Jack and Sara : A New Beginning (Read 9,443 times)

[blueyed358]

This is an alternate to the Third Times A Charm. In this version Jack chooses a life with Sara over Jennifer





Jack opened the brown envelope that Sara had left for him. Inside were two white ones, one marked " Open first." It was her handwriting , he read it through blurry eyes.



" Jack,

I have been working on this for quite some time now and with the help of the FBI ( yes him ) I was able to do this for you. I wanted to leave you with the last piece of the puzzle, the missing piece that made you the Jack Deveraux you were, the one you have rediscovered. When I had learned you had lost your money and how..well you know me..I had to look into it. Howard Hawkins III was in and out of prison for years. So when I found out he was released from a Texas prison, I watched him. He was pretty sneaky ...but then again so am I.

I finally tracked him down..he was in Switzerland. Let's just say that the FBI had a little chat with him and...well. Use this to keep Jack Deveraux alive and confident. Use it to follow your heart's desire. You will always be in my thoughts , my heart and my dreams.

All my love , always

Sara "



Jack wiped his nose and opened the other letter. In it was a cashiers check for..5 million dollars! It was his money..the money they had conned him out of. He sat with his mouth hanging open. " Oh Sara. "



Jack had called Jennifer and she was thrilled for him. She of course was secretly thrilled that Sara was gone as well. " Oh Jack ..maybe you can get the Spectator back ! Wouldn't that be wonderful? " She had told him. He didn't know why that thought didn't make him happy. He needed to talk to someone. He knew it that someone was. He grabbed his keys , yes he knew she would help him.



Jo answered the door " Oh son ! How wonderful to see you , come in ," she said after releasing him from a hug. " Come into the kitchen , I'll get you some coffee. " Jack flopped into the chair , " Thanks" Jo studied her son, she knew something was on his mind and that he would tell her when he was ready. It warmed her heart to know that he had come to HER . " I was so relieved that you and everyone else were not hurt but that maniac. " She handed him his mug and sat down next to him. She watched him as he stared into the mug. After a long few minutes she could wait no longer, " What is it son ? What's on your mind. There was only one thing on his mind , " Sara" Jo looked into her son's eyes. They were sad, lonely. " So..tell me." Jack told his mother all of it. He talked till he was almost hoarse. She sat thinking about all he had said. He had opened up to her and let her in a place she rarely had access to , even after all this time. " Well that is alot to process , Jack. You need to give yourself some time to work things through. I would have thought you would be jumping out of your skin at the chance to get the paper back. Or is it.." Jack looked at her with a crease between his eyes. " Is it what? " Jo sighed. She had always loved Jennifer like a daughter and while she could see how Jack had done things to hurt her in the past he had changed. Jennifer had hurt him..again. Why did they always do that to each other? " Maybe you don't want to go backwards anymore. The paper , that's your old life. You want a new one , don't you? Jennifer she is that old life too. I know you love her Jack , but I think maybe you want a different life now? " Jack looked his mother's eyes , hesitant to voice the words, but there was no judgment in those blue eyes , no disappointment , only love and understanding. He swallowed hard, " Yes ..I think so. " She covered his hand with hers. " I only want you to be happy son, god knows you deserve some happiness. I watched you with Sara , that night we all had dinner. You were so at ease , calm but happy. I haven't seen you that way in..well I don't know how long. Your brother and sister saw it too. Only you can decide what you truly want. But I will tell you this , life is too short to waste on what if's. You have to grab hold of happiness and hold onto it with both hands. Follow your heart Jack, wherever that may lead you. " Jack's eyes glistened with unshed tears and he shook his head, " I knew I was right to come to you, " then sweeping her into a hug he spoke to her in a whisper, " Thank you Mom. "


Jack waited for Jennifer. He knew what he needed to do now. She came into the room smiling . Sitting next to him she started talking fast, she was excited and very animated. " Oh jack..are you going to buy the paper ? Just think of it..the two of us there , you will hire me won't you? It will be just like the old days, you running the paper and us working on stories together." She stopped talking when she saw him, sitting looking down into his hands. " What ? I know I am making plans and you haven't even gotten the paper..." Jack looked up , " Jennifer..listen to me now, please. I..I don't want the paper back. " Now he stood and paced the room. " There he said it . Now to explain it. " I hope I can explain this right so please..bare with me. Going back to owning the paper..it feels like I am trying to go back in time. I want to go forward now. " Jennifer watched him pace, " It's ok Jack. If you don't want to buy it that's fine , you have your money back, you can do anything you want."Jack stopped and turned from her. " That's just it. I want to go to New York. I want to take the job at the Times. " Her eyes welled up with tears , " You mean you want to be with Sara." He turned to look at her now. " Yes. But it's more than that. I want this job , to prove I can keep up the big boys. I am not going to lie to you though. I do want to be with Sara. Jennifer..I love you..will always love you but..It never works out for us does it. We are the very definition of 'Star Crossed Lovers' . Always fighting to be together then never being able to hold on to each other when we get together. " Jennifer shook her head at him , " No , Jack listen to me. It's going to be different this time , I am different. We can make it work ..for good. We just have to both want it. I know I do..want you..want us. Do you ? " Jack shook his head , " It will never be different for us. You know that. Sooner or later , something or someone will come between us or I will spend everyday trying not to screw up again. I can't do that anymore , I won't do it anymore. " Jennifer watched him , " You didn't answer me Jack, Do you want me, us ? Look at me , or do you want her ? That's what it all comes down to. " He looked her in the eyes and swallowed hard. " Her , I want her. I am so sorry Jennifer. When I found out you divorced me , without even looking for me , I thought I would die. I didn't know who I was without you. Truth be told , I can't be what you want , what you need. I am tired of feeling inadequate. But when I am with her I just ..I don't need to think about who I am or who I need to be. I like who am with her. She makes me feel like there isn't anything I can't do. I love her , I am sorry if that hurts you but I do." Jennifer was crying now, she would play her final card, " What about our children? You are going to leave them too ? " Jack shook his head , " No..I have money remember. Abigail can go to Columbia now if she wants to , in which case I can see her anytime. jack will be in school , but I can video chat with him everyday and see him on weekends. I can charter flights for him or take the Times corporate jet when it is available. I have been thinking that.. if you want the paper..I will buy it for you to run..think about it. I am leaving for New York this afternoon to meet with William Wainsworth about the job. I already spoke with the kids and told them I will be back in a few days. I will discuss everything with them then. I will call you when I get back. " As he walked out of the room toward the door , she ran after him , " Jack....Jack wait. I love you Jack. " He sighed, he didn't want to hurt her with his words but he would not lie to her , not anymore. " I know , but not to worry , you will land on your feet , you always do. "


Jack's meeting went well and he was told they wanted him to start as soon as possible. Now he need to see her. Sara , his heart raced at the mere thought of seeing her face , hearing her voice, and yes..having her once more. He had tracked her down , she was at the paper. He waited outside the building , pacing. What if she had gone back to Ben? No , not yet it was too soon. His mind was racing, trying to think of something witty to say . How to tell her , he thought. But there was no more time to think she was leaving the building. His heart stopped beating at the sight of her. The sun making her reddish brown hair shimmer. She wore small heels and a tight black skirt with a red blouse and black blazer. She was talking on her cell. As she stopped to put her phone back in her purse, he approached her , standing in front of her but not close. Sara lifted her head , she blinked twice. Was he really there? So tall , so handsome. His hair was cut short, but not too short. He wore a black suit , crisp white dress shirt and red tie. Was her mind playing tricks on her ? If it was it was ok with her, to have sight of him again. She approached him slowly.All thoughts of being witty were gone now. He could barely speak with the want he had. He wanted to run to her and pick her up and hold her to him, never letting her go again.




" Jack ?" she said softly as she approached him slowly. " In the flesh. " was all he could up with. " What are you doing here ? " she asked , afraid the answer was not what she hoped , no prayed for. He sighed and spoke the only words that would come to him. " Following my heart's desire. " That was all she needed to hear. She ran into his arms , he lifted her up and swung her around , kissing each other breathless. " I love you Sara...I missed you so much. " She was crying , but happy tears , " I missed you so much too. Oh Jack , I love you. "


Jack had called Jennifer and she was thrilled for him. Of course she was secretly thrilled that Sara was gone as well."Oh

Jack , maybe you can get the Spectator back , wouldn't that be wonderful? " He didn't know why that thought did not make him happy. He had to talk to somebody. He knew who that someone was. He grabbed his keys and headed for the door, yes she will help him.

Jo answered the door , " Oh son , how wonderful to see you, come in" She said after releasing him from a hug. " Come into the kitchen , I'll get you some coffee. " Jack flopped into the chair " Thanks" Jo studied her son knowing something was on his mind and he would tell her when he was ready. It warmed her heart to know he had come to HER. " I was so relieved to hear you and the others were not hurt by that maniac." She handed him a mug and sat down next to him. She watched him as he stared into his mug. After a long few minutes , she could wait no longer. " What is it son ? What's on your mind ? " There was only one thing on his mind " Sara"

Jo looked into his eyes , they were sad and lonely. " So..tell me. " she whispered. Jack told his mother all of it, talking until he was hoarse. She sat thinking about all he had said. He had opened himself up to her letting her into a place she rarely had access to, even after all this time. "Well that is a lot to process Jack. You have to give yourself time to work things through. I would have thought that you would be jumping out of your skin at the thought of getting the paper back. Or is it..." Jack looked at her with a crease between his eyes, " Is it what ? " Jo sighed. She had always loved Jennifer like a daughter. And while she could see that Jack had done things in the past to hurt her ..he had changed. Jennifer had hurt him..again. Why did they always do that to each other. "Maybe you don't want to go back anymore. The paper ..that was your old life. Jennifer she was that old life too. I think maybe you want a new one? " Jack looked into his mother's eyes, hesitant to voice those words, but there was no judgment in those blue eyes , no disappointment , only love and understanding. " Yes , I think so" She covered his hand with hers, " I only want you to be happy son , god knows you deserve some happiness in your life. I watched you that night at dinner with Sara. You were so at ease and happy. I had not seen you that way in..well a very long time. Your brother and sister saw it too. Only you can truly decide what it is that you want. But I will tell you this , life is too short to waste on what if's. You have to grab happiness and hold on to it with both hands. Follow your heart Jack , where ever it may lead you. " Jack's eyes glistened with tears, " I knew I was right to come to you, " Then hugging her he whispered , " Thanks Mom."



Jack sat waiting for Jennifer. She came into the living room and sitting next to him began to talk excitedly , animated. "So are you going to buy the paper ? You will hire me right Jack ? Think about it Jack, it will be just like the old days with you running the paper and me...What is it? " Jack paced the room , " Jennifer listen to me now..please. I don't want the paper back. " There he said it, now he had to explain it. "Buying the paper would be like trying to go back in time..and I want to go forward now. " Jennifer watched him,"It's ok Jack. You have your money back..you can do anything you want to. " Jack sighed , " That's just it..I want to go to New York. I want to take the job at the Times. " Her eyes welled up with tears, " You mean you want to be with Sara. "Yes I do. But it's more than that. This is my chance to prove I have what it takes to play with the big boys. Look I love you I always will but..it never really works out for us does it? We are the very definition of star crossed lovers. Always fighting to be together, then never being able to hold on when we get together." Jennifer shook her head, " No Jack this time will be different ..I am different. We can make it work..for good. We have to both want it. I know I do. What about you Jack ..do you want it?" Jack shook his head, " it will never be different for us, you know that. Sooner or later someone or something will come between us. Or I will spend everyday wondering when I am going to screw up. I don't want that anymore, I can't do it anymore. I am tired of feeling unworthy. Jennifer stopped him , " You didn't answer me, do you still want me ..us ? Or do you want her . " jack swallowed hard. " Her ..I want her. When you divorced me I thought I would die. I didn't know who I was without you. But when I am with Sara , I don't need to think or that , I like who I am. I love her ..I am sorry if that hurts you but I do. " Jennifer , crying played her final card. " And the children , you are going to leave them too? " Jack shook his head , " No I have money now. Abigail can go to Columbia like she wanted and I can see her all the time. Jack and I can video chat every night , and I can charter a plane and have him on weekends. I am leaving this afternoon for New York to talk to Wainworth about the job . I already told the kids and will discuss it with them when I get back. I will call you when I get back to Salem. As he walked for the door she followed him , "Wait ! I love you Jack. " He stopped , " I know you do. But I am not worried about you, You always land on your feet."





His meeting went well and Jack was told that they wanted him to start as soon as possible. Now he had to see her, Sara.

His heart jumped at the mere thought of seeing her face, hearing her voice and ..yes having her again.He had tracked her down and was now waiting outside the paper for her. What if she had gone back to Ben, no..no it was too soon . His mind raced trying to come up with something witty to say. But there was no more time. There she was and his heart stopped at the sight of her. The sun making her reddish brown hair shimmer. She had on a tight black shirt, red shirt and black blazer with small heels on her feet. She stopped to put her cell back in her bag and he approached her. She lifted her head and blinked twice. Was he really there or was her mind playing tricks on her. No matter , she at least had sight of him. So tall and handsome in a black suit , white shirt and red tie. His hair short but not too short . Jack could barely speak. He wanted to run to her and scoop her up , never letting her go again.



"Jack? " she said softly as she approached him slowly. " In the flesh," was all he could manage. " What are you doing here? " she asked , afraid the answer was not what she hoped..no, prayed for. Jack sighed and spoke the only words he could find , " Following my heart's desire. " That was all she needed to hear. She ran into his arms and he lifted her off her feet, kissing each other breathless. " I love you Sara..I missed you so much. " He sighed into her ear. " I missed you so much too, I love you Jack..I love you. "

[fluffysmom]

Great opening chapter. I can't wait to read more.

[blueyed358]

chapter 2


Jack walked around Sara's apartment, "This place is great Sara , the views are amazing." Sara was getting ready inside. Jack had made reservations at an exclusive restaurant and she needed to dress up a bit. She had wanted him to "help her out of her clothes," but Jack declined. He wanted this night to be a perfect date..start to finish..like the one he had done for her back in Salem. " Yea..that's why I pay so much." she answered," If you really want to see some great views. I will take you up to the penthouse before we go out. It's empty right now."



Sara came out of the bedroom and Jack's heart stopped beating , he could not even take a breath. She wore a red dress that ended just below the knee. It was beaded , sleeveless and low cut. She had on silver high heels that made her legs look great. Her hair was just as Jack liked it, down and flowing around her shoulders. " I thought red, it goes with your tie." she said. Jack's face was serious , " You look incredible. Then again you look incredible all the time. " Sara laughed , " Relax Jack , you are definitely getting lucky tonight . " Jack smiled taking her hand in his , " I already am lucky ." Sara buzzed the doorman , " Hey Bobby ? Can you let me into the penthouse suite ? I would like to show it Mr Deveraux . " The doorman let them in. Jack stood in the center of the large living room. He faced a wall of windows that spanned the length of the entire penthouse , Sara used a remote control to open the privacy shades and expose the views. Manhattan was laid out before them , the lights shimmering like diamonds in the night sky. " This is..incredible.." They toured the rest of the three bedroom 2 bath place. " Isn't it a wonderful place ? Did you see that den?" Sara asked him.The wheels of Jack's mind began to spin , " Yes , it is wonderful . Come , my lady..your chariot awaits. " he said as he took her hand again. Sara laughed, " Jack..cabs do not turn into chariots. You have much to learn , grasshopper. " Jack laughed out loud , " Indeed I do." When they stepped out of the building a black stretch limo was waiting for them . "Nice ride." Sara said looking at Jack. He helped her in and as the car pulled from the curb Jack poured them each a glass of champagne. " To us" he clinked her glass. Sara watched him closely , as he told he was moving to New York and taking the position with the Times. The smile on Sara's face warmed his heart. " Of course I will have to start looking for someplace to stay..." his eyes sparkling as he said it. " Oh well ..that might take sometime ..I am sure you can get a room at the YMCA until something better comes along." Jack raised his eyebrow, " Well I had something better in mind , but if you aren't interested..." Sara threw her arms around his neck " If you even think about staying any place other than with me I will seriously have to hurt you. " Jack closed his eyes taking in the feel of her in his arms once more. " Well if you re offering..then I am excepting. " Sara pulled back and looked into his eyes , " Let's kiss on it. " Jack pulled her into a long soft kiss.



As they sat waiting for dinner to arrive , Sara began questioning Jack. " What about the kids? I thought you didn't want to leave them ? " Jack chewed on a breadstick , " I have that all worked out , Abigail has wanted to go to Columbia and now she can thus enabling me too see her frequently. I can video chat with Jack every night and charter a plane to bring him here on weekends or me to Salem... occasionally to visit him as well as my mother and sister. " Sara stared at him, " They are ok with this ? " Jack nodded , " Yes , Abigail was happy about school..but not so happy about.." Sara looked down at her glass , " Us. She isn't happy about us. " Jack sighed , " She had hoped that Jennifer and I would reconcile, but she will come around , I promise. She likes you , she does. She just needs a bit of time. Jack was unhappy about not being with me everyday but he thinks it's cool that he gets to ride in his very own plane. Sara I can't begin to thank you enough for what you did , getting that money back. " Sara smiled , " I was happy I could do that for you. I don't want to talk about that, I have a few more questions Jack. "

He nodded , knowing what was coming next. " Of course, ask whatever you wish. " Sara though a moment trying to find the right words. " What about Jennifer ? Your feelings for her ? Are you sure you want to leave...her? " Jack sighed , taking her hand in his and kissing it softly. " I am sure..my future is with you. I want you..I want a life with you. I am ready to move on ..away from Jennifer. " Sara leaned forward and put her hand around his neck, pulling him into a kiss , " That's all I need to know. "



Jack and Sara arrived back at her apartment , she excused herself for a moment telling Jack she would be back in a moment. Jack got himself a drink , turned on the CD player and stood by the window staring at the city below. The city that in a matter of a week or so would be his home. He heard her enter the room and pour herself a drink. She was standing behind him , he could feel it. Jack turned slowly to find her standing there in a black silk robe . She walked over to him, and in a voice more like a purr said , " Tell me Mr Deveraux , have you thought about what working with me is going to be like ? I can be very hard on my editor , not to mention a bit...troublesome. I really hope you can handle me. " Jack's eyes grew dark with want. His breathing shallow , " Oh not to worry Miss Jamison , I have every confidence in my ability to handle you. But you see the real question should be , Can YOU handle ME ? " Sara stopped in the middle of the room, " I think I can , but let's test that shall we " He covered the rest of the distance between them , in effect ..meeting her half way. That was in essence who they were ..together. Neither had an upper hand on the other , each willing to meet the other and work together and Jack loved that about them. When he reached her , she loosened his tie and striped him of it. Then she unbuttoned his shirt and removed it along with his jacket. " There..that's better. You must be exhausted. I guess you would like to get some sleep huh? " she said as a small smile danced across her mouth , her eyes sparkling like the lights of the city below, Jack sighed " That coffee at dinner gave me a bit of a buzz, I will be up for hours. But if you are tired.." he said as he ran his fingers first over her lips and cheek then through her hair. " No..I can stay up if you can" she said challenging him. Jack took a step back , " I guess we will see who gets tired first. " He undid her belt and slid the silk robe from her. " Sara..." He wrapped his fingers around her hair and tugged her hair back , leaving her neck exposed. His mouth came down on her neck kissing it and running his tongue lightly along it, reveling in the taste of her. Making love to her was a freeing experience for Jack. He had no inhibitions with her, no concerns that she would misunderstand his passion or would feel threatened. He no longer had felt the need to hold back. He could lose himself completely in her and in the moment. " Oh god Jack..I missed you. " Her hands in his hair now. he moved his mouth up to meet hers , both already gasping for air. She undid his belt and tugged his pants down. Jack pushed them the rest of the way. Then stepped out of them. Sara wrapped her arms around his neck , Their lips never leaving each other. He bent down and lifted her up and her legs came around his waist gripping tightly. He walked up the hallway , still kissing her anywhere he could " Where? ...Sara...which door? " Sara was kissing his neck , then his ear, " Next one..left" she breathed into his ear, giving him chills. " Then they were in her bedroom. Jack laid her down on the bed and stood up straight running his eyes over every inch of her. She knew he was memorizing her,he would do that, but she could not wait anymore. " Jack " she said , breaking his moment. Her hand was held out to him , " Come here " He took her hand and brought himself down on top of her. Then he made her his own again, and she knew that he was giving himself to her..she now had all of him and he had all of her.

[fluffysmom]

Loved the chapter Blueyed. Great date and even better return home!

[MrsM]

I like this story. It is so strange to read both versions!!

[blueyed358]

chapter 3



Jack woke early the next morning , he had much to do. He had many things to set into motion and he was going to meet the staff at the paper. Then he would leave her to go back to Salem to close out that chapter in his life there. While that was
sad he was excited to begin his new life here. Jack went to the kitchen and found what he needed to start the coffee. He roamed Sara's apartment in his boxers , content in the knowledge that she was inside , in bed sleeping. He wandered around fingering her things like a child would do. Then he saw a closed door. He opened it and peered inside. It was a bedroom but by the looks of it , it was now being used for storage. The room was still dark as the sun had not reached this room yet. Jack was about to close the door when he had an overwhelming feeling to turn on the light. He flipped the switch and the room was awash with light bringing the room's contents alive. It was his room , Jack knew this was his son Roberts room. Looking back towards Sara's room and hearing no movement, he entered Robert's room softly.


He stood in the center of the room , taking it all in. He walked around slowly. There were athletic trophies lining the shelves. Then he saw the photos . Pictures of an ever smiling, tall handsome young man with his mother , Dean and Angela and friends. There was a photo booth picture of him with a pretty girl , they were kissing in the final panel and Jack smiled. He touched everything and looked at everything he could. He did not notice Sara standing in the doorway. She watched him as he walked around soaking up what was left of his son. She went back to her room wanting to give Jack time alone...with his son. Jack made note that Robert liked rock music and the NY Giants and Yankees. He found his school papers and saw with pride he son was not only a topnotch athlete but a straight A student as well. He opened the closet and found it to be filled with boxes. He noticed a box way up on the top shelf with thick layer of dust on it. He laughed knowing Sara probably couldn't even see up that high. The box was in the back of the shelf , almost hidden. Jack took it out and blew the dust off , sitting on the edge of the bed he opened it. Jack's breath caught. There were newspaper clippings and computer printouts of articles all about the same subject...Jack Deveraux. Jack was pained to know his son knew all about him...all of it. He had the articles about Kayla , the prostitutes, and Harper. Jack felt sick that Robert knew of his father's twisted past. He even had articles about Jack being adopted. Then he found a large book underneath the clippings. It was a scrapbook of sorts. There was the article that won Sara the Pulitzer and the article announcing it.
A couple clippings about Robert winning a football game and Then Jack saw that the book also contained Jack's articles , just about all of them. There were photos of him and then he saw a photo of himself in a frame, at Salem Place. Taken Jack knew the day Robert had came to Salem to meet him. It amazed him that the young man knew of his past and still followed his father's career and wanted to meet him. Jack replaced everything and closed the lights. He felt closer to his son having spent time among his belongings.

Jack fixed himself and Sara a cup of coffee and headed back to her. To her credit Sara pretended that she was just waking up. " Good morning' she said softly. Jack climbed back into bed with her and handed her a cup. " Good morning , coffee? "
Sara sat up taking the cup. Leaning over she kissed him sweetly on the lips. " Mmm a girl could get use to this. " Jack leaned over and kissed her now , " That is the plan. " Sara put her cup down and took Jack's cup and put down as he looked at her. " Well in that case ..I have something for you to get use to also. " Sara slid back down and pulled Jack on top her, kissing him and tugging at his boxers. " Oh I can definitely get use to this" he whispered into her ear as Sara laughed sweetly.


Both were feeling great as they made breakfast together. Jack in his boxers and Sara in her robe. Then they heard keys in the door and the door opening and closing . Jack looked at Sara with a question on his face. " Dean" she whispered. They both peered out the kitchen door at him as he leaned into the hallway , " Sara !..rise and shine. What's for breakfast?..I am starving. " Jack stepped out of the kitchen, " Why don't you go home and eat there then? " Dean jumped at the sound of the male voice, " Jackie ! What the hell are you doing here. "



After breakfast Sara went to get dressed and Dean looked back to make sure she was gone . " Ok let's talk turkey. The staff at the paper are already pissed at her because Brian let her do whatever she wanted , so when they find out you two live together..Yea..it's going to be a bad scene. " Jack swallowed the last of his coffee, "Not to worry Dean. Sara will not be getting special treatment. I can handle her...trust me."
Dean rolled his eyes , " Famous last words."

[fluffysmom]

Great chapter Blueyed. I really liked Jack exploring Robert's room.

[jaysdelina]

I love that you brought both of your stories here.These were great chapters.Hope to read more soon!

[fluffysmom]

I'm really glad to be able to read both stories here. Thanks blueyed.

[MrsM]

Great chapter!!

[blueyed358]

chapter 4



Jack returned from Salem telling Sara that the rest of his belongings would be arriving the next day. He had a meeting with the staff the day before he left to settle his affairs. He had purchased the Spectator and placed Jennifer in charge , a small consolation for him choosing a different life but.. he had to do what was best for him, trying to ease the transition for all of them. Abigail would be attending Columbia in three weeks and he could see her whenever he chose to. JJ would be starting his weekend visits next weekend and Jennifer..well she was excited about running the paper at least. Sara had been supportive in all of it. He knew she didn't like the fact that there was something beside the children that was binding them but Jack explained it to her as best he could and she was accepting of his decisions. The Times staff meeting had tried to . They all watched him as he gave his speech about team work and he told them of his goals for them and himself. After the meeting several of the reporters asked for a word with him. " Mr Deveraux , we would like to know what you plan on doing about Sara Jamison . " These words coming

from Bob Pearson. He seemed to be doing the talking for the group. " To what are you referring to exactly? " Bob took a deep breath , " The woman gets away with murder around here. She never has to take assigned stories. She comes and goes as she pleases, well to be perfectly honest..she had Brian wrapped around her little finger. Look we get that she is a award winner , popular with the readers blah..blah...blah...some of us are tired of her getting preferential treatment. Jack had heard the stories from Dean and Brian both . Stories of how the others resented her and how she ignored the the editor and how every rewrite would turn into an argument . Jack knew , now , that they had no idea about the personal relationship he had with Sara. " While I understand your concerns , you need to accept that Miss Jamison is considered a valuable commodity at this paper and that does allot her some leeway. I will try to rein her in somewhat though. " Jack felt that he handled that well..Sara however will be a different story.



When the got back to her building Sara told him the staff seemed impressed by him. Jack did not wish to talk about that though. He stopped her hand as she went for the 8th floor button in the elevator. She looked at him with a confused expression as he hit the button for the penthouse.

When the doors opened Jack handed her the keys , " What's this all about? " Jack raised an eyebrow and said nothing only shrugging. They walked in and the apartment was fully furnished, and furnished beautifully. Sara walked around and looked at everything, " Jack what did you do ? " Jack walked up behind her and put his arms around her , kissing her head,

" I bought it...for us. This is our place now. Not your apartment..not my apartment..ours. A new place for a anew beginning , if of course you want to. I thought this place was perfect, this way you don't have to leave the building or area you love , and you can retain your place until the lease is up and we can use it..if you wish should we have guests. Well what do you think..will you move in here ...with me? " Sara stood and looked around tears welling up in her eyes , this was what she had wanted , what she had secretly dreamed about for years. Turning around inside his hold , she looked up into eyes, " I 'll think about , " she said off handed. Jack looked surprised, " Oh..well ok . " Sara started to laugh , " You

idiot of course I will move in with you." Jack gave her a sarcastic smirk , " Oh you are HILARIOUS . " The he started to tickle her and she pushed him away. Laughing they began chasing each other through the apartment. Sara threw throw pillows from the couch at him. Sara squealed , " If you can catch me ..you can have me. " Jack leaped over the couch grabbing onto her , " Gotcha! " jack said through a laugh. He kissed her playfully but it quickly turned passionate. " Make love to me in our new apartment , Jack" she said breathlessly.

"I 'll think about it, " he said casually. Sara stood frozen , mouth opened. " What, " Now Jack laughed , " Idiot" he pulled her close and they laid down on the floor next to the fireplace. Then they made love for the first time in THEIR apartment



Angela was on the phone with Dean. " Looks like we will be here a bit longer. There is talk in this town that an American soldier is being held not too far from here and has been for years. WE going to try and..you know.." Dean chuckled , " I know..see what we see. Just be careful," Angela added , " So Jack and Sara huh? " Dean responded , " Yea.. they seem really happy. " His wife had a smile on her face and he could hear it. " Good , I am happy for her. "



The young man sat in a cell, dirt floor , a blanket and nothing more. He had heard them talking, or course they didn't, even after all these years, know that he could understand and speak their language. There were American reports near the camp. Maybe he dared to think maybe this time would be different..

[fluffysmom]

Great chapter. The last paragraph is intriguing. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[blueyed358]

chapter 5



The first few weeks flew by, Abigail would be starting school the following week and JJ loved coming on weekends. He and Jack and Sara did all sorts of things together and Sara took him to museums when Jack had to work late.Jack was on the phone with Jennifer discussing some issues regarding The Spectator. Jennifer asked if Jack remembered it was Jo's birthday next week, a date Jack pretended to remember. After hanging up with her he sat back down to dinner with Sara and Dean. " So Angie wants to know if you could put out some feelers , see if there are any missing soldiers reported. She feels that their source is reliable. " Dean said in between chewing. Sara swallowed , "Sure , I can do that , but I have to tell you I have not heard anything about any POWs . " Jack listened to them and when he had the chance he jumped in , " Should we be doing a story on this?" Sara shook her head , " Not yet I am going to look into it first, I will keep you posted Mr Editor. " Jack smiled , " Ok , you do that. Can you remind me please to send my mother a gift for her birthday this weekend. " Sara looked down into her plate and smiled . Jack looked at her , " What?"Sara looked up into his eyes , " I already have an order in for flowers and an appointment with the jeweler for you this week to pick out something on Wednesday. " Jack leaned over and kissed her firmly on the lips , " Just another reason why I love you. " Dean looked from one to the other ," Please , I am trying to eat here. "



Dean left after dinner, to go pick up some desert. " I notice he never stays for the clean up. " Jack said as he loaded the dishwasher . Sara laughed , " Yeah , he never does, unless of course Angie is here . What's on your mind Jackie ? I can see it on your face. " Jack chuckled , " Well..I have decided to give Pearson the story of the murdered dancers . "

Sara stopped what she was doing and turned to face him, " What ? ....What did you say? " Jack took a deep breath , " You heard me. You are already working on the corrupt circuit court judge , now the research on the possible POW. I want you somewhat free if this turns out to be anything. " Sara shook her head , " I am the one who found the connection between those deaths , I should do the story. Pearson is an idiot , he has crappy contacts. I have both police and FBI....is that it? Is it that you don't want me to see Ben? " Jack shook his head , " It has nothing to do with Agent Todd , you can not do every story that comes into the newsroom. There are other reporters too. I know it makes you mad but this is my job , I have to make these choices and hand out assignments." Sara nodded , she knew he was right but it still ticked her off. " Can't you give it to Rogers of Harrison instead ? " Jack only shook his head. " Fine, " she said , " but I don't have to like it." " How is Agent Todd by the way? " jack was feeling her out, she had not mentioned him once since Jack had come to New York and he was curious. " He is fine. " she said as she went about making a pot of coffee. " He might be going to Texas to help out on a serial killer case, he wouldn't give up any details but if it is, I might want to go down there and check into it ...could turn into something big." Jack did not like the sound of that . " I see..did you talk on the phone or in person?" Sara thinking nothing of it told Jack that they ran into each other a few days ago at the diner near the courthouse and ended up eating lunch together. " Jack took a deep breath , " I see...and you didn't mention that why?." Sara shrugged, " It didn't seem important." Before the discussion could go any further Dean returned with pie.

The threesome ate dessert and Dean eyed them closely. He was laughing to himself..Jack was mad about something he thought. Sara could see it too . " Ok Jack..let's have it. " Jack and Sara stared at each other , Dean kept his eyes down and continued to eat . " Ok I think having lunch with a man who has pursued you and professed undying love for you is something that deserves a mention. " Sara nodded , " I understand your position Jack , perhaps I should have told you , in the future I will do so or would you prefer me to call and ask permission first? " Jack threw his napkin down , " Don't be ridiculous..I don't expect you to ask my "permission" for anything. I would however like to think you would tell me things..things that you know I would deem important. Do you expect me to believe you didn't think I would want to know that you spent time with him ? " Sara threw her fork into her plate making a loud clang , " Oh do you tell me every time you talk to little Miss Perfect? I am sure all your conversations aren't just about the kids or the paper. " Jack stood up and leaned on the table , " Don't turn this around onto me ..this is about you and James Bond. " Dean tried to hide his laugh by pretending to choke on his pie. " Well see you two tomorrow." Sara stood up now too " You are being an idiot Jack ! What don't you trust me ? " Jack squinted , " Now whose being the idiot? Of course I trust you..I do NOT trust him! Did he kiss you ? Huh ? Did he? He always does." Sara remembered he did in fact kiss her , both hello and goodbye , on the cheek."That is why you got mad when I said I might do the serial killer story isn't it? You know what? I am not going to discuss this anymore I am done " Sara said as she began to clear the table. Jack was not however..he was not afraid to argue with Sara not like with Jennifer. He had more confidence with her. " He did ! " Sara exhaled " Yes..on the cheek ." Jack started pacing shaking his head, " I knew it. Then he gives you a lead on a story..that he will be working on..pretty convenient . " Sara slammed the plates down , " I can't believe this..ok you are right ..I should have told you I saw him , but Ben is not an issue for us..in my mind. But I will not have you decide what story I get based on whether there will be FBI involvement. I am going downstairs.." Jack shouted at her back, " I knew that was coming. " Sara whirled around,

" What does that mean? " Jack smirked , " I knew you would run down there the first time we had a fight. We are in a relationship. We live together , you don't get to have a safe house to hide out in whenever we disagree. Even if one of us sleeps on the couch , we stay in the same apartment." Sara walked toward the hallway, " Fine..I don't need a safe house..I am not running away if that's what you are implying. Enjoy the couch. " then she slammed the bedroom door then she reopened it throwing out his pajama pants and a pillow and slamming shut again.



Jack laid on the couch thinking that he could have handled that better. Then he heard the door to the bedroom open and she came down the hallway , " Are you staying out here all night or what? " she said, turning and going back into the bedroom. He got up with a smile on his face that he removed before entering the bedroom. They laid there together not touching each other, both sighed loudly. He spoke first...

" I might have over reacted. "

" I suppose I should have told you ."

" You may have a point about the story choices."

"You may have a point about the apartment. "

" Truce? "

"Truce."

" I love you Sara"

" I love you Jack"

" You know something Jack? You are very sexy when you are jealous. " Jack laughed out loud, " Yeah right. " Sara smiled , " Yeah..it was very hot. " Jack swooped over and pinned her down covering her with his body, " You think that was hot? You ain't seen nothing yet."

[fluffysmom]

Thanks for the chapter blueyed. I really like the bickering between them. Call me crazy.

[blueyed358]

chapter 6



Jack and Sara lay sweating and panting in each others arms. " Well...that was...intense. " Sara breathed out. Jack nodded, " Oh yeah...we always..do things..with ..a lot..of passion." Jack said finding it hard to breath and talk at the same time. Sara let out a small giggle. " What ?" he gasped. " I was just thinking..that was our first fight and make up sex. " Jack rolled onto his side , " If we do THAT every time we fight , I just may instigate some more arguments . " She laughed at him. " You tired ? " Jack shook his head , "Hungry. " Sara stretched out and jack ran his fingers over her body , " Let's get a sandwich ," she said then she pulled him into a kiss .

Jack and Sara each had a sandwich then Jack wanted something sweet. He found strawberry ice cream. " Oh ..my favorite. " he said sitting back down with the carton. "
" Jack let me get you a bowl for that. " As she got up from the table , Jack said , " I have something else in mind." His eyes were dancing with passion and he had a smile on his face filled with mischief. " NO! Jack don't even THINK about it. " He only smiled at her. " I am serious Jack. " He got up from the table and advanced on her , with her moving away. " Come here , " he said crooking his finger at her. Sara started laughing , " No ..." They circled the table many times, then Jack jumped on the table and over and was standing in front of her. She tried to wiggle free but he held tight. He kissed her until she went limp in his arms . He untied the belt of her robe and laid her down on the table. Lifting the carton of melting ice cream he drizzled it all over her , the coldness making her body flinch. Then Jack licked every last drop of her slowly. Lifting his head as he reached her neck she took hold of the back of his head , " You missed a spot, " she said as she pulled him down on top of her.



The next day was Friday and both were very busy not having seen each other since the morning staff meeting. Jack knew that the rumor mill was churning already , not that he cared. The bosses offered him the job knowing full well about he and Sara. He gave no one cause to complain, he played less favoritism in fact then the prior editor. He decided that he would not flaunt their relationship..but he would not hide it either. No making out in the office but they would leave and come in together and have lunch as their schedules would allow. No Jack had his share of the pretending and he was done with it. JJ would be arriving in a few hours and Jack was done for the day. Jack left his office and went to Sara's desk placing his hip on the end. " Hey Jack , what's up? " she asked barely looking up from her computer. " I was wondering if you were about ready. " She glanced up at him then looked around to see the others trying not to stare. " Ready? " Jack raised an eyebrow , " Yes..ready..to go home? " Sara covered her mouth, " Everyone is looking." Jack looked around at the people trying to feign interest. " Let them. " Sara smiled and said " Well in that case...yes I am ready. " She closed her computer and gathered her things. As they walked to the elevator together Jack said goodnight to everyone. The staff all had small smiles on their faces. The had decided themselves that this was a good thing as they had noticed a softer side of the very course Sara Jamison and that the tension in the newsroom seem to drop a notch or two. Yes the newsroom was running quite smoothly under Jack Deveraux.



Sara and Jack went to the airport to get JJ , The plane door opened and Jj came running out " Daddy!..Sara!" The fact that he was happy to see Sara too made both Jack and Sara thrilled. The little bot ran into his fathers arms and hugged him, " I missed you little man. " JJ smiled and said " I missed you too. " Then he leaned over to Sara while in his fathers arms and wrapped his arm around her neck hugging her too " Did you miss me too ? " Sara laughed , " O course. " she said quietly. " Me too" he whispered. " Will I get to see Dean ? i brought a new game for us to play. " Jack placed him down on the ground , " Yes..he will be joining us for dinner....as usual. " he said smirking at Sara , She rolled her eyes at him , "He is just lonely without Angie. " Neither noticed the figure coming off the plane. Sara looked up to see Jennifer coming down the steps of the plane. Jack saw her expression and turned to see her as well. " Jack" Sara whispered. " Ahh. i have no idea. Jennifer ..what are you doing here? " Jennifer told them of her plans with Maggie to spend the weekend in New York and she thought she might as well come a day early and come with JJ. " You don't mind .. do you ? " she said innocently looking from Jack to Sara. Jack swallowed and Sara said " No..of course not. You will join us for dinner wont you? " Jennifer smiled sweetly , " I would love to..I have a few business matters to discuss with jack as well. " Sara smiled back , " Then it's settled. " JJ ran for the car and Jennifer followed him , Jack looked at Sara and cringed as she glared at him through squinted eyes.



JJ chatted all through dinner , not even noticing how uncomfortable the adults were. " So Jennifer , " Jack began, "where are you staying? " Jennifer took a sip of wine and told him that her and Maggie were going to be at the Waldorf , but that wasn't until tomorrow. " I just thought I would get a small hotel room for the night. " Sara looked at Jennifer like she had two heads , " You just came here without getting a room for the night? This isn't Salem you know..it will probably be next to impossible to find a decent hotel at this time. " JJ grabbed his mother's hand " Mom left me show you my room, come on. " After they walked away , Jack approached Sara, " Sara ..I am sorry about all this..I swear I had no idea.." Sara grabbed Jack by his tie and pulled him down to her face. " I f you think for one minute Jack Deveraux that I am going to allow her to sleep under the same roof as us..well you are CRAZY!!" Dean had his camera out and snapped a picture, chuckling to himself. Jack pulled on his tie as she held it in a death grip. " I would not let that happen.. do you mind?..you are choking me. " Sara released him. Jack tugged on his tie and coughed " Thanks." Sara moved closer to him , " If she stays in this apartment believe me Jack..you will be begging me to choke you. " Then she started to clear the table and went into the kitchen. Jack looked at Dean , who took his picture again. " You enjoying yourself? " Dean thought about it for a moment. " Why ..yes in fact I am thanks for asking. Jack maybe you should stay with ME tonight..you know..for your own safety. " Jack looked at Dean , " You may have point..."