Language Disclaimer: But of course! The main character in here has a bit of a mouth, just to warn you. She doesn't hesitate to use four-letter words.

Sexual Disclaimer: No subtext. Seeing as this is alternative fan fiction, this would definitely make it main text. There're two women in here that are very much in love with each other, and not afraid to show it. Nothing is too graphic, promise.

Violence Disclaimer: Hm? combine a six-foot tall Amazon with some very annoying people and you're bound to end up with at least a little bit of anger, and quite a few bruises. There's some definite violence in here, and even a little description of the aftermaths of rape, but, as usual, not too graphic.

Author's Note: As always, a thank you to my best friend and beta-reader, Amber, and Charlene and Tina, for their support. You guys are great.

Turn your face to the sun and the shadows will fall behind you.

- Maori Proverb

Y02Mustang@AOL.com

Part 1

I still don't know what gave me the idea to take the long way home that night, but I'm glad I did. That's the night I met the love of my life. Of course, I didn't know it then?

It was a Friday, I remember that. I was driving my champagne-color Ford F-150 home from work, so it would've been about six-thirty at night. Work, for me, meant stocking shelves and fixing equipment or cars at Joe's Auto Shop. I stayed until six every night, and then closed up on Fridays, which would explain why I was only just driving home, when the sun had been gone for nearly half an hour.

Normally, I took the freeway, and arrived home in about twenty minutes. For some reason, God only knows why, I decided to drive through the back streets, which would tack an extra fifteen minutes on to my drive.

As I turned the corner, from Alexandra onto Tydings, my headlights illuminated an interesting scene. No, more like a disturbing scene. There, struggling on the pavement, was a young woman. I felt anger build within me when I noticed she was being attacked and pawed by three large men. Throwing my truck in park, I left it running so I could see by the light of my low beams.

"Hey," I called, approaching them, "leave her alone."

They stopped their attack and looked up at me, obviously surprised, and perhaps irritated, by the interference, glaring into my headlights to make out my silhouette.

"And just what are you gonna do about it, bitch?" one of them sneered, rising to his feet from the place where he had been kneeling next to the woman, holding her down.

I sighed. These guys must have been complete idiots - either that, or they had no idea where they were or who they were dealing with. I decided to give them a chance to save their lousy butts.

What can I say; I was in a good mood, all right?

"You guys better back off. What the hell are you doing in Amazon territory, anyway?" I demanded.

The Amazons was an all woman gang that ruled the East streets of Brickshire, Arizona. They were good fighters and stuck together like family. Identified by a feather in their hair and a tattoo on their left shoulder, the Amazons took after their ancient sisters. No men, save relatives or current 'conquests', were allowed to be in Amazon territory. At least, not safely.

I figured the thugs were thinking with their other brains - the one in their pants, if you know what I mean. I couldn't really blame them, though. From what I could tell, she wasn't a bad looking blonde?

"Man, is that a feather in her hair?" I heard one whisper.

I grinned. Stretching my six-foot frame, I tossed my head so the feather I wore braided in the left side of my jet black hair was clearly visible. Raising my hands to my mouth, I gave an Amazon call to the night, and received an answer within moments. Six powerful looking Amazons jumped out from the dark shadows, cornering the men.

"Out of Amazon territory!" one of them ordered, pointing angrily. The cowards took off like a shot, looking like they would need to change their shorts later.

"Are you all right?" I asked the woman, going to her side.

She nodded, and I helped her to her feet. She was a little shaky, and her blouse was torn in the back, but other than that she seemed to be unhurt. I felt relief wash over me that I couldn't explain - why was I so worried about a complete stranger? A beautiful stranger, but a stranger nonetheless?

"Thank you," she said, and shook my hand. "I'm Gabrielle."

I was about to introduce myself, when I heard, "Raven!" and turned around, only to face the leader of the Amazons.

"Cardinal," I said, fondly, and gave her a hug. "Thanks for your help."

"Hey, don't worry about it. How you been, girl?" she asked, pulling back to put a gentle hand on my arm. "Still getting into trouble?"

"You know me, C," I said, grinning.

The brunette smiled, her hazel eyes dancing. Cardinal was almost the same height as I was; she was one of the taller Amazons. "That's why I asked," she said.

I reached out and shoved her arm, playfully - she knew I would never hurt her, but five rather angry women immediately surrounded me. Each had a feather braided in the right side of their hair - a symbol of their rank.

The newer ones had a feather on the right, and after they proved themselves to be a "warrior", the emblem was braided on the left. Only the leader, Cardinal, had a feather braided on each side.

I had been a warrior for many years, and was Cardinal's right hand. Forever, she said. But, then again, we had a history?

"New Amazons?" I asked, an eyebrow raised, as she called them back. Even though my markings identified me as an Amazon, the newer ones who weren't too sure of me, and were protective of their leader.

"Yep. Later, Raven," said Cardinal, and the six disappeared into the night. Looking around, I realized I was not alone - Gabrielle was still there with me.

"What are you doing out here at night?" I asked. I noticed that I towered over her - she couldn't have been more than 5'5". Her blonde hair was cut short, and her green eyes looked a little frightened.

"Heading home," she replied. "I was out shopping and my ride left without me. Those guys took my stuff, but that's okay. They didn't get a chance to hurt me, because you pulled up," she added, smiling a little.

"I'll give you a ride," I offered. "Not safe out here after dark."

"Apparently," I heard her mumble, and I chuckled.

"Come on," I said, opening the passenger side door for her. Once she was in, I closed the door, and then walked around to my side. Climbing in the truck, I put it in gear, and asked her where she lived.

"Over on Thomas," she responded, and I was so surprised I nearly ran a stop sign.

"Thomas?" I exclaimed. The street was at least eight miles away! "You were gonna walk all the way to Thomas, alone, in the dark?"

She laughed a little at my concern for her, practically a complete stranger; it was a soft, gentle sound that floated through the air. It almost sounded familiar? How her laugh could sound familiar when I'd barely met her twenty minutes ago I had no idea, but nonetheless?

"No," she said, "I was only going to walk down to the bus stop."

"Oh," I said, quietly. There was silence for a moment, and she pointed out her house to me. It was a beautiful white mansion, with columns in the front, and French double-doors. At least three stories, I was in awe just looking at it from the front lawn!

"Listen, Raven," she began, as I pulled over against the curb, and I cut her off.

"Dakota," I said, feeling stupid. Here I had helped her out, given her a ride, and hadn't even introduced myself properly. "Raven is my Amazon name. My real name is Dakota Miller."

"Well, Dakota, I would pay you if I could, but? those men took my wallet," she admitted, sadly.

I shrugged it off. "I wouldn't accept it," I told her. "Tell you what. If you're gonna go around Amazon territory again, let me know," I said, scribbling my number on a piece of paper and handing it to her. "I can make sure you have protection."

Smooth, Dakota. Sounds like you're gonna give her a condom, CJ said. I had long since named my inner-voice CJ, which stood for Captain Justice, since she felt she always knew what was right. CJ's nickname was Annoying Little Shit, but I didn't use that one often, only when CJ was too right for her own good.

Oh, back off, CJ. I'm sure she didn't take it like that.

Gabrielle smiled, revealing a row of beautiful pearl-white teeth - it took an immense effort for me to keep from staring at her. She was gorgeous!

"Thanks," she said, slipping the paper in her pocket. Then, taking a business card and flipping it over, she took my pen and wrote her own number on the back. "If you ever need an attorney?" she said, grinning, handing me the card and returning my pen.

"Thanks again," she said, and then she was gone. I made sure she was safely inside the well-lit mansion of a house, before pulling away and driving home.

Making one last stop before going home, I entered my house and gave my German Shepherd Apollo a hug.

"Here you go, boy," I said, withdrawing a treat from the jar in the cabinet. Having him sit, lie down, and roll over, I gave him the biscuit with praise. The three-year-old pup barked happily, and then settled his head on my lap as we watched TV on the couch.

Apollo was my companion in the small house - more like a large apartment, actually - where I was staying. I say staying because I was working towards getting a mid-sized house, so, hopefully, I wouldn't be 'living' in the small quarters much longer.

I was nearly asleep when the phone rang, startling me. The Drew Carey Show always put me to sleep.

Picking it up on the third ring, I patted Apollo's head, since the sound had awakened him, and said, "Hello?"

"Is this Ms. Dakota Miller?" asked a man's voice.

I sighed heavily. Probably just another sales call, I thought.

"Depends on who's asking," I responded.

"This is George Johnson," he said.

I paused. Johnson, Johnson? why did that sound familiar? Digging into my jeans pocket, I pulled out the business card Gabrielle had given me. The front read:

"Gabrielle's father, right?" I guessed.

"That's right," he said. "I just wanted to thank you for saving my little girl, and to invite you over for dinner tomorrow night. You'll come, won't you?" George pleaded.

In the background, I heard Gabrielle say, "Daddy, don't pressure her!" and I grinned.

"Mr. Johnson, that's a very generous offer," I began, and he interrupted me before I could turn him down.

"I won't take no for an answer," he warned. "I'd like to meet the woman to whom I am forever indebted."

"Well, when you put it like that?" I said, and he chuckled. "All right, I can be there whenever you say."

"How about seven-thirty?" he suggested, and I agreed.

"Sounds great. What should I wear?" I asked, suddenly feeling a little nervousness in the pit of my stomach.

"Wear what you're comfortable with. It's just a casual family dinner, nothing special," George added.

"Thanks. See you tomorrow," I said.

"Goodnight, Ms. Miller," Mr. Johnson replied, and the line went dead.

He certainly is a generous man, I thought. If I get this kind of treatment just for stepping in to stop a fight that hadn't even really started yet, I wonder what he'd do if I actually did something worth commending?

Wow, dinner in a mansion. I hope I don't make a fool out of myself, I worried.

Don't worry, I'll help you with your manners, CJ chimed in.

"Thanks, buddy," I said, aloud.

Apollo glanced up at me, and nudged my chin, curious as to who I was talking to.

"Looks like I've got a dinner date at the Johnson's," I told him. He yipped at me, and I laughed.

Reaching for the phone again, I dialed quickly, and waited for the person on the other line to pick up.

"Hello?" asked the woman.

"Hi, mom," I said. "Listen, I know I said I'd be there tomorrow night, but I won't be able to make it."

"Why, honey? Is everything okay?" asked my mother, Patricia.

"I've got an appointment that I can't back out of," I explained. "I'm really sorry about this. Can you take care of things until Sunday?"

"Sure, dear. Don't worry about a thing, it's all right. I love you, Dakota. Take care, sweetheart," said Mom.

"I will. Love you, too, Mom. Here's the number," I said, reading her the number from the back of the business card. "I'll be there at about seven-thirty if you need anything. Bye."

"Goodbye, dear," she said, and we hung up.

"Let's go to bed, okay, Ap?" My dog trailing behind me, I changed into my boxers and a T-shirt, since Augusts in Arizona were fairly warm, and climbed under the covers. Apollo joined me on the bed, sleeping next to me on the extra pillow on my Queen-sized bed, and soon we were both asleep.

I woke up at five o'clock on Saturday morning, as usual. I was up at five no matter what day it was. Slipping on a tank top and a pair of sweat pants, I laced up my jogging shoes, and decided to let Apollo sleep. Usually he went jogging with me on my three-and-a-half mile run, but on the weekends I let him sleep in.

But I didn't really feel like going alone, so I decided to take Apollo with me, if he'd go.

You know, you spoil that dog. It's a weekend, and he knows it. If you asked him to go running, he'd look at you like you were crazy, said CJ.

Yeah, yeah, I know. But it's worth a shot, anyhow.

Don't say I didn't warn you? cautioned the voice.

"Apollo, you want to go running, boy?" I called, patting his head to wake him up. The dog looked at me with one eye, blew hot air threw his nose as if to say, "Yeah, right," and turned the other way.

"Fine, then," I said, "have it your way."

Told you so.

After my run, I returned home, and took a shower to rinse the sweat from my body. Checking my time, I grinned when I realized I was improving: twenty-seven minutes instead of thirty-two like last week. I kept in shape as best I could: I ran, lifted weights, used a punching bag, did martial arts, and so on. Being in the Amazons had made me get involved in my physical fitness - I began to get serious about working out more than ten years ago.

Sitting down to a bowl of Cheerios, I noticed Apollo was awake, and gave him his breakfast as well. When I was done eating, I washed my bowl, spoon, and juice glass and set them in the drain to dry. I didn't feel like drying them and putting them away just yet.

I picked up the phone and dialed Joe's Auto Shop. It was answered on the second ring.

"Joe's Auto Shop this is David, may I help you?" my friend answered.

"Clyde, this is Bonnie. Meet me 'round back and we'll blow this joint," I said, in my best gangster voice.

David laughed. "Hey, blue eyes," he said, knowing full well he was the only one who could call me that and get away with it. "Come on, now. We're starting trouble too early in the morning."

"It's never too early! After all, it's past seven," I pointed out. "Speaking of which, what are you doing answering phones? I thought Frank was supposed to open."

"Called in sick," he said. "I think he's got the flu. It's going around," he added.

"Need any help over there?" I offered. I had twelve hours to kill until I was expected at the Johnson's for dinner.

"No, thanks. I've got Jim and Larry working, and Steve said he'd be in later. See you Monday, I've got a customer," he said, hurriedly.

"Later," I replied, not wanting to keep him, and hung up.

What to do, what to do?

"What do you think, Apollo?" I asked, aloud. "I've got time to kill." His response was to pick up his leash and look at me, expectantly.

I laughed. "Oh, no, you don't. You didn't want to get your lazy butt out of bed this morning, and now you expect me to go running and get all sweaty after I already took my shower? I don't think so, mutt!"

Apollo whined, dropped his leash, and laid his head in my lap, giving me a pitiful look with his sorrowful brown eyes that melted my heart every time. Sometimes I think that dog was born with a gene that let his eyes go from 'casual' to 'melt'.

I sighed. "Oh, all right."

Wuss.

"You know I spoil you rotten, don't you?" I asked. He yipped victoriously, and got his leash, again, holding it in his mouth as he wagged his tail happily. He knew he had won.

"Let's go," I said, attaching his leash to his collar, "before I change my mind."

Two hours, five miles, and two fire hydrants later, Apollo and I returned. I felt alert and full of energy, while my companion was exhausted. As soon as we got inside, he dropped in a heap on the floor, and I laughed at him.

"That'll teach you," I said, peeling off my sweaty shirt. "You were the one who wanted to go - you didn't say how far!" He just rolled his eyes and went to sleep, choosing to ignore me.

I decided that I would indeed take another shower, as I needed it, but not until five or six p.m.

"I feel like a workout," I said, to no one in particular. After the run I felt the blood pumping through my veins and figured I would keep my heart rate up while I felt so energized.

Taking off my shoes, I stood in my sweat pants and tank top, my feet now bare. Tying my hair back in a loose ponytail to keep it out of my face, I bowed to my opponent - in this case, to the punching bag that was hanging in my weight room - and then assumed a defensive stance. Doing a roundhouse kick, I connected solidly with the bag, let my momentum carry me around, and met the swinging bag with a series of furious punches.

I had just begun my cool down exercises an hour and a half later, to slowly calm my racing pulse, when the phone rang. Ignoring it, I continued with my routine. I vaguely tuned in when the answering machine picked up, until I heard the voice.

"Hi, Dakota. This is Gabrielle Johnson, and I -" here the machine cut off because I was able to pick up the phone, after bounding over the back of the couch to reach it before she hung up.

"I'm here," I said, a little out of breath.

"I'm sorry, am I disturbing you?" she asked, sincerely. "You sound tired."

"No," I said, "I was just working out, that's all. What's up?"

"I just called to let you know that my father has decided to move the dinner up to five o'clock. He remembered this morning that he has a meeting to go to at seven, but he would still like to meet you," she added. "I'm sorry for the short notice."

Boy, she sure apologizes a lot, I thought.

Aloud, I said, "No, it's okay. I can make it; five is fine. So, are you okay? Those guys didn't hurt you?" I asked, just to be sure. I was worried about her, for some reason or another. Actually, she was about all I'd been able to think about all day, but I wasn't about to admit that to myself.

"I'm all right, thank you. And no, they didn't hurt me. They didn't even leave any bruises," she added, and I found myself grinning at this.

"Good," I said, and then there was an awkward silence. "Gabrielle?"

"Yes?"

"Uh, if I wear jeans and a T-shirt, is that all right?" I asked, suddenly realizing that I was fidgeting as I stood talking to her on the phone. Forcing myself to stand still, I concentrated on her response.

"Yeah, that's fine," she said, softly, setting my fears at ease just by the sound of her voice. "I'll see you in a few hours, then?"

"Do I need to bring anything?" I asked. I didn't want to show up empty handed if I was expected to bring a desert or something.

"Just yourself," she said, and I could hear her smile over the line, as I pictured it in my mind.

"What?" she asked, and I could hear a man's voice in the background, and realized she wasn't talking to me. "Daddy says for you to be here by four or four-thirty so he can talk to you before dinner."

There was a click as another phone on the same line entered the conversation. "I want to make sure you're the kind of woman who deserves my daughter's meat-loaf," George said.

"Daddy!" said Gabrielle, surprised, and a little upset by the statement that questioned my worth.

"Yes, sir," I said, respectfully, and then he hung up - it was just Gabrielle and I on the line again.

"Sorry about that," she said, and I waved it off.

"No big deal," I said. "Listen, Gabrielle, if you're not busy, I was wondering if you'd like to get a cup of coffee or something. I was thinking we could get together so I could know ahead of time what to expect tonight," I explained, lightly, and then mentally kicked myself.

Dakota, what are you doing? Like she'll really go anywhere when you're gonna see her tonight, CJ scolded. Come on! How much more freaking desperate can you sound??

"That's fine," she said, and I felt my heart leap.

Ha, CJ! In your face - she said yes!

"Where do you want to go?"

"Do you know where Candy's Coffee Shop is?" I asked, and she said she did. "How about we meet there around twelve?" It was only a little past eleven, and that would give us both time to get ready, if need be, and still get there on time.

"Sounds great. I'll see you then," she said.

"Bye," I said, and we hung up. I felt like I had just won the lottery. I leapt over the couch once more, and even considered turning on some music before I left. Then I caught myself.

Damn, girl, get a grip! CJ warned. You're not even going on a real date - like that'll happen with her anyway - and you're acting like a love-sick schoolgirl. You keep acting like this and she'll turn tail faster than you can blink. Relax, or you'll lose even a slight chance at her friendship for sure.

You don't want that, do you? CJ asked.

No, definitely not! I responded.

That settled, I forced myself to calm down, and then got dressed. Changing into my trademark outfit: black jeans, boots, and a black T-shirt, I ran a brush through my hair, and was on my way out the door.

Candy's Coffee Shop was a small building on the corner of Keith and Urban, surrounded by large office buildings that dwarfed the café. It was always busy, and almost always busy enough to be considered 'packed'. When I arrived at five minutes past twelve, the inside tables were all taken, and a sparse few were available at the outside eating area.

I found the blonde, sitting alone, quickly as I glanced through the crowed of people. She wore light blue jeans, sandals, and white cotton T-shirt - I thought she looked wonderful.

"Is this seat taken?" I asked, grinning as I touched the back of the chair in question.

She smiled up at me, and motioned for me to sit down. "No, have a seat," she said, and I obeyed. "This was a great idea."

"Yeah. Candy's has great coffee," I said, and the waitress came over to take our order. I looked to Gabrielle, allowing her to order first.

"Two banana-nut muffins, a cup of black coffee, decaf, and coffee cake," she said.

My mouth nearly dropped. How could such a little thing as the woman in front of me eat so much and yet stay so thin? And look so gorgeous? And?

"Ma'am?" prompted the waitress, calling me back from my musings. "What will you be having?"

Stop gawking at her and answer the lady!

"I'll have a blueberry muffin and a cup of your French Vanilla Cappuccino," I replied, and she scribbled it down on her pad of paper, before walking back inside the building.

"So," I said, breaking the awkward silence that arrived, "what do I need to expect tonight?"

"My father will probably sit you down in the den and ask you what happened last night," said the blonde, "and thank you over and over again. He's a little protective," she added, laughing. It was clear she and her father had a good relationship.

"Yeah, I gathered as much from the phone call. Any brothers or sisters I should know about?" I asked, sipping my cappuccino that the waitress had just delivered.

"Nope, it's just me," she smiled. "I'm an only child."

"And what do you do?" I asked. This had quickly gone from a quick chat to an in-depth conversation, but I wasn't complaining.

"I'm an author," she said, and I raised an eyebrow. "Well, not yet, but I've got some of my works ready to send to the publisher."

"Good luck," I said, and started in on my muffin, as she finished her first one. We talked for a long while, often forgetting about our food, we were so involved in our conversation.

I learned that her mother died when she was very young, due to cancer, so she and Mr. Johnson formed a father-daughter bond at an early age that had held strong through the years. She was twenty-six, five years my junior, and hoped to have two kids one day - one boy and one girl.

As she spoke, I noticed that she was sporting a bruise on her left cheek - which she had tried to cover up with make-up, and, upon closer inspection, an angry red mark on her wrist. I assumed they were consequences from her attack the previous night that I had failed to notice earlier, but didn't ask, for fear of upsetting the gentle blonde.

"Oh, shit!" I exclaimed, looking down at my watch. "Sorry," I said, when Gabrielle flinched at my language, "I don't usually curse." I only cursed aloud when I was upset. I cursed myself often, for making stupid mistakes.

Yeah, and me, too! CJ piped up. You cuss at me all the time!

That's 'cause you're annoying and you don't shut up, and no one can hear me when I cuss at you! I pointed out. CJ was silent; brooding, I supposed.

It was already three o'clock. I was planning on going home, taking a shower, changing into clean clothes, taking care of Apollo, and then calling my mom again - all before I left. If Mr. Johnson wanted me there by four-thirty, I was going to have to hustle to get it all done.

"I've got to go," I said, reaching for the check, but Gabrielle beat me to it.

"I'm sorry, Dakota. I didn't mean to keep you so long. Here, I'll get it," she said, taking the bill from me.

"You sure?" At her nod, I stood, and said, "Well, thanks. I'll see you later."

"See you tonight!" she called, earning a few strange looks from other customers as I walked away. I chuckled to myself at how oblivious she was to the implication of her words, at least to those who had their suspicions that all Amazons were gay simply because it was an all woman gang - which was not true.

As soon as I got home, I jumped in the shower, and quickly finished. I believe that was the fastest three-minute shower in history. Afterwards, I slipped on a pair of dark blue jeans and a white T-shirt, along with my brown cowboy boots. What can I say? I'm a cowgirl at heart.

Pulling on my second boot, I hopped over to the couch, and picked up the phone. Dialing the number to my mother's house, I waited impatiently as the answering machine answered.

"Hi, you've reached the Miller residence. The Miller's answering machine is broken, so this is the refrigerator. Leave your name and number, and talk real slow, and I'll stick your message to myself with one of these nifty magnets," was the message.

I chuckled. Mom's changed her message again, I thought.

"Hey, Mom, it's me," I said. "I just wanted to let you know that I'm gonna be over at the Johnson's a little earlier than I told you before. Mr. Johnson changed the time to five, but I'll probably get there around four or four-thirty. You've got the number," I said, but to be sure, I repeated it. "Uh, I'll call you when I get home, if it's not too late, to check up on you guys. Love you. Talk to you later," I finished, and hung up.

Making sure Apollo had food and water, I rushed out the door. Jumping in my truck, I hurried down the road, determined not to be late. When I arrived, I ran a brush through my hair to smooth it out a little, took a deep breath, and approached the door.

Inhale? exhale? inhale? exhale? CJ reminded, and I mentally rolled my eyes.

I was not too surprised when a butler answered my knock.

"May I help you?" he asked. He didn't look like an old man, but he had to be at least forty or fifty. He was dressed formally in a tux, and spoke with a soft voice, rather than the stiff Oxford accent I was expecting.

"Henry, this is the dinner guest I was telling you about," said a voice, and moments later, the man I assumed was Mr. Johnson appeared.

"Hi. Come on in," he said, warmly, shaking my hand. George couldn't have been more than 5'8'', but he had a thick crop of brown hair, and gentle brown eyes.

When I saw what he was wearing, I suddenly felt better, and my stomach began to untie itself. The man was dressed in dress pants and a nice white shirt, but he walked around in his socked feet - I remembered he had a meeting, and figured he would have been even less formal if not for his appointment.

"Thanks," I said. "This is a lovely house." From what I could tell, the mansion was enormous. Just the front hall was decorated with expensive looking art and the like, but it still had a homey feeling that made me more comfortable.

"Thank you. Now, why don't you come with me to the den, and we can talk while Gabrielle finishes with dinner?" he suggested, and I followed close behind him. I feared getting lost in the numerous rooms, doors, and hallways.

"Have a seat," he said, and I sat in the chair he advised. "So, tell me about what happened last night."

"There's really not much to tell, sir," I began, but stopped when he held up his hand.

"Call me George, please," he said, and I nodded.

Clearing my throat, I began again. "There's not much to tell, George. I was driving home from work, and came across your daughter. Three men were attacking her, so I intervened. I know the Amazons, so I called for their help, and they drove the men away," I said, shrugging.

Just then, Gabrielle came into the room. "Hi, Dakota," she said, cheerfully.

"Hey," I responded.

She walked over to her father, and smiled at him. "What kind of embarrassing things have you two talked about?" she asked, and George chuckled.

"Nothing, daughter. Not a thing. What are you doing out of the kitchen? Is dinner ready?" George asked, looking at his daughter, puzzled.

Gabrielle shook her head. "No, Stacy said she'd finish for me so I could visit with Dakota."

"When is John going to be here?"

"He should be here any time, now," replied Gabrielle, and I had a feeling in my gut that I was not going to like this 'John' fellow. Even the sound of his name got me uptight, and I hadn't even met him yet. Plus, Gabrielle didn't seem too pleased about his impending visit, although her father didn't notice her discomfort.

As if on cue, there was a knock on the door, and a few moments later, Henry led a guy that must have been John into the den. He was about 5'9'', I guessed, with short black hair, and hard, dark brown eyes that could have easily passed for coal.

"Gabrielle," he exclaimed, going to her and giving her a polite kiss on the cheek, before standing next to her. I observed that the blonde woman seemed to tense up a little when he was beside her, and didn't look as calm as before. I decided I would keep an eye on him, just to be sure.

What the hell is with you, Dakota? One unofficial date and you're already trying to protect her? Come on! It hasn't been that long? has it?

I ignored her.

"John, this is Dakota Miller," she introduced. "Dakota, this is my fiancée, John Victormen." We shook hands, and it felt like I was shaking hands with a fish. I didn't like the guy one bit, but I knew I had to be courteous.

"Nice to meet you," I said, and he nodded.

"And you. You're the one who saved my fiancée?" he asked, pointedly.

"Well, I wouldn't say save, but I helped her, yeah," I said, shrugging it off.

"Thanks," he said, and then turned to face his future father-in-law, discussing law terminology with him that I found as interesting as watching the grass grow. I felt a little unsettled that he thought I had saved his future wife, and all he felt was necessary was a brisk 'thanks', and nothing else.

I turned to Gabrielle, deciding she was much more interesting to talk to than any of the other people in the room. Much more interesting to look at, too?

Down, girl.

"How long have you and he been engaged?" I asked.

"Four months," she replied.

"How did you meet?"

"We didn't, actually. My father set us up together, thinking it would be a good match. He's a very nice man," she added. I wasn't sure who she was talking about, John or her father.

"What does he do?" I had no idea why I was so interested in the guy's life, when I already knew I didn't like him. I think I just wanted to talk to her, to hear her voice.

"He's a lawyer, also," she responded. "He works for my father's firm, that's how my dad met him."

A woman in a white outfit came to the door and announced, "Dinner is served." We all followed Mr. Johnson to the table. Gabrielle sat next to me, John across from her, and George at the head of the table. George and John continued their conversation about this law case and that client, so I turned my attention back to Gabrielle, choosing to comment on the food.

"This meat-loaf is delicious!" I said, and I wasn't exaggerating. If Gabrielle cooked this herself, I was wondering why she was a writer and not a chef.

"Thanks," said the woman, smiling. Stacy came into the dining room, and set a glass of wine by my plate. I moved my left arm so she could maneuver around and set one by Gabrielle's plate as well, and I heard the woman gasp. My shirtsleeve had gone up, and she glimpsed my tattoo.

"You're? you're an Amazon?" she stuttered, and I sighed. The feather may have been hidden in my hair, but there was no way to miss my tattoo. The mark of a sword crossed with a feather kind of gave it away. Yet another sign of my rank, the combining of the two items was surrounded by the outline of a fire. Cardinal's fire was in full color - status of leader. The newer members just had the sword and feather, no flame.

No, idiot! CJ said. She didn't like people treating me, or us, differently because of our companions. She just feels like wearing a feather in her hair and having the emblem of a gang tattooed on her arm for the hell of it! Some people? she seethed.

George gave the woman a hard stare, and she darted out of the room before I could reply. The man shifted his gaze to me, as if prompting an answer.

I resisted the urge to raise an eyebrow at him, because I knew I couldn't be as cocky as I was around most people. At least, not if I wanted to have a chance with Gabrielle, even as a friend - it wouldn't do for her father to be angry about my attitude.

"Well?" he demanded, and I looked down at my plate.

"I was an Amazon," I admitted. "But not anymore."

"You still bear the symbols of that clan?" asked John, rather disgustedly, and I looked up at him, sharply.

Damn straight, ass hole, I thought, and CJ backed me up.

"I am proud of the Amazon name I carry," I said, evenly.

"If you don't mind my asking, Dakota, why did you join and why did you leave?" asked Mr. Johnson, gently.

"I became an Amazon about ten years ago because I felt that I needed somewhere to fit in. The Amazons gave me that sense of family," I said. "I am very close to my mother, but my father passed away almost eleven years ago, and I needed to find my way.

"And the reason I left the Amazons, with all due respect, sir, is a personal matter," I said, and George nodded.

"What are they like?" questioned Gabrielle, softly.

"We are very protective of each other, and are as close as family. We watch out for each other, and, as you've seen, if one of us needs help, all we have to do is call. Even former Amazons, like me, can count on the others.

"There are harsh rumors going around about them, saying that they are homosexual freaks who practice unnatural acts on small children," I spat, not happy about the falsification I had heard about my friends.

"That is not true. Simply because we are an all woman gang does not mean we're all gay. We have a sisterly affection for one another," I said. "As for small children, being a band of women, our nurturing tendencies are very strong. We protect our children at all costs." I spoke this last bit tonelessly, because it was a very serious subject.

"It sounds like a very close-knit environment," remarked George, and I nodded.

"It is."

"Well, if you'll all excuse me, I have a meeting to prepare for. Dakota, it was nice to meet you, and thank you for coming." George stood as he spoke, and departed the room shortly. John and Gabrielle took off together, so I was left to mill around the house, looking at things that caught my interest.

As I was peering at a seemingly genuine piece of Egyptian papyrus, and the event that was portrayed upon it, I heard muffled shouts coming from a nearby room. Focusing my hearing, I followed the noise, and peeked in the door. I felt a little guilty for spying, but I felt even more anxiety to know what was going on - whatever was going on in there didn't sound good.

"You left me," Gabrielle said, quietly. She sat on the couch while John towered over her, ranting and raving.

"I told you to get your ass moving or I was leaving. I warned you!" he said, beginning to pace back and forth.

"I asked for five more minutes to look at the artwork," explained Gabrielle, gently.

"And I told you no! Damn it, woman, when will you learn to listen to me? Because of your disobedience, you were attacked, and the clothes you bought with my hard-earned money were lost!" As he shouted, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her to her feet, roughly.

Son of a bitch! I seethed.

"I'm sorry, John," said Gabrielle, tears forming in her green eyes, but the man continued as though he hadn't heard her. I noticed he was gripping her wrist terribly hard, and suddenly made the connection - the marks that I had seen at the coffee shop must have been from John, not the mugging.

Didn't she tell you over the phone that the guys didn't leave any bruises?

"And then you come home, star-struck by some gang member who stepped out of her truck and said a few words. I swear, if you get anymore stupid, I'll be sick!" he exclaimed. "Stop crying. I said stop!" When she tried to get her emotions under control, and failed, he drew his hand back and hit her hard across the face.

I saw red.

John, still restraining Gabrielle by the wrist, pulled his hand back to slap her again, but I stopped him. Charging in the room, I grabbed his arm, and held it still.

"What the hell are you doing?" he demanded, hotly.

"Don't hit her," I said, simply.

"What business is it of yours, Amazon?" he spat.

"It's my business if I make it my business," I declared. "If you ever harm her again, I'll show you an Amazon!"

"Is that a threat?"

"Damn right it is," I responded.

"She's my fiancée, and I'll discipline her as I see fit!" he said, and tried to get out of my grasp, but found it was a bad idea when I tightened my grip and twisted his arm a little, causing him to cry out in pain.

"I don't want to hear of you yelling at her or abusing her again, is that clear?" I demanded, and got a cold look in response. I twisted further. "Is that clear?" I repeated. John nodded, weakly, and I let him go. He dropped to his knees, and scurried away to lick his wounds.

"Gabby? Are you okay?"

Gabby? Where did that come from? I asked myself. I go from calling her 'Gabrielle' to 'Gabby'. Well, she apparently doesn't mind. I wonder how many more people call her that?

Gabrielle wiped her tears, and nodded. "Yeah, I'll be all right. You didn't have to interfere, Dakota."

"I am not going to stand here and let him hurt you!" I proclaimed, leading her to the couch where I got a closer look at her injuries. And her tear-stained face. I found I didn't like seeing either one, as it tore at my heart.

"Let me get you some ice," I suggested, but she put her hand on my arm and held me down. I felt a strange sensation go through me as I glanced down at her small fingers covering my forearm.

"No, it's okay," she said, and I got the idea this had definitely happened more than a few times. "I'll be okay by tomorrow morning."

"But ice now will help the swelling, and the pain." At my insistence, she allowed me to call for Stacy, who brought an ice pack immediately. Dismissing her, I tended to Gabrielle's wounds, as gently as I could. Taking my left hand, I placed it under her chin, and lifted her face. With my right hand, I touched the ice to her skin, making her gasp.

"Sorry," I said, softly. "Gabrielle, how long has this been going on?"

"What?" she asked, trying to play me off.

It didn't work. "You know what. The abuse; the beatings, the fights," I clarified.

Gabrielle sighed, removed the ice pack, and looked down. "Since before we were engaged."

"What? Why did you agree to marry him?" I asked, bewildered. "If you knew it was an abusive relationship, why stay with him?"

Dakota, stay out of it, stay out of it! cautioned CJ. This is none of your business, don't get involved!

"Because I knew it was what my father wanted. I just want to make him happy," she said.

"Gabby," I said, in the kindest voice I could muster, "listen to me. I'm sure your dad will be happy just knowing that you are happy. I want you to promise me that you'll talk to him about what's going on. Promise me," I repeated, when she was silent.

"I promise," she whispered, a tear running down her cheek. I instinctively gathered her into my arms, and cradled her as she cried. To my surprise, she did not pull away - she allowed the contact, and even wrapped her arms around me. I think she just needed a hug, and I was more than happy to oblige.

"Oh, Dakota, I'm sorry," she exclaimed, pulling back to reveal a mark on my T-shirt from her tears. "I've ruined your shirt."

"That's all right," I said, "it's not ruined." I was going to continue to console her, when the phone rang. I glanced at Gabrielle, who made no attempt to pick it up. A few moments later, Stacy entered the room once more.

"Miss Miller? There's a phone call for you," she said. Gabrielle picked up the phone on the table and gave it to me.

"Hello?" I asked, knowing immediately who it was.

"Dakota, dear, this is your mother," said my Mom.

"Hi, Mom. What's wrong?"

"Nothing, really. I just wanted to let you know that we had a little accident today," she said, and I felt my heart beat increase.

Oh, shit. Accident? What kind of accident?

I must have paled, because Gabrielle put a hand on my shoulder.

"Mom, what happened? Is Nicholas okay?" I demanded, frightened, gripping the phone tightly.

My son was the most important thing in my life. He was seven-years old, and deaf. He stayed with my mother during the week, and I usually picked him up on the weekends, because no school nearby could meet his needs. My mother transported him to a school an hour away so he could get his education, while I worked to help pay for the cost of his school - a price my mother shared, thankfully. I doubt I'd have been able to pay for it all on my own.

The idea that he could be hurt had me scared out of my mind.

"We went to the park today, and Nick fell. He just got a little scraped up, nothing serious. I just thought you'd like to know before you, as he put it, 'flipped' when you came to pick him up tomorrow," she explained. "And I wasn't sure I'd get a chance to talk to you in the morning, so I called the number you left on the answering machine."

I let out a breath I didn't realize I had been holding. "Are you sure he's all right?"

"He's fine, dear. A little cut above his eye, and that's it," she said. "Nothing worth even putting a Band-Aid on."

"Okay. Well, thanks for calling, Mom. I'll talk to you later. Love you," I said. My mother returned the sentiment, and we hung up.

"Is everything all right?" asked Gabrielle, concerned.

I nodded. "Yeah. My mom just called to say that my, uh, nephew got hurt when he fell today. I worry about him a lot," I said, lamely.

Nephew? Oh, that was good, said CJ. You know, I think I'm the only one up here? Yep, nothing else in this head of yours. Well, wait, maybe I see a small brain over there?

Gabby raised an eyebrow, but didn't challenge the truth of my statement.

"So, you'll talk to your father tomorrow, right?" I prompted, changing the subject.

"I can't. He'll be researching his case all day, especially after his meeting tonight. He usually goes to his office to do that," she added.

"When can you talk with him?" I asked. I had a strong urge to talk with the man myself, but knew I had to let Gabby take care of it.

"John will be here tomorrow, so I certainly can't do it then, but maybe Monday," she guessed.

"Wait, you mean John will be here with you tomorrow? While your father is gone?" I asked, startled. I didn't want her alone with him until the problem was solved.

There you go with that protective streak again, CJ sighed.

Shut up, I told the irritating little voice. I'm gonna watch over her and that's that.

Gabrielle nodded.

"No," I said. "Stay with me. I can pick you up in the morning, and you can stay until you get a chance to talk with your father. Please, Gabby. I don't want you here alone with him," I admitted.

Helloooo! Anyone in this head besides me? That small brain I saw just disappeared! Dakota, can you say "Nicholas"? You know, that cute little blonde kid you call son? Okay, it goes like this: weekend, Dakota, Nicholas, together! Don't invite her over, dummy!

I ignored the caution.

"Dakota, I couldn't ask you to do that. I appreciate the offer," she said, but I cut her off.

"Please."

She sighed, knowing I had my heart set. "As long as you're sure it's no trouble. I don't want to impose," she said, and I shook my head, barely keeping a grin off my face.

"Don't worry about it. I'll be here at eight, is that okay?" She nodded, and I stood to leave. "See you then." I was a little surprised when she gave me a hug as I left, but I returned the gesture. I think I may have let it linger a little too long, but she didn't seem to notice.

When I got home, I called my mother; I had to tell her that I wouldn't be able to pick Nicholas up for our usual visit.

"Okay, Dakota," sighed my mother. "Who is she?"

Busted?

"Who?" I asked, playing innocent.

"You only miss a weekend with your son when you've met someone very important. And that doesn't happen very often. Almost never, in fact," she added.

My mother had known of my lifestyle since the time that I was a teenager. She respected it, and, thank God, accepted me for it. I knew I was caught.

"Her name is Gabrielle. I'm letting her stay with me tomorrow because she's in an abusive relationship and I don't want her to be alone right now," I explained.

"Does she know?"

"No," I sighed. Whether she meant my preference or my son, I wasn't sure. But it didn't matter - Gabrielle didn't know about either one.

"Does she feel the same way?"

I shrugged. "I don't think so, seeing as she's engaged to some jerk named John," I said, stiffly.

"Oh, Dakota. I'm sorry, honey. Listen, if you need to talk, I'm here, okay?" she offered, gently.

"Thanks, Mom. I'll talk to you later. Give Nick a kiss for me." We said our good-byes, and hung up.

Well, now that I'm depressed? I knew I was fooling myself by even considering a relationship with Gabby, but when Mom said it, I knew it was bad.

Didn't I tell you not to get involved? You didn't need your mother to tell you that you have no chance with the girl, said CJ.

Thanks for your confidence, CJ, it means so much to me, I replied, sarcastically.

"Hey, Apollo," I said, ignoring any further comments from the peanut gallery, as the dog nudged my hand, helpfully. "What do you say we have ourselves a late night snack and go to bed?" The dog barked in agreement, and followed me into the kitchen.

After a meal of Oreos and a cold glass of milk, I crawled into bed, and fell asleep with my arm around my dog.

The following morning, after my run and my shower, I hurried to eat breakfast and get dressed. Telling Apollo I'd be back soon, I hopped in my truck and drove quickly to the Johnson's residence.

I was a little surprised when Gabby answered.

"Hi," I said, grinning awkwardly.

"Morning," she said. "You know, you're lucky I agreed to this. I'm normally not a morning person."

My eyes widened. "You should've said something. I could've come later," I said, feeling bad that I had bothered her.

She just laughed, putting her hand on my arm casually as she stepped outside. My heart fluttered, and I had to remind myself to breathe. "It's all right," she said. "I'm going!" she called into the house.

"Be safe, miss!" Stacy called.

"You'd better be back here by dinner," said John, eyeing me coldly as she closed the door. I raised an eyebrow and bit my tongue to keep from dishing out a sarcastic or angry remark.

I went to open the door for her, but resisted since Gabby was way ahead of me. Climbing in beside her, we made small talk until my house came into view.

"This is it," I said, lightly. It was nothing compared to the comfort she was used to, I knew, but I hoped she wouldn't be too disappointed.

"It's beautiful," she said, stepping outside to examine my small garden. "Did you do all this yourself?" I nodded. I had a few roses, hibiscus, dandelions, and three cacti growing in my yard.

"This is wonderful, Dakota. Maybe you can help me with this stuff," she said. "I'm kind of a black thumb."

"Sure," I said, smiling. "Come on in. You can meet my 'special guy'," I joked, and watched a look of caution cross her face. I laughed. "I'm kidding."

Apollo bounded out of my bedroom, intent on greeting me, but stopped short when he saw Gabby. "Apollo, this is Gabby," I introduced, making sure he wouldn't attack her, although he wasn't known to do so without my command. "She's my friend. Be nice," I added, leaning into his ear.

He walked up to the blonde to inspect her with a hearty slobber-kiss on the arm. I was about to scold the pup, when Gabrielle laughed and kneeled next to him, rubbing his ears vigorously. Apollo liked his new friend, and knocked her over, nearly drowning her in dog slobber. Figuring she'd had enough, I called Apollo to me, and offered a hand to help her up. She accepted, and I hauled her to her feet.

Our eyes locked, and for a moment, neither of us moved. Then, I released her hand, and looked away, hoping she couldn't see the slight flush that I knew had risen in my cheeks.

"He certainly is friendly," she said, laughing.

I grinned. "Yep," I said. "He's only about three years old, so he's still got some of the playful pup left in him. Apollo's a pretty good dog, though," I added, and the dog barked his agreement.

"So, how about the grand tour?" I offered, and Gabby nodded. "This is the kitchen, you can see the cobwebs from years of being neglected." She laughed. "To your right you'll see the living room, complete with TV, VCR, and CD stereo system," I said, in my best tour-guide voice.

Oh, my God. Dakota, you're embarrassing me! cried CJ. Wait? us, you're embarrassing us!

We continued through the house, and I immediately kicked myself as we moved down the hallway, closer to Nick's room. I'd forgotten that she didn't know about him yet - she thought he was my nephew. I casually skipped that room, and thanked every God I could think of that she didn't ask why. I didn't know what she would say if I told her. I didn't want her to think less of me for not staying with him, nor did I want her to ask the questions she was sure to have.

"Dakota?" she called, waving her hand in front of my face. "Earth to Dakota!"

I blinked. "What? Oh, sorry," I said, with chagrin. "I was off in my own little world. What'd you say?"

She grinned. "I was just wondering where you went," she said. I raised an eyebrow as her stomach growled. "I didn't have breakfast," she explained.

"I'm sorry!" I exclaimed, apologetic. How could I have been so inconsiderate?!

Not everyone eats at six in the morning, Dakota!

"Would you like something to eat?"

Dumb question. Her stomach growled, dip-shit, do you think she's tired?

"I'm afraid I don't have much, but you're welcome to it." I led her to the kitchen as I spoke.

The phone rang, and I said, "Help yourself to whatever you'd like. I'll be right back." I hurried over to the phone, barely picking it up before the machine got it, hoping it wasn't my mother with bad news.

"Hello?"

"Dakota? This is George Johnson," said the man.

Well, it's certainly not my mother, I thought with a grin.

"Hello, sir," I said, and then remembered what he told me. "I mean, George," I corrected, quickly, to his amusement.

He chuckled. "I hear you've kidnapped my daughter. Can I speak with her, or do you need to demand a ransom first?" he joked.

While I seriously considered the idea of having Gabby with me, CJ began muttering something about me being hopeless. "Hang on a sec," I said, taking the phone into the kitchen, where Gabby was busy preparing a bowl of cereal and fixing some toast.

"It's your Dad," I said, and she took the phone from me, anxiously.

"Daddy? Are you okay?" she asked. "Yes, she invited me over?Yes, it's lovely! And her - oh, you do? Where?? How long will you be gone this time?? So you'll be back in a few days? Okay? I love you, too. Bye, Dad," she said, turning the phone off and handing it to me.

"Is everything okay?" I asked, sitting down beside her.

"My dad's going on a business trip," she said. "He won't be back until Wednesday, maybe a little later, depending on how everything goes. He usually stays for about three days."

I cursed under my breath. "That means you won't be able to talk to him about John until then," I said, angrily.

"It can wait," she said, timidly.

"No, it can't!" I said, and lowered my voice when she flinched. "It can't. Gabby, you deserve to be happy. I think your father would want you to be happy." I want you to be happy. "If he knew what was going on, I'm sure he would approve of calling off the wedding," I added.

"I just know it would crush him," said the blonde, looking sad. "He thinks the world of John and our engagement."

"But he can't expect you to stay in a relationship like that," I insisted. "Listen, Gabby, stay here. You're welcome to stay as long as you need," I said, sincerely. If her father was going to be away, that meant she would be alone with John for three days - something I refused to stand by and let happen if I could help it.

"Dakota, normally I wouldn't even consider the idea. I don't know why, but I feel like I've met you before, like I've been friends with you for a long time," she said, and I nodded - she felt the familiarity between us, too. "I need to get some clothes, but I'll stay. Just until Wednesday," she added. "I wouldn't want to wear out my welcome."

The word never stuck on my tongue, and I bit it back. It wouldn't do to embarrass myself, or make her uncomfortable.

After breakfast, Gabby found (and raided) my video stash. We spent the morning, and most of the afternoon, watching the horror flicks I loved, like Scream 1 and 2, and I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Well, perhaps I should correct myself: Gabby watched the movies, and I found myself watching her. Her expressions changed from slight humor, to being startled, to out-right fear. At this point, I called it to a halt and asked if she was sure she wanted to watch them.

She nodded, and looked at me, kindly. "I'm fine, Dakota," she assured. "I love horror movies. Don't worry." I gave her the remote control, in case she wanted to turn it off at any point.

As the movie came to a close, around twelve-thirty, the phone rang. Picking it up, I motioned to Gabby that she didn't have to turn the volume down, and said, "Hello?"

"Hello, Dakota," greeted my mother.

I sat up a little straighter. "Mom, what's wrong?" She almost never called when she knew I had company over, unless something was wrong; like someone was hurt.

"Nothing, dear. Nicholas is fine," she said, and I released the breath I had been holding. "He just told me that he has this week off from school."

"What? Why?" I asked, confused.

"Dakota, you know the schedules they have for that system," she said. "On for two months, off for a week. I had forgotten that this was the week, but he reminded me, so I thought I'd better let you know."

"Thanks, mom. I can pick him up in the morning. I may take tomorrow off work, anyway," I said. "Joe owes me a few days of relaxation."

"Are you going to tell Gabrielle?"

I sighed. "I guess I have no choice, since she'll be here until Wednesday." I had no desire to withdraw the invitation that I had extended to the blonde, so the only other option I had was to tell her about my son.

You could always tell her something came up, suggested CJ. You don't have to tell her everything about you, you know.

CJ, relax. I have to do this; I don't want her to be there with John, where he can hurt her. I'm sure Nicholas will get along well with her.

Yeah, but what will she think of Nicholas? CJ asked, and I sighed.

"Call if you need anything," said my mom.

"Thanks, Mom, I will. See you tomorrow." We said our good-byes, and I hung up to find Gabrielle staring at me, with a curious look on her face. I think she knew I was talking about her.

"I should go," she said. "You have other things you need to do that are more important."

Important? Yes. More important? Not likely?

I shook my head. "No, please don't. You're fine. I? I just need to talk to you." A look of caution crossed her features, and she seemed afraid. I don't know what she thought I was going to tell her, but she had obviously conjured up something bad.

"It's not you," I reassured her. "Gabby, I haven't been completely honest with you. I wasn't sure how you'd react." She raised an eyebrow, and now looked rather suspicious. I didn't blame her - this wasn't going smoothly at all.

You make it sound like you're going to tell her you've got a dead body hiding under your bed, Dakota, deadpanned the voice.

More like skeletons in my closet, I corrected, wryly.

"Remember how I told you that my mother called about my nephew, Nicholas?" She nodded. "Well, he's not really my nephew." I took a deep breath and forged on. "He's my son." I tried to gauge Gabrielle's reaction by her facial expression, but got nothing.

There was silence, and then, "Why didn't you just tell me?"

"Well, you see, that's not the half of it," I mumbled. "I didn't know what you'd say or what you'd think of me. I mean, since I'm not married, never have been, and he doesn't know his father. He's never met him," I admitted.

"Where is his father, Dakota?" she asked, gently.

"State prison," I responded, and watched her eyes grow wide. I continued, answering what was sure to be her next question. "For rape."

"You?" she whispered, and I nodded.

"He was someone I had considered a friend, who took advantage of me when the opportunity arose. Nicholas is the only good thing to come out of that," I said, hanging my head. Even after seven years, it was still hard for me to talk about it - no matter how vague, and I had never really gone in detail.

"How awful," she voiced, placing her hand on my shoulder. "I think you're very brave, Dakota." I glanced up at her, skepticism all over my face. "No, it's true. You had the courage to keep your child, despite the circumstances surrounding his conception. That takes guts.

"So," she said, after a pause, "do I get to meet him?"

I nodded. "He's on vacation this week, so I'll pick him up from my mother's house tomorrow morning."

"Tell me about him," she said, somewhat cheerfully.

"He's seven years old," I began, "and tall for his age. He has blue eyes and blonde hair, and he's deaf." She didn't seem to be disturbed by this fact, so I continued, "My mom takes him to his school in Tucson while I work. I see him about every weekend, and whenever he has a vacation.

"He really enjoys his classes, he has a lot of friends, and being deaf has never been a problem for him. He's never called it a handicap, and he corrects anyone who does, saying it's just what makes him more 'special' than other kids. Apollo just adores him, and Nicholas has been doing very well with teaching him to obey sign," I said, and I'm sure it was obvious how much I loved my son.

"Nicholas sounds very nice," she said. "I'm looking forward to meeting him."

"When do you want to get your things for the next few days?" I asked. I didn't want to go while Nicholas was at the house, because I worried about leaving him alone, and I doubted he would feel comfortable going into a mansion with strange hearing people who had no idea who he was. And yet, I didn't want to rush Gabrielle.

"I should probably get it over and done with as soon as I can," she sighed. "Is later this afternoon okay?" I nodded. With that settled, we went back to our movie watching.

When the movies had been exhausted, Gabby made delicious tuna salad sandwiches for us both, despite my objections that she was the guest and I was supposed to wait on her. She insisted, and I found that Apollo wasn't the only one with eyes that turned to 'melt'; her green eyes could get so soft and pleading, I couldn't say no.

In the end, I was glad she had persisted - they were much better than anything that I could have thrown together.

"Thanks, Gabby," I said, appreciatively. "This is terrific!"

"Thanks," she beamed. "When my mom died, I took it upon myself to learn how to cook so I could help my dad. And I made sure dinner was ready whenever he came home."

"Wait, didn't you have the servants?" I asked, as I finished my sandwich.

"Yeah," she said, "but it was something they understood that I wanted to do for him, so they only helped me when I didn't know what to do." I nodded; I could see a young Gabrielle looking to make her father proud.

After lunch, she decided it was time to get her clothes. We climbed in my truck and I drove her to her house. I walked in with her, and followed close behind. As I expected, John greeted us in the hallway.

"Gabrielle," he admonished, "where are you going? Dinner will be ready in a little while."

"I won't be here for dinner," she informed him. "I'm staying with Dakota until Dad gets back from his business trip."

I pretended to be preoccupied with a painting on the wall, all the while listening intently. If he made a move towards or her raised his voice, I'd be between him and Gabby in a flash, taking the blow if need be.

"I told you to be back by dinner, and I meant it!" he said.

"I invited her to stay, and I meant it," I spoke up, evenly.

"You stay out of this," he hissed. "This is between Gabrielle and myself."

"As long as you don't hurt her, I'll keep out of it," I warned. "But the moment you take a swing at her, you're mine." John glared at me, trying to stare me down. It didn't work, and he looked away after a short while, under the guise of turning his attention back to Gabrielle.

"I'm going to be your husband, Gabrielle. You'd better get used to obeying me," he said, and I clenched my fists, quite unhappy with the commanding tone he was using.

"You're not going to get a chance," said the blonde, "because I'm calling off the wedding."

I could have sworn I heard the *thud* as John's jaw hit the floor.

"W-what?" he stuttered, shocked.

"There's not going to be a wedding, John," she said.

"Why?"

"Because you don't love me? and I don't love you," she finished, gently.

The anger flashed in his eyes, and I could tell he was upset as he watched his reputation diminish to diddly-squat before his very eyes. He, stupidly, pulled his hand back to hit her, and probably try to knock some sense into her.

His first swing connected before I had time to stop it, and sent Gabrielle reeling into the wall and onto the floor. His next attempt, however, was foiled as I caught his fist. John tried to wriggle out of my grasp, and then made a lame endeavor at a left hook, which I dodged easily.

"Huh-uh," I said, gripping his knuckles tightly, restraining him from any further advancement upon myself or Gabby. "I said no hitting. Now, apologize." He stared at me, defiantly, so I added more pressure. "I said, apologize to the lady, you piss-poor excuse for a man."

"Sorry," he mumbled, eyes at the ground.

"What was that?" I demanded, twisting his arm so hard he bit his lip.

"I said fuck you, you bitch," he spat, angrily, his eyes boring into my own.

"I thought so." Grabbing his arm with both hands, I brought it behind his back, and applied enough pressure to nearly dislocate his shoulder, making him howl in pain. I didn't want to completely dislocate it, because that would mean he would be able to go to the hospital and get it put back in place. If I just overextended it, he would be in pain, and would have to wait it out.

Very nice, very nice, commended CJ. Make him suffer? I like the way I make you think!

"Dakota, please!" exclaimed Gabby, and I looked over to see her pleading with me, a tinge of fear in her green eyes.

I knew when I was angry I had a tendency to go on a rampage, but I never knew how bad I could be. Not wanting to upset the blonde further, I released the scum, and watched with contempt as he stood to face me once more.

"John?" I warned, "don't do anything stupid."

CJ sighed. Dakota, telling that bozo not to do anything stupid is like telling a dog not to scratch his fleas. I agreed with her, and had to hide a smirk.

"The only stupid one here is you, Amazon. You can't come in here, interfere with my life, and expect to get away with it!" he said, shouting, spittle flying in his rage.

"And you expect to get away with beating my friend?" I demanded.

"You've known her for two days! You don't even know her, not really. You'll get tired of her annoying, irritating personality soon enough," John said.

Yeah, right.

Hey, you never know. Maybe he's right. You shouldn't jump in so fast, said CJ.

Shut up.

"We'll be leaving soon," was all I said, and he smirked as he watched us walk down the hallway, my hand unconsciously going to Gabby's shoulder.

"Don't say I didn't warn you!" he called. "When you get tired of the bitch, send her home. I'll set her straight."

I silently counted to ten, willing myself not to go back and set him straight. The feeling of Gabby's hand over my own, as she squeezed it softly and gave me a quick smile, shed any other thought from my mind.

Dakota! Hey, Dakota! A little air would be nice up here. Breathe, girl! Breathing is a silly little necessity, and if you lose it at this level, you'll die if she ever gives you a kiss on the cheek, CJ said. I'm too young to die, Dakota, so get a grip!!

I shook my head and stepped forward, following Gabby into her room, helping her pack her things. When she had all she needed, we started back out to my truck, and I carried most of her bags, having her lead the way. John was nowhere to be seen.

I put her bags in the back of my truck, and climbed in the driver's side, joining Gabby, who was seated quietly on the side opposite me.

"Are you okay?" I asked, softly. I was upset to see that she would more than likely have another bruise on her beautiful face.

"I'll be fine," she said, and I heard her sniffle. I put my hand on her back, supportively, and she smiled up at me, keeping her emotions in check as she swallowed the tears.

Nothing more was said until we reached my house, and she asked me where to put her things.

"You can set them in my room," I said, and she started. "It's a little messy," I said, wondering why she'd had that reaction, "but I think it'll be okay. If not, I can?"

"No, Dakota," she said, softly. "It's not that, I'm sure it's fine. It's just? I don't want to take your bed. Where will you sleep?"

"I'll crash on the couch," I said, and CJ decided he had been quiet for too long.

You really are whipped, aren't you? she sighed. You've never given your bed up for anyone!

There's a first time for everything, CJ, I responded. I've never been in love before, either.

Whoa! Where did that come from, Dakota? Love?? Put your head on straight, girl! scolded CJ, and even I was surprised at my own admission.

But I had no more time to ponder my slip, because Gabby called me back into reality.

"Dakota, this is too much!" she said, setting her things down in the corner of my bedroom. I didn't know what she was talking about; all I had was my bed, a nightstand, two dressers, and my closet. Not much to brag about, I thought.

Then I saw what she was looking at: my wall. In all the available space, I had painted horses in various positions. Some were standing, running, kicking, and there was one with a mother and her newborn foal.

"This is beautiful," she said, breathless.

I grinned. "I like it," I said. "It took me almost a month."

She turned to face me, awe all over her face. "You did this?" she asked, and I nodded, modestly. "You are a great artist! You really have talent," she said, and I smiled.

Okay, Dakota, take it easy, said CJ. I'm hot up here? you're blushing!!

I shook my head, and bent down to help her with her bags, trying to hide my face until the redness left my cheeks. I set the three suitcases up on my bed, saying, "You can put your things wherever you're comfortable with. If you need to move anything around or whatever, help yourself. I'll be in the living room if you have any questions."

She nodded, and went to work unpacking, so I gave her some privacy. I decided to get the couch ready for my sleeping arrangements, placing sheets and a blanket on one end.

Okay, Dakota, said CJ, as I sat down on the couch, we need to talk. That was just a slip of the tongue, uh, mind, earlier, right?

I don't know for sure, CJ, I admitted.

I mean, tell me you're not really in love with this girl, when you know she doesn't feel the same way, she scoffed.

I sighed. "I don't know," I mumbled, aloud.

"Dakota? Did you say something?" called Gabby, and I jumped.

"No, it's okay. Just talking to myself," I said, and she was quiet.

I picked up the phone, deciding it was time to call in. I dialed five digits of the shop number, before remembering it was Sunday, and Joe's was closed. I hung up, and then dialed David's home number.

"Hello?" answered the man.

"Hey, Clyde," I said, and he chuckled.

"Hi, Dakota. What's going on?" he asked.

"I just called to let you know that I won't be in for a few days. Probably until Wednesday or Thursday," I said.

"Why?"

"I've got company," I explained, "and she can't go home."

Oops, you said 'she'. Now David's gonna hound you? said CJ.

"She? I see?" he said, letting his voice trail off, and I sighed.

"Give me a break, David," I said, and he chuckled, again. "She needs a place to stay, so I said she could crash with me for a while."

"Sure, sure," said the man, and I rolled my eyes. David was the only one at work who knew I was gay, and always gave me a hard time about it, but I didn't mind. We'd been friends for years, and I knew I could trust him not to tell anyone.

"So, what's she like?"

"Not that tall, with blonde hair, and the deepest green eyes I've ever seen," I gushed, before I could stop myself.

"You guys together?"

"No."

"I give it five days. A week, tops," he said, and I groaned.

"Will you stop judging my love life?" I pleaded, but laughed.

"Listen, I've got to go," he said. "Wife wants me to mow the grass, and I haven't done it yet. I'll let Joe know you'll be off until Thursday. Do me a favor and stop in around noon tomorrow, all right? I want to talk to you," he added.

"Okay," I agreed. "Talk to you later." We said our good-byes, and I hung up the phone.

Gabby emerged a little while later, announcing, "All done!" with a grin on her face.

"Good," I said, "now, come here." She sat beside me on the couch, and I took her chin in my hands, turning her head so I could see the newest bruise she was portraying. I touched the mark with my fingertips, gently, and heard her gasp.

"Sorry," I apologized, and pulled back. "Do you want any ice? Or some Tylenol?" She shook her head, and looked down.

"I really appreciate this," she said, and I shrugged. "But, now John knows I'm going to call off the wedding. I just hope he won't tell my father before I get the chance to talk to him."

"Even if he does, I'm sure your father will want to talk to you, too," I assured. "You'll have your time to talk with him.

"Well," I said, getting to my feet, "I need to get some things ready for Nicholas' visit."

She stood. "Is there anything I can do to help?" she asked, and I paused for a moment, before nodding.

"Take this," I said, handing her a cord, "and put it in that outlet over there, with the lamp."

"Okay," she said, and did as I instructed. "What does that do?" she asked.

"Watch." Opening my door, I rang the doorbell, and the lights in the house came on for three seconds, off for two, and then on for three again. "This way Nicholas knows when someone rings the doorbell.

"The phone is also hooked up to a similar system, only the lights flash repeatedly when it rings," I explained, and she smiled.

"So, even though he can't hear the doorbell or the phone, he knows when it's making noise," she said, and I nodded.

"I have a button in my room that leads to his bed," I added. "There is a small box under his pillow that vibrates and wakes him up, if he sleeps in, or if I need anything. He has one that does the same thing to me," I finished.

Sitting back down on the couch, I grabbed the remote control, turned on the TV, and hit a few buttons. Calling up the menu, I selected what I wanted, and then turned back to the regular screen. A small black box with white words appeared at the bottom - Closed Captioning.

"This way he can watch his morning cartoons," I said, grinning. Nicholas loved watching his programs, but knew not to turn it up too loud, even by accident, so he put it on Mute as soon as he turned it on.

"This is great," she said. "I've heard about things like this, that help deaf people get along easier, but I've never actually seen how they work."

"Would you like to learn sign language?" I offered. "We can start with the alphabet."

Since when do you offer sign language lessons, Dakota? asked CJ.

Since now, I replied. Teaching her sign means I get to put my hands on hers! This is gonna be great!

Oh, brother?

Gabby gave me a strange look for a moment, but then nodded. "Okay," she said, and I spent the next few hours going over the letters and numbers with the blonde. She learned quickly, and by the time our pizza arrived - I had called earlier, when her stomach became insistent - she could finger spell very well, and knew all the numbers up to thirty.

I was impressed.

"You learn quickly," I said, and she smiled. She was about to say something, when the lights flashed and the doorbell rang. I got up and answered the door, paying the young man and leaving him a moderate tip, before returning with the medium pepperoni pizza.

We spent the rest of the night talking, just relaxing in each other's company, and enjoying the friendly atmosphere.

God, CJ, I can't remember the last time I've been so at ease with someone.

I can, said the voice, oh-so-helpfully. It was Blair, and you know what happened with her. She was so nice and gentle, and then she?

"Dakota, are you okay?" asked Gabby, putting her hand on my arm. "You kind of zoned out on me there for a minute. You had a really strange look on your face," she added, and her green eyes looked worried.

"Sorry," I said, with more clip than I had intended, and she pulled her hand back, swiftly. "I'm sorry," I repeated, softer. "I just got lost in my thoughts." She nodded, and went back to her pizza, but I caught her looking at me out of the corner of her eye from time to time.

"Well," I said, at about nine-thirty, "I think I'm ready to turn in."

"Thanks for everything, Dakota," she said, getting to her feet. We had been sitting on the floor as we chatted. "I'll see you in the morning."

"Good night," I said, and she echoed the same, before closing the door to my room softly behind her.

I sprawled out on the couch, putting my hands behind my head, staring up at the ceiling before I went to sleep.

Damn it, CJ, I said, why'd you have to get me thinking about Blair again? I haven't thought about her for years.

Well, I'm sorry, she sneered, but you brought up the subject of being relaxed. I just jogged your memory a little. Do you see why I told you not to get involved? Gabby is just like Blair -

No, she's not! I protested. Gabby is for real, CJ, I can feel it.

CJ continued as though I hadn't interrupted her. - She acts all nice and sweet and polite, and then when you start trusting her, WHAM!! She crushes all your dreams, and brings you lower than you've ever been before.

Gabby isn't like that, I insisted. She and Blair are two different women entirely.

Is that so? And is that why John warned you about her?

John doesn't know what he's talking about. I didn't think you liked John?

I don't, said CJ. But that doesn't mean he can't be an ass hole, and know the truth about Gabrielle, she pointed out.

Shut up, I sighed. I don't want to think about this anymore. I'm going to sleep.

Nothing more was said, and an hour later, I fell into a restless sleep.

The next morning, I woke up at six o'clock, and decided to check on my guest. Peeking into my bedroom, I saw Gabrielle, sleeping peacefully in my bed.

Hey, CJ, I called. You won't believe this - there's an angel sleeping in my bed.

Oh, for God's sake, Dakota! scorned CJ. When did you become the hopeless romantic?

But she looks so perfect, and so beautiful?

I think I'm gonna be sick, moaned the voice.

I saw a movement from the bed, and a grin crossed my face when I noticed that Apollo was curled up asleep next to Gabrielle. That had to be the cutest sight I'd ever seen.

I let Gabrielle sleep until eight o'clock, while I took a shower and got dressed, and made sure Nick's room was ready for him. Whenever I picked him up from my mother's, it was never later than ten o'clock, and I didn't know how long it would take the blonde to get ready, so I figured I'd better get her up.

You could always let her stay here and sleep while you go get Nicholas, suggested the voice.

But I wouldn't want her to wake up and find me gone.

It's called leaving a note, Dakota? sighed CJ.

Well, I don't want to leave her, anyhow, I countered.

"Gabby," I said, softly, sitting on the edge of my bed and putting my hand on her shoulder. She didn't stir, so I took a chance. Gently, I brushed a lock of hair from her angelic face, and watched her sleep for a moment, before leaning over and placing a feather-light kiss on her forehead.

I'm gonna laugh when she wakes up and catches you, said CJ.

I ignored her, but pulled back, at any rate.

"Gabby," I tried again, shaking her shoulder gently. "Hey, Gabby, it's time to get up."

She moaned, and cracked one eye open, peering at me, still half-asleep. "Morning," she murmured, and stretched. "What time is it?"

"A little after eight," I responded, having to tear my eyes away from her.

She's so cute with a case of bed-head, I thought, and heard CJ groan.

"I let you sleep as long as I could," I said, apologetically, "but we need to leave in about an hour."

She nodded. "Just let me jump in the shower, change clothes, and run a brush through my hair. I must look awful," she said, sitting up.

"You look beautiful," I thought. Well, I thought I thought it, but, by the look on her face, I had said it aloud.

Shit! Oh, shit, I slipped!

Way to go, Dakota, cheered CJ. I give her ten seconds. Thirty, tops. Then she's out of here.

Listen, you annoying little shit, you're really not helping, okay?

I cleared my throat, and attempted to play it cool. "I mean, uh," I began, but she cut me off with a smile.

"Thank you," she said, and I left the room before I made an even bigger fool of myself.

"Nice one," I mumbled to myself, as I sat heavily on the couch. I continued scolding myself for nearly twenty minutes, until Gabby walked out of the bathroom, wrapped in nothing but a towel as she walked down the hallway to my bedroom to get dressed.

Wow, was all I could think, as my eyes traveled down her shapely body.

Dear God, if you start undressing her with your eyes, I'm gonna make you do something you regret, warned CJ. I shifted my eyes over to the blank TV screen, but couldn't stop thinking about her.

Okay, Dakota, said CJ, we need to do something about this. It's been way too long, if you can sit there and stare at nothing, but still fantasize about her. You're raging hormones are driving me nuts! Why don't you go talk to Cardinal?

CJ? I growled, I don't do that anymore, and you know it.

Yeah, but remember how much fun it used to be? Anytime we needed some, all we had to do was say the word, and we'd have five women lined up? sighed the voice.

I was reminiscing when Gabby walked up, and put a hand on my shoulder; I nearly jumped out of my skin.

"Sorry," said the blonde, "I didn't mean to scare you. You look a little flushed, are you okay?"

I cleared my throat, and attempted to bring my mind back to the present, and out of the gutter. "Yeah, I'm fine," I said, "just a little headache, is all." And it was the truth, too. The numerous thoughts about Blair, Gabby, the Amazons, Gabby, Gabby? had made my head hurt.

"Are you ready to go?" I asked, and she nodded. She was dressed in dark blue jeans and a teal shirt that brought out the green in her eyes.

The hour-long drive to my mother's was spent in a companionable silence, until Gabby decided to mess with my radio. She reached over and turned the dial, blaring the local rock station.

I gave her a wry look.

"What?" she asked, trying hard to keep the innocent look on her face and not laugh. "Okay, what do you listen to?"

I grinned, and hit the button that switched the tuner back to KNIX, cranking the country music I loved.

Gabby winced. "I should have known," she groaned, but had no objections, so that was the music that sounded through the speakers until we reached Tucson.

After a few minutes, I almost forgot Gabby was there, and began singing along with a familiar song. My vocals got significantly lower when I noticed the blonde was watching me. I didn't sing around other people, when I could help it.

You were just showing off, said CJ, and I rolled my eyes.

Was not, I countered.

Was too. Trust me, Dakota.

"No, don't stop," said Gabrielle, softly, calling me back from my never-ending conversation with CJ. "You have a beautiful voice." I smiled meekly, but said nothing, thankful we were nearly in the driveway, so I had an excuse not to sing.

My mother's grand white house stood out from the others in her neighborhood, because it was about fifteen years 'younger'. My mother bought it ten years before when my father died, and the others had been there for almost twenty-five years.

Before I could take two steps towards the house, Nicholas came running out, and threw himself into my arms. I picked him up and spun him around, before setting him down and ruffling his hair.

"Hi, Mom!" he greeted, happily.

I grinned, and kissed his forehead. "Hey, Nick. How have you been?"

"Great! I made a new friend at school, and his mom said if it's okay with you that I could spend the night tonight," he gushed, excited, and looked at me, hopefully.

"I told him he'd have to talk to you," said my mother, stepping out of the house. I gave her a hug as she approached, bending over as my mom was only 5'8'', with shoulder-length silver hair that she had tied back in a braid. All in all, my mother looked fairly young, and was in good health.

"Thanks, mom," I said. "I appreciate you taking him all weekend. Oh!" I said, just remembering Gabby was there; the blonde was standing around, awkwardly but quietly. "I'm sorry. Mom, this is Gabby. Gabby, this is my mom, Patricia," I introduced.

"Nice to meet you," said my mother.

"And you," replied Gabby, politely. "This must be Nicholas." She knelt down next to him, and shook his hand.

Nicholas looked her right in the eye, and asked, innocently, "Are you my mom's girlfriend?"

CJ chuckled. That's why I love the kid, he's so cute!

Gabby gave me a strange look, so I translated, hurriedly. "He asked if you were my friend." To Nick, I replied, "Yes, sweetheart, Gabby is my friend," I didn't speak the rest, "but not my girlfriend."

My son nodded. "Okay," he shrugged.

"Let me see your cut," I said, and Nicholas pointed to a small red line just above his eyebrow. "Are you okay?" He nodded, and I thanked my mother once more, telling her I'd talk to her again soon.

As we climbed in the truck, I glanced at Gabby. "Do you mind if I turn the music up? Nick can feel the vibrations," I added, and she nodded.

"Go ahead," she said, and I patted Nick on the shoulder, telling him he could use the radio. Smiling, he switched it to a station he liked, in the mood for country, and turned it up to his satisfaction. The loud music wasn't helping my headache any, but I wouldn't change it.

When we arrived, Nicholas was quick to flop down on the couch and greet Apollo.

"He's a cute kid," said Gabby, and I smiled.

"Thanks," I said, glancing into the refrigerator for milk, Nick's favorite beverage. I was all out.

"Crap," I said, shutting the door. "I need to run to the store," I turned to Gabby as I spoke, "will you be okay here with him? He'll probably be fine with his with his cartoons, but if you need anything, my pager number is right here."

She nodded, taking note of the number on the counter. "We'll be fine," she said, reassuringly.

"Do you need anything while I'm out?" She shook her head, after taking a moment to think about it. "I'll be right back," I said, made sure Nick knew where I was going, and then rushed out the door.

I returned twenty minutes later, two plastic grocery bags in hand. I bought milk and snack foods, just in case Nick brought a friend over. After everything was put away, I realized it was quiet in the house.

Too quiet.

Looking around, I found Nicholas and Gabby sitting on the couch in the living room, engaged in conversation.

She's signing really well, I thought.

Yeah, but you only taught her the basics, and those are complex signs she's using, CJ pointed out.

My eyes got wide. Gabby knew sign language! That meant she probably knew what Nicholas had really asked her at my mother's house.

Terrific, I sighed.

Walking up, I put my hand on Nick's shoulder, careful not to startle him. "I got some snacks in the kitchen, kiddo," I said, and he bounded into the other room, all grins.

"You," I said, lightly, pointing to Gabby as I sat down next to her, "know sign language."

She smiled. "Yep," she said, proudly.

I gulped. "Then you know what Nick said," I voiced. Gabby nodded, the smile gone, as she was serious.

"I'll understand if you want to leave," I said, quietly.

To my surprise, Gabby chuckled. "Why would I leave?" she asked. "Because you're gay?" I nodded, not wanting to meet her eyes.

"Dakota, that doesn't bother me," she said. "In fact, that's the main reason I don't want to marry John."

My jaw dropped. "You are, too?" I asked, and she nodded.

Don't go getting any ideas, said CJ.

Too late. I grinned inwardly, as the said ideas immediately came forth.

"Wait, you're telling me that your dad has you set up with this guy, and you were gonna marry him, and you don't even like men?" She nodded, hesitantly. "I don't get it."

She sighed. "Dakota, my dad has said all his life that if he had a daughter, she would grow up to marry a lawyer, or a doctor, or some other successful man. I am that daughter," she said, "and I don't want to disappoint him. I don't know what he would think of me if I told him I was gay."

"Gabby, it's not easy telling anyone. I was scared out of my mind when I told my mother," I admitted. "But this concerns your future, your happiness. You need to tell your father."

"I know," she said. "I'll talk to him when he gets back."

Just then, Nicholas ran in, a cookie in each hand, setting them on the couch so he could sign.

"Mom, Billy's mom said I could go over at three. Can I eat lunch and then go?" he pleaded.

I smiled, figuring that Billy was his new friend. "Sure, Nick," I responded. "But only for tonight, okay? I want to see you sometime over your break; I've missed you."

Nicholas smiled brilliantly. "Okay! Thanks, mom!" he exclaimed, and I pulled him into a hug.

"What do you want for lunch?" I asked.

"I'm heating up some Chef Boyardee." I nodded, and he flew into the kitchen to check on his meal.

"I guess I'll have to drop him off at Billy's tonight," I said. "So, when did you learn sign language?" I asked.

"College," replied the blonde. "I took creative writing classes, as well as an ASL (American Sign Language) course. I've always been interested in it," she added.

"I always wanted to learn, and when Nick was born, I kind of had to," I shrugged, with a grin.

"You do well with him," she complimented, but I said nothing; I still felt I needed to spend more time with my son.

Nicholas was quick to pack his things, and after checking his bags, and removing a can of silly string I found, I decided he was ready to go. I called Billy's house, with the phone number Nick eagerly supplied, and got directions from his father, William.

"You've got my pager number," I said, as I stood to leave. "I'd offer for you to go with us, but seeing as I'll be right back, and you have no clue who Billy is?" I shrugged, and she grinned.

"It's okay," she said. "I'll just hang out and probably watch TV."

"Make yourself at home," I said, as I left.

"I like her," said Nicholas, as he climbed into the truck beside me.

Restraining myself from signing 'Me, too', I merely nodded.

"So do you," he said, simply, grinning. I glanced at him, but said nothing. "Oh, come on, Mom. How come you guys aren't together?"

"Since when did you become so interested in my social life?" I asked. He raised an eyebrow, waiting for an answer to his question, and I laughed at the mirror of my trademark image. Yep, he was my son, all right.

"Nick, we're not together because she's in a bad relationship right now, and I'm just trying to be a friend," I explained.

"Whatever you say," he smirked, and I ruffled his hair as we pulled into Billy Moore's driveway.

Nicholas stepped out of the truck, and a small boy ran up to him, signing excitedly. Mom was forgotten as the youngsters discussed Pokémon, and compared notes and tactics.

A young woman, not much older than Gabby, I supposed, walked up to me, smiling.

"Hi, I'm Jessica Moore," she introduced, her brown hair tied back in a ponytail, "Billy's mother."

I gripped her hand. "Dakota," I replied. "If you need anything, Nick has my pager and home phone number. Call me if they get to be too much," I added, and she smiled, kindly.

"I'm sure it won't be a problem," she said. "Thank you for bringing him over, Dakota. Billy has few friends, and he really enjoys being with Nick," she added, and I grimaced a little - I could relate.

"Have a good night," I said, and got back in my truck to drive home. I cranked the radio as I drove, humming along with Mozart and Beethoven, as their music pounded through my speakers.

As I drove into my driveway and shut off the engine, I was surprised when Gabby met me at the door.

"Gabby? Are you okay? What's wrong?" I asked, putting my hand on her shoulders, as she shook.

"He called, and he said?" she began, but tears formed in her green eyes, and she couldn't speak.

"Calm down," I said, gently, leading her into the living room and sitting beside her on the couch. "Now, who called?"

She said nothing, but hit play on my answering machine.

"Hey, blue eyes," said a deep-throated voice. "I've got you now, my sweet thing. You and that cute blonde boy of yours had better watch out. I missed you today, but I'll see you by the end of the week. I'll make sure of that," he finished, and his cruel laughter faded away.

I glanced at Gabby. She still had tears in her eyes, and looked at me, fearfully.

"What are you going to do?" she asked.

"Gabby, it's all right. Why are you so upset?" I asked, kindly.

"He threatened you!" she exclaimed. I smiled. "What are you smiling at?"

"That was my friend, David," I said. "We mess around with each other like that all the time. He wouldn't hurt me or Nick for anything in the world." The woman was still shaking, so I put an arm around her shoulders, and felt my heart skip a beat as she leaned into me.

"It's okay," I murmured, rubbing her back, trying to soothe her.

"I was just worried about you," she sniffled, drying her tears.

I smiled a little. "That means a lot," I said, honestly. "Thank you."

"What did he mean he missed you today?" she asked.

"When I called to tell him I was going to take a few days off, he asked me to stop by around noon today. It slipped my mind, and I didn't see him," I explained.

"Oh."

"You were that upset because of a threat to me?" She nodded, and I gave her a hug. "Thanks," I said, again.

"After all you're doing for me, I wouldn't want something to happen to you," she clarified.

See? She doesn't like you like that, she's just watching out for the woman who gives her a place to stay because she's polite, said CJ.

Oh, let me have my moment of hope, will you?

Nothing was said for a while, and it became awkward, so I switched on the TV. We watched I Love Lucy for a while, until the twelve-hour marathon was over at seven o'clock. I reheated pizza for dinner, and sat on the floor as I ate, while Gabby took the couch.

"So, what did you and Nick talk about?" I asked, casually, and Gabby chuckled.

"Not much," she said. "He was just explaining Pokémon to me, and telling me how each character does something different."

I laughed. "He likes his Píkachu," I said, remembering how the boy had the yellow Pokémon all over his room.

When she was done eating, Gabby laid down on the couch and closed her eyes. After cleaning the mess from our food, I leaned over her, and raised an eyebrow.

"What are you doing in my bed?" I asked.

Gabby smiled. "This is my bed," she responded. "You can have your bed tonight."

"Guest sleeps in the best bed," I protested.

The blonde opened her eyes, and met my own. "Yeah, well, you're too tall to be comfortable out here. We'll switch, if it makes you feel better, but you take your bed for tonight."

I sighed. "All right. Good night, then," I said, and walked to my bedroom door. "And Gabby?" She sat up and peered over the back of the couch to talk to me. "Thanks." Smiling, she just nodded, and laid back down.

Truthfully, I was glad she had insisted, because I hoped sleeping on my own bed would help me get rid of my headache, which refused to go away. I climbed under the covers, closed my eyes, and tried to get some sleep.

The next morning, I woke up at about seven-thirty, and couldn't move. I opened one eye, but quickly closed it again, as the tiny amount of sunlight in the room was enough to cause me pain.

My headache from the night before had turned into a full-blown migraine, and even breathing made it hurt worse. That would explain why I'd slept in - my body knew I needed to rest. The pain in my head was so bad, I felt that each time I moved, I would be sick, and lose the contents of my stomach.

I slowly reached over to feel for the button that would alert Nicholas, but remembered that he wasn't home. And there was no way for me to let Gabby know something was wrong, because I tried to talk, but even a whisper was too loud.

There was a bottle in my medicine cabinet, specially for me to take when I had a migraine, but I had no way of getting to it. I was stuck to wait it out? without crying, if I could.

Suddenly, the door to my room opened, and Gabby walked in, looking concerned.

"Dakota, are you okay?" she asked, going to my bedside, putting a hand to my face only to find I had a fever.

Her hand felt cool against my skin, and I closed my eyes, absorbing the feeling before I answered.

"Migraine," I muttered, weakly.

"Is there anything I can do?" she asked, brushing my bangs back from my face, which was covered with cold sweat.

"Medicine cabinet, green bottle," I said, and she left to retrieve it. I took a deep breath, trying to soothe my churning stomach.

Gabby returned quickly, with two blue capsules of my medicine, and a glass of water.

"Can you sit up?" she asked, and I thought about it for a minute.

"I think so," I replied, pushing myself up into a sitting position with my arms. I felt Gabby put the pills in my hand, and I swallowed them quickly, and Gabby helped me lay back down before I threw up or passed out - I felt I could do both.

"You're burning up," she fretted, and the next thing I knew, she placed a cold wet washcloth on my forehead.

"Thank you," I heard myself say, but I was drifting off.

"Rest now," whispered the blonde, and I could have sworn I felt her kiss my cheek. Then again, when my migraines got too bad, I often heard, saw, or even felt things that weren't really there.

I woke up a few times during the next few hours, and Gabby was by my side each time. She'd replace the washcloth when it lost its effectiveness, or adjust my pillow if I was uncomfortable so I didn't have to move? she did everything. I have never been taken care of so well.

I slept the entire afternoon away, and Gabby woke me once at three o'clock to ask if I wanted to try to eat something, since she was worried about me becoming dehydrated or too weak.

I said no, but she gave me some juice, anyway. I was able to hold it down.

The next time I opened my eyes, it was eleven at night. I sat up slowly, glad to find that I only had a dull ache in my head, no longer the intense pounding.

So, you finally cut off that jackhammer, huh?

CJ laughed. Yeah, ran out of batteries, she joked.

"Thank God," I mumbled, and my ears caught a soft snore. I glanced by my side, and smiled. Gabby had crawled into bed next to me, and was now curled up into a ball, sleeping peacefully. I wondered how late she had stayed up, keeping watch over me.

"Thank you, my angel," I whispered, kissing her forehead gently, before lying back down, and falling into a pleasant sleep.

At seven-thirty the following morning, I was awakened by a tongue in my face? and, no, it wasn't Gabby's.

"Morning, Apollo," I said, quietly, when I realized Gabby was still asleep. I didn't want to get up, for fear of waking the exhausted woman next to me, so I reached to ring for Nick, knowing he would let the dog out.

Nothing happened. After hitting the button again, I began to worry. The boy was supposed to be home the day before; what was going on?

I sighed. She looks so peaceful, CJ. I don't want to wake her up, but I have to know where Nicholas is, and why he isn't home.

"Gabby," I said, putting a hand on her shoulder, "hey, wake up. Gabby, time to get up."

Green eyes opened, and she smiled up at me. "How are you feeling?" she asked.

"Better. Where's Nick?" I questioned, and the anxiety must have shown in my face, as she sat up to look me in the eye.

The blonde put a hand on my arm, reassuringly. "He's fine," she said, and I visibly relaxed. "Billy's mother called to say he wanted to stay another night, and I figured it would be best since you didn't feel well," she explained. "She said she would bring him home around five or six tonight? is that okay?" she asked, after a moment of silence.

I nodded. "Yeah, that's fine. I appreciate you taking care of it for me," I said, and she smiled.

"Do you want to try some breakfast?" she asked, and I nodded, ready to get up. "You stay here," she said, "I'll make some toast and bring it in." That clear, she got up and went into the kitchen, calling Apollo to her and letting him out the door as she left the room.

I noticed she was wearing the same outfit I had last seen her in, on Monday night, and realized she must not have taken the time to change clothes or even take a shower while I was ill.

I'll bet she was by my side the whole day, even when I was asleep for so long, I thought.

Minutes later, the blonde came back in my room, carrying a tray with my breakfast on it: two pieces of toast, and a glass of orange juice. She set it in front of me on my bed, and I smiled up at her.

"Thanks," I said, and she just nodded, sitting next to me on the edge of my bed, feeling my forehead.

"You're still a little warm, but you look better than you did before," she said, and continued to look me over, making sure I was well.

"Gabby, how did you know I was sick?" I asked. I hadn't been able to alert her, and yet she had entered my room, already worried about me.

The woman paused for a moment, and then shrugged. "I'm not sure," she admitted. "I just woke up all of a sudden, with a bad feeling, like you were in trouble. I don't know how I knew that's what it was, but I did, so I decided to come in here and check on you," she finished, and I nodded.

"I'm sorry," I said, suddenly, and she glanced up at me, confused. "Here you were, taking care of me instead of enjoying yourself. I didn't mean to become such a burden," I added, and heard CJ sigh.

Dakota, I have never heard you apologize for something as trivial as getting sick, and certainly not for becoming a burden! she exclaimed. What gives?

I've never really cared about anyone as much as I do her, I responded, and the voice was quiet, unable to come up with a reply.

"Don't worry about it," said Gabby, lightly. "I'm glad I was able to help, and you were never a burden. I don't like seeing you in pain," she admitted, "and even if you told me to go, I'd stay until I was sure you were okay."

"Did anyone call while I was out?" I asked, and Gabby nodded.

"David called last night," she said. "He wanted to stop by, but I told him you were sick. He said you're supposed to stop by on Friday, if not sooner. He also apologized for leaving that message the other night," she added.

The phone rang, silencing any response I had, and I swallowed the last of my juice before reaching over and picking it up.

"Hello?" I answered, and a deep voice came over the line.

"Hello, Dakota," said the man. "This is George Johnson. Is Gabrielle there? I need to speak with her," he said.

I froze. He doesn't sound happy, I thought.

"Here she is," I said, and handed her the phone, mouthing, "It's your Dad". She took the receiver from me, anxiously.

"Dad?" she asked, earnestly, "are you okay? You're home? You're early? You talked to John already?? But? Yes, I can probably make it then. Okay," she sighed, "I'll talk to you later.

I raised an eyebrow as I hung up the phone. "Well?" I prompted.

"John told him I've called off the engagement, and he wants to talk to me," she said. "I need to be there at nine, so I have to get ready now," she added.

"Do you want me to go with you?" I offered, and she nodded.

"If you feel up to it," she said. "I don't want you to go if you aren't feeling well."

I smiled. "I'm fine, thanks. Let me take a shower, and you can eat breakfast, and then we'll go," I said, and she nodded, taking my empty tray into the kitchen, allowing me to get ready. I got up, and wasn't dizzy, and took that as a good sign.

When I was finished with my shower, which I desperately needed, I slipped on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, and walked out to the kitchen as I braided my feather back into my hair, having taken it out for my bath.

Gabby was enjoying a bowl of cereal, and she smiled up at me as I came into sight. "Hi," she said, "you look more alert this morning."

"Yep," I agreed, sitting across from her at the table, although I had already eaten. "Do you think it would help if I told your dad about me first, to see how he'd react?" I offered.

Oh, brilliant idea, said CJ. That way she can watch him ban you from his house, and then not get in trouble herself, because she won't tell him and he'll never know. Just hand him your head on a silver platter, why don't you?

I'd rather him be mad at me than her, I replied. CJ sighed, and mumbled something under her breath - it sounded like she said, "whipped".

Gabby nodded, but then stopped herself. "I can't ask you to do that," she said. "If he's angry about it, I could never forgive myself."

"Gabby," I sighed, "listen to me. I care for you, and if I can find a way to make this easier for you, I'll do it."

"Thanks," she said, and I shrugged it off. "You know you don't have to, Dakota. If you're uncomfortable with it, don't worry about it. I don't want to put you in a position where you feel like you're forced to say something you don't want to," she insisted.

"I know, but I want to help," I said, and she sighed again, deciding it wasn't worth trying to persuade me to change my mind when I wouldn't budge.

"Well, I'm ready to go when you are," she said, and I stood.

"I'll leave a note for Nick, in case he comes home early or something," I said, scribbling a few words on a piece of paper before we left. Although it was highly unlikely that my son would return sooner than expected, I didn't want him to be scared if he came home to an empty house.

The drive was spent in silence, and nothing was said until we arrived at the Johnson residence. When we pulled up, I put my truck in park, and took a deep breath as I stepped out.

Gabby followed me. "Are you sure you want to do this?" she asked, putting a hand on my arm, and I stepped to face her.

No, said CJ, no, we're not. Let's not do this, Dakota.

CJ, I told her I would help her, and I will, I declared, firmly.

Fine, fine. Just don't say I didn't warn you?

"I'm sure," I said, and put my arm around her shoulders. My sense of touch was magnified as she slipped an arm around my waist, and my whole body tingled. I placed a gentle kiss on the top of her head before I could stop myself.

"We'll have to talk later," I told her, as we approached the front door. I placed my hands on her shoulders, and looked into her deep green eyes. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"I have to."

"Are you sure you want to go in there, knowing that John will be in there?" I asked.

She smiled. "You're with me," she said, simply. Gabby knocked once on the door, and then opened it, letting herself in to the house, and whatever it held for her.

I followed right behind her, resisting the urge to put my arm around her again.

"You wait here," I said. "Go talk to Stacy or something, and I'll find your father. Just be careful, and watch out for John okay?"

She agreed, and raised herself up on her tiptoes to kiss my cheek. "I care for you, too," she said, and walked into the kitchen.

I stood there for a moment, dazed from the kiss, and wondering about her comment. Shaking my head, I reminded myself that I was on a mission. "Mr. Johnson?" I called, and he beckoned to me from the den.

"Here, Dakota," he said. "Come on in and have a seat." I did as I was told, choosing to sit on the couch, across from George, who was seated in the chair.

"How was your trip?" I asked, stalling. I suddenly didn't want to be there, about to do what I knew I had to do, and CJ wasn't helping any.

Get out of there! Get out, now! she kept repeating, until I nearly did.

"Fine, thanks," he said, and breezed right past my delay. "I'm glad I have a chance to talk to you alone for a minute, Dakota," he said, and I felt my heart jump into my throat.

"Sure," I uttered, my voice not nearly as nervous as I felt.

"I talked with John when I came home late last night, and he was very upset. It seems he thinks that you have made Gabrielle call of their engagement."

I opened my mouth to protest, but he held up a hand, and said, "That can wait, we'll discuss it later. What I want to know, and this may be delving into your personal life, but John mentioned something about?" he stopped, suddenly, unsure of how to continue without completely offending me.

I sighed. "You want to know if I'm gay," I filled in for him, and he nodded. I took a deep breath; I knew if I choked here, I'd never get it out. "The answer is yes."

He nodded again. "That's fine, I just wanted to make sure I had my facts straight if I talk to John again. Does Gabrielle know?" he asked.

"Yes," I said. "You're okay with this?" I asked, unbelieving.

"It doesn't matter to me what you do, Dakota," he said, "just so long as it does not adversely affect my little girl."

I nodded. I can handle that, I thought. Just don't do anything bad, and it'll be fine.

"Now, about John and Gabrielle," he started, "they've been together for quite a few months, and known each other even longer, and make a wonderful couple. John loves her dearly, and she cares for him. What went on when she terminated the engagement, Dakota? You were there," he added.

"Yes, sir, I was," I affirmed. "But, with all respect, you don't know your daughter very well. John doesn't love her, and she doesn't love him," I told the man.

Before he could reply, Gabby walked in, having heard the last part of the conversation. "That's right," she said, coming in the den, only to sit beside me. "Daddy, I broke off the engagement because John is an abusive man."

George's eyes widened.

"He hit her often," I added, knowing that although I had only seen a few occurrences, the beatings happened frequently.

"What?" shouted John, entering the room from where he had been eavesdropping. "That's not true, George! I'd never hit her!"

"Are you calling her a liar?" I demanded, standing up to face him.

"You always seem to be in the way, Amazon," he sneered, and, in his rage, took a swing at me. I ducked, and found my footing as I faced him again.

"Funny, I thought you were the one always starting things," I said, and CJ laughed.

That wasn't bad, she complimented.

Thanks, I said, concentrating on anticipating the man's next move.

"That's enough, both of you!" said George, pulling John back away from me, as the man had been rapidly approaching my personal space. I took a few paces back, and Gabby squeezed my hand softly, letting me know she was okay.

I sat down next to the blonde, and watched as Mr. Johnson ordered John from his home.

Once John was out the door, George sank into his seat. "Oh, I'm so sorry. I should have paid more attention, but I've been so busy, and I didn't want to seem like I was prying, and?"

"Dad, it's not your fault," said Gabby, going to the man's side and giving him a loving hug. "I'm just glad you're not mad at me."

"Sweetheart, I could never be upset with you for telling me the truth," he said. "And all I want is for you to be happy."

"Well, that's good," she said, laughing nervously as she sat back down beside me, "because I have something else to tell you."

For a moment, she almost looked like she was going to be sick, she was so worried about what her father would say, so I mustered my courage, and inched my hand closer to hers. I covered the small hand with my own.

She smiled a little, took a deep breath, and blurted, "Dad, I'm gay."

Continued in Part 2.