"You stupid asshole. Look what you have done to my new dress." The tall dark haired woman yelled as she grabbed a napkin and dabbed at her white dress. "I want you out of my home now."

The soldier snapped to attention after he picked himself up off the floor. "Right away your Highness." He turned and waited for the door to slide open so he may leave. "I am so glad I am getting out of this duty. Spoiled brat needs to be spanked until her butt is so red she can't sit for a week."

"Tell your commanding officer I want him here in five minutes." The Princess ordered as she left the room to change her dress.

"Yes, ma'am," he answered as he walked through the now open door and down the hallway. "I feel so sorry for the next guard who has to become her guardian."

****************************************

"Captain Cooper front and center." Bellowed Major Cochran. He rolled his eyes when he heard the sound of cursing and trays crashing to the ground from behind the wall that led to the kitchen area. "Now Cooper."

"I'm coming." The Captain screamed back. "If you hadn't scared the crap out of me Major I wouldn't have dumped the entire container of pudding all over the place."

The Major tried as hard as he could to keep from laughing when the small Captain walked through the door covered in the yellow dessert. "That color suits you small bit."

"Don't call me that or I will tell Lisa how you got that scar on your butt." Bailey Cooper winked as she licked her fingers clean. "Now what do you want?"

"General Denon wants you in his office, now." The Major replied as he ran a finger across Bailey's cheek. "How much was in that container?"

"It was five gallons. I was getting it ready for lunch tomorrow." Bailey slapped his hand away when he went to wipe some off her chest. "You are such a perv."

"Yep," he smiled. "I would hurry up if I was you. The General is hot about something."

"I didn't do anything this time. I have been in the kitchen everyday for the past three weeks since I got caught sneaking out to that party off base." Bailey headed toward the door. "Do you have any clue what it might be about?" She asked her long time friend.

"Well, I think it might have something to do with Private Baker." Cochran mumbled softly.

Bailey stopped in her tracks and whipped around. "You don't think?"

Cochran nodded his head.

"No fucking way. I will not be guardian for some snot nose selfish princess." Bailey stomped her feet hard on the floor. "I would rather work in that kitchen twelve hours a day for life than do that."

"The only way you are gonna really find out what is going on is to get your ass cleaned up and get to the General's office." Cochran grabbed Bailey by the shoulders and turned her around then gave her a shove. "Get going."

"Yes, sir." Bailey gave Cochran a one-finger salute.

****************************************

"Come," General Denon, yelled not lifting his eyes off the paper that he was reading.

Bailey opened the door and stood at attention in front of his desk. "You asked to see me sir?"

"Yes, I did." He looked up at the newly showered woman before him. "You had time to shower before you came. How nice for me."

"Had to sir. Had an accident with some pudding." Bailey stated still looking straight ahead.

"I will let you explain that a little later on. As for right now you have a new assignment." The General stood up and stretched his back. "Last night Private Baker was let go of his duties watching the Princess. I want you to take his place." "Sorry sir I can't do that." Bailey replied. General Denon raised an eyebrow at the small soldier. "Care to explain to me why you can't do what I am ordering you to do." "I am currently assigned to the kitchen, because of some trouble I am in sir. I wish to stay and carry out my punishment." Bailey said in a calm voice. Which surprised her since her insides were jumping around like twenty jackrabbits.

"Well I have talked to your supervisors and they have agreed to let you go. You will show up at the palace tomorrow morning at six am." He stated matter of fact. "Got that soldier?"

"Yes sir," Bailey mumbled as she lowered her head.

****************************************

"So what time does your new guardian get here?" Lynne asked as she took a swallow of her drink. "I hope they send someone with a better attitude than the last guy."

"Me too, and the newbie will be here bright and early tomorrow morning." Parker wiggled her eyebrows as she sucked a grape into her mouth. "What do you think we should do this time?"

Lynne rolled over onto her back and crossed her feet at the ankle. Her long blonde hair surrounded her head like a golden halo. A wicked look crossed her facial features. "How about we see who can get the new guard into bed?"

"What?" Parker coughed. "You can't be serious?"

"Why not. Even though Private Baker was a twit he had one hell of a great body. I would have slept with him in a heart beat." Lynne grinned, as she thought about the perfectly round butt in those tight green pants. "In a freaking heart beat." She repeated with a moan.

"You are sick." Parker slapped at her friend's foot as she walked by to get something more to drink.

"Just because I like my partners to have a little extra between their legs doesn't mean it is gross." The beautiful blonde shot back as she leaned her head up to finish her drink. "Get me another one will ya?"

Parker sat her cup down and walked over to grab Lynne's glass. She bent over the back of the couch. "I think it is gross to have some smelly gross man bouncing inside you. Grunting and moaning. The worst thing is all the hair?everywhere." Parker shivered at the thought.

"You just never tried it before so you don't know." Lynne smiled.

Parker leaned closer to Lynne's face. "I will never try it either so the getting the guard in bed thing is off."

Lynne grabbed Parker's face. "What if the guard is a woman?"

Parker stood up and thought for a second. "Sure why not it might be fun."

****************************************

"God damn it I hate mornings." Bailey tossed a pillow at the wall alarm clock that was buzzing. "Shut the fuck up will ya."

Knowing that the alarm wouldn't stop until she got out of bed she rolled onto the floor and crawled over to the little instrument panel and slapped her hand across the off switch. "This is so not gonna be my day."

She slowly stood up and stretched her body out. Several vertebrae popped back into place and she groaned in pure pleasure. "I love that feeling." She shuffled her feet as she headed towards the bathroom. "Better get my ass in gear. I have a feeling that this is gonna be one hell of a day."

A couple of hours later Bailey stood outside one of the palace doors. She took a deep breath before she knocked.

"What do you want?" A big round woman in her late fifties asked when she opened the door.

"Well hello to you too." Bailey replied back. "I am the new guardian for the princess. I was told to enter through this door."

"You're kinda small to be any good at protecting the princess aren't ya?" The round woman asked, as she looked Bailey up and down. "You look like a baby could take you down."

"You want me to show you what exactly I can do?" Bailey stepped closer to the stout woman. "I know several different ways to kill someone with one hand tied behind my back." She brought her hand up and made a tight fist, which caused her knuckles to pop.

"Damn you are sure fun to get riled up. My name is Ann and if you need anything just call on me." Ann smiled as she stepped into the palace kitchen. "Let me show you where you need to go."

Bailey shook her head as she followed the older woman. "Working at the palace is sure gonna be an experience."

****************************************

"What times does the princess usually wake up?" Bailey asked as she walked next to Ann who had a try loaded down with food.

Ann shrugged her shoulders. "Around ten or so. If she has an early morning engagement just leave her alone until she has had her second cup of coffee." The older woman stopped and looked at Bailey. "Why am I carrying this heavy tray when you should be." She held out the tray until Bailey took it.

"So sorry ma'am, please let me help you." Bailey smirked as she took the tray from Ann's hands. "Which way are we going?"

"Down the hall. Third door on the right." Ann pointed. "Just give it a little knock the temporary guard will let ya in."

"Thanks," Bailey started to walk down the hall but was stopped by Ann's voice. She turned around and looked at the woman. "Yes?"

"Watch yourself. Her highness isn't the nicest person in the world and neither are her friends." Ann said softly. "I like ya and kinda want to keep you around for a bit."

"Thanks for the warning and I will watch my back." Bailey turned back around and walked towards the door to the princess's rooms.

****************************************

"Where is my breakfast?" Parker yelled as she walked into her living room. "Damn it, Ann knows I hate to be kept waiting."

"Sorry your Highness. Ann should be here any second now." The soldier answered.

"She better be." Parker slumped down on the couch and closed her eyes. She heard the slight knock at the door and opened one eye. "About damn time. Go open the door for Ann before my coffee gets cold."

"Yes your Highness." The soldier bowed before he quickly hurried to the door. The sight of Bailey standing there nearly had the man doing cartwheels. "Hello Captain."

"Hello, Private and how are you this morning?" Bailey asked as she stood there.

The Private took a deep breath. "I am so happy to see you."

"Well I can't say the same about you, but will you step aside so I can bring in the heavy tray." Bailey smiled.

"Sorry Captain." The Private stepped back and took the tray from her hands. "The Princess is waiting on the couch he whispered."

"Great, I was hoping that I would have a few minutes to look around before her brattyness woke up." She whispered back.

"No such luck Captain." The Private let Bailey walk in front of him.

Bailey stood in front of the table and waited until the princess acknowledged her presence. As she waited she got a good look at the young royal. Long dark hair that shined from endless brushing. Skin that looked soft to the touch, full lips that would begged to be kissed and kissed often. "Damn, she looks better in real life." She thought as she continued her inspection down the woman's body and back up again to curious blue eyes that were now open.

"See anything you like?" The Princess asked with a husky voice.

"Not particularly." Bailey smirked.

"I bet," Parker sat up and stretched letting the front of her robe open a bit to show a great amount of cleavage.

Bailey rolled her eyes; "your breakfast is here."

Parker giggled softly, "you can be my breakfast."

"Sorry your highness. I am not on the menu." Bailey pushed the tray closer to the seated woman. "By the way I am Captain Bailey Cooper. I am your new guardian."

"You can guard any part of my body you want and any time you want." Parker grabbed a grape and sucked it into her mouth. "We are gonna have so much fun."

Bailey looked over at the Private who had his eyes closed. "Private you may leave now. The Princess is in capable hands now."

"Yes, ma'am." The Private saluted Bailey and walked out of the room.

"Your Highness?" Bailey turned back to the princess who was drinking from her juice glass. "I am here to protect you with my life and that is all. I will not be part of anything else you may have running through that head of yours."

"Oh my dear Captain. Just think of all the fun we can have." Princess Parker stood up as she bit on the tip of her little finger. "I can make you feel so many things that you will never want to leave my side."

"Well, since this is my new assignment I have no choice but to never leave your side. So why don't you just go make yourself feel all those feelings you are talking about. I will wait here." Bailey looked at her watch. "It should take you what?five minutes?"

Parker smiled slightly and raised an eyebrow. "Oh believe me. I can last a lot longer than five minutes."

"Good for you then I'll give ya seven." Bailey crossed her arms over her chest and waited to see what would happen with that comment.

"You are a little bitch." Parker growled as she stormed around the coffee table to stand right in front of Bailey. She poked the smaller woman in the chest several times. "You better watch what you say and do or I will have you shipped to the farthest galaxy for the rest of your time in the military."

Bailey grabbed the princess's finger. "Please do me the favor and make that call. I would rather be there than babysitting some spoiled brat who doesn't give a shit about anyone but herself."

"Fuck you," Parker yelled and stomped into her bedroom and slammed the door closed.

"Not if you were the last woman on earth." Bailey yelled at the closed door. She walked around the table and slumped onto the couch. "Bitch."

****************************************

"I'm impressed. You were in your room for a whole two hours." Bailey said when Parker stepped out of her room dressed and ready for the day.

Parker just glared at her and walked to the front door. "You are a little troll."

Bailey smiled big and nodded her head. "Then my job here is done." She stepped closer to Parker and stopped her from opening the door. "Where ya going?"

"Where I go is no concern of yours." Parker used the heel of her shoes to step on Bailey's polished black boots.

"Ouch," Bailey grabbed at her foot as she jumped up and down on one leg. "That hurt."

"Good, now if you will excuse me I have an appointment in an hour." Parker grinned as she opened the door and walked through slamming the large door.

Bailey quickly grasped the door handle and swung the door open. "You get your ass back here." She yelled at the figure down the hall.

Parker lifted her hand up and flipped the Captain off.

"I am so gonna kill her." Bailey mumbled as she limped after the tall princess. "I'm gonna wrap my hands around that long neck of hers and watch as her face turns purple."

A man stepped out in front of Bailey as she was heading down the hallway. She almost grabbed the man by the collar to get him out of her way, but she noticed who he was and she bowed her head. "Your Highness."

"Hello Captain. I take it you are her new guardian?" King Lakewood asked as he watched his daughter disappear from sight.

"Yes you Highness. I started this morning." Bailey replied as she looked at her boots.

"You will have your hands full I am afraid." The King stated as he shook his head. "Just watch over her."

"With my life." Bailey answered.

King Lakewood looked Bailey over and smiled to himself. "I know you will and I thank you for that."

"You're welcome." Bailey looked up into soft blue eyes that reminded her so much of the princesses but hers were so deranged compared to his. "I must really be going your Highness."

The King looked in the direction his daughter just went and nodded his head. "You better hurry. She won't be able to leave unless you are with her."

"Then I better go before she blows her top." Bailey bowed slightly before she started to walk away.

"Watch yourself," the King said. "My daughter doesn't like it when things don't go her way."

Bailey stopped at turned back towards the tall king. "I have already figured that out your Highness."

"I figured you might have." The King laughed. "Go on now."

"Good day your Highness." Bailey bowed once again before she jogged down the hall.

****************************************

"It's about damn time. If you are gonna keep me from my appointments then maybe you should get another assignment." Parker snapped when Bailey walked through the transporter door.

Bailey took a seat and buckled herself in. "I was talking to your father."

"Right," Parker rolled her eyes. "I think you can come up with a better lie than that."

"Whatever your bitchiness." Bailey leaned her head back against the wall as the transporter swooshed up onto the air. "And for your knowledge. I was taken out of the kitchen to come here and watch your ass."

"What?" Parker sat up as far as she could with the restraints holding her into her seat. "What do you mean you were brought out of the kitchen?"

"What part of I was working in the kitchen don't you get?" Bailey asked.

Parker stared at Bailey. "You can't be serious."

Bailey smiled and nodded her head. "You bet I am."

"I'm dead." Parker mumbled as she undid her buckles and walked over to the communication desk. "If what you said is true I so don't want you to watch over me."

"Sorry what you see is what you get." Bailey crossed her arms over her chest and winked.

Parker ignored Bailey and started to punch in some information. When what she wanted finally scrolled up she read. "Oh man you were telling the truth."

"One thing you will find out about me. I don't lie." Bailey unbuckled her own restraints and walked over to Parker who held her head in her hand. "Just so you don't think kitchen duty is all I can do let me show you my record."

Parker looked in between her fingers as Bailey typed. As the words scrolled up she read all about Bailey's achievement and accomplishments. The awards she had won in the line of duty and the numerous injuries she had sustained while fighting against the Borealis.

"Is that better Princess?" Bailey asked as she went back to her seat.

Parker didn't answer as she kept on reading and getting some insight on her new guardian. She was impressed to say the least, but she still didn't like Bailey very much. The mouthy little blonde needed to learn her place in the system.

"Well I will say that you have been busy, but apparently it wasn't enough to get you out of the kitchen." Parker swiveled in her chair and rested her hands on her knees. "What did you do? Piss off your commanding officer and get sent to the kitchen as punishment?"

Bailey's eyes grew cold. "Something like that."

Parker felt an instant regret for what she had said. She turned towards the computer screen and hit off before she saw the last box pop up.

"So where are we going?" Bailey asked softly as she looked out the little window by her seat.

Parker walked over to her seat and buckled herself in. "We are going to the children's hospital."

"Okay, I would like to know your schedule in advance." Bailey told Parker as the tall princess leaned her head back and closed her eyes.

"Why? All you have to do is follow me around like a dog. You don't need to know my schedule." Parker replied coldly.

"I need to know your schedule because it might save your ass." Bailey spat. "If I can get a lay out of the places you are gonna go I will be able to be better to get you out of a dangerous situation."

"Whatever," Parker sighed knowing that Bailey was right.

Bailey crossed her legs at her ankles. "Good come back. I will have to write that one down in my book to use later on."

"Do whatever you want." Parker replied, as she looked at Bailey though half-closed eyelids.

"I will, thanks." Bailey smiled.

****************************************

Bailey couldn't believe her eyes. Princess Parker Lakewood was a totally different person when she was around the children at the hospital. She really liked the person she saw and wished that the princess would be like that all the time, but as soon as they were out of sight and in the transporter she reverted back into the spoiled bitch.

Now here she was siting in the Princesses living room knowing the tall woman was up to something. She looked around the room and really looked at the decorum. Soft browns and tans covered the walls with dark brown couch and chair. Shelves full of micro book and movies. Pictures of Parker shaking hands with a various assortment of people's hands. She had a fake smile in all of them except the ones she was in with her family. There the smile was bright and loving.
Bailey stepped closer the Lakewood family was a gorgeous looking family. All tall with dark hair. Each one had a set of blue eyes that rivaled the oceans across the world of Vashon. Plus a strong looking body and presence.

A knock on the door broke Bailey's concentration. She walled over to the door pushing the button to see who was standing on the other side. A long legged blonde stood there twirling her hair with one hand and looked at her perfect manicured nails of the other one. "Wonder who this could be?"

Bailey stepped back and opened the door with a swoosh. "Can I help you?"

Lynne grinned as she checked out Bailey. She sauntered up close and ran one of her manicured fingernails along Bailey's jaw. "Hello, who are you?"

Bailey smiled as she grabbed the roaming finger. "I'm Captain Bailey Cooper and I believe I asked you the same question."

Lynne bent closer to Bailey and licked her lips. "I am your new best friend."

Bailey kissed Lynne's finger before she let in drop. Then she put her own finger right in the middle of Lynne's forehead and pushed her back. "I don't think you qualify as a person who could be anyone's best friend."

"You have got some nerve." Lynne stood back and put her hands on her hips. "You need to learn your place little girl."

"If you think you are woman enough to teach me bring it on." Bailey crossed her arms over her chest and tapped her foot.

"You two knock it off." Parker ordered as she entered the room. "Captain Cooper go see if my transport is ready."

"I am not your servant." Bailey shot back not taking her eyes off of Lynne.

Parker stormed over to Bailey. "You listen to me. I am your Princess and you will do as I say."

Bailey glared deep into Parker's blue eyes. She wanted to just smack the attitude right out of her. Wanting to just get the hell out of the room Bailey nodded. "Fine, I will go check on the car, but I am only going so I don't have to look at that snatch anymore."

Lynne moved so fast that neither Bailey nor Parker saw the slap coming. The sound of palm on face vibrated around the room.

"Lynne!" Parker yelled as she caught her friend's hand before she could get in another slap. "What do you think you are doing?"

"Do you think I am just going to sit back and let this low life military bum insult me like that?" Lynne shouted as she tried to get out of Parker's grasp.

Bailey just stood there. She couldn't believe that Lynne had gotten that slap in without her noticing her move at all. Not wanting to get into it anymore with the tall blonde she started towards the door. "I will go check on the your transport now." She wanted to rub the now sore cheek but didn't want to give Lynne the satisfaction that she was in pain.

"Bailey, wait." Parker moved away from Lynne. "You don't have to do that. I will call down."

"No, you are the Princess and you ordered me to do something and I will do it." Bailey left the room and headed down the hall.

"Boy what a bitch," Lynne seethed as she tossed her purse to the couch. "You need to get a new guardian."

Parker nodded her head. "Tell me about it."

Lynne watched as Parker kept her eyes on the closed door. She raised an eyebrow. "So do you want to keep the bet going?"

"Do you really think you have a chance after what you just did to her?" Parker turned to look at her friend. "If you really think you have a shot at her, sure."

"I think I can get her to see me in a new light." Lynne smiled brightly as a plan formed in her head.

"Okay then, lets head out and have some fun." Parker clapped her hands and walked towards the door.

"Lets see what kind of trouble we can get into." Lynne ran around the coffee table and grabbed her purse.

****************************************

"How in the world can anyone have fun in a place like this?" Bailey asked herself as she followed Parker and Lynne into the crowded dance club. "This is a security nightmare."

"Look there is Eddie." Lynne shouted as she grabbed ahold of Parker's hand and pulled her through the crowd.

"I don't want to see Eddie." Parker yelled. "He's a jerk."

Lynne stopped and looked at her best friend. "You're just pissed because he set you up with that thing he calls a cousin."

"That girl thought that I would give her an island of her own if I slept with her." Parker laughed as she looked at the crowd to see if anyone caught her eye. The only thing that did was Bailey scouting around to make sure she was safe.

The hair on the back of Bailey's neck stood up. She knew someone was watching her and she slowly looked around. Soft blue eyes made her stop breathing. The intensity of the emotions she saw in them surprised her.

Bailey didn't have time to question what she saw as a commotion caught her attention to the left of her. Four big men shoving and pushing their way through the crowd. They laughed as they drank other people's drinks and joked about the people that tripped to get out of their way.

Bailey groaned when one of the men noticed Parker standing off to the side. "Please can't we just have a nice quiet night?" She recognized the big dark haired man as a mercenary who helped out the Borealis. They were just unable to prove any of it.

Parker blinked when the connection she had just had with Bailey broke and she turned to look to see what caught Bailey's attention. "Damn they look scary."

Lynne heard her friend mumble something and turned too look over at the small group of outlaws. "Wow check out the muscles on that one."

"I think maybe we should go." Parker grabbed Lynne's hand and started towards Bailey who was making her way through the crowd.

"I want you out of here now." Bailey wrapped her fingers around Parker's forearm and guided her towards the entrance. Hoping that she could get the princess past the group without any trouble.

"Where do you think you are going?" The leader asked as he stepped in front of Bailey stopping her cold in her tracks.

"Move now," Bailey glared up at the man. Even though he stood several inches and outweighed her by a good hundred pounds of muscles she knew she could take him down. It would be hard but she could do it.

"You don't scare me little lady. I just want to have a conversation with the tall drink of water you have your hands on." Toby said as he adjusted himself with one hand and reached for Parker with the other.

Bailey grabbed ahold of Toby's wrist. "I said move, now."

"You are a pushy little thing." Toby looked down at Bailey. "Why don't you let go before I let my friends here take you out back and teach you a lesson."

Bailey smiled as she let go of Parker's arm but not Toby's. "Are you too afraid to come out and teach me yourself?" She squeezed his wrist tighter. "I dare you."

Toby's eyes turned completely black. "You want it you got it." He turned and headed for the front door with his friends following him.

"Are you nuts?" Parker asked as she grabbed ahold of Bailey's shoulders. "They are going to kick your ass."

Bailey shook her head. "You really have faith in your guardian don't you."

Lynne started to laugh. "You are so stupid if you think you can handle those four."

Bailey glared at Lynne. She so did not want to deal with the snotty bitch right now. "Listen, I am only going to say this once." She pointed at Lynne. "You shut your god damn mouth. I have had enough of you." She then pointed at Parker. "You take your loud mouth friend and go to the transport. Lock the doors and don't let anyone in except for me."

"Where are you going to go?" Parker questioned as they made their way through the crowd. "You honestly don't think you can handle those four on your own do you?"

"Honestly, yes I could, but I will call for back up. The leader is a mercenary that we have been trying to get charges on, but he is a sneaky sucker. I think failure to listen to the guardian of the Royal Princess is a nice charge that will keep." Bailey opened the door as the cool night air hit her face and she took a deep breath. "Now you to go to the transport. I will be there in a few minutes."

"I really don't want to leave you." Parker said softly.

Bailey shrugged. "This is what I do. I am here to protect you and this country and that man is a risk that needs to be taken out."

"Let the little bitch go and get her brains smashed in." Lynne stated as she checked her watch. "This night is lost and it would be great to see you get your face smashed in."

"The only reason I didn't break your arm when you hit me earlier was because you too are under my protection since you are with the princess." Bailey stepped so close to Lynne that she could smell her expensive perfume. "Just so you know. It won't happen again. I will take you down."

"Bitch," Lynne spat before she turned towards the transport.

"Go to the transport Princess Parker. I will only be a few minutes." Bailey waited until the Princess and her annoying friend was safe inside. "Okay now to call some back up." She lifted the small communication device and talked briefly. "Okay now to take care of some trash."

Parker stood and looked out one of the windows of the transport. She watched Bailey talk into her communicator and then walk to the alley that the four men were waiting. "I can't let her go in there by herself."

"You aren't going out there." Lynne stopped Parker from opening up the door. "She told you that this is her job. So let her do it."

Parker tugged her hand out of Lynne's grasp. "It maybe her job, but damn it she doesn't have to get her assed kicked."

"Maybe it will teach her a lesson." Lynne stated coldly.

Parker's insides were jumping. She knew that her and Bailey hadn't gotten along and knew that it was mostly due to her attitude towards having to be watched every second. "You can stay here if you want. I am going out there and see if I can help."

"Fine," Lynne stomped over to a seat and sat down. "I'll just wait here."

Parker hit the button to get the transporter door to swoosh open. She slowly made her way over to the alley where Bailey walked to just a few minutes ago.

Bailey stood there with her hands on her hips waiting for the first one to make his move. She didn't have to wait long as a scuff of a heel caught her attention and she ducked a fist. She brought her leg up and out and caught the leader Toby in the stomach and then used her fist to break the man's nose. She followed up with her elbow breaking the man's jaw.

"You fucking cunt. That is my brother." One of the other men yelled as he bent over picking up a piece of board that had nails sticking out at one end. "I am going to ram this up your ass."

"You can sure try, but I doubt you will." Bailey replied as she blocked the swinging board with her right arm and grabbed the man's wrist with the left.

The man dropped the board as his entire hand went numb. The intense pain that shot up his arm dropped him to his knees. He looked at his two friends that stood there. "Will you two help me."

The two didn't wait long. They both went at Bailey and tackled her and their friend hoping that would break the small woman's grip on their friend's wrist.

"Let him go you bitch." One yelled as his fist connected with the side of Bailey's face.

Bailey used her feet and kicked one of the men off her; he went flying against the wall landing on a box filled with now broken bottles.

"This will do," the man mumbled as he picked up a large piece of glass and stumbled to Bailey who now had her back towards him fighting the other two.

Bailey swung at Toby clipping him in the chin as she felt a searing in her side. She flipped around and stopped another swipe of the glass. "You asshole." She yelled as she grabbed the man's wrist and flipped him into the others. She stood there on wobbly legs holding her hand to her side. She could feel the warm trickle of blood ooze between her fingers.

She looked up when a bright light lit up the area. "This is the Police. Stay where you are and don't move."

Bailey took a deep breath in and let it out slowly. She was getting light headed and was glad she didn't have to fight these guys anymore. It wasn't a long fight but since she hasn't been out in battle she lost some of her stamina. "Gonna have to work out more." She muttered out loud as she watched several armed men slip down ropes to take the four mercenaries into custody.

"You okay Captain?" One of them men asked as he walked closer to Bailey.

"I am alright private. Go on and take those men out of here and make sure you let the General know that one is Toby the mercenary."

"Yes, ma'am." The Private saluted her.

"Bullshit, you are not alright." Parker said through clenched teeth. "I saw you get cut by that one guy."

Bailey lowered her head and turned towards the Princess. "I told you to go to the transport."

"I don't give a shit what you told me." Parker replied as she walked closer to Bailey. "Let me see." She pointed toward Bailey's side.

"No need. I am fine." Bailey started to walk past Parker but was stopped by Parker's hand on her shoulder. She looked down at the hand then turned cold green eyes to stare at Parker's soft blue. "Get your hands off of me."

Parker quickly moved her hand as if it was burnt. "You really are a bitch aren't you. I just want to help you."

"I don't need your help or anyone else's help. I can take care of myself." Bailey spat out as she stormed past the tall woman. She made it around the corner of the building before she collapsed to her knees. The blood from her cut seeped through her shirt and now covered her entire hand. "Damn it." She pushed herself up as she took a deep breath. She looked around and caught a glimpse of Parker watching the commotion with the mercenaries. "You coming Princess."

Parker heard Bailey and turned her head slightly but didn't take her eyes off of the men. One looked right at her and smiled then winked. "Animals."

"Princess now would be a great time to leave." Bailey shouted as she stood there watching Parker.

Parker turned quickly and headed towards the transporter. She didn't notice the way Bailey stumbled after her or the small trail of blood.

****************************************
The landing of the transporter wasn't the easiest landing Bailey felt. She cringed when the landing equipment bounced a couple of times before it came to a stop.

Parker watched as Bailey's face twisted in pain. She knew that the guardian was hurt worse than she was letting on and planned on getting Ann. "If anyone can get someone to sit still and get checked out that would be her."

Lynne smiled at the hurt guardian. "Looks like you bit off more than you could chew."

Bailey opened her eyes and glared at the woman. She didn't have the breath or the strength to give a reply.

"You are so full of shit. Why don't you go back to where you came from and get a real guardian to protect the Princess." Lynne unbuckled her belt and stood up she walked over to Bailey and looked down at her. "You're so not cut out for this kind of work."

Bailey used both her hands to unbuckle the buckle smearing blood all over the silver metal. "You know what? Someone needs to teach you to keep your big mouth shut."

"Like you could little girl." Lynne shoved Bailey back in her chair.

Bailey kicked Lynne in the crotch. When the tall woman bent over Bailey's bloody fist connected with her jaw sending the blonde sprawling back against the hull of the transporter. "Don't call me little girl."

"Would you two stop it." Parker yelled as she squatted next to her friend. "Did you have to hit her?"

"No, but it sure in the hell felt good to shut her fucking mouth." Bailey stood on wobbly legs and walked to the door. She pushed the button and waited for the door to swoosh open. "Just wave some smelling salts under her nose and she will be fine. I am going back to your apartment so I can get ready for bed."

"What do you mean my apartment?" Parker asked as she lightly slapped Lynne on the check.

"I guess I forgot to tell you I will be staying in your apartment or rooms or whatever you want to call it." Bailey informed the kneeling woman before she turned around and headed down the hall.

Parker stared at Bailey's retreating back. "If she thinks she is staying at my place she is nuts."

****************************************

Parker waited until she knew Lynne was okay before she headed towards her own home. She was exhausted from the evening's events and just wanted to crawl in her bed and forget everything. The sight of a small trail of blood made her groan. "How could I have forgotten she was hurt."

The tall brunette followed the red stains to the bathroom. The tan door was closed but she could see the light was on. She knocked and waited a few minutes. When she didn't hear a reply she slowly opened the door and peered inside. The sight of the small blonde guardian sitting on the toilet lid sound asleep broke Parker's heart.

Parker turned quickly and walked over to the intercom. She buzzed Ann's room and asked her to come to her room that she needed help. As she waited she gathered some towels and a large bowl of warm water and set them in the extra bedroom where Bailey would be staying. She looked in on Bailey every time she passed the opened bathroom door. The swooshing of the door made her turn around and head down the hall.

"Ann?" Parker called out.

"Yes, Princess it is me." Ann stood by the door. "What do you need?"

"It's Bailey she got hurt tonight and I need your help." Parker guided Ann down the hall and pointed at the still sleeping guardian. "She got cut during a fight. She said it wasn't that bad, but I know it is."

"My goodness look at all that blood. You should have called a doctor." Ann stormed into the bathroom and tried to look at Bailey's side. "I can't do it in here. We need to move her to a bed."

"I have set up the extra bedroom for her." Parker replied as she helped Ann pick up Bailey's limp body.

"What was she cut with?" Ann asked as the three stumbled down the hall.

Parker sighed. "She was cut by a large piece of glass."

Ann nodded her head and waited for Parker to fill her in on what had happened.

"You know Princess you should have listen to her. She is here to protect to and keep you out of harms way." Ann stated as they laid Bailey down on the bed. "What would you have done if those men had caught you as she was fighting them?"

"They didn't even know I was there or who I was." Parker grabbed ahold of Bailey's legs and put them up in the bed. She untied the black boots and slid them off. Next she removed the white socks and started to undo the belt buckle and finish pulling Bailey's shirt off..

"Let me do that. I don't think she would want you to see her." Ann said as she stopped Parker's hands from progressing any further. "It doesn't matter if those men knew who you were. They could have used you against her. You may not really care about anyone but yourself and your family, but I have heard a lot about this woman lying here."

"I care about others besides my family and myself." Parker sat on the edge of the bed. "It's just she pisses me off so much."

"Do you have any idea who this really is?" Ann asked as she picked up Bailey's shirt but not taking it off.

"It's Captain Bailey Cooper. She has all kinds of awards and medals. And for some reason she was sent to work in the kitchen because she was being punished." Parker answered as she looked away from the nasty cut Ann was cleaning.

"Well you have got the basics." Ann looked closer at the cut. "Damn it, a large piece of glass is still in there."

"I know. Tried to get it out but hurt too bad." Bailey mumbled as her eyes fluttered open.

"I want you to lay still. I am going to call the doctor." Ann stood up as she dropped the wet bloody towel away.

"No, I don't want to go to the hospital." Bailey said as she tried to sit up.

Hush," Ann put her hands on Bailey's shoulders and held her down. "I'm just going to call the doctor not the hospital." She looked into scared green eyes and smiled. "I promise no hospitals."

Bailey relaxed a little. "Promise?"

"Yes, I promise." Ann caressed Bailey's cheek before she headed out of the room.

Parker stood there wondering what was going on and why Bailey panicked when she thought she was going to the hospital.

****************************************

Parker paced her living room. She would take fives steps one way and five steps the other way. She wondered what was going on in her guest bedroom since Bailey had asked that she leave when the doctor arrived. Plus she wondered why Bailey was scared of the hospital and what Ann meant about just having the basics about Bailey.

"What more do I need to know. I saw her record and all the awards and whatever she has won." Parker said out loud.

"It's the medals that she has won that haunt her still and will more than likely haunt her until she dies." Ann stated as she walked into the room and sat on the couch. "She is going to be fine the doctor is putting the finishing touches on her wound."

"What do you mean haunt her?" Parker sat next to the older woman. "Please tell me what is going on."

"Okay, but you have to promise that you won't use what I am about to give you against her. She has been through enough in her life that she doesn't need you on her back." Ann leaned back and took in a deep breath.

"I guess I deserve that. I am not the most trusted person." Parker rubbed her face with her hands. "I swear not to do or say anything that would hurt her."

"I believe you." Ann patted the Princess's strong back. "Okay about two years ago when the war with the Borealis really started to kick in a group of our military were captured. They were tortured and killed."

"I remember that. We had a ceremony for the ones that returned." Parker nodded her head.

"We did, but one person wasn't there to enjoy it." Ann turned her head and looked towards the hallway. "Bailey was hurt so bad that they weren't sure she would survive. The Borealis beat her worse than any other member in her group."

"How do you know this?" Parker asked shocked at what she was hearing.

"My sister is a nurse at the hospital. She would tell me about her progress." Ann confessed. "You know the picture of the soldier that was put up on all the news."

"Which one?" Parker asked. "There had been so many since this war had begun."

"The one of the captive one their knees with their arms spread out and tied to a board. The face unrecognizable." Ann answered.

Parker remembered that scene. She thought it was the most horrendous sight she had ever seen. She remembered the way the sun hit the head full of dirty blonde hair. She looked over at Ann with tears running down her face. "No."

"Yes," Ann nodded slowly. "That was Bailey."

"How did she survive?" Parker asked as she wiped the tears off her face with her fingers. "No one could have survived that."

"It takes someone with a strong will to survive." Ann laughed. "Plus she is a very stubborn woman."

Parker laughed out loud. "Yes she is that."

The two looked up as the doctor walked into the room.

"How is she Doctor?" Parker asked as she walked to the man.

The doctor bowed slightly. "She will be fine. Just have her rest tomorrow and the bandage I put on should dissolve and bind the skin nicely."

"Thank you for coming out this late at night Doctor." Ann showed the tired man to the door.

"Please call if the wound looks infected, but I doubt it will. I cleaned it really well." He said as he stepped out of the room.

"We will thank you again." Ann waited until the man started to head down the hall before she closed the door. She took a long tired breath and looked at the princess. "Why don't you go to bed. I will stay up with Bailey to make sure she is alright."

"No, I really want to stay with her. Why don't you take my bed and get some sleep. I will let the kitchen know that you will not be in, in the morning." Parker wrapped her arm around the woman's shoulder. "Thank you for all your help."

Ann stopped and looked deep into the Princesses eyes. "Something has changed in you."

"What do you mean?" Parker asked confused.

Ann cupped the side of Parker's face with one hand. "Since I saw you yesterday morning and to now you are a little bit different."

"You are just tired." Parker patted the hand on her face.

Ann shook her head. "No, something has happened here." She pointed to Parker's heart.

"Go to bed you are talking rubbish." Parker gave Ann a gentle shove.

Ann laughed softly. "For some reason the woman in there has gotten to you."

"Bull, the only thing that woman has done is piss me off and slug my best friend." Parker stated as she put her hands on her hips.

"Sure she might have done all that, but I saw how concerned you were for her when I came in. You usually only save that side of yourself for your family." Ann remarked before she walked into the bedroom and closed the door.

"She is nuts." Parker shook her head and headed for the spare room where Bailey laid sleeping.

****************************************

The smell of blood and decay filled Bailey senses. The groans and moans of men she thought of as family filled her head. Screams of terror made her sit up and look around into the vast darkness of the room she was held in.

Parker nearly fell on the floor when Bailey sat up looking around. She quickly turned on the bedside lamp. The sight of Bailey looking around not really seeing anything caused a shiver to run down her spine. She stepped closer to calm the frightened woman down, but arms flung out and kept her away.

Bailey saw some sort of movement when a light flickered on. Not seeing who it was but knowing that is couldn't be anything good she fought the touch that she knew was coming. She didn't want to go back to the chamber and it's horrid images.

Parker stepped back and waited until Bailey put her arms down. Not really knowing how to proceed she started to talk. "Bailey, you need to calm down. No one is going to hurt you here. You are safe and protected. Let me help you."

Bailey heard a soft voice just at the edge of her conscious mind. She tried to fight her way towards the sounds but the dark forces of evil fought her and kept her where she didn't want to be. She wanted to be with the voice.

Parker notice that Bailey calmed down for a second but it didn't last. She wrapped her arms around Bailey's arms and held on as she whispered. "You are safe."

Bailey trashed and fought her captors with all she had. She didn't want to go through the torture again and would die trying to escape. The sweet sound of the voice filled her head once again. She stopped to try to figure out where it was coming from so she could run to it when she escaped.

"Listen, you need to calm down. You are safe." Parker whispered to the now quiet woman. "Just open your eyes and look around."

Bailey didn't want to but the voice was kind and soft so she slowly opened her eyes. The soft light from the lamp on the table made her blink and refocus. The slight movement of something dark caught her attention and nearly made her jump back until she realized it was dark silky hair. She took a deep breath and entwined the dark strands around her finger.

Parker felt the soft touch but just sat there to give Bailey a chance to get herself back to where she felt comfortable.

Several minutes passed with not one movement other than the breathing of two bodies.

****************************************

Ann opened the door and stuck her head in. The sight of the two figures huddled together made the older woman smile. She knew that she wasn't seeing things when it came to the slight difference in the actions of the Princess. She could also see a spark of something. What exactly that was she wasn't totally sure of, but she had a suspicion.

****************************************

Bailey gasped when she tried to roll over. The pain in her side was bearable, but the needle pricking feeling in her arm hurt. She tried to move her arm, but a solid weight kept it pinned to the mattress. She opened her eyes and the sight of the princess so close to her made her heart do double time.

Bailey brought her free hand up and moved the soft shiny hair away from the sleeping angelic face. She traced the sleeping beauties face with her eyes. Flawless skin that looked like it would feel like silk. Unable to resist she ran a finger across Parker's cheek and over dark eyebrows.

Soft pink lips parted ever so slightly as a small breath of air rushed out and then back in. A small smile formed as Bailey continued her soft caress. Knowing what she was doing was not right she dropped her hand on her side, but she didn't take her eyes off the Princess.

****************************************

Parker could feel someone watching her as she slowly woke up. Not sure who it was she cautiously opened one eye just enough to peek through her lashes. The bright green eyes that stared at her face took her breath away. She opened both her eyes all they way and waited to see what would happen next.

Bailey didn't stop to think what she was doing as she moved the few inches and placed her lips against Parker's. The both felt the shock and pulled back.

"What are you doing?" Parker asked as she sat up running her fingers over her lips.

Bailey blinked her eyes; "I have no clue."

"Well I could tell that." Parker shot out trying to get her heart calmed down. "Don't ever do that again."

"Don't worry I won't. Must have mistaken you for someone else." Bailey tossed the covers off her body and stood up on wobbly legs.

"Where do you think you are going?" Parker asked as she got up off the bed.

Bailey closed her eyes and hoped that the room would stop spinning.

Parker waited for an answer. When wasn't given she stormed over to the door. "I can't believe I sat up with you to make sure you were okay."

"Hey, I didn't need your help." Bailey shouted at the princess. "I can take care of myself thank you very much." She grabbed her clothes off the end of the bed and dressed quickly.

"Right, that is why you were bleeding all over my bathroom when you were out cold." Parker snapped. "Next time make sure you bleed where I can't see it. I have better things to do with my time than deal with you."

"Well, fuck you too. Maybe I should let some asshole get a hold of you and see how you like it." Bailey stormed past Parker and down the hall.

"You'd like that too much." Parker followed Bailey to the front room. "You would get your freaking jollies seeing me used like that."

Bailey turned to face Parker with tears running down her face. "No I wouldn't and I am sorry I said that. No one should ever have to deal with that."

Parker gasped at the lost look in Bailey's eyes as she spoke. Then she remembered what Ann told her about Bailey's experiences and knew she had stepped over a line that should never have been crossed.

"Do you have any plans for this morning?" Bailey asked softly.

Parker shook her head.

"If something comes up and you need to go. Call the General and let him know that I can't go with you. Otherwise I will be back this afternoon." Bailey turned and walked out. Leaving a stunned Parker standing there with her mouth open.

"Well maybe you haven't changed." Ann stated as she walked out of the kitchen.

Parker didn't answer. She turned and headed back to her room.

****************************************

"You look like shit." Cochran said after Bailey walked into his office.

Bailey took a seat in the corner of the room and sat there staring at the floor. She knew that Chris wouldn't bug her too much until she was ready to talk.

Chris Cochran watched his friend sit silently in the corner. She looked like a small-lost child looking for answers. He knew that those answers he couldn't give to her. They were locked in the darkness of her own soul.

****************************************

After a few hours of silence Chris almost forgot Bailey was there. The sound of the chair she sat in scraping across the floor brought his eyes up to the now coherent woman. "So you want to tell me what is going on?"

"Just had a bad morning." Bailey answered as she rested her elbows on the edge of his desk. "The Princess and I so aren't getting along. She is a snotty bitch that needs to get a spanking."

"Well that is an image." Chris smirked.

Bailey rested her head in her palm and looked over at her friend. "Have you ever wanted to hurt someone so bad one minute and then in the next want to kiss her?"

"Yes," Chris replied as he grabbed a photograph of him and a woman. "Her."

Bailey nodded as she looked at the photo of Chris and his wife Lisa. "Well, I should be going now. The princess might need someone to hold her hand while she walks across the street."

"Bailey." Chris stood up and stepped around his desk to stand next to his friend. "Remember Lisa and I are here for you if you need to talk."

"I know." Bailey lowered her head. "I just need to do this on my own."

"That's just it. You aren't alone. You have us." Chris wrapped his arms around Bailey and gave her a hug. "We love you."

"Same goes for me." Bailey took a deep breath. "I really need to go."

"Okay, how about you come over for dinner real soon." Chris stepped back from the friendly embrace. "I know Lisa would love to see you."

"Sounds good. Let me see what her bitchiness has planned and I will call you." Bailey slapped Chris on the arm and headed for the door. "Thanks buddy."

"Welcome," Chris waved. "Anytime."

****************************************

"How are you today sweetheart?" Aaron asked when he saw his daughter walking down the hallway towards her transport.

"Hi, Dad. I am good." Parker stopped in front of her father and gave him a hug. "What are you doing today?"

"Well you know the usual." King Lakewood kissed his daughter on each cheek. "Where is your shadow?"

"My shadow?" Parker asked confused.

Aaron looked back towards Parker's apartment. "The little blonde Captain."

"Oh, her. She went somewhere." The Princess sighed. "She said she would be back later."

Aaron tried to read the emotions that ran across his eldest daughter's face. "What's going on? And why are you leaving without an escort?"

"I can go out without a guardian once in awhile." Parker mumbled. "I'm an adult."

"You may be an adult, but you are still the Princess of this country that just happens to be at war with a very ruthless enemy. If they get their hands on you or your sister?." The King stopped talking and looked into his daughter misty eyes. "I couldn't bare losing you."

"I know Dad. I am sorry." Parker hugged her father. She relished in the strong arms that surrounded her body. "I will wait for Captain Cooper to get back."

"Thank you, dear." Aaron whispered before he kissed his daughter's dark crown of hair. "How about dinner with your Mom and me tonight?"

"Sure," Parker kissed Aaron's cheek before she stepped back. "I will be there around seven."

"Great, your mother will be so happy." The king smiled as he brushed a strand of hair out of eyes that matched his own.

****************************************

Bailey took a deep breath and swiped her card key to let herself in the Princess's apartment.

"How did you get in here without anyone opening the door?" Lynne asked as she sat up from the couch. A deep purple bruise across her face stood out against her fair skin.

Bailey ignored her and walked to her room. She passed Parker who walked out of her bedroom.

"Captain Cooper," Parker called to Bailey before she closed the door.

"What?" Bailey sighed as she looked into concerned blue eyes.

Parker stepped closer to the half way closed door. "I wanted to say I was sorry for the way I acted this morning."

"It's in the past." Bailey said as she shut the door a little bit more.

"Wait, I am going over to my parents for dinner." Parker rushed out hoping that Bailey would open the door wider so she could get a good look at Bailey's face.

Bailey straightened her shoulders. "What time are you supposed to be there?"

"Seven is when dinner is, but I would like to get there a little bit earlier." The princess looked at her fingernails. "We plan on leaving around five thirty."

"Okay, I will be ready." Bailey answered and shut the door.

Parker stared at the grain in the door unsure of why her heart broke at the lost look in Bailey's eyes she caught as the door shut.

****************************************

Lynne watched as Parker silently walked into the living room and sat on the couch. "What's going on?"

Parker looked up at her. "What do you mean?"

"Ever since that bitch has been here you have been acting different." Lynne stated as she pointed towards the hallway.

"You're nuts." Parker crossed her feet at the ankles as she leaned back and placed her hands on her stomach.

"Am I?" Lynne asked. "You would have never cared if one of your guardians went out to bash someone's head in. In fact you would have continued partying without a care in the world."

"That's bull," Parker snorted with amusement hoping she could fool her friend. "I was just curious what would happen to the little Captain against those four rather large men."

Lynne looked past the front Parker had tossed up and stared at her for several quiet minutes. "She has some how gotten to you. You just don't realize it yet."

"What have you been drinking? Bailey has not gotten to me. I barely know her." Parker laughed. "She is just some military guardian, who means absolutely nothing to me what so ever."

"Keep on trying to convince yourself and one day you might believe that. You feel something for her and you may not realize it yet, but she will be your downfall. Her type doesn't belong with our type." Lynne stood up. "I really don't feel like going to dinner anymore. I will call you tomorrow."

"You are wrong." Parker replied softly.

"I don't think I am. I just hope you come to your senses before you lower yourself to a level that you are not accustomed too."

Parker sat there as her friend closed the door. The room was completely silent except for the ticking of the clock on the wall. Unable to stop her mind from replaying over and over what Lynne had said she sat up and groaned as she rubbed both her hands over her face. "She is so wrong and I will show her."

****************************************

"Hello, honey." Queen Victoria Lakewood smiled as she hugged her daughter close to her. "It has been way too long since you have come to visit."

"I am sorry Mom, but I have been busy." Parker gave her mom a kiss on the cheek and stepped back. "Where is Dad?"

"Right here." Aaron said as he walked into the hallway. "Look who I found."

Parker turned and a big smile formed across her face. "Grandma, when did you get home from your vacation?"

The Queen Mother let go of her son's arm and waddled over to give Parker a hug. Even though she was eighty-seven years old she didn't let that stop her from doing the things she loved to do. "Look at you. I swear you get prettier and prettier ever time I see you."

"You are a nut Grandma. I look the same way I did when you left." Parker shook her head. "When did you get back?"

Grandma Rose looked up into clear blue eyes. She saw a spark that wasn't there when she left. Knowing now wasn't the time to bring it up she took a deep breath and started her tale of her month long vacation chasing young men around in small swimming suits.

Bailey stood back and let the family get acquainted again. She saw the love and devotion in each person's face as they talked and laughed. The scene made her miss her family and it reminded her that when she had a chance she needed to call them.

"Why don't we take this into the family room. That way we can all sit down and talk." Aaron held out his hand for his wife to take and Parker held onto her Grandma who was still telling her tale.

Bailey followed silently hoping she could continue to be invisible to the royal family, but that wasn't to be as she stepped into the family room and the Queen Mother spotted her.

"Who are you dear?" Rose knew that the young lady was a guardian, but always liked to tease the young military escorts that were constantly around.

"Your Majesty I am your Granddaughter Guardian, Captain Bailey Cooper." Bailey bowed respectably to the older woman.

Rose walked over to her and circled her. "You are kinda small to be protecting my Granddaughter." She teased.

Bailey knew about the older woman's antic to tease soldiers when she got the chance, but wanting to make sure that she was not here to be teased she replied seriously. "I assure you, she is in the best capable hands. Nothing will ever happen to her as long as I am around." Bailey looked straight at Rose, then lowered her head. "I swear on my life, that I will die first."

Rose knew that the guardians were trained to put their lives in danger for the royal family and their country, but the look she got from Bailey when she made her statement went deeper than even Bailey knew. "Let's just hope you never get into a situation where you have to test that."

"I hope as well, Your Highness." Bailey continued to have her head lowered.

The older Royal looked at Bailey for a few silent seconds before she walked over to Parker. She wrapped her arm around her tall granddaughter's waist. "I like her, don't be a pain in the butt to this one like you are to all the rest of them."

"I am not a pain in the butt." Parker stopped and looked down at her Grandmother. "How could you say that?"

"Cause it is true and you know it." Rose patted Parker's stomach. "I totally understand honey. No need to get all huffy about it. You just don't want anyone close to you."

"What do you mean?" Parker asked getting a little upset with her Grandmother.

"Dear, ever since you and what's her name broke up you have been?how do I say this?a bitch." Rose looked up into her granddaughter's face. She knew that she hit a sore spot, but it was about time that everyone stopped pussy footing around her. It was time to get the sweet granddaughter she knew and loved back.

"I have not been a bitch." Parker whispered softly. She was not about to yell at her favorite person in the whole world.

"Not directly to your family, no, but to others you have and I know that is not like you." Rose took a deep breath. "But my dear, think of how you have treated people since the break up and how you treated them before she even entered the picture."

Parker closed her eyes. She wanted to run and hide, but she would never do that to her Grandmother. She slowly opened them and looked down into concerned grayish old eyes that knew her since the time she took her first breath.

Rose saw the battle of emotions as Parker tried to calm herself down. She knew that the bitch had done something to cause her beloved Granddaughter to become who she was. Rose just hoped it wasn't too late to change her back to the carefree loving person she knew and cherished.

The oldest Royal noticed a slight movement out of the corner of her eye. She turned her head just enough to get a glimpse of Bailey watching with concern written all over her face. When green eyes looked at her she gave Bailey a small smile. She caught Bailey's little nod before she returned her gaze to Parker. "Why don't you and I talk some more after dinner."

Parker nodded her head and headed towards the dinning room. "I would like that Grandmother."

****************************************

After dinner everyone sat around the table talking. Bailey who declined a seat at the table stood by the door watching and listening. The laughter made her miss her family even more than usual. The smiles and love they all shared warmed her heart though and she was glad they had a kind and loving Royal family.

"Captain Cooper?" Rose stood up and looked over at the guardian.

Bailey bowed her head. "Yes, Ma'am."

"I would like to talk with my Granddaughter alone for awhile. Why don't you go into the kitchen and get something to eat."

"Thank you Ma'am. I would like that." Bailey waited until the family left the room before she headed towards the door that the kitchen staff would enter and leave through.

****************************************

"What can I get for you Guardian?" A tall man that looked like he would fall over if a big gust of wind hit him just right asked.

"I was sent to get something to eat." Bailey replied as she watched all the people doing various things in the huge kitchen.

"Something to eat. For who? The Royal family just ate." The man stated as he wiped his hands on a white towel he plucked from his back pocket.

"It's not for them it's for me." Bailey stepped out of the way of a teenager who rushed by with arms loaded with dishes. "Just a sandwich would be good. Just point me in the direction where you keep the stuff and I will handle it myself."

"Do you really think I would let just anyone muck around my kitchen?" The man put his hands on his hips. "I will show you where everything is, but I will make it for you."

"You don't need to do that. I can do it on my own." Bailey replied.

"Follow me," He walked through a door that Bailey didn't notice. He pointed to a chair and table. "Sit, I will get you something to eat."

"But?" Bailey mumbled, but knew it was no use to go on as the man was already digging in one of the huge refrigerators that lined a wall. "Okay, thanks."

"By the way my name is Ralph," The man stated as he continued to look for something to make Bailey.

"I'm Bailey." She answered.

Ralph stood up with his arms loaded with an assortment of food. "You said a sandwich right?"

"Yes, but you don't have to go through any trouble." Bailey stood up and helped Ralph unload his arms.

"No trouble. Just sit." Ralph motioned with his head. "Now, what kind of bread do you want?"

"White is good." Bailey pointed to a loaf of bread on the counter. "Let me get it." She said as she stood up and walked over before Ralph could argue with her.

"You don't listen very well do you?" Ralph pointed at Bailey with a knife.

Bailey walked over to her seat and shook her head. "Nope."

"Good, I like people like that." Ralph slapped Bailey on the back. "Now tell me who are the guardian for?"

"Princess Parker." Bailey sighed.

Ralph put the knife down and looked at Bailey. "I know you have a tough assignment, but trust this old cook."

"Trust you with what?" Bailey asked as she swiped a piece of meat off the counter.

"Princess Parker may not be the nicest person in the world, but she used to be. Her kindness was used against her and she now hides behind that cruel exterior she puts off." Ralph grabbed a plate that was sitting on the table and placed the large sandwich on it. "Here eat up."

"Thanks, and what do you mean her kindness was used against her?" Bailey asked before she took a bite.

Ralph looked into Bailey's eyes. He knew that Bailey wouldn't use what he was about to tell her against the princess. "She had a girlfriend that she was totally devoted too. She treated her like a queen. Gave her everything and anything she wanted. Christine was and still is the biggest bitch around."

"What happened?" Bailey questioned as she continued to eat.

Ralph went on to tell her how Christine used Parker's statues to get other people to sleep with her. Plus she would degrade Parker behind her back and spend money like crazy. Parker was oblivious of this fact until she caught Christine in bed with two other women in their bed. Parker's attitude changed from that moment on. The only people she was ever nice to was her family and the children she would go visit at the hospital.

Bailey sat there and listened to Ralph go on and on. The news brought the Princess into a different light. Her bitchy and mean attitude now had a reason. She would try not to be so mouthy and obnoxious with the Princess and maybe they could get along better. It would be better for her and Parker since they would be spending so much time together.

Bailey was just about done with her sandwich when a large explosion rocked the entire Palace.

"What in the hell was that?" Ralph asked as he followed Bailey who was already moving towards the door.

"No, clue." Bailey yelled as she ran through the kitchen pushing people out of her way.

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Parker looked over at her Grandmother who was sipping a glass of cold water. She felt bad cause she knew everything her Grandmother has said since they started talking was true. Her attitude towards people was atrocious.

"Grandma what should I do?" Parker asked with concern in her voice. "I don't like feeling this way and having you point it out makes me feel even worse."

"Well my dear, I would try my best to give every single person on this planet the respect they need and deserve. You want the people to look up to you and cherish you. Not despise you and hate the fact that one day you will rule this land." Rose sat her cup down. "Sweetheart, you need to listen to your heart."

"My heart is what got me into this mess." Parker wiped off a tear that escaped her closed eyelids.

"I know, but it is time to heal and bring a new love into your heart. Just remember that you should listen to your heart and also your head. Together they will not lead you the wrong way." Rose cupped the beautiful face in front of her. "Sure they will fight every once in awhile, but when the right one appears, and she will. Your heart will sing and your mind will melt."

Parker opened her eyes at the truth she was hearing. She gave a slight nod and smiled. "I will do my best."

"Good that is all I ask for." Rose leaned back against the couch cushion. "So tell me about your new guardian."

"Not much to tell. She is rude, obnoxious and I can't stand her being around." Parker crossed her arms over her chest and pouted. "What more is there to say?"

"What more is there to say indeed." Rose mumbled as she caught the twinkle return just for a second when Parker spoke of the small military woman.

Parker was just about to question her Grandmother when all hell broke loose. The two large windows at the other side of the room shattered into millions of glass shards. A burst of flames engulfed the room as dark smoke danced up to the ceiling.

The couch Parker and Rose were sitting on flipped over from the force of the explosion tossing the two women up and over onto the floor.

"Grandma?" Parker yelled after she caught her breath. She started to crawl on her knees using her hands as a guide. She bumped into a still figure that she knew was her Grandmother since they were the only two in the room. "Grandma, can you hear me?"

"I hear you." Rose replied with a cough. "What in the hell happened?"

"Explosion just outside. We need to get out of here before the smoke gets too thick." Parker stood up then reached down and grabbed the older woman's hand helping her to stand up.

"We better hurry, cause I don't think it is the smoke that is gonna get us." Rose said as she stood up. "Look."

Parker turned her head and squinted her eyes. When what her Grandmother had seen appeared the breath left Parker's lungs.

"Move it," Rose tugged on Parker's hand.

Parker quickly followed. They both stumbled and tripped out of the room. The sounds of fighting reached their ears as the closed the door.

"I cannot believe the Borealis have the nerve to attack us here." Rose shouted as the noise grew.

The two made their way down the hallway towards the back of the palace.

"I hope Mom and Dad are okay." Parker yelled as another explosion rocked the foundation of the building.

"I bet they are already safe." Rose said as she rounded a corner running right into a solid body. "Damn."

"Sorry, thank God you are safe. This way." Bailey grabbed hold of Parker's loose hand. "An escape transport is waiting out back. I ran into the King and Queen. They are waiting for you two."

"Let's go then." Rose motioned with her free hand down towards the way Bailey had come.

The three were just about half way to the kitchen door when all hell broke loose. The three hit the floor with Bailey laying her body over as much of the two women as she could. Laser fire filled the hallway as the Borealis fired their weapon as they ran down the hall towards the three women.

"When I tell you two get up. I want you to get up as fast as you can and run to the door. The transport is waiting." Bailey yelled as she looked down the hall and watched it fill up with ugly lizard looking men. "Damn, they are still as ugly as I remember them."

"What?" Parker looked up and past Bailey. "Oh fuck."

"You two get ready." Bailey waited as she reached into her holster and pulled out her own laser gun. "On the count of three you two move it. Don't turn back. Just go."

"What about you?" Parker asked as she grabbed a hold of her Grandmother's arm.

Bailey looked directly into. "Who cares as long as you two are safe."

Parker wasn't going to take that as an answer. "Either you come with us or we stay with you."

"Damn it, I don't have time to argue with you." Bailey stated as she fired several times at the enemy.

Parker sat up and helped her Grandmother up. "That's right so shut up and get us out of here."

Bailey stood up and used her free hand to help Parker with Rose. She never stopped firing down the hall as she held onto Parker's hand making sure that she never lost contact with the tall Princess. She took a quick glance over her shoulder and smiled when Rose passed through the kitchen door. "Hurry, they are getting way too close."

"I'm going as fast as I can." Parker yelled as she ran following her Grandma.

Bailey nodded as she fired several shots and hurriedly closed the door. "That door over there." She pointed to a back door where yelling could be heard. "Come on your Highness, your chariot awaits."

"You don't need to tell me twice." Rose moved as fast as her old body would allow. The sound of pounding on the door as she reached the back door made her stop. "Is that door going to hold?"

"Not for long." Bailey shoved the two out the door and into the lights of a transporter's spotlight. "Get in there." She ordered when the door slid open and a Royal guard rushed out to help.

Bailey watched for a few seconds as she watched Parker and her Grandmother run up the small ramp and through the doorway. She heard the door in the kitchen shatter as the Borealis broke through the wooden obstacle. "Shit, someone needs to stop them."

"Captain Cooper get your ass in here now." Parker shouted when she stuck her head out the door. "You can't do anything against that many."

"Damn it," Bailey shouted at the night sky before she ran up the ramp and into the transporter. She gave one last look as the door closed. "One day I will get even with them." She mumbled softly to herself.

"One day you will, but not today." Parker said as she put a hand on Bailey's shoulder. "Their time to fall will come and I have a good feeling that you will be at the head of that."

Bailey turned to look into sincere blue eyes. She didn't see anger or hatred. Just honesty and friendship. "Thanks."

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Continued in Part Two?

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