Too bad Linda had to take the spinal fluid in the same Friday she went home. A big party was being prepared, but the whole thing had to be called off since Linda would not be able to move much for a couple of days. Diefenbaker, however, provided a great reception (wolf-style, of course), and Linda had him in her bed practically the whole day, as Vecchios flowed in and out.

There was a surprise gift waiting for her at the apartment. After endless nagging from Ray, Fraser had finally bought a telephone. Fraser was convinced that it would be the only way he could bear to be away from Linda a whole day. This was more persuasive to him than his friend's very vocal arguing. The phone was located in the kitchen, but there was an extension at the also new nightstand by the side of their bed.

Linda found flowers in her front window, a courtesy from Mrs. Mutchnik. The painkillers were really making her groggy, and she apologised to Fraser. He didn't accept those apologies and they settled for the new routine that would begin Monday morning. Actually, Linda's new life began on Saturday, when the nurse arrived to meet Linda. The girl was still recovering from the spinal fluid exam, but she found Jenny Hammet a very nice lady, 35 years old, sweet and gentle as any nurse should be. Their first contact was very reassuring, and Fraser felt another tension knot slowly melting from his muscles.

"Diefenbaker is staying," said Fraser, as he was getting ready to work Monday morning.

"That won't be necessary, Ben," said Linda, sitting in bed and watching Fraser putting on all the Mountie paraphernalia. "I can stay on my own for half an hour. And Dief needs to walk anyway. He was all over me the whole weekend."

Fraser seemed very embarrassed. "Actually, Linda, he doesn't want to come with me. You know how he gets when he makes up his mind. I couldn't get him to come with me even if the Queen was on the Consulate. Sometimes he can be very insolent, you know."

Linda tried not to laugh, but could not help herself. "I remember you saying something like pay, pay, pay."

It was Fraser's turn to smile. "Well, yes. But I have to go now, because Ray won't be able to pick me up. You will be OK, right?"

"Don't have anything to worry, Ben. Jenny will be here at 8:30, and now Dief can keep me company until then."

"Ok. So I am going."

He didn't move, and just stared at her, longing eyes. He clearly was unsure about leaving. Linda smiled tenderly, feeling secure and cared for. "Ben, you can go in peace. We have a telephone now, remember? It is right here, by my side. I can call you, or Ray, or Dr. Lennyard, even the police and the fire department, if anything happens. I will be fine."

Fraser let his head hang, then tried to smile nervously. Linda found that adorable. "You are absolutely right. As always." He sat on the bed to kiss her gently, and she tasted the mint tea in his lips. "I will come home as soon as I can."

"Don't forget to tell Meg and Turnbull and Orwitz I said hi."

"I will. Take care, OK?"

"Try not to worry too much."

Fraser stood up, picked up the Stetson and gave her one of his most prized smiles. She blew him a kiss and Dief woofed quietly, as he decided to leave before he changed his mind. Fraser was worried and insecure, but Linda needed to know he trusted her and the new nurse. He decided it was not too much to qualify that as one of the single most difficult acts he had ever done.

Linda craned her neck, trying to see the Stetson from her window. She could not see it, but she did not mind. She was proud that Fraser could trust her so much, never mind Diefenbaker's presence. Too bad she could not even get out of bed, or make a lot of movements. Although her arms were getting stronger every day, her lower abdomen was also totally numb, and that was very restrictive to her moving around. It was frustrating, but she learned to live with that. Instead, Linda wanted to believe that her new learning phase was starting at that moment, and she was lucky to have it.

Suddenly Diefenbaker stood in attention, and Linda heard the front door opening and a cheerful greeting. "Hello."

Linda recognised the voice. "Here, Jenny".

The nurse came in, smiling. "Good morning, Linda. How are you feeling today?"

"I am better than the last time you saw me, thank you."

"Good, because we have physical exercises today, and I would not like to do that if you were feeling bad. Have you had breakfast?"

"Actually, no, but Ben left everything in the kitchen."

"I see that he has left already."

"Yes, he could not stay longer."

"Well, then why don't we change your catheter bag, and after that we can eat and spin around in the wheelchair, what do you say?"

Linda smiled. Jenny was so nice, and had such a wonderful way to talk and smile. She was also strong enough to pick Linda up and help her with the exercises. Linda felt she was cared. As a matter of fact, with the guidance from Dr. Wilson, Dr. Lennyard and Fraser, Jenny had Linda's week already planned.

"Once a week, the hospital will send a van to pick you up and you will be there the whole day. Dr. Lennyard wants to see you, and then there is pool therapy. Last, there is the spinal fluid exam. Then you get a two-day vacation. Isn't that nice?"

"Sounds good. I just wished there was something I could do after the fluid exam."

"Well, we can always use the chair and go outside, if you'd like. Enjoy the weather if we have a chance. You know, winter is almost over."

"I would like that, but sometimes I get a little feverish, too."

"Then we will have to see about that." She looked at Diefenbaker. "The dog seems very possessive."

"Diefenbaker has not seen me for a long time. He missed me."

"He is very cute". Dief shot Jenny his best "they-starve-me-to-death" look. It worked. "Would you like me feed him, too?"

That was enough to produce a glow in amber eyes, and Jenny had found an instant friend. Linda, though, quickly reminded. "No, Ben does that every night. But I am sure Dief would appreciate fresh water." Linda had to suppress a smile when Dief sighed loudly, and rested his head between his paws looking defeated. No jelly doughnuts from that one. Well, the world could not be perfect all the time. At least the woman was back.

Both women went through their new routine, adjusting to each other quite openly. After some exercises, Jenny bathed Linda, then made her a snack. She would be having dinner with Fraser and Ray later.

They weren't quite done eating, and Frannie arrived, bringing Ma, Maria and Tony. It seemed the dinner plans were changed for a full meal with the whole clan, and Linda was dismissed from helping. The Vecchios were busy in the kitchen, and Jenny was relieved that she would not have to leave Linda alone until Fraser arrived. When he did, he seemed as surprised as Linda was at the Vecchio invasion. Ray just shook his head, knowing full well that there was nothing, including act of God or force of nature, that was capable of stopping Vecchios in action.

The night was filled with laughter, food and love. In the midst of confusion and chaos of an Italian family in motion, Fraser looked at Linda, and she seemed a little bit tired, but happy. She was smiling at everyone, turning around in the chair, politely refusing second helpings Ma insisted she should have. Diefenbaker was ecstatic, and he excelled at his best "I am a starving wolf" look. The scene gave the Mountie a strong feeling of relief and security. Linda and he were indeed loved as family, in the best and in the worst times. No money in the world could pay that.

Their new life had begun well.

Weeks later, Linda did not wake up as usual when Fraser raised at the crack of dawn. He actually did not find that bad - the last session of spinal fluid taking was fairly difficult, and she went to sleep very early the night before. She needed the rest.

When the Mountie was ready to leave, he came in the bedroom and Linda was still unmoving. Dief was by her side, and whined softly. Fraser sat on the bed, and she stirred slowly. "Hi," greeted Fraser to her sleepy face. "Don't you want breakfast?"

"Hmmm? Already?" Her voice was so cracked as she tried to rise, for a fleeting moment forgetting that she was unable to do that on her own. "Oh, I feel tired".

Fraser propped her up a little, then noticed she was warmer than usual. "Are you well?"

"I am thirsty", she admitted. "Are you going to work now?"

He picked up a glass of water and helped her drink, as he confessed. "I am not sure I am going anymore. You don't look good."

Linda tried to smile as she handed him the glass. "I always look like that when I do those sessions, Ben. You know that."

"You look feverish, Linda. Maybe I should call Dr. Wilson."

"I think you are exaggerating. But I could use a little more sleep."

"Would you like to lie down again?"

"Yes, please. On my side, now, so my back won't hurt."

Fraser picked her gently and put her into a comfortable position, then covered her. "Is that alright?"

"Perfect, Ben, thank you."

"You just rest, and I will take care of everything".

Linda sighed and was almost half-asleep when she said, "Love you, Ben."

He kissed her forehead gently, then frowned. It did not look good. Actually, it has not been looking any good for some time, and the Mountie thought it was about time he did something about it. He picked up the phone with a determination typical of Frasers with a mission.

After warning the Consulate he would be a little late, and leaving Linda with Jenny, Fraser marched to the hospital to talk to Dr. Wilson. Linda had a mild fever, but as a whole her condition was not good. The Mountie was getting slightly impatient and upset about the treatment, and it was time to get vocal about it. Dr. Wilson's reaction was much expected.

"Of course, Constable, if you feel you need a second opinion, please feel free to ask for it. I can recommend several specialists on the field. But I must remind you: you have been warned that the treatment would not be easy, and that it could take long."

Fraser cleared his throat. "Doctor, I am not dissatisfied with you either personally nor professionally. All I see is Linda not getting any better. Now she is suffering."

"I understand, Constable, believe me, I do. I don't feel any resentment because of your words. In fact, I encourage you to see other specialists. As I said before, I would be more than happy to give you names of excellent professionals in the whole Chicago area, or in New York City if - "

Fraser interrupted. "Frankly, sir, I would appreciate it if you could recommend some specialists in Ottawa or Toronto".

"Canada? Why move her so far away?"

"I am afraid RCMP medical insurance requires Canadian specialists."

"But Linda has her own medical insurance. And she is not on the RCMP."

"But I am. And she will be entitled to the same medical insurance once she becomes my wife."

Dr. Wilson was taken aback. "I was not aware you two were planning to get married so soon."

Fraser set his jaw in determination. "With all due respect, sir, if that is what it takes to get her the best medical treatment, I could marry her tomorrow."

The doctor eyed him carefully, then smiled, his eyes getting softer. "I can see that, Constable. And frankly, I am glad to see someone so concerned about my patient. But you realise that you need to talk about that with Dr. Lennyard, don't you?"

"Yes, sir, and that is what I am going to do the minute we terminate this conversation".

"OK, do it now." Dr. Wilson was smiling at the young man's determination. "Then come back here, so I can give you names and telephone numbers."

"Thank you kindly."

Fraser never returned to Dr. Wilson that day. He and Dr. Lennyard had a long and tense conversation, because Fraser's determination to give Linda a better treatment ended in a very familiar discussion about Linda's legal guardianship. That had always been a sore point between the two men, and it showed no sign of alleviating.

Once more, Dr. Lennyard was very upset at Fraser's proposal to marry Linda and take her to Canada. In the end, they reached a compromise. Linda would give the final word, and Fraser would talk to her later in the evening, when he went home. Then, if need should be, the couple could set up an arrangement with Dr. Lennyard. They would need the doctor's help - Linda did not even have a passport.

With all those things in mind, the Canadian went to the Consulate. Inspector Thatcher made it clear that, even though she was sympathetic to the situation, Fraser had no more accumulated leave. She was sorry, but he could not take the day off, and he would have to make extra time to compensate for the hours he had been absent. Stoically, as usual, Fraser accepted that, and began to make calls to Canada before he resumed filing.

"Canadian Consulate, Constable Fraser speaking."

The voice on the end of the line was from afar. "Ben?"

Fraser's face opened in a smile. "Eric! I did not expect your calling so soon. I just called a few hours ago".

The Inuit man explained. "I came to town today to pick up my mail. You were lucky."

"In more ways than one. Eric, I need your help. Is the tribe's shaman available?"

"You sick?"

"No, not me. But I have a very sick person living with me, and I believe the shaman might help her a lot".

"I can talk to the old man, see if he is free."

"I would appreciate it, Eric. Frankly, I am getting worried. She is a little confused right now, and I think she could benefit from a healing treatment in the traditional ways. The problem is I can't take her to the tribe."

"That won't be a problem. My nephew David and a friend of his are planning on a trip to the States. They could help."

"I would be very grateful, Eric."

"No problem, Ben. Take care."

Linda was smiling when Fraser got home that evening. She made it a point to greet him with a happy face, even though her back hurt and she was feeling the room spinning. But he had left so worried in the morning that she did not want to upset him anymore. Linda even convinced Jenny not to say a word about the fever or her sick feeling. So, she had given up the wheelchair and stayed in bed all day, but the feeling did not subside.

"Hi, Ben. How was your day?"

Fraser kissed her and sat on the bed, patting Dief away. "It was very busy. I got news".

"Really?"

"I got an idea."

She tried to smile, intrigued. "Ben, what are you up to?"

Fraser took her hands into his and looked into startlingly green eyes that were locked on his. His stomach was doing flip-flops, but he managed to say. "I think we should get married at once."

The green eyes widened and Linda parted her lips, surprised. "Ben..."

He offered, now more daring, her hands twisting under his nervous ones. "If we get married, then you would be entitled to RCMP medical insurance. It would mean getting medical treatment in Canada, and that probably would be the end of those horrible spinal fluid taking sessions."

Linda drew her head down, and felt her hands suddenly trembling under his. How could she say what she had to say? There was a hole in her heart, and she felt almost a physical pain. Oh please, God, help me.

Fraser's heart fell to his feet. She was not smiling anymore. Actually, she was shaking. Blue eyes searched for green ones, but they were cast down. Fraser began to panic at the thought of causing her such distress. What have I done? I hurt her. That was the wrong thing to say. "Linda? Darling, what's wrong?"

Linda raised her eyes to look at him and there were tears in them. She gently put the palm of one hand in his cheek, the other still in his hands. "Oh, Ben... I love you so much... But I can't accept that."

"Linda, why?"

Tears were already streaming down her cheeks, her heart so tight inside her chest she thought it would crunch away into nothingness. "It would not be right, Ben. I want to marry you because I love you, not because of some medical insurance, or some better chance to be treated in Canada. Ben, I want to marry you in my own two feet. I am so sorry. Please forgive me. I love you, but I cannot marry you like this. Forgive me, please. Please, Ben, forgive me."

Linda was crying so much she could not say anything else. He pulled her to him, and nestled her in his arms as she cried. He was also in tears, and strangely he understood her motivations. So he stroked her hair gently, and shooed her. "It is all right, Linda, all right. Don't worry about it".

"I am so sorry, Ben, so sorry. I wanted to be stronger. You deserve someone stronger."

"No, it is just fine. You don't have to be anything, and there is nothing I deserve more than you. Don't worry about it, OK? We won't talk about it again until you are on your feet."

She looked at him, her nose red and her eyes swollen. "Are you mad at me?"

It was not easy, but Ben smiled. "Of course I am not mad at you. I understand what you are saying, I really do."

"Oh, Ben, I am so sorry." Linda rested her head on his chest, her hair tangling on golden button and Sam Browne belt. "I really am."

"Yes, so am I", he said, a lighter tone in his voice. "That is the second time I ask you to marry me, and you turn me down."

She couldn't resist looking up to see his face, and found the amused gleam on his eyes so reassuring, as well as his hands wiping the tears from her face, as he gave her one of his sweetest smiles. "I love you. I will wait for you." Suddenly Fraser had an inspiration, eyes sparkling. "Don't go away."

Linda knew he did not mean his words, so she just watched, truly intrigued, as Fraser went to the closet. From the pocket of his Sam Browne belt, the Mountie produced a blue velvet tiny box. Linda felt her heart speeding up as he approached the bed, thoroughly embarrassed. "I was waiting to give this to you properly," he explained. "Now seems the best time."

Linda tried to say, "Ben - please, I"

He put his fingers on her lips, gently silencing her. "You know what is there in this box. The doctors took this ring from your finger when you were taken to the ICU, when they still did not know if you were going to... survive." His eyes filled with tears. "It was the only thing I had to hang on and think of you all those weeks. I promised myself that the next time you put that on your finger I would do it. I would give it to you."

Linda suppressed a sob as Fraser's fingers travelled to her cheek, wiping the tears away. "I was hoping it could be when you agreed to marry me, but it seems you are not willing to do that sometime soon, so..." Linda could smile through her tears when she glimpsed the twinkle of jest in his blue eyes. Then he looked at her hand and took the ring from the box. "So this is not officially an engagement, but still... I would be very honoured if you would wear this ring."

Not without effort, Linda swallowed the tears and struggled to find the voice. "The only one honoured will be me, Ben..."

Tenderly, as only he could be sometimes, Fraser slipped the ring in her delicate finger and searched for the green eyes once more. He found so much love and devotion he thought he would melt right there.

Then they kissed, and then they fell in bed, Linda grimacing in silence because of the pain in the back. That night they cuddled. Linda did not sleep right away. Her fever kept her awake, and she decided that there had come the time to talk about a long-avoided subject. When she got better, she would do it, she decided.

This time he decided to control himself. Fraser did not cease to be amazed to find out how he lacked control whenever Linda was involved. Even though he promised her, it was getting hard to keep the promise. Mainly because of the news Ray brought him.

When they arrived at Fraser's apartment, Mrs. Mutchnik was teaching Linda how to knit. Linda thought that learning handcrafts would help her pass the time, and the idea of making clothes to Fraser was extremely appealing. However, since Linda had taken that awful exam in the day before, none of them thought she would be up to staying so long in the wheelchair. The minute Ray and Fraser walked in, Linda beamed.

"What a scene", said Ray with one of his prized smiles. "Two beauties together. Benny, we are such lucky men to have them waiting for us like this".

"Oh, you are always so flattering, Detective", said Mrs. Mutchnik, trying her best not to blush. "If only I were 50 years younger..."

"Then I would be very sorry, because poor Mr. Mutchnik would not stand a chance."

The old woman actually blushed. "Oh, boys."

Linda was very amused by their exchange. "Hi, Ben. Hello, Ray."

Fraser took his tunic out and said, "Mrs. Mutchnik, we brought dinner, and we hope you are staying."

"Yes, please," added Linda.

"You are very sweet, both of you. But Oscar says he won't eat until I get home. And then he wants to watch that wonderful show about that young man who has a cat and a newspaper. It is filmed here in Chicago, you know?"

Ray shrugged. "Yes, go figure that, Mrs. Mutchnik."

The old lady was grabbing her bags and stuff. "I am going now. You kids enjoy your meal and have fun. Linda, you can keep that wool. Later I will show you the secret to a good mitten, my dear."

"I am looking forward to it, Mrs. Mutchnik. Thank you so much for your company".

"One of these days you will call me Edna as I ask you so much. Well, now I must go. But should you need anything, please knock on my door."

"Thanks again. Bye."

Fraser escorted the old lady to her apartment, and Linda sighed. "She is a lovely lady."

Ray said, "Yes, and she probably adopted you, too, just like Ma. You and Benny have that effect on little old ladies, I guess." He kissed her front and asked. "How are you?"

"Better. The fever broke down in the afternoon, and I feel good enough to sit."

"That is so good," said Ray. "It means you are getting better. What did the exam say?"

"Results are only Monday. But Dr. Wilson says my response is very promising."

Fraser came back and shut the door. "Yes, indeed. You look very good."

He bent to brush his lips on hers, and Linda knew instantly there something was amiss. "I am glad you are feeling so good, Linda."

She looked at him attentively. "Ben, what is wrong?"

There was the slightest hesitation, unnoticed to those who did not know him well, and Fraser looked away. Then Linda turned to Ray, and there were widened green eyes trying to avoid her stare.

"Ray?"

"Yes, sweetie?"

"Do I really have to ask? You two are trying to hide something from me, and both are lousy liars."

Ray threw his arms up, exasperated. "I don't believe this. How can she always do that? I swear it, Benny, she is psychic."

"Actually, Ray, I don't think there has been any indication of psychic powers involved, although it is quite alarming that - "

Linda kept her voice down. "It is not working, guys. I have posed a question, and I expect an answer. Please."

Both became silent, looking chastised. Ben was the first to speak. "Linda, we just didn't want to worry you."

"Sorry to break this to you, Ben, but you see, I am already worried. Can you please tell me what is going on here?"

"Ray has received a tip. Somebody might be watching you."

"Watching me?"

"Yes", confirmed the Italian. "That mobster family who sheltered Victoria has been sending snoops around in the streets. The word that your name might still be out for a hit attracted one of my snitches. He told me a name of one the involved, a name I didn't like to hear."

Linda drew a breath she did not notice she had been holding. Then very carefully she asked, "Do you know the name, Ray? I mean, did you recognise it?"

"I do not know the guy, only his fame. He is bad news, Linda."

"Do you believe he or the mobsters are out to get me?"

"I don't know. But there is a chance they might be following you."

"Why would they do that?"

"They might think Victoria gave you information about them. They might want revenge for driving Victoria away. They might have been conned by her. Or maybe it's nothing, Linda, I don't know."

Linda smiled. "Then relax, Ray. I think you are over-reacting. I don't think there is a reason they could be after me. Besides, even if they were, things are different now. I mean, I am never alone, so they cannot really reach me without being spotted."

"Linda, just because we can't figure out their reason does not mean they don't have one."

She thought for a moment. "Yes, yes, Ray, you are right. But until then, I don't think we have reason to worry."

"I hope you are right. Anyway, I am not willing to take a risk. I will talk to Welsh, so be used to seeing some more uniforms on the neighbourhood, OK?"

She smiled. "I think you are exaggerating, but thanks, anyway".

Ben, who had become very quiet, said. "Now that this is over, why don't we just forget all about it and have some dinner?" Diefenbaker woofed in agreement, Ray made a fuss about getting the pasta reheated and Linda sighed in relief. She did not want to show Benny how scared she was with the flimsiest possibility of having to face Victoria again.

They were just kissing and cuddling in bed. Ray had gone home sometime ago, and Dief decided to sleep by the kitchen. Fraser was a little more at ease, now that Linda had recovered from that awful test. It had been some time since they could be with each other like that, and he was feeling relaxed.

In Fraser's arms, Linda began to feel an odd sense of familiarity. She could inhale his scent again, keeping her lips over his neck and cheeks. If she had free movement of her body, she knew they would have been making love by now. It broke her heart to realise she was not able to do it, but she was determined not to deprive Fraser that pleasure.

Linda took her fingers and raised them to his face in silence, her green eyes shining by the feeble light coming from the street. Her fingertips danced in his lips for some seconds, and she sighed. Ben held her gaze with love, feeling his heart swelling. This girl was everything to him. He should be demonstrating this to her, but... he did not want to risk her getting hurt.

"This is so good", murmured Linda, still kissing his chest. "It's been a long time".

"Yes", said Fraser, caressing her hair. "I missed that, too."

"Ben, do you remember that talk we had in the hospital?"

He smiled. "We talked a lot in the hospital, Linda. Which talk are you referring?"

Linda tried not to betray the expectation on her voice. "The one about sex, Ben. I want you to know that if you are willing to try... I am ready".

"You are?" Blue eyes suddenly were ablaze towards Linda. She felt a shiver throughout her whole body - or at least whatever parts she could feel.

"Yes", she answered and blushed. "I am more than ready, Ben. Please."

Then Linda stretched herself upwards, as much as she could, in order to capture his lips, this time no longer in cuddling mode, but in full passion mode, desire flaring in her veins. She was totally aware of his hot body under hers, and his breath was beginning to speed up a little. Oh, hers was catching, too.

Their lips separated only enough time so they could catch some oxygen, and then they were locked again, Fraser's strong hands caressing everywhere he could from Linda's body. Her hands were unbuttoning his red longjohns and Fraser squirmed to get out of the offending piece of clothing. Then he desperately helped Linda out of her camisole, and she whispered. "Yes, Ben... I can feel it..."

Fraser felt her trembling body, and plunged to capture her breasts in his hands, making her gasp and then moan as his thumbs went through her nipples, hardening them instantly. Linda was mesmerised at the sheer sensations of her blood boiling, barely being able to breath correctly, her hands tousling Fraser's hair as his mouth travelled in her breasts hungrily.

She captured his face between her hands and pulled him strongly upward, till their tongues were duelling again. It was then that she used her hands to seek his male firmness. The throbbing rod of flesh should be poking her, but her thigh was senseless to that wonder of nature, so she sneaked a hand between their bodies until she could stroke him gently, making him gasp.

"Oh, Ben... I missed you so much..."

"I want you... I want you..."

Then Linda used his hands to pump, revelling in Fraser's facial expression of exquisite torture as he approached the edge. He couldn't help but move his hips to the ever-increasing rhythm of Linda's hands. She drank from the beautiful sight of his excited expression, of his flushed face as her hands provided him the pleasure her body was not able to offer.

Strangely her body was responding to all those stimuli, and the energy seemed to be dissipating from the waist down. Linda was panting, sweating, moaning, almost groaning in excitement. Her blood was singing and almost boiling in her veins, but only from the waist up. Instead of going all the way down to the centre of her female heat, it just seemed to dissipate quite suddenly, leaving her with a numb sensation at the paralysed area.

Suddenly Linda withdrew her hands from Fraser's maleness, and he whimpered. She tried to move, seeking to plunge her head in his groin but was hindered by her body, and asked huskily. "Please, let me taste you, Ben. I need to taste you now...!"

The scent of his arousal on her hands was making her dizzy with lust, and she was growing frustrated for not being able to shelter him in the warmth of her mouth. Fraser slid his body up and then gently pushed Linda down in the bed. She used her arms to get some level and in seconds he was almost sitting, and she was between his legs, already engrossed in the task of wholly accommodating his engorged shaft in her mouth. Her green eyes sparkled with joy when she felt the physical effort Fraser was making to avoid using her mouth, but his moans were getting quite expressive.

After inhaling his musky odour for a few minutes, as if memorising once more his distinctive scent, Linda reintroduced her mouth to every texture, ridge and curve of his flushed cock. The tip of her tongue travelled from under the head to his foreskin, and then to the slit from where Fraser's milk was already dripping. She licked the pearly drops sensually, making him shudder. Then she resumed the serious sucking, finding it hard to fit all of him in her mouth, so big and hard he had become.

Nothing could be done. Feeling wave after wave of pure pleasure as she gently caressed his balls and his perineum without stopping the suction of his shaft, Fraser could barely articulate sounds, not to mention words. But he had to warn her.

"I... Oh, dear... I... Please..."

Nevertheless, Linda understood the message, and she proudly resumed her sucking with renewed energy. It was a point of honour to make him sated. Make it good for him. Unforgettable for him.

Fraser came harder than he could remember, harder even in some memorable moments from his adolescence. Linda felt his cock twitching inside her mouth, the balls swelling and then softening after they exploded and expelled Fraser's sweet seed directly in her throat. With the help of her hands and untiring mouth, his cock was milked until the point of total exhaustion, and Fraser almost passed out, from such a mind-blowing orgasm.

Love was flooding Linda when she tried to crawl up. But her position was so awkward that all she could do was rest her head on his thigh and caress his narrow waist. She was so happy, so full of joy and love. It had become very important to her that she provided Fraser with good sex, something she was not sure due to her paralysis. Proving herself able to do so was extremely reassuring, and an indication that they could beat this despite everything.

After his breathing came back to normal, Fraser gently pulled her up and gathered her in his arms. He could feel Linda glowing with happiness, but he was so tired he only kissed her, smiled tenderly and snuggled against her body for a blissful sleep. She could feel his skin soft and warm against hers, and listened to his heartbeat. With an effort, Linda let that sound lull her to sleep.

...

The wonderful feeling of Fraser's pale arms around her waist woke Linda up. Even though she was still dizzy and only half-awake, she could feel the blood rush in her body in an erotic way, and she turned her head so that her lips would find his cheek. Her breath was fast, and her chest was heaving. For a fleeting second, she wondered why her legs were not moving. Then she remembered, but strangely enough it did not lessened her enthusiasm.

"Ben..."

He kissed the junction of her shoulder and neck, sending shivers all over her body. Then he breathed practically straight to her ear, causing more shivers. "Yes...?"

Linda's body was reaching high levels of arousal fast. Her brain never had a chance to function properly, so all she could do was feel his body close to her, his arms fastened around her waist, his hands travelling already to her breasts, and a loud moan slipped her lips. "Please, Ben... Please..."

"Tell me, Linda... Tell me what you want..."

"Make love to me, Ben."

Linda could feel his hesitation. "But..."

She silenced him. "Please, Ben... I need this. I want to see you. I need to know if we are still as one."

Fraser struggled silently for a few more seconds. He tried to get rid of those thoughts.

"You *will not* be using me, Ben."

He stared her, blue eyes wide with amazement. "How did you know - "

"I figured it out. And I repeat: you will not be using me. I need to know, Ben."

Fraser turned her around gently, doing the movements she could not make by herself. Knowing Linda, he knew she would like them to have this conversation face to face. He rested his forehead in hers, and looked down, unable to face her. "I want you so much... But I am scared to hurt you..."

Linda took his face in her hands, forcing him to look inside her eyes. "Ben, I wished there was a way to let you know I am OK with this. Believe me, I am. I need you to make love to me, Ben, in a physical way we always did. I need this reassurance. I need to..." She choked, and this time, she was the one who could not meet his eyes.

"Linda... Darling, what is it?"

"Ben... I love you so much..." Linda was almost crying. "I am scared...that you don't find me attractive anymore..."

Fraser's heart ached immensely with love, and he wrapped her tightly in his arms. "No, Linda, my love, don't..." She tried to control her tears, but her body was trembling. "I love you more than I could ever imagined possible. This is way beyond attraction, you know that."

Linda sniffled. "But we need... sex... We always make that... And now..."

The smile on Fraser's face was priceless. "And now" He ran his hands on her small back, and she shuddered. "Now we improvise..."

Before she could answer, he leaned in to a severe lip lock, forcing her lips open and thrusting his questioning and probing tongue on the inside of her mouth. The rapture of his actions left her totally breathless and injected a shot of pure desire in her bloodstream. After a few minutes of Ben's relentless exploration of her mouth, Linda was panting and felt his lips on her neck.

"Ben... please..."

He did not stop what he was doing - driving her mad with desire. "Humm?"

"Ben... please... do me a favour..."

"Anything..." His lips now went to the base of her neck. Linda shivered in pleasure.

"Ben... I want to hear you... Just... to know... what you're feeling...You are usually so quiet... Don't be... please..."

She was amazed she could still form coherent sentences, because Fraser was sure as busy with his hands as he was with his lips.

Once more, Linda was able to feel desire and passion. Her body burned, her blood boiled - only from the waist up, though. Fraser was so thorough in dispensing attention to her nipples they seemed about to hurt. Her hands roamed in his back, her fingers went to his hair, then she felt his skin sweaty and oily. There were long moans from his throat, and at such a low vibration that for an instant Linda thought Fraser could definitely purr like a cat.

Her hands sneaked between their bodies, searching the burning centre of his body, passing his stomach, then enticing the flatness below his navel in the direction of his curly forest. Fraser gasped and moved his hips in the direction of her hand. At the same time, he leaned in and panted in her ears, and small cries slipped from her throat.

"Ben," she managed to call. "Please, Ben..."

Fraser looked inside her eyes hooded with lust. Shaking, he gently parted her legs and positioned himself in between them. He had to control himself, and looked at her. Linda was smiling, eagerly waiting for them to become one. There was no fear in her eyes, only love, devotion and indescribable tenderness. Fraser's heart ached, his eyes watered, for it was such a heavenly vision.

"Ben..." She called again. "Please, Ben, now, please..."

Fraser pressed his lips against Linda's trying to silence his quiet struggle. At the same time, he slipped a finger inside her, to make sure she would not get inadvertently hurt. He was surprised to find her sex slick, humid and hot. Still trembling, he muffled a moan in her lips as he guided himself into her. It had been such a long time.

The feeling of her warmth around him, welcoming him shook Fraser to his core. He could not prevent throwing his head back as his hips moved forward inside her, and his moans acquired a tone of grunting. Linda had to bite back a sob, tears of happiness threatening to form in her eyes. She wrapped her arms around him, wanting to feel as much as she could from his smell, his heat, his desire. In minutes, Fraser was thrusting like a passionate animal, thus enhancing Linda's joy. How she wished she could explode like him.

Somehow she could feel his explosion building, even if his cries weren't a clue strong enough. Linda held on to him as strong as she could, feeling his heart so close to hers that they were like beating together, and waited a few seconds. When he soared high in his climax, she could almost feel his blood in her veins, observed those lovely features convulse and his head rise with a cry. The second later, his body went limp in her arms, but he was careful not to crush her under his superior weight. They lay entwined, limbs tangled, Linda struggling to keep her tears unchecked. Then Fraser's breathing subsided to a pattern that Linda thought would be deep sleep, and she settled to sleep herself.

In a few minutes, he stirred and went to the bathroom. Linda heard the water running and raised her head to see him preparing a bath. She turned over and tried to doze off, but was lovingly awaken when her lips were captured and a smiling face hovered over hers. "Care for a bath, my lady?"

Linda smiled sleepily to the tenderness in his face. "I would love to", she purred.

Fraser scooped her in his arms, and took her to the bathroom. Linda was surprised to see candles near the sink, before she was lovingly deposited inside a bath filled with hot and scented water. The girl enjoyed the feeling of her arms in that sweet liquid caress, and sighed sadly when she realised she could not feel it from her waist down.

Fraser joined her and noticed the change in her expression. "Anything wrong?"

She turned to him, all sadness forgotten, eyes glowing in the light of candles. "No, my lord. This is all so perfect. I am so happy."

But Ben was not smiling anymore. "I am so sorry."

Linda almost felt her heart break. "Ben, why?"

Fraser blushed, and Linda thought the light of the candles made him look so lovely. He seemed truly embarrassed. "I was so scared. I was so focused in my fear that I could not believe it could be that good. I denied you a beautiful moment because of my fear. I am sorry."

"There is no need. You were not ready then. I would have waited for you."

He smiled, and the bathroom seemed to brighten up. "You're simply amazing. I love you."

"I love you, too. Does that mean we are going to do that again sometime soon?"

Ben's smile was priceless, and so was the wicked gleam in his eyes. "Sooner than you think."

Linda laughed as she had not done in quite a while, and it was that sweet little giggle that Fraser loved so much. He thought he would melt in the spot hearing that lovely sound. Suddenly he leaned in her and kissed those tender lips. "Let's get clean, shall we?"

"Of course, my lord."

In the small of the night, they engrossed in the task of soaping each other. Silently, Dief peeped through the door half-closed and sighed heavily. It seemed they were in heat again.

But Dief remembered that last time they were doing that, the man disappeared and the woman suddenly became very ill. The wolf wondered if that was bound to happen again.

"Constable?"

"Constable Fraser?"

Finally, the Mountie's quiet voice seemed to register in his mind, and Fraser snapped to attention in reflex. "Yes. Yes, Constable Turnbull. Could I be of any assistance?"

"No, sir, but I believe I could be. Why don't you leave early today?"

Fraser felt his face blushing, and reddened. "I couldn't, Constable, not with Inspector Thatcher out in Ottawa for three weeks, and her instructions were quite specific -"

"Her instructions were for you not to miss any working day during her absence. I believe they did not specifically require your presence the whole shift every day. Besides, you stayed late last night, and the extra time can compensate for your eventual absence."

"Really, Turnbull, I -"

"Sir, I know you would like to be at the hospital at least when Miss Linda comes out of that awful exam. We can cover everything here. There will be no problem."

"It is very nice of you, but I - "

"Just tell her my best, Sir. And please go."

Fraser felt a warm wave in his heart as he smiled at Turnbull. Friends. Amazing how fast Linda could make them. He babbled some grateful thanks, grabbed his Stetson and ran out of the Consulate, his heart beating faster. It should be a surprise to Linda as it was to him, and she always loved surprises. Ray and Jenny would be at the hospital with her, and they could all go home together. Only Diefenbaker would be missing.

Constable Turnbull felt glad she could be helping his superior officer that way. Also, he was very fond of Miss Linda, and was terribly sorry for the unfortunate events that plagued her and resulted in her paralysis.

In that spirit, he was more than happy to help the two gentlemen who approached him half an hour after Constable Fraser left, and introduced themselves as old acquaintances of his from the Territories. Turnbull made extra efforts such as giving them Fraser's home address and everything the two young men asked for.

That morning Linda was so bad Fraser did not have the heart to wake her up. He reprimanded himself for almost cursing Turnbull just because the younger Mountie did not have a telephone. That way Fraser could warn him he would be late and spend a few more minutes with Linda until Jenny arrived. But his temper soon was boiled down when he remembered how nice Turnbull had been the day before, offering for him to leave early so he could catch Linda in the hospital after that horrible exam.

Too bad he could not stay in today. Inspector Thatcher had given specific instructions that he was not to miss any working day during her absence. As a perfect Mountie, Fraser would not disobey, but his heart was torn. Linda was mercifully asleep, and feverish, too. At least she was not in pain anymore. Dr. Wilson changed the medication, so she would be asleep a lot longer after the spinal fluid treatment.

"Ben!" The old lady's face was lightened by a smile.

"Good morning, Mrs. Mutchik", he greeted embarrassed. "I hope I have not waken you."

"Nonsense, young man. Have you any idea at what time do I get up?"

Fraser thought on answering the question, but decided to stick to his pressing problems. "I was wondering, Mrs. Mutchnik, if you would mind helping me a little."

"Is Linda feeling well?"

"Actually no, and that is why I am here. I was wondering if it would be a terrible bother if you would stay with her a few minutes until Jenny arrives? She is usually up at this time, but I am afraid she is not feeling well today because of the treatment. Unfortunately, I am expected at the Consulate early today, and I really hate to upset you this manner, but -"

She stopped his babbling. "Absolutely, yes, Ben. Say no more. I will be there in a flash."

"I appreciate it immensely, Mrs. Mutchnik."

"That is what neighbours are for. I will just warn Oscar, because his leg has been bothering him. Wait a minute, I will go with you."

"Thank you again."

Both went to the apartment, and Mrs. Mutchnik observed Linda asleep, then went to the kitchen. "Oh, poor thing. She looks so pale. Maybe she would like a soup for breakfast, or a nice sturdy porridge."

"Please don't bother, Mrs. Mutchnik. She will be glad to see you here, I am sure. Normally, Diefenbaker stays with her, but he is with his friend Willie today. I am sorry to bother you."

"No, young man, I am glad to help. You both are such good neighbours. Now, you can go to work, because I would not like you to get late."

"Should anything arise, all numbers to the Consulate are at the phone by the nightstand. Jenny is also instructed to call me. Feel free to call anytime."

"There won't be a problem, I am sure. You can go and don't worry, for we will be fine."

"Thank you again, Mrs. Mutchnik. And keep this", he passed her a small container. "It should help with Mrs. Mutchnik's leg".

"Thank you, Ben. Now go and don't worry."

Fraser put his Stetson and left, now much more at peace, his watch remembering him of his consular duties. Linda was in hands of people who cared about her, so he should not worry.

Linda woke up to the voices in the kitchen and called. "Ben?"

Mrs. Mutchnik came in the room, and greeted. "He had to go to work, my dear. I will be with you a while, until that nice girl arrives. How do you feel?"

"My back hurts a tad", she admitted. "I think I will take another pill".

"I will bring you some water."

Linda stretched herself a little and reached the medicine beside the telephone at the nightstand. Mrs. Mutchnik was promptly back with a glass of water and helped her take the pill. Then Linda eased herself back in the covers, grimacing a lot. Mrs. Mutchnik helped her, feeling her heart aching for the pain that young girl was feeling. "Now you are all set. Please go back to sleep, and the painkiller will surely kick in. Jenny will be here in a short while, so you don't need to worry. Try to rest some more."

"I will", Linda was almost out by the pill. "Thank you, Mrs. Mutchnik."

The old lady caressed the young girl's front, then watched as she drifted back to sleep, her head shaking. Mrs. Mutchnik carefully picked up the glass with water and went to the kitchen. There she glanced at the clock - almost eight o'clock. Time for her husband to take his medicine. She went back to the bedroom, where Linda was fast asleep. The old lady thought the girl would not even know if she went for a few minutes back to her apartment, so she left quietly and the door stayed open.

Linda woke up to soft noises in the living room. She called out weakly, still groggy, "Mrs. Mutchnik, are you out there?"

She tried to sit up, but her back was killing her with pain, making her dizzy. And when she looked at the door, there were two men there. Two young men she had never seen before. Dizzy, she frowned.

"Who are you?"

A boy with long hair answered. "We've been told to take you with us."

Linda's stomach was starting to make a knot, and she began to have trouble breathing. "I don't know you".

The second one shrugged, "We are here just to take you".

Inside her head, Linda was starting to have grim thoughts about what these two had done to Mrs. Mutchnik. She felt as if she was in a nightmare. They should be Victoria's people. That awful woman was back, and Linda shivered. *Please, God, not again*.

Linda could not help shaking, her world spinning, reality askew. Victoria probably wanted to finish what she started months ago. Only this time Linda was totally helpless to prevent her from getting what that criminal woman wanted. Linda looked at the two men, and they looked so young, so young, oh God. Then she tried to control her voice, but all she could say was, "No, please. Please, don't do this".

The young men looked at each other, and Linda had to make her mushy brain think fast, despite all chemicals and painkillers. She moved towards the nightstand as fast as she could, and grabbed the telephone. She was not sure she was able to dial 911, but the telephone was taken from her hands, and strong hands stopped her.

"Lady, we don't have time for this."

"Just be nice, OK? Everything will be fine, pretty soon. We will just take you someplace nice. Relax."

"No, please, leave me alone," Her voice was weak, though in her head she was screaming. "Please don't do this. I'm ill."

The one with long hair talked to the other. "This might be more trouble than we thought".

"Come on, we knew she was sick. Let's take her as we were told to do. Wrap her in the covers."

Linda felt betrayed by her weakened body as they carried her away, away from her home, from Ben, and she could not do anything about it. Worse than that, the medicine was finally kicking in. She was losing consciousness. Before she was totally out, she could see that she was put on the back of a van, and she called weakly, "Ben... Help me..."

When Jenny arrived at Linda's apartment, she was surprised to see a couple of police cars in front of the building. The police told her 911 received a call that had been aborted and it was traced to that building. It was a kidnapping case. Jenny had to identify herself, and was met with a bunch of questions. She also recognised the neighbour, Mrs. Mutchnik, who was clutching to a handkerchief, weeping.

Jenny Hemmet did not see her face evolve through a series of reactions. First she was shocked, then she was mad, then she became desperate, and finally, she was sad. Mainly because she was the one who had the sad task of giving the bad news to Constable Fraser.

"We should have set up a surveillance team."

"Ray, there was no indication -"

"Turnbull could have said something earlier."

"He did not think they were -"

"And why did that lady had to leave her anyway? Didn't you ask her to stay with Linda until Jenny arrived?"

"Ray, maybe it was for the best. Did you really believe they would have been stopped by Mrs. Mutchnik's presence? Can't you imagine what they might have done to her or Jenny?"

Ray passed a hand through the balding head, frustrated. He sighed loudle before saying, "We have to get her back, Fraser".

Fraser knew he should get worried when Ray used his last name. "They didn't take her chair nor any of her medication. They must have some means of taking care of her, if they are keeping her somewhere".

"You mean, if they plan to keep her alive".

Ben could not help to shake when he heard the quiet words Ray pronounced. He looked at his friend, stared into his face. The Italian green eyes were so filled with emotion that there was no room for tears. "Benny, I am so scared". His voice was getting quieter.

"Ray, we should concentrate in following leads. If we stop to think about other things, things we have no control, then - "

He could not go on and sighed. "At least, there is a case open for kidnapping. With the tape from 911, there is no need to wait 48 hours to report a missing person."

"Benny", Ray said quietly, "Do you think it was... you know... her?"

It took a few minutes until Fraser could answer. He looked at his lap, and breathed in deep, as if this was the last time in a long while he would be able to do that. "I can't think of anyone else, Ray. But I am really afraid that it could not be her. I can't think of anyone else who would want to harm Linda other than..." He did not finish the sentence. He didn't want to be forced to pronounce Victoria's name.

Ray took a deep breath and said. "All right, let's start it from the top. We better talk to Turnbull again. We might have missed some clue."

The door opened and she turned around, even though she already knew who had arrived. "Figlio".

"Hi, Ma."

"I did not expect you home so early, Raymondo."

"I just came to take a shower and change. I will be heading back to the precinct".

"Caro, I have saved you some pasta al foglioli."

"Thanks, Ma, but I don't have time".

"Raymondo, you know better than that. Go shower, then come back and eat your pasta. Don't argue with your mother".

Ray was glad she did not ask anything. In her eyes, there was a bunch of question, but there also was support. That was all he needed right that moment. He let himself slump in Uncle Lorenzo's favourite chair. "Benny should be coming later on. I made him promise he would not go home. Besides, forensics are sill working there, and... well, he should not go there."

"Then I better save him some pasta and prepare the guest room, too. How is he?"

Ray sighed. "He is not good, Ma. He is awful. Thank God tomorrow is Saturday, and he doesn't have to go to the Consulate. He seems to be better when he is working some clues". He took a deep breath and announced, "Ma, I will place an international call. I have to reach the Dragon Lady."

"Who?"

"Benny's boss. She is up in Canada, in some technical training course, for three weeks. Benny says she is not to be disturbed, but she cannot do that to him. He needs personal leave, otherwise he will break, Ma. I know he will."

"Of course, caro. You call this boss woman right now. You do anything to bring our girl back home."

Mrs. Vecchio shook her head and kept silent as Ray closed his eyes and let his hands run his balding head in frustration. The old Italian woman's heart clenched to see her boys hurting so much.

Frannie came running the stairs, her level of anxiety high enough to boil arctic waters. "Anything, Ray?"

That was the question he had been avoiding. All he could say was a totally non-committal "We are working on it, Frannie."

The youngest Vecchio put both hands on the tiny waist and raised her voice almost an octave. "It is not fair, Ray! Linda does not deserve that, I tell you. What is that woman up to, anyway? What more could she probably do to Linda?"

"We will stop her," guaranteed Ray. "We will stop her and bring Linda home."

Frannie's eyes grew as she followed her line of thought. "Oh, no, Ray. What if that woman has gone mad? If she is insane, there is no telling what she can do to Linda. She will never stop, she may hunt Linda to the ends of the earth!"

Ray felt his own sanity and his nerves were being put to a test. "Frannie, the woman is not crazy. Going insane would not help her manipulate people, and that is all she is interested in doing, believe me. We will find her, and you mark my words. If she hurts her, I'll kill her".

Francesca opened her mouth, but Ray stood up and went to the bathroom, leaving mother and daughter confounded with amazement and tension. From Ray's tone of voice, they knew he meant business. If Linda was hurt, that woman was dead. She might be walking and talking and everything, but she was as dead as Jimmy Hoffa.

On to part 3.