the sofa for the entire afternoon, surfing the channels for any news of the hijacking, her entire body tense with anticipation.

"Rox!" Nikki called again, this time planting herself down on the couch right next to the red head. "Rox ... you've got to eat. You've been sitting here all afternoon. Starving yourself will not help the authorities find her any faster," Nikki pointed out.

Rox looked at Nikki, the signs of heartbreak and worry so etched into her features, it made Nikki teary eyed. Reaching over, she took Rox's hand in her own and held it close to her heart. "I know, honey ... the waiting is hard," she said softly. "Look, why don't I bring a tray in here and we can eat something together while we watch for updates, okay?" she suggested, receiving an appreciative nod from Rox.

Moments later, Nikki returned carrying a tray laden with soup and salad, and set it down on the coffee table in front of them. "There ... eat up," she instructed.

Rox absent mindedly reached for her soup spoon at the same time a news update flashed across the screen. She immediately grabbed the remote control and turned the volume up. Two pair of eyes remained intently focused on the TV screen as the newscaster introduced the story.

"Early this morning, a Southern Lights Airliner was hijacked from the San Diego airport, en route to Durango, Mexico, with the Captain, Cassidy Conway, and lone passenger Jason Hayer on board. It is believed that Hayer is the hijacker, but rumors of Captain Conway's involvement are being considered at this time. The plane was last detected on radar heading toward Bogota, Colombia. The craft has since disappeared from radar and is believed to have either landed or crashed in the dense jungles of the Bogota region," he reported.

"Oh my God, no!" Rox cried at the reference to a possible crash.

"Authorities are conducting an air search at this time and have yet to find evidence of crash site debris," the reporter continued.

"Rox ... calm down. They haven't found a crash site. I'm sure she's all right," Nikki encouraged her friend as she fought her own internal struggles of doubt.

"Authorities are speculating about the motive behind the hijacking, claiming that Jason Hayer has connections with drug lord Carlos Santonio, and may be involved with the influx of drugs into Southern California over the past several months. As far as Captain Conway's role in the hijacking is concerned, the airline is standing by her reputation, convinced of her innocence. More on this story on Channel 3, News at Six," concluded the reporter.

*  *  *

Rox remained glued to the television for the remainder of the evening. By midnight, she had learned nothing new. The authorities still had found no trace of the plane, nor of a landing strip in the thick jungles of South America. This news brought mixed feelings to the emotionally fragile red head. On one hand, no news was good news relative to a possible crash landing, but on the other, she found herself wondering several times if she would ever see the tall, dark-haired pilot again. It was these thoughts that raced through her mind as she lay in bed that night, staring at the ceiling, wishing with everything that she was, that she had told Cass how much she loved her. For all she knew, Cass was lying dead or dying in the middle of crash debris deep in the jungle. Her pillow was damp with tears as she finally drifted off to sleep.

Some time later, Rox was startled by a loud clanging sound. Someone had grabbed her, and dragged her kicking and screaming through the darkness, and threw her into a damp, dingy cell. The cell reeked of damp, mustiness, the dirt floor cold and gritty on her bare feet. Darkness pervaded, limiting her ability to see anything but mere shapes.

Having been thrown forcibly into the cell, she landed on the dirt floor, sending a cloud of dust into her nostrils which caused her to sneeze uncontrollably for several moments. Finally, after regaining control, she wiped her hands on the rag she found herself wearing. How....? Where did this come from? she questioned herself as she looked at the torn and dirty cloth which just barely covered her from chest to mid-thigh. Where am I? she thought. Reaching up to wipe the dirt from her face, she winced as her fingers ran over the bruise that covered her cheek. How did this happen? she mused.

Suddenly, from the center of the cell, she heard a faint moaning. Kneeling perfectly still, she listened intently until she heard it again. It was obviously someone in great pain.

"Hello?" she called softly. "Is anyone there?"

Again a soft, painful moan.

Realizing she wasn't going to get a coherent answer, Rox started crawling toward the source of the sound until she encountered a body. Recoiling quickly at the touch, she sat back on her heels and brought her frightened heartbeat under control. They surely can't harm me, she thought. They need my help, she convinced herself as she leaned forward once more to feel her way around.

A small sliver of light from the partially obscured moon shone through the barred window as Rox strained to make out the form before her. Finding the person purely by touch, she soon realized it was a woman. The woman moaned loudly as Rox touched her face.

"Shhh ... it's okay. I won't hurt you," she cooed softly to the injured woman.

Managing to maneuver herself under the woman, she sat against the pole in the middle of the room and laid the woman's head in her lap. Brushing the bangs out of the woman's eyes, she sat there for several hours, voicing words of encouragement, promising not to leave her, all the while, fearing for her own safety, and that of her injured comrade. Several times, Rox asked the woman for her name, or for information about where they were, but the woman was unable to respond with anything more than grunts and moans. Finally, near dawn, the daylight slowly filtered into the room, casting an eerie pallor over everything.

As the room became lighter, Rox was able to make out the form lying in her lap. The features were barely discernible behind the bruises, cuts and abrasions, but when the woman opened her eyes, Rox's breath caught in her throat at the twin blue orbs that were presented to her. "Cass?" she asked in a choked voice.

The blue eyes filled with tears as the injured woman reached up and touched the bruise on the side of Rox's face. "I'm sorry," Cass whispered.

Tears ran down Rox's face as she shook her head from side to side and wiped the moisture from Cass' eyes. "No ... I had a choice. I chose the way of friendship ... the way of love," she explained.

Cass had all she could do to manage a weak smile. "But..." she began.

Rox silenced Cass with a finger placed lovingly on her lips. "Shh... let me explain," she said. "You brought out the best in me, Cass. Before I met you, I felt invisible. I felt like I didn't know who I was. But you saw all the things that I was ... and all that I could be. You saved me, Cass," Rox explained. "Cass, I lov..." Rox began before the cell door was thrown open.

"All right, it's time -- on your feet," a gruff voice said from the doorway.

Rox leaned down and placed one gentle kiss on Cass' forehead before she felt the injured woman being ripped out of her arms.

"Please ... be careful with her," Rox pleaded before she was yanked to her own feet and dragged out behind Cass.

The next thing Rox knew, they were being led through a snowy courtyard with Cass' feet literally dragging behind her as the two burly guards that held her up led their procession to the center of the yard. Rox's eyes never left Cass' face as they were each laid on a wooden post, their feet and wrists tied to the cross beam with rope. Cass returned her loving look with one of her own.

"You are the best thing in my life," she heard Cass say as the guard placed a thin piece of wood in the Cass' palm and lifted a hammer high into the air, intent on striking the nail poised in the center of the wood.

"I love you," Rox said as she looked up and and suddenly realized her love was about to be crucified. "NOOOOOO!" she screamed, sitting up straight and throwing the covers off. Climbing quickly out of bed, she paced back and forth across her bedroom, her eyes wide with terror as her heart pounded out of her chest with fear.

"Oh my god! Oh my god!" she chanted as she stopped and looked at her palms, convinced they would be covered in blood. Finding only the cast covering her right hand, she ran her left hand over her face, and through her hair, trying desperately to make sense of the dream. "Cass, where are you?" she whispered into the night. "I've got to find you."

Picking up the phone, she dialed Nikki's number.

"Hello?" came the groggy voice at the other end of the line.

"Nikki? Nik ... she's in trouble!" Rox exclaimed into the phone.

"Rox? What the hell? Do you know what time it is?" Nikki asked impatiently.

"Look, Nik, I'm sorry, but she's in trouble. I just had a dream! Nik -- Cass is hurt ... I've got to find her!" Rox exclaimed.

"You saw her in a dream? Okay, Rox ... go back to bed. There's nothing you can do from here," Nikki encouraged.

"I know Nik ... that's why I have to go find her," Rox said.

"What? Roxanne, are you sleepwalking? Damn it woman! You can't be serious!" Nikki exclaimed.

"I have to Nik. I just wanted to let you know in case you tried to call here and no one answered," Rox explained.

"Rox, if you're serious about this, then I'm coming with you," Nikki demanded.

"No, Nik. I have to do this myself. If there's any chance the dream will come true, I don't want you anywhere near where I'm going," Rox said. "I'll talk to you when I get back, Nik."

"Rox -- don't do this. Call the authorities if you think you know where she is," Nikki urged.

"That's just it, Nik ... I don't know for sure where she is ... I have to go find her, don't you see?" Rox asked.

"There's no talking you out of this, is there?" Nikki said regretfully.

"No there isn't. I have to do this, Nik. Please try to understand," Rox pleaded.

"All right, Rox. Please be careful. Honey, if there's anything I can do, please ... please contact me -- promise me, Rox," Nikki demanded.

"Okay, Nik -- I promise. Thank you, Nikki. I love you, you know," Rox said.

"I love you too, Rox. Be careful ... and call me when you find out anything, okay?" Nikki asked.

"I will, Nik. I'll talk to you later. Bye," Rox finished before hanging up the phone.

Several moments later, Rox had made up her mind as she sat in front of the computer and logged onto the Internet.

"Okay ... Where did that reporter say the plane was headed?" she thought, desperately trying to remember the last newscast that had mentioned the plane's direction. "Nicaragua? No, that's not it! Columbia? Yeah! Bogota! I'm sure of it!" she exclaimed, trying to convince herself as she selected the travel icon on the search engine. Ten minutes later, she was booked on a flight to Bogota, scheduled to leave Maine at 10 am the next morning.

*  *  *

"Oh my God," Cass moaned as she tried desperately to move. Her head hurt like hell and she was covered in sweat and grime. She was laying in a dark room ... blinding darkness surrounding her except for a small sliver of moon light that shone through a barred window. Where the hell am I? she thought.

Suddenly, a door opened, the light from beyond it momentarily blinding her. Seconds later, it was dark again as she laid still listening to the noises that were coming from the direction of the door. It sounded like someone feeling their way around in the darkness. Trying again in vain to sit up, she succeeded only in sending waves of pain spreading through her head, causing her to moan once more.

"Hello?" a woman's voice called softly. "Is anyone there?"

There's someone in here with me. Cass thought as she failed for the third time to bring herself into a sitting position. Again a soft, painful moan erupted from her throat.

Before she knew what was happening, Cass felt something touch her face, causing her to jump and cry out.

"Shhh ... it's okay. I won't hurt you," the voice cooed softly.

After a few moments of painful maneuvering, Cass' cell mate managed to lift her head and place it on her lap. Brushing the bangs out of Cass' eyes, the woman sat there for several hours, voicing words of encouragement, promising not to leave her. Several times, the woman asked Cass for her name, or for information about where they were, but Cass was unable to voice anything more than painful grunts and moans. Finally, near dawn, the daylight slowly filtered into the room, casting an eerie pallor over everything.

As the room became lighter, Cass was able to make out the form of the woman above her. The features were barely discernible behind the bruises and dirt, but when she opened her eyes, exposing a sea of green, Cass' breath caught in her throat as her mind screamed Rox!. Reaching up, she touched the bruise on the side of Rox's face. "I'm sorry," Cass whispered.

Tears ran down Rox's face as she shook her head side to side and wiped the moisture from Cass' eyes. "No ... I had a choice. I chose the way of friendship ... the way of love," she explained.

Cass had all she could do to manage a weak smile. "But..." she began.

Rox silenced Cass with a finger placed lovingly on her lips. "Shh... let me explain," she said. "You brought out the best in me, Cass. Before I met you, I felt invisible. I felt like I didn't know who I was. But you saw all the things that I was ... and all that I could be. You saved me, Cass," Rox explained. "Cass, I lov..." Rox began before the cell door was thrown open.

"All right, it's time -- on your feet," a gruff voice said from the doorway.

Rox leaned down and placed one gentle kiss on her forehead before Cass felt herself being ripped out of the bard's arms.

"Please ... be careful with her," Cass heard Rox plead as she was dragged out of the cell.

The next thing Cass knew, they were being led through a snowy courtyard, her feet literally dragging behind her as the two burly guards that held her up, led their procession to the center of the yard. Cass found Rox's eyes and held them as they were each laid on a wooden post, their feet and wrists tied to the cross beam with rope.

"You are the best thing in my life," Cass said as the guard placed a thin piece of wood in Rox's palm and lifted a hammer high into the air, intent on striking the nail poised in the center of the wood.

"I love you," came Rox's reply as Cass looked up and suddenly realized her love was about to be crucified. "NOOOOOO!" she screamed, sitting up straight and grabbing her head in an attempt to stem the nausea caused by the sudden movement.

"Oh my god! Oh my god! I'm going to be sick," Cass said as she crawled into a corner and emptied the contents of her stomach onto the dirt floor. Feeling dizzy and weak, she crawled back to where she had been laying and leaned against the post in the center of the room. Dropping her head into her hands, she thought about the dream she had. Rox, why do I keep seeing you in my dreams? she asked herself.

Looking around, and realizing she was in some sort of Colombian jail, she began to think about just how much trouble she was in. "I am in deep shit," she said out loud.

No kidding Dick Tracy, Enforcer replied sarcastically.

No comments from the peanut gallery , if you don't mind, Cass returned.

Bullshit! exclaimed the alter ego. You get some notion in your head that you're gonna save the world from drug lords... we're knocked out and confined to these wonderful guest accommodations... you throw up in the corner and leave a lovely pile of puke there to stink up the place even more than it already smells... we're probably gonna die in this hell hole, and you want ME to shut up??!! I don't think so!

I'll figure out how to get us out of this, Cass said looking around hopelessly. Don't ask me how, but I will.

Before Enforcer could reply, the door to the cell flew open with such force that it slammed into the wall behind it. Jason strutted into the room like a bandy rooster claiming ownership over the chicken coop.

"Well, well, well," he said, walking circles around Cass, his thumbs hooked into the suspenders holding up his pants. "You've finally decided to rejoin the land of the living. Sorry for the bump on the head, but I had to assure your cooperation, and to somehow keep the location of our hospitable hosts a secret. What better way to do that, but for you to make the trip unconscious," he explained. "No hard feelings?" he added, squatting down in front of Cass and extending his hand to her.

Don't do it, Cass, Enforcer warned.

Cass just looked at his hand, then looked away, refusing to extend her own to meet it.

Jason rose back to his full height and sighed. "Have it your way, then," he said. "I can see our little liaison is over. That is a major mistake on your part, Cass. It would have been much easier on you if you had continued to cooperate." Jason explained as he once again walked circles around Cass. "Now, I'm afraid we'll have to make sure you understand who is in charge here," he added, nodding to the armed man who had come into the room behind him.

The man laid the machine gun he had been cradling down on the floor, then reached over and grabbed Cass by the front of her shirt. Lifting her to her feet, he slammed her against the post in the center of the room and punched her hard in the stomach. For the next several minutes, he proceeded to pummel Cass senseless until she was once more, a boneless heap on the floor, blood dribbling from her mouth and nose.

As the brute retrieved his machine gun and stood guard by the door, Jason once more squatted down in front of Cass.

"There's more where that came from if you fail to cooperate, Cass. We need you to fly the drugs out. Be a good girl and do what you're told, and you just might make it out of this little venture alive. Pleasant dreams," he said before once more rising to his feet and leaving the room.

Cass, I hope you invested in a cemetery plot, 'cause I think we're gonna need it! exclaimed Enforcer.

Eat shit and die, E! Cass replied before losing consciousness once more.

CHAPTER XXXV

"NOW WHERE DID I file that picture?" Rox asked herself as she searched through the picture folder on her hard drive. "Ah! There it is!" she exclaimed as the photograph of Cass and her co-pilot Brian was displayed on the screen. Thank god I didn't delete it when she sent it to me, Rox thought.

Rox set her alarm for 7:00 a.m., but had awakened about an hour before it went off, unable to sleep after the terrible dream she'd had. Climbing out of bed, she showered, dressed and spent the next hour packing for her trip to South America. She had no idea what to bring, so she threw a few light tops and shorts in a bag, along with several changes of underclothes, and her passport from her trip abroad to promote her last book. She had dressed that morning in khaki shorts, T-shirt, ankle socks and sturdy hiking boots. With about an hour to spare before leaving for the airport, she searched her hard drive looking for Cass' picture, which she planned to show to the local natives, in hope that someone would recognize her. After a successful search, she printed the picture out and carefully stored it in her knapsack. Finally, she was ready to go.

An hour later, Rox nervously chewed her nails, watching the ground crew through the small port hole window as they directed the pilot into take-off position on the run way. Noting the time on her watch as 10:02 am, she tugged securely on her seat belt and then pressed her head into the cushion behind her. She felt as through someone had suddenly punched her in the stomach. Folding her arms across her mid-section, she took a deep breath and sighed. It was going to be a long flight.

*  *  *

Cass slowly maneuvered herself to her knees, trying very hard not to jar her head and start another round of dry heaves. She had tried to do this just an hour earlier and ended up back on her face, her stomach retching wildly in rebellion. Her head was pounding so, her vision was blurred, and every muscle in her body ached from the abuse it had received just a few hours earlier.

Finally, she managed to prop herself up against the wooden pole in the center of the room, and began to survey the damage. She knew she must rival the beauty of a snake-haired Gorgon monster with her swollen nose and eyes, and split lip. Her hair was peppered with pieces of straw, and in a state of wild disarray, with stray locks sticking out in all directions. She didn't think any bones were broken, with the possible exception of her nose, but she was already able to see telltale signs of a deep purple bruise starting around her mid-section where Godzilla had done a number on her.

She sat there pondering her fate, wondering how the hell she was going to get out of this one, when a petite young girl slipped quietly into the cell carrying a tray laden with soup and a roll. She approached Cass cautiously, and placed the tray on the floor beside the beaten woman. As she started to leave, Cass quickly detained her.

"Wait!" she said insistently.

The young girl stopped in her tracks, but kept her back to Cass, obviously afraid of retribution if Cass' captors found her talking to the prisoner.

"Please, come back," Cass asked, extending one hand toward the girl. "I won't hurt you... I promise," she added.

The girl looked at Cass, her brow drawn together in confusion. Cass restated her plea in Spanish. "Por favor vuelve. You not te voy a hacer daño...lo prometo."

Immediately recognizing her native tongue, the girl half turned toward Cass, and slowly made her way back to the center of the room, keeping one eye on Cass, and the other on the entrance to the cell. Finally, when she had reached Cass, she bent down next to the tray and started fussing with the food there in an attempt to make the captors believe her movements were necessary.

Cass caught on immediately to what the girl was doing. Trying not to make it obvious, she began talking. "Por favor. Dónde estoy? Necesito irme de aquí. Necesito encontrar my avión. Me ayudas?" she pleaded. ["Please. Where am I? I need to get out of here. I need to find my plane. Will you help me?"]

The young girl raised her eyes to meet Cass' face. The girl was stunningly beautiful. Appearing to be no older than 15 or 16, she had skin the color of coffee with cream and large dark brown eyes that seemed to fill her entire face. Her face was framed by a mane of long black curly locks. When their eyes met, something passed between them ... an understanding, a sense of camaraderie.

Cass held her eyes, waiting for an answer, but none was forthcoming. A frightened look flashed across the girl's face as a voice came from outside the cell door. Quickly, she rose to her feet, and darted out of the room, pausing long enough to give Cass one more sympathetic look.

As soon as the girl left, the cell door was slammed shut with a loud clang. The unkempt guard on the other side spit tobacco on the floor and grinned, exposing stained, decaying teeth.

Come, Gringa. Eso es todo lo que te tienes hasta la cena," he said, chuckling as he walked away. ["Eat up, Gringa. That's all you get until dinner,"]

Cass looked at the soup and roll that had been left for her and pushed them away, not wanting to add further to her stomach upset.

*  *  *

Cass paced back and forth across her cell, trying desperately to come up with a way to escape, but to no avail. She had inspected every square inch of the room, looking for a weak spot... a loose bar on the window... a loose brick in the outside wall... anything that would give her hope. After several hours of investigating, she came to the conclusion that the only way out was through the door, which had been heavily guarded since she arrived.

She had no contact with anyone since the peasant girl had left that morning. Not even the guards were paying her any attention, even though she repeatedly asked them where she was. Jason hadn't made another appearance since that morning either.

She was beginning to wonder just how long she would be stuck in this hellhole when Jason finally showed up. After entering the cell, he had the guard lock the door behind him so that Cass couldn't escape. He was obviously afraid of the tall pilot, since he carried a gun into the cell with him, keeping it trained on Cass at all times.

"Well, Cass, have you had enough time to think over your predicament? I would rather not have to force you to fly the plane out, but I will if necessary. Your cooperation will help assure your own long-term safety, you know. If you were smart, you'd change your mind and do what you could to see that we transport the goods safely and expediently," he informed her.

Cass looked at the man with disgust clearly written across her features. "And just where are these drugs destined to end up, Jason ... in some school yard?" she asked pointedly as she leaned her back against the wall, crossing her arms in front of her.

"What happens to the drugs after I deliver them is no concern of mine," he stated plainly. "All I need to do is make the drop, then I wash my hands of the whole mess" he replied.

"You disgust me, Jason," Cass said with a sneer. Pushing herself off the wall, she walked to the far corner and looked out the small barred window, her back to the armed man.

Jason just shook his head from side to side. "What am I going to do with you, Cass?? he asked. "You WILL fly the plane out, you know. One way or another, you WILL fly it out. It's up to you just how uncomfortable you want to be while you're doing it," he added.

Still looking out the window, she replied, "I won't help you destroy innocent lives, Jason ... especially the lives of children."

"Well then, your life will be destroyed instead," he said as he came up behind her and pistol-whipped her across the back of the head, causing her to fall lifelessly to the floor of the cell.

*  *  *

By the time the plane landed in Bogota, eight hours after she had left Maine, Rox was exhausted. The one hour layover in Miami hadn't helped much to ease her foul mood, nor did the loud, sassy little brat that sat in the seat in front of her on her connecting flight to Bogota. She was ready to spit nails when she finally collected her bag and headed toward the exit at Bogota's public airport. A short time later, she had secured a hotel room and was sitting on the bed, gathering her thoughts and compiling a plan for finding Cass.

She decided that her first line of attack should be with the local police, so without further ado, she headed out the door, hailed down a taxicab, and was on her way to the police station. When she arrived, she asked for a closed-door session with the chief of police. Drawing curious glances from the officers at the front desk, she realized that they didn't know much English. Frustrated, she paced back and forth in front of the desk, racking her brain for several moments, trying desperately to figure out how she was going to make them understand. The looks on their faces made it clear that they thought this yellow haired gringa was insane.

Finally, Rox had a thought. Approaching the desk once more, she said two words, "Carlos Santonio." Within seconds, the policemen had drawn their guns and backed her up against the wall, frisking her for weapons. Then without ceremony, the escorted her to the holding cell and threw her inside, locking the door behind her.

"Hey! Let me out of here!" she yelled through the bars as the police officers walked away. "Damn it! I said let me out of here! Aarrgghh!" she screamed as they ignored her request.

Rox paced back and forth for several minutes, furious for being treated like a common criminal, until finally, an official looking man in a business suit approached her cell. "Good afternoon, Señorita. I am police chief Juan Peña," he said in introduction.

"Thank God!" Roxanne exclaimed. "There's been some kind of mistake. You see, I haven't done anything wrong. Your men threw me in here without cause," she added.

"Not entirely without cause, Señorita," the police chief replied. "It appears that you have connections to the drug lord, Carlos Santonio, no?" he asked.

"Yes.... I mean no.... I mean, yes, I mentioned him to your officers, but that doesn't mean I'm involved with him. Señor Peña, I'm innocent. I am here looking for information..." she began.

"Just what kind of information, may I ask?" he said, interrupting her speech.

"Information about a plane that was hijacked in San Diego yesterday... I need..." Rox started to explain.

"So! You are connected to the hijacking, huh? Are you the contact?... the middle man so to speak? Being involved in drugs is a serious crime Miss...." the police chief said.

"Ward... my name is Roxanne Ward, and no, I'm not connected to the hijacking ... and I've never done drugs!" Roxanne began to pace again, frustrated that she couldn't get her point across to this man. "Damn it! I had nothing to do with the hijacking. I'm looking for Cassidy Conway. She was piloting the plane," Rox explained.

Police Chief Peña's eyes narrowed. "Señorita Conway, huh? That is very interesting," he said, started to pace himself. Suddenly he stopped and looked at Rox. "You know your government believes she is in on the hijacking, don't you?" he asked.

"I know they do," Rox replied, "but it's not true," Rox exclaimed.

"I see," said Peña still pacing. Finally, he stopped directly in front of her. Placing one hand on his hip and tracing his bushy mustache with the other hand, he said, "Well, Miss Ward, we will have to check out your story before we can release you. It is very important that we cooperate with the US government on drug dealers."

"I'm NOT a drug dealer!" she exclaimed again in frustration, hands on her hips.

"We shall see, Miss Ward ... we shall see. In the meantime, make yourself comfortable. It will take a while to check out your story," he informed her as he started to walk away.

Roxanne was beside herself with disbelief. "I.... I....," she stammered, unable to voice her frustration. "Can I at least make a phone call while I wait?" she asked.

Peña stopped and looked at his prisoner. "One call," he said, as he approached her cell and unlocked the door. "Follow me."

Roxanne followed Chief Peña down the hall to a small room containing a table, two chairs, and a telephone The door was left ajar, and a guard posted while she made her call.

"Nikki, please be there!" she said under her breath as she charged the call to her home number.

After several rings, the phone was answered by a groggy voice. "Hello?" it said.

"Jerri? Jerri, is Nikki home?" Rox asked.

"Rox? What time is it?" asked Jerri sleepily. She was working the midnight to noon shift and had set her alarm for 11 p.m. It didn't feel that late.

Rox glanced at her watch, "It's almost 9:30 p.m. Jerri.... Jerri, I'm in trouble... is Nikki home?" she asked again.

Jerri immediately sat up in bed as Rox's words registered. "No, Nikki's gone to the movies with her mother and sister ... what do you mean, you're in trouble? Rox, talk to me," she demanded.

"I'm in Bogota, Jer ..." Rox began.

"Whoa... whoa.... whoa... wait a minute. Bogota -- as in Colombia?" asked the dazed paramedic.

"Yes. Look, Jer. I'm in jail and I really need ...." Rox continued.

"Jail!!! Roxanne, what the fuck are you doing in jail??!!" Jerri exclaimed.

"Damn it Jer... listen to me! I came here looking for Cass. I mentioned a drug lord's name, and was immediately arrested. Now they think I'm involved in the hijacking and drug dealing. It's such a mess!" she cried.

"Okay ... okay, calm down," Jerri said as she ran her hand through her short brown hair. "What do you need me to do, Rox?" she asked.

"Call my lawyer for me Jer. I don't have her number or I would have made the call myself. Her name is Jeanette Campbell ... she's in the book. She needs to call the Chief of Police here in Bogota. His name is Chief Juan Peña. He's got to understand that I'm not a drug dealer!" Rox said desperately.

"All right, Rox. I'll take care of it. Honey, please be careful. I want you to come straight home as soon as they release you, okay?" Jerri demanded.

"No, Jer. I came here to find Cass. I know she's here somewhere. I'm not leaving until I find her. Didn't Nikki tell you where I was?" Rox asked.

"To tell you the truth, Nik and I haven't spent a waking moment together since I went to work yesterday morning," Jerri said. "This damned work schedule keeps us apart too much!" she complained. "In any case, Rox, please be careful."

"I will Jerri. Thanks so much for making this call. I'll call again soon to let you know how things are going," she said. "Kiss Nikki for me, okay?"

"Okay, Rox. Please be careful. I'll talk to you soon," Jerri said as she hung up the phone.

Moments later, Rox was escorted back to her cell.

*  *  *

Cass woke to find her head resting in someone's lap. She immediately thought she was dreaming about Rox again. "Rox?" she whispered as she opened her eyes and saw the slight, brown-eyed peasant girl that had brought her food earlier that day.

Cass smiled to put the girl at ease. "Hola!" she said. ["Hi!.]

The girl smiled back and ran a cool damp cloth over Cass' forehead.

"Gracias," Cass said. "Cómo te llamas?" she added. ["Thank you. What is your name?"]

"Ana," the girl replied.

"Gracias, Ana," Cass said again. "Ana, dónde estoy?" ["Thank you, Ana. Ana, where am I?"]

The girl leaned in close. "No tengo permiso para decir. Me van a dar si supieran que he hablado," she said fearfully. ["I am not allowed to say. They will beat me if they knew I told you."]

Cass just nodded in understanding, confident that sooner or later, she could win the girl's trust.

Suddenly, a gruff voice came from the doorway. "Ana! Bastante! Ella es una prisionera, no es una huésped mimada. Sal de ahi ahora mismo!" ["Ana! Enough. She is a prisoner, not a pampered guest. Come out of there at once!"]

Ana immediately scurried to her feet. Looking back at Cass, she said, "Yo te he traido algo de cena. Esta bueno. You misma lo hice." Then she was gone. ["I have brought you some dinner. It is good. I made it myself."]

Cass watched the child leave then hungrily dove into the food she had brought. She was famished, having not eaten her soup and roll earlier. It truly was good fare, and she ate every bit of it, satisfying the ache in the pit of her stomach before settling herself against the post in the center of the room once again. Her head was pounding from being pistol whipped, as she closed her eyes and willed the pain to go away.

"Well, Cass. Have you changed your mind about cooperating?" came Jason's voice from the door.

Cass looked over and saw Jason's silhouette outlined against the light in the hallway. "I need something for this headache," she said, "... and I need to use the bathroom," she added, before once again, closing her eyes against the pain.

She heard the door open and an object drop to the floor before closing again. "Here is your bathroom," Jason chuckled, indicating the bucket he had just thrown into the room. "As for the headache ... live with it! It's your fault you have it anyway. All you had to do was cooperate, Cass. Expect to live in perpetual pain until you do." With that, he was gone.

*  *  *

Midnight found Rox still pacing back and forth in her cell. What's taking my lawyer so long? she asked herself as she wore yet another groove across the floor. Cass, please be all right. I need you. I love you. If anyone is listening up there, please keep her safe, Rox begged to the powers that be. Finally around 2:00 a.m., Rox gave up and laid down on the thin mattress thrown on the floor in the corner of the room. Within moments, she was fast asleep.

*  *  *

Cass' eyes drifted closed as her chin suddenly dropped to her chest, snapping her awake once more. Shaking her head from side to side, she repositioned herself against the pole, trying with all her will to stay awake. Her thoughts began to wander. Rox, she thought. Rox, I love you. I will make it through this hell ... I have to. I need to see you again. I need to touch you, even if you don't return that love.

Rising to her feet, she began to pace, stumbling blindly in the darkness from tiredness and pain. She had no idea what time it was, but judging by the position of the moon, she guessed it to be after midnight. Finally, realizing she might find refuge in sleep, she curled up on the straw mattress in the corner of the room and allowed herself to fall asleep.

CHAPTER XXXVI

EARLY THE NEXT morning, Rox was awakened by the sound of a key turning in the lock on her cell door.

"Good Morning, Señorita!" Chief Peña said cheerfully. "You are being released."

"I am?" Rox asked, still groggy from sleep.

"Yes. You should have told me last night that you were here doing research on your next book. I am a big fan of yours, Señorita. I have read all about your aliens. Miss Campbell called me early this morning and let me in on your secret research. Tell me, Señorita Ward, will there be a police chief in your next book?" he inquired hopefully.

It took a moment, but Rox finally caught on to what the police chief was implying. Thank you, Jeanette! she said to herself as she stroked his ego. "Errr... As a matter of fact, yes. You see, my next book will be about aliens landing in South America, and ...."

Rox spent the next half hour explaining how in her new book, a heroic South American police chief saved the world from invading aliens. By the time she left the police station, she had fully exonerated herself and had received a personal dinner invitation from the chief himself.

*  *  *

Cass' headache was back in full force when she awoke the next morning. Sitting up on the straw bed, she dropped her head into her hands and moaned.

You know, Cass... the last time you woke up with a headache like this, you had drank too much the night before. Enforcer pointed out.

Who drank too much the night before? Cass asked incredulously.

Errr.... Okay, it was me. I drank too much the night before -- are you happy now? the alter ego replied sarcastically.

What I wouldn't give if this truly WERE a hangover, Cass replied.

Amen to that! Enforcer replied. What are we going to do, Cass?

I don't know, E. This place is just too well guarded. We need some help. If I could only get that little peasant girl... Cass began.

Don't you think she's a little young for you, Cass? Enforcer asked.

Oh for Christ's sake, E. I wasn't talking about getting her into bed! All I want is some help! Geesh! Cass exclaimed.

All right, all right. I'm sorry. I'm under a lot of stress here! Give me a break! the alter ego exclaimed.

Okay, where do you want it.... your neck, your leg??? Cass replied.

Before Enforcer could respond, the door to the cell opened wide to admit Ana, carrying a breakfast tray.

"Buenos días, Señorita," she said as she placed the tray on the straw bed next to Cass. ["Good Morning, Señorita."]

Cass smiled. "Por favor, quédate conmigo un rato," she asked, patting the mattress beside her. ["Please, sit with me a while,"]

Ana looked nervously toward the door, then gingerly sat on the edge of Cass' bed while she ate.

"Tienes bellos ojos," Ana said to Cass. "So tan azúles!" ["You have beautiful eyes.... They are so blue!]

Cass smiled once more, trying very hard to make the child comfortable. "Gracias," she said. ["Thank you."] After a moment, Cass looked Ana directly in the eyes. "Ana, Necesito ayuda. Me estan forzando a volar drogas fureras del país. Necesíto escaparme," she explained. ["Ana, I need help. I am being forced to fly drugs out of this country. I need to escape,"]

Ana knotted her hands in her lap. Meeting Cass' gaze, tears filled her eyes as she replied, "Me matarán a mi y a mi familia si te ayudo. No se que hacer!!" ["They will kill me and my family if I help you. I don't know what to do!"]

Cass reached over and placed her larger hand on top of the girl's. "Entiendo, Ana. Tienes que proteger a tu familia. Gracias de todas maneras," she said. ["I understand, Ana. You must protect your family. Thank you anyway,"]

"Ana, apurate, muchacha. El jefe quiere que vallas al mercado," the guard's voice boomed from the doorway, startling both women. ["Ana! Be quick in there girl. The boss wants you to go to the market,"]

Ana rose to her feet and looked at Cass, sadness and regret filling her eyes. "Lo siento," she whispered before leaving the cell. ["I am sorry.]

*  *  *

Rox wasted no time. She went directly back to her hotel, showered, changed her clothes, then hit the streets, armed with Cass' picture. Obviously, she couldn't expect any help from the police department, so she firmed her resolve to find Cass by herself. For the next four hours, Rox walked the streets of Bogota, showing the picture to hundreds of people. She guessed that about half of them had no idea what she was talking about.

Entering the public marketplace thoroughly frustrated by her lack of success over the last four hours, Rox began showing Cass' picture around again. Time after time, she received confused looks or negative responses. On the verge of giving up, she showed the picture to a beautiful young girl with large brown eyes and curly black hair, who was picking out fresh produce at a vegetable vendor.

"Excuse me, Miss, but have you seen this woman?" Rox asked, handing the picture of Cass to the girl.

The girl looked questioningly at Rox, obviously not understanding what the red head was saying. Finally, she glanced at the picture, and promptly dropped her vegetable basket, scattering its content on the ground.

Immediately, Rox realized she had hit pay dirt. "Here, let me help you," she said to the girl as she helped to collect the spilled merchandise.

The girl was shaking uncontrollably as she accepted the basket back from Rox. "Gracias... gracias," she said nervously as she turned to flee. ["Thank you ... thank you,"]

Rox grabbed the girl's arm before she could escape. "Please! Wait! You know her, don't you? You know where she is!" Rox demanded.

A play of emotions paraded across the girl's face as her eyes locked with Rox's.

"Please, I love her," Rox pleaded. "I need to find her." Rox's eyes were filled with such love and hope that it shone unquestionably from her face.

Even though the girl did not understand Rox's words, she certainly understood the emotions. Looking down for a moment, the girl raised her eyes to meet Rox's tear filled ones. Closing her own eyes, she nodded her head, then took Rox's hand and led her through several nearby alleys, finally slipping through a doorway, and into a residence that was little more than a slum. Placing her basket on the table, the girl turned to Rox and took Cass' picture out of her hand once more. Looking at it closely, she once again confirmed that this was the same woman she had been serving meals to at the compound. Meeting Rox's eyes once more, she saw the same look there that she saw in the eyes of the gringa prisoner.... she saw desperation, determination and an emotion she could only describe as love. It was very obvious that these two women loved each other.

The girl motioned for Rox to wait while she went into an adjacent room, returning moments later with a frail old man, whom she sat in the chair opposite Rox.

"Papa, esta mujer necesita nuestra ayuda. Tienen a su amiga detenida en ese complejo. La estan forzándo a transportar drogas fuera del país," the girl said to the old man as he listened intently. ["Papa, This woman needs our help. Her friend is being held in the compound. She is being forced to transport drugs out of the country,"]

The old man nodded, a tear forming in the corner of his eye.

"Papá, al fin podremos vengar la muerte de Pedro si ayudamos a su amiga. Por favor, hazlo por mi," the girl exclaimed. ["Papa, we can finally avenge Pedro's death if we help her friend. Please talk for me,"]

The old man looked intently at the girl and nodded. Looking back at Rox, he said, "I will help. I will avenge Pedro's death."

Rox was thrilled that the man spoke English. Finally, she was getting somewhere! "Señor, please, My name is Roxanne Ward. I need to find my friend. I fear she is being held against her will. I must find her," Rox pleaded.

The old man turned to the girl and translated Rox's words. The girl responded, "Papá, la mujer de quien ella habla es prisionera de Carlos Santino. Yo la llevare allí, pero será peligroso." ["Papa, the woman she speaks of is a prisoner of Carlos Santonio. I will take her there, but it will be dangerous."]

"Señorita Ward, my granddaughter, Ana says she knows where your friend is, and she will take you there. It will be dangerous. These are evil men. They murdered my 10 year old grandson Pedro when he accidentally wandered onto their property on his way home from school. He was an innocent child. We will have our revenge, and you will have your friend," he said passionately as a tear rolled down his cheek.

Rox reached forward and took the man's hands in her own. "Thank you," she said, her own tears mirroring those of the old man. "When do we leave?"

The old man turned to Ana and translated Rox's question into Spanish.

"Al anochecer," said the girl. "Será menos peligroso entonces."

"My granddaughter says, 'after dark. It will be safer then,'" the old man repeated. "It is dark very early this time of year, so we don't have much time. Please join us for a meager meal while we await and plan."

*  *  *

Cass was crawling out of her skin with anticipation. She hated being confined, especially to a small area such as her cell. After Ana left that morning, she spent most of the day exercising and going through Taekwondo drills. She wasn't sure when the opportunity for escape would present itself, but she wanted to be ready if and when it happened. She was slightly hampered by her injuries, but with the proper discipline and concentration techniques learned as part of Taekwondo, she was able to overcome the pain and work through her routines. It was nearly dinner time by the time she finished. She stood there, covered in a sheen of sweat, and desperately in need of a shower.

"Very impressive," Jason said from the cell door. Cass was so absorbed in her drill, she was unaware that she had an audience for the last few minutes of it.

Cass turned sharply toward the door, her body glistening with sweat, her heart beating violently, her hands clenched into fists at her side. A look of pure hatred came over her face as she turned her gaze on Jason. Jason gasped and visibly took a step backward in reaction. Finally realizing he had the cell door between himself and this dangerous woman, his confidence returned as he stepped once more up to the bars.

When Jason locked her in the cell, he was sure he could break her spirit and gain her cooperation. Now, he wasn't so sure. So far, she had resisted all his efforts, threats and beatings. He wished he had a pawn to hold over her. They were loading the plane tonight and would be leaving in the morning. He had to think fast if he was going to pull this one off. At this point, he was convinced she'd rather die than fly that plane out tomorrow. He decided he had nothing to lose by staging a bluff.

"Cass," he called from the door. "You might like to know that the plane is being loaded tonight and we fly out in the morning."

"You mean, YOU fly out in the morning. I'm not going, Jason," she replied.

"You see, you have to fly it out. There are no pilots around here ... well, none that can be bought anyway ... that are experienced enough to fly a large jet," he explained.

I will not help you break the law," Cass replied.

"Don't be so sure of that," he said. "I didn't want it to come to this, but I've got something of yours that you'll never see again if you don't cooperate tomorrow."

Cass' head snapped around toward the door. "Rox?" she said, almost beneath her breath.

Yes! What a stroke of luck! Jason, you're a genius! he said to himself, mentally pumping his fist in victory. With a calm he wasn't feeling, he grinned and said, "Yes ... Rox. And if you don't fly that plane out of here tomorrow morning, she is a dead woman. Do you understand?" he asked.

The look Cass gave him was of pure venom. "If you hurt her, I will kill you!" she threatened.

Jason just laughed and walked away, calling over his shoulder, "See ya in the morning, Cass. Get some sleep, it's gonna be a long flight!"

Sitting heavily on the straw mattress, her shoulders slumped forward as she dropped her head into her hands. She was defeated, and she knew it.

*  *  *

After dinner, Ana, Rox, and the grandfather sat around discussing strategy for a rescue attempt. Rox insisted that under no circumstances were the girl and old man to put themselves in danger. Finally, it was time to leave. Under the cover of darkness, Ana led Rox through the countryside, until they came to a fenced-in compound, heavily guarded by guerrilla soldiers. Ana and Rox slipped by the guards and made their way to the array of buildings at the end of the long driveway. Through her grandfather, Ana had explained the layout of the compound to Rox, and had identified the main residence as well as the outbuilding where Cass was being held. As they approached the main building, Ana went ahead and boldly walked up the main steps and into the house, like she had done countless times before in her role as servant. Once Ana was inside, Rox crossed the main expanse of lawn and approached the outbuilding. Realizing the building was too heavily guarded to slip by unnoticed, Rox did the next best thing, she walked directly up to a guard and tapped him on the shoulder.

"Ah, excuse me, but I seem to be lost," she said.

The guard turned around and quickly drew his machine gun, pointing it directly at Rox's chest. While holding her at bay, he called loudly to his comrades who rushed in to capture the intruder. Moments later, Rox found herself face to face with Carlos Santonio.

"So, my dear. Would you mind telling me who you are, and what you are doing on my property?" he asked, pouring himself a snifter of brandy as she was held at gun point in front of him.

"I'm here to do some research on a book... you see, I'm Roxanne Ward, and I write ..." Rox began.

"Science fiction... yes, I know. I've read your books. Very charming," Santonio remarked, "but what has that got to do with me?" he asked.

"Well," Rox said, going into bard mode, while ringing her hands and looking around nervously, "you see the basis for the book is a group of futuristic teenagers who find a stash of drugs that were hidden by a famous drug lord in the year 2000, and the story line centers around the chaos that results from that discovery," she explained.

"Let me guess," Santonio added, "... I get the honor of being the famous drug lord, right?" he asked sarcastically.

"Why, yes!" exclaimed Rox. "You are a very smart man!" she added sweetly.

"And you are a very stupid woman!" returned the drug lord. "Do you really think I can let you live now that you know the location of my home?"

Rox was aghast at Santonio's remark. This is one turn she wasn't prepared for.

"Throw her in with the other American!" the drug lord shouted to the guard. "We'll get rid of them at the same time," he added.

*  *  *

Cass had been sitting in the dark in a state of despair since Jason had threatened her with Rox's safety. She had no choice now but to cooperate. She HAD to fly the plane out tomorrow. She HAD to -- for Rox's sake.

You know they're gonna kill her anyway ... along with us, I might add, Enforcer said.

Always the optimist, aren't you, E? Damn it! There's got to be a way to stop this chaos! Cass mused.

"Esta bien puta. Mete tu culo allí adentro!" came the voice from the doorway. ["All right, bitch. Get your ass in there,"]

Cass looked up as the door opened wide and a body was pushed inside, sent sprawling to the floor. The door slammed, leaving them in silence.

"Cass?" came a small voice.

"Rox? Rox!" exclaimed Cass as she jumped up from the bed and bolted to the figure on the floor. "Rox ... Baby, is that you?" she asked, falling to her knees and taking the smaller woman into her arms.

"Cass! Yes. Oh my God, Cass. Are you all right?" Rox asked, rising to her knees and embracing the woman kneeling before her.

The women held each other tight, each one pulling the other in as close as possible. Tears flows freely down both their faces as they felt around in the dark, making sure each one was whole and relatively unharmed.

Sitting back on her heels, Cass took Rox's face in her hands. "Rox ... Honey, what are you doing here?" she asked, trying desperately to see this woman clearly before her in the semi-darkness.

"I came to find you, Cass. I had a dream ... you were injured. We were in a cell, just like this one. By the gods, Cass, it was horrible. They led us through a courtyard and strapped us to a cross. Cass -- we were being ...." Rox rambled.

"... crucified!" Cass finished for her. "I had the same dream, Rox. Sweetheart, what does this all mean?" she asked desperately.

"It means that we belong together, Cass. It means that we are destined to spend many lifetimes together. Remember the dreamscape in the field of flowers? Each flower represents one of our lives together. Cass we will be together for all eternity, past, present and future. Cass ... it means I love you!" Rox exclaimed, the tears rolling freely down her face. "I love you with all my heart and soul ... I love you with everything that I am. I'm sorry it took me so long to see it," she said.

Cass' entire world changed in that moment in time. Nothing else mattered in this life except the beautiful petite blonde she held in her arms. Dropping her forehead to rest against Rox's, she whispered softly to the smaller woman, "Rox, you are my life. I will devote the rest of my days to loving you, and making you as happy as you have made me today. I love you." Cass reached up with her right hand and lifted Rox's chin, while at the same time, lowering her mouth and capturing Rox's lips in a tender kiss. At that very moment, their eyes closed, and a vision of angels in white rose from their bodies and soared hand in hand into the heavens. Their spirits were melded into one ... two halves of a whole as their hearts and minds blended through the connection of their lips.

Rox was breathless ... literally unable to fill her lungs as an intense wave of emotion and desire overcame her. Never before had she felt such intensity of feeling from a mere kiss. Never before had she been more convinced that what she was feeling for Cass was wonderful and good. She knew then, that wanted to spend the rest of her life loving this woman.

Rising to her feet, Cass extended her hand to Rox and led her to the straw bed in the corner of the room. They laid there, bodies entwined, holding each other close, whispering endearments to each other, and talking about the wonderful future they would share as one. Both women secretly acknowledged that they may not have a future if the predicament they were in failed to resolve itself, but neither spoke of that possibility. For now, they had each other, and life was good.

*  *  *

A short time later, voices were heard coming from the hallway. Cass propped herself on one elbow and motioned for Rox to listen.

"A que debo este regalito?" the guard asked. ["To what do we owe this treat?"]

"El Señor Santonio quiere darle las gracias por sus esfuerzos con los prisioneros," a female voice replied. ["Señor Santonio wishes to extend his thanks for your efforts with the prisoners,"]

"That's Anna's voice!" Cass whispered to Rox.

"I know," Rox replied.

"What do you mean, you know? How do you know Ana?" Cass asked.

"It's a long story, my love. I'll explain it to you on the way home. Right now, Ana is carrying out Phase II of our plan," Rox explained.

Cass was puzzled. Seeing her confused expression in the dim light of the cell, Rox placed a gentle kiss on her lips and promised to tell all later. "She's giving them wine laced with sleeping herbs," Rox whispered to her love.

Cass' eyebrows took up permanent residence in her hairline. "Sleeping herbs? Phase II? Rox, what have you been up to?" Cass asked.

"Later, my love ... later. Right now, we have to get ready to get out of here. Are you all packed?" she asked jokingly.

Cass felt around her body, taking an inventory of body parts. "Yep, everything I need is right here and ready to go!" she replied.

"Good. It will only be a matter of time now," she said, pulling Cass back down onto the mattress and snuggling up close to her again.

Cass was all too happy to accommodate her lover's request and she pulled Rox into her arms and held her tight.

A half hour later, distinctive thumps were heard as the guards fell to the floor.

"Señorita, vengan. Tenemos muy poco tiempo. Tenemos que apurarnos!" Ana said through the door. ["Señoritas, come. We have very little time. We must hurry!"]

The sound of jingling keys was followed by the creak of the door as it swung open, granting freedom to the women inside. Taking Rox's hand, Cass followed Ana through the hallways, and into the open courtyard. Following the outskirts of the yard, Ana led the two women into the woods beyond the compound and down a well traveled path through the trees. As soon as they were out of sight of the compound, Cass stopped them.

"Ana, el avión esta al fín de esta senda?" she asked. ["Ana, Is the plane at the end of this path?"]

Nodding her head yes, Cass insisted that she return to the safety of the compound to remove any suspicion of her role in the escape. After a round of hugs and good wishes, Cass and Rox continued on down the path alone.

They had come to within 100 yards of the plane when they heard the commotion behind them. Apparently, the escape had been discovered and a guerrilla unit dispatched to hunt the two women down. Approaching the clearing where the plane had been hidden, Cass and Rox discovered that the camouflage had already been removed, probably when the plane had been loaded earlier that evening. Unfortunately, considering the cargo the plane was carrying, it was being guarded by two soldiers armed with machine guns.

"Shit! How are we supposed to get past them?" Rox asked.

"You leave that to me," Cass replied as she moved closer to the edge of the clearing.

"Are you crazy? They have guns!" Rox exclaimed, grabbing her arm.

"Don't worry about it, Rox. I can do this," the dark haired woman said before placing a kiss on Rox's mouth and moving away from her into the clearing.

Sneaking up behind the first guard, Cass cleared her throat to get his attention, then promptly punched him in the nose as he turned around. As he grabbed for his face, she swung her right leg up and caught him on the side of the head with her foot. He went down hard, laying motionless at her feet.

Hearing the commotion, the other guard came running, only to be tripped by a tree branch that Rox had swung at his shins. As he fell to his knees, she swung the branch around and brought it down on his back, and then up under his chin. He too lay motionless on the ground when she was through.

Looking at Cass, Rox grinned and said, "This feels like deja vu all over again!"

Suddenly the sounds of more guards entering the clearing became a reality as hordes of guards approached them. Grabbing Rox's hand, Cass pulled her toward the makeshift steps and dragged her into the plane. Kicking the steps away, she closed the door just as the guerrillas started to open fire on the plane.

Rushing into the cockpit, Cass threw herself into the pilot's seat and started the jet engines.

"Rox!" she yelled to the other woman. "Strap yourself into the co-pilot's seat and hang on. Were in for a rough take off. I hope we have enough runway." she exclaimed as another burst of gunfire peppered the plane.

Rox screamed as the small window next to Cass was shattered by the spray of gunfire.

"Hold on, Rox!" Cass shouted as she engaged full throttle, generating forward momentum to move the plane down the runway. The plane shuddered terribly as it rolled over the rough terrain toward the trees at the end of the clearing.

"Cass! We're going into the trees!" Rox shouted as she covered her eyes.

"Pull, Rox, pull!" Cass yelled as she instructed Rox to pull back on the elevator in front of her.

At the last moment, the plane rose from the ground, veering sharply into the sky, and barely skimming the top of the trees. Once they were airborne, and the plane had leveled out, Rox pried her finger off the controls and looked over at Cass. Something was wrong. Cass was partially slumped over in her seat. With the window shattered, Cass' hair was flying wildly about her face, obscuring Rox's view.

Unhooking her seat belt, Rox climbed out of the co-pilot's seat and reached up to gather the hair away from the pilot's face. That's when she noticed the red stain on Cass' shirt. Her heart immediately jumped into her throat as she realized she had been injured. Taking Cass' chin in her hand, she turned the pilot's face toward her and noted the pallor of her skin.

"Cass, talk to me. You're hurt. Tell me what to do," she pleaded with her lover.

"Rox, I've been hit.... in the shoulder. You've got to stop the bleeding," she exclaimed.

Trying hard not to panic, Rox went in search of something to use for bandages. Shuffling through the flight attendant's station, she found several white towels, which she quickly grabbed and returned to Cass. Upon her return, she found Cass struggling to reach the auto-pilot computer.

"Cass ... what is it?" Rox asked as she put the towels in Cass' lap and knelt on the floor next to the injured woman.

"I can't reach the auto-pilot. We need to go to Miami ... that's the shortest flight path to the U.S.," Cass explained.

"Okay, talk me through this, Cass," Rox said as she programmed the auto-pilot up for Miami, Florida. That done, she concentrated her efforts on stopping the blood flow from Cass' shoulder. Packing the wound with clean white towels, she wrapped her braided belt around the bandage and cinched it tightly, cringing with each moan that escaped Cass' lips during the process. "I'm sorry, my love," she said repeatedly as she administered to the wound. Finally, with the wound dressed, Rox retrieved several cold washcloths from the bathroom and washed the excess blood off Cass' face, neck and arm.

Rox had never been so scared in her life. Here she was, thousands of feet in the air, in a plane full of illegal drugs, alone with an injured pilot who she just happened to be madly in love with. If it wasn't for the fact that Cass could pass out at any minute and leave her to fly the plane, she just might laugh.

About an hour into the flight, they radioed ahead to Miami to let them know the unscheduled flight had to have emergency clearance to land, and that an ambulance was required immediately upon arrival. Air Traffic Control in Miami stayed in constant touch with them throughout the flight, offering flight and weather information, and medical advice.

Rox did her best to keep Cass as lucid as possible on the three hour flight to Miami. Several times, Cass started wavering in and out of consciousness from loss of blood. Twice, Rox changed the bandages, the pile of bloodied towels growing at an alarming rate. There was a serious possibility that Cass would die from loss of blood before they even reached Miami. The closer they came, the less capable Cass was of staying conscious for more than a a few minutes at a time.

Rox was scared to death about the landing. There was no way in hell she could land the plane by herself, and even scarier, in her present condition, there was no way Cass could do it alone either.

As they neared the airport, Rox began to panic. Climbing out of the co-pilot's seat she grabbed Cass by the front of the shirt and shook her. "Cass! Cass, honey, if you don't wake up, we're both going to die. Do you understand what I'm saying? I can't land this plane alone, Cass, please wake up," she pleaded.

Cass looked up at her, her head rolling loosely about her shoulders, as she struggled to remain conscious.

"Cass!" Rox said again, shaking her hard. "When I said I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you, I didn't mean the afterlife! Now please wake up ... I need you Cass!" Rox shouted directly into her face.

Cass' eyes flew open at Rox's last statement. Pulling in all her reserves, she struggled into a sitting a position and grabbed the flight controls. "Buckle up, Rox ... it might be a rough landing," she said, managing a half grin for her lover.

Rox grinned back as she buckled herself into the co-pilot's seat. "You're good at this crashing landing thing... right?" Rox asked with a smile in her voice.

"Right!" Cass replied as she fought to keep her eyes open. "I need you with me on this one, Rox. I don't have the strength to do it alone," she said, her eyes never leaving the runway before her.

"Okay, Cass... just tell me what to do," Rox replied.

The atmosphere in the cockpit was extremely tense as the plane drew nearer and nearer the runway. Cass briefly went over landing procedures with Rox, including when to decelerate, and when to throw the engines into a reverse thrust mode to stop the plane once the wheels were on the ground. Needless to say, Rox was scared shitless, and hoped that she wouldn't have to carry out these procedures alone.

On the final approach to the runway, Cass looked over at Rox and said, "You are the best thing in my life, Rox,"

"I love you Cass," Rox replied as they hovered briefly above the blacktop before the wheels touched down on the hard surface.

The plane jarred sharply as the wheels came in contact with the paved runway, causing the back end to fishtail slightly. Cass was struggling not only with the controls but with her ability to stay conscious through the landing. She was rapidly losing both battles.

"Reverse thrust ..." Cass said weakly as Rox reached over and threw the engines into reverse. Both women were thrown forward in their seats as the engines protested the sudden change in direction. Again, the plane fishtailed nearly out of control.

"Oh shit! Oh shit!" Rox exclaimed as she looked through the windshield and realized they were running out of pavement. "We're not gonna make it!" she shouted.

"More reverse thrust," Cass said.

Again, they were thrown forward in their seats as additional reverse thrust had an adverse affect on their forward momentum. They were slowing down quickly, and so far, safely on the ground. Rox looked over at Cass for reassurance, and found her completely slumped over her controls, blood oozing from her forehead caused by her impact with the control panel on the last reverse thrust.

Unable to tend to the injured woman until the plane was at a complete halt, Rox was forced to look on helplessly. Finally, the plane came to a rest, very near the end of the runway. Within seconds, Rox was out of her seat belt harness and at Cass' side. Sitting her up in her seat, Cass' head slumped over onto her right shoulder. No amount of talking or coaxing would bring her around this time. Rox searched for a pulse and found none.

EPILOGUE

3 MONTHS LATER

ROX STROLLED OUT onto the widow's walk, carrying a cup of hot chocolate. Leaning against the railing, she looked out over the ocean and remarked to herself that the storm brewing on the horizon was going to be a violent one. Rox loved storms. They filled her with a sense of excitement that truly rivaled an orgasmic climax. Taking a sip of her cocoa, she inhaled the salty scent of the air deep into her lungs. A small smile tugged at the corner of her mouth as she thought about the first night she had talked to Cass in chat. It had been storming that night as well.

Cass. Rox never dreamed she could love another human being as much as she had the tall dark haired pilot. Cass truly had saved her, both physically and mentally. She would never have guessed that the unhappiness she felt while with Chris was in reality, a longing to be with a woman. Cass brought out feelings from deep within her heart that she didn't know existed. Cass had changed her life forever.

Standing there, Rox reviewed the events that had changed her life so drastically over the past several months.

She had lived for the better part of the last year in an abusive relationship with Chris. Then one day, a note appeared in her inbox ... a note from cconway@flyboy.com, praising her for her work. For the longest time, she assumed Cass was a man. She began feeling things for this person that she had never felt before. When she saw Cass for the first time and realized she had made a gender error, it terrified her ... she ran. Another small grin graced her lips a she recalled that first meeting.

Taking another deep breath and a sip from her cocoa, she allowed her thoughts to continue.

Realizing that she was gay was scary, and at the same time, titillating. Exposure to lesbian relationships was nothing new to her. Her best friends, Nikki and Jerri were gay. They had a wonderfully fulfilling and loving relationship -- one that Rox had always envied -- one that Rox never expected to have for herself. Then came Cass.

She resisted the feelings she had for this woman for a long time, until one day, it was almost too late to tell her. Cass' plane had been hijacked by drug traffickers and she had been forced to fly to South America. The driving force behind her love for Cass was all she needed to justify a trip to Bogota to find her soulmate. Once there, she eventually found her, and they made their escape, recapturing Cass' plane and flying it out of its jungle runway to freedom. Once airborne, however, they discovered Cass had been shot in the escape. The next three hours were spent in the air on their way to Miami, while Cass' life fluids slowly ebbed from her body.

Once on the ground in Miami, the plane was surrounded by police and FBI agents. They approached the plane with weapons drawn, unsure of how friendly the craft's occupants would be. Cass' lifeless body was removed from the plane under heavy guard while authorities cornered Rox and interrogated her endlessly about the drug activities they had uncovered while in Bogota. Rox gave the FDA and FBI all of the information she could about Carlos Santonio, and the location of his compound ... information that ultimately led to his capture and trial on drug trafficking charges. Jason Hayer had also been captured in the raid that followed, and was now imprisoned for a very long time in the California State Penitentiary system. Rox allowed a lone tear to roll down her cheek as she recalled Cass' heroic efforts that ultimately led to the arrests of these dangerous men. Sighing deeply, she sipped once more on her cocoa and rested the cup on the railing as she watched the approaching storm.

For several weeks after that fateful day in the Colombian prison cell, Rox struggled with the realization that she was gay. Being in love with a woman required a whole new mind set. She had longed for the type of loving relationship that was so evident between Nikki and Jerri, but she truly thought she could find it with a man. It totally overwhelmed and terrified her when she realized her 'man' was a six-foot, dark haired woman with drop-dead gorgeous blue eyes. Rox wiped another stray tear from her cheek as she recalled the breathless feeling that ran rampant through her the first time she saw Cass' eyes.

She had imagined all sorts of horrors about rejection. She worried herself sick over what her parents would say. She laid awake at night agonizing about her father dying -- disappointment in his heart over his daughter's new found sexuality. As it turned out, she had worried for naught. When she returned to the States, she confronted her parents ... confessed her feelings for Cass, and about her abusive relationship with Chris. They were both concerned and supportive. Neither would have chosen the gay lifestyle for their daughter, but they wanted her to be happy. They also scolded her severely for keeping her nightmarish life with Chris from them. Concerned about the tragedies that had struck their daughter surrounding both Chris and Cass, they watched her carefully over the next few months and nursed her back to emotional health with their love and support.

Rox sighed once more, deep in thought as she felt a strong pair of arms circle her from behind.

"I love you," came the words, whispered in her ear as Rox folded herself into the embrace of the tall, dark haired woman who stood behind her.

Grinning ear to ear, she turned around to face the woman, leaning her backside against the railing, and wrapping her own arms around her lover's waist. "I love you too, Cass ... with all my heart," she said before raising her chin to accept the searing kiss she knew was coming.

Several breathtaking moments later, the kiss ended. Pulling her in closer, Cass held the smaller woman tightly as Rox rested her head on the spot just above Cass' breasts. They stood there together as the storm approached, the gusting winds blowing their hair around in disarray.

While standing there, safely in the embrace of the woman she loved, Rox recalled how desperately lost she felt when she thought Cass had died on that plane.

Upon landing, Cass hit her head on the control panel, and combined with the loss of blood, she fell into a deep state of unconsciousness. Rox had been unable to find a pulse on the injured woman's wrist. Not wanting to acknowledge to herself that Cass had died, she clung desperately to the older woman, sobs racking her slight frame as she violently shook Cass in a futile attempt to awaken her. When the paramedics first arrived in the cockpit, she refused to let them touch her. Instead, she cradled Cass' head in her lap and stroked her blood streaked face as she rocked back and forth and softly cooed, "Come on, Baby. Please wake up. I love you Cass. I need you. Please ... wake up." Finally, the paramedics had to wrestle Cass out of her grip to remove the injured pilot from the plane.

For hours the FDA grilled Rox for information while Cass was fighting for her life in the emergency room of Miami's Jackson Memorial hospital. For hours, Rox answered their questions in a dull monotone voice. She was convinced that she had no reason to go on ... no reason to live. After the interrogation, during which, Cass' innocence was established, one of the FDA agents offered her a ride to the hospital where they planned to question Cass. She looked at them with unmasked confusion on her face, convinced they were out of their minds for wanting to interrogate a dead woman.

When Rox finally understood that Cass was still alive, she couldn't get to the hospital fast enough. Once there, she refused to leave Cass' side until she finally awoke. As she regained consciousness, Cass looked at her through hooded cerulean eyes filled with such love that it turned Rox's insides to mush.

"Hi, my bard," Cass whispered hoarsely.

Rox's tears fell onto Cass' cheeks as she leaned forward to place a delicate kiss on the dark haired woman's lips.

"Welcome back, my love," Rox choked out. "Don't you ever do this to me again ... do you understand!!" she said in a tone of mock severity.

"Or else what?" Cass teased.

"Or else I might have to hurt you!" Rox replied, smiling broadly before leaning in for another kiss.

Rox stood there in the circle of Cass' arms, a slight shiver running through her in response to the traumatic memories. So much has happened since that fateful day, my love, Roxanne thought as she pondered their life together over the past three months. She was so nervous the first time they made love. She had so much to learn and was terribly afraid of disappointing Cass. Cass has been patient -- exceptionally so, and by the time they laid there, both trembling with fulfilled desire, she was thoroughly convinced that she had made the right choice in accepting this woman and her newly discovered sexuality into her life. Thank you so much for joining me here ... for moving 3,000 miles across the country to be with me. You will never regret it ... I promise, she added as a shiver of desire tore through her.

"Come inside Rox," the seductive voice purred in her ear. "You're shivering ... and it's going to rain soon." Cass added as the first raindrop fell to the deck of the widow's walk.

Rox looked up at Cass, intense emotion and passion emitting from her gaze. "No, Cass. Stay out here with me ... make love to me, right here ... right now!" she demanded.

Cass smiled broadly, knowing the effects a violent storm had on her lover's libido. Taking Rox's chin in her hand once more, she lowered her head for an intensely invasive kiss, her tongue snaking in and out of Rox's mouth, doing a pirouette of love with the smaller woman's own tongue. Deep passionate moans escaped Rox's lips at the invasion.

Cass felt a deep sense of love and fulfillment with this woman that she had never felt before. She would happily give up flying and commit herself to being Rox's love slave if that is truly what she wanted. After thoroughly tasting her wife's mouth, she worked her way down along the edge of her jaw and neck, where she left several love marks, sucking greedily, while Rox pulled her in closer with a hand behind her head.

"Oh God, Cass!" Rox exclaimed as a flood of moisture lubricated the space between her legs at the attack.

Cass was nearly out of control. She simply couldn't get enough of the luscious beauty before her as her large hands roamed up and down the smaller woman's body. Rox entwined her fingers in Cass' hair and set the direction for her lover's probing mouth. Throwing her head back as Cass pushed her against the railing, Rox gave the taller woman complete access to her throat, which she quickly devoured.

"Rox ... Rox, I need you," Cass said desperately as she pulled Rox's shirt out of the waist band of her khaki shorts and ran her hands up and around her bare back. Rox shivered with uncontrolled passion at the contact.

The rain around them increased in intensity.

"Cass ... take me, please!" Rox begged in response. The passion and need Cass had sparked deep within her had built up so strongly, she thought she would burst if she didn't get relief soon.

Cass surprised the smaller woman by wrapping her arms around her waist and lifting her off the deck. Swinging around, she gently placed her down again, standing her against the wall of the house. Pressing the entire length of her body against Rox, Cass took Rox's hands in her own and raised them over her head, pinning them to the building. Looking deep into Rox eyes she said, "Tell me what you want, lover. Tell me what you need."

Rox nearly climaxed on the spot as she looked at the total passion in her partner's eyes. "I want you to make love to me, Cass. I need you inside of me." she replied breathlessly.

Thunder rumbled nearby as the vibratious sound waves rolled over them, causing them both to shudder in anticipation of what was to come.

Rox reached forward with her mouth, trying desperately to touch a passion point on Cass' neck. Frustrated that her efforts were futile, she growled out Cass' name and pulled her hands from the taller woman's grasp. Rox was on fire. She simply couldn't wait any longer as she grabbed the front of Cass' shirt and tore it open, sending buttons flying in all directions. Next, she reached behind the taller woman and unfastened her bra, allowing generous, perfectly round orbs to escape their prison. Within moments, Rox's mouth had thoroughly explored every inch of Cass' breasts, taking extra time to suckle on the taller woman's erect nipples ... nipping, biting, tugging. Rox's passionate assault only fueled Cass further as she screamed out Rox's name, then clamped down on the tender skin between the smaller woman's neck and shoulder.

"Oh my God! Rox, please, I need you. Baby, I need you now ... please!" Cass begged, writhing uncontrollably, and pressing Rox harder against the wall of the house.

Once again, the rain increased in intensity as a flash of lightning lit up the sky.

With a strength she didn't know she possessed, Rox flipped Cass around and pushed HER up against the wall of the house. Falling to her knees, Rox reached up and unfastened Cass' belt and waistband, pulling the jeans she was wearing down to the floor. Cass' hands had braced themselves against the wall, her head thrown back, eyes closed as Rox started her exploration of the taller woman's body. Cass had to summon all the strength she had to remain standing while Rox's tongue trailed along her inner thigh.

Rox' tongue slipped in between the folds of Cass' womanhood, causing her to slam her head back against the wall. Rox reached between Cass' legs and spread then apart to give her better access to the treasure she so desperately sought. Placing three fingers in her mouth, Rox thoroughly lubricated them before posing them at the entrance to her wife's core. Cass was nearly out of her mind with desire. Capturing Rox's eyes, she held them as she bent her knees, and pushed herself down onto Rox's hand at the same time the smaller woman thrust upward. The sensation was incredible. Soon, Rox was pumping furiously into Cass as the taller woman thrust downward, her head thrashing side to side while her arms braced herself against the wall of the house. Before long, Cass couldn't control it as a flood of orgasmic passion passed through her. "Rox!.... ROX! Oh my god! I coming! I love you, Baby," she screamed as she was assaulted internally by wave after wave of spasms, and externally by the wind and rain raging around them.

By the time the spasms had subsided, Cass' legs refused to support her any longer, as she slid down the wall to the deck. Rox gently guided her fall to floor as she laid down with her, and held the trembling woman until she had regained control of her senses. When Cass' breathing returned to normal, she rolled herself over to lay on top of the smaller woman. Tucking her arms under Rox's shoulders, she kissed her passionately, and thanked her for making her feel complete. "I love you, Rox," she said. "Now it's my turn to lead you to Elysia," she added.

Rising to her knees and sitting back on her heels, Cass knelt before the smaller woman and thanked every god in existence for allowing her to be part of Rox's life. Leaning forward once more she allowed her hands to roam up and down the bare skin on Rox's legs. Rox's hips gyrated in a circular motion under the assault, while her eyes begged her tall lover for more.

Seeing the sense of urgency in Rox's face, Cass leaned down to place a gentle kiss on the red-head's mouth. "Be patient, my love," she whispered softly. "I will give you want you need, my bard."

Rox closed her eyes and drew in a sharp breath as Cass' words sent bolts of passion shooting to her groin. "Please hurry, my love. I need you so much!" Rox replied.

With Rox laying on her back, a naked Cass straddled her thighs and slid her hands under Rox's T-shirt. The intensity of the rain had increased to the point that Rox's shirt was drenched and plastered to her skin. With little effort, Cass lifted the shirt over Rox's rain soaked head and threw it against the wall of the house, where it stuck for a moment before falling to the deck.

Looking down at the petite woman from her perch, Cass' heart filled with a sense of incredible awe that this woman loved her.... that this woman wanted to spend the rest of her life making her happy. Tears mixed with rain as moisture ran from Cass' face onto Rox's breasts. Leaning down, Cass allowed her tongue to trail around the perfectly formed mounds, making circles on her lover's skin, avoiding the painfully erect nipples, and tasting the salty liquid that had run from her own eyes.

Rox was in agony from the torturous assault. "Cass, please!" she begged, arching her chest high in the air, demanding Cass give her breasts the satisfaction they craved. Cass accepted the invitation eagerly as she sucked each of Rox's nipples into her mouth, biting and nipping unmercifully as Rox writhed beneath her in ecstasy. Lightning lit up the stormy sky, sending passionate shadows dancing across Rox's face.

Rox's hips began to buck as Cass realized she was pushing her wife to the point of no return. Climbing off the smaller woman, Cass knelt before Rox and unfastened the waistband of her shorts, pulling them down along with the lace panties beneath them. Soon, Rox was totally naked, lying there with rain pummeling her body, exposing her sensuous wares for her lover to sample.

Cass just couldn't resist any longer. Diving into the center of Rox's being, she ran her tongue in and out of the folds, tasting and licking before finally sucking the tender passion point deep into her mouth. Rox moaned loudly as she reached out and pulled Cass' head in closer.

"Cass ... God... Cass... please, I can't wait any longer. I need you," Rox begged as her body teetered on the edge of the orgasmic fulfillment.

Knowing Rox was about to fall over the edge, Cass placed two fingers near her lover's entrance and pushed them deep inside. Rox's lower body came off the deck in response to the sensuous onslaught.

"More, Cass... please, I need more," the smaller woman screamed.

Cass was glad to oblige as she added a third finger to the invasion and set up a steady rhythm of thrusts. Several moments later, Rox was clearly loosing control as her body stiffened. Sensing the beginnings of an orgasm, Cass leaned in once more and captured Rox's passion point between her teeth. Just then, a tremendous bolt of lightning and deafening crack of thunder shook their world as Rox fell over the edge, screaming to the top of her lungs as her body shuddered out of control in the throes of orgasmic relief.

Sometime later, the two women laid entwined in each other's arms, the rain cleansing their bodies as a light downpour coated their skin. They talked of love and commitment, and of spending the rest of their lives in splendid bliss together as one.

Rox reached over and traced Cass' right eyebrow with her left thumb, her hand coming to rest on the side of Cass' face. "Thank you for flying into my heart, Cass," she said with a smile.

Cass smiled back, then leaned over to place a gentle kiss on her wife's mouth. "You're welcome," she replied. "It wasn't easy though... but we survived on a wing and a prayer," she added.

Rox nodded. "Yes, my love ... on a wing and a prayer."

THE END

Table of Contents

CHAPTER I

CHAPTER II

CHAPTER III

CHAPTER IV

CHAPTER V

CHAPTER VI

CHAPTER VII

CHAPTER VIII

CHAPTER IX

CHAPTER X

CHAPTER XI

CHAPTER XII

CHAPTER XIII

CHAPTER XIV

CHAPTER XV

CHAPTER XVI

CHAPTER XVII

CHAPTER XVIII

CHAPTER XIX

CHAPTER XX

CHAPTER XXI

CHAPTER XXII

CHAPTER XXIII

CHAPTER XXIV

CHAPTER XXV

CHAPTER XXVI

CHAPTER XXVII

CHAPTER XXVIII

CHAPTER XXIX

CHAPTER XXX

CHAPTER XXXI

CHAPTER XXXII

CHAPTER XXXIII

CHAPTER XXXIV

CHAPTER XXXV

CHAPTER XXXVI

EPILOGUE

About this Title

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Table of Contents

CHAPTER I

CHAPTER II

CHAPTER III

CHAPTER IV

CHAPTER V

CHAPTER VI

CHAPTER VII

CHAPTER VIII

CHAPTER IX

CHAPTER X

CHAPTER XI

CHAPTER XII

CHAPTER XIII

CHAPTER XIV

CHAPTER XV

CHAPTER XVI

CHAPTER XVII

CHAPTER XVIII

CHAPTER XIX

CHAPTER XX

CHAPTER XXI

CHAPTER XXII

CHAPTER XXIII

CHAPTER XXIV

CHAPTER XXV

CHAPTER XXVI

CHAPTER XXVII

CHAPTER XXVIII

CHAPTER XXIX

CHAPTER XXX

CHAPTER XXXI

CHAPTER XXXII

CHAPTER XXXIII

CHAPTER XXXIV

CHAPTER XXXV

CHAPTER XXXVI

EPILOGUE