Author's Notes:

'A Shepherd Afield' is a continuation of 'A Shepherd in France' which continued the story of 'The Shepherd of Ashburn Court'. Minimal effort is made in this tale to explain the backstory so please read the other stories first.

All characters engaging in sexual relationships or activities are 18 years old or older.

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Chapter 24

Gabriella was on pins and needles. She saw on the board that Ben's jet had landed and he should be on his way into the terminal. She was practically vibrating with excitement. It felt like ages since she'd seen him.

When he'd called her from Costa Rica and offered to invest so much of his money in the company she was desperately trying to save he proved beyond a shadow of doubt how much he believed in her. She'd never felt so honored in her entire life. Ben not only loved her, he trusted her implicitly. That took her breath away. Her husband would never have done that. Daniel was far more in love with his money than her and he trusted no one with it other than himself.

She craned her neck to see the doors where Ben would come out. Each time they opened her heart leapt up into her throat but some stranger would walk through instead. Her nerves were fraying when the door opened once more and Ben walked through pushing a cart. She was surprised by the number of bags on the cart. Then she saw he was pushing the cart with one hand while holding up his phone with the other?

"MOM!" squealed two very excited voices.

Gabriella froze when she saw Miriam and Daniel rush around from behind Ben's back. Then her kids were in her arms and she was crying tears of joy as she clung to them.

Ben put his phone away and smiled at the three hugging each other as they laughed and cried. Gabriella reached out and pulled him into their midst and soon they were all hugging.

When she finally got control over her emotions Gabriella looked at Ben with pure happiness as she kept her arms around her kids. Both were grinning at Ben with their shared joy at surprising their mom.

"Thank you Ben! Oh my god, I can't tell you how much this means to me!" she cried.

"I was going to be in the neighborhood anyway and I had that big jet all to myself so I thought, why not," Ben teased.

Gabriella took his face between her hands and kissed him as her kids looked on with surprise. Daniel turned away with a grin and Miriam bounced on her tip toes as she smiled at them.

When she pulled back Ben's head was spinning. "Wow," was all he was able to say.

She hugged him again then gave her kids another hug.

"Mom! Are we going to see Milan or stand around the airport hugging all day?" Daniel complained as he smiled at her.

"Fine! Let's go!" she grinned. Ben got behind the cart once more and followed them through the airport to the parking garage. He had such a warm feeling in his heart seeing Gabriella so happy and reunited with her kids.

They barely managed to get everyone and all the bags into the small car Gabriella was driving. It was fortunate that she'd rented the largest one she could get to fit Ben's large body. Daniel and Miriam giggled in the back seat at Ben's antics of squeezing into the car.

"It was all they had!" Gabriella said, supressing her own giggles.

"It's fine! I understand spleens are redundant organs anyway. Off we go!" Ben said theatrically.

Gabriella drove them to the apartment in the fashion district. Miriam's eyes were glowing with excitement while Daniel just took in the sights. They took a few moments to get settled into the apartment and checked it out. There were two bedrooms and a pull out bed in the living room which Daniel would use.

Now that she had her family with her Gabriella was excited about taking them to see everything. They only had the weekend so she chose a few things. They visited the main cathedral, Duomo di Milano, then saw the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Daniel took pictures of the group as they went.

Her kids really wanted to see the company she was working at but she couldn't visit with Ben because the staff were planning a little party for him on Sunday night. She promised they would all get a tour then.

They were passing through a road with several tech shops on their way back to the fashion district. Ben fully expected to be making several stops to check out the clothing before they reached the apartment. He spotted a camera shop. He'd watched Daniel shooting and reviewing all day and a smile came to his lips. He called a halt and dragged the curious family members into the shop.

"Daniel, I think it's time to upgrade your equipment. You've proven you have the eye and the skill. You should have the tools to push you to the next level. I'd like to invest in that if you and your mother are ok with it," Ben said seriously. Daniel's eyes lit up with excitement and Gabriella beamed a smile at Ben. She nodded and Daniel grinned with excitement.

"I know nothing about cameras or the different brands so I'll rely on your knowledge. Is there a brand you're interested in?" he asked the boy.

"Nikon," the boy blurted.

Ben smiled. Obviously Daniel had done some research. "Ok, let's look at some of those."

Daniel rushed forward and looked in the display cases. Gabriella kissed Ben's cheek and pointed across the street to a store which sold watches. He nodded and she left with Miriam who was all smiles.

Ben saw Daniel was still looking at what looked like entry level cameras. They looked like they were better than what he had but it wasn't what Ben was thinking of. He caught the eye of one of the hovering salesmen.

"Hello! My friend here is ready to upgrade to professional level Nikon equipment," Ben said emphasizing the word. Daniel looked back at him in surprise.

The salesmen smelled money and smiled smoothly. "I see. Then perhaps he might be interested in a full frame model." He led Ben and a dazed Daniel across to the high end cameras. "The D6 is new and it has the latest image processor chip."

Ben watched Daniel's face and with each technical phrase he saw the young man's expression twitch and change. So far everything Daniel was hearing he liked.

"It all sounds like noise to me. What do you think Daniel? Do you think this camera might meet your requirements?" Ben asked seriously.

Daniel seemed to come back to himself and straightened his posture as he turned to Ben. "Yes, uh, I've heard this model is good but as it's implemented a lot of new features there are some rather unfortunate bugs that will require a firmware update to address them. Also, some features from previous models have been removed to make room for the new ones and many professional photographers have complained about this. As I'm just moving into this level it might make more sense to look at a more mature model which has already been through that bug cycle and is at its apex of usability. I don't need the newest. The D4S perhaps?"

Ben smiled proudly at how brilliant Daniel's response was. He looked to the salesman who was staring at Daniel in surprise. Obviously, he thought he'd be unloading their most expensive camera on a newbie. "Do you have a D4S we might look at?"

"Of course, sir," the salesman said and put the D6 back in the case. He brought out the D4S and handed it to Daniel. The young man's eyes once more began to glow with excitement.

"It's currently equipped with the 50mm prime lens which comes in the kit," the salesman said trying to get the initiative back.

"Is that a lens you'd be interested in having?" Ben asked Daniel who looked back in surprise. "If it's not a useful lens to you then maybe we should look at a different lens. Are prime lenses good?"

"Prime lenses have one focal length and that means they can be sharper and faster. Zoom lenses are more versatile as they can cover multiple focal lengths but they typically aren't as sharp or fast."

"Fast?" Ben asked.

"Fast lenses have wider apertures allowing more light in which allows the camera to use faster shutter speeds in low light conditions.

"Wide apertures also lets you drop the backgrounds out of focus to emphasize the subject," the salesman jumped in, still trying to drive the sale.

"So, is a 50mm lens useful to you?" Ben asked again.

Daniel looked at him with wide eyes. "No, not really."

"Does this camera come in a body only configuration?" Ben asked.

"Yes but... you'll need a lens," the salesman uttered.

Ben looked back at Daniel. "What lens would be useful? What do you use now?"

Daniel lifted his camera and showed Ben. "It has a zoom. 30mm to 90mm."

"OK, which... focal lengths do you use most," Ben asked feeling rather pleased with himself for getting the term right.

Daniel was having trouble speaking as he was seeing the price of this camera begin to skyrocket. "I- I use wide for scenic so 30mm and the other end for portraits."

Ben turned to the salesman. "Do you have a prime lens in the 30mm range and a prime portrait lens in the 90mm range for this body?"

The man's smile returned twice as bright. "Yes sir, we do." He turned back to the case.

"Ben... this is really expensive!" Daniel whispered hoarsely so the salesman wouldn't hear him.

"Really good tools usually cost more. That's why you don't get them until you've proven you have the skills to use them. It's a universal rule. Listen Daniel, I'm not kidding when I say your photos are really great. A better camera won't make bad pictures better but it will make great pictures spectacular. I think you have it in you to take truly exceptional photos. I'd like to invest in that potential. However, if you aren't interested in investing your time, if photography isn't that important to you I'm ok with that too. We can look at a lower end camera. It's up to you."

Daniel was struggling not to cry. Having Ben's respect meant so much to him. Hearing that the big man believed in him to this level was almost too much for him to cope with.

"I'd- I'd like to get the D4S," he choked out.

Ben saw Daniel was shaky so he pointed to the wall of camera bags. "Good! Why don't you select a camera bag that will hold the camera and at least three lenses. Oh! And get one of those wide camera straps. This camera is going to be heavy."

Daniel smiled and stiffly walked away.

The salesman returned and frowned as he saw Daniel walking away with an odd look on his face. The man had the D4S body, a 35mm prime, and an 85mm prime. At Ben's questioning glance he explained the lenses. "These are the 'fastest' and sharpest lenses for this body."

"Great! I'll also need at least three batteries and a charger for them. I assume I'll be able to get a North American equivalent charger at home?" The man nodded. "And three large capacity memory cards for this camera body. Daniel is selecting the camera bag and strap."

"Will there be anything else?" the happy man asked.

"I don't think so," Ben responded.

"Excellent sir. I will meet you at the cashier's station." Ben nodded and the man walked away with the equipment.

Daniel met Ben at the checkout counter with a shoulder camera bag in grey and a dazzlingly colorful camera strap. Ben grinned when he saw the strap and Daniel grinned self-consciously. "I like it!" he said defensively and Ben just held up his hands in surrender.

As Ben stood at the counter making the purchases he felt Daniel leaning against him. It was Ben's turn to choke back his emotions. When he was done Ben and Daniel turned and spotted Gabriella standing in the aisle with tears in her eyes and a trembling smile on her lips. Both men groaned as it was hard enough holding back their own tears. They glanced at each other in surprise and snorted with amusement.

They collected Gabriella and Miriam and walked out of the store.

Once everyone was breathing easy again Gabriella looked at her son. "So, what did you get?"

Daniel looked nervously at Ben who smiled and shrugged. He reached into the bag and pulled out the box for the D4S body. Gabriella's eyes widened in shock when she saw the price tag on the box.

"BEN!"

"What?"

"How much did you spend?" She recognized the camera name and model from the photographers who worked with Brezza.

"Are you going to chastise me for how much I invest in those I believe in?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.

Her mouth opened and closed as she struggled to find an argument for that. Finally she just shook her head.

"Good because I think we've reached the place Miriam has been waiting all day to visit since we drove through it so quickly," he said with a grin as the young girl's face lit up. "Let's get you some pretty things to wear!" Miriam bounced on her toes and hugged Ben as she giggled.

Ben and Daniel had a lot of opportunities to sit and play with the camera while the two ladies tried on fashions. The young man got the new strap on it and quickly got the hang of the different modes on the camera. He was using the 85mm to do portraits. His subject matter was Ben for the most part since they were stuck together waiting but once in a while he snapped a shot of his mom or sister as they came out of the dressing rooms. When he had a number of shots under his belt Daniel proclaimed he was in love with the camera and gave Ben a big hug. He reviewed the shots with Ben and they both agreed the quality of the images was far superior. Ben wasn't too keen on the subject matter when it was him but he loved the candid shots of Gabriella and Miriam. He saw his investment was already paying off.

He lost count of how many clothing shops they visited but he was steadily collecting shopping bags around himself.

When they finally called it quits and returned to the apartment, exhausted from their full day they plopped down on the couches and grinned at each other. Miriam dragged herself to her feet and dropped down next to Ben with her mom on the other side. She reached an arm over Ben's broad chest and hugged him.

"Thank you so much Ben! The clothes are gorgeous and Karlene will love them too! She's going to look so nice in the white and grey dress!" she gushed.

"You are most welcome. Ask your brother to see the images he took of you and your mother today. They are amazing!" Ben replied. She kissed his cheek and pushed herself up and off the couch to drop down next to her brother who queued up the pics. Ooo's and ahhh's could soon be heard.

Gabriella snuggled in next to Ben and kissed his cheek. He turned his head and they shared a tender kiss.

"Hey! Get a room you two! Kids over here!" Daniel barked with a grin and got a smack from his sister. "Hey!" He smacked his sister back.

"Settle down you two," Gabriella scolded gently. She smiled as she rested her cheek on Ben's shoulder. "I'm too pooped to go out to dinner tonight. I can't believe we squeezed all that into one day!"

"Well, we only have the weekend so live for the moment," Ben sighed.

Gabriella didn't want to think about that. She was so happy right now. With her family all around her. "Can we just order in pizza tonight?" she asked as she snuggled closer to Ben.

"Do they have that here?" Ben asked seriously. She leaned up to stare at him and caught the impish smile on his lips.

Ben started to laugh at her incredulous expression as did her kids. She grinned at him. Happy was too small a word to describe how she felt.

Once they'd had their dinners and talked until every third word was a wide yawn Gabriella got her kids settled in for the night. Daniel was already snoring gently on the pull out bed and she'd tucked her daughter into her bed in the second bedroom.

Gabriella slipped into the bedroom she was sharing with Ben. He was already in bed leaning up against the headboard. The sheets covered him from the waist down. This meant she could clearly see his broad chest and strong arms. A thrill shot through her.

He was all hers tonight but they would have to be quiet as the walls weren't that soundproof and her kids were close by. That said she wasn't going to deny herself this treat she'd been craving for so long!

She took off her dressing gown and Ben's eyes lit up at the sight of the sexy black satin and lace nightie she'd purchased specifically for tonight.

"My god you're lovely!" Ben said, his deep voice rumbling with his desire.

She couldn't keep the smile from her face as she moved onto the bed from the bottom. On hands and knees she moved up the bed towards him, her heavy breasts swaying, barely contained by the satin. She held his eyes with hers and saw he was enjoying the show.

She stopped just between his feet and tugged the sheets down. Her eyes widened in surprise and joy as she saw Ben was naked under the sheets and he had obviously enjoyed watching her approach. His cock was rising to greet her and she purred with satisfaction as she pulled her nightie up and over her head. Now she was as naked as he was.

Ben glanced at the wall between the two bedrooms. "Uh, we're going to have to be really quiet," he whispered.

She grinned wickedly as she stretched out between his legs until her face was only inches away from his stiffening cock. She looked up at him and flicked her tongue along the head. He jumped and sucked in a sharp breath at the sensation.

"Shhhhh," Gabriella said as her lips pressed against his hard shaft. Ben moaned then slapped a hand over his mouth. Her eyes twinkled with happiness.

She ran her tongue up and down the underside of his cock and stopped to give his balls some loving attention. If she was honest she was a little obsessed with them. She loved their weight and how they felt in her hands. Mostly though she got a special thrill sucking them into her mouth, running her tongue over them and she delighted in feeling and hearing Ben's reaction when she did this.

He was struggling to keep his moans muffled as she stroked his cock and balls with her active tongue. It was pure bliss. When she finally took his cock into her hot mouth he threw his head back at the intensity of the sensations and struck it against the ornate headboard with a loud crack. He saw stars and held his smarting head in both hands.

"Everything ok in there?" Miriam called out through the wall.

Ben opened his eyes to see Gabriella's breasts in his face. She was up on her knees in front of him, moving his hands to see if he'd cut the back of his head. She didn't see any blood so she relaxed.

"We're good! Ben just bumped his head on the headboard when he was leaning back. Good night!"

She squeaked loudly as Ben sucked one of her nipples into his mouth. He wrapped his arms around her pulling her tighter against his chest as his tongue teased her.

"What was that?" Miriam called out.

"Nothing! Go to sleep!" Gabriella exclaimed as she clung to Ben's head. She bit her lip as he drove her mad with his mouth. He moved to the other nipple as his hands slid down to grip her ass cheeks. She gasped out loud once more.

"Mom?"

Daniel's voice called out from the living room. "For Pete's sake Miriam, go to sleep and let them play!"

Ben pulled back to stare up at Gabriella in surprise. Her eyes were wide with surprise as well. They both burst into laughter.

Once they got control of themselves they realized the moment and mood had passed. A feeling of domestic bliss had taken hold and they smiled at each other happily.

They settled down under the covers and snuggled together after Ben turned out the light.

"I know it's interfering with our 'play' but I can't thank you enough for bringing them with you," she whispered to him.

"I love you Gabriella, with or without the 'play'," he said smiling back at her in the dark.

Her soft lips found his and they shared a sweet kiss that warmed them both. They snuggled against each other and let sleep take them.

Chapter 25

Ben, Gabriella and her kids were having lunch in the restaurant overlooking the plaza of Duomo di Milano where she'd met Catherine and Chanel Babineaux. They froze in surprise when they spotted the tall brunette striding towards their table. Ben was shocked by how gaunt the woman looked.

He stood as she arrived and she looked at him with great sadness in her eyes. "Chanel! Please join us!"

A waiter added a chair to their table and Chanel sank into it gratefully. Her short black hair had grown out a little and was looking like she'd slept on it. She wore no make-up as usual but with the weight she'd lost and the apparent lack of sleep the bruises under her eyes made her look truly exhausted.

"What happened?" Gabriella asked.

"I tried. I did. I tried to put her from my mind and move on. Go back to my life before..." Chanel sighed and rubbed her face. She looked at Ben again. "After that animal Rapava took my Isabelle I had my hate for him and the hunt to keep my heart and mind occupied. Then Cath-" her voice caught. "Then she entered my life and I was torn. I still had to complete my mission but there was a chance for love again."

Her face tilted down and she seemed to be struggling to hold back her tears. When she looked up again her eyes were glassy. "I've been so single minded since I escaped my mother's plan for my life. I had my ambitions and my own plan. Isabelle was the one unexpected element but she flowed effortlessly into my life and was content to follow. I made room for her in the course I'd set. When she was taken there was a huge void in my life. I thought Catherine might step into Isabelle's place but she is so much different. She is not content to follow. She-" a sob escaped. Gabriella took her hand and Ben saw Chanel took strength from the touch as she bit her lip to stop her tears.

"She will not follow. She is strong and willful and has her own plan and commitments. And my plan is dust in my mouth. Nothing has meaning anymore. Without her, I am nothing."

Gabriella made a sympathetic sound and squeezed her hand.

"Why didn't you call her? Tell her?" Ben asked thinking of the pain Catherine was going through as well.

Chanel dropped her eyes again. "In my desperate desire to start over I erased all the information I had for her. No numbers. No address. Then so much time passed. She must hate me. For how I ran."

Ben scowled. "If you think that you don't know her well enough!"

"Ben!" Gabriella admonished and he settled back in his chair but he wasn't finished. "I'm sorry for that outburst Chanel. But you're wrong about Catherine's reaction. She's heartbroken. She misses you terribly. She wants you back."

Chanel began to cry softly and Gabriella moved to pull her into an embrace.

Eventually, Chanel got control and thanked Gabriella. She wiped her eyes and for the first time she seemed to become aware of Miriam and Daniel. She smiled weakly. "You must think I'm a silly woman."

"Not at all. I think you're a woman in love. You should be with the one you love," Miriam said gently and Daniel nodded.

Chanel blinked at the young ones and looked to Gabriella. "You truly are the Goddess of Love if your children are this wise about love."

Gabriella blushed and smiled at the woman.

"Miriam and Daniel are flying back home tomorrow on a jet. Catherine is picking them up at the airport. There is room on that jet if you want to go to her," Ben said.

Chanel looked at him in surprise.

"Understand, Catherine loves me and I love her. I'm not giving her up but I don't have to. She loves you too. There is more than enough love for everyone. She needs you as much as you need her. Go to her. Find it in yourself to understand that love isn't finite or have to be divided and make it work. You're right about one thing. Nothing else matters," Ben asserted.

"I- I would like to go to her," she said shakily looking into Ben's eyes.

"I'll call the jet service to let them know you will be joining the kids on the flight home," he said and stood taking his cell out."

"Are you not flying home as well?" Chanel asked.

"No, I have business in Australia to attend to first." With a nod he left to make the call from the lobby where the signal was better.

Chanel looked at Gabriella. "I feel like a leaf, lost in the wind."

Gabriella smiled and took her hand once more. "We all feel that way when life gets away from us. When we forget to pay attention to what's truly important. I promise, when you're in Catherine's arms again the world will right itself and you'll find your balance once more."

Chanel smiled and looked at the kids. "You are very lucky to have this woman as your mother." Two happy grins told her they knew.

"Where are you staying? Wait- how did you find us?" Gabriella asked in surprise.

Chanel raised an eyebrow. "I am a detective."

Three grins indicated they were suitably impressed.

"I am staying at a dumpy little hotel on the edge of town," she replied.

"Check out and bring your stuff to the Brezza offices. You can stay in the suite at the office tonight. There is a party tonight in honor of Ben's saving the company. It will be good to unwind, there's going to be delicious food, drinks and dancing. And a really nice bed to sleep in until we pick you up in the morning to drive you and the kids to the airport."

"Ben saved the company? The last I heard you were trying to sell off assets to save the company," Chanel said.

"I was hunting for investors with very little luck. Ben stepped up and made a major investment to save this season's product line up," Gabriella beamed.

"Major?" Chanel asked.

"Millions major," Gabriella said with a raised eyebrow.

Ben returned and took his chair. He saw the two women smiling at him. "What?"

"Nothing," Gabriella smiled sweetly.

"I must go to check out of my dumpy little hotel. I will meet you tonight at Brezza," Chanel said.

Everyone stood and gave Chanel a hug and a kiss on the cheek. She especially enjoyed hugging Gabriella as the woman exuded love. Chanel was convinced Catherine was right about her friend. After a moment's reflection she thought she might be right about Ben as well.

Brezza headquarters was buzzing with energy that night and Ben was right smack in the middle of it. Gabriella failed to mention just how large a 'party' the employees were going to throw for him.

He was wearing his dark suit which normally made him an intimidating presence but each and every employee of the merged companies insisted on shaking his hand, hugging him, kissing his cheek, or all of the above. Gabriella did her best to move the more amorous and enthusiastic ones along but by the height of the evening Ben was feeling truly worn out. He needed a little downtime so Gabriella found him a table in the corner and found four of Brezza's security staff, who also owed their jobs to Ben, to stand guard and redirect the now slightly inebriated staff away from the table.

From his vantage point Ben could see most of the floor space the party was occupying. There was a large screen on one where images from the most recent fashion show were being displayed. This was the collection that was already making waves in the industry. Fashion was a very fickle business but for this year it seems theirs was the hot iron and it had struck well.

Gabriella finally explained what she meant when she said his name had leant the company a great deal of respect with the suppliers. He was holding one of the silk garment tags that were being sewn into each item. Sewn onto each was a silhouette of the blasted brass statue... with permission from Gabriella's cousin who was reaping her own fortune from the damn thing. The chateau was booked for the foreseeable future as the only way to see the real statue was to stay at the hotel. A copy was on display at Richard and Henry's hotel as that was only fair. The two businesses shared the wealth very well.

Getting back to the silk tag, some clever stitching left the impression of a formidable appendage between the legs... or it could just be the contour of his thigh muscle. It was left to the imagination of the wearer.

He'd been shocked and a little disturbed when Gabriella first handed him the tag and explained what it was. Then she explained how it was driving their pre-orders through the roof. The order estimates for the collection were being recalculated but it seemed like they had underestimated by a factor of 3 if not more. The production department was thrilled!

So his little foray into investing in fashion was going to pay off very well after all. His nest egg was going to get another sizeable bump.

He tucked the tag into his pocket and looked out over the party. He could see Daniel's smiling face behind his new camera. He was circulating, taking candid shots and the models hired to show off the new line were all fawning over him. Someone had the brilliant idea to tether his camera wirelessly to the computer displaying the images up on the screen and his party shots randomly appeared on the screen as well. He saw one of Miriam and it took his breath away.

The image on the screen showed her wearing one of the new dresses and laughing with two of the models. Daniel had captured a moment of pure happiness and joy for his sister. It seems Miriam had been made an honorary model for the evening and Ben thought she looked absolutely beautiful.

"Oh my god, I look like a goof!"

Ben looked away from the screen to see Miriam standing next to the table looking up at the screen in dismay.

"What are you talking about? That's a wonderful picture and you look lovely!" Ben protested. He noticed she had on a different outfit than the one in the image and grinned. "Are you enjoying yourself?"

Miriam's face lit up with a huge grin. "So much! I only wish Karlene was here to share it with me!" she lamented.

"We'll ask her mother if she can join you next time, ok?" he suggested.

"Oh my god yes!" Miriam gushed. She looked over her shoulder as she heard the models laughing and calling her name. She glanced back at Ben. "Thank you so much for this, Ben!"

He just smiled and nodded so she turned and rushed back over to the ladies who whisked her away.

Gabriella showed up at the table with a stylishly dressed older woman at her elbow. Ben stood as the woman was introduced as Monique Lemoine, a good friend of Brezza for years and a reporter for one of the more popular and well respected fashion magazines. She was the only member of the press invited to this party. Her grey streaked black hair was pulled back into a long ponytail and she favored the color black for her blouse, slacks, and high boots. She kissed his cheeks as this was the ritual he'd gone through all night.

Ben gave Gabriella a quick look when he heard the woman was a reporter then they all took seats with Monique across the table from Ben and Gabriella.

"I understand your hesitance to speak with someone in my field. Many of the articles released about you have not been fair or impartial," Monique said with a small knowing smile.

"Yes, my relationship with the press hasn't exactly been smooth," he admitted with a cautious look.

"Everyone wants your story and will make one up when they can't get one," she continued.

Ben frowned but nodded. He wondered if she would do the same.

"I was asked to come tonight not in my official capacity but as a long-time admirer of the designers and the brand. Brezza has done some truly innovative work and I was horrified when that jackal Leone and his bitch tried to destroy it. It is my understanding that you two are the reason the company and all these good people," she swept her hand out to indicate the celebration around them, "are able to continue to innovate and share their beautiful creations with the world."

Ben squirmed. "It's Gabriella's efforts that made it possible, not mine. All I did was buy some shares."

The woman looked at Ben with a smirk. "I think your investment cannot be minimized in this case."

"But it can and it should. Gabriella stepped up and through her blood, sweat, and tears made it possible to merge the companies so they could produce these amazing clothes. My involvement is purely financial. It was her compassion, brilliance, and strength that saved all these people!"

Monique was still giving him a skeptical look. "Purely financial," she said and Ben nodded.

"Are you an investment specialist?" she asked and he had to shake his head. "Maybe you are a gambler?" she said giving him an evaluating look and again he shook his head. "Investing in the fashion industry is one of the riskiest gambles you could do so I think you are a gambler," she insisted.

"Not at all. I didn't invest in the fashion industry. I invested in Gabriella. I trust her. There was no gamble at all," he said calmly.

Gabriella hugged him and turned his face so she could give him a kiss. Ben blushed at her display of passion in front of this stranger.

"I think this is a love story, yes?" Monique said smiling at the couple.

Ben looked at her for a moment then slowly smiled and nodded. "Yes... yes it is. Gabriella loves these wonderful people and needed to save them. I love Gabriella beyond measure. I trust Gabriella with my heart so trusting her with my money is nothing."

"Well put," Monique smiled happily as Gabriella teared up at Ben's words. He kissed her tenderly then she leaned against his side as he put his arm around her.

"If the buzz is to be believed Brezza is going to have an extraordinary season. Is it true that a major American retail chain has placed an order for a portion of the collection?" the reporter asked.

Ben looked in surprise at Gabriella who smiled and nodded. "But I'm not at liberty to say which one at this time. You'll have the exclusive in about five days," she said.

"Would you mind if I included a small piece on the two of you when I release that news?" Monique asked.

Gabriella looked hopefully into Ben's eyes and he sighed with a smile. He focused on the reporter. "Gabriella trusts you so I'm going to say go ahead. Please pardon my reluctance. I've been burned too many times to be comfortable by having additional attention.

"Yes, I've read the articles. They are poorly written and I assume are filled with inaccuracies?" she asked.

Ben nodded but didn't rise to the bait. She smiled. "Presented with an opportunity to clear the air and set the record straight, you choose silence instead. You are consistent at least."

"My life story is mine," he replied. "If you wish to write about your personal impressions of who we are, that's your story." He leaned forward. "Nothing would make me happier than to fade from the public's attention. I'm told it will happen eventually when someone else excites them. I'm hoping that happens soon." He looked over the shoulder of the woman as he saw Chanel walk into the room. He smiled and looked back at Gabriella. "She made it."

Gabriella looked in the direction Ben was pointing and smiled. She slid out of the booth and went to collect the woman who found herself surrounded by Brezza's excited models and Miriam who was wearing yet another example of this year's collection.

Chanel's expression relaxed when she saw Gabriella who rescued her from the models, gave her daughter a kiss on the cheek and whispered in her ear, then brought Chanel back to the table to make the introductions.

Once she was seated next to Monique the reporter turned to her with a smile. "I'm going to be writing a brief profile on Gabriella and Ben for my story on Brezza's rebirth. Would you care to share your personal impressions of the couple?" Monique looked at Ben with a raised eyebrow to see if he'd challenge his own words. Ben just smiled at her and nodded.

Chanel looked between Ben and the reporter. "Shouldn't you just speak with them?" she said.

"Ben has stated that he does not intend to personally share his story but I am free to write my own 'personal impressions' of who he and Gabriella are. I've known Gabriella for some time but her interaction with Ben is new to me and Ben himself is a stranger to me. My impression will be too limited for the story. You have history with them. Your impression would be richer. Ben, you don't object to others sharing their impressions do you?"

"I'd only request discretion when it comes to information that you think I might consider private and personal." Ben said to the reporter and Chanel.

Chanel grinned. "That does not leave much as I know Ben is a very private man." She paused to look critically at the man as she considered her words. "I know he is a man with a very deep well of love. I know Gabriella is a 'Goddess of Love'." She grinned when the woman blushed and Ben nodded enthusiastically. "They are a perfect match."

The reporter saw she was not going to get an inside scoop from Chanel and wondered at the seemingly impenetrable wall around the man. Her instincts were telling her there was a story to be had but her good sense told her to let it go. She knew Brezza would live because of these two and Gabriella hinted at good things to come for the company which meant exciting times ahead and stories for her. She would be grateful for that.

She nodded to Chanel for her 'quote' and bid them all a good night as she slid from the booth. She'd spotted one of the senior accountants who looked like he'd helped himself to the free wine a little too much. He might be an excellent source of information.

When they were alone Ben leaned forward. "Thank you," he said to Chanel.

She grinned at him and nodded. She spotted Daniel taking pictures and her mouth dropped opened in surprise as she realized some of the images on the big screen had come from his camera. She turned to Gabriella who was once more wearing a proud smile on her face. "He's a very talented photographer!"

"Thank you!"

Then Chanel looked over at her shoulder to spot the group of models laughing and giggling over by the bar. Sure enough Gabriella's daughter was amongst them. "And your daughter is a model? Is this a family business?"

Gabriella smiled. "Miriam is just having a good time. She's actually expressed an interest in marketing. This is excellent experience for her. I would love to work with her! Daniel's grades are top of his class but he hasn't really indicated what he would like to do as a career. I'm delighted he's enjoying photography. If it will become his occupation, it's too early to say. To work with him as well? Heaven!"

Chanel grinned at the other woman's look of joy. She wasn't interested in having children of her own but she could appreciate good parenting when she saw it. "They are wonderful kids! You have reason to be proud."

Gabriella beamed a smile across the table.

The DJ announced his arrival and the dancefloor came alive. Grinning happily, Gabriella tugged Ben and Chanel from the booth and they headed out onto the floor to enjoy the music with the others. A cheer went up when the staff saw Ben and Gabriella join them. Ben relaxed and just let the beat take over. Gabriella danced close to Ben and there was a fair amount of bumping and touching. Gabriella smiled happily as she saw Ben's eyes on her and the heat in them.

They stayed on the dancefloor through set after set. Chanel was out there with them the entire time.

Finally Ben caught sight of a clock and realized he had to be the responsible one and get them to their beds so they would be able to wake for their flights the next day. He gestured back to the table and got nods from Chanel and Gabriella. He looked over the heads around him and saw Daniel dancing as well, the camera still in his hands. He grinned and pointed towards the corner table and the young man nodded back.

Gabriella collected Miriam and they all met at the table.

"Time to call it a night," Ben said to the group. He looked to Chanel. "As you are staying here I suppose you could keep dancing but we have to be at the airport by 8AM tomorrow, uh today," he said realizing again that it was almost 1AM.

"No, I will head off to bed now. I'm done for the night as well," she smiled in return. She pulled Gabriella into a hug and gave the kids hugs as well. Finally she faced Ben. "I cannot tell you how much this means to me."

He just smiled. "I would do anything for Catherine's happiness and this is going to make her very happy."

Chanel's eyes twinkled in anticipation. She hugged Ben tight then waved at the group as she headed off to her suite.

Gabriella got them organized and out the door. The night air was chilly and they rushed into the cab. Mom and children snuggled in the back as Ben sat up front with the driver. Both Daniel and Miriam were nodding off against their mother's shoulders from the late hour and all the excitement though Miriam's fatigue might have had an additional cause. Gabriella had given Miriam permission to have a glass of wine with the ladies and she might have had two... or three.

They got to the apartment and Ben carried Miriam upstairs as Gabriella guided her sleepy son. They put the kids into their beds and Gabriella kissed and hugged them. Ben kissed their foreheads then followed Gabriella into their own bedroom and closed the door.

Once they were alone they got ready for bed by just removing their clothes. They'd slept nude the previous night and Gabriella enjoyed the freedom of it. They brushed their teeth then slipped under the covers. Ben turned out the light then spooned Gabriella who rubbed her ass back against his cock. It began to wake up. She sighed and pressed back more firmly.

Ben went still as he looked at the shadowy outline of the beautiful brunette. "Are you sure? We had some difficulty being quiet last night. Oh shit! I didn't bring any condoms!" he lamented.

"I'm safe. I need to 'play' Ben. I need you!" she begged.

"I need you too," he said rolling her onto her back as he moved his body over hers.

He kissed her and her mouth was demanding, her tongue sliding into his mouth to stroke across his. He gave her the passion she needed and more.

When he tried to move his kisses down her body she pulled him back up. He looked into her eyes in the moonlight and saw her desperation. "I need you inside me, now!" she whispered.

Ben nodded and rubbed his hard shaft up and down against her wet pussy.

Her eyes flew wide and her mouth dropped open as she gasped quietly, clinging to him, kissing his shoulder and chest as he moved over her.

He shifted lower and felt her hand between them lining him up against her wet opening. He pressed forward and the thick head forced her open as it slid inside.

"ffffffuuuuuccckkkk! Ben, oh my god!" Gabriella moaned against his shoulder to stifle the noise.

He stopped and withdrew slowly then pushed himself inside a little deeper than before.

"Oh yes... yes... god you're so big!" she said breathily as she continued to press her mouth against his shoulder. She bit down gently and Ben smiled as he remembered Catherine's bite.

Once more he slid himself out then teased her with short strokes, dipping just the head inside and out. She gasped and wrapped her legs around him to pull him deeper. He resisted for a moment then let her pull him inside. She didn't stop squeezing until his pelvis settled against hers. He rocked his hips, grinding against her clit and she squeaked.

"Oh god Ben! What you do to me!" she hissed quietly.

Ben was basking in the incredible bliss of being in Gabriella's most intimate embrace, arms and legs wrapped around his body while his cock was deep inside her. She found his mouth with hers and his pleasure was complete. He gently caressed her full lower lip with his and the tip of her tongue slipped out to stroke across his lips. He caught her tongue with his lips and sucked it into his mouth deeply as she groaned in pleasure.

He couldn't get over how passionate she was being tonight. She was holding him so tight and kissing him so boldly. Her hands moved up to the back of his head to slip through his hair as her mouth explored his.

Ben pulled his cock halfway out until her legs pulled him back with a grind at the bottom. She gasped as her clit threw sparks through her body and Ben pulled out again only to be pulled back inside. They repeated the tug and pull actions and gradually increased their speed always ending with bumping their bodies together.

Gabriella's eyes were beginning to roll back from the impacts on her clit as the stimulation was intense and overwhelming.

"Ben! Fuck me! Please, take me! Fill me up!" she sighed to him and his pace increased. She lost the ability to be quiet, her moans beginning to fill the room, so he lifted her head to his shoulder once more. Her teeth fastened onto his dense muscles there and he jolted from the sharp sensation. His strokes became erratic as the pleasure was too much for him.

"Beh! Beh! BEH!" Gabriella grunted with her mouth against him.

"Fuck! Gabriella! I'm going to cum!" he gasped.

"Yeh! Do-" She pulled back from biting him. "Do it Ben! I'm right there!"

They were both past the point of worrying about how loud they were being as his hips went into overdrive. The dull thumps of Ben's body slapping hers against the mattress competed with her cries of joy and his growl as their pleasure crested.

Ben pressed his head to the mattress next to Gabriella's shoulder as he moaned in ecstasy. He ground his pelvis against hers as he came in surges. She pressed her mouth against his shoulder to block her howl as her pleasure spiked savagely.

It took some time to catch their breath and they felt completely spent once the waves of bliss finally ebbed. Ben pulled his softening cock from her body and flopped down on the mattress next to her. They gasped for breath staring at the ceiling.

"Oh my god Gabriella! That was wonderfully intense!" he managed to get out between deep breaths.

"It was amazing!" she sighed happily.

"We weren't too loud were we?" he asked nervously.

She looked over at him and realized they had been pretty loud. "Let me check on them," she said as she slipped from the bed. She wobbled on her feet and looked back at Ben with a grin. "My legs are a little wobbly after that!" She pulled her dressing gown on and slipped out into the living room. Daniel was snoring peacefully, oblivious to the world. She smiled down at him and moved his camera off the bed to the coffee table. She couldn't resist kissing his cheek and he smiled in his sleep.

Next she slipped into Miriam's room. The girl was sitting up but her eyes were closed. "Miriam?"

"Thirsty, mama."

Gabriella smiled. She got a glass of water for her daughter and watched her drink it all down before taking it back from her hands.

She kissed the sleepy girl and Miriam laid back against her pillow, out before her head touched down. She must have had more than two glasses of wine. The naughty girl was going to regret that in the morning.

Gabriella left the room and returned to Ben, dropping her dressing gown on a chair.

"Everything ok?" Ben asked anxiously.

She slipped under the covers and snuggled up against him as he put his arm around her. She sighed contentedly. All that mattered was this moment. "Yes, Ben. Everything is perfect!"

Chapter 26

Ben leaned back in his first class seat on the next leg of his journey, on his way to Melbourne, Australia. He shifted in his seat with a sigh as he realized he really had been spoiled by that jet flight. The first class seat on the commercial flight was far less comfortable.

He smiled out the window as he remembered how Miriam looked this morning when she got up.

"I'm never drinking again!" the young girl had moaned as she held her head.

"I told you one. One glass of wine does not result in this," Gabriella said gently to her daughter as she tried to get her to eat the dry toast and drink more from the tall glass of water.

Daniel shook his head at his sister and took a quick picture to capture the moment.

"Mom, tell him to stop taking pictures of me when I feel like this!" she complained.

Gabriella fixed a look at her son and he nodded with a smile.

Ben was sitting at the table enjoying the domestic moment.

"We have a van picking us up shortly so have you packed everything?" Gabriella asked. Daniel nodded and pointed to his suitcase and his camera bag on top.

Miriam nodded gently and pointed to her bulging suitcase.

Gabriella walked to the window and saw the van pull up. It was time to go.

They made their way to the van and stopped by the Brezza offices to pick up Chanel who was fidgeting nervously. Gabriella gave her a hug and the woman settled down with a grateful smile.

They arrived at the airport with plenty of time but security was insistent that they move through. They said their goodbyes to Gabriella who clung tightly to her kids then Ben before they headed inside. She'd wanted to know if he was going to be coming back in her direction but he'd let her know his return from Australia went through Los Angeles. She pouted so he kissed her once more until she was left panting and grinning. He promised to get back to her as soon as he could. He still remembered how lost she looked as they stepped through the door. His heart hurt but he knew he had to let her live her dream. He couldn't be the reason for her turning her back on her dreams. He'd never forgive himself if that happened.

"Mr. Shepherd? Is everything ok? Is there anything I can get you?"

Ben came back from his thoughts to look up into the hopeful expression of the first class flight attendant. Slim and surprisingly petite by airline standards, she was blue eyed and fair haired with a delightful sprinkling of freckles across her cheeks and her small snub nose. She tucked a loose strand of her blond hair behind her ear once more as she held his eyes.

"Ben, please. Could I get a cup of water?" he asked and she grinned as she turned away to fetch it. He didn't really need the water but it kept the woman busy and his continued negative responses were making her unhappy.

She'd been a little star struck since he'd walked onto the plane and almost bumped into her. She looked up at him and her jaw dropped as she recognized him from the scar across his face and his physical dimensions. She'd immediately assigned herself as his personal attendant though she did quickly serve the other passengers seated around him, glancing in his direction as she did in case he were to suddenly need her.

His seat was next to the window and the seat next to him was empty which was perfect. Across the aisle in the three center seats were three older but very well dressed women who were having a quiet argument amongst themselves and ignoring him. That suited him fine. The two men behind him were working on their computers and there was a grey haired couple in the two chairs in front of him. That took care of his immediate neighbors and the remaining passengers in first class were keeping to themselves so he breathed a sigh of relief. Now, if the flight attendant could find something else to do Ben would be set.

"Here you go, Ben," the woman said emphasizing his name as she handed him the cup. He took it and her hands lingered a little too long before she moved back with a smile,

"Thank you," he said returning her smile.

"Julie."

"Ah, thank you Julie," he said and sighed quietly with relief as she was called away by the other flight attendant.

"Excuse me?"

Ben looked across the aisle and the closest of the three women was trying to get his attention. "Yes?"

"My friends and I are having a disagreement you could settle for us," she said with an expectant look on her face.

Ben had a bad feeling about this but nodded as he couldn't think of a polite way to avoid it.

"You look familiar to us but we can't recall from where. Sadie, two seats over, says you work for Interpol with their special forces as she says she saw you on the news. Eleanor here says you're a movie star as she saw you in a magazine. I think..."

Ben stared at the woman whose face was turning red as she lost her nerve to continue. Her friend Eleanor leaned around the frozen woman. "Nadine thinks you do porn!"

His stare became a glare and his scar flared making the women nervous. "You're all wrong. I don't work for Interpol, I'm not a celebrity by any stretch of the imagination, and I've NEVER done porn!"

"Oh my god! You're the bronze man!" Nadine gasped as the facial scar linked her memories together and she suddenly realized why she'd thought he'd done porn. Eleanor and Sadie gasped too as they connected the dots.

Ben turned his face to the window. He was truly sick of that sculpture. He considered asking Stephanie to destroy it. Richard would have to get rid of the copy... and the mold and original clay sculpture if it still existed. He sighed knowing that wasn't going to happen.

He'd read his ticket wrong and hadn't realized how long this flight was going to be. This morning when he checked the itinerary he saw he'd be in the air for over 20 hours. There was going to be a stop in Dubai. He'd immediately sent a note to the company in Melbourne to let them know he'd be there a day later. Then he sent a note to Margaux explaining his mistake. He'd said he'd call her when he got to Melbourne.

Ben tried to relax but he could still hear the twittering of the three ladies across the aisle. It was going to be a long flight.

He must have fallen asleep as he jerked awake when he heard voices shouting from further back in the plane. He was a little dazed and his neck was stiff from the too low headrest but he twisted in his seat to see what was going on. The curtain was closed between first class and economy but the screams came through quite clearly. It was an angry male voice yelling something and a woman screaming angrily back but there was an edge of fear in her voice. Ben was on his feet and moving down the aisle before he was completely awake.

He went through the curtain and moved quickly down the aisle towards the noise. It was coming from further back in the plane behind the next set of curtains. He opened the first and saw the tense face of a flight attendant on the phone. He nodded to her and pushed through the next curtain.

He saw two flight attendants, one on either side of a confrontation, trying to calm a man in some kind of white gown, maybe in his late sixties, who had a grip on a woman's hair in his left fist. With his right hand he was trying to stab her with a fork. The woman in his grip had a hold on his right wrist but she was weakening as he yanked on her hair while screaming in her face. None of the passengers around the couple moved to stop him.

Ben rushed forward, gently moving the flight attendant from his path so he could reach the struggling couple. He seemed to fill the limited space in the aisle and the man came out of his rage long enough to look up at him in surprise as Ben yanked the fork from his grip, dropping it on the floor behind him.

"Let. Go," Ben growled menacingly.

"Go away. This has nothing to do with you!" the man barked angrily.

"Last chance. Let go now."

The man looked into Ben's eyes and saw the violence poised to crush him. He took in the white scar across his face. His nerve broke.

The man shoved the woman towards Ben and said something which made the woman stiffen and scream angrily back at him. Ben wrapped an arm around the thrashing woman and dragged her away down the aisle until they reached the central set of curtains and pushed through. He met the flight attendant who was still on the phone and the one he'd moved aside.

"I'm sorry for barging through like that," Ben said to the attendant he'd moved.

"It's fine. Thanks for the assist," the woman said as she turned to the shaken woman Ben was guiding. "Let me get something for those cuts," she said to her.

"They are merely scratches. The old fool hadn't managed to stab me yet," the woman replied in a lovely British accent. She looked up to Ben. "Thank you for stopping him. He was going for my eyes next."

Ben rocked back at the casual way she'd mentioned it.

A man pushed through the curtain from the front of the plane. Ben saw the man's uniform and assumed he was one of the flight crew. "Is this the man?" he said with a thick Australian accent, looking nervously at Ben.

Ben smiled at him and shook his head. Then he jolted and scowled as he felt something poke sharply into his back. He spun and saw the frightened face of the older man standing in the curtain with the fork gripped in his fist. The tine tips showed just a little red. Ben reached out and plucked the fork from his fingers, again, and leaned down to glare in his face. "You've just used up all of my patience. Go sit down in your seat. NOW!" he yelled and the man turned and rushed away. He stumbled a few times but he managed to get back to his aisle seat and sat down to look back fearfully. Ben gave him one more glare. "Leave that seat again and I will deal with you. Do you understand?" The man nodded vigorously. Ben closed the curtain and turned back to the group inside.

"Geezus! He stabbed you? Your back is bleeding!" the man said. The flight attendant immediately pulled out the first aid kit.

"I'm a doctor," the woman Ben rescued said and took it from her. She looked to Ben. "Let me see the wound."

Ben sighed and pulled his shirt off.

"Fuck me! Who ran you through the thrasher?" the male flight crewman exclaimed as he took in the scars. Ben ignored the question.

"I see now why you weren't frightened of a fork," the doctor said with a wry grin taking in the damage on Ben's chest. "Please turn so I can see where he stabbed you."

When he turned his back to them he heard the sharp intakes of breath that he expected when they saw the other signs of violence on his body.

"Compared to the rest these three tiny holes are nothing," the doctor said. "The wound is barely bleeding so it's not deep."

Ben felt her wiping something over the wound which stung a little then she applied a small square of gauze and taped it down.

"You can put your shirt on though you might want to clean it first," she said.

"I've got a clean shirt in my carry on," Ben replied.

"Where can we reseat Doctor..." the man said looking at the woman.

"Rahal. Dr. Nezha Rahal," she said to the crew and smiled at Ben.

The flight attendant frowned at the co-pilot as she pulled the passenger listing. "We're completely full. I'll have to find someone who doesn't mind changing their seat. We can't leave her in the back section where he can see her. Passengers in the mid-section won't be keen on moving back."

"There's an empty seat next to me," Ben offered.

The woman blinked and looked at the manifest. "I see no empty- oh, you're from first class. Yeah, it's against airline policy-"

"How much," Ben sighed.

The attendant glanced up at him. "There's an $800 upgrade fee."

Ben pulled out his wallet and the doctor looked upset. "What are you doing?"

"Sorry, we have a long way to go and I'm not going to sleep well knowing Stabby McFork Man is back here hunting you. So if you don't mind I'd like to offer you a seat in first class so we can move his target where he can't see it or get to it." Ben explained.

The doctor looked to the flight attendant who was nodding hopefully. She still looked doubtful.

"Consider it payment for the medical care," Ben said.

She snorted. "I applied a plaster!"

"You've never worked as a doctor in the States I take it," Ben grinned and her eyes got wide. "I may be exaggerating... a little."

"Oh... alright," she finally agreed, seeming a little dazed. "I'll need to get my carry on."

"Let me guess, it's in the storage above his seat," Ben sighed.

"I'll take her back to get it," the co-pilot said. Ben nodded and moved to let the man by. The doctor followed him through the curtain.

Ben finished the transaction with the flight attendant whose eyes kept slipping to his scarred chest.

"How... how did you get those?" she asked quietly.

Be glanced at her as he waited for the credit card machine to accept his code.

"Drunk man with a big knife and a lousy aim."

Her eyes got wider. The machine beeped and she took it back. She handed him the receipt as raised voices sounded off in the back section. Ben spun and tore open the curtain to glare back.

The seated man was tugging on the handle of the bag the doctor had lifted down from the overhead bin and was yelling something at her. Ben stalked down the aisle and the man let go of the bag and shrank back into his seat.

The co-pilot lifted his hand and Ben stopped three seats away. He realized he was still topless and everyone was staring but he kept his eyes on the older man who was also shocked by the scars on Ben's chest.

"My book. In the seat pocket," Nezha said and the man who was sitting next to the window plucked it out and handed it past her attacker. She took the book with a nod and walked back towards Ben who began walking backwards towards the curtain. He stepped inside and moved aside to let Nezha by. The co-pilot was having a quiet word with the older man whose frightened eyes hadn't left Ben's.

Dr. Rahal walked towards the front of the plane with Ben following her. He picked up the wave of chatter as people watched them go by. People began to crane their heads and look back at him. He heard the phrase 'bronze man' more than a few times and just did his best to ignore it. When they got back to first class Julie was waiting for them and her mouth dropped open when she saw his shirt was off. Her eyes drank in the raw violence of his scarring and she was practically quivering with excitement.

"Julie, may I introduce Dr. Rahal. She's joining us..." he turned to the woman. "Are you going to Dubai or all the way to Melbourne?"

Nezha blinked as she thought about that. "My... my ticket is for Dubai but I'm going to have to get a ticket back to England the moment I land." She began to tremble as her adrenaline ran out.

"If you don't mind I'll let you take the window seat," Ben said gently and she nodded absently as she moved to the seat. Ben lifted her bag into the overhead bin and pulled a black t-shirt out of his duffle.

"What happened to your back?" Nadine blurted seeing the bandage. He looked back into the excited eyes of the three women.

Ben had already forgotten about the fork wound and thought she meant the scars. "I fell off my bicycle."

Confused and disappointed expressions crossed their faces as Ben tugged the shirt over his muscles and turned away to take his seat.

"Can I get you anything?" Julie said gently touching Ben's arm.

"I'd love some fruit juice and I think a cup of water for the doctor," Ben smiled back. Her eyes held his then she nodded distractedly and moved off to get his drinks.

Ben sat and looked over at the doctor. "Are you alright?" He noticed her hands were shaking a little.

"Yes... yes, I am now. Thank you for rescuing me. I- I didn't expect his response to be quite so... violent," she said with a shaky voice.

The co-pilot stopped by on his way back to the cockpit. "Thank you for your assistance back there and a special thanks for keeping your cool even after he stabbed you!"

Julie had returned and cried in dismay when she heard what the co-pilot said as she looked to Ben. Her hands shook causing her to spill orange juice on the carpet next to Ben's chair. The co-pilot glared at her and took the cups from her hands as she hurried away to get a damp rag.

The man handed the drinks to Ben.

"Is that guy back there going to be arrested when we arrive?" Ben asked.

The co-pilot stopped and looked at him uneasily. "Do you or Dr. Rahal wish to press charges?"

Ben looked at her and she shook her head.

"My chances for justice in this... situation are limited. My best avenue is to return to London," Nezha said.

Ben nodded. "I'm passing through and I have no desire to stay."

The co-pilot gave them both a relieved smile and a nod then made his way back to the cockpit.

Ben handed the water to Nezha and set the half cup of orange juice down. Julie rushed back and knelt down to wipe up the spill. He noticed her blouse had somehow opened a little more and he was being given a bird's eye view of her lovely cleavage and a very sexy lace bra. When he dragged his surprised eyes back up he saw the satisfied smile on her lips. She bit her lip and got back up to her feet. She spotted the cup of orange juice and leaned across him to take it back.

"I'll get you a fresh one," she said and walked away with a little extra wiggle in her step.

Ben blushed from her overt attention and his adolescent libido had certainly taken notice. His pants were becoming uncomfortably tight. He glanced over at Nezha.

"Do women always throw themselves at you?" the woman asked quietly.

He shook his head in embarrassment. "No... not... always." He looked down at his hands. "When they do it's usually not so aggressive."

"You don't take advantage of these offers?" she asked and his eyes flashed to hers.

"No! I'm not... interested in casual affairs," he finished.

"Why don't you just tell her?" Nezha asked.

Ben glanced in the direction of the little kitchen. "They usually give up without me having to hurt their feelings."

Nezha sat back and looked at Ben, watching him fidget. She'd just witnessed him shut down a hostile confrontation through sheer strength of will but here a flirting flight attendant had him flustered. She shook her head.

"If you don't mind me asking, why was the man back there trying to stick a fork into your eye?" Ben asked.

"I told Jasim I wasn't going to marry him," she remarked.

Ben's face showed his shock. "He's old enough to be your father!" As the words left his lips he heard the hypocrisy. Weren't some of the women he was with as far apart in age?

He looked at Nezha and estimated her age to be in the early thirties. The Arab beauty had thick, wavy black hair flowing over her shoulders. She had large, expressive dark eyes, a slim nose and her beautiful white teeth in her wide mouth had a slight overbite. She was pretty in the girl, or in this case, woman next door sense. Her intelligence flashed in her eyes as she leaned closer.

"My parents moved back to the UAE, settling in Dubai, from London about fifteen years ago and that man back there has taken good care of them in their retirement years. He came to London to find me and ask me to return with him to reconcile with my parents who are dying. As we are almost there he could not contain his excitement and just explained to me that they promised me to him as his bride. He did not like being told no."

"I'm sorry to hear about your parents," Ben said and she nodded to him with a slight smile.

"We haven't spoken in years. Not since they tried to marry me off to a neighbor in London. If he hadn't said they were dying I wouldn't have let myself get talked into going to Dubai. I have no plans to get married. Ever." She looked at him waiting for him to object but he just smiled back. She relaxed. "My career keeps me very busy and I'm happy."

"Are you a General Practitioner or do you specialize?" he asked.

"I'm the senior physician at a clinic on the outskirts of London," she said. "We see a lot of trauma victims at the clinic, from broken limbs, to deep lacerations from a variety of sharp objects, and contusions from domestic violence. It's a pretty rough neighborhood. When I'm not doing that I'm dealing with chronic health issues of our senior patients."

"That sounds tough!" he said in surprise.

She smiled at him. "Yes, it can be." Her smile dropped away and she looked out the window. "I handle all of that and I'm almost blinded by a senior with a fork."

"Hey, I can personally say he was pretty dangerous with that fork!" Ben said to lighten her mood. She turned to smile at him and looked beyond.

Ben turned and saw another man in a uniform. Tall, lanky body with blonde hair greying at the temples, the man looked to be in his fifties and he was grinning at Ben.

"Hello, I'm Richard Hall. I'm your pilot today," he boomed with a thick Aussie accent like the co-pilot.

"Hello, Ben Shepherd," he said, restraining the impulse to ask why he wasn't in the cockpit flying the plane then. He shook the man's offered hand.

"I just wanted to personally thank you for defusing a potentially dangerous situation. It's great that no one got hurt!" the pilot grinned looking over at Nezha.

She leaned towards the pilot. "Mr. Shepherd was injured."

"Yeah, Jerry mentioned you got poked with a fork! What a thing to happen!" he replied shaking his head. Ben shrugged and the man's smile got wider as he saw Ben wasn't making a big deal of it. Less headache and paperwork for the flight crew.

"Well I just wanted to say thanks and meet the man of the hour. Imagine, Ben Shepherd on my plane!"

Ben gave him a slightly pained smile and nodded.

"Well... I'd better get back to it," he said and yet he didn't move.

Ben could see the man was gripping his cell phone through the fabric of his pants pocket. He wanted to take a picture. Ben sighed inwardly. He looked over at Nezha. "Excuse me a minute?" She nodded as he stood up. Ben gestured to the front galley and the pilot's eyes lit up. When they were in the front Julie looked at them curiously. Ben looked at the pilot and gestured to his pocket. "Would you like to get a picture?"

The man's grin widened and threatened to split his face. "Strewth? My Betty would die if she learned you were on my plane and I didn't get at least one!" He pulled his phone from his pocket and got the camera app running. He handed it to the smiling attendant and stepped up beside Ben throwing an arm around his back. Surprised, Ben put his arm behind the pilot's back and rested his hand on the man's shoulder.

"Smile!" she said and they did. She took a few and handed the phone back to the pilot. Then she pulled out her own phone and wiggled it between her fingers while she looked at Ben hopefully.

"Sure," he said.

Richard took the phone and Julie slipped in under Ben's arm. She pressed her body tight against his and smiled back at the camera. Her head barely reached his chest.

Ben was reacting to her hot body pressed against his side but he did his best to smile. The pilot took picture after picture as Julie posed for him.

"I think that's got it," Ben finally said and Richard grinned self-consciously as he handed the camera back to the woman whose hand was lingering on his ass.

"Would... would you like to see the cockpit? We don't normally do this but..." Richard said with a coy smile.

Ben was stuck. He wanted to get away from their attention and back to his seat as he needed to make sure that man didn't come after Nezha. However, the engineer in him was squealing like a little girl at the idea of seeing the inside of an actual cockpit in flight.

"Uh, I should keep an eye on Dr. Rahal-" he said hesitantly.

"I'll do that for you!" Julie said with a smile.

"Oh, uh, alright but just for a minute," Ben agreed.

Twenty minutes later he returned to his seat with a guilty smile for Nezha and Julie. The cockpit had been as fascinating as he'd thought it would be and Richard and Jerry were delighted to give him the tour. They took some more selfies with Ben as well which they promised would not be seen outside their specific circle of friends as they would be in the 'shitter' if the bosses found out.

Ben stood in the aisle and Julie got up from his seat and smiled up at his face.

"I've kept it warm for you," she said with a smile and she gently pressed her body against his as she moved past.

"Thank you," he mumbled.

"Oh! I never got you that juice! I'll be right back!" she exclaimed softly.

Ben slipped into his chair and turned his burning face to Nezha who was smiling at him.

"She's determined," she said with a wry grin.

He nodded uncomfortably.

"She was telling me how exciting it is to have you on the flight. I have to admit I had no idea I'd been rescued by such a renowned hero," Nezha said watching his expression change. "You don't like being thought of that way?" she said in surprise.

He looked over and shook his head. "I don't. I don't want to be famous. I just do what I do because it needs to be done. All this fame crap is a nuisance."

"But it's true that you rescued those girls from the slave ring?" she asked.

He nodded. "But I was just in the wrong place at the right time. I didn't expect to be there but once I was... I took steps to free them," he finished quickly as he saw Julie returning with his juice.

"Would you care for anything stronger?" Julie asked, holding his eyes with hers.

"No, this is great thanks! I don't drink."

"Oh!" she exclaimed softly. Another passenger signalled her on the other side and she glanced over distractedly.

"Duty calls," Ben said with a smile. She flashed him a dazzling smile and rushed away.

"Not a drinker? That's nice to hear. Alcoholism is a problem in the neighborhood I work and live in. Getting away from that even for this brief time is a welcome break." Nezha said.

Ben nodded with a slightly pained frown. "Yeah, I spent a few years in that trap but with the help of my friends I got out. I haven't had a drink since."

"Those were good friends."

Ben smiled warmly as he thought of Gabriella and Catherine, his original saviors. "The absolute best."

Nezha was watching his eyes and saw the love there. "More than friends?"

He looked over but saw she wasn't trying to pry but was just curious so he nodded. "Just one of the reasons I don't do casual affairs."

He heard a squeak and turned his head to see Julie rushing back into the front galley. The glass of juice was sitting on the table before him. He closed his eyes and sighed. "She heard that, didn't she?"

The doctor could see the pain on his face. She'd caught the expression of surprise on the attendant's face so she was certain the woman had heard Ben quite plainly. "I believe so but it was something she needed to hear."

He nodded slowly then drank some of the juice. He sighed, closed his eyes, tilted the seat back a little and tried to get as comfortable as he could with the too low headrest.

Ben woke from the gentle touch on his shoulder. He opened his eyes and saw Julie biting her lip nervously. He came awake immediately and glanced over at Nezha who was blinking the sleep from her eyes. He then looked back to see if the man was returning but the aisle was clear. He looked back at Julie.

"Sorry, we are landing and I need you to raise your seat," she said quietly.

He immediately relaxed. "Oh... sure." He sat forward and brought his seat up.

She smiled and moved on.

Nezha smiled at him. "You are traveling on to Melbourne?" she asked and he nodded. "What arrangements have you made for the layover?"

"Layover?" he blinked.

She looked at him in surprise. "The flight continues on tomorrow at 10AM. There is a twelve hour layover. You don't have a hotel room reservation?"

He scowled. "No, this is my first flight to Australia. It seems I really screwed up my ticket this time."

"Is there a problem?" Julie asked gently as she heard his comment on her way by.

"Ben did not prepare for the layover. He has no hotel room," Nezha explained.

"Oh! Finding one at the last minute could be a real problem but Rich and Larry would let you bunk with them! There will be a fold out couch in one of their rooms you can use."

Ben looked at Julie and saw her earnest expression. "I- I wouldn't want to intrude-" he began but she grinned and patted his shoulder as she moved away to make the call.

He looked over at Nezha. "Thanks for coming to my rescue. I would have probably slept in the airport until my flight."

"Not a comfortable night," she remarked with a grin.

"How about you? You said you're going to get a flight back to London immediately," he said curiously.

She frowned and nodded. "I'm going to go see my parents. To say goodbye."

It was Ben's turn to frown. "Are you going to be safe? You said that guy took care of your parents. If we're not going to put him in jail and it looks like the plane's crew doesn't want the headache, he's going to be out there too."

She hesitated and Ben frowned in concern. "Can I help?"

She looked at him in surprise. "You've done so much already!"

"No, I just did what was needed. How far from the airport is your parent's place?" he asked.

"A thirty minute taxi ride."

"It's settled then. I'll go with you... unless you don't want me to," he finished as he thought he might be intruding.

She smiled at him as she covered her hair with a scarf and wrapped it around her neck. Only her face was left exposed. "I would appreciate the company and yes, I would feel safer. Thank you." She rolled her sleeves down.

Ben watched her preparations curiously.

"The dress code for women in the UAE is not the same as it is in the UK or the USA," she said with a smile.

"Should I be dressed differently?" he asked.

She looked at him. "You might want to put on something a little looser. Showing off the body is frowned upon."

"Showing off? I'm not..." He sighed in frustration. "Finding clothes that fit me is a challenge."

She smiled as she tilted her head. "I think you would look very smart in a thobe. Very smart!"

"Thobe?"

"The garment Emirati wear in Dubai. With your coloring you would look very handsome in the white," she grinned.

"Yes, he would."

Ben turned his head to see Julie smiling at him.

"It's all set. The flight crew is staying at the Holiday Inn Express overnight. You can sleep on the pull out couch in Rich's room and come back to the airport with us tomorrow for the continuation of our flight," she explained with a smile.

"That's really generous! Thank you for arranging that!" Ben exclaimed.

"Just part of the above and beyond service we are renowned for!" she smiled happily.

"Uh, I'm going to accompany Nezha to visit her dying parents to make sure she's safe..." he turned to face her. "Where are you staying tonight?"

"I have friends from London who live here now. I'll give them a call when we land and stay with them after I see my parents," Nezha explained.

"Good, ok... so after I drop her off at her friends place I'll come back to the hotel. How do I find Rich's room?"

Julie nodded. "Just go to the reception and let them know who you are. They'll give you an extra key to the room. If you're late don't worry about it. The room will be ready."

"Wow, I have to say this is exceptionally nice of you guys!" Ben said and she soaked up the praise. She glanced down the aisle as the other attendants were signalling it was time to prepare.

"Make sure your seat belts are fastened. We'll be landing shortly." Julie moved back to the front galley to return to her station.

Nezha looked out the window at the lights below.

"Have you been here before?" Ben asked.

"No, I've spent my entire life in London. I was born there," she said wistfully.

Ben settled back and relaxed as the plane settled down smoothly on the runway. After a long time taxiing they finally stopped at the gate and they were able to disembark. He collected his carry on and got Nezha's for her. As they walked out through the front Ben looked but the cockpit door was closed. The captain and co-pilot were still inside so Ben couldn't thank them but he did thank Julie as he went by. She gave him a smile and a nod.

Once they were in the terminal they made their way through the processing with the other passengers and picked up their luggage. Nezha called her friends and from the smile on her face Ben assumed they were happy to hear from her.

"Mary said she and her husband Kamal will meet us at my parent's house," she said with fondness in her voice.

"Good friends?"

"Mary worked with me for years. Kamal was originally a suiter of mine but he fancied Mary more. I wasn't interested in dating at the time and I was happy to see her find someone who truly cared for her. She's one of the good ones and as it turns out, so is he."

Before they left she went to a counter and picked up a ticket for a flight back to England the next day. Then they made their way to the taxis with their luggage and soon they were traveling down the highway between the brightly lit towers.

"This city is remarkable!" Ben said watching the scenery. There were cranes everywhere so building was going on throughout the city.

Nezha smiled at his enthusiasm.

It wasn't long before they arrived at the low rise apartment complex where her parents lived. Ben got Nezha to tell the driver to keep the meter running and wait for him.

They went to the front entrance and Nezha spoke with the concierge. Ben watched her become more and more upset. He didn't know what he could do to help.

A woman wearing a shawl over her blond hair entered the building with a tall, slim man in the traditional white gown. "Nezha!" the woman called out.

Nezha spun and looked at her friend. "Mary!"

The women embraced and held each other's arms as they drank in the other's current appearance.

"What's wrong?" Mary asked.

"He's telling me my parents are dead! That they've been dead for over a month!" Nezha exclaimed.

Ben looked at the man in surprise but he just shrugged.

"Oh! Where are my manners? Hello Kamal! Mary, Kamal, this is my friend Ben Shepherd. Actually I met him on the plane when he saved me from losing my eye to that awful man Jasim Nasar." At Mary's look of horror Nezha shook her head. "I'm sorry, I'm so shaken by the news I'm messing up the story and completely confusing you."

The awful man in question suddenly entered the lobby and began yelling something at Nezha. His voice choked off abruptly when he caught sight of Ben.

Nezha surged forward to scream in Arabic at Jasim causing the man to flinch back but Ben reached forward and got an arm around her waist to stop her.

"Remember, you have to go home to London," he said quietly to the irate woman. She was breathing hard and shaking but she got control and nodded stiffly.

"I think we'd better leave," Ben suggested to Mary who nodded. As a group they left the lobby to go outside.

Ben was relieved to see his taxi still there.

"Have you had supper, Mr. Shepherd?" Mary asked.

He blinked at the abrupt change in direction. "Uh... no."

"That won't do! Please join us for a late supper! We know a charming restaurant that serves the most delicious local food! It will give Nezha time to calm down." Mary insisted.

Ben realized he was pretty hungry and Julie said he could be out late. He smiled. "Alright. Let me just pay the driver and get the bags."

Kamal followed him and they shook hands in greeting as they walked.

Ben paid the bill and gave the man a generous tip for waiting. They carried all the bags back to Kamal's van and put them in the back. Mary and Nezha were already seated in the back so Ben got in the passenger seat next to Kamal and they were off.

The restaurant was only twenty minutes away and Mary was right, it was a very charming and small restaurant in their neighborhood. The temperature was really lovely so they opted to eat outside on the patio under the lanterns. Candles lit the tables and gave it a very intimate feel. Nezha looked like she was feeling better.

"So his whole story was lies. He told me they were alive and wanted to talk to me. They were both ill. Apparently that part was the truth. They died within days of each other. They probably did tell him I would be his bride but they never told me and the answer is no," she sighed.

Ben shook his head in amazement.

"So you really got a fork stuck in your back from that man?" Mary said and Kamal's eyes widened in shock.

Ben shrugged.

"You are so much bigger than him! You could easily have crushed him in retaliation! Yet you didn't?" Kamal exclaimed.

"Of course I could have and he knew that but what would that have proven? By not retaliating I got the same result. He sat in his seat and behaved himself for the rest of the flight," Ben explained.

"I don't think I could have resisted the need to fight back," the man admitted.

"Being poked with a fork is not high on my retaliation list I guess," Ben shrugged.

Nezha gently poked his bicep with her fork. He looked at her in surprise then grinned as the others laughed at her boldness.

"Have I heard your name somewhere?" Mary asked with a curious look.

He shrugged but Nezha grinned. "They made a fuss over him on the plane."

Ben just looked at her beseechingly so she stopped.

The waiter arrived and Kamal placed the order for the table. Nezha smiled happily at his choices.

Mary explained how she now worked in a hospital here in Dubai and Kamal was a pharmacist. They spoke of their life in the ever growing city and Ben was fascinated.

The food began arriving and Kamal took it upon himself to educate Ben on the delicacies of his home country. Ben was really enjoying himself and saw Nezha was as well.

Finally Ben had to say no more. He'd enjoyed too much good food and was feeling heavy and sleepy.

"Thank you so much for the hospitality! I must get back to the hotel so I can catch some sleep before my flight tomorrow. Can I get a cab from here?"

"We could drive you-" Kamal began.

"No, you have been too kind. Please continue enjoying your night. I just need to get my bags and point me to a cab and I'll be on my way," Ben insisted.

"Let me get you the cab," Kamal said as he got up to make the call.

"Thanks!"

As Kamal took care of that Ben looked over at Nezha. "Are you going to be ok?"

"Yes, thank you Ben! You have been wonderful! My flight home is tomorrow-" She paused to look at her watch. "...tonight. Enjoy the rest of your journey!"

Ben saw Kamal waving at him and nodded to the man. "It was very nice meeting you both. Thank you for a delightful evening!" Mary smiled at him and he could see she was still trying to place him. He sighed. "The Bronze Man."

Mary's face froze in shock and her mouth dropped open as her eyes flew wide. With a final smile at Nezha who was completely loving her friend's reaction Ben left the table and joined Kamal who helped him transfer his bags to the waiting taxi. He shook the man's hand and thanked him again before getting into the cab.

He gave the driver the destination and off they went.

Ben smiled to himself as he thought of the wonderful evening he'd had. They really were lovely people and the food had been so good but he was so tired.

When the taxi stopped Ben woke and looked around. They were in front of the hotel. He paid the driver, got his bags, and walked into the lobby up to the reception desk.

"Hi, I'm Ben Shepherd."

A slim man with a trimmed beard rushed over with a smile. "Ah, Mr. Shepherd! Truly an honor to have you in our hotel!"

Ben was still a little groggy from the sleep in the taxi. He smiled and nodded. "Thank you. I understand there is a key for me?"

"Yes sir!" the man said and rushed away to get it for Ben. He returned promptly. "Room 305. Enjoy your stay. Do you need help with your bags?" he said with a smile.

"No, I'm good. Thanks."

Ben took the elevator to the third floor and found the door. He quietly stepped inside and saw a table lamp had been left on in the room and the sofa bed was prepared for him. The bedroom door was closed so he sighed in relief.

He quickly used the bathroom and got ready for bed. He undressed and left his boxers on. Exhausted he slipped under the covers and turned out the light. Sighing contentedly he quickly faded.

He was on the island of Hawaii in his beautiful ocean side suite. He was resting in bed with his beautiful wife Wendy but she was sitting on the edge looking back at him with a sad look on her face. He felt Tina's body squeezed up against his, her hand gently stroking his cock, bringing it to life.

Wendy stood and walked to the window to look out at the waves. Ben wanted to say something to her but he didn't seem to have any words. The sensations Tina was sending through his body were so good. He couldn't deny them. He wanted more.

Wendy looked back and opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out.

Ben felt Tina's lips kissing their way up the shaft of his cock and he moaned. Wendy turned away and began to fade as dark grey clouds started to collect out the window. Ben was confused but Tina was driving him mad with lust. She slid her light body over his and ran her pussy up and down his shaft and he felt himself get harder still. The pressure eased then she was pressing her wet opening down on the head of his cock.

It felt so good but he knew she had to take it slow. He glanced over to the window and the clouds were ominous. A major storm was coming. Maybe even a typhoon!

His cock slowly slid deep into Tina and he was worried about the baby. She shouldn't go so deep! Her body was resting against his and he noted her stomach was flat. Had she already had the baby? Her moans...something off.

Lightning flashed outside the window and Ben heard the rumble of thunder. He looked over to the window and the storm had Wendy's eyes and they were filled with anger.

He gasped and awoke to the sensation of his cock being squeezed over its entire length. It felt so good but he shouldn't be feeling this!

"WHAT THE FUCK!" he growled.

"Shhh Ben! Please!" a woman's voice gasped.

He froze. "Julie? What are you doing in Rich's room?"

"This is my room. Fuck you're big!" she moaned as she rocked her hips to make herself more comfortable with him deep inside her.

"Get off of me!" he insisted.

"Please Ben! Don't stop this! It feels incredible!"

"I didn't say I'd have sex with you! Get off now!" he said moving his hands to lift her free of his body.

She began to cry. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry! I'm such a slut!" Sobs wracked her body as she pressed her face to his chest.

Ben froze again. Then he lifted her off of his cock and gently laid her on the bed next to him as she cried. His erection had already begun to diminish. He pulled the sheet over their bodies and turned the light on.

"Stop crying. Explain to me what's going on." Ben said gently.

Her tears gradually tapered off and she took some deep shuddering breaths to get control once again. Ben glanced at the clock and saw it was 3:15AM.

"God, I'm so embarrassed! I'm so sorry!" she moaned.

"You told me Rich was going to let me sleep in his room," Ben prompted to get her started on her explanation.

She looked up and saw he was waiting. Her need for him suddenly swelled up, rocking her stability and she gasped in another deep breath to stem the tears. "I- I convinced Rich to switch his suite for my room."

"He did this out of the goodness of his heart?" Ben asked doubtfully.

Big blue eyes looked up at him as her bottom lip trembled. "No," she whispered. He waited. "I gave him oral sex... and promised to do it again tomorrow."

Ben raised an eyebrow at her. "You did that so you could get into my bed and have sex with me?"

She nodded jerkily.

"Isn't he married?" he asked.

"He cheats. A lot."

"I'm a complete stranger. You don't know if I'm dangerous or not. Why did you think having sex with me would be a good idea?" he asked.

She was twisting the sheets between her hands. "I- I can't help it. It's a compulsion. My shrink says I'm a sex addict."

Ben looked at her in concern. "You've done this before."

She nodded.

"And you're seeing a doctor about it?"

She nodded again.

"How often are your sessions?" he asked.

"Twice a month. When I fly home."

"And between these sessions you fuck strangers."

"Co-workers too!" she insisted as if that made it better.

Ben considered the woman's occupation. Long hours in the air, interacting with strangers, layovers, and horny work mates. "Your co-workers know about your addiction? Have any tried to help?"

She looked gloomily at him. "Who'd want to break the bicycle?"

It was Ben's turn to look confused. "Bicycle?"

"It's what they call me. It means someone who's ready to be ridden whenever, wherever, and by whomever." She looked sad.

He looked at her in shock. Then he took her shoulders in his hands.

"You are NOT a bicycle! You are a beautiful woman who needs to learn to love and respect herself!" he insisted.

"But I love sex!" she gasped, her eyes getting a little glassy feeling his hands on her body as she looked at the scars on his bare chest.

"You don't have to give up sex! Just choose your partners more carefully and have sex at appropriate times in safe locations. Preferably choose single people."

"Are you married?" she asked in a quiet voice.

"No, but I'm engaged to be... I'm actually in a...number of relationships." He closed his eyes and shook his head to start again. "Listen, my suitability isn't the point. You should find someone who legitimately cares about you! Who thinks about your feelings! Don't settle for someone who just wants to use your body like a sex toy, to stick his dick in you and get off."

She moaned and rubbed against him.

"Julie!" he barked in frustration.

"I'm sorry! You're making me so horny!"

"Wha- how... Damn it! What did I just say?" he exclaimed.

"You said I should have sex at an appropriate time in a safe place with someone who cared about me as a person not a fuck toy to stuff full of cock until I cum!" She was beginning to pant.

Ben's cock jumped and swelled at her words and the pressure she was applying with her body. She felt that and whined. He'd heard what she'd said though. Those were his words... mostly.

"Julie. You need to heed your doctor's advice not your co-workers."

"I know! I'm trying! But I just get so sexually frustrated, I need it! I have to! I'll fuck the first person to look at me invitingly," she moaned rubbing against his leg.

"Can't you... take care of it yourself?"

"That doesn't work anymore," she whined.

"So... if I send you away-"

"The lounge downstairs always has someone in it, even if it's the staff," she finished, looking at him pleadingly.

Ben was stuck in a moral dilemma. He could see she was prepared to hunt for relief and Dubai wasn't the city for that kind of behavior. She'd get arrested... or worse. He scowled. God damn it! Maybe he could just get her off and she'd calm down?

Ben tugged the sheet from their bodies and Julie cried out with joy. When he pushed her legs back to her chest she trembled violently. He looked up at her face but she was just going through some kind of heightened state of sexual anticipation. Ben didn't bother with the tease as she was too far gone. He just wanted to get this done quickly but he didn't want to hurt her. He moved directly to her dripping pussy and fastened his mouth on it. Her trembling intensified and he fucked her with his tongue, sucking on her lips and clit. Soon her body was arching between her head and Ben's mouth as she clung to the sheets. He felt the telltale internal pulsing indicating she was going through a huge orgasm. He relaxed as this meant he was done.

He looked up at her and she was looking back down at him with a look of fierce concentration on her face.

"Fuck me Ben! Oh god! Fuck me with that big cock!"

Ben's face froze in surprise. Didn't she just come? Shouldn't she be too sensitive?

His cock was ready to play so he moved up the bed and rested it against her wet, reddened lips.

"OH FUCK! You're so hot! Put it in Ben! Fill me with your cock!" she whined.

He was stunned at what was coming out of her mouth. She looked like a little blond pixie but she had the tongue of a sailor. Still, his cock throbbed in anticipation so he pulled back and forced the head inside.

Her jaw dropped and her trembling came back. He pushed in about three inches until her body's shaking began to concern him. She was so hot and tight. He stopped and pulled out to the head.

"NO! FUCK ME!" she screamed.

Ben tossed a pillow at her face and scowled as she came back to her senses. She held the pillow over her own mouth.

"Let's not wake the neighborhood, alright?" he hissed, frustrated by the whole experience. She nodded at him with wide eyes, worried he'd stop but her eyes just rolled back as he thrust his hips forward burying half of his cock into the petite woman. She moaned loudly but it was mostly muffled by her biting the pillow.

Her heels were pulling on his ass so he pulled out and drove forward again managing to sink even deeper into her hot depths.

"MMMMMFFFFFFFF!!!!" she screamed into the pillow and bucked her hips up to meet his thrusts.

Ben was having difficulty keeping up with her gyrations and preventing himself from driving too deep. He felt himself get close to bottoming out and didn't want to drive himself into her cervix. She wasn't making his efforts easy as she tugged with her heels on his ass and lifted her pelvis to meet his downward thrusts.

"FuckmeFuckmeFuckmeFuckmeFuckmeFuckme," she chanted rapidly as he began to piston in and out of her drooling pussy. He couldn't get over how wet she was! He glanced down between them to make sure she wasn't bleeding but it was just her juices.

Then he saw her pinching and twisting her nipples painfully. He glanced up at her face in shock when he saw how raw they looked.

"I'm close, Ben. Oh my fucking god I'm so fucking close! Keep doing that! Yes! Fuckme! FUCKME! Fuck!" she whined as their bodies slapped together rapidly.

Her legs spasmed and Ben accidentally dropped too low, his cock hitting bottom as his pelvis slapped her clit hard.

Ben's cock was suddenly clamped in a vice as Julie bore down on it all along its length as her body spasmed and shook from the intensity of her orgasm.

His release was suddenly pushed back by the tight grip she had on his cock. Ben held still and waited for her to return from her ecstasy. Her eyes were tightly closed, her fair brows were drawn down, and her mouth was open but no sound was coming out. She went through three major jolts and the third was so violent Ben's cock was pulled free. She trembled and moaned as she slowly came around. She struggled to focus but eventually looked down at Ben's throbbing erection. She smiled.

"Thank god you're still hard!" she thrilled.

"What?" Ben stared at her in surprise.

She proceeded to roll over onto her stomach and spread her legs. As he watched she reached back and sunk two fingers into her wet and raw pussy. She gasped and arched her head up from the mattress. When she pulled her dripping fingers out she immediately sank one then the other into her ass. "Yes! Ben, fuck my pretty little asshole! Fuck it! Fuck it! Fuck it!" she chanted each time she shoved her fingers deep into the orifice getting it wet with her juices.

He was done being surprised by this woman and he needed relief. The gentle approach was obviously not working and he didn't want to be up all night doing this. He moved his large body over her petite frame and she lined up his slick cock with her puckering rosebud. When he pressed forward she dropped her face to the pillow and howled as he forced her open wider and wider. He reversed and pushed forward again and again, moving deeper in tiny increments until most of his cock was filling her up. She tried to lift her hips to meet him but her muscle control was gone.

Then he rested his body on top of hers, pinning her to the mattress, sinking his cock all the way inside her ass.

"Oh... oh goddd... ffffffuuuuuccckk... Buh!" she struggled to speak as the enormous intruder was opening her up so wide.

"Do you like my fat cock in your tight little ass?" Ben rumbled into her ear and she trembled and nodded as she'd lost the ability to talk.

He started to pump himself slowly in and out of her ass, moving glacially slow so she could feel every throbbing vein and ridge.

When she began to whimper he increased his pace slowly until he was making long even thrusts in and out of her stretched asshole.

Her head was resting on the mattress so he got a grip on her hair and lifted her head. He looked at her ecstatic expression of lust and picked up the pace once more. Drool dripped down her lips and he lowered her head to the mattress. He was getting close. He leaned close to her ear once more.

"I'm going to fill your hot little ass with my sticky cum. Do you want that?" he whispered and felt her begin to jolt as a third release rocked through her body.

The weak squeezing was all Ben needed and he drove himself deep one last time to fire streams of cum into her tight ass.

She moaned pitifully and her shaking increased. Ben kept her pinned down to the mattress and continued to unload into her hot channel.

Finally he was done so he pulled his cock free from her and she sagged, completely spent.

She'd sprayed during her last orgasm so the sheets were drenched. Ben grimaced and climbed off the bed. He lifted her in his arms and she whimpered so he carried her into the bathroom. He sat her on the toilet and cleaned himself. Then he left so she could do her business. He waited until she called for him weakly then he went back in and leaned her over the counter as he used a warm facecloth to clean her pussy and ass. She collapsed against the counter as he wasn't gentle but he got her clean.

She was a trembling mess when he carried her out and into the bedroom. He immediately picked up the scent of female excitement in the room. She'd been busy as she waited for him to arrive and fall asleep. A large dildo rested on the bed with a jar of lube. He put her on the bed and cleared a space for himself, moving the items to the end table. Then he got his phone from the living room as it was his alarm clock as well and climbed into bed. He turned out the light.

"Ben?" Julie whispered into the darkness, her voice raw.

"Yes?"

"Thank you."

He snorted.

"No, not for the sex. Well... yes for the sex, too. But mostly... mostly for caring," she said quietly.

Ben was quiet for a bit as he thought about how to answer. "I'm going to give you a little advice which you may disregard but as I do care I hope you won't. I think you need to take some time off from your job. It's not the healthiest environment for you to heal in. Dedicate time to getting better." He was silent for a moment. "That's it."

He heard her struggling to move then felt her lips on his cheek. He surprised her by taking a grip on her hair and kissing her mouth tenderly.

She tucked herself in against his side and he felt her silent tears dampen his chest. He held her until he felt her relax. He stared at the ceiling and wondered how he got himself into these situations. His emotions felt all tangled up and he felt uneasy about what he'd just done. Try as he might he just couldn't think of another way out.

It took him much longer than Julie to get back to sleep.

Chapter 27

Breakfast with the flight crew was an awkward affair as Ben was aware of Rich's infidelity and his bargain with Julie. Rich's satisfied smile died immediately when he saw the flaring scar on Ben's face as he got a scowl.

Everyone seemed to know what had happened the previous night between Ben and Julie but considering how slowly she was moving this morning it wasn't a big leap.

There was a breakfast buffet so Ben served Julie her breakfast and waited on her much to her delight. They sat at a table separate from the others.

Afterwards Ben carried Julie's bag to the van and they all rode together back to the airport which was a very short drive. Ben gave Julie a kiss as they separated at the airport. He went through the check in process and soon enough he was back in his first class seat.

One of the flight attendants from the back cabin was working in the first class cabin.

"Where's Julie?" Ben asked her as she passed by.

The woman gave him a cold look. "She's taking a leave of absence. Deadheading back to Australia then off for three months."

"Good," Ben said with a gentle smile.

"Good? You've ruined a fun time," the woman snapped.

Ben stared her down. "If that's all you thought she was then she's definitely better off away from you."

He turned away from her burning face and settled back in his seat.

Needless to say he got terrible service for the rest of the flight and didn't dare eat any of the food she served.

Once they landed Ben went through processing and collected his baggage. He was walking through the terminal towards the information kiosk when he spotted Rich walking up to a plump brunette woman. He gave her a peck on the lips and a quick hug. His Betty?

Ben spotted Julie moving slowly up behind them. She was pulling her suitcase and carrying a clear plastic cup in her other hand. She smiled at the wife as she pulled up beside them. Rich looked... nervous as his wife greeted the flight attendant.

Julie smiled and lifted the cup to her lips and spat Rich's cum into it much to the horror of his wife. Ben saw Julie glance at the panic on Rich's face then say something to the wife as she handed her the cup. Julie walked away and left Rich with his furious wife to face the repercussions of his affairs.

Ben watched Julie walk out of the terminal with her head held high, a smile on her lips. He hoped she'd get the help she needed.

He glanced around looking for the man who said he'd pick him up. In the last message he'd received from them after he'd informed them he'd be late they let him know they'd have someone from the company at the airport to pick him up.

"Fuck me mate! You're a big buggah!"

Ben turned around to see a fat man in a sweat stained polo shirt and grubby shorts staring up at him with bleary eyes. His prodigious belly strained the shirt which was having a difficult time staying down. Ben caught the odor of the man's breath and realized he was dealing with a drunk.

Then he noticed the emblem of Blake Uranium, the mining company he was here to see, on the polo shirt.

"Are you Devon?" he asked and the man's eyes widened in surprise.

"You know my name?" the man slurred.

"The email said a Devon would meet me at the airport." He looked around hoping there was someone else here with the same polo on.

"Right. Yes. That's me. I've been in this bloody airport for two days mate! Bored senseless!" the man complained.

"But you found the bar."

Devon grinned at him. "That I did! Here on the company's business so drinks on them!" He paused as the most wonderful idea came to him. "Would you like to-"

"No, we should go meet the people I came to meet," Ben said dashing the man's hopes.

"Right, right. Well, out we go. The truck's in the lot. Or was when I got here two days ago." Devon grumped. He pulled a cell from his pocket and dialed a number as they moved. He grunted a few words into it and tucked it back into his pocket.

Ben followed the wobbling man outside and decided there was no way he was letting the man drive him.

The late afternoon sun stretched across the parking lot and Ben took a deep breath of air. It was hot and dry with the scent of kerosene from the jet fuel, hot asphalt and dust. Not the most memorable first sensation from the big continent but he smiled to himself. He was in Australia!

They walked across the lot as Ben adjusted to the idea of being so far from home. He felt a pang in his heart as he thought of Ashburn Court.

The truck turned out to be an extended cab pickup with the Blake Uranium logo on the side. Ben plucked the keys from Devon's fumbling fingers. "Why don't you let me drive and you relax?"

The man blinked at him then bobbed his head as he smiled. "That would be great!" He proceeded to crawl into the back seat and lie down across it. Ben sighed and pushed the man's feet further in before he closed the back door. He tossed his bags on the passenger seat and got into the truck. It was right side drive as they drove on the left here so he familiarized himself with the controls and got them underway. He found the ticket and paid for the parking as Devon snored like a buzz saw in the back seat, his polo shirt having given up its doomed attempt to cover his stomach.

Ben had looked up the directions before he left home so he had a fair idea of how to get to the Blake Uranium head office. It was a bit of a drive from the airport but the truck had a full tank of gas and the weather was good. He drove for about an hour before he saw the large office tower. He rolled up to the security gate and rolled his window down to speak with the guard.

"Good evening. I'm Ben Shepherd here to see Don Blake. Devon is sleeping off his bar time in the back." While he'd been communicating with an engineer here named Bryan Crane he'd been told to ask for the man's boss when he arrived.

The guard could hear the snoring and saw Devon sprawled out on the back seat. He shook his head and went back to Ben's window.

"Mr. Blake is expecting you. I'll call ahead and you can meet him in the lobby. Just pull up to the front door. We'll take care of Devon." He stepped back into his booth to raise the gate.

Ben drove into the lot and parked by the front door. He left the keys inside the truck, got his luggage and walked into the building. The foyer had a three story atrium and the Blake Uranium logo was front and center on the wall above the reception desk. He looked down from the logo to the young woman manning the desk. She was looking back at him open mouthed with shock. Ben saw she was young, maybe 19, long black hair tied back in a ponytail and wearing a company blazer. He walked closer and saw she was holding a copy of Peeps magazine in her trembling hands.

"Mr... Mr. Shepherd! It is such an honor!" the young woman gushed. Ben wondered what she'd read in that article that made her impressed with him. He didn't recall it being so... generous.

"Evie! What are you still doing here, girl? It's well past business hours!"

Ben looked towards the speaker moving towards them from the elevator. The man was almost as tall as he was, fair haired and deeply tanned. He had a muscular build under the white dress shirt he wore open at the neck with rolled up sleeves and his tight blue jeans. He had a strong chin, piercing blue eyes, and a dazzling white smile he showed to the blushing receptionist as he strode towards Ben.

"Sorry Mr. Blake! It's just... Ben Shepherd! Here in our office!" the girl swooned.

Don Blake reached out to shake Ben's hand. As they gripped hands, he gave Ben a false frown. "She used to look at me like that!" His grin reappeared immediately. Up close Ben could see he was likely in his early sixties.

"Mr. Blake!" the young woman gasped in embarrassment and put her hands over her red cheeks.

Ben smiled, enjoying their casual and friendly behavior.

"Mr. Shepherd will be here tomorrow," he glanced to confirm that with Ben who nodded and continued. "You can bat your pretty eyes at him then. Get on home to your mum and give her a kiss from me."

"Yes, Mr. Blake," the young woman said as she walked past.

"Could... could I get a picture to show my mum?" she pleaded.

"Sure," Ben said and her face lit up.

Don took her phone from her and got a few shots of the young woman grinning happily beside Ben. Once he handed the phone back the woman left quickly, eager to show her mother the pictures.

"Have you eaten?" Don asked him.

"No."

"I took the liberty of making reservations for dinner at a favorite restaurant of ours. We can drop your luggage off at the hotel on the way," he suggested.

"That sounds good," Ben agreed. He picked up his duffle and laptop case as Don took the handle of his suitcase and began to lead him back out the front doors.

They waved to Evie as she drove past with a huge smile on her face. Then they turned right towards a huge red SUV. It was one of those ex-military conversions. Ben glanced at the man beside him.

"Bryan and the fellas want to take you out tomorrow night if that's alright. They've been eagerly awaiting your arrival with the solution you designed for them. Did you bring it?"

Ben smiled and patted the duffle.

"It's really going to filter the uranium dust from the truck's air intakes?" Don asked curiously. He hadn't been part of the effort but Bryan had kept him abreast of their communication with their online engineer.

Ben smiled. "That's one use for it and we'll see it work in a production environment tomorrow. The virtual benchmarking I did proved it will work theoretically. However, that only goes so far. My software is really good but it's not like I can run a physical test of my own with these materials."

Don grinned and nodded to him. "Just put your bags in the back seat for now. The hotel isn't far from here.

They climbed in and got underway. The ride in the big SUV was smoother than Ben had expected and the interior was very posh and comfortable. It even had plenty of head and shoulder space. But still, it was really too much truck for city driving.

The hotel looked very nice and Ben dropped his bags off in his room. Once he was back in the SUV they drove to the restaurant. The valet looked at the big truck with wide eyes.

"Be gentle with my baby!" Don grinned at the young man.

Ben followed him into the restaurant and the hostess greeted them with a wide smile. The restaurant owner came out to shake their hands then personally led them to their table where two pretty blondes were already seated.

Again, Ben glanced over to Don but he was all smiles as he leaned down to kiss the two women. Ben saw one was older than the other and that one got the kiss on the lips, the younger one getting a chaste kiss on the cheek. He hadn't seen their age difference until he'd gotten much closer.

Don turned back to him. "I'd like to introduce you to the two loves of my life, my wife Rita and my daughter Sarah."

Seeing he wasn't being set up on a blind date Ben relaxed and smiled at them. He shook their hands and everyone took their seats.

"Would you care for some wine Mr. Shepherd?" Rita asked.

"Please call me Ben. I don't drink so I'm fine with water." Seeing her momentary discomfort he continued. "But please enjoy the wine! I have no problem with other's drinking!"

She smiled graciously at him and he could see she went to considerable effort to maintain her youthful appearance. She was truly lovely but there was a tightness to her features.

"What brings you to our side of the planet?" Sarah asked. She had to be in her late twenties, maybe 28, and was truly lovely in that spoiled and pampered way of the wealthy. Ben was trying to give her the benefit of the doubt but her eyes were scanning him critically and from the slight twist of her lip she was finding something she wasn't impressed with.

"Just a little work with your father's company," he replied politely.

"You work in mining? I thought you were a celebrity?" she said sounding genuinely surprised.

"Celebrity? Hardly. I'm a mechanical engineer. I design solutions for engineering issues," Ben replied.

Sarah pouted at her father. She'd been promised an interesting evening with a world famous celebrity and here she was stuck with this dreary mining engineer whatever that was. He looked like he could be the Ben Shepherd she'd read about but maybe he wasn't.

Ben watched her expression with interest. While it was disappointing he was always amazed that people could reach adulthood yet never progress past an early teen's maturity.

"Now dear, Mr. Shepherd is more than a mechanical engineer-"

"Actually, not really. That's the extent of my training. Everything else I've done that's you might have seen on the news has been grossly exaggerated. I'm just an average man," Ben replied watching the young woman's confusion grow. Don seemed genuinely concerned that his daughter was unhappy. Too much of a doting father perhaps?

"What about the sculpture? Was that an exaggeration?" Rita asked with a twinkle in her eye.

Ben frowned looking down but shook his head. "No, that's accurate. A little too accurate for my comfort." Ben missed the look exchanged between mother and daughter but when he looked up he saw the young woman's pout had been replaced by a look of interest.

Sarah was finally convinced that this was the same Ben Shepherd from the magazines and TV so her night wasn't going to be a loss after all!

The waiter arrived thankfully and they placed their orders. Don recommended the prime rib or the T-bone steak. Ben went with the latter. Once the man left Ben went on the offensive.

"What do you do?" he politely asked Sarah.

"Our Sarah doesn't have to do anything," Don grinned broadly. "Why do you think I work so hard?"

That earned him smiles from the ladies. Ben couldn't comment on that without offending the man so he just nodded.

Rita leaned forward again and Ben got the impression that she might have adjusted her dress to expose her cleavage just a little more. She had sizable implants which were now threatening to come out and say hello. When his eyes returned to hers he saw the satisfied expression before she spoke.

"Surely not everything we've seen in the news about you has been an exaggeration. The girls you rescued from the slavers over in France for instance? They reported you walked unarmed into their hideout and killed four heavily armed men to rescue five young women." She raised her eyebrow at him daring him to refute the story.

Ben shifted uneasily in his chair. "What they didn't report was that I only stumbled on the 'hideout' because I was in the restaurant next door and got lost looking for the washroom. I wasn't on some kind of rescue mission." Ben had no memory of what happened in the room but didn't want to open that Pandora's Box. "I just did what was necessary."

"I think our Mr. Shepherd is uncomfortable with the praise, no matter how justified it is," Don said coming to his rescue. He nodded to the man who looked satisfied at having his daughter smiling again. When Ben glanced in her direction she wasn't just smiling, she was eyeing him like dessert. He sighed to himself and turned back to his meal.

Conversation moved to travel and how Ben had enjoyed France. Don had taken his family there and they exchanged recollections of their favorite places. Ben shared his memories of Paris, the French Alps, and his time in Southern France. He stayed away from the more sensational events he'd experienced in those places but Sarah's expression of interest never waned. She'd gotten her entertaining evening after all.

"Do you travel a lot, Ben?" she asked.

"No, before this trip I'd only been to France and Costa Rica," he replied.

"Ah! Your vacation with Dream and La'Shia! I read about that!" the woman exclaimed.

Ben looked at her excited expression. "Well, we didn't go with them. Again, it was more a case of accidentally bumping into them when we were there. They just happened to be staying at the same resort with the other members of their... groups."

Sarah's eyes were almost glowing with her excitement. "It was so tragic to hear about La'Shia breaking off the wedding then Dream getting arrested for murder!"

"What? Murder?" Ben jolted.

"Yes, they're saying he gunned down two men in the house of a friend of his oldest friend, Night-" Her eyes flew wide. "OH MY GOD! You were there when Night died!"

Other guests in the restaurant were beginning to look in their direction and Rita took her daughter's hand to get her to calm herself. "Sorry Mum but he was there!" she said in a more subdued voice.

Don looked at him for confirmation. "Yes, I was there. It was a stupid accident. The man was... deeply troubled and unstable."

"How did he die?" Sarah gasped, that tidbit having been missing from the story she'd read.

Ben's discomfort at her excitement seemed to be lost on her. "He slipped on some wet tiles and fell, striking his head on the edge of a step."

"That's it? He slipped and bumped his head?" Don exclaimed.

"That's all it takes," Ben said.

"But... what was he doing when he slipped? What made him slip?" Sarah growled in frustration.

Ben was getting a little tired of keeping her entertained. He sighed. "The man was swinging a knife at the face of a woman I was standing beside. I yanked her back. He missed. His shoe slipped out from under him and he fell. He died. That's it."

Her eyes were like saucers and her next question was interrupted by her father.

"Sunflower, I think Mr. Shepherd has said all he's comfortable saying about that."

She looked like she wanted to argue but again her mother squeezed her hand and she settled down.

They finished up their meals, keeping the conversation to milder topics. Don had done some renovation work on his house and Ben traded stories about that with him.

Ben caught Sarah watching him with a hungry look on several occasions and his unease about the woman's state of mind grew.

Something Rita said caught Ben's attention and he looked at her. "Sarah's married?"

"Was," Rita clarified with a frown. She sent her daughter a quick look of reproach as Sarah looked away stiffly.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to pry," Ben said but Sarah saw an opportunity.

"Not all relationships work out as we plan, isn't that right Ben," she said looking defiantly at her mother.

"Uh, well, that's been my experience," he agreed reluctantly.

Rita looked at him eagerly. "You've been married too?"

He nodded. "A long time ago."

"She left him," Sarah blurted and Ben winced.

"Sarah!" Rita scolded.

"I'm just stating what it said in that magazine." She looked at Ben. "Your ex didn't say very nice things about you."

"Ex's sometimes don't but don't believe everything you read, especially in one of those magazines," he said in his defence.

"So, what really happened then?" Sarah asked.

"Sarah!" her mother scolded again but her daughter's eyes flared.

"You blame me for choosing the wrong man to get married to. Maybe it's not my fault. Maybe we fall in love with people who change!" Sarah hissed back at her.

Ben blinked at the younger woman. For all her insensitivity and immaturity she'd just given Ben something to think about.

"Sunflower, this isn't the time to talk about that," Don said and his daughter leaned back in her chair with a pout.

Dessert was sorbet and ice creams which fit well with the climate around the table. There was definitely a chill between mother and daughter and Don looked apologetic.

Afterwards they said their goodbyes as Don was going to drive Ben back to the hotel. Rita firmly pressed her body against Ben's when she hugged him. Her touch was a little too familiar as well but Ben let it slide. He'd barely stepped back when Sarah was crushing herself against him, feeling the beginning of his reaction to her mother's tight embrace. Her hands wandered as well and her eyes were wide and excited when he gently disengaged from her hug.

"It was nice meeting you both," Ben said with a smile and followed Don out of the restaurant.

As they stood waiting for the valet Don looked over at Ben with a cautious smile. "So that's the wife and daughter." He suddenly seemed insecure.

"Don, you are a very lucky man," Ben said and the man's smile suddenly lit up his face.

"You're damn right!" he exclaimed with enthusiasm as his confidence returned.

Don was almost bubbly with good humor on the drive back to the hotel and told him he'd pick him up in the morning at 9AM.

Ben made his way up to his room and stripped his clothes off. After he freshened up in the bathroom and brushed his teeth he went back to the bed and propped himself up on the pillows against the headboard. He flipped open his laptop and called Margaux.

On the third ring the screen opened up and there she was. Her thick mahogany hair framing her lovely face, her beautiful mouth wide with a happy smile and her lovely dark eyes twinkled with joy.

"Are you here?" she gasped in delight.

"Well, I finally made it to the continent! I'm in Melbourne now. Just had dinner with the company president, his wife and daughter. Tomorrow I get to meet the engineering team. They're taking me out to dinner too."

"When are you coming to Sidney?" she asked.

"The day after tomorrow... what day will that be? I swear with all this time zone jumping I'm lost."

She shook her head and smiled at him. "Thursday. When do you have to head home?"

"My flight back to the States is Sunday night," he said.

She nodded as she considered all the things she wanted to do with him in the time she had. Her grin turned wicked.

"I recognize that smile. What naughty thoughts are going through that brilliant brain inside that pretty head of yours?" Ben said with a smile.

"You'll just have to wait and see!" her smile turned sultry and Ben's cock woke up.

"So much for sleeping tonight!" Ben said with a grin making her squeak in delighted amusement.

"I am very much looking forward to your visit!" she said.

"I'll see you on Thursday!" Ben said.

"Goodnight, Ben."

"Goodnight, Margaux. Sweet, naughty dreams," he returned and she chuckled as she disconnected.

Next he dialed up Tina's tablet. It rang six times and he was about to disconnect when the screen suddenly came online.

"Ben!?!"

"Tina?" he asked in concern.

"Yes! Sorry, I could not get my tablet out of my bag and I thought I missed the call. I was expecting your call last night." Tina said.

"My apologies. I screwed up my flight from Milan to Melbourne and I had a surprise layover in Dubai.

He heard laughter in the background and Tina turned the tablet so he could see Trish standing next to her. "Hi Trish!"

"Hey Ben! Is Dubai as pretty as it seems on TV?" the redhead asked with a grin.

"I'll let you know when they finish it," he said. "It's pretty posh in places and a complete disaster in others! It's a very strange mix. I did meet some lovely people and enjoyed a local meal."

Tina's face came back into the picture.

"What are you two doing... at noon on... Tuesday?" he said struggling with the time zones.

"Just doing a little extra shopping for the house on the lunch hour. Picking up sheets," Tina replied. Trish disappeared for a second and Ben watched Tina's expression as she watched the other woman doing something off camera. She smiled in amusement.

"Hey Ben! Check out these pillows!" Tina turned the tablet to face Trish who had two large and round pink pillows held up against her chest and she was squeezing them together like they were her own tits.

"Ooo, Ben! Wouldn't you like to slide your big cock between these babies?" Trish teased and laughed at Ben's embarrassed expression.

"Trish! You're in a public place!" he exclaimed.

The woman in question grinned and threw the pillows into the bin. "Ben, the store is dead! Tina and I are the only ones here! Hell! I could walk through the store naked!" She got a twinkle in her eyes and lifted her top to expose her large tits struggling to free themselves from her sexy red lace bra. Ben heard Tina giggling from behind the tablet.

"Very nice ma'am. Please put them away," a male voice said.

Trish pulled her top back down as she looked up at the security camera just to her left. Tina's giggles had become full out laughter and the camera was no longer steady. Trish plucked it from Tina's grasp. She smiled at Ben.

"We miss you big guy! When are you home again?"

"Uh, next Monday... evening... I think. I'm having trouble keeping the days straight. I miss you guys too!" he said. "How are the girls? Wait! How did their date go?"

Tina took the tablet back. Her smiling face looked back at him. "The date was a big success. Jayden was a gentleman and Penny's boyfriend Frank is very nice as well. They have another double date planned for this weekend. Karen is very happy as is Penny. They miss you too!"

Ben relaxed a little and gave Tina a smile. All was well at home. "Thank you Tina for taking care of things while I'm away."

"Do I deserve a reward?" she asked cheekily.

Ben grinned. "Oh yes, you will be rewarded very well for this."

"Hey! I've been helpful too! I want in on this reward action!" Trish whined from off screen. Tina turned the tablet to her and Ben saw her pout.

"Trish, you will get your reward when I get back too!" he promised.

She noticed his shoulders were bare and realized it was after midnight where he was. "Are you naked?" she said with a huge grin. Tina immediately spun the tablet back to face her but Trish moved beside her to see as well.

"Yes but I'm under the top sheet," he grumbled.

"Oh god Ben! Give us a little preview!" Trish moaned.

Tina nodded enthusiastically with a grin on her face. "Yes, please!" she added.

Feeling a little awkward Ben set his laptop on the bed between his outstretched legs. He still had the sheet over his legs, pulled up to his stomach so he was 'decent' for the camera. Both women made appreciative sounds as they could see his full torso.

"Oh fuck, that's nice!" Trish sighed. "Why don't you slip that sheet down a little?" Tina was nodding rapidly.

He sighed and reached down to the top of his thighs and slowly tugged the sheets down until the top of the sheet was just barely covering his intimate parts. He stopped there and smiled at the camera.

Trish was staring open mouthed and Tina's eyes were wide with excitement.

"I think that's enough for tonight," he said.

"Oh you tease! So unfair!" Trish blurted.

He leaned forward to grab the laptop and lift it back up to his legs when the sheet dropped away. Trish and Tina were given a very up close and personal look at his semi-erect cock hanging down between his legs before he yanked the sheet up again.

"Shit! Who's python was THAT!" a female voice exclaimed from off screen. The screen went dark as Tina pulled her tablet tight against her chest. The next sounds were loud but muffled and when Ben's screen brightened once more Tina looked very apologetic.

"Sorry Ben, we did not see or hear the saleswoman approach," she said.

"Yeah, we were a little distracted! Fuck! That was hot!" Trish grinned.

Ben sighed as his face burned. He'd had enough excitement for the night. "I'm going to sleep now. Have a good day! I love you two!"

"We love you too Ben! Sweet dreams!" Tina said as Trish blew kisses.

Ben shut down the laptop and put it away. He flipped off the light and smiled as he thought of home. He missed his ladies very much.

Chapter 28

Catherine looked down at her feet once more as she walked across the lobby of the office tower her charity, Kids-2-Kids, hosted their office in. She saw her feet were touching the floor but she swore she was floating inches above it. Her heart was soaring and the reason for that was waiting for her by the front doors. She pinched herself again as she took in the tall svelte body and new spiky hairstyle Chanel was sporting. Spotting Cat's reflection Chanel turned to face her lover and smiled.

Once more Catherine's thoughts were pulled back to Monday evening when she picked up Miriam and Daniel from the airport. She'd arrived early and watched the happy reunions with a dull pain in her heart. She'd given herself a shake as Miriam and Daniel didn't need to see that.

The kids had looked so happy when she saw them coming through the arrivals gate. She could tell they'd had a wonderful visit with their mother and Ben. Miriam absolutely glowed in the lovely new dress she was wearing. She was growing up to be such a lovely young woman!

She spotted Daniel pointing his camera in her direction and she grinned at him.

Then she walked through the gate behind the kids.

Catherine's grin froze and she blinked, not believing what her eyes were telling her. It couldn't be. It was just her wishful thinking. She'd been dreaming about this very thing happening so it couldn't be. It had to be a dream!

When Chanel smiled back at her hesitantly, biting that delectable lip, and tears welling in the brunette's lovely eyes Catherine found her feet moving, slowly at first until she was running. She pulled the woman into her arms and held her, feeling the pain rush away to be replaced with a giddy joy. As Chanel's strong arms wrapped around her, their lips found each other's and their kiss was the sweetest relief. Her heart filled with happiness to have Chanel back in her arms.

"Catherine? Love?"

The blonde returned from her thoughts feeling the gentle touch of her lover's hand on her cheek.

"You disappeared for a moment there," Chanel said with concern in her voice and love in her eyes.

They were standing in the middle of the lobby. Catherine blushed and a joyful smile appeared on her lips. She slipped her arm through Chanel's and got them moving. "Sorry, just reliving your return to me."

It was Chanel's turn to flash back to the moment and a sweet smile spread across her face. "It was magic for me as well."

Stepping outside into the crisp fall air Catherine held tighter to Chanel's arm. "Where do you want to have lunch?"

"Someplace we can hear ourselves think," the brunette said as she looked at the noisy road construction crew whose whistles and cat-calls could barely be heard above the machinery noise. Chanel adjusted her jacket, making her holster evident and the crew found other things to do.

Cat smiled at the woman and led them a couple of blocks down to a nice little two story Italian restaurant. The owner was friendly and got them an intimate table by the window upstairs.

"The view isn't as spectacular as a view in Paris would be," Catherine said when they got settled.

"The view in Paris was missing something I could not live without," Chanel said taking her hand.

Catherine's smile stretched wide and her eyes twinkled happily as she held the other woman's hand.

Chanel suddenly looked a little nervous and Cat's breath caught in her throat. She'd been waiting for this. Since the incredible moment when Chanel appeared at the airport, she'd been riding a high. Now reality was going to come crashing down on her. Chanel would tell her she was leaving, why it couldn't last, why it wasn't meant to be. Her heart began to ache.

"I- I didn't want to say anything until I was sure but my meeting this morning went better than I'd hoped. I don't... I hope... I got a job, as detective, here in your city. I'm moving here."

"Oh my god!" Catherine gushed as her breathing finally came back to her. "Oh my god!"

Chanel was looking at her with a confused smile. "Good?"

"Good? Incredible! So good! Move in with me! Live with me!" she blurted and Chanel's shoulders relaxed. "You thought I wouldn't want you to?!?"

"You have a life-"

"YOU are a very important part of that life! I want you by my side! I love you!" Cat exclaimed.

Chanel was suddenly crying and Catherine was too. The blonde kissed the brunette's hand. They pulled back and struggled to stem their tears as they beamed at each other.

"What happened? Who were you meeting this morning?" Catherine asked when she could.

Chanel dabbed her tears and nodded. "I went to speak with the police commissioner after he received a call from Chief Inspector Boucher who gave me a glowing recommendation. There is currently media pressure to hire more female detectives in this city and as I have an excellent record the commissioner recognized it would be excellent timing to hire me to ease some of this pressure. I do not care why he is hiring me as long as he does. I know I am great at my job. I just needed my job to be near you."

"You didn't answer my question. Will you move in with me?" Cat said biting her lip.

"I would love to. As long as your daughters do not mind," Chanel said.

"They all think very highly of you!" Cat grinned.

Chanel smiled and looked down at her hands resting on the table. "And what of the big man? Will he object?"

Cat tilted her head. "By now you know the answer to that one. Wasn't he the one who sent you to me on that jet?"

"At that time I did not tell him that I would be staying." Chanel said nervously.

"You're still thinking in possessive terms. Ben loves me. He supports my happiness. You make me so very happy! He will definitely be on board with the idea of your staying!"

"He told me he was not giving you up."

Catherine smiled happily as a warm feeling flowed through her. "And I'm never going to give him up. That doesn't mean I don't love and need you!"

"I need you as well. I would like to try. I would very much like to try."

Catherine nodded and the waiter took that opportunity to approach. They gave their orders and the man left.

"I've been thinking about redecorating the house. There is still too many reminders of Ashraf there. He had an office which you could take for your own personal space. I have my own office."

"Do I get my own bedroom?" Chanel asked.

Cat's expression froze until she saw the slight smile in the corners of Chanel's lips.

"You're such a tease!" Cat growled.

"I will show you tonight how much of a tease I can be," Chanel promised with heat in her eyes.

The look went straight to Cat's most sensitive bits and she squirmed in delight. Something occurred to her. "What did you do with your apartment in Paris?"

"Nothing yet but I will have to give it up. I still need to pack my things. I do not have much," Chanel sighed.

"It's a shame. An apartment in Paris sounds lovely," Cat smiled.

Chanel gave her a wry grin. "You have not seen the building my apartment is in nor the neighborhood. No one would have romantic thoughts of that place."

"When will you be going back to get your stuff?" Catherine asked.

Chanel sat back and frowned. "I was in such a rush to come here I didn't make any plans. Now that I have a new job I don't know when I will get the time to do it!"

"When is your first day?"

"They want me to unofficially begin training next Monday. I still need a Visa to actually work. They are rushing to get me a temporary work Visa and fast tracking my application as a permanent resident. I doubt they will be happy about giving me time to go back to pack. And the airfare is going to be prohibitive!" she said with a worried look.

Catherine pulled her phone from her jacket pocket and quickly typed out a message. She hit send and sat back with a smile.

"What was that?" Chanel asked curiously.

"I just asked my boyfriend if we could borrow the jet for the weekend. It has a bed you know." Catherine grinned.

Chanel's eyes went wide. "You asked Ben to pay for the flight to and from Paris on a private jet to pick up my things and bring them back?" she asked incredulously.

Cat blinked at her. "Yes, why? What's wrong?"

"He does not even know I am staying and now he is paying my moving expenses? I- I think this is too much!" she exclaimed.

"He could say no but I doubt he will. I asked nicely and he knows how important this is," Catherine explained.

"I- I do not wish to spend his money... I will find a way to pay him back," she said in discomfort.

Catherine looked at the woman across the table. "When we get back and Ben is back we need to sit down with him and clear away some misconceptions you have. I think you will be far more at ease with him then."

"I'm not attracted to him," Chanel said cautiously.

"And I'm not asking that of you. I am asking you to make the effort to see the man for what he is, not what you think he is. I believe you'll like him as a person. You don't have to love him but please respect that I do." Catherine held Chanel's eyes with hers and saw the acceptance there. Chanel nodded and smiled.

Catherine's phone began making a chirping sound like a bird call.

"Oh! That's my father's ringtone! I need to take this!" Cat exclaimed and Chanel smiled at her.

"Hello?"

"Cat?" a rough voice called out loudly. The noise in the background was deafening.

"Dad? What's going on?" She had to hold the phone out from her ear.

"Hang on, I'm getting into my truck." There was a few more moments of noise and they both heard the squawk of the intercom on a firetruck. The two women looked at each other. A deep thump was followed with a drastic reduction in the noise. Cat was able to put the phone back to her ear.

"Dad, what happened? Was that a firetruck?" Catherine asked anxiously.

"First off, your mother and I are fine. The house... not so much. Our water heater was faulty and exploded. Took out the back corner of the house on its way skyward. We lost the dining room on the main floor and your brother's room on the second floor as well... which had become a bit of a shrine if I'm being honest with myself."

Catherine's expression showed her worry. Her father wasn't big on opening up emotionally and he sounded a little shaky.

"Dad, where's mom?"

"Bridge night. She's over at Evelyn's. I called her first and Evelyn will take care of her tonight. Listen, there was a bit of a fire after the water heater busted the place up and the house will need some extensive repairs. The insurance will cover it but I was wondering if this would be an opportunity to... come visit?"

Catherine's eyes went wide. Her parents hadn't ever visited. They'd missed their grandchildren's growing up because of the falling out she'd had with her dad over Ashraf. She'd gotten her stubborn streak from her dad.

"Cat?"

"Uh sorry dad, you just surprised me. A visit sounds wonderful!" she said as she watched Chanel's worried expression.

"Yeah, ok... great! I'm just going to take care of a few things here and tomorrow we'll pack up the car and start driving to your place. We'll make a road trip out of it so expect us sometime next week. I'll keep in touch to give you a more accurate date when we are on the road."

"That sounds good! I'm glad you and Mom are ok. Thanks for calling!" she said.

"See you soon, Cat," he said and hung up.

Catherine looked at her phone, stunned.

"Maybe I should find a place to stay while they are here?" Chanel suggested.

"No! No! Absolutely not! I've never lied to my dad and I'm not going to start now. He values integrity above all else so he gets to see my life with no secrets. I'm happier than I've ever been and you are a far better person than Ashraf. Dad will love you."

"What about your mother?" Chanel asked cautiously.

Cat smiled warmly. "Mom's a sweetie. During the years when I wasn't talking with dad she kept in touch. Letters mostly."

"Moving in and meeting the parents in the same week. It's so sudden!" Chanel said with a nervous grin.

Their food arrived so Cat just gave her lover a broad smile. Her own mind was spinning! Her father had been asking to meet Ben. Now he was going to meet two important people in her life.

Cat looked across the table at Chanel in surprise as a thought came to her.

The beautiful brunette paused with a fork halfway to her mouth. "What is it?"

"Nothing, my brain was just taking me to funny places," she said, keeping her thought to herself. For now.

Next week was going to be eventful!

Chapter 29

Ben returned from the hotel gym feeling great. His muscles had responded well and he pushed himself to get in an extra set of reps with the heavy stack of plates. He felt a pleasant burn tingling through his muscles.

He took a quick shower, shaved, brushed his teeth, dressed, and headed downstairs to the restaurant for breakfast. Once he was seated he checked his messages.

He spotted a message from Catherine so he opened it up to read it. A smile spread across his face when he read how happy she was about the surprise he'd sent her and he nodded with satisfaction when he saw Chanel was staying. He recalled how desperate and dazed the woman had been when they met in Milan so he wasn't surprised that she hadn't considered moving her stuff. He wrote a quick reply to her saying he would send a message to his friend with the jet service and let them know to expect a call from her. Whatever she needed. He smiled thinking of her smiling face as he hit send.

"Good morning handsome! What will it be?"

He looked up at the smiling face of an older waitress and watched that smile turn into wide eyed excitement.

Ben had an epiphany in that brief moment before she squealed. He had to come to some kind of agreement, a ceasefire of hostilities against the ugly beast called fame. The more he bitched and moaned the less happy he was. Yes, it was unfair. Yes, he hadn't asked for any of it. He could still keep to himself and not share intimate details of his life but as long as the public had their attention focused on him he would not let it change who he was. So he put away the sigh and the grumble and simply smiled at the woman.

"YOU'RE DWAYNE JOHNSON!" she squealed.

Ben's smile froze then a laugh burst from him.

Her expression changed to confusion then embarrassment as Ben struggled to control his laughter.

"No- heh heh, sorry. I'm not Dwayne Johnson though I'm flattered by the comparison," he grinned.

"I'm so sorry! I thought you were someone famous!" the red faced woman apologized.

"I get that sometimes, it's fine. Can I still order breakfast?" he smiled up at her.

"Of course you can!"

He placed his order and she apologized once more before rushing off to the kitchen.

Looking over his email he answered a few messages from Jerry, his financial advisor, nothing alarming, mostly good. There was a note from his lawyer saying his lawsuit against Peeps was having the desired effect so far. Ben smiled at that.

He sent a note to his buddy with the jet service and requested a jet for Catherine and Chanel for a weekend flight to and from Paris. He indicated that Catherine would contact him directly with the details and the cost should go on his account. He CC'd Catherine on the message so she would see it.

He was settling the bill when the waitress walked over to him with a smirk on her face. He smiled at her.

"You are famous!" she accused with hands on hips.

He tipped his head to her. "Not like Mr. Johnson though. He deserves his fame. He works for it. Mine was forced upon me."

The woman shook her head at him but smiled and Ben left with a chuckle.

He collected the duffle with the prototype and his laptop case from his room then went downstairs. As he approached the front door the big red SUV rumbled into the driveway. He put his bags in the back and climbed in the passenger seat.

"Good morning, Ben! Sleep well?" Don said with a grin.

"Good morning, Don. Yes, very well? Yourself?"

"Like a Bush baby!" the man chuckled.

Ben frowned. "Aren't they nocturnal?"

"Yeah, I don't need much sleep. I get maybe two to three hours a night. I'm far more productive at night," the man explained. "It's how I got where I am today! Never let 'em catch ya sleeping, ay!"

Ben smiled at the man's enthusiasm.

They pulled into his parking spot then headed inside.

Evie was working the reception desk again and she was wearing a very pretty yellow sundress which was very flattering for her slim figure.

"The eyes may travel but the hands must never follow," Don chanted quietly to himself as he took in the young woman's cleavage on display but Ben heard him. He glanced self-consciously at Ben. "Too damn many temptations on this planet," he muttered to Ben with a grin but there was tension in the corners of his eyes. Perhaps his hands had followed in the past.

"Good morning, Evie," Ben said, giving Don time to compose himself, and watched her eyes light up as she saw he'd remembered her name. "How's your mother?" He thought she might swoon for a moment but she got it under control.

"She was very excited to see the pictures, Mr. Shepherd," she gushed.

"Please, call me Ben. That's a beautiful sundress. The lighting in the lobby is much better this morning. Maybe we should get another picture?" he suggested and her phone was instantly in her hand as she had been hoping.

Smiling knowingly Don took the phone and got some shots of Ben and Evie.

He handed the phone back to the young woman. "Ben and I will be in the pit feeding the wild dogs all day so hold my calls, alright?"

"Yes, Mr. Blake!" Evie chirped happily looking at the photos.

"Sweet girl," Don said to Ben as they made their way back to the elevators. They went down a floor and walked to the back of the building where they stopped at some double doors painted black. 'The Pit' was painted on the doors with rough paint strokes in blood red. Ben raised his eyebrows and Don rolled his eyes with a grin before pushing through.

Inside the doors was a platform with stairs leading down one level. The room was two stories tall as there was a radiation chamber at the back of the room. The space was huge with a machine shop on one side, test benches and drafting tables in the middle and on the right every kind of testing equipment Ben could imagine. It was a mechanical engineer's dream. He looked around in delight.

"BEN SHEPHERD!" roared from the throats of six men and two women. He looked back at them in shock.

"May I present Bryan Crane and his merry band of misfits, the Wild Dogs, our engineering team!"

The man Don introduced as Bryan bounced over to stand before them at the base of the stairs with a huge grin on his bearded face.

"Welcome to... The Pit!" Bryan said theatrically.

Don rolled his eyes at Ben once more and they descended into the madness.

The others gathered around and everyone said their names and their areas of specialization. The two women were the mathematicians of the team who kept the other's unbridled enthusiasm in check.

"What have you brought for us?" Bryan said with excitement, rubbing his hands together.

Ben grinned and placed his duffle on the table and paused before he opened it. "Normally I take my original prototype home after the tests and put it in a display case in my office but I understand this one may become a little radioactive in the testing. I'll need a moment to say goodbye."

The mathematicians giggled and the others were all grins. He unzipped the bag and lifted out the device.

Bryan's face lit up. "Yes! I won the bet! I told you he was going to implement a static plate deflection system!"

"Sorry Bryan. It's not a static plate deflection system," Ben said with a grin. "It's more elegant than that." He pulled out his documentation and handed his notes to the woman they called Mare, which was apparently short for Mary. She was maybe 5' 4", had a head of brown curly hair that reached her shoulders and was pleasantly plump all over. She hid her soft hazel eyes behind serious black rimmed glasses. She checked over his math as he outlined how the device filtered the heavy particles from the air intake system. Eyes began to widen. It took him a good hour as he fielded questions along the way, to describe how it worked.

"Fuck! I have to see this in action." Bryan blurted.

Mare held up her hand as she was still approving the math. Don looked at the group but everyone waited until she finally nodded. She passed the papers to the other woman, who they called Henri, short for Henrietta. Henri was taller at 5' 10" and rail slim with straight blond hair to mid back and sported vintage, jewel encrusted cat-eye framed glasses over her pale blue eyes. She conferred with Mare on one point then she nodded too. "Set up the test bed," Henri said.

The men burst into motion. Two ran for the hazmat suits and two others moved to help them suit up. Bryan and his second in command, Gary, went to the control center outside of the radiation chamber and calibrated the test bench.

Ben carried the prototype to the entrance and Don followed with an excited smile on his face. He leaned over to whisper to Ben. "I didn't follow half of what you were explaining but I haven't seen them this excited since they discovered it was you who was working on their engineering board request." Ben just shrugged with a smile. Inside he was squealing like a little girl again. His design was finally going to be tested in the physical conditions with the actual materials he'd designed it to filter. It should work but he couldn't get this stuff at home. He patted the prototype. This would be the last time he got to handle the device. After it did its job it wouldn't be safe to leave the chamber. It would take a long time to become contaminated to a level where it would be lethal from exposure but he couldn't take it home. He turned to Don and handed him his phone.

"Could you take a picture of me with the prototype?"

Don grinned. "Sure."

He took a couple and Ben thanked him as he reviewed them. Mare and Henri watched Bryan and Gary finish up the calibrations. They nodded and the two suited men went into the chamber, Ben handing the second man the device. The men went through the airlock to get inside.

Connecting it took some time as they wanted to ensure a perfect seal to get accurate readings.

Don was getting impatient as he didn't know what was going on. When the men left the chamber and took off their suits everyone gathered in front of the control center. "What are we looking at? How will we know it's working?" Don asked.

Bryan pointed to a number displayed on the control board. "The number on this display indicates the number of radioactive particles per million in the intake." He pointed to a second number on the control board. "This will display the number of radioactive particles per million after the filter."

They double checked the boards and everyone indicated they were ready to go. They started the test with the filter in a still environment, no movement or vibration that would normally be experienced in a truck. They started the intake with minimal dust and gradually turned up the concentration. They watched the post filter display. Virtually no contaminates got through even when they brought the levels up to three time their largest recorded level. The particles that did were barely registered, making their presence negligible. The team was all grins and Ben's grin was widest of all. This proved his filter would work for stationary implementations of which he could think of many.

"Now we are going to add the vibration of the idling truck." They ran through the test again and once again negligible contaminants were present in the filtered air. They reset the test bed.

"We are going to run the recorded movements of an actual truck going through its normal routine. This is the rough test. Hang on to your panties people, here we go!" Bryan said. The gimbals under the test bed added the recorded motions to the platform. The filter thumped, bumped, vibrated, jerked and bounced. The contaminant concentrations were automated as well to match the real conditions of the day the truck movements were recorded.

"Something got through! There was a surge!" Don exclaimed as the number of the filtered side jumped a little and settled back down.

"That's ok. The levels are still well below danger levels. We could put the filter into a vibration dampening mount and this should eliminate the issue," Gary suggested. The others began talking about how this could be implemented.

"So it's a success?" Don asked.

"It's a bit premature to break out the champagne but I can say it looks really good." Bryan said. "We'll keep running the tests. We'll be able to give you a definitive answer by 6PM tonight."

Ben wanted to continue watching the testing but Don gestured for him to follow as the man headed for the stairs.

Bryan caught Ben's frustration and grinned. "Feel free to come back to watch once you've had your business talk," he whispered to him.

Ben nodded and followed Don up the stairs and they took the elevator up to the top floor.

He led Ben to his office passing through the outer office with its empty assistant's desk. Once inside his large corner office with its view he felt better. This was his domain. He was about to offer him a drink when he remembered Ben didn't partake. "Can I get you something to drink? Coffee, tea, soft drink, juice, water?"

"Water would be great."

He pressed a button on his phone. "Evie, could you bring Ben a cold bottle of water? In my office. Thanks!"

Ben raised an eyebrow.

"I, ah, had to let my secretary go. Haven't found someone to replace her yet." Don said gruffly, pouring himself a scotch. Ben noted the time was still 30 minutes shy of lunchtime.

"I take it you've patented that device you designed." At Ben's nod he nodded as well and they moved to the desk where he took his seat behind it and Ben took a chair in front. Evie arrived with his water and he thanked her and gave her a smile. She beamed back at him.

"Thanks, Evie. Close my door on your way out? Thanks!" Don said and the young woman left.

"I'll get right to the point as I think we're both men with little patience for bullshit." He looked at Ben and saw he was listening. "Would you be interested in selling the patent?"

"No."

"Alright. Do you have a manufacturer in mind?" Don continued.

"I do."

The man frowned. His options for being involved in what his business nose was telling him was a potential gold mine were rapidly diminishing.

Ben saw the man desperately thinking of a way to get in on this deal. He thought of how he had to chase Sturn Manufacturing to improve their marketing. This might be something Blake could deal with.

"How good is your Sales and Marketing team?" he asked and the man's eyes lit up.

When Don and Ben finally returned to 'The Pit' it was past 8pm and the engineering team was shutting their test bed down. The group was all smiles. Ben suppressed his pout at having missed all the fun stuff and returned their smile.

"Holy Shit Ben! That's just the most fucking brilliant design I've ever seen! Even under extreme conditions the rate that gets through falls well below the danger levels. No government agency would fail these ratings! If we were to mount it on a vibration dampening system, the rate would drop even lower!" Bryan gushed and Gary nodded enthusiastically. They all looked hopefully at their boss who couldn't suppress the grin.

"It's going to be up to you sorry lot to think of inventive ways to use this design across all industries. Blake Enterprises, my newly formed company for which Mr. Shepherd here is a silent partner, is going to market and sell the hell out of these filters to any and all who has the need of them."

"Who's going to manufacture them?" Gary asked, looking at their inadequate milling tools.

"Sturn Manufacturing in Austin, Texas" Ben said. "They have top notch facilities but their sales and marketing isn't so strong."

"Are we getting out of the Uranium mining business boss?" Mare asked.

"Naah, just diversifying!" Don said with a grin. "We have a contract with Ben in principle and once the lawyers do their duties we'll get started."

A cheer went up and Ben grinned at all the happy faces. He'd been impressed by the sales and marketing teams he'd met upstairs so he and Don had knocked together a basic agreement. He recommended Don create a new company to handle this new business so it could be protected against market shifts in Blake Uranium. The man saw the wisdom in that and contacted his lawyer to get started on the paperwork. He invited Ben to be a silent partner for a fixed amount to be withdrawn against initial licensing fees. Ben explained his philosophy regarding his price scheme for licensing, valuing volume over exorbitant fees per unit for long term growth and stability and told him to speak with the CEO of Sturn Manufacturing for proof. Don was delighted.

"It's time to crack open that champagne now!" Bryan hooted.

Ben's stomach grumbled but only he heard it over the cheering. "Did I hear someone say there was a dinner planned tonight?"

"Shit yeah! I'm starved!" Henri called out.

"Fuck! Our reservation is in ten minutes and we're thirty minutes out!" Gary complained.

"I'll call and let them know we're coming!" Bryan ran back to his desk.

"Let's go!" Don said and the group ran to their desks to get their wallets, purses, and keys.

Then it was upstairs and out to the parking lot. They peeled out of the lot in their individual cars, Ben with Don, and started a bit of a convoy. They got to the restaurant in twenty minutes and parked. Ben craned his neck to see the sign on the place to see what kind of restaurant it was but they were moving so fast he missed it.

"Why are we running? Is it dinner theatre? Are we trying to get in before the curtain raises?" he asked Don as he held his laptop bag close to his body. The man just grinned at Bryan. Mare and Henri rolled their eyes at their bosses.

"The food is excellent!" Mare said to him and Henri nodded.

They got inside and were quickly ushered to their table. The room was dimly lit so Ben assumed his guess about dinner theatre was right. The waiter handed them menus which had all of three entrees on it so he ordered the steak dinner and got nods from the ladies. Apparently that was the correct choice. Minutes later the food arrived and they dug in. Ben was amazed by the size of the steak he'd been given and once he bit into the first bite he closed his eyes in pleasure. He heard the two women snorting at him and he opened his eyes and smiled with a nod in their direction.

The waiter served the drinks and Ben saw he was the only one who hadn't ordered a rather large stein of beer. He sipped at his water as the others pounded back the beer. No sooner were they empty than another round arrived.

Ben noticed bouncers by the doors. He was sure they hadn't been there before the beer started arriving.

He was almost done his meal when the lights dimmed further and a spotlight suddenly lit up a curtained doorway. Loud music blared from hidden speakers in the ceiling. Bursting through the curtain came a stream of young women wearing... very little. Their outfits were comprised of g-string panties in different colors and matching pasties covering their nipples. Completing the minimal outfit, each wore a mask which covered the top of their faces with feathers pointing upwards like a headdress. The feathers were colored to match their panties and pasties.

The line of women wound their way through the tables at a quick walk and eventually made their way up onto a stage that ran along the far wall which was only now visible because it was lit up. Once the stage was filled each woman struck a different pose and froze in place.

Ben was feeling very uneasy about this. The atmosphere of this club was certainly no Moulin Rouge. It was definitely giving off a much seedier vibe. Some of the girls didn't appear to be thrilled about being on stage and one looked so nervous she might burst into tears at any moment. Ben's unease increased when a man walked out on stage with a microphone and pinched the nervous girl's ass as he passed causing her to yelp painfully. The man laughed and the crowd chuckled along with him.

Except Ben.

"Welcome to Sassy Kat Review! I'm your MC for the evening, BD, which stands for Big Daddy. Or it could stand for Big Dick! Only the girls know for sure. HA! We have a very exciting show for you tonight! Some lovely ladies will be performing for you here on stage and for a nominal fee these ladies up here could be performing for you one on one, if you catch my drift..." He leaned over to look at an older man near the stage. "I'm talking about lap dances gramps!" he yelled as if the man were deaf. More laughter from the crowd.

"First up tonight, all the way from Paris, France... Trixie LaBlanc!" he bellowed.

The line of women on stage split in two and moved to each end of the stage. They climbed down the stairs and moved amongst the tables.

Once the stage was empty the lights went down and a single spot shone on the center of the stage. A puff of smoke shot up from the stage floor and a woman slipped out a door behind the smoke to 'appear magically' on stage. She was dressed in a white trench coat, a blue beret, a red silk scarf and red stilettos. Accordion music began to play and the woman began to move. She had some skill but it was still painful for Ben to watch. It was obvious she didn't want to be doing this.

He looked away and tried to concentrate on finishing his meal but his appetite was gone. He pushed it away. He glanced up and saw the nervous girl looking at is plate hungrily. He crooked his finger at her then cut a cube of the meat and stuck it on his fork. She stepped next to him and he gestured for her to lean closer. When she did Ben lifted the fork placing the steak before her lips. She glanced at him then the meat was gone and she closed her eyes in pleasure as she chewed and swallowed quickly.

"Ben!"

He glanced to his left and Mare was indicating for him to look the other way. He turned and saw a bouncer incoming.

"Did I just break a rule?" he asked the girl.

She nodded quickly. "Sorry, I'm just so hungry. We aren't allowed to eat and I can only be with a customer if I'm dancing."

Ben pulled out his wallet. "How much?"

"Twenty dollars-"

"Sir, please don't feed the dancers," the bouncer said, looking like he wanted a piece of Ben. His eyes looked a little glassy. Ben was worried the man was high on something that made him so aggressive.

"Excuse me. I'm negotiating a dance with the woman," he said to the bouncer.

The bouncer moved closer and Ben saw his fists close.

Then the man was gasping and moaning in pain. The MC moved out from behind the bouncer, his fingers tightly pinching a muscle in the man's back.

"I'm terribly sorry for this misunderstanding. My colleague here obviously didn't recognize you," BD said smoothly as he released the man's muscle. The bodyguard sagged then looked nervously at his boss.

BD addressed his employee. "This is Ben Shepherd. He's killed harder men than you. He also rubs elbows with the rich and famous. You will show him respect in my club. Is that understood?" The bouncer nodded rapidly. "Off you go!" The man went.

BD turned back to Ben. "It is a genuine pleasure to have you visit our club, Mr. Shepherd! A man of your stature should be served by the very best. I think you will find Natrice and Zara to be more to your tastes!" Behind him stood two fairly attractive women, one black and one white, both with very sizable breast implants.

"My tastes? I believe..." he looked questioningly at the frightened girl.

"Becky," she squeaked.

"...Becky here is exactly my taste tonight," he finished.

BD smiled smoothly and bowed his head. "Of course. I will let you get back to it then. Please enjoy!" With a look at the girl BD moved away taking the two busty ladies with him.

Becky looked at Ben with a nervous expression. She took the twenty dollars. "You'll need to move your chair back so I can climb on."

"I don't want a lap dance."

"But I have to dance for you," she said with a worried glance over at the bouncer.

"So... dance."

She blinked at him then began to undulate and sway. Not very well and Ben had no trouble with his teenage libido for once.

He looked at the young woman carefully. She was no more than 5' 6" and very slim. Behind the silly blue mask were lovely blue eyes. Her hair was light brown and fell with a slight wave to her shoulders. She had a sprinkling of freckles across her chest and her breasts were small. Her ribs were showing so he wondered when her last meal was.

Ben cut another piece of steak and stuck it on the fork. Her eyes went to it. He gestured for her to lean closer and she tipped forward awkwardly pushing her tits together. When she opened her mouth Ben put the steak into it and she pulled it from the fork with her teeth. Ben turned his eyes to the bouncer who'd approached him earlier and locked eyes with the man until the other turned away. So, no trouble from him.

He proceeded to feed the young woman as she danced for him and ended up paying sixty dollars for the privilege as it was twenty a song.

"Can we talk for a minute?" Ben asked as she finished her last dance.

"Only if you buy a drink and then only for ten minutes max," Becky said.

"How much are the drinks?" Ben asked.

"Ten dollars for the beer and fifteen for the hard stuff," Becky replied.

Ben handed her another twenty, he was getting low, and held her eyes with his. "Bring two steins of beer."

She nodded and slipped away.

Mare leaned closer with a grin. "Kinda young isn't she?" she said, slurring just a little from the beer she'd had.

"That's my worry. She seems much too young to be here." Ben said and looked around.

Don had the two busty beauties attempting to suffocate him with their tits much to his delight. True to his mantra, his hands were down, clinging to his chair seat to keep from betraying him. Ben snorted.

Bryan was mesmerized by a sweet Asian woman gyrating on his lap and playing with his beard.

Even Henri had a woman on her lap, a red head in twin ponytails, and the two were looking at each other like they were about to devour each other.

Mare looked embarrassed by her friend's obvious excitement. She gave Ben an awkward grin. Ben saw four empty beer steins in front of her and realized she was drinking to hide her discomfort at being there.

Becky returned with the two drinks but kept her face turned away from Ben.

"Becky?"

"I- I have to go."

"Becky, look at me," he said firmly.

The young woman turned her face and her left cheek was red and swollen. Ben's eyes went cold.

"Who hit you?" he said quietly.

Becky's eyes were tearing up. "BD. He was using the phone at the bar. I overheard him speaking to someone about getting the news stations to come down here to film you leaving the club. He- he told me to keep quiet about it. Then he hit me for eating the steak."

Mare shared her drunk look of outrage with Ben.

"How old are you Becky?" Ben asked.

"Eighteen." she squeaked.

"When."

She paused then looked down. "Last weekend."

"How long have you worked here?"

Another pause. "A- about a month."

"Do you want to go home?" Ben asked.

"Oh god yes!" Becky's tears were running down her face now.

"Ok, let's go get your stuff." Ben stood and shouldered his bag. He looked at Mare who seemed like she wanted to go too. "Come on Mary."

The wobbly woman stood and Ben assisted her across the floor as they followed Becky. The bouncer keeping customers from entering the backstage area took one look at the flaring scar bisecting Ben's scowling face and discovered someplace else to be. Mare and Ben waited for Becky who quickly gathered her meager belongings in a ratty duffle and met them in the hall.

"Where the fuck do you think you're going?"

Ben turned and saw BD standing in the hall glaring at Becky who shrunk behind him. He slipped his bag off his shoulder to hand it to Mary who stepped in behind him as well. Becky began to whimper.

"That's no longer your concern," Ben said, seeing two of BD's larger bouncers step into the hall behind the man.

BD looked at Ben in disappointment. "Here I was thinking we could be friends but friends don't fuck with the livelihoods of their friends. She's mine."

"Becky isn't yours-"

"Like fuck she isn't. Her hole belongs to me. You and your fugly bitch can just fuck off. My associates and I need to explain the facts of life to the fuckwit." Becky began to cry in earnest hearing this.

"Fuck I hate hearing a skank cry. Boy's, move this pansy aside so we can fill her noisy hole-"

Ben's fist silenced the bile spewing from BD's mouth and the man flew back into the arms of the two men who stared in shock at Ben. They hadn't seen his punch coming. One moment the big man was still and the next BD was a loose bag of bones in their arms. They looked up at Ben who waited for them to decide. The men shared a look then carefully carried their boss back down the hallway away from Ben. They'd give each other a few bruises to show their boss they put up a fight and they'd keep their jobs.

"Fuck me! That was scary!" Mare slurred and clung to Becky.

"Is there a back way out of here?" Ben asked, taking his laptop case back.

Becky was drying her eyes and nodded. She led them further down the hall to a door indicating it was a fire exit. Mare grinned and yanked the fire alarm. Sirens began to wail. Scowling at Mary, Ben pushed out the door and they were in the alley behind the building. He made his way down the alley, feeling Mary clinging to the back of his shirt with Becky close behind. When they got to the corner they peeked around it and saw several news vans parked out front of the building with reporters on the sidewalk. A crowd had already begun to form to see what the reporters were up to. Moments later the firetrucks began arriving. Ben stepped out of the alley and walked casually across the street to the parking lot with Mary and Becky following. Ben held out his hand and Mary blinked at him.

"Car keys. I'm driving."

Mary blinked then fished her keys from her purse. Ben hit the unlock button and the signal lights on a pickup truck two rows back flickered. He made his way to the truck and got the women in. He drove them out slowly and didn't put on the lights until they were underway on the main road leaving behind the mess of the fire trucks, police, and the press.

Mary was leaning against Ben's arm and she'd begun to snore. Ben glanced over at Becky. The girl seemed lost.

"Becky? Where's home?"

"Sydney."

"Is it safe for you to go home?" he asked.

"Yes. I- I haven't spoken with mom since I left. We had a real blow-out. I- I need to apologize to her," the girl said quietly.

"I'm flying to Sydney tomorrow. I'll see if I can't get you on the flight," Ben said.

The young woman looked at him with a puzzled expression. "You could just put me on a bus. It's cheaper," Becky said.

"You don't want to fly?" Ben asked glancing over at her.

"More than I want to spend eight hours on a bus but... why are you doing this?" she asked.

"Because I can and it's the right thing to do," Ben said simply. He looked down at Mary who was drooling a little on his sleeve. "Listen, tonight you and Mary can sleep on my bed and I'll take the couch. Tomorrow I have a meeting with the company I came to see then in the afternoon we fly to Sydney. OK?"

Becky nodded.

They reached the hotel and with Becky's help to carry the bags and lock the truck Ben carried Mary in his arms. He carried her in and Becky got the door, elevator, and Ben's room door open as well.

Becky pulled the bedspread down and Ben settled Mary onto the bed. She smiled in her sleep.

"I don't have any other clothes," Becky squeaked.

"What happened to your clothes?" he asked.

"BD threw them out. He only let me wear the stuff he gave me and took them back afterwards."

Ben sighed. He wished he'd punched the man a few more times. He suddenly realized he remembered hitting him. He was rather pleased with himself. This was an improvement!

"Why are you smiling?" Becky asked nervously.

"What? Oh, I was just remembering when I punched BD. It felt good. I wish I'd hit him some more," Ben admitted and Becky's face lit up with a smile.

"I'll give you a t-shirt for tonight. Tomorrow I'll get you some clothes," he said.

As he moved around the end of the bed she crushed herself against his chest and squeezed him in a hug. He hugged her in return then moved to give her the t-shirt.

"You get ready for bed and I'll look into the flight." He heard the bathroom door close and he flipped open the laptop which was no worse for wear from their little adventure tonight. He pulled up the airline's website and saw there was a seat available on the flight. He was booking it and it asked for last name.

"Becky? What's your last name?" he called out.

"Law. L. A. W," she replied through the bathroom door.

He finished the entry and booked the seat. The screen flashed something odd but it was gone before he could read it. He logged back in and the seats were still booked and he got a confirmation on his email. He shrugged, shut down the machine and packed it away.

Becky came out of the bathroom. She'd scrubbed away the make-up and was wearing his black t-shirt which made her look no more than fifteen. He grinned at her and she blushed.

"That's better!" he said.

"Shut up! I look like a kid!" she complained but the smile was still on her lips.

"Get some sleep. We'll have a big breakfast in the morning. All you can eat!"

"Mmmm! I've missed a few meals," she moaned.

Ben carried a t-shirt for himself and closed the door to get ready for bed when he came out Becky was already sound asleep.

He settled down on the couch and let himself drift off.

Chapter 30

Soft lips on his cheek woke him and he smiled as he opened his eyes thinking it was Tina. Becky was smiling down at him and Mary was behind her with a grin on her face. Both looked like they had already showered and Mary's hair was wrapped in a towel. Becky was still wearing his t-shirt with a belt to make it a dress. A rather short one.

"Good morning, Ben!" the ladies said.

"Good morning," he returned wondering why Mary's smile was getting wider. Then he realized he was sporting some serious wood this morning with only his boxers to poorly hide the fact.

With a blush he sat up and pulled a pillow to his lap. "Did I sleep in?"

"No, this one's stomach rumbles so loud I was amazed it didn't wake you all the way over here!" Mary joked.

Becky bit her lip. "I'm sorry. I'm hungry."

Ben glanced at the clock and saw it was only a quarter to eight. "Right, well, let me get ready and we'll get some breakfast." He carried the pillow with him to get some clothes and dropped it behind him as he stepped into the bathroom.

Once prepared the three made their way to the restaurant and sat at the same table Ben had chosen the day before. The same waitress approached and smiled at him.

"If it isn't my favorite celebrity!" she quipped and Ben smiled.

"I brought friends today. They heard the breakfasts are pretty special."

"They heard right! Everything on this menu is delicious." She eyed Becky. "This one should order more than one of everything," she stage whispered to Ben. Becky smiled self-consciously.

"Anyone for coffee?" the waitress asked.

Mary raised her hand but Becky just shook her head as did Ben.

"Large orange juice?" the woman said pointing at Ben as she recalled the previous day and he nodded. She looked at Becky.

"Large chocolate milk?" the young woman asked.

"Coming right up!"

When they were alone again Becky looked at Ben. "Can I really order what I want?"

"Yes."

"How about me?" Mary asked with a grin and Ben nodded.

When the drinks arrived they placed their orders and Becky got a sizeable meal with eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, toast and pancakes with fruit. Ben's order was smaller and Mary just asked for toast and jam.

"Oh! I got you a seat on the same plane as me this afternoon to Sydney," Ben told Becky.

"You're taking her with you?" Mary blinked.

"Right, you were asleep and drooling on me when Becky and I talked about this last night," Ben said.

"Shut up I was drooling! I don't drool!" Mary squeaked.

Ben smiled and nodded with a shrug. "Don't take my word, ask Becky. She's my witness."

"You're just avoiding the question, you're taking Becky with you?" Mary pushed.

"She's from there. She's going home." He looked at the young woman. "You should call to let your mom know you're coming."

Becky looked nervously at him. "I- I'll call her when I get there. I need time to prepare my apology."

Mary nodded as she looked at Ben. "Do you do this often?"

"What?"

"Rescue damsels in distress," Mary said with a curious look.

Ben looked away and sighed. "Apparently, it's something I do."

"As hobbies go it's pretty awesome. I don't remember too much about what happened in the bar last night. Flashes only. You hit that guy BD, right?" Mary asked.

Ben looked her straight in the eye. "I took steps to protect a woman from imminent gang rape. The steps I took involved a short demonstration of my resolve to stop them. It worked."

Becky was grinning widely. Mary looked back at him, impressed. "Ok, that works for me."

The food arrived which put conversation on the back burner as they enjoyed their meals. Becky managed to polish off almost all of her food. She finally sat back and sighed happily.

"That was the first full meal I've had in over a month!" she said.

Ben settled up the bill and went back up to the room so he could get his bags. He checked out of the hotel and met the ladies by Mary's truck. She drove them to a bank machine for Ben then to the office. She told them she'd see them later and headed home to get changed.

When they entered the lobby Evie looked up with a relieved expression.

"Mr. Shepherd! Mr. Blake has been trying to reach you!" she gasped.

Ben raised his eyebrows. "Really? Where is he?"

"In his office."

"I'll go right up. While I do that could you do me a huge favor?" Ben said.

"Of course!" she said excitedly.

"This is Becky. Becky, this is Evie. Could I ask you to take Becky to a shop where she could get a few outfits? Like that lovely dress you're wearing?" he asked.

Evie's grin threatened to split her face. "It would be my pleasure!" She forwarded the phone to the voice mail system, grabbed her purse and car keys and walked around her desk. Ben handed her a wad of folded up bills. Her eyes widened in surprise.

"There should be enough here for a number of dresses and some underthings. If you wanted to get something for yourself feel free but I need Becky back by 1PM at the latest. Alright?"

Evie looked again at the money in her hand then beamed at the other young woman. "This will be fun!"

"1PM?" he asked again.

"Yes! 1PM!" Evie nodded and Becky grinned excitedly at him.

The two young women rushed off and Ben watched them with a smile. Then he headed for the elevator. He knocked on Don's door and entered when he heard the man call out. When he went inside the man slumped in his chair then jumped up and rushed around to meet Ben halfway.

"First off I'd like to apologize if the boys made you uncomfortable last night for bringing you to a place like that! It was my first time as well and I'm-"

"Don, let's sit down." Ben interrupted.

The man didn't look good. He probably had a hangover and he was still in his clothes from yesterday and sporting some lipstick on the collar. He looked nervously at Ben then nodded and they took their seats.

Ben leaned forward. "There's one thing you should know about me. I don't lie. You were right yesterday when you said I had no time for bullshit. I won't lie to you and I expect the same back from you. That wasn't your first time at that club and truly, I don't care. What you do on your personal time and in your marriage is your own business. When it comes to our business dealing however I do have expectations. First and foremost, always be honest."

Don nodded and fidgeted. "Right, sorry. I've been there a few times with the boys. The food and drink is great and the... entertainment, is lovely. I think Henri is sweet on one of the girls, a red head. I know Bryan is going to be dating one after last night." His voice tapered off as he looked at Ben nervously. "I haven't screwed the pooch, have I?"

"Not at all. As long as we maintain a relationship based on honest communication we'll have a very profitable future. It would have been smart to ask me if I wanted to go to a strip club first." Don winced. "Mistakes were made, acknowledged..." Ben looked pointedly at the man who nodded. "...and we move on," Ben assured the man.

Don smiled with relief and nodded.

"Let's talk business," Ben said with a smile as he flipped open his laptop to set up a contract.

When Ben went back down to the lobby at 1PM with Don, Evie was back at her desk and Becky was sitting with her. The moment Becky saw them she leapt to her feet and rushed over to give Ben a hug as she squealed excitedly. She was wearing a pretty red sun dress and matching slipper shoes. She looked lovely in the new dress and Ben smiled and hugged her in return.

Evie followed her around the desk and smiled at Ben a little nervously. "I'm afraid we spent all of the money you gave me," she said timidly.

"That's ok. I wasn't expecting change," he replied. He looked at Becky. "Are you ready to go?"

The girl's smile dimmed a little but she pulled her shoulders back and nodded.

"Don's offered to drive us to the airport so let's go," Ben said.

Evie gave him a hug and he realized she was wearing a new outfit as well. He nodded approvingly and she blushed.

They put their bags in the truck and climbed in. Don got them going and soon they were on their way to the airport. Ben enjoyed the view more this time as he wasn't hunting for the streets he had to turn on.

Once they reached the airport Don helped them get their bags onto the curb and shook Ben's hand vigorously.

"I'll have my lawyer review the contract and once he's vetted it we'll get the final version to you as soon as possible for a signature," Ben said.

"Looking forward to doing business with you!" Don said. Ben and Becky waved and went into the airport. They made their way to check in and got in line before the AusJet ticket desks. Ben drew some looks just because of his size but Becky seemed to be drawing attention away from him as she looked truly lovely in her dress. Ben relaxed and shuffled forward. Finally it was there turn and they moved up to the desk.

"Good day, passports and tickets please," the woman said with a pleasant smile.

"I just have a driver's license," Becky said and the woman smiled and nodded accepting the small card from her.

Ben handed her his passport and ticket then showed her the e-ticket for Becky on his cell. She scanned the barcode from his phone then smiled.

"It will be just a moment."

Ben looked at Becky and saw the girl was nervous. "Are you ok?"

The girl looked up at him. "Yes, I- I still don't know how to apologize to mom."

He nodded. "Just keep it simple. Just tell her you're sorry and you love her."

Becky nodded but her lashes were filling with tears and her bottom lip was trembling.

"Hey now. No tears. It's over and you're going home," Ben said gently.

She leaned her head against his arm and he smiled down at her as he felt her begin to calm down. She took a deep breath.

Ben looked forward and the ticket agent was staring at him, wide eyed. He saw she had his passport open in her hand. "Is there a problem?" he asked.

"No! Uh, not at all, Mr. Shepherd, sir," the woman said. She looked at Becky's license and keyed the details into her screen. She froze again as she looked at her screen. "It will just be a moment," she repeated then glanced over to a doorway at the end of the row of ticket desks which opened. A man in an AusJet uniform, the vest struggling to stretch over his round belly, hustled towards them with a wide grin on his face. His mustache was trimmed so much it just looked like a dirty line above his lips and Ben watched his approach with trepidation. The man looked just a little too happy.

"Mr. Shepherd? I'm Reggie Mills, regional manager for AusJet here in Melbourne. I just wanted to personally thank you for choosing our airline for your flight to Sydney today!"

"You're welcome?"

"And your traveling companion today is..." he said smiling at the young woman.

"Becky Law," she said to him and the ticket agent nodded, holding her driver's license.

"That's excellent! I do hope you enjoy your flight and thank you again for choosing AusJet!" the man said gleefully. With a final nod he turned and rushed back to his office.

Ben watched him go in stunned silence. When the door closed behind the man Ben looked to the ticket agent. "What the hell was that?"

The woman merely shrugged and gestured for him to put his luggage on the belt.

They finished up and walked away with their boarding passes. Going through security was less hassle than the ticketing had been and soon they were sitting in a small restaurant by their gate. Ben got them a couple of sandwiches, water for himself, and a chocolate milk for Becky. They ate their lunch then heard the boarding announcement.

The flight to Sydney was thankfully short as the plane was cramped and uncomfortable for Ben though Becky was dazzled with her first experience in a plane. Somehow the ticket agent had changed their seating assignments and they were in the first row. The plane had no first class seating but being at the front gave Ben a little more leg room.

The flight attendant was very friendly and before he knew it they were landing in Sydney.

Ben and Becky were let off the plane first and made their way into the terminal. He looked back and none of the other passengers had been let off. He thought that was pretty odd.

Then they stepped into the terminal and a wall of sound and light.

Music began to blare and a white haired man in a dark blue suit walked up to Ben with a huge grin and shook his hand. The man turned to the crowd and raised Ben's hand in victory as he looked on in confusion. Flashes were going off and Ben saw TV camera crews and reporters waiting to pounce.

When his eyes adjusted he saw a huge AusJet banner behind the crowd. On it was roughly printed, 'Welcome Back Becky! AusJet and Ben Shepherd. Heroes again!'. He had no idea what that meant.

Ben looked down at the stunned face of the young woman. It was plain to see she knew nothing about this. Then he saw her mouth drop open in surprise.

"Mom?" she squeaked.

Ben looked towards the crowd and a middle aged woman who looked a lot like Becky but dressed in hospital scrubs was standing with her hands over her mouth looking back at her daughter. He gave Becky the slightest of nudges and she was moving forward until she ran into the open arms of her mother. The press swooped in for the tearful reunion.

The white haired man tried grabbing his hand again and Ben pulled back. "Who are you?"

The man kept his smile locked on his face for the press. "Dan Gallagher, CEO of AusJet."

"So this is your little dog and pony show?" Ben growled.

"Not at all! You're the one rescuing a woman reported missing over a month ago! The story has been on the news and her mother has been frantic. When you bought her a ticket to Sydney last night it lit up the phones at AusJet headquarters and our PR department leapt into action. When we confirmed it was you and it was Becky we notified the press. Everyone loves a happy reunion! Everyone loves a hero!"

Ben groaned and moved away from the man before he could be dragged into this mess. The press surged forward but were suddenly pushed back by police officers. Ben walked up to two men in suits.

"Mr. Shepherd? NSW Police. I'm Detective Fred Canaby and this is my partner Detective Jake Hillson. We'd like to have a brief word with you if you don't mind."

Ben nodded and let himself be ushered away from the crowd towards a door in the hallway. They walked down a hall to a plain interrogation room with a table and some chairs.

He spent the better part of the next two hours describing in great detail how he came to discover Becky Law in the establishment he didn't know the name of and how he convinced the owner, one 'BD', to allow them to leave said establishment with the girl.

When they were satisfied they had everything he knew they asked where he'd be staying in Sydney. Once more he had to tell them he didn't know as he was meeting someone at the airport who was going to take him... there. He gave them Margaux's name and a few minutes later they ushered her into the room. Ben stood and kissed her cheek and they sat again. Margaux gave them a little information and finally the detectives said they were free to go. Ben's suitcase was waiting in the hall.

On the way out they saw Becky and her mother sitting together in a waiting room, Becky's bag was open on the chair next to her. She'd been showing her mother the clothes Ben had bought for her. They stood when they saw him and Becky rushed over to give him a hug. He smiled down at the girl. When she pulled back her mom took her place and hugged him tightly. Ben returned it but not so tight.

She stepped back with tears in her eyes. "Thank you for saving my Becky. She told me what you did for her. She showed me the clothes you bought for her. I- I-" Tears started to well up.

"I was glad I could be of help. She's a good person. She made a mistake and paid a price. She's home now and that's all that matters. Have a wonderful life Becky. It was nice meeting you as well," he said to the woman.

He and Margaux found their way out of the airport but were followed by a few of the more aggressive reporters. They only found peace once Margaux drove them away from the parking lot in her leased car. Naturally it was a sporty little six speed coupe and Margaux drove it like a professional racer.

Ben finally slumped back against the seat. "That was nuts!" he moaned quietly.

Margaux grinned at him. "You might keep a girl waiting but you do know how to make an entrance!"

"I'm so sorry you had to go through that!" Ben apologized.

"You can make it up to me tonight," she said with a coy smile and part of Ben's anatomy knew exactly what she meant.

He looked over at the Spanish beauty and saw the happiness in her dark eyes. "Are you enjoying yourself here in Sydney?"

She looked back to the road and tilted her head. "Well, the climate is nice if a little hot and the office is beautiful. The nightlife is lively as well."

"That sounds good but I'm not hearing joy in your voice," Ben said.

She glanced at him then downshifted to pull around some slower trucks. Once past she shrugged. "I know I haven't been here long but Australia isn't really my environment. I miss Europe," she sighed. "There is also a particular individual in the office who's in line to take over the operation once I've finished my term here. He is extremely tedious. I have to be on guard at all times around him. He's been trying to undermine my authority since he arrived."

"Where did he come from?" Ben asked.

"One of the upper echelon in the company hired him away from the competition. I believe he's from Germany but he was working for a firm in Austria before coming to us. Senior Management liked his aggressive style but the women in the office do not like him as he treats them poorly and the environment is becoming poisonous. I've already spoken to him on a number of occasions and have expressed some concerns in a very carefully worded initial report but I'm still waiting on their response." She sighed again then pouted.

"I don't want to speak of work anymore. I finally have you here and I wish to have some fun. There's a delightful restaurant we can go to in my neighborhood, then we can take a walk to work off the meal then we can return to my condo for dessert." She licked her lips before she said the last word and Ben felt himself stiffen in his pants.

"All of that sounds wonderful, especially that last part."

The car leapt forward as she raced for home.

The condo was gorgeous and had a lovely view of the bay but they didn't stay long as Margaux said the temptation was too great and she was hungry. They did take the time to get changed into clothing appropriate for dinner out. Ben's eyes filled with desire when he saw her sheath dress clinging to her sexy curves. She swatted his hands playfully to keep them off her, for now.

They walked to the restaurant and Ben agreed the place was lovely. He had grouper with steamed vegetables which he found to be delicious. She had a pasta dish and they talked about anything that came to their minds throughout dinner.

Ben finally had to explain how he found Becky and how he got her free. She was shocked by his description of taking BD out and facing down the bouncers but he explained that it was progress for him to actually remember it. He saw heat in her eyes when he finished describing the encounter.

"You find that... exciting?" he asked, curious.

"I have to admit there is a small part of me that does get a thrill thinking of your more... brutal side. Knowing how gentle you normally are, the contrast... yes, it does excite me." Her eyes challenged him to criticize her.

"Good to know," he said with a smile.

They finished up and went for a walk around the neighborhood. The evening air was warm but thankfully the day's heat had passed. They walked and talked about Spain, a country Ben must visit when she moved back, and France which Ben held fond memories of. He talked about home, the renovations on the new house for his daughters and how he'd been banned from helping because of his finger, which was now fully healed thankfully. He mentioned how his daughters were now dating and he expressed some trepidation on how he should handle it.

"They are grown women," she said gently.

"Yes, physically, but their experiences may not have left them emotionally prepared to fall in love," Ben said.

Margaux looked at him and chuckled.

"What?"

"Who is ever emotionally prepared to fall in love?" she teased.

He paused then smiled self-consciously. "Point taken. I guess maybe I'm just over thinking it. Maybe I should just beat up their boyfriends," he said glancing at her from the corner of his eye. She had a smile on her lips. "You're not falling for it?" he pouted.

"It was a feeble attempt at best," she sighed with a slight smile on her lips.

"Feeble?!? I'll give you feeble!" Ben suddenly scooped the woman up into his arms and ran down the street as she shrieked and giggled. He finally set her back on her feet before her building's door but he had to hold on to her as she was panting and out of breath from her laughter. Her eyes glowed with joy and he leaned down and kissed her sexy mouth. She squeaked, then kissed him back but soon pushed him away because she still couldn't breathe.

"You beast!" she fake growled at him and pummeled him playfully on his chest.

He grunted like a caveman and she began to laugh again. He grinned at her and she dragged him inside. They took the elevator upstairs and she pulled him into her condo. He reached for the light switch but she grabbed his wrists and kept them down by his sides.

"Now who's being aggressive," Ben said with a smile.

"Shhh!" she hushed as she pressed a slim finger across his lips. She eyed him hungrily as she walked him backwards into her living room. Ben understood she needed to be the dominant one now so he went with it.

Margaux tugged him down onto the carpet in the middle of the room and pushed him back onto his back. She straddled his body on his thighs. He throbbed in his boxers.

With only a few accent lamps on around the room the lighting was very intimate and they were currently in a pool of shadow. Ben glanced over at the floor to ceiling windows to his left and saw the lights of the windows in another nearby condo. He could see people moving in those windows. He wondered if anyone was looking back and more importantly, what they could see in the darkened condo.

He looked up at Margaux and saw she was smiling down at him, allowing her eyes to roam over his body. She tugged on the bottom of his shirt and he reached down to pull it up his torso and over his head. He felt her fingers tracing his scars and trailing over his hard stomach muscles.

Those fingers found his belt and quickly undid it and the button and fly on his pants. She tugged once and he knew what she wanted. She slipped off his body so he could remove his pants and boxers and she tugged his socks free so she could see his naked body laid out before her. She still had on her dress which clung to her body but Ben wasn't allowed to see her naked just yet.

She ran her nails up his legs and felt him tremble under her fingers. God, that made her feel sexy! She fastened her eyes on his rising cock. It had been so long since she'd last seen it! It seemed larger than before but that was likely just her mind playing tricks on her.

She cupped his heavy balls in her hand and Ben jolted with the sensation and moaned softly. A satisfied smile spread across her lips. She saw his cock pulsing with his heartbeat. She looked into his eyes and moved her face closer to his cock. Ben's eyes flared with need and Margaux felt a thrill shoot through her. Fuck, he wanted her so much! He made her feel so good!

When she pressed her sexy lips against the base of his shaft he moaned loudly and she chuckled to herself as another zing coursed through her body. Her kisses made their way slowly up the shaft as she felt him struggling to hold still for her.

She was almost losing control of herself as she wanted to take this beast into her body so badly but the tease was just so delicious. She felt the maddening tingling between her thighs and it needed attention, now!

Margaux pulled the hem of her dress up to her waist and Ben's eyes widened when he saw she wasn't wearing panties. She grinned at him and swung her leg over his chest so she was facing his feet. Immediately Ben's strong hands moved to her hips and she sucked in a sharp breath with the delicious tingling their grip gave her. She gasped again when his lips sensually caressed the inside of her thighs. She could lose herself in that sensation so she struggled to focus on the cock in front of her. It was rising up towards her lips so she kissed the thick head and felt Ben's breath gust out against her thigh. He nibbled gently on the tender flesh there and she almost dropped onto his chest as shocks rocked her.

It was time. She couldn't wait any longer. Margaux opened her mouth and took his cock inside, slowly descending over it, taking it deeper and deeper, feeling Ben's body tremble and shake from the pure bliss of it.

Once more she had to stop before she could take it all. It was just too big for her mouth. A tremble went through her muscles as she realized the size of the beast in her mouth.

When Ben's lips reached her wet pussy she gasped around her mouthful and jolted when his tongue began to stroke her most sensitive parts.

She began to bob her head up and down over his cock and felt his moan against her pussy then he sucked and licked her with more energy until she finally had to release him from her mouth to moan aloud.

Margaux couldn't wait any longer. She pulled herself away from his face and slid down his body until she could pin his cock to his stomach with her pussy. She rubbed herself along his hot shaft as she gasped and shook from the sensation. His hands found her hips once more and he added pressure as he dragged her up and down his cock. She reached down as she lifted herself up on her knees and positioned the head against her opening. She pushed down and felt him slowly sinking inside, forcing the walls open.

"Oh my god, Ben!"

He kept a grip on her hips to keep her from dropping too quickly as her legs were trembling badly.

"Fuck... fuck... oh... Ben... Ah!" When she finally came to rest on Ben's pelvis he was so deep inside her she had to take a moment to adjust. It had been too long and she was reeling with the feeling of being filled beyond capacity.

"Margaux! You feel so incredible!" Ben moaned and she smiled with satisfaction, knowing their pleasure was equal.

When she could finally get her mind back in charge, she raised herself a couple of inches and immediately dropped to slap her ass against his pelvis.

"FUCK! Oh! Oh! Oh Dios! Muy sensible!" she cried out and Ben felt her bearing down on his cock in rippling waves.

"Margaux! That feels too good!" Ben exclaimed.

She ground herself down against him while she pulled her dress upwards, peeling it off until she was only wearing a sexy lace demi-cup bra. Ben reached up and popped the clasp on the strap and ran his fingers up and down her smooth skin.

"Cheeky boy!" she scolded but she just ground harder against him. She pulled the bra off and Ben's hands slid around her torso to cup her heavy tits in his palms.

"Ahhhhh! Ssssoooo good! You have wonderful hands Ben!" Margaux purred over her shoulder.

"You have an amazing body my hands love to touch!" he said with a smile. He grinned as he began to bounce Margaux gently on his pelvis. This made his cock drive in and out in tiny strokes.

"FUCK! AHHHH Ben! What- What are you- FUCK! OH FUCK!" she wailed.

It was pretty intense for Ben as well and he felt his release sneaking up on him.

Margaux began to lean back which gave him better leverage to increase the length of his strokes. That just made it feel better and become more intense.

"Yes! Yes! Oh Ben, do that! Like that!" she demanded and he gave her what she wanted, slamming himself up into her hot body.

When her arms began to shake Ben eased her down to lie on his chest. Once she was down he wrapped his left arm around her cupping her right tit in his hand and moving his right hand down to her pussy. He applied pressure over her clit as he thrust his hips to drive his length in and out of her wet heat. Her hands covered his but she didn't pull them away. Instead she guided him to stroke her pussy as she needed and played with her nipple until she was gasping and crying out constantly.

Ben was really close and it was all he could do to keep from cumming. "Margaux! You're going to make me cum! You're so fucking sexy!"

His words tripped a switch for her and she suddenly clenched down on him inside her.

"FFFFFFUUUUUUUUUCCCCKKKKK!!!!!" she screamed as her body quaked through a powerful release.

It was too much for Ben and he growled as he came hard, filling the woman with his hot cum. She sucked in a breath from the sensation.

They clung to each other as the pleasure tore through their senses.

When they returned to reality they were both panting heavily though Ben's breaths were lifting Margaux up and down which made his softening cock stroke in and out of her gently.

"Ooo, that's too sensitive!" Margaux whimpered and pulled herself free. Ben eased her off of his body onto the carpet beside him.

They lay side by side on their backs catching their breath.

Once more Ben's eyes tracked to the condo tower across the road and its lit windows. He wondered again why they were doing this in the living room and if they were being watched.

Margo turned her head and followed Ben's eyes. She smiled.

"Yes, there are watchers over there but they shouldn't be able to see with the lights off," she said with amusement in her tone.

Ben looked over at her in surprise.

"What? I couldn't wait! Besides, it added a little thrill knowing they were out there trying to catch a glimpse," she teased.

Ben didn't think too highly of that kind of thrill but he also doubted they were visible from their current position on the floor. "Have you seen these watchers?"

She looked across at the building again. "Three floors up and two units to the right lives a gentleman who's probably in his sixties. I've seen him out jogging at all hours so I think he may be retired. He's also fond of peeping with binoculars. One floor up and one to the left is a young man with a lovely vintage telescope. I think he's probably a banker or a worker in a law office. In the unit straight across live Bobby and Tasha. Both are young, mid-twenties at most. He works at a website production house and she's a model. They have a taste for exhibitionism as well as voyeurism. They can be very entertaining. They've invited me to join them for a ménage a trois." She watched him for his reaction to this last news.

"You've obviously met them. When?"

"The coffee shop on the corner is a busy place. We bumped into each other about a week ago. They introduced themselves. Should I take them up on their offer?"

"You're asking me because you want to see if I'll fly into a jealous rage?" Ben asked.

She just tilted her head a little and held his gaze which wasn't exactly an answer. He was compelled to respond though.

"I've said this before. If you're lonely and need the comfort of another's touch I wouldn't deny you that. That said, if you just need no strings attached itch scratching, again that's your prerogative. Personally, I can't do casual affairs." He frowned thinking of Julie and his emotions wobbled a little as he worried if she was ok. He forced himself back on track. "It's the intent that matters. If you want to have an affair with this young couple just to punish me for my failure to act jealous then... we need to talk."

She nodded slowly as she absorbed his words. "What if I asked you to join us?

He looked at her, confused. "I'd say no."

"Tasha is very beautiful," she said with a grin.

"I'd still say no." He wondered where she was going with this.

Margaux moved to rest partially on his chest with her chin on her arms so she could look down into his eyes. "You are a complex man, Ben. Most would leap at the chance to make love to a model."

"I just made love to a stunning beauty who I have strong feelings for. I don't need empty thrills."

She held still as she gauged his words. "You have... strong feelings for me?"

Ben watched her carefully. "Yes. You'll forgive my choice of words as I protect my heart just a little while longer. The woman lying across my chest just invited me to join her for some 'sex with strangers' play and that's not on my safe activities list."

"Fair enough. I have strong feelings for you as well and that's as much as I'll disclose at this time too. The young couple in question are being discreet and patient with their offer. They have not pressured me for an answer. The only time I contemplated taking them up on it was after our call when I felt that need for physical comfort and release," she said and rubbed a finger over his chest, marveling at the different textures the scars had.

Ben ran his fingers through her thick hair, enjoying its softness. In the darkness her eyes looked black and mysterious.

"You really are breathtaking," Ben sighed happily.

She smiled and kissed his chest. "Thank you. As comfortable as this is I'd like to get cleaned up and ready for bed."

She got to her feet and glanced out the window. A slow smile spread across her lips as Ben climbed to his feet and picked up his clothes. "Ben."

"Hmmm?"

"Look! Bobby and Tasha are out on their balcony," she said holding her dress up to her chest.

Ben looked out the window and saw a bare chested young man leaning his arms against the railing on the balcony across the street. He had a glass of wine in his hands and he seemed to be watching the street below. From what Ben could see the man kept himself in shape. A tall slim woman with long blonde hair, wearing a sheer and partially open white gown was standing beside him enjoying her own wine. The woman seemed to be looking back in their direction.

Margaux saw Ben was holding his clothes in front of his privates unconsciously. She grinned mischievously and reached out to touch the lamp on the table next to her. The soft illumination painted them with a warm glow and they could see Tasha gesturing excitedly to her partner who stopped leaning on the railing to look across as well. They both waved and Margaux waved back. Ben reluctantly waved as well. Tasha froze then waved excitedly to him before hugging the young man and Ben saw she was at least four inches taller than her partner and had very pretty breasts. Her gown was more open than he first thought.

Giggling, Margaux waved again and touched the lamp taking them back into the darkness.

"You enjoyed that!" Ben said.

"Yes... yes I did. I enjoy showing you off. I'm a woman," she smiled happily as she made her way towards the bedroom.

Ben sighed and followed.

They brushed their teeth and freshened up before bed. They slipped under the sheets and sighed as they cuddled together.

"Aside from teasing the neighbors, how do you intend to keep me entertained while I'm here?" Ben asked with a grin and she poked his chest for teasing her.

"On the topic of showing you off, my office is throwing a party tomorrow night for the staff, a harbour cruise with dinner, drinks and dancing. We're growing rapidly but there's only around twenty of us now. We're celebrating our successful launch as we've officially been operational for about a month. All the legal and contractual obligations have been met so it's time."

"I thought you just got to Sydney last week? How have they been running for a month?" Ben asked in confusion.

"They did most of the ground work in advance but made a lot of mistakes. When the plan was seriously unravelling they brought me in to save the day. Obviously they made at least one good decision," she said with a smile.

"Well... that's great then! Does that mean you can go back to Europe?" Ben said with a smile. Europe was so much closer for him to visit.

"Unfortunately no. Head office wants me here for the first year to fully establish all of the local business relationships before handing it over to their choice of next in command, Rainor Hahn."

Ben heard her opinion of that decision in her voice. "This is the fellow you were talking about earlier? The one who the women don't like?"

She nodded.

"Do you have authority over him?" Ben asked.

"I do but if I act without solid evidence to back me up I'll make a very dangerous enemy of his appointee from senior management which would seriously threaten my future advancement. It's a delicate situation. If he makes a misstep that jeopardizes the business in any way, I can act. If he continues to fly under the radar as he has been doing, there is little I can do as he gradually poisons the environment."

"That sucks!" Ben growled.

"And there are some really good people here! I want you to meet them. The person I would have chosen to run the office, Kayden Price, is a brilliant young man with lots of potential. I hired him the day after I got here. He's been indispensable in helping me straighten out many of the corporate relationships that were initially set up. Plus the rest of the staff like him. Oh! And the Asset Management team are delightful! You'll love them!"

"Ok, I'm sold! Sounds like a fun evening!" Ben grinned.

"I thought we'd spend the morning and afternoon walking around the city. There are lots of interesting things to see just in the downtown area. Then we have the party. I'm torn about what we should do on Saturday. I thought you might like to see the Blue Mountains which is a nature tour or we could go to Bondi beach to just soak up some rays and relax." She looked at him hopefully.

"Both sound fun. What would you like to do?" he asked.

"I haven't been to the beach yet. I've been working every waking moment since I arrived here and it might be nice to just relax on the beach. That said, I don't want to deny you the chance to hand feed a kangaroo."

He chuckled. "The beach it is!"

She smiled happily and cuddled in against his side.

Ben closed his eyes and felt himself relaxing. Just before he slipped under his unanswered question resurfaced to disturb his peace of mind.

Margaux was plagued by jealousy, he'd seen her struggle with it, and he'd faced its wrath. She said it was a self-destructive impulse. So... why had she asked him to share a sexual liaison with the young and beautiful woman?

He heard her gentle breathing indicating she'd already fallen asleep. He wanted an answer to his question but it would have to wait for the morning.

Chapter 31

Ben and Margaux rushed back into the condo as they were running late. They'd spent the day wandering around the downtown area, poking into little shops, and seeing the sights but they'd lost track of the time. They'd had a wonderful day and discovered they were very compatible sightseers. Now they had to rush to get to the party boat.

He hadn't had the opportunity to ask her about what her offer the night before had really been about but today she was back to her normal behavior so Ben let it go.

Margaux changed into a little black cocktail dress that accentuated her curves and hinted at the wonders just below the surface.

Ben was wearing a black dress shirt, sleeves rolled up to his powerful forearms and collar open, charcoal grey slacks and black leather shoes. He carried a lightweight sports jacket over his arm in case it got cooler on the water at night.

They gave each other a hungry look then dashed out of the condo to grab a taxi down to the pier.

They just made it and it turned out they were the last guests to arrive. The crew immediately pushed off the moment they were on.

A cheer went up from a group of seven ladies waiting by the entrance. Margaux grinned at her team who rushed forward to get hugs.

"We were getting worried someone had done something nefarious to you to keep you from the boat! Now we see the real reason you were late!" a red haired woman in a tight shimmering red cocktail dress said with a coy smile as she looked Ben up and down.

"I know him! Oh my god, I know him!" a petite brunette with dark rimmed glasses squeaked as she gaped at Ben.

"Ladies! Listen up! This is my date, Ben Shepherd." The brunette squeaked excitedly but the redhead slapped her shoulder to get her to calm down. "Some of you may have heard of him, read about him, or seen him on the news but tonight he is just my boyfriend so hands off and mind your manners."

Giggles erupted and the women smiled at them.

"Are these delightful ladies the Asset Managers you were talking about?" Ben asked and more giggles ensued. Margaux smiled and nodded. She made the introductions and Ben tried to remember their names in the flurry of their excitement. The red haired woman reminded him a little of Trish and he felt a slight twinge of homesickness. Her name was Nancy, Nan for short and the bubbly brunette in the serious glasses was Diane, or Di as the others called her.

"Why does everyone use short forms of their names?" Ben asked Margaux curiously.

"I have no idea and I've forbidden anyone to call me 'Marg' or 'Mar'. Perfectly good names going to waste," she said with a frown.

They made their way further into the ship and Ben was introduced to more of her team. He saw she was right. This was a bright group of individuals. He saw how they all relaxed in her presence and how she glowed in their unspoken admiration. Even after just a week she'd bonded with her team and they reciprocated.

Ben caught a slight stiffening in her posture and turned to see a man approaching. He was tall. Perhaps an inch taller than Ben's 6' 3". He had a swimmer's body; strong, lean muscles, wide shoulders and a narrow waist. He was wearing grey slacks and a light grey sports jacket over a crisp white dress shirt which was open at the collar as Ben's was. He had Hollywood leading man looks, pale blue eyes under fair brows, a roman nose, and a strong jaw with a dimple on his chin. His wavy blond hair was conservatively cut but perfectly styled, not a hair out of place. He smiled with perfect white teeth but Ben was reminded of a shark as the smile had little effect on his cold eyes.

"Hello Margaux. I'm so glad you made it to our little party," the man said to her with just a trace of condescension in his voice.

"Good evening, Rainor. May I introduce my boyfriend Ben Shepherd? Ben, this is Rainor Hahn." Margaux said smoothly, recovering from her earlier stiffness.

The man affected an awestruck expression. "The Ben Shepherd? The one who kills evil white slavers barehanded, poses naked for statues, rescues young women from dens of sin, and abuses his ex-wife, though that last one was reported in one of those awful scandal magazines so I suppose we should ignore it," he said with a sharp smile as he watched Ben's expression.

He'd delivered his opening salvo boldly, his accent and speaking patterns as crisp as the tailored shirt he was wearing. The dig had been a decisive move but Ben had been prepared for something like this.

"I don't think we're going to be friends, Rain Man," Ben said calmly watching the man's eyes. They showed his confusion then tightened in reaction when he caught the insult. He quickly locked that down and just smiled slightly at Ben. He nodded and turned back to Margaux.

"My wife, Gretchen," he said gesturing back with his perfectly manicured right hand and collected the woman behind him to move her forward.

She was at least 6' plus the three inch heels, very slim but perfectly proportioned in an elegant, form fitting black cocktail dress. She had large, dark brown eyes framed with thick lashes on a heart shaped face. Her straight black hair was in a bob cut reaching and curling in at her shoulders and her blunt straight bangs stopped just above her eyes. She wore only the merest hint of makeup as her lips were naturally pink and full. When she smiled at them her face lit up momentarily but a nervous glance at Rainor hid that brilliance away once more.

Ben saw it then. For all her stature her body language practically screamed it. She was a Sub, potentially in a very strict, possibly abusive relationship. He twitched but clamped down on his reaction brutally. Her eyes widened when she looked at him then she slipped behind her husband once more.

"It should be a pleasant evening on the water, yes? Enjoy!" Rainor nodded to them and turned away, moving back to the bar as his wife followed. She glanced back once at Ben and he caught her eyes with his. Definitely a Sub.

Margaux took a deep breath and looked up at Ben. She caught the stiffness in his body. "Are you ok?"

Ben gave himself a little shake and nodded to her. "Yes. He's a very... unpleasant man. It must be... difficult to be married to him."

Her eyes glanced once more to the tall woman with Rainor. "Perhaps it's her preference. I have known women to give themselves over entirely to controlling pricks like Rainor. Her submissiveness may be an extreme example."

"You saw that too? I have to admit it's the first time I've recognized the signs of someone being a Sub." Ben said in surprise.

Margaux smiled. "Ah yes, the young woman with the tattoos at the dance club. Whatever happened to her?"

"She's doing well. Tina and I signed her up in an Audio Engineering course at the local college and her grades are excellent," Ben said with a proud smile.

"She... she's still with you?" Margaux said, seeming a little rattled.

"Yes, did I fail to mention that?" Ben asked, concerned by the expressions flitting across Margaux's face.

"Yes. It did come as a surprise. Are you... her Dom?" she asked carefully.

He nodded and held her eyes. She nodded and smiled weakly at him. "If you don't mind I need a little air. No, let me... please," she said to stop him from following her as she headed for the side door to the open deck.

Ben let her go but watched her with a worried look on his face. He suddenly felt lost. He wasn't sure what he should do and he was in an unfamiliar place with a bunch of strangers. He looked to the door once more. If she was dealing with her jealousy issue maybe it would be better to give her a little space so he took the stairs up to the upper deck and joined some of the staff watching the sun set over the city.

He was having difficulty enjoying the view and looked at the group around him. Several smiled at him and he smiled back but one man walked over with a pretty woman at his side.

"Hi, I understand you're Margaux's boyfriend. I'm Kayden Price and this is my wife Molly," he said offering his hand.

Ben shook it and recalled this was the man Margaux thought so highly of. "Ben Shepherd," he said as he moved to shake Molly's hand as well. They were both probably in their early thirties and looked like a happy couple. Kayden had sandy brown hair and wire rimmed glasses and Molly's hair was a darker brown and pulled back into a ponytail. She had a sweet wholesomeness about her and a naturally smiling face which was beaming widely now.

"I'm a big fan, Mr. Shepherd!" Molly gushed.

"Oh?" he asked cautiously. He was famous for a few things, not all of them he was proud of, so this was a tricky subject for him.

"The way you rescued those girls from the slavers was inspiring!" she continued, oblivious to his unease.

"Ah, yes. Well, just in the wrong place at the right time," he said humbly and looked back to the stairs wondering if he should go find Margaux.

"How did you meet Ms. De la Cruz?" Molly gushed.

"Molly!" her husband gasped.

"It's fine. It's not a state secret. We bumped into each other at a dance club in Paris," he said with a smile.

"Love at first sight?" Molly continued to her husband's dismay.

"Hardly! He ruined my night!"

Ben turned and saw Margaux standing behind him. He looked to her and her smiled was a little shaky. He moved closer but she leaned away from him and patted his arm as she turned her face to Kayden and gave his cheek a kiss as well as his wife's.

"So good to see you again Molly!" she said.

"It's always a pleasure to see you!" the young woman smiled.

"Crap, I was hoping he'd missed the boat." Kayden sighed as he spotted Rainor coming up the stairs.

Ben didn't have to turn around to know who he was talking about. "Rain Man," Ben sighed.

"Rain... PFFFT! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Kayden exploded into a loud, uncontrolled laughter as Ben's nickname for Rainor struck his funny bone. Molly caught the insult too and couldn't stop giggling. People around them stopped to look over at the laughing man and smiled. Ben watched the man's laughter with a grin.

Rainor approached the group with his wife at his heel. Kayden was red faced, his eyes were watering, and he was gasping for breath. Margaux handed him a napkin to dry his eyes which he gratefully accepted. Molly's giggles were beginning to sound a little nervous as the tall man stopped to smile at them. Ben caught her eye and shook his head faintly with a smile and Molly relaxed.

"Delightful to hear you enjoying yourself so much Kayden. Was it a good joke?" he asked his co-worker.

"Mmmhmm!" was all Kayden could manage as he clamped his mouth shut to stop the laughter but his eyes glanced towards Ben and Rainor caught the motion.

"Ah. So, a joke at my expense maybe?" His smile became a little stiff as he looked to Ben. The men locked eyes but the relaxed smile on Ben's face never wavered. Rainor stepped a little closer. "Has no one ever taught you how to play nice?" he said quietly for Ben's ears only.

The words were soft but Rainor's voice held a definite note of threat. The man did not like being the butt of jokes.

"I did say we wouldn't be friends," Ben said equally quiet. There was something not quite right behind Rainor's eyes but Ben wasn't about to give him an inch. Instead, he leaned in.

"What's going on up here?" Di asked as she approached with the other Asset Managers. They'd heard the laughter from all the way down on the lower deck and came to investigate.

"I swear they're about to whip them out and take measurements!" Nan responded happily and her group giggled excitedly at the idea.

Ben cracked a grin but his eyes never left Rainor's who was beginning to look a little unnerved by the approaching ladies.

ZZZIP!

Rainor looked down in surprise when he heard Ben's zipper drop. The ladies shrieked in delight causing Rainor to leap back. Ben slowly closed his zipper much to the disappointment of the gathered crowd.

Rainor's face was red with suppressed rage and humiliation. He roughly dragged his wife away back down the stairs to the main level.

Ben saw her wince at her husband's tight grip on her arm and regretted pushing the man so hard as he was likely going to take it out on her. The woman's eyes were on him as she descended the stairs.

"You enjoyed that," Margaux accused him with a curious look.

He turned to look at her with a slight smile. "Maybe." Then he winced and the smile was gone. "I shouldn't have pushed him so hard but the man doesn't know when to say enough." He cast a concerned look in the direction they went. "I'm worried about his wife. He's not quite right in the head. Keep an eye out for him tonight. He may try to retaliate." Ben looked at her seriously and she nodded though an odd... possibly angry expression flashed across her face before she looked away.

Before he could ask her what was wrong Kayden leaned in close and Molly did too. "Mr. Shepherd, that was absolutely wonderful! I've wanted to see him taken down a notch since I first met him. He gives my Molly creepy looks and he's so rude!" Molly nodded vigorously.

"Yes, that was fun but remember we have to work with him come Monday morning so picking on Rainor is done for the night." Margaux said and looked around to catch the eyes of the group around her. She received nods. "Come on. They'll be serving dinner soon. Let's find a table."

They made their way downstairs and saw the tables had been prepared so they found seats and the waiters circulated amongst them serving the prepared food. Ben enjoyed his meal as did Margaux who stood up halfway through the meal to address the group and thank everyone for the successful launch.

Ben kept scanning the group for signs of Rainor and his wife but they remained missing throughout the meal. His agitation increased as the image of her staring at him as she slipped out of sight on the stairs returned to him again and again.

When dessert was served Ben excused himself to use the washroom. On the way back he took the long way to see if he could spot the missing couple. They weren't out on the back deck, the front deck, or the lounge above the dining area. Finally he made his way up to the top deck. It was empty as everyone was downstairs enjoying the dessert.

Then he picked up an odd sound. He held still and listened hard trying to separate the sounds of the ship from the odd noise. He moved around slowly until he recognized it as feeble crying but he couldn't find where it was coming from. Finally he tracked the sound to a low storage locker next to the top railing. He leaned over it and spotted Gretchen wedged between the locker and the railing lying on her right side. He could see she was bleeding and bruised. Her left arm looked swollen. How she'd gotten between the locker and the railing he had no idea but she wasn't able to move. She cried pitifully.

"Gretchen? It's Ben Shepherd. Can you hear me?"

Her crying got a little louder.

"Shhh, it's going to be alright. Hang on!"

He rushed downstairs and found the first crewman and told him to let the captain know they needed an ambulance and the police immediately. He caught Kayden's attention and gestured for him to come quickly. Margaux, Molly, and some of the Asset Managers followed.

When Kayden got to his side he pulled him towards the stairs up. "Gretchen is hurt and stuck between a locker and the railing. If she isn't hurt too badly I think we should try to get her out."

Ben led them to the locker and Gretchen was still there.

"Oh my god! How did this happen!" Kayden gasped.

"I've no idea. This is where I found her. I wouldn't have found her at all if she hadn't been crying. I've seen no sign of Rainor." Ben said and Gretchen's crying became sobs again.

Ben leaned over the locker, resting his palms on its surface but pulled his hands away quickly. There was something slippery on the metal surface of the locker.

Kayden looked at Ben's hands. "What's that?"

Ben sniffed his hands. "Smells like baby oil."

"Someone was up here earlier getting a tan?" Molly asked.

Ben pulled a tissue from his pocket and wiped his hands clean. He and Kayden moved to either end of the locker, Ben up by her head and Kayden at her feet. They carefully slid an arm under Gretchen's wedged body.

"Support her head!" Molly called out and Ben nodded.

Nodding to each other to indicate they were ready, the two men gently and slowly lifted Gretchen straight up. The position and angle were awkward and she wasn't a light woman. Kayden was breathing hard from the effort.

Once she was able, Gretchen turned her head to look up at Ben. He sucked in a breath at the bruises he saw on her throat. Her lip was split and her cheek was bruised as well. Her tear filled eyes held onto his as he quietly told her everything would be alright and she should hold still. Some crew members arrived with blankets and were going to place them on the locker top but Margaux stopped them and pointed to the deck instead. They looked like they were going to protest but she stared them down. Ben and Kayden eased the injured woman down onto the blanket then gently onto her back. She hissed when her left arm bumped against the deck.

"Looks like it's broken," Kayden said and Ben nodded grimly.

"It's a spiral fracture," Ben said. He'd seen a few of these growing up in the foster care houses he ended up in. The limb looked swollen and red and the bruise from a hand's overly tight grip could be clearly seen on it.

Ben saw the damage he assumed Rainor had done and trembled with suppressed rage. He looked up at the gathered faces. "Has anyone seen Rainor?" he growled. Everyone shook their heads. He looked down into the desperate eyes of the woman on the blanket. "I'm so sorry for your injuries. Did- did your husband do this?" She nodded and Ben's guilt stabbed him in the chest. "Do you know where he is?" She nodded again. With her right hand she pointed to the railing. Ben was confused and he traded looks with Margaux. She stood and walked to the rail and looked around. When she looked down she sucked in a sharp breath and looked back in shock.

"What? Did you find him?" Ben asked.

"No. Let's wait for the police," she said but her look was troubled.

Gretchen was crying again and she clung to Ben's hand with a desperate strength. She pulled it to her cheek and closed her eyes. Ben looked at Margaux, his guilt written on his face. She turned her face away.

They didn't have long to wait as the captain had turned the ship around and took them back to the pier where an ambulance and several police cars were waiting. No one was allowed to leave the boat until the police took their statements. They confirmed that Rainor wasn't on the boat. The officers looked over the rail where Margaux had been earlier and got one of their boats to pull up alongside the vessel to take pictures of small red streaks on the side of the hull. They also took pictures of the locker and took samples of the oil residue on top of it.

They questioned Ben and had to do it while he held Gretchen's hand. She was still clinging tightly to him and Ben couldn't get her to let go. Her eyes would widen with fear and she'd begin to wail when he tried. Ben was shaking, his guilt was eating at his gut and he looked desperately to Margaux for help but she was having difficulty looking at him. The paramedics needed to move Gretchen, she had some tender ribs which might have been broken, but she insisted he had to go with them. As she was beginning to panic, the paramedic asked him to accompany them in the ambulance. The police would be following so they agreed.

Ben looked at Margaux. "I have to make sure my people get home. You go on ahead and once you're done just come back to the condo. I'll leave instructions with security to let you in and give them a spare key," she said. Her tone sent a chill through Ben. He could tell she was upset but when he tried to ask about it she just walked away.

"We have to go sir," the paramedic said. Ben nodded and with a final worried look at Margaux's back as she spoke with her people he followed the paramedics and Gretchen down the stairs and off the boat. They crossed to the pier and went into the back of the ambulance. Ben wasn't able to hold her hand and had to sit back out of the way of the paramedic working on her but his presence seemed to calm her.

They made their way quickly to the hospital but Ben had time to think about what an ass he'd been to push the obviously unstable man. He knew he hadn't expected any of this to happen but he kicked himself for not following Rainor when he stormed off hurting his wife's arm in his cruel grip.

At the hospital he followed them in but he was initially stopped at the entrance to the exam rooms and told to wait in the waiting room. Gretchen began to panic once more. Ben wondered what Rainor had done to the woman to make her behave like this. He knew she was a sub but he'd never experienced such extreme behaviour before. They finally moved him into her exam room and she immediately reached for him with wide teary eyes. His guilt stabbed him again as she seemed so lost.

He held her right hand and she immediately began to calm. She kept her eyes on his and he smiled at her. The nurse with them smiled at him gratefully for calming the patient as she pushed through the curtain leaving the cubicle. Then they were alone.

"You're going to be fine now. The doctors will take good care of you and get you all patched up. You have to let them take their x-rays and do their examination."

She held his eyes and nodded, accepting his orders. Ben blinked at her and recalled the words Margaux said about how some Subs give themselves completely to their Dom and wondered if this included their decision making. His warning bells were going off.

"I told him you were stronger," she said softly, her accent making her words sound distinct to Ben's ears.

Ben froze and looked into her eyes. "You what?"

"You are stronger. I can see it in your eyes. I've known for some time Rainor's mind was weak. He seemed so strong but over the ten years we've been together it became evident. He was missing... important pieces."

"Why did you tell him that?"

"I needed to free myself of him. When I saw his pitiful attempt to dominate you I knew I could no longer be his. I knew he would react badly. I- I thought you might protect me from him but he took me upstairs where no one could see us when he..." She turned her head sharply, blinking away the tears as she relived the brutal beating she'd endured.

"Oh my god, Gretchen! You don't even know me. We hadn't even spoken! How could you have known I would stop him?" Ben exclaimed.

Her eyes returned to his and Ben handed a tissue for her to dab her eyes dry. She smiled. "You're Ben Shepherd. I saw you on the news. It's what you do."

He rocked back from the worship in her eyes.

"What happened to Rainor?" he asked, his voice rough with emotion.

"He beat me. Strangled me. Physically he could overpower me but I could see the weakness in his eyes now. He knew it. He threw me against the railing and I became stuck. I could hear him pacing then he jumped on top of the locker. I heard him cry out, the railing was struck and vibrated hard. Then I saw him falling past me. I- I knew it was over then." The relief on her face was intense and tears rolled away from the corners of her dark eyes.

"Rainor fell into the water? He could swim though, right? He looked like a swimmer!" Ben said, grasping at the chance the man could still be alive.

"His face was covered in blood when he passed me on his way down. I do not believe he was conscious." Gretchen said with finality.

Ben leaned back and looked at the woman. A good portion of his guilt had been alleviated by her confession. While it was true he'd enraged Rainor by showing him up in front of everyone it seemed like it was Gretchen's words that set off the explosion.

The curtain yanked open and a men dressed in a blue suit smiled in at them. He had his notepad in his hand. "That just made my job easier. Thank you for that!"

"Who the hell are you? A reporter?" Ben growled.

"Nope. Detective Burrows, NSW police." He flipped open his badge holder and Ben peered at it in surprise.

"Oh! I gave my statement on the ship to the officer there," Ben said, relaxing.

The detective nodded and looked to the woman on the bed. "But Mrs. Hahn hadn't given her statement yet. The ship's cameras on the top deck were disabled by the crew who use that deck to smoke their drugs so there was no video evidence of what happened there. Physical evidence seems to support her story... so far." He looked at Ben then back to Gretchen. "I do have some news on your husband. I'm afraid he's dead. We found his body in the bay. I'm sorry to say some bull sharks got to him before we found him but we were able to make a positive ID."

Gretchen began to cry but Ben thought it might be more from relief than grief. He shared a look with the detective. They began to move out of the cubicle but Gretchen struggled to reach for Ben.

"Lie back. The Detective and I need to speak. Rest here and wait for the doctor. I won't leave. I'll check on you shortly." Ben said firmly holding her eyes with his and she settled back with a small nod.

When he stepped out into the hall the detective was looking at him strangely.

"What exactly is your relationship to the deceased and his wife?" the man asked suspiciously.

Ben sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose as he tried to think of how to explain this. He moved them down the hall so Gretchen couldn't overhear them talk.

"Tonight was the first time I met Rainor and Gretchen Hahn. I never saw them before tonight but it didn't take long to determine he was a dick." At the detective's confused expression, he clarified. "He was an asshole, possibly a psychopathic one. He was also a Dom. Gretchen's Dom."

"Dom?"

"A dominant... partner. Uh, I'm not an expert in the lifestyle. Gretchen is a Sub, a submissive. I'm under the impression that she let him control most aspects of their relationship."

"This is a sex thing?" Burrows suddenly looked uncomfortable.

Ben grimaced. "Not entirely, though that's certainly part of it. It's... more of a trust thing."

"You're involved in this... Dom/Sub thing?" the detective asked.

"Yes... but not with them. I only recently became involved with Subs. I recognized her behavior as that of a Sub."

"So... you're a... Dom?"

Ben paused watching the detective then nodded reluctantly.

Detective Burrows glanced back at the curtain then at Ben but he shook his head vigorously.

"I don't know how severe Rainor's control was over her but she seems to need the structure of a Dom's command for her peace of mind. I'm hoping she takes control of herself soon as I have to get back to the woman I'm visiting here in Sydney," Ben explained.

"Another Sub?" the detective asked.

"No, not at all. Not in any way," Ben said with a smile. The detective seemed to relax at that.

"Excuse me? Are either of you 'Ben'?"

They turned to see a doctor standing at the curtain looking at them in frustration.

"I'm Ben."

"I need you in here, now." The doctor went back inside.

Ben traded another glance with the detective then they both made their way to the cubicle.

As they passed through the curtain, Ben saw Gretchen was on her feet with her back to the far wall. Her eyes went to him immediately and he saw her shoulders begin to drop from their defensive posture.

"Tell her she needs to remove the dress so I can see her injuries," the doctor said tersely.

The eyebrows on Burrows went up in surprise. "I'm done here for tonight so I'm going to head back to the station. I will need to speak to Mrs. Hahn in the morning. She'll be in her home?"

"Yes, I'll get her there. Thank you detective," Ben said and the man left with another look at him.

Ben turned to Gretchen who was looking at him desperately again. "What did I say about letting the doctor examine you?" he said.

She glanced at the man. "I- I can't be naked in front of him."

"She can leave her underwear on!" the doctor exclaimed in frustration.

"Doctor! Please," Ben said looking the man in the eye with a raised eyebrow in question.

The man backed down. "Sorry, it's been a long day."

"Are you wearing underwear under the dress?" Ben asked Gretchen gently. She shook her head. "The doctor needs to examine your injuries. You need to let him see them."

"Will you stay? Watch him?" she pleaded.

Ben paused, seeing her nervousness. "If you need me to."

She nodded and turned to present him with the zipper on her dress. Ben reached out and pulled it down. He stood back as she dropped the dress from her shoulders until it pooled at her feet. He bent down to pick up the dress as she stepped out of it. He froze when he saw the bruises on her back. Ben stood and looked to the doctor who stepped forward and began touching and prodding her back to see if anything was broken.

She whimpered a little and cast an anxious look at Ben over her shoulder. He nodded to her and she dipped her eyes demurely.

"Please turn to face me," the doctor said.

She did so hesitantly but when she was facing forward she looked to Ben. He sucked in another breath when he took in the damage that monster had done. The bruises were worse on her front. Even so, Ben couldn't help but acknowledge she was also beautiful. Aside from the current bruising her skin was unblemished and her muscles were well toned. Ben lifted his eyes to hers and saw the desperate need for his approval on her face. He smiled and nodded and saw a confidence slip back into her stance. Her shoulders pulled back, her arms relaxed to her sides, and her chin came up as the hint of a smile surfaced on her lips. With a Dom's approval, her self-confidence returned and her beauty shone through the bruising. Ben found himself reacting. He shifted slightly to relieve the tightness in his pants and she caught the motion. Her eyes twinkled with satisfaction. She ignored the doctor. He no longer existed for her. Only Ben.

"Please put this gown on with the ties facing forward and the second gown with them facing back. When you are done pull the curtain open and a nurse will take you to x-ray." With that the doctor slipped out of the curtain and they were alone.

Gretchen made no move to cover herself in front of Ben. She was enjoying his discreet appreciation of her body. Ben picked up the first robe and opened it. He carefully put her left arm through the sleeve and she put her right arm through the other as he slid it up onto her shoulders. He moved to stand before her and tied the front closed. He could still see her creamy skin through the gaps so he slipped the second gown on her as she minimally assisted him. He moved behind her and tied the gown closed.

He moved to face her once more. "You will go with the nurse and allow them to take the X-rays. I will wait for you here. Is this understood?"

Her eyes held some nervousness. "You'll be here when I return?"

Ben heard the edge of panic returning to her voice. He was so far out of his element with this woman. "I told you I wouldn't leave. I'll be here or close by. I'll get you back to your home. Will that be good?" His nerves made his voice sharper than he intended. She nodded quickly and a smile flashed momentarily on her face dazzling Ben who turned and yanked opened the curtain, spooking the nurse coming to check on them.

"I'm terribly sorry about that. She's ready." Ben apologized to the wide eyed nurse who'd only been told a woman was in the cubicle.

Gretchen moved forward, elegance and poise and she smiled demurely at Ben as she passed. He caught himself watching her walk away with the nurse and only broke his gaze when she looked back at him over her shoulder with a slight smile.

Dammit, he needed help with this situation. He pulled out his cell and called home.

Tina picked up on the fourth ring. "Hello?"

"Tina! It's Ben."

"Ben! How are you? So good to hear your voice."

He felt himself relaxing just hearing hers. "I'm good. God, I miss you! Listen I don't have much time as they only left to take some X-rays but I need your advice."

"X-rays? Who is hurt? Was Margaux in an accident?"

"No, Margaux is fine... well, she's not injured but I'm not calling about her. We were at an office party on a harbour cruise and we met her coworkers. There was a man who was a total creep and his wife." Ben explained to Tina what happened and where he was now as she listened quietly.

"Oh Ben, it sounds like she has become totally dependent on her Dom. He must have been a controlling monster! I have read about this but I don't know how it is treated. She is likely in a very fragile state now."

"Maybe she has family who could take her in? I'll try to get her home to them," Ben said.

"She will need a safe environment to regain her sense of self. Her family would be best if they are nurturing. Now, what is wrong with Margaux?" Tina asked.

Ben smiled hearing the concern in her voice. "You know I love you, right?"

"I love you too Ben! Now talk to me," she insisted.

He squirmed a little. "Margaux has been behaving a little odd. She told me about a young couple who invited her to share their bed and asked me if I wanted to join. Considering her issues with jealousy that seemed like a test, just seeing if I would become jealous. I declined of course but she hasn't dropped it. She also wasn't aware that Lucy came home with us and when I mentioned it she took it harder than I expected. She seems to be holding me at arm's length now. Well, it feels like that."

"She didn't come with you to the hospital?" Tina asked, the worry clear in her voice.

"No, she said she had to take care of her people on the boat," Ben said but it sounded like a weak excuse even to him as he said it.

"Ben, please be careful," Tina said softly and Ben knew what she meant.

"Thank you Tina. I'm doing my best," he replied.

"We miss you and we're looking forward to having you home soon."

Ben smiled and felt his eyes tingled with imminent tears as his heart ached for the comfort of being home with his family. He realized he hadn't fully acclimatized to travel. He was definitely a homebody.

"I miss you too," Ben said, his voice a little rough.

"Good night." Tina ended the call quickly before they both lost control.

Ben looked at the phone and thought about calling Gabriella but he realized he was still a little too shaky. He recalled her sad expression in the airport and sighed. He couldn't drop this emotion bomb on her so soon.

He dialed Margaux's number but it went straight through to her voicemail. He left a message stating he was still at the hospital. He didn't know what else to say so he said he'd see her soon and hung up. He'd talk to her face to face soon enough.

He looked down the hall but the emergency room was very quiet this night. He went back into the cubicle and sat down on the chair to wait.

He must have dozed off as the next thing he recalled was soft lips touching his cheek. He jolted awake and saw Gretchen pulling back from him quickly. She winced as the sudden movement caused her ribs to hurt.

"Did- did you just kiss me?" Ben asked.

Soft brown eyes looked at him from under her bangs and he saw the fear there. Not from a violent reaction to her kiss but from his rejection. He saw her begin to tremble and she bit her lip as those lovely brown eyes welled up with tears.

Ben flashed back to the early days when Tina was trying to get him to see her as someone he could love. He knew what she needed. He sat forward and looked her in the eye.

"Come here." She moved closer. "No tears." She nodded as she lifted her right hand to wipe the tears away. He saw she was wearing a cast on her left arm from her wrist to her elbow. It was thin and black so he assumed it was fibreglass. "Were your ribs broken?"

She shook her head so the only break was her arm. He was grateful for that.

He patted the end of the bed and she sat down next to him. Ben dragged his eyes away from her long, toned legs and glanced up to catch the hope in her eyes. He took a deep breath and tried to relax. He thought of his conversation with Tina. "Gretchen, where does your family live?"

His question caught her off guard and doubt flared in her eyes. "I- I do not have any family."

Ben looked her in the eye to make sure they were understanding each other. "Your parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins?"

She shook her head and at Ben's bewildered look she dipped her eyes. "I was an only child. My grandparents died when I was an infant and my parents died a year after I married Rainor, ten years ago. I don't have any cousins."

"What about friends? Someone you grew up with, a best friend?"

"We moved a lot and I was very shy so I didn't make friends easily," she said quietly.

Ben looked at her in dismay. "No friends since you've been married?"

"Rainor didn't want me to speak to anyone when he wasn't present," she explained.

He closed his eyes and took another deep breath to calm his jangling nerves. When he opened them she was back to nibbling on her lower lip as she watched him anxiously. He wasn't ready to address that anxiety yet. "What did the doctor's say?"

"They said I have two bruised ribs and I am to fill a prescription for a medicine to reduce the inflammation on my arm and one for painkillers. I can go home once I do."

"Where is home?" he asked.

"We rent a condo down by the bay-" she said and her eyes went wide as she finally realized her situation. "Oh! What am I going to do! I don't work! Rainor said I couldn't! He paid the bills! I don't know how much money we have or even where it is! Rainor didn't tell me!" Her voice was beginning to get shrill with panic.

"Gretchen."

Ben's sharp tone cut through the panic and her eyes locked on his. He gently took her hand in his. "Baby steps. Nothing bad is going to happen tonight. You will go home and get some sleep. Tomorrow get in touch with a lawyer. Then you-"

The woman burst into tears and Ben looked at her in dismay. She was sobbing uncontrollably and Ben gathered her against his chest. She clung to him as the tears poured forth and her body trembled. He whispered to her soothingly and rubbed her back until her trembling stopped and her tears calmed and slowed.

Ben pulled out his phone and made another call.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Walter."

"Ben! Aren't you in Australia? What time is it there?" the lawyer exclaimed.

He looked at the wall clock and sighed. "It's 3AM. I'm in a bit of a sticky situation here or rather a new... friend of mine is. Her husband died tonight in a tragic accident and she's going to need some assistance in settling the estate and determining what assets she has available to take control of her life. She had no involvement in their finances and she has no external support."

Her grip on him became a little tighter and her trembling began again. Ben looked down at the black hair pressed against his chest and worried that once again he was in way over his head. He couldn't rescue everyone! Sometimes they had to make it on their own!

"You want me to find her someone in Australia to help with that?"

"Yes please, in Sydney specifically. Can you do that?"

"...yes... I think I know someone who could help with that," the lawyer said as the sound of rapid typing filled the background.

"I'm going to take her to her home and I'll call you back when I get there. Ok?" he asked

"Sure, Ben... are you alright?"

"Yeah... I think so. It's been... a night. I'll call you shortly and Walter, thanks again!"

Ben hung up and put his phone away. He considered the young woman in his arms. She was in her... early thirties? "Gretchen, how old are you."

"Th-thirty-one," she sniffed.

"How old was Rainor?"

"Thirty-five."

Ben held her shoulders and gently pushed her from his chest. She looked up at him with frightened eyes. "We need to get you back into your dress so we can leave."

The fear eased a little and she nodded absently, undoing the rear ties on the outer hospital gown. Ben made to leave but her fingers snagged his shirtsleeve to stop him. He looked back at her. "Stay, please," she begged.

He sighed and nodded. She released his sleeve and tugged the outer gown forward. She undid the ties on the inner one and dropped it back from her shoulders onto the floor. Once more Ben was faced with her exquisite but bruised body. He forced himself to look away to get her dress from the hook he'd hung it on. He carefully arranged the dress and knelt to let her step into it. He drew it up her long legs, trying not to touch her as he did but she shifted and his fingers dragged across her smooth skin on the way up. He cursed himself for reacting to that.

He was grateful the dress was sleeveless as getting it over her cast wasn't too difficult. Once her lovely breasts were covered Ben allowed himself a breath and gently turned her so he could do up the zipper.

He guided her out of the emergency department and stopped by the pharmacy to pick up her drugs. He paid for them as she had no money and this fact made her begin to tremble once more.

Ben finally got her out of the hospital and into a cab to take her to her condo. With a little prompting she gave the address. Ben settled back and after a timid look up at his face for permission she tucked herself against his side. She quickly nodded off as Ben watched the scenery of Sydney at night.

The drive to the condo didn't take long and Ben gently woke Gretchen after he paid. They left the cab and went into the lobby of the building. They made their way to the security desk.

"Good evening, Ms. Hahn!" the young man behind the desk said with a wide grin.

Ben relaxed as the man obviously knew her so the chances of getting her into her unit without a key was looking up.

Gretchen smiled faintly and nodded to the man who suddenly seemed to realize Ben was there as well. His eyes widened as recognition flashed across his face.

"Oh my- Mr. Shepherd! What- what are you doing here?" the man gasped.

Ben saw the name tag on the man's jacket. "Please call me Ben. May I call you Clint?" The man nodded slack jawed. "Mrs. Hahn has suffered a terrible loss tonight. Her husband fell off a boat into Sydney Harbour and died." Clint's eyes widened further and his jaw was seriously threatening to fall off. "She doesn't have her keys..."

"Oh. OH! Right! Let me get you inside your unit!" the guard said as he scrambled to set the front door to key access only. Then he secured the console on his desk and rushed around the desk to guide them to the elevators.

"Visiting Sydney for vacation?" Clint asked Ben as they rode the elevator up to one of the upper floors.

"I had business in Melbourne-"

"The missing girl you found and rescued from the strip club!" Clint interrupted excitedly.

"No, that wasn't what I was in Melbourne for. That just coincidentally happened while I was there." Ben corrected him uncomfortably.

"Sorry, of course!" Clint said in embarrassment as he glanced at Gretchen, his eyes wide with curiosity.

Ben sighed and leaned his head back against the wall of the car. He felt tired to his core. It felt like the weight of the world was settling on his shoulders. Gretchen leaned against his side just a little harder.

Clint guided them off the elevator and down the hall to the second to last door. He used his security pass to open the door. The man stopped in the doorway as they went inside.

Ben turned and shook his hand. "Clint, how can I reach you if I have any questions?"

The man beamed a smile at him. "Just dial #9 and that will ring my desk."

"Perfect! Thank so much!" Ben said and the man nodded as he headed back down the hall.

Ben shut the door, locked it, and turned to take his first look at Rainor's condo. Modern and cold. Unlike Margaux's condo the view out the floor to ceiling windows faced only water so all he saw now was blackness with the occasional light from a ship. He then realized Gretchen was standing in the bedroom door and she was completely naked.

"Gretchen! Put something on! A nightie or a dressing gown," he scolded. She shrank from his words and hid behind the doorway. She looked back at him through her bangs.

"Rainor didn't allow me to wear clothes at home," she said faintly.

"His rules no longer apply to you. From this day forward you are a free woman to make your own decisions and to be treated like a human being!" Ben insisted. He was dismayed to see that instead of being happy about that she just looked frightened. He moved to her and took his jacket off to drape it over her shoulders. She wrapped it around herself and smiled timidly at him. Then he saw her wince.

"Are you in pain?"

She nodded faintly. He pulled the bag of drugs from his jacket pocket and read the instructions on the bottles. He poured out one anti-inflammatory pill and two painkillers onto his palm. He caught her eying the painkiller bottle strangely and he suddenly became nervous about leaving her with them. He walked her into the kitchen and poured her a glass of water. He gave her the pills and she swallowed them with the water.

"I have to make a phone call so you should go to bed-"

"You're going to leave! You're going to leave me all alone!" she wailed, fear in her eyes.

He took her face between his hands and leaned close to hold her eyes with his. "I will NOT leave until I'm sure you'll be ok. I'm going to call my lawyer to make arrangements for someone to help you with the estate. You have to speak with the detective today. You need to get some sleep. I'm going to need to go at some point-"

Gretchen began to cry and Ben looked at her in dismay. What the fuck was he going to do? He pulled her to his chest and hugged her carefully because of her ribs, feeling her tremble in fear once more.

"Come on, let's go into the living room so I can make my calls. You can lie down on the couch and I'll sit with you," he said and they made their way into the next room. "Get a blanket."

She rushed off to the linen closet and returned with a soft grey blanket. Ben settled down on the end of the couch and she immediately stretched herself out on the couch next to him and rested her head on his leg. She looked up at him with anxious eyes. Ben sighed and ran a fingertip across her forehead smoothing out the worry lines there and she immediately began to relax at his touch. He smoothed her eyebrows with his thumb and she moaned softly. He moved his other hand to massage her scalp and her body turned to jelly as she completely relaxed. He kept up the massage until she began to snore gently.

He pulled out his phone and dialed Walter once more as he kept a gentle touch on her scalp, running his fingers through her silky hair.

"Ben!"

"Hi Walter. Any luck?"

"Yes, I have someone who can assist you or rather your friend. Margaret Dawson. She specializes with estate law. I'll give her a call 9AM your time. It being Saturday I may have some difficulty getting her to agree to come see this client until Monday."

"Walter, I'm supposed to be on a plane Sunday night." He paused to ensure she was still asleep but she was out. "She was married to a cruel psychopath who isolated her, kept her a virtual prisoner in her own home and only allowed her to go outside and speak to others in his presence. She was married to him for 10 years. She's lost the ability to make decisions on her own. Her isolation has left her with terrible social anxiety. I'd hand her over to her family or friends but she doesn't have any. She's 31 and helpless as a child in many ways. I- I don't know what to do!"

Walter was quite for a bit. "Damn, Ben. OK... I'll do what I can. Are there any social services for... no, never mind, she's 31." He paused a moment. "I'm sorry Ben, this is way outside my area of expertise. You're going to have to ask someone with a psychology degree for help."

Ben thought that was very good advice. "Actually, that really helps. I now know who to call next. Please let me know how it goes with Ms. Dawson. Thanks!"

He hung up and dialed another number. While it connected he looked down at Gretchen's sleeping face. She looked so innocent, so at peace sleeping on his leg.

"Ben?"

"Hannah! I'm so glad I got through to you," Ben sighed in relief. He'd been worried she would be in a meeting.

"I- I'm in a meeting but Tina let me know you're in Australia and now you're calling me at... 4AM? What's wrong?" she asked, the worry evident in her voice.

"I'm so sorry to interrupt your day but I'm- it's really... I don't know what to do!" Ben sighed.

"Give me a second to let the people here know they can go."

"Is Dr. Granger with you?" Ben asked.

"Uh, yes. Should I ask her to stay?" Hannah asked.

"I think it would really help," he answered.

He heard some muffled sounds then the phone went on speaker. "Ok, Ben. It's just me and Dr. Granger. How can we help you?"

He took a deep breath and explained the events of the night and ended with what he'd told Walter. When he finished he listened to the silence on the other end. "Are you still there?"

"Sorry Ben, we're just trying to absorb what you've said," Hannah replied.

"Ben, this is Dr. Granger. You've found yourself in a white knight situation again only this time you're faced with a deadline, no local support, and no exit strategy."

He thought about that and had to agree. "Yes, that... sounds right."

"Wait! What about Margaux? This Rainor worked for her company. Couldn't she lend some support?" Hannah asked.

Ben hesitated.

"Ben? What's happened with Margaux?" Hannah asked.

"Nothing. I don't know that anything has happened... yet. It's just a little stiff behavior. I don't know what it means yet. I don't know how supportive she's likely to be in this... situation. Not after how she behaved when she heard Lucy was living with us."

"Oh Ben..." Hannah sighed.

Dr. Granger came back on the line to keep the conversation moving. "Ok, so local support isn't available. You said she has no family or friends. That's a dead end so we move on. The exit strategy for this kind of loss of self is long term. She needs treatment. Potentially years of it to combat the damage Rainor has done and in the interim she needs to be in a supportive environment. This is also not something you can address at this time."

"This is a rather disheartening call, Dr. Granger," Ben grumbled.

"There is still one aspect of this situation you can address. The deadline. You can do something about that," she insisted.

"I- I could extend my stay but-" he began.

"Not what I'm suggesting," the doctor interrupted. "Bring her with you. Get her treatment here."

"You'll have to deal with any circumstances that might delay her departure. She might even have to follow on her own after you leave if there is something she must remain in Australia for," Hannah suggested. "You'll also have to apply for special permission with immigration for her to be here for an extended period. We might be able to help with that. Start with a six-month tourist visa."

"Hannah, you're amazing! Anything your hospital needs you let me know. Maybe we could renovate that dismal psyche ward! When I get back we'll talk, ok?" Ben said.

"Oh! Ah, alright," she said in surprise.

"And you're getting a big hug!" Ben insisted.

Dr. Granger snorted.

"You'd get one too but you're my doctor and I hear that's frowned upon."

"Oh, I'll accept a hug. Nothing wrong with one of those!" the doctor said happily.

"Done! Thank you both so much! I can't tell you how much better I feel!" Ben gushed, but quietly so he didn't wake Gretchen.

"Glad we could help Ben! Let us know how it goes!" Hannah said and Ben could hear her smile.

"I will! Have a good day!"

Once he hung up he looked at Gretchen. She still looked so peaceful and lovely. He yawned massively and rested his head back just for a second.

Chapter 32

Ben jolted awake as his phone rang. Gretchen snorted in her sleep and rolled onto her side, still resting her head on his leg. He stared at his cell stupidly and finally registered Margaux was calling.

"Huh, yeah. Margaux!"

"Where are you?"

Her voice was a little strained.

"Sorry, I must have fallen asleep. After the hospital I took Gretchen back to her condo last night- this morning. Didn't get here until after 3AM, closer to 4AM. Fell asleep on the couch. What- what time is it?"

"It's almost 9AM."

"I'm sorry. I'll tell you all about it when I get there. I'm just waiting to hear if a lawyer will be dropping by to help Gretchen with the estate transfer. I'll be able to head out then.

"Able to?"

"Yeah, like I said, I'll tell you about it when I get there."

"Right." The line went dead.

Ben looked at his phone. He wasn't going back to sleep now. He sighed and tried to slip off the couch but Gretchen came awake in a flash. She looked up at him anxiously.

"I have to pee. It's time for us to get up anyway. You need to get dressed. I want you wearing clothes when the lawyer gets here."

She released her grip on Ben's leg and he climbed to his feet and stretched. Then he made his way into the bathroom and relieved himself. He washed his hands and splashed water on his face to freshen up then toweled dry. He walked into the bedroom and saw her standing in front of her closet. There were only a few outfits. Ben picked a nice red dress, the least formal item in her closet. He checked her cast and saw it had the waterproof liner. He told her to take a shower and put on the dress. She handed him his jacket and she walked into the bathroom naked. He chastised himself for watching.

Ben did a little snooping and found the keys to the filing cabinets in Rainor's office. The man kept meticulously organized files. All of his investment documentation was neatly organized and filed. It looked like he had a lot of money in investments himself. This could be good news for Gretchen. He kept searching but found no sign of a will or even paperwork referencing a legal firm. So, perhaps there wasn't a will.

He left the filing cabinets open and found Gretchen sitting on the sofa again. She looked up sharply when he entered the room and he saw her relax.

"I need to ask you a question," Ben began.

She watched him cautiously.

"I don't know how much time the police will need from you over the next few days or if the lawyer needs you physically here for the estate transfer. I fly back to the states on Sunday night." She began to look panicked but he held his palm up and she immediately went still. "I want you to come home with me so we can take care of you and help you take control of your life." She looked like she might leap off the couch towards him but again he held up his palm to stop her and she froze once more.

"I have to go out today and you have to speak with the lawyer I hope will be coming to help you with the estate. Her name is Margaret Dawson. I took a look at the files Rainor kept. Do you know if he had a will?" She shook her head. "Do you know if he had a lawyer?" Once more she shook her head. "Does Rainor have relatives?"

"Not that he ever mentioned."

Ben's phone rang and he smiled when he saw it was his lawyer. It would be... close to 4PM his time.

"Good Afternoon, Walter!

"Good morning, Ben! I reached Ms. Dawson. She is waiting for your call," the lawyer said.

"She's able to come over?" Ben asked.

"Yes. Weekend rates but yes." Walter replied with a grin in his voice.

"That's fine! Thank you so much Walter!" Ben exclaimed. He gave Ben the number then they said their goodbyes and he hung up.

Ms. Dawson picked up on the first ring.

"Margaret Dawson."

"Ms. Dawson, this is Ben Shepherd. You were just speaking with my lawyer-"

"Yes, Walter! Nice man! What can I do for you today, Mr. Shepherd?"

"Ben, please. I need you to look into the estate transfer of Rainor Hahn to his wife Gretchen. Rainor died last night and Gretchen had no involvement in their finances and has no idea of the assets she may have."

"I can do that. Walter mentioned you needed this expedited?" Margaret said questioningly.

"Yes, I fly back to the States tomorrow night and I would like to bring Gretchen with me, if possible," Ben explained.

"And you'd like the estate transfer completed by then?"

"No, just the parts which need her physical presence. She'll be out of the country for an extended period."

"Is she a citizen of Australia?" the lawyer asked.

"Hang on. Gretchen, what's your citizenship?"

"German. I was born in München. Sorry, Munich."

"No, she's German," Ben said. "I think Rainor kept most of his documents here in his office. He seemed to have a fair amount of investments but I found no evidence of a will."

"Stupid young people." Margaret said. "I assume Rainor was also not a native of Australia."

"Your assumption would be correct. He probably had a work visa. No idea," Ben said.

"Alright. Where am I going?" she asked and Ben gave her the address. "I will be there in about an hour. Will you be there?"

"I actually have to go out but I'll give you my cell number so you can reach me." He did so and she gave him hers.

"Thank you so much for moving on this so quickly!" he said to the lawyer and she laughed.

"Weekend rates apply," she said with a chuckle.

"Understood. Thanks all the same," Ben returned.

They said their goodbyes and hung up. Ben turned to Gretchen.

"Ok, I'm going out now but I'll be back. Are you feeling pain?" he asked and she nodded.

He went to the kitchen and returned with a glass of water, the two painkillers and the anti-inflammatory pill. She took the meds and he returned the glass to the kitchen. He pocketed the painkillers. He was still unsure of her state of mind and this seemed like a safe precaution.

When he returned to the living room she was smiling at him. "You're feeling a little calmer about your future?"

She nodded with a grin. Beautiful. He smiled in return.

"Ok, lock up behind me and only let Margaret Dawson or Detective Burrows in. He said he'd be coming to speak with you." He made his way to the door and suddenly found her arms around him and her body pressed up against his back.

"Thank you," she whispered.

He patted her arms affectionately and she released him. With a final smile Ben stepped outside and listened to the door lock behind him. He made his way downstairs and was crossing the lobby when he saw the detective entering the building.

"Detective Burrows, good morning!"

"Mr. Shepherd! I wasn't expecting to see you!" the man returned.

"The lady had a bad evening. I'm just making sure she's ok. I let her know to expect you today." Ben said and nodded to the man as he made his way to the security desk. Clint was no longer on duty and had been replaced by an older gentleman.

"May I help you sir?"

"Yes, do you have the number of a taxi service?"

The guard smiled and nodded. "I'll call one up for you."

"Thanks!" Ben replied with a smile then walked outside to wait. He stretched in the morning sunlight and enjoyed the feeling of the rays on his face. It was going to be another hot one. He'd need to remember to bring his lotion to the beach today.

It wasn't too long a wait for a taxi to stop and he waved to the security guard before he got into the back. He gave Margaux's address and they were off. He dozed in the back of the cab and jolted awake when they reached the building. He paid the driver and made his way inside. He felt more exhausted for the little snooze he'd had in the cab and rubbed the sleep from his face as he took the elevator up to Margaux's floor. He pressed the doorbell and waited. He was nervous about Margaux's mood as his call with her this morning had been so odd. He blinked as he'd been waiting for some time and reached for the doorbell again when the door yanked open.

Tall, slim, blond and gorgeous. Tasha stood before him in all her naked glory. Her breasts were even more spectacular in person. She was grinning excitedly at him and gestured for him to come in quickly. Stunned, he stepped inside and she closed the door behind him.

"Oh my god! It's so awesome to actually meet you in person! I've been on pins and needles since we met Margaux in the coffee shop this morning and she invited us up for some fun!"

"FUCK! UUHHH! FUCK! BOBBY, FUCK ME HARD!"

Ben's head turned towards the bedroom.

Tasha giggled and Ben looked back to see her wide eyes. "Now she gets noisy! The first few times she was so quiet!" She bit her lip as she trailed her eyes over Ben's body. "Mmmm, let's get some of those bothersome clothes off so we can join in!" She reached for his jacket but he gently caught her hands.

Ben's chest was tight and he was having trouble breathing. "I- I'm so sorry. I'm afraid there's been... a big misunderstanding. I... I don't... I'm not going to..." He released her hands and reached out to brace himself against the wall as he took some slow deep breaths as his empty stomach knotted and churned. The noises of Margaux and Bobby's aggressive sex in the other room got louder.

"Are you ok?" Tasha's smile slipped away and she gently touched his arm as she saw the despair on Ben's face.

He jerkily shook his head and moved forward until he was standing in the entrance of the bedroom. The young man, Bobby, was between Margaux's thighs driving his cock into the moaning woman faster and faster. She clung to him and writhed under his body like a wild animal but her eyes... they never left Ben's. For all her moaning and passionate motions her eyes were cold. It was all a lie. She grinned at his lost expression.

"What's the matter, Ben? Disappointed we didn't wait for you?"

Bobby looked over his shoulder with a grin which slid away when he saw the sadness in Ben's eyes. His thrusting faltered and he looked at Margaux in confusion.

Ben looked away and picked up his laptop case and slung it over his shoulder.

"what..." Margaux began.

He grabbed the handle of his suitcase and left the room.

"NO!" Margaux yelled angrily behind him and a male voice yelped. There was a crashing noise of someone falling against a piece of furniture and smaller crashes as items fell. Margaux stormed out of the bedroom. She glared venomously at Ben who paused to look back.

"You fucking hypocrite! You fuck every piece of ass that throws itself at you and you bail on me when I decide to have a little fun?" she yelled.

Ben stared at her in dismay. How many times did he have to say it? "No, you can have sex-"

"Spare me your holier than thou righteous bullshit! The truth is you're running away because you can't handle it! You can't stand seeing another man stick his cock in me!" She paused waiting for him to argue but he just shook his head sadly. Her eyes narrowed. "You're running back to the slut, aren't you?" Margaux spat, her eyes flaring with hate.

Ben held her eyes with his and felt a stabbing pain shoot through his chest.

"You fucked her tight young body all night and now you want more!" Margo screamed.

Ben's mouth moved but he couldn't find the words. He knew it was her jealousy that was lashing out at him but there was nothing he could say or do in defense against her irrational rage. He just shook his head. "Goodbye," was all he could manage before he turned and headed back to the door.

"Don't think you can ever come back if you leave!" Margaux yelled angrily but her voice wobbled as her emotions began to go off the rails.

Ben reached the door and turned as he opened it. Margaux was crying but her face still showed her rage. "GET OUT!" she screamed.

Bobby exited the bedroom behind her with his and his wife's clothes under his arm. His expression showed his worry as he slipped around Margaux and grabbed his wife's hand. They rushed to follow Ben out into the hall as Margaux exploded with rage.

Something shattered against the other side of the closed door. The screaming went on as Ben leaned against the wall, his stomach threatening to climb out of his body. Bobby and Tasha were quickly dressing in the hallway as they looked at each other in shock.

Ben forced his stomach back down and pushed himself from the wall to make his way stiffly to the elevator. Halfway there he felt a gentle touch on his arm and stopped. Tasha moved in front of him with tears in her eyes.

"I'm so sorry! We had no idea," she moaned with a trembling bottom lip.

Bobby came up beside her. "Yeah, she met us in the coffee house this morning. She was all smiles and asked if we'd like to come back to her place for some fun. She was pretty wild-" He stopped when his wife placed her hand on his chest.

"We had no idea she was just using us to hurt you! We're so sorry," she apologized again.

"Were you having sex with another chick last night?" Bobby asked hesitantly.

"Bobby! Oh my god!" Tasha shrieked.

"No... no, I wasn't," Ben said and moved around them to keep walking to the elevator.

They waited together in silence and got in the elevator when it arrived. On the way down Tasha began to cry and Ben's nerves frayed beyond his ability to cope with it.

"Please! Please, don't..." he forced out.

When the doors opened he rushed out and left the building. He was momentarily lost. He didn't know which direction to go. He finally turned left and walked towards the harbour.

Ben walked, pulling his suitcase behind him, and lost track of the number of blocks he went until he faced the water's edge. He looked out at the water and his heart yearned for home. It was almost unbearable.

He flagged down a cab and climbed in the back with his luggage. He gave the driver the address for Gretchen's place as he had nowhere else to go.

When he arrived he saw the older gentleman at the security desk who frowned when he saw Ben's face.

"Is everything alright, sir," the man asked with concern. Ben shook his head and walked past to the elevators. He went up and knocked on Gretchen's door. The peephole went dark then he heard a squeak on the other side as the lock flipped open. Gretchen yanked the door open and her wide smile froze when she saw the pain in Ben's eyes. She instantly reached out to touch his chest gently in concern and he struggled to contain his emotions. He gave her a weak smile and entered the condo. He put his bags down next to the front closet.

"Who was it?"

The voice belonged to a short, slim, older red haired woman with thin gold rimmed glasses who was coming out of the office. "Oh! Hello! You must... be... Mr. Shepherd. What happened?"

Ben couldn't talk about it. He was still feeling too raw and his emotions were flaring badly. He just smiled and shook his head. "Margaret Dawson?" The woman nodded. "Call me Ben... did- did you find everything you needed," he forced out as he roughly wiped away an errant tear that escaped.

Margaret blinked at the sight of the big man struggling with his emotions. Her instincts were screaming at her that he was hurting but this was a very large grown man so she reigned in her need to comfort him and just answered his question.

"Yes, Rainor was a very thorough and meticulous record keeper. His investments are well documented and I was able to find his lawyer. I know the chief partner at the firm and gave him a call. Rainor did not have a will but he and Gretchen are German citizens and his chief accounts are held within German banks. Being his only heir Gretchen stands to inherit Rainor's entire estate and the man had some serious income. He also has a large safe deposit box in a German bank but I found no information on what he keeps in it."

"Will Gretchen be able to travel with me tomorrow night?" Ben asked.

"As long as I have a means to contact her I'm ok with it. The police detective who was here earlier indicated to me that he had no further questions for her. Rainor's death was ruled as accidental," the lawyer indicated.

"Thank you very much." He turned to Gretchen. "I need your passport." The woman rushed away and returned from the study with it. She handed it to Ben and looked up at him. "Would you mind if I borrowed the bed to lie down for a few hours?" Ben asked stiffly. She shook her head then gestured towards the bedroom. He gave her a brittle smile, grabbed his luggage, and headed that way. He stopped before he reached the door. "Could... could you point me to where I might find fresh sheets?" His voice sounded a little raw.

The two women exchanged concerned looks.

"There are fresh sheets on the bed now," Gretchen answered.

"Thank you."

Ben went into the bedroom and closed the door. He took off his clothes and took a shower. After he dried himself he pulled on some fresh boxers and walked back into the bedroom. He had one more task to do before he would let himself sleep. He took his laptop from the case, flipped it open and logged into the airline website. He pulled up the flight and saw there were four available first class seats. He booked two seats next to each other and entered their details. Then he cancelled his original seat. He shut down then packed the laptop away and slipped under the sheets.

He closed his eyes and tried to get Margaux's screams out of his head. Eventually exhaustion pulled him under.

Chapter 33

Catherine stood in the small living room of Chanel's apartment in Paris looking around. She loved the way Chanel and Isabelle had decorated the space. My god, it was small!

Her lover was right about something else. The building this tiny apartment was in would not have attracted a second look. An old factory conversion, it kept its blunt and forbidding brick exterior and poorly divided its interior for maximum occupancy and minimal livability. Soundproofing was minimal as well as Catherine could hear a man crying nearby.

Chanel moved back into the living room from the bedroom with a large duffle bag full of clothes. She smiled at the blond and saw the look on her face.

"Oh, that's Martine. He cries for the lost opportunities of his youth. He's also a lecherous old man who will try to touch you intimately if you get too close so avoid him. I've had to punish him twice. He avoids me now," the brunette explained.

Catherine nodded with wide eyes. She turned her attention to the knickknacks and other items around the room. For its small size the apartment didn't feel cluttered. If anything there were remarkably few items to represent the life the two women had in this place.

Once more Chanel interpreted Catherine's curious look. "When Isabelle was taken from me I had to reduce the number of reminders so I purged the apartment at that time. What was left were items that caused the least pain. Now none of them do but neither do they remind me of the good times. I'm not taking any of them. I'm almost done." She went back into the bedroom and Catherine heard a filing cabinet open.

Cat walked around the room and poked into the little cubbyhole storage unit built into one wall. It was filled with little household items, candles, matches, napkins, a corkscrew, a pair of scissors and such. In one of the upper cubbies she found a small velvet box. It was covered in dust and looked very old as the velvet was worn in spots. She opened the box and gasped. Inside was a beautiful broach. It was a ribbon made of silver or white gold covered in what looked like diamonds! It wasn't large but it was heartbreakingly lovely. Catherine thought it would look beautiful on Chanel. A tiny piece of paper once stuck to the bottom of the box with some dried up tape fluttered to the floor. She bent down and picked it up. The tiny writing on the paper made her gasp. 'To my love, Chanel, From Isabelle.'

Tears welled up in her eyes as she stood there holding a present, perhaps hidden and never delivered? She gently tucked the piece of paper inside the box with the jewellery and closed it. She slipped the box into the pocket of her jacket. Chanel would not be leaving this behind.

She made her way into the small bathroom and dabbed her eyes. Looking at the tiny tub and shower combo she wondered how her tall lover managed to fit in there.

Returning to the living area she saw Chanel come out of the bedroom/office with a plastic storage box filled with paperwork and a few items.

"That's it. I'm done!" Chanel said and looked around. "It served its purpose but it no longer feels like home." She smiled sadly.

Catherine walked up and hugged the woman. Chanel moved to kiss her and Cat felt tingles shoot through her body again. Their flight over to France had been amazing as they'd spent most of the time in bed exploring each other's bodies. Chanel had felt a little uneasy about the idea at first as she was sure the flight crew had to know what was going on back there but Catherine explained they were very discreet and once she began kissing her way down Chanel's neck the brunette forgot everything else.

The sound of arguing suddenly came through the walls and they grinned, breaking the kiss.

"Let us leave this place and move on," Chanel said dramatically and Catherine chuckled. She picked up the storage box and Chanel lifted the large heavy duffle bag. They left the apartment and stopped by the ground floor to drop off the keys to the superintendent. When she told him that the remaining items in the apartment were staying the look in the man's eyes let them know he'd be inside the unit the second they left.

They had to carry the heavy box and bag all the way down the street to the main avenue to catch a cab back to their hotel. Being the off season, Catherine got a good rate on a lovely room in a decent hotel. They put Chanel's things in their room then went right back out and headed off to the Marais to do some boutique hunting. They spent the rest of the day visiting Rue de Rivoli and Les Halles before dropping their finds off at the hotel only to head out once more for dinner.

The restaurant they chose was small and intimate, off the beaten track and made the most exquisite coq au vin. They enjoyed a bottle of wine and left a generous tip for the excellent service. Catherine insisted they go up the Eiffel Tower even though conditions weren't optimal and Chanel couldn't resist her pleading look. She gave in with a chuckle and they ascended in the elevators until they were at the top.

It was much chillier at this altitude and they clung to each other as they looked down at the lights below, when the clouds parted long enough for them to see them. The lighting was ethereal and mysterious lending a strange magic to the night.

Catherine worked up her courage and moved back from Chanel to hold her at arm's length. Beautiful, dark brown eyes looked back at her curiously and Cat had to smile at how sweet she looked.

"I want you to know how very happy you've made me by coming back. I thought I'd never see you again. It felt... it felt like I'd lost an important piece of my heart. I never want to feel that again," Catherine said looking into those lovely eyes. When Chanel tried to speak Cat touched her soft lips then went down on one knee before the shocked woman.

"Chanel, will you marry me?"

"Oh my god! Yes!" she squealed, tears welling in her eyelashes. She pulled Catherine up into her arms and kissed her until the blonde swooned. She pulled back from the kiss and held Cat's face between her hands. "I love you so much!"

"I love you too!" Cat said with a smile.

Chanel's eyes widened as she released Cat. "When will we get married?"

"Next weekend. I want my father to walk me down the aisle," Catherine said with a hopeful smile.

"Who will walk me down the aisle?" Chanel said with a smirk.

Cat smiled at her. "Ben!"

Chanel opened her mouth to protest then paused to think about it. "Do you think he would?" Then she looked at Catherine. "He will not give you up."

It was the blonde's turn to take the brunette's face between her hands and look her in the eye. "Ben will always be a part of my life. I love him. I'm not marrying him and I'm not going to live with him but I will never stop loving him. As I will never stop loving you!"

Chanel saw the conviction in Catherine's eyes and felt the final remnants of her worry burn away. She smiled and leaned forward to tenderly kiss her soft lips. "And I will never stop loving you."

"We have dresses to try on, rings to buy, flowers to order, a venue to rent... oh my god! This is so exciting!" Cat gushed and Chanel chuckled at her enthusiasm.

"There is something I'd like to give you now but I'm not sure how you'll be when you see it. I think it should be part of the ceremony. It's something old. You might consider it something I borrowed but that's a stretch..." Cat paused in thought.

"For heaven's sake! Tell me what it is!" Chanel gasped with a grin.

Catherine pulled the small box from her pocket and Chanel's eyes widened as her smile became a look of confusion. There was something familiar about the old box.

"While you were packing I was poking around in the cubbyhole storage and I found this. Look inside," Catherine said gently.

Chanel cracked open the lid and saw the message from Isabelle. She sucked in a breath and froze as she took in the words and the slightly messy scrawl of Isabelle's handwriting. She reached in and lifted the tiny note out. "Ohhhh..." Chanel's hand began to shake.

Catherine placed her hands around Chanel's and stopped the trembling. "It's beautiful and it looks very old."

"Yes- It's- it belonged to Isabelle's nanna. It was the only item she received from the woman after she passed away in the nursing home. Isabelle was devastated when she lost it. We were sure someone had broken into our apartment and stolen it. I- I didn't know she'd planned on giving it to me." A tear ran down Chanel's cheek.

A gust of wind rushed through the deck and ripped the tiny piece of paper from her fingers, flinging it upwards to dance on its way to the clouds.

"OH!" Cat yelped trying to catch it.

"It's ok. It's going to Isabelle, to let her know I finally have it." Chanel said with a tiny smile on her lips as she followed the paper with her eyes until it slipped from sight. She closed the box and put it into her pocket then hugged Catherine. "Let's go somewhere warm."

Catherine smiled at her and nodded. They walked towards the elevator down.

"Can my wedding dress have a shoulder holster?" Chanel asked.

She chuckled at Cat's look of outrage.

Chapter 34

Ben woke to the feeling of soft hair tickling his nose. He blinked the sleep from his eyes and looked down to see a head with black hair resting against his left arm and chest, the long hair flowing across his chest and reaching his nose. With his free right hand he brushed the hair from his nose. He looked towards the window and saw the first hints of dawn lighting up the horizon.

He'd slept very soundly and realized it was likely because of Gretchen's presence. He no longer slept so well when he was alone.

He tried to ease out from under her but she put her arm over his chest and hugged him. He sighed.

"Gretchen. Let go, dear."

He felt the woman slowly surfacing from a deep sleep. Then he realized she was naked and her breast was pressed up against his side.

"Gretchen, please."

She stretched, rubbing her body against his then she froze as she felt the tension in Ben's body. She lifted her head and looked at him cautiously.

"Please let go so I can get up," Ben said looking away.

"I'm sorry," she said with a tiny voice and pulled away from his body quickly. She sat on the edge of the bed with her back to him. "I'm sorry. I- I didn't mean to offend you. I've... never slept so well before."

"You didn't offend me and I slept very well too. Thank you. It's just... we don't know each other well enough to be doing... this."

She was quiet for a moment. "Sleeping?"

Ben looked at her with a scowl but saw she was facing away and her question seemed to be innocent.

"Against each other... naked," he struggled to explain.

"This is how I dress for sleep. Rainor insisted. You are not naked," she said with a brief glance over her shoulder.

Ben sighed. It was too early for this conversation. He picked up his phone. There was a message from Margaux. He looked at it and shuddered. He wasn't ready to listen to it. Either she was going to continue her accusations or she was going to try for a reconciliation and he wasn't sure that was a good idea. He needed... time.

He put the phone down. It was almost 6AM, Sunday morning and he was hungry. Baby steps. Deal with getting the day started. He got up and pulled a t-shirt from his suitcase.

"Here, you can wear this for now," he said holding it out to her. She glanced at him then got up and walked around the bed to take the shirt. Ben did his best to avert his eyes.

The shirt was certainly baggy on her but with her tallness the bottom hem hinted at her delightful- No! He looked away again. He sighed to himself. He was such a fucking adolescent. He had to grow up.

"Hungry?" he asked keeping his eyes on her face.

She nodded with large dark eyes fixed on his.

He nodded as well and pulled on his t-shirt from the previous day. He'd grab a shower after he fed his stomach.

Ben walked across the condo to the kitchen and got Gretchen a glass of water and her medicine. She took it without question.

Next he looked in the fridge and saw it was well stocked. He turned to look at Gretchen. "I'm not a great chef but I can make an omelette if you'd like one. Tina usually does the cooking at home or Karen."

"Who are Tina and Karen?" Gretchen asked curiously.

Ben smiled as he thought of his family at home. "Tina is the woman carrying my child, managing my household, and taking care of my adopted daughters at home. She is also my fiancé. Karen is one of my adopted daughters. She and Penny were two of the girls I 'rescued' from the slavers. I adopted them because we couldn't find their families."

Gretchen looked at him in shock. "Is that why you're rejecting me? You're engaged!" Her expression quickly changed to confusion. "But... I thought Ms. De la Cruz was your girlfriend!"

Ben closed his eyes and rubbed his temples as the pain in her voice grated against his raw nerves. "I'm not rejecting you. I'm just not looking to begin any more relationships. I'm already in love with several women. I- I thought Margaux... she was... someone I thought I might love."

Gretchen's face paled. "Did...did Margaux leave you because of me?" she said, her voice quiet and tense.

Ben looked into her eyes and saw the dread there. "No. It began before our meeting. Margaux has... terrible issues with jealousy."

"But you're having to leave with me was the deciding factor-" Gretchen gasped, her voice rising in panic.

"Please... calm down!" Ben said and instinctively pulled her to his chest where she clung to his shirt, her heart pounding.

"I'm so sorry!" she mumbled against his shirt as he stroked her hair.

Ben felt her trembling begin to slow as she relaxed.

They stood there for a time just taking comfort from each other's touch.

Ben's stomach grumbled loudly and Gretchen pulled back to show him a timid smile.

"I should make us breakfast," Ben mumbled self-consciously.

Gretchen sat on a stool by the kitchen island and watched Ben putter around making them breakfast. He cut up some mushrooms and fried them up. Then he shredded some cheese but paused when he dumped it in a bowl. "Do you like mushrooms and... mild cheddar in your omelette? Sorry, I should have asked."

"Yes, I like mushrooms and cheese," she said. She seemed surprised to be asked.

Ben nodded and finished making their breakfast. As he worked on the omelettes he spoke over his shoulder. "Do you have a suitcase? You'll need to pack your clothes and... things you need to take with you."

"The suitcases are in the locker and the key is in the drawer of the table by the front door. I don't have much to pack," she said.

Ben glanced over at her then returned to his cooking. "We'll get you more clothes when you get home."

"Where will I be living?" Gretchen said quietly.

He searched for plates then poured the omelettes onto the plates as he thought about that.

"I- I suppose at first you could live with me as my daughters are going to be moving into the house I renovated for them..." he tried to get the dates straight in his mind. "Today? It should be today unless there are some important items missing like their bedroom furniture. Once they are moved in there will be two bedrooms opening up in my house. One will be reserved for the new baby but the other one is available."

"Is it a mansion? How many bedrooms does it have?" she asked as Ben set the plate before her with a knife and fork.

Ben snorted in amusement. "No, it's not a mansion. It's just a nice four-bedroom bungalow. The neighborhood has many larger homes. I just converted a tired, old bungalow into a modern, two story five-bedroom house for Karen and Penny and Rain, a woman we met in Costa Rica. She's a psychologist and a really nice woman. There are spare bedrooms in that house if you'd prefer-"

"No! I mean, if it would be ok, I'd prefer to live in your house. It sounds nice." Gretchen said hurriedly. At Ben's considering look she redirected the conversation. "You live with this woman, Tina?"

"Yes. She was a neighbor and had a six-month old son when her husband died and left them in financial peril. Christopher is over two years old now and such a happy child," Ben said with a smile as he began eating.

Gretchen watched Ben from the corner of her eye as she ate her breakfast. She picked up the plates and washed them when they were both done.

"So with your daughters moving out it will only be you, Tina, Christopher, and I in your home?" Gretchen asked.

"And Lucy," Ben corrected. He saw her curious look. "We met Lucy in Paris. We brought her home with us when she discovered she wasn't welcome at home anymore. We enrolled her in a local college for audio engineering and she is doing really well."

"And now me." Gretchen watched the unease on Ben's face and tears began to pool in her lashes. "I am an unwelcome burden forced upon you. I know I should tell you to leave me behind but I'm terrified you will!"

Ben looked at her sternly. "Stop. You are not unwelcome nor are you a burden. I want you to come with me." Ben sighed. "My relationships with women are complicated... and many. I'm in love with Tina and Lucy. I'm also in love with Gabriella, Catherine, Trish, Hanna... Lisa and Lori, and... Ashley." Ben felt a tangible pulling sensation drawing him home to the women he missed so much. He wondered how they were.

He didn't mention his feelings for Rochelle as she'd found her own heart's desire. He didn't mention Mar-

"Margaux."

Ben winced and twitched. He closed his eyes momentarily then opened them to look into the compassionate eyes of the raven haired beauty. He nodded briefly.

"I'm sorry. I won't mention her anymore," Gretchen said.

"Thank you. We should get the day started. Take your shower first and I'll go next."

Gretchen quickly moved off to the bedroom while Ben tidied up. He would have to ask Margaret to arrange for a company to pack the contents of the condo and ship them to his place. They'd look at the locker next.

Ben's cell rang and he glanced at it. It was Margaux. His chest tightened but he knew he shouldn't run from this so he answered.

"Hello Margaux."

"Ben. Are you with her?" Her voice sounded tight and controlled.

He sighed to himself. "Am I at Gretchen Hahn's condo? Yes. Am I with her? No."

"Semantics! You slept with her haven't you!"

Ben felt the weight of her seething anger settling on his shoulders but he pushed ahead.

"Have I slept in the same bed as Gretchen? Yes, there's only one bed in her condo but I haven't had sex with her."

There was silence at the other end of the phone. He heard a sound. A gasp. A shuddering breath.

Ben's heart ached to hear her suffering. He wanted so badly to help her past this. To see the joy flashing in her eyes once more. To feel the excitement in her pulse when they touched. "Margaux, please-"

"You're lying."

Her voice fell between a harsh whisper and an anguished cry.

"I'm not-"

"LIAR!" Margaux screamed and the line went dead.

Ben rocked back, eyes pinched closed tightly, and leaned against the counter. The sharp pain was back, slicing through his heart, ripping open the wound once more. He struggled to breathe and shudders ran through his body. He forced himself to take deep breaths and opened his eyes to see Gretchen standing by the island in his black t-shirt and a white skirt from one of the outfits in the closet. Sad eyes searched his face.

"Are you ok?" she asked.

He hung his head and tried to regroup. "No... but... I think I will be, once I get home."

He pushed himself from the counter and made himself move into the bedroom to grab some clean clothes. He headed into the shower.

In the kitchen his phone rang again. Gretchen looked at it then back to the bedroom but she could hear the shower going. She picked it up and saw Margaux's face. Her finger touched the answer button before she could stop herself.

"BEN!"

Gretchen heard the anguish in the woman's voice. The pain and torment. The same pain Ben was suffering because of this woman. "You hurt Ben," she said.

There was silence then a cold voice. "Gretchen. Are you enjoying his big cock?"

"You're wrong about him. He won't have sex with me," Gretchen growled as her anger flared.

"Won't?" Margaux's voice cracked a little. "You've thrown yourself at him, have you? Exposed your slutty cunt to him?"

"I- I didn't-" Gretchen stumbled under the woman's bitter words.

"You're a fucking liar as well as a pathetic whore!" Margaux barked.

"I- I'm not- I'm not lying-"

"Fuck him, go ahead! Take his fat cock up your pretty little asshole until he ruins you! YOU FUCKING LIARS DESERVE EACH OTHER!" The line went dead and Gretchen put the phone back on the counter, shaken to the core by the rage in the woman's voice.

She moved to the couch and sat to wait for Ben. She regretted answering Ben's phone. She regretted it very much.

Chapter 35

Tina watched Karen and Penny rushing from room to room in their new home giggling with glee. She relaxed back against the cushions of the couch with a smile on her face. Most of the furniture had been delivered on time in the last few days. Thankfully all of the bedrooms were furnished and they were only waiting on the new washer/dryer. The house was very nice and she was sure they were going to do very well in it. She was more concerned about Ben missing the energy the girls brought to his home in the morning rush to get ready for school and at night when they got home. Of course there was a new baby soon to arrive which was going to change the dynamic of the household once more.

The front door opened and Trish walked in carrying a suitcase and a duffle in her strong arms. Following her was Rain, the latest member of Ben's extended 'family' who was carrying a smaller suitcase and a second duffle. Tina smiled at them and brilliant smiles came back. Rain was very excited to be moving in and still looked a little dazzled that it was actually happening.

They kicked off their shoes and went upstairs to drop off the luggage in Rain's room. When they returned they sat in the living room with Tina.

"How are you feeling?" Rain asked Tina with a delighted smile.

"I feel like I am as big as this house!" she pouted.

Trish laughed and shook her head. "Tina, you still look sweet and petite!"

"It is how I feel," Tina said rubbing her tummy.

"When do you get your cast removed?" Rain asked.

"In two more weeks. I cannot wait!"

"That's just before Ben's court date, right?" Trish asked as she tried to recall the date.

"Yes, he will be in court on the following Monday." Tina replied.

"Have you ever met Ben's ex-wife?" Rain asked the two women.

Tina shook her head as they had moved into the neighborhood well after Wendy had left Ben.

Trish shook her head as well. "We were living here when Ben arrived, fixed up his home then brought his new wife home but Wendy wasn't one to participate in neighborhood activities or even say hello. We all had our own lives to lead and the rest of us didn't really get together that often. Sometimes we'd throw a block party but Wendy never attended any. Ben sometimes would."

Rain shook her head. "I read the article in Peeps magazine from Wendy and she says some really nasty things about Ben. Things I know have to be lies."

"They are!" Tina and Trish said simultaneously then laughed.

Karen and Penny walked back into the living room after inspecting the basement. "We love this house!" Penny gushed as Karen nodded enthusiastically.

"I couldn't find the game console Ben said he was going to get for the TV," Karen said.

"Ben told me he will go out shopping with Daniel for that when he gets back," Tina replied.

"When is he home? I have to thank him for giving me such an amazing place to live! And a wonderful place to work! And great friends to be around!" Rain gushed, counting her blessings.

"Monday night I believe! Something else I cannot wait for!" Tina said with a grin.

Trish shared a look with the petite woman who blushed and turned her attention to Karen. "So now that you have a wonderful new kitchen what are you going to make us for dinner?"

Karen flopped down on the sofa next to Tina and rested her head on the woman's shoulder as she looked up into her eyes. "I'm exhausted! Could we order Chinese food tonight! I think that would be the best way to start living in our new home!"

Penny leaned over the back of the sofa and kissed the top of Tina's head. "Pleeeeaaasssee!" she begged.

Trish looked at Tina's happy smile and laughed. She knew they'd won that battle.

Tina nodded and the girls cheered. "Why don't we invite over the others to make use of that huge dining room table Ben ordered. Maybe Daniel can bring over his game machine to hook up to the TV downstairs."

"Ooo! I'll call him!" Karen jumped to her feet to run upstairs to get her cell. Tina called Lucy who had taken Christopher over to Ashley's for a play day with Joshua.

"Hi, Tina. What's up?"

"Hi, we are going to order Chinese food to celebrate the opening of the new home. Lucy, could you ask if Ashley and her children would like to join us?"

"Hang on." The phone was muffled as Lucy asked. Tina heard the squeals of Madison and Savannah and knew Ashley would likely say yes.

Lucy came back on the phone with a smile in her voice. "Yeah, that's an affirmative. When?"

Tina looked to Trish and Rain. "Dinner in about an hour?" They nodded. She returned her attention back to the phone.

"Dinner will be in an hour but you may come over any time," Tina told Lucy.

"See you soon!" Lucy replied and hung up.

Karen came back down the stairs looking a little embarrassed. "Daniel and Miriam are on their way over," she said to the group then she looked at her sister. "We forgot we have our double date tonight!"

Penny's face froze as she remembered. "I- I'm not in the mood to go out."

"Invite your boyfriends here! There's going to be plenty of food and fun things to do." Trish said with a grin. Tina gave her a look but agreed it was a good idea.

"I'll call Jayden, you call Frank!" Karen chirped and dashed away to the kitchen to make the private call. Penny went upstairs to get her cell to call her boyfriend.

"You might have your hands full with these two," Trish smiled at Rain.

"I'm telling you now, I'm no house mother. They are of age and seem to be fairly well adjusted young women. Frankly I'm amazed at how well they behave considering what happened to them!" she exclaimed.

"Ben made them feel loved, safe and gave their new lives structure," Tina said proudly.

"Ben wasn't the only one doing that Tina," Trish said looking her in the eye.

Tina blushed and looked away. Rain smiled at her modesty.

There was a knock on the door and Trish bounced up to her feet to answer it. She came back with Miriam and Daniel who were looking around with wide eyes and smiles. Daniel had the duffle bag with him.

Karen walked back from the kitchen and squealed happily when she saw Daniel and Miriam. She rushed over and hugged them both. Miriam grinned happily but Daniel was blushing badly when she released his face from her bosom. Karen was oblivious of her effect on him and pointed to the duffle.

"You brought the console and the driving game?" she asked.

"Uh, yeah. It's in there."

Penny arrived and gave them hugs as well. Daniel was having some difficulty focusing when she stood back and smiled at his flustered state.

"He brought the game!" Karen told her sister.

"What are we waiting for?" Penny gasped and ran for the stairs to the basement pulling Daniel along with her, Karen close behind. Miriam grinned at Trish and the others then rushed after her brother.

The front door opened and Lucy came in with Ashley and her daughters. Beth followed with her kids John and Jane. Lucy smiled at Tina. "I called Beth and she was available but Daphne is going out to dinner with Lisa and Lori. Lily is out with friends and Hannah isn't home."

"We'd better call in the order now!" Trish said with a smile.

Tina did the honors, having developed a friendship with the owner of the restaurant from their frequent conversations. The man was thrilled by the size of the order and began calling out the dishes to prepare to his staff. She finished listing the items she wanted and the man said he'd need at least ninety minutes to bring them the order. She thanked him and hung up.

The kids had all gone downstairs and could be heard laughing and shrieking with amusement.

Rain described her new workplace and what she was doing. Ashley and Beth were sitting on the floor with Joshua and Christopher playing when Lucy went to answer the doorbell. When she opened the door two police officers were standing on the doorstep.

"Good evening officers," Lucy

"Are you the homeowner?"

Lucy paused at the abrupt tone of the officer and decided to answer in like. "No."

The two men glanced at each other as Lucy stood looking back at them. The one doing the talking sighed. "May we speak with the homeowner?"

"No."

It was the officer's turn to pause. He leaned forward to peer at Lucy. "No?"

"No. He's not here."

"When will he return?"

"In a couple of days."

Trish showed up at Lucy's elbow as she'd heard the last bit of Lucy's conversation. She picked up the tension in the woman's body. "Hello boys, what's up?"

"You're not the homeowner," the talkative officer said while his partner stared openly at Trish's cleavage.

"Do I look like a man?" Trish said wrapping her arms around her stomach under her tits in the cold doorway and thrusted her chest forward, catching the eyes of both officers.

"No! No. We need to speak with the homeowner. We've received a complaint of underage drinking and sexual interference at this address."

"Who the fuck made that disgusting and ridiculous complaint?" Trish barked angrily.

Ashley showed up with Joshua on her hip with Beth standing beside her holding Christopher. "What's going on?" Ashley asked. The officers looked at each other at the addition of more women in the doorway as Rain and Tina brought up the rear.

"Someone filed a complaint of underage drinking and sexual interference at this address..." Trish called over her shoulder making the other women call out in outrage. She turned back to the officers with a puzzled look. "Wait a minute... no one was living in this house until today. We just moved the girls in a couple of hours ago. It makes no sense. Did someone..." Trish stopped talking as she stared into the darkness of the park just across the road. She ducked back inside and slipped on her boots and black leather jacket. She stepped out on the step and looked at the police officer's night stick.

"May I borrow that?" she asked.

"What? No!" the cop growled and Trish frowned at him.

"How about the flashlight? No? Just shine it across the road into the park for a second," she requested.

Looking at her in frustration he took the large flashlight from his belt and shone it across the road as Trish watched carefully.

"OK, got him, thanks!"

"Where are you going?" the officer yelled.

"I'm going to catch the one making you guys look stupid." Trish said as she set off down the driveway running. The quiet cop glanced at his partner then took off after Trish as the ladies watched the redhead break into a full out sprint and veer left. The park was really dark as the widely spaced street lights left the area before the house in shadow.

They heard yelling, some grunts, then a loud squeal sound from a deeper voice.

"They will return shortly. Invite the officer inside. It's cold out there," Tina called out from the back of the group as she turned on her crutches and made her way back to the living room. Rain and the others followed. Lucy gestured for the officer to come in but pointed to the boot tray where all of their shoes and boots sat.

The officer frowned and shook his head. Lucy opened a drawer in the table by the door and hunted for a bit. She turned to yell over her shoulder. "Where are the booties?"

A moment later Rain returned to the vestibule with a handful of the elasticized booties. Lucy took two and handed them to the officer. "The home was just renovated. The workers left us these."

The man pulled them on over his big black boots and followed Rain into the living room. He looked around in appreciation. He could hear the kids laughing and raised his eyebrow as he looked back at the ladies. Tina gestured for him to go see for himself. He went downstairs and the laughter died off. He returned after a moment with a frustrated look on his face. Penny and Karen followed him up and stood at the top of the stairs watching.

"There is no alcohol in this house and as you can see the children are well supervised by responsible adults. The complaint was false and very likely harassment of some kind," Tina said.

"Harassment? It was a fucking peeping tom paparazzi!" Trish said as she walked into the living room tugging off her jacket. She looked at the officer. "Your buddy is putting him in the backseat of your cruiser." She looked down and snorted. "Nice booties," she grinned.

With another scowl the officer left the house to join his partner.

"What happened?" Tina asked.

"It made no sense that the complaint was made so soon after we moved them into the house. It had to be someone watching the house. With all the attention on Ben and his upcoming trial I wondered what pictures of the cops standing at the front door might look like in court. Considering the nature of the complaint it was going to be messy. I was right. It was a paparazzi."

"Did you beat him up?" Rain asked wide eyed.

"Nah, it only took a few jabs and a boot to his berries to make him all cooperative-like."

Beth snorted then giggled at her outburst. "My, there's so much excitement around Ben's home life."

Tina pouted. "Too much for Ben's liking."

The doorbell rang and Trish answered it. She returned with the officer who stopped at the edge of the carpet in the entrance of the living room.

"Do you know a Terrance Holland?" he said looking at his pad.

Tina jolted. "Wendy's lawyer's name is Mr. Holland. I do not know his first name."

"Wendy?" the officer asked.

"Wendy is Ben's ex. She's trying to extort money out of Ben in a divorce," Trish explained.

The officer wrote something in his pad and continued. "Our suspect has divulged that he was hired by a Terrance Holland to gather incriminating photos of Mr. Shepherd and his lifestyle. When Mr. Shepherd failed to appear he contacted his employer. He claims he was instructed to call in the complaint to create the photos he needed," the officer explained.

"He was surprisingly cooperative," Ashley said.

"Maybe he was afraid Trish would be put in the back seat with him," Beth teased and Trish grinned at her.

"He was carrying the cell he used to call in the anonymous complaint. We matched the number," the officer explained.

"Geezus! What a fucking idiot!" Trish snorted.

The officer nodded. "Made our job much easier." He put away the pad and handed Trish a card. "If you have any more trouble let us know. Thanks for the assist," he said nodding to Trish who smiled and nodded back to him. She followed him to the door and locked it when he was out. When she returned to the living room Rain jumped to her feet and gave her a hug. Tina was grinning up at her as well.

"What?" Trish smiled as she released Rain.

"Thank you for protecting Ben once more!" Tina said sweetly.

"Pffft! You know I'd walk through fire for that man!" Trish snorted self-consciously and handed Tina the officer's card.

"It is worrying that this Terrance Holland is getting so bold!" Ashley said in worry. "Do we need to take extra precautions for protecting our children? That complaint they called in was vile!"

"Extra care until the trial probably wouldn't be a bad idea," Beth suggested.

"We'll have to be very careful about how we tell Ben about this. He's going to get really mad at the lawyer," Lucy offered.

"Why would you tell him?" Beth asked. Eyes turned in her direction until she felt everyone's focus. "What?"

"It is not good to keep secrets from Ben. He is very hurt by them so we don't keep secrets. We do our best to present the information to him gently," she explained. "I think I should leave a message with Ben's lawyer telling him what happened."

The others nodded and Tina dialed the number Ben left for her, just in case.

"Hello?"

"Oh! Hello Mr. Greyson! This is Tina Lee. I was not expecting you to answer on a Saturday night!" Tina exclaimed.

"Hello Tina! Ben asked me to be available while he was away. What can I do for you?" the man said.

While Tina explained the events of the night to the lawyer, Trish answered the doorbell and called out for assistants as the food order had arrived. Jayden and Frank had arrived as well so Penny and Karen rushed forward and helped their boyfriends carry the bags to the large dining room table.

Tina was finishing up with Walter as the last bags made their way through the room and the smell of the food made her mouth water. She gave Walter the name and number on the police officer's card.

"I'm very sorry this has happened. It sheds new light on just how devious Holland is and how low he'll go to win. I'll call the officers and add their information to my case against him. Thank you for calling!" he said.

"Thank you for taking such good care of Ben!" Tina replied.

"My pleasure. Goodnight!"

Tina made her way to the dining room as Karen and Penny got the kids upstairs. Soon everyone was seated around the table enjoying the food.

"So is Ben's lawyer going to confront this ass-stoundingly bad man, Holland?" Trish asked, looking apologetically at Ashley and her kids.

"Yes. It sounds like Mr. Greyson is building a case against him," Tina replied.

"Good!" Ashley said.

"So does the new TV downstairs meet your expectations?" Tina asked the kids.

"It exceeds them!" Daniel gushed and the other's agreed.

"Is your gaming thing the one Ben should get for the TV downstairs?" Tina asked Daniel.

"There's a more current model of that gaming console that will take full advantage of the higher resolution screen," Daniel explained and Tina smiled.

"When Ben gets back he will ask you to help him pick one out," she said.

"Look how eager these two are for finishing dinner and checking out the new setup downstairs! That is what your eager to see, right?" Trish teased.

Jayden just grinned but Frank was a little flustered. He was such a quiet young man. Tall, stocky, and shy, he had black hair and dark eyes. Tina suddenly realized he looked like a younger version of Ben! She grinned at Penny who looked back at her curiously but Tina just shook her head and went back to her meal. Her curiosity poked at her until she looked up again.

"Frank, what are you studying at the college again?" Tina asked.

He looked over at her. "I'm going to be an electrician."

Tina's smile widened and she nodded to him as she turned back to her meal. Jayden had discovered his calling in construction and working with his hands. He'd confessed to them the previous week that he really enjoyed the work. Frank was also working in the trades, becoming an electrician.

Tina looked up to see Karen and Penny looking back with curious smiles of their own. She was so happy. Ben's daughters were finding mates just like their Dad. Penny's even looked like him!

"Are you going to tell us what that satisfied smile is for?" Lucy asked.

Tina just shook her head and went back to eating. She would share her observation... but only with Ben.

He would be home soon and that thought sent tingles through her.

She couldn't wait!