Third Time's A Charm (Read 7,109 times)

[blueyed358]

chapters 45-49



Jack had fallen asleep on the sofa with Sara running her fingers through his hair. She knew the events of the day had drained him emotionally and today would not be much better. He would have to say goodbye to his children for a couple of weeks at least. Sara wondered if Jennifer would come at him again also. Maybe she could find a way to keep that to a minimum for today at least. When Sara came downstairs to put on coffee he was still asleep there. She quietly walked over and fixed his blanket and started to head for the kitchen when his hand shot out and grabbed her by the wrist. He pulled her down on the sofa with him and covered her with his body. " Good morning . " She said to him , " I guess your up. " Jack raised his eyebrows , " Most definitely. " He gave her a kiss that told her he wanted more than a morning kiss. She pryed herself out of his grasp , " Get a move on Deveraux , your brother and Abigail will be here soon ." Jack sat up and his face told her how unhappy he was about the children leaving. " Yes , I know. I will miss them but their safety is more important. " he said glumly. " It won't be for too long Jack, you'll see. " He nodded and looked up into her eyes , " Kiss me again and then I will jump in the shower."
She gave a very sweet kiss that became a very passionate one. " Make that a cold shower. "




Jennifer had gotten the phone call first thing in the morning about Daniel. She was still in the waiting area in the ER to see him. Bo had told her that someone knocked him out and broke the gas line in his house. They had set up a time and rigged a spark to it to ignite the gas. " You tell Jack when you speak to him that I want them to reconsider taking some protection from Shane. Sara's article was in the paper today and I know Larry isn't going to be happy. That and I got this gut feeling he will be coming after Jack next. " Jennifer finally got to see Daniel and Bo went in with her. " Daniel are you ok? " Daniel was happy to see her but not so happy to see Bo again. " Yes Jennifer I'm fine , look Bo I already told you , I never saw the person who hit me, there is nothing more I can give you. " Jennifer asked him where is was going to be staying now , " I'm not sure I guess I can stay with Melanie for a little while. " Jennifer decided to offer him her house to stay at. " You want me to move in with you? " Daniel asked , very pleased at the suggestion. " No , not exactly . I am staying with Aunt Maggie and Victor right now so the house is empty. " Daniel just looked at her and then said, " If you don't mind , I think I will take you up on that offer. " Jennifer was glad to help him. " Can you tell me what happened last night. " Daniel took a deep breath , " I am not really sure , One minute I was fixing dinner the next I was on the floor in my living room. " There was nothing more Daniel could add , he had tried to remember more but in the end he did not see who hit him. Jennifer told him to meet her at her house in two hours . Jennifer left the hospital and headed to Jack's to say goodbye to their children.



Steve and Abby arrived early having had breakfast already with Jo and Vern. JJ came downstairs dragging his feet. " What's up little man ? " JJ looked way up to his father, " I am going to miss you. " His little face trying to fight the tears. Jack sat down and pulled his son onto his lap. " I am going to miss you more. Dean and Sara are going to miss you too. I promise little man it won't be for too long. I am a bit jealous of you actually. " JJ tilted his head and gave his father a questioning look. " Why? " Steve was standing in kitchen doorway watching the interaction between his brother and nephew. He was filled with pride for the man that Jack had become. Jack looked down and took a deep breath, " Well you see , I am jealous of the amount of time you will be spending with my brother. We didn't get anytime together when we were young and I never get to see him much now. Don't tell your Uncle Steve but I really like being around him and I am sure you will too. "
JJ thought about it and turned back to his father, " I like him too he's just like you but different . " Now Jack looked at his son with a question in his eyes, " How so? " JJ scrunched up his face as in deep thought, " Well he is funny and silly like you , he always says everybodys full name like you and you both talk funny but in different ways." Jack laughed out loud. " You are very astute my boy. " JJ shook his head " See what I mean. " Steve took a deep breath to fight the emotion brought on by the exchange he just overheard. " Hey little dude Sara made you some waffles in here , you better get in here before they are all gone." JJ turned back to his father " See, little man , little dude." He kissed his father on the cheek and hopped off his lap and bolted for the kitchen. Steve and Jack stood looking at one another , " That's one smart little boy you got there , he's a lot like his daddy." Jack smiled," Thanks , he is pretty amazing although I'm not so sure about the being like his daddy part. " Steve turned to go back into the kitchen , " I am. You better get your butt in here Billy Jack , those waffles are calling my name. "





Jack and Steve sat with JJ and Dean watching them play video games. " See Uncle Steve you gotta shoot the zombies. Don't worry , I will teach you how to do it." Then he leaned over to his Uncle and spoke in a loud voice , " Dean wasn't so good before I showed him how to play. " Dean looked shocked , " Hey I resent that ! " Jack made a face of disgust , " Oh how do you watch this and not have nightmares. " Steve turned back to the screen , " Hey , I
think I may have arrested that guy. " JJ stated to giggle, melting his fathers heart. " You are so silly Uncle Steve. " Jack heard the doorbell ring and got up to answer it but Sara was there already. " Hello Jennifer, come in " Jennifer looked at Sara and asked if she had missed the children. " No, they are still here. " Jack walked into the room followed by Steve. " Oh hello Steve it's so good to see you again. Jack and I can't thank you enough for what you are doing. " Jennifer hugged him. " Hey baby how you doing? Don't you mention it , Kayla and I are looking forward to it. " Jack watched Jennifer and could tell something was upsetting her. " Jennifer , what's wrong ? " Jennifer told them about what happened to Daniel and how part of his house blew up. She also told them she was going to let him stay at the house until his is repaired. Jack and Sara both looked at each other , Sara opened her mouth and Jack shook his head. " At least he wasn't hurt seriously. Why don't you go and see Jack, he is downstairs playing video games." When Jennifer left the room Jack turned back to Sara " Ok go. " Sara paced the room , " She said he had a bump on the front of his head? " Jack nodded . " How do you get hit on your forehead and not see it coming?" Steve chuckled ," It ain't easy , You got yourself one smart lady there Jack. " Jack walked over and kissed her on the head , " Yes I do. "



Jack pulled up to the curb at the airport. everyone got out and Steve started unloading the bags. Jack and Abby hugged tightly. " You will love Aunt Kayla. Mind your brother and do whatever your Uncle Steve tells you , ok? I love you so much sweetheart , it won't be for long . Try and have some fun while you are there..but not too much fun.I want you to call me every night. " Abby had tears running down her face , " I will , I love you too Daddy , I will miss you so much. Please be careful. " Jack pulled back and kissed her. He stepped aside to allow Jennifer to say goodbye and he picked up his son and held on to him. " I am going to miss you so much little man , you take care of your sister for me ok ? " JJ could only nod, he was trying not openly cry. When he picked his head up from his father's shoulder he saw the tears in his eyes. " You are crying too Daddy ? " Jack looked into his sons eyes , " I always get tears in my eyes when I don't have you around. I will call you every night." JJ nodded , " I love you very much Daddy, I hope you catch the bad man soon." JJ walked over to hug Jennifer and Jack stood with his mouth open. Steve said to him with a grin , " Told you, just like his old man. " Jennifer told Abby how much she will miss her and that she loved her. " Mom please do what Daddy says , he is trying to keep us all safe. " Jennifer gave her a small smile . " I know , I will try. " Jennifer turned to see her son standing next to her looking up at her. " Oh , JJ , I will miss you so much. You be a good boy for Uncle Steve and Aunt Kayla ok. " JJ gave his mother a hug , " Ok I will . I am still kinda mad you." Jennifer's eyes filled with tears, " Yes , I know. " JJ looked down at his shoes, " But I love you Mommy , I will miss you too. " Jack hugged his brother , ' Steve... " Steve patted Jack on the back as they hugged " I will take good care of them. Don't worry little brother. Keep me updated ok. "




Jack and Jennifer drove in silence back to the house. He would steal glances at her to make sure she was alright. Jack didn't want another emotional scene but the silence was killing him. " So what did Bo have to say about what happened with the good Doctor ? " Jennifer sighed " Not much , the person who did this didn't leave behind any physical evidence. He would like you to reconsider taking Shane's security. Bo thinks you will be next since he hasn't come after you here in Salem yet. " Jack blew out a breath , " I will consider it. "
Jennifer decided after yesterday , she was just going to make small talk. " Have you read Sara's article yet? Bo did , he said Lawrence isn't going to like it. " Jack frowned , " Yes I read it before she sent it out and no , Lawrence is not going to like it at all. " Jennifer questioned Jack , " Well why didn't you talk her out of it , or at the least change it some. "
Jack laughed at that , " First of all I am not her editor and even he doesn't tell her what to put in a story. She asked what I thought and I told her. Secondly , I would never use my personal fears to try and influence her writing. " Jennifer turned her face to him, " Do you think she did it to provoke him again ?" Jack glanced at her then back to the road , " Did you read the article? " Jennifer shook her head , " No , I haven't had the chance. " Jack continued, " It's not like she editorialized or anything , she told the facts which , let's face it make him look bad. " Jennifer asked , " Are you worried about it ? " Jack considered his answer , " Yes and no , we have an agreement. Never mind , I want you to know that he is going to pay for all of it, don't you worry. " But Jennifer was worried ...about a lot of things.





Jennifer picked up her car and headed to meet Daniel with her agents right behind her. Jack entered the house and called out to Sara. After a a few minutes Sara came downstairs and sat next to Jack on the sofa. " So , everything ok ? " Jack put his arms around her and kissed her. " It is now. " He rested his head on top of her head. " So , I have this idea " she said. He smiled into her hair, " Hmm me too. I have big plans for this evening , and possibly the morning too. " Sara chuckled , " Well as long as you are in an ambitious mood , maybe you will want to do some investigating with me. Then we can spend the evening working on your plans. " Jack lifted his head and looked down on her , " What do you have in mind? "




Sara and Jack parked around the corner from Daniel's house. Jack watched as Sara wiggled through the small back window , in moments she was opening the door to what was left of the mudroom for him. " What are you smirking at ? " Jack walked into the house , " I'm not going to lie , watching you climb into that window was rather ...arousing. " Sara rolled her eyes " Focus Deveraux , focus. " Jack cleared his throat, " Alright tell me again what we are looking for. " Sara stepped into the kitchen. While there was heavy damage, it was isolated to only that room. " I don't know..something isn't right. This was sloppy , if you are trying to kill someone why would they only blowup the one room and leave the intended victim in another room? Let's face it Alamain has the money to hire pro's. Bo and Hope would have been killed if Jack didn't call out to them and Jennifer , well who knows what he would have done had the agent not been there to push her car out of the way. Those were unforeseen complications , this "attempt" was planned not to kill Daniel. " Jack was looking around while he listened to Sara , then he saw something odd. Stuck into the base of one the cabinets looked to be a handle of some sort . Jack removed the loose panel and found a wrench. " Well that's an odd place to store your tools." Sara walked over and looked at the wrench , " Well that is curious . " Jack raised an eyebrow , " Indeed. " Sara and Jack took the wrench with them ,she grabbed him by the shirt and pulled him down into a passionate kiss, " Let's go Deveraux , I have to get ready, we have a hot date tonight. " Jack watched her walk away , " Yes , we most certainly do. "







Dean was making coffee when Jack and Sara came downstairs looking exhausted but happy. " Late night ? " he asked them . Both just said one word, " Coffee. " The threesome sipped in silence. Then Sara asked if Angela got off ok. Dean chuckled , "Not as good as.." They both looked at him through narrow eyes over the rims of their cups. " Yea she ..uhh..she got off just fine. " The phone rang and Dean answered it, " Hello...what do YOU
want...I'll see if she is available. " Dean cupped his hand over the mouthpiece and whispered, " It's Alamain. " Jack and Sara looked at one another. She got up and took the phone, " Hello...discuss what? ....defamation? ...No I don't think so..I reported the facts I am sorry if that didn't paint you in a favorable..I don't think, that's what lawyers are for, you can contact my editor.. ." Sara hung up the phone saying , " Goodbye to you too Mr Alamain. " Jack waited for her to sit back down biting back the urge to rant. " Well..what did he want? " Sara took another sip of coffee , " he was not pleased with my article and wants me to meet him at Salem place in an hour to discuss it. " Jack shook his head , "No, no you will not..." Jack stopped talking and put his hands in the air . " Let me rephrase that...Are you planning on going ? " Sara smiled into her cup. "Maybe..." now it was her turn to give alittle, " What do you think I should do? " Jack rubbed the back of his neck, he knew what he wanted to say , but he went with his gut, against his will , " I think..I think you should go...But Dean and I will be there as well..unseen of course. " Sara looked into his eyes , she knew he was trying , she got up and sat in his lap , kissing him, " See you can teach an old dog new tricks. " He buried his face in her neck and whispered in her ear, " I thought you already did that last night. "



Jennifer was walking through Salem Place, she was going to meet Maggie for lunch and some shopping when she rounded the corner and walked right into Lawrence. "Well if it isn't Jennifer. How are you? " Jennifer's stomach turned at the phone smile and pleasantries. " As if you really care. " That only made Lawrence's smile wider. " Of course I care about what happens to my ex-wife. The ending of a marriage doesn't mean the affection dies , a fact you and your former husband Jack are well aware of. " Jennifer's nostrils were flaring , " Like the way you still cared for Carly ? You killed her didn't you and you are responsible for the 'run of bad luck' we all have had lately aren't you? You shouldn't have come back here Lawrence , we put you in jail once before and we will do it again. " Lawrence didn't speak trying to control his anger , " I loved Katerina , I would never hurt her. " Another voice rang out now , " That seems to be your patented response as of late Mr Alamain. " Sara said with a smile of her own. " Ahh Miss Jamison , If you don't mind , Jennifer and I were having a private conversation. " Sara looked to Jennifer, " I don't mind..Do you mind Jennifer? " Jennifer looked at Sara then to Lawrence , " No I don't mind at all. " Sara thought that if looks could kill she and Jennifer would drop right there.
" Well Miss Jamison , I am going to have to postpone my meeting with you as I am meeting with my attorney first, I will call you to reschedule. Say hello to Jack for me will you. "The two women swatched him walk away. " Well that was fun. " Sara noted. Jennifer looked at her " Does Jack know that you were meeting Lawrence ? " Sara found her question annoying but bit her tongue , " Yes he and Dean are out there watching , " she couldn't help herself , she giggled , " He was probably having a stroke seeing both of us and Alamain standing here. " Despite herself Jennifer gave a chuckle also. As the two woman entered the food court Jack and Dean were sitting there waiting for them. Jenifer left Sara to go over to Maggie. When Sara walked over she said " I guess you heard everything. " Well I am not unhappy that he canceled . Did Jennifer say what he said to her? " Sara shook her head ,
" No , go ask her she is right over there. " Jack studied Sara , " You don't mind ? " Sara didn't answer only shook her head. " Ok I will be right back , order for me . "


Jennifer sat two tables away from them waiting for Maggie. Jack approached her , " You alright ? What did he say to you? " Jennifer frowned , telling him of the brief conversation, of course leaving out the threats she had made. " Then Sara walked up and you heard the rest. Have you heard from the children ? I spoke to Abby this morning, JJ was still asleep
I guess he was tired from the trip. " Jack smiled , " Yes , Steve called me last night , Jack fell asleep on the car ride from the airport. He promised to call tonight. " Jennifer asked if he had thought anymore about getting security. Before he could answer Jennifer's cell rang and he could see that the food had arrived for his table. He mouthed to Jennifer that they would talk later. The threesome sat and ate , Sara kept an eye on Jennifer as they all did she sat alone. Sara got up from her seat , " Oh for Pete's sake.. " She stepped over to Jennifer's table , " Are you going to sit here alone? " Jennifer looked up from her newspaper. " Well my Aunt is delayed so I guess so. " Sara blew out a breath " Why don't you come sit with us. " Dean almost choked on his burger, Jennifer's eyes opened wide, only Jack watched Sara with a lopsided smile. It filled his heart with love for her that she would do this even as she had admitted to being jealous of his and Jennifer's relationship.
Jennifer finally spoke , " Oh , well I don't want to intrude. " Sara mentally rolled her eyes, "If it was an intrusion I wouldn't have asked you. " Jennifer gave her a smirk wondering what this was all about , " Thank you Sara I would like that. " Jennifer decided to extend her own olive branch and chose not to sit next to Jack but to sit between Dean and Sara. " So I have an idea.. " Sara announced. Jack froze , burger in just at his mouth. " I hate it when you say that. " Both Dean and Sara laughed. "Seriously , I was thinking that you and Dean can follow Lawrence , he is still sitting in that restraint behind you, his lawyer is just sitting down by the way. Anyway while you can do that , I can go check out the lawyers office , plus I think I would like another look around Carly's house. I want to see if she has a will laying around.Before you say no, if you and Dean are shadowing them you can give me a heads up when they split up. " Jack shook his head, then said " You go to Carly's I will go to the lawyer's. " Jennifer said , " I can go with one of you to help" Both heads turned and said "NO." Jennifer looked at Jack , " You know I am just going to show up anyway. " "Jennifer.. " Sara didn't want Jack and Jennifer off together, plus she had to admit that she was curious about her. " Ok , how's this. Jack you go to Carly's and Jennifer can come with me. " Now Jack's mouth hung open , Jennifer spoke now , she was curious about Sara she had to admit , maybe she could get a better feel for her by spending a bit of time together.
" I think that is a great idea. Like Sara said Dean will give us a heads up and we will be long gone by the time they get back to the office. " Jack knew he was done, he could not fight both of them and in the end they would have their own way. He decided to shock both women as they had smug looks on their faces , both waiting for his protest. " Alright
as you wish. So let's get to it. We will meet back at the house in say two hours? " The two women and Dean were left speechless and as Jack walked away he had his own smug look on his face.




Sara and Jennifer headed over to Bentley's office. " So what are we looking for ? " Jennifer asked. " Obviously anything pertaining to Lawrence, but I also want to see if he has a copy of Lawrence's will. " Jennifer looked confused, " Why are you so interested in their wills? "
Sara had a sly look on her face, " I tell you when and if we find it. "


Dean was following Lawrence and his lawyer through the streets of Salem. He was wondering about the train wreck that might happen with Sara and Jennifer being together.
After about a ten minute drive they arrived at their destination...police headquarters. Dean called Sara then jack to tell them where they were. Dean gave them a few minutes to get inside then decided to go in and see what he could find out , his trusted mini camera hidden in his sleeve.



Jack searched the house again. " If I were a will where would I be. " Jack had a thought, he went upstairs to the Carly's bedroom. he opened her her closet and looked on the overhead shelf. There all the way in the back was a locked box. Jack picked the lock , " Yes , I still have the touch . " Jack found papers and jewelry in the box. He opened a black box and the item in it stopped his breath . It was the diamond engagement ring Jennifer had worn while pretending to be Katerina. All those memories came flooding back to him. The sight of Jennifer in the white gown at the ball. Then asking her to take him back , declaring his love and making love to her once again. The memory of how beautiful she looked when he drove up as Jasper. Then the way his heart sank when she showed him her wedding ring. He shook it off and went through the papers . " There you are..let's see ...what do we have here..."




Jennifer and Sara walked up to the door of Bentley's office. The door was locked. They looked around and there was nobody around them. Jennifer looked into the window, " I don't see anybody inside. " Sara told Jennifer to stand in front of her. She reached into her back pocket and pulled out a pick. After a minute or two she got the lock opened and Jennifer looked at her in surprise, "Hey who do you think taught Jack. " They slipped inside and went straight to the inner office. "Start going through the files , look for anything with Alamain on it. " Sara said as she opened up a file cabinet. The two women
searched in silence. After a while Jennifer called out to Sara. " I found it , Sara , his will. "
Sara came over and read it , " That's what I thought. " Jennifer looked at her " What ? What is it? " He never changed his will , even after she tried to kill him. If he killed her I think he would have changed it. Somebody like him , all business , all about money, I can't see him not. " Jennifer thought about what Sara had said , " So you think we have another killer. "



Dean was walking around the station when he ran into Bo. "Dean what are you doing here?" Not sure what to say he told him the truth. "I was trying to find out why Alamain was here." Bo was a bit shocked by the honesty. "Wow an honest answer , I like that. " Dean smiled , " Does that mean you'll tell me? " Bo walked him back to the front door, "Off the record? " Dean nodded . " FBI is here to talk to him. "



On the way back to the house , Sara asked about her protective agents. "They followed us to the office, but didn't come into the building so they didn't see us breaking in. " Jennifer told her. "Good , that would have been awkward. " She didn't mean to but it just slipped out, Jennifer tried not to bring up Jack , she just couldn't stop it. " You and Jack have gotten quite close. " Sara sighed loudly. "Speaking of awkward. " But try as she might Jennifer couldn't stop talking. "You know Sara , Jack maybe throwing himself into a relationship with you to prove that he can move on. I know, I have done it myself time and time again. You don't really know him, he's.." Sara pulled the car over, to Jennifer's surprise. " That's where you are wrong I know Jack. I know him very well , in fact I know things about him you don't. In case you have forgotten , I know him longer than you do. When he is with me he doesn't have to worry about about who he is suppose to be. " Jennifer took a deep breath , "Jack loves me and I love him, that will never change. There have been many people who have tried to come between us over the years. Some have succeeded for a while but in the end it is always the same. Jack and I always come back to each other. " Sara wasn't sure what Jennifer was trying to achieve by this, " Don't you mean men. Many men have tried to come between the two of you? You just can't stand the idea that he may actually be in love with someone else can you. This conversation is over. " They drove in silence the remaining blocks to Jack's house.


Jack could tell that the something had happened between Sara and Jennifer. But he decided to wait to talk to Sara alone. He told them that Carly left the bulk of her money to Frankie and her house to Daniel and all her jewelry to Melanie. Sara then told him what they found out. " What does it all mean? " Jack asked. Dean came into the kitchen. He told them that he found out why Alamain was at the police station. " The FBI wanted to speak to him. "



Dean had went downstairs for the night and Jennifer had gone , Jack felt it time to get Sara to tell him what happened. " Tell me what happened , Please. " He asked again. She told him all of it. He went to hold her and she stepped back. " I don't want to talk about it ok. "
Jack agreed, "Ok but I am sorry , Now I want you to go upstairs and shower don't come down until seven o'clock and wear something fancy." Sara smiled "Jack you don't need to do that. " Jack grabbed her and kissed her , " Well I already had it planned so.." Sara looked up at him, " Ok then , see you at seven. " Jack stopped her " Wait, I will pick you up at seven , Ok? " Sara smiled brightly "ok." Tonight Jack thought he was going to give her a night romance .




"No, no way Jack" Dean said. " Come on why not it will only be for ten minutes tops. I will give you fifty dollars to go out afterward for a few hours besides. " If Dean was going to do this he had to make Jack sweat and nothing makes Jack sweat like digging into his pocket. " I don't think Fifty is enough, I mean I have to eat maybe a movie , that's only good for two hours tops. " Jack studied him through narrowed eyes, " How much are we talking here? " Dean smiled to himself , " Well fifty for dinner and a movie and at least fifty to do what you asked. " Jack's jaw dropped open , " Fifty ? It's ten minutes tops! " Dean shrugged,
" That's the price take it or leave it. " Jack handed over the hundred dollars and muttered under his breath , "Highway robbery that's what this is. "





Jack went through the house one last time to make sure everything was in place. he wanted Sara to have fun tonight. The night was going to be romantic and different. He had only given her a few romantic evenings when they were young but they always had fun no matter what they did. Hopefully tonight he could give her both.





At seven o'clock on the dot Jack went up to Sara's room. "Sara ,don't open the door yet. "
"Uhh..ok , what's up Jack? " Jack realized he was nervous, what if she thought this was all stupid. Oh well ..in for a penny ..in for a pound. " Will you promise me something. " He could hear her trying to stifle a laugh, " Depends..what is it? " Jack's lips curled into a smile , " Promise me you will just go along with me on this. You have to just trust me. "
Sara didn't even give it a moments thought .." I trust you Jack..I will go along with whatever you have planned. Promise. " Jack sighed , "Ok here we go. "


Jack knocked on Sara's door. Ok, Sara thought I think I get it. " Who is it ? " Jack laughed, it really was amazing how quickly her mind worked. " Uhh , It's me Jack , Jack Deveraux. We had a date tonight." Sara opened the door a crack and stuck her head out only, " Oh yes Jack, I am sorry , I forgot all about it can we make it another night? " Jack looked at her through narrowed eyes. " Sorry just kidding , come in , I will be ready in a minute. " Jack entered her room, his head began to swim with the smell of her perfume. " I hope I am not too early. If you want I...." As he turned he looked at her in a beautiful cream colored , halter dress that slit open on one leg to the middle of her thigh. Her long brown hair cascaded down over her shoulders. " Whoa..you look incredible. " was all he could say.
" I could say the same about you. " And he did. He wore a black tux like no other man could , his hair still wet from his shower , a few strands hanging over his forehead. He smelled wonderful , God he was sexy, she thought. He handed her a beautiful bouquet
of flowers. " For you. " She gave him a sweet smile, " Thank you , I love flowers. " She put the flowers in an empty vase on her desk, " Well, I am ready if you are. " Jack cocked his eyebrow, " I am ready. "


As they walked downstairs Jack said , " I hope you don't mind , It's such a lovely evening , I thought we could walk the short distance to the restaurant. " Sara was desperately trying to keep a straight face. " Oh no not at all , I love a nice evening stroll. " As they came through the kitchen door and approached the back door Jack said, " I thought we might dine alfresco. " Sara looked up to him , " Oh that would be lovely. " Jack held the door open for her and she almost lost it to when she saw Dean standing there in dress clothes.
" Not one word , do you hear me? " Jack cleared his throat. " We have a reservation , the name is Deveraux. " Dean tilted his head towards the backyard. Jack leaned forward and said "Don't make me ask for a refund. " Dean sighed loudly, "This way Mr Deveraux. " As they walked to the table Dean was muttering " Outta my mind. " Jack came up behind his back and said in his ear, " I have one word for you ...chauffeur, " Dean stopped walking for a minute , " What are you part elephant? " As they reached the backyard Sara gave a small gasp. " Oh Jack." The yard was decorated with small twinkling lights and candles , the table beautifully set and soft music was playing. When Dean turned around and saw the look on Sara's face , he suddenly realized what Jack had done for her and he smiled. " Your table. " Jack pushed Sara's chair in for her. " I heard this place was excellent. " Jack responded , " The best in town. " Dean poured them champagne and set two covered plates in front of them. " Will there be anything else? Perhaps a couple of tickets for the crazy train ? " Jack made a face at him , "No that will be all thank you. " Then Sara grabbed his hand as he turned to leave, " Yes , thank you. " Dean smirked and shook his head, as walked away they heard him say , " they are both completely insane."


Jack and Sara sipped champagne and talked as thought they were on their first date. "Would you care to dance? " Sara wanted to cry , he was being so sweet. Of course this was crazy but that was who they were together , fun and crazy, romantic and ..well then there was the sex. " I would love to. " Jack took her hand and led her to the center of the yard and under strings of lights they danced a sweet slow dance , then they danced to "My Everything. " Another slow dance after that, each enjoying the music and the company. "Well , dinner will be getting cold , shall we? " Sara found a petite fillet Mignon , mashed potatoes and asparagus under her cover. " My favorite" she said looking down at the food. " I know. " he whispered. The food was wonderful. they danced some more and Jack asked if she would like dessert now. " What do they have? " Jack walked over to a large table with more champagne and a thermal coffee pot and two plates. He brought the plates over then poured them each coffee. When Sara lifted the cover she looked up at Jack,
" I am so happy " Jack laughed out loud. "you like my choice." Sara swiped her finger through the chocolate mousse. " Ohhh , I like, I like. " Jack had a piece of chocolate cake.
Sara swiped a finger through the mousse again. Holding up her finger she asked if Jack would like to taste it. " I would love to. " She leaned over and put her finger to his mouth. He took her finger into his mouth and then pulled back, taking the dessert with him. "Mmm , that's good. " They finished their dessert and Jack said , "I thought maybe we could go for a moonlit walk on the beach ? " Sara's eyes popped open. " I would love a walk on the beach. " This she had to see.



Jack took her hand and walked to the back of the garage. He leaned down and rolled up his pants and took off his shoes and socks , " I hate getting sand in my shoes. " Sara let out a small laugh that melted his heart. " Yea I hate that too. " She bent her knee and leaned sideways to undo her shoe. Jack placed his hand on hers. " Please allow me. " She placed her hand on his shoulder and he took her ankle in his hand and undid her her straps that went around her ankle. He placed her foot down and repeated the act for the other foot. "You do that quite well , let me guess , you worked your way through college selling women's shoes." Jack looked up into her eyes, they were sparkling with love and humor.
" As if , who would buy anything from me. " Sara answered that remark, " I would , hell I would buy a pair of horseshoes from you. " Jack slid his hand up her leg as he got up
" that's so sweet of you to say. Well you ready ? " He took her hand again but she tugged him back, " Jack, I just want to tell you what a wonderful night I am having. " Jack touched his finger to the dent in her chin. " Does that mean you would consider going out with me again? " Sara squeezed his hand. " Most definitely. "


They rounded the side of the garage and Sara saw a large blue tarp covered in sand, a small blow up pool filled with water and a garbage pail and three basketballs. "One moment please." He disappeared into the garage and the music stopped. Then the sounds of the ocean filled the yard. Jack reemerged and took her hand again. " Oh look Jack , come on win me a stuffed animal. " Jack was impressed that she figured out what the trash can and basketball set was for. " Well I will do my best. These games are rigged you know. " Sara feigned shock, " No ! Are they really? " Jack walked over and picked up a basketball , he of course got it into the pail as he did with the other two. Sara clapped and cheered for each ball that went into the pail. He then presented her with a white teddy bear holding a red heart. " Thanks, you were very impressive. Did you play basketball in college. " Jack opened his mouth, then said " Sure let's go with that. " They stepped onto the sand , they started to walk the short distance to the bench Jack had set up in front of the pool. " Come on let's sit down and put our feet in the water. Oh shoot , wait here a second. " She watched him run back into the garage coming back out with a bag of cotton candy. " I forgot your cotton candy. " They sat down and placed their feet into the water , If Sara closed her eyes she could feel a slight breeze and almost smell the salt water. Jack watched her as she sat with her eyes closed, the moonlight glistening off her skin. He wanted to run his hand up her thigh but he held himself, instead placing his arm around her shoulder " This was a great idea Jack, it's such a lovely evening." She turned her face to him feeling his eyes on her, he was rubbing his thumb against her shoulder. He leaned down slowly and touched his lips lightly to her. " It's always best to get that first kiss out of the way early. " Sara slid her hand up and over his neck , " Isn't though. " She pulled him down to her and kissed him with a simmering passion. they talked and kissed for a long time . "Well it's getting late, I should get you home. " As Jack stood up Sara kicked her foot splashing him with water. " Oh do you really want to go there? " So she did it again. By the time they were done both were dripping wet. They made their way back upstairs. " I guess this is good night. " Was he really going to go that far with this first date game. " Why don't you come in and I will get you a towel. " Jack gave her a slow smile and raised eyebrow.
" Well I don't want to impose . " Sara gave him the same look back, " Don't be silly, I am the
one who got you all wet and if you catch a cold I will never forgive myself. " Sara opened her door and Jack followed her in, " I didn't get to mention it before but this is a nice little place. " She handed him a towel, " Here you go , thanks I like it. " Sara was towel drying her hair , the moon shining into the dimly lit room, " God , you are beautiful. " She looked at him her eyes soft her mouth inviting him, " Thank you , You know Jack I don't usually do this but, I think we made a real connection tonight. I had such a great time I hate for it to end. " Jack was breathing heavy, " Agreed , a definite connection. I don't really want it to end either. " Sara stood before him her hair damp with little curls forming from it being wet, " Well what DO you want Jack? " Jack sighed loudly, " You, from the minute I saw you this evening, I've wanted you. " Sara dropped her towel and placed her hands behind her neck, " Then we are in complete agreement. " She undid the clasp behind her neck and the dress slid from her body. She stood in front of him in panties and her high heels only, he was glad now she took the time to slip her shoes on again before they came in. They made her legs look incredible. She glided over to him and took off his wet jacket and tie. She unbuttoned his shirt their eyes never leaving each other , she slid his shirt off. " So want to watch some TV. " She said with a sly smile. Jack took a deep breath, " No , let's play twister instead. " He slid his hands around her waist and pulled her close , kissing her with such a
passion it effectively shut her mind down.





The threesome sat around the kitchen table , two with smiles and one frowning drinking coffee and having bagels. "Wipe those stupid grins off your faces, it's too early for that. " The phone rang and Jack answered it , " Hello , Oh yes hello Bo...sure ..sure we will be there in an hour. " Dean and Sara looked at him , " It seems the FBI wants to speak to us. "



They got down to police headquarters and were lead into Bo's office. Bo told them he had no idea what the FBI wanted but they had to speak to Jennifer too. Jennifer came in a short time later. The door opened and in walked a tall well built man . He was very handsome with eyes so brown they looked like chocolate . He had a small scar slicing across his chin. He turned and faced the group, looking them all in the eye saving Dean and Sara for last. " Miss Jamison. " Sara sighed , " Hello Agent Todd. " Then looking back to Dean , "Dean, how's it going ? " Dean didn't like this latest development. " Hey Ben , What's up?""That's what I am here to find out. " he said staring at Sara.






"I want to know what you all have been up to. First of all Miss Deveraux did you really think it would be that easy to ditch ISA agents? They followed you BOTH times. Did nobody think it a bit coincidental that Brady over there, just showed up at Dr Manning's house? " Jack and Sara rolled their eyes. All of them turned and looked at Bo. " Hey sorry guys. " Sara tried to hide a laugh. " Think that's funny ? You are the one who brought her to a B & E. I want to know everything you took, read , saw or even thought you saw. Hell I want to know what you didn't see. " The door op end and in walked Shane. " Hello Ben , what are you doing here. "Agent Todd gave him a half smile and shook his hand , " Hello Shane , agency wants me to find out if we need to step into this situation. " Shane tilted his head " Really , and why is that? " Ben took a deep breath and looked upward, "Well we don't take to kindly to foreign nationals coming here and committing crimes. " Shane's face turned serious , " The ISA is handling this. " Ben nodded , " Handling it ? Let's see one murder , one kidnapping , one attempted kidnapping and three attempted murders. Is that what the ISA calls handling it . Not to mention you've got these four snooping around . I would say you're doing a bang up job. " Shane did not like those words. " Now hang on a moment Todd.. " Jack spoke up.."Well if you don't need us anymore..." Agent Todd didn't move his head but his eyes turned to see Jack going for the door. " Mr Deveraux, " Jack cringed , " So close and yet so far.. Agent ..Todd is it. " Now the agent moved towards him, stinking out his hand, " That's right..Tell me Mr Deveraux where were you yesterday while your wife and....Miss Jamison were breaking into the law offices of one Thomas F Bentley. " Jack smirked and tilted his head, " Ex..ex-wife , I had a few errands to run. " The FBI agent nodded , " Sure you did, what about you ? " looking at Dean. " Me ? I was at Salem place , Burger deluxe , fries , Coors. " Then he turned to Jennifer, " What did you do at the lawyers? " Jennifer swallowed hard and licked her lips , " I just went with Sara , she was going to try and get an interview with him , I was curious that's all. It's not everyday you get to see an award winning reporter at work. " Sara , Jack and Dean all rolled their eyes. " It all comes back to you doesn't Miss Jamison , are really going to let all these people go to jail with you. " Jennifer opened her mouth and Jack placed his hand on her arm, she looked up and he gave a slight shake of his head. " Oh please , " Sara said the anger evident in her voice, " FBI intimidation tactics..I haven't heard those in a while. " He walked over to her and loomed over her , " Tell me what you did in that office , did shutterbug over there take photos of documents for you? " Jack found it curious that the FBI agent used the nickname for Dean that Angela always did. Sara was done with this game , she was ready to move it on to the next level. " You know damn well Jack and Dean weren't there and as for Jennifer, she has no idea what I did or didn't do in that office. I left her in the waiting room , I needed a lookout after all. " Jack and Jennifer stood mouths open and Dean rubbed his for head. " What did you do in the office ? " Sara turned now and looked him in the eye , "Before or after I sat naked in his big leather desk chair ? " Agent Todd chuckled , " That's funny , What did you do ? " Sara turned away and looked straight ahead " A little of this..a little of that.. " He leaned down " Did you take anything out of that office? " Sara shook her head" No I did not. " He stood straight " Why don't you just tell me now and save the bail money..you know you are going to tell me sooner or later. " Sara crossed her arms in front of her , " I have nothing to say to you , because there is nothing to say. " Agent Todd ran his fingers through his black hair. Leaning down to Sara's ear, he closed his eyes and he whispered, " Sara , please, please don't make me do this. " Jack couldn't hear what he said to her , but he could see the pained look on his face. In that instant Jack knew he was the on again off again man that had been in Sara's life. Sara turned her eyes to him " You do what you have to do . " He nodded standing tall , he swallowed back his hurt and anger grabbing her by the elbow tightly , Jack stepped forward , " What the hell do you think you are doing ? Dean took Jack by the arm, " Don't Jack , you will only make it worse. " Agent Todd took Sara 's wrist in his hand and pulled out his cuffs, " Sara Jamison I am placing you into custody for impeding a federal investigation. " Sara looked at Dean , " Call Brian." was all she said. Then looking at Jack , who looked like he was going to flip out ,
she gave him the hint of a smile and winked at him. Agent Todd looked at Bo , " Take her into custody. " After Sara was taken out of the room Dean looked at Agent Todd ,
" Seriously Ben ? That was totally uncalled for. " Dean turned and walked out of the room ,
" You and your wife can go Mr Deveraux. " Now Jack knew why he kept saying that , " Ex-wife. I will be back and I will be seeing Sara. " Ben looked at Jack and said " Yeah ? Good luck with that . "







Dean was pacing ,on hold waiting for Sara's editor. " Dean hang up for a minute , Please. " Ben stood in front of him frowning. " What do you want. " Ben smirked at him " Come on man , don't be like this. It's business. " Dean looked away , " Please we both know what happened in there was anything but business. " As Dean walked away he was stopped by Ben's words , " So that's him , THE Jack Deveraux? " Dean started walking away , " Yea that's him."





Jack and Jennifer sat on a bench outside police headquarters waiting for Dean. " Why did she do that ? " Jack looked at Jennifer " Two reasons , one she was protecting all of us and two.....spite. I would say that they knew each other ...well . " Jennifer sighed , " Yea , I got that..I think everybody in the room got that. " Jennifer looked down to Jack's hands , he was playing with something, " What's that ? " She asked . " Uh , oh Bo gave me Sara's ring. It was her mothers wedding ring, she always wears it. She died when Sara was a kid. " Jennifer watched him twirl the ring around the tip of his pinky finger. She thought about the day Jack found out about the divorce. He was rubbing the ring with his thumb while she told him. It was a nervous habit he had developed, it had always seemed to calm him, but not this day. he had put JJ into the car and came back into the house, Jennifer thought to talk again , but that was not the case. He stood in the doorway, pulling his ring off his finger as though it was burning through his skin . " You might as well take this too. It completes the set you know. You took my life , our marriage , It's only fitting you take the ring as well. " He extended his hand to her put she refused , " No Jack. Please I don't want it. Keep it . " He looked at her in horror , " Keep it ? Keep it ? That ring was a symbol , a symbol of our never ending love. I guess that term was reserved for my feelings alone. Keep it ? I don't ever want to look at it again , Take it ! Who knows maybe it will fit your new boyfriend , oh wait my mistake. You would need something new to go with your new life, must shed the remnants of the old life. Take it! " When she refused again , sobbing , he threw it across the room. "There I tossed it away just like you did our life."


" Jennifer , earth to Jennifer " Jennifer was back , to the here and now , " What , oh sorry. " Jack gave her a small smile , " Well I guess I won't need to worry about how you got out of the Kiriakis mansion undetected anymore. " She looked at him through narrowed eyes " I am just a little out of practice Jack that's all. I will do much better next time. " Jack turned to face her , " Now that's my girl, if at first you don't succeed...." Jennifer laughed now , " That's right ...try try again. " Jack saw Dean coming their way , " Welcome back, Pollyanna."
he said to her.

After Jennifer left , Jack asked Dean , " He is the one , Agent Todd, the on again off again man in Sara's life , isn't he ? " Dean puffed out his cheeks and blew out a breath. " Yea that's him. " Jack shook his head , " How could he do that to her ? " Dean gave a slight laugh , " How do you think they met ? " Jack thought about that , " How did it end ? "
Dean looked at him seriously , " Not well ." Jack opened his mouth but Dean held up a hand , " Anything more you'll have to ask her. " Jack nodded, " And so I shall. "



Sara sat in her cell , waiting. She knew it was a matter of time before he would be down there , he will want to know everything , and if she knew him well and she did , he would want an explanation for the personal situation they were now in as well. The door slammed shut and there he was , he carried a chair with him and he sat, as she knew he would , with the back of the chair in front of him , straddling it. " Sara. " She looked down at the floor , then back to him , " Ben. " He stared at her a long time , then as if finding his voice he said , " Let's talk. "

[fluffysmom]

Great chapters. I really enjoyed the romantic date. I liked Jennifer and Sara working together.

[jaysdelina]

I absolutely loved this.Action,romance,intrigue,you brought it all together beautifully.Thank you for another amazing set of chapters.Can't wait to read the next installment

[MrsM]

Holy cow!! Great chapters!!

[blueyed358]

chapters 49-51....( last one ended at 48..49 didn't fit)





" Let's talk. " Ben told Sara . " Can we make it a quick conversation , I have a mani-pedi appointment in ten minutes. " Ben looked down at the floor and tugged on his earlobe , a habit he did often , mostly when he was trying to collect his thoughts. " Sara on a personal level I hate seeing you in there nor do I want to keep you in there. But you know professionally I will keep you in there as long as necessary. I have to report back to Washington tomorrow , I'd hate to leave you in there until I return. Hell If you tell me what I want to know I might not have to return at all. " Sara frowned , she hated to give into him but she did not wish to enjoy the hospitality of the Salem PD for and infinite amount of time either. " The usual ? " He smiled at her , he was handsome , she had to give him that. "Quid pro quot ? " Sara nodded. He knew how difficult it was for her to concede even the smallest bit , especially to him. He knew he had to word his questions just right to get the most information, she was so damn smart, too smart sometimes for her own good. " What were you looking for in Bentley's office? " Sara took a deep breath , knowing their professional
dance was about to begin. "Something specific. " Of course , Ben thought , the dance always started slow. Her turn now, "What do you think I was looking for? " Again the tug on the ear, " Anything on Alamain. " the dance would pick up momentum now......

Ben.." Specifically what were you looking for ? "
Sara.."His will"

Sara.." What are you hoping I found? "
Ben.. " Anything tying him to a man named Hamed. "

Ben.." Did you see anything with that name on it? "
Sara." Not that I recall."

Sara.." Who is he ? "
Ben.. " He buys weapons for interested parties. "

Ben.."Why did you want to see his will?"
Sara."I wanted to add credence to a hunch. "

Sara.." Is Alamain involved in selling weapons? "
Ben.."The FBI cannot confirm nor deny those allegations."

Ben.."What is the hunch regarding?
Sara.." The murder of Carly Manning? "

Sara.." Who is he allegedly selling weapons too? "
Ben.." Long list "

Ben.." What is this hunch? "
Sara.." That Alamain didn't kill her."

Sara.." Do you think the Lawyer is involved with the weapons dealing? "
Ben.." Not sure..but he smells dirty."

Ben.. "Why don't you think he killed her."
Sara.." He wanted her to suffer by seeing people she cared about die, plus I believe in some sick twisted way he still loved her and he wanted her back."

Sara.." Does the FBI have any proof linking Alamain and / or his lawyer to the weapons sales? "
Ben.." Not at this time."

Ben.." What did the will tell you."
Sara.." That Carly Manning was still listed as sole beneficiary. "


Sara.." So you are here about the weapons not the revenge plot? "
Ben.." Yes and No."

Ben.." You don't think he would leave his will like that if planned on killing her , this soon at least?
Sara.." " No I don't , I think it odd he didn't change it even after she tried to kill him."

Sara.. " What do you mean yes and no?"
Ben.." The FBI wanted a look see regarding the weapons , I wanted to make sure you were all right. "

Ben.." Do you know that he is mentally unstable? "
Sara.. " The thought had crossed my mind. "

Sara.." Can you give me anymore information regarding the weapons or the lawyer ? "
Ben.." No ."

Ben.." Can you give me anything else about the murder of Carly Manning or any other documents you may have read while at Bentley's office?"
Sara.." No."


" Well ladies and gentleman that concludes the business end of our show , please stay tuned for the highly anticipated personal addition of our program." Ben said as he stood up. " You can call the guard anytime now to get me out of here. " She said in the same monotone voice. Ben placed his hands on the bars, " I could but I prefer you to be a captive audience. "




" Look Dean I know you don't want to get in the middle of things , how about just facts, no real personal details just some basic history? " Dean could see that Jack was worried about Ben. Some history couldn't hurt , maybe help level the playing field for his old college buddy. " Ok , what do you want to know ? " Jack breathed a sigh of relief. "Earlier you alluded to Agent Todd having Sara arrested , how did they meet ? Dean chuckled , " Well Sara was working a story about a local mobster's rico trial, he was the lead investigator. He wanted to know where she was getting her inside information, she wouldn't tell him. Ben threatened her during the first time he brought her in. He let her go but the second time he brought her in when he threatened her again she laughed at him. He held her for a week before they came to an understanding. A couple of weeks after the trial ended he asked her out , she refused but he wouldn't take no for an answer ,she finally gave in. " Jack wanted details but he would get them from Sara later. " How long have they been involved on and off ? " Dean had to think about it , " Mmm, not sure.. I guess about ten years. " Jack was surprised it had been that long. " So he knew our son? " Dean felt a pang of sympathy for Jack, " Yes , Robert liked Ben a lot and the feeling was mutual, but it was impossible not to like Robert." Jack gave Dean a sad smile. " When was the last time they were 'on' ? " Dean looked up, " Not too sure but if I had to guess , I would say it ended almost a year before you contacted her. " Jack stood stone faced , " I see."




" You can't be serious Ben , you are going to leave me in here ? " Ben stood back and crossed his arms in front of him. " What did I do that was so bad as to make you severe ties with me this time ? You know most women would love to get a marriage proposal from their longtime boyfriend. " he put his hands in the air , " Yea I know you aren't most women. That's why I love you the way I do. Maybe I should have asked the question earlier
but I thought you were finally ready for me , for us to be permanent. " Sara started to shake her head , " You really want to know..i 'll tell you. I came to your apartment the night after you proposed to me , I was reconsidering your offer , but when the half naked woman answered the door and informed me you were unable to come to the door I thought better of it. " Ben stood looking at her in disbelief . " That's why you wouldn't ever return my calls. You got it all wrong . I know exactly what night you are talking about, I was so hurt that you turned me down , I had went out and got drunk , the bartender took me home when her shift was over. you must have come in when I was in the shower. " Sara laughed " I see and she always works in a bra and thong. Her clothes and yours were all over the living room floor. " Ben took a breath, he had to make her understand, " All I wanted that night was to get drunk , and I know this sounds ridiculous but I loved you so much , I just wanted to forget that I loved you. " Sara made a face as though all had become clear " Oh I see , I have done you a grave injustice, you loved me so much you had to sleep with another woman, thank you so much . " Ben got a bit agitated, " I wanted to be like you, I wanted to be numb to feelings. I didn't sleep with her , we made out a bit and I stopped it and told her to leave. I jumped in the shower to try to sober up and when I came out she was naked in my bed. I handed her clothes and made he leave. You see even drunk I could turn off my feelings for you. I endured ten years of being in a relationship that was a non relationship. " Sara came forward and put her hands on the bars, " You make it sound like I played yo-yo with you. Poor Ben the evil and manipulative Sara abused you so. You were the one who did most of the leaving and coming back. You never came back to find me naked with some ...personal trainer or something like that. " Ben came to the bars now too, " I would have welcomed someone to fight for you with , but I didn't get that chance, It was always you and me and the memory of Jack Deveraux . I couldn't fight a memory Sara , it's impossible. " Those words effectively shut her mouth. So he went on , "I got myself involved with another woman but my heart wasn't in it. Now you are involved with him again , you got what you have wanted, but you know what? So did I . I got a live human being to fight for you against . I know that you love me , but you would never allow yourself to love me because then you might have to admit he wasn't coming back. Sometimes the memory is nothing like the reality, and you can't relive your past. Guard! "
The uniformed officer came in , " Get her processed and released please. "





Jack had called Bo who told him that Sara would be released in about an hour or so. He wanted to get her some junk food so he stopped off at the market . He had picked up frozen pizzas and of course the pigs in a blanket. He went down the ice cream aisle to find Jennifer there looking through the pints. He stood behind her unnoticed , above her head was the Peach ice cream he knew she was searching for , he took out a pint and leaned down whispered in her ear , " Looking for this ? " She jumped a foot in the air , " Oh Jack !"He couldn't help , he laughed, " Sorry , I believe this is what you are looking for. " She smiled brightly , " Yes , thank you. " Jack looked up to the ceiling and brought a finger to his chin, " Let's see pints of ice cream could only mean one thing , a girls night of talking and chick flicks with Hope. " Now Jennifer laughed, " As a metter of fact.. " Jack pointed at her " Ah ha I knew it. " Jennifer looked in his basket , "I see you are having a junk food night. " Jack looked down at his groceries, " Well i thought Sara would appreciate it after the day she has had. " Jennifer nodded , " So she was released , did she tell him anything? "Jack looked concerned , " She will be out in about an hour , I don't know , we haven't spoken yet. Have you spoke to the children today? " Jennifer shook her head , " No , I spoke to them yesterday. Abby is loving spending time with Kayla and JJ is really enjoying Steve. "Jack smiled at the thought , " Steve is totally loving Jack as well. Apparently Steve is now killing zombies like I pro I have been told. I told Steve if our son comes home calling people 'Dude' there will be hell to pay. " They stood a moment in silence and then Jack said " Well I'd better get going. I will call you tomorrow hopefully we can come up with a new game plan. " Jennifer looked up at him, " I want to do whatever I can to help . Have a nice night Jack. " Jack gave her the lopsided grin she so loved , " You too , say hi to Hope for me. " Then he was gone. Jennifer smiled to herself , no arguing , pleasant conversation, it's getting better, she thought.





Sara went to the refrigerator when they got home and took out a water bottle . jack was relatively quiet on the ride home but Sara decided to wait till they got in the house to question it . They sat at the table , Sara sighed , " Ok spill it Deveraux , what's eating at you? " Jack looked up , " Agent Todd. " Sara nodded , " Thought so . Here is the readers digest version, as I have had a really long and trying day. We have been involved on and off for roughly ten years. I would end things and then we would see each other around and before I knew it we were seeing each other again. He would end things and then he would come back. Basically when he left it was because he felt like we weren't moving forward. He wanted more of me than I was willing to give him. " Jack didn't want to push her she looked wiped out but something inside him had to ask, after all she knew how he felt about Jennifer , he deserved the same. " You were in love with him? " Sara looked at him," I love him , but I am in love with you , I have always been in love with you. " He took her hand and pulled her onto his lap. They kissed and he cradled her in his arms, " I love you Sara. " She popped her head up, " Oh yea , are you busy tomorrow night? " Jack tilted his head , " No why? " Sara gave him a sly smile , " I have a date night of my own planned, are you up for it ? " Jack had a wicked smile on his face, " With you ? I am always up for it. "




Jennifer , Hope and Maggie were waiting on line at the Java cafe . Hope was telling them about how Bo had set up a romantic evening for them. She had see him spreading rose petals on their bed, but then he caught her and kicked her out of the house. Jennifer said that Jack had done that many times before for her too. " What did I do now? " The voice behind her said , but it was said in jest not anger. " We were talking about rose petals on the bed." She said. "Oh " he said a bit embarrassed. "You did so many romantic things for me Jack, Like the snowmen , and the polka band , bringing me food in bed. Oh and what about.. " Jack put his hand up " Please Jennifer, " Looking at the smiles on Hope and Maggie's faces. Jennifer added " I never did anything like that for you. " Jack looked at her,
then said " Oh what a minute , you did so , our first marriage, second wedding anniversary.
Remember? You had me running around town chasing a big story. Then you had Wings all set up with photos. You put on that red gown, which you looked amazing in I might add and you lip synced to 'My Guy" , all in all a lovely evening. Well..you ladies enjoy your evening. " he slipped out the door , with a slight blush on his face. " Wow Jen , Jack really did all those things for you ? " Jennifer got a faraway look in her eyes " Oh yes and so much more, the most romantic evening of my life. Jack had the roof decorated and he was in a tux dangling from the fire escape quoting 'Romeo and Juliet.' It was amazing. " Hope chuckled " I never would have thought Jack was so romantic. " Maggie weighed in , " Oh yes , don't you remember the birthday he planned for Jennifer at Tuscany? " The way Jack made love to her sweet and tender and filled with passion. No man had ever made her feel the way he did. She could still feel the sensation of his hands on her skin the way he loved to find just the right spot on her neck to make her go wild." Hope and Maggie were laughing at her because her face was flushed, " I bet I know what you were thinking about." Jennifer realized the list was endless , The letter he wrote her on their wedding day, the tango lesson, screaming at planes...screaming at planes..now there's an idea.




Dean was having lunch with Ben , " I thought you were leaving today? " Ben shook his head "I am on a flight tomorrow night. I was hoping to see Sara again before I leave. " Dean stopped in mid chew, " You really are very persistent aren't you? " Ben swallowed a swig of beer, " I try. " Dean swallowed " And you succeed. I thought you were involved with someone and thinking about getting married. " Ben laughed , " Yea funny story , first we were not engaged or anything. I committed a major faux paus if you will. " Dean was waiting for the story, " What did you do ? " Ben sighed , " Well we were in bed and she kept telling me she loved me , so I was ..well..oh you know..and then it just came out. " Dean's eyes were wide open , " Oh come on don't leave me hanging. " Ben took another swig of beer , " Apparently it is considered bad form to tell your girlfriend you love her while you are making love to her. Or it could have been that when I said I love you I called her Sara."Dean almost choked, " Oh man and you made it out of there alive.? " Ben moved a bit of hair from his forehead , " Got a new scare for it , she hit me with a lamp from the nightstand. " Dean laughed loudly , " Oh man , bet that hurt. " Ben looked down " You have no idea. "



Jack came into the house and Sara was waiting for him. " Hey , I need to go over some things for tonight. " Jack smiled he was really looking forward to this. " Ok , what do I need to know. " Sara sighed , " Ok first of all , I took poetic license with alot of things so there will be no need to correct me ok? " He was very curious now, " Ahh ok. What else?"" I will explain the rest later, well just..I am not as good at this as you are . Just keep that in mind ok. Oh boy ..I am really starting to think this isn't a good idea. " Jack hugged her " Sara this is suppose to be fun , you aren't suppose to stress out over it. " Sara looked up into his eyes " I'm not stressed out..why do I look stressed out ?..I just really want you to enjoy tonight the way I ..." He kissed her more to silence her, " I will love whatever it is. "Ok ..lets get going then."




Jack was instructed to go into the bathroom and that everything he would need was in there. Jack washed up and changed into a a black button down shirt and jeans . When he was done he found a note on the door he went and knocked on Sara's door . She opened it looking lovely in blue tank top and black tight capri leggings with high heels , the heels were for Jack, he had told her how much he loved her in them. " Hi Jack. I hope you are ready to try something new tonight. " He smiled at her " Oh yes I am up for anything." Well I thought we would try this new restaurant, it is generating quite a buzz. " She walked him down to his room and on the door was a sign that read " The Prince Of Persia" Jack raised an eyebrow. They entered his room and it had bead curtains and pieces of silk hanging all around. Pillows were set up on the floor to sit on. The lights were closed and the room was filled with candles. They entered and Sara sat down on one of the pillows in the center of them were plates, she took Jacks hand and pulled him down next to her. " The food may not be authentic but.. " They ate lamb and curry each feeding the other, they drank wine and talked . " The entertainment should begin soon. " she said . Jack looked confused , " Entertainment? " Sara nodded as she sipped her wine. " Yes a dancer, she calls herself Sheherezod." Jack smiled brightly, "Sheherezod..really the storyteller of 1001 Arabian nights?" Again she nodded. Sara excused herself into Jacks bathroom. After a few minutes Sara's voice filled his room , "Before tonights performance begins the management would like you to please obey a few house rule. You must under no circumstances touch the dancer. If she chooses you she will give you permission but until such time you may not touch. And now The prince Of Persia is proud to present..Sheherezod and the dance of the veils. " The music started and Sara came out and she was dressed as a Persian seductress. Her body covered in muti colored sheer veils . her face was covered but for her eyes. Her feet were bare and as she moved he could hear the clang of the small gold metal discs that was under her veils. She moves as light as the sheer material she wore.Twirling about and bowing in front of him. He nodded to her . Her body moved as if it were a wave. She moved in front of him offering him a veil. As he held it in his hand she spun around as it unwound from her body. Jack saw now that he would be removing most of her outfit and he was very anxious to see what was beneath. He reached out and took another piece, she moved in a circle around him wrapping the silk around him. She pressed herself into his back her face almost touching his cheek her breath shallow in ear and on his neck. His breath coming in bursts. One by one he pulled the silk from her body until he exposed her glittering top , stomach bare , one sheer panel covering her front and one covering her back. He could see the outline of her bottom as she moved , dancing close to him but not touching. He wanted to touch her, she came behind him now she touched him, barely, her hands going up his back the feel of her so close making his body tense. She ran her tongue lightly up his neck to his ear , making him shiver , " Oh god , Sara " when the music ended Sara was on the floor in front of him. Both were breathing heavily. She lifted herself up and kneeled before him, whispering in his ear , "Now , you may touch me now. " He took her into his arms , his hand roaming her body , kissing her senseless. He removed the rest of her outfit she lay exposed completely in his arms. His eyes taking in every inch, "Sara ..I .." She put a finger to his lips. then her mouth , so soft . Jack thought he would lose his mind with the desire she had built up in him. He stood with her in his arms and placed her on the bed . He was on top of her now kissing every anywhere he could. She pushed him up slightly . he looked down on her and she pulled his shirt open exposing his smooth chest. He smiled quickly and then he lowered himself to her again. Both hungry for each other.





The sensual dance and teasing Sara had done had Jack's mind numb. he only wanted , he wanted her, all of her. Jack was on top of Sara..his hands all over her, she pushed his shirt off and threw it on the floor. Jack wasn't thinking he was driven by passion..it felt good to release those feelings , not being worried about being too aggressive. Sara pushed him over and on to his back , straddling him. She assaulted his mouth and neck and chest with kisses. All Jack could do was moan..he loved that she could be as aggressive as he , it was thrilling. She ran her tongue up from his chest to his neck then his ear. Panting she whispered ," Jack I want you .." Again he moaned, he didn't think he could even formulate words.." I want you..now." She sat up and undid his belt , button then zipper, sliding her hands around to grab him from behind. Now he rolled back on top of her. then standing to remove the only barriers left. He pulled her up ,lifting her in his arms her legs around his waist. Swinging around and pushing her back into the wall. " Jack...Jack.." She threw her head back and he buried his face into her neck and buried himself into her. They went still for a moment , each taking in the full feeling of the other. Then slowly they moved together. Jack couldn't stop kissing her and she couldn't stop kissing him , " Bed?" was all he could say. "No , here. " Was all she needed to say. They moved together faster and harder , their need building..almost desperate. Jack was moaning as was Sara.. They both couldn't breathe , then they were blind with the explosion of passion inside each of them. Jack his arms around Sara , struggling to breath and Sara arms and legs shaking from the release. Jack started chuckling.."Dean was right..we are crazy. " Sara was laughing now , and as he carried her over to the bed dropping them both down but never letting her go, she said "Yes we are , but it feels so damn good. " Jack raised his eyebrows.. "That it does."







Jennifer met the threesome at the Java Cafe , she was eager to help in some way in getting Lawrence out of theirs lives for good. " Isn't there anything I can do to help , I am going crazy, sitting around waiting." Jack looked to Sara , " You said you wanted to do research on that guy Hamed that Agent Todd told you about. Jennifer could do it. She is quite good at research." Sara glared at Jack and Dean just lowered his head. " Jack is right , Sara I am really good at it. Please I just need to do something. " Sara exhaled loudly and took out a pad and pen. She jotted down everything she knew about Hamed , which wasn't much.
" Here , it's all I have right now but I am hoping to have something else later. Give me your cell number and I will call you with anything else I can get. " Jennifer beamed , " Thank you. I will talk to you later . " Jack looked at Sara " You did a good thing . Thank you , she needs something to keep her busy. " Sara picked up her coffee mug, " Uh huh. " Jack studied her face closely, " What ? " she said " Don't look now but , I think you are looking a little green. " Jack said . Sara did not respond she only glared at him. Jack cringed as he sat down . " What's wrong with you? " Dean asked. Jack cleared his throat , " Back hurts a bit. I must have slept wrong. " Sara stifled a laugh. Looking from Jack to Sara then back to Jack Dean mumbled, " I don't think the sleeping position was the problem. " Jack shot him a look. Dean grinned and held up his hand , " Just saying. " Jack turned to Sara "What's on the agenda today? " Sara thought for a moment and said " I want to see Ben before he leaves , see if he will give me a bit more to go on regarding Hamed." Jack tried not look unhappy but he couldn't pull it off. " I see, I thought he left yesterday. How did you know he didn't ? " She tilted her head towards Dean , who turned and looked at Jack , " I met up with him last night, we had dinner and drinks. " Well I promised to meet my sister for lunch later , so I guess I will call you when I am done and we will meet up, unless of course you want me to come along with you ? " Sara squinted , studying Jack, " What ? " He asked. " Don't look now but I think It might be contagious. You are looking a bit green yourself. " Jack ran his finger in the dent on her chin , " Maybe a bit around the edges."
When Jack left Dean put his hand on Sara's arm. " You going to see him alone ? " Sara laughed "I don't need a chaperon Dean , this is business. " Dean shook his head , " Sara he isn't going to go away without a fight you know that. The man is crazy in love with you, always has been. " Sara sighed , " I will deal with that later right now we need to stop Alamain. "


" How is the research coming ? " Jack asked Jennifer, I have several possibilities , but I am waiting to see if Sara could at least get me his first name. " She said. Jack heard a very loud noise through the phone . " Jennifer were are you ? " Jennifer smiled " I needed to get outside for a while, can you guess where I am ? " He heard the noise again , " Jennifer? "
" I will be here waiting for you Jack. " She disconnected from the call. Jack sighed loudly
" Damn it, Jennifer. "



Sara knocked on the hotel door . He opened the door , Ben was in a tight green tee shirt and jeans. " I was wondering if you would come by. " Sara entered the room and turned to face him. " I was hoping you could at least give me the first name of Hamed . I know you don't want to.. " Ben gave a slight smile so slight that Sara didn't even notice it, " Khalil" Sara was stunned for a moment, " Khalil, ok ..ahh ..thanks? " Ben inched closer to her ,
" I see you thought I wouldn't tell you. That's all I am going to give you , do you understand. " She only nodded slightly. Ben gave her a sly smile. She knew that smile well. She remembered the first time she had seen it.





Jack arrived at the end of the runway and there was Jennifer sitting on the hood of her car,
her agent watching with a confused look on his face. " What are you doing out here ? "
Jennifer smiled brightly , she knew he would find her. " I just felt like I needed to scream. "
Jack smirked " I am familiar with that feeling. " She patted the hood of the car and said
" Come on Jack , Join me. " He sat on the car next to her as they had many times before.
" Oh ..here comes one.. " The two screamed at the top of their lungs. " That felt great !" Jennifer said breathlessly. After screaming at two more planes Jennifer offered Jack a cookie. " Thanks. " As Jack munched Jennifer talked. " That first night we came here was one of the best I ever had Jack. " Jack nodded , " Me too." They talked about it a bit and other times. " We had a lot of good times Jack. " Jack sighed , " Yes we did , we had a lot of not so good times too. " She changed the subject to the children. "JJ and Steve are really bonding. " Jack smiled , " Yea , I know. Steve said that Jack is always telling him 'my dad would say that' or 'my dad would do that' . Jack told me Steve said that having him there is like having me there. Of course I don't know if that's good or bad." Jennifer laughed at that,
she knew how how much Steve meant to Jack and how good it made him feel to hear that Steve felt the same. " We should get going. " He slid off the car and turned to give Jennifer his hand to help her down. She took it and slid close up against him,they stood looking into each others eyes, then reaching her other hand up she placed it around his neck and brought his face down to hers kissing him sweetly at first then with more conviction. Jack kissed her back. When they broke apart he stepped back and helped her down. " Jack.."
" No Jennifer. " He turned and started to walk away. She stopped him by putting her hand on his arm , " Tell me you don't want to kiss me again Jack, that's why you are in such a hurry to leave, isn't it ? You are afraid to be here alone with me. That kiss was amazing, you felt it too. I still want you Jack and I could feel that you want me too. " Jack shook his head,
" That fact is not in despite . I will always want you. I just don't want this now . " Jennifer took another step closer to him, " Are you saying that you might want it , us , again in the future. " He sighed , " I am saying I don't know. " Jennifer looked into his eyes "Because of Sara? " The crease between his eyes formed " Yes and no. Yes because of the way I feel when I am with her. There is no pressure with Sara it's never all or nothing, it's more like...it is what it is. If that makes any sense. The two of you are so similar but so very different too. With you , we weren't even a couple , hadn't gone out on a date, hadn't made love, and you were already planning our wedding. Pushing for me to admit that I loved
you, that I wanted you. With Sara it's more relaxed , there is no pressure for me to talk about my feelings or demands for the future. I don't have to worry if I don't feel like talking because I know she doesn't feel neglected by it. " Jennifer stepped closer still, "You
and I have always had a connection , part of that connection was that I always made you face your emotions and not run from them. " " That's the point. I'm not running from my emotions. I know I am not explaining myself right. When you and I are together I am constantly worried. Worried that I am going to screw it up , worried I am going to lose you. am so focused on trying to be the man you need and the man you want , that I forget to be the man I am. When I am with Sara I can be that man , she doesn't want to change me and I don't always disappoint her , she excepts me for who I am warts and all. " Jennifer responded , " I have always excepted you Jack, I always loved you warts and all. " Jack looked away, " Yes you have, you gave me a chance when nobody else would. That's not the way I mean it. Look right now I like the freedom of just being who I am not who I could be. I dint expect you to understand what I mean by that ..but the point is I do understand it. I love you and want you and I always will but I just can't be with you. I can't go back to being insecure all the time , waiting for the next time , the next man to come between us. Please try to understand, I will always be there be there for you and our children. His hands were on her shoulders. Her eyes glistening with tears , she hugged him and he hugged her back. "It doesn't have to be that way Jack I have made some changes too. It's not too late. " Jack sighed, " Come on , lets go. "





Ben stood smiling at Sara. " Wipe that stupid smile off your face. " she told him. "So now I can't smile? " Sara crossed her arms in front of her , " Not THAT smile. " Ben mimicked her motion, " And what smile might that be. " Sara stood like a statue, " The first date smile. "
Ben nodded " Oh THAT smile. "


After many attempts to get her to go out with him , Ben finally wore Sara down. She met him at a local Italian restaurant. When she walked in she wore a dress and high heels, so different from the clothes she wore at work. He smiled at her and she noted that it looked like the smile of a cat who ate a canary. " Sorry , it's just that from the first time we met I was taken by and truth be told surprised at how beautiful you are. " He said. She frowned,
" I see you expected a hag with a pencil sticking out of her bun. " Ben laughed out loud,
" No actually, I hadn't even given a thought to what you might look like. Then when I saw you , well I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. "



Ben had inched himself closer to her as they talked about that night " I still think about it , think about you everyday." he told her as he moved the hair from her eyes, " You need a haircut , those beautiful eyes are going to start getting hidden . " Then his finger moved to her mouth and he traced her lips lightly. " I've missed those lips. " He moved slowly, not wanting the spell broken , he put one arm around her waist and as he pulled her to him he wrapped the other arm around her neck. He kissed her with tenderness , then with desire. When he had to pull back for air he held her in his arms, " I have missed you Sara. " She pulled back , she could still feel the pressure of his lips on hers. " It's not going to happen Ben. " she backed away from him. "Ok I get that, but you need to hear what I have to say, I love you and that is not going to go away. I have tried , god help me I have tried. In the last year I have pushed it away, wished it away ,I have tried drinking it away and I have tried to make it go away by being with other woman. So you see , now I have to fight for it." he said with conviction. "I am with Jack now Ben , I have to see where this will go , I want to be with him. " Ben nodded, " Now , you want to be with him now , you are living in the moment, but when this Alamain thing is over, do you think he is going to move to New York with you ? Or do you intend on staying here at the local paper. You could never do that. I don't care about how many times you go traipsing around the world on your search for stories or how long you are gone, hell I do the same thing for my job, I only care that WHEN you come home , you come home to ME. When the time comes that we can no longer do our jobs , I want to wake up from a nap on the couch , put my glasses on and see my news hound next to me watching CNN " Sara looked at him for a long moment , " I have to go. " Ben called out to her, " Sara , I am not going to give up , you know that " Sara opened the door and sighed , " I know. "






Jack and Sara met at the house , both physically and mentally exhausted. They laid on the couch in each others arms Jack making circles on her back , " Do you want to talk about whatever it was that happened between you and Jennifer ? " How did she do that, Jack thought , " Not unless you really want to hear about it. " She thought about , she really was not in the mood for another heavy discussion. "Not particularly. " He smiled, " So want to tell me what happened with Agent Todd ? " Sara sighed , " Not unless you really want to hear about it. " Now they both smiled, " Not particularly. " Jack took a deep cleansing breath , "I love you Sara . " She snuggled tightly into him, " I love you Jack. "

[fluffysmom]

I enjoyed the interrogation scene between Sara and Ben. I like the way everyone is admitting their feelings. I am looking forward to seeing how it all plays out.

[jaysdelina]

I LOVE that Jenn's the one fighting and Jack's pushing her away for a change.And I love that he explained to her the differences between her and Sara.Every word he said was true in regards to him and Jenn.

[blueyed358]

chapters 52-54



Jack and Sara sat at the kitchen table having told each other of the encounters with their exes. " You never really gave me a background on you and Agent Todd. You know everything
pretty much about my past with Jennifer. Maybe you can level the playing field as it were. "Sara looked into her coffee , searching for words. "What do you want to know? " Jack took her hand , and smiled "Tell me a story Sara. Tell me the story of You and Agent Todd." She smirked at the use of her own words turned back on her. She recounted many stories where their professional lives had crossed. " No Sara , tell me about your relationship." Sara took a deep breath , "The first three years were great , we each respected the other and never gave each other a hard time about what we did for our jobs. He and Robert got along well . We were talking about getting married. Jack , I should tell you too that Ben knows I have never stopped loving you, at first he just chalked it up to first love but when he found out that you were Roberts father, well he felt that was why I never truly let go of my feelings for you. Everything changed when Robert died. He kept pushing to get married and all I wanted was to be in the war zone. He couldn't get why I needed to be there so much. I guess I was just doing it for Robert , maybe to be closer to him too..I don't know. He thought I was trying to get myself killed. I was not, by the way , I wanted people to see what these men and women were truly dealing with. It wasn't that I didn't love him still I just needed ...I needed...Oh hell I don't know what I needed. Ben tried being patient , bossy, well you know how well that works, he tried everything. He would leave me , I would leave him , but we couldn't seem to stay away long. He asked me to marry him again, I said no but then I changed my mind..I found another woman in his apartment and I ha vent talked to him since, not that he hasn't tried.The man is tenacious , stubborn, argumentative, loyal and honest, brutally so. He is one of the most determined people I have ever known , hence the never giving up. " Jack sat rubbing her hand with his thumb. " What are we going to do now? We both have other people in our lives that we will never be able to leave behind , but , for me at least, am not willing to let go of us either. " Sara had tears in her eyes , " I don't want let go of us either."Jack wiped a tear from her cheek, " Then we are agreed, we stay the course , you and me, until such time that one or both of us feels differently." Sara rubbed his cheek with her hand, " Agreed, we have quite a battle ahead. The most important thing is for us to continue to be completely honest with each other . " Jack smiled at her , " I can do that." Sara lifted her hand and kissed his . He repeated the gesture.






Jennifer's cell phone rang as she was at work on the research she had to get done. " Hello ? she had answered without looking at the caller id. " Hey Jen it's Daniel . " She stopped working and gave a slight smile. " Hey stranger how are you feeling ? " she asked. " Oh I am fine , my house is just about done , well livable anyway. I was hoping to take you to dinner tonight, give the key back and say thank you. " he said a sound of hope in his voice.
" Oh.. umm..sure that would be great , it isn't necessary of course. " They made arraignments to meet at The Blue Note. How easy it would be for Jennifer to fall back to her old ways and run into the arms of another man after she felt rejected by Jack. No she though, not this time, never again. She was going to prove to him that she wanted only him. She would call him and give him an update on the research. She will tell him she was meeting Daniel to get the key back , she didn't want any misunderstanding this time.






" Well . i will relay this information to Sara and we will see where we will go next. " Jennifer told Jack where she would be going tonight and why . " Jennifer you don't need to explain anything to me." Those words stung Jennifer but she shook it off. " I just wanted to inform Jack. " Jack closed his eyes and sighed , " Ok , well consider me informed. You have a pleasant evening Jennifer, talk to you tomorrow. " Jack told Sara what Jeniffer had found out and that she narrowed it down to two Khalil Hameds , and which one she thought it was. Sara told him to have her start a full background check on both tomorrow.





Jack and Sara walked hand in hand down by the waterfront and decided to stop at the bar and have a drink and maybe a dance or two. They ordered and dancing slowly when Dean came into the place with Ben in tow. Ben froze at the sight of his Sara in the arms of someone else. He pulled himself together and they grabbed a table. Jack saw them and said to Sara , " This is a popular spot this evening. " Sara looked up at jack and said , " Maybe you should call Jennifer and tell her to come down too. " Jack made a face at her " Oh you are hilarious. " They went and sat back down and Ben started for their table , Dean grabbed his arm, he saw the look in Ben's eyes . " Don't do it man , it will only end badly. " Ben turned and looked from Dean's hand to his eyes. " I just want to say hello. I want to talk to the competition . " He said as he walked away. Dean knew better then to stop him. If there was one main difference between Jack and Ben it was that Ben was a physically imposing man and he knew it. It wasn't that he was violent it was more that he didn't shy away from it. " Good evening Sara , Mr Deveraux it's nice to see you. " Sara rolled her eyes , " Ben. " Jack however was glad for the opportunity to get a feel for this man . " Agent Todd , you're still here, I guess you are enjoying your time in Salem? " Ben turned and looked at Sara " Let's just say I am enjoying the sights. " Again an eyeroll from Sara this one garnering a smile from Ben. Sara spoke to Dean , " Have you talked to Angela? " Dean nodded , " Yea she thinks she should be here sometime next week. " Ben turned to Dean , " Angie's coming here too ? Oh yea Sara I forgot to ask you , was Brian relieved he didn't have to pay for your release this time?" Jack knew what he was doing , he was trying to show him that he had been a big part of her life and friends with them all. "Well it's a pity you won't get to see her , you are leaving today aren't you? " Sara asked him. " Actually , No. I called in to the office and they feel I should stay here and.....monitor the situation, " Ben replied. Jack couldn't help himself " Really, monitor? What would that entail exactly? " Ben looked at Jack, " Oh this and that. You know Jack, may I call you Jack? " Jack nodded. " Jack I am getting the distinct feeling that you don't want me around . " Jack smiled , " Well Ben , may I call you Ben , " Ben smirked , " Oh please do. " Jack continued, " Why would I mind ? " Ben shrugged , "Oh , no reason. " Jack turned to Sara , it was his turn to show Ben who the man in her life was now. " Shall we dance again. " Sara looked from Ben to Jack, " I would love to. " As they danced Ben just watched them. " Dean cleared his throat , " Ben you gotta lighten up man. You know what happens when you push too hard. " Ben turned to Dean,
" I haven't even begun to push. " He walked over to them and tapped Jack on the shoulder." Might I cut in. " Sara tugged Jack back towards her, " No you may not. " They continued dancing , after a minute Ben tapped him again, " How about now? " Jack didn't want him thinking that he was worried about him, " Why not. " Jack stepped away and took a drink. Dean leaned over, "Jack don't play with him. He is a bit of a hothead. " Jack gave a little laugh, " Yea , I got that. " Sara was glaring at Ben , " I am not doing this with you Benjamin, " Ben pulled her closer to him, " Benjamin?, I must be in big trouble. " When Jack saw him tighten his grip on Sara he had enough , " May I ? " Jack said as he tapped Ben on the shoulder. Ben stepped aside and allowed Jack to go back to Sara. He went straight to the bar. When they were done Jack went to get Sara and he another drink. jack stood next to Ben and ordered his drinks. " Dancing really works up a thirst. " Without looking at him, Ben lifted his glass, " Yes it sure does. Oh yea by the way Jack..just so you know..if anything happens to Sara I will be holding you personally responsible . " Then he walked away.




Dean and Ben were behind Jack and Sara as they walked in the parking lot . As they reached the car Dean called out to Sara , "Hey Sara, Angie is on the phone , she needs the name of your guy at the embassy in Milan. " Sara ran over to them and took the phone. Jack was standing beside the car waiting. They didn't see the car as much as heard it , the screech of the tires was almost deafening. They all turned and saw the car coming across the lot and the passenger leaning out the window , gun in hand. " Jack !! " Sara screamed , as she ran for him. " No , Sara get down. " Jack yelled back. Ben knocked Dean onto the ground , unholstering his weapon. " Sara! , drop down!" But she ignored them. She had to get to Jack. He ran for her and as they hit the floor the shots rang out and glass shattered as the bullets sprayed through the air. Ben jumped up and began to return fire. He struck the passenger , of that he was sure. When the car sped away he raced to her. " He pulled her up, " Baby , are you all right? Sara , tell me , were you hit ? Jack watched as Ben moved the hair from Sara's face. " I am fine, Jack..is Jack ok? " Sara got up and ran to him , " Jack.." Jack held her close to him , " I am all right , I promise you I am fine. " She pulled back to view him, satisfied he was all right she kissed him. Ben missed that having went to check on Dean. Sara told Jack she had to check on Ben. He nodded as they both got up. Sara ran over to them Jack following her. " Ben..are you ok? " Ben smirked " Yea I am ok. Dean is ok too, shook up a bit. " Sara gasped , " Ben !! You're bleeding . " Ben looked at his arm , " Oh yea , it's just a graze. " Sara insisted on looking at it and Ben wasn't going to argue , " Baby it's nothing , it 's just a scratch," as he said those words he looked at Jack. " It's a good thing I decided to stick around and monitor the situation huh? " As they waited for Bo to show up to take their statements Jack and Sara sat on the curb , his arms around her , " Does he always have to call you that ? " Sara looked up at him , " Call me what ? " Jack sighed , " Baby , he called you baby several times..It really bugs me. " Sara laughed , " Duly noted, Now kiss me , Baby. " So he did.



I will apologize in advance for the content of this chapter. It was something I needed to do. While 9/11 is Jennifer's birthday it is also the anniversary of one of the worst days in our country's history. Being a native New Yorker only magnifies that. I had touched upon the fact that Sara and Dean had been there and I felt that this day would be profound for both of them. The emotions and the sights I have described for you here are mostly first hand. my brother worked around the corner from the World Trade Center and took the train from there everyday. The first plane flew right past his office window. My brother in law and cousin in law and several friends were firefighters who were there for the collapse and aftermath. I also have a JnJ birthday moment. Thanks for allowing me to share this.




Jack woke up earlier but apparently not early enough. Sara and Dean had already went out, Jack knew that the two would need time alone. Today was the tenth anniversary of 911. It was also Jennifer's birthday and Jack wanted to stop by and wish her a happy birthday and tell her about what had happened the night before , before Hope told her. Sara had tried to explain it to Jack the night before but he couldn't even fathom what this day was for them. He would go to Jennifer's this morning , sure Hope and Maggie would have plans for her. Jack went to the bathroom to shower and begin the day.






Ben sat on the sofa in his hotel room, shirtless,barefoot and in jeans, watching the events of ten years before play out on TV. The bells had tolled at the times each tower had been struck. Those bells brought him back ...


Benjamin Todd had a great life. He loved his job , had a beautiful upper eastside apartment, a red convertible corvette and never wanted for the company of women. He had no desire to settle down, yes his life was perfect. Then he met her. Sara Jamison may have entered his life through his job but she took up residence in his heart , mind and soul. She was unlike any woman he had ever met. She was unaffected by his charm and showed no interest in him what so ever. At first it was the challenge to win her over , but he was captivated by this intelligent , independent woman. What had started out as a casual date here and there turned into several times a week, then the attached to her son Robert started. He had never really been around kids before but he knew Sara's son was exceptional. They would go to Yankee games in the summer and Giants games in the winter. Before he knew it , he was there every night just about. He even sold his car and got an SUV. Telling Sara , " What if we want to go somewhere with the kid, we need the room. " That was what he would call Robert "The Kid. " Suddenly his great bachelor life became the great life of a couple. Sara never asked anything of him , not a ring , not even an "I love you. " That had been ok with him, he knew how they felt about each other. He would smile about it at night wrapped in each others arms. Until that day..that horrible day in 2001.....



Jack found out that Jennifer had gone over to her house so that's where he found her. Jennifer opened the door to find Jack on her doorstep holding a cupcake with a candle in it " Happy Birthday Jennifer Rose. " Jennifer smiled brightly , " Oh Jack my favorite cupcake, Thank you. " Jack gave her a sweet smile , " Well don't just stand ther blow out your candle. " Jennifer made a wish and blew out the candle. " Come on in Jack . " Jack went to the living room. " I thought I would come by before your throngs of fans came a callin. " Jennifer shook her head at him, " Jack!, The children just called. " Jack nodded " They wouldn't forget their mother's birthday. Here..for you. " Jennifer's eyes glistened , " A present Jack? Oh gosh thanks. " She tore open the wrapping and Jack was chuckling , "What ? " she said. " Nothing ,It's just funny.. you are still like a little kid when you get a present . " She beamed at him, When she opened the box her eyes teared and she gave a sweet smile, " Oh Jack, " she removed a large book, " The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare , this is wonderful , thank you so much. " Both knew what Shakespeare had meant to them over the years. It was his way of telling her , he remembered that. " You are very welcome, read it in good health. " Jennifer threw her arms around Jack's neck and hugged him tightly. " I love it Jack. " She hugged him for a a long moment and as they slowly broke apart , he kissed her cheek softly, " Happy Birthday. " Telling her about the shooting last night just seemed wrong , it could wait until tomorrow he thought.





The knock on the door brought Ben back to the here and now , he really didn't want company , not today. He got up and opened the door to find Dean and Sara there. Dean spoke for them, " We just thought ..." He moved to the side and they came into the room. He placed his hand on Dean's shoulder and took Sara by the hand . They all sat on the sofa and waited. Waited for the moment the bell would sound marking the collapse of tower two. They sat in silence immersed deep in their own thoughts. The moment came and the first strike of the bell was heard. It sent each back to a moment in their lives that time could never erase........


CLANG.....Dean had Sara's hand gripped firmly in his own , he would not lose her in the crowd, even if he had to throw her over his shoulder. Thoughts of his wife filled his mind. He had loved her all his life , that's how it felt . The one love of his , his best friend. He would give anything to see her face again. She would be out of her mind with worry. Dean turned and saw the look of shock on Sara's face. They were being herded to a different exit. There was too much debris falling in the front the firemen had said, but they all knew that wasn't the only thing falling from the building. When they got outside they were herded away from the buildings but Dean and Sara hung back . he had to get photos, he tried to get Sara to go but she would not leave him. Then the awful sound came a rumble like a freight train was approaching. He snapped photos and then he saw the firefighters and police running for cover , the black cloud rolling towards them he turned to Sara," Run !! Run, Sara!! " ..........



CLANG... Sara was being pulled by Dean down the staircase. They were being evacuated ! How could something like this happen here ? On U.S. soil ? Oh god ..Robert ..had she told him this morning that she loved him ?...Yes she was sure she had..she always did. Ben..she never told him she loved him , she didn't want to face him again had he not been able to answer her. So it was better to not say it , not hear it , if he had changed his mind those words would haunt her. Now it was pointless to worry about that...He would be busy now she knew but she had to try..She took out her phone as they made their way to the lobby.
Voice mail...maybe that was best... " Ben ...Ben..please check on Robert for me..I am sorry .. I am sorry I never told you..........I love you Ben. " She never even noticed that they had made it outside , the horrible crashing sounds , people!!! people falling from the building. Dean pulled her around , " Don't look Sara , just keep moving. " Before she knew it they were away from the towers , Dean taking photos, then a horrendous rumble. " Run !! Run Sara!!" They ran for their lives , the black debris cloud chasing them down , wanting to swallow them alive.She felt someone grab them from behind as they were getting pummeled by debris. They were thrown on the floor. Sara couldn't tell if it was the cloud of dust that was constricting her breathing or the weight of someone on top of her. Then the silence came. The deafening silence. No screams , no sirens, just nothing. maybe she was dead she thought for a moment. Then she started coughing. Dead people don't cough, she thought, The dust was in her mouth , nose , ears , eyes. The firefighter that had knocked them to the ground and tried to shield them got up. He helped them both up and the three walked as quickly as possible finding a deli , all the windows blown out. They were given water and cleaned out their eyes and mouth. This couldn't be happening . She didn't know how long they were in there when they heard the rumbling again , another fireman came in shouting, " The other tower is coming down! " ..............



CLANG.....Ben rushed to Sara's. She would want to run down there no doubt. He wasn't going to let her do that without him. Angela answered the door , Robert standing behind her. The look on their faces told him that he was too late , they had gone already. He asked if they went to the paper , or did they try to make their way to the towers. Angela could barely speak. She told him that Sara went to do an interview early that morning and that Brian had asked Dean to go along and take some photos. Ben asked where they went ... They were in Tower Two. He felt like he got hit in the stomach. Robert called them into the living room. Angela clasped her hands over her mouth, " Oh God..Oh God !" They watched in horror as Tower Two came down. Ben felt that his knees would give out. He grabbed Angie and held her tightly as he and Robert stared at each other , one thought in two minds..they were in that tower. Ben released her and headed for the door both of them following close behind. " Where are you going ? " Robert called out to him. " I am going down there. " He said over his shoulder. " I am coming with you " the kid said. " Me too."
Angela announced. Ben turned on them, " Are you crazy they would skin me alive if I let you leave this apartment. Stay here, I will be back. " Robert chased him to the door "Ben..you will bring them back right? " Ben hugged the kid " What do you think?" he whispered . " I think you will do anything to bring them back. " Ben pulled back and winked at him " Take care of your aunt. " Robert could only nod. Ben sat in his car for a moment. He pulled out his phone..he had a voice mail. Her voice came on , fear was in her voice , something he had never heard before, the background noise muffled voices , lots of them. Then the words he didn't even know he longed to hear. She told him she loved him. Ben had not cried since he was a child , but when those words came to him, he repeated them to her , in the empty car. " I love you Sara..I love you. ..I'm coming Baby..I'm coming ..wait for me. " The tears came , he didn't even know he could cry anymore. He had seen so much horror in his line of work but nothing had prepared him for this. He sat sobbing in his car .." Please god..please. " Ben got to the war zone..he couldn't believe that this was his town.. it looked like another country. A cop stopped him and he flashed his ID. The cop was not impressed , he tried to get Ben to leave, " I have to get in there, my..."
He realized for the first time how insignificant the word 'girlfriend' sounded. If he found her he was going to change that. He finally got a call from the office..Dean had said he was going to be on a ferry to Hoboken, that's where they were evacuating people by boats. Ben raced to get an a ferry himself. He watched the dazed , dust encased people get hosed down by fire hoses. He saw the shocked faces , the pain in the eyes of the injured and unharmed alike. Then he saw him..she was not with him. Dean saw Ben . They hugged each other tightly, " Angela? " " At the apartment with Robbie. Sara? " his heart had stopped beating waiting for the answer. " She was right behind me. " They turned and there she was, looking so small. dripping wet and shivering. He ran to her and lifted her off the ground . " Ben they are gone, the towers are gone. " She was crying openly , something she never did. " All those people..all those lives lost. " Ben held her closely , " I know Baby..I know..Sara I love you..I am never going to let you go. "



CLANG...They sat on the sofa..heads down each lost in their own memories. Sara's shoulders moved , he knew she was crying. He wrapped his arms around her " It's ok
Baby, " kissing the top of her head. Ben placed his hand on Dean's shoulder who covered it with his own. The course of their lives forever altered by that day. Sara would rush head on into any war zone story she could get with Dean behind her. Ben would say nothing knowing why she did what she did, but knowing he had to make her his own ..officially.
The final bells would sound and they would leave , leave the memories behind and then they would go back to the lives they were now living.

Back to the story.....







Sara came downstairs wrapped in a towel, hair wet , she heard Dean leave and she desperately needed coffee before Jennifer showed up to go over her research. Jack came up behind her and took her mug as she brought it to her lips. " Thanks , I really needed this. " He said barely able to keep the smile off his lips. " Hey ! Ok fine you deserve it after last night. " Jack closed his eyes as he sipped " Mmm , well we aim to please. " Sara smiled slowly , "'Your aim is perfect . " she turned her back to him and fixed a new cup. He traced his finger down her neck " We have some time before ..." He began kissing her neck wrapping his arms around her. "Jack .." He was getting lost now..in the scent of her , the feel of her, " Hmm? " She couldn't resist him but he was going to work for it. She turned to face him kissing him back, " But we didn't have breakfast yet. " Jack smiled , " That's what I was planning. " She stuck a Danish in her mouth , " Breakfast is served " Jack laughed and put the other end in his mouth. Both were laughing when the bell rang. " Saved by the bell." Sara said . " Hey I was going to say that. " When Jack opened the door he still had icing on his nose and mouth. He found Jennifer on the doorstep. " You're early. " he said. Jennifer hit him in the chest , " Jack ! Why didn't you tell me you got shot at ? I had to hear it from..." She walked past him into the living room. Jack rubbed his chest , " Ouch ! let me guess ...Hope ? It was your birthday..I didn't want to upset you. " Jennifer turned around to Jack, " Are you all right ? Jack what do you have all over your face ? " Jack gave her a questioning look , " What ? " He touched his face and chuckled , " It's icing..from a danish." As he said that Sara came out of the kitchen , holding the danish, matching icing on her nose and and mouth , " You didn't finish your break...fast " her words halted at the sight of Jennifer. " You're early. " She said staring at Jennifer. Jack said " That was already established. " Sara suddenly realized she was wearing only a towel. " I will just go and get ..you know dressed. " Sara headed upstairs and Jack looked at Jennifer, " Have a seat I will be right back , I need to wash my face. " Jack went up the stairs too. Jennifer sat down on the sofa. She knew she had interrupted something , making her jealous but she did have a sense of satisfaction having done so.


" You are mad , aren't you? " Jack asked her . They both stood in front of the sink , washing the icing off . " No , I am not mad." Sara walked into her room to get dressed and Jack followed. " Go downstairs Jack , you don't want to leave her alone. " Jack sighed , " We knew she was coming. " She turned to look at him " In two hours ! She is two hours early and she didn't even call before she came over...early" Jack cringed slightly as she shouted.
"Is this going to be a trend ..just popping by whenever she feels like it , I mean it's not like you don't go checking on her everyday, she needs to..." Sara took a deep breath and blew it out slowly, " Sorry..sorry. I will be down in a few minutes. " She turned back to her closet .
" I will speak to her about coming here unannounced , ok? " Sara made herself look busy by going through her clothes, " Yea, sure whatever. " She murmured. He came up behind her and undid her towel , letting it fall to the floor. He took her shoulders and turned her to face him wrapping his arms around her. " I will speak to her ,ok? " Sara looked
upwards , feeling his hands caressing her skin. " Ok . "



They went into the kitchen and set up their laptops and went to work. Jennifer showed the two biographies she had put together. Sara sat reading them as Jack answered his cell. "I think it's the first guy, " Jennifer said. " Sara was reading the second folder , " You couldn't find a photo on this guy ? " Jennifer shook her head , " No nothing. " Sara rubbed her eyes, " It's him , the second guy. That's why you couldn't find any pictures. We will focus on him. " Jack hung up and announced. " Well , It seems my presence is required at police headquarters. " Sara and Jennifer looked at him , " Is it about the shooting ? " Sara asked .
"It would appear so. I tell you what I will stop at the grocery store on the way back and get something for dinner tonight . I should be back before Dean and Angela get here. " The women just stared at him. Then Jennifer asked , " You are leaving? " Jack looked from one to the other , " That is the plan. " Sara crossed her arms in front of her chest, " Well change the plan. " Jack inched his way to the door, " I will be back shortly. " Sara remained unmoving , " Jack" He leaned way over and kissed her cheek " Play nice. " He whispered, then he dashed out the door. " I am going to kill him. " Sara said under her breath.





Ben paced Bo Brady's office, he thought about the moments he had shared with Sara the past few days. She still loved him, he knew he wouldn't give up. The sooner this Alamain thing ended the better.





Sara's fingers flew across the keyboard. She managed to find one blurred photo of the alleged weapons dealer. " I will see if I could get Ben.. Agent Todd to tell me if this is him."
" You know him well ? Agent Todd ? " Jennifer asked . Sara was distracted , " What ? Oh yes I know him well. " Jennifer went on , " It was sort of obvious. " Sara looked up , " Was it ?
I am curious, tell me , was it the way he handcuffed me or the way he had me thrown in a cell that gave it away ? " Then she looked back down to the laptop. " Then she stopped again " By the way Jennifer , don't come by here anymore without calling first . " Jennifer jutted her chin , " Sorry if I interrupted , I know I was early but I had heard about what happened the other night." Sara kept her eyes on the screen. " You know damn well you interrupted something , no matter it can be resumed later. " Jennifer gave a slight fake laugh , " Oh I am sure it will. You know Sara , I wouldn't get too comfortable here with Jack if I were you. Jack and I are getting closer and closer every day. " Sara stopped , " Really ? Just because you kissed at the airport , which was a really smart move on your part, doesn't mean he will be running back to you . " Jennifer's face registered shock, and Sara smirked, " Yea he told me all about it , You should know Jennifer that both Jack and I are not going to let you or Agent Todd come between us. "





Jack was met by Bo in the lobby , " Hey Jack thanks for coming by so quick. " Jack shook his hand " Sure Bo , no problem . What's going on. " Bo put his hand on Jack's shoulder , "Come on back to the office and we will talk. " When they entered the room Jack froze for a minute at the sight of Ben. " Mr Deveraux. " , " Agent Todd. " Bo showed them a mug shot of a guy and told them he was found dead down by the docks, gun shot wound. Jack did not recall him but Ben studied his face then closed his eyes for a second. " Yea that's him , that's the shooter. " Bo asked if he was sure, " I am sure , I never forget the face of someone who takes a shot at me. " Jack mumbled , " Must have a lot of faces stored in that memory. " Bo then told them that Carly's autopsy report came back. " There were faint traces of a toxin in her system. The ME believes it was killed her. We are leaning towards what your reporter friend thinks..we don't think Larry killed her. " They all agreed that Alamain was responsible for the other attempts, " There is no way right now to prove who is responsible for what. But I think we have two killers on the loose gunning for all of us. "
A uniformed officer came in and Bo excused himself. Ben's cell phone rang , It was Sara ,
"Hey Sara , sure..sure Baby I can meet you say an hour ? Yea I know where that is...ok..ok Baby see you then. " The two men stood a few feet apart , just eying one another. " She wants to meet me. " Ben said. " Yea , I got that. " Jack replied. " So Jack I would like to speak to your wife , get some info about Dr Manning. You think you could give her my card and have her call me ? " Ben handed Jack his card . Jack looked at the card, " I will let Jennifer know. Are we going to do this every time? " The corner of Ben's mouth turned up , " Do what? " Jack let out a nervous laugh , " The whole wife, ex-wife thing. It's getting rather old. If you need to see the divorce papers I'll tell Jennifer to bring them to your meeting." Ben liked being able to unnerve Jack , " No that won't be necessary. " Jack turned to leave and stopped at the door , " As long as we are clearing the air , I would appreciate it if you stopped calling Sara 'Baby' it really bugs me. " Ben crossed his hands in front of him , "Does it ? I hadn't noticed. Since we are being honest here , I will call her that every chance I get. You see its a reminder that I still want her. " Jack opened the door , " Well, I believe Mick Jagger said it best, you can't always get what you want, Agent Todd " and then Jack walked out the door.

[jaysdelina]

Jenn's workin' my every last nerve,Agent Todd's an ass,and I LOVE Jack staking his claim,lol.VERYnice!

[fluffysmom]

Great chapters. The 9-11 section was very good.

[blueyed358]

chapters 55-57




Jennifer watched as Sara talked to Jack on the phone. " Is that all he gave you? ....Yea ..ok..Yes ..fine " Then she spoke in a whisper , " I am not ..he was there too? How was his arm ? Ok , I will see you in a little while. " Sara told Jennifer about the shooter being found dead and Carly's autopsy. Jennifer wanted to know the details of the shooting and Sara complied. " It was a good thing Agent Todd was there. " Sara agreed with her. "Jennifer ..I think you should know that I believe..well the police do now too ..that Lawrence isn't responsible for your friends death. There is another killer out there. " Sara went back to her laptop. " I want to look up that toxin, see how available it is. " Jennifer sat silent , Sara stopped and looked at her because Jennifer had stopped typing . " Look I am sorry..I don't mean to sound so harsh.." Jennifer shook her head, " It's not that , I just can't imagine anyone , besides Lawrence who would want to hurt her. " Sara didn't say what she was thinking...from what she had found out about the good Doctor, she did nothing but lie . Sara read all about the toxin that killed Carly, she sat back in her seat , "Nobody at the hospital that she was having trouble with ? " Jennifer shook her head , "No
not that I know of. " Sara stared at the screen. She knew it was there in front of her...



Jack was leaving when Bo stopped him, " Hold on a minute Jack, listen the Salem PD is having this black tie thing for the widows and kids of cops killed in the line of duty , I was hoping you and your friends can come, it's for a good cause . Maybe that photographer can takes some pictures for us ? What do you say? " Jack gave a slight smile "Sure thing Bo, Sara and I will be there. " Before Bo could say thanks the deep voice of Agent Todd rang in , " Count me in too , I am always willing to do my part . " Bo thanked them and walked away. " Don't you have a meeting to get to ? " Ben smirked , " I do yes, please don't forget to give your wi..ex-wife my card. " Ben stopped at the water cooler and Jack watched as just about every woman that walked past him stared and smiled at him. The man was oblivious to it, he thought. Jack started walking past him, then stopped , " You should look around , you might find a date for the police benefit. " Ben swallowed his water , " I don't think so , I think I will go stag , you never know who you will meet. The evening could be filled with possibilities. " Jack nodded , " True , I however prefer to have a beautiful woman on my arm, there is nothing like seeing her come out of the room all done up. The anticipation of what lay ahead. Well I guess we will see you then. " Jack left the building with a smile on his face.





Jennifer closed her cell phone having called Daniel to tell him about Carly's autopsy , promising to keep him updated. She sat back down at the table with Maggie and Hope.
" Jen , you will come won't you? Bo said Jack will be there and that FBI agent.. Todd ? He said he would come as well. Have you seen him ? He is totally hot. " Jennifer and Maggie both laughed at her, " What ? I am married not dead.Hope said. " Well I am sure Jack will bring Sara with him. I hardly ever get to get him alone. "Jennifer complained. Maggie put her hand over Jennifer's , " Well we will just have to see what we could do about that . I am sure if we put our heads together we can come up with some kind of plan. " Hope and Jennifer stood , mouths open, " What ? " Maggie asked. " Sometimes true love just needs a little nudge in the right direction. "




Dean and Angela stopped for coffee before going back to the house . " So how is Ben doing? " Dean shook his head, " He is Ben, I think he is hurting , he wants her back. " Angela blew out a breath , " He always wants her back, he should have thought of that before he slept with another woman. " Dean told his wife what he had learned about that night. He also told her about the many ways Ben had tried to move on , Dean also told her about how Ben called another woman Sara. Angela almost spit out her coffee. " It's not really funny, " he said stifling a laugh, " He got hit with a lamp. " Dean got serious , " What are you thinking about this? " Angela swallowed her coffee , " I only know that Ben is the only other man Sara has ever loved besides Jack. She had a life with him. She had a past with Jack that was never resolved. I think they need to resolve their past before she knows what she wants for her future. We just have to try and be neutral . " Dean kissed his wife , " My thoughts exactly. "




Sara had figured it out..it was right there , just as she thought. She had to go meet Ben on the Alamain matter and she will tell him what she had discovered. She put it all down in her computer and when she was done she closed it , She was getting ready to go when her phone rang. The male voice on the other end told her he knew who killed Carly Manning and he had the proof. She was to meet him at The Cheatin Heart in thirty minutes and he would not wait for her. If she wasn't there on time he would be gone. She could still make her meeting with Ben , so she wouldn't call him. As she was heading out the door she thought to leave Jack a note, " Jack , I went to meet a source regarding Manning's murder. Pretty sure we can wrap this one up....if i am right. I will be back in a couple of hours to start dinner. Sara " She left the note on top of her computer on the kitchen table. She headed out to hopefully confirm her suspicions.




Sara went into the bar and sat down , ten minutes to spare. A young man came up behind her " Miss Jamison? " Sara nodded. " Let's talk , there is a bench outside. Would you mind if we talked there? " They went outside but they didn't make it to the bench. The young man pushed her into the alley and tried to cover her mouth. The self defense that the marines and Ben had taught her kicked in she got free and kicked him between the legs. He went down and Sara grabbed his thumb and twisted it downward, then twisted his arm around his back and put her knee in his back. " Who are you and what do you want from me? " She never got an answer, the cloth came over her mouth . Sara could smell the chemical , she fought not to breath it in but she could not avoid it. Her head began to swim, her last thought " Chloroform . " And then the world went dark.










Ben sat in the Java Cafe waiting for Sara , she was late...Sara was never late. He knew she would never leave him there waiting. Jennifer came in with Hope and they saw Ben right away. " Come on Jen let's stop over there and say hello. " Hope and Jennifer walked over to Ben as he sat watching the door. " Good afternoon Agent Todd . " Ben turned his face quickly. " Oh good afternoon Mrs Brady , Miss Deveraux , Please have a seat. Did Jack tell you I wish to speak with you? " Jennifer looked puzzled " No , What about? " Ben looked into Jennifer's eyes , " Dr Manning . " Jennifer looked down, " Oh." Ben felt a twinge of sympathy for her, " I thought we might meet tomorrow , here's my card you can call me in the morning and we can arrange a meeting. " Jennifer nodded. " Agent Todd my husband tells me you will be attending the Police Benefit on Friday . " Ben looked at Hope , " Yes I try to attend one whenever possible. " Hope smiled " Good , you will bring in a lot of money, at the auction...the bachelor's auction. You will be in it won't you? " Ben let out a laugh that made his eyes sparkle, " No I don't think so. "





Sara's head pounded , she felt the cloth in her mouth, she looked around as her eyes started to clear.Sara remembered now what had happened , how could she have been so stupid ! She had made a rookie mistake. Sara tried to get her hands and feet free from the binds. They were too tight, but if she kept at them maybe she could squeeze free. The ceiling was creaking, someone was coming! Wait she had on the hidden recorder , if she could just turn it on. Sara heard the door open and saw the crack of light. then she heard the steps creak. He was coming now...






After Hope left Jennifer decided to see what she could find out about Ben about Sara. " So
you and Sara have known each other a while? " Ben , like Sara hated to beat around the bush , " Ok..lets try this, may I call you Jennifer ? " She nodded , " Why don't we stop pretending that you just want to make conversation. Ask me what it is you want to know. "
Jennifer could see he was sincere . She asked him how long they were together , did he know Robert , then she asked him about Sara . The way his dark eyes seemed to melt as he described what kind of person she was. Then he remembered she never showed up. He tried calling her but she didn't answer. Jennifer told him she had left her about three hours ago at the house and she was researching the toxin that killed Carly. Jennifer told him that she thought Sara had an idea who the killer was. Ben's expression showed concern, " Will you give me Jack's number please. "






He came down the steps slowly. Sara could see him now her heart racing. " Damn reporter..you couldn't just let it go , you had to dig. You could have had a nice long life with Deveraux but no , now I have to kill you too. " Sara had to stall she knew , " Well aren't you going to tell me why you killed her ? " He had a sly grin on his face, " You're so smart tell me what you think. " Sara studied his face , " For love..of money? " He moved closer to her , " You are smart. "




Ben and Jennifer arrived at Jack's. He was already pacing, Dean and Angela had already gotten there. Angela hugged Ben , " What do you think ? " She asked him. " I think she is in trouble." Jack asked Jennifer if Sara had said anything, " No she didn't give me any ideas, she did say she was looking into how available the toxin was and if she could get some kind of list as to who had ordered it. Angela suddenly thought of something , " If she had anything it is in her computer. " They spent the next half hour trying to get the password.They tried everything. " I think we should just go out and start looking. " Jack said. Ben sat staring at the screen , he typed in "Newshound" And A photo of her and Robert appeared. Everyone stopped talking. They went through her folders and he found it then name on the manifest. Tears rolled down Jennifer's face. "where would he take her ? "
Jack asked her. " I don't know " she said. " Hey wait a minute . The GPS in the rental car. They could find it and track where her car is now. " Ben started for the door , " Call Brady , tell him to meet me down at the rental office. " Jack followed behind him , " I am going with you . " Ben turned around to face Jack , " You will stay here ..in case she calls or shows up. " Jack moved for the door again , " The hell I am ! " Ben shoved him backward , " Get your hands off of me ! " Jack said as he slapped Ben's hand away . Ben told him straight out , " You WILL stay here , I am not going to worry about having a civilian with me. " He turned on his heel and walked out. Jack waited a few minutes then grabbed his keys , Jennifer told him to stay but he refused . " Are you coming ? " he said to Dean. Then they were gone .




" I am afraid Dr Jonas you will need to explain it to me." Sara said in a calm voice.








" Why don't you explain it to me Dr Jonas." Daniel started pacing. " I didn't start out wanting to kill her..she is the one who put the idea in my head. " Daniel explained to Sara how mentally unbalanced Carly had become , she had told him when Lawrence came back that she knew he was going to kill her. She wanted to leave Daniel and Melanie most of her money. Daniel said that he had been angry at first that she had his child but it eventually worked to his benefit. He started thinking that he could go to Europe and live happily ever after. " She told me the lawyer was coming by , I checked and made sure he did and I waited a few days and then I came in we talked a bit and then I hit her with the hypodermic. First I had to knock her out because I had to shoot her between her toes." He told Sara that he thought about making look like an overdose, everyone would have bought that . But he thought he might as well stick it to Lawrence while he was at it. Since Alamain was coming after everyone it would be easy for them to think he may have killed her. Of course he didn't find out until later she only left Melanie the money but him as her executor. That would work too he thought. " Women can be so gullible and stupid. that's my hobby you know , destroying the lives of gullible trusting women , stupid women. " Sara asked him , " Really , how so ? "He checked his watch, "Ok I have a few minutes , I will tell you. "





Ben met Bo at the rental center. The got the GPS location of Sara's rental car and headed out. They found themselves in the parking lot of the Cheatin Heart. They found her car there. Ben showed the bartender a photo from his wallet and he remembered seeing her there and leaving with a guy. Bo showed him a picture of Daniel , " No , that ain't him. " After getting a vague description of the guy they walked out and right into Jack and Dean. " This is unbelievable , I told you two to stay at the house. " Dean came forward but Jack spoke ,
" We want to help find her. I couldn't just sit around waiting , could you ? " Ben understood what he was saying , but the agent in him knew how dangerous it could be to have civilians around . He nodded , " Ok , I get that , but you do what Brady and I say when we say it . That's the deal take it or go home. " Jack and Dean agreed. " Let's split up and start asking around if anybody has seen her , do you have a photo of her on you?" Jack thought about it , " No , I ran out of the house . I didn't even think.." Ben went into his wallet he had three photos of her in his wallet , one of the the two of them , one of her and Ben and Robert on his graduation from Marine boot camp and a picture of Sara alone. That was the one he gave to Jack. Before they split up Dean saw something down the alley. They walked down and found a body, Bo checked for vital signs, looked up to Ben , " He's dead, this could be the guy Sara left the bar with , maybe Jonas didn't want to leave any loose ends. " Jack leaned down , " Hey over here ... it's her purse..it's Sara's purse. " Ben came to him and as he bent down he saw the rag , he lifted it with his pen and sniffed it , " It's chloroform. He has her but where would he take her ? "






" What do you mean your hobby ? " Sara asked , she knew she needed to stall as long as possible. She knew both Jack and Ben would be looking for her by now , they had to be.
" I make a hobby of ruining the lives of pathetic needy women . " He told Sara how he would meet a woman and become what she wanted and needed then he would use her for a while and then end things, sometimes making it seem like it was their fault. Then he met Carly , he was the one in fact that sent Lawrence anonymous note telling him of his wifes affair. That sealed her fate and made her life a living hell for years to come. Then after arriving in Salem he met Chloe. He had an affair with her and bullied her into leaving her husband. By the time he was through with her her life and hit rock bottom and she was now involved in prostitution. " Then I met my crowning jewel. The saintly Jennifer Horton Deveraux. I learned everything I could about her , including the string of men she turned to whenever Jack was not around. She fit perfectly. She was almost too perfect. She had to be constantly showered with praise and affection. It was a bit annoying. It was obvious she still loved him but with everyone telling her to move on , myself included, she got her divorce. I was so looking forward to destroying her , I mean with her fear of abandonment
her fall would have been huge. But then Deveraux came back. Oh well , it was not meant to be. She was the one who told me your suspicions. She told me everything that was going on with the investigations. That's why I had to make her believe that I loved her still. It wasn't that hard. Now who I wonder did you tell about me , Jack or your photographer friend? No I am thinking the FBI agent. You are going to call him and tell him to meet you and then I will have a chat with him , I need to know what he knows before I leave you see." Sara smirked , " If you think that you could ever get the jump on him you are sadly mistaken. Not to mention that I will never set him up " Now Daniel smiled back, " Of course I knew you would say that , so I brought this to help you. " Daniel pulled out a taser. " Each time you refuse I amp it up. I'll demonstrate. " He replaced the gag in her mouth and placed the stunner to Sara 's neck. " Ready ? " He pulled the trigger and he body shook , she let out a muffled scream and tears rolled down her cheeks. " There , a little something to think about while I am gone. "





Jack was pacing , rubbing the back of his neck , " We have to find her , she has been gone for hours, what if he.." Ben swung around to him , " Don't even think it , we will find her , she is smart , she will find a way to stall. " Bo said there were a lot of empty warehouses
around there and he was going to have uniforms start sweeping the area. " Jack froze in place, " I have an idea , I think I know were he took her. Sara said Carly left him her house."
Ben and Bo looked at each other , " Let's go have look. " Bo said.






Sara was able to get her feet out of the ropes but her hands were a different story, she heard him coming ..she stood up and hit behind some boxes. Her hands still bound she was sure she could still swing the broom handle she found in the corner. She was still shaky though from the taser. When he reached the bottom step , he started telling her she couldn't get away, she just needed to tell him what he wanted and he promised he would kill her quickly. As he approached her she swung , but she was not stable and she missed , he grabbed her from behind and hit her again with the taser. " You really are very irritating." He pushed her back into the chair.



" Jack you and Dean stay in the car , Ben and I will go in. " Jack opened his mouth and Ben put up his hand " That was the deal if I have to I will cuff you to the steering wheel." Then he leaned closer to him , " I know you want to help her but right now you could just make it worse for her. "Ben and Bo put their phones on silence. " If you see anyone or anything coming near this house call me. " The got out of the car and entered the house. Jack and Dean looked at each other , " Well Jack , do we go in the back or what? "



Daniel heard them in the house , " Damn it ! " Sara jumped up and knocked over boxes and the sound of footsteps stopped. They heard it , she thought. Daniel grabbed her by the hair. " I will kill you now , do you understand me . " Jack and Dean saw them through the basement window. Jack called Ben , " He has her in the basement , I can see them through the window, he knows you are in the house. " Ben gestured to Bo telling him the situation. Jack told him where he had dragged Sara and where they are hiding. " Ok Jack , you win..this is what I want you to do. " Ben and Bo moved down into the basement , with jack guiding them through the room from the window. " Stop. He's about ten feet in front of you , he has something to her neck I can't see what it is but I am sure it isn't a gun. " Ben nodded and Jack sent a rock through the window. Daniel grabbed Sara and they stood up , Ben and Bo guns drawn . " Let her go Daniel, " Bo said ," It's over. " Daniel looked around at the faces of the men in the room. " Sara her body still suffering tremors from the shocks she had received had a needle stuck into her neck , Daniels finger on the plunger. " Not until I say it is. This syringe is filled with the same toxin I used on Carly, it's already stuck in her neck , all I need to do is squeeze it just a bit, she will be dead in minutes. Drop your guns, let us walk out and I will release her when I feel safe. " Bo looked to Ben . " Come on Agent Todd you and I both know you wont take the chance. Jack Tell him , tell him to drop it or you girlfriend here is dead. " From the basement window Jack said , " You heard him what are guys waiting for? " Dean was behind the door at the top of the steps waiting for him should he get that far. Bo lowered his gun and placed it on the floor. Ben swallowed, he may have lost her for now to Jack but he would not lose her to this maniac. Ben started to lower his gun , his eyes never leaving hers, she was shaking her head . Jack saw it too, she was telling Ben not to give up his weapon. Ben was breathing hard , " Sara " he said softly, she closed her eyes tight and her body stiffened. It was though everything was in slow motion when in fact it was a few seconds. Ben's hand shot up and he squeezed the trigger. Daniel went down , shot in the head. Ben was there before she hit the ground,
" It's over , Baby it's over , " He pulled the syringe from her neck . " Sara's small body going through another series of tremors. " Thanks for that. " Jack was there and he went to
Sara's other side, " Thank god , Sara are you alright ? " He said as he cradled her in his arms.


As Sara was loaded into the ambulance jack grabbed Ben by the arm " What the hell where you thinking, you could have killed her. " Ben grabbed his arm from Jack. " I would never do anything to put Sara's life in jeopardy. She means more to me then anything in this world. " He walked back over to Bo. Dean put his hand on Jack's shoulder, " Jack the ambulance is leaving you better get in. " Jack hopped in the back and it pulled away with Ben watching as it drove out of sight.

[jaysdelina]

Wow...for some reason I really didn't see that one coming,but I LOVED the killer being Daniel
Gosh,Jennifer's gotta feel massively stupid now,lol.I can't wait to see the reprecussions of this one.Fabulous chapters once again!

[fluffysmom]

I wasn't expecting that either. Thanks for the great chapters. I look forward to seeing Jennifer's reaction to all of this.

[MrsM]

Wow. That is all I can say!

[blueyed358]

Jack paced in the waiting room , Dean sat and watched him. " have a seat Jack you're making me dizzy. " Just then Angela and Jennifer came in. Angela spoke , " How is she ? "
Dean took his wife's hand , " We don't know yet but she was talking so.. " Jennifer walked over to Jack placing her hands on his arm , " Jack I am so sorry , I'm sure she will be just fine. " Jack stared at her a moment then took a step back. " Dr Mcpsycho is dead. Agent Todd shot him. He saved Sara's life. " Then a voice had all heads turning , " WE saved her life, Things could have taken a much a different turn if you hadn't ignored me and got out of that car. Jack saw them in the basement. Brady and I could have been ambushed. " Then with a slight smirk , " Nice work Jack. " Jack gave him a small nod. " Why ? Why did he do it? " Jennifer asked. " Don't know yet , we need to talk to Sara . How is she ? " The worry evident on Ben's face. Just then the doctor came out . He told them that she had a small amount of the drug in her , so her limbs were stiff , but that would be gone by the morning , her wrists were bleeding from rope burns and she had a few cuts and a small burn mark on her neck. They had wanted to keep her overnight but .... everyone but Jennifer said in unison , " She refused. " Jack asked to see her. " In a few minutes , I insist she stay for another hour or so , to make sure there are no complications"





When the ok was given Ben raced for the door but was stopped by Jack, " I would like a moment alone , if you don't mind ? " Ben took a step back , " Of course. " Jack went into her room , alone. Jennifer came up behind Ben , " I know you are worried about her but..."
Ben turned to Jennifer their eyes meeting, " So is he...I think both you and I have grossly underestimated what is going on between Jack and Sara. "


Jack found her laying in bed eyes closed , wrists bandaged. He leaned down and kissed her forehead. He eyes opened slowly, " " Hey , you ok ? " She asked him. Jack chuckled, " I believe I should ask you that. Sara , I..I am not going to lie..I was out of my mind..we all were. " Sara nodded she looked so fragile, " I know..I'm sorry..I screwed up Jack. I wasn't thinking not to mention I was a bit arrogant. " Jack silenced her by kissing her " I love you " he said , " I love you back. " She said.



Ben could wait no more , he knocked on the door and entered the room. His heart dropping like a stone at the sight of her. " Come in Ben. I want to thank you both for everything you did today. " All he could do was nod , " Can you tell me what happened? "
Sara recounted how she came to be in Carly Mannings basement. " I really hate to admit this but , I am not up to this but you can hear it for yourselves. Jack get my clothes for me will you ? " Jack did as requested and Sara went into her pant's , a hidden pocket in the leg revealed a digital recorder. " Here , I managed to get it turned on before he came into the basement. " Ben turned to Jack , " May I have a moment alone with Sara ? " Jack sighed deeply, " Sure , I will be back, " he said to her. He kissed her lightly and left the room. Ben leaned over her , " You had me scared Ace . " Sara's large eyes welled up, " I know..I'm sorry it was stupid of me. " Ben smiled , " You're damn right it was , I don't know what I would have done if something happened to you. You took a pretty big leap of faith in me when you told me to take that shot." Sara shook her head , " No not really. I know you are a sharp shooter plus..I knew you would never let anything happen to me. " Ben leaned further down until his face was within inches of hers, " No I wouldn't, not ever. " He touched his lips to hers softly , then he let out a shuddering breath. He could finally breath again.




They all gathered in the lounge , Bo and Hope having arrived too. They all listened to Daniel give his chilling account to the events. Jack watched Jennifer , her hand over her mouth as she heard Daniel talk about her. The truth hitting her hard, she had yet again put her trust and faith in the wrong man, she was that woman he was describing. She promised herself right there that she would never be that woman again. Jack felt sorry for her but he could not bring himself to comfort her. He knew that this was a viscious cycle with Jennifer and before it had only hurt him, now it could have cost Sara her life. There was a gasp from the women when Daniel hit Sara with the taser. Jack's eyes closed involentarily. Bens body flinched. She had refused to set him up and she had payed for it he thought.



When the tape was over Bo said , "Well that's it then, Now we are back to just worring about Larry. " Ben and Bo discussed when they would all give their official statements.
Jennifer walked over to Jack , " Jack , I am sorry I was so..." Jack stopped her , " Not now Jennifer please. I do not wish to hear it....yet again. I am used to being hurt by your choices and mine. I am tired...mentally and physically from this evenings events. I do not wish to have the same old conversation. I know you are sorry you trusted the wrong man..yet again and it will never happen again right ? Excuse me please , I have to see to Sara now."



Both Jennifer and Ben watched as Jack wheeled Sara towards the exit with Dean and Angela following behind. Sara reached her small hand out and grabbed Ben's hand and squeezed it , " Thanks again Benjamin. " As they passed Angela stopped and hugged him and Dean shook his hand. Then they were gone.


chapters 58 - 60

Jack helped Sara upstairs having refused to be carried. He set her up in bed and brought her coffee. " Let's not even talk about this anymore, " Jack said. He laid next to her and she snuggled into his arms, " Well that works for me. " she said. He squeezed her lightly , "Know what works for me? " He asked . " No , what works for you ? " she responded,
" We work for me, this..us.. " Sara chuckled , " Ok you don't need to list the words I get the point. Jack ? " Jack placed his cheek on the top of her head , " Yea ? " She kissed him , " WE work for me too. " Jack took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. She was alright and they there were there together , he could rest easy.











It had been a week since Sara had found herself face to face with a killer. She had not left the house but to give her statement at police headquarters. Ben had called once a day to check on her and her housemates were going overboard "taking care" of her. She had not given them resistance feeling she owed it to them for scaring them so. " Are you sure you are up for this ? Because if not we can just stay home. " Jack had told her . " I am fine Jack, besides I am looking forward to buying you. " Jack laughed at that. " Why spend the money? You already have me for free. " Jack was already in his black tux looking as handsome and sexy as ever. Sara had chose a black gown that Angela and brought along with some of her other things from New York. " You wearing that ? " he asked. " I was thinking about it why? Don't you like it? " Jack looked it up and down, " It's lovely and I am sure you look incredible in it but...I had my heart set on that cream colored dress you wore on our 'first date' . " Sara smiled " Oh that dress , sure I could wear that. " Jack watched her as she slipped into the dress. She really looked exquisite in it. Jack had a huge smile on his face, " Oh yea , I really like that dress. " Sara smirked at him " I think you just like the way it slids off. " Jack tilted his head from side to side , " Well yes, that too. "




By the time Jack and Sara had arrived everyone was there . Jack went to get them drinks and Sara walked over to Dean and Angela who were talking to Ben . " Hey guys " Sara said . Ben stood a moment , his eyes roaming all over Sara , " You look beautiful. " She smiled at him,
" Thanks, you look great too." He tugged and his tie , " I hate these damn bow ties. " That made Dean do the same , "Me too , I hate wearing these things. " Jack heard the last remark and handed Sara her drink , " I thought you might try and wear that tee shirt with the tuxedo on the front. " Dean gave a fake laugh , " Very funny. " Angela turned to Jack , " Don't think he didn' try. " They all laughed, " What ? " Dean said laughing at himself.



Across the room Jennifer watched as Jack laughed, she loved when he laughed . She watched him live , live a life that did not include her on a daily basis. Jennifer had made up her mind, she would win him tonight if it took every last penny she had . This would be a chance to begin again. She could show him they could be friends again, that was after all how she had gotten to him in the beginning. Start at the beginning, that was what she needed to do.




Ben stopped at the bar to get another drink , Sara was at least being friendly he thought.
Jennifer came behind him and tapped him on the shoulder, " Hello Agent Todd , " Ben turned and saw Jennifer there , looking exceptional in a red gown. " Ben , please. How are you this evening Jennifer? You look lovely by the way. " Jennifer smiled , " As do you , I am fine , thanks. What is it ? " she asked him, seeing a question in his eyes. " I was just wondering if you would be bidding on your ex-husband this evening. " Jennifer knew that he would use that to his own advantage to occupy Sara's time. They stood looking each other in the eye , each knowing what the other was thinking . " It has crossed my mind , do you think I should ? " Ben smiled at her , lifting his eyes to the ceiling , " I don't see why not. Enjoy your evening. " Jennifer smiled back , " You do the same. "



As Ben watched Jack and Sara dancing and talking to each other he felt as though someone had reached into his chest and was squeezing his heart. " Ben ? Hello ..." Angela said, "What , I'm sorry what did you say ? " Ben said as he turned to face her. Her heart was breaking for him but , she and Dean wanted to remain neutral, " I asked if you were going to be in the auction , you should raise a nice amount. " Ben skook his head , " Well thanks for that , but I don't think so. "




The auction was about to begin, they were going in alphabetical order so Jack was going to be third . " I am just going to run to the ladies room, I will be right back. " Jack looked terrified. " What if you don't get back in time ? " he asked. " Don't be silly...I will be back in time. I only hope I have enough money in the bank to win you. " Jack smiled at her words ,
" I wouldn't worry about that , I am sure I will be quite the bargain. " Sara leaned in closer to him , " I would pay any price for you. " She gave him a long sweet kiss. Jennifer watched them and her heart was racing...she had to win.



Sara was in the ladies room when Maggie and Hope came in. " Oh Sara , hi how are you feeling? " Maggie said to her. Sara smiled at them both , " I'm fine , thank you so much for asking. " Both Maggie and Hope felt a twinge of guilt at what they were about to do, they both liked Sara but ..Jennifer was family.




Jack was called up to stage , he looked to Angela and mouthed to go get Sara. Angela raced to the bathroom. As Sara was walking out Maggie bumped into her so both their purses spilled out on to the floor. " Oh my , I am so sorry. " Sara only smiled , " No problem. " Both women bent down and started to pick up and sort through the things on the floor.
" Here let me help you two. " Hope said as she mixed the items together. " One fifty " a red headed nurse had bid. " Two hundred " from from the brunette patrol officer. Angela rushed the bathroom and one look at Sara and Jennifer's aunt and cousin told her what she needed to know. " Sara , get out there....Jack is on the block already. " Sara jumped up " Oh no..excuse me please" and she was out the door. Angela bent down and started picking up Sara's things. " You know..If this had not been done to Sara I would be laughing my rear end off right now. " Maggie and Hope glanced at each other , " What do you mean ? " Hope asked. " Please..let's not insult each others intelligence shall we ? We all know what went down in here and while my husband and I are trying to remain neutral in all this, I will not allow someone I consider to be a sister to me, to be sabotaged and ganged up on. " Maggie started to speak but Angela raised her hand up, " Just know that if you two feel the need to lend a helping hand again, I am ready , willing and able to do so for Sara. " She scooped up the rest of Sara's things and walked out of the bathroom. " Sold for three hundred dollars to the beautiful blonde in the red gown." Sara watched as Jennifer came forward and extended her hand to Jack. Jack rubbed the back of his neck and took her hand as he left the stage." Jennifer.." Jennifer smiled brightly at Jack. " What Jack ? I would think you would be glad I saved you from strangers. I own you for the rest of the evening ..until midnight. How about a drink ? I will have champagne . " Jack sighed ,
" Fine , just remember that's escort not slave hmm. " before Jack walked away , Sara came over to them and she was mad , speaking directly to Jennifer she gave her a phoney smile,
" Well I truly have to hand it to you. That was well orchestrated , very cleaver indeed. " Jack looked from Sara to Jennifer . Jennifer with a hint of a smile across her lips answered , " I don't know what you are talking about. " Sara chuckled , " No , I am sure you don't. Oh by the way Jennifer you might want to look in a mirror ..your halo is a bit crooked. " Sara walked away , " Jennifer would you excuse me for a moment. " Jennifer felt a bit sorry for the position she had put Jack in but that could not be helped. She needed to have Jack remember how much they liked being with each other and then she could build from there.




" Sara , wait . " She spun around and faced him , " What Jack ? Your date is waiting for you. "
Jack had never seen her so angry, " What happened ? Where were you ? " Sara gave her account of the bathroom incident. Jack stood with his mouth open. " That's exactly how I feel. " She said pointing to his face. " Well what are going to do for the rest of the evening, are you going to leave ? " he asked. " And do what exactly Jack ? Sit at the house and image what you and Polly Perfect are doing all night ? No I don't think so. I am sure there is someone in this auction I can pay to spend some time with. " Jack didn't like that idea. " You going to bid on someone else ? Sara this is not my fault." Sara was pacing , her arms waving, the italian temper coming to the surface. " I am aware of that Jack. " He cleared his throat, " Then why are you so angry with ME? " Sara stopped and faced him , " I am not angry at YOU Jack I am angry in GENERAL. You just happen to be in the path. If you will excuse me..I need to go see the rest of the selections. " Jack watched her walk away and he blew out a breath. Dean came up behind him and placed a hand on his shoulder, " If I were you Jack , I would do my best to have a good time tonight , because even if you don't have fun, you are screwed. "





Ben watched Sara and chuckled to himself , he could not believe that Jennifer had gotten the best of Sara. He suddenly got an idea. " Hey pal , is it too late to be in this auction?"
" You and Maggie did what ? " Jack heard Bo saying to his wife as he brought Jennifer her drink. Jennifer was chatting with Victor while Jack surveyed the room until he found her . Her eyes on the stage. " Our final bachelor of the evening is FBI Agent Benjamin Todd. Ben is six feet two inches tall and as you ladies see he is all muscle." Ben turned and stared at the older woman wide eyed and he blushed . Sara and Angela found that quite amusing. Jack watched her " Don't do it Sara, don't you do it. " he said under his breath. Jennifer watched him closely. " Starting bid is Fifty dollars. " Ben watched in horror as woman after woman bid on him, but Sara did not. He looked her in the eye almost pleading her. " You just going to leave him up there? " Angela asked feeling sorry for him. Then Dean spoke up, " Come on have a little pity. " Sara sighed , he did help save her life after all. The bidding was up to three hundred. Sara looked over to Jack , she raised her hand and said " Five hundred dollars. " Jack was swallowing when he heard her, he started choking. " Jack are you ok? " Jennifer said as she smacked him on the back. " Sold for five hundred dollars to the beautiful brunette in the cream gown. " Sara came forward to claim her prize. He smiled down at her. She and she wiggled her fingers at him , " Well lets go. " He came down the steps saying, " Thanks I owe you. " She laughed , " Yea five hundred dollars. " He gave a light smile , " You can take it out in trade. " She turned around and spoke while walking backwards and with a slight laugh in her voice she said, " You don't have anything to trade. "



Jack and Sara eyed each other as each danced with their exes. Jack watched as her and Ben laughed and talked. She watched as Jack and Jennifer did the same. The announcement had been made that the benefit had come to a close , a reminder given to the ladies that they had their purchases until midnight. Ben turned to Sara " Come on let's get out of here, I have an idea that may erase that debt. " Sara frowned . " That's not what I meant , come on , please, you will like it , I promise. " Sara sighed , she looked over and saw Jack and Jennifer smiling and talking to each other. "Sure , what the hell . "



Jack smiled at Jennifer , " You ready to go home. " Jennifer had two hours left and she didn't want to waste it . They had such a lovely time talking and joking around with the exception of Jack looking at Sara, it was like old times. " No ..I don't think so. I do own you for another two hours at least, let's go somewhere. " Jack looked up and watched Sara and Ben leave. "Sure, I have an idea, let's go."



Ben and Sara sat in the practically empty movie theater eating popcorn. " I drove past here yestarday, I couldn't believe it was showing." They were playing " Naughty Marietta" a 1930's musical starring Nelson Eddy and Janette MacDonald. It was one of Sara's favorites having watched it over and over again with her mother when she was young. " You like this movie..admit it. " He did like it , but admitting it was another thing, " Don't be ridculous...it's a musical chick flick. The best part is the fight with the pirates. " The movie began.




" Oh Jack this was a wonderful idea. " They were at the lake , sitting on a blanket gazing at the stars , eating ice cream. Jack looked up and said let's play connect the dots. " Jennfier laughed , " Connect the dots Jack? " Jack looked down at her her ice cream just about to drip down her hand , " Oh..hang on. " He grabbed her wrist and lifted her hand to his mouth and licked the drip and all around her cone , as he had done hundreds of times.
" Thanks Jack. Now teach me how to play connect the dots. " Her wrist still in his hands.




Sara sat almost doubled over as Ben lipsynched to Nelson Eddy's beautiful barotone voice.
" Please stop ..you are killing me . " Ben smiled , she was laughing and having good time, that was a very good thing . " I don't know what you are laughing at Ace. I expect you to do the same for her next song. " She had forgotten how silly Ben could be while acting so serious. " Fat chance pal. "





Jennifer and Jack had connected the stars trying to form objects each trying to stump the other." Ahh..it's a pony, no wait it's ...oh I got it..hearts and flowers right? " Jennifer laughed at him, " No Jack, it's a cookie. " Jack laughed , " Mine were a bit more imaginative if you ask me. " Jennifer looked at him with a serious expression, " What is it ? " he asked . " I started seeing a therapist, to work through some of my issues. " He gave her a small smile, " That's great Jennifer. " He looked at his watch, it was one thirty. " It's late we should get going. " He stood up and looked down at her face , her large green eyes sparkling in the moonlight , she looked happy and sad all at once he thought. She had been through alot recently, he could do one more thing for her. " How about..." Jack turned on the car and put the radio on but he could not find a good song. He shut it off and thought of something else. " How about one last dance with you old boss ? " Jennifer smiled sweetly as he helped her up. " But there's no music Jack. " Now he smiled shyly, "Well we can do what we always do, make it up as we go along. " Jack and Jennifer spoke not another word as they danced next to the lake under the moonlight.





Sara and Ben mouthed the words to the big romantic duet , looking into each others eyes.
What started out as a joke became a bit more serious . The words of " Ah Sweet Mystery" rang out in the theater. Their faces close to each , almost touching. He knew he would not get this chance when he drove her home so he took it now. He moved just an inch and his lips were on hers barely touching. " You know all the words Benjamin. " she said her lips moving across his as she spoke. " What can I say , if a guy has to sing sappy song to win the heart of the princess ...." She started to giggle, god he loved it when she did that. He brought his hand up to her face, " Oh Baby , see what you have done to me? " He kissed her
but not filled with passion , gently just enough for her to feel his emotions lying under the surface. " Ben , I can't .." He kissed her again " Yea..I know. "




Jack walked Jennifer to the door. " I had a great time tonight Jack. " Jack nodded , " Yes well I did as well. " She reached up and hugged him, he held her a moment , then as they parted Jennifer touched her lips to his and he to hers. It was slow and sweet. He stood to his full height, " Good night . " he said . He turned and walked back to the car. Jennifer closed the door , and leaned back against the door , " Good night Jack. " she said touching her fingers to her lips.


Jack was driving home thinking that he had a nice evening , no arguements , no heavy discussions , just dancing and light conversation. He had done as Dean had advised and now he would go home and face the music.



Jack pulled into the driveway. He sat a moment and took a deep breath. He knew based on Sara's reaction at the benefit , they were going to have a fight. The fact that he was coming in this late would make matters worse. He blew out a breath and got out of the car. All the lights were on and Jack came in and listened for a moment. He heard sounds in the kitchen, " Sara , I'm home. " He walked through the kitchen door and found Dean and Angela there. " Oh , hey . Did Sara go to bed already ? " Dean and Angela looked at each other , she knew her husband would not answer , so it was left to her. : Ahh, no Jack, actually she hasn't come home yet. " Jack stood staring at her , " Are you sure she isn't in bed already because she left before I did. " Angela shook her head , " I am positive, she is not here. " Jack flopped into a chair and loosened his tie. " She was really upset huh ? "
" Well Jack can you blame her? I mean they tricked her and she lost to your ex-wife. "
Angela pointed out to him. He nodded barely, he suddenly felt exhausted. " She didn't have to buy Ben though did she ? " Dean finally spoke up and answered this one. " Maybe she did. He went up there on purpose , everyone knows that. She couldn't just leave him hanging. What would you have done if the situation was reversed? " Jack looked down at the tie now in his hand, " I don't know. "



About forty five minutes after Jack got home Sara came through the door. She walked into the living room to find them all sitting there. Jack did not look happy. "Where have you been ?" Sara looked at them all , she may have had fun with Ben but she had not forgotten she was angry at what had happened tonight. When she didn't respond , he repeated the question, " Where were you ? " Sara looked at him and walked towards the kitchen , "Out"
She came back out with a bottle of water. " So did eveyone have a good time tonight ? "
Jack studied her as she sat drinking her water, if he wasn't so annoyed at her he would have dragged her upstairs , there was something about her when she was like this that made her even more sexy. He remembered some of their most exciting nights had been after a fight over a political debate. " Why don't you just say what you mean ? You want to know if I had a good time. " Sara took a drink from her water bottle, after recapping it she said , " I am sure you did, you did spend the evening with the PERFECT woman, why would your night be otherwise. " Oh that's how she wanted to do this? Jack thought they would discuss it , maybe yell a bit, ok he can go there too. " What about you ? I am sure you and James Bond had quite the exciting evening. Let me guess , you two played Baccarat and drank Martinis , shaken , not stirred of course. " Sara's eyes narrowed and there was a slight curl to her lips. " And what did you evening entail I wonder. A night of romance no doubt. I can picture it now , strolling hand and hand talking sweetly to each other and then , " she couldn't stop the words from coming out , wheither it was the alcohol of the anger and jealousy, they came out. " and then making love in a field of roses. " Jack's eyes opened wide and his jaw fell open. Did she just accuse him of sleeping with Jennifer ?
Now he was just plain angry he shot back at her , " Maybe it's your own guilty conscious that made you envision that little scene, perhaps James Bond had you clean his gun for him. Tell me did you call him 'My Hero!' " Jack and Sara were both standing now , oblivious to the fact that Dean and Angela were still in the room. Dean took his wife's hand and pulled her out of the room, " Well good night ! " They didn't even notice them leave , they stood glaring at one another. "Do you really think that I would sleep with Jennifer ? " Sara was breathing heavy , she just let the words come tumbling out without a second thought. " Well I don't know Jack you have admitted that you could never resist her. " Jack looked at her , the crease forming between his eyes, " I may be a lot of things Sara but unfaithful is not one of them. " He turned and walked into the kitchen to get his own bottle of water , she came in on his heels , " And you think I would be unfaithful ? That I just swoon over any man that comes on to me..oh wait that would be Jennifer. " Jack slammed his bottle down " That's enough ! You deliberately bought him to spite me . "
Sara snapped back "You are damn right I did ! They got one over on me , I will give them that. And that smug look on look on her face.. " Jack took a step towards her , " You knew he entered so you could buy him . He saw an opportunity and you gave it to him. " Sara stepped towards him now, " And you didn't ? , even after the underhanded way she won, you played the perfect escourt , I am sure you didn't give me a second thought. All she had to do was those bat those eyes and I am sure you .. " Jack now threw the bottle on the floor, " And all he had to do was flex those muscles and you just... " Sara's words halted him , " Did you sleep with her Jack ? " Jack shook his head , " How can you even ask me that ? " Sara took a deep breath , " It's easy I open my mouth and the words come out. Did you Jack ? " Jack swallowed , ' No I did not, I would not do that to you..to us. Did you sleep with him, maybe out of spite or jealousy because you thought that's what I was doing?
Sara sighed deeply , " No , I would never do that. " Jack looked at her , his features softening , " You do believe me dont you ? " Sara nodded , " I do , and you ? " Jack gave a small smile , " I will always believe you. Do you wish me to tell you about the evening? "
Sara shook her head , " No , I don't think I could handle that right now. You? " Jack shook his head , " No..I trust you. " Sara sighed again, " I am totally exhausted, I am going to bed"
She headed out of the kitchen and went upstairs , with Jack following behind her turning out the lights and locking the doors.




Sara reached the top of the stairs and opened her door , " Good night Jack. " she walked into her room, Jack stood staring at her , "Are we sleeping in here tonight ? " Sara looked surprised , " No , Jack, I am sleeping in here , you are sleeping in your room. " She started closing the door on him and his hand shot out , " Sara tonight was not my fault , but you still blame me for it ? " Sara rolled her head in a circle , " I know it wasn't your fault and no I don't blame you. " Jack moved closer , " But your punishing me for it , putting walls between us. " Sara looked him in the eyes , " Yea , I guess I am, go to bed Jack. " with those words she closed the door.



Jack decided he did not like the way things had ended with Sara. They were in a relationship and that meant they worked together and she shut him out. He could not let her get away with that. No they should be sleeping in the same room , the same bed . He
had a bit more confidence in himself and with Sara , he wasn't afraid of making a misstep
like he used to be. He wanted to be in bed with her and that's were he was going. He went down the hall and opened her door. She was not sleeping but pretending to be. He walked to the side of the bed and got under the covers. Sara sat up and said " What are you doing Jack. " Jack moved around finding a comfortable spot . " You said go to bed so I am. " Sara sat there looking at him in the dark , hands behind his head laying on his back, " No Jack, this is my place, remember?" she said referring to when they played that it was her own apartment. " Go back to YOUR place. " Jack sighed and closed his eyes, " I am , my place is here with you. " Sara just looked at him, she knew she was treating him badly for something that was not his fault. Maybe she was feeling a bit guilty too for having more fun with Ben then she intended. She laid back down , pulled the covers up and turned onto her side and closed her eyes.





Jack lay in bed, his mind racing. Feeling better already that he had won a small battle.. He tried to figuire out how the night had got away from him. He did in the end have a nice evening with Jennifer. Jack thought about what she had told him , he was glad she was going to talk to someone about her issues and he knew he would have to be there for her if she so needed.They could be friends he thought , have lunch do things with their children , but he would need to be a bit more careful. Kissing her was a temptation he could not afford. She would always be his addiction but he had learned how to live with it and this addiction was not what he needed now. He knew , finally he could live a full live without it , he would of course still want to be able to see her and speak to her, but it was no longer the driving force of his life. Maybe this is what they both needed to each become a whole person , capable of standing on their own . He knew too that if things with Sara did not work out , he would still be Jack Deveraux and that felt damn good.