The pulsating water did little to rid the thoughts of Danny Sampson that encircled her. Michelle leaned against the cool ceramic tiled shower walls knowing that more then the steaming water was causing her to feel feverish.

In the safety she found in the shower, Michelle let herself succumb to her fantasies. It was an easy thing to do....a thing that she wanted to do. Again she saw those piercing black eyes as they starred her down. They were sexy and mysterious at the same time. Even as the fiery water cascaded off her body, the mere thought of his eyes caused goose bumps on her hot skin. It was like he held every part of her being.....her soul captive with those black pieces of coal.

Michelle lathered her body absently wondering what it would feel like to have Danny caress her most secret places. Her nipples stood erect as she circled them with the loufa. Michelle bit her lip at the thoughts of Danny that she entertained at the moment. She let her hands run easily over her soapy thighs. She imagined what pleasure she would experience having Danny's fingers entwined in her honey blonde curls that led to her most feminine spot. Michelle grew wet with desire from her very core picturing her body arch with gratification from his touch.............

The sudden stark coldness of the water made Michelle jump back out of it's stream. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING????" she questioned herself aloud. She had stood there so long indulging her erotic dreams that the water had grown cold. Michelle did the best she could to finish her shower under the chill of the water. It wasn't until she stood looking at herself in the mirror that she saw just how flushed she was.

The images that were plastered in her head were very much still there. No amount of cold water would make them go away. The face in the mirror that looked back at her wasn't one she recognized. Michelle Bauer wasn't one to let her emotions run wild the way they just had been. Yet she couldn't shake the need to feel Danny's flesh against hers. It was like a primal need that she had no control over.......

"YOU'RE DOING IT AGAIN!!!!" she scolded. "You don't know anything about this guy...but still you already your children's names picked out.....you idiot," Michelle said carrying on a conversation with the reflection in the mirror.

Michelle was thankful for the ringing phone. It would force her to have to think about something other then Danny. "Hello," she said into the receiver.

"Melanie, hi it's Sarah. Did I catch you at a bad time?"

"No just getting out of the shower."

"I did then didn't I? I can call you back if you want."

"NO!!!" Michelle returned quickly not wanting to let herself be sucked back into her one-sided fantasy, "It's okay. What's up?"

"Was wondering if you were free today? You know this is the first official day of the Christmas shopping season."

"I don't know really........" Michelle hadn't even wanted to think bout what Christmas would be like this year. She had skated her way through Thanksgiving but Christmas would be a completely different ballgame. The thought of going to the mall didn't much thrill her. There wouldn't be anyone to buy presents for this year. No gag gift for Rick, no toys for Ross's twins nothing. She didn't know if she could really do this.

"Why? Tell me you came to your senses and you hooked up with Danny after all?"

"NO!" There it was his name again. A name that made her body quiver, "I have to go into work today. I don't know how long I will be."

"Work? You are kidding right? This is supposed to be holiday break isn't it?" Sarah whined. The last thing she wanted to do was spend another boring day watching her father at the club. With that thought a light bulb went off above Sarah's head, "Hey I have a great idea."

"Oh really?" Michelle said slyly knowing exactly where Sarah's idea was headed.

"Why don't you meet me for lunch? I mean you do get a lunch break don't you?"

"Yes.....where exactly did you have in mind?" Michelle knew the answer without even hearing Sarah's response.

"We could go to The Two Step. Dad says Reggie has a mean lunch menu," Sarah held her breath waiting for Michelle to respond.

"Oh could we now? What kind of match making do you have up your sleeve pray tell?" Michelle laughed.

"Who me?" Sarah chided. She wasn't about to tell her that Danny had questioned her father about her. But she also wasn't about to sit idly by and not do something about the obvious attraction between these two.

"Yes you," Michelle hesitated for a moment. What did she really have to lose? Here she was having visions of him what would it hurt to give the wheel a spin hoping it would land on the Queen of Hearts, "Yeah I guess I could do that. The club is close to campus," she said trying to hide the excitement in her voice.

"Great. What time do you think you will be able to break away?"

"I'm not sure. Mr. Rodgers sounded like there would be a lot of work to do. I would think maybe around one o'clock. How's that sound?"

"Great. How about I give you my cell phone number just in case something comes up."

"Cell phone huh?" Michelle kidded, "Moving up in the world I see?"

"I wish. Let's just say that I plan on collecting for all the missed birthdays from my dear old dad. I figure he has at least eighteen more to go."

"Well don't forget about Christmas too," Michelle added with a laugh.

"You're right. I think that I might just have to do a little shopping before lunch. Got any requests it's on Carl."

"You are too funny. Listen I have to get ready. I will see you at The Two Step. Happy shopping."

Between her fantasy about Danny and her conversation with Sarah, she would barely have enough time to dress. Quickly she pulled on her favorite black mini and white crop top and headed for her car. If she was lucky she would make it to the bookstore by quarter after nine.

The phone rang again in the silent apartment. Michelle was too far down the hall to hear it's faint ringing. As the answering machine once again clicked off Michelle's voice filled the air.

"Hi you have reached 523-8115. I can't get to the phone right now. Please leave a message and I will get back you to. Wait for the beep."

"Yeah sure you will," Jeremy Lucas said before the second beep sounded indicating his turn to speak, "Hi Melanie, Jeremy Lucas again. I have to say that you have me a bit worried. I thought I would have heard you by now. Please phone me the minute you get this message." Jeremy hung up the phone with a resounding thud. "Well if you won't come to me then I will just have to go to you." He grabbed his keys and walked out the door with a game plan in mind.

Danny stood outside the doorway to the kitchen listening to but another argument. He had been right to question his aunt's new found acceptance of him. What troubled him more then the fight itself was the way that Jenny spoke of Carl. It made him more certain that Carl wasn't one to be trusted. And more importantly neither was his aunt.

Albert's words about him having a generous heart weren't working all that much right now. A generous heart got you many things but at the moment he was sure that his would get him a swift kick in the ass if he didn't watch his back.

"Danny," Albert said as he practically ran into him. He had hoped that Danny had not been privy to the battle that had just ensued between he and his wife. The look in Danny's eyes told him that wasn't the case.

"Good morning. I just came to grab that broom." Danny said awkwardly.

"Forget that. Jenny can clean that up," Albert spoke as if his wife was the hired help rather then the lady of the house, "We need to get to the market."

"No really. I want to do it." Danny didn't want to be the cause of but another conflict and more importantly he didn't want Jenny snooping around in his things. Not that he had anything to hide, but given the obvious feelings she had for him she was liable to try to come up with anything to discredit him.

"Daniel," Albert said with a strained voice.

"Uncle Albert," Danny returned in much the same manner.

"I'll meet you in the car then," Albert finally relented.

"It will only take a minute to clean up the mirror."

"What happened to the mirror?" Jenny asked as she watched Albert's retreating back.

"It fell off the wall this morning," Danny said in a noncommittal tone.

"Just feel off the wall for no reason?" Jenny questioned the unbelievableness of his words.

"Yes," he stressed shooting Jenny a look she sensed meant let it alone.

"Fine," she returned leaving Danny to his task.

"Is everything all right?" Albert asked as Danny slid into the seat beside him.

"Fine.....everything is just fine."

The market was alive with people that morning. Albert led Danny through the crowds as they walked up and down the street stopping to introduce Danny to all their current vendors.

"Pedro," Albert said stretching his arms to encircle his friend, "I'd like you to meet my nephew, Danny."

"Nice to meet you," Danny said putting his hand out.

"Come here, son," Pedro returned pulling Danny into a bear hug, "Any family of Albert's is family of mine."

"Easy there Pedro. Let the poor boy breathe," Albert laughed.

"Sorry," Pedro said dropping his arms.

"No harm done," Danny commented as he adjusted the collar on his leather jacket.

"So what brings you out and about this morning, gentleman?"

"I wanted Danny to meet the men he would be working with. See Danny has come to Texas to help me expand my restaurant. And might I add he's done an excellent job thus far. I say in a few months we will be the hottest nightclub in town."

"You don't say?" Pedro rubbed his hand along his chin.

"Yes. We had a hell of a crowd last night."

"Last night?" Pedro echoed, "On Thanksgiving of all nights?"

"That's right. The place was packed. We actually were turning people away at the door."

"I'm impressed son," Pedro said looking in Danny's direction, "It's been a long time since we have seen that kind of action in our neck of the woods."

"Thank you. I hope to keep it that way. I envision great things for Uncle Albert's business."

"I'm sure that you do. So what can I do for the two of you?"

"I'd like to place a produce order," Danny said.

"I think that I am the man for the job," Pedro laughed as he gestured to the mounds of fresh fruits and vegetables surrounding him.

"I would have to agree," Danny returned.

The rest of the morning was spent in very much the same manner. Albert introduced Danny around the market. He enjoyed watching his nephew sink his teeth into the business. It was nice to know that there would be someone to carry on after he was gone. His own son wouldn't be able to do that so Danny was the next best thing.

"So what did you think?" Albert asked as they made their way back to the club.

"Quite an education I have to say."

"It takes some time but you will get the hang of it. You will be able to haggle with the best of them."

"And I would have to say that you are the master haggler, Uncle."

"Why thank you," he said taking a mock bow, "I've been doing this for far too long not to have picked up a few tricks of the trade."

"So you are saying that Carl has never done any of this?" That was the first time all morning that he dared to speak Carl's name.

"About what you over heard this morning," Albert said glossing over Danny's question getting to the heart of the matter, "I am sorry for Jenny's remarks about Carl. Yes, he has been loyal to us for many years now, but you are my blood."

"Uncle, please don't rock the boat of your marriage for my need for normalcy," Danny returned flatly.

"I want that for you though."

"At what cost to you though? I see the gap between you and Jenny widen each day that I am here."

"You let me worry about my wife. You have much more important things to worry about. I fully expect our expansion to take off before Christmas. I want the place to be rockin',"

Danny had to laugh at his uncle's attempt to sound hip. He couldn't help but wonder exactly how much more his marriage could take before the already severely bent rod would break.

"I know no matter what Jenny may say she is far from accepting me with open arms," Danny said all joking aside.

"I know," Albert concurred, "I thought that she would come around but that doesn't seem to be the case," the hurt resounded in his tone.

"I think it's time that I started scouting out a place of my own."

"NO!" Albert's voice bounced off the interior of his car.

"But........"

"No buts, you are my family......."

"But so is Jenny," Danny said cutting Albert off, "She stood by you through thick and thin which is more then I can say for mine."

"Don't you dare say that! Your father was a prince among men. He gave me my freedom. He was a good man Daniel. I know you lost him far too early in life to know who he truly was but don't ever let speculation and hearsay make you forget the man you remember."

"I just don't want to be a burden to you. That was never my intention in coming here. I just wanted to start over."

"And you have. My restaurant, should I say my club," he corrected himself, "took in more business last night then it has in the weeks prior to your arrival. I have a gold mine in you son. You belong here as much as my wife does."

"I hope you are right."

Danny looked at the parking lot as Albert swung the car around back. It was only eleven o'clock and it was already beginning to fill. He smiled with pride at his accomplishment. No amount of harsh words from Jenny could take this away from him. This victory was all his. A victory that he was going to savor.

"What did I tell you gold mine?" Albert commented as he ran his hand along the stack of orders waiting to be filled, "I hope you are ready for the action Reggie," Albert squeezed the chef's shoulder. "What do you say to going out and greeting our customers?" Albert motioned towards the swinging door between the kitchen and dining room.

"I say lets do it!"

It was then that Danny caught sight of Carl's daughter sitting alone in a corner booth. His thoughts immediately raced towards the image of Melanie Branson's face that he carried with him since the night before. He only hoped that she would be occupying the empty space across from her friend.

Michelle raced across the quad heading for the building that housed the college bookstore. The hands on her watch were reading nine-thirty. Traffic had been horrible.

"I'm so sorry, Mr. Rodgers," she puffed trying to catch her breath, "It's a zoo out there. Now I remember why I don't go shopping the day after Thanksgiving."

"No need to apologize. You are the one doing me the favor. Sit down and catch your breath girl. I certainly don't need you to pass out from lack of oxygen," he chuckled.

Michelle watched as he went into the backroom emerging with steaming mugs in hand. "What's this for?" she questioned his smiling face.

"The shipment can wait. I want to hear about your first holiday in my home land of Texas."

"There's really not all that much to tell."

"Why is it that I don't quite believe that?" he countered with a twinkle in his eye, "I may not have had a daughter of my own, but I most certainly have seen the that look in your eye many times before. I know I might be divulging a great male secret but boys have that same goofy look on their faces too when they have met someone they are attracted to."

"I think you must be mistaken," Michelle hid a smile as she took a sip of the hot chocolate he offered her, "As for divulging any male secrets I have a brother so I know all about their goofy looks. I remember Rick being head over heals in love with....." Michelle caught herself before she could say anymore. She could have kicked herself right about now. What the hell was she thinking rambling on and on like that? It was just that Mr. Rodgers had been so easy to talk to and she needed that right now. She needed an objective sounding board to discuss whatever it was that was going on in her head about Danny Sampson.

"In love with?" he questioned waiting for her to finish.

"If I could only remember their names.....he had so many," she covered.

"You can't fool me my dear. I know a love struck girl when I see one. Remember I have worked in this bookstore for over thirty years now. I have seen my fair share of them and you sweetie have been bitten by the love bug and hard I might add."

Michelle was at a loss for words. She feared that if she spoke she would find herself spilling parts of her life that didn't exist anymore but if she didn't talk she thought that she just might explode.

"First let me ask you, how was your holiday?" Michelle said buying herself a little time.

"Very uneventful. It's pretty much the same year after year. The boys bring their new girlfriends around, my wife spends the day cooking and sizing her new potential daughter-in-laws and me well I kick back and catch as many bowl games as the little woman will allow."

"Sounds nice."

"Nice and boring," he joked, "I think your day was far more fun."

"I would have to say that I think I should have taken you up on your offer for dinner. The entertainment sounds far better."

"Not hardly. So stop stalling. Tell me about your day," Mr. Rodgers pushed.

"Actually it wasn't like any Thanksgiving I have ever spent before. My friend Sarah, the girl from the other day," Mr. Rodgers nodded his acknowledgment, "Well her father is the manager of this club. The Two Step, you know the one on the other side of campus. Well they were having a grand reopening and she invited me to attend it with her."

"I know that place. But I thought it was just a restaurant. Since when has it been turned into a nightclub?"

"I guess just recently. According to Sarah the owner's nephew is in town to spice things up a bit."

"A there it is....that twinkle. I would have to say this nephew is the one who has your head all turned around."

"What!?!?!? No!" Michelle gasped at how in tune this man was with the pulse of the young blood of the campus.

"You can't fool me honey. It's written over every inch of that pretty face of yours."

Michelle felt the blush growing on her cheeks. "I must say he is rather attractive."

"Attractive? And here I thought the latest term was HOTTIE?"

Michelle almost choked on the swallow of hot chocolate that she had just taken.

"Hottie?!?!?"

"What????' he feigned shock, "You think I live under a rock? I listen and I watch you young ones. I know what I need to know to keep up with the trends. How do you think I have stayed in business this long?" he asked as if the answer was as plain as the nose on his face.

"You are a shrewd one Mr. Rodgers."

"Please call me Tony. Mr. Rodgers makes me sound so old."

"Tony it is then."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

"Where do you think you're going?" he questioned as Michelle stood up from the table.

"I was going to get to work. You surely aren't paying me to sit here and chat with you all morning."

"Don't think you are off the hook yet young lady. I will find out about this nephew. Don't you worry about that."

"My lips are sealed," Michelle countered as she pretended to lock her lips with an imaginary key tossing into the air.

Before Michelle had even realized it the morning had slipped into the afternoon. The clock on the wall read quarter to one. there was no way that she would be able to meet Sarah now.

She felt her heart sink in her chest knowing that she had missed the opportunity to run into Danny. But never the less, there was still hours of work to be done before she would be able to leave.

Michelle pulled the slip of paper from her purse that she had scribbled Sarah's number on this morning. She let the number ring through and awaited the wrath.

"Where are you?" Sarah asked before Michelle had the chance to speak.

"Still at the bookstore," she returned meekly.

"Why?"

"Things are taking longer then I thought they would," There was no need to go into details of how her and her boss had spent the better part of the morning discussing their respective holidays.

"How about we meet for dinner and then a night out on the town?" Michelle offered.

"What am supposed to do until then?" Sarah wasn't actually mad at her friend she was just disappointed that she would have to postpone her match making. She had just spied Danny and his Uncle coming into the dining room. She had wanted Melanie to be there by now.

"Spend some more of your daddy's money?" Michelle laughed thinking back to their earlier conversation.

"Now I am liking the sound of that."

"I thought you might. So are we on for tonight or what?"

"Of course. How about I pick you up? That way there will be no slipping out quietly tonight."

"Sure," Sarah was shocked that she had agreed so quickly. Maybe she wouldn't have to work that hard after all. Maybe Melanie was finally coming to her senses, "Here's my address," Sarah pulled the napkin out from under her drink and jotted down the street name and apartment number, "See you about eight or so?"

"Sounds like a plan to me."

"Great see you then."

Michelle was shocked to see Agent Jeremy Lucas standing outside with his face pressed against the plate glass window of the store. She walked over to the door wondering what it was that he could want.

Danny and Albert made their way around the dining room all the while Danny's eyes darted from Sarah's table to the door and back again. His uncle had been talking but Danny hadn't heard a word said. His thoughts were completely focused on willing Melanie Branson to walk through the door.

"Jackson, I'd like to introduce you to my nephew Danny," Albert said to the man seated at the table before them.

"Nice to meet you Danny," the man extended his hand to Danny.

"Daniel," Albert nudged.

"Ah, I'm sorry," Danny said realizing the he had better pull it together, "My mind is lost in thought. I just want to be sure that everything is running smoothly."

"So Albert tells me this nightclub action is your brain child. Well I have to say that it's a wonderful way to capitalize on the youth market."

"My thinking exactly. If last night's crowd is any indication of what is to come I expect us to do very well."

"So Al, what are you going to do now? Retire?" the man jabbed at Albert's stomach.

"Me? Retire? I highly doubt it. I'm far too young for that. But I think I might sit back and enjoy my life a bit more. You know reap the benefits of having Danny here."

Carl stood in the corner out of sight listening to the conversation before him. It made his blood boil. Suddenly he was merely a toy that had been replaced by a new more expensive version.

Carl had repeatedly pitched his ideas to Albert. Ideas that were so similar to Danny's that they could have been a carbon copy. But they had fallen on deaf ears. Albert would always put his hand in the air as if to stop the words from spilling from his lips. Carl could still hear him say......"Business is fine. We have a loyal following. I don't want to upset the balance we have here by introducing live entertainment into the mix. We are too old to be listening to blaring rock bands," he would joke.

But that's exactly what Danny had done. He had even gone as far as recruit the band he had scouted for six months now. It was like everything that Danny touched turned to gold. What had taken Carl months to accomplish Danny had done in weeks. It was infuriating.

"Danny," Carl said interrupting the men's conversation.

"Not now Carl," Albert injected.

"I need to discuss a problem with Danny," Albert stressed not having a clue what he was doing but he just wanted to be part of the action again.

"Handle it!" Albert said in a gruff tone, "Isn't that what I pay you for?"

"It's all right Uncle Albert. It was very nice to meet you Jackson. I'd love to discuss business with you sometime."

"We'll do that son. And congratulations on a fine start here."

"What's the problem Carl?"

"What are we doing for entertainment tonight?" Carl said the first thing that came to mind.

"What?" Danny returned starring at him in disbelief.

"There's no band booked for tonight. I thought........"

"Carl, you are kidding right? You know that we have a standing order for the next month of Fridays to have DJ's from the University of Texas local station play here."

'Shit that's right," Carl said slapping his hand against his forehead trying to feign surprise.

"What's really going on here?" Danny questioned doing his best to read Carl's face.

"Nothing man. It's just that I want to be sure that everything runs smoothly. That is what your uncle pays me for," Carl's tone was mocking.

"So Fridays are taken care of but what about Saturday? I know that you don't have anyone lined up to play here yet," Carl jabbed thinking he had Danny boxed in.

"Well I made a deal with the band from last night. They agreed to play tomorrow. That gives me all of next week to scout some new talent."

"You are having them play again? Don't you think that's a bit too soon?"

"No.....no I don't. They are a great band. You said so yourself. And they bring in a lot of the college kids. That's what we are looking to do. I was even thinking of making them an offer to play here once a month."

"Seems like you have all the answers," Carl said not able to hide his sarcasm.

"Damn right I do!" Danny's voice held a tone of anger. His fuse was short and he by no means intended on holding his tongue with this man. "You had better start getting used to the fact that I am here. HERE TO STAY!!!" Danny said in a violent whisper, "There's the door if you have a problem with those facts!" Danny turned to go before Carl had gotten a chance to even open his mouth to return fire. That had been a good thing though. He saw the way that Albert was starring him down. He would have to bide his time, but he would bring Danny to his knees if it was the last thing that he did.

Danny's breath came out in short hard bursts as he paced back and forth outside the kitchen door. He was annoyed at himself for letting Carl play him. In a flash Danny had reverted to his old ways. In his head he calculated what it would take to have Carl removed from the equation. That scared the hell out of him but he couldn't stop thinking about things in those terms. He wondered if Albert still had the same difficulty.

"Danny?" It was though Albert could read his mind, "Don't beat yourself up. Thoughts are only thoughts until you act on them."

"Does this ever really go away? Am I ever going to stop thinking of life in terms defined by my mother?"

"They are not terms defined by Carmen. They are terms of a way of life. The only life that you have ever known. So my guess is no. In all instances that life will always rise to the surface. It's just how you chose to deal with those thoughts. That's when you know that you have truly changed."

"I wanted to take him by the throat. That arrogant son of a bitch!"

"But you didn't Danny. You are not a killer. You never were. You said so yourself that you have never even ordered a hit. Be thankful that you were far to young to be asked to make your bones before Miguel died. And Carmen had Mick to fulfill that part of the family business. Taking a man's life is something you would have never been able to shake. Believe me I know."

"Albert?" Danny looked deep into his uncle's eyes.

"I have killed for the family Daniel. More times then I choose to recall. So I can say that I'm glad that you never had to do that."

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry for what? I did what needed to be done. If there was a threat I took care of it. If someone needed to be taught a lesson I was there to teach it. How do you think that I made under boss for the family. It wasn't just because Miguel was The Don. It was because I was an earner. I did what was necessary."

Danny looked at his uncle through a completely different set of glasses from that moment forward. There was more then Danny would ever know about la familia and maybe more then he would ever want to know.

"So don't let Carl yank your chain okay? He's not what's important here. You are and the life that you want to begin here. And one more thing......don't beat yourself up over a life that wasn't of your choosing."

Danny digested Albert's words as he returned to the dining room. Part of him wished that he had been taught the true version of the way The Costra Nostra had been in the days when his father and uncle were at the helm rather then the warped version it was now. Maybe then he would have learned the things that Miguel and Albert had learned about the separation of things. How to keep a balance between the business and the family. That was something that his mother had never quite understood. Carmen spent far too much time in her own greed to ever put the good of her family before her own agenda. Maybe for him that had been lucky, because if that hadn't been who knew where he might be right now. Possibly in a coffin along side of his brother and father.

Danny let his eyes search the dining room once more. Sarah was still seated at the same table and the seat across from her was still vacant. Easily he walked over to her. He listened while she completed her phone call.

"Great I'll pick you up at eight. And no bailing on me," Sarah laughed, "Oh," she jumped realizing that he was standing behind her.

"Excuse me," he said, "I didn't mean to startle you. I wanted to wait until you had finished your phone call."

"Quite all right. I just didn't expect anyone to be behind me. Seeing as how my lunch date just canceled on me."

"Sorry to hear that."

"Had to work."

"You know us men....we are always trying to get a leg up on the next guy."

"Man?" Sarah couldn't help but laugh, "It wasn't a man. It was Melanie. She got stuck at the bookstore." Sarah noticed instantly how Danny's posture changed at the mention of her friend.

"I see," was all Danny could manage to say.

"Seems like she is too busy to break for lunch," Sarah laid the bait hoping that Danny would grab for it.

"We can't have that. How about I get Reggie to whip something up that you can take to her?"

"BINGO!" Sarah thought to herself, "That would be really nice of you but I don't think I will be able to run it to her. I have an appointment in less then fifteen minutes," she lied smiling.

"But I thought you were going to be having lunch with her?" he questioned a bit confused.

"Yes we were but that was supposed to be over an hour ago," what was one more little white lie she thought.

"Well she still has to eat. I could run it to her if you would like. What bookstore does she work at?" All the bells and whistles in his head were sounding but he wasn't listening. The only thing he could think about was seeing Melanie again.

"The one on campus. Do you know it?"

"No, but I'm sure that I can find it."

"Thank you so much Danny. I know she will really be surprised," Sarah hid a sly smile that was steadily spreading across her face. Match making had never been this easy.

Michelle did a double take as she looked towards the store window once more. She wanted to be sure that her eyes weren't playing tricks on her. The face that looked back at her was really Agent Lucas.

"What are you doing here?" she asked as she unlocked the door.

"Checking on you," he returned moving inside the store.

"Why?"

"Haven't you got any of my messages?" he asked with urgency.

"Yes."

"Then why on earth haven't you returned my calls?"

Michelle was taken aback by his demeanor, "I'm sorry. I was just busy. What's the matter?"

"I haven't talked to you in days. How was I supposed to know that you were all right?"

"I'm been here for months now Agent Lucas. Isn't it about time you moved on to your next assignment?" Michelle felt uneasy about his need to be involved in her life still.

"I will when I'm sure that you have adjusted to your surroundings."

"And what....you don't think that I have done that yet?"

"Well......maybe," Jeremy said tripping over his own thoughts. Her appearance was making it difficult for him to think clearly.

"I mean I have started classes, got a job and even made a friend."

"A friend? Who?"

"You remember that girl from the plane. The one that I wanted to pick up?"

"Yes."

"Well it just so happens that she goes to school here. We hooked up a few days ago."

"What?" he tried to disguise his anger, "What were you thinking? You made friends with someone from Springfield. What are you totally crazy?!?!?"

"Sarah isn't from Springfield Jeremy. She caught a connecting flight there. That's all. Hell I think she's originally from Maine or something. What's your problem?"

"My problem is that you are supposed to lay low and gradually blend in here."

"For god sakes that's what I'm doing." She didn't understand what the big deal was all of the sudden.

"You have to understand that The Santos Family has feelers out everywhere. You don't just kill one of them and get off scott free."

"Tell me something I don't know!' she shouted, "Why do you think I let myself be talked into this stupid farce of a life in the first place? What do you want from me? Can you actually expect me to sit here and do nothing? Have no life to speak of, no friends?"

"You have me. I will be your friend. I want to help you make the best life here you can."

"Don't you get it? Every time I look at you I see the life I left behind? I see the family that I will never be able to speak to. How is that supposed to help me blend in here?" she cried.

"I just think it's too soon for you to start going out....what happens if you slip up? What if you say something to arouse someone's suspicions?"

"What are you talking about? I was under the impression that I was safe here. That this place in the middle of nowhere would be my saving grace. Are you saying that it's all just a false sense of security?" she yelled.

"No...not at all," he grabbed for her shoulders trying to allay the fear he saw in her eyes.

"Melanie?" Mr. Rodgers came out from the back at the raised sound of her voice, "Is everything all right?" He glanced at the man he had never seen before. The store was supposed to be closed he wondered how he had muscled his way through the door.

"I'm fine really. There's nothing to worry about."

"Who the hell are you?" he directed his comment to Jeremy Lucas.

"I'm a friend of Mel's from the apartment complex. Just stopped to see if she might like to grab a bite to eat when she was finished here."

He's smooth Michelle thought to herself.

"So what do you say? Would you like to have dinner?"

"Actually I already have dinner plans. But thanks for the invitation." Michelle watched as his blue eyes clouded over with anger.

"Would you mind leaving us alone?" he asked the old man standing next to the counter.

"Melanie?" Mr. Rodgers questioned.

"It's fine." She found great comfort in knowing that he would only be in the next room.

"What the hell are you talking about? You already have dinner plans?"

"What don't you understand English?" Michelle retorted having had just about enough of him. She had been thankful for his kindness in the beginning but now he was beginning to make a nuisance of himself.

"Didn't you hear a word that I said before?"

"Heard every one of them."

"Then what the hell are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking that your job is done Agent Lucas. I am thinking that it's my life and it's now or never."

"What?!?!"

"It's time that we broke ties don't you think? I'm sure there must be some other wayward soul that could use your attention."

"Do you understand what it is that you are saying? If I cut myself loose from this case you will be literally on you own. Are you getting that concept?"

"Completely!"

"You aren't ready yet," he stated.

"I think I am. I am building a life here. A life as Melanie Branson. That's what I was supposed to do wasn't it?"

"Well yes."

"I'm sorry that it isn't to your liking but it is my......my," she said finger pointed at her own chest, "life to build."

"Melanie, you better look out. I am your only link to assistance should you ever need it. You best not burn all of your bridges girlfriend," Agent Lucas said grabbing her arm firmly.

Danny stood in the kitchen watching as Reggie packaged the lunch that he had prepared. His pulse quickened just thinking of seeing Melanie face to face again. As frightened as he was about getting lost in someone that's how much he wanted it to be her.

"There you go," Reggie said pushing the overly stuffed bag towards Danny.

"Since when did we start doing take out?" Carl spat.

"Never you mind," Danny countered calmly remembering Albert's words about not letting Carl Beck get the best of him.

"I think I have a right to know if policy around here has changed. I am still the manger you know."

"Carl take your attitude and shove it up your ass. I'm by no means accountable to you. From where I stand it's the other way around!!!" with that said Danny stormed out of the kitchen bag in hand.

"Whoa......" Albert said as Danny just about knocked him over in his haste to leave.

"Sorry."

"Where are you off to in such an all fire hurry?"

"No where!"

"Danny what's the matter?" Albert saw the anger brewing deep within Danny's eyes.

"Nothing I can't handle."

"Danny," he stressed.

"Let's just say it's about time Mr. Beck learns his place in the organizational chart!"

"I don't think I am liking the sound of that. What happened?"

"Nothing really. He just thought he had the right to tell me what I can and can't do around here."

"Like what?"

"Let me handle this all right? It's my fight so just let me fight it?"

"Down boy! It's me Uncle Albert. You can stop with the gnashing of teeth. I'm not the enemy here. Let me help you son. Where are you going with the food?" Albert asked as he peaked into the overflowing bag.

"Not you too?"

"Me too what?" Albert asked completely confused now.

"Carl was pissed off cause he thinks that we are doing take out orders now........"

"Are we?"

"No......yes......."

"Well which is it? Yes or no?"

"No we aren't but this is something special I wanted to do for Sarah's friend."

"You mean the pretty girl from the other night? I thought you threw in the towel on that one?" Albert tried to hide his all knowing smile.

"I did."

"Then what's with the lunch service?"

"Sarah said that she was supposed to have a lunch date with Melanie but she had to cancel because she was stuck at work. So I thought I'd be nice and bring her some lunch. Nothing more nothing less."

"My ass!" Albert laughed.

"What?????"

"Don't play me for a fool Daniel. I knew you couldn't resist that beautiful one."

"It's only lunch uncle."

"For now."

"I really need to be going. The food's getting cold," Danny took the opportunity to exit quickly. He wasn't up for a lecture from Albert about how destiny had placed he and Melanie in the same room the night before. He wasn't about to leave this up to a fickle thing like destiny. He would make his own.

"By the way do you know where the campus bookstore is?"

Albert chuckled as he gave Danny the directions. He waited for Danny's car roll out of the parking lot before going to find Carl.

"Carl, I need to speak with you now!" Albert's voice boomed over the noise in the kitchen.

"Yes?"

"I want to get one thing straight."

"What is that?" he asked as if he didn't already know the answer.

"Danny will be here long after you are gone. Am I making myself clear?"

"Crystal."

"You may be the manager of this club but when you speak to Danny you afford him the same respect you would me. Daniel and I are one in the same as far as you are concerned. Got it?"

"Got it," Carl clenched his fists at his sides as Albert walked away from him. It irritated him that Albert had spoken to him that way in front of the kitchen staff. It served to lessen his authority all the more. "What are you looking at?" he bellowed to those before him, "GET BACK TO WORK!!!!!"

Albert's directions were easy to follow. Before Danny knew it he was standing before the building that held the bookstore where Melanie worked. The butterflies in his stomach were making him nauseous. "Get a grip," he said to himself.

The bookstore was located on the main floor of Gilbert Hall. Danny's palms were sweaty as he moved the bag of food from one hand to the other.

He couldn't understand his reluctance. He had rehearsed his speech all the way over in the car. If things went well he would take credit for the idea of bringing her lunch but if she brushed him aside as she had done the night before he intended on dropping off the food saying that it was from Sarah and he would be gone. He prayed that his gift would be graciously accepted giving him the opportunity to have a further conversation with her.

Danny's hand came to rest on the knob of the door. It was locked. How stupid of him. Of course it was locked. The store was technically closed for the holiday. Just as he was about to knock he caught sight of her. She looked more sexy then he remembered, but that vision was shattered the moment he also say the tall man standing across the counter from her. The conversation they were having was a heated one. One that looked like a lover's quarrel. Maybe that's why she had bolted the other night. All these scenarios played out in his head. All of them leading him to believe that she was far from available. With that thought in mind, Danny turned to go not even bothering to leave the food behind.

The pulsating water did little to rid the thoughts of Danny Sampson that encircled her. Michelle leaned against the cool ceramic tiled shower walls knowing that more then the steaming water was causing her to feel feverish.

In the safety she found in the shower, Michelle let herself succumb to her fantasies. It was an easy thing to do....a thing that she wanted to do. Again she saw those piercing black eyes as they starred her down. They were sexy and mysterious at the same time. Even as the fiery water cascaded off her body, the mere thought of his eyes caused goose bumps on her hot skin. It was like he held every part of her being.....her soul captive with those black pieces of coal.

Michelle lathered her body absently wondering what it would feel like to have Danny caress her most secret places. Her nipples stood erect as she circled them with the loufa. Michelle bit her lip at the thoughts of Danny that she entertained at the moment. She let her hands run easily over her soapy thighs. She imagined what pleasure she would experience having Danny's fingers entwined in her honey blonde curls that led to her most feminine spot. Michelle grew wet with desire from her very core picturing her body arch with gratification from his touch.............

The sudden stark coldness of the water made Michelle jump back out of it's stream. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING????" she questioned herself aloud. She had stood there so long indulging her erotic dreams that the water had grown cold. Michelle did the best she could to finish her shower under the chill of the water. It wasn't until she stood looking at herself in the mirror that she saw just how flushed she was.

The images that were plastered in her head were very much still there. No amount of cold water would make them go away. The face in the mirror that looked back at her wasn't one she recognized. Michelle Bauer wasn't one to let her emotions run wild the way they just had been. Yet she couldn't shake the need to feel Danny's flesh against hers. It was like a primal need that she had no control over.......

"YOU'RE DOING IT AGAIN!!!!" she scolded. "You don't know anything about this guy...but still you already your children's names picked out.....you idiot," Michelle said carrying on a conversation with the reflection in the mirror.

Michelle was thankful for the ringing phone. It would force her to have to think about something other then Danny. "Hello," she said into the receiver.

"Melanie, hi it's Sarah. Did I catch you at a bad time?"

"No just getting out of the shower."

"I did then didn't I? I can call you back if you want."

"NO!!!" Michelle returned quickly not wanting to let herself be sucked back into her one-sided fantasy, "It's okay. What's up?"

"Was wondering if you were free today? You know this is the first official day of the Christmas shopping season."

"I don't know really........" Michelle hadn't even wanted to think bout what Christmas would be like this year. She had skated her way through Thanksgiving but Christmas would be a completely different ballgame. The thought of going to the mall didn't much thrill her. There wouldn't be anyone to buy presents for this year. No gag gift for Rick, no toys for Ross's twins nothing. She didn't know if she could really do this.

"Why? Tell me you came to your senses and you hooked up with Danny after all?"

"NO!" There it was his name again. A name that made her body quiver, "I have to go into work today. I don't know how long I will be."

"Work? You are kidding right? This is supposed to be holiday break isn't it?" Sarah whined. The last thing she wanted to do was spend another boring day watching her father at the club. With that thought a light bulb went off above Sarah's head, "Hey I have a great idea."

"Oh really?" Michelle said slyly knowing exactly where Sarah's idea was headed.

"Why don't you meet me for lunch? I mean you do get a lunch break don't you?"

"Yes.....where exactly did you have in mind?" Michelle knew the answer without even hearing Sarah's response.

"We could go to The Two Step. Dad says Reggie has a mean lunch menu," Sarah held her breath waiting for Michelle to respond.

"Oh could we now? What kind of match making do you have up your sleeve pray tell?" Michelle laughed.

"Who me?" Sarah chided. She wasn't about to tell her that Danny had questioned her father about her. But she also wasn't about to sit idly by and not do something about the obvious attraction between these two.

"Yes you," Michelle hesitated for a moment. What did she really have to lose? Here she was having visions of him what would it hurt to give the wheel a spin hoping it would land on the Queen of Hearts, "Yeah I guess I could do that. The club is close to campus," she said trying to hide the excitement in her voice.

"Great. What time do you think you will be able to break away?"

"I'm not sure. Mr. Rodgers sounded like there would be a lot of work to do. I would think maybe around one o'clock. How's that sound?"

"Great. How about I give you my cell phone number just in case something comes up."

"Cell phone huh?" Michelle kidded, "Moving up in the world I see?"

"I wish. Let's just say that I plan on collecting for all the missed birthdays from my dear old dad. I figure he has at least eighteen more to go."

"Well don't forget about Christmas too," Michelle added with a laugh.

"You're right. I think that I might just have to do a little shopping before lunch. Got any requests it's on Carl."

"You are too funny. Listen I have to get ready. I will see you at The Two Step. Happy shopping."

Between her fantasy about Danny and her conversation with Sarah, she would barely have enough time to dress. Quickly she pulled on her favorite black mini and white crop top and headed for her car. If she was lucky she would make it to the bookstore by quarter after nine.

The phone rang again in the silent apartment. Michelle was too far down the hall to hear it's faint ringing. As the answering machine once again clicked off Michelle's voice filled the air.

"Hi you have reached 523-8115. I can't get to the phone right now. Please leave a message and I will get back you to. Wait for the beep."

"Yeah sure you will," Jeremy Lucas said before the second beep sounded indicating his turn to speak, "Hi Melanie, Jeremy Lucas again. I have to say that you have me a bit worried. I thought I would have heard you by now. Please phone me the minute you get this message." Jeremy hung up the phone with a resounding thud. "Well if you won't come to me then I will just have to go to you." He grabbed his keys and walked out the door with a game plan in mind.

Danny stood outside the doorway to the kitchen listening to but another argument. He had been right to question his aunt's new found acceptance of him. What troubled him more then the fight itself was the way that Jenny spoke of Carl. It made him more certain that Carl wasn't one to be trusted. And more importantly neither was his aunt.

Albert's words about him having a generous heart weren't working all that much right now. A generous heart got you many things but at the moment he was sure that his would get him a swift kick in the ass if he didn't watch his back.

"Danny," Albert said as he practically ran into him. He had hoped that Danny had not been privy to the battle that had just ensued between he and his wife. The look in Danny's eyes told him that wasn't the case.

"Good morning. I just came to grab that broom." Danny said awkwardly.

"Forget that. Jenny can clean that up," Albert spoke as if his wife was the hired help rather then the lady of the house, "We need to get to the market."

"No really. I want to do it." Danny didn't want to be the cause of but another conflict and more importantly he didn't want Jenny snooping around in his things. Not that he had anything to hide, but given the obvious feelings she had for him she was liable to try to come up with anything to discredit him.

"Daniel," Albert said with a strained voice.

"Uncle Albert," Danny returned in much the same manner.

"I'll meet you in the car then," Albert finally relented.

"It will only take a minute to clean up the mirror."

"What happened to the mirror?" Jenny asked as she watched Albert's retreating back.

"It fell off the wall this morning," Danny said in a noncommittal tone.

"Just feel off the wall for no reason?" Jenny questioned the unbelievableness of his words.

"Yes," he stressed shooting Jenny a look she sensed meant let it alone.

"Fine," she returned leaving Danny to his task.

"Is everything all right?" Albert asked as Danny slid into the seat beside him.

"Fine.....everything is just fine."

The market was alive with people that morning. Albert led Danny through the crowds as they walked up and down the street stopping to introduce Danny to all their current vendors.

"Pedro," Albert said stretching his arms to encircle his friend, "I'd like you to meet my nephew, Danny."

"Nice to meet you," Danny said putting his hand out.

"Come here, son," Pedro returned pulling Danny into a bear hug, "Any family of Albert's is family of mine."

"Easy there Pedro. Let the poor boy breathe," Albert laughed.

"Sorry," Pedro said dropping his arms.

"No harm done," Danny commented as he adjusted the collar on his leather jacket.

"So what brings you out and about this morning, gentleman?"

"I wanted Danny to meet the men he would be working with. See Danny has come to Texas to help me expand my restaurant. And might I add he's done an excellent job thus far. I say in a few months we will be the hottest nightclub in town."

"You don't say?" Pedro rubbed his hand along his chin.

"Yes. We had a hell of a crowd last night."

"Last night?" Pedro echoed, "On Thanksgiving of all nights?"

"That's right. The place was packed. We actually were turning people away at the door."

"I'm impressed son," Pedro said looking in Danny's direction, "It's been a long time since we have seen that kind of action in our neck of the woods."

"Thank you. I hope to keep it that way. I envision great things for Uncle Albert's business."

"I'm sure that you do. So what can I do for the two of you?"

"I'd like to place a produce order," Danny said.

"I think that I am the man for the job," Pedro laughed as he gestured to the mounds of fresh fruits and vegetables surrounding him.

"I would have to agree," Danny returned.

The rest of the morning was spent in very much the same manner. Albert introduced Danny around the market. He enjoyed watching his nephew sink his teeth into the business. It was nice to know that there would be someone to carry on after he was gone. His own son wouldn't be able to do that so Danny was the next best thing.

"So what did you think?" Albert asked as they made their way back to the club.

"Quite an education I have to say."

"It takes some time but you will get the hang of it. You will be able to haggle with the best of them."

"And I would have to say that you are the master haggler, Uncle."

"Why thank you," he said taking a mock bow, "I've been doing this for far too long not to have picked up a few tricks of the trade."

"So you are saying that Carl has never done any of this?" That was the first time all morning that he dared to speak Carl's name.

"About what you over heard this morning," Albert said glossing over Danny's question getting to the heart of the matter, "I am sorry for Jenny's remarks about Carl. Yes, he has been loyal to us for many years now, but you are my blood."

"Uncle, please don't rock the boat of your marriage for my need for normalcy," Danny returned flatly.

"I want that for you though."

"At what cost to you though? I see the gap between you and Jenny widen each day that I am here."

"You let me worry about my wife. You have much more important things to worry about. I fully expect our expansion to take off before Christmas. I want the place to be rockin',"

Danny had to laugh at his uncle's attempt to sound hip. He couldn't help but wonder exactly how much more his marriage could take before the already severely bent rod would break.

"I know no matter what Jenny may say she is far from accepting me with open arms," Danny said all joking aside.

"I know," Albert concurred, "I thought that she would come around but that doesn't seem to be the case," the hurt resounded in his tone.

"I think it's time that I started scouting out a place of my own."

"NO!" Albert's voice bounced off the interior of his car.

"But........"

"No buts, you are my family......."

"But so is Jenny," Danny said cutting Albert off, "She stood by you through thick and thin which is more then I can say for mine."

"Don't you dare say that! Your father was a prince among men. He gave me my freedom. He was a good man Daniel. I know you lost him far too early in life to know who he truly was but don't ever let speculation and hearsay make you forget the man you remember."

"I just don't want to be a burden to you. That was never my intention in coming here. I just wanted to start over."

"And you have. My restaurant, should I say my club," he corrected himself, "took in more business last night then it has in the weeks prior to your arrival. I have a gold mine in you son. You belong here as much as my wife does."

"I hope you are right."

Danny looked at the parking lot as Albert swung the car around back. It was only eleven o'clock and it was already beginning to fill. He smiled with pride at his accomplishment. No amount of harsh words from Jenny could take this away from him. This victory was all his. A victory that he was going to savor.

"What did I tell you gold mine?" Albert commented as he ran his hand along the stack of orders waiting to be filled, "I hope you are ready for the action Reggie," Albert squeezed the chef's shoulder. "What do you say to going out and greeting our customers?" Albert motioned towards the swinging door between the kitchen and dining room.

"I say lets do it!"

It was then that Danny caught sight of Carl's daughter sitting alone in a corner booth. His thoughts immediately raced towards the image of Melanie Branson's face that he carried with him since the night before. He only hoped that she would be occupying the empty space across from her friend.

Michelle raced across the quad heading for the building that housed the college bookstore. The hands on her watch were reading nine-thirty. Traffic had been horrible.

"I'm so sorry, Mr. Rodgers," she puffed trying to catch her breath, "It's a zoo out there. Now I remember why I don't go shopping the day after Thanksgiving."

"No need to apologize. You are the one doing me the favor. Sit down and catch your breath girl. I certainly don't need you to pass out from lack of oxygen," he chuckled.

Michelle watched as he went into the backroom emerging with steaming mugs in hand. "What's this for?" she questioned his smiling face.

"The shipment can wait. I want to hear about your first holiday in my home land of Texas."

"There's really not all that much to tell."

"Why is it that I don't quite believe that?" he countered with a twinkle in his eye, "I may not have had a daughter of my own, but I most certainly have seen the that look in your eye many times before. I know I might be divulging a great male secret but boys have that same goofy look on their faces too when they have met someone they are attracted to."

"I think you must be mistaken," Michelle hid a smile as she took a sip of the hot chocolate he offered her, "As for divulging any male secrets I have a brother so I know all about their goofy looks. I remember Rick being head over heals in love with....." Michelle caught herself before she could say anymore. She could have kicked herself right about now. What the hell was she thinking rambling on and on like that? It was just that Mr. Rodgers had been so easy to talk to and she needed that right now. She needed an objective sounding board to discuss whatever it was that was going on in her head about Danny Sampson.

"In love with?" he questioned waiting for her to finish.

"If I could only remember their names.....he had so many," she covered.

"You can't fool me my dear. I know a love struck girl when I see one. Remember I have worked in this bookstore for over thirty years now. I have seen my fair share of them and you sweetie have been bitten by the love bug and hard I might add."

Michelle was at a loss for words. She feared that if she spoke she would find herself spilling parts of her life that didn't exist anymore but if she didn't talk she thought that she just might explode.

"First let me ask you, how was your holiday?" Michelle said buying herself a little time.

"Very uneventful. It's pretty much the same year after year. The boys bring their new girlfriends around, my wife spends the day cooking and sizing her new potential daughter-in-laws and me well I kick back and catch as many bowl games as the little woman will allow."

"Sounds nice."

"Nice and boring," he joked, "I think your day was far more fun."

"I would have to say that I think I should have taken you up on your offer for dinner. The entertainment sounds far better."

"Not hardly. So stop stalling. Tell me about your day," Mr. Rodgers pushed.

"Actually it wasn't like any Thanksgiving I have ever spent before. My friend Sarah, the girl from the other day," Mr. Rodgers nodded his acknowledgment, "Well her father is the manager of this club. The Two Step, you know the one on the other side of campus. Well they were having a grand reopening and she invited me to attend it with her."

"I know that place. But I thought it was just a restaurant. Since when has it been turned into a nightclub?"

"I guess just recently. According to Sarah the owner's nephew is in town to spice things up a bit."

"A there it is....that twinkle. I would have to say this nephew is the one who has your head all turned around."

"What!?!?!? No!" Michelle gasped at how in tune this man was with the pulse of the young blood of the campus.

"You can't fool me honey. It's written over every inch of that pretty face of yours."

Michelle felt the blush growing on her cheeks. "I must say he is rather attractive."

"Attractive? And here I thought the latest term was HOTTIE?"

Michelle almost choked on the swallow of hot chocolate that she had just taken.

"Hottie?!?!?"

"What????' he feigned shock, "You think I live under a rock? I listen and I watch you young ones. I know what I need to know to keep up with the trends. How do you think I have stayed in business this long?" he asked as if the answer was as plain as the nose on his face.

"You are a shrewd one Mr. Rodgers."

"Please call me Tony. Mr. Rodgers makes me sound so old."

"Tony it is then."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

"Where do you think you're going?" he questioned as Michelle stood up from the table.

"I was going to get to work. You surely aren't paying me to sit here and chat with you all morning."

"Don't think you are off the hook yet young lady. I will find out about this nephew. Don't you worry about that."

"My lips are sealed," Michelle countered as she pretended to lock her lips with an imaginary key tossing into the air.

Before Michelle had even realized it the morning had slipped into the afternoon. The clock on the wall read quarter to one. there was no way that she would be able to meet Sarah now.

She felt her heart sink in her chest knowing that she had missed the opportunity to run into Danny. But never the less, there was still hours of work to be done before she would be able to leave.

Michelle pulled the slip of paper from her purse that she had scribbled Sarah's number on this morning. She let the number ring through and awaited the wrath.

"Where are you?" Sarah asked before Michelle had the chance to speak.

"Still at the bookstore," she returned meekly.

"Why?"

"Things are taking longer then I thought they would," There was no need to go into details of how her and her boss had spent the better part of the morning discussing their respective holidays.

"How about we meet for dinner and then a night out on the town?" Michelle offered.

"What am supposed to do until then?" Sarah wasn't actually mad at her friend she was just disappointed that she would have to postpone her match making. She had just spied Danny and his Uncle coming into the dining room. She had wanted Melanie to be there by now.

"Spend some more of your daddy's money?" Michelle laughed thinking back to their earlier conversation.

"Now I am liking the sound of that."

"I thought you might. So are we on for tonight or what?"

"Of course. How about I pick you up? That way there will be no slipping out quietly tonight."

"Sure," Sarah was shocked that she had agreed so quickly. Maybe she wouldn't have to work that hard after all. Maybe Melanie was finally coming to her senses, "Here's my address," Sarah pulled the napkin out from under her drink and jotted down the street name and apartment number, "See you about eight or so?"

"Sounds like a plan to me."

"Great see you then."

Michelle was shocked to see Agent Jeremy Lucas standing outside with his face pressed against the plate glass window of the store. She walked over to the door wondering what it was that he could want.

Danny and Albert made their way around the dining room all the while Danny's eyes darted from Sarah's table to the door and back again. His uncle had been talking but Danny hadn't heard a word said. His thoughts were completely focused on willing Melanie Branson to walk through the door.

"Jackson, I'd like to introduce you to my nephew Danny," Albert said to the man seated at the table before them.

"Nice to meet you Danny," the man extended his hand to Danny.

"Daniel," Albert nudged.

"Ah, I'm sorry," Danny said realizing the he had better pull it together, "My mind is lost in thought. I just want to be sure that everything is running smoothly."

"So Albert tells me this nightclub action is your brain child. Well I have to say that it's a wonderful way to capitalize on the youth market."

"My thinking exactly. If last night's crowd is any indication of what is to come I expect us to do very well."

"So Al, what are you going to do now? Retire?" the man jabbed at Albert's stomach.

"Me? Retire? I highly doubt it. I'm far too young for that. But I think I might sit back and enjoy my life a bit more. You know reap the benefits of having Danny here."

Carl stood in the corner out of sight listening to the conversation before him. It made his blood boil. Suddenly he was merely a toy that had been replaced by a new more expensive version.

Carl had repeatedly pitched his ideas to Albert. Ideas that were so similar to Danny's that they could have been a carbon copy. But they had fallen on deaf ears. Albert would always put his hand in the air as if to stop the words from spilling from his lips. Carl could still hear him say......"Business is fine. We have a loyal following. I don't want to upset the balance we have here by introducing live entertainment into the mix. We are too old to be listening to blaring rock bands," he would joke.

But that's exactly what Danny had done. He had even gone as far as recruit the band he had scouted for six months now. It was like everything that Danny touched turned to gold. What had taken Carl months to accomplish Danny had done in weeks. It was infuriating.

"Danny," Carl said interrupting the men's conversation.

"Not now Carl," Albert injected.

"I need to discuss a problem with Danny," Albert stressed not having a clue what he was doing but he just wanted to be part of the action again.

"Handle it!" Albert said in a gruff tone, "Isn't that what I pay you for?"

"It's all right Uncle Albert. It was very nice to meet you Jackson. I'd love to discuss business with you sometime."

"We'll do that son. And congratulations on a fine start here."

"What's the problem Carl?"

"What are we doing for entertainment tonight?" Carl said the first thing that came to mind.

"What?" Danny returned starring at him in disbelief.

"There's no band booked for tonight. I thought........"

"Carl, you are kidding right? You know that we have a standing order for the next month of Fridays to have DJ's from the University of Texas local station play here."

'Shit that's right," Carl said slapping his hand against his forehead trying to feign surprise.

"What's really going on here?" Danny questioned doing his best to read Carl's face.

"Nothing man. It's just that I want to be sure that everything runs smoothly. That is what your uncle pays me for," Carl's tone was mocking.

"So Fridays are taken care of but what about Saturday? I know that you don't have anyone lined up to play here yet," Carl jabbed thinking he had Danny boxed in.

"Well I made a deal with the band from last night. They agreed to play tomorrow. That gives me all of next week to scout some new talent."

"You are having them play again? Don't you think that's a bit too soon?"

"No.....no I don't. They are a great band. You said so yourself. And they bring in a lot of the college kids. That's what we are looking to do. I was even thinking of making them an offer to play here once a month."

"Seems like you have all the answers," Carl said not able to hide his sarcasm.

"Damn right I do!" Danny's voice held a tone of anger. His fuse was short and he by no means intended on holding his tongue with this man. "You had better start getting used to the fact that I am here. HERE TO STAY!!!" Danny said in a violent whisper, "There's the door if you have a problem with those facts!" Danny turned to go before Carl had gotten a chance to even open his mouth to return fire. That had been a good thing though. He saw the way that Albert was starring him down. He would have to bide his time, but he would bring Danny to his knees if it was the last thing that he did.

Danny's breath came out in short hard bursts as he paced back and forth outside the kitchen door. He was annoyed at himself for letting Carl play him. In a flash Danny had reverted to his old ways. In his head he calculated what it would take to have Carl removed from the equation. That scared the hell out of him but he couldn't stop thinking about things in those terms. He wondered if Albert still had the same difficulty.

"Danny?" It was though Albert could read his mind, "Don't beat yourself up. Thoughts are only thoughts until you act on them."

"Does this ever really go away? Am I ever going to stop thinking of life in terms defined by my mother?"

"They are not terms defined by Carmen. They are terms of a way of life. The only life that you have ever known. So my guess is no. In all instances that life will always rise to the surface. It's just how you chose to deal with those thoughts. That's when you know that you have truly changed."

"I wanted to take him by the throat. That arrogant son of a bitch!"

"But you didn't Danny. You are not a killer. You never were. You said so yourself that you have never even ordered a hit. Be thankful that you were far to young to be asked to make your bones before Miguel died. And Carmen had Mick to fulfill that part of the family business. Taking a man's life is something you would have never been able to shake. Believe me I know."

"Albert?" Danny looked deep into his uncle's eyes.

"I have killed for the family Daniel. More times then I choose to recall. So I can say that I'm glad that you never had to do that."

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry for what? I did what needed to be done. If there was a threat I took care of it. If someone needed to be taught a lesson I was there to teach it. How do you think that I made under boss for the family. It wasn't just because Miguel was The Don. It was because I was an earner. I did what was necessary."

Danny looked at his uncle through a completely different set of glasses from that moment forward. There was more then Danny would ever know about la familia and maybe more then he would ever want to know.

"So don't let Carl yank your chain okay? He's not what's important here. You are and the life that you want to begin here. And one more thing......don't beat yourself up over a life that wasn't of your choosing."

Danny digested Albert's words as he returned to the dining room. Part of him wished that he had been taught the true version of the way The Costra Nostra had been in the days when his father and uncle were at the helm rather then the warped version it was now. Maybe then he would have learned the things that Miguel and Albert had learned about the separation of things. How to keep a balance between the business and the family. That was something that his mother had never quite understood. Carmen spent far too much time in her own greed to ever put the good of her family before her own agenda. Maybe for him that had been lucky, because if that hadn't been who knew where he might be right now. Possibly in a coffin along side of his brother and father.

Danny let his eyes search the dining room once more. Sarah was still seated at the same table and the seat across from her was still vacant. Easily he walked over to her. He listened while she completed her phone call.

"Great I'll pick you up at eight. And no bailing on me," Sarah laughed, "Oh," she jumped realizing that he was standing behind her.

"Excuse me," he said, "I didn't mean to startle you. I wanted to wait until you had finished your phone call."

"Quite all right. I just didn't expect anyone to be behind me. Seeing as how my lunch date just canceled on me."

"Sorry to hear that."

"Had to work."

"You know us men....we are always trying to get a leg up on the next guy."

"Man?" Sarah couldn't help but laugh, "It wasn't a man. It was Melanie. She got stuck at the bookstore." Sarah noticed instantly how Danny's posture changed at the mention of her friend.

"I see," was all Danny could manage to say.

"Seems like she is too busy to break for lunch," Sarah laid the bait hoping that Danny would grab for it.

"We can't have that. How about I get Reggie to whip something up that you can take to her?"

"BINGO!" Sarah thought to herself, "That would be really nice of you but I don't think I will be able to run it to her. I have an appointment in less then fifteen minutes," she lied smiling.

"But I thought you were going to be having lunch with her?" he questioned a bit confused.

"Yes we were but that was supposed to be over an hour ago," what was one more little white lie she thought.

"Well she still has to eat. I could run it to her if you would like. What bookstore does she work at?" All the bells and whistles in his head were sounding but he wasn't listening. The only thing he could think about was seeing Melanie again.

"The one on campus. Do you know it?"

"No, but I'm sure that I can find it."

"Thank you so much Danny. I know she will really be surprised," Sarah hid a sly smile that was steadily spreading across her face. Match making had never been this easy.

Michelle did a double take as she looked towards the store window once more. She wanted to be sure that her eyes weren't playing tricks on her. The face that looked back at her was really Agent Lucas.

"What are you doing here?" she asked as she unlocked the door.

"Checking on you," he returned moving inside the store.

"Why?"

"Haven't you got any of my messages?" he asked with urgency.

"Yes."

"Then why on earth haven't you returned my calls?"

Michelle was taken aback by his demeanor, "I'm sorry. I was just busy. What's the matter?"

"I haven't talked to you in days. How was I supposed to know that you were all right?"

"I'm been here for months now Agent Lucas. Isn't it about time you moved on to your next assignment?" Michelle felt uneasy about his need to be involved in her life still.

"I will when I'm sure that you have adjusted to your surroundings."

"And what....you don't think that I have done that yet?"

"Well......maybe," Jeremy said tripping over his own thoughts. Her appearance was making it difficult for him to think clearly.

"I mean I have started classes, got a job and even made a friend."

"A friend? Who?"

"You remember that girl from the plane. The one that I wanted to pick up?"

"Yes."

"Well it just so happens that she goes to school here. We hooked up a few days ago."

"What?" he tried to disguise his anger, "What were you thinking? You made friends with someone from Springfield. What are you totally crazy?!?!?"

"Sarah isn't from Springfield Jeremy. She caught a connecting flight there. That's all. Hell I think she's originally from Maine or something. What's your problem?"

"My problem is that you are supposed to lay low and gradually blend in here."

"For god sakes that's what I'm doing." She didn't understand what the big deal was all of the sudden.

"You have to understand that The Santos Family has feelers out everywhere. You don't just kill one of them and get off scott free."

"Tell me something I don't know!' she shouted, "Why do you think I let myself be talked into this stupid farce of a life in the first place? What do you want from me? Can you actually expect me to sit here and do nothing? Have no life to speak of, no friends?"

"You have me. I will be your friend. I want to help you make the best life here you can."

"Don't you get it? Every time I look at you I see the life I left behind? I see the family that I will never be able to speak to. How is that supposed to help me blend in here?" she cried.

"I just think it's too soon for you to start going out....what happens if you slip up? What if you say something to arouse someone's suspicions?"

"What are you talking about? I was under the impression that I was safe here. That this place in the middle of nowhere would be my saving grace. Are you saying that it's all just a false sense of security?" she yelled.

"No...not at all," he grabbed for her shoulders trying to allay the fear he saw in her eyes.

"Melanie?" Mr. Rodgers came out from the back at the raised sound of her voice, "Is everything all right?" He glanced at the man he had never seen before. The store was supposed to be closed he wondered how he had muscled his way through the door.

"I'm fine really. There's nothing to worry about."

"Who the hell are you?" he directed his comment to Jeremy Lucas.

"I'm a friend of Mel's from the apartment complex. Just stopped to see if she might like to grab a bite to eat when she was finished here."

He's smooth Michelle thought to herself.

"So what do you say? Would you like to have dinner?"

"Actually I already have dinner plans. But thanks for the invitation." Michelle watched as his blue eyes clouded over with anger.

"Would you mind leaving us alone?" he asked the old man standing next to the counter.

"Melanie?" Mr. Rodgers questioned.

"It's fine." She found great comfort in knowing that he would only be in the next room.

"What the hell are you talking about? You already have dinner plans?"

"What don't you understand English?" Michelle retorted having had just about enough of him. She had been thankful for his kindness in the beginning but now he was beginning to make a nuisance of himself.

"Didn't you hear a word that I said before?"

"Heard every one of them."

"Then what the hell are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking that your job is done Agent Lucas. I am thinking that it's my life and it's now or never."

"What?!?!"

"It's time that we broke ties don't you think? I'm sure there must be some other wayward soul that could use your attention."

"Do you understand what it is that you are saying? If I cut myself loose from this case you will be literally on you own. Are you getting that concept?"

"Completely!"

"You aren't ready yet," he stated.

"I think I am. I am building a life here. A life as Melanie Branson. That's what I was supposed to do wasn't it?"

"Well yes."

"I'm sorry that it isn't to your liking but it is my......my," she said finger pointed at her own chest, "life to build."

"Melanie, you better look out. I am your only link to assistance should you ever need it. You best not burn all of your bridges girlfriend," Agent Lucas said grabbing her arm firmly.

Danny stood in the kitchen watching as Reggie packaged the lunch that he had prepared. His pulse quickened just thinking of seeing Melanie face to face again. As frightened as he was about getting lost in someone that's how much he wanted it to be her.

"There you go," Reggie said pushing the overly stuffed bag towards Danny.

"Since when did we start doing take out?" Carl spat.

"Never you mind," Danny countered calmly remembering Albert's words about not letting Carl Beck get the best of him.

"I think I have a right to know if policy around here has changed. I am still the manger you know."

"Carl take your attitude and shove it up your ass. I'm by no means accountable to you. From where I stand it's the other way around!!!" with that said Danny stormed out of the kitchen bag in hand.

"Whoa......" Albert said as Danny just about knocked him over in his haste to leave.

"Sorry."

"Where are you off to in such an all fire hurry?"

"No where!"

"Danny what's the matter?" Albert saw the anger brewing deep within Danny's eyes.

"Nothing I can't handle."

"Danny," he stressed.

"Let's just say it's about time Mr. Beck learns his place in the organizational chart!"

"I don't think I am liking the sound of that. What happened?"

"Nothing really. He just thought he had the right to tell me what I can and can't do around here."

"Like what?"

"Let me handle this all right? It's my fight so just let me fight it?"

"Down boy! It's me Uncle Albert. You can stop with the gnashing of teeth. I'm not the enemy here. Let me help you son. Where are you going with the food?" Albert asked as he peaked into the overflowing bag.

"Not you too?"

"Me too what?" Albert asked completely confused now.

"Carl was pissed off cause he thinks that we are doing take out orders now........"

"Are we?"

"No......yes......."

"Well which is it? Yes or no?"

"No we aren't but this is something special I wanted to do for Sarah's friend."

"You mean the pretty girl from the other night? I thought you threw in the towel on that one?" Albert tried to hide his all knowing smile.

"I did."

"Then what's with the lunch service?"

"Sarah said that she was supposed to have a lunch date with Melanie but she had to cancel because she was stuck at work. So I thought I'd be nice and bring her some lunch. Nothing more nothing less."

"My ass!" Albert laughed.

"What?????"

"Don't play me for a fool Daniel. I knew you couldn't resist that beautiful one."

"It's only lunch uncle."

"For now."

"I really need to be going. The food's getting cold," Danny took the opportunity to exit quickly. He wasn't up for a lecture from Albert about how destiny had placed he and Melanie in the same room the night before. He wasn't about to leave this up to a fickle thing like destiny. He would make his own.

"By the way do you know where the campus bookstore is?"

Albert chuckled as he gave Danny the directions. He waited for Danny's car roll out of the parking lot before going to find Carl.

"Carl, I need to speak with you now!" Albert's voice boomed over the noise in the kitchen.

"Yes?"

"I want to get one thing straight."

"What is that?" he asked as if he didn't already know the answer.

"Danny will be here long after you are gone. Am I making myself clear?"

"Crystal."

"You may be the manager of this club but when you speak to Danny you afford him the same respect you would me. Daniel and I are one in the same as far as you are concerned. Got it?"

"Got it," Carl clenched his fists at his sides as Albert walked away from him. It irritated him that Albert had spoken to him that way in front of the kitchen staff. It served to lessen his authority all the more. "What are you looking at?" he bellowed to those before him, "GET BACK TO WORK!!!!!"

Albert's directions were easy to follow. Before Danny knew it he was standing before the building that held the bookstore where Melanie worked. The butterflies in his stomach were making him nauseous. "Get a grip," he said to himself.

The bookstore was located on the main floor of Gilbert Hall. Danny's palms were sweaty as he moved the bag of food from one hand to the other.

He couldn't understand his reluctance. He had rehearsed his speech all the way over in the car. If things went well he would take credit for the idea of bringing her lunch but if she brushed him aside as she had done the night before he intended on dropping off the food saying that it was from Sarah and he would be gone. He prayed that his gift would be graciously accepted giving him the opportunity to have a further conversation with her.

Danny's hand came to rest on the knob of the door. It was locked. How stupid of him. Of course it was locked. The store was technically closed for the holiday. Just as he was about to knock he caught sight of her. She looked more sexy then he remembered, but that vision was shattered the moment he also say the tall man standing across the counter from her. The conversation they were having was a heated one. One that looked like a lover's quarrel. Maybe that's why she had bolted the other night. All these scenarios played out in his head. All of them leading him to believe that she was far from available. With that thought in mind, Danny turned to go not even bothering to leave the food behind.