Redemption by Lynette Mae

Prologue

Corporal Devon James shouldered her way through the door into the locker room at the police academy. Mentally exhausted, she looked forward to her upcoming workout, needing the physical challenge to erase the day's stress. She pulled on a pair of shorts and a black t-shirt with a departmental logo on the left breast and TPD SWAT emblazoned in large white letters across the back. After lacing up her sneakers, she stowed her uniform in a locker and crossed the hall into the gym.

Thankful that the room appeared to be empty, Devon tuned the boom box perched on an old metal chair to a classic rock and roll station. She made her way to the back of the room toward the free weights with the hard driving sounds of Rush filling the room. Just past the row of treadmills she jumped slightly, startled by a woman sitting up on the weight bench.

"Sorry, I didn't realize anyone was here." Devon took in the long muscular legs straddling the bench and the equally toned arms resting on the tops of her thighs. The sight of the woman's sleek body, slick with sweat, made Devon's stomach clench in a purely primal response to the female form. The woman raised her head, revealing deep green eyes and a beautiful face framed by a mane of shoulder length golden hair, and Devon's heart stopped in her chest. Nonplussed, she stood staring dumbly at the woman. The woman was looking at her as if they knew each other, but that was impossible. Devon was certain they had never met, and doubly certain that she would have remembered this woman if they had.

"Excuse me, corporal. I'll just get out of your way." Quickly, she stood, gathering her towel and gloves from the bench and shoving them into her bag on the floor. "Have a nice day."

"No, it's alright. I-" Devon found her voice, apparently too late. Leaving no room for discussion, the young woman hurried past her, weaving swiftly through the equipment and out of the gym without looking back. Devon stared after her as the door slowly closed, wondering who the beautiful woman was and what she had done to make her run off so fast.

Jesse leaned on the other side of the door, thankful to have escaped. It was her. She could feel her cheeks still burning with embarrassment, she only prayed that her thoughts weren't written all over her face when the corporal looked at her. Oh, God.

How many times had she sat outside on her morning break watching that gorgeously androgynous body running on the academy track like a finely tuned machine, wondering about the woman inside? One of her classmates told her that she was the training corporal and a member of the SWAT team. That explained the hard body. Other than that, nobody seemed to know much about her, which only intrigued Jesse more.

She was shocked to sit up on the bench and find the corporal standing a foot away, her intense blue eyes completing the image more perfectly than any fantasy. Her pulse rate had immediately soared and Jesse knew she had to escape before she made a total fool of herself. With some distance, the rational side of her brain was again functional. What the hell had gotten into her?

"She's a corporal," Jesse told herself out loud. "And she's...gorgeous. She wouldn't even know you're alive."

Chapter 1

Tampa, Florida, 1992

BOOM! The sound of the sawed off shotgun and explosion of the video monitor, freshly peppered with buckshot, sent shockwaves of terror through the customers and employees of the Southern Savings and Loan. The front lobby was showered with sparks, flying shards of glass and other debris. Three terrified female tellers huddled in a corner clinging to one another as the robbers scaled the counter to make their escape from the bank. About a dozen customers lay face down around the lobby obeying the orders from the armed men not to look up at them.

"You motherfuckers better count to a hundred before anybody moves or you will die today!" The taller of the robbers shouted through the knit stocking that was pulled over his face. The bank manager had already pressed the silent alarm button, and was now praying that the police were coming. The three suspects ran into the parking lot and around to the rear of the building, jumping into a waiting grey box Chevy that peeled out of the lot, eastbound on Kennedy Blvd.

"Units be advised," the dispatcher began, "a Signal 23 hold up just occurred to the Southern Savings and Loan, 3100 W. Kennedy Blvd. Three male suspects fled in a grey Chevy eastbound from the bank."

"Air Three responding," the calm voice of Mac McKinley, the police pilot on duty came across the radio. The officer riding as the helicopter observer sat up excitedly in his seat, readying himself for a pursuit. The pilot was thankful that they had just refueled and gotten in the air again only ten minutes before. If they located the suspect vehicle and engaged in a pursuit, they had no idea how long the chase might last.

"Air Three?" The dispatcher called.

"Air Three," the pilot responded.

"Units on frequency two have a vehicle matching the suspect's northbound on Armenia Ave, looks like they're heading for the interstate."

"Ten-four, switching to two."

It took less than a minute to reach the area in question and catch sight of the grey sedan weaving recklessly through traffic with marked police units screaming behind. Mac scanned the interstate ahead looking for bottlenecks or crashes that might cause additional concerns during the pursuit, but saw only moderate traffic.

"Air Three we're on scene, have the units back off, we'll take the lead now." Okay fellas, now you're screwed, you can't outrun this bird. As the observer took over calling the pursuit, Mac switched briefly to the next frequency to request a SWAT unit switch to the tactical frequency. She figured it would be helpful to have them standing by since they already knew these thugs were armed and dangerous. If they were lucky, the pursuit would end and officers would make the arrest without incident. But, these types of criminals often wanted to go down in a blaze of gunfire or worse barricade themselves with hostages, so having the SWAT guys and their extra firepower around would be advantageous.

"TAC Nine to Air Three," Mac grinned when she heard her friend's familiar voice. She was feeling even better now about calling.

"Air Three. TAC Nine are you monitoring the pursuit on two, reference the robbery suspects?"

"Ten-four, I'm enroute to the area now with several other team members. I'll be Adam four on freq two. ETA less than five," Devon responded.

"Ten-four, my observer says it looks like they're heading for the projects, they just got off the interstate at MLK. We'll see you there."

"Perfect, TAC nine out."

Switching back to frequency two, Devon accelerated around the corner of Florida Ave onto Martin L. King, Jr. Blvd just as the pursuit screamed by. The suspects careened south on Central Ave, into the heart of the public housing area at breakneck speed. A dip in the road at the next intersection sent the vehicle airborne momentarily and the driver lost control. The vehicle slid sideways one hundred eighty degrees and struck a cement utility pole at the corner, twisting the car around the pole like a huge metal twist tie. Incredibly, two suspects bolted from the wreckage.

"Suspects fleeing on foot, southbound toward Jefferson," the flight observer called out to ground units. Their job was to keep the suspects in sight long enough to direct officers until the arrest was made. Devon swung her car around the marked units stopped in the street near the wreck, jumping the curb to get by. She gunned the engine, accelerating toward the next corner to intercept the fleeing suspects. When she reached the corner, she saw only one figure running in the shadows. She knew he was running toward a dead end.

Devon slammed the police car to a stop near the end of the street, within about ten feet of the suspect and launched from her vehicle into a full sprint. She couldn't see if the suspect was armed, but she knew that he didn't have the shotgun used at the robbery, he was moving too freely. If he was armed it would be with a handgun of some type.

"Police! Stop! Get on the ground!" Devon shouted at the suspect as she gave chase between the apartments toward a six foot fence that surrounded the exterior of the complex. He was running out of steam and Devon knew she would close the distance as he reached the fence. She grabbed two fistfuls of his t-shirt just as he tried to grab onto the chain link. Jerking him back towards her, she stepped back and to the side, using the momentum and weight of her own body to sling him in an outward arc to the ground.

Just as Devon pinned the suspect to the pavement with her right knee in his back, the helicopter hovered above witnessing the drama below. Mac steadied the chopper circling above as the flight observer relayed information regarding the officer and suspect engaged in an escalating physical confrontation. They radioed for additional backup to assist with the arrest.

Mac watched her friend struggle on the street below. Her mind flew to the memory of their combat mission in Beirut. Devon dodged bullets and struggled to drag a wounded soldier into her chopper in Lebanon while she watched helplessly from the cockpit. She blinked to refocus on the scene below; although this was Tampa, not Beirut, sometimes the experiences were surprisingly similar. The suspect was attempting to get his knees under him to push off and escape. Devon drove her knee into his side and outer thigh where she knew a nerve strike would temporarily disable his leg. The third knee strike succeeded and the suspect fell back on the pavement.

"There you go, Dev," Mac said aloud.

Moments later, Devon had one handcuff on the suspect's right wrist. He began to struggle against her again, but she held him in place with her shoulder pressed between his shoulder blades using the handcuff to press his arm upward unnaturally, in a move that Mac knew was causing the man a great deal of pain. A second officer arrived to assist and as the man continued to fight and Devon again drove her knee into his side. The other officer pulled his left arm from underneath his body and they were able to finish cuffing him in a matter of seconds.

Another group of officers located the second suspect nearby and arrested him as well. Once the suspects were secured in police vehicles, Devon returned to where the getaway vehicle was wrapped around the light pole. She looked at the scene in disbelief, breathing hard, still winded from the fight with the suspect.

"If one of us was in that, we would have been killed, but not these bastards," she said to the officer who was attempting to open the glove box to find the vehicles' registration.

The female officer that had assisted Devon with the arrest stepped up behind her to survey the scene. "No doubt," she agreed.

Devon looked sideways at her, a broad smile on her face. "Hey, thanks for the help over there, Steph," she said to the woman who usually rode as her partner.

"No problem," Stephanie grinned back at her. "See what happens when we ride separately? You get into all kinds of trouble."

Devon laughed and shoved her playfully in the shoulder. "Oh, yeah?"

"Air three to Adam four," Mac called Devon on the radio.

"Adam four go ahead," Devon automatically looked up at the helicopter that still hovered overhead.

"You all set, corporal? We need to get back to the hanger and refuel."

"All set, thanks for the help Air three." She gave thumbs up and a wave in the air as the chopper banked to the west and was gone.

Flight officer Erin 'Mac' McKinley unbuckled her harness and climbed from the cockpit of the UH30 'Hughey' helicopter, identical to the ones she flew on countless missions while serving in the Army. Crossing the landing pad toward the hangar that housed the police air unit, she laughed at the exuberance of the new flight observer who ran to catch up with her long strides.

"That was awesome," he gushed. "You can see everything from up there. And how about that crash, damn!"

"Yeah, it was something," she agreed. It always amazed her watching from her bird's eye view as criminals attempted to get away. Their desperation showed in the speeds of the pursuit, the mad sprints on foot trying to escape and all too often, the level of combative resistance at the end of it all when it came down to the determination of the law officer to take the violent suspect into custody. Nobody called for air support when they were arresting a cooperative subject.

After completing the post flight inspection of the helicopter and filling out the end of shift logs, Mac looked at the Swiss Army watch that her father had given her the day of her graduation from helicopter school at Ft. Bliss, Texas in 1980. She smiled at the simple, dependable timepiece that had never failed her since that day. It was five minutes until the end of her shift. Perfect.

Pulling out her cell phone and searching her shirt pockets until she located a folded paper drink napkin, she stepped outside into the muggy afternoon to make her call. She unfolded the napkin, reading the number and dialing as she walked toward her truck. As she listened to the phone begin to ring on the other end of the line, Mac looked at the name scribbled above the number, remembering the way the woman's lips turned up in a slow smile as she handed Mac the napkin, saying, "Call me," in a decidedly seductive tone. Mac's pulse kicked up a notch when she heard the smooth voice answer after the third ring.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Amber. It's Mac, from the club Thursday night?" She offered, hoping Amber remembered.

Mac heard her smile as she replied, "Now, how could a woman forget the most gorgeous sight in the bar?" The heat in her voice left no mistake about her interest.

Mac felt a surge of adrenaline course through her veins as the prospects for the weekend rapidly improved. "Well, I don't know about all that, but I was hoping that I might be able to interest you in dinner, and then maybe we'll see how the night goes…"

"Ooh, anything with you interests me," Amber purred.

Mac chuckled softly, "Okay, well why don't you give me directions and I'll pick you up?"

Amber explained the directions to Mac and she suggested they eat at a casual place in the south end of town known for their generous portions of tasty food and talented bar tenders who didn't skimp on the drinks. Mac knew the manager and was confident that they would have no problem getting a table.

She hurried home, showered, and changed into a pair of black jeans and body hugging black t-shirt. Running a comb quickly through her damp jet black hair and then shaking her head to achieve the tousled look she preferred, Mac checked her look one last time in the mirror. Satisfied, she headed out the door toward her truck, her thoughts already on the woman with the chestnut hair and dark eyes and the promise of the night waiting for her.

The man sat in his one room dirty apartment eating a greasy burger from a paper sack and swallowing it down with a Budweiser. He picked up the remote to silence the TV when the teaser for the upcoming six o'clock news came on.

"Coming up, we have dramatic footage from a police pursuit following a bank robbery today at the Southern Savings and Loan. Police chased the gunman from the bank into a housing area in the north end of town. From there the suspects fled on foot and were apprehended a short time later by officers."

There on the screen a blond female officer was shown escorting a handcuffed man to a patrol car and placing him inside. When the officer pushed the car door closed she turned directly toward the camera. He stared.

"You fucking bitch."

Downing the rest of his beer, he listened in disgust as the reporter continued, "…Corporal James declined to be interviewed on camera, however she did confirm that both robbery suspects have been arrested and the money bag from the bank recovered."

In the year since he was released from prison, not a day went by that he didn't think of her. He took labor jobs anywhere he could find work to scrape together the money for a place to stay and later, bus fare to Tampa. Once here, again he was preoccupied with making enough money for a place to stay and food. But now, he had a place and it was time to begin.

He opened the refrigerator and snatched another beer off the door. As it closed his eyes moved to the yellowed newspaper clipping from the Army Times held in place on the door by a square grey magnet. The headline read, 'Criminal Investigations Chief's Death Ruled Suicide.' He didn't need to read the rest of the pack of lies. Some homo loving bitch took some pictures of his dad leaving a queer bar. That meant nothing. His father's duty was to investigate those perverts. The explanation for his being there was so simple. Why the hell couldn't they see that?

Then they tried to trump up some other bullshit charges about fabricating evidence against some dykes. His father's career was ruined. He died a disgraced, broken man. His son spoke to the small picture in the article of the round faced man in the Army uniform, "It won't be long now, pop." Chapter 2

Scanning the dining area of the small Cuban restaurant, Devon soon spotted the unmistakable muscular form that she searched for. She eased into the chair across from him, playfully slapping the menu into his face.

"They haven't changed the menu in thirty years, Zack," Devon grinned at him.

Zachery Spencer returned the grin with a wide smile of his own, "Well, you never know…" He shrugged.

"Not to mention," Devon continued teasingly, "that you order the chicken with black beans and yellow rice every time." As if to accentuate her point, the waiter appeared at the table with two heaping plates of the Spanish dish in question. Devon ordered a glass of water and a Cuban coffee, laughing when Zack's eyes lit up as he looked at his plate. She loved the familiarity of their routine.

Devon met Zack when she tried out for the SWAT team after completing two years on the department. She was the first female to try out and there was no mistaking the animosity in the air when she showed up for the tryouts that summer day. Devon insisted on competing with the same standards as all of the male applicants and outperformed most of the group. By the end of that day, she won over even the most resistant members of the team. She and Zack hit it off immediately and became fast friends. They had since become partners on the team, trusting each other with their lives in the most harrowing situations.

The waiter placed a third dish on the table at the open place next to Zack, causing Devon to raise an eyebrow in question.

"For my rookie," he said in answer to her unspoken inquiry, already shoveling a forkful of yellow rice into his mouth. "Bathroom," he indicated toward the rear of the restaurant by cocking his head in that direction. Seeing the disdainful look in her eyes and the firm set of her jaw as she realized that he had a recruit who would be joining them, Zack quickly added, "Hey, don't worry, she's good. You'll like her, I think."

Devon sighed heavily, shaking her head. She had hoped to have dinner alone with Zack to just relax and catch up on what was new with him and share a few laughs. The prospect of enduring endless rookie questions throughout their meal was something she definitely did not want to contemplate. She forced a smile and met Zack's reassuring eyes. Resigning herself to the inescapable, she picked up her fork and knife to make the first cut into the moist chicken breast on her plate when she saw the chair next to Zack move out of the corner of her eye.

As the woman sat beside her friend and began unwrapping her silverware, Devon first took in the long graceful fingers extracting the knife and fork, then unfold the napkin and disappear below the table to place it on her lap. Next, her eyes traveled up the torso to the silver name plate with the name J. Kilbride etched into the surface, continued to where the tanned skin of her long slender neck was exposed between the open top buttons of the uniform shirt and up to her face. The deep green eyes that penetrated her consciousness that day at the academy gym were staring back at her across the table.

Just like that day at the gym, Devon felt a flutter in the pit of her stomach. She watched the rookie's face color and her eyes drop to the table in obvious discomfort. When Devon saw her reaction, she chided herself inwardly, knowing that her irritation over sharing her dinner break with Zack must have been obvious on her face. Inexplicably, it mattered to Devon that the young woman seemed to be uncomfortable. Great, she thinks you're an asshole. Devon cleared her throat and shifted in her seat; she reached for her glass of water because the restaurant had suddenly become unbearably warm.

Zack, oblivious to the nonverbal exchange between the two women, said between large bites of food, "Jesse, this is Devon James, one of my SWAT team buddies. Devon, this is Jesse. She's in phase four of training." He returned his attention to his plate, leaving the two women to complete the introductory conversation.

Devon extended her hand across the table and smiled, "Hi, how are ya?"

"Hello, corporal," Jesse replied quietly. "I'm very glad to meet you." Her handshake was firm but her skin felt warm and soft and Devon held it longer than she intended. When the green eyes dropped to their hands, then moved back to meet hers, Devon felt her heart jump in her chest and she released the rookie's hand quickly.

She felt strangely off balance. Needing a return to the comfort of normal interaction, she asked Zack, "So, have you guys been busy tonight?"

"Not too bad, the usual stuff," he shrugged, "Jesse had her first foot chase, though." Zack grinned and poked the woman next to him with his elbow. "Tell her," he prodded.

"Zack…I don't want to…" The color was rising in her face again and Devon found her embarrassment adorable.

"No, I want to hear about it, go ahead," She encouraged. She was feeling more relaxed talking about work. Devon remembered her first thoughts of the rookie being physically capable and she was eager to have confirmation of her assessment.

"Well," Jesse continued, "it was nothing really. We stopped this car and the passenger bailed out and ran. I caught up to him a couple of blocks later." She shrugged shyly.

"She's leaving out the part where she tackled him and gave him a few shots when he wouldn't give up his hands," Zack explained enthusiastically. "And when she searched him after cuffing him, she found an automatic pistol in his waistband and a baggie of cocaine in his pocket." He smiled proudly at Jesse.

"That's great!" Devon grinned at Jesse's blush. The way the young officer fiddled with her napkin in an attempt to hide her discomfort was cute as hell.

Jesse sat quietly through most of the meal while the two senior officers told stories and joked with each other. She asked intelligent questions and even tossed out a few quips that made the training officers laugh heartily. Devon was surprised to find that despite her initial irritation, she was enjoying dinner much more than she would have admitted out loud. Every so often, she would feel those emerald eyes on her and Devon felt herself drawn into their depths whenever she dared to return the gaze.

Chapter 3

"Oh…yeah…don't stop…ohhh…" Breathlessly the woman beneath her writhed and moaned at the excruciating pleasure shooting through every nerve ending. Mac's own blood raced ferociously through her veins as Amber's breathing came in uneven gasps and she begged for release. There was no greater feeling in the world than to carry a woman to the peak of ecstasy and hold her there on the brink, reveling in the indescribable beauty of her body rigidly poised to climax. Mac shuddered at the heady sensation, breathing deeply the thick musky scent of arousal as her head moved between the smooth, muscled thighs and her lips closed in on her ready flesh, pulsing and wet.

Her tongue replaced her thumb sliding along Amber's clitoris while her fingers moved inside causing Amber to arch her back and thrust her hips more forcefully toward her. Amber's fingers twisted into her hair pulling desperately as she bucked and twisted, the orgasm seizing her entire body in spasms of electrifying pleasure. Crying out triumphantly, Amber jerked up off the bed into a sitting position with the last strong contraction. Even as the small tremors still pulsed within her depths, she reached down and pulled Mac to lie alongside of her.

Immediately sliding a hand between them, Amber's fingers unerringly found the slick wet warmth she knew awaited her. She stroked her thumb and forefinger on either side of her swollen hard clit, laughing as she drew a deep groan from her dark, handsome lover.

"You like?" Amber asked playfully, even as she pulled a tight nipple between her teeth, this time eliciting a sharp gasp as Mac's hips involuntarily pressed into her.

"Uh…yeah…I…" She gasped, trying to concentrate on maintaining control as long as possible. "…didn't…know you would…be ready for me…unh," The groan escaped her throat and she rapidly lost focus as the pleasure increased.

Amber moaned appreciatively at the responsiveness of the gorgeous woman as she stroked. "Hmm," she chuckled deep in her throat, "I don't like to wait," She slid her talented fingers along the slick wetness and entered her in one swift motion, "And you are more than ready." Her thumb flicked along Mac's hypersensitive sex as she slid inside and simultaneously bit down on the nipple in her mouth. The combination of sensations sent blazing heat burning down Mac's spine. She cried out and exploded in a flood as Amber filled her.

An hour later Mac gently pulled her arm from beneath Amber's shoulder trying not to wake her. The young woman turned over, mumbling in her sleep as Mac pulled on her jeans and t-shirt and reached for her boots. She felt an arm snake around her waist, "Hey, where you going?"

Mac turned to face her again. "I have to get going," was all she said by way of explanation. She had not spent a full night with a woman since Megan, preferring to keep a distance and her emotions out of reach. Standing, she stepped into her boots and picked up her wallet and keys from the nightstand.

"Okay," Amber pouted, "But call me alright?" Her dark eyes were heavy with lingering arousal and sleep.

"Sure," Mac said, knowing she probably wouldn't.

Devon woke early, full of energy. She grabbed a banana off the counter and poured a steaming cup of coffee from the pot that had been set to brew at 9:00 am. She smiled to herself remembering Jesse's laughter at dinner the night before, not caring if it was silly to think about the way her eyes sparkled when she smiled. She settled into a patio chair next to the pool with her coffee. The morning sun echoed the warmth she felt inside replaying the way Jesse's eyes lit up when she laughed.

She marveled at the easy conversation they shared during dinner. Jesse had a way about her that put Devon completely at ease, something she was unaccustomed to. After dinner, she found herself wanting to linger in the parking lot just to keep listening to Jesse's soothing voice and soft laughter. Now, the memory of her smile made Devon feel wonderfully content. She wondered if she'd see Jesse around the station when she got to work later, then realized she was actually hoping she might.

The realization instantly pulled her up short. She hadn't felt this way since…Alex. Alex made her anticipate little things like a brief sighting across a parking lot. Why was she suddenly thinking about Alex? It wasn't as though Jesse was anything like her; in fact they couldn't have been more different. Alex was dark and sultry, serious and intellectual. Jesse? Well, she was an unexpected surprise in the middle of your day, the playful soul that reminded you not to take yourself too seriously. Devon smiled at that thought. Yes. Jesse had a natural ability to make everyone smile, and she was beautiful in a simple, no nonsense way. Devon could not deny the physical attraction. Her body's response when she was around Jesse was automatic.

Over the years Devon had occasionally given in to her loneliness, allowing herself to find temporary physical comfort with a woman. She couldn't bring herself to date or even think of anything long term after her disastrous failure at relationships in the past. So, what the hell was she doing now? Letting her hormones get the best of her, Devon supposed, and the woman was probably straight or very likely not single. Still…there was something about her.

Heaving out a frustrated sigh, Devon shook her head as though she could shake thoughts of Jesse from her mind. She headed back inside, pulled on a sport bra and grabbed her sneakers from the closet. A run would help clear her mind. Just as she started out the door, the phone rang. Devon considered ignoring it and getting the message when she returned home. She changed her mind when she saw Steph's name on the caller ID.

"Hey." She forced lightness into her voice.

"Hey, what are ya doin'?" The question came out as if the words were one long one.

Devon smiled, "Nothing, Steph, what's up?" Stephanie was one of Devon's closest friends and partner. They had known each other since the academy and Devon was godmother to Steph's oldest daughter.

"Oh, I was just getting ready to go for a run," Devon said absently. Her thoughts were still a jumble of confusing contradictions bouncing from painful memories of Alex to Jesse's bright smile and deep green eyes.

"Well then, sounds like a run is just what the doctor ordered. How about we go to the trail near my place?" she suggested.

Devon was grateful that Steph hadn't asked anything else. She didn't want to talk about Jesse because there wasn't anything to tell. She was a nice rookie. That was all. "Ok, I'll be there in 30 minutes," She agreed.

"Twenty," Steph countered, "sounds like you need a couple extra miles today."

Devon hung up the phone and sighed. Steph was right; she did need the mental release that a long run would provide. Steph was the kind of friend who would listen without judgment or just sit with you in comfortable silence if there was nothing to say. Ten minutes later she was throwing her gym bag into the passenger seat of the black jeep and backing out of the garage.

After a five mile run, the two women sat outside Steph's house on a wooden bench sipping banana smoothies. Steph wiped a towel over her face. As she did, Devon looked appreciatively at her friend. She was strikingly beautiful, her tanned arms showed off more muscle definition than most men Devon knew. Steph's mother was Japanese and her father Irish-American; the combination created a face of wide, welcoming Oriental beauty, softened by fair Irish tones. Her light brown eyes regarded Devon as she pulled the towel away from her face.

"So, what's up?" Steph cocked her head to one side with the question.

"I dunno," Devon exhaled fully, looking away to some distant point. Steph watched, waiting for her to continue. "I just feel restless, I guess."

"Well, I've never seen you more motivated at work, so I know it's not your career that's bugging you." She grinned and bumped her shoulder into Devon's. "A woman?"

Devon shrugged, looking into her drink as though she would find the answer there. She knew Steph could see that there was more she wasn't sharing, but what could she say? "I met this beautiful woman and I…what?" She had no idea. The physical attraction she understood, but the desire to just be near her, to talk to her, see her…Damn it. She was doing it again. Why couldn't she stop thinking about her?

"Hey," Steph slapped Devon's knee, "you are a catch. Any woman would be lucky to have you."

Devon blushed slightly at the compliment and smiled sideways at Steph, "Thanks."

"No thanks necessary. It's the truth." Steph looked pointedly at Devon, "So, I guess you're not going to tell me who's got you so worked up?"

Devon managed a crooked smile, "Not today, but thanks for the run and the pep talk."

"Anytime, partner." Steph was already heading up the walk toward the house. "See you at the station in a couple of hours."

"Yeah, see ya."

On the way home Devon mentally began preparing for the upcoming shift, but try as she might, thoughts of Jesse insistently interrupted. Finally, Devon didn't try to hold the thoughts at bay. Instead, she decided to rationally examine what she was feeling. She was physically attracted to Jesse; there was no doubt about that. Attraction was something she understood, it was biology plain and simple, nothing she couldn't control. Once she got a perspective on things, Devon was certain that she would get a handle on her runaway thoughts about the attractive rookie. You don't even know anything about her. The image of Jesse's bright smile appeared as though responding to the thought.

Devon smiled automatically, "Well I do know that I want to see her smile again," she told the voice in her head. The drive home was absent the usual stress over traffic with thoughts of Jesse floating through Devon's consciousness.

Chapter 4

Devon spread out the hot coals inside the large grill, satisfied that they were the proper temperature for cooking. She still liked the taste of the charcoal, even though all of her friends poked fun at her for not having a more modern gas grill, and despite the fact that it took longer to get the grill ready, she didn't care.

"We're almost ready to fire up those steaks," She smiled at Mac who was seated nearby at the patio table with a cold Heineken in her hand.

"Excellent." Mac returned the smile, "Hey, you want me to get you another beer?" She indicated Devon's nearly empty bottle on the table, "That's probably warm anyway."

"Thanks that would be great." Mac moved through the open doorway from the patio into the house just as she heard the front door open and a man's voice announcing his entry.

"I'm here, so let's eat!" Zack called as he entered as if he owned the place. He and Mac met at the kitchen doorway and embraced fully.

"Hey, you," Zack said affectionately as he followed her to the refrigerator and accepted the beer she extracted from the door, "How are you? I haven't seen you in a few weeks."

"I've been good. Your area has been quiet, so we've been spending more time in the other sector. They've had a few good pursuits, and that's been fun." Her eyes sparkled at the thought

"I've heard," He nodded, "Dev said they caught that robbery suspect the other day, that's awesome."

"Oh, yeah. You should have seen her chase that asshole down. You would have been proud," Mac said appreciatively.

"Hey, you two, c'mon, bring those steaks out here, the fire isn't gonna stay hot all day!" Devon yelled from outside.

"Well, if you had a decent grill," Zack teased, "you could keep it hot." He walked to the far side of the patio around the pool to hand the cook her fresh beer and exchange a warm hug with her. Mac handed Devon the plate of steaks which she promptly placed over the open flame, smiling as they sizzled and the flames leapt around the lean t-bones.

"You've never had a better steak than here," Devon countered. "You've said so many times." She walked over to the table and the three of them sat, enjoying the ice cold beer for a few moments in easy silence.

"So, Devon," Zack said, "You ready for that SWAT school? It's in two weeks, right?"

"Yep. Thanks for putting me in for it," Devon said.

He nodded, taking a long drink of his beer, "You're going to love the school. Of course, some of the drills will be similar to the ones we do. You know the shooting drills."

Both she and Zack said simultaneously, "Two to the body, one to the head." They giggled and tapped their bottles together in a salute.

"What's that about?" Mac asked.

"Just a shooting drill that our training day always ends with," Devon explained. "It's a body armor drill. You stop the threat. Two shots to the body, and one head shot for insurance."

"The repetition is to make it automatic under stress," Zack added. "But, just like anything, after hundreds of repetitions, it gets monotonous. We hear the line so much in training, that it's like a SWAT joke."

Thirty minutes later, their plates empty except for the spotless bones, the three friends sat back in their chairs, supremely satisfied. Devon took their plates into the kitchen.

"So Zack, you still have that rookie?" Mac asked.

"Only for another couple of days," he replied, "she finishes up this week."

"I'll bet you're looking forward to being free."

"Actually, she has really been great to ride with. She's so enthusiastic. I don't know how to explain it, but she makes me excited to come to work again."

"Wow. You're sure it has nothing to do with her looks?" Mac teased.

He responded with mock indignation, "Her looks? How shallow do you think I am?"

"So those fair features and legs for days have had absolutely no affect on how you relate to her, huh?" A raven eyebrow rose as she scrutinized him.

His answer was interrupted by Devon's return, "Who are we talking about?"

"Zack's rookie," Mac told her. "He was just getting ready to try to deny any sexual fantasies about her. Have you seen her, Dev? Damn, I'd-"

Abruptly Devon stood, resisting the urge to cuff Mac on the side of the head to stop the rest of the lewd comment. "Hey, who needs a refill?" She moved quickly back to the kitchen before waiting for a response.

When Devon returned to the porch with three fresh beers, Zack was speaking more seriously. "I don't want to betray her confidence, but I do know that she had some trouble with her ex. We've become pretty close and she told me a little bit. She didn't tell me who it was, but I found out when we ran into her in the parking lot one day." He shook his head in disgust.

Devon sat perfectly still listening to him. She knew Zack well enough to know that look. The trouble Jesse had was more than the usual relationship drama; that much was clear by his expression. Her gut burned with sudden anger at the thought of somebody hurting Jesse.

"She okay now?" She asked softly.

He shrugged, "It's been awhile, I gather. So, yes she's over the relationship part of it, she just doesn't trust very easily anymore, ya know?"

Devon and Mac nodded. Neither of the women needed any further explanation, having survived their own heartaches and lessons in trust.

"Well, I hate to eat and run, but I've got court in the morning," Zack broke the silence a few minutes later. They said goodbye and he let himself out while Devon finished cleaning up in the kitchen.

Mac opened the refrigerator to get two more beers from the door, "Oops, these are your last two beers," she said apologetically.

"No problem, I have to go to the store tomorrow anyway," Devon said. Then, she pumped her eyebrows mischievously as she reached into the cabinet above the sink, pulling down a bottle of Maker's Mark whiskey and two shot glasses. She grinned at Mac as she held up the offering.

"Absolutely." Looking around, Mac said, "By the way, the place is coming along nicely." Devon was painstakingly remodeling the interior of the house she had purchased the year before. "The crown molding looks great."

"Thanks," Devon said, "The master bathroom is my next project. It keeps me out of trouble."

"Looks like a lot of work. You know if you ever need any help, I'd be happy to lend a hand."

"I'll keep that in mind when I start tearing out drywall."

Once again retiring to the lanai, Devon's thoughts drifted to what Zack had told them about Jesse. She wondered how anyone could let her go, let alone hurt her. Automatically, she smiled as she remembered the sparkle in her eyes when she laughed and the tender look when they said goodbye that made Devon long to stay with her.

"So where's the SWAT school?" Mac's question nearly brought Devon back from her musing.

"Hmm? Oh, it's in Orlando," She sighed and looked up at the stars for a few moments. Turning to look directly at her friend, she asked, "Do you think we only get one shot at finding love in this life?"

Mac blinked, a bit taken off guard by the question. "Umm…I don't know…what do you mean?"

"I mean the real thing. Is that just some silly dream or is it possible?" For someone like me? The intensity in her eyes kept Mac from making a joke. Devon had a way of cutting through her normally cool collected charm that shielded her heart from those kinds of feelings.

Devon continued talking, working out the puzzling thoughts aloud. "Both of us-we thought we had it once, right?" Mac remained silent watching her friend. "And Alex…thought…I…" Devon couldn't speak the damning truth around the sudden lump in her throat.

"Are you still having nightmares? Mac asked cautiously. Alexandra Sommers was Devon's former lover. She was a CIA agent and Devon a military intelligence officer when they all served together in the Middle East. The professional responsibilities each woman had sometimes strained their personal relationship and Mac had seen Devon's struggle with the conflict on more than one occasion. Alex was killed by insurgent gunfire in Beirut. The day before Alex's death, they argued over one of those differences of opinion.

"Not too many." Devon shrugged, staring past her at the pool. It was the truth, the nightmares were less frequent. Although Mac was with her when they found Alex's body, Devon couldn't bring herself to talk about it, even now. She figured it was the price to be paid for her shortcomings. There was no reason to burden anyone else with her guilt.

"So, anyway," Devon changed the subject back to their previous thoughts. "Maybe all we can do is be thankful for whatever happiness comes our way and not expect too much. Like you said, keep it light. No strings adult company, it's safer that way." She directed a lopsided grin at her friend, "A wise woman once taught me that."

"To keeping it light," Mac raised her bottle and Devon followed. They spent the remainder of the evening in relaxing conversation and periods of companionable silence in a way that only the deepest friendships allow.

Chapter 5

Zack and Jesse pulled into the rear of the station still laughing about their last call. The elderly woman who was hearing noises outside of her window had apparently taken a liking to the strapping, dark haired officer and asked him to stay.

"When she offered to have sex with you I thought I was gonna wet myself," Jesse lost herself in a fit of giggles that made her lean against the back of the police cruiser to stay on her feet. Wiping tears away from her face, she managed between gasps, "She was kinda hot, once she put her teeth back in." Jesse ducked when Zack threw his notepad in the direction of her head.

"Quit making fun of her, you're gonna be old someday too," He scolded good-naturedly.

"I wasn't making fun of her. I was laughing at the look on your face when she propositioned you." Laughter erupted once again from Jesse.

"Excuse me, officers," a man's voice interrupted their fun.

"Yes sir?" Jesse stepped forward. She was a little unnerved that they hadn't heard him walk up. Her eyes darted over his body making a quick assessment of his demeanor. He wore a blue work shirt and pants that were smeared with dirt and grease. A scruffy three or four day growth of beard covered his face and his disheveled hair stuck out in various places. He wore a dirty uniform, the kind a mechanic or shop worker wore. The name Marc was stitched above the left pocket. He was alone and seemed harmless, but something about him made Jesse's skin crawl.

His eyes were the coldest eyes she'd ever seen. The smile that twisted his features appeared to be forced. "I apologize, ma'am. I thought you were a different officer. My mistake."

Jesse glanced at Zack and he shrugged. The man turned to walk away and Jesse called after him, "What officer were you looking for?"

He cast over his shoulder, "James."

"Would you like to leave her a message?" Jesse asked. The man didn't respond. Jesse watched him slink across the lot and disappear into the shadows once he reached the road. "That was weird."

"Yeah, he's an odd one," Zack agreed. "But you'll see Jesse; we deal with so many people out here. Sometimes they think you're their personal cop once you've dealt with one of their problems."

"You mean like your lady friend tonight?" Jesse shoved him playfully, regaining her earlier cheerfulness.

He rolled his eyes, "I'm not going to hear the end of this, am I?"

Jesse giggled in response.

"Okay, okay," He finally gave in and laughed with her while he helped her remove the rest of her gear from his marked police unit into her car. "I have to go home and get my personal vehicle, so I'll see you over at the lodge in about forty five minutes. Big graduation party going on, I hear." He slammed the trunk closed.

That brought a cheeky smile to Jesse's face. "Okay, I'm going to change and then I'll be on my way."

When her training officer pulled away, Jesse removed her gun belt and stowed it in the trunk of her vehicle. She grabbed the navy blue canvas bag from behind the driver's seat and headed into the headquarters building to change out and freshen up. Although they had just finished a ten hour shift, Jesse felt fresh and alert, the excitement of knowing that she had officially completed her training as a police recruit filled her to the point of overflowing.

Pushing through the door of the women's locker room with a silly grin plastered on her face, she was startled when she nearly collided head on with someone coming out. Her momentum carried her forward off balance and for a second she thought she might fall. She was stopped by a strong grip on her upper arms. Face to face, inches apart, Jesse flushed hot with embarrassment. "Sorry…corporal," she stammered.

Devon held the younger woman's body away from hers but they stood close enough that Jesse could feel the heat from Devon's body. She heard a sharp intake of breath and the corporal quickly stepped back. "No, excuse me," she mumbled.

Jesse saw the color rising in the corporal's face and felt her own stomach doing flips as she forced a smile and looked away to conceal her blush. God, she is amazing. Immediately she scolded herself for the obvious touch of hero worship over the accomplished veteran officer. She had definitely taken notice when the corporal came to teach a few classes during their last week of training and nearly fainted she found her sitting at the table with her training officer on their dinner break that night. What, now you have a school girl crush on the cute instructor? Remembering her place as a fresh recruit, Jesse stepped aside for the corporal to pass.

"Have a nice night, corporal," she mumbled.

"You too," Devon moved toward the door. She stopped just as she pressed her palm to the surface, turning to look at the rookie. "Jessica or Jesse?" She said softly, almost tentatively. When the young officer turned to look at her with a question in her eyes, she clarified, "Your name? Do you prefer Jessica or Jesse?"

A pleased smile spread across her face, "Either," she shyly dropped her eyes to her boots. "My friends call me Jesse." When her eyes met Devon's again their sparkling greens shimmered in the bright overhead lighting and for a moment Devon was lost in their depths, unable to do anything but stare like a dumbfounded adolescent.

Jesse waited. "Was there something else, corporal?"

Recovering, Devon shook her head, "Sorry, I guess it's been a long night. Take care." She pushed through the door purposefully, wondering just what the hell had gotten into her. Zack's right, I need to get out and have a beer with the gang. Then everything will get back to normal. Devon jumped into her police cruiser and headed home for a quick change of clothes, intent on meeting her friends at the lodge for a couple of beers, mindless cop banter, and maybe a game of pool.

Chapter 6

Devon circled the parking lot of the Fraternal Order of Police lodge, perplexed at the number of cars filling the lot and spilling over into the property next door. "It's not like today's the first day they started pouring free beer," she muttered, finding a spot next to a green Toyota. She checked her look in the outside mirror of her jeep, finger combing her windblown curls before striding confidently to the rear door of the hall and letting herself in with her key.

The main room was packed with more than fifty people making Devon work her way through the crowd to get to the bar. She smiled at Joe the bartender and held up her index finger indicating an order for a draft. Joe slid the frosty mug across the bar to her followed by leaning in for a tight hug. "Good to see you honey," he said into her ear. "You need to come and visit more often."

Joe was Devon's first corporal in her rookie year. He was an old school, gruff bastard who tried to intimidate every new recruit, especially females. Devon didn't shrink from his pressure. She actually responded more determinedly and in the process had won over the old salt's heart. Since his retirement the year before he kept himself busy and stayed in touch with retirees and active officers alike by tending bar at the lodge.

"I know Joe, I'm sorry. I'll try to do better." She hugged him again and he winked at her before moving away to fill the next mug of beer.

"Hey Dev, over here." She turned in the direction of the familiar voice to see Zack waving at her from the other side of the pool table. Mac was soundly whipping him, systematically clearing the solid balls off the table.

"Why's the place so crowded?" Devon continued to scan the room, waving to colleagues she recognized.

"The rooks graduated, remember?" Zack responded, still watching Mac shoot. "Aw, c'mon," he moaned when she called the eight ball in the side pocket and then slammed it home with authority.

Devon climbed onto a nearby barstool, content to observe the activities around her. Just as Joe set her second beer on the bar in front of her, the side door swung open and a young male officer held it for the person entering behind him. Devon watched Jesse enter the room. Her long legs gave way to the taper of her slender hips and thin waist toward her torso. There, Devon couldn't help but notice that her tight nipples pressed against the fabric of the black t-shirt she wore. Apparently, she was not wearing a bra and Devon drew a long gulp from her beer as her eyes roamed over the lithe body. She admired her soft curves that were normally obscured from view by the confines of the body armor and gun belt. Nice.

Jesse joined the other rookies across the room and they all raised their mugs saluting their accomplishments. The entire place was buzzing with promise and youthful exuberance. Their enthusiasm was contagious and Devon smiled as she watched the group interact. When a muscular brunette in uniform and wearing knee high motorcycle boots approached the table Jesse's smile immediately faded. Devon recognized her as the sergeant of the motorcycle squad. Angela…something. It didn't really matter. The woman stopped inches from Jesse's chair, towering over her. Her posture conveyed an arrogance that Devon instantly disliked. Jesse glanced up at her and then quickly looked away. Devon saw that she shifted her chair slightly to the left to give herself some space.

The woman placed her palms on the table and leaned over Jesse, saying something directly into her ear. Jesse responded without looking up, a negative shake of her head accompanying whatever she had said. Again, she moved her chair back, her discomfort obvious, but this time the wall prevented her from moving her chair much. She stood and pushed past the other woman to head toward the restroom. Watching the exchange, Devon knew exactly who the dark haired woman was. She obviously doesn't want to talk to you, asshole.

Mac shouted for Devon to join them for a game of doubles on the pool tables. She readily agreed, grateful for the distraction from whatever it was that was going on with Jesse. The ex stopped her outside the restroom and the two of them were now standing in the corner having a serious conversation. Jesse seemed to be fine with it, so Devon headed to the tables with her friends. She clenched her jaw when she saw the brunette drape an arm possessively over Jesse's shoulders. When Jesse didn't protest, Devon shook her head at her own hasty assumptions. Maybe the two of them were still working things out. No reason they shouldn't.

When she stepped up next to Mac, Zack shook his head, "Oh, no way. You two are not going to gang up on me," He said seriously. "I'm taking Mac," And before Devon realized what he was doing, she heard him calling across the room, "Jesse, come over here, we need a fourth player."

Jesse worked her way over through the crowded room to stand next to Devon as her ex stared.

Zack began racking the balls while Mac launched a new series of jabs about the last time he attempted the break and managed to miss them all. "Hey," he complained, "we're on the same team now, remember?"

Mac relented, "Okay, you're right, partner. I'll get you another beer as a peace offering, does anybody else need one?" She inquired of the group.

Zack nodded, passing his empty mug to her. Devon was acutely feeling Jesse's presence next to her. The rush of adrenaline coursing through her body seemed to be short circuiting her verbal skills. She downed the remainder of her mug and wordlessly handed the empty to Mac. Tilting her chin toward Jesse, Mac asked, "How about you…?" She let the question dangle in the air awaiting a name to fill in the gap.

Sharing a look with Jesse, Devon felt a tingling pressure building in her gut. Mac stopped next to her, still waiting for an answer regarding the beer order. Devon never took her eyes off Jesse standing a foot away. She finally managed, "Why don't you just bring us all one, Mac?"

"Coming right up!" Mac winked and laughed, already threading her way toward the bar.

Soon, the group fell into the rhythm of the game easily conversing and sharing a few jokes. While Jesse lined up a shot and talked to Zack, Mac poked her friend lightly in the ribs.

"Jesse is very nice." She nodded her head in the direction of the woman in question.

A wide smile broke across Devon's face. "Yeah," her eyes held Mac's for a second before returning to Jesse.

Nodding, Mac grinned back at her. "How long have you been keeping this secret?"

"It's no secret. I just met her so don't read too much into anything."

"If you say so," Mac's voice was gently teasing.

Mac started telling Zack some story and Devon tried to follow, but instead found herself stealing glances at Jesse repeatedly. She couldn't seem to keep her eyes off of her. When Jesse made her next shot and looked up at her with those heart-stopping green eyes, Devon felt as though she would melt under the heat of her gaze.

That unnerved her because Devon couldn't ever remember feeling so completely undone by just looking at a woman-any woman. She excused herself to go to the restroom and lingered in the hallway attempting to locate where she had left her sanity. Unable to find an off switch for her raging libido, she decided to call it a night before she really did something embarrassing.

When she got back to the pool table Jesse was gone. "Anybody see where Jesse went?" She looked at her friends.

"She said she had to get going," Zack supplied. Devon felt disappointed that Jesse hadn't even said goodbye. She figured it must have something to do with the woman she saw her with earlier, who Devon noticed was gone now as well.

"You sure you're okay to drive?" Mac asked her.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Devon nodded, "See you guys later." She called out a goodbye to Steph who was still deeply involved in a dart game, and made her way to the exit relieved to escape the intensity of the evening.

As Jesse made her way to her car, she smiled thinking about the game of pool she shared with Devon and her friends. She was certain Zack had invited her to join them in order to play matchmaker. Both women were very attractive. The pilot's dark mysterious look was intriguing, but did nothing to stir Jesse inside the way the corporal did. God, she couldn't even be anywhere near her without nearly melting into a puddle. That's why she had to leave. Well, that and the fact that Angela's unexpected appearance had unnerved her completely. Why does that woman still have power over me?

The familiar sadness and inadequacy overtook her and Jesse struggled to stop the onslaught of sudden tears of anger and frustration. She slumped against her car holding her head in her hands, wondering how long it was going to take before she would be free of her past. She had suspected Angela's cheating for some time before the cold hard facts became too much to ignore. Why did she wait so long to confront her? How could she have been so gullible? Were Angela's lies that easy to believe or was she too afraid to face her own failure?

Stupid. She blew out a frustrated breath and swiped angrily at the wetness on her cheeks. Angela was the past. She survived and now she had a new career ahead of her. No reason to dwell on her mistakes. "Stop letting that woman rent space in your head." She said aloud.

"Jesus," Devon muttered to herself as she walked quickly across the parking lot, "What the hell is wrong with you?" She inhaled the warm night air deeply to resettle her emotions, certain that her crazy behavior was due to a combination of little sleep and the alcohol. I just need to get a good night sleep, that's all. She dug in her pocket for her keys, whistling a Melissa Etheridge tune as she approached the jeep. The sight of a figure leaning against the side of the green car next to hers brought her up short. It took only a second to realize that it was Jesse and another millisecond for Devon's heart to kick wildly in her chest.

Jesse's arms were folded across her chest, her head turned as she stared in the direction of the street, her profile illuminated in the moonlight. She looked deep in thought. For a moment Devon considered going back inside, but her legs seemed to have different ideas, carrying her over to where Jesse stood.

"Are you okay?" She bent slightly to look directly into Jesse's face, hating the mixture of confusion and sadness she saw. She felt the urge to punch whoever was responsible for putting it there.

Jesse straightened and forced a tremulous smile, "Yes, corporal. Thank you, I was just…"

Devon closed the distance between them and placed a hand gently on her shoulder, "Its Devon. Please, call me Devon, okay?" Jesse trembled beneath her touch. The sadness in Jesse's eyes hurt somewhere deep inside in a way that she couldn't explain. Her heart was still hammering in her chest, making a futile attempt to break free while her stomach flipped crazily.

Jesse let out a shaking breath, "Okay…Devon." She gripped herself more tightly around the middle before pushing off the car to move away out of touching distance.

Jesse's sudden withdrawal puzzled Devon. She glanced around the parking lot wondering if her ex was still around bothering her. The image of that woman with Jesse irrationally disturbed her. Devon reminded herself that it was none of her business, and she shoved her hands into the pockets of her jeans to keep from touching her again.

"You sure you're okay?" She finally asked, unable to walk away.

"Yeah, thanks," Jesse risked meeting her eyes. "I'm just a bit tired, that's all."

"Okay…well," Devon suddenly had to ask; she just had to be sure. "Is that your…um…girlfriend?" She watched a frown knit Jesse's eyebrows together and she shook her head in obvious bewilderment.

"What? Who are you talking about?"

Devon could feel the heat of the blood crawling up her neck and into her face and wanted nothing more than a hole to open up in the ground beneath her feet and swallow her up. She stared at her boots, searching for something intelligent to say. "Uh, the woman I saw you with earlier…" Could I look any more like an idiot? She sighed, "Look, I'm sorry. It's none of my business. If you're okay, then I'll just leave you alone," she murmured as she backed away from Jesse toward the safety of her own vehicle.

"She's nobody," Jesse blurted out. "Not anymore. I don't have a girlfriend."

Devon stopped as a crazy sense of relief flooded through her. She nodded and smiled, "Well, I just wanted to make sure you were alright. I better get going. Thanks for the game of pool."

Jesse returned the smile. Devon's eyes captured hers and refused to let go. They stood in silence as the heat of the night enveloped them until Jesse finally spoke. "Yes, I'm fine. Thanks again."

"No problem," Devon said quietly. She waited while Jesse got into her car and pulled away, raising her hand in response to Jesse's wave goodbye. When she climbed into the Jeep to head home, Devon was so wrapped up in the high of Jesse that she didn't notice the figure slouched against a tree in the shadows across the street.

Chapter 7

Steph threw the passenger door open even before Devon got the car stopped, the tires sliding a few more feet on the gravel in the housing project parking lot. Steph could run like the wind and she was quickly gaining on the young man who they had just witness selling cocaine to a walk up customer. Devon jammed the car into park, leapt out and corralled the buyer a short distance away as he was attempting to escape in the opposite direction. She quickly speed cuffed the suspect, opened the rear door of the police vehicle and shoved him inside. She slammed the door shut and immediately her eyes scanned the direction her partner had sprinted after the dealer. She could see them crossing the grassy area, and on the other side of the 'cut' she knew was the main road. If they got that far, he might escape.

Gravel flew behind her tires as Devon peeled out of the lot with the first prisoner in tow. She grabbed the car mic. "Adam five. Signal thirty nine narcotics deal at Lake and Gould Ct. One in custody, my partner is in foot pursuit of the second; they're westbound toward Florida Ave."

"Ten four Adam five," the dispatcher responded. Immediately multiple officers were talking over each other advising that they were enroute to assist.

Devon stood on the accelerator. They had done this a hundred times before, but she hated it when Steph took off on foot like this. Her steely eyes focused on the two figures running up ahead. The V8 police package Crown Vic roared through the otherwise still night.

Devon pushed the cruiser past the pair running, then stomped on the brake to slow just enough to avoid blowing a tire when she jumped the curb. "Hang on buddy," She said to her passenger. Devon swung the car wide and turned back around toward the fleeing felon. She launched from the vehicle sprinting towards them at a 45 degree angle to where Steph was rapidly closing on her target. Steph left her feet, executing a diving tackle that knocked the air from the suspect when they hit the ground. She deftly completed a three point pin and cuffed his wrists. Watching that scene always reminded Devon of watching a rodeo when the cowboy ropes the calf. In her mind, she half expected to see Steph to throw her hands in the air and stand for the cheering crowd.

The women stood the suspect up. Steph was breathing hard from the full sprint. "One more for the books, partner," She gasped laughing and trying to catch her breath.

"You are amazing," Devon smiled in wonder.

After they placed him in the back seat with the first subject, they observed their sergeant approaching on foot across the grass. "My dynamic duo does it again," He smiled. "I swear if I had ten officers like you I'd have the most successful squad in the department. Let me guess, Gould Ct dealer?"

"You would think they would have learned by now, huh Sarge?" Devon said.

"Yeah," He agreed. "As I was coming up here I heard the rest of them out there yelling, 'Blondie and Slick' I love it when they call you two that." He laughed out loud. "You know you are effective cops when the dopers have nicknames for you."

Devon climbed into the driver's seat beside her partner. They looked at each other and burst into laughter. "What a rush this job is," Steph exclaimed, "That never gets old."

"Nope," Devon agreed, "So whadaya say Slick, should we get these two booked?"

"Absolutely Blondie, let's go."

On the way to the jail, Steph asked, "When does the SWAT school start?"

"Monday. I'll be there all next week." Devon replied as she reviewed the arrest paperwork. She leaned over nonchalantly to run a unit status check on the computer, oblivious to Stephanie's smirk when she saw Devon check the same zone for the third time tonight.

"Why don't you just ask her out?" She asked as Devon deleted the response.

"Who?" Devon kept her eyes on the clipboard in her lap.

"The rookie from the lodge." When Devon didn't respond, Steph grinned and kept driving, knowing eventually she'd get it out of her.

Chapter 8

Devon checked the computer status in the adjacent district. She told herself that what she was doing was routine, after all, calls could go out just on the other side of the border on the other radio frequency. The computer beeped its response and she immediately scanned the screen for Jesse's call sign. She was on a call two blocks east. Without hesitation, Devon wheeled her cruiser in that direction and soon pulled up behind Jesse's flashing lights.

Finding reasons to see Jesse for a moment, even from a distance was becoming a habit for Devon since the night at the lodge. The brief moments of conversation they could steal would brighten Devon's day. She didn't know what it was about this quiet, totally unassuming woman, only that when she was around her she felt peaceful. Devon couldn't remember anymore why she thought she should stay away from Jesse when just being near her made her feel so damn good.

Apparently they had finished their call and Jesse was leaning on her car, talking to another officer. As Devon exited her own vehicle and approached, Jesse laughed at something the other officer said. Then, as though sensing Devon's presence, her head swiveled and their eyes locked. Devon's heart skipped a beat.

"Hey." Devon greeted with her eyes still on Jesse. A smile once again lit up Jesse's face and Devon couldn't help the silly grin she returned. This woman totally gets to me.

"Hey!" Jesse's response was exuberant.

"I was just down the street," Devon lied, "and I saw your lights." The other officer who had been speaking with Jesse nodded in Devon's direction, "Howya doing, Devon?"

"Great, Lu, how 'bout you? How's that husband of yours?"

"He's as stubborn as ever, Devon, you know how he is," she laughed and shrugged.

"Well, you just say the word and I'll come straighten him out for you, Lu."

"I may take you up on that." An awkward silence grew when nobody spoke for a time. Lu looked questioningly at Jesse, "You gonna hang out?"

Jesse, immediately blushing, looked down at the door frame. "Yeah, I'll see you in a bit, Lu, okay?"

Lu smiled at Jesse. "Okay." She hesitated, looking puzzled at the two women. Then she shrugged and climbed into her car. "See ya later Devon," She called over her shoulder as she pulled away.

"So you were just down the street?" It was all Jesse could manage to ask.

"Yeah," Devon nodded. "We worked a crash over on Nebraska and like I said…um," Devon's voice trailed off, revealing her uncertainty.

"Listen, I hope I'm not being too forward, but my squad and family are having a 'surprise' party for my birthday on Saturday, and I was wondering-I mean your partner-girlfriend-could come too."

Devon held up both hands in front of Jesse. "No rings, I don't have that kind of partner, Jesse."

"But people say that you had a live in girlfriend…" Jesse felt silly.

"Jessica, the first thing you have to understand about this place is that cops love to gossip. They feed on it. They all think they know everything about everyone and they don't." She couldn't hide her irritation at the thought of people telling Jesse things like this about her. She knew it wasn't Jesse's fault so she pushed the anger away.

Wanting to see the light back in Jesse's eyes, she smiled and returned to the original topic. "So, if this is a surprise, how come you know about it?" Devon gazed steadily at Jesse, her eyes dancing.

Jesse smiled sheepishly, "My family isn't very good at keeping secrets."

Her stare drifted over Devon's face and she watched in fascination as Jesse's thoughts played in the green landscape of her eyes. She has no idea how beautiful she is. Her blood rushed in her veins and her body tingled as though Jesse's gaze had caressed her. Taking a deep breath she stepped back, shaking her head to clear her thoughts.

"Wow," She breathed inaudibly. Pheromones were surely short-circuiting her brain function.

"Beg pardon?" Jesse leaned closer.

"Sure," Devon said quickly before she thought about it too much and changed her mind. "A party would be fun. But you still haven't told me how old you're gonna be."

"Adam Four," The dispatcher's voice broke through the silence.

"That's me," Devon pulled the hand held radio from her left hip. "Adam four go ahead." The familiar command tone was once again back in her voice. Copying the details of the next call, she shrugged at Jesse. "Sorry."

"Duty calls," Jesse laughed as she put her car in gear.

"Hey," Devon said, "You didn't say how old you were gonna be."

As she pulled away, Jesse called out the open window, "I'll be thirty." Devon watched her go, and the smile Jesse flashed her as she turned the corner glowed in her memory the rest of the shift.

Chapter 9

Jesse was talking to members of her squad about a call that they handled the week before. She had been distracted the entire evening, and one of the guys poked her good naturedly in the arm. "Hey, you still with us?"

"Yeah, sorry," Jesse smiled, "I guess I keep worrying about having enough beer and ice. I better go check." As she stepped away, she glanced at the clock. Eight thirty. The party started at seven and things were going very well. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Jesse made the rounds frequently, performing her social duties to speak to everyone who had come to wish her well. She checked the coolers in the game room of her sister's house and then looked again at the clock; eight thirty four. Maybe she's not coming.

A stab of disappointment hit her stomach at that thought. Jesse realized now that although she had a house full of loved ones and well wishers, every time the door opened, she anxiously hoped to see only one face. But, each time a new guest arrived, she had her hopes dashed again. Quit being silly, she probably forgot or something came up, it's no big deal. Forcing herself away from the distractions, she opened a new bag of chips and filled a bowl on the counter, laughing as the kids ran around the house spraying each other with silly string.

The ringing of the doorbell sent Jesse's pulse racing. Everyone else is here, it has to be her. She ran to get the door, stopping as she placed her hand on the knob to draw a deep steadying breath. Jesse pulled the door open and felt her heart flutter in her chest at the sight before her. Devon stood on the step wearing a form fitting black polo shirt tucked into faded blue jeans that were worn nearly threadbare in some interesting places, a black leather belt encircled her small waist and black slightly scuffed boots rounded out the outfit. Her blond curls were combed back and held by just enough jell to give a slightly damp appearance to her hair, but not stiff or untouchable. Quite the opposite, the look was a little dangerous and a lot sexy. Jesse wanted to drive her fingers into those curls. Now.

Devon cleared her throat and shifted her weight nervously as she held out the envelope in her hand. "Happy Birthday," she said softly.

"Thanks." It finally hit Jesse that they were still standing in the doorway and she had yet to invite Devon in. She stepped back motioning inside, "Sorry, please, come in."

She curled her hand around Devon's upper arm, drawing her through the crowded room. Devon's arm tensed slightly beneath her touch and then relaxed as they walked. Jesse smiled inwardly when she felt Devon lean into her slightly. They stopped several times to say hello to Jesse's parents and to introduce Devon to other family members. Making their way to the game room at the rear of the house, Jesse lifted the lid on a cooler and extracted two beers, handing one to Devon.

"Did you have trouble finding the place?" Jesse didn't want to admit that she was afraid that Devon wasn't coming.

"No…I…" Devon blew out a long breath, and stared at the bottle in her hands.

When she raised her eyes to Jesse's they were self-conscious in a way Jesse never imagined Devon could be. She thought back to when she was still in the academy and this blond powerhouse entered the room as their instructor for the morning. Her demeanor commanded respect, everything about her exuded confidence.

As Devon strode across the front of the room, Jesse felt electricity in the air. She was slim but muscular; Jesse noted her thick, wavy blond hair, cut neatly so that it tapered in the back just to the bottom of her shirt collar. She wore combed back from her forehead, but it maintained a soft, flowing appearance, decidedly feminine with strength and independence. Her eyes were like pale blue ice chips, intense and focused. Now, here she was face to face with this formidable woman hoping she hadn't done something to make Devon uncomfortable. Jesse waited for Devon's answer, watching a strange expression cross her face.

When her eyes met Jesse's she chuckled and began again, "Actually, I was so nervous that I changed clothes five times trying to decide what would make the best impression." She blushed and dropped her eyes nervously at the floor.

Devon's admission was so adorable it made Jesse's heart melt. She reached out to touch Devon's knee, causing her to jump slightly at the contact. Jesse responded with a reassuring smile.

"You look beautif-" Devon was interrupted by a woman's voice calling from the doorway.

"Jessica, it's time to cut the cake and open your presents." Her mother looked at Jesse expectantly. Jesse looked apologetically at Devon.

Devon grinned at her, "You go ahead, don't keep your family waiting. I'll finish my thought later."

After cutting the cake and distributing pieces all around, Jesse sat in the middle of the living room, surrounded by a pile of gifts. She carefully opened each card and present, thanking the giver sincerely. Every few moments, she glanced up to see Devon standing in the doorway to the game room, leaning on the doorframe, watching her with a soft smile on her face. When the last gift was opened, she said goodbye to several guests and was soon caught up in conversation with old friends.

Jesse stood in the doorway waving goodbye to one of her friends when she heard the distinct rumble of a Harley Davidson Roadster approaching. The Harley pulled into the spot vacated by the departing guest and Jesse stared in disbelief at the dark haired woman who stepped from the machine at the curb and sauntered toward her up the walk. She pulled the door closed behind her to confront the uninvited guest.

"What are you doing here?" She snapped at Angela.

Angela's cocky grin slid across her lips, "Now, sweetheart, is that anyway to talk when I only wanted to say happy birthday?"

"You're drunk," Angela's glassy eyes stared back at her. Jesse stepped toe to toe with the other woman, furious at her for presuming a right to be there. The smell of rum hung in the air between them. The evening had been wonderful and now Angela was going to spoil it. "Please go."

When Angela met her eyes Jesse saw the familiar anger flash within them. "Jesse, I'm here to give you one more chance to come home with me." She reached out and grabbed Jesse by the elbow. Jesse had to understand where she belonged. Angela tightened her grip and looked around, "Oh, you're having a party." She jerked Jesse against her. "I guess my invitation must have gotten lost in the mail." Her hot, rum soaked breath seemed to cling to Jesse's face, making her skin crawl.

Devon opened the front door to get a bit of fresh air just as Jesse yelled, "Take your damn hands off of me." She struggled to pull her arm free from the larger woman. It took a second for what was happening to register in Devon's brain. In the next she was moving forward, forcefully grabbing a fistful of Angela's shirt at her left shoulder. Angela responded by gripping Devon's right arm with her free hand.

Wide-eyed, Angela stared at Devon, but did not let go of Jesse's arm. The three of them stood connected in silence for a long moment. Blue eyes and brown locked in a silent duel. Finally, a smirk pulled at Angela's mouth. "Sport, I don't know what your deal is, but this is a private conversation." she growled and then told Jesse, "We're not done."

Devon stepped in closer, looking slowly down at the hand gripping Jesse's arm too tightly. Flipping her eyes back up, drilling into the exes, she said in a dangerously low tone, "I believe the lady told you to let go. I'm going to suggest that you take your hand off of her." She smiled wickedly, twisting her fists more tightly in the woman's shirt. "But really, I gotta tell ya, I'm kind of hoping you don't take the suggestion."

Something in Devon's eyes finally registered in Angela's consciousness. She released Jesse's arm, but still glared at Devon in challenge. "You and I aren't finished either." She spat.

Devon fisted both hands in the front of Angela's shirt, moving forward and easily backing her against the Harley. Then she leaned in a bit more to bend the shorter woman backwards over the gas tank, "You keep eye fucking me and I can assure you I will finish this."

Jesse laid her hand gently on Devon's shoulder, "Hey, don't do this, okay?"

Her soft voice penetrated the rage enveloping Devon's brain, calling her back from the edge. Devon breathed deeply and released Angela. When she stepped back, Jesse's arm slipped around her waist and held her tightly.

Looking evenly at Angela, Jesse said, "We're done here."

Jesse gently tugged at Devon's midsection, guiding her back toward the house without another word to Angela. Devon heard the woman grumble something that was drowned out when the powerful engine started. A moment later the Harley accelerated down the street, the rumble fading into the distance.

They faced each other silently in the glow of the porch light. "Are you okay?" Devon asked. She wanted nothing more than to wrap Jesse in a tight embrace, but she didn't want to push after what had just happened with her ex.

"I feel like we've already covered this ground," Jesse smiled ruefully.

"Sorry." Devon offered, unsure of the look on Jesse's face. She was suddenly terrified. What if her response to Angela made Jesse think she was just as bad? Some hotheaded asshole who couldn't keep her temper? And what about Angela? It was plain that Jesse didn't want her hands on her tonight, but they had a history that Devon knew nothing about. Maybe Jesse didn't want her involvement. She raked her hand through her hair in frustration. Jesus, I screwed this up. Shoving her hands in her pockets, she studied her boots, waiting for the admonishment she supposed she deserved.

"Would you like to take a walk?" Jesse asked impulsively.

"Sure."

Falling into step on the sidewalk, Devon took a chance and linked her right arm through Jesse's left as they walked silently in the warm spring evening. Devon wondered if Jesse could feel her arm tremble or the heat suffusing her body as they leaned slightly against one another. At the end of the street they stopped under the shadow of a large oak tree in the center of the cul de sac. Jesse leaned her back against the huge trunk and regarded Devon seriously.

"You said you were going to finish your thought from earlier."

Devon chuckled softly, remembering. Now, as she looked at Jesse with slivers of moonlight seeping through the tree branches, casting wisps of highlights in her golden hair and accentuating the beauty of her face, she was struck momentarily speechless. The scent of orange blossoms was wafting through the air, sweetly intoxicating, carried by a light breeze that gently caressed the silken hair along Jesse's neck. Devon placed her hands on the tree trunk on either side of Jesse's shoulders, leaning in until their faces were inches apart.

"I was saying that you are very beautiful," She whispered, mesmerized by the enchanting eyes looking intently back at her and the way her lips curved into a shy smile. She stared at the perfectly shaped full lower lip, noticing a slight indentation at the center and Devon felt the urge to touch her tongue to that very spot. Their breath mingled as Devon waited until she recognized the welcoming look in the warm green depths. Dipping her head ever so slowly, she brushed a whisper of a kiss tenderly on Jesse's mouth before drawing back and letting her eyes slowly move down the length of Jesse's body. Returning to meet her eyes, Devon watched her pupils grow wide, nearly obliterating the green, her lips slightly parted and welcoming.

The second kiss was gentle but a bit more intense than the first. Devon took Jesse's lower lip into her mouth sucking lightly before releasing it to dance her tongue playfully along the warm smooth skin just inside her lips. Jesse responded with her own teasing strokes gently tasting and matching the movements of Devon's tongue, while she placed her hands on Devon's waist to pull her body closer.

When they came up for air, Devon's head was swimming while need burned through her. With their lips still a breath apart, she looked into Jesse's eyes, seeing pure desire without any hint of reservation or fear. Something about the sheer honesty and trust made Devon's heart ache with tenderness. She felt an overwhelming urge not to claim this woman, but to care for her, and the intensity of that feeling scared the hell out of her. Devon drew a breath and forced herself to step back, afraid of giving into her body's physical response and pushing Jesse too far too soon.

"Well, I should walk you back," She managed to say, dragging her eyes away from the hypnotic emerald gaze.

"Yeah, I guess you're right, I should help clean up," Jesse responded just above a whisper. They walked back to where Devon was parked, where they began their goodnight nervously, both knowing that they didn't want to go.

"Well, thanks again for the invite, I had a really great time," Devon said from inside the jeep.

Jesse smiled, "Thanks for coming. I'm really glad you did."

"Listen," Devon hesitated, "about earlier." She plunged ahead desperately, "I didn't' mean to come off like some thug. It's just when I saw her hands on you…I…"

Jesse placed her fingertip lightly on Devon's lips to silence her. Leaning in, she placed a light kiss where her fingers had been. "I could never think anything except how gentle you are." She kissed Devon again to reaffirm the statement. The kiss was a tender absolution and for a fleeting moment Devon felt the possibility of redemption in this woman's touch. Jesse's eyes held hers, quietly reassuring when their lips parted.

"Goodnight Jesse, Happy Birthday."

"Goodnight."

Chapter 10

"Hey! How's my favorite cousin?" The younger woman, who stood about four inches taller than Mac, wrapped her in a tight embrace. Their dark Irish coloring was the same. Both women had nearly black wavy hair contrasted by fair complexions, but while Mac's eyes were silver grey, her cousin's were deep blue. Mac returned the hug with equal enthusiasm.

"I'm good, Conner," She reached up and tousled her cousin's unruly mop of hair affectionately. "And you…I swear you are still growing. I remember when you were a kid you used to say, 'I want to be as tall as Mac' and now, look at you."

Conner mussed Mac's hair in return and they grinned nearly mirror images at each other. "C'mon in and get yourself something to drink, and I'll introduce you to our hostess." She drew Mac across the crowded room to the bar, holding up two fingers when the bartender approached. A moment later, he slid two double shots of Jameson's Irish whiskey across the bar.

"This is a nice place," Mac enthused, taking in her surroundings. The party was located at a private residence north of the city in a gated neighborhood whose smallest home was three thousand square feet. The pool bar where they were standing was enclosed in a grass roofed cabana structure at the back of the flag stone patio. An Olympic sized pool accented by a matching stone waterfall provided the focal point of the space, with a large outdoor kitchen area on the opposite side. "I'm not quite used to being in places like this."

"Well, get used to it. You're my cousin." They raised their glasses and sipped. She reached out to stop the progress of a blond about Mac's height, wearing a black body hugging dress, pulling the woman to her. Conner's eyes flashed with mischief when the woman took the tumbler of whiskey from her hand and downed the rest.

Mac watched the nonverbal interaction between the two women with interest, marveling at the confident woman Conner had become. Ten years her senior, Mac was already in the military before Conner hit her teens. Their family reunions every summer kept the large clan close, but Mac and Conner always had a special relationship, despite the age difference. She never minded her younger cousin tagging along with her and she supposed now that somehow they sensed their unique commonality besides the blood that they shared.

"Dani," Conner said with a flourish, "this is my cousin Mac."

Mac took Dani's hand and smiled. "Pleased to meet you, Dani."

Dani's eyes traveled the length of Mac's frame none to subtly, "The pleasure is all mine, Mac." She looked from Mac to Conner and back. "You McGuire's certainly have looks on your side."

"Actually," Mac said, "I'm a McKinley. Conner's mother is my father's sister."

"Well, regardless. Great genes." Dani nodded appreciatively, accepting a fresh drink from Conner.

"Thanks." Mac dropped her eyes to her glass and then looked past them to the pool. "You have a beautiful home, Dani. Thank you for having me."

"Conner says you're her favorite cousin, so you're always welcome. Please make yourself at home." Conner spoke softly into Dani's ear, making her chuckle before Dani melted back into the crowd.

"I see you've outgrown the gangly shy kid I was so fond of." Mac teased as Conner followed Dani with her eyes. She clapped her young cousin on the back. "So, this is where you're staying for Spring break? Is this a sign of things to come?"

Conner shrugged, "Dani's family owns the New York Liberty. I met her at the NCAA tournament party last year. We're…friends," The roguish smile reappeared, "Sometimes with benefits."

Mac shook her head, laughing. "Grandpa McKinley would've never believed his granddaughter would be a professional basketball player. Look at you, kid. You've come a long way from where we grew up."

"The draft is still a few months off, so let's not get ahead of ourselves. And, look whose talking," Conner countered, "Captain McKinley."

"Retired," Mac corrected her. Laughter across the room drew her attention to a group of women gathered at the far end of the pool. Her eyes locked on the woman who was apparently entertaining the rest with her stories. She was about Mac's height with a tight muscular frame, long powerful legs, and rich auburn hair flowing around her face to just past her shoulders. As if sensing Mac watching her she looked up with a warm smile that seemed to beckon Mac closer. Mac raised her glass and smiled in the woman's direction.

Conner followed Mac's gaze and laughed heartily. She cocked her head toward her cousin, speaking privately, "I knew the moment I saw that woman walk in that you would like her."

Mac raised an eyebrow, "You did?"

"Yep. I've kinda noticed your type over the years." Conner informed her, glancing back at the woman, "She definitely fits the bill." Mac slid her empty glass across the bar and the bartender promptly refilled it.

During the evening, Mac watched the woman from a distance and their eyes met a few times. Mac was intrigued to say the least. She was wearing form fitting leather pants beneath a torso hugging black silk tank. Mac watched her dance with a group of women, admiring the flex of her muscular legs as she moved fluidly to the music. She seemed different somehow from the other women. She was not one of the athletes, and definitely wasn't one of the groupies. She also didn't seem to be anyone's date. That was very good.

The woman's eyes fell on Mac again, holding, letting her interest show. So, what are you waiting for? Mac strode toward where the woman stood, contemplating her opening line. Just then a man's voice called across the room. "Hey Jill, you've gotta come see this."

Mac frowned as she watched the man wrap her in a tight hug and place a familiar kiss on her cheek. The couple disappeared inside the house. Figures. She shook her head and headed back to the bar where Conner was holding out another drink for her.

An hour later, Mac was feeling a little tired. She checked her watch as she contemplated the drive home, thinking she should get going.

"You're not thinking about leaving are you?" A smooth voice drawled in her ear. Mac turned to see the auburn haired woman standing at her right shoulder. Her smile was dazzling and her brown eyes warm, drawing Mac in.

"Not anymore." Mac replied, her eyes fixed on the beautiful face.

"Good."

Chapter 11

"Shit, I'm late," The instructor grunted to herself as she rounded the turn into the parking lot, quickly pulling her red convertible into one of the parking spots reserved for staff. She hadn't counted on so much traffic driving from Tampa. Quickly checking her look in the rearview mirror, she pushed the unruly strands of auburn hair back away from her face and finger combed the rest of her normally shoulder length mane, realizing it was getting longer than she thought. She glanced around the vehicle's interior for a hair tie, shrugging when she didn't locate one.

Returning her attention to her reflection, she critically assessed her bloodshot eyes, bleary from one too many drinks and a late night of sexual activity. A grin pulled at the corner of her mouth as she remembered the way the beautiful brunette she spent the night with came repeatedly under her touch. She grabbed her gear bag and stepped from the vehicle, keying the alarm remote as she walked briskly toward the classroom. Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she reminded herself to put her game face on.

Relieved to see her teaching partner still standing outside in the hallway, the woman dropped her bag and grinned as he stared at her advancing form, shaking his head in wonder. "You slept with her, didn't you?" His voice held a touch of disbelief mixed with respect. That was the only explanation for her hasty last minute arrival. "You know, it would be nice if you got here a little early to help me set up."

"I know Matt. I'm sorry. The traffic was murder and I-"

He held up a hand to stop her explanation, "Never mind. If you weren't one of the best SWAT officers I'd ever worked with, you know I wouldn't put up with your shit, right?" His partner lived for the thrill of a tense standoff, ending with authority as the battering ram ruptured the door amid flash bang concussion grenades, militant garbed SWAT officers storming inside to take control of the chaos. Her intensity and enthusiasm made her one of the most sought after instructors in the state. The fact that she was also gorgeous and a lesbian only added to her mystique.

"Did you ever stop to think that this is why most of the other instructors don't want to work with you? Let's see, they think you're arrogant, rude…"

"Don't forget self-absorbed," she added.

"There's always that," he agreed. "Good thing I know better. That 'I'm an asshole' act of yours doesn't work with me." He pointed an index finger at her.

She gave him her best sad brown puppy dog eyes, "Forgive me?" Matt was one of the few people who knew her secret. Her tough exterior was a carefully erected and maintained shell designed to prevent penetration. Her heart was off limits.

"No. But you didn't answer the question. Did you sleep with her?"

She looked at him incredulously, "Well, yeah, did you see her?"

"You are worse than a dude, ya know that?"

"Jealous," She laughed throatily as she cocked her head toward the open classroom door. "Can you take care of the registrations and stuff while I get a large coffee? Maybe I can also find a syringe to inject it, feels like that kind of morning." She was already moving rapidly down the hall with long sure strides; calling over her shoulder, "Don't worry, I'll bring you one, too."

"Sure thing your highness," Matt responded with mock deference. "Then you can make your grand entrance." Matt entered the classroom confidently and introduced himself to the class.

Devon listened as the instructor told them about the class. The week ahead of them full of physical challenge and intensity was designed to push the SWAT officer students to new levels of ability and confidence. He lost her when he began explaining the registration forms.

Every class was the same, regardless of the subject matter and she wondered why they didn't just make a database to keep all of the information in and then add the dates and subject with each new training attended. Sighing, she reminded herself that just like the military, law enforcement was a government organization, and the endless repetition of paperwork was inevitable.

Her form complete, she leaned forward in her chair to rest her elbows on the desk and cupped her forehead in her hands. The call out on the barricaded murder suspect refusing to surrender erased any hope she had of sleeping the night before. After hearing a single shot, she and Zack stormed through the back door of the house and found the suspect dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The scene had wrapped up for the team quickly after that, but it left Devon only enough time to run home, shower, and change, before heading out in order to make it on time. Now, she closed her eyes, grateful to have even a minute of rest.

Devon's mind drifted pleasantly to the image of Jesse standing silhouetted in the moonlight, her eyes drawing Devon into their warmth and passion. She relived the brief tender kisses they shared and felt the familiar flood of electricity flow through her as the memory lit up her nerve endings. Content to float in the sublime sensations, she floated mentally, unaware of the second instructor entering at the front of the classroom to join her partner.

"Okay everyone, we're gonna get started," the male instructor called out.

The chatter in the classroom faded as the students turned their attention to the front of the room. Returning from the blissful daydream, Devon focused on the woman standing at the front of the room and gasped. The instructor gaped back at her as though she had seen a ghost.

"Oh, shit."

Chapter 12

They stared at each other across the expanse of the classroom until Jillian Gray bolted from the room.

"Hey, Jill…" Matt regarded the class momentarily with a stunned expression. "Uh, everybody take ten." He pursued her into the hallway.

The rest of the class headed in search of coffee or the lavatory, leaving Devon alone at the rear of the classroom. She sat ramrod straight, unable to believe what she had just seen with her own eyes. Jillian. Jillian was here. The thought was too insane to process. Her mind was a blur of thoughts and images. Angry pain welled up inside filling Devon's chest cavity like black ink spreading from an overturned bottle, as the memories of her first heartbreak returned to the surface.

The walls of the classroom closed in making Devon feel like a caged animal. She launched out of her seat and charged from the room, down the hallway through the exterior door, bursting through into the blazing early morning sun. Jillian. The one who had awakened her body and branded her soul, then tossed her aside without a second thought. Fuck. How could she be here? She gripped the bumper of her Jeep to steady herself against the sensation of her carefully constructed world spiraling out of control.

After a few minutes, Devon began to corral her runaway emotions enough to think about heading back into the classroom. Leaving wasn't an option, this training was important if she wanted to advance on the team. She blew out a sharp breath and told herself that she had survived the heartache that Jillian inflicted, and was a stronger person for the experience. No way was she going to let that woman see any weakness now. She wasn't the naïve little virgin who fell victim to the charms of the charismatic womanizer anymore. Devon squared her shoulders and walked back toward the classroom. This time, she was the one in control.

As the instructors re-entered the room, Jillian's eyes instantly locked onto hers again, but this time Devon's stare was a mask of indifference as she looked at Jillian. She could read the look of confusion and maybe just a little fear in the eyes she knew so well. Jillian dropped her gaze to the desk in front of her and began fumbling with the papers there. Devon was a little surprised to see her so obviously flustered. Good. She drew perverse comfort knowing that her presence was unsettling Jillian.

Mercifully, the first day came to a close and all Devon wanted was to escape to the hotel. She was exhausted from lack of sleep and fighting to focus during eight hours of training. Add to that, battling the emotional storm that raged inside as she listened to Jillian's voice the entire day, and her nerves were frayed as never before. Once alone inside her room, she fell onto the nearest queen sized bed, almost immediately drifting into a fitful sleep filled with memories she thought dead and buried long ago.

Devon's eyes snapped open. The tremors of arousal vibrated through her body and her sex pulsed. What the fuck? She looked around trying to orient herself. The disturbingly erotic dream had begun with Jillian appearing in her room. She started making love to Devon, but at the height of her arousal, Jillian's face morphed into Jesse's. Devon figured some shrink would sure have a field day with that.

The closed drapes artificially darkened the room, but she could still see some light leaking around the edges. She checked her watch and saw that it was almost seven o'clock. Her stomach growled loudly, reminding her that she hadn't eaten since eleven thirty that morning. That realization motivated her to get cleaned up to go in search of a meal. Concentrating on that thought rather than the disturbing images of her decidedly wet dream, Devon climbed into the shower and let the hot water beat against her skin while she willed her mind to clear.

Fatigue and hunger sapped any interest in leaving the hotel grounds to search for a place to eat. Instead she would settle for whatever fare the onsite restaurant served. Devon took a seat at the small outdoor bar area next to the large kidney shaped swimming pool. She surveyed the grill menu and ordered a beer while she waited for her order of blackened chicken, rice and vegetables.

After the satisfying meal Devon felt much better. The sound of the waterfall flowing into the pool was tranquil and the beer went down easily, helping Devon relax in the quiet surroundings. She wondered if Jesse was having a busy night at work and thought about asking her out when she got back to Tampa. That thought brought a smile to her face. The bartender automatically brought her another beer and Devon sat back in the high backed barstool happy to have her thoughts back on familiar ground.

"Mind if I join you?" The unmistakable whiskey smooth voice penetrated Devon's quiet musings. She flinched inwardly but didn't move, and continued to stare out over the pool as she sipped her beer.

Jillian climbed onto the neighboring stool, her thigh brushing against Devon's as she sat. She ordered a beer and two shots of whiskey. Devon sat silently waiting, afraid that if she looked at Jillian, the reactions to her earlier dream would be visible on her face. The sound of that voice never failed to stir Devon's senses. Even after all of these years, the reactions still seemed to be hard wired to her central nervous system, sending pulsing signals to her erogenous zones. Her mind cursed her body's response to the brush of Jillian's leg against her own, no doubt still feeling the effects of her disturbingly erotic dream. This week would be interminable.

After a few minutes of silence, Jillian finally spoke. "I know you were as shocked as I was this morning." She slid one shot of whiskey toward Devon, allowing her hand to brush across the back of Devon's. Immediately, Devon pulled her hands away. The muscle below her right eye was twitching the way it always did when she was upset.

"Sorry," Jillian said nearly inaudibly. She threw back her shot, chasing it with the beer. "I really am sorry, Dev. I…I wanted to call you so many times…" Her voice caught around a lump forming in her throat.

Devon turned an icy blue gaze toward Jillian, "Save it. I did call, but it's kind of hard to get through on a disconnected number. You always knew how to get in touch with me Jillian. I wrote to you every day for months without a response." She stood, extracted a twenty from her pocket and tossed it on the bar, "Finally, even my dumb ass got the message." Devon nodded to the bartender, "Take the shots and her beer out of that."

As she turned to walk away, Jillian reached out to grasp Devon's arm to stop her. Devon stiffened and closed her eyes, willing her skin to stop tingling where Jillian touched her. The dredged up memories of the past had dangerously exposed her still painful wounds, and Jillian's touch was too much right now.

"Good night." She rasped as she walked quickly away leaving Jillian alone at the bar staring after her.

Chapter 13

Matt led the class on a three mile run at 0700 to start off the second day of training. The remainder of the morning instruction was tactical approaches and extraction drills that kept Devon and Jillian from interacting directly, much to Devon's relief. She tried to keep her mind occupied on the training, but Jillian's presence was getting to her. Each time she glanced at her, the brown eyes were watching her.

After lunch they moved to another building with mats covering the floor and walls. Stacks of square training bags used to practice sparring techniques such as punches, kicks and baton work were stacked along the far side of the room. Matt explained the afternoon session would concentrate on grappling or hand to hand sparring techniques. He quickly began pairing off the students, matching them according to approximate size and weight in order to minimize the risk of injury. Because she was the only female, Devon was not really surprised when he paired her up for the drills with Jillian.

"Are you okay with this?" Jillian asked as she took her place facing Devon on the mat.

Devon kept her expression neutral, "We are both professionals, right?"

"Right." Jillian nodded.

Matt took them through several immobilization drills designed to capture the arm or wrist of a subject with a weapon and then disarm the individual to affect an arrest without incident. As they executed the maneuvers, both women relaxed and concentrated on the techniques, actually enjoying the training. The group went through each move step by step for the purpose of getting the correct positions as they went. Eventually, they moved into takedown drills, very awkward at slow speeds and they found themselves laughing out loud on several occasions when their bodies became tangled together. Late in the afternoon they began combining all of the techniques and moving at full speed to simulate real life scenarios.

"Okay," Matt called out, "On my whistle, bad guys move in for the attack. Officers use any technique that we went over today. The object is to effectively disarm, immobilize, and arrest, or disengage when appropriate."

Jillian stepped up to the line as the bad guy, feeling immeasurably happy that the tension between her and Devon seemed to have disappeared. She felt a thrill course through her, recognizing the playful sparkle in Devon's eyes as she crouched slightly, readying herself for Jillian's advance.

"Ready?" Jillian asked, grinning.

Devon held her hands up in front of her chest, knees slightly bent with her weight on the balls of her feet. "Oh, yeah."

The whistle sounded. Jillian rushed forward, simulating an attack. Devon moved quickly to intercept her. She captured Jillian's left arm and pulled her off balance by shifting her body weight. Then she stepped to the side and twisted, driving Jillian's body to the floor. Devon dropped her full body weight onto Jillian's back, pinning her to the mat. To complete the move she pushed Jillian's arm up between her shoulder blades, holding it in place with her left knee.

Pushing up on the outside of Jillian's elbow, as a pain compliance technique, she instructed her, "Put your other hand behind your head."

Not willing to end the exercise just then, because she was enjoying the press of Devon's body along the length of her back, Jillian resisted slightly. She rocked her hips trying to dislodge Devon from her back, laughing when she nearly succeeded.

Devon recovered quickly, pressing harder on the outside of Jillian's elbow, ensuring this time that she felt the painful maneuver. Jillian let out an audible grunt. As she continued to press her knee against Jillian's arm, she leaned down close to her ear, "I said, put your other hand behind your head." Devon's warm breath in her ear sent a tingling sensation rippling throughout Jillian's body.

She placed her free hand behind her head as directed and Devon eased up the pressure on her arm. Matt blew the whistle to end the exercise, but Devon remained in place, keeping Jillian pinned for another few seconds. Softly, Devon said into Jillian's ear, "Is it safe to let you up?"

Laughing, Jillian replied, "Definitely not."

Switching roles, Jillian was now the officer. The scenario was that the officer was on his back, fighting off the bad guy, who was on top and was presumably attempting to land punches to the officer's face and upper torso. Devon straddled her waist and simulated punches as the whistle blew. Jillian shoved her hips forcefully upward, throwing Devon forward and off balance and causing her to catch herself with her arms above Jillian's head. With Devon off balance, Jillian quickly trapped Devon's left arm and leg against her body, jerking her trapped arm toward the mat as she moved, twisting quickly toward her right and flipping Devon onto her back to regain the advantage.

Now lying prone on top of Devon with her hips between her legs, their faces inches apart, Jillian could feel every muscle in Devon's lean body along the length of her and the heat passing between their bodies was electrifying her senses. When Devon pushed up trying to get her right knee under her, making an attempt to once again reverse the position, Jillian shifted to drive her own right knee forward. Instead of the approved knee strike to the outer thigh that Devon expected, Jillian drove her leg directly into Devon's crotch, pressing it there firmly. Devon gasped and barely stifled a moan as Jillian shifted her weight tighter against her.

Devon's voice was strained, "Let me up."

Jillian didn't move. She could feel the heat from Devon on her thigh and Devon's body tremble beneath hers. Jillian knew that body better than she knew her own, and there was no mistaking the response. Her own heart pounded erratically in her chest. Leaning into Devon's ear, she whispered, "Are you sure that's what you want?"

Devon slapped the mat with her free hand to signal submission and end of the exercise, "Yes. Let me up," She repeated more firmly this time.

"Will you agree to have dinner with me?" Jillian kept her leg pressed between Devon's. She stared into her rapidly darkening blue eyes while she waited for Devon's response.

"Jillian…I can't…"

"Please." Jillian said quietly as she shifted herself off of Devon. "Just dinner." She watched Devon struggling with her decision, certain that the answer was going to be no.

"Okay, but just dinner," Devon relented.

Relief washed over Jillian and she let out the breath she didn't know she had been holding, "Anything you say." Hopefully, she asked, "Tonight?"

"No." Devon's eyes lost their sparkle and she drifted away, purposefully putting distance between them. She shoved her hands in her pockets in a move that Jillian knew signaled discomfort. A stab of sorrow caught her in the chest, knowing she was the cause.

"Not tonight." Devon countered, "Tomorrow."

Chapter 14

Jesse pulled up behind Zack's patrol car two doors down from the address given in the domestic disturbance call. She quickly exited her vehicle and jogged to catch up with him as he approached the front porch of the ratty duplex. All was quiet as they walked across the tiny patch of dirt that at one time might have been a lawn. The battered screen door yawned open, its spring mechanism long since broken, leaving it to hang askance by one rusted hinge.

Dispatch background information regarding the address indicated that the male half of the domestic had a long history of violent encounters and arrests. Jesse scanned the front of the house as they stepped onto the porch, looking for signs of movement. She peered through a small opening at the corner of the front window, hoping for a hint of where the couple might be in the house, but she saw nothing. They stopped on either side of the doorway, listening for sounds of a struggle inside. Silence.

A look of acknowledgement passed between the officers as Jesse reached out with her large metal flashlight to hammer on the front door with authority. "Police, open up!" Zack yelled.

They heard a rustling and what sounded like a faint whimper from somewhere inside. Jesse banged harder this time on the door. More shuffling and movement from the interior, followed by the sound of a male voice saying something they couldn't make out.

"Police," Zack repeated.

"What do you want?" The male voice shouted now.

"We need to talk to you," Jesse responded, "Come to the door."

"We're fine, go away!"

"Can't do that. You need to come to the door. We're not leaving until you do." Jesse told him. She looked over at Zack who was peering through the small grimy window just to his left. Now the unmistakable sounds of a woman crying were audible and Jesse could hear footsteps coming toward the door.

"Jesse," Zack whispered urgently, "he's got something in his hand…kitchen knife…right hand…he just put it behind his leg. He's almost to the door." Zack made a quick visual assessment of the suspect inside and made his decision. As the man reached the door, and began to pull it open Zack slammed his shoulder into the door with all of the force he could muster, causing it to slam inward at the man and knock him down without warning.

The suspect yelped in surprise as he was thrown backwards onto the floor. Zack and Jesse charged through the opening and immediately dove on the suspect. He was a big man, over six feet tall, with a thick muscular body. With surprising agility, he scrambled to regain his feet as they landed on him. All three pitched onto the wooden coffee table that collapsed beneath them, splintering into a pile of sticks.

Before they could secure his arms, the man swung a meaty fist, his large ring connecting with Jesse's temple. Shafts of blinding white light crossed her field of vision as searing pain shot through her skull. She sank to her knees, struggling to see through blurry vision while the struggle between Zack and the suspect continued. Blindly, she reached for the radio on her belt and requested additional backup. Focus began to return and Jesse saw Zack duck his head, narrowly escaping another punch from the suspect. He immediately drove his right elbow into the man's jaw. Blood flew from the man's lip as Zack's blow connected, but the man seemed unfazed and continued to fight, his eyes wild like a rabid animal.

The suspect lunged for the knife that he had dropped when the door struck him. Jesse reacted quickly. She swung her metal flashlight with as much force as she could generate, connecting with the suspect's arm with a loud thwak. He screamed as the bone in his forearm splintered, his hand now hanging at an unnatural angle.

"You broke my arm you bitch!' He shrieked, underscoring his disbelief and pain.

Zack again jumped on the man, taking him to the floor. Although the man's right arm was obviously broken, too many officers were hurt by injured suspects who continued to fight. Officers got hurt when they let their guard down. The man howled in pain as Zack cuffed him and moved his body to search for additional weapons. He begged for him to stop and just take him to jail.

"Zack, you got him?" Jesse breathed hard. Her vision was clearing, but a monster headache was building behind her eyes and she could feel a large lump growing on her right temple. Zack nodded.

"I'm gonna go check on the female," Jesse said.

Chaotic noises erupted from the front of the house. Numerous police officers responding as backup descended upon the residence, radios squawking, and voices shouting. After locating the female half of the couple huddled in the corner of the small bedroom bleeding from a large laceration above her left eye and the huge split in her lower lip, Jesse called for the paramedics to check the woman's injuries. The suspect was cuffed to another gurney for transport to the hospital and treatment for his broken arm.

Zack met Jesse as she was retrieving her clipboard and paperwork from her trunk. He grimaced when he saw the large contusion on the side of her face, the lump had grown on her temple and her left cheek bone and eye were already beginning to bruise. Reaching for the clipboard, he said, "You need to go with the medics and get yourself checked out."

"I'm alright," Jesse protested. "No way am I going to leave you with all of this work by yourself. At least let me fill out the arrest affidavit for you."

"Suit yourself, but as soon as we're done, you're getting checked out."

Jesse walked to the back of the ambulance where the suspect was strapped to a gurney and was just about to be loaded into the ambulance. "Guys, can you give me a minute?" Jesse asked the paramedics. They nodded and climbed into the rig to prepare for the transport.

She read him his rights and asked, "Sir, do you want to give me a statement?"

"Fuck you bitch, you broke my goddamned arm!" He screamed at her.

Jesse moved to the side of the gurney to search his pockets for a wallet with an ID. The man continued to curse at her. She located his wallet and removed his ID. "Okay, Mr…Honeycutt. I'll take that as a no." When she looked back at the man again, Jesse couldn't help thinking he looked familiar. She tried to place him, but the hammering in her skull made it hard to concentrate. Instead, she went back to her car to complete the paperwork. Maybe Zack was right about getting checked out, because she was feeling a little dizzy.

The man continued to scream as they loaded him into the ambulance, "I'll be out of jail before you know it, bitch. You'll be sorry!"

Chapter 15

Devon finally gave up trying to sleep. She dressed in her workout shorts and t-shirt, threw her gear bag into the jeep and drove to the training facility, even though she was an hour and a half early. Knowing the cafeteria would be open, she headed in that direction, grabbing a newspaper out of the stand at the entrance. A banana, a bowl of oatmeal, orange juice and a large coffee would make a good breakfast.

The news of the day failed to capture her attention, so Devon folded the paper and pushed it to the other side of the table. She finished her food and gulped down the juice while her mind relentlessly churned through disturbing memories. Like the day Jillian severed their relationship. Devon remembered the conversation like it was yesterday. Move on. She was so cold, the message definitely final. Jillian ended their relationship in with one swift fatal cut that left Devon bleeding out. It took a long time to recover from that wound.

Seeing her again was something that Devon actually never considered. Now Jillian obviously interested in…what? Dinner? A date? Sex for old times' sake? Yeah, that would be her style.

She jumped slightly at her cell phone ring, nearly spilling coffee on her shirt. Devon frowned, wondering who would be calling so early in the morning.

"Hello?"

"Hey, I took a chance I'd catch you before class started," Mac said cheerfully.

Devon smiled at the sound of her friend's voice. "I was just grabbing some breakfast. We start in a little while."

"How's the school going?"

"Fine. Am I missing anything good back there?"

Mac pressed, "Fine? That's all you have to say Ms. I eat and breathe SWAT? I set aside fifteen minutes for this call figuring I'd have to cut you off with all you would be telling me. What gives?"

Devon sighed, "Nothing, just tired." Her eyes caught movement across the room and tracked Jillian pouring coffee into a paper cup.

"Okay, whatever it is, we'll talk about it when you get back. Hey, I thought you might want to know that Zack and Jesse had a pretty good resist last night."

Devon immediately sat up, "What happened?" She snapped.

"Male half of a domestic didn't want to go to jail. Zack's got a couple scrapes and bruises, mostly on his hands from kicking the guy's ass," she chuckled. "I guess Jesse took a fairly strong blow to the side of her head. The hospital released her a couple of hours ago."

Devon was pacing around her table now. "Hospital? Mac, is she okay?" Her voice was raised, nearly panicked.

"Easy, buddy, she's gonna be fine," Mac assured her. "Zack says she broke the guys arm. Ended the fight right there."

The thought of Jesse hurt made Devon's stomach twist. "Mac, just tell me how she is." Her impatience was starting to show as she spoke.

"Like I said, she'll be fine. Her head is going to hurt like hell for a day or so, I'd imagine, but other than that, no problem."

"Okay, thanks. I'm gonna call Zack and see if he has her number-just to check-thanks Mac."

"Whoa, whoa, slow down. You want her number?"

Devon could hear her smiling. She shook her head, realizing how predictable she must be. "I don't suppose you have it?"

"Now why would I call without it?" The question was lighthearted.

Devon wrote down the number. "Mac, I owe you."

"Na, just don't blow it with this one, okay?"

Startled by statement, Devon protested, "I told you it's not what you think."

"Yes it is." Mac laughed out loud and Devon couldn't help but laugh with her. Mac knew her better than anybody.

"Hey, I was thinking," Mac said, "I'm off on Friday. How about I drive over and meet you after class and we can go out. I need a change of scenery."

Devon was only half listening, "What about Friday?" Her mind was on calling Jesse.

"Pay attention." Mac said sarcastically, "I said let's go out Friday in Orlando." When Devon only absently grunted in agreement, Mac knew she had lost her and further conversation was unlikely. "So, call the pretty girl, and then call me back about Friday," Mac instructed before hanging up.

A minute later, Jesse's answering machine picked up and Devon left a brief message. Remembering what Mac said about Jesse holding her own in the fight made her smile. She was anxious to see Jesse and hear the whole story when she got back home. Two more days. Kicking her feet onto the next chair with Jesse's smoldering green eyes a vivid picture in her mind, Devon rested and readied herself for the upcoming day.

From ten feet away Jillian stood watching the soft smile form on Devon's face, wishing she knew what wonderful thoughts had put it there. She couldn't help overhearing Devon asking the person on the other end of the call if she was alright. Devon's concern was obvious. Jillian remembered that loyal intensity in Devon. Studying the blond a few more moments, she recognized that contented slight smile. Jillian had seen that look on Devon's face before. Who was the cause of that expression now? Of course Devon would be involved. Why not? Still, that didn't mean she wanted to see the brutal truth when Devon opened her eyes, so Jillian walked quietly from the cafeteria to the classroom.

Chapter 16

Thursday's instruction was in rappelling tactics and roof deployments for entries that involved scaling the exterior of the outdoor buildings and towers. Since her days at Ft. Benning, the rush of the rappelling maneuvers was second only to the thrill of parachuting from an airplane for Devon. In some ways the rappels were more challenging, forcing the individual to control their descent, sometimes stopping altogether along the rope to accomplish some other physical task before completing the drop. She was soon drawn in to the excitement of the day's exercises and quickly became completely absorbed in the activities around her.

Under Jillian's guidance as the rappel master, the class performed the various drills that she demonstrated. Beginning with basic straight forward rappels that allowed Jillian to assess each student's proficiency level, they moved into more difficult and challenging scenarios as the day progressed. After lunch, they paired up much like they had done the day before, according to size for the final block of instruction on team climbing techniques and rope rescues.

"Devon, you're up," Mike called across the blacktop. As she approached the side of the two story structure to be scaled, he continued, "Jillian will assist your climb. When you get to the top, I want you to just peek over the edge to the roof at first. We don't want to just jump up there before clearing it of potential threats. Ready?" Devon nodded.

She climbed on to the small overhang above the door of the structure, waving off Jillian's outstretched hand. "I've got it."

Jillian could see that already she was concentrating on the task, formulating the tactical approach in her mind. The edge of the roof was about eight feet high. Devon's five foot ten frame left her with additional distance to cover which would require the two women to work together to reach the top.

"You ready to climb?" Jillian stepped close to her side.

"Yes."

Jillian squatted with her back against the wall to brace herself. She made a sort of platform with her thighs for Devon to use as her initial foothold. With Devon's boots on the top of her thighs, Jillian adjusted to support Devon's full weight on her legs. Devon first steadied herself with her hands on Jillian's shoulders to gain her balance. Jillian automatically gripped the back of Devon's thighs for support when Devon carefully pressed up into a standing position. She was acutely aware of the feel of the strong muscles moving beneath the BDU pants and the fact that she was now staring directly into Devon's waist. Her eyes fell to the vee of her crotch. Jillian's pulse rate kicked up a notch when Devon leaned further into her as she reached up for the edge of the roofline.

"I'm gonna pull myself up higher," Devon told her, "When I do, push up just a little if you can and that should give me enough height to see the top."

Jillian looked up as Devon spoke. Her eyes slid up the lean torso to watch strong arms flex as Devon began pulling her body up, and flashes of that body tight and straining in the midst of a powerful orgasm burned through Jillian's mind. Refocusing, she pushed up when she felt the slight lift of weight off of her thighs, raising from the squat into more of a crouched position, now holding Devon's hips for support.

"Ok, Devon," Mike yelled from the ground. "Stop. Just ease yourself up enough to take a quick peek at the roof."

Ensuring that the roof was clear, Devon now prepared to climb all the way to the top. She glanced down at Jillian and for the first time realized the position of their bodies during the exercise. Blushing at the sight of Jillian's face merely inches from her crotch and feeling the grip of the strong hands on her hips, Devon's body responded instinctively, pulse pounding between her legs. Damn it. She quickly grabbed the edge of the roof to scramble up and onto the rough surface of the roof, thankful that the momentary separation allowed her to regain some focus. Determined to get through the final exercise of the day, she located a secure place to clip in her rappelling line and began preparing her harness.

Jillian was tied onto the line that Devon dropped from the tower and was lowered into position by another instructor. She was suspended approximately thirty feet in the air, held in place only by the D ring of the harness at her waist. Devon fastened her own rappel line around a metal pole on top of the tower and then clipped the carabiner of her own harness to the other end into the rope. At the edge of the tower, Devon leaned backwards over the side to test the stability. Satisfied, she nodded to the instructor standing on the roof just before stepping off.

Devon descended the wall and deftly maneuvered herself toward the place where Jillian hung suspended and awaiting rescue. This drill simulated another team member or civilian in trouble, hanging precariously in mid air. The rescuer's job was to successfully rappel down to the person, secure and usher them to safety. Slowing the speed of her descent with the 'rescue eight descender', Devon carefully lowered her body until she was even with Jillian's and stopped. They hung there in the air, waist to waist, bodies touching slightly as the ropes swayed.

"Glad you dropped in," Jillian quipped.

Ignoring the flirtatious tone, Devon concentrated on the task at hand. She completed the tie off of her own rope to the rescue eight before attaching an additional steel D ring to her harness for additional weight support, clipping the two of them together at the waist. Devon leaned back to use the tension of the rope for resistance to shift her hips upward and pull Jillian's body to her. She wrapped her legs tightly around Jillian's waist, hooking her ankles behind her back.

"Ready?" Devon asked her, trying to steady her voice.

Locked in the power of Devon's flaming blue eyes inches away, Jillian choked, "Oh, yeah," before swallowing audibly.

Devon made one final assessment of the rigging, assuring herself of their safety. She pulled her knife from where it was always clipped to her left front pocket and flipped it open. In one swift motion she swung her arm above their heads, severing the rope that had held Jillian. Both women held their breath as they felt the slight jolt when all of Jillian's weight shifted to Devon's harness. The rope groaned slightly against the edge of the tower as they stared into each other's eyes, the intensity of the moment seeming to fuse them together. Devon felt Jillian's heartbeat against her center as she held her tightly within the circle of her legs and she watched the matching pulse beat in her neck.

The whine of the rope sliding along the edge of the rescue eight was the only noise other than her own thundering heartbeat that Devon could hear as they completed the descent. Her eyes were locked on Jillian's as she held her tightly until they had safely touched the ground. A hot, tingling sensation flowed along her entire body even after she unbuckled their harnesses and Jillian stepped away to join Mike in wrapping up the instruction for the day.

As Devon packed her gear into the jeep her mind was still spinning with the thoughts of the exercise and the raw physical reaction the contact with Jillian had ignited inside of her. The sound of someone approaching pulled her from her thoughts and she turned to find Jillian standing behind her. She smiled when their eyes met and Devon nervously pushed her hands into her pockets.

"I was thinking dinner at seven?" Jillian asked, "I know this great little place not too far-if that's alright."

"Sure," Devon looked at the ground and kicked a pebble with her boot, hoping to hide any sign of the rampant thoughts she was just having. This was going to be dinner. Period. A chance to put the past behind them and then maybe, they could even be friends.

"Great, meet me in the parking lot of the hotel at about six thirty." Jillian said as she began striding toward her convertible.

"What should I wear?" Devon called after her.

Pinning Devon with a smoldering gaze trailing the length of her body, Jillian made certain that her intentions were clear. "You know anything you wear will work for me." Laughing when she saw Devon suck in a breath, Jillian winked and climbed into her car. She sped out of the parking lot, leaving Devon certain that the night was going to be anything but simple.

Chapter 17

They dined at a quiet little bistro owned by a female couple whom Jillian had met not long after moving to Orlando five years before. The couple shared the duties of the restaurant's operations; Sandy as the head chef and Lorraine running the front of the house. Lorraine promptly brought a complimentary sampler of appetizers along with a small loaf of freshly baked bread and Jillian ordered a bottle of their best wine to go along with dinner. Sandy appeared a short time later to describe the special of the evening, which both women ordered.

Gazing at Devon over her wine glass, Jillian allowed herself to float in the warm sensation of just being with her. For ten years she dreamed of seeing Devon again if only to explain. She knew that she had hurt Devon deeply and they were essentially strangers now. As crazy as it sounded even to herself, maybe they could start fresh. The time and distance had obviously changed them both, but Jillian never forgot how good Devon's body felt next to hers.

After clearing their plates, Lorraine invited them to move to a table on the small deck overlooking a manmade lake. Four café tables were spaced along the railing affording a view of the water and with the exception of a few sea gulls perched on the railing; they were alone in the quiet of the evening. Surviving dinner was an accomplishment. Jillian noticed the way she had to keep the conversation moving throughout the evening. Devon seemed distracted and distant.

"Salute," Jillian raised her glass of port, smiling at Devon. The moonlight shimmered in the golden curls and Devon's blue eyes seemed to dance with the flickering light of the small candle on the table. When Devon raised her glass with her, Jillian took a chance and brushed her little finger along Devon's while their eyes met and held. "You are more beautiful than I remembered." She said sincerely.

The telltale darkening hues of blue swirling in those eyes drew Jillian toward them and incredibly, she realized that they both were leaning in. Slowly, as though afraid to disturb the air around them they continued until their lips met. The kiss was so delicate that Jillian wondered if she was imagining it, but the tingling of her lips was very real when Devon pulled away.

Standing with her glass in hand, Devon retreated to the railing with her back to Jillian. Jillian could feel the tension radiating from her. She closed the distance to stand at Devon's left shoulder, angling her head to look at her profile.

"I know I can't undo the past," Jillian began. Devon's jaw muscle worked as she continued to stare at the water. She moved to place a hand on Devon's forearm. "Dev…" her thought was lost when Devon downed her wine in a large gulp. The movement caused her arm to brush against Jillian's breast. Devon's eyes found hers and they stood there frozen, each one afraid to move. Jillian allowed herself to fall into her beautiful gaze, passionate and inviting. Her thoughts flew to their first night together. She recognized the reflection of her own desire in Devon's eyes. God, she wants me.

Devon tried to breathe. She couldn't think clearly with Jillian so close. Her body would not behave and she knew that she needed to get control or she would lose it completely. When Jillian moved to her left side, close enough that Devon could feel the heat of her body; she downed her wine in a large gulp. That was a mistake because her arm brushed the side of Jillian's breast as she brought the glass back down. A second later she was staring into those beautiful dark eyes, drawn to the amazing flecks of gold that seemed to dance within them.

Dragging her eyes away from Jillian's, hoping to redirect her thoughts, Devon instead found herself taking in every inch of the painfully familiar sculpted body. Her own body screamed with the first tingling of arousal and the excitement she knew Jillian's touch would ignite that was just a caress away. It would be so easy to give in to the physical sensations. Isn't that what she wished for countless nights all those years ago? Just one more night? Jillian's words were spiraling through her head, twisting and confusing, adding fuel to the mix.

The next kiss started softly, almost tentatively, but an undercurrent of urgency drove their bodies together as they took it deeper, feeding each other as the memories of their passion engulfed them. Jillian's kisses were so very familiar, her hands instinctively moved between them to tease Devon's nipples through the thin cotton of her shirt, and they immediately responded pressing hard against the fabric containing them. Devon was drowning in the waves of pleasure building under Jillian's exquisite, knowing touch.

Stop this! Realization seized Devon. She tore her lips away and stepped back, breaking the contact of their bodies. Her brain frantically searched for coherent thought inside the whirlwind of sensations assaulting her body and mind. She hated the power that Jillian still seemed to have over her body, regardless of the deep heartache she would surely inflict again. Devon knew that as certainly as she knew her own name, but the wine was blurring her reasoning thoughts, feeding the physical craving as she stared at the woman she once loved. She had to think.

They could share this night; a night that would no doubt be filled with pleasure and Devon knew all too well how it felt to make love with Jillian. That much was certain, but what about afterward? Devon knew that she would need more than tonight. Yes. It was suddenly so very clear. What she needed was more than physical. She longed for a soul altering, all consuming connection with another woman who felt the same at any cost. Incredible green eyes flashed through her mind.

Drawing a deep breath, Devon stepped back, "Jill, I can't do this."

"But I felt…didn't you…" Jillian's voice trailed off. She slumped against the railing searching Devon's face for the welcome that had somehow vanished. Sounding frantic, she asked, "What just happened?"

Devon's temper took over. Painful anger built up but contained all these years-at Jillian for leaving her, at the insanity of the universe for taking Alex, at herself here and now for almost giving in. Again.

"What happened is that we were going to fall back on the only connection we ever really had." Her eyes pinned Jillian with a laser stare. "And then you would move on again without taking any responsibility."

"That's not fair." Jillian returned Devon's hard stare.

"Fair?" Devon laughed hollowly, "Why not?" She challenged, "You made me love you and then when it got difficult, you left without an explanation. And when I finally thought I found the way to get over you…found somebody who cared…" She couldn't finish.

"I never stopped caring," Jillian said quietly as Devon shook her head and turned away.

Devon stared past Jillian across the water as her memories rushed over the protective dam in her soul, a raging river of painful losses threatening to sweep her under if her vigilance faltered. Giving into Jillian would cause the wall to collapse and she could not risk that.

"There is so much you don't know." Devon said almost to herself, staring out over the lagoon.

"Then tell me," Jillian urged.

They sat again, neither one looking up or speaking when Lorraine reappeared with the bottle of port. She deposited it on the table and quietly disappeared back into the restaurant after Jillian merely nodded in her direction in thanks.

For the next hour Devon recounted what had happened in her life after Jillian left her, from the initial success and rise in her army career to the nightmare of Beirut, and finally the investigation that led to her arrest for homosexual conduct in D.C. After describing the physical and mental abuse in the jail at the hands of the same investigator who had ended Jillian's military career, Devon refilled her glass and turned tormented eyes on Jillian. She left out any reference to Alexandra, somehow unable to bring herself to speak of Alex's death. That, at least was one horror that Devon could not absolve herself of by blaming Jillian.

"Your leaving was painful, but it was only the start. That next year…it nearly broke me Jill." She finally whispered, watching tears overflow Jillian's lashes to slide silently down her face.

The silence between them grew and hung heavy in the air. Strangely, Devon felt empty now, as though the tale had drained her emotion and purged the toxic waste of angry blame from her cells. She had always viewed Jillian's leaving as the event that set the rest of the nightmares in motion. Now she didn't know what she thought, so she asked the only question that mattered to her heart.

"Why did you leave?"

Jillian reached across the table to capture Devon's hand, needing that connection. "The truth is, I was afraid." At the flash of indignant anger in Devon's eyes she qualified, "Not the way you think." Her eyes bored into Devon's while she fiercely whispered, "I was afraid if I stayed they would hurt you. I thought I protected you."

The grip on Devon's hand was nearly painful and the agony in the brown eyes palpable as Jillian's memory gave way to the realization of everything they both had lost because of her choices.

"Maybe you did," Devon said quietly. "I was so busy being angry with you and blaming you for everything else that happened, I couldn't see it." She forced a pained smile at Jillian.

"If I had stayed…"

Devon shook her head. "No. We both know that I wouldn't have stopped seeing you, no matter what. If you hadn't taken the heat, Honeycutt would have had us both in Boston."

Jillian squeezed Devon's hand on the table. "You have to know it killed me to leave you." Her eyes searched Devon's, begging for understanding. "I'm sorry." It came out so softly that Devon almost missed it.

A ghost of a smile touched the corner of Devon's lips, but her eyes were tortured. Once again Jillian had laid bare the wounds of her heart. She only nodded.

"So, I guess we are just having dinner? I mean, tonight. I know we don't even know each other anymore, but maybe…if we take it slow….maybe…" She searched Devon's eyes for signs of hope.

Devon pulled her hand back and shook her head, "Jillian, I can't-we can't."

"Is there someone?"

"It's not because there's someone else…there isn't…well…not exactly." She held up her hand to silence the protest forming on Jillian's lips. "Jill, the truth of the matter is that attraction was never our problem, we both know that." She smiled sadly. "But I know that my heart would never be safe with you." Jillian winced at the stinging words.

"I would always be waiting for you to run again." She heaved a deep breath, "And, I am definitely not the same person I used to be. I think we both know all we would ever have is tonight. You told me to move on once. I didn't really know if I ever could until tonight."

Climbing out of the 300zx in the parking lot of the hotel, the two women leaned against the bumper side by side, their shoulders lightly touching. In the silence of the car on the drive back they both sensed a shift in their story, closing that part of their lives. The feeling of closure regarding Jillian was a strangely peaceful sensation in contrast with the edgy wariness that had become Devon's second nature over the years.

"So, who is she?" Jillian's question came out of left field.

"Who?"

Jillian smiled mischievously, "I saw you yesterday on the phone in the cafeteria. I didn't need to hear your conversation; your face gave you away." She leaned into Devon affectionately. "So, what's her name?"

"How could you know I was talking to a woman?" Devon raised an eyebrow in question.

"It's me, remember? I know you. You are more than interested, she has you hooked."

It felt wrong to discuss Jesse with Jillian and Devon ignored the question, even though she was right, there was something there. Hooked? Devon didn't know about that, but she did know that Jesse stirred her in ways she had not thought possible, and that was not something she was going to discuss with Jillian. She pushed off the bumper and turned to face her former lover, shoving her hands into her front pockets.

"Thank you for dinner. About earlier…"

Jillian shook her head. "Don't. Let's just say goodnight, okay?"

Devon nodded. They were both changed by their experiences. Some thrust upon them painfully and others choices they made willingly. In the end, it didn't matter which, only that they had irrevocably altered the course of their lives. Now she knew what she wanted. Jesse's laughter rang in her head and she smiled slightly. She was feeling good about the fact that for once, she seemed to be moving toward something instead of running away. Jillian stared at some distant point. Devon thought maybe now it was possible for both of them to find happiness.

"Goodnight Jillian." Devon murmured before walking slowly away.

Chapter 18

Mac wandered into the club just after eight o'clock on Friday night, hoping that Devon didn't forget and head back to Tampa instead of meeting her for a couple of drinks as they had planned. She had only been to Orlando a couple of times and that made her relax as she scanned the dark interior after her eyes adjusted. Anonymity was good; chances were slim that she would run into a woman she might have slept with and who might want a repeat performance. Besides, Mac could only think of one woman who interested her enough to want to revisit lately, but she made it clear she didn't do repeats.

Sliding onto a stool at the bar occupying the center of the establishment to wait for her friend, Mac held up a hand for the bartender, who promptly returned with her order. Mac took a long pull off the Heineken, surveying her surroundings as she did. It was still early, so the place was not crowded and she allowed her eyes to roam over the space stopping momentarily to check out the prospects, although none grabbed her attention. The bartender placed a fresh bowl of peanuts in front of her and winked.

When she had finished her beer and ordered another, Mac turned to see a woman take a seat on a stool across the bar. The bartender brought the newcomer a shot of whiskey which she drank immediately, then impatiently pushed back the rich auburn hair away from her face. She wore a black sleeveless vee neck top that showed off her tanned muscular arms and chest. The way she carried herself exuded confidence but not arrogance, she knew she was beautiful but didn't wield her beauty as a weapon.

The other woman signaled for another drink and then, seemingly remembering she was in a public place, looked around. Her dark eyes found Mac's before quickly moving away. Mac kept staring, hopeful that the woman remembered her. Moments later, the gaze returned and they shared a lingering look in silent acknowledgement of each other's presence. The night was definitely looking up.

The bartender returned with Mac's beer as she stood to make her way over to the woman. Mac thanked her and indicated that she would take care of their drinks adding a shot to her own order as well. The bartender glanced over her shoulder toward the woman in question and gave Mac a smile and nod that indicated she approved of the choice. Mac walked around the bar and watched as the bartender placed the shot in front of the woman and a second in front of the empty stool next to hers. They smiled at each other, raised the shot glasses together, and downed them in unison.

"Thanks for the drink," the woman said, extending her hand in greeting. "How are you, Mac?"

"I'm wonderful, now." Mac bent to place a light kiss on the back of her hand, marveling at her luck. She smiled slowly as her eyes swept over the woman's face and down her torso. Warmth spread through her that wasn't from the whiskey. Just like that night they spent together in Tampa, Mac couldn't stop staring at the flecks of gold in her eyes that matched the golden highlights in her hair. When the woman cocked her head to the side with a questioning look, Mac realized she hadn't let go of her hand.

"Sorry," she said, releasing her grip. She immediately picked up her beer to hide the uncharacteristic uncertainty. Her cousin was absolutely right. This woman did something for her. But, it was more than the usual attraction, because the night they spent together after Conner's party did nothing to sate the craving. If anything it had enhanced it. Right now, Mac wanted to climb into her skin.

"Hey, you okay?" Jill put her hand lightly over Mac's on the bar, "You look like kinda tense."

Mac shook her head and smiled at her, "No, sorry. I didn't mean to be rude." She took another drink from her beer and allowed herself to relax. "So, you do live in Orlando." She said.

"Yes, did you think I was making that up?" She asked playfully and sipped her beer.

Chuckling, Mac shook her head, "No, it's just that I don't suppose you would be taken for a native. The accent kind of gives you away." Her eyes sparkled with her laughter.

"What about you? Since almost nobody is a native, where are you from?"

"All over really, I'm a military brat. I've been in Tampa for a little over five years now."

"So, what brings you to Orlando? Business?" She dragged her hand lightly up Mac's thigh, a smile pulling at her lips when Mac jerked slightly.

"No," Mac held Jill's eyes with her own as the hand wandered higher up her thigh. Visions of that gorgeous body moving against hers heated Mac's blood. "Actually, I'm meeting a friend."

She felt Jillian's hand disappear. "Oh. Well, then I guess…"

Mac leaned closer, sliding her leg against Jill's, "Just a friend. Really. My buddy from Tampa was over here this week for a school and we agreed to meet for a drink."

The cold air conditioned blast hit Devon as she pulled open the front door to step into the club from the oppressive humidity outside. Although it was nearly nine o'clock, the temperature was still a stifling eighty eight degrees with a humidity hovering around ninety percent, and she welcomed the sudden chill on her skin. The short walk from the parking lot made her break out into a sweat and she could feel her black t-shirt clinging to her back. Joan Jett's rock n' roll was pounding through the speakers with Do You Wanna Touch me There? Making her grin as she moved toward the bar to the heavy rhythm of the music.

The bartender immediately responded to Devon's drink order and delivered the cold beer with a come-on smile that was openly seductive. She shook her head when Devon dropped a five on the bar.

"It's on me good-looking."

Devon slid the bill toward her with a smile. "Thanks, but just the same, I'd rather pay."

"Suit yourself," the server shrugged.

Devon picked up her beer, already scanning the interior. It didn't take long to spot Mac on the other side of the bar, and she laughed at the sight of her friend already up close and personal with the woman next to her. She carried her beer over to say hello, only to be stopped dead in her tracks when the woman threw back her head, laughing at whatever Mac had just said. Are you fucking kidding me?

A moment later, there was no escaping the reality. Mac spotted her and waved her over while smiling broadly as her companion spoke directly into her ear. The woman Mac had her arm around, obviously planning on spending time with this evening, was none other than Jillian Gray. Somebody shoot me. Devon heard herself groan audibly as she forced a smile in Mac's direction. Escape was not an option now.

Mac wrapped her in a firm embrace as they stood behind Jillian's barstool. "Hey you! I was beginning to wonder if you were coming."

Devon tried to hide the tension by forcing a smile that she hoped seemed natural. Mac pulled back to study her.

"You alright?" Mac tilted her head to look directly into Devon's eyes. Suddenly, she remembered her companion, "Devon, I want you to meet someone."

The barstool swiveled, bringing Jillian and Devon face to face as Mac continued, "Jill, this is my best friend, Devon." The two women stared silently at one another with Mac's head bouncing side to side between them in obvious bewilderment. Finally, the light came on.

Mac narrowed her eyes as she looked at Devon, speaking very slowly, as if her words were navigating minefield. "Jill. This is Jillian. The Jillian?"

Devon nodded, her expression blank. Mac turned to look at Jillian, who was suddenly engrossed in the label on her beer bottle.

Mac sank back onto the barstool and ordered another whiskey.

The bizarre turn of events made it easy for Devon to excuse herself for the night. Mac protested vigorously but in truth, Devon had only agreed to meet her out of loyalty. Jesse was on her mind all day long and the only thing she really wanted to do was to get back home so that she could see how she was doing. The embrace when she and Jillian said goodbye was genuine and completely without sexual undertone for the first time since they met and Devon felt good about that. Finally, a missing piece of her life slipped into place.

Mac caught up with her just before she reached the jeep, stopping Devon with a hand on her arm.

"What's up?" Devon asked.

"Dev, I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to…"

"Mac stop. It's fine. I was planning on telling you about seeing Jillian once I got back." She shrugged and laughed.

"Listen, our friendship is more important to me than anything. If you want another shot at her…"

"You want to know what I think." Devon met her friend's eyes directly.

Mac nodded, "Yeah I do."

The familiar crooked grin broke out across her face, "I think you should go back in there and make your move before someone else does."

Mac couldn't help smiling back at Devon, "If you're sure…"

Devon was already walking to her jeep. When she climbed in Mac was still standing in the same spot. "That's my advice. Meanwhile, I'm taking a good friend's advice too." When Mac tilted her head questioningly, Devon winked, "I have a pretty girl in Tampa to call."

Mac laughed and waved her hand in the air. "I also said don't blow it this time," she called over the starting of the jeep, already walking back to the club.

"I won't. Same goes for you," Devon shouted, wheeling the jeep out of the parking lot toward the interstate. She watched Mac pull open the door of the club in her rear view mirror and considered the combination. That should be interesting.

Devon shifted into fourth gear, merging onto the interstate and jumping into the fast lane with thoughts focused on getting back home and checking on Jesse. Images of Jesse flashed through her mind bringing a wide smile to her face with Lita Ford's guitar licks blazing from the radio, her voice inviting, "… kiss me deadly…" Devon drummed on the steering wheel feeling the rush of promise coursing through her veins as the jeep rocketed west down the freeway.

Chapter 19

Heat flooded through Jillian at the sight of Mac returning to the bar, her long legs moving confidently within the snug fitting worn black jeans. The gun metal grey silk t-shirt that matched her eyes accentuated her muscular torso and arms. Jillian watched those muscles flexing when she raised her hand to run it through her hair, before she tossed her head back and shook it out. The woman was just about the sexiest thing Jillian had ever seen.

Mac remained standing when she reached Jillian's side; content to lean close while they finished their drinks. Jillian was unable to read Mac's expression and she wondered about her conversation with Devon. Reaching out to push away a dark lock of hair that had fallen forward, concealing the eye closest to her, she ventured, "Is everything okay?"

Mac turned her face into Jillian's palm and their eyes met and held. "Yes."

"You want to talk about it?"

"Talk about Devon?" She raised a dark eyebrow with the question.

Jillian nodded. Mac leaned in and spoke directly into Jillian's ear, "Not right now."

Her warm breath tickled Jillian's ear and Mac's scent was registering somewhere deep in her central nervous system. She hadn't felt this instantly attracted to a woman in a long time, and after all of the inner turmoil that seeing Devon dredged up this week, she figured she could certainly use the pleasant distraction.

Mac ordered them another beer. To Jillian's amazement, they fell into an easy conversation and she relaxed. Mac's voice was warm and soothing, her eyes kind. Jillian was amazed to find that she felt extremely comfortable as they talked. Normally, when she found a woman attractive and obviously just as mutually interested, the game of seduction was on. Oddly, although this woman was gorgeous, and they had already slept together, there was something intriguing about her, that made Jillian content to enjoy the company. Inexplicably, she wanted to know more about her than a nickname and what she looked like nude. The stress of this week has me totally off my game.

"Have you had dinner tonight?" Mac surprised her by asking. Jillian shook her head no. "Well, then," she held out her hand in invitation, "would you have dinner with me?"

"Yes." Jillian brushed her lips along the edge of Mac's ear to accentuate her response.

The late hour and short notice were problematic for entry into a restaurant up to Jillian's standards, and she found herself directing Mac to Sandy and Lorraine's place.

"I have to be honest with you," she began as Mac held the door for her to enter. Before she could finish, Lorraine had approached with a decidedly pointed expression that let Jillian know she had some explaining to do. She knew Mac caught the look that Lorraine shot her, and she bit her lip to suppress an audible groan as the owner brazenly looked her date over from head to toe.

Apparently satisfied, she smiled, "Please follow me." She guided them to a secluded table near the window overlooking the lake.

"You were going to be honest?" Mac asked as Lorraine poured each of them a glass of wine and set a small basket of fresh bread in the middle of the table. After taking in the raised eyebrow from the owner, Mac directed a pointed but playful stare at Jillian as she waited for an explanation.

Jillian flushed under the double dose of scrutiny. She felt the heat creep up her neck to her face, which obviously amused her date. Meeting the teasing grey stare she explained, "Devon and I ate here last night." She watched the corner of Mac's mouth twist upward as a grin started to form. "So, two nights in a row with two different women…even for me…"

She stared at her wine glass, disturbed by the thought of her friends thinking Mac was another hook up. What if that's all she wants? The thought of Mac only interested in a fling surprisingly stung.

When she looked back up, Mac's penetrating eyes were still trained on her. The heat in her stare looked a lot like lust and Jillian's heart stuttered in her chest. Mac reached across the table to gently take her hand, rubbing her thumb slowly over the knuckles then stopping to circle each one.

"I don't know what Devon told you about me…nothing good, I suppose…"

"Hey," Mac finally spoke, waiting until Jillian met her eyes again, "we both know her better than that." Her arched brow hinted at a bit of a reprimand, which Jillian accepted. She was actually pleased at Mac's defense of her friend.

"She did tell me you dated at school in Boston, but that it was over after that." When Jillian began to add to the explanation, Mac held up her free hand to stop her. "By my calculations that was years ago." The grey eyes were sparkling again with her smile.

"Tonight," she resumed her massage of Jillian's hand on the table and her voice dropped to a low sultry pitch, "The second I laid eyes on you, I had to talk to you again." She leaned forward across the table, "And when I talked to you, I felt something inside." She edged closer until their lips nearly met, and Jillian could feel the warmth of Mac's breath on her lips. "When I looked into your eyes, I wanted to know you."

Mac's eyes dropped to her mouth, making Jillian's lips actually tingle. She waited with her lips slightly parted in anticipation, and when Mac's eyes captured hers again, they flashed with silver sparks.

She finished in a whisper, "Right now, I want to kiss you."

Jillian's breath fled as their lips met, unbelievably tender and sweet. She remained suspended in the sensation of the moment, content to let Mac lead the soft exploration of their mouths. She felt the tip of Mac's tongue gently run along the inside edge of her lips but going no further, as if waiting for permission to enter. Jillian floated in the feeling of the sublime supple movement of the lips caressing hers. Soon, the glow of desire that had begun earlier at the club flared hot and she hungrily opened her mouth, urgently seeking. The kiss tasted like the delicious wine and Mac's scent tantalized as she breathed it in. Jillian's brain melted with the sensations.

Smoothly pulling back, Mac cupped Jillian's jaw, rubbing her thumb lightly across the lips she had just tasted and wondering if they should just skip dinner. She gasped softly when Jillian bit down on the tip before drawing it into her mouth and soothing it with the slide of her tongue. Instant heat shot into her lower abs and down between her legs. Both women looked up at the sound of someone clearing their throat to see Lorraine standing next to the table patiently waiting with two plates of food. This time, after a wicked smile and nod of approval toward Jillian, the owner winked at Mac, making her blush.

They enjoyed their meal, finding conversation amazingly easy because they had so many interests in common. The undercurrent of attraction was undeniable as dinner progressed and their stares lingered in simmering silences. Jillian offered Mac a taste of lobster with her fingers, and that ended with Mac seductively licking all of the butter off each one. After that, they continued sharing their meals, stopping for kisses throughout, the raw attraction between them growing with each moment. We really should get out of here.

"Hey, I can't concentrate," Jillian protested weakly when she dropped her keys. Mac's mouth was steadily working on the column of her neck, disrupting any control of her motor functions. She removed her lips just long enough to bend down and scoop the keys off the ground as Jillian turned within the circle of her arms, driving her fingers into the thick dark hair and claiming her mouth again. Without breaking the kiss, Mac managed to slide the key into the lock and push open the door. She backed Jillian inside, kicking the door closed behind them.

Where the ravenous need was coming from, neither one knew. Jillian roughly jerked the back of her shirt out of her pants and skated her palms along her sides toward her stomach pushing the rest of the garment free as she did. Then she pulled the shirt up over Mac's head and off. Mac sucked in a breath when Jillian's hands skimmed over her bare nipples rapidly hardening beneath her palms.

She responded by working the shirt off Jillian as well, noting her erect nipples struggling to poke out of the lacey silk black bra. Mac obliged by releasing the clasp between her breasts and pushing the straps off her shoulders. Her eyes followed the trail of her hands sliding down Jillian's torso, and returning back to cup the fullness of her breasts. Jillian's nipples tightened beneath her touch and Mac's desire flared inside.

Jillian shuddered and sagged against her, "I can't take much more." It was a whimpered plea more than a statement.

Mac stopped torturing her nipples and wrapped her arms around her waist, pulling their bodies together. "Shh, yes you can," she whispered, placing a kiss on the top of Jillian's head. Her own heart was hammering in her chest and her legs felt heavy, her sex pounding with its own need. "Where's the bedroom?" She figured the time it took them to get there would give them both the opportunity to back away from the edge a little. She wanted Jillian desperately, but not in a blind frenzied rush. No. Something about this enchanting, beautiful woman made her want to take her time making love to her.

Upstairs, they stood facing each other at the side of the king sized bed, stripping off their jeans by silent agreement. Once fully nude, Mac could only stare at the vision before her. The reality of Jillian's full beauty was heart stopping. She reached out to place the barest of touches along the side of her face.

"You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen."

Mac pulled Jillian to her and they both shuddered at the feel of their bodies completely touching without barriers. Jillian drew them to the bed and they stretched out on the cool crisp sheets on their sides, faces inches apart. They began the seduction again, lips claiming each other's mouth, while hands stroked and fed the glowing embers of their desire until the burning inside gave way to searing need.

Mac grabbed Jillian's waist and rolled her on top of her so that Jillian was straddling her stomach. She smiled feeling the warm wetness of Jillian's passion coat her skin just below her navel. Sitting up to capture a tantalizing nipple in her mouth, she swirled her tongue around the tip, then sucked gradually harder, alternating the ministrations on both nipples until Jillian moaned and dropped her face against the top of Mac's head. Her hips rocked and ground her center against the hard muscles of Mac's stomach as she wrapped her legs tightly around her middle.

"Stop, or you'll make me come," Jillian moaned, even though her hands were tangled in the back of Mac's hair, pushing her face more tightly into her chest.

"Uh, huh," Mac agreed and bit slightly harder on the nipple in her mouth, her hands firmly pressed to the small of her back, holding Jillian firmly in place. She continued the delicious torment until she felt Jillian's swollen clit twitching against her stomach, warning of the impending climax. Mac slid her fingers into Jillian's wetness and smoothly entered her, nearly losing control when Jillian moaned in her ear.

Feeling the first tremors of her orgasm, Mac groaned, "Oh, that's it baby, let it go." She continued driving steadily inside as Jillian's contractions closed around her fingers, intensely focused on satisfying the woman beneath her. That crest was followed by several more waves as Mac milked every bit of pleasure from her lover until her body finally stilled and they were both panting and slick with sweat.

Mac lay along the length of Jillian's body; her fingers still inside and her head on Jillian's chest listening to the strong steady heartbeat in her ear. She was overcome by a sudden feeling of complete fulfillment and was certain she would never want to move from that spot.

"Jesus," Jillian finally breathed. "What did you just do to me?"

Gently removing her fingers from their soft warm haven, Mac chuckled softly when a sound of protest came from Jillian's throat. She shifted herself lower so that her hips pressed into the apex of Jillian's legs, feeling heat still pouring from her center. "I'm hoping I satisfied you." Tenderly, she placed a kiss on the inviting lips so near.

Jillian twirled a wavy lock of midnight hair hanging just above Mac's ear with a finger, the effects of those smoldering grey eyes sending a fresh thrill coursing through her. "Satisfied…hmm…I'm not sure that even comes close to describing it." She drew Mac's dark head down until their lips met again. This time she lingered and deepened the kiss, enjoying the soft warmth of her mouth for long moments.

Without warning, Jillian scissored her legs around Mac's torso and with a strong twist of her hips, rolled them both over so that she was now lying on top along the full length of her. Lips hovering just out of reach, Jillian smiled, "But we're not done." Reaching between them, she ran the tip of her index finger lightly through the folds of Mac's sex, shivering when she felt the pool of wetness.

"You feel good enough to taste." With that she moved her hand up to paint a nipple with the wetness on her finger, and then enclosed the bud with her mouth, moaning with pleasure at the first taste of the sweet nectar on her tongue. Jillian repeated the process on the other nipple as Mac began writhing beneath her, desperate for more contact.

Jillian took her time kissing and trailing her tongue along the contours of the sculpted body, lingering at points that made her lover squirm with added pleasure, committing the locations to memory. She tantalized and teased until Mac begged, "Please baby…ahhh"

Mac's eyes were swirling storm clouds as the orgasm raged through her. The incredibly beautiful sight, combined with the grip of the hot smooth muscles spasming around her fingers overcame Jillian without warning. She called out Mac's name as she came along with her.

Chapter 20

Devon slowly dialed the number and waited breathlessly as the phone rang in her ear. Her palms were sweating and her stomach was churning, she felt like a nervous schoolgirl. Drawing a deep breath, she scolded herself for being silly. After all, she was a veteran cop, a SWAT officer, ready to run toward the gunfire when others ran away. So why does just thinking about asking Jesse out scare the shit out of me? A woman's voice answered the ringing on the other end of the line.

"Hello?"

"May I speak with Jesse please?" Her throat felt constricted, making it difficult to talk.

"Who's calling?" The pleasant voice inquired.

"Devon…from the police department."

She heard the woman call out, "Jessica, the phone." Then a muffled, "Someone named Devon?"

Moments later, Jesse's soft voice was filling her ear. "Hi." The tension Devon felt placing the call melted away in the sound.

"Hi. I'm not calling too late am I?"

"Oh, no. How are you?"

"I'm good. That's really what I was calling to ask you. How's the head?" Devon wished she could see for herself. She frowned when no answer came.

"Jesse?" Devon said into the silence on the line.

"Sorry. I'm fine, really," she murmured.

Her voice sounded troubled, and that instinct to protect Jesse returned to grip Devon's heart. "Tell me what's wrong," she wanted nothing more than to wrap Jesse in a protective embrace.

"Nothing…I…" Jesse exhaled loudly. "I can't believe I let that guy get the best of me," she said glumly. "What if Zack had gotten hurt?"

"No, you didn't do anything wrong," Devon responded firmly. "If you hadn't maintained your composure, things could have really gotten bad." She cringed inwardly at the thought, and then quickly pushed it away. "Jesse, even though you were injured, you escalated your response and stopped the fight. That was an outstanding job."

"Thanks," she managed shyly.

After that, they changed the subject and engaged in light conversation, each one tentatively exploring with questions regarding work and various interests. Finally, they ran out of small talk and a feeling of urgency gathered inside Devon's chest. The actual reason for the call was all that was left to express and she was terrified. She opened her mouth to speak but words failed her.

She heard Jesse saying, "Well, it is late and I better go."

Fearing now not asking, a slight panic gripped her and made her stomach jump. "Listen, before you go…" Urgency coloring her voice, she stopped to draw a deep breath, Just get it over with. Finally she asked, "I was wondering, would you like to go out sometime?"

"Sure." Jesse's response was instant.

"Umm, I mean on a date," Devon clarified, her palms sweating inexplicably.

"Yeah," Again, Jesse didn't hesitate. Now Devon could hear the smile in her voice and she relaxed slightly. "Yes," Jesse repeated more firmly.

"Okay, then," Devon laughed in nervous relief. "How's Friday night?"

"Friday is great. You want to come here? I know a wonderful place on the water for dinner."

"Sounds perfect," Devon's voice was soft and low.

"See you around seven?" Jesse's tone was warm and comforting.

"Seven it is."

When Devon hung up the phone she pumped her fist in the air, "Yessss!" she shouted to the empty room. She climbed into bed a short while later, still tingling with excitement as she thought about the prospect of going out with the one woman who made her feel something inside, the way she hadn't felt in years. Maybe ever. It was frightening and exhilarating at the same time. She drifted off to sleep with the sound of Jesse's smooth voice in her head.

Honeycutt walked on the shoulder of the two lane road that ran through the industrial portion of the city. At the end of the next block his duplex sat in between a trucking company and a towing business. Honeycutt did mechanic work for both businesses, but his three day stay at the jail might have cost him those jobs. That bitch living with him better hope not. She had no right to call the police on him. A man was the head of his castle; it even said so in the bible. Women were there to cater to a man's needs. When he got home, she was gonna clear out. He didn't need that whore anyway.

His left arm throbbed. Sweat ran down his face and neck. He could feel the dust kicked up by the passing traffic sticking to his damp skin. By the time the assholes at the hospital got around to putting the cast on his arm and the dickhead cop took him to the jail it was too late to see the magistrate. That meant an extra night at booking. Fucking bastards. He posted his bond and they let him out this morning. He could have called a cab, but he figured he only lived two miles from the jail anyway. Now, with the afternoon sun baking into him, he was glad he was nearly home.

The apartment was stifling hot inside. The windows were closed and the window a/c unit hadn't been running for three days of over ninety degree heat. Leaving the front door open, he punched the on button and the old noisy box groaned to life. He snorted. Obviously, the bitch had enough sense to leave on her own. Good riddance. He jerked open the old avocado refrigerator door and grabbed a beer off the shelf, carrying it back to the couch in front of the air conditioner.

Reaching into his shirt pocket he pulled out a rumpled, folded gold paper; his copy of the arrest report. It was difficult to read the carbon copy, but his eyes scanned the page until he located what he was looking for. Sometime during the hours at the hospital it had come to him. The bitch cop who broke his arm, he knew her. She was in the parking lot at that police lodge when he followed James that night. That's right. He saw them. James had her arm around her, the fucking dyke. He found what he searched for at the bottom of the page, just below the signature line, printed neatly in block letters. Officer J.A. Kilbride.

Honeycutt moved back to the refrigerator. He secured the gold page to the door with a black magnet, right next to his father's picture and a newspaper clipping with a picture of James. "That's right, pop," he said aloud. "I'm gonna take care of them both. James and her little girlfriend. She's gonna be sorry she ever fucked with us."

Chapter 21

The shrill, incessant, triple beeping ripped Jillian out of a deep sleep. Clawing her way toward consciousness, fumbling on the nightstand for her pager, she knocked it to the floor as it continued the obnoxious sound.

"Shit," she whispered, leaning farther out of the bed to reach the offending black plastic box that was now vibrating as well, making it dance erratically on the tile. Finally snatching the pager off the floor, Jillian leaned up on one elbow pressing the button to view the incoming message as she blinked to focus on the tiny readout screen. She frowned when she read the page. Glancing quickly over her shoulder at the dark haired beauty just behind her still twisted in the sheets, Jillian smiled and tenderly reached out to softly brush a lock of hair from her brow. Then with a deep sigh, she rose and headed for the shower.

Mac rolled over and listened to the sound of the water start in the shower, still feeling Jillian's hands and mouth on her. A shudder rolled through her body with the visceral memory. She turned and picked up her watch off the nightstand, wincing at the fact that it was only 0610. The last time she remembered seeing the clock, it had been 0350, just after her fourth orgasm of the night; or was that Jillian's fifth?

Grinning, she marveled at the memories, but even more so at the fact that it was morning, and she was still here. She couldn't remember the last time she spent the entire night with a woman. Usually, the whole attempt at conversation in the morning was more than she wanted to deal with, so she would excuse herself long before the sunrise. Right now, she was not only here, but she felt good about it.

Sliding the shower door open, Mac stepped in and pressed the front of her body to Jillian's back. The contact sent familiar heat from her chest to the pit of her stomach as Jillian leaned back against her frame. Mac lifted the bar of soap from the holder and began rolling it between her hands, working up a thick lather as Jillian slipped her hands over their heads and behind her neck, moaning in appreciation. Turning in the circle of Mac's arms she drew her head down and kissed her fully before stepping back.

"Sadly, I can't stay to finish this," Jillian said regretfully. She traced a finger over Mac's lips and along her jaw.

"Pager?" Mac watched, mesmerized by the sight of the water flowing through her luscious hair, hiding the golden highlights and darkening it to a deep reddish-brown and then sluicing over every inch of skin as Jillian rinsed. "God, you are beautiful."

Blushing beneath the heated stare, Jillian replied to the question, "Yeah, call out. I don't know how long I'll be." She stepped from the shower enclosure and was quickly drying off while Mac finished rinsing the soap from her body. Twisting the knobs off she exited the shower to find Jillian leaning over the sink, brushing her teeth with her right hand and holding out a towel for Mac with her left.

"Thanks," Mac accepted the towel and rubbed it briskly on her head then down over the remainder of her body. Jillian was moving quickly around the bedroom, already having dressed in a black t-shirt and BDU pants, she sat on the edge of the bed and pulled on her boots as Mac padded back into the room with the towel wrapped around her waist.

Glancing up, Jillian let out a frustrated grunt at the sight. "You make me want to forget the callout," she complained. Pulling back her still wet hair back to secure it tightly behind her head with an elastic band, she shook her head and continued to gather her equipment.

"Clean t-shirts in there," Jillian pointed to the nearest dresser, "Jeans and BDU pants in there," she indicated the closet. "You should be able to find something that fits."

Mac watched the methodical way that Jillian moved around the space, seeing a totally different woman from the sensual lover that had held her during the night. This woman was controlled, focused and fucking sexy as hell. She strapped on her thigh holster and shoved two extra loaded magazines into the pouches.

When Jillian pulled the 9mm pistol from the top shelf of the closet and firmly seated it in the thigh holster with one smooth, practiced motion, Mac felt herself twitch. She snatched her gear bag from the bottom of the closet and grabbed her keys off the dresser. Jillian's eyes scanned the room one last time to make certain that she had everything she needed.

Looking down while buttoning the top button on the borrowed pants, Mac felt Jillian move close to her and heard a soft sigh. Jillian's strong hand slipped around to the back of her neck pulling their bodies together. She initiated a deep, passionate kiss that made Mac's knees weak, and once she was certain that she had her full attention, Jillian lifted her lips away.

"I want to see you again." Her brown eyes bored into Mac's with an intensity that burned right through her. "Can you stay until I get back?"

"I have to work this afternoon, so I better head back." Now the regret in Mac's voice was audible.

Jillian's half smile revealed her disappointment. She nodded, "Okay, well, there's an extra key by the front door so you can lock up. Take your time, have some coffee, make yourself something to eat if you want." She was already moving down the hallway toward the stairs with her gear as she spoke, and Mac followed. At the front door, Jillian stopped and turned back around for one last look, as if wanting to prove to herself that Mac wasn't a dream.

Mac closed the gap quickly to place one last full, open mouthed kiss on the lips of the beautiful woman before her. "I'll leave my number by the phone." She breathed as their lips parted.

"Good," Jillian whispered. She regarded Mac seriously, "Only, I don't even know your real name."

Something in the moment gripped Mac. She stared at Jillian. Mac never told casual dates her real name, but suddenly it mattered. The burning intensity in Jillian's eyes nearly undid her. Mac gave her a lopsided grin to lighten the moment, "Erin. Erin McKinley."

"I will call you…Erin." Her penetrating stare lingered another moment, before it was replaced by a beaming smile. Quickly, she bent to pick up her bag and sling it over her left shoulder. With that, Jillian walked out into the early morning as the sun just began to paint the horizon with hints of color.

Mac watched her drive away, wondering at this new pleasant feeling in the pit of her stomach. For the first time in years, she realized that after spending the night with a beautiful woman, she felt anticipation for their next date instead of the usual relief that it was over.

Next date? Mac shook her head and reminded herself that relationships were not her strong suit, and from the hints that Jillian offered last night, fast and free was her style. Sure, she was drop dead gorgeous and the sex was incredible, but that didn't mean a repeat performance was going to happen. I will call you…Erin. Jesus, nobody had called her that in longer than she could remember, and she usually hated it, but the way Jillian said her name was incredibly seductive.

She gathered up her clothes and hung the towels neatly in the bathroom before stopping to stare at the rumpled sheets on the bed, evidence of their night of passion. A surge of heat flowed through her veins as the memory of Jillian's body came sharply into focus, and Mac decided purposely to leave the bed as it was to remind Jillian of their night as well. Trotting down the stairs, she located the notepad next to the phone and wrote her cell and home numbers on the top sheet. After a moment's hesitation, she chuckled and wrote beneath the numbers, I'll be waiting for your call, Erin.

Chapter 22

Blinking awake in the room dimly lit by the light filtering across the hall from her office, Jillian turned her head toward the window noting that it was now dark outside. The clock on the nightstand read 9:00. After the callout that began at dawn, she dragged herself home sometime in the middle of the afternoon and fell into bed completely exhausted, having only achieved two hours of sleep in the last two days. Remembering what had kept her up most of the previous night, she smiled with the image of Mac's body lying along the length of hers. Rolling to her left, she hugged the other pillow placing her face against it to breathe in the scent still lingering in the fabric, glad that she hadn't had the energy to change the sheets.

Her mind replayed the morning's interaction, beginning with the shower and ending with a goodbye kiss that felt more like an invitation. She remembered asking Mac to leave her number and she vaulted out of the bed, quickly pulling on a white tank top and faded blue cotton sweat shorts. Bounding down the stairs, she smiled brightly seeing writing on the pad as she approached the kitchen counter. Jillian picked up the notepad and read the name beneath the two numbers and a tickle of excitement danced in the pit of her stomach. Erin. She sensed an intimacy in the use of her given name, just as Jillian did that morning when she asked. It was a gift of trust for Mac to allow it.

She moved to the refrigerator and shook her head at the dismally empty shelves. A carton of milk, two eggs and a Styrofoam container from a takeout dinner at least a week before were the only items inside, with the exception of the orange juice that Jillian extracted from the door. Tilting the half full container, considering how large a glass she would need to finish it, she instead decided against wasting a glass and chugged several gulps directly from the jug while she walked to the counter and climbed onto a stool.

Mac left both a home and a cell number. She decided that trying her cell was the safer bet to actually reach her, regardless of the schedule. Jillian hesitated before punching the last number realizing the implication of what she was about to do. Her relationships with women were casual by choice; she preferred to maintain an emotional distance even after having sex. Calling Mac was very different. Jillian already knew it mattered that they see each other again, and that scared the hell out of her.

"For fuck's sake, you told her you'd call so call." She scolded herself out loud, pressing the final number to complete the call. As she waited for an answer, butterflies inexplicably fluttered in her stomach.

Mac plucked her cell phone off her belt and grinned when she saw that the incoming number began with the Orlando area code, knowing it had to be Jillian. She had about ten minutes before they would get back in the air for the last flight of her shift, so she stepped outside to take the call.

"Hello." The warmth of the greeting was audible in her voice.

"Hello." Mac could hear the undercurrent of emotion in Jillian's voice. "Are you busy?"

"No, you have perfect timing. I don't have to get back in the air for another ten or fifteen minutes," Mac replied, "How was the callout?"

"Long. Those negotiators will talk the subject do death, and in the end we still have to kick in the door and drag them out." Jillian said with trace of annoyance.

Mac chuckled, "Patience is not one of your virtues, I take it."

"Ahh, I didn't say that," her voice had softened again as she spoke and the smooth southern drawl was more pronounced, "I can be very patient when I want to be."

"When is that?" Mac's voice was laced with innuendo.

"When I see something I want, I go after it," Jillian began.

"Mm, hmm, that much I've seen," Mac interjected playfully, "But we were talking about patience." The sound of Jillian's voice was doing things to her inside.

Jillian continued, "Like this gorgeous woman I met recently. Instant attraction, so I went for it. Problem is…" she drew out the words, "She lives eighty miles away so I might have to be patient if I want to see her again."

"Sounds like a bit of a challenge," Mac teased. "And this woman…is she just as attracted to you, do you think?"

"Well, I felt a very powerful response from her body," Jillian's response was sultry. "But I suppose I could be wrong."

"So do you?" Mac asked quietly. Images of Jillian's body arching off the bed were blazing through her brain, making her heart trip in her chest.

"Do I what?"

"Do you want to see her again?" She held her breath. Waiting.

"Yes." Jillian said, "I want to see her as soon as possible."

"What about that patience?" Mac's heart was banging wildly.

"I'm patiently awaiting her answer."

"Her answer is yes." Mac let out a long breath in response to the sigh of relief she heard just before Jillian's soft laughter floated into her ear.

"Okay, so…tonight's probably out since it's nine already and you're still at work." Jillian began formulating a plan. "I have to work the next four days. Damn."

"Your next day off is Thursday?" Mac asked, also mentally attempting to coordinate their schedules.

"Yeah, but I have to leave town to teach at a SWAT school in Milwaukee," She grunted in frustration, "I won't be back until the following Wednesday."

"Ok," Mac said, "so then…"

"A week from Thursday, please tell me you're off." Jillian said with a note of desperation in her voice.

"Friday, too." Mac said hopefully.

"Now that is awesome." Jillian said. Then, as if her subconscious reminded her she was supposed to be doing things differently this time, she added, "I mean...would you like to spend the day-"

Mac interrupted because a unit was requesting air support on a burglary in progress, "Yes. I want to spend that Thursday and Friday with you, but I've got to go. Sorry."

"No problem," Mac could hear her smiling. "Call me. I have my cell on all the time."

"I will," Mac promised. "See you next week."

"Okay, goodnight," Jillian said, her voice heavy with emotion. "Be careful Erin."

"Goodnight Jillian." Mac closed her phone with a tender smile. She had warned herself all day about allowing the beautiful auburn haired woman to monopolize her thoughts. Now she knew that warm silky voice in her head would fuel her fantasies and keep her awake for the next few nights. The radio called again. Mac shook the pleasantly distracting conversation from her mind as she nodded to the flight observer and readied to take the police chopper into the air one more time.

Chapter 23

Devon sat in a grocery store parking lot at six thirty on Friday evening, a bit ahead of schedule to pick up Jesse. She dialed her cell phone and Jesse picked up on the second ring.

"You didn't get lost did you? Are you still coming?"

"Of course, it's just that I didn't want to be late….and…well," Devon stopped, chuckling at herself, "I didn't want to be late, and I'm right up the street, I think. I'll wait if you want…"

"No, silly, come on. I'm ready anyway," she laughed warmly. "Where exactly are you?"

"The sign says 580 and Main St., so I think I'm very close, right?" Devon asked in a shy voice. She hoped Jesse didn't mind that she brought her bike tonight. All week she dreamed of streaking through the night with Jesse clinging tightly to her back, and the rumble of the engine beneath them.

"Gosh, you are here!" Jesse exclaimed. "Just come down Main to the entrance of the subdivision and turn right. I'll be standing outside." A minute later, Jesse waved as Devon rounded the corner.

Devon admired Jesse's beauty as she parked. She was wearing a crisp blue and white striped button down shirt, sleeves rolled up on her forearms and just enough buttons undone to reveal the slightest hint of cleavage. Boot cut jeans fit just snuggly enough to accentuate her narrow waist and the curve of her hips. The tops of black boots were covered by the cuff of her jeans. Jesse's deep green eyes danced in the rays of the late afternoon sun and she eased up to the side of the bike. Devon set the kickstand with her heel and swung her leg off, acutely aware of Jesse's gaze upon her as she pulled off her helmet and gloves.

The discoloration of the bruise on Jesse's temple and cheekbone were still visible from the fight the week before, but it did nothing to take away from the beauty of her face. Devon stepped close and delicately brushed a finger tip on the area, careful not to put pressure on it. She took Jesse's face between her hands and inspected the area closely before placing feather light kisses there. Her heart ached as she imaged Jesse's pain. That thought was eclipsed as she imagined the force of the blow that would cause such an injury. She clenched her jaw, feeling a dark surge of rage flood her body. Devon wanted very much to punch that individual twice as hard.

"Does it hurt?"

Jesse shook her head, "Right now, all I feel is you." She gathered Devon into a full body hug and was rewarded by a return of her embrace.

"Mmm, hello," Jesse murmured. Devon breathed in deeply, immersing herself in Jesse's warmth, feeling her anger melt away. Jesse's scent was a tantalizing mixture of warm vanilla and jasmine with a hint of spice that infected Devon's blood. She felt her insides tremble.

The sounds of laughter floated toward them from the house. For the first time she realized that she was standing in front of Jesse's parent's house. She could hear the family talking through the open screen door at the other end of the cement walkway. They had been briefly introduced at Jesse's party, but didn't have any real conversation to speak of.

Seeing Devon looking toward the house apprehensively, Jesse said quietly, "Yeah, I do live with my folks." She sighed heavily, shaking her head, "It's kind of a long story-ugly breakup last year-I had to move back, but hopefully not for long." Her eyes were clouded over with the pain of a deep betrayal. Devon's chest hurt thinking of Angela causing Jesse such heartache and she frowned.

Jesse looked at Devon nervously, "Is it okay? I know they're all in there just dying to see you up close." She dropped her eyes and shuffled her feet.

Devon watched embarrassment paint the tips of Jesse's ears a deep red, thinking she couldn't get any more adorable. She shrugged, "No sweat! First date, meet the parents." She took Jesse's hands in her own. "Anything you want."

Mercifully, the visit did not last long. Jesse hurried her mom and dad through a brief conversation and then announced that they would be late for their dinner reservations if they didn't go. Jesse stopped at the closet in the foyer to retrieve a motorcycle helmet. She pulled a pair of leather gloves from inside the helmet as they stepped outside. Devon looked at Jesse wide-eyed with surprise.

"What?" Jesse asked playfully.

"Nothing, I just didn't realize you had a bike." Devon replied. This woman is full of surprises. Jesse pulled up the garage door, revealing a brilliant blue Suzuki Katana 750, the same color as the helmet in her hand. Devon was impressed. That bike would keep pace with her Yamaha GTS 1000. She never figured Jesse would have a touring bike.

"So, do you want to take both bikes?" She watched Jesse roll the machine out into the driveway. She turned the key and twisted the throttle, causing the engine to roar to life. Jesse pulled the helmet over her head, pushing the mirrored face guard up with her left thumb revealing those stunning green eyes that twinkled as she laughed.

"You ready?" She called over the rumble of the powerful engine.

"Yeah."

Devon could only smile in wonder. She was used to picking up women for dates and driving them to dinner in her Jeep or on her bike. Now here was this great looking woman flashing a kilowatt grin from inside her helmet, sitting on her own bike with an unmistakable challenge in her eyes.

"Let's go," Jesse said loud enough to be heard above the engine.

Devon started her bike and made a slow u-turn on the street, while Jesse coasted hers out of the driveway. They pulled slowly down the street and out of the neighborhood. As they reached the main road, Jesse glanced playfully over her shoulder and then cranked back on the throttle, leaving Devon no choice but to chase her through the night.

Chapter 24

The Mazda RX7 rolled slowly through the gate and Honeycutt pushed it closed behind it, securing the padlock in place. The driver exited the vehicle to quickly remove the license plate. Honeycutt popped the hood and admired the engine. "This one's gonna bring a pretty penny, Roy."

"Yeah, we've had a pretty good week." Roy returned.

After his release from jail, Honeycutt had to find another job. Luckily, another shop not far from his house hired him as a mechanic. The owner, Roy, had a thriving business on the side. He bought stolen cars and brought them back to his shop where they removed the plates and VIN numbers for use as parts. Sometimes, when the car was in good enough condition, like this one, they would remove the VIN numbers and resell it to dealers who shipped the cars to Mexico or South America at a tidy profit. Honeycutt didn't much care about Roy's criminal activities. He paid well.

"You still working on your ride?" Roy tipped his chin in the direction of a Chevy Cavalier across the lot. The hood was raised and a shop light burned at the corner of the engine block.

"Yep. Got it pretty much good to go. Thanks." He nodded.

"Don't sweat it," Roy told him, "a man needs a ride."

"Soon as I get a tag, I'll get 'er out of your way."

Roy grinned and moved toward the open garage, "Oh, I've gotcha covered there." He returned a moment later with a box full of tags. "I'd recommend using one of the in state tags. Less noticeable."

Honeycutt grinned back, "Thanks. I'll drive home tonight."

"Speakin' of driving," Roy said carefully, "How would you like to earn some extra cash?"

"Sure. What do I have to do?" Honeycutt wiped grease off his hands with a shop towel.

"Nothin' much. Just pick up vehicles that come in and drive them here or to the back of the 50th Street lot."

"Sounds easy enough. What if I get stopped?" He asked.

"Don't." Roy looked impassively at him. "You'll get two hundred per vehicle. If something goes wrong, I don't know who you are."

"Fair enough."

Chapter 25

They lingered after dinner on the deck enjoying the clear night and the warm ocean breeze. Devon struggled all through their meal to keep up with the conversation. It wasn't as if she wasn't interested in what Jesse had to say, she was. The problem was that the close proximity was firing her blood and she kept losing herself in her beautiful eyes. She was doing it again, Jesse was speaking and Devon refocused.

"I always knew I wanted to be a police officer." she said resolutely. There was such clarity in her eyes that Devon could only regard her with amazement. Devon had come to the decision a bit later in life, after a stint in the military that gave her a sense of duty and purpose she was missing before that.

"I wasn't sure you would want to have dinner with me," Jesse confided, changing the subject.

"Why?" Devon was puzzled.

"You just always seem to have so much going on in your life. You know so many people around…I don't know." She seemed at a loss to complete her thought.

Devon looked at her sincerely, "I haven't been able to stop thinking about you since the day I saw you in the gym." The admission made Jesse blush and Devon smiled.

Devon ventured, "So you had to move back with your folks a while back?" There was no judgment in her tone. Jesse's eyes looked into the painful past.

"My ex and I were together for about five years. You met her last week." Jesse cast a grateful look in Devon's direction. "Anyway, she wasn't much for fidelity. She's more the controlling womanizer type." She sighed, "I guess I wanted to believe that she loved me. In the end, it didn't really matter." Jesse studied her wine when she finished.

Devon reached across the table to take Jesse's hand, her eyes gentle and caring. "Angela is a fool. You make thoughts of any other woman insignificant." She watched Jesse search her eyes for what she needed and Devon opened herself to allow the depth of her sincerity to show.

"So, what about you?" Jesse questioned, breaking the spell. She filled both of their glasses with more wine, regarding her date closely.

"What do you want to know?" Devon felt the familiar twinge of discomfort at the prospect of answering questions about herself, but the comfort of Jesse's smile was reassuring.

"Tell me about your life."

"Wow," Devon laughed, "All thirty three years, or can we do it in stages?" When Jesse laughed, her eyes sparkled with varying shades of green, and Devon was captivated by them.

"I want to know what makes you who you are," Jesse began, "I mean, I know that you are a very capable police officer, but I can see so much more in your eyes sometimes." Devon held her gaze but didn't answer. She believed Jesse could see what others couldn't.

"Let's start with an easy one," Jesse said lightly, "How many brothers and sisters do you have?"

"One of each; older sister, younger brother."

"Middle child, huh? Me too," Jesse grinned. "Do they live here?"

"My brother lives in the Midwest and my sister still lives in Pittsburgh," Devon replied.

"Parents?"

"My dad left when I was four. My mom died about ten years ago."

"Sorry," Jesse's eyes were filled with compassion.

"It's alright. We weren't really close." She didn't elaborate further, letting Jesse know that subject was closed.

"Okay, since you know about my ex, tell me about your last serious relationship." Jesse asked, "I can't believe some smart woman hasn't laid claim to someone as attractive as you." She smiled appreciatively and Devon felt her ears burning with heat at the compliment.

Devon made it a point not to discuss her personal life as a rule. She didn't let people in. It felt different with Jesse, and she knew in her heart she would tell her eventually. She looked apprehensively at Jesse, "Can I promise to tell you another time?"

"I'm sorry," Jesse said quietly, "I don't mean to pry." Looking down at their hands still intertwined, she said softly, "You can take as long as you want."

"Thanks." Devon basked in the glow of her warm smile.

"Ready to get out of here?" Jesse asked quickly, wanting to put a smile back on her companion's face.

"Sure, where to?" Devon asked, her mouth turning up in a crooked grin, as she refocused on this wonderful evening with her beautiful date.

Jesse's eyes sparkled, "You just leave that to me."

They climbed back aboard the 'crotch rockets', with Devon once again following Jesse's lead. The bikes carried them effortlessly through the warm night, down the winding beach road while the moon and stars shimmered in the water to their right. Jesse pulled off the road into a small parking strip along an area of high dunes. Devon's body tingled from the vibration of the motor when she dismounted. Or was it being near Jesse?

They stopped to remove their shoes and stow them on the bikes. Wrapping an arm around each other's waist they walked silently along a path through the dunes to a secluded beach on the other side. There, with the moonlight shimmering on the water and the warm ocean breeze blowing through their hair, they stared into one another's eyes for long moments.

Devon pulled Jesse closer, wrapping both arms fully around her waist when she recognized a question in her expression. "What?" She asked gently. When Jesse didn't answer Devon placed a gentle kiss on her lips. She searched her beautiful face, finding uncertainty in her eyes.

"I am having such a wonderful time," Jesse offered a hesitant smile.

Devon's eyes never left Jesse's. "I can't remember the last time I enjoyed an evening as much," she flashed her blazing smile and then raised an eyebrow, "So…" She regarded Jesse quizzically.

"I have never felt such a strong attraction to another woman. This feels special to me, and I just want…" Jesse stopped, searching for words. Devon reached out and brushed windblown strands of golden hair away from Jesse's face and felt her heart flutter in her chest.

"Jess, I'll do anything you want, just tell me." As she spoke the words, Devon realized at that moment how completely true that statement was. The pull of her soul toward this woman was like the lunar control of the tidal currents.

"I just want to make sure we're both ready. I don't want to rush anything," She ran her hand through Devon's hair, and then rested it along her face, "This is too important."

Devon pressed Jesse's palm to her lips and kissed it. Her old demons still lurked inside, making her uncertain whether she could give Jesse everything she deserved. But being with her made Devon believe in every possibility, Jesse was becoming the reason to stop hiding behind her fears. As she searched Jesse's eyes for answers, she knew that she wanted to give this woman more than any woman ever before.

"I agree, you are much too important," Devon whispered. She tenderly kissed Jesse, her lips softly exploring, waiting for the response signaling her welcome. When Jesse's lips parted, Devon let her tongue tease gently inside and she groaned when Jesse's tongue whispered across her own.

As their mouths slid together in that perfect fit of their lips, she lost herself in the wonder of Jesse. The combination of contentment, safety, and bone melting need seemed to intensify with every touch that they shared. She lost all sense of the world around them. Jesse's kiss made her lightheaded as the blood fled from her brain to pulse between her thighs. Tumbling onto the sand together, they laughed and tried to return their breathing to normal.

"You are so very beautiful," Devon breathed as she sifted her silky hair through her fingers, reveling in the sensation. She grinned at Jesse adding, "I could remind you that I have already met your parents…" Her hand slid down Jesse's shoulder to tease her nipples through her cotton shirt.

Jesse sucked in a sharp breath at the contact, her eyes betraying pure desire. Recovering, she playfully slapped at the exploring hand, "Anything worth having is worth the wait, stud."

Devon returned with mock skepticism, "Is that so?" She chuckled as Jesse gripped her wrist to prevent the return of her hand to her breast.

"Wait and see." It was Jesse's turn to flash a radiant smile.

Devon assured her in a low seductive voice, "Oh, I will."

Outside Jesse's parent's house, they leaned on Devon's bike and spoke softly. After a while, they didn't even speak, just holding each other and looking up at the stars sparkling in the dark. Both women despised the night for coming to a close, but they both knew they had to work the next day, besides Devon had an hour drive before she reached home.

"Well, I guess, I should get on the road," Devon said softly.

She felt sick inside at the thought of being so far away from Jesse after their connection tonight. She stared into Jesse's eyes, not wanting to look away. Her body was on fire. The ache in her that screamed to be released was almost more than she could bear, but she wouldn't go further until the time was right. Jesse was too special; she felt that as surely as she felt her own heartbeat. She knew that once they made love she would never want to be without her again. Devon looked down at their joined hands and drew a deep breath to steady herself.

Jesse reached out and gently lifted Devon's chin, searching her face. "Hey…you okay?"

Devon couldn't speak around the lump of emotion in her throat. Jesse's eyes penetrated her soul with such longing it made her chest ache again. Wordlessly, Jesse leaned in and again kissed Devon fully, making the world around her seem irrelevant.

Devon brain swam in the intoxicating pleasure until she became aware of the slight tensing of Jesse's body against hers. Jesse said through the kiss, "Don't be worried and don't move, but my mom's on the front porch." Their eyes locked and suddenly the sheer comedy of the moment shook them both and they broke into uncontrollable laughter.

"Wow," Devon finally gasped between giggles, wiping tears from her eyes, "I can't believe at thirty-three, I'm still getting caught by girls' mothers." As the laughter rolled through them, providing a relief from the tension, the two women leaned on each other, Jesse's head on Devon's shoulder.

Knowing she had to go, Devon stepped away with a sigh and immediately her body missed Jesse's warmth. She raised a hand in the air and called toward the porch, "G'night Mrs. Kilbride." When her eyes returned to Jesse's, her resolve nearly melted at the smoldering, sexy look in the big green eyes. What Devon wanted to do was pull Jesse into a full embrace and kiss her senseless. Instead, she climbed onto her motorcycle and started the engine before she changed her mind. If I don't leave this moment, I won't be responsible for what mom sees.

Jesse leaned in for one last exquisite kiss, and then they smiled at each other before Devon tugged on her helmet. She pushed up the faceguard so that Jesse could see her eyes. "See ya tomorrow?"

"Count on it."

Devon pulled away into the night. Jesse stood at the curb watching the taillight fade in the distance, feeling her heart go with her.

Chapter 26

"Pick up the black Taurus after one o'clock. It will be in the parking lot under the expressway. Drive it to the lot on 50th Street. Got it?"

"No sweat." Honeycutt answered.

A guy from the shop gave him a lift downtown and dropped him off a block away from the designated spot. The courthouse was two blocks away. Police officers made their way to and from the parking garage, but they were intent on getting on their way. Nobody paid any attention to him. He was just another face in the crowd.

It was hotter than hell. No different from any other miserable day in this god forsaken place. Now that he was making some money, he could start thinking about doing what he came to do and moving on. His arm under the cast was itching, driving him nuts. He took a pen from his shirt pocket and shoved it underneath the cast, trying to alleviate the itch. The annoyance reminded him of why he was wearing it anyway.

Officer Kilbride. If he had known then what he knew now, he would have taken her and James out the night he saw them together. He hadn't counted on adding another target. When he left prison, the only objective he had was retribution on Devon James in return for his father's life. Now, he was in a position to do so much more. He could take something she loved, just as she had done to him. That meant he was going to have to make some decisions.

The black Taurus was at the back of the lot, just as Roy said it would be. He walked to the car and got in like it was his own. The ignition was already punched, so he took the screwdriver from his pocket and used it to pull the metal switch on the steering column to make the connection. The engine turned over easily. A police officer walked down the sidewalk in front of him as he waited to exit the lot. The image of stepping on the accelerator and watching the fucking cop disappear under his tires flashed in his mind. The cop waved thanks as he crossed in front of Honeycutt. He waved back with a predatory grin.

Stephanie and Devon were loading up their gear at the start of the next shift. Steph had watched her all through roll call, smiling herself at the contagious grin her friend was sporting. She couldn't wait to corner her normally serious partner to find out what had put the shit eating grin on her face.

"Somebody had a good night." Steph gave her the jab, knowing their rookies were within earshot.

Devon flipped her eye in the direction of her rookie and then shot a warning look at Steph. Steph responded by sticking her tongue out, which was returned by a middle finger from Devon. Devon grinned again and Steph shook her head when Devon started whistling a tune as she arranged her gear for the shift.

Steph stepped close and whispered, "You got laid didn't you?" Devon's laughter was her only response.

The emergency tone blared over the radio to indicate a priority call was about to be dispatched. Both training officers instinctively leaned their heads to their shoulder mics to hear.

A serious crash had occurred at the other end of their sector. The dispatcher advised that it appeared possibly fatal. Because they both now had trainees, they yelled to their passengers to get in the cruisers and peeled out of the police lot.

"Adam 5 enroute," Devon advised. In an instant, the two cars were screaming priority one through the afternoon traffic, full emergency lights on and sirens blaring their warning. Five minutes later they maneuvering the emergency vehicles across the lanes of traffic at the north side of the intersection. Devon ran to the driver's door and Steph to the passenger side. The female passenger was partially ejected. She apparently was not wearing her seatbelt. Her face was a bloody mess, bones obviously shattered. A compound fracture resulted in an exposed bone protruding from her forearm. The woman was not moving. Steph's eyes flashed across the bloodied wreckage of the vehicle interior at Devon.

"This one's not too good, what about him?" she motioned to the driver, bleeding profusely from a nasty gash to his forehead. Devon was attempting to put pressure on the wound and at the same time keep the man's head immobilized in the event he had spinal injuries.

Steph tossed a pair of surgical gloves to Devon, "Put these on." She said flatly to her friend before turning back to her victim.

"I can't find a pulse on her, Dev." She tried to shift the woman's head to open an airway.

Devon yelled over her shoulder to the rookies, "Go get the CPR masks out of the trunk! Hurry!" The command tone was unmistakable and Devon's recruit scrambled to do as he was told. As the young man ran back toward the two training officers, the first rescue car arrived on scene. Devon gratefully relinquished her grasp on the driver's head to allow the paramedics to take over.

The other vehicle fled the scene. Devon scanned the area for witnesses. She spotted a car pulled off on the far shoulder. The driver looked shaken, but not injured. She quickly gathered information regarding the suspect vehicle and placed a hasty radio alert.

The next order of business was securing the crime scene. "Paul!" Devon yelled again for the eager young man.

"Yes, ma'am?"

"Start stringing up crime scene tape. Go from the light pole on the other side of the intersection and take it around the far side of our car to the south side, got it?" Paul immediately set to work. Now Devon looked for Steph's recruit, who was looking a bit confused as to what he should do next.

"Mike! Come with me." Devon shouted as she walked purposefully to the north side of the intersection. She assessed the traffic situation, aware that if this was not controlled properly, the scene would become another tragedy if vehicles drove into the area. A rescue worker could be injured, or worse.

"This is important," she instructed the recruit. "We have to set up flares to direct the southbound traffic onto the shoulder of the road. Once we have the flares in place, you will stay here and direct the traffic down the shoulder-got it?"

"Yes, ma'am." They completed the task. Now the roadway was lined with red glowing sticks that would guide the traffic around the crash. The sulfur burned Devon's eyes as she walked through the smoke.

A block north of the crash site traffic came to a standstill with the first arrival of emergency vehicles blocking the streets. The driver of the black Taurus resisted the temptation to honk his horn. The less attention he brought to himself the better. He craned his neck to see what the holdup was about. The wall of flashing lights was his only clue. "Just great" he muttered. After a few minutes the traffic began to crawl forward again. Four lanes of traffic were being detoured to the west shoulder of the road. It was slow going, but at least they were moving.

Nearing the intersection, Honeycutt was able to make out the uniforms of cops and firemen working up ahead. Whoop, Whoop! Another siren came from behind. He stopped as a crime scene van inched through the line of traffic and around him toward the yellow tape. As it passed, he now had an unobstructed view of the scene.

He looked disinterestedly at the mangled metal of the cars with various people running around doing whatever it was that they did. What did catch his eye was a lone figure walking to the edge of the scene, about fifty yards in front of him. The cop grabbed the yellow tape and raised it to allow the crime scene van into the scene.

When the van passed, he couldn't believe his eyes. Honeycutt watched Devon James move to the edge of the road to set up more flares. There was nothing but the empty shoulder between them. This was too perfect. He was never going to get a better opportunity. Beyond her, the lane was clear. The ramp for the expressway was immediately to the right. Every other cop was yards from their cars. By the time they tried to stop him, he'd be a couple of exits away. Pop always said you had to be open to the Lord's signs. They didn't get any clearer than this. Honeycutt stomped on the accelerator.

Devon saw the crime scene van approach the crash site, stopping outside the yellow tape. "Mike!" She hollered, "Stop the traffic a minute. I gotta let them in." Devon raised the barrier police tape to allow the van to enter. She noticed a couple of flares were out on that side, and quickly darted to the spot, lighting fresh ones and setting them in place. The crime scene tech exited the van and called a question to Devon. She turned toward the tech, her back to the traffic lane momentarily. Devon heard someone yelling and she pivoted her body in the direction of the voice.

Devon felt sharp pain slice into her left side as a crushing jolt catapulted her into the air. The world flipped upside down and then she was crashing onto the hood of a vehicle. Her head bounced off the windshield. In the next instant, she struck the pavement hard with first her head and then shoulder. Steph and Paul ran to Devon and knelt beside her. Devon could see Steph's mouth moving and her face contorted in an agonized look. She opened her mouth to ask Steph what was wrong, but then everything went black.

Chapter 27

Jesse waited for the light a few blocks from the station admiring the stunning sunset in her rearview mirror and thinking about her date with Devon. The song on the radio was the one playing when Devon leaned out of the jeep to kiss her goodbye the night of her party. Her heart swelled in her chest with the memory of being in the strong sure embrace. Although they had not seen each other the past two days, they spoke on the phone until well into the night, neither wanting to hang up.

She hoped to run into Devon tonight during the shift, maybe they could even have dinner if it wasn't too busy. She frowned as she heard a siren drawing near and saw an ambulance scream past her toward the hospital. Cars were stopping in the middle of the road and not making way for the emergency vehicle.

"They all need tickets," Jesse shook her head wishing she was already in a police car. "I'd write every last one of them," she told herself aloud.

A few seconds behind the ambulance, Jesse observed a sight not very common. Several marked police units were screeching after the ambulance in full emergency mode. Thinking it odd, she immediately turned on her hand held radio and switched to the frequency downtown. She heard excited chatter on the radio advising ETA of one minute at the hospital, and a supervisor instructing units to stand by with the officer. A chill crawled up Jesse's spine. An injured officer was in that ambulance.

Jesse blew the red light and drove as quickly as she could to the station. As she got out of her car, she saw Lu running toward a marked unit.

"Lu!" Jesse called out as she jogged toward the other officer. Lu looked at Jesse with a bewildered expression. She held up her hand and listened to her cell phone. Whatever the person on the other end said made gasp. "Get in the car," she instructed Jesse in a clipped tone.

Jesse started to protest, but the fierce look Lu leveled at her advised against it. Lu listened again to the caller a few more moments, "That's all you know? Okay, thanks." Lu regarded Jesse with pained eyes momentarily before she screamed out of the parking lot, leaving acceleration marks on the pavement as they went.

"Lu, what's going on?" Her voice was more a plea than a question. Jesse could feel her stomach turning over with the growing anxiety. Lu drew a long ragged breath and blew it out.

"Devon had an accident."

The blood seemed to drain from Jesse's head, making her dizzy. Devon?! No. She is mistaken. Please God, she has to be wrong! In her mind an image appeared of Devon smiling widely as she stepped off her bike Saturday night at her house. She felt Devon's lips on hers still.

"Jesse? Did you hear me?" Lu's sharp question brought Jesse back from her own screaming thoughts. "She took a nasty whack on the head. They are getting ready to run her back to the CT scan now." Then she looked encouragingly at Jesse, "Don't worry, honey, she'll be fine. I know it."

Five minutes later, they were running from the car through the automatic doors of the emergency room. Jesse's heart hammered painfully in her chest as she and Lu hurried through the maze of hallways to the trauma area of the ER. They found the main triage area, where a few officers were milling around, and Jesse recognized Devon's sergeant talking on a cell phone in the doorway. Her heart sank when she saw Steph standing at the foot of the gurney looking down at the patient, visibly shaken.

She knew then there was no mistake, Steph would stay with Devon no matter what. Jesse felt her stomach heave and threaten to empty its contents. Doctors and nurses were buzzing around the room, hooking up monitors, tubes and other equipment to the precious patient. They worked frantically, but efficiently. She stood in the doorway paralyzed with fear, taking in the surreal scene.

Steph looked up and their eyes met. Jesse's control began to crumble seeing the pain in Devon's partner's eyes. Steph looked one more time at Devon and then walked across the room to Jesse. She took her by the arm and led her into the hallway.

"Maybe you shouldn't be here."

"Well, you can say what you want, but I'm not leaving," Jesse snapped. Her eyes alternating between terror and anger, fixed on Devon's partner.

Steph sighed and nodded in agreement. "Alright then, walk with me."

"No," Jesse said adamantly. "I need to know what's happening to her. You don't understand, I can't…I mean….I want her to know I'm here." Her tear filled eyes pleaded with Steph for help. Stephanie met Jesse's gaze with sympathetic eyes.

They walked over to the gurney and asked the nurse for a moment. Devon's eyes were closed. She was unresponsive to all of the intrusive pushing and pulling at her. That frightened Jesse to her core. She is really in trouble. She ached with helplessness, and tears welled up in her eyes. Taking Devon's hand in both of hers, careful not to disturb the IV lines, she leaned in close to Devon's ear and whispered, "I'm here, Devon. I need you. Please," her tears fell on Devon's cheek. Then she pressed a kiss on her hand, "You are in my soul, now. Please stay."

"I have her sister's number; I'll call her as soon as we get an update." Jesse heard Steph tell the sergeant. Steph took Jesse by the arm and drew her down the corridor to a quiet room.

"Okay, what's going on between you two?" Steph questioned as soon as they were alone. She motioned for Jesse to sit and then pulled up a chair directly in front for herself. The soft brown eyes searched for answers in Jesse's troubled face.

Jesse knew that Steph and Devon were close, like sisters really, but she didn't feel comfortable discussing her relationship with Devon-if they were in a relationship. Jesse knew for certain that she wanted one desperately, but they hadn't discussed anything like that. God, I haven't even done anything but kiss her. So why does my life feel as if it depends upon those doctors down the hall?

Feeling the trepidation in Jesse's eyes, Steph put a hand lightly on her knee. "Jesse, I know that Devon has feelings for you, she's just very private and I didn't have a chance this week to drag the update on you two out of her."

The kindness in Steph's eyes gave Jesse the reassurance she needed, "Before we get into that, please tell me what happened." Tears spilled from her liquid green eyes.

Steph recounted the accident, shivering at the recollection of her friend bouncing off the black car and then slamming onto the pavement. When Steph finished, her voice was hoarse, as she tried desperately not to cry in front of Jesse. Their training and all the years of street experience allowed her to remain detached at similar scenes and just do her job. But when it was someone she loved slamming onto the pavement, well, that was something altogether different.

Jesse threw her arms around her neck, sobbing into Steph's shoulder, "Please tell me she's gonna be okay, Steph." The guttural cry was more than Steph could take and for the first time her tears flowed freely. Both women clung to each other, needing the connection of their love for Devon to sustain them.

About eight o'clock, the ER doctor that worked on Devon and was a friend of Steph's came to see them. He sat down in the blue vinyl chair next to Steph, took off his wire glasses and rubbed his eyes.

"What can you tell us," she asked him anxiously. "Is she awake? She's gonna be fine, right?"

"Well, I'm not going to lie; she had us a bit worried for a bit there." He smiled nervously and looked questioningly in Jesse's direction. Seeing his hesitation, Steph quickly clarified, "Its okay, she's with Devon."

He hesitated a tick, then recognition flashed in his eyes, "Yes…well about officer James," he began as his gaze slid from Steph to Jesse, who was leaning in, hanging on his every word. Clearing his throat, he pressed on, "She's pretty banged up. I don't want to alarm you, but tonight will be very important to see how she does. She has been in and out of consciousness and we want to keep an eye on things to make sure there are no signs of any additional swelling to her brain. She sustained several rib fractures and a punctured lung. We have that under control right now. Lastly, she has a broken left femur and of course a lot of bumps and bruises. She received twenty stitches to close the laceration on her head, and she's going to have a brutal headache for at least a few days. Right now we are cautiously optimistic. She is a very strong patient, but as I said, first we must get through the night."

"When can we see her?" Jesse asked urgently. The doctor bit his bottom lip as if wrestling with an answer. Then looking at Jesse sympathetically, he decided, "They just got her up to a room, but if you promise not to stay long, I'll take you." The two uniformed women followed the doctor hurriedly through the corridors. He waved at the frowning head nurse as they whisked by, taking responsibility for the visitors at such an unorthodox hour. "Five minutes," he whispered and smiled distantly at the two officers before excusing himself and continuing with his work

Steph stood across the room and allowed Jesse a few moments to be with Devon. She watched as Jesse walked slowly to the bedside, bending to place a feather light kiss on Devon's bruised and battered face. Jesse drew a deep, shaking breath, before softly whispering into Devon's ear. Although she had no idea what words were spoken, Steph understood completely the tenderness of the moment. She smiled inwardly at the thought of her partner, the most honest, honorable and caring person she knew might finally have someone to really care about her.

Honeycutt was greeted by Roy's scowl the next morning when he banged through the door of the shop. "The car I sent you to pick up was black."

"Yeah, I had a bit of trouble with that one, so I traded it in." Honeycutt shrugged. He dropped into the chair in front of Roy's desk and swung his heels up on top, crossing his ankles casually. "I didn't think the color would be a big deal."

Roy jumped from his chair and quickly rounded the desk. He seized his employee's foot in a vice-like grip and shoved him backward, tipping the chair. Honeycutt's eyes grew wide as he tumbled backward helplessly onto the floor. Roy towered over him, fury etched in his face.

"I pay you to do exactly what you're told," he seethed. His fists were balled at his sides, waiting for the chance to strike. "The fucking black car that's all over the news-the one they're looking for that ran down that cop-that was my car?"

Honeycutt pushed himself up to a sitting position, looking steadily back at Roy. "Well, technically no. It wasn't your car. But yes, it was the one I picked up. As I said, I ran into a little trouble."

Roy snatched onto the front of Honeycutt's shirt and hauled him to his feet. "I pay you to deliver the cars. Period. If your stupidass stunt costs me my business there will be nowhere in this town you can hide." He shoved him away, nearly causing Honeycutt to fall again.

His eyes flashing with anger, Honeycutt straightened his shirt. The urge to grab Roy by the throat and choke the life out of him was nearly overpowering, but he knew that he still needed this job. He could make what would take him months to save elsewhere. So, just like with the piece of shit guards at the prison, Honeycutt forced a congenial smile.

"Hey Roy, relax." He held his hands up in front of him in a compliant gesture, "Nothing's gonna come back to you. I got rid of the car in the projects and got the kids to lift another." He cocked his head toward the burgundy Taurus in the lot.

"It's foolproof. The kids will dump the car after they're done joyriding, and the cops will recover it. Nothing ties you or me to the car." His cold eyes held Roy's.

"Fine." Roy bit off the word, pointing his finger at Honeycutt. "Just remember who you work for. I'm not putting up with anymore shit, or you're done. Clear?"

"Crystal."

Chapter 28

Stephanie and Mac found Jesse sleeping in a chair just outside the nurses' station when they exited the elevator on the sixth floor of the hospital the next morning. Mac placed a hand gently on her arm, causing Jesse to jump.

"Is she awake?" She rubbed her hands over her face briskly.

"I'll check with the nurse," Steph said.

Mac smiled kindly at Jesse, "Did you get any sleep?" She noted the dark circles under the young woman's eyes.

"I dozed on and off," she shrugged, watching Steph speak to the nurse.

"Well, hopefully we'll be able to see her and then how about you let me buy you breakfast?"

Jesse shook her head, "You don't have to do that."

"I know." Mac smiled at her.

Steph returned with a beaming smile, "They said she was awake when they checked on her about an hour ago."

Jesse frowned, "If she was up an hour ago, how come they didn't tell me?" She was momentarily troubled, but then she brightened again as the three women stepped into Devon's room. Mac motioned for Jesse to enter ahead of them and they stayed just inside the door.

She tilted her head in the direction of the bed. "You go ahead, Jesse," Mac said quietly, wanting to give them a minute alone. Devon's eyes were closed and Mac wondered if she would even know that they were with her.

Just as she had hours earlier, Jesse leaned down and lightly kissed Devon's cheek, this time also adding a soft brush of her lips to Devon's slightly opened mouth. She remained leaned over Devon's face looking for any sign of change. After a few moments, Devon's eyes fluttered, and then opened. Recognition flashed inside and she smiled with difficulty, "Hey, you."

Jesse returned the smile and caressed her cheek. Grateful tears spilled down her face. "Hey yourself," she choked through the lump of emotion in her throat. All of the fears running rampant in her head throughout the night were calmed by the welcome of Devon's blue eyes.

Devon reached up with her left hand in spite of the IV, and touched a tear away from Jesse's chin. "Please don't cry," she said in a soft, gravelly voice. Her eyes held Jesse's reassuringly. "I'm glad you're here." Jesse could only smile and nod, when words could never describe her emotions. She heard someone clear their throat, reminding Jesse that they were still there.

Devon's eyes lit up as she spotted her dearest friends at the end of the bed. "Come here," she struggled to sit up but grimaced and sank immediately back onto the pillow. Jesse's heart ached seeing the pain etched in Devon's face.

Stephanie and Mac stepped to the other side of the bed. Mac took Devon's other hand, squeezing it gently while Jesse adjusted the pillow for her. "You had us a little scared, Dev." Steph drawled. Then she added wryly, "Of course we knew that your head is much too hard to injure, so we figured, but ya, know…."

They all laughed together. Devon coughed and grabbed her midsection, breathing haltingly. "Don't make me laugh, Steph," She said just above a whisper, closing her eyes against the pain.

"Sorry." Steph moaned sincerely.

"What happened?" Devon asked after she recovered.

"Yeah," Mac said seriously, looking at Steph, "That's what I'd like to know too."

"Some knucklehead wasn't watching where he was going and creamed you." Steph said with disgust.

"Christ," Mac grunted.

Jesse was softly stroking Devon's left hand, being careful to avoid the IV line, her eyes never leaving Devon's face. Mac watched Jesse intently and the way Devon's attention was riveted on her. She saw a familiar expression that could only be described as wanting on her friend's face as she gazed at the young woman who seemed oblivious to anyone or anything other than the woman lying in the bed. She smiled inwardly at the obvious connection between the two of them.

"So how are you feeling, Dev?" Mac looked steadily at her searching her eyes for any hint of evasiveness in her response.

"I feel like hell, actually buddy." Devon responded truthfully. She closed her eyes and breathed slowly, feeling the sharp stab with each push of her diaphragm. After a few minutes, exhaustion claimed her again, and she drifted off to sleep.

Zack stuck his head in the room and motioned for Mac to step out when he saw that Devon was resting. "How's she doing?"

"She's pretty banged up, but it was a relief to have her awake and talking a few minutes ago."

"That's good," he sighed with relief. "I came by to tell you that they recovered the car."

Mac brightened, "An arrest?" she asked hopefully.

Zack shook his head, "Not what we need. Two kids from the projects joy riding."

"So, where did they get the car?" she snapped.

He shrugged. "They said some white guy traded it for a couple of rocks."

Mac started pacing in a circle. "What the fuck, Zack. What about the tag?"

He looked as frustrated as Mac was feeling, "Nothing. No registration, the VIN plates were removed. The car obviously was going to be cloned professionally."

"Fuck." She said softly. "Well, let's grab a cup of coffee. Let me just see if Jesse or Steph want one."

Devon stirred and moaned in her sleep. "Steph, I'm going to ask the nurse about the dosage on her pain meds," Jesse said. Steph nodded and closed her eyes again from the chair at the foot of the hospital bed. Jesse winced slightly against the bright florescent lighting in the hallway that stung her eyes when she stepped into the hall.

"Excuse me," she began to address the nurse.

The man standing at the desk suddenly shoved away from the counter, slamming into Jesse with his shoulder in his hurry to leave. "Hey, buddy. Watch it!" She was exhausted and in no mood for some rude asshole. A second later a flash of recognition hit her. The cast on his arm left no doubt. It was the guy she and Zack had fought so violently with two weeks before. What the heck is he doing here?

She pointed in the direction he went, "What did that man want?" she demanded. Her eyes darted between his retreating form and the nurse. The nurse hesitated. "What did he want?" Jesse yelled this time.

Mac was coming down the hall carrying two cups of coffee. Jesse's raised voice startled her and she moved quickly to where she stood. "What's up, Jesse?" Jesse was shifting impatiently, waiting for the nurse to answer.

"He, uh, wanted to know if Corporal James had any visitors." The nurse looked at them wide-eyed. "Is there something wrong?"

Jesse's insides flooded cold with dread. She broke into a run down the hallway, intent on catching the unwanted visitor. Mac abandoned the coffee and ran to keep up.

"Jesse? What's going on?"

"I don't know Mac. We just have to stop that guy." They nearly collided with a hospital staff member pushing a gurney off the first elevator. The doors on the far elevator were closing and Jesse dove at the opening. "Hold the elevator!" She screamed. The doors closed with a soft thunk. Immediately, Jesse spun toward the stairwell.

"Jesse, stop." Mac grabbed her by the elbow. "Who is he?"

"The guy that Zack and I fought with. It was him. What would he be doing here?" Jesse was breathing hard, her anxiety level rapidly rising. "Mac, he was at the station a while back asking about Devon. Now he's here."

"Okay, slow down," Mac placed a hand on her shoulder. "The guy you arrested. That was him?"

"Yes," Jesse said, "I'm positive."

"We'll have somebody run a check on him, see what's up besides that. What's his name?"

Jesse rubbed her head in thought for a minute, "Honeycutt, I think. Yes. Mark Honeycutt."

As Mac heard the name, she could only stare in disbelief. "Honeycutt? Holy shit!"

Mac hit the door of the stairwell at full throttle. Now Jesse had to struggle to keep up. They surged through the door on the first floor, sprinting down the main hallway for the lobby. Mac grabbed the security guard leaning against the counter by the collar, shoving her badge into his face.

"McKinley, Tampa P.D." She barked at him. "How many exits are on this floor?"

"Uh…" the guard stammered, "half a dozen, at least."

"Damn. Okay, look. I want you to get all of your people to as many exits as you can. I'm looking for a white male, late twenties, brown hair, kind of scruffy looking. He's got a cast on his left arm. He is not to leave the building. Understood?"

The man nodded mutely and began speaking into his walki-talkie. Mac punched a number into her cell phone and paced. "Zack? We've got a problem. Tell Steph to wake up and stand by in Devon's room. Tell her not to leave until I can get someone to assign a uniform to her. Meet me in the lobby ASAP and I'll explain."

Twenty minutes later, they had the hospital locked down and were conducting a floor by floor search for Honeycutt. A uniformed officer was posted outside of Devon's door with instructions to let only properly identified hospital or police personnel enter. The search took over two hours to complete.

"Goddamn," Mac groused. "How the fuck did he get out of the building so fast?"

"He had his exit planned before he even came in, more than likely," Zack said. "He was probably in the parking lot before you and Jesse got to the lobby."

"You're probably right," she grudgingly agreed. Steph approached with a stack of papers in her hand.

"Okay, we've got him identified. White male Marcus Honeycutt, 29 years of age, released last August from Florida State Prison. He was doing time for an aggravated assault. The charge was dropped from attempted murder."

"What'd he do?" Mac asked, taking the mug shot photo to examine it.

"Drove a screwdriver through a co-worker's eye during a fight at the body shop he worked at."

"Nice."

"Yeah," Steph agreed, "He's got anger issues. His encounters with the law go back to when he was about sixteen. Oh, and he fits the description the kids in the stolen car gave us on the guy who traded it for dope." She handed a folder to Mac, "This is what you want to know."

Mac took the folder and leafed through the records. Sure enough, the name was no coincidence. "When I saw the information on the father in the juvenile record, I went ahead and ordered the military record." Steph said.

"Holy fuck," Mac breathed. She stared at the picture of Chief Warrant Officer Honeycutt in disbelief. Behind that was a photocopy of his court-martial paperwork. The next page was a copy of the article about his suicide.

"I guess junior has an ax to grind." Zack was looking over her shoulder at the file.

Mac nodded. "So it would seem."

Chapter 29

Mac held the chopper steady, hovering over the location of the search warrant. The SWAT team was preparing to make entry on the last known address listed for Marc Honeycutt. She saw one of the many black clad indiscernible figures look up in their direction momentarily before joining the first team of officers crashing through the front door. She figured it was Zack and held her breath as she watched him disappear inside the duplex.

In the days since chasing Honeycutt from the hospital, the investigation seemed to drag on endlessly. The homicide detective assigned to the case was doing his best, but without the state crime lab's DNA results on the trace evidence taken from the Taurus, they had no real case. Only cop's intuition and gut feeling. He was their guy. He had motive and opportunity. The kids from the car picked him out of a photo pack. Oh, yeah. It was him. But without the blood and fiber matches, the state was afraid the case was too circumstantial. So, they waited.

This morning the call came in. The blood on the front of the vehicle matched Devon's and a hair recovered from the interior was a match for Honeycutt. The judge signed the search warrant an hour ago. Mac couldn't wait to see them haul the bastard out of there in cuffs.

"All clear." She heard a voice break the silence on the tactical frequency. Seconds later, the SWAT officers began exiting the apartment. From their body language, Mac could tell they had found nothing. The last guy out removed his helmet and she recognized Zack. He looked skyward and shook his head no.

"Son of a bitch. Where did he go?" She growled.

"Hello, beautiful," Jesse said brightly as she breezed into the room. Jesse visited every day before work and then spent the entire day at Devon's bedside on her days off. She held a single red rose in her hand and presented it to Devon before planting a long, full kiss on her lips. Jesse smiled inwardly feeling Devon's breathing quicken. She liked knowing it was because of her. She couldn't wait to get Devon home to take care of her properly.

Jesse smoothed the hair back from Devon's brow. "How's your head?" She ran her thumb lightly along the row of stitches at her hairline.

"I think the headache's finally gone," Devon smiled. "And I haven't had the spots in my vision for the last couple of days. I'm ready to get out of here."

Jesse pressed a grateful kiss on her forehead, saying a silent thank-you to the heavens for the return of the sharpness to Devon's blue eyes. She smiled widely, "I've missed you." Devon's hand stole up to her breast and tweaked her nipple, making Jesse gasp. She stilled the hand and laughed aloud at the mischievous glow in Devon's eyes. "Behave."

Devon slipped her palm behind Jesse's neck and pulled her in for a slow deep kiss that left them both a little breathless. The sound of someone clearing their throat drew their attention to the door. Jesse blushed and started to move away, but Devon grasped her hand firmly. "Please stay."

Doctor Newsome entered the room, holding Devon's chart and x-rays in his left hand. He smiled at the two women as he approached the bed.

"Okay, Doc," Devon smiled brightly, "let's get to the release."

He laughed in return. "You know, you are really a bad patient," he looked at her in mock anger. "But I guess most of you cops are. Just can't stand not to be in control."

Devon feigned a hurt facial expression. "That's not nice, Doc."

He smiled, shaking his head at her. He placed the stethoscope on her chest and told her to breathe deeply. Jesse watched Devon flinch as she drew in a breath and she knew the doctor saw it too. Then he lifted the hospital gown away from Devon's chest. Devon sat up with difficulty as he removed the elastic bandage from her mid-section to examine her ribs. Again, Devon flinched involuntarily at the stabbing pain. C'mon, doc, just spring her from here and I promise to take care of her. The smile Devon gave her seemed to say that she was reading those thoughts.

"Well Devon, your x-rays show that you're healing up better than we expected. The sutures in your head are fine, and you don't seem to have quite so much tenderness in those ribs. You're going to be in that cast for another five or six weeks, but somehow I don't think that will totally slow you down either." Devon squeezed Jesse's hand as he finished. "So I guess we can get you checked out in a couple of hours."

Devon groaned aloud, "Hours? Doc you're killing me."

"Keep it up and I'll change my mind." He chided playfully.

"Sorry, Doc, I meant to say thank you so much. You're the best." Devon was laughing as she surrendered.

Jesse guided Devon carefully inside, holding the screen door open with her left foot, allowing Devon to maneuver her casted left leg over the threshold. They moved slowly, because of Devon's ribs and a few bruises on her arms that still caused her some pain.

"Are you hungry?" Jesse asked.

"A little."

Devon looked around, taking in the welcome sight of home. She was pleased to notice that Jesse had undoubtedly spent some time at the house. There were several vases of fresh flowers bathing the room in a sweet aroma. Her eyes roamed over pictures of her family, neatly stacked magazines and a few candles that sparsely adorned the mantel and coffee table. Devon disliked clutter and considered knick knacks intrusions that disturbed clean lines and the simple beauty of the wood. She made her way over to a vase of fresh coral colored roses and took a deep breath, savoring their aroma.

"You like the flowers?" Jesse was behind her, placing her hands gently on Devon's waist. Devon leaned her shoulders back slightly to make contact with Jesse's frame.

"Mmmm, yes. They're beautiful," she murmured.

"Not as beautiful as you," Jesse countered, breathing the words into Devon's ear.

"Oh, yeah, that's me….beautiful," Devon rolled her eyes and drew out the words as she pointed to the stitches in her forehead. She thought about the bruises that were still visible everywhere, "If you are attracted to bride of Frankenstein."

"Stop that," Jesse instructed. She kissed the tip of Devon's ear and slid her arms around her waist. "You are more beautiful than you will ever know."

Jesse made them sandwiches and a fruit salad for lunch. "Wow, this is really great, but I know I the stuff I had in the 'fridge must have gone bad." She raised an eyebrow at Jesse.

"Well, I might have run by the grocery store yesterday after I left the hospital." She said noncommittally.

"You are too much." Devon shook her head, "but thank you."

"My pleasure."

"So, the guy who was driving the car that hit me. Do I have this right that he is also the one who punched you during that resist?" Devon couldn't keep the anger out of her voice as she thought of the bastard hurting Jesse.

"Mac says they are one in the same. But I still don't understand what his problem is with you. Mac told me it had something to do with your time in the army. She said you would explain."

Devon took a deep breath and pushed away from the table, wondering where to start. Before the SWAT school, it would have been easier to explain everything to Jesse because it was all in the past. And it was the past. Even Jillian. Only now Honeycutt was threatening all of them, not just Devon. On top of that, Jillian was here again-sort of. Obviously Mac was interested, so they were going to be seeing each other. She knew she would have to tell Jesse everything, and soon. But she didn't have the strength for all of that today. She opted for the cliff notes version.

"His father investigated my ex-lover and me when we were in the army. He ended up going a little nuts. After he was caught falsifying records to have me arrested, he was found guilty and dishonorably discharged. He killed himself. I guess his son is on some kind of revenge mission."

"You were arrested?" Jesse looked stunned.

"Yes. For being a lesbian." She stared into the past momentarily. Jesse reached out to take Devon's hand, bringing her back to the present. "It was a horrible time. But you don't have to worry about that. It was a long time ago."

Jesse squeezed Devon's hand, "I will always worry about whatever hurts you."

Devon smiled at that, "Thanks. I really will tell you all about it soon." Her expression darkened, "But all I want right now is to make him pay for hurting you."

Chapter 30

After lunch Jesse tucked Devon into bed for an overdue rest. The day's activities and the pain were taking their toll and she didn't argue when Jesse suggested the nap. It was like a wrestling match getting her out of her clothes when so much of her body was still tender or broken. Jesse suggested that they forgo any sleeping attire for now and Devon gratefully slid into the cool sheets. Lighting a few candles and pulling down the shade to block out the sunlight, Jesse also adjusted the air conditioning for maximum sleeping comfort. Devon relaxed in the comfort of her own bed as Jesse softly stroked her hair. She drifted blissfully toward sleep.

She awoke hours later to the smell of chicken and mild garlic, and smiled recognizing fresh baking bread. Her stomach growled with hunger, no doubt instinctively responding to the heavenly smells emanating from her kitchen. She lay there contemplating the peacefulness of the bedroom and her heart skipped a beat of excitement, her mind conjuring a welcome image of the gorgeous woman preparing what smelled like a tantalizing meal just across the house.

Devon could only grin to herself, allowing the sensations of warmth and genuine comfort to flow through her body, knowing that Jesse was under her roof. Do you think you could make a home with me, love? Devon closed her eyes, wrapping her mind around that thought. She had been lonely for so long, as she drifted back into sleep she wondered if Jesse was just too good to be true.

Stepping quietly into the bedroom Jesse carefully crawled into the bed beside Devon. Lying on her side facing her heart's desire, she propped her head up on her elbow, intent on memorizing every detail of her. Devon's profile was Nordic. Her strong jaw line and nose that was pointed, but not severely, gave her features a powerful, tempered strength. Jesse watched Devon's chest rise and fall with each breath that she took. The sheet had fallen away, and her full breasts seemed to float in the air as she breathed. Jesse felt a stirring inside as she beheld the well defined body before her. She admired the physical specimen, but it was so much more than that.

Devon James had taken hold of some part of her from the first moment they met months before. She admired her singular sense of honor and the skill and compassion with which Devon performed her duty every day. She was what they call a 'cop's cop'. She possessed ample physical ability to hold her own in a fight, a street warrior who would stop at nothing to fight injustice. As corny as that sounded, it was the plain and simple truth. Devon had told Jesse more than once that she loved what being a police officer was about, serving and protecting. On the flip side, Devon had no time for any one in her profession who was only there for a job, or who felt entitled to privilege, or worse was dishonest in any way. They did not belong in the same uniform as the righteous crime fighters that she considered her blood brothers and sisters.

That strength of character combined with striking beauty was an intoxicating mix, one which Jesse found both irresistible and fascinating. Unfortunately for Devon, although their co-workers largely accepted her physically in the job, her forthright statements of her beliefs made many officers uncomfortable, even if in her own mind she was only being honest. They viewed her candor as insolent, and regardless of whether she was right about what she was saying, her peers generally didn't like hearing it. This caused Devon to have a sometimes solitary existence at the department, with only a few close friends to count upon. To Jesse, she was wonderful, but she wondered if it bothered Devon to be so distant to so many of her peers, people on whom her very life could depend.

Smiling at the thought of her goodness, Jesse tenderly stroked Devon's right shoulder and arm where a jagged scar crossed her skin at her shoulder and back across her triceps. She then traced a path down toward the round breast, stopping only briefly to draw circles around the pink nipple that was rapidly stiffening in response to the touch.

Below her breasts, the bruises on her ribs were beginning to fade. Jesse's gaze followed her exploring hand down the muscled abdomen, frowning as she discovered more evidence of past injuries. She traced the small scar on her left side. Continuing down over her left hip, her hand stopped just above a larger scar that ran on the outside of her thigh from just below her pelvic bone at an angle to just above the back of her knee. Jesse's heart lurched trying to imagine what serious injury caused that and how much pain Devon must have endured. She would give anything to shield this beautiful woman from pain.

As Jesse continued to examine every inch of Devon's muscular form, she was struck simultaneously by the softness of the female infusion of tender breasts, subtle curves and the sweet smell of her skin. The visible combination of strength and femininity stirred her senses making Jesse suddenly feel intoxicated with desire. She felt a rushing need to know this captivating creature in a purely primal way.

Slowly awakening to Jesse's touch, Devon smiled slightly feeling the caresses that were firing every synapse in her body. Keeping her eyes closed, reveling in the sensation, she slid her hand under Jesse's t-shirt to touch the softness of her skin. Her heart was beginning to pound in her chest and her breathing quickened. She lightly brushed the back of her hand over smooth soft skin, as she opened her eyes and gazed at the hopelessly attractive woman lying next to her.

"Hello, there," Jesse said seductively. She resumed her teasing of the now fully erect nipple.

"Beautiful," Devon breathed, insinuating her hand beneath the fabric of Jesse's shirt to catch the firm tip of Jesse's nipples between her fingers.

Jesse, who had the advantage of mobility, removed her shorts and carefully straddled Devon's hips. She pulled her t-shirt over her head and tossed it aside, revealing her own firm breasts and flat tanned stomach. Devon's eyes roamed the length of Jesse's body, feeling the thrill of desire course through her veins.

"I can't believe that you're here." Devon reached up and touched Jesse's cheek, then brushed the pad of her thumb lightly over her soft bottom lip. She searched her face, always captivated by Jesse's beauty. "You okay? I know you wanted to wait."

In answer, Jesse placed a moist kiss on the palm of Devon's hand. Her eyes held Devon's for a moment before slowly dragging down the length of her to the point where she straddled Devon's hips. When their eyes met again, Devon shuddered seeing the raw desire that turned Jesse's eyes the color of the sea during a raging storm. Jesse bent to capture a sweet pink nipple with her mouth, her tongue teasing and nibbling as Devon drew a shaky breath and moaned. She held the back of Jesse's head, and ran her fingers through her silky hair as Jesse sucked harder now, igniting fire in Devon's center.

Jesse moved to find Devon's lips, softly brushing them with her own, her tongue exploring softly at first, then more forcefully as their excitement rose. Devon opened her mouth fully to take in Jesse completely, her tongue answering the questioning exploration. The full, languid tasting continued until it seemed to Devon that the rushing need inside would drive her mad with pleasure.

Jesse slowly broke the contact of their lips. Leaning forward, she placed her own breasts, now aching to be touched, directly in front of Devon's mouth. Capturing her prize, Devon hungrily took one into her mouth and skillfully teased each with her tongue until she felt Jesse's breath become uneven, soft gasps escaping her throat. She could feel Jesse's slick wetness on her stomach its message of welcome and need shooting currents of desire through every cell in Devon's body.

"Please let me touch you." The quiet reverence in Devon's voice was like a prayer.

A cry somewhere between a plea and a sob was all Jesse could manage to choke in response. She shifted herself allowing Devon's hand access to all of her. Devon slid her finger over the tip of her clitoris, as Jesse moaned at the fleeting contact. Devon continued toward the hot center, reveling in the feel of welcoming wetness to her touch. She gently circled the precious opening with her fingertip as she watched Jesse's eyes glaze over with pleasure. Devon ignored the discomfort in her ribs. The need to make love to Jesse eclipsed any other feeling.

Devon could feel the swelling of the soft tissues grow with each stroke. When Jesse rocked back and pushed her hips forward, Devon knew her release was close. She slipped her fingers inside, while continuing pressure on the clitoris with her thumb.

"Yesss…" Jesse groaned as she came, the muscles contracting around Devon's fingers in unison with her thrusts. The avalanche of sensation flowed through Devon as Jesse ground against her with increasing urgency and she raised her head toward Jesse's breasts, needing more of her everywhere.

"Jess…" Jesse responded to the nearly painful cry of need in Devon's voice. The kiss was their most passionate yet, stoking the flames burning within them even higher. Jesse reversed her position, knees on either side of Devon's head, straddling her. Devon nearly lost control at the first touch of Jesse's tongue and she opened wider as Jesse moved between her legs. Grasping Jesse's hips, she pulled her down to bury her face in the luscious wet folds.

Finding their own matching rhythm, mouths working, tongues driving, Devon soared on blistering currents of need. She felt Jesse suck her now throbbing clit into her mouth, rolling it with her tongue, a move that caused blinding explosions of orgasm to crash through Devon even as she drove Jesse to climax once again. Jesse collapsed on Devon's right side and the lovers held each other as the tremors shook through them, feeling each other's heart pounding wildly in their chests. Slowly their breathing became steady and their bodies began to feel capable of functioning again.

Devon held Jesse tightly and breathed in deeply, content to drown in her scent. She ran her fingers over the soft skin along her side and down to her firm buttocks. Jesse twitched as Devon's touch reached the sweet spot on her side just above her hip. Devon smiled and wrapped her arms around her as Jesse snuggled more closely. Holding her, still feeling their passion, she wanted to pinch herself to ensure that she wasn't dreaming.

"I was so afraid I might lose you," Jesse confessed with her head pillowed on Devon's shoulder. Feeling as though there was more, Devon waited. "I…was terrified that we might never get the chance…" she hesitated again.

Devon shifted carefully, ignoring the pain in her ribs. She needed to look into Jesse's eyes. She placed a tender kiss on her lips and then spoke softly to her. "That's the first thing I thought of when I woke up. Well, that and how much my head hurt," she chuckled.

Jesse was suddenly concerned, "Are you okay now? I didn't hurt you did I?"

A throaty laugh bubbled out of her as Devon replied, "Honey, you could hurt me like that for the rest of my life." Jesse laughed as well and turned her face to Devon's to kiss her lips.

"The rest of your life, huh?" Jesse smiled warmly, "I like the sound of that."

Inside, Devon thought about what she had just said. It was as if she had just glimpsed the future, and the prospect filled her soul with a sense of peace that she had missed for so very long. She knew with absolute certainty that Jessica Kilbride was the woman she wanted to make a life with. If Jess would have her.

Chapter 31

"It's like he just vaporized." Mac paced in her apartment, holding the phone to her ear. The sun reflected off the water of the bay outside her large picture window. Boats maneuvered to and from the docks and seagulls flapped overhead, hoping for a free meal. Normally, the gorgeous water view calmed her. Not lately. Her agitation was growing by the day at their inability to find Honeycutt.

"Honey, calm down," Jillian said soothingly. "He'll turn up."

Mac sighed, realizing that Jillian had more of a right to be upset about this guy than she did. After all, Honeycutt's dad destroyed her military career. "I'm sorry, babe. It's just that when I think that he could have killed her..." She drew a deep breath.

"I know," Jillian whispered. "I feel so damn helpless being all the way in Wisconsin. Maybe I should have gotten somebody to cover me at this school."

"No," Mac said emphatically. "Actually, I'm glad you're there. We have no way of knowing if he knew you were in Florida, too. At least I know he can't hurt you up there. One less thing for me to worry about."

"Oh, don't worry. When I get back, I'm coming to Tampa. His God won't be able to save him if I stumble upon him," Jillian promised.

"And here I thought you were coming to see me."

"You know I am," Mac could hear her smile. "So, how's Devon doing?"

"They released her yesterday. I'm gonna go see her today. Jesse's staying with her, so I'm sure she doesn't need anything." Mac couldn't help grinning.

"She's the one, huh?" Jillian mused.

"I think so," Mac said seriously. "You sound funny. Does that-"

"Don't." Jillian interrupted. "I'm happy for them." Her voice dropped to a low pitch, "But I'm happier for me."

"Why is that?" Mac asked quietly.

"Because, the most gorgeous woman in the world is waiting for me at the end of this trip. What's not to be happy about? You didn't make other plans for the weekend did you?" she teased.

"I don't know how I'm going to wait three more days," Mac confided. "How about phone sex?" Jillian asked playfully.

"I've never done it."

"No time like the present," Jillian murmured. "So…what are you wearing?"

"Where in the fuck have you been?" Roy barked into the phone. Honeycutt stood at the payphone of the one-pump station on the two lane road about a mile from his cabin. His father bought the place when he was only ten. It was supposed to be the family vacation house, but they only actually stayed there two or three times. The small cabin sat at the rear of ten acres of otherwise untouched land. The cypress trees and palmettos nicely concealed the structure from the road. Since his father's death, the place had fallen into disrepair. He was certain it had been forgotten about by anyone who used to know them.

"I needed to get out of town for a while."

"Yeah, asshole. Your goddamned picture is all over the news around here. They say you're wanted for running down that lady cop."

Honeycutt ignored the statement. "I was wondering if you have any work. I'm over near Orlando."

"Orlando? No wonder they can't find you."

"You said you have a friend who runs cars to Miami." Honeycutt continued non-responsively.

Roy didn't answer for a few moments. Honeycutt figured he was weighing whether he wanted anything more to do with him. "What the fuck." Roy grumbled, "It's not like I have any love loss for cops."

Honeycutt's lips curled upward. "So, you got the guy's number or what?"

He pulled his nondescript white sedan onto the property and then exited to pull the rusted chain back across what used to be a gravel drive. Now it was overgrown, only his tire tracks from the last couple of days marking the area. Rolling to a stop just a few feet from the front porch, he got out and gathered the groceries and the six pack of beer he'd purchased at the service station. Darkness was descending around him. The crickets were working themselves into a fever pitch in the surrounding woods and the mosquitoes threatened to relieve him of every drop of his blood. Slapping at the annoying bugs, he hurried inside.

"Fucking hell hole," he muttered.

The beer was tepid, at best. After his first swig he put two bottles in the freezer knowing that he would drink them before the near antique refrigerator cooled down. He carried his beer to the small living room and placed it on the worn wooden coffee table next to a cardboard box. The window air conditioner stuttered and finally groaned to life when he hit the switch, pushing a musty smell into the room. He returned to sit on the threadbare old couch and contemplated the contents of the box in front of him. Obviously, his father had kept his own records of his investigations. The box contained numerous files and pages of notes. Honeycutt sorted through the papers, not really knowing what he was looking for, but certain that something in there would be useful.

He took his time. Now he would have to be patient. He knew he had stirred up a hornet's nest back in Tampa, so he would lay low here for a while. Roy's buddy needed a couple of cars taken to South Florida in the next couple of weeks. When he wasn't doing that, he would stay here, out of site, planning his next move. One thing he knew about cops is that they had a short attention span. In a few weeks everything would calm down. Sure, he would still have a warrant, but the media would be onto the next sensational story and he could head back to Tampa to finish what he started. Then, it would be time to move on. Somewhere out west maybe.

The next folder he opened seemed useless at first glance. He took a long pull from his beer and glanced quickly through the record, seeing nothing worth his time. When he tossed the file aside, a page slid out to land at his feet on the floor. The picture of a dark haired woman, stared back at him from the page and he noticed notes written in his father's handwriting. A feral grin split Honeycutt's face as he read.

"Well, well, well," he spoke out loud. "Captain McKinley, what do ya know?" He narrowed his eyes as he stared at the picture, recalling the woman who chased him from the hospital with James' little whore. That bitch wasn't just another dyke friend of hers. She was the one who orchestrated the twisting of the truth, making his father's diligence appear obsessive. The notes scribbled on the page were the desperate ravings of a man hoping to justify his obsessions, but to junior they were more damning proof of their complicity. His son felt the full weight of legacy heaped upon him by the contents of the box; his father screaming for redemption from the grave.

Chapter 32

Devon pulled on her white polo shirt with a badge sewn into the left breast area, and her name on the right, identifying her as an academy instructor. Jesse was sleeping peacefully in the bed behind her, having only gotten off her shift several hours before. The glow of the dawn was just beginning to peek through the slits around the edge of the shade covering the bedroom window.

Devon turned to look at the woman lying in her bed, smiling at the comfort that the sight gave her. It was hard to believe that nearly a month had passed since Jesse brought her home from the hospital. They hadn't discussed Jesse moving in, her belongings just began to take their place among the rest of the household items, and Devon certainly didn't mind. She felt such peace when Jess was near that it almost seemed as though they had always known each other. Almost.

From the moment she had seen Jesse she had felt a pull on her heart stronger than she had ever known, and the desire that grew daily was a yearning that was beyond physical attraction. It had grown to the point that it was now a searing need in her soul that made her ache with its power. Although she tried not to examine it too closely, she couldn't ignore what she was feeling.

She had felt Jesse tracing the scars on her body the first time they made love and Devon knew that she wanted to ask what caused them. If it were only that simple. For Devon the scars were the vivid reminder of heartbreak, loss and worse-the guilt of her own weakness and failure. Before Jesse, that nagging internal monologue that gave voice to her fears would have convinced her to run far and fast. Before Jesse there was insecurity and loneliness. Jesse gave her strength and hope.

Devon knew that there were lots of topics that needed to be discussed. Life's triumphs and losses brought them each to this place in life, to find each other. She knew that Jesse needed to know her story. To her amazement, she found that she wanted to tell her. But she was in no rush. Her experiences both in the military and being a cop taught her to trust her intuition. Watching her sleeping peacefully wrapped in the comfort of the soft sheets, Devon felt only the rightness of everything about being with Jesse. She reached out and softly brushed the hair away from Jesse's brow, her eyes tracing every inch of her beautiful face.

She stood awkwardly, bending to reach her crutches that were leaning against the dresser about two feet away. Making her way around to the other side of the bed, she placed a soft kiss on Jesse's lips. Stirring awake, the sleepy woman murmured, "Where you going?"

"I'm teaching this morning, remember honey?"

"Oh, yeah, I forgot," she pouted. "When will you be home?"

"Class is until noon, then I'm gonna meet Mac for lunch. I figure I'll be home around two, okay? And then it's my turn to make dinner before you go to work." She punctuated the last sentence with a strong kiss.

"That sounds nice," Jesse purred. "I'll miss you."

"Me too." With that Devon headed out into the morning sun, returning to a semblance of her real self and more content than she had been in years.

Devon waved to Mac as she weaved her way through the tables of the sandwich shop to the booth on the back wall. The waitress appeared moments later with two menus and water.

"Let me know when you're ready to order," she said before returning to the front counter.

They considered the menu in silence for a few minutes, each one trying to figure out how to begin this conversation. Finally, Mac set her menu aside and asked, "How's Jesse?" She figured that was a good place to start because it would give her an idea of Devon's feelings. Sure enough, at the mention of Jesse's name Devon's eyes sparkled and a soft smile pulled at the corners of her mouth.

"Good." She nodded, taking a sip from her glass, grinning foolishly, "She's good."

"Good. You said that." Mac smiled watching the shades of blue swirl in her friend's eyes as the thoughts of Jesse played in her mind. Devon sat back in the booth and shrugged, her eyes still dancing as Mac watched with interest.

"So you're seeing her officially. That's….good." They both laughed now. "Don't we sound intelligent tonight?" Mac said, running her hand through her hair and shaking her head.

"Beautiful women do that. Make your brain go all fuzzy." Devon giggled and playfully tapped her finger on the top of the dark head. "Especially after you sleep with them."

Mac met Devon's eyes but saw only her friend's kindness looking back at her. She tried to imagine what it would be like if Devon suddenly told her she was dating Megan, but she couldn't do it. "How did you know?" She asked.

"I knew the minute I saw you with her at that bar that it was inevitable." Devon shrugged again.

Mac leaned forward, intensely focused on Devon. "Look," she began, "I won't do anything if you-"

Devon interrupted, "Mac, I told you to go for it if that's what you wanted."

"Yes, but saying it and dealing with the reality are two different things," Mac protested. She looked at Devon seriously, "Tell me what happened between you two in Orlando. Then I'll know in my heart that you aren't just being magnanimous for my sake."

Devon nodded, knowing they both needed this. The waitress returned to take their orders. Devon sipped her water while she gathered her thoughts. She met Mac's eyes and started to speak. "I have to admit that seeing Jillian threw me. For a couple of days I was a bit of a wreck."

"I thought something was up when I called, but I thought you were messed up over Jesse. Couldn't have been more wrong, could I?" She added as an afterthought.

"No, you were right. I was thinking about Jesse. There I was drifting in pleasant thoughts about our first kiss, my hormones raging." They both laughed at that. "Then all of the sudden bam! In walks Jillian and I am suddenly in an out of control freefall of memories that I locked away ten years ago." Her eyes drifted beyond Mac as though her past was visible on the far wall and she fell silent for a few moments. Mac quietly sipped her coffee and waited.

Devon blew out a long breath fixing her bright eyes back on Mac's, their focus returned. "Anyway, we had dinner and we both realized that we couldn't go back." She favored Mac with a flash of her trademark grin, before becoming serious again. "To be honest, Mac, I realized that Jesse makes me feel...I don't know…" Her eyes moved around searching for the words.

"Like you could drown in the beauty of her eyes and be damn happy to go?" Mac offered.

Devon grinned a long grin this time, "That is one way of putting it." Mac watched Devon study her, knowing the comment was just as much and admission about her feelings for Jillian. Devon's eyes grew wide and her mouth fell open as she stared. "Well, I'll be damned," she muttered in amazement. Devon sat back in the booth and laughed harder than she had in months.

"What are you laughing at?" Mac looked quizzically at her.

Catching her breath, Devon stated simply, "I can't believe we are both actually falling for a woman-at the same time." She shook her head in wonder. "Must be some super alignment of the stars."

"So, you're okay with me seeing her?" Mac regarded Devon seriously again.

Devon met her friend's eyes silently for a few moments. Mac could see her sorting through her thoughts. "Jillian is always going to have a special place in my heart," she began, "but we-what we had is gone. No point rehashing the past."

Her tone intensified, "But, Jesse makes me feel…whole again." Devon looked down and drew circles on the table with her finger as she spoke. Her eyes were full of emotion when she looked up again. "Mac, I've never felt this way about any woman before."

Mac nodded, "I could tell when I watched the two of you at the hospital. It was like nobody else was even on the planet." She rolled her eyes playfully.

"So anyway," Devon returned to the original topic, "About Jillian, it really is okay, Mac. It'll be a little weird at first, but what the hell." She shrugged, "Our friendship is solid."

Mac felt relief wash over her. She looked down at the table and twisted the small plastic straw in her hand before raising her eyes again to Devon's. The familiar sparkle was playing in her blue eyes.

The waitress delivered their food, affording Devon the opportunity to change the subject again. "Tell me what's going on with the investigation."

Mac blew out a breath, "Prints and fibers from the car put him in it. Your blood is on the front bumper and windshield. That's a lock from an evidentiary standpoint. But, we can't find him, damn it."

"What about the charges for his fight with Jesse and Zack?" She asked.

"It's all stacked there waiting. Plus, there's another warrant for the court appearance he missed this week. The judge is pissed." Mac said between bites of food.

"Well, now that I'm back-at least on the desk-I'm gonna fiddle around on the computer and see if I can come up with anything else." Devon said thoughtfully. "He's too much like his old man. This isn't over. He's out there somewhere, planning his next move." Her eyes were hard now. "It's one thing to come after me. But he crossed a line with Jesse."

Mac nodded in understanding, "I hear you." Then she warned, "Just don't let that temper of yours get the best of you, my friend. We'll get him."

The dangerous look in Devon's eyes made Mac cringe inwardly. Devon's words were razor sharp, "That fucker is going to pay for laying a hand on Jesse."

It was, as they say, a promise not a threat.

Chapter 33

"Hi gorgeous," Mac said before leaning into the convertible to bestow a sensual welcoming kiss. She smiled warmly as she opened the door and reached behind Jillian to grab her bag from the back seat. Mac took her hand to lead her guest through the front door into the open airy townhouse that faced west overlooking the bay. Jillian stopped before the large picture window to take in the amazing waterfront view.

Molding her body to Jillian's back, Mac slipped her arms around her waist to pull their bodies tightly together. Jillian dropped her head onto the nearest shoulder and Mac accepted the unspoken invitation by painting kisses down the exposed column of her neck. Jillian turned in the circle of Mac's arms driving her fingers into the thick dark hair and initiating a deep hungry kiss. When Mac broke the contact she smiled at the slightly dazed look in Jillian's eyes.

"I've been dreaming of doing that all week," she lightly brushed her thumb across Jillian's bottom lip.

Jillian asked breathlessly, "Then why stop?" Her eyes were riveted on Mac's mouth as she touched her tongue to Mac's thumb as it crossed her lip.

"Because," Mac began lazily while she watched the tongue caress her thumb and felt the effect in other places. "If we don't stop," she drew a deep breath when Jillian nipped the tip before sucking it further into her mouth, "we'll never get out of here today."

"And that would be bad, because…?" Jillian asked softly.

With effort, Mac refrained from acting upon the sudden urge to scoop this beautiful woman up in her arms, carry her to the bedroom and ravish her totally. Instead, she managed, "Because I have a special day planned for you." She drew Jillian with her to the window as answer the question in her eyes.

Mac pointed down at the row of docks where a line of small pleasure boats were moored. "Second one from the end is mine," she explained, indicating a twenty five foot white power boat that looked ready to sail. "We just need our picnic basket from the kitchen, and then we'll be all set. Hope you brought your bikini." She smiled brightly at Jillian.

"Now how would you know what type of swimwear I prefer?"

"I don't for sure, I'm just extremely hopeful." She growled when Jillian slid her hand under the blue tank top to pinch her nipple before backing away.

"Okay skipper, show me where to stow my gear and I'll be ready in a flash."

A short time later Mac had the picnic basket stowed next to the cooler she had filled with ice and various beverages earlier. She started the engine and busied herself untying lines while Jillian walked around acquainting herself with the compact but functional vessel. Mac's eyes followed Jillian as she made her way to the forward cabin to look into the galley. Music from a small stereo system was playing soft rock that floated though the opening to the deck.

"All the comforts of home," Jillian said approvingly.

Moving back toward the aft side, she saw Mac throwing the last line back onto the dock. "Ready to go?" Mac stopped in her tracks at the sight of Jillian pulling her t-shirt off over her head, revealing the scant bright yellow string bikini top that barely contained her full breasts and the tiny triangle of matching yellow below her navel. The color beautifully contrasted with the deep bronze of her skin, causing Mac to suck in an audible breath at the vision. Jillian nodded and smiled in answer.

Mac stepped back into the boat, wrapping an arm around her waist and placing a kiss on her cheek and then the side of her neck. "Good."

She moved past Jillian toward the helm, taking the wheel and reversing the engines to back away from the dock. She tossed back over her shoulder, "By the way? The look definitely works for me."

They dropped anchor in the quiet cove and only the sounds of the waves lapping at the side of the boat and the occasional squawk of a seagull or crane drifted through the air. The sun was high in the cloudless blue sky, shimmering in golden winks off the water and rapidly heating the day. Jillian couldn't remember the last time she had been in such a peaceful, beautiful place and she sat in one of the rear facing seats to take advantage of the angle for maximum sun, closing her eyes to soak in the tranquility.

A splash made her jump and then laugh out loud when she saw Mac resurfacing just off the starboard side of the boat. Her head and only the tops of her shoulders were visible above the surface, but it appeared that she wasn't wearing any top. Jillian leaned on the rail, appraising her with interest.

"The water's great, you coming in?" Mac's kilowatt smile was contagious, and Jillian felt her own smile pull across her face in response. In the next second she was diving off the side into the blue-green water towards Mac, breaking the surface inches from her face. Immediately, she felt strong arms slip around her waist anchoring their hips together. Jillian could feel the soft fabric of Mac's board shorts brush against her legs as the current moved them slightly. She placed her palms on Mac's chest feeling only the slick glide of skin on skin, allowing her palms to slide lower, the firm points of her nipples raked against Jillian's palms.

Raising her eyes to meet Mac's, Jillian saw the rakish grin still on display and eyes that were smoldering charcoal grey, a look that she would come to recognize as pure hunger. The kiss was slow and sensual. The perfect feel of their lips moving together was overwhelming, as though they had been custom made for each other, carved from the same mold, the fit like an elusive puzzle piece that finally completes the picture. After long moments exploring each other's mouths thoroughly, they stood silently sharing a gentle wanting gaze while the water drifted around them.

"Hungry?" Mac eventually asked.

Jillian smiled, "Actually, yes." Her tone was overtly suggestive and the words floated in the air between them.

Raising a dark eyebrow, Mac laughed and pulled Jillian toward the boat, "Well, let's see if we can do something about that."

As they unpacked the picnic basket, Jillian said appreciatively, "Wow you thought of everything, didn't you?" The basket contained an assortment of sandwiches, fresh fruit, cheeses and homemade pasta salad.

"I do what I can," Mac shrugged as she poured them each a glass of chilled white wine. They settled on the blanket side by side, to enjoy the meal and the pristine day in each other's company.

"I want to hear all about growing up in a big Irish family," Jillian said, settling in with her head resting in Mac's lap.

"Irish?" She deadpanned, "What makes you think I'm Irish?"

When the McKinley grin quickly followed, Jillian felt her heart dance in her chest. "Well, your name for one. Erin McKinley? It might as well be Erin Go Bragh."

She burst into gales of laughter when Mac responded in a thick Irish brogue, "Now, lassie…what's makin' you think that me full name is not Erin Go Bragh McKinley?"

"Well, I admit that I'm starting to have a new appreciation for products of the Emerald Isle." As she spoke, she reached up to cup her hand behind Mac's neck, pulling her closer.

Mac stopped when their mouths were a breath apart. Her eyes seemed to bore into Jillian's soul. "I'm feeling the luck 'o the Irish myself, lass." The kiss began tenderly as a slow meeting of their lips that soon grew with the renewed passion until they lost all sense of time, space and the world around them.

Mac felt herself falling but she didn't care. She wanted to lose herself in this woman. Jillian's soft lips on hers interrupted any attempt to understand this unexplainable pull she felt in her blood. She gave into the current, content to drown in the warmth of that perfect mouth, that perfect fit. To think about it might destroy the pure passion and sensuality of the moment and the feeling was just too exquisite to lose. She knew it was a huge leap, they barely knew each other, her brain fought to be heard as a voice of reason but the pounding of her heart silenced any thought of caution. For once in her life, Mac was determined to let just let go and allow her heart to lead her wherever it would.

Chapter 34

After securing the last large snap in place on the canvas boat cover and double checking the tightness of the lines on the posts of the dock, Mac hoisted the large cooler onto her shoulder, then began making her way down the dock to the sidewalk that led to toward the condo. She dumped the ice in the grass just outside the door of the garage, carried it inside where she wiped down the interior and stowed it on the top rack of the storage unit to the left of her truck.

Satisfied that everything was back in its proper place, she headed inside to search for Jillian, hoping she was able to find all the toiletry items she needed in the bathroom. The shower was still running and the memory of sliding her own soapy hands over that gorgeous body sent a rush tingling beneath Mac's skin.

She stopped outside the door and politely knocked. "Did you find everything you need?" She called as she heard the water stop.

"Umm, not quite," Jillian said, "maybe you can help."

"Should I come in?" Mac asked, mentally reviewing the supplies she had put out in the bathroom and wondering what on earth she had forgotten. The door opening in response startled her slightly just before the sight of Jillian's near perfect body, flushed from the heat of the shower, stole the breath from her lungs. Unable to move, speak or even coherently think, she stood anchored to the spot in the doorway, staring as the steam drifted through the air past them.

"I…" Drops of water rolled slowly down the side of Jillian's neck, across her collarbone and over her breasts, "…what…did you…" Mac didn't finish the question when Jillian grabbed a fistful of her shirt, pulling her quickly into the steam filled room. She jerked the tank top up and over Mac's head, dropping it to the floor behind her, hands sweeping over her hips to push down the shorts that Mac stepped out of as Jillian's lips found hers.

Mac struggled to regain some self-control, through the blur of lust that Jillian was firing within her.

"What was it that you needed again?" She breathed against Jillian's lips.

The sensations shooting through every cell in her body were threatening to make her forget the meticulous plans she had made for the evening. As tempting as this immediate physical contact was, she wanted to romance this beautiful woman. The fact was that she hadn't wanted to take the time to really engage in a slow romantic relationship in quite some time, and Mac was somewhat surprised by the feelings she was experiencing. She might be totally wrong, but when she looked into those big brown eyes, she saw this-whatever she felt pulling her-she swore she saw it mirrored there in the golden highlights of Jillian's eyes.

"Huh? Um…," Mac cleared her throat and struggled to refocus when she realized Jillian had spoken.

Laughing, Jillian repeated, "I think everything I need might be right here." She leaned in to kiss Mac again.

"Well," Mac murmured after moving her mouth under Jillian's chin to her neck, "You make a great point. However, I have dinner plans with an incredibly gorgeous woman and I wouldn't want to disappoint her."

"Is that so?" Jillian shuddered when Mac's lips found the sensitive skin just below her ear.

"Mm, hmm," Mac hummed against her throat as her mouth continued to roam. Maybe dinner could wait.

"And this woman," Jillian was struggling to complete a coherent sentence, "she's worth interrupting…unnhh," the groan escaped her throat when Mac licked a drop of water from a nipple. Jillian grabbed a fistful of the dark hair, pulling Mac's head back gently but firmly, removing her mouth from the now rock hard nipple.

"You have to decide now…" Jillian's voice was rough with desire, "Is this woman worth the effort to stop now and go with your plans for this evening? Or should we just continue?"

As enticing as the press of Jillian's body was against hers, that nipple still inches from her mouth, Mac lifted her eyes to meet Jillian's. Immediately, she recognized a bit of a challenge there. She doesn't think I'll do it. Mac straightened and reached for a towel from the rack on the wall. Draping the soft white oversized towel around Jillian's back and then drawing it across the front of her, cocooning her body within, she wrapped her arms around the outside tightly. Kissing the tip of Jillian's nose, she playfully accepted the dare.

"Yes, this woman is worth every effort. Now, you get dressed and I'm going to take a shower."

True to her word, within the hour she was filling plates with grilled t-bone steaks topped with a skewer of shrimp, deliciously seasoned brown rice, which was obviously not from a box, and perfectly steamed vegetables.

"What can I do?" Jillian asked from where she was sitting at the counter marveling at the surprising culinary skills of her stunning hostess. Mac had emerged from her shower wearing a pair of tan draw string linen slacks and a white button down collarless shirt that she left untucked. The first button was just between her breasts and as she removed the apron she wore while cooking, affording tantalizing winks of her nipples as she moved around the well equipped kitchen.

Refilling their wine glasses, Mac smiled slowly at her, "You can take your wine and beautiful self out to the deck because dinner is served, ma'am."

The sun was hanging low on the horizon casting the sky in bright oranges, pinks and purple swaths of breathtaking patterns as they sat down to eat their meal facing the incredible view. Mac was awestruck as she looked at Jillian backlit by that sky, the golden glow seeming to flow around her and from within her with each flash of that incredible smile.

"Erin, how long have you known Devon?" When Mac hesitated, she explained, "I've been curious about your friendship, and I know you must have questions for me."

"Devon and I met in Beirut in 1983. I was the helicopter pilot for the unit we were both assigned to." She sipped her wine and watched Jillian over the glass.

"Really?" Jillian said thoughtfully, "Wow, that's…I left the army not long before that."

Mac nodded. Devon had told her that Jillian left during an investigation into their relationship. She hadn't said much else, but Mac knew that Devon was devastated by what she viewed as Jillian's betrayal. But, somehow Mac sensed that there was much more to the story and she truly wanted to hear what Jillian had to say.

"You want to know why I left, what happened between us?" Jillian asked, searching Mac's face for any sign of distance.

"I told you the night we met; I know that was a long time ago and you were both very young…" She shrugged, regarding Jillian with a kind expression, "I want you to tell me whatever you want, nothing more." She filled their wineglasses and settled back in her chair. The sun burned a final crimson line along the horizon before disappearing into the water.

"Devon and I were together about six months when the investigation heated up. When CID called me in the last time, I knew that they had everything they needed to get me. At that point, they were casting for more, wanting me to give them her name. I had a…friend who told them what they wanted to keep her commission, but I couldn't do that." She shook her head, "I don't know how anyone could do that."

Mac reached out and covered Jillian's hand on the table, remembering how easy it seemed for Megan to do exactly that-and more-for her own personal gain. She forced her focus back to Jillian's story.

"So, I told them that Devon and I weren't involved. I knew if I took the discharge then and just left that would be her only chance. They accepted the deal. I thought it was the right thing to do…I thought…" Jillian swallowed hard, eyes glistening with unshed tears, "If I had known what they did to her…I thought I protected her."

Mac brushed away a tear that escaped down her cheek, feeling nothing but empathy for the young woman who had made the hardest choice of her life under incredible stress. "Did you love her?" The question surprised her when she spoke it, but the part of her that was Devon's friend needed to know.

"Yes." Jillian's response was immediate and certain.

"And now?" Mac steadied her eyes on Jillian's as she waited for the answer.

"Devon is very special. I don't have to tell you that. There is nothing left between us except a friendship, if that's what she wants." Jillian reached out to stroke Mac's face lightly. Mac read only an open invitation in her eyes as she continued, "I don't know what is happening between us, I only know I want…" Gently, she brushed her lips on Mac's, "…more."

Pulling back slightly from the contact, Jillian felt a shiver of excitement crawl up her spine when Mac leaned in to chase the kiss, stopping just short of contact. She stood, coaxing Jillian toward her until they stood together in the gathering twilight, eyes blazing with the fire building inside, anticipating the electric jolt kiss that would ignite their shared passion. The desire in Mac's eyes beckoned her closer until her lips connected the circuit and like the bolt of lightning firing a storm, they surrendered to the tempest.

Chapter 35

A goofy grin split Devon's face when she looked up from the computer screen to see Jesse walking toward her with bags of takeout food in her arms. Devon couldn't make up her mind if she was sexier in or out of uniform, and then she decided it really didn't matter. "Hey you," she said affectionately.

Jesse cocked her head in the direction of the break room. "You ready to eat?"

"Oh, yeah," Devon assured her, pushing up on her crutches to follow Jesse down the hallway. "You are a lifesaver. I owe you."

"You just remember that," Jesse teased.

"If I don't, I'm sure you'll remind me."

Jesse just winked at her and began scooping out the spicy Szechuan noodles and steamed vegetables onto plates. Devon reached into the last bag for an eggroll, taking a large bite. When Jesse raised an eyebrow in her direction, she shrugged sheepishly.

"Sorry, I'm starving," she said through a mouthful. Jesse laughed at her.

"Did you have any luck on the computer?" Jesse asked as they started on their meal.

"Not yet," Devon frowned. "I've checked motor vehicles, property records and even utilities. Nothing."

Jesse took a bite of noodles, thinking as she chewed, "You've been checking Marcus Honeycutt, right?"

"Yeah."

"What if you checked his parent's names?"

Devon smiled appreciatively at Jesse, "Damn. Beautiful and smart. You know, if I were your girlfriend, I'd never let you out of my sight."

The side of Jesse's mouth quirked up, "You are my girlfriend."

"Oh, yeah. That's right."

Honeycutt listened while the phone rang in his ear. It was picked up on the other end on the third ring. "Yeah?"

"Did you get the information I was looking for?" He shielded his eyes as a truck rumbled down the road, kicking a cloud of dust in the air, wishing the gas station had a real phone booth with a door.

"Yep," the man on the other end of the line responded. "I checked all of the names, just to be sure."

"No problems?"

"No one is going to question why I want the information."

"So, what do ya got?"

"I think you may have hit the jackpot. I confirmed your information. McKinley is a pilot with Tampa."

"Okay, what else," Honeycutt asked.

"A check on Jillian Gray shows she is a Sergeant with the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Orlando."

"You're sure it's the same woman?" he wanted to be certain.

"Absolutely. I'll fax the information to that number you gave me last week."

"I appreciate the help. I won't need anything else after this." Honeycutt said.

"Well, if you do, I'm here. Your father was a good friend."

Honeycutt hung up the phone and stared off into the darkness. It was hard to believe that after all these years he was this close to ending what his father started. How ironic that dad's cabin would be right in the middle of the two cities that he needed to be in.

He fed more money into the phone and punched a series of numbers. "You have any jobs for the west coast? South Tampa? Perfect." He scribbled the information on a scrap of paper as he listened. "A week from Thursday. I'll be there."

Chapter 36

Jesse smiled brightly as she opened the front door to greet their dinner guests. Mac and Devon hadn't seen enough of each other since Devon was released from the hospital and Jesse was eager to meet the new woman who was keeping her under wraps. Mac enveloped Jesse in a tight embrace just inside the door.

"Thanks for inviting us," She said.

"Anytime, I know Devon misses you." She released Mac and turned to her date, who was waiting patiently with a warm smile on her face. "Hello," Jesse extended her hand, "I'm Jesse."

"Jillian."

Jesse immediately liked the directness of her eyes and the firm handshake. "Well, c'mon in and make yourself at home." She lowered her voice conspiratorially, cocking her head in the direction of the back deck, "She's out starting the grill. I didn't tell her you were coming." Jesse's eyes twinkled with mischief.

Mac was already grabbing three bottles of beer off the door of the refrigerator. She handed one to Jillian. "I'll take her a fresh beer and say hello," she laughed, already making her way across the living room.

"I'll give Jillian a tour and then we'll be right out," Jesse called after her.

Devon looked up from the grill and couldn't stop the smile that broke across her face at the sight of her friend. "Hey, what a great surprise!" The two women embraced fully. "Dinner will be in about forty five minutes, so you've got good timing."

"It helps when Jesse calls to say what time to be here." Mac chuckled. "It was really nice of her to invite us."

Devon looked questioningly at her as she drank from her beer. She swallowed and asked, "Us?" Her eyes moved past Mac to the house.

"Jill, of course. You don't mind, do you?"

"No…it's just…I haven't gotten the chance to tell Jess about her, and…" The sound of voices approaching stopped her in mid sentence. Jesse and Jillian stepped onto the deck laughing together. Devon and Mac shared a brief look before Jesse spoke.

"Jill was just telling me about the first time you were in a gay bar," she smiled warmly as she stopped next to Devon and slid an arm around her waist. "I didn't know the two of you knew each other."

"Uh, yeah," Devon cleared her throat and downed the rest of her beer.

Jillian offered, "It was a long time ago. Feels like a different lifetime, right Dev?" Devon nodded and pulled Jesse more tightly against her side.

"Who needs another beer?" Mac asked. She took Jillian's hand and led her inside to retrieve fresh bottles for everyone. When they were alone, Jesse turned to study Devon. After a few moments of silence, she placed a palm on Devon's cheek and waited until Devon met her eyes.

"It's okay."

"I was going to tell you. I just hadn't gotten around to it." Devon confessed. Jesse smiled kindly and then leaned in to place a soft kiss on her lips.

"You never have to explain yourself to me."

Devon hugged her tightly, "I want to explain myself to you. It's just that sometimes I don't know where to even begin."

Jesse leaned back to look directly at her, "I'm not one to spend time worrying about the past. I know what I see when you look at me."

Devon looked seriously at her, "What do you see?"

"My future," She said simply. "Now, I'm gonna go get the rest of our dinner set, it looks like your coals are nearly ready."

Jesse started to move away but Devon pulled her back. She wanted to say something witty or romantic, but instead she kissed Jesse fully, putting every ounce of emotion into the kiss. The sound of someone coughing discreetly from the doorway brought them back to awareness of their guests. Mac and Jillian were stepping back out onto the deck, all smiles.

"I'll get the rest of the food going. Let me know when you're ready," she told Devon.

"I'll give you a hand," Jillian followed Jesse inside. Once in the kitchen, she began, "Jesse, I hope my being here isn't a problem."

Jesse reassured her, "Jillian, I don't have any illusions that Devon was celibate before we met, and I'm not the jealous type." She smiled, "Besides, the way you and Mac look at each other, it's pretty obvious where your interests lie."

Jillian's smile was automatic, "That transparent, huh?"

"Yeah," Jesse laughed. "I don't know Mac very well yet, but I like her a lot." She added, "And she is obviously taken with you."

Jillian blushed and took a drink of beer to hide her reaction. Before she could respond, Jesse handed her a stack of plates. "Let's take this stuff out to the table. That way we can both admire our partners while the rest of the food cooks."

After dinner, they sat enjoying the cool evening under the stars. "So, Jesse, I hear that you had a pretty good tussle with Honeycutt junior?" Jillian asked.

"I didn't know it was him at the time," Jesse told her. "Zack and I got him on a domestic violence charge. He beat the crap out of his girlfriend."

Jillian shook her head, "I can't believe everything that's happened. Now we have to deal with the evil spawn." Jesse laughed humorlessly at the remark.

"Dev, I can't believe I didn't tell you," Mac sat up quickly in her chair, "They have a lead on Honeycutt's last employer. He runs some auto salvage shop over on Broadway. A Roy Stevenson."

"Anybody talk to him?" Devon leaned in resting her elbows on the table.

"Maddie Sinclair went out there the other day, but of course he denies knowing where he is. He says Honeycutt hauled ass and owes him money."

"Does he owe him money for a car?" Devon asked.

Mac shrugged, "I don't think he said what for."

"Well, if he runs an auto salvage shop, it's a good bet," Devon pointed out, "and, if we could find out what he's driving…"

"I'll go over there tomorrow during my shift," Jesse said.

"Jess, I'd really rather you didn't." She saw the flash of irritation in Jesse's eyes and quickly added, "It's not that you can't handle yourself. Honeycutt knows you Jess, he's threatened you too. If he's there, he'll either try something or it will spook him and he'll go deeper underground." She took Jesse's hand as she spoke.

"Quit lying," Jesse admonished, trying to hold back an affectionate smile.

"Okay," Devon held up her free hand in surrender, "I admit that I worry. Shoot me."

"You three have to be careful while he's still out there somewhere running around Tampa." Jillian said.

"I thought maybe he had taken off now that he knows we've identified him, but I guess he's still around," Jesse sighed.

"If he's anything like his old man, he's not finished," Jillian agreed.

Later that evening, Jesse and Devon stood at the doorway bidding their friends goodbye. They waved as Mac drove around the corner out of sight. "That was fun," Jesse said as they walked back inside. She held the screen door for Devon to maneuver through with her crutches and closed the interior door behind them.

"Three more days and this damn cast is gone," Devon said with a sigh. As she passed, Jesse curved an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

"You know, I'll kind of miss the vulnerability part of it," her voice soft and throaty in Devon's ear, nuzzling against her neck. Devon inhaled deeply, immediately feeling Jesse's touch in every inch of her body.

"That so?"

"Mmm, hmm," Jesse continued, delivering feathery kisses along her neck and collar bone, sending a pulsing signal between Devon's thighs. She leaned heavily on her crutches, momentarily wondering if she might lose her balance. The combination of several beers and Jesse's touch was making her dizzy. "Like this," Jesse reached up and placed her open palms against Devon's breasts, causing the nipples to tighten beneath her touch as she gently massaged. She continued, "See, your hands are on the crutches and so I have free reign," her voice was low and suggestive. Devon's breathing accelerated and her heartbeat sounded like thunder in her head.

"Jess…."

"Yes love?" Her eyes were dark with desire. She wrapped an arm around the thin waist and leaned into Devon, kissing her deeply. The crutches fell to the floor as Devon abandoned them for the stability of her neck. She felt Jesse's hips press into her, the contact along their entire bodies making her shake. Soon clothing was an annoying obstacle and they moved to the bedroom.

"Oh, you are so gorgeous," Jesse breathed, placing wet kisses along the line of her ribs and then down her stomach. Devon's muscles jumped in response, while Jesse's hands continued to roam freely. Devon wanted desperately to get her lover out of her clothes to consummate this act of love making, but she was frustrated by the obstruction of the cast on her left leg. Her impatience escaped in the way of a growl.

Jesse laughed, "Problem, my sweet?"

"Nothing I can't handle." After that, no words were spoken. Their bodies communicated the symmetrical beauty of passion and devotion between them.

Devon awoke hours later. Although it was now dark outside, the house was still bright with every light burning. Jesse was sleeping soundly on her right side, her head resting on Devon's shoulder and her right leg between Devon's. The sound of her gentle breathing and the comfort Devon felt lying next to Jesse gave her a greater peace than she had ever known. All of the pain, heartache and anger that had become part of her dissolved in the presence of this woman and her tenderness. Devon lightly brushed a blond lock of hair from Jesse's face as tears of joy welled up in her eyes.

"I love you, Jessica Kilbride." Devon said aloud.

Jesse stirred awake. Seeing Devon's tears, she gasped, her eyes searching Devon's face. "What is it? Why are you crying?"

Devon kissed her softly and smiled through the tears. "I just realized that I have fallen hopelessly in love with you." Her liquid eyes held Jesse's with intensity, as though trying to see into her very soul.

Jesse took Devon's face in her hands and kissed her deeply. "I have loved you since the first day I saw you, didn't you know that?" Her voice trembled with raw emotion.

"No." Devon's tears blurred her vision. She spoke barely above a whisper. "I never dared to think this was possible, but now…I can't believe how happy you make me."

"Believe it. I'm here and nothing can take me away from you." Jesse assured her.

Chapter 37

Zack looked up from the daily 'hot sheet' of wanted subjects and laughed out loud at the sight of Devon strolling into the roll call room. "Hey, you!" He grinned, "Damn, it's good to see you in that uniform again."

She returned his smile, "It's good to be back."

"You sure the leg's strong enough?" He looked warily at her. "It's only been six weeks."

"It's a little sore if I overdo it, but the doc says it's healed. I ran this morning and it was fine."

"If you say so."

After their briefing, Devon stopped Zack on the way out to the parking lot. "You want to come with me to check out this lead on Honeycutt?"

"Shit, yeah."

"Let's go."

They pulled up in front of the building to the west of Roy's shop and stepped out into the muggy afternoon heat. The air was stifling, with no breeze except for the hot blasts of air that pushed against them as the semi-trucks rumbled down the industrial road past them. The large rollaway gate of the exterior chain linked fence was open, as were the three doors on the garage bays at the east end of the building. The sounds of compressors and air guns carried out of the building as they approached.

When they entered the business, Roy was seated behind a small metal desk at the back of the room. A small oscillating fan moved back and forth in an arc, rustling papers on the desk and cork bulletin board behind him. He looked up and immediately a scowl appeared. "I paid my last ticket."

"Do we look like traffic cops?" Zack responded, irritation evident in his tone.

"Then what do you want?"

Devon smiled thinly at him. She could see in his eyes that he recognized who she was. "We came to ask you about one of your employees. Marcus Honeycutt."

"I told the detective the other day, I haven't seen him in over a month. He skipped out without paying me money he owed, so if you find him I'd like to know."

"Oh, I think you know where to find him," Devon spoke calmly. She walked around the office looking at paperwork, and examining the business license on the wall casually.

"I already told you, I don't know. The trouble he's in has nothin' to do with me. So, unless you have some kind of warrant…" He snatched a title that Devon had picked up out of her hand. "…you can leave. I'm busy."

Devon drew in a deep breath and looked evenly at him. "Mr. Stevenson, let me be clear. I don't believe that you don't know how to get in touch with him. You are a liar." She saw the desired result of anger flash in his eyes. "Here's the way I see it. The vehicle in our impound lot that was involved in an assault on a police officer-me-" She paused for effect, "had vin plates removed and altered. That's a felony."

"That's got nothing to do with me," sweat was breaking out on Roy's brow.

"Oh, but Roy, I think it does. I think that's exactly what you do here." She waved her arm in the air, indicating the area around her. "In fact, that Chevy out by the front gate is somehow missing a vin plate on the dash." Roy began fidgeting and reached for a cigarette.

"Not to mention," Zack added, "if we tie that car in our lot to this place Roy, the least of your worries is going to be charges of running a chop shop."

Roy took a long drag from the Marlboro. "What do you want?" He groused.

"Honeycutt."

Units be advised, District Two is in pursuit of a stolen '93 Dodge Neon, green in color, FL tag VPK12V. Now southbound from MLK on Tampa Street. Devon had been patrolling her zone, checking the dope holes when she heard the call. The direction that the pursuit was heading would take them within two blocks of the housing area where she was now. Wheeling the vehicle to the west, toward the likely direction of travel, she immediately responded to assist. "Adam 4, enroute," she advised dispatch.

Approaching the intersection of Virginia and Tampa, she saw the emergency lights scream past ahead. Upon reaching the intersection, and looking south, she heard the squeal of brakes and a loud crashing sound. "Suspect crashed! They're running!" a male voice yelled over the radio. Devon stomped on the accelerator. Moments later she saw officers running across a field toward the west. Devon shoved the car into drive and accelerated down an alley just to the south, intending to prevent the suspect's escape, should he make it to the other side of the field.

Sliding to a stop on the west side, and jumping from the vehicle, she saw a dark figure running toward her with several other figures close behind. "Stop police!" she heard voices yelling after the suspect. Devon instinctively ran toward the suspect, intent on cutting off his escape route. Approximately fifty feet away Devon saw the suspect fall as he was taken to the ground by an officer. She broke into a sprint to close the distance and assist the officer with the arrest.

Reaching the location of the take down, she jumped onto the suspect, who continued to struggle with the officer attempting to cuff him. She now realized the other officer was Jesse. She had his right arm behind his back and had succeeded in locking a cuff on that wrist, but was unable to gain control of the left arm as the subject fought to break free. Devon grasped the suspect's hand across the back of his fingers, pushed his palm inward compressing his wrist in a pain compliance technique. "Quit resisting!" she directed, as the man continued to struggle. Devon then drove her right knee hard into the suspect's outer thigh area again. Jesse moved to his right side to work on securing that arm.

One more knee blast to the leg succeeded in quelling his struggling. Jesse was able to push his other hand behind his back for Devon to secure the handcuff. They searched him for weapons and then stood him up to walk him to Devon's patrol car. As she closed the rear door, Jesse turned to Devon and smiled, "Glad you happened by."

"Well, you came tearing through my zone, so I didn't really have a choice," Devon grinned in return. "Great takedown, by the way."

"Thanks."

Devon drove the suspect back around the block to where the stolen vehicle had been crashed into a pole. They transferred him into the rear of Jesse's marked unit. After chatting with a few of the officers on scene, she heard the cell phone ringing in her car.

"James." She answered, seeing the call was a department number.

"Devon, its Maddie Sinclair. I have some news."

"Tell me you found him."

"Not yet, but we are close, I think. There's a piece of property with a cabin on it about twenty miles west of Orlando. A town called Auburndale. It's very rural. I'm going to meet one of their detectives tomorrow. If it checks out we'll walk a warrant through and hit it before dawn Friday."

"Friday?" Devon questioned, "Why wait?"

"Devon, I know this is personal for you, but we've got to coordinate this with other agencies. It's not like this is all going on in Tampa." The detective reminded her.

"Okay," Devon reluctantly agreed. "Hey, did you get the info on the car? He's driving a blue Chevy Caprice four door."

"Tag number?"

"No, the tag will come back unassigned though. His boss gave him a random plate that's not registered anymore. He had no idea what the number was."

"Did they put an alert out for him and the car?"

"Yep," Devon said, "and they're rebroadcasting it at the beginning of each shift."

"Good." Sinclair returned, "I guess that's it for tonight then."

"Hey, Maddie? Call me asap."

"I have you on speed dial," Sinclair assured her. "I have a good feeling about this. We'll have him before sunset Friday."

Devon hung up and walked back over to where Jesse was seated in the driver's seat of her car filling out paperwork.

"Steph and I are having dinner later, you want to come?"

She looked up from her clipboard and smiled, "Thanks, but I'll be tied up with all of this pursuit and arrest paperwork probably the rest of the night. I'll see you at home later, okay?" As she finished Devon saw heat flash across her eyes.

Brushing her hand slightly over Jesse's forearm on the window frame, Devon momentarily allowed her emotion to show in her own eyes. "I'll see you in a couple of hours, then."

Chapter 38

Honeycutt watched the officer approach the vehicle in his outside rearview mirror, sizing up his capabilities. The officer was approximately six feet tall, two hundred pounds; he looked fit and confident. He noted that the officer walked cautiously, blading himself along the side of the car in a tactical approach. His hand tightened on the grip of the pistol that he concealed along the right side of the seat near the center console. The key to winning this was to use the powerful advantage of surprise. Waiting, he continued to observe the approaching cop. Another couple of seconds and he would reach the door frame at his left shoulder. That would be the moment of truth.

Drawing a deep breath as the cop took another step; Honeycutt shifted the pistol along his right thigh, readying himself. Without warning, the cop hesitated at the back door. Honeycutt saw another figure moving through the glare of the lights and cross behind his car to the passenger side. If he allowed the other officer to reach the passenger door, they would see the gun. Now or never.

"I think I left my ID at work," he leaned out the driver's window as he spoke. The cop stepped forward to his open window. Now. He shoved the pistol forward and through the open window, directly at the officer and fired.

Bang! Bang! Bang! The deafening shots rang out. The flash of the muzzle lit up the night in short bursts before Jesse even knew what was happening. Instinctively, she drew her pistol and started to move toward the rear of the car for cover. Another loud bang and she felt a crushing jolt, followed immediately by searing pain in her left shoulder. The force of the shot threw her onto her back against the curb. She looked down to see her navy uniform shirt darkening at the shoulder and deep red blood running down her arm. Her mind spun wildly trying to focus.

My gun. Where is it? She realized that she had dropped it when she landed hard against the curb. Desperately, she pulled herself up to a sitting position, frantically looking around for her glock. She spotted it seconds later in the grass behind her. She lunged for it, ignoring the blinding pain knifing through her shoulder and down her arm, and the alarming pool of blood gathering in her lap. Suddenly, all of those officer survival training classes flashed through her mind. She heard Zack yelling, "If you give up, you will die." Her right hand closed over the grip of the pistol.

Jesse forced her body to shift in the direction of the car and the last place she had seen the assailant. An agonizing blow struck her left shoulder, pitching her onto her right side. The pain sent spots across her vision as she struggled to sit up again, but couldn't. Hearing movement to her left, she turned toward the sound and raised her gun to eye level. That was when the world went black.

Honeycutt squeezed off three consecutive shots at the cop just behind his left shoulder, dropping him where he stood. Without hesitation he swung the gun across the car toward the open passenger window. The female cop pulled her pistol and was backpedaling out of the line of fire. He leaned across the seat for a better aim and cranked off two more shots. One found its mark. Honeycutt grinned evilly watching her fall to the pavement.

He threw open the driver's door, barely glancing at the first cop who was still on his back, gurgling sounds coming from the bullet hole in his neck. The other cop was still able to move. He advanced around the rear of the car to approach out of her line of sight. Recognition sent a bubble of laughter up from deep in his throat, even as hatred and rage coursed through his veins. When she reached for the gun, he delivered a swift kick to her already injured shoulder. She moaned but incredibly still managed to hang onto the gun in her right hand. The next roundhouse kick drove the toe of his work boot into the side of her head. Lights out.

"Do I have another unit that can slide by and check on Oscar two and Oscar three?" the dispatcher inquired.

"Air three, enroute. We'll be overhead in about thirty seconds." Mac responded. The flashing lights of the traffic stop came into sight in the distance moments later.

"Air three, what was the description of the suspect vehicle?" Mac scanned the area below with a feeling of dread seeping into her chest. The only vehicles on scene were two police vehicles. She listened as the dispatcher attempted to call the officers on the traffic stop with no response.

"Air three, the first unit called out a blue Chevy four door, with a white male driver."

"Get additional units there, ASAP," Mac instructed, "Only the two police vehicles are down there." As she circled, the body of the male officer on the ground came into view. "Radio, I have one officer down. Send and ambulance." Mac snapped into the mic.

Frantically, she scanned the general area for the officer belonging to the second car. The observer shone the spotlight around the area with no luck. Several tense minutes later, additional units arrived on scene.

"Air three, have units seal off this block. We're gonna check the entire area with the infrared camera and see if we find anything."

"Ten four, air three."

Mac swung the helicopter in a wide arc while the observer scanned the ground below. She prayed silently that they would locate the second officer quickly somewhere nearby. Cold dread was gripping her although she tried to ignore the implications of the combination of a missing officer and suspect vehicle. The radio traffic grew increasingly alarmed as officers called desperately for the ambulance to hurry for the officer with a gunshot wound to the throat. Mac worked to keep her thoughts focused on her job. Locate the other officer. Nothing else matters right now. Years of combat experience in war torn regions of the world could not prepare her for what was coming in the next hours.

The next shocking radio transmissions started it all.

Chapter 39

"All units be advised," the painfully strained voice of the officer's supervisor came across the frequency, "the suspect vehicle is a blue Chevy four door. White male suspect is armed and dangerous. One officer down for certain and evidence at the scene indicates the missing officer may be shot as well. Use extreme caution. It appears that the suspect has taken the second officer hostage."

The dispatcher inquired, "Sergeant, for confirmation, the missing officer is Oscar Three?"

"Ten-Four, Kilbride."

The sound of Jesse's name sent a sheet of ice slicing through Devon's gut. She exited her vehicle just outside of the crime scene tape, just as she heard the dispatcher ask the name of the missing officer. Feeling oddly detached from the other officers milling around the scene, she hurried to where Stephanie stood talking to Jesse's sergeant. Steph looked up and met Devon's panicked eyes with compassionate ones.

"Steph?" Devon looked from her friend to the sergeant. She felt her composure slipping when she caught sight of the large blood stain on the sidewalk behind them.

"Corporal, I need to you get out of my crime scene," the sergeant issued the direction without emotion.

Devon's eyes flashed with fury. "Look, I'm not leaving; just tell me what the hell happened here." Her voice shook in her attempt to control her temper. She tried not to look at the blood. The thought of Jesse bleeding from a bullet wound brought bile to the back of her throat.

Steph took her by the arm to steer her back from the sight of Jesse's blood and interrupting the confrontation with the sergeant. "Come with me."

Resisting slightly, Devon insisted, "No, I need to know what's going on, Steph." The helicopter swung back around in a widening arc and the spotlight illuminated the scene in a surreal glow.

Stephanie pointed skyward, "Mac will find her." She tried to assure Devon.

"It's him, Steph. I know it."

"Air three to Oscar One." Mac's normally steady voice had an edge to it that fueled Devon's growing anxiety as it came over the radio.

"Oscar one, go ahead," the sergeant responded.

"Sarge, I'm gonna fly east toward the interstate, and see if we come up with anything."

Just then the dispatcher announced, "Units on scene of the shooting be advised a citizen just called in a reported reckless vehicle eastbound on I4. Caller said the blue car sideswiped his on the onramp. He advised he saw a white male driving."

"Air three I'm on the way," Mac confirmed.

A black sedan pulled up in front of where Devon and Stephanie stood. Detective Sinclair jumped out and hurried over to the sergeant. Devon half ran in her direction. If Maddie had news she wanted to know. They were losing precious time if Jesse was shot and Honeycutt had her-Devon had to push the thought away or risk losing her sanity.

"Since that hit and run vehicle matches Honeycutt's and he's eastbound on I4, we may have the location he's heading to." She explained to the sergeant the plans for executing the search warrant in the coming days. "It's the only lead we've got," Sinclair told him, "but I've gotta wait for some more troops and then we'll coordinate this with Orange County.

"Give me the information on the suspect and the location so that I can update the alert," the sergeant instructed.

Sinclair started to hand over the page as requested, but Devon stepped in between her and the sergeant. "James, what the fuck are you doing?" he barked at her. "Didn't I tell you to get the hell out of my crime scene?"

"You can't place that alert," Devon worked not to shout at him.

"The hell I can't. James, we need the information out there in case an officer runs across this son of a bitch."

"That son of a bitch has a police radio. He can hear everything you put out," she seethed. "You'll be taking away any chance we have of catching him if he knows we're coming." She could feel herself shaking.

"Look, James. I don't have time for your SWAT team super cop shit right now. I have an officer missing and very likely her life is in danger, so-"

"That officer is my li-" Devon clamped her jaw shut painfully, "so help me, if you do anything to put her in anymore danger, I will fucking-"

"Devon! Stop!" Maddie grabbed Devon by the front of the shirt and shook her. When she was certain Devon was controlled, she looked to the sergeant. "She's right. I'm not giving out that information over the main radio."

The sergeant stomped back over to where the crime scene tech was taking photographs. Maddie turned to Devon. "Okay now you listen." She pointed her finger at Devon menacingly, "Do not do anything stupid. You hear me?" Devon nodded.

Maddie pulled her radio off her belt, "Air three, switch to a secure frequency."

"Going to tac four," Mac responded.

Maddie Sinclair stepped away from Devon to relay the likely location of Honeycutt's flight. If the detective wanted to control the apprehension of this suspect, she made two mistakes. One, she took her eyes off a desperate woman whose lover was in grave danger. Two, she forgot that as a SWAT team member, Devon had the secure frequencies on her radio.

"Air three the address is going to be 3423 Red Grange Road in Auburndale, suspect Marcus Honeycutt."

Mac growled at the sound of that name, making the flight observer stop and look at her. "Ten four, Sinclair, I'm enroute. Get SWAT moving on this. This guy isn't going to give up."

"Yeah, I know. Keep me posted, McKinley." She switched back to the main channel and turned around to talk to Devon. Instead, she saw Devon rocketing past her out of the crime scene, lights and sirens blazing.

"Goddamn it!" she yelled. Keying her mic, she shouted into the radio, "James! James answer me."

Silence was all she got in return.

Chapter 40

Consciousness came back to her in painful slices. She blinked several times and her right eye came into focus. What was wrong with her left eye? The pounding in her head like a booming cannon seemed to originate from that side. Jesse tried to move her hands. Panic followed the realization that they were secured behind her back. She felt the ridges of the metal handcuffs digging into the skin of her wrists as she struggled against them, but that was mild discomfort compared to the screaming agony in her shoulder. Slowly she recognized that she was lying in the back seat of a car. A car that was moving. Oh my God, I've got to get out of here!

Then she heard a police radio. Maybe someone was there to help. With great effort she managed to force herself into a sitting position, trying to locate the source of the transmission. If she could just get that officer's attention…Honeycutt's lethal stare found her eyes in the rearview mirror. He smiled at her as sweetly as cyanide.

"Nice to see you again Officer Kilbride."

Instead of responding, Jesse looked frantically out the windows of the car, trying to figure out where she was. They were on a highway-somewhere-the scenery was zipping past too quickly to tell. Wait for a road sign.

"Sorry about your shoulder," he snickered, "we'll just call it even for my broken arm."

The memory of how she came to be here slowly flowed into her mind. When Jesse approached the traffic stop, it seemed innocuous. Routine. Although the officer had requested a back up, nothing appeared to be wrong when she approached the vehicle. Suddenly everything had erupted in an explosion of gunfire and pain. Now she was alone with a madman. She had to think. Zack always said in a hostage situation that it was better to take your chances to try to escape, because you were as good as dead anyway.

The car veered off the highway onto an exit ramp. She saw the number, but it meant nothing. The sign at the bottom of the ramp said Auburndale 5mi and an arrow pointed to the right. Honeycutt turned left. Her already aching shoulder pressed hard into the back of the seat as she tried not to topple over during the turn. Jesse tried to stifle the moan unsuccessfully.

Honeycutt sneered at her in the mirror. "Hurts, don't it, bitch?"

Nonresponsive, she stared past him out the windshield trying to see something, anything that might give her a clue to their location. He slowed and turned again. The road was narrow dirt road that didn't appear to see much use. In the darkness she couldn't make out anything beyond the beam of the headlights.

"Don't get any stupidass cop ideas," Honeycutt said as he stopped at a metal chain that was strung across the path and got out of the car. A rusted sign declared 'Private Property'. He opened the lock and dropped the chain to the ground. Once he pulled the car on the other side, the process was reversed, to replace the chain. Moments later, the car stopped in front of a rundown shack. Honeycutt killed the engine and threw open the driver's door.

"Okay, bitch. This is it. End of the road." He tossed the words over his shoulder at her like a live grenade. Jesse knew it wouldn't be long before the timer expired on his explosive rage.

Her handheld radio on the seat next to him squawked through bursts of static. Jesse's heart leapt when she heard someone's voice say James. The static prevented her from hearing the response, but she latched onto the hope that somehow Devon was coming. She closed her eyes and saw her lover's face in her mind; her intense blue eyes reassuring and strong. I'm here, Devon. The problem was, where?

Zack's voice came over the radio with an urgency that got even Devon's attention. "Tac 9?" he called her by her SWAT call sign. "Devon are you there? If you can hear me, go to SWAT 16." It was their signal. Her partner and hers. Whenever they wanted to keep their transmission private, they said 16. There was no secure frequency 16 for SWAT. The signal meant 'one minute on SWAT 6'. She wouldn't have talked to anyone else from the department, except Mac.

"Tac 2 to Tac 9."

"Tac 9 go." She bit off the transmission.

"Give me your location." He demanded.

"Tac 2, sorry I'm getting interference, your transmission is breaking up." She said as genuinely as she could. She knew he wouldn't believe her.

"Okay, goddamn it. You are really pissing me off." His voice was hard now. "I'm getting a team together to take care of this the right way, Devon. You better decide if you want to be part of the team taking him down or be detained immediately when we get there. I'll lock you down myself, I swear it." Devon kept driving.

"Devon. Listen to me. You know this is personal for me too. Jesse's important to me." The edge of pain in his appeal made Devon wince when he said Jesse's name. "Please Devon. You and I can get him. Let me help."

Devon thought about it. He was right, she could use his help. If she went storming in by herself, she would put Jesse in more danger. Plus, it was always better to outnumber an adversary. Zack could get Jesse out while she took care of Honeycutt. Finally, she had to admit to herself that she didn't even know where she was going. She drew several deep breaths to clear her head and pulled onto the shoulder of the interstate.

"Sign says I'm at the Orange County Line. Can you meet me here?" She asked.

"I'm already on the way, bud. So are the rest of the guys. This fucker is all ours tonight. I'll be at your location in less than fifteen minutes. Stay put."

Fifteen minutes might as well have been an eternity. At least that's how it felt to Devon. Thoughts of Jesse hurt and bleeding turned over repeatedly in an endless mind loop. She tried to shift her focus to the radio traffic to get a sense of what the response plan was, but her internal voice ridiculed her for being so inept at protecting Jesse.

Finally, Zack was pulling up behind her. She met him at the front of his car and they embraced fully, drawing strength and comfort from each other. "She's okay," he said firmly in her ear. Devon audibly swallowed the sudden lump in her throat and nodded.

"Tac 2?" Devon recognized the SWAT commander's voice on the radio.

"Tac 2, go ahead," Zack kept a hand on Devon's shoulder as he responded. "I'm with Tac 9. We're ready to go."

"Good. Orange County is sending a team to meet us. They're setting up a command post nearby the suspect's location." Zack took down the location information and signed off.

"Okay," his eyes held a warning. "Listen to me. The only reason the lieutenant isn't pulling you off this deployment is that he doesn't know who Jesse is." Devon's eyes found the ground suddenly interesting. Zack lifted her chin to force her to look at him. "I want you with me. But you've gotta promise me now that we do this by the book."

"Devon?" He pressed, "I can't go in there worrying about you doing something nuts."

"I'll play by the rules he sets once we're there. That's all I can give you, Zack. If he hurts Jesse anymore…" She watched Zack's jaw clench. He nodded.

"Yeah," he blew out a breath, "okay partner, you ready?"

Nothing in heaven or hell was going to keep Devon from Jesse tonight. "Absolutely. Let's do it."

Chapter 41

"What the hell?" Disconnecting the call without leaving a third message, Jillian looked up at the clock. Ten o'clock. She was certain Mac told her she would be off by nine. "Get a grip, Gray. You're a cop too, anything can make your shift go long, and it doesn't have to be anything bad." She sighed and tossed the handset on the counter, telling herself that Mac would call as soon as she could. Grabbing a coke from the refrigerator, she flopped onto the couch to snap on the TV.

Beep, beep, beep…beep, beep, beep. The pager on the kitchen counter went off just as she settled in. "Shit." Jillian threw the pillow in her lap to the other cushion as she stood and headed in to retrieve the beeper. The message was for a SWAT callout with instructions to call the commander. Punching the numbers from memory, she glanced back at the clock, momentarily wondering about Mac again before the commander's voice took precedence.

"Gray. We have a situation. Tonight's gonna be a multi-jurisdictional operation. I need you to head out right away." Jillian took down the location of the command post, noting that it was in a rural part of the county.

"This guy some kind of militia nut?"

"Don't know. But Tampa is asking us for assistance on this. Apparently, he shot two of their officers tonight. Indications are that he is holed up near Auburndale. I don't have any more information than that."

Jillian felt her knees falter as she listened. Her eyes moved from the clock to her cell phone on the counter. "Jill? You there?"

"Yes, I'm here…" She cleared her throat. "…the officers from Tampa…are they…" Her voice broke before she could finish the question.

"I don't have anything else. Your team will be briefed as soon as you get here."

The connection was severed and Jillian was moving. She took the stairs two at a time to begin changing clothes and getting her gear. In less than ten minutes she was out the door and speeding down the street toward the interstate. As she approached the intersection before the onramp, she flipped on her emergency lights and siren to navigate through the traffic. Once on the expressway, the traffic was relatively light, but she kept the lights and siren on as a matter of protocol. Her cell phone rang and she snatched it up, her heart jumping in hopes that it was Mac.

"Hello," she said hopefully. When the caller on the other end asked for Tony, she disconnected and let out a frustrated cry. "Okay," she told herself after the cathartic outburst, "She probably is working late because of this shooting." Jillian talked to herself logically, "They probably need extra air support. Makes sense."

The command post was set up at a gas station just off the interstate and Jillian was stunned as she approached the exit. Easily, close to one hundred police vehicles from what looked like every agency between Tampa and Orlando were represented in the massive assembly. This was more than a police shooting in Tampa. Thankful for her truck, she drove around the cars blocking the ramp and through the dip along the shoulder of the road, parking next to her partner's truck.

Matt was already suiting up. He nodded in her direction when she jumped out of her vehicle. Wordlessly, she pulled on her knee and elbow guards, flak jacket and Kevlar helmet. She checked the pistol in her thigh holster, satisfied that it was locked and loaded, she added two magazines to her gear. Next, she opened the locked compartment to extract an M16 assault rifle, slapped a full magazine into place, and again placed two additional clips to her pouches.

"So, what's the plan?" she asked Matt as he stepped up to her side. Her eyes scanned the street. She could see several vehicles with Tampa PD logos on the side gathering about fifty yards away, near the command post. A helicopter hovered overhead, bringing a flash of Erin's face to her mind. Matt's voice pulled her back to the task at hand.

They walked as he spoke. "Boss said to suit up and then meet down by the CP. Looks like it's gonna be us and Tampa running this show tonight. Mostly Tampa, though. After all, the fucker did shoot their people."

"Any word on that?"

"One dead. We just got word. The other one is the hostage we're going after tonight. They don't have a condition, but they know she's been hit."

"She?" Jillian felt a chill roll through her.

The two SWAT commanders were conferring over the rough map that was drawn based upon aerial photos of the property where the suspect was hiding. With every second that slipped by, Devon's anxiety increased. She stared down the road in the direction of the target sight, desperate for a sign. Any sign that Jesse was okay. Nothing but dark woods lit eerily by a myriad of florescent lighting and the drone of the vehicle's engines around her. She paced in a tight circle, unable to just stand still as the waiting eroded her control.

"I'll put my best entry team in position as soon as we have confirmation that the area around the structure is secured." The Tampa SWAT commander told his Orange County counterpart.

"What about your entry team?"

"They're arriving as we speak," he nodded at Jillian and Matt. "Sergeant Gray is my team leader."

The Tampa commander pointed to the pair standing a few yards to his left, "Sergeant, I'll leave you to get acquainted with my team leader. We'll work out the entry strategy as soon as we hear from the recon team.

Devon and Zack turned at the sound of people approaching. She recognized Matt from the SWAT school several months before. Having someone with his top notch skill level was reassuring and a sense of relief flooded over her.

"Good to see you again, Devon," Matt said.

"Hey, I heard you might need a hand." Devon's head snapped around at the sound of that familiar voice over her shoulder. Jillian was smiling at her from beneath the large black helmet.

"What's the latest?" Matt asked.

"The first team is setting up a perimeter around the structure. We still don't have a condition on the officer inside, but he definitely has her in there." Zack's voice shook as he finished the sentence.

"Friend of yours?" Jillian inquired of Zack, but kept her eyes trained on Devon.

"Yeah, well…more of Devon's…umm," he looked nervously in Devon's direction. "Jesse is…huh…they're close." He finished meekly, not knowing what else to say.

"He has her," Devon said quietly to Jillian. Her glassy eyes betrayed the emotions locked inside battling for release. She searched Jillian's eyes for some kind of lifeline and found it. "I'm glad you're here."

Jillian nodded at her reassuringly. "We're not leaving here without her tonight." Chapter 42

"Get up." Honeycutt jerked her to her feet, shoving her through the main room toward the back of the house. He paused momentarily to peer out a side window into the darkness. Jesse's shoulder still throbbed, but at least the bleeding had mostly stopped. She tried to look out as well, but could only see darkness. Something spooked him. He snatched her arm in a vise-like grip and dragged her down the hallway to a back bedroom. The room contained only a single straight backed wooden chair that sat in the center with a length of rope coiled on the floor beside it.

Jesse made a feeble attempt to resist when he pushed her into the chair. She succeeded in breaking his grip momentarily, even kicking him twice, but he regained control, and the punishment for her outburst was a hard, open hand slap that blurred her vision again. He breathed heavily as he fastened the ropes securing her to the chair.

"Fucking bitch," he growled and stomped back out of the room.

Jesse automatically began trying to work free of her bindings. She could feel the abrasions forming on her hands and arms as she twisted and squirmed against the ropes, but to stop was to surrender, and she would never surrender. Honeycutt was moving around at the front of the house, his muffled movements indecipherable. She heard something sliding across the floor, a couple of low thumps and what sounded like the rasping sound of strips being pulled from a large roll of tape. What is he doing?

A loud humming noise got her attention. Was it possible? She strained to hear. Yes, the noise was definitely a helicopter in the distance. Footsteps. He was coming back. Did he hear the chopper, too? Her captor threw open the door with a ghostly sneer twisting his face.

"Showtime." He announced.

Devon, I'm here! Somebody…please.

"Okay. We'll hit the place with two simultaneous entries." Jillian addressed the group of SWAT members from both agencies that would be divided into two entry teams. "My team will take the front door. Tommy, you got the ram?" The mountain of a man nodded and held up the tool in question.

"Matt, you'll have the shield. I'll take the cover position with you as we make entry." She looked at Devon and Zack. "You two all set with your team?"

"Yeah, my explosive guys just finished setting the charges at that back window. When you give the go, we'll detonate. That should open up a whole big enough to drive a truck through. Then we'll meet you inside." Her attempt at a smile failed under the tension. Jillian's steady gaze communicated her understanding and support.

"Alright, then people, let's do this." Jillian again addressed the group, "Everyone go to the common TAC frequency. I'll be Team Leader One and Corporal James Team Leader Two. Let's concentrate on our execution, folks. Remember, there's an officer inside that we're here to get," she saw Devon flinch and turned determined eyes to her. "That is our focus tonight. We move in five."

"Team Leader One to Team Leader Two." Jillian stood ready with her M16, at the shield man's shoulder, just behind the 'breachers' with the battering ram. Two arrest officers behind her completed the entry team.

"Team Leader Two," Devon's voice responded in her earpiece.

"All set?"

"In position, standing by for your count."

"Ten-four." Jillian shouldered the rifle to lead with the muzzle when they broke down the door. She drew a deep breath. "On. Three. One…Two…Th-"

The breachers smashed the door with the battering ram. The frame gave out immediately, splintering under the force. Then a deafening noise and concussive force took the entire team off their feet, hurling them backward in the air like six plastic action figures. Scattered, shattered, battered and broken. An endless moment of silence, broken only by the sounds of dust and debris settling in slow motion before a second explosion rocked the night.

Kaboom! The blast shook the ground and Devon instantly knew something was terribly wrong. Their charges exploded a second later. The hole that they blasted was just large enough for the team to scramble through single file. She and Zack moved as one. They assumed the lead behind the shield bearer, Devon covering right and Zack covering to the left.

"Team Leader Two, entry made."

Silence in the room and her earpiece as they moved in tandem across the open space between the kitchen and the living area. Smoke from the successive explosions hung in the air, making visibility difficult. No sounds of entry from the front of the house. She glanced sideways at Zack, whose puzzled expression mirrored her own. "Team Leader One?" The silence stretched. Devon gave a hand signal for the team to continue on. Clearing the structure and locating the target was the mission. She tamped down the rising anxiety inside as the seconds ticked by and Jillian didn't answer. Focus on the task.

"Medic! Medic!" An urgent transmission cut across the static. "Team one has taken casualties. Repeat, team one is down." The fact that the voice was male turned Devon's insides cold. An image of Alex's lifeless body lying in the desert flashed across her mind. Not again.

Zack hesitated and looked questioningly at her. The chaotic sounds of the medical efforts in her ear were battling for her attention. A voice yelled for an advanced life support response for team leader one. She couldn't listen anymore. Removing the earpiece from her ear, Devon gripped the assault rifle tighter and set her jaw. "Move out." Her order was delivered with emotionless calm.

They continued across the open space, methodically clearing every inch as they moved. Thirty feet away, the entire front entry of the house was now a cavernous, smoking hole. Honeycutt had obviously set charges to detonate on the battering ram's impact. Devon forced her eyes away from the scene beyond, where the medic was performing CPR in the middle of the bodies strewn across the ground.

Off the main room, they reached a short hallway. A small bathroom to their right was cleared quickly and now she had a decision to make. Two doors. There was no doubt that Honeycutt was in one of the rooms, probably with Jesse. It made sense that he would try to leverage her life right down to the end. He knew they were here, but Devon wanted to utilize the advantage of surprise as much as possible. Hitting the wrong door gave the full advantage back to Honeycutt and that could be deadly for Jesse.

She tapped three of the team members on the shoulder, pointing at the door to the left, "You three there." Her eyes met Zack's, "You're with me on this one." She cocked her head to indicate the door to the right.

They edged to their respective doors. Devon held her left hand in the air to signal the moment the entries would be made. Straining to hear, hoping for some noise from inside the room, she hesitated. The only sounds were that of the calamity gathering outside. The overwhelming forceful response was building for a scorched earth response to the madman's latest act. Devon wasn't going to let that happen. Honeycutt's retribution belonged to her. It was now or never.

Chapter 43

"So, here she comes," his voice was an annoying sing-song. "SWAT team," Honeycutt snorted, "acts like she's some fucking man." He spat out the words. "Now, the last thing you're gonna see before you die is your girlfriend take a bullet in the head." He raised his pistol in front of him and pointed it at the door. Jesse shoved her body to the right, tipping the entire chair in that direction. Her shoulder struck him in the left hip and knocked him off balance. Cursing colorfully he scrambled to his feet and pulled a knife from his boot.

"You're gonna regret that, bitch," his face contorted in his rage. "By the time she figures it out, you'll already be drowning in your own blood." The knife sliced into her chest so quickly she nearly thought he punched her. Jesse struggled to draw air into her lungs as the door crashed open, sending splinters of wood flying into the room.

Honeycutt swung the gun up and fired multiple times at the figures pushing through the doorway. From her position on her side, still tied to the chair, Jesse watched in horror as two bullets ripped into Zack's torso. Blood spurted from his left shoulder and sprayed on the wall. Zack fell back against the wall just inside the door.

Devon ducked and moved to the right through the doorway, leading with the muzzle of her rifle. She saw Zack fall backward in her peripheral vision. At the center of the room, Jesse was tied to a chair that lay on its side and Honeycutt was scrambling to his feet next to her, the pistol still in his hand. Devon's focus narrowed to the area of his upper torso and head as he raised his gun. Two to the body…she squeezed off two rounds that ripped through his chest.

The force of the shots threw him back against the wall. His shocked expression morphed into hatred as he struggled to breathe. After all of the years of pain and loss she had endured at the hands of first his father and then this lunatic, the Honeycutt legacy all came down to this. If he escaped this room alive it would never end. She thought about Jillian, Mac, the dead Orange county officers, now Zack. She stole a quick glance at Jesse and the terror in her eyes sealed the deal. …one to the head. Bang! It was over.

Devon slung the rifle over her shoulder as she moved quickly to Jesse. She lifted the chair upright, pausing for a moment to lift her goggles and stare into Jesse's green eyes. The purity of the love gazing back at her, mirroring her own emotions, nearly made her weep. She removed a glove and reached out to softly touch the bruise forming on her face as a relieved sigh escaped her lungs. The sounds of others clamoring into the room, snapped them out of the moment.

Jesse raised an eyebrow. "What the hell took you so long?" She quipped.

Devon chuckled and swallowed a lump in her throat. She began working on the knots behind Jesse's back to free her. "Sorry. I'll try to work on that."

To her relief, the other team members were helping Zack through the doorway as Devon slipped an arm around Jesse's waist to guide her from the room. She could tell Jesse was in pain in the deliberate movements she made, as though trying to minimize the jarring of her injuries as they went. Just as they reached the doorway, Jesse stopped and looked back to where Honeycutt's lifeless form lay in a crumpled heap. She sagged against Devon.

Devon followed Jesse's gaze with her own eyes. "Okay?"

Jesse nodded, "Yeah. Just…get me…out of here." Her breathing was labored and she seemed to struggle with the last words. Devon gripped her more tightly to support most of her weight as they moved.

Outside, the scene had transformed from the quiet, rigid order of the mission execution to the controlled chaos of the aftermath of horror. A half a dozen ambulances sat nearby, red lights flashing against the blackness of the night and bathing the already macabre scene in an otherworldly glow. One of the ambulances pulled away in full emergency mode. White tarps covered the bodies of three of the Orange County officers.

"Oh my God," Jesse whispered, her eyes wide with horror as she took in the scene.

Devon pulled her tightly against her. "Just keep going. The paramedics need to look at you." Even as she said that, her own eyes furiously scanned the area for some sign of Jillian.

A paramedic met them near the back of the rig. "I've got her." Reluctantly, Devon let go of Jesse, and the medic immediately set to work treating her wounds.

"Jess, I've got to see about something." Now that Jesse was safe, Devon needed to find Jillian. She had to know. The spotlight of a helicopter overhead illuminated them for a moment. Oh, Mac. Devon looked up automatically, wondering what she would tell her if…

Jesse touched her hand and something in her eyes conveyed not only understanding, but more like a blessing. "Go do what you need to do."

"I'll be right back."

The Tampa SWAT commander stood near what was left of the front of the house. He disconnected the call he had been on as Devon approached. "Devon, how are you?"

"Fine sir." Her eyes looked past him to where the remains of the officers lay.

He turned with her and shook his head sorrow. "Helluva night."

"Sir, the Orange County team…do you know…"

"They lost three. Two of the others have non-life threatening injuries. Their team leader, Sergeant Gray, wasn't it? She's critical. The paramedics just hauled ass out of here with her."

Devon felt the words like sharp blows to her gut. "Is she gonna…make it?" she asked slowly, wondering again what she was going to tell Mac.

"They didn't say. They were working her the entire time, though." He drew a long breath, "Her commander says she's tough as nails. We just have to believe she'll pull through."

"Captain, I-"

"Corporal James." The voice of a young deputy approaching interrupted Devon's thought.

"Yes?"

He looked apologetically at the captain, "Excuse me, sir. Corporal, there's a Tampa pilot outside the crime scene who is demanding to speak with you. Should I tell her you're busy?"

Devon looked at the captain, "Sir, she's Sergeant Gray's partner. If you don't need me right now…"

The captain nodded, "Your debriefing can wait. Tell McKinley I'm sorry."

As Devon approached the outer perimeter, her eyes immediately spotted Mac. She was leaning over the trunk of a police car with her head in her hands. Devon's heart ached for her friend, even as her own emotions and fears churned inside. Placing a hand on Mac's shoulder, she forced a reassuring smile, "Hey you."

Mac's anguished expression tore at Devon's heart. When she threw herself into Devon's arms, the two women stood clutching to one another, each one seeking an anchor in the midst of ongoing horror. After a few minutes, Mac let go, seemingly a bit more in control.

"I was in the air," She began, "I heard your entry on the radio. Then after the explosion…I heard you calling Jill…" She squeezed her eyes shut against new tears.

Devon gripped her shoulders, "Listen." She waited until Mac looked at her again. "They just took her to the hospital. Jillian's a fighter, you know that."

"But…" her voice trailed away as fear won out.

"Don't even think it," Devon countered. "Jillian has you now. She's not giving up. Don't you dare give up on her."

"I'm scared," Mac admitted in a pained whisper.

"Come with me. I've gotta check on Jesse and then we'll get you over to the hospital."

She pulled Mac quickly through the wooded area toward the two remaining ambulances. "Jesse's right here. Just let me-" One of the rear doors of the rig slammed shut and the paramedic was about to close the second one in Devon's face. She reached out to grab the edge of the door, startling the medic.

"Hey, let go of that door!" He shouted at her. Beyond him the other medic was speaking excitedly into the phone. Tubes were hooked up to a now unconscious Jesse.

"Patient has experienced a pneumothorax to the right upper side of the chest cavity. It appears the lung is fully compromised. Loss of blood from a gunshot wound in the shoulder seems to be complicating the chest cavity wound. Patient now unresponsive."

The shock of seeing Jesse helpless with the medic pushing some kind of needle directly into her side stunned Devon to silence. The other medic shoved the door closed and started for the front of the ambulance. She grabbed his arm. "What's happening," she asked urgently.

"We need to get her to the hospital. I can't tell you more than that."

The rig screamed away, leaving Devon and Mac standing alone in the woods with their futures hanging in the balance.

Chapter 44

The trauma area of the emergency room was a frenzy of activity. Paramedics shoved stretchers through the tight spaces, while doctors and nurses triaged patients, tending to the most critical injuries first. Clusters of officers stood in every available space, some wearing the blue of Tampa and others the white and green standard sheriff's department colors. Mac and Devon ran down the hallway to the rooms indicated by the charge nurse. "Do not get in the way!" She yelled after them.

They pushed through the double doors to a large treatment area. Teams of doctors and nurses swarmed around the two patients on either side of the room. Devon could barely make out Jesse's blonde hair on the gurney to the right. She winced and groaned audibly when the doctor unceremoniously shoved the chest tube into a small hole cut in the side of her chest. Blood flowed immediately through the tube and Devon felt her stomach flip. "More suction," the doctor demanded. "We can't move her to the OR until we get this bleeding under control."

"I've lost a pulse," the tension-filled voice said from the other table. Devon looked in that direction. The doctor working on Jillian began issuing orders in rapid fire succession, the medical terms foreign to Devon, but the urgency of their efforts was painfully obvious. Mac looked as terrified as Devon felt. She reached out to take Mac's hand. Both women jumped when the electrical shock was delivered, causing Jillian's body to jump briefly off the table.

The charge nurse returned to control the scene, grabbing both women by the arm and pushing them back through the doors. "Okay, you need to wait outside now." Her voice was commanding but her eyes were sympathetic. "The doctors will be out to speak with you as soon as they can."

Devon took one more look through the small round window to where the drama was continuing to unfold. The weight of Honeycutt's crimes collapsed upon her with brutal clarity. He had done the worst kind of damage possible. Inside that room, the two most important women in her life lay side by side, fighting to stay alive. She pressed her hand briefly to the glass, whispering, "I love you," just before the nurse pulled her and Mac away.

"Here," Steph handed Devon and Mac each a cup of vending machine coffee, "I know it's wicked, but it's the best I can do at four am."

They sat together on the small couch of the operating room waiting area, supporting each other through the long hours. On the other side of the room, Jesse's sergeant sat with the SWAT commander, talking quietly. The one good piece of news they had received about an hour before was that Zack's surgery was successful, and he was now in recovery. He would be transferred to a room and could have visitors in the morning, they were told. Devon breathed a sigh of relief for her friend.

"So your whole team made it," Mac forced a smile that quickly died, "Jill's gonna be devastated when she finds out about her team."

Devon draped an arm around her friend's shoulder, "I should have taken the front door," guilt suffused her words. "I'm sorry Mac."

"Hey, so then Jill and I would be here, praying for you," she shook her head. "Wasn't anybody's fault but his." The venom in her voice referring to Honeycutt was palpable.

"Still…" Devon didn't really know what else to say. She fell silent as the relentless mind loop played clips of lifeless bodies, the pure hatred in Honeycutt's eyes, and the terror on Jesse's face. Worst of all was the unresponsive pliancy of Jesse and Jillian's bodies as appalling things were done by the medical staff in the name of emergency medicine. A shudder rolled through her. "Why don't they fucking tell us something?"

The door opened and a woman who bore a striking resemblance to Mac rushed into the room, wearing navy sweats and high-top sneakers. Her gray t-shirt had the words San Francisco Force in navy across the front. The woman wrapped Mac in a tight embrace and they held each other silently for long moments. Finally, the woman asked, "What happened?"

"It's a very long story," Mac sighed. "Right now, Jillian is in surgery. There was an explosion…she has some pretty serious injuries. The doctor hasn't told us anything yet."

"Sorry it took me so long, I grabbed the first plane I could after the game."

"Thanks for coming, Conner." Mac hugged the younger woman before turning her toward Devon. "Dev, this is my cousin, Conner."

Devon stood and shook her hand in greeting, "Glad to meet you."

"I've heard a lot about you," Conner smiled. "Thanks for being here for Mac."

Devon nodded absently in return, "No problem." She excused herself and went to the window, not able to carry on a conversation of pleasantries. Feeling like a bomb with the timer counting down, she opted for the safety of distance to corral her thoughts.

"Did I say something wrong?" Devon heard Conner ask.

"Her lover was injured tonight, too." Mac explained, "We're waiting on word for both of them."

The door opened again and a tall woman clad in blue scrubs pulled the cap from her head as she approached the group. She scrubbed her other hand through her brown hair to loosen it from where it had been pasted against her skin beneath the cap. The doctor smiled professionally, "Which one of you ladies is Ms. James?"

Everyone in the room turned to where Devon stood near the window. She took the doctor's outstretched hand, meeting her eyes with trepidation. "I'm Devon."

The doctor smiled wistfully, "Yes, my patient said your name a few times before we put her under. I'm Doctor Spencer."

"Is she okay?" This was the moment she had prayed for all night, and now that it was here, dread crept through her.

Doctor Spencer nodded, "We were able to stop the internal bleeding. Her lung will repair itself in short order. Luckily, the bullet lodged in the muscle of her shoulder, so it didn't damage any of the joints. I expect her to make a full recovery." Her face lit up in a bright smile with the last statement.

Devon sagged against the window sill, the relief flooding her body made her knees buckle. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks. "Thank you," she choked out.

The doctor placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, "My pleasure. Give us a little longer to get her settled in recovery and then you can see her."

"Doctor?" Mac called after her as she reached the doorway. "Can you tell me anything about the deputy that came in, Jillian Gray?"

The doctor's brow wrinkled in thought momentarily. "She's still in the OR," her eyes were filled with compassion, although her face was a neutral mask. Devon was now standing next to Mac, waiting for the rest of her answer. "The chief of surgery is working on her. She's in excellent hands." Considering the women for a moment, she added, "I'll go see what I can find out for you."

Doctor Spencer to ER one stat. The loud speaker summoned, and with a terse nod, the doctor made a quick exit, jogging down the hall the way she had come. As it turned out, she didn't return with answers for what seemed like an eternity.

Chapter 45

Pushing aside the curtain, Devon entered the area in the recovery room where Jesse was resting. She barely stifled a sob when she saw all of the tubes, bandages and machines either hooked up to Jesse or covering her. The only sound in the room was the steady blip, blip of the heart monitor. She moved next to the bed and stood looking at her, the peace on her sleeping face belying all of the terror she survived.

The doctors assured her that Jesse would make a full recovery, but believing that was impossible until she saw it for herself. She needed to hear Jesse's voice, and feel the way it always soothed and settled her. Jesse's smile. That picture perfect radiance lighting up her face, never failing to affect Devon like a powerful drug.

She loved the way sound of Jesse's laughter rang in her ears, lifting her spirits effortlessly. Jesse's eyes, the color of a summer meadow when she was happy, a dark forest green when she was sad, a churning ocean current when they made love. Devon remembered the first time she saw her, the first time she kissed her, and how she knew instinctively that one touch would lead to an endless need. Oh, yeah, she was addicted, alright. If there was a cure, Devon wanted no part of it.

She leaned over to gently press her lips to Jesse's forehead, closing her eyes and silently thanking the heavens she made it this far. She lightly brushed strands of blond hair away from Jesse's brow and caressed her face with the back of her hand. "I love you Jess." She vowed quietly, as grateful tears rolled down her face.

Jesse's eyes fluttered open. She blinked as if to bring the world into focus, then panic set in and they fearfully darted around the room.

"Shh," Devon stroked her head. "Easy, love."

Recognition dawned when Jesse focused on Devon's face. She tried to speak. "De…von…"

"Yes baby, I'm here." The lump of emotion in her throat made it difficult to speak. She lifted their joined hands and kissed Jesse's fingers.

The fear returned to Jesse's eyes. "Is he…"

"Honeycutt's dead."

Jesse nodded and closed her eyes. "I'm tired."

"Just rest. Everything's alright now." Inwardly, Devon prayed for news of Jillian, hoping that her statement was true.

Devon found Conner sitting outside the door to the ICU when she stepped off the elevator. "What did they say?" She motioned in the direction of the double doors.

"Not much. She hasn't regained consciousness yet. Doc says the next twenty-four hours are critical." She looked over her shoulder, "Mac's in with her now."

Pushing her hands deep into her pockets, Devon drew a deep breath and sighed. Conner stood and offered her a chair. "Thanks, I'm too keyed up to sit," Devon said.

"Hey, listen," Conner began, "about earlier, I'm sorry. I didn't know your girl was hurt." Devon waved her hand in the air, "Forget it."

"How is she?"

"She's gonna be okay. I just saw her for a few minutes. They're getting her moved to a room now." As she spoke, Devon's worried gaze moved past Conner to the ICU door repeatedly.

"You should go on in," Conner smiled. Devon hesitated, looking at the door and back to the younger woman. Conner placed a hand on her shoulder, "Mac said to send you in."

Devon nodded, "Thanks." She was already moving toward the door.

Inside, Mac was sitting in a chair pulled up close to the bed, holding Jillian's hand and speaking softly to her. Devon stood at the door, not wanting to intrude on her friend's time. Without turning around, Mac spoke, "They said it's good to talk to her."

Devon moved to Mac's side, her eyes taking in the sight of Jillian. Her face was swollen and bruised. A bandage covered the right side from her cheek bone to her jaw line. Gauze dressings covered her neck, chest and arms where she had been burned by the heat of the blast. A large blue tube was taped to her mouth, the other end attached to a respirator on the far side of the bed. The hiss of the machine's compressions breathing for Jillian made the entire scene much too real. Unable to find words, Devon simply slid her hand onto Mac's shoulder.

"How's Jesse?" Mac asked after a time, breaking the silence again.

"Good."

Mac nodded, lightly rubbing her thumb across the back of Jillian's hand. When she spoke again, it was barely audible. "I can't lose her, Dev." She raised her head to look at Devon, her pleading eyes floated in tears. "I…I haven't told her…I..." Her words trailed away on the wave of emotion.

"Tell her now," Devon encouraged.

Mac pressed her lips to Jillian's knuckles. "I love you Jillian. Please. Please don't leave me."

Chapter 46

She was floating, suspended in the blue green warmth. Sounds-voices from somewhere above her were unintelligible. Kicking forcefully, she propelled herself upward through the liquid world toward the resonance and the light. Surfacing silently from the depths, she immediately felt the warmth of the sun bathing her skin, just before a familiar tender touch drew her into a strong embrace. A tongue traced the outline of her lips just before soft, pliable lips took hers, moving sweetly, caressing deliciously. Now she was floating again. This time, she drifted in a sea of sensations brought on by the exquisite kiss.

"Am I dreaming?"

"Mmm, I don't think so," Mac tasted her way beneath Jillian's jaw and down her neck, "but I'll keep going until I convince you."

Chuckling softly, Jillian leaned her head back, affording her lover full access to the tender skin beneath her ear, as a shiver rippled through her. She reveled in the majesty of the feelings: the heat of the sun, the cool flow of the water, the brush of the tropical breeze on her skin. Everything else was eclipsed by the feel of Mac's strong embrace, firmly anchoring and reassuring her that she was not only alive, but loved-and well.

Mac's hand found her breast and tweaked the nipple through the nylon of the swim suit, bringing it instantly to rigid attention, and she smiled against Jillian's lips.

"Happy?" Jillian asked.

"Deliriously." She wrapped her arms around Jillian's waist and pulled their hips together.

Jillian marveled at how much her life had changed. Her rehabilitation was tedious, but largely successful. Ironically, all the life-threatening injuries she survived the day of the raid were not threats to her career; it was her knee that forced her to take a disability retirement. Her ACL was too badly damaged to allow her to return to full duty. Through the painful recovery time, Mac had been by her side, steady and constant, her love showing in everything she did. Sometimes, Jillian's frustration overwhelmed her during the long healing process, and depression set in. Even when she was sure that her darkened moods made her virtually impossible to like, Mac just smiled and told her she loved her.

"Hey, you two, let's go. We can't miss the opening tip off." Devon shouted from the boat. Jesse stood beside her with an arm wrapped around Devon's waist.

"We were waiting for the boat to stop rocking," Mac teased.

Devon laughed out loud. "Look who's talking." She reached out her hand to help Jillian climb back aboard. When she offered Mac her hand, Mac jerked her over the side and into the water. She surfaced, sputtering, and they both burst into fits of laughter.

"Ass," they both said in unison, making them both giggle uncontrollably.

The arena was filled to capacity, buzzing with excitement for the opening game of the season. Ignoring the curious and sometimes hostile stares of the hometown crowd as they made their way to their front row seats, the foursome proudly sported their San Francisco Force jerseys. After watching the pre-game warm-ups, Mac offered to buy a round of beers and Jesse volunteered to accompany her to the concession stand.

"You're looking well, Jill," Devon said. "I'm glad to see that you and Mac are so happy."

"Thanks. Same goes for you. Jesse is good for you, Dev."

Devon smiled warmly, "Yes, she is."

"So, I have something I want to ask you." Jillian turned in her seat to look at Devon directly.

"Sure."

"Mac and I have made some plans. I'm moving here to Tampa."

"Jill, that's great," Devon gushed. "Jesse will be so glad."

"What about you?"

"Jillian, I'm glad. Really. You mean a great deal to me, and I'm thankful we have a friendship."

"Well," Jillian said brightly, "that's good, because I still have a question for you."

Devon waited.

"I'm opening a tactical training school. We'll start with SWAT techniques, but eventually, I hope to branch out into other private security stuff."

"Wow, that's great," Devon said.

"I want you to be my lead instructor," Jillian finished.

Devon's mouth formed a silent O. Recovering, she asked, "Me? Are you sure?"

Jillian nodded emphatically. "Mac and I discussed this. She told me what she saw you do in Beirut, and I've seen you work here. Devon, there's no one in the world I would rather have. Of course, the decision is yours. You can set your own hours to fit into your schedule. Whatever you want. Talk to Jesse and let me know."

"Talk to me about what?" Jesse asked. She and Mac passed the large cups of beer as they sat. She looked at Devon. "Did you tell her?"

"No," Devon said, "I wanted to talk to Mac first, and then Jill asked me about something else."

Now it was Mac's turn to ask, "Talk to me about what?" They all laughed.

"Okay, let's sort this out," Devon began. "First. We wanted you two to be the first to know." She looked at Jesse and grinned. "I asked Jesse to marry me-"

Jillian threw her arms around Jesse. Mac hugged Devon and they both began talking at once. Rapid fire questions about when, where, and how began flying. Devon, held up her hand, "Okay, okay. Let me finish." She regarded Mac seriously, "I would be honored if you would be my best woman."

"The honor is mine," Mac pulled Devon into a bear hug.

"And," Jesse added, "Jillian, would you stand up with me?" She looked at Devon and then back to Jill. "We would love to have both of you with us on the most important day of our lives."

The four friends embraced. Jesse and Jillian immediately began excitedly chattering about plans for the ceremony. Mac and Devon began discussing logistics of moving Jillian to Tampa the following month.

The house lights darkened for the team introductions, and they waited patiently while the visitors were introduced. Finally, the announcer boomed, "Starting at forward, the League's number one draft pick, and captain of the San Francisco Force, number sixty-six, Conner McGuire!"

Mac whistled loudly and they all jumped to their feet, screaming wildly, oblivious to the overall tepid response from the Tampa crowd.

"Go Conner!" Devon shouted.

Before heading to the team's bench, Conner came to the sideline and gave the group a high-five. "Watch the scoreboard after the team introductions," She told Devon. Then, she waved and ran to join her team.

Following the introductions, the scoreboard lit up with huge letters: She said yes! Congratulations Jesse and Devon.

"Look at that," Jesse exclaimed.

"Yeah, look at that." Devon was looking at Jesse, not the scoreboard. Jesse's kiss stopped just short of inappropriate in public. Devon hugged her, and when she turned back to the court, Conner was beaming in their direction. She gave thumbs up and Devon waved in return.

"You make a great couple," Mac said sincerely.

"Thanks," Devon said. "It took us a while, but I think we both finally found where we belong, Mac."

"I believe you're right. So, you and Jesse, you're both okay with all the Honeycutt business?"

"Yeah, Jesse had a few nightmares at first, but she's fine now."

"And you?" Mac pressed.

"Truthfully Mac? I feel as though I've finally gotten the closure that I've needed all these years. As far as me and Jesse, well…" She stared off with a dreamy expression that made Mac smile.

"You could drown in her eyes and be happy to go?" She suggested.

"Love is a miracle," Devon said with a touch of awe in her voice. "Redemption is a powerful thing."

THE END