The white wolf glanced around before grumbling deep in his throat.

Ben stopped and stared down at Diefenbaker. "I thought you liked living here seeing as how it was close to your favorite hangouts."

*Grumble*

"Really? I'm sorry to hear that Maggie has moved." He dropped down and squatted before the wolf. Taking Dief's face in hand, he gently spoke, "I can understand why you no longer care to visit the area. I am sorry, Dief." Ben then rose to his feet and waited for some sign from his companion.

Dief continued to sit and glance around the area that had once been his territory. With his nominal mate gone, it no longer felt like home. He looked up at Alpha Male waiting patiently for his decision. Rising to his feet, he woofed softly and headed in the direction of the old consulate. Ben followed behind.

As the duo approached the building that had once housed the consulate but now contained a large brokerage firm, they were greeted with a scene that was all too familiar to them. A few bystanders milled about as a pair of police officers and a forensic team worked near the doors of the building.

Approaching one of the police officers, Ben spoke, "Pardon me, sir, I'm Constable Benton Fraser, Royal Canadian Mounted Police." Waving a hand at the building, he continued, "This building used to be the Canadian Consulate. Has a crime occurred here? I frequently aid the Chicago police force in the performance of their duty."

The policeman eyed the man standing before him--tall, broad-shouldered, wearing a funny looking hat. His eyes narrowed. He'd heard the tales of a Mountie do-gooder that occasionally helped the detectives over at the 2-7. He'd heard the tales but had shaken them off like a bad pipe dream...yet here was a Mountie wanted to help. Rolling the butt of a cigar around to the corner of his mouth, he asked, "You got some kinda ID?"

"Certainly, sir," Ben replied as he removed his Stetson and felt under the band for his RCMP identification card. He handed it to the policeman who scrutinized it before handing it back.

Plucking the cigar from his mouth, the policeman waved it like a baton toward the building. "No big crime just some vandalism." He paused then added in a conspiratorial whisper, "My guess is someun' lost some dough in a trade and decided to take it out on the brokerage firm. It's either that or some crackhead havin' a little fun."

"Do you mind if I take a look?"

The cop studied the Mountie once more. Reaching a decision, he replaced the cigar in his mouth and said, "Nah, go ahead. Just don' touch nuttin'."

"Understood," Ben acceded then approached the doors of the building. The forensic team glared at him briefly before returning to their work.

Ben studied the doors carefully. Someone had used a sharp object, probably a knife, to carve some words into the door.

In addition, someone had spray-painted the words 'Ice Queen' across the span of the double doors in a bright, lurid red.

Ben thought it odd that no one had seen the perpetrator working on the door. It must have taken some time to carve all the words. 'I want what's mine' could perhaps refer to money lost in a bad trade but the phrase 'Ice Queen' had him puzzled. As far as he knew, only Stan Kowalski used that term as a derogatory for Inspector Thatcher. Maybe the perpetrator had a grudge against Kowalski or even the Inspector. That train of thought only made the circumstances and the words on the door even more confusing.

He returned to the policeman to whom he had spoken earlier. "Thank you, kindly," he said as he tipped his hat. The policeman nodded in acknowledgment.

"Well, Dief, shall we continue? Phil is expecting us," Ben asked the wolf. Dief barked sharply and darted off. "Pay and pay and pay..." Ben mumbled as he followed the wolf. The prospect of spending some time with Phil, even if it was to move some furniture, sent thoughts of the vandalism to the back of his mind. Too bad Jeff would also be there.

Casey Sinclair settled the large bag over her shoulder then stuffed her hands into the deep pockets of her down jacket. She tucked her chin into its collar and strode briskly down the steps of her cabin and across the small clearing to the trail that led to the main house. She glanced briefly at the sky judging the weather and sighed. "We should've gone yesterday," she muttered to herself.

Wrapped in a crocheted shawl, Emily waited for her as she climbed the steps to the main house. "Come on in, Casey. Joseph is just..."

"Just putting on my coat," Joseph Hope said as he passed Emily in the door. Planting a kiss on her forehead, he murmured, "I'll call if the weather gets too bad." With a twinkle in his eye, he glanced at Casey. "We should've gone yesterday," he said.

Casey rolled her eyes. "I know, I know," she sighed as she gently shook her head. "We should have gone yesterday but," she hefted her bag, "I just wasn't quite ready to send this to Flo."

Emily spoke once more. "Are you happy with it now?" she asked.

"Not really but I just don't know what to do about it."

Patting Casey on the shoulder, Emily replied, "I wouldn't worry about it, Casey. It will probably be another bestseller."

Casey grinned wryly. "You always say that."

"And I'm always right." Emily smiled cheekily back.

"Let's go, Kiddo, we need to get out of here before we're trapped and your novel has to wait for the weather to clear. Don't look at me like that, girl. You already know that I've got some shopping to do as well. That water pump on the Glade Cabin finally burned out and I've got to get some parts to get that snowmobile working as well. I sure do hate hiking around in this snow with all my tools!" he exclaimed as he gently guided Casey down the steps. Turning once more to Emily, he called, "We'll be back as soon as we can."

Emily drew her shawl closer about her shoulders. "You be careful," she called in return. "I've already called Jonathan to expect you," she said as she waved her hand.

"That woman," Joseph muttered under his breath as he turned back to Casey.

"That woman loves you very much," Casey replied with a hint of humor in her voice.

Joseph winked an eye. "That's why I've kept her so long."

"Does Emily know that?"

"Emily knows everything. It's that Indian blood in her or so she says."

Casey laughed then changed the subject. "Do you think we'll have to spend the night at Uncle Jon's?"

Joseph scanned the lowering sky and nodded his head. "It kind of looks that way. Why? Do you have plans I need to know about?"

Casey stared askance at Joseph. "Not that I know of. I was just kind of hoping to get back here before the next storm hit."

Joseph glanced at the sky once more. "I would too but I'm not holding my breath."

"That's what I thought," Casey sighed then patted her bag. "That's why I packed a change of clothes."

Joseph's face split in a wicked grin. He hefted his bag and said, "Me, too."

Laughing together they headed toward Joseph's helicopter.

"I think that will do," Phil said as she stretched her hands above her head. Dropping her arms to her side, she continued, "I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't volunteered to help me move this stuff!"

Jeff glanced sideways at Ben, then stage whispered to him, "Probably would have moved it herself then complained about it for days!"

Seeing the mischief in Jeff's eyes, Ben replied, "She does have a habit of doing that."

"I heard that!" Phil exclaimed. "I have half a mind not to give you any of this poppy seed pound cake I made."

"But then you would feel guilty about depriving us of some much need nourishment after the labor we have performed for you." Ben replied matter-of-factly.

Phil glowered at him then smiled. "You're right of course. Here, Ben, why don't you cut the cake while I pour us a glass of milk, cup of coffee, tea? What do you boys want?"

"Coffee."

"Tea," Ben replied just as quickly.

"Good 'cause I made both," Phil laughingly replied.

Ben's eyes followed Phil as she turned to remove some cups from the cupboard. There was so much more that he wanted but he could bide his time. Although his relationship with Phil was not what it had once been, he was determined that someday he would regain what he had once lost. He only hoped that that day would come sooner than later. But for now, he was content to share these moments with Phil.

"Daydreaming?" Phil asked as she placed a cup of tea in front of Ben.

"I...uh...I mean," Ben stammered.

"That's okay, Ben, you're human just like the rest of us. Sorry, Dief, I didn't mean to include you in that," Phil spoke to the wolf who had conveniently disappeared when the work began and had reappeared at the prospect of food. "Since, I knew you would be coming with Ben I made something just for you." Phil opened the refrigerator door and pulled out what appeared to be a meat pie. Placing it on the floor, she stepped back letting Dief approach the dish.

"What is that?" Jeff asked after swallowing a sip of coffee.

"It's an old family recipe that I got from Emily Hope. It contains a lot of leftover meat and veges in a thick consommé and covered with a cornmeal crust. She says it's great for animals of the canine persuasion."

Dief sniffed at the pie then glanced at Ben not quite sure if he was really supposed to eat it. Ben nodded his head and Dief dove into the pie. In a matter of minutes, he was finished. Settling back on his haunches he liberally swiped his face with his tongue making sure that no morsel of the pie remained. If he had needed anything to convince him further of the rightness of the Lavender Woman it had to be this pie. Visions of similar concoctions danced in his head as he contemplated life with Alpha Male and the Lavender Woman. Things just couldn't get much better than this.

Finishing up his piece of cake, Jeff rose from his stool. "I gotta go, Phil. I promised I'd be home as soon as we were through."

Phil rose as well. "I understand, Jeff." She opened the refrigerator once more and removed an aluminum swathed package. "Here's another cake to take home to your family," she said as she placed the package on the bar.

Jeff grinned as he drew the package toward himself. "If it gets home," he whispered. Waving at Phil and Ben, he headed toward the door. "I'll see myself out, Phil. It was great meeting you, Ben."

After Jeff had gone, Ben turned to Phil. "I can see why you like him so much. He seems to be a great person."

"He is and his family is just as crazy as he is."

Ben came up behind Phil and wrapped his arms around her. "So what do you have planned for the rest of the evening?" he asked as he nuzzled her ear.

Pulling out of his embrace, Phil turned to face him. "I have choir practice a little bit later and I thought that you might like to go with me."

"To choir practice?" Ben's voice could not hide his disappointment.

"Yes, Ben, to choir practice." She paused as she tried to phase her needs without sounding like a heartless bitch. "I need a little bit more time to get used to the idea that you are back in my life. Until that time, I don't think it would be wise for us to spend too much time alone in each other's company. Things tend to happen." She turned pleading eyes to him. "Please, Ben. I guess...I don't...I...I want to take it slow...make sure everything is right this time. Things are complicated enough without adding fuel to the fire."

Ben's steady gaze never left her face. As much as he wanted to move forward with their relationship he understood Phil's hesitancy. Nodding his head briefly, he acknowledged her plea. "I understand, Phil. Take the time you need but please remember, I made a mistake years ago...a mistake that cost me more than just your love. I lost the opportunity...no, I lost my family! I lost a daughter I will never know."

"Oh, Ben, I'm so sorry," Phil whispered as she slid her arms around him. "I wish...I wish things had been different but they weren't and we have to live with what has happened between us."

Ben breathed in the scent of her hair...lavender once more. "I know, Phil, I know. I also know that I...we have been given a second chance to find what we once had. I cannot let this chance pass me by. I love you, Phil."

Phil pressed her face against his chest. "I know you do, Ben." She lifted her face so that she could look him in the eye. "And I love you...but sometimes love isn't enough. Sometimes it takes more."

"What more do you need from me?"

Phil shrugged her shoulders. "If I knew that, Ben, I would tell you in an instant. I just feel like something isn't quite right. Like if I let things move too fast something will happen. Ben, if this is our second chance, I don't want anything to screw it up."

"What could happen?"

"I don't know, Ben, but I thought nothing could happen all those years ago and look what did! I lost you, I lost Lindy, I almost lost my mind." Her voice was muffled as she placed her forehead on his chest "I don't think I could survive that again."

Ben rubbed soothing circles on her back. Laying a cheek atop her head, he whispered into her hair, "I know how you feel, Phil. I have this feeling that if I don't move fast enough something will happen and you will slip through my fingers and I will lose you again." Long moments passed before he placed a thumb and finger beneath her chin and lifted her face to his. Staring deep into the coffee-brown eyes that haunted his dreams, he spoke once more. "I know I couldn't survive that again."

Phil gazed deep into the glacier blue eyes that had captured her love all those years ago and she felt her heart turn over in response. Placing a hand behind his head, she gently drew his face to hers. She felt his lips touch hers like a whisper deepening with a need that had grown over the years. It was like a shower on parched earth, too short and not enough. "Kiss me like you mean it, Ben," she demanded.

Needing no further invitation, Ben reclaimed her lips, crushing her to him. For the span of a moment or two, time stood still. However, time waits for no one and seemingly with mutual consent, Ben and Phil drew apart.

Clearing his throat, Ben finally broke the silence, "You said something about choir practice?"

"Yeah, I think I did. Come with me?"

Ben smiled slowly and nodded his head.

With ill-concealed annoyance, Ray stared across his desk at Stan. Ka-thud! The pencil whacked the surface of Stan's desk for the umpteenth time. Rising to his feet, Ray quickly closed the distance between himself and the object of his torture. Snatching the pencil from Stan's limp grasp, he snapped it in two before letting it fall to the desktop.

Taken by surprise, Stan watched as Ray broke the pencil. Springing to his feet, he thrust his face close to Ray's. "Why'd ya do that?" he snarled.

Stepping back, Ray replied in an equally surly voice, "It was either that or shoot you. What's the matter with you? You got some kind of burr up your butt or what?"

Stan only glared at Ray before running a hand across his face and into the blonde spikes on his head. Sighing deeply, he spun on his heels and left the bullpen heading in the direction of the coffeeroom.

Ray stared after Stan. Scratching his head, he wondered (not for the first time) why he'd been saddled with such a volatile partner. Not that he wasn't a good partner because he was perhaps the best partner he'd had next to the Mountie but still, sometimes he just didn't understand the man let alone understand what Frannie saw in him. Growling to himself, he bent and, opening the bottom drawer of Stan's desk, pulled out a box of Smarties then followed in Stan's wake. He found him, coffee cup in hand, staring absent-mindedly out the window of the coffeeroom. Measuring a handful of the chocolate candies into his hand, he unceremoniously dumped them in Stan's cup. The reaction was instantaneous.

Stan jerked erect from the slouch he'd sunken into. Coffee splashed his hand and he cursed volubly as he transferred the cup to his other hand. "Look what ya did, ya freak!"

"When you say that to a man, you should at least look him in the eye," Ray retorted eliciting a sharp glance from Stan. Untold emotions rolled beneath the surface of Stan's eyes and Ray was taken slightly aback. "Look, I'm sorry, man, but I thought you'd want something in your coffee. You usually do."

Stan set the cup down on a nearby table and ran a hand through his spiky hair once more. I'm sorry, Ray, I didn't mean to shoot off my mouth like that. It's just...just..."

"Just what?"

"I got some problems and I don't know how to deal with 'um."

"What kind of problems? Maybe someone with a more sophisticated outlook on life can lend a hand."

"Yeah? And who would that be?" Stan snidely asked.

"Look, Stan, it's obvious something's bothering you. This last week I've practically carried your ass and I wanna know what's going on and how long is gonna take for ya to fix it!"

"It's none of yur fucking business, Vecchio," Stan ground out through clenched teeth.

"It's my business if it affects your performance on duty, Kowalski. I gotta know that you're with me 100% while you're on the job. I gotta know that you've got my back covered and if you ain't with me then I wanna know why."

"Look, Vecchio, whatever my problem is ain't gonna affect my job."

"It already has, Kowalski!"

Stan sighed heavily and turned back to stare out the window. After a moment of silence, he turned again to face Ray. "Look, I got problems with my girl...well, not with her...with her family."

Ray's eyes widened. To hide his surprise, he quickly strolled over to the coffee machine and poured himself a cup. Regaining his composure, he turned and leaned against the cabinet. Taking a swallow, he rolled it around in his mouth before swallowing. "Her family doesn't approve of you?" he finally asked.

"Nah, her ma and sister are swell. It's her brother." Stan spoke to the window not certain he could face Ray. "He's the problem." He did not see Ray flinch at that remark.

Treading on eggshells, Ray shrugged his shoulders. He had to choose his words carefully or he might really screw things up. "Since when has a brother the right to dictate who his sister sees?"

"My girl comes from a close family. She won't marry me without her brother's consent."

"I thought you needed her father's consent."

"Her dad's dead."

"So her brother is head of the family?"

"Sorta...her ma's the real head of the family but my girl won't go against her brother and her brother don't much like me."

Ray mulled the information over for a moment or two. Had he really come across that badly? Sure, he didn't always see eye to eye with Stan but he'd never openly stated that he didn't like him. In fact, there were many things that he did like. He just didn't think he needed to say so. Maybe he should have said something about Stan being a good partner or a good detective or whatever. In either case, he definitely had some bridges to mend. Swallowing convulsively, he managed to say, "Then you got two choices: either give her up or talk to the brother."

Stan's shoulders slumped in defeat. "Yeah, that's the way I got it figured." Head lowered, he began shaking it, finally mumbling, "I can't give her up 'cause I love her."

"So it's talk to the brother."

"Looks like it." Stan squared his shoulders and lifted his head. Staring Ray straight in the eye, he began, "Vecchio..."

Ray realized that it was now or never. He raised his hands in a surrender motion. "Let me say something first."

Stan huffed loudly before throwing his hands up in the air. "When has that ever stopped ya?"

Ray settled onto a chair and, leaning forward, rested his elbows on the table. He entwined his fingers and rested his chin on them. Motioning with his head, he indicated that Stan should join him at the table.

Stan yanked out a chair and, swinging it around, straddled it. "Now what?" he asked, suspicion clear in his voice.

"You've got a problem with your girlfriend's brother, right?" Stan nodded. "What if that same brother didn't have a problem with you? How would that affect the situation?"

For a moment, Stan stared blankly at Ray. "No problem?"

Ray shook his head. "What if that brother in fact approved?"

Stan abruptly rose to his feet. "Approved? Whadda ya mean approved?"

Ray rose to his feet as well. Placing his hands on the table, he leaned forward speaking to Stan across it. "I mean, Stanley Raymond Kowalski, if you truly love Francesca and want to marry her, you have my blessings."

Stan's mouth dropped open. He stared wide-eyed as Ray calmly straightened his tie and left the coffeeroom.

Before closing the door, Ray turned and spoke one last time, "That's only if we've been talking about Frannie, you understand. Oh, and Stan...Merry Christmas."

Stan stared dumbfounded at Ray. No words issued from his mouth. He continued to stare at the closed door long after Ray left. Slowly the words pierced his muddled mind. A wide grin split his face as he rushed out of the room in search of a phone.

"What is it, Diefenbaker?" Ben asked with slight annoyance in his voice. "There is no call for this kind of behavior. Do you want the Inspector to ban you from the consulate?" When that had little effect, Ben resorted to more drastic methods. "If you don't settle down immediately, I won't take you with me tonight."

Dief paid little attention to what Ben was saying and instead insisted on racing around the small confines of Ben's office (and considering the size of the office, one racing wolf was definitely a major distraction!) Stopping at the door, he pawed at it and whined plaintively.

"Oh, all right! If it will calm you down, I'll open the door," Ben voice could not hide the irritated tone.

As soon as the door was open, Dief shot out into the hallway and raced toward the front doors. Ben sighed heavily and followed praying that the Inspector would not be about. Dief's short yips of glee caused Ben to quicken his pace as he envisioned one arctic wolf jumping on one indomitable Inspector. "Pay and pay and pay..." he muttered under his breath.

The sight that greeted his eyes as he approached the entrance hallway did nothing to allay his fears. Diefenbaker was indeed jumping on someone but since that someone was sitting on the floor, Ben had no way of telling whom his wolf had attacked. He momentarily wondered if Canada maintained an outpost at the South Pole and, if Mounties were stationed there, how soon would he be transferred.

Words floated from the individual on the floor among the gentle peals of laughter as the wolf liberally licked her face. "Dief...yes, I'm glad to see you...I've missed you, too...yuch, Diefenbaker..."

Ben stared in surprise; his mouth dropping open as the woman finally corralled Dief. The wolf flopped down and rolled exposing his stomach. The woman obligingly scratched the exposed area.

"You big baby," she mumbled to the wolf.

"Becka?" Ben finally said.

"Hi, Benny! I bet you weren't expecting me, were you?"

"Uh...no, I mean..." Ben scratched his neck beneath his collar. "Did I forget something?"

Becka laughed louder and pushed the wolf off her lap. Ben helped her to her feet. Holding her at arm's length, he surveyed her from top to toe. "You look good."

"Well, the same can't be said about you," Becka replied and stepping closer, wrapped her arms around her brother.

"Constable? Is there something wrong?" Inspector Thatcher inquired from the doorway of her office.

Releasing Becka and stepping back, Ben cleared his throat, "Ah, no, Ma'am." Motioning toward Becka, he continued, "This is my sister, Rebecca Fraser..."

"No need for introductions, Benny," Becka interrupted. "Meg and I go way back. It's good to see you again, Inspector." Becka held out her hand.

"Uh...it's...it's good to see you...also," Thatcher muttered as she shook the proffered hand.

"I didn't know you two knew each other."

"Not very well, Benny. We attended the same training program many years ago."

Thatcher bit her lips wondering just how much this sister had told her brother about that little incident in their common past. It was not often that she was reminded of a time when she had not come out on top. She did not particularly enjoy the memories of that program. She had not felt at ease with the other constables coming from an Toronto while most of the others had come from small towns or the back of beyond and farther. How had she ended up dancing in her underwear on a bar in Moose Jaw was beyond her, but nevertheless it had happened and it had not ended well. Thankfully, the program had not lasted much longer and she had not had to put up with their condescending stares for long. Becka Fraser had been a member of that group. Would she reveal what had happened?

"Understood," Ben replied. "If you will excuse us, Inspector, I'll just take Becka back to my office so that you can get back to what you were doing. I apologize for disturbing you."

Thatcher exhaled slowly. "That is not necessary, Constable. You did not disturb me. I was looking for Turnbull. Have you seen him?" She glanced past Ben toward the kitchen.

"I spoke with him earlier. He said he had some errands to run for you."

"Ah, that's correct. Thank you, Constable." Turning to Becka, she said, "It was a pleasure meeting you again, Constable."

Becka shook her head. "It's not 'Constable' any more. I resigned my commission over a month ago."

"I'm sorry to hear that," Thatcher replied. Surprisingly, she meant it.

"What are you doing here?" Ben asked as he directed down the hallway toward his office.

Before Becka could reply, Thatcher called to Ben. "Constable Fraser?"

Ben spun about. "Yes, Ma'am?"

"Why don't you take the rest of the day off? And have a Merry Christmas." She disappeared into her office before Ben could muster a protest.

Dumbfounded, Ben turned and headed toward his office.

"You better close your mouth, Benny, before some bug flies in."

Ben grinned then collected his coat and closed his office door. "Just follow me, Becka, to my new abode."

"I've heard about your cottage and I'm dying to see it. Anything is better than that rat trap of an apartment."

As soon as the couple left the consulate, Dief loped off to explore the grounds. He headed in the direction of the small stream at the back of the property.

"Dief certainly seems to like it better here," Becka commented as she shaded her eyes and watched the wolf disappear in some evergreen shrubbery.

"I think he likes it but he constantly complains about missing the various bakeries, delis, and restaurants that he frequented near the old consulate."

"You're not feeding him enough junk food?"

"Becka, I get enough of that from him and he gets plenty of 'junk food' from Stan, Ray's new partner."

Ben unlocked the door to the cottage and held the door open for Becka. He took her coat and hung it in the coat closet beside his. He watched as she entered the living room and dropped her pack beside the armchair.

"This is nice, Ben," she said as she smiled at him.

"I've come to appreciate it," he replied. "Now, do you want to tell me why you are early? I wasn't expecting you for another week."

"Ben!" Becka exclaimed. "Can't I visit you without getting an inquisition?" Ben just glared at her. "Oh, all right! I was worried about you. I know how you are when you get sick and I just wanted to satisfy myself that you had recovered...which I see you have," she added as Ben opened his mouth to protest. "Cat and I also decided it would be better this way. She stays at home with her animals this week while I visit you and I stay at home next week with the animals while she visits Lloyd and his family. Besides, I wanted to spend Christmas with you. We haven't done that in more years than I care to recall."

Ben smiled then drew her into his arms. "It is good to see you, Becka."

"It's good to see you, too, Benny."

Staring down into her face, Ben added, "Your presence here also helps me in another way."

"And what would that be?"

"Phil has invited me to attend the McKenzie Christmas gathering and although I've accepted, I do not particularly look forward to facing her brothers."

"Benny, are you telling me that you are intimidated by Phil's brothers?" The vision of TJ McKenzie invaded her thoughts.

A pained expression crossed Ben's face then he bobbed his head shortly. "I wouldn't exactly call it intimidation..."

"Then what would you call it...fear? I don't know what you've got to be worried about. Didn't they used to be your friends?" Becka slowly withdrew from Ben's embrace. Dropping into the comfortable depths of the armchair she waited for Ben's answer.

"I don't know the answers to your questions, Becka," Ben finally answered as he, too, settled onto the sofa. "All I know is the prospect of facing her brothers with you at my side is not as daunting as doing it alone."

Becka sat upright in the chair. Her voice was breathless as she spoke, "You want me to go with you to Phil's family get-together?" That was impossible. There was no way that she could face TJ without letting her feelings for him overcome her better senses. It had been only two months ago she had finally admitted to herself and to TJ that she loved him but that their love could never be as long as Ben and Phil...but it looked like Ben and Phil were attempting a reconciliation.

"If you don't want to accompany me I can contact Phil and give her my regrets. I won't leave you here alone on Christmas Eve."

"No, no, Ben, don't do that. I'll go with you."

"You will? I thought that you didn't..."

"No, I was just thinking that I don't have a thing to wear. I'll have to go shopping."

Ray stared into the glowing embers of the fire. Everyone had gone to bed long ago. Even Frannie had returned from her date with Stan and disappeared upstairs. Glancing sideways, he studied the Christmas tree. Frannie had added a new package gaily wrapped with enough satin ribbon to circle the world three times. 'For Stan,' Ray told himself. It seemed strange to realize that Stan Kowalski would be a regular at the Vecchio Christmas gathering from now on.

The brightly wrapped package with snow-dogs on it remained in its place at the back of the tree. He'd give the gift to Fraser when he saw him again. Ray had taken it for granted that the Mountie would join the Vecchio family for Christmas. It came as something of a shock to learn that he had accepted an invitation from Phil to spend Christmas with her family.

It seemed everyone was spending Christmas with the one they loved leaving him with an inexplicable feeling of emptiness. Staring once more at the smoldering remains of the fire, Ray sank further in melancholy. Why did Casey's face seem to shine forth from the embers? Why was everyone finding happiness but him? Knowing the answer to that question only sent him further into his self-imposed misery. He gulped hard, hot tears slipping down his face.

Even if misery loved company at this moment Ray did not want to face anyone. He had made the decision that had separated him from the woman he loved. He would have to live with that decision. He threw himself out of the chair and hastily grabbed his coat before storming out of the house. Pulling his stocking cap over his thinning hair, he hunched his shoulders and began walking.

After what seemed like hours but was actually only minutes, he found himself in front of St. Michael's Church. The Nativity scene had suffered under the latest load of snow and in a rare act of selflessness, Ray waded through the snow and began removing snow from the figurines. He knew it was fruitless, the snow had already begun to fall again, but he was determined to finish the task he had set himself. Only after each figure including the camel and sheep were swept clean of snow did Ray cease his labors. He stepped back and admired his work noting how the camel already had a dusting of snow and the poor shepherds were once again turning white.

Sighing to himself, he turned away from the Nativity and approached the steps of the church. He mounted them and entered the sanctuary. Born a Catholic, he had not been a practicing one in many years but, on this night that celebrated the birth of Christ, he found a yearning in his soul for some peace. He slid into a pew about half way down and stared at the crucifix wondering why he was there.

"Hello, Ray," Father Behan said as he settled onto the pew beside Ray.

"Father," Ray replied.

"We haven't seen you here in quite a while."

Ray dropped his head and in a small voice said, "I know, Father. I just..."

"God understands, Ray, and when you find what you are searching for, God will still be here."

Ray glanced sideways at the priest. "What if I've already found what I want but foolishly let it slip away?"

"If you are meant to have it then it will return to you. You must have faith, Ray."

"Faith? I stopped believing in that a long time ago."

"Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Unless you have no hope or do not believe in things you can't see then I doubt that you have lost your faith."

Ray thought of the many things he hoped would happen--Frannie would be happy with Stan, Benny with Phil, the latest load of cases. He also thought of things he couldn't see but knew were there--his mother's love, Fraser's loyalty, Dief's junk food addiction. Of course he had hope and he believed in things. It was just...just...some things seemed beyond his reach. "I guess if you put it that way, Father."

"What other way is there to describe a virtue." Father Behan gave Ray a gentle smile. "Faith, hope, and love are the building blocks of the Church. When all else is gone, faith, hope, and love will still be here."

Ray glanced sideways at the priest. "Shouldn't we be doing this in a Confessional?" he asked.

Father Behan smiled again and asked, "Are you confessing your sins or are you going to confess them?" Ray shook his head. "Then just consider me a sympathetic ear."

Ray considered that for a moment then smiled. "Thanks, Father."

Father Behan slid a hand along the back of the pew and grasped Ray's shoulder in a brief show of concern. A noise from the rear of the church drew his attention and dropping his hand to lay in his lap, he spoke once more, "Ray, if you need someone to talk to, I'm always here." Glancing toward the rear once more, he asked, "Will you stay for midnight mass?"

Ray in turn glanced over his shoulder. Spying Mr. and Mrs. Montorelli approaching with two sleepy children in tow, Ray rose to his feet. Father Behan followed suit. "Uh, no, Father. I'll be here tomorrow with the family."

Father Behan smiled complacently. "Good, I'll look for you tomorrow then. Please, give my warmest regards to your mother and thank her for the polenta. It was greatly appreciated by myself and the lay brothers."

"I'll do that, Father." Extending his hand, he bid the priest goodnight.

"Goodnight, Ray, and go with God," Behan returned as he shook the extended hand.

Ray strode from the church feeling a bit lighter of heart. Maybe he would talk with Father Behan again. It was nice to talk to someone who wasn't judgmental or who knew his whole history or knew that he'd abandoned Casey. Casey....

He stopped at the corner and lifted his face to the sky. Snow gently pelted his face. Maybe somewhere in Montana Casey was looking at the same night sky. Maybe she was even thinking of him. Maybe...

He dropped his chin until it sunk into the depths of the collar of his coat. Maybe...but not likely. She'd probably moved on with her life and found someone else. But, then again, maybe he should give her a call and see. Maybe wish her a Merry Christmas. Maybe...

Casey stared up at the crystal clear night sky. Her breath created clouds of moisture that dissipated quickly. The snowstorm had blanketed the forest creating a fairytale landscape but here on the banks of the river only the rocks wore white coats. The rushing water murmured around and under the occasional ice bridge and interspersed rocks, the moon reflecting off its turbulent surface. Dusting the snow from a large rock, Casey settled down onto it, drawing her knees up to her chest.

The trip into town with Joseph had gone well. They had spent the night with Jonathan and had returned the following day. It had been a typical evening with her two favorite uncles but that had changed when a friend of Jonathan's had stopped by. Kyle Hewett was certainly an interesting man as well as being handsome. The fact that he found her attractive had set well but when he'd asked if he could see her again, she had waffled. Ray's aquiline features flashed across her consciousness and she had found herself say that she was already involved in a relationship.

She considered her situation. What relationship? She had waited for Ray to contact her for almost two years. How long was she supposed to wait for him? Maybe it was time to move on. Maybe she should contact Ray and give him an ultimatum. She shook her head. Ultimatums had a way of backfiring. No, she would have to make some kind of decision regarding her non-relationship with Ray. She was tired of being alone. She stared up at the stars in the night sky. Christmas Eve...a night for miracles. Maybe Ray would come to his senses. She loved him with all her heart but sometimes love wasn't enough.

"Ray, I love you," she spoke to the night sky. "Please don't make me wait much longer...please."

TJ straightened the collar of his shirt tucking the neck of the cable knit sweater under the points of the collar. The sweater was one of his favorites, done in a native pattern of dark greens and tans. On his return from his last trip to Canada, he had spotted it in the window of a small boutique in the Kitimat terminal and had purchased it on a whim. It reminded him of Becka Fraser.

He let his thoughts dwell on Becka for a moment before determinedly directing his thoughts to something else. Maybe if things went well with Ben and Phil, he could do something more than just think about Becka. Ben and Phil. Was there some actual chance that they might reach reconciliation? And what if they did? How would that affect him? He'd made a vow in the heat of the moment many years ago to deal with Benton Fraser if he should ever enter his life again. Could he put his own darker desires aside if Phil accepted him back in her life? He knew he would have to if he had any chance of having a life with Becka. But...still...Ben had hurt Phil more than any man had the right to hurt another. Could he let that fade into the past?

After all, Phil had invited Ben to the family get together. Of all the men she had dated or become serious with, Ben was the first to be invited. Not even Lloyd had managed one although that was probably due to the fact that Lloyd had been unavailable--working a rescue.

TJ would just have to see how things went this evening. If Ben and Phil could patch things up between them then surely he could let the past die. Couldn't he?

'I just hope nothing goes wrong,' he thought as he closed the door to his apartment.

Beth lovingly picked a piece of lint from the back of Rob's suede jacket then slid her hands across his broad shoulders. "Let it go, Rob."

"I don't know if I can, Beth." Rob turned around and slipped his arms around his wife. "I know Phil still loves him and I know that he regrets what he's done but..."

"But nothing. It's Phil's life, Rob. Let her make her own decisions." Beth laid her hands on Rob's chest. "She's loved this man as long as I've known her. If there's the slightest chance that they can make a go of it, who are we to stand in their way?"

"But..."

Beth's hand slid up and covered Rob's mouth. "No, Rob. Phil deserves some happiness in her life and if Ben Fraser is the man that can make her happy then you will accept that and let your animosity end. Now."

"I don't know if I can."

"You will if you love your sister."

"You know I love her. I just don't want her hurt again."

"Do you really think he'll repeat that mistake?"

"No..."

"Then what's the problem?"

Rob dropped his arms from about Beth's body. Running a hand through his hair, he shook his head in frustration. "I don't really know, Beth. I wish I knew. I feel like...like something is bound to happen. After that fiasco with Martin..."

"This has nothing to do with Martin and there's really no comparison between them. Think about it...did Phil invite Martin to the family get together? That should tell you right away that this is different."

Rob nodded his head in agreement. "Then why do I have this bad feeling?"

"You're probably just anxious about dealing with Ben in more than just a doctor-patient relationship."

Rob placed a kiss on Beth's forehead. "You're probably right."

Phil rushed to answer the door wondering who would be the first to arrive. She smoothed her teal and ivory sweater down over her hips as she slid her feet into the shoes she'd discarded earlier. "Hi, TJ! You're the first one here," she said as she took his coat and hung it in the coat closet.

TJ smiled and handed his gifts to her and watched as she placed them with the others on the piano beneath the small tree. He noticed that the larger packages had overflowed onto the floor and were safely tucked beneath the piano. "I see you've done some rearranging," he said by way of greeting.

"Yeah...you know how it is. Everyone wants to sing Christmas carols around the piano and we usually end up moving the furniture anyway. And before you start fussing about how the furniture is too heavy for me to be moving...Ben helped." She paused, gauging TJ's reaction to that statement. "I just thought I would get a head start on the moving this year."

"Don't I know it! Next year when we have the gathering at my place, I'm thinking of renting one of the conference rooms at the museum," he quipped.

"No way, TJ. It just wouldn't feel right to hold Christmas in the museum."

"You're probably right, Flip. Wishful thinking, I guess." His shoulders sagging in defeat, he followed Phil as she headed back to the kitchen. "Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked as Phil opened the oven and peered inside. He placed the sack containing his contribution to the family feast on the counter.

Phil glanced at him over her shoulder. "Yeah, you can get the extra leaf for the table out of the hall closet and help me put it in place. Actually you can get the door," she added as the doorbell chimed. "And if it's Ben," she rose to her full stature, "try not to...to..."

"Don't worry, Flip, I won't punch his lights out...yet!" TJ promised.

"TJ!"

TJ simply quirked his eyebrows then left to answer the doorbell that had chimed once more. His single glance through the peephole had confirmed the presence of the Mountie on the other side. TJ squared his shoulders, drew in a deep breath, and opened the door. His drawn in breath was immediately sucked from his lungs as his eyes fell upon the face of the woman accompanying Ben. On autopilot, he mechanically shook the hand Ben extended and mumbled some kind of platitude. His eyes never left Becka's face.

Ben cleared his throat and ran a nervous finger around the collar of his leather jacket before pressing the doorbell once more. A moment later, the door opened and Ben was face to face with TJ. Although he had expected some kind of reaction from Phil's brother, he was not exactly prepared for the one he received. All color had drained from TJ's face. Ben noticed that TJ's eyes were focused not on him but on Becka. Ben glanced over his shoulder to surprise a strained expression (was that hunger he caught in her eyes?).

Ben extended his hand. "It's good to see you again, TJ."

TJ's hand met Ben's. "Nice weather we're having," TJ mumbled.

Ben's eyes narrowed as he noticed the same expression in TJ's eyes. There were tangible currents of emotion flowing between his sister and this man that had once been his friend. Long moments passed before Ben discreetly coughed and asked, "May we come in?"

Startled by the question, TJ stepped back and motioned with his hand. After the couple entered the apartment, he reached for Becka's jacket only to meet Ben's hands doing the same. The two men glared over Becka's head, each unwilling to relinquish his position. It was Becka that finally broke the stalemate.

Thrusting the covered plate she carried into Ben's hands, she instructed, "Why don't you take this to the kitchen and see if Phil needs any help?"

Ben reflexively grasped the plate and stared down into Becka's face then glanced once more at TJ. "I'll be right back," he promised.

"No need to hurry," Becka spoke as TJ removed her jacket and hung it in the coat closet. She made eye contact with her brother sending a clear message. Ben nodded dubiously then reluctantly headed toward the kitchen.

Phil hummed softly to herself as she placed TJ's appetizers on a crystal platter. She sneaked one and happily munched on it as she placed his salad in a large wooden bowl. The sound of footsteps brought a smile to her face as she turned to welcome her guest.

"Becka baked some apricot bread," Ben said as he placed the covered plate on the bar. "I brought a bottle of wine. I hope you like it..." his voice trailed off as he stared at Phil. The teal and ivory sweater over the black stirrup pants accented her slim build and delicate features. He swallowed hard as his breathing increased and a burning began to build in his groin. 'This will not do!' he scolded himself as he shifted his eyes away from Phil. Big mistake! His eyes fell on Becka and TJ as they crossed the living room and approached the stereo. He scowled not knowing why.

"What's wrong, Ben?" Phil asked as she came up beside him and searched the living room for whatever had attracted his attention. All she saw was TJ talking quietly with Ben's sister. Why would that be a problem? Before Ben could answer, the doorbell chimed once more. TJ and Becka both look up, a startled expression on their faces. Unconsciously, Phil's brow furrowed.

"Excuse me," she mumbled as she stepped past Ben's large frame. Hurrying to the door, she opened it. "Rob, Beth, come on it! The others are already here." Looking down at the two children, she said, "Go ahead and put your presents under the tree. I rented a Playstation and some games so the two of you don't have to hang around with us boring adults. Stacie?" The small girl looked up at Phil. "I bought myself a baby doll. Would you mind seeing that she doesn't get lonely?" The two children grinned widely then raced to the tree carelessly dropping the packages they carried under the piano. They quickly disappeared into Phil's office.

"Don't worry, Phil, there's nothing breakable in those packages," Beth laughed.

"For a moment there I was worried," Phil acknowledged, "but they're your kids so I guess you know them well enough by now."

"Indeed I do," Beth agreed. "A baby doll?" she asked as she handed her coat to Rob. "Aren't you a little old for dolls?" she teased as she took the sack of food from Rob's grasp. "Where do you want this?" she asked.

"Bring it on into the kitchen and then I'll introduce you to Ben and his sister."

"I was wondering who that woman was. TJ certainly seems fascinated by her," Rob observed as he closed the closet door.

"You must be Ben Fraser," Beth exclaimed as she entered the kitchen. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you." She extended her hand.

Ben accepted the hand and, bending over it, placed a kiss on the back of it. "And you must be Beth McKenzie. It appears that graciousness runs in your family." Beth's eyebrows raised inquiringly. Ben smiled and dropped her hand. "I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Casey a couple of years ago."

Beth's eyes widened in delight as she broke into an open, friendly smile. "You're that Mountie?"

"What Mountie?" Phil asked as she placed Beth's pies and cake on the counter beside Becka's apricot bread.

"The one in Casey's bestseller, Whispering Pines."

"Whispering Pines? That was you?" Phil asked of Ben.

Ben self-consciously ran a thumb across his left eyebrow. "I...I really don't know," he finally stammered.

"Did you and a friend survive a plane crash only to be swept over a waterfall on a flimsy raft?" Beth queried.

"Were you rescued by a beautiful woman who fell madly in love with your friend, the cop? Was that Ray?" Phil added as an afterthought.

By now, Ben's complexion had taken on a bright rosy hue. He perfunctorily nodded his head by way of answer.

Beth's gentle laughter rang out accompanied by Phil's low chuckle.

"What's going on in here?" Becka asked as she joined the trio in the kitchen. "Benny! You're as red as your dress tunic."

"I...um...uh...if you will excuse me." Ben made a hasty exit from the confines of the kitchen.

"What was that all about?" Becka stared at her brother's retreating back.

"We just found out that Ben is a major character in a romance novel," Phil gleefully informed her.

Surprised, Becka's head swung around and she stared at Phil. "Really? Which one?"

"Cassandra Hope's Whispering Pines."

"That was Benny? Oh my god!" Becka's mouth dropped open and she slapped a hand over it. "You're kidding me...that couldn't have been..." As both Phil and Beth nodded their heads, Becka shook her head in amazement. "That was Benny? And the cop? Ray?" More nods. "Oh my god!" Her sharp laughter joined Beth's and Phil's. When she could control herself, she asked, "How did they meet Cassandra Hope?"

Phil glanced sideways at Beth and broke out laughing once more. It was left to Beth to answer. "Cassandra Hope is my sister's penname."

"Your sister is Cassandra Hope? Holy shit! She's one of my favorite authors!"

Phil, recognizing an opening when she saw it, spoke up, "Becka, this is my sister-in-law, Beth. Beth, this is Ben's sister, Becka."

Pleasantries were exchanged before Becka spoke once more, "It looks like I'm going to have to have a talk with that brother of mine. He never told me anything about knowing Cassandra..."

"Casey," Phil interrupted.

"Casey?"

"Casey Sinclair--Cassandra Hope is just a penname."

"Casey Sinclair then. Ben still has a lot to explain," Becka grinned wryly.

Ben stood between a rock and a hard place. Should he stay with the women or join the men? He glanced over his shoulder towards the kitchen where the women were still laughing. He shifted his gaze to Phil's brothers who seemed to be waiting for him to join them. He squared his shoulders and made his choice. With determined steps he approached what he knew would surely be an inquisition.

"I'll get us something to drink and then you can tell us what has set them to cackling." Rob motioned with his head toward the kitchen as Ben joined TJ and him.

Ben nodded his head and turned to TJ. He was surprised when TJ failed to look him in the eye. Expecting the worse, Ben decided to get it out of the way. "TJ?" He waited for Phil's brother to raise his eyes. "I know how you must feel toward me and I can't say that I don't blame you. If I were in your shoes, I would probably feel the same way."

TJ waved Ben's explanation away. He drew in a deep breath before speaking. "Look, Ben, you have got to be one of the luckiest sonofabitches in the world. For some reason, God has seen fit to give you a second chance with Flip. I don't think I need to tell you what will happen if you screw this one up."

Ben licked lips that had suddenly gone dry. Shaking his head curtly, he uttered only one word, "No."

"Then that's settled. Here comes Rob with our drinks."

"Coffee, coffee, tea for you." Rob handed the cup of tea to Ben. Catching TJ's eye, he raised his eyebrows. He then shifted his eyes to study Ben's face. "How are you feeling?"

Caught by surprise, Ben could only stammer, "Feeling...um...I'm...um...what do you mean?"

Rob smiled at Ben's confusion. "It's only been a couple of weeks since your bout with that virus. Any lingering effects?" Ben thought for a moment then shook his head. "How about your back? Have you given any thought to what we've discussed?"

"I'm not quite ready for that, Dr. McKenzie..."

"Rob."

"Uh...Rob." Ben glanced toward the kitchen. "I still have some things to take care of before..."

"Don't wait too long, Ben."

"Would somebody mind telling me what's going on?" TJ interrupted. Two pairs of eyes swung around to focus on him.

"Ah..." Ben muttered.

"Oh..." Rob added.

"Well, that's really helpful!" TJ complained.

Grinning sheepishly, Rob glanced at Ben for permission to speak. Ben nodded. "Ben's been having some problems with his back. I'd like to fix it before they get worse."

"Well, why didn't you say so in the first place!"

Ben felt his face stretch into a grin as he began to relax. When he realized what was happening, a knot formed in his stomach and he swallowed convulsively fighting the rising bile. He squared his shoulders and faced the two men. "Before we go any farther, I wanted to assure you that my intentions toward Phil are only honorable."

Rob and TJ simply stared at the Mountie. They traded glances then gazed back at Ben. Rob spoke, "Ben, neither of us think you are fool enough to repeat your actions of twelve years ago. You now know just how much you lost when you left Phil. You will never have the memory of holding your daughter in your arms. You will never know just how precious Lindy was." Rob paused as he observed Ben's face. He clearly saw the pain and sadness in his eyes. "Ben, if Phil can forgive you for what you've done to her, can we do any less? I'm not saying it will happen overnight...just do right by her and we'll come around." TJ nodded his head in agreement.

Ben blinked rapidly to stay the tears that clouded his eyes. The lump in his throat threatened to choke him and he swallowed several times trying to dislodge it. Finally, he managed to say, "Understood. I only hope that some day...I can also find the friendships I lost."

"Maybe..." TJ murmured.

The dinner had been eaten, the presents opened, the Christmas carols sung, the love shared--now the farewells were being made. Rob carried his daughter as she sleepily snuggled into the warmth of his coat, Phil's baby doll hugged tightly to her chest. Phil stood on tiptoe and kissed him on the cheek. "Drive carefully, Rob. I love you."

TJ stood by the patio door and watched Phil bid farewell to their brother. He was tingling aware of the woman standing beside him watching her own brother disappear into the kitchen. On impulse, he grasped Becka's hand and, feeling behind himself for the latch on the door, opened it and pulled her out into the Christmas night with him. Softly closing the door behind them, he swept her into his arms and hungrily claimed her lips. He groaned against those same lips, "It's been pure torture, Becka. I've wanted to kiss you all afternoon."

Becka responded with like fervor. "I've felt the same way, TJ. I almost didn't come when Ben told me you would be here."

"I'm glad you came."

"Me, too." Words became superfluous as the couple molded their bodies to each other. It was as if they sought to refamiliarize themselves with the contours of their lover's body. Hands freely roved over each other, stealing a moment or two of shared passion. The heat they generated overcame the chill of the winter night's air.

Ben joined Phil as she closed the door behind Rob and his family. "That went better than I expected," he whispered in her ear as he leaned close and placed his hands on her shoulders.

Phil turned in his embrace and leaned against his rock solid strength. "What did you expect? The Spanish Inquisition?"

"Something along those lines," Ben grimly replied.

Phil chuckled lightly before placing a brief kiss on his lips. As his arms tightened about her, she withdrew from his embrace and retreated to the safety of the living room. Glancing around the room, her brow furrowed in puzzlement. Turning back to Ben, she asked, "Have you seen TJ? And where's Becka?"

Ben's eyes roved over the room looking for clues for the whereabouts of the missing couple. He grasped her arm and motioned with his free hand toward the patio door.

"What?" Phil inquired.

"The curtain is caught in the door," he said.

Phil, too, saw the trapped curtain. She glanced at Ben then at the door. "Something's fishy here," she murmured as she shook loose from Ben's grasp. Her swift strides carried her to the door, Ben closely behind. Grasping the latch, she swung the door open.

The startled gasp and the light from the room finally penetrated the small insular space occupied by TJ and Becka. Their lips drew apart and they stared in consternation into each other eyes. Slowly they both turned their heads to face the light and the two people standing in the doorway. A deep flush rose in Becka's face as TJ slowly dropped his arms from around her slender body.

"Uh...um, it's...ah, it's a little cold out here, don't you think?" Phil weakly suggested.

TJ placed one arm around Becka and ushered her into the room, passing between Phil and Ben. As he passed Phil, he sent her a look that was both apologetic and imploring at once. Phil's heart went out to him. No wonder he was in such a state. The memory of a dream intruded into her thoughts. Now it made sense to her. It was all too evident that he was in love with Ben's sister and knowing him the way she did she knew that he would deny that love if he thought it might make her unhappy. She glanced at Ben seeing the storm clouds building in his demeanor. Placing a hand on his arm, she quietly said, "Ben, think before you do something rash."

Ben's free hand covered hers. Taking a deep breath, he let it out before speaking. "I'm sorry, Phil, but this has taken me by surprise. I'm not sure if it's wise for them..."

"Butt out, Ben." He glanced tersely down at her. "Think about it, Ben," she continued, "we've told them to leave us alone and let us live our own lives. Can we do any less? Besides, we really don't know what's going on."

"Then let's find out." His voice was smooth but insistent.

TJ stood with his back to them, running a hand through his hair. Becka had settled onto Phil's favorite chair, a glass of wine in hand. TJ glanced over his shoulder when Ben closed the patio door behind him. He squared his shoulders before pulling out a chair from the dining table, swinging it around, and straddling it. He stared down at his hands.

Phil crossed the room and took up a position on the sofa. She patted the seat beside her and waited for Ben to join her. Shifting her eyes back and forth, she finally asked, "How long has this been going on?"

"Not long enough!" Becka exclaimed, false bravado in her voice.

"What do you mean?" Ben asked.

"Well isn't it obvious? You interrupted us before things got 'real' interesting."

Phil was watching TJ and noticed the sharp jerk of his head as he turned his searching eyes on Becka.

Warily shaking his head, TJ sputtered, "Becka, no..."

"Why, TJ? Give me one good reason why?" Becka angrily retorted.

"Because..."

"Because nothing," she interrupted him. Turning to Ben, she spoke once more, "Ben, you have no idea how much I want you and Phil to get your act together. I've put my own lovelife on hold waiting to see what would happen to you..."

"I never asked you to do that, Becka," Ben interrupted.

"You didn't have to, Ben. I did it because I love you. But...It's just that I've finally found someone who doesn't hold my past against me--someone who loves me." She held out a hand in TJ's direction, silently pleading for him to take it. Her heart flipped over as her hand was engulfed by TJ's. "TJ and I both agreed not to pursue our feelings because of what it might do to you and Phil. If things didn't work out between you two, we didn't want to be responsible for providing a constant reminder of the love you lost."

"Is this true?" Phil asked TJ.

Glancing down at the woman clutching his hand, seeing the love in her eyes, he smiled. "Yes, Flip, it's true. You should also know that I've asked her to marry me."

"Marry you?" Ben queried in a voice faint with astonishment.

"Yes, but she refused me."

"Why?" Phil's brows furrowed in confusion.

Glancing once more at Becka, he raised determined eyes to his sister's face. "Because of you."

"Me?"

"You and Ben."

Ben stared down at his hands then raised his face. A look of understanding and compassion settled on his features. He spoke to Becka, "You were afraid that TJ would remind me of Phil?"

Becka gamely stared back. "I don't want to cause you any more hurt, Ben."

"Nor do I want you to be hurt any more, Phil," TJ added.

Shaking her head impotently, Phil stared at her brother. Finally, she spoke, "I...I had...no idea, TJ. This certainly explains a lot..." Her voice trailed off as she rose to her feet and began to pace, finally coming to a stop before TJ and Becka.

"It does explain a lot of things. However, your method of dealing with the situation leaves much to be desired." Ben came to stand behind Phil. "Whatever happens between Phil and myself has nothing to do with you and, although I recognize the sentiment behind your actions, I believe I can state with some surety that neither Phil nor I would want you to risk losing a chance at love."

Phil glanced over her shoulder and up at Ben. "Don't make the mistake we made, TJ." Her gaze shifted to TJ and Becka. "If you two really love each other then don't let anything stand in your way and don't use Ben or me as an excuse not to grasp the love offered to you. You might not be fortunate enough to receive a second chance...like we have."

"Well said, Phil." Ben placed a hand on her shoulder.

"You're not upset?" TJ asked.

"No. If anything I'm a little pissed at you for acting so stupidly. Do you think I would begrudge you a chance for happiness? Even if I couldn't find any? What kind of sister do you think I am?"

"I guess I just wasn't thinking..."

"No, you weren't," Phil readily agreed.

Ben spoke over her shoulder. "I couldn't agree more with Phil's assessment. Do you think that I would let my own feelings stand in the way of your happiness?"

"Of course not, Ben," Becka answered. "It's just..."

"Just nothing, Becka." Ben shifted his eyes to stare at TJ. "You couldn't find a better man that TJ." He smiled as TJ's eyes widened in surprise. "Now, since Phil and I have some things to talk over, why don't you take Becka home."

"Let me finish filling the dishwasher then I'll run you home," Phil called to Ben as she reached into the sink and began rinsing the few dishes left there.

Softly approaching Phil from behind, he whispered, "I'm in no hurry, Phil. In fact, I'd rather remain here with you." He placed a kiss on the back of her neck.

Startled, Phil jumped at his touch. Pain laced through her hand as the knife she held bit into her palm. "Oh..." she murmured as her breath shakily left her lips. The knife clattered into the sink and she stared in shock as blood dripped heavily onto the knife in the sink.

"Phil!" Ben exclaimed as he captured her wrist and deftly wrapped her hand in a dishtowel. "I'm so sorry, Phil, I didn't mean to startle you."

Phil shakily answered, "It's not your fault, Ben, I should've been paying attention to what I was doing..."

"That's going to need stitches, Phil," Ben spoke as he pressed her into a seat at the bar.

"I know, I just...I...I..."

"Put your head down, Phil," Ben said as he pushed her head forward. "We don't need you fainting now."

"I feel so sick," Phil mumbled.

"That's normal, Phil. Keep you head down while I get our coats." Phil murmured an assent as Ben left the kitchen. Calling from the living room, he asked, "Where are your keys?"

Raising her head, Phil propped an elbow on the bar and rested her face in her uninjured palm. Breathing deeply, she finally answered, "In my office...top right drawer of the desk."

Moments later, Ben helped Phil into her green woolen coat, feeding her uninjured hand through the sleeve and draping the coat over the other shoulder. He pulled it closed and buttoned it trapping Phil's injured hand inside. Placing an arm about her shoulders, he escorted her from the apartment, into the elevator, and out into the parking garage. Holding the passenger door open, he helped her into the car then came around to the driver's side and slid behind the wheel. Turning the key, the engine roared to life. As he backed the car out of the parking space, he asked, "Where should I take you?"

"Cook County General Hospital. I know for a fact that my doctor is on his way home with his family." Phil sighed heavily. What a way to end a nearly perfect Christmas. Leaning back she placed her head on the headrest and closed her eyes.

Ben regarded her pale face as he waited for the traffic to clear to let him out on the street. His plans for the evening slowly evaporated like the exhaust from the cars passing on the street. Turning into the traffic, he drove toward the hospital that had become more familiar than he would have liked in the preceding months. He glanced occasionally at Phil then returned his attention to the street ahead. The traffic seemed heavier than he would have imagined this late on Christmas day. A siren wail pierced his thoughts and he pulled over as an ambulance sped past in the growing gloom. Once more moving with traffic, he followed in the wake of the ambulance, pulling into the parking lot for emergency care as the ambulance pulled under the canopy and the doors to the emergency ward sprang open. Medical staff swarmed around the rear of the ambulance as two people were transferred to gurneys and wheeled inside.

Turning off the engine, Ben left the car and came around to the passenger side to help Phil from the car. He steadied her as she slipped on a patch of ice as they walked toward the doors of the emergency ward. The ambulance remained under the canopy well after they had entered the warmth of the hospital.

Approaching the nurse at the admittance desk, Ben spoke, "We need to see a doctor."

Without looking up, the nurse handed him a clipboard. "Fill out the form and return it to me."

"Hello, Nancy," Phil spoke softly.

The nurse's head flew up, surprise on her face. "Phil? What brings you here?" she asked as she rose to her feet.

Phil patted the front of her coat. "I cut my hand," she simply replied.

"I'll get someone to look at as soon as possible. We've been real busy this holiday."

Phil glanced around the waiting room, "I can see that."

"Is your brother on duty? Should I call for him?"

"No, Rob is probably getting home right about now. We had the family get-together at my place."

Patting the clipboard that Ben held, Nancy said, "Why don't you let your friend fill the information for you. You know how the accountants are--gotta have a record of everything."

Nodding her head in sympathetic understanding, Phil turned and headed toward a couple of empty seats in the waiting room.

Reaching them, Ben unbuttoned the coat and drew it from her shoulders. Settling onto the chairs, he recorded the information on the form as Phil dictated it to him. He then returned the form to the nurse at the duty station.

"We've got an opening for Phil. She pointed in the direction of the emergency ward. "Through those doors...the nurse on duty will direct you from there."

"Thank you kindly," Ben replied before turning and heading back to Phil. His attention was drawn to the doors of the hospital when several police officers entered and approached the nursing station. Through the doors he could see other officers talking with ambulance driver and attendant. He filed the information away in his brain as he helped Phil to her feet and ushered her in the direction the nurse had instructed him.

Moments later, Phil found herself sitting on the edge of an exam table as the nurse pulled the curtains around the bed. "Hello, Carol, how are things going?"

Carol Hathaway smiled in pleasure, "It's been a bit hectic but as far as holiday's go, this has been pretty average. How have you been?"

Phil raised her swathed hand. "Could be better." Carol's eyes shifted to Ben standing on the other side of the bed. Phil quickly made the introductions not quite sure if she liked the looks Carol was giving him.

"Here, let me take a look at your hand and see what needs to be done," Carol said as she began unwinding the dishtowel that covered Phil's hand. Once the towel had been removed, she cleaned the wound. "This is definitely going to need stitches," she stated.

"Stitches?" Mark Greene asked as he swept the curtains back and entered the cubicle. "What are you doing here, Phil?" he directed at Phil while extending a hand in Ben's direction. "Hello, I'm Dr. Mark Greene." His brows furrowed in puzzlement. "Haven't we met, before?"

"Constable Benton Fraser, Royal Canadian Mounted Police," Ben replied as he accepted the hand and shook it.

"Of course! It's nice to see you again, Constable Fraser. By the way, I meant to ask you last time you were here, what is a Mountie doing in Chicago?"

Clearing his throat, Ben began, "I first came to Chicago on the trail of my father's killers and, for reasons that are not important at this juncture, I remained attached to the Canadian Consulate..."

"And if you want to hear the rest story it will take approximately two hours," Phil added when Ben paused to catch his breath.

Mark grinned widely, "Two hours?" Phil bobbed her head shortly while returning the grin.

"Two hours," Phil repeated.

"Wish I had the time but unfortunately, things are a bit busy here in the emergency ward. Let's have a look at that hand."

Phil sat still while Mark examined the cut. Carol returned to the cubicle carrying a tray draped in surgical green. From the tray, Mark removed a hypodermic and began administering a local anesthetic to Phil's palm. "Now, we'll wait a few minutes for the anesthetic to take effect then I'll stitch it back together."

Patting Phil on the shoulder, he said, "I'll be right back, Phil," and left before she had a chance to say anything.

Glancing over her shoulder, she stage whispered to Ben, "It's nice not to have everybody scurrying around trying to find Rob to tell him that his sister is in emergency. Honestly, sometimes I feel like I can't do anything without having to answer to my brothers."

"You're not going to tell him?"

"I don't have to, Ben. I imagine he already knows everything."

"He should," Mark commented as he reentered the cubicle. "I just gave him a call to let him know what had happened."

Glancing once more at Ben, Phil said, "See what I mean? Sometimes I think I should go to a different hospital so that I can be treated like an ordinary person."

"But then you'd miss our VIP treatment," Mark offered as he worked on Phil's hand.

"That's true. I'd hate to think how long I'd have to wait if I didn't have a brother on staff here."

"Actually, not that much longer. We take our patient's in order that they arrive here unless it is a serious injury or such. You're fortunate in that the only serious injuries are the two boys that just arrived with the ambulance."

"Accident?"

Mark raised his eyes to regard the Mountie. "Don't know for sure but there are a lot of police officers that seemed to be interested in them."

Catching Phil's eye, Ben said, "If you don't mind, I'll see if I can find out something. Who knows, this might have some bearing on one of Ray's or Stan's cases."

Phil nodded her head and waved him off. Returning her attention to Mark, she muttered, "Once a policeman, always a policeman."

Mark smiled broadly, "Sort of like a doctor." Phil nodded in agreement.

"Ben, I can take care of myself," Phil ground out between clenched teeth.

"I know you can...I am simply following doctor's orders. You are not to do any driving after taking your pain medication. It can make you drowsy and that could lead to something worse than a cut hand. Therefore, I shall drive you back to your apartment and spend the night on your sofa or you will return with me to my house and spend the night in my bed. I'll sleep on the floor," he quickly added as Phil's eyebrows rose sharply.

"So, which will it be?" he patiently asked as he sat with hands on the steering wheel of her car.

A wave of drowsiness swept over Phil as the pain medication began to take effect. She really didn't feel like arguing with Ben about anything. All she wanted was to crawl into bed and sleep for hours. She yawned widely then mumbled in defeat, "I don't care, Ben. You decide." She closed her eyes and slumped spinelessly on the seat welcoming the soft darkness that beckoned.

Ben carefully watched her for a moment before reaching out and brushing an errant lock of hair from her face. Phil did not flinch nor open her eyes. His finger traced the contours of her face finally resting on her pursed lips. He slowly withdrew his finger, and grasped the ignition key. Turning it, the car sprang to life and Ben pulled out of the parking space and drove off into the clear night air.

Unerringly, he drove to the Consulate and turned into the driveway. He drove slowly past the garages and down the narrow drive to his cottage. There were no lights in the windows but he checked to see if Becka had returned anyway. There was no one there. Did he really expect Becka to be there? He had practically told TJ to take her home with him. His thoughts dwelt on what might be happening at TJ's place but those thoughts sent a rush of heat to his groin and the feeling was almost painful--eating through his insides like a forest fire through dry brush.

He returned to the car and, opening the passenger door, carefully lifted Phil in his arms and carried her into the cottage. After placing her on his bed, he returned to the car and locked it up. Closing the door of the cottage behind himself, he removed his coat and hung it in the closet. He then went to the bedroom and carefully removed Phil's green woolen coat. He hung the coat in the closet beside his own.

Diefenbaker patiently waited until Alpha Male placed the lavender woman's coat in the closet. Whining plaintively, he let it be known that he needed to go out.

Ben smiled down at Dief, "I'm sorry, Dief, but I didn't bring you any leftovers from Phil's party. She was injured and there simply was no time to gather the things I had planned to bring back here." He opened the door and motioned with his hand, "Don't wander far, Dief."

Dief approached the door and gazed out on the snow-covered yard. His tracks of this morning were faintly visible in the moonlight that filtered through the barren trees. He glanced at Alpha Male and yipped shortly before dashing off across the yard to the place where he normally relieved himself. He nosed around the small creek at the rear of the property managing to catch a plump mouse that had foolishly decided to take a moonlight stroll. Satisfied that his hunting skills were as sharp as ever, he returned to the cottage and, scratching at the door, patiently waited for Alpha Male to let him in.

Ben returned to his bedroom and began removing Phil's shoes.

"Wha..?" Phil drowsily asked as she rose to a sitting position on the bed.

"I was just removing your shoes so you would be more comfortable," Ben spoke hastily.

Phil ran a hand across her face and through her hair. "What happened?"

Ben settled onto the edge of the bed and smiled. "You fell asleep in the car so I brought you home. I'll take you back to your place tomorrow."

Phil nodded, then spoke, "You wouldn't happen to have something a little more comfortable that I could wear, would you?" Her husky voice rose with the question.

Ben's smile broadened as he nodded his head. Digging through his dresser he found a pair of sweats and a T-shirt. He left Phil alone as she changed into them.

Answering the insistent scratching at the door, Ben let Diefenbaker into the cottage. The wolf headed straight for the living room, sat down in front of the fireplace and stared pointedly at the kindling laid on the bed of the fireplace. Ben stared at the wolf, finally asking, "You want me to make a fire?"

*Woof* Dief answered without shifting his gaze from the wood in the fireplace.

"Pay and pay," Ben muttered as he reached for the box of matches.

"A fire would be nice, Ben," Phil offered as she entered the living room.

Startled, Ben glanced over his shoulder. His hand jerked as the match burned his fingers. "Phil! I didn't hear you." Dropping the match, he lit another and laid it to the kindling. The wood caught fire and began to burn.

Rising to his feet he held out his arms as his eyes roved over her body. The gray sweats sagged around her ankles and the T-shirt hung down to mid-thigh disguising the womanly curves beneath. Clad in his clothes, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

Phil approached and slipped into his embrace, resting a cheek on his broad chest. Ben rested his cheek on the top of her head after placing a kiss there. There were many things he wanted to say but he did not want to destroy this moment so he held his tongue. Finally, he released his hold on Phil and motioned toward the sofa. "Why don't you make yourself comfortable while I fix us a bite to eat."

"I'm really not hungry, Ben," Phil said as she settled onto the sofa.

"Neither am I, Phil. I was thinking more along the lines of a snack platter."

Phil perked up. "A snack platter? Sounds good. What do you have?" she asked as she rose to her feet and followed him into the kitchen.

Pointing to a chair, he instructed her, "You may sit here and watch but that is all." He opened the refrigerator after Phil sat down. Rummaging around in the fridge he appeared with a roll of summer sausage, one of pepperoni, a jar of pickled peppers, and several types of cheese.

"If you'll give me a platter I'll put the food on it for you," Phil offered.

Ben reached into the cabinet and withdrew two plates. "I don't have a platter, Phil. Will these plates do?" he asked.

"Of course they will, Ben," she replied as she accepted the plates from his hands.

Returning to the refrigerator he produced several small packages of cut up vegetables including carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli. Several small covered bowls contained a variety of dips.

"Where did you get all this food?" Phil asked as Ben added a selection of snack crackers to the growing food on the table.

"Constable Turnbull prepared a variety of snack items and gave them to me as a Christmas gift."

"That was very thoughtful of him. Did you get him anything?"

"I gave him a pair of tickets to La Scala."

"He likes opera?"

"And country/western music," Ben added.

Phil shook her head in amazement as she placed vegetables and slices of cheese and meat on the plates. Ben carried the plates into the living room and placed them on the table that flanked the sofa separating it from the chair beside it. He left for a moment and returned with a bottle of wine and two glasses.

"Wine?" Phil's eyebrows rose inquiringly.

"Stan." Ben's mouth quirked as he poured the deep red liquid into the glasses.

"Stan?"

"Ray's partner."

Phil sipped the wind then smiled appreciatively. "Be sure to thank him for it," she said as she settled onto the sofa and reached for her plate of food. "Ouch!" she muttered as her injured hand protested.

"Here, let me get that for you," Ben quickly responded.

"That's okay, Ben, I can manage."

Ben halted his rush to help and pondered the matter. Nodding his head with satisfaction, he left the living room and Phil could hear him rummaging through the coat closet. Ben soon returned with what could only be a TV tray. He carefully opened it and sat it in front of Phil. Placing her plate of food on it, he scooted it to where Phil could reach it with her good hand.

"All we need now is a good movie," Phil said as she placed her glass of wine on the TV tray.

"Your wish is my command," Ben replied before approaching the small Christmas tree sitting in front of the window. He turned on the lights and smiled over his shoulder at Phil as she watched him. He removed a box from beneath the tree then placed several smaller packages on top of it. Returning to the sofa, he dropped down on it beside Phil.

"Becka is always giving me things that I would not purchase for myself," Ben said by way of explanation. "She gave me a VCR and some videos for Christmas."

Phil reached for the selection of movies that rested on the box that housed the VCR. "What shall we watch?" she asked.

"You choose while I set this up," Ben motioned with his hand toward the television. Phil nodded in agreement.

Later, Ben smiled contentedly as he drew the crocheted afghan over Phil's slumbering form. The only thing that could've made this evening better would've been Phil in his bed even though he knew that the pain medication would have affected her there just as much as it had here on the sofa. Still, Phil falling asleep in his arms was a memory to be treasured. He reached up and pulled the chain from around his neck. Fingering the gold ring on the chain, he wondered when he would have the courage to ask Phil to marry him. He slowly replaced the chain and the ring beneath his shirt. He could wait if, at the end of that waiting, Phil would be his.

Glancing at his watch, he briefly wondered where Becka was and if she had finally found what she had been waiting for. TJ was a good man...but was he good enough for his sister? His eyes rested on Phil. He could understand TJ's and Rob's hesitancy toward him. Was he good enough for their sister? 'Becka, please be careful,' he silently pled.

"What do you make of Ben and Phil," Becka idly asked as she planted kisses on TJ's broad shoulder blades. The salty taste of the sweaty sheen that glazed his body teased her senses and she playfully ran her tongue along his spine.

TJ shivered in sensuous delight. Now he knew the difference between sex and making love. Becka's question sank into his satiated thoughts and he pondered it before answering. Rolling over he captured Becka in his arms and drew her into the curve of his shoulder. She responded by caressing his chest with her tiny hand.

Placing a kiss on the crown of her head, he finally voiced his thoughts. "I don't know, Becka. I really don't know. One minute they're like the oldest of friends, the next...the next they're like strangers. I know they love each other but I sometimes wonder if they can put the past behind them. I just don't know..." He placed another kiss on Becka's head reveling in the slightly floral scent of her hair.

Becka pushed away from TJ and rose to a sitting position. She brushed her hair away from her face with a hand then dropped it to lie in her lap. "But what do you make of their reaction to us?"

"Us?" TJ inquired as he, too, rose. He propped his elbow on the mattress and rested his head in his hand.

"Yes, us...me and you."

TJ stretched out a hand and captured Becka's. He drew it to his lips and placed a kiss on her palm. Staring into her eyes, he smiled before allowing her to reclaim her hand. "Actually, thinking back on it, I'm not as surprised as I thought I would be."

"What do you mean?"

TJ rose to a sitting position. "I mean, it doesn't surprise me that Phil reacted the way she did. I should've known better. After Noelle died, she was the one that told me over and over again that I would find someone else. I didn't believe her until I met Cat but she..."

"She was waiting for her soulmate," Becka supplied.

"Yeah...I'm just surprised that that turned out to be Lloyd."

"In what way?"

TJ drew a hand through his hair pulling his long locks away from his face. "Doesn't it seem a little strange that the people we care for are being drawn into a large extended family?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, Lloyd is Beth's cousin."

"Beth?"

"Rob's wife...you met her today." Becka nodded in understanding beginning to see what TJ was talking about.

"Anyway," TJ continued, "Lloyd and Cat...then there's Ben and Phil, you and me...doesn't it seem a little strange?"

"The way you put it, TJ, it does seem a bit weird but then my family has always been a bit on the weird side."

"Mine, too," TJ quickly agreed. "I just hope everything works out for everybody."

"Me, too, but right now the only thing I care about is being here with you. I love you, TJ."

TJ drew Becka into his arms and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. "I love you, too, Becka." Releasing her, he rose from the bed. "Wait right here. I have something I want to show you."

Becka smiled letting her love fill her eyes. Her eyes hungrily roved over TJ's naked form. His powerful well-muscled body moved with an easy grace and she shivered as the memory of their lovemaking intruded on her thoughts. He was tender and gentle, pleasuring her until she thought her body would explode with exquisite agony, then holding her as she lost herself in the powerful sensations that rippled through her body. The bed shifted and Becka shook off her memories.

"Where were you?" TJ asked.

"What do you mean?"

"You were miles away," he answered.

"Actually, I was only about half-an-hour earlier," she whispered as she leaned into him lifting her lips for his kiss. His lips pressed against hers then gently covered her mouth. He moved his mouth over hers, devouring its softness. The kiss sent the pit of her stomach into a wild swirl.

"Becka," TJ murmured against her lips. He held her fiercely as if afraid something might snatch her away. "Becka, I have something for you," he finally said as he released his hold on her. Becka tilted her head and smiled encouragingly at him. TJ slowly opened his hand. Cradled on his palm was a ring.

Becka's brows furrowed slightly as she tentatively reached for the ring. TJ dropped the ring into her hand and she brought it closer to her face. She thought she recognized the workmanship and she raised questioning eyes to TJ. "Is this...?" she began.

TJ nodded his head. "Earl gave it to me." he curled her fingers over the ring, "and now I'm giving it to you." Becka gazed up in confusion. "Marry me, Becka."

The confusion faded from her face. "Yes," she choked out as tears rimmed her eyes and began to creep down her face. "Yes, TJ, I'll marry you."

Alarmed, TJ swept her into his arms. "Don't cry, Becka," he ground out.

Pushing against his strength, Becka laughed almost hysterically. "Oh, TJ, I can't help it. I'm so happy." She pounced on him, forcing him back on the bed. Devouring his lips with her mouth, she whispered words of love to him.

Taken by surprise, TJ melted under her embrace but gave kiss for kiss, embrace for embrace. Gently, his hand outlined the circle of her breast before searing a path down her abdomen to her thigh. He explored her thighs and then moved up searching for her pleasure points.

The stroking of his fingers sent pleasant jolts through Becka. She matched his urgency with her own lusty, unsated needs. Grasping his length in her hands, she stroked him with fervor. An animal like growl grew in her throat and she nipped at TJ's throat eliciting a moan from him.

"Becka," he moaned as he moved over her. Positioning himself, he plunged into her welcoming warmth. Together they set up a rhythm that drove them higher into realms of ecstasy that neither had reached before.

"TJ," Becka cried as the spasms racked her body.

TJ fought to hold onto his control, but the clenching of her body around his member could not be denied. He drove deeper into her depths flinging himself over the cliffs of passion to merge with Becka in a uniting of their souls. He was finally complete. The empty void in his heart was gone. He wrapped his arms around his soulmate and slipped into an exhausted sleep.

Becka gasped for breath as she swam up from the depths of erotic pleasure. Her body tingled as the flush of lovemaking slowly ebbed. She was conscious of the body plastered to her side and the arms that enveloped her in a protective embrace. She sighed in pure contentment. She was finally home...finally where she belonged. Her final thought before sleep claimed her was of Cat and how she would react to her news. She smiled to herself. Sleep...she needed sleep then she would attack TJ again and again and again. She sighed once more and slipped into that welcoming darkness.

Laughter floated across the small pond as various members of the Vecchio clan moved out onto the ice and began skating. The ice reflected the weak sunlight that filtered through the scattered clouds. Even Sylvia Vecchio had joined the group and now skated, two grandchildren in tow--or more accurately, being towed by little Rosie and Daniel. Tony skated arm in arm with Maria and Frannie had yet to join the group. She and Stan stood off to one side indulging in a "public display of affection". Moving at a snail's pace about the perimeter of the small pond, Ray wondered why he'd allowed himself to be dragged into this. He'd never mastered the art of skating although it wasn't because of lack of trying. He'd tried for all of his life but his tall lanky build just had not cooperated (at least that's what he told himself). He glanced over at Phil and smirked. At least he could skate better than she could or so he hoped.

Ben knelt in front of Phil. His fingers fought with hers as she tried to tie the laces of her skates. "Ben! Please, I can do this myself. Just 'cause I can't skate worth a damn doesn't mean I can't tie my own laces!"

Ben rocked back on his heels, his hands dropping to rest on his knees. He watched patiently as Phil finished tying her laces then smoothed down the legs of her jeans. He watched as she absentmindedly licked her lips then gently bit the lower one. He could tell that she was uneasy. Rising to his feet, he held out his hands and was rewarded when she placed hers in his. She rose gracefully to her feet and accepted the arm he placed around her. Together they moved toward the ice--Ben on assured feet, Phil with unsteady ankles.

Stepping out onto the ice, Phil took a few wavering steps. Trying to put a bit of a glide into it, she pushed off with one foot but her ankle betrayed her and she slipped. Ben's arm around her saved her from landing unceremoniously on her backside.

"Take is slow, Phil. I'm here, I won't let you fall," Ben encouraged.

Three of the older children whizzed by playing "crack-the-whip." As they passed they grabbed for Ben's hand. As he felt himself being pulled along he quickly released his hold on Phil not wanting her to be the end of the whip when it finally cracked. Thrilled that they had finally suckered an adult into joining them, the youngsters shouted with glee and began skating faster. Knowing what was coming, Ben played along with them and dutifully flew off the end as the whip cracked. However, he did not flail his arms nor end up in the snowbank as the children had thought he would. They had momentarily forgotten that Ben had grown up in the north where winter sports were commonplace.

Ben crouched low, using a hand to steady himself as he banked around the corner. He sped up using his arms in a crisscross motion reminiscent of a speed skater. He deftly threaded his way between the other skates coming upon the still laughing trio of children. Grasping an outstretched hand, he pulled the trio along, lined up his shot, and cracked the whip. The children went flying across the ice into the snowbank.

"Wow!" "Neat!" "Cool!" "Do it again!" they cried as they crawled from the bank and raced up to where Ben waited for them.

Ray carefully slid up next to Phil. Not wishing to startle her, he waited for her to recognize his presence beside her. "How ya doing?"

"How'd I ever let myself get talked into this?" she queried as she tried to maintain her balance.

"I ask myself that every time we come out here. Know what I discovered?" He waited for her acknowledgement. "I do it 'cause I love 'em." He motioned toward the various members of his family. "We've always come out here and skated together. No matter how good or how bad you are, you skate. Just look at Maria and Tony. Maria's good, really good but Tony couldn't...well, let's just say that he used to be worse than me."

Phil chucked then clutched at Ray's arms as the laughter sent her off balance and she faltered. Unfortunately, Ray was none to steady and the sudden grasp on his arm unbalanced him. Together, they sprawled on the ice. Rolling over, Phil glared at Ray then broke into infectious giggles. Ray simply continued to lie on the ice. The shrieking of laughter pulled both of their attentions to the far end of the pond where they witnessed the children send the Mountie flying. They also witnessed Ben's escape and cheered him on as he passed them on his way to deal vengeance on those same kids.

"Better him than me," Ray muttered under his breath.

"I take it you've ended up in that snow bank before?"

"Every year. Those kids know I can't defend myself so they go for the jugular every time. They're like sharks...if they sense a moment of weakness they're on you and the next thing you know...kablooey! You're face down in that snow bank. Looks like they picked on the wrong person this year, though. I think they forgot that Benny has ice running in his veins."

"So, you're saying that anyone that can't skate well..." There was no mistaking the worry in her voice.

Ray's eyes widened. "Don't worry, Phil, they wouldn't think of going after you. They know you can't skate so they wouldn't pull that trick on you. At least, they better know that." Ray climbed to his knees.

Phil put out a restraining hand. "Don't Ray. Let the kids enjoy themselves. I think I'd rather sit this one out anyway. I'm going to be black and blue from the bruises I can already feel."

"Nonsense, Cara. The children will not bother you. I have already spoken to them," Ma Vecchio said as she joined the two sitting on the ice. "They will already have to answer for pulling Benton away from you like that...but they will not crack the whip with you...nor anyone else skating with you." She pointedly stared at Ray before skating away with the youngest Vecchios.

A smiling Ben joined Ray and Phil as Ray helped Phil to her feet. Phil grinned broadly before waving him off. "No, Ben, go ahead and play with the kids. Ray and I will help support each other until you wear them out." Phil's mouth twitched with amusement.

"I did not mean to desert you, Phil. Especially after promising you that I would help you..." Ben's voice tapered off as he tucked his head down and licked his lips to hide his embarrassment.

"I forgive you, Ben. Besides the kids are having the times of their lives. It looks like they've never been on the receiving end before. Go ahead and enjoy yourself. As Ray has already stated, we can manage together." Ben's head lifted and he smiled once more. Before he could comply, Phil laid a hand on his arm. "You can do one thing before you leave..."

Ben's eyes slid back to her face then away. "What would that be, Phil?" he asked, half of his attention centered on the children circling the pond.

"Give me a kiss before you desert me once more."

Ray choked back a laugh as Ben turned startled eyes to Phil.

A rosy blush began to inch up into his cheeks as Ben cleared his throat before speaking. "That would not be proper, Phil," he began but was cut short by Phil.

"Your loss, Mountie. Mark my words, Ben, you'll regret this," she vowed, holding the laughter at bay. "Come on, Ray, let's see if we can make it around the pond without falling." She looped her arm in Ray's and tugged slightly.

"So long, Benny. Have fun with the kiddies. I'll take care of Phil for you." He waggled his eyebrows and gave Phil a lecherous grin.

Ben watched with worried eyes as Ray slipped his arm around Phil's waist and the two of them skated away. He had nothing to worry about, did he? Still, their heads were way too close for his comfort.

"Come on, Uncle Ben!" the trio of youngsters called as they skated up to the motionless Mountie.

Ben glanced once more in the direction of Ray and Phil then down into the expectant faces of the children. He inhaled a deep breath then turned his back on the couple. He had no reason to be jealous of Ray. He would have all the time in the world to skate with her after he'd played with the children.

A resounding crack split the darkness stunning everyone into immobility then instinct took over. Ben knocked the children to the ice grunting instructions for them to remain down. As he rose, he noticed that Stan had Frannie down and with relief, he noticed that Phil was also on the ice with Ray already moving in the direction of his mother. Regaining his feet, he quickly corralled Tony and Maria. The three police officers scattered trying to locate the shooter.

After several tense moments, the people on the ice began to crawl toward the safety and concealment of the bank--all but one. It was Ray that noticed first. He quickly scanned the area then hurried back to the ice. He cursed volubly under his breath.

"Phil? Are you all right?" he questioned as he slid a hand beneath her back. A sticky wetness that had nothing to do with the ice met his hand.

"Ray? I'm so cold...where's Ben?" The words came thickly past the blood that slowly spilled from the corner of her mouth.

Ray's eyes widened in fright as he dug in his pocket for his cell phone. He quickly made the call that would bring medical assistance. "Don't move, Phil. Help is on the way."

"Ben?" she queried once more.

By this time, members of the Vecchio family had gathered around the couple on the ice. Ray raised frightened eyes to his mother. "Where's Benny?" he asked.

Ben knelt in the snow carefully tracing the outlines of a body with his hand. 'Small, probably a woman,' he cataloged. Rising to his feet, he started in the direction the footprints led.

"Fraser!"

Ben's shoulders hunched at Frannie's call. He knew he no longer had to worry about her attentions but habits died hard. Slowly straightening, he turned to see what she wanted. He hoped it wasn't anything important. He needed to follow the footprints while they were still fresh.

"Fraser! Hurry!" Frannie frantically waved at him.

Something in her tone of voice sent chills up and down his spine. He glanced down at the footprints in the snow but his body, his feet were already moving in the direction of the pond. He heard the sirens in the distance but it was the small group of people on the ice that drew his attention.

"Benny!" Ray's voice shook with emotion.

Panic like he'd never known before welled in his throat. He was on the ice, kneeling beside Phil without knowing how he'd gotten there. The ice was stained with her blood.

"Ben?" The voice that was engraved on his heart was so soft he could barely hear it.

Carefully, he eased his arm beneath her body relieving Ray of that burden. He held her close and gazed down into her pain filled eyes. Using his teeth, he removed a glove and brushed the hair from her face. "I'm here, Phil," he whispered around the rising lump in his throat.

"You should...you should have kissed...kissed me...when you had...the...chance," she murmured.

In slow motion Ben's head lowered until his lips pressed against hers. He felt the ferocity of her kiss and returned the fervor. He tasted the salt of his tears, realizing for the first time that he was crying. The press of her lips against his ceased and he felt the long drawn out breath that issued from her lips. The coffee brown eyes dimmed and glazed over. He buried his face in her neck breathing in the scent of her hair. He felt the life drain from her body along with the blood that discolored the ice.

Life was so unfair. Even in his darkest thoughts he had never imagined anything like this. Just when he'd found his love, she was taken from him. Convulsive sobs shook his body.

Ray stood in shock over his best friend. The ambulance had arrived and the medics were hurrying across the ice with the gurney. Would they arrive in time? Who was the sadist that had shot into the family on the ice? Was this the end of the Ben and Phil saga?

So engrossed was everyone in the tragedy unfolding before them that no one noticed the woman spying on them from the protective cover of the trees at the edge of the park. She smiled grimly to herself before spinning about and heading for her car. As she settled behind the wheel she yanked the stocking cap from her head and shook out her long, dark, curly tresses. The smile on her face did not bring any warmth to her patrician features. It looked more like the satisfied grin of a vulture after a filling roadkill.

To be continued

Disclaimer: This story is written for the private entertainment of fans. The author makes no claims on the characters or their portrayal by the creation of this story. Fraser, Vecchio, et.al. belong to Alliance; the McKenzies and friends belong to me. Cat Madden belongs to Carol Trendall and is used with permission. No infringement of any copyrights held by CBS, Alliance, CTV or any other copyright holders of DUE SOUTH is intended. This story is not published for profit, and the author does not give permission for this story to be reproduced for profit.

Lyrics from Written in the Stars by Elton John and Tim Rice are used without permission.

Copyright November 2002 by Cassandra Hope