WINGS OF DESTINY

by D YATES

'May the wings of destiny carry you far

To discover who you really are

And when that truth is known

Let those same wings fly you safely home'

Catherine lay very still, totally exhausted after the birth of her son, but her heart raced as she tried to focus her eyes on the faces before her. The startled realization that she was being given an injection made her moan uncontrollably, and as she felt the chill of the liquid running through her veins she summoned all that was left of her strength in an attempt to speak Vincent's name. Unable to distinguish the one face she longed to see, she closed her eyes hoping that, at least, she might hear his voice. As she began to drift in and out of consciousness the familiar scent of him teased her nostrils and an involuntary gasp escaped her lips.

"Vincent?"

It was the most heartwrenching plea, but unable to hold out any longer Catherine succumbed at last to the drug that was now beginning to take over all her senses.

"Catherine, my love, I'm here." Catherine felt Vincent's breath close to her face, and she blinked just once before slipping into a deep sleep.

"Thank goodness! Catherine was fighting me all the way with that injection," sighed Father, who was exhausted too. Although it had been an extremely long and difficult labour, the birth itself had gone remarkably well. He turned towards Vincent and Peter Alcott and smiled. "He's a fine boy, isn't he? What a whopper, no wonder he took his time. Had me worried for a while though, I'm very glad you were here, Peter."

His friend patted his shoulder. "He certainly is and, believe me, I do know how worrying and difficult this has been for you, Jacob. You came through though, and once we've got everything settled, I think you and I should go 'wet the baby's head', don't you?"

Nodding vigorously, Jacob began to gather his instruments together, but he stopped when Mary's hands closed over his. "Jacob, you should rest, leave me to take care of all this. Vincent and I will watch over Catherine and the baby. I promise to call you if there's even the slightest change."

Father gazed into his wife's eyes, and then leaned to kiss her forehead. "Thank you, my dear, I confess I'm more tired than I care to admit. If you're sure?"

Mary lifted his hands and kissed them. "Absolutely, now you and Peter go and have that little drink, you've certainly both earned it!"

As soon as the two men left, Mary busied herself by restoring the Hospital Chamber to its usual order; there was no telling when it might be needed again. All the instruments went into the sterilization unit, and it took only moments to discard the soiled laundry. As each task was completed, Mary glanced over to where Catherine and her son lay sleeping peacefully in the recovery room, which was next to the theatre section of the Hospital Chamber. Vincent was looking at first one and then the other, almost in disbelief, and she decided to join him. "I'm about finished here Vincent, how does some herb tea sound to you? I can make some if you'd like?" Her arm slipped through Vincent's as she too gazed in wonder at this new life.

Vincent straighened up and pulled Mary into a warm embrace, never taking his eyes off his wife and small son. "You always seem to know what I need Mary, almost before I do! I'm truly overwhelmed by the events of the past few hours, and Father's quite right of course; he's a fine boy. I'm just longing to place him in Catherine's arms when she's strong enough to cope."

Mary smiled. "Oh Vincent, you worry too much. Catherine's a fit young woman; a proper sleep and she'll soon bounce back, good as new. You just mark my words."

"You're sure about that?" Vincent needed to be reassured.

"Absolutely! Now let's see about that tea, shall we."

*****

When Father returned some hours later, he found Mary asleep in the chair at one side of the bed and Vincent sitting beside the crib, gazing at his newborn son. He moved toward Mary and gently awakened her, suggesting that it was time they retired for the night, leaving Vincent to watch over his family. Before they left, they made Vincent promise to let them or Peter know if there was any change.

Little by little the injection began to wear off and Catherine opened her eyes, desperately searching for Vincent's face. She knew as she lost consciousness that he was close by, but it had been impossible for her to focus her eyes on his beloved face. Slowly, she turned her head and found herself looking into his penetrating gaze.

"Oh Vincent, hold me," she begged and, without a word, Vincent reached to lift her into his arms and cradled her against his body. When he finally laid her down, he drew the pillows under her head and shoulders and leaned to kiss her mouth. The gentleness of his touch warmed Catherine's heart, as she deepened the kiss and ran her hand down the side of his face.

"Show me our son Vincent, I saw him so briefly. Everyone was saying he was beautiful and a fine boy. I'd like to hold him now."

Vincent walked across to the crib and lifted their baby son into his arms. The look on his face was one that Catherine would never ever forget; the adoration and knowledge that they had such a remarkable child were etched in every expression as he carried him towards her. Holding her son in her arms, Catherine's happy laughter was combined with tears of joy that their lives were now complete. She crooned to their little boy and kissed his face, revelling in the exquisite pleasure that motherhood had brought her. Sensing her tiredness, Vincent took him carefully and was about to settle him back into his crib.

"I think now that Jacob Jnr is asleep, that it's high time his mother was too."

Vincent was trying very hard to be firm with Catherine, but he could see he was wasting his time.

"What is it that your eyes are asking and you are not?" he probed gently, knowing full well through their bond, that it was he that she needed now.

"I'll sleep much better if you hold me, I always do," she pouted, and her eyes held his gaze.

"But, Catherine, even you must realize that isn't possible here, we're not in our own Chamber."

Catherine's eyes were very bright when she answered, "Well there's an easy solution to that, isn't there? I could walk, or you could carry me." She grinned impishly. "I'll carry Jacob!"

Knowing he had lost the battle before it had even begun, Vincent secured Jacob in his carrying cradle, against Catherine's body. He then wrapped them both in one of the blankets off the bed, lifted them into his arms and set off for their Chamber. Vincent walked the Tunnels carrying the world in his arms. It was only the sentries who saw the new family pass; everyone else was sleeping soundly.

Catherine leaned her head into Vincent's neck and sighed deeply. "Oh Vincent, thank you for doing this, it means everything to me. Are you okay?"

Vincent managed to kiss the top of her head and whispered back. "Don't concern yourself, my love, I'm fine. Not much further to go and then we can get settled for what's left of the night."

As soon as they arrived, Vincent sat Catherine on the bed and lifted the carrying cradle from her, and laid a sleeping Jacob in the crib that Cullen had made, which was just beside their bed, covering him lovingly with the blankets that Mary and some of the children had knitted. He then turned to Catherine, and wrapped her more securely inside the blanket she had been carried in, so as not to lose any body heat. As he laid her down, he pulled several large woollen blankets over her before he was satisfied that she was warm enough. Catherine lay and surveyed the scene before her, watching as Vincent extinguished candles around the Chamber, leaving just the two large ones that gave a warm soft comforting glow. Settling under the warmth of the blankets Catherine sighed, "Oh Vincent, do you know how happy you make me?"

He smiled and came to sit on the bed. "Oh I think I do, now!" He was about to move when Catherine's hand reached for his.

"Where are you going? You've carried me here so we can be together. Please, Vincent, come to bed, you're just as tired as I am."

Squeezing his hand, he never took his eyes off her face.

"I was going to get changed, although there doesn't seem much point now, it won't be long before our world will be awake."

Without another word he removed his padded jerkin, pants and boots to lie beside Catherine and pulled the blankets over himself as well and turned to watch Catherine as she drifted off to sleep again. Her hand reached automatically to take a handful of his mane, which she wove between her fingers, and he smiled indulgently, knowing it was the one way of him not being able to leave the bed without her knowing. Very soon, sleep claimed Vincent, and now at last he could sleep peacefully, knowing that his wife and child were safe.

When Father stirred some few hours later, he rose and made his way to the Hospital Chamber only to find the recovery room empty. He realized at once what had happened and walked as quickly as he was able to check on his patients. Vincent's eyes opened immediately the moment Father entered the Chamber and when he saw who it was, he put his finger to his lips in a silent 'Sshhhh'.

Father's expression softened when he saw Catherine's fingers entwined in Vincent's tawny locks. Father just mouthed the words 'Everything all right?' and was relieved to have Vincent smile back and whisper, "Yes." Father turned and walked slowly back towards his Chamber. He suddenly realized that he was feeling quite hungry and decided to collect Mary and see whether, perhaps, Peter might like to share breakfast with them. Soon the three friends were enjoying some hot buttered rolls, marmalade and huge mugs of tea.

Peter promised to call when he could, to keep an eye on the latest arrival, but said that he would need to visit his surgery at six-weeks-old so he could run tests there that couldn't be carried out Below. It would also be an opportunity to check Catherine's general health too. Father wondered how Vincent would react to this piece of news, but felt quite sure that he would realize that it was for the best. Between them they were fairly confident this could be arranged, and after all, Joe Maxwell was one of their Community now and a good friend Above as well as Below. So, if Catherine had any problems, he would be on hand and she could always use her apartment in an emergency. With those comforting thoughts, Father took Mary's arm as they walked with Peter to meet one of the Helpers who had come to escort him back Above.

The next few weeks would prove to be some of the most wonderful and exciting of Vincent and Catherine's lives. Their son had a voracious appetite and was growing fast; he was a constant source of great joy to both of them. A new chapter had begun and they were to find that life was everything they had hoped it would be.

*****

Jodie Phillips fastened her seat belt and settled back for the flight to New York. She still wasn't sure what had been the deciding factor that she should be the one from the MBJ Group of Companies to fulfill this particular contract, but with the salary and conditions on offer, it really wasn't an issue. Two months was not that long really, certainly enough time to complete the work in hand. Maybe, as Ben had said, a change of scene would provide a golden opportunity for her to at last pick up the pieces of her shattered life after her failed relationship with Tim Westwood. Just the very thought of him brought back painful memories that she was trying desperately to push to the back of her mind. Frowning at her lapse, she ran her fingers through her long dark hair and her large brown eyes welled with unshed tears. 'Jodie, don't do this to yourself. He betrayed you and now you've got this chance to move on. Get a grip!'

Pulling herself together, Jodie reflected on what Ben had already told her about this particular client, who wanted to transfer highly sensitive and confidential data held at his New York Office to his newly-installed high-tech system in the purpose-built office at his home. This way he would have complete control of certain aspects of his private and working life, and the information would only be available to him. Once the transfers were successfully completed; then every trace was to be removed from the New York Office computer system.

'Piece of cake,' she thought to herself, nothing difficult about that. So what was the catch? 'Jodie, stop beating yourself up about this, bite the bullet and have done with it,' she told herself. The client was only rarely at home, so she had free rein to enjoy all the facilities on offer. She felt like pinching herself, it really was such an opportunity for her, because she really needed some solitude to be able to sort her head out once and for all. She wasn't about to keep letting Tim Westwood creep back into her thoughts and ruin all she'd achieved since their separation. To be able to swim and ride after work and to have her own cabin down by the lakeside, in the most idyllic location on Long Island, what more could she possibly wish for?

Meals and drinks were served throughout the flight; she'd already seen the movie, so she slipped on the earphones and listened to music to allow her thoughts to wander. It wasn't long before long she was asleep. The next thing Jodie knew was one of the cabin crew tapping her on the back of her hand to wake her. Whilst she had been sleeping, the announcement had gone out that they were on approach to land and it was time to fasten seat belts and return seats to the upright position. Perhaps it was the excitement of what lay ahead, which was also a bit scary too, but the flight had passed quickly and for this she was grateful.

Jodie stood in line to pass through immigration, which was just a formality and then once she had reclaimed her luggage, she would be away to find the first available cab. To her surprise, a driver was waiting to meet her in the arrival hall, with a placard and 'Jodie Phillips' written in large letters. 'Just keeps getting better and better,' thought Jodie, and in a matter of minutes her luggage was stowed away. The limo purred its way out of the airport and she was on her way to the 'Big House.'

The day was warm and sunny and Jodie's eyes widened with delight once they passed through the security gates on the estate and she saw her new surroundings. The driver took her straight down to the lakeside cabin and, as soon as her luggage had been brought inside, Jodie stood and stared. The cabin was light and airy with huge verandas to the front and back; it had one bedroom with an en suite bathroom and the living room was comfortably furnished. Someone had made sure that her stay would be memorable; she noted fresh flowers beside the welcoming basket of fruit, and the fridge in the small kitchen area was well stocked with everything she could possibly need.

After unpacking, she decided to have a quick shower and then take a look around and see if anyone was about, but before she had finished, there was a knock at the door. A beautiful Hispanic girl of about sixteen introduced herself as Gabriella, and smiled a shy greeting asking if she would like to join the family for supper later that evening. Jodie agreed at once seizing the opportunity to meet some of the staff that helped to run the estate.

Her response was warm and friendly, which put Gabriella at ease immediately.

"I'd really like that. Will you come for me when it's time?"

Gabriella nodded and then waved as she walked out into the sunshine. Jodie finished dressing, having completed her unpacking, she then picked out what she would wear later. She decided on an apricot sleeveless shirt, with some corded trousers in buttermilk and a matching sweater in case it turned cold.

As she had promised, Gabriella returned to find that Jodie was almost ready. "There, now I'm ready!" she announced as she secured an apricot scarf to hold back the wealth of her newly-washed hair. "Any need to lock the door?" she asked as they prepared to leave.

"Oh no, Miss Jodie. Everything safe here."

Jodie looked into her beautiful face and whispered. "The name is Jodie. Okay?"

The younger woman smiled back. "Then you must call me Gaby, okay?"

Jodie grinned. "Let's go and eat ... Gaby!"

The Martinez family welcomed her warmly and she immediately felt at home, as she squeezed in between the younger members, who were fighting over who was going to sit next to 'Miss Jodie.' In a very short space of time, she learned that Maria and Tony Martinez had workied for the estate for nearly twelve years, Gabriella and Eduardo had been toddlers then, and in the intervening years Antonio and Ricardo had arrived. They were quick to assure her that their employer was 'a good man and very fair' and, although they didn't see him often, he was due to visit the following day.

After supper Jodie decided to take a short stroll before turning in, even though she was beginning to feel tired and reminded herself that it had been a long day. The evening air was quite chilly, so she pulled on her sweater and untied the scarf, allowing her hair to tumble down over her shoulders. As she walked, she pushed the scard into her trouser pocket.

Hearing the sound of horses, it was inevitable that she would make her way to the stable block. The horses were magnificent and had large roomy stables with their names engraved on the wooden doors. They were all particularly interested in this newcomer, but the one that stole her heart was a beautiful Arab called Ashala, his chestnut coat gleamed and his arrogant expression belied his friendly nature. As Jodie stroked his face, a wave of nostalgia washed over her and the feel of his fine mouth working across her open palm made her sigh deeply, "You remind me so much of ....," she murmured, but then she stopped abruptly when a man's voice behind her made her jump.

"Ashala doesn't normally allow such familiarity, it must be your perfume."

Jodie turned quickly and as she did do, Ashala nudged her shoulders and sent her head first into the arms of the man whose voice had startled her. He grabbed Jodie at once and steadied her, but her hair cascaded down over her left shoulder. Angrily, she swept her hair back from her face, shook herself free, and muttered almost rudely. 'I'm not wearing any and besides you shouldn't creep up on people like that!"

Somewhat taken aback by her outburst, he apologized. "I'm sorry, it wasn't my intention to frighten you; we only came to check the horses.'' He motioned to the two magnificent Dobermans that accompanied him. "Do you ride? I'd be happy to saddle any horse you like, except Ashala. He can be a bit of a handful until you get to know him. I tend to be a bit possessive where he's concerned, but I do ride him whenever I can."

He stroked Ashala all the time he was speaking and the horse responded by licking his hands, nodding his head and tossing his mane. It was quite obvious the rapport that had built up over years between them, and she also could tell by the way the two dogs were watching his every move that they were just as faithful and devoted.

Jodie found she was warming a little towards this man who, in spite of the way they had literally bumped into each other, did have the most disarming smile. His eyes twinkled brightly with mischief, they seemed to have a language all their own and although he was now silent, his eyes continued to ask the same question.

"Yes, actually I do ... Mr?"

"Elliot," he responded, "Just call me Elliot."

"Well, Elliot, you'll have to forgive me, I have someone to meet in the morning and I need to turn in. Perhaps I shall see you around? Maybe we might even manage a ride one evening?" As Jodie walked away, she knew that Elliot was watching her.

He called after her retreating figure. "Hey! What do they call you? English?"

She glanced back briefly and smiled. "Jodie, just call me Jodie."

Elliot Burch grinned; he'd heard all about this young woman who had arrived from England. Seeing her tonight he had been struck quite forcibly by her flawless skin; her most enormous brown eyes and hair he wanted to drag his fingers through.

Holding her even as briefly as he had, he knew instinctively that there was something about her that excited him. Shaking himself abruptly, he realized he hadn't felt this way for a very long time, not since Catherine Chandler. 'So, Miss Jodie Phillips, I'll see you in the morning and won't you be surprised!' He walked briskly up to the Big House and made his way to the pool to take a swim before retiring, reminding himself that a cold shower was probably a good idea too.

*****

Jodie was up, showered and dressed and had eaten breakfast. By 8:30 am, she started walking up to the Big House. The two Dobermans approached her cautiously, but once they had given her a wet nose inspection, they allowed her to check their nametags. They were quite boisterous in their behaviour and Jodie had a job to stand upright when they both launched themselves at her.

"Hi Kurt! Hi Troy! There's only one of me remember, so don't start taking advantage will you?" At the tone of her voice they trotted obediently beside her all the way to the main entrance and disappeared through the doorway.

She was greeted by Cleon Manning who informed her that the meeting was to take place in the library. As they walked, she looked around and instinctively recognized that this new client must be quite affluent. She was shown into the library and asked to sit opposite a huge desk, which was solid mahogany and gleamed in the early morning sunlight. She noticed that the leather chair was faciing the wrong way and suddenly it spun round and a grinning Elliot wished her "Good Morning!" The dogs were suddenly either side of the chair; it was quite an impressive picture.

Completely taken by surprise, Jodie managed to gasp, "Elliot! How did you get in here? First the stables and now here, you'd better go before someone catches you. I'm here for a meeting with my new client. Don't laugh at me, this is serious." She glanced at the open French windows guessing he'd just walked in and now all she wanted him to do was to walk back out again.

Elliot leaned back in the comfortable chair and grinned. "Jodie, your concern is very commendable. However, sorry to disappoint you, but I'm not going anywhere."

"You're not?" The look on her face was one of surprise and bewilderment.

"No, perhaps I should introduce myself? My name is Elliot Burch, EBInc, is my company. Jodie, I'm your client, and all I can say is that you come highly recommended for your discretion and also for your integrity. I hope that our earlier meeting hasn't gotten us off on the wrong foot?" Those eyes were also asking, 'Let's be friends?'

Jodie had to think on her feet and smiling warmly she extended her hand. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Burch, and I look forward to working for you."

As he shook her head, Elliot closed his other hand over the top and held it tightly. "The name is Elliot and, by the way, you will be working with me. Okay?"

"Okay, Elliot." Jodie managed to get her hand back, but found she was blushing under such close scrutiny.

Suddenly, without warning, her legs had turned to jelly. As she watched him walk across to pick up the phone, every movement of his body was carefully coordinated, elegant, expressive, like a prowling cat. 'Why did she suddenly feel like the mouse?'

He squared his shoulders as he spoke, "Cleon, we're about ready to move, if you are? Okay. We'll see you at the helipad."

He motioned for Jodie to follow him, saying they would get started at the New York Office immediately, and without even a backward glance he ordered the dogs to 'Stay.' The flight was only short and as soon as they landed, Manning took over and they were escorted to the Penthouse Suite.

After finding her way around the computer networking system, it was easy enough to isolate the sensitive data that Elliot wanted to transfer. They woked solidly until lunchtime and it was decided that they should begin lifting certain documents onto disk immediately and begin the transfers over the next few days.

Jodie would be in charge of the new system and liaison with the independent company who were installiing the high tech equipment at the Big House. It had been suggested that this would take several weeks, but sececy was the prime consideration, not time.

She turned to Elliot, "I think I shall be here under false pretenses, this is never going to stretch to two months. I should be finished well before that."

Elliot grinned. "Have you forgotten that I shall need personal tuition and that will mean us spending time at the Big House. I can be a very slow learner!" His eyes teased hers with such an air of roguishness, but seeing the expression change on Jodie's face, he quickly reassured her. "Seriously, there's much more to do than just this, you'll uncover more than you realize the deeper we dig."

"Okay and at the end of the day, you're the boss," she answered swiftly.

"Good girl. Now, what do you say to some lunch? Are you ready to eat?" Elliot's eyes softened. "You must be starving, you did have a very early breakfast."

"I can see I'm going to like working with you. Yes, I'm more than ready, but something light because I fancy a swim before supper. I'm dining with the Martinez family again tonight."

"What a coincidence, so am I." Clearly, he could see by Jodie's reaction, that she had not expected this.

"You are?" she breathed. A flush coloured her cheeks just as unexpectedly. Recovering her composure she managed to continue. "It seems they are expecting me to share meals with them when I'm there, which is really great, because I'm not much of a cook."

Elliot rose from his chair, collected his jacket and, as he adjusted his necktie, he looked straight in her direction. "Well, I enjoy cooking very much, Perhaps you'll allow me to prepare something for you too sometimes, when I'm at home."

It was a straightforward question. 'Why was she finding it so difficult to answer?' There was something about the way Elliot was looking at her, really studying her and she had to admit that, whilst it was extremely flattering, it was a bit unnerving. Feeling less than confident, at last she answered.

"Thank you. Yes, I think I'd like that, you just tell me where and when."

"Good, that's settled then. Shall we go to lunch?" His eyes said 'follow me.'

Lunch proved to be more enjoyable, as Manning had organized the food, and it was all laid out in the lounge area of the Penthouse, which was only a couple of doors down from Elliot's office. "Take a look around if you like, might as well familiarize yourself whilst you're here."

Elliot poured coffee into a large mug, which he carried with him whilst he walked around with a sandwich in the other hand.

Jodie found everything she needed to freshen up in the bathroom, which had a full size bath, as well as a separate shower. There were a couple of bedrooms, both with en suite bathrooms. The dining room was semi-formal and leading from there was a fully-equipped kitchen. After a while Jodie reappeared and grinned. "It's quite some place you've got here, Mr. Burch. I'm impressed. Now, where's my coffee?"

Several hours later they realized that it was getting late and not even the coffee was doing much to improve their concentration. Elliot leaned back, stretched his arms above his head and announced with a Southern drawl. "Quitting time!" They gathered all the papers and disks together and everything went into the wall safe.

As Elliot locked it and spun the combination barrel he murmured, "Just in case you're wondering. The only other person to have the combination is Cleon Manning, and I trust that man with my life."

Jodie had already realized that they were more than just employer and employee; it went much deeper than that. Cleon and Elliot had known each other for a very long time and he had been the obvious choice when it came to having someone you could trust as a friend and act as bodyguard.

Elliot picked up the nearest phone and Jodie heard him say. "Ready to go man. How about you?" In a matter of minutes Cleon arrived to escort them to the chopper and fly with them back to the Big House.

As soon as they landed, Jodie made her excuses and ran down to the cabin to get changed into her swimsuit. She found the dogs stretched out in the sun on the veranda waiting for her, they were inside the cabin the moment she opened the door. It seemed that they had become her personal bodyguards. Laughing at their persistence, she got changed, grabbed her towelling robe and they followed her to the pool room, where she let herself in by the garden entrance. It surprised Jodie when they obeyed her command and remained outside. It was the first time she had been inside and she was pleasantly surprised. The pool itself was Olympic size and there was everything you could possibly need to relax after a hectic day in the City. There was a shower room, Jacuzzi and sauna; it was just perfect.

Dropping her robe and towel onto a nearby chair, she was like an excited child and kicked off her sandals and did a racing dive into the heated pool. She felt absolutely marvellous and after giving herself a good workout, she grabbed the handrail at the side of the diving boards to catch her breath. What she wasn't expecting to hear was the door on the balcony open and footsteps approaching. Positioned, as she was all she managed to see was the flying figure of Elliot Burch hit the water at speed and disappear, to resurface halfway down the pool.

By the time he was on his way back Jodie was swimming underwater in an attempt to avoid him, 'but why?' she asked herself, as she held her breath and swam deeper in the hope he hadn't already seen her. The next thing she knew she was face-to-face with Elliot and he was motioning for her to head for the surface. When she didn't, he grabbed her and she found herself being held very close.

As much as she struggled, he wouldn't let her go and as they broke the surface together he merely laughed and said.

"Wasn't I included when you mentioned taking a swim before supper. I thought we had a date? You know you're welcome to join me anytime."

"Let me go!" Jodie yelled. "Do you know how impossible you're being? Did it ever occur to you that after spending all day cooped up in the office with you I might just like to be on my own?"

Elliot's hold tightened and he brought his face so close to hers that Jodie could feel his breath on her mouth as he spoke.

"Frankly, no it didn't. I don't think I cuold ever have too much of you!" and with that he kissed her very thoroughly, full on the mouth. Jodie now knew why she had been apprehensive about Elliot. He was much too attractive and this kind of behaviour was, as far as she could tell, just a game to him. His body felt lean, firm and strong, underlying the power he was carefully holding in check.

When at last Elliot ended the kiss, Jodie's cheeks were burning. "Just what do you think you're doing?" she demanded hotly.

"Well," he replied lazily, "Something I've been wanting to do since I first met you!" He went to kiss her again, but this time Jodie was ready for him, broke free and swam at high speed towards the shallows. Not to be outdone, Elliot chased after her. She only just made it out of the pool, but then he was too quick for her and again she found herself locked in his embrace.

"God, Jodie, give me a break. It was only a kiss." He stepped back, apologizing. "I promise I'll behave myself, that is unless perhaps you want to change your mind?" Again the roguish look and his eyes seemed to undress as she stood there. Her expression conveyed volumes, so he quickly stood to attention, and held out her robe for her to slip on.

As she tied her robe together she pleaded, "Elliot, please, we've got to work together. Believe me the two don't mix and besides it's company policy. You give me a break; can't we just be friends? I'm only here for two months for goodness sake."

Elliot pursed his lips and then smiled. "Okay you win, but I'm making no promises and company policy or not, I won't tell if you don't."

At this Jodie had to laugh. "Oh, you're just not playing fair. I can see I've got a real job on my hands working with you. Now, hadn't we better go and get ready. We do have a supper date with the Martinez family, remember?"

Already Elliot was making his way to the staircase that would take him back to the balcony leading into the upstairs part of the house. Without a backward glance, he waved his hand and called, "See you there, Jodie!"

Banging the door to the pool room behind her, Jodie ran at top speed to the cabin, the dogs close on her heels. The moment the door was open they were inside again before she was.

"Guard!" she commanded as she locked the door, and was amazed when they did exactly what she asked, taking up their positions in front of the door. Once inside the shower cubicle she gave way to her emotions, tears coursing down her cheeks.

"Men!" she groaned aloud. Alone she could admit that it would be all too easy to succumb to the dubious charms of a man like Elliot Burch. He was definitely all male, he'd left her in no doubt about that, the close proximity of their bodies had turned her insides to jelly. Even after all these months, her failed relationship with Tim Westwood was still smarting, and she wasn't about to allow anyone to hurt her again in the way that he had done.

To her relief, in the weeks that followed, Elliot kept his promise and was polite, courteous and best of all, after their initial shaky start, they got along very well working together. There was definitely far more to this job than she had at first anticipated, but Elliot was astute and it came as no surprise why he was so successful. There had never been any doubt in her mind that he was a cunning, sharp, ruthless business man. Someone to be afraid of and yet someone who commanded great respect and admiration. He seemed content to fly back and forth to the New York Office, and when he was home on the weekends, to spend his time relaxing, whether riding or swimming.

They did spend a little time together socially and he took her to dinner sometimes in the city after work. She had actually teased him about this, wondering why he should ask her when he could have his pick of the New York social set. This did puzzle her, because he was tremendously attractive, highly intelligent and good fun. From the look on Elliot's face when she had mentioned other women, Jodie backed off because she realized in that split second that she'd touched a nerve. Elliot's knuckles had been white when he picked up his water glass and as he spoke his voice was thick with emotion. Jodie knew she would never forget the look of anguish and the way he had just said.

"There was someone once, Catherine, she was very special, but I haven't seen her for more than a year. I don't even know where she is, but believe me, she made it very clear there was no place in her life for me." The words had been jerked from him in painful spasms, but then he had reached for Jodie's hand, squeezed it and said softly. "I'm afraid that, suddenly, you must be finding my poor company tonight."

Jodie placed her hand over his and said simply, "Will you dance with me, Elliot?"

Finally, she managed to persuade him, and as they made their way onto the tiny dance floor, alarm bells began to ring in her ears, which until now she had chosen to ignore. Elliot took her in his arms and as they began to dance, she wondered whether the sudden reminder of someone from his recent past was haunting him, but then he held her very close.

Just being this close was proving a heady experience for Jodie and once the music started, his body language changed. He was a wonderful dancer. She could feel his body against hers, every move he made reminding her how lean, firm and strong it was. Their dancing became incredibly sexy, but even when the music stopped he still held her close. How could she possibly know then that it was herself that Elliot was thinking about, not anyone else? Gently, Jodie squeezed his arm and just said his name softly, and the mood was broken. As they walked back to their table, she scolded herself 'Jodie! You're letting this man get to you. Watch out!'

*****

Several evenings later at the Big House, Elliot and Jodie were sitting side by side in front of the new computer bank, putting the finishing touches to all the newly created documentation files. Elliot leaned back in his chair frowning; realizing with a sense of regret that everything was now complete as far as Jodie was concerned. As she had predicted, it hadn't taken as long as was at first anticipated. Elliot was now watching her closely, and becoming concerned that he hadn't gotten to know her as well as he had hoped he might. He stood up and began pacing the floor, and his voice was strangely quiet when he turned to speak.

"You were quite right, it hasn't taken as long as we expected. I suppose you'll be anxious to get back, but you could stay on for a holiday, if you'd like."

Elliot was trying to make it all sound casual and realized that he wasn't really fooling anyone, least of all himself. The last thing he wanted was for Jodie to get on that plane and jet out of his life and never see her again.

"Oh that does sound tempting, but I have to check in with Ben, he may well have something else lined up for me." She attempted not to sound too dismissive, because despite everything, she had come to enjoy the life on Long Island, and the last thing she wanted to do was to give off the wrong signals.

"I spoke with Ben this morning, he'll be expecting a call from you, but he's happy for you to stay on." Elliot was desperate not to alarm Jodie by appearing to orchestrate her life.

Jodie swallowed hard, her mouth had suddenly gone dry. She walked to the drinks table and poured herself some mineral water. 'Now what you going to do, Jodie?' she asked herself. 'Live dangerously, or err on the side of caution?' The latter won, and her mind was suddenly set.

Elliot's eyes never left her face, and as she emptied the glass, she turned to face him.

"You're doing it again, aren't you?"

"I am?" he queried.

Jodie wore an almost defiant expression as she rounded on him. "Yes, you just can't help yourself, can you? I suppose you've given Ben some cock and bull story; I'd like to bet you even paid him a retainer."

Leaning even further back in his chair, Elliot interrupted her rather too quickly. "Already done that," and noticing the colour flood into Jodie's cheeks, he went on, "You've worked very hard and I'm grateful, that's all. If you'd like to stay on here, fine. It's up to you."

Jodie took a deep breath before replying, "Oh Elliot, what have you done? This is so important to me, what on earth have you told Ben and why didn't you speak to me first?"

Elliot tried to reassure her. "Don't worry so much. Ben values you far more than you obviously realize. I explained that I felt you needed a well-earned break and he agreed. I didn't mention it to you, because I was hoping that the idea of staying on her would please you. I admit I did have an ulterior motive, I was hoping we might get to know one another better."

Jodie was furious and couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"You really are impossible, but you already know that, don't you? I'm sick to death of other people trying to arrange my life for me. I'm more than capable of making my own decisions and, do you know what? I'm making one right now: I'm going straight back to England on the first available flight. Don't look at me like that, I mean it," her self-control was about to let her down.

"I shall leave you now. I've got my packing to do."

Walking briskly across the room to the open French door, she eyed the two dobermans, who had been sleeping soundly, but were now struggling to their feet.

"And don't you think of following me either," she ordered, but they were already behind her as she dashed out into the garden.

Elliot stood there and his jaw had dropped. "What the hell was that all about?" he said out loud. He poured himself a couple of shots of Jack Daniels and sank into the nearest chair, wondering what his next move was going to be.

It was almost an hour later when he'd made up his mind. "I'm not giving up without a fight," he said, and he got to his feet stretching his arms above his head. "I'm the one who'll have to live with the consequences if I do."

*****

Jodie raced across the lawns to find the dogs overtaking her as she reached the cabin. Throwing open the door, they were inside before she was.

"Okay," she murmured, "but behave yourselves, lie down and don't get in my way." Obediently Kurt and Troy went to lie against the door that she had just locked behind her. "Guard," she commanded shakily.

The first thing she did was to go and take a shower, trying to wash away all the memories of the conversation that had just taken place. 'How dare he try and control her life and make it sound so fait accompli.'

"Damn you, Elliot," she heard herself mutter, and turned the water temperature to cold. A few minutes later she was gasping for breath, and turned the water off quickly. Reaching for the towel, which was hanging on the top of the shower door, she rubbed her skin dry until she was quite pink. Stepping outside the cubicle, she pulled on her robe and walked into the bedroom. Jodie quickly lifted her two suitcases onto the bed, and it wasn't long before she had packed everything out of the wardrobes. Gathering the rest of her belongings together, she found it quite easy to complete her packing.

Dragging the suitcases onto the floor, she was about to let the dogs out when she heard them growling.

"What is it?" she asked, they were definitely picking up something. Troy began whining, and Kurt was sniffing at the edge of the door, his tail wagging uncertainly. Jodie heard a slight knock on the door and when the door handle turned, she felt very uneasy.

"Jodie, it's me, Elliot. We have to talk, please, let me in." His voice sounded normal enough, but Jodie had heard enough.

"Go away. I've nothing more to say to you."

She knew her voice sounded shrill, but this was the effect he was having on her. When she heard the sound of retreating footsteps, just for an instant, she felt a twinge of disappointment that he had taken her at her word. 'So,' she accused herself. 'You did let him get to you after all, didn't you?'

A few minutes later, she heard the sound of the door to the veranda into the sitting room sliding open, and her hand flew to her mouth; she'd never needed to lock it before. It had never occurred to her that anyone would go around the back of the cabin and climb up form the lakeside onto the veranda. A shaft of light filtered into the room and all she could see in that heart-stopping moment, was Elliot silhouetted against the moonlight as he stood in the doorway.

"I said we had to talk," he insisted. "What the hell was all that about, other people arranging your life for you? The last thing I would ever do is upset you. I'd like to get to know you, really know you. Is that such a terrible crime?"

Jodie glared at him. "No, I suppose not, but you must see that you have just become someone else determined to 'manage' me. However, well-intentioned your plans might have been, you should have spoken to me first, and not gone behind my back. Anyway, it really doesn't matter any more. I'm all packed and ready to go."

Elliot crossed the room and immediately the dogs went to stand either side of Jodie, and as he went to take her in his arms they began growling again. He looked a trifle uncertain what to do next, but walked to the door unlocked it and ordered them outside. They didn't move, Kurt seemed to move even closer to Jodie's side, but the younger dog looked first at his master, then at the older dog, and decided not to move either.

It was only when Jodie said, quietly, "Go," that they disappeared into the night.

Elliot called after them, "Just remember who pays your veterinary bills!" Closing and locking the door he turned to find Jodie standing right next to him with her back against the wall. "You weren't planning to follow them dressed like that, were you, just to get away from me?" he asked, his voice teasing gently.

"No, I'd hope to shove you out after them, but you were too quick for me."

"Oh, I'm not going anywhere until we've sorted this out. Who's hurt you so badly that you'd react so violently? This is so unlike you." Elliot reached to touch her cheek.

"You don't know the first thing about me, that's obvious," she snapped, pushing his hand away.

"And who's fault is that? Certainly not mine," he answered very decisively.

Elliot moved closer and placed his hands on the wall either side of her, his arms trapping her body. There was no way he was going to allow her to escape him now. His face was so close to hers, that Jodie could feel his controlled breathing on her exposed chest, and she remembered with a deep flush that she was completely naked underneath her robe. How she wished that the ground would open up and swallow her.

"Elliot, let me pass. I need an early night and, like I said, there's nothing more to talk about." She attempted to squeeze past him, but he only moved closer. Their bodies were almost touching, and the penetrating gaze of his hypnotic blue eyes was unnerving every ounce of resolve that she had managed to muster.

"Elliot, I'd like you to leave now. Please go." She pleaded, but it was no use. He wasn't about to give an inch.

"I'll ask you again, and this time I'd like an answer. Who's hurt you so badly Jodie that you are so afraid of me?"

Jodie gave a strangled kind of half-laugh. "Afraid of you? Why would I be afraid of you."

"I don't know, you tell me." He was relentless in his pursuit of the truth.

Jodie dropped her head and when she looked at him again, Elliot could see she was very close to tears.

"I was engaged to be married, to a man I thought I could trust." Her voice broke and the words came out in jerky sentences. "He let me down very badly. I almost had a nervous breakdown, it was only because of those who truly care for me, and the fact I was able to spend valuable time with my family that I've survived this far. Are you happy now?" Again she tried to get past him, but Elliot wouldn't budge.

"I might have guessed as much, after the way you reacted when I kissed you in the pool. I can be such a jerk at times. I had no idea, Jodie. I'm sorry." Elliot's eyes caressed her as he continued. "I think he's a first class idiot for betraying you. He must have been completely mad, though, not recognizing what he was giving up. Hey, what's this?"

Jodie had finally stoped trying to get past him.

"I'm weary, that's all. Elliot, please go. Just leave me alone."

"No can do, baby. I reckon that ex-fiance of yours did me a big favour. I've been watching you for days, wondering how on earth I could keep you here with me. You see, and I'm sorry if this comes at a bad time but, I know I'm falling in love with you." Noticing the look of panic that entered her eyes, she resembled a startled rabbit caught in the headlights of an advancing car; he added, apologetically, "Pretty hopeless case in fact."

His body was only a hair's breath away from hers. "Don't be too hard on me for fixing it so that you could stay if you wanted to, eh?" His mouth was so close to hers that Jodie began turning her head from side to side, trying to avoid the inevitable, his breath was warm on her face as he whispered.

"I'm crazy about you, Jodie. Let's give us a chance. After all, we've nothing to lose."

Jodie hesitated only for a second, and when she stopped trying to avoid Elliot's advances; his mouth covered hers instantly and he kissed her gently, but very thoroughly, causing her to murmur, "I think I'm out of practice. It's been so long since I've wanted anyone to kiss me."

Brushing his lips against hers, Elliot teased. "So you did want me to kiss you, then?"

His expression was eager and his mouth moved to take her lips again, but instead Elliot slid his tongue along the outline of her mouth and when he heard her involuntary gasp, he teased her mouth open, speaking against her parted lips.

"Yes, that's right. You never know you might even get to like it."

Jodie tried to pull away from him, but with her back against the wall, there was no escape. Elliot pushed her robe off her shoulders, trapping both arms to her sides, and kissed his way down to the base of her throat.

When Jodie felt the belt on her robe being undone, she gasped. "Elliot, no, I'm not ready for this. Please! Don't! Stop!" It seemed the seduction had begun in earnest and he wasn't taking any notice of her feeble protests.

Again his mouth claimed hers in a gentle kiss, and she heard his soft, "Shhhh, I won't ever let you down, and I'll never hurt you, Jodie."

While he was speaking Elliot managed to hold her against the wall and remove his sweatshirt at the same time. Throwing it to one side, he immediately slipped his arm around her again. Glancing down at her naked body briefly as he opened her robe, he pushed the offending garment from her shouldrs to lie in a crumpled heap at her feet. He had been right, his suspicions were confirmed; she had been naked underneath the robe. Gently, he brought his body against hers and she moaned, when she felt his hands touching her intimately. Holding her against the wall he cupped her breasts, and dropped to his knees to kiss his way from her stomach back to her mouth.

This time when she entreated him to stop, he held her to him and asked, "Which is it, Jodie? Please! Don't! Stop! Or are you really saying, 'Please don't stop?' I'm picking up mixed signals here."

She strained against him and felt any resistance she might have had begin to slip away when his hand dropped to move in between her thighs, and his fingers began stroking their way towards the depths of her sexuality. His fingers were now touching her insistently, exploring, probing. Jodie's breathing had become erratic, and her face was flushed. Any movement on her part only exaggerated what he was doing; she wanted to cry out at the bold and daring sexual game he was playing now.

Jodie felt his hot breath in her ear, and when he whispered, "Now tell me you don't like what I'm doing," his voice was so low that she almost missed it. She couldn't make a sound, because she realized with a sense of self-loathing that her body was about to betray her and she accepted that Elliot knew exactly what he was doing to her. He was leaving nothing to chance and was using every trick in the book to excite her. Again, she felt his hot breath teasing her senses as he inquired "Mmmmm?"

She prayed silently that he wouldn't touch the most sensitive and vulnerable part of her, but realized hopelessly it was inevitable and squirmed when he began to massage it just sufficiently to produce the desired effect. Never before had she felt the way she did now. Her skin was on fire, she was becoming qite desperate for her release from this particular form of exquisite sexual torture. Hating herself still further, she realized that she was actually craving his relentless touch, enjoying his closeness, it had become addictive and she was yearning for more. Without intending to, Jodie found herself relaxing, her hands resting lightly on his arms, and when her body arched against this personal invasion, she finally succumbed to his audacious sexual behaviour. She groaned with shock and delight, it was quite a bizarre combination of emotions, as at last she welcomed his ardent lovemaking.

Recognizing that Jodie was about to climax, Elliot placed his other hand on her buttocks, drawing her yielding body to his as he moved gently against her.

His arousal was self-evident and she thought she would faint; she couldn't breathe and the intensity of what was happening was now driving her crazy. Elliot moved rhythmically against her never letting up, and when she climaxed she rested her head against his chest, her arms hanging limply at her sides. Carefully, he draped them one at a time over his shoulders, stroking her back gently, asking with supportive tenderness, "Are you okay?"

At that precise moment Jodie was unable to speak and her heart was thudding in her chest. Her body had just committed its ultimate betrayal, and she had been powerless to prevent it. She felt Elliot's arm tighten around her waist to hold her, and realized he was removing his slacks. In a fit of blind panic, she tried to push him away, but as he kicked his slacks and his underpants towards his sweatshirt. She felt his aroused manhood moving between their bodies, and the heat from it made Jodie feel as though her stomach had suddenly caught fire; her legs began to sag beneath her.

"I can't do this, don't even ask me to, Elliot!" She begged.

She cried his name again several times, desperately wondering how she could possibly stop it from happening, but his hands proved deft and skillful. Her mouth had suddenly gone slack and the inside was dry, she felt utterly helpless. His hands caressed her everywhere, so that it was as though she was wrestling with an octopus, and when at last he closed the space between their bodies, he felt hot, but she was even hotter. The atmosphere in the room seemed stifling and she was gasping for air.

Again she tried, appealing to him plaintively, "Elliot, I can't do this." Finally her protests died away, when she heard Elliot's response, it was soft and coaxing.

"Sure you can," and he quickly placed her hands on his erection. "Touch me Jodie, I need you to do this," he insisted.

Now he was the one who wanted his release and it gave Jodie quite a strange sense of satisfaction to know that he needed her so badly. Without saying a word, his eyes conveyed what she must do next and, in a funny kind of way, it seemed perfectly natural. She found herself fingering his erection more from her own desire than obedience.

His voice almost inaudible as he moved in her hands. "You know what I want now, don't you?" His eyes were talking to her compelling her every move and she gently pushed it down in between her thighs, gasping at the sudden intimacy. The feeling was exquisitely pleasurable, made even more so when she began to move backwards and forwards against it. She just couldn't help herself.

When his breathing quickened, she knew their joining was something that they both wanted. There was no turning back; they'd come too far. Tim had never ever made her feel the way Elliot did now, she was aching for him to make love to her and quite desperate for him to possess her. The slightest movement between them had Jodie writhing in ecstasy, but still Elliot made her wait. She found herself feeling utterly shameless each time she moved, compelling him on.

His voice was husky when he spoke, "Open your eyes Jodie, I want you to look at me when I enter your body for the first time. I won't take anything from you that you're not prepared to give freely. You and I are just beginning. Anything that happened before is history. Remember always, this is our first time."

His meaning was clear and what he saw in her eyes left no doubt at all in his mind that she was ready for him to end this agony of waiting.

Her eyes were sultry and to hear her breathless whisper. "Yes, our first time. Elliot darling, don't stop; please don't stop. I couldn't bear it."

His heart constricted in his chest. With a soft guttural grunt of pleasure at such an ardent invitation, he raised her left leg just high enough for him to gain entry and once he had achieved penetration, he lifted Jodie clean off the ground cupping her buttocks tightly against him.

Jodie could hardly grasp what was happening, she felt as though her body had betrayed her all over again, because it had been so easy. From the moment she had felt his nearness seeking entry she had melted. It was with a feeling of complete abandon and sense of wantonness that she clasped him tightly around his shoulders. Her back was against the wall again and he began to thrust, gently at first, but when her hands began digging into his back, his thrusting became very powerful and she wondered how much more she could take, she still felt sensitive from the orgasm that had rippled through her body only moments before.

What Elliot did next completely surprised him. He carried her still enjoined, and they lay as one on the bed.

"I want to be able to possess you totally, like this," he breathed, as he surged deep inside her eith breathtaking force. "Don't close your eyes honey, look at me."

Jodie gazed into his eyes and felt herself drowning in their depths of deepest sapphire. His animal magnetism was driving all thoughts of anyone or anything else from her mind, it was torrid and what was happening between them was making her gasp with pleasure as his lovemaking became more and more demanding. She became powerless to resist the demands he was making, revelling in every thrust, every touch of his hands on her skin. She was burning with desire, wanting never to end.

Elliot's hair had fallen forward over his eyes and Jodie pushed it back to find that his brow was glistening with perspiration. Gently she ran her hands over his face, drawing him towards her, his lips parted in invitation and his mouth came down over hers, seeking entry again, his tongue moved against hers in a movement that she found quite erotic.

Suddenly, his rhythm changed and she didn't think it was possible, but then felt him plunging deeper and deeper inside her as he let out one almighty cry. "Jodie, look at me now, don't look away." His body shuddered over and over again when his release came. Jodie held him to her, and reached to cover them with the quilt, which was half on the floor.

Holding him like this, still embedded inside her, she whispered, "Don't go, not yet." And she felt his hand touch her again, as he continued to hold himself inside her.

"I thought I told you, I'm not going anywhere," he spoke against the softness of her skin, which was damp and reached to take her mouth in a long sensual kiss. "Hold me while I recover, we're not nearly finished yet."

Jodie was tingling in every part of her body; she had never ever experienced anything like this before. She really began to wonder if she'd been dreaming, but when she opened her eyes she found Elliot paused, his eyes burning with desire. He was ready and eager to begin again. Smiling, he ran his hands tantalizingly over her most sensitive areas, evoking sighs and mufflied cries as she buried her face against him.

He kissed her face again softly, and Jodie opened her eyes sensing that it was what he wanted her to do. They continued to look at each other and when she arched her back, it was a clear invitation. Chuckling softly, he lifted her to him and then ran his hand across her breasts, concentrating on the taut buds begging for his attention. Carefully he rolled and tweaked each one between his finger and thumb before covering them alternately with his mouth, swirling his tongue around the sensitive tip as he sucked it gently to stimulate Jodie's desire still further.

He smiled as he teased her; his sexual control was driving Jodie wild. He covered her body with his own, moving slowly between her legs, nudging suggestively, seeking entry, but holding back quite deliberately. It was the most sensual experience, to have him close, but yet not close enough! She held him tightly; and the whole mood changed when he finally prepared to enter her body again. She began to tremble with the provocative feel of him. From the moment his shaft penetrated those welcoming depths, Jodie felt as though she had a thunderbolt inside her, touching every nerve in her loins.

She gasped his name. "Elliot?"

He hesitated slightly. "What?" was all he managed to utter.

"I feel as though I've just been struck by lightning," her voice seemed to be snatched from her as she arched her back suddenly, without any warning, as these new sensations gripped her.

Elliot groaned her name through gritted teeth. "Jodie, honey, try and relax. I feel as though I'm trying to work my way through a sexual minefield. You're squeeziing the life out of me."

Unable to resist the sensations that now ravaged through her, Jodie arched her back again, but on hearing the strange noises coming from Elliot, she cried out in a voice she didn't even recognize as her own.

"Relax, how can you say such a thing? This is glorious!" and she continued to grind against him. What was happening between them now had begun to dull her senses. All she could see was him; all she could feel was him and it was intoxicating.

Finally her hold on Elliot relaxed and he was able to move, albeit very slowly at first, and then quite deliberately he took his time. When he spoke his voice was tender. "You should carry a Government Health Warning baby. Didn't you realize what you were doing to me?" he entreated.

The innocence on Jodie's face surprised him. "I didn't do anything," she protested.

"Yeah, sure! You know you did," he insisted. "You went into spasm and trapped me Jodie, in a vicelike grip. I thought I would die and have to stay there forever." As his hip movements accelerated, he whispered sexily. "What a way to go."

"Well lover, I neither know nor care which one of the Gods decided to send the thunderbolt, but I'm very glad he did. My heart was pierced by Cupid's arrow weeks ago," she sighed. "Oh Elliot, I love you so much." Jodie's body writhed beneath his, it was sheet ecstasy to feel his powerful thrusting inside her, and seh clung to him driving him on wanting to to last forever.

Now it was his turn and she moaned his name several times, begging for her release, but Elliot quite forcefully prolonged this unforgettable moment. She groaned with undisguised pleasure; and sensing his needs were just as urgent as her won, she matched his rhythm.

With every thrust, Elliot proved to be the lover that Jodie had always imagined he would be. She felt as though she was being buffeted by gale force winds, as he continued to excite her. When their climax came, they clung to one another as though they had been cast adrift after a violent storm. She felt him explode inside her, and his hands gripped her roughly to him. Jodie squirmed sexily when she felt him pulsating inside her, and she quivered quite shamelessly as she abandoned herself to his tender mercies. Gradually, he worked his way down her body until he was able to close his mouth over her nipple again and tugged and teased it like a puppy with some new plaything.

Afterwards, he held her in a strong protective embrace, whispering her name over and over again against the curve of her shoulder. The passion that continued to rage inside them was electrifying in its intensity; neither was capable of saying anything at all. Instead, they shifted their positions and drifted in and out of sleep, each gently touching the other, placing soft warm kisses on whichever part of themselves they happened to come into contact with.

When Jodie woke some hours later, she lay facing Elliot and traced the contours of his body with one hand. When her exploration moved to the most vulnerable parts of him, he became sexually aroused. Elliot's eyes snapped open at this intimate sensual assault and he gathered Jodie into the warmth of his embrace and whispered, "Have I been dreaming, or did you take advantage of me last night?"

Jodie's eyes were languid as she stretched and moved against him. She half covered her face with the bed sheet, before replying sleepily. "Oh, I think we both kn ow who did what to whom," and she moved sexily against his body, revelling in their nakedness.

"Perhaps it's time you reminded me," he breathed as, once again, he made love to her. Lying with Jodie locked in a fierce embrace Elliot kissed her eyes, then the tip of her nose and lastly he lingered over her mouth, kissing her long and hard, until she was forced to make him stop.

Gasping for breath she reminded him, "Much as your kisses thrill me sweetheart, I do have to breathe now and again."

Playfully she bit his ear, which only served to arouse Elliot in a primal way, and as he began to nibble and bite his way up and down her body she told him, "You really are something else. You know that, don't you?"

Much later, as he prepared to leave for the main house, he whispered softly. "You'd better unpack honey - you can't leave me now."

Jodie reached to kiss him gently, and answered, "No, I don't suppose I can."

*****

Far below the city streets Peter Alcott was trying to reassure Vincent that the tests on his son were very necessary and that it was just as important for Catherine to have a physical as well.

"Vincent, we will take every precaution that they are both safe whilst Above. I'll collect Catherine myself from the Central Park Tunnel entrance, and take her straight to her apartment. I also think your suggestion for Jamie to go along is an excellent one." Vincent still didn't look convinced, but was slightly reassured the more he listened to Peter.

"I'll call for them the following afternoon; we can go straight to the clinic and then I'll bring them back to the Park myself. You have to trust us on this Vincent; what do you say?"

Vincent was clearly uneasy about having Catherine and Jacob beyond his immediate protection, but also recognized that there were times, like these, when he had to accept the inevitable.

"You say there's no other way?" Vincent knew that he was still clutching at straws, but felt he had to ask.

Catherine moved to Vincent's side and placed her hand on his arm. "We'll be back before you know it. Vincent, please try to not worry."

Vincent droped his head even lower and his words were no more than a whisper for Catherine's ears only. "I just wish I could go with you; be there to protect you. That's what hurts Catherine, to know that in spite of everything we share, this is the one thing I cannot do."

Catherine knew Vincent was overwrought, he'd never forgotten the dream of her being abducted whilst she was pregnant with Jacob. Sometimes, he still had had dreams and she was the only one who could reassure him now.

Catherine walked him out of earshot of Father and Peter and snaked her arms around his waist. ''Oh my love, don't you think I don't know what this is all about? Nothing will go wrong; it's just a trip to check us both out. Jamie will be there to carry Jacob; I know I still tire easily. This is why it's such a good idea to spend the night at the apartment. Please Vincent, Please, try not to worry. We shall be fine."

Finally, Vincent was persuaded and it was decided that the visit to the clinic would take place a week later. Vincent was to escort them to the Park exit Tunnel, where Peter would meet them after dusk. It was arranged that they would return at the same time the following evening, and that Vincent would be waiting to take them home.

The days seemed to pass very quickly and, in some ways, it was a relief when at last the time had come for Vincent to escort the three of them to the Park exit, where Peter would be waiting. The lights from the Park cast an eerie presence, causing Vincent to hold his son very close when he kissed his forehead.

It was a tender moment and as he placed him in Jamie's arms, Catherine heard him say, "They are my life, Jamie, and it's a big responsibility I know, but keep them safe." His voice died away and it was clear just how much he was affected by this parting. Turning to embrace Catherine he held her so tightly that she gasped for breath. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you," he whispered.

"You didn't, you just took me by surprise, my love. Perhaps I should go away more often?" Catherine leaned into his body, placing her hand over his heart.

Vincent growled softly, as he answered. "I never ever found it easy to leave you before you came to live Below. This is so hard for me, Catherine; you'd better go now. We don't want to keep Peter waiting." He bent his head to take her lips in a long sensual kiss that also took her by surprise, especially as Jamie was present.

"Vincent," she gasped, ''hold that thought!"

Watching them go, he stepped back in the shadows and answered into the darkness that now surrounded him. "Always, Catherine, always."

Peter spotted them at once as they emerged from the drainage Tunnel and, fortunately, there was hardly anyone around to see them. A couple walking their dog, and some joggers passed by. Catherine and Jamie climbed into the car and once inside, Jacob began to whimper. Crooning softly, Jamie settled him back to sleep. Catherine smiled, she really was very good with him. It didn't take long to drive to the parking lot of the apartment building and they even managed to reach the apartment without being seen.

Jamie was a bit in awe of everything, but she was drawn to the balcony. Vincent had told her not to miss the view, as it had once been his and Catherine's 'window on the world.' Opening the doors, she moved to the edge of the balcony and stood looking out over the city, it was breathtaking. Suddenly, a noise startled her, but it was only Vincent, who put his finger to his lips. Smiling, she went back inside and asked Catherine to 'check the view' after such a long absence.

Just to oblige her young friend, Catherine stepped outside and once again the magic entranced her. So engrossed was she in her own thoughts, Catherine never ever suspected that the one person to make this moment complete was standing just behind her. An involuntary sob shook her body, as she whispered into the night air.

"Vincent!"

Then she knew! Strong arms encircled her from behind and she leaned back to gaze out at the lights and billboards twinkling in the blackness. "I might have guessed you'd follow us the moment we drove away. I wish you wouldn't take such chances, but I'm very glad you did."

Jamie came to join them and brought Jacob, whom she had wrapped snugly in thick Tunnel blankets against the cold night air.

"Here, let him share the magic too, but only for a few minutes mind - it's way past his bedtime." She placed him in Catherine's arms.

She left the three of them together and Vincent immediately placed his cloak around Catherine and Jacob, holding it closed against any possible night winds. They gazed out across the city sharing and savouring this incredible moment. Vincent's arms tightened as he held them both within the warmth of his cloak. Knowing it would soon be time to leave, he parted the folds of his cloak to take Jacob from Catherine, so that he might hold him for just a few more minutes. Catherine drew his cloak around them again, as she witnessed this precious moment. As Jamie had promised, she returned to collect Jacob and smiled as Vincent reluctantly gave him up. Catherine turned to face him laying her hands on his chest, and just as automatically, she snuggled her head into the softness at the side of Vincent's neck. No words were necessary, this was so familiar to them, it had been such a long time coming and now they were content to gaze at the evening sky full of stars, while the moon cast its mellow glow over this bustling city.

At last the moment had come for Vincent to leave, Catherine was anxious as always, but more so since he hadn't been Above for months.

"You'll be careful, won't you?" She implored, her beautiful face etched with worry.

"I am at one with the darkness Catherine, you should know that. Until I met you, I walked in shadows. Now you and Jacob have filled my world with so much light, I'm blinded by the infinite possibilities that life holds for me. I'm not about to falter now, I'll see you tomorrow, same place, same time."

He swung his cloak over one shoulder, kissed her and, as he had done so many times before, disappeared over the side of the balcony wall.

This time Catherine felt an ache like no other before; which only made her aware of the bond she now shared with her beloved Vincent. Since she had lived Below, their bond had grown stronger and stronger, so much so that she now shared some of Vincent's feelings too. She walked slowly back inside, savouring the joy of the wonderful life she shared with the only man who could make her feel the way she did. To know that he felt the same, only made her heart sing with love and she also knew that right now, Vincent would be sensing every one of her thoughts of him, and the love they shared, as he made his way home.

Whilst she and Vincent had been on the balcony, Jamie had been busy unpacking their few items of clothing and was now settling Jacob in the crib at the side of the king-sized bed. Catherine looked around; it was all so familiar and yet strangely different. The luxury that had always surrounded Catherine now only served to remind her of how she looked forward to going Below the following evening.

She could hear Jamie splashing about in the shower and smiled indulgently, passing the bathroom she called; "Would you like some hot chocolate Jamie?" The rapturous response, "Ooohhhh, yes please," came as no surprise to Catherine.

She headed for the kitchen and returned moments later with two beakers, and placed one on either side of the bed on the nightstands. When Jamie appeared in her Tunnel-style nightwear, it touched Catherine's heart to feel just how special she had become to her.

"I'm afraid you'll have to share Jamie, but it's only for one night. Think I'll take a quick shower too, it might help me to sleep now I'm Above."

The following morning, both women were awake as soon as the sunlight penetrated the drapes; thankfully Jacob slept on so it gave them time to shower and start breakfast. Once he was awake, Jamie whisked him away to bathe him and then handed him to Catherine for what he wanted most in the world, his mother's milk.

They planned to spent the rest of the morning enjoying each other's company, until Joe Maxwell joined them for lunch. Peter had thought of everything and pre-ordered from the local deli. Right on time, Joe arrived, and once inside he closed the door quickly behind him.

"So good to see you, Radcliffe," he hugged her warmly. "Howya doin' kiddo?" He flung this greeting over his shoulder in Jacob's direction as he made his way to Jamie; who was backing away, she knew what was coming! "Jamie, hi!" He greeted her with a hug, and as usual her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

"Joe, behave yourself," scolded Catherine. "Let's eat, and you can fill me in on anything you think I should know about."

Joe was thoughtful. Should he tell Catherine that the word was out that someone was trying to find her, or would that cause unnecessary concern? He decided against it. 'No use stirring up trouble,' he told himself. Anyway, he'd already thrown a few red herrings around, so perhaps this time she was Above, Catherine needn't be told. Nevertheless, he would be extra vigilant and decided to stay on long enough to take the three of them to Peter's clinic.

Catherine was delighted to hear this last piece of news and teased him. "I didn't know you cared. I'd better give Peter a quick call though; he'll be delighted that you've managed to swing it so you can drive us instead. He works too hard, Joe." Seeing the 'tell me about it' expression on his face, she wagged her finger in his direction, "And he's not the only one!"

She dialled Peter's number and as she had expected, he was grateful not to have to collect her as they had previously arranged. "See you shortly then, Peter. Yes, that would be great." Smiling in Joe's direction she told him that everything was settled and that afternoon tea was being laid on for her and Jamie.

Joe just grinned back knowingly and finished his coffee. "Actually, I think we should make a move. traffic doesn't get any better up top, you know. My car is parked in your old spot in the parking lot, so when you're ready?"

Catherine grinned in resignation. "Okay, okay. I hear you. Come on, Jamie, we're almost done here anyway."

As soon as everything was packed away, they left the apartment and made for the elevator to the basement parking area. Once they emerged into daylight, they found it was a glorious warm day, and soon they were speeding through traffic to the clinic. Joe had been told to use the private entrance at the back of the building, and as he drove inside he saw Peter waiting to meet them. The two men shook hands and after saying their goodbyes, Catherine followed Peter and Jamie inside. The examinations were soon over and all that was left was for blood tests, and a couple of scans. Catherine could see Jamie's eyes widen when she saw the range of equipment at Peter's disposal.

"I can see now why it was important to come here, Catherine. Wow, what wouldn't Father give for some of this!"

Peter smiled, "If you had the means to support this lot electrically, I'd gladly provide what he needed. However, I'm afraid you'll just have to put up with coming here when it's necessary, okay?" Jamie nodded happily. Dr Peter was just another one of her heroes, and as far as she was concerned, he could do no wrong.

Catherine got dressed and went to join them. "Are we finished now, Peter?" she asked hopefully.

"Yes, apart from me giving you some medicines that Jacob's asked for. The package will probably go in that rucksack of yours Jamie, like to see if it does?"

He turned to embrace Catherine and spoke quietly. "Everything is fine, Cathy, and that question you asked me?" She looked at him expectantly. "That's fine too!" His eyes twinkled. "Just don't overdo it," he teased, knowing full well that what he was saying was falling on deaf ears.

At that moment, Peter's nurse arrived with afternoon tea and they moved to sit in the private sitting room, behind the consulting rooms. Jacob was sleeping soundly; nothing bothered him once he had been fed.

Jamie was getting organzied for their return home and began quietly gathering their things together; she jumped when the phone rang. Peter took the call and it was obvious something unexpected had cropped up. Catherine heard him talking and went over to lay her hand on his arm. He asked the person on the other end of the line to hold while he explained to her that one of his patients had gone into labour, and that he had to go to the hospital.

Catherine looked a trifle concerned, but tried not to show it.

"Tell them you'll be there, Peter. You can arrange for a cab to take us to the Park. I've done it loads of times. Peter, please don't worry. Anyway, Vincent will be waiting, so you know once we're in the Park, we shall be safe. Perhaps we should go now, before it gets too dark. Tell you what, I'll give Joe a call and ask him to go Below and tell Vincent there's been a slight change of plan. He'll be fine, just as long as we keep him informed."

Peter nodded and finished his call abruptly. He then called his nurse on the intercom to arrange for a cab to take him to the hospital and passed the phone to Catherine. As he left he thanked Catherine for her understanding. "If you knew how long this couple have been waiting for this baby, Cathy, nothing must be allowed to go wrong. I'll see you soon, take care," and he was gone.

Catherine placed her call and was relieved to hear a familiar voice on the end of the phone.

"Hello, Joe Maxwell speaking. Hi Cathy, what's up?" Catherine quickly explained what she wanted him to do. "Perhaps I should come get you myself? Okay, if you're sure. I'll go now, stop worrying. Yes, I do know what Vincent is capable of."

The nurse returned to say that Dr. Alcott had asked her to call a cab and that it was due to arrive in the next few minutes. They picked up their bags and were soon outside waiting on the sidewalk for the cab, which had just drawn up. When Catherine turned to let Jamie get in first with Jacob, she wasn't there.

As she looked the other way, a man walked towards her and held out his hand in greeting. "Miss Chandler?"

Catherine felt as though an icy hand had gripped her heart. "Who wants to know?" she asked quietly. The man turned so that Catherine could now see Jamie standing beside a stretch limp, looking absolutely terrified. Jacob had begun to cry and Catherine rushed toward them. "What's going on?" she demanded. The driver had left the engine running, and Jamie was being forced inside the limo.

"Let's not make a scene, Miss Chandler. My name is Ray King. I'm a private investigator and the driver's name is Robert. I think it's best if you just join your friend." The man wasn't threatening her, but Catherine felt helpless. With a sick feeling in her stomach, Catherine sat beside Jamie and wondered what on earth was happening. Once the doors closed, and Catherine heard the locks engaging she felt even more vulnerable.

She looked at the man who now sat further along from them, and told him, "You do realize that abduction is a very serious offense, don't you?" Her eyes blazed as she glared at him.

"I'm just doing my job, Miss Chandler. I've already told you I'm a private investigator. I was asked to find you and that's what I've done. Once I deliver you to the address I've been given, my part in this is finished. All you need to know is that no harm will come to you, that much as been made very clear to anyone involved in this investigation."

Catherine was fuming. "What investigation? This is ridiculous. I don't have any idea who could have put you up to this. Can you at least tell me where we're going?"

"Sorry, that's not part of my remit. All will be explained and, as I said, you're not in any danger."

Even though the light was beginning to fade, Catherine recongized the area they were travelling and her anger began to mount as she realized who could be behind all this. 'Elliot, it had better be good or I'll never forgive you for this,' she muttered under her breath.

At last their journey came to an end and they were in the underground parking lot of one of the tower blocks. Catherine saw the driver hand an envelope to the investigator, who promptly pocketed it and walked away to his own car. They were then asked to get out of the car and Robert took them to a small room just off the executive parking area. Jamie was still very shaky and Catherine put her arm around her shoulders.

She turned to the driver, "Robert, what happens now? How much longer is this going to take?" She waved her hands in exasperation towards Jamie and Jacob, "You've scared my friend half to death and the baby will need feeling and changing soon."

"Miss Chandler, if you'd follow me. Your friend can wait here," he turned to Jamie. "Make yourself comfortable, Miss, you'll find refreshments laid out and a restroom through that door." He lowered his voice. "Please don't try leaving Miss, there'd really be no point. I will know if you were to attempt to escape." And he turned his head towards the surveillance camera that took in the elevator and the executive parking area.

Jamie nodded her head in Catherine's direction. "I'm okay, really. Please Catherine, go and do whatever you have to, so we can go home." Her voice sounded calm, but Catherine knew she was very frightened.

Catherine put her arms around Jamie and whispered, "Don't worry. We'll be okay. He said no harm would come to us and strangely enough, I don't think it will."

Catherine entered the elevator and as it soared to the Penthouse Suite, she wondered if she had managed to hold onto her emotions and not alert Vincent. She hoped that Joe would reach Vincent before he set off to meet them. With a bit of luck, they would just be later reaching the Park. Her mind was in complete turmoil and as soon as the doors of the elevator parted she walked briskly into the foyer of the EBInc Penthouse Suite.

'I guessed as much, oh Elliot, why?' She groaned inwardly.

The last time they had been together she had told him that her life was about to change and begged him not to try and find her. 'What was he thinking of?' She was shown into the sitting room and offered refreshments. Knowing that Jacob would need a feed before much longer, she drank a large glass of water.

"How long is this going to take?" she asked again. Robert shook his head and told her that the person who had arranged the meeting had been notified and that he would let her know the moment he knew any more. He turned to check the security monitor and saw Jamie enter the elevator. Immediatly, he flicked the switch to automatic; the doors closed and Jamie found herself being transported to the Penthouse.

Within a short space of time the doors opened and she appeared carrying a very fractious Jacob.

"Catherine, I had to come." She pointed to their bags at the side of the couch. "He needs changing and feeding." The last remark was said only loud enough for Catherine to hear.

Catherine took Jacob from her in an instant, and made her way through the Penthouse to one of the bedrooms. Robert made no move to stop her, she obviously knew her way around. Soon Jacob's crying stopped and he was feeding hungrily. Catherine rocked him gently, reassuring him as she tried to compose herself. Vincent mustn't pick up any bad vibes, the last thing she wanted was for him to come crashing through one of the walls in a blind rage.

She looked at Jamie's ashen face and held out her hand, the youngster gripped it tightly. "What's happening, Catherine? I'm so scared."

Squeezing her hand, Catherine told her that she knew who it was who had arranged this meeting and there was nothing to worry about. Perhaps they would just be later than they had planned meeting Vincent. Jamie lowered her head. She couldn't meet Catherine's gaze knowing what she had just done.

*****

Elliot and Jodie were enjoying another cozy supper in the little sitting room, adjacent to the master bedroom at the big house when the telephone rang. Jodie watched as Elliot took the call, wondering why he suddenly looked very concerned. His eyes became steely grey, and she knew immediately that he was angry. It was obvious that something was very wrong.

"Elliot?" she tried to catch his attention, but all he did was turn his back on her and continued listening to what was being said by whomever it was on the other end of the phone.

At last he spoke. "You say she was at a doctor's clinic. You're quite sure it's her, no mistake? I don't understand why they had to bring the mother and baby along though. That wasn't part of the deal." He listened again. "Okay, then that's what we have to do. Cleon, meet me outside. Yes, of course, I'm bringing Jodie. I'd like her to meet Catherine. What did you say? Yes, I'm quite sure," his voice was emphatic. "She's coming with us.

Elliot replaced the receiver and turned back to find Jodie on her feet, her expression was incredulous. "What's going on, Elliot? Did you say Catherine? Why would you like me to meet her? What mother and baby?"

Elliot tried not to show that he was annoyed, but he answered sharply. "Not now, Jodie. I'll explain as we go, but we have to go now. Okay?"

His eyes beseeched her not to ask any questions, but then he relented when he saw her eyes fill with tears at his bluntness.

"I'm sorry, but I'm in hot water up to my neck and your presence might just swing things a little more in my favour." He held out his hand and was relieved when Jodie took it and they dashed downstairs to meet Manning at the helipad, where the chopper was all ready for them to duck under the blades and take their seats. Once they were off the ground it was impossible to have a proper conversation, so Jodie gave up any idea of finding out what was wrong. As soon as they touched down on the helipad at the Penthouse, Elliot was out first and then helped Jodie to climb down. Cleon Manning went on in front and held the private entrance door open in readiness, and after he saw Elliot and Jodie safely inside; he closed the door after them.

*****

Joe replaced the phone and reached for his topcoat, which he had only recently dropped on the chair beside the desk. Turning back, he picked up the phone again and called Henry and asked him to send a message to Vincent that he was coming Below and not to leave before he had spoken to him.

"I should be with you in about fifteen minutes, Henry. What? Okay man, you drive a hard bargain." Replacing the phone in its cradle, Joe smiled. Henry and his wife Lin never missed an opportunity to send food Below. It wouldn't hold him up any to push a food cart. 'Oh Cathy, what a secret we carry!' He thought as the doors slammed behind him.

He arrived right on time and managed to park his car in front of the shop. Henry had already loaded the food cart and within a few minutes he was ready to leave. Henry pointed to two large bags on the top of the cart.

"For the children. Fresh fruit and fortune cookies!" He shook Joe's hand as he left saying, "Be well, Joe!" and then Joe found himself alone.

He heard the sound of the packing cases being pushed back into place as he started down the Tunnel wand with only a flashlight to guide him, he placed both hands on the cart, managing to position the light between the packages on the top, he began the journey Below.

As he walked he reflected on all that had happened in the last twelve months. It seemed as if he had always been a part of the Tunnel Community, he had been allowed to share so much and all because of Catherine. She had been the one to introduce him to Father and once the Council had been satisfied he could be trusted, then he'd met Vincent. He had heard his voice first, whilst he had been reading to a room full of children. When he finished and had stood up to leave, Joe had been surprised by the sheer physical size of him, and then taken aback by his facial appearance, but Vincent had come to expect that. They had walked through the Tunnels together, talking for hours until Catherine came to fetch them for suppoer. After that there had never been an awkward moment between them. He had been the first person, after Father that they had told about Catherine's pregnancy. He never had any doubts about their relationship; you only had to see them together to know that it was meant to be.

As he neared the home Tunnels Zach and Kipper raced to meet him. "We'll take the cart from here, Mr. Maxwell," grinned Zach, immediately recognizing the white bags on the top, knowing what they contained.

"Vincent was waiting for you in Father's Chamber," chimed in Kipper and together the two boys pushed the cart, whilst Joe just kept waving until they were out of sight.

When he walked into Father's Chamber; both Father and Vincent who were seated opposite each other the chessboard greeted Joe most warmly.

Vincent pushed back his chair and said, as if by way of apology. "My game is suffering, Joe. I'm very anxious to meet Catherine. Why the delay? I only waited because Henry's message asked me to."

Joe explained what Catherine had asked him to, adding that he had offered to collect them himself, but that she had declined. At this, Vincent looked decidedly uneasy.

Father chided him kindly. "Now Vincent, don't do this to yourself. Catherine is perfectly capable of getting the three of them from Peter's clinic to Central Park; please don't worry. They'll just be later than we expected." His voice trailed away when he heard the sound of someone running. He looked towards the entrance to his Chamber and Pascal arrived, out of breath, red-faced and looking very grave.

"Vincent, I've just received a message from Jamie." Pascal watched as the colour begain to drain from Vincent's face as he told him. "All she could send was 'abducted, we're here'. It only came twice and there's been nothing since. I've looked at the map. This is where they are." He spread the map across Father's desk and they all studied it carefully as Pascal highlighted the exact spot where Jamie had been able to tap out her SOS on the pipes in the waiting rom of the underground parking lot.

Joe craned his neck and ran his fingers through his hair. "I know exactly where they are. Oh man, I wish I'd followed my instincts when Cathy called me to say that Peter had to attend an emergency. I should have collected them myself, but she insisted it would be fine. Would have saved ourselves a whole lot of trouble. I'm so sorry, Vincent; I feel I've let you all down."

Father leaned across to pat the back of Joe's hand. "Nonsense Joe, you mustn't blame yourself. How was anyone to know that this would happen?"

Father sat down again. He felt utterly defeated as he watched Vincent pacing up and down. "Oh for goodness sake, Vincent, calm yourself. This is getting us nowhere. What do you suggest Joe? Who do you think could be behind this abduction?"

Mary had joined them and crossed the room to place her hands on Father's shoulders, and she too looked in Joe's direction, hoping he could shed some light on this very disturbing news.

Joe looked thoughtful, wondering just how much to tell them. They were worried enough, but he decided it was best if they knew as much as he did. He cleared his throat and told them. "About a year ago, some time after Cathy came to live Below, I had a private investigator contact me, he was anxious to trace her whereabouts. I managed to give him a bum steer each time he called, but boy, was he persistent! I hadn't heard from him for about six months and suddenly he's back on the case, very pushy. I suspect it's him; fella called Ray King. Never met him, so I don't know what he looks like. All he would tell me was that 'his client' wanted to meet with Cathy for old times sake."

Looking back at the map, he continued. "Knowing their exact location has put one man in the frame, it has his prints all over it. Elliot Burch! Vincent, it's his apartment block. Actually the first one he ever built. Rather modest in comparison to the towers he's been building since. It's more like the size of the block where Cathy has her apartment. He bought it only recently from the consortium who advanced him the money for the development. I visited the offices there a couple of times, and since then he's taken over the whole top floor, to incorporate a Penthouse Suite for his personal use. Yeah, that's gotta be it. That's where they are all right."

Vincent jumped to his feet. "Elliot Burch! Why now?" He had always considered him to be his rival for Catherine's affections and he was so angry. ''How dare he do this?" Vincent was raging, his voice powerful and insistent, he looked in Father's direction. "Father, don't say a word. I must go, and you have to understand. I can't possibly stay here. I'm needed Above."

Father tried to reason with him. "Vincent you must understand. It's far too dangerous. I can't allow it; I really can't." He dropped his head into his hands; he knew he wasn't getting through to Vincent. No one could, not with so much at stake.

Joe could feel the tension gathering speed and decided he had to at least try and defuse the situation. He watched as Vincent gathered his cloak and was all set to leave, but he managed to block his path, if only for a moment. He grabbed Vincent's arm, and felt the power of his might as he shook himself free. Vincent turned on Joe, his eyes blazing and his nostrils flaring. He was beside himself. All he said was, "Joe, don't even try!" But the warning was there.

Undeterred, Joe didn't flinch, not even in the face of Vincent's terrible anger. He persisted. "Let's do this together, Vincent. My car is outside Henry's shop. We can be there in no time. What do you say, pal?"

Vincent hesitated, if only for a moment, but long enough to accept the sense of Joe's offer. He nodded, and seeing Mary massaging Father's shoulders, walked straight to him and apologized for all the shouting that had taken place.

"You know what this means to me Father, and I do know at times like these I'm my own worst enemy, but what else can I do? Catherine and Jacob are everything to me. Without them my life would become meaningless." He lowered his head and the two men embraced, while Mary patted Vincent's arm asking him to be extra vigilant and to bring his family home safely.

Vincent set Joe a punishing pace as they headed for the secret entrance to Henry's shop that would take them Above. They hardly spoke and as soon as they had accessed their way into the shop, Joe was outside in the street with the rear door of the car held open so that Vincent could lie across the back seat. He then jumped into the driving seat and within seconds the engine roared and they sped off into the night. Joe knew exactly where he was going and the moment they arrived at the underground parking lot, he alerted Vincent. He felt his hand on his shoulder and heard the click of the rear door opening. There was nothing he could do but slow down to allow Vincent to exit the car.

"Vincent, don't do this," he implored, but when he heard the door close, he knew he'd gone. "Oh man, I just hope you know what you're doing."

Joe drove over to the executive parking area and, as he parked his car, he offered a silent prayer that no harm would come to any of them that night.

*****

Vincent merged with the shadows as he made his way to the stairwell that would give him access to the fire escapes. When he had climbed high enough, he swung his body onto a ledge directly beneath the lower balconies of the apartments. By scaling these he was able to position himself underneath the ones that ran the length of the Penthouse.

It wasn't the first time he'd done such a climb, as Joe had said it was very similar to Catherine's apartment building, but in his heart he hoped that this would be the last. Before he met Catherine it had been a nightly excursion to view the lights of New York City from such vantage points, although this building was one Vincent had never attempted before.

Having rested sufficiently, he made his way hand over hand until he could easily lift himself over the balcony wall. He crouched low inside the balcony area, and pulling his hood right down over his face he moved toward the sidewall, where he stood to his full height, stretching his arms and legs, before he maneuvered his way between the various plants and ornamental shrubs. Carefully, he eased himself close enough to the window and looked inside.

His heart raced at the sight of his beloved Catherine, although secretly he scolded her for closing down on their bond. Dismissing the thought instantly, he smiled, knowing how desperate she would be to keep him safe from danger and avoid any confrontation.

"Vain hope, my love," he whispered his voice husky with emotions. "I will always be there to protect you, until my last breath."

As Vincent watched, he saw a man cross the room to answer the phone, and when he peered further into the room he could see Jamie sitting nursing Jacob, facing the balcony. The distraction of the call was all Vincent needed to alert her attention to the face that he had arrived. He turned the handle only a fraction, but it had been enough for Jamie to be aware of his presence. The relief that washed over her face was all that Vincent needed to see; Jamie knew he was close by. He stepped back again to wait.

Jamie motioned to Robert, as he took the call, that she was in need of air, and she moved towards the balcony door. She unlocked it and dragged a small chair so she could sit at the side of the open door, breathing slowly.

Joe replaced the phone in its cubbyhole and as the elevator began to climb to the Penthouse Suite, he waited anxiously for it to stop and for the doors to open. A few minutes later Joe Maxwell entered the room, closely followed by Elliot Burch, Jodie and Cleon Manning who had just walked from the helipad. By this time Joe was fuming, and he turned on Elliot immediately.

"Just what the hell do you think you're doing, abducting people in broad daylight!"

His eyes flashed, anger fuelling his outburst, as he continued. "You've pulled some strokes in your time Burch, but this time you've unleashed forces you haven't begun to imagine." He pointed towards Jamie. "See that little guy she's holding over there? You haven't met his father, but you will, oh man you will. You just don't get it pal, do you? You can't take members of a family when it suits you, just because you have some hidden agenda."

Joe ran his fingers through his hair, his mind was racing, but then he saw the distraught expression on Catherine's face as she jumped to her feet.

"So, what possible motive do you have? And believe me, it'd better be good." Joe spat the words out as he continued to glare at Elliot Burch.

Elliot asked Cleon to stay, but told Robert to take the rest of the evening off. He walked to the fireplace and turned to face them. He was stunned to discover his actions had been so badly misinterpreted and that it had all literally blown up in his face. He'd not been expecting to find Joe Maxwell on his case and certainly not displaying such hostility.

He moved to stand directly in front of Catherine, and at last he spoke. "Cathy, I'm so sorry. You disappeared without a word. I know you said you were starting a new life, but after what happened the night my father was killed, I've been desperate to know that you were safe. Thank God I've found you."

Catherine stared into Elliot's face and hissed through clenched teeth. "I wasn't lost, Elliot!" She covered her face with her hands. She was so tired, her energy levels had dropped suddenly and for a moment she thought she might faint. Elliot reached to hold her as her body swayed. She held onto his arms for support, but her voice was steady as she spoke. "You once told me that you loved me, Elliot."

Elliot's hold on Catherine tightened, and as he bowed his head he whispered. "But I do love you, Cathy, I always will." He would never know what prompted him to do what he did next; perhaps it was nostalgia, the relief of seeing Catherine alive and well, but he drew her to him and kissed her passionately.

Breathless from his kiss, Catherine strained to get away from him, and implored, "Let me go, Elliot. This isn't love you're showing me now. It's intrusive and worst of all it's possessive. There's nothing more to be said." Elliot's arms dropped to his sides, he knew at once that he'd made a terrible mistake.

Jodie watched helplessly, as she saw the man she loved declaring his feelings so openly for another woman, and her heart sank. What she had hoped would never happen, was actually happening right in front of her eyes. 'So this is Catherine! The woman that was so special!' she thought. 'Damn you Elliot, damn you' Stifling her emotions she vowed silently. 'We're finished!'

Vincent had been watching and listening to what was taking place and when he saw Elliot kissing Catherine he was consumed with anger. Unable to hold back any longer, he burst through the balcony door, his cloak billowing behind him as he crossed the room in seconds. Vincent was desperate that his wild side was about to spiral out of control, but his anger was driving him now and he could not prevent the sound of his growling and roaring from reverberating around the room, literally bouncing off the walls.

Elliot was shocked and shaken by the noise, but totally unprepared for the body blow inflicted by Vincent just before he lifted him clean off the ground and pinned him to the wall at the side of the fireplace, his right arm raised to strike Elliot down once and for all.

Vincent's face was only partly covered by his hood and Elliot almost blacked out when he saw the anger and hatred in his eyes, the enlarged pores around his mouth, and the way his lips were drawn back; his fangs clearly visible. Elliot believed in that moment that he was about to die. Cleon stepped forward to go to Elliot's assistance, but Joe Maxwell pushed a chair across immediately in front of him and, as he collided with it, he lost his balance and fell backwards.

Everything seemed to be happening at once, Catherine was frantic, because Jacob was screaming at the top of his lungs, but somehow she managed to wedge herself between the two men and wrapped her arms around Vincent's body and just said, "Vincent don't, we're okay."

Just as suddenly as the horrendous roaring and snarling had started, it stopped. Gradually, it was possible to hear Vincent's laboured and ragged breathing returning to normal. Elliot then witnessed the looks that passed between Vincent and Catherine and he realized in that split second that they shared something quite incredible. He also knew that Vincent was the baby's father - that much was obvious. 'Hadn't Joe warned him that he would come?'

The sound of Vincent's outburst had been awesome; Joe was clearly shaken, even he had never imagined or experienced anything like this. Gradually,Vincent regained control of his anger and allowed Elliot's inert body to slide to the ground. Stepping back he turned, pulling his hood well down over his face. Catherine's arms were still holding him and he motioned for Jamie to bring his son to him. She rushed to his side with Jacob and it was poignant to see this giant of a man take the child from her and wrap him in the warmth of his cloak and cuddle him into the side of his neck. The crying stopped at once and he raised his head to speak softly to Jamie. "I know I could rely on you to keep a promise."

Jamie's cheeks burned, as she looked at Catherine. "Catherine, I had to let Vincent know we were in trouble, it was the only way I knew to protect us." Her voice trailed away, she looked very distressed.

Catherine leaned across to stroke her face. "Oh Jamie, don't look so worried. I know your first loyalty will always be to Vincent."

When Vincent had launched his attack on Elliot; fortunately Cleon Manning had seen only the back of him, and now went to help Elliot to his feet. "Man, I turn my back for two minutes; what the hell is going on here?"

Elliot leaned against his friend, welcoming his support. "Nothing that you need to concern yourself with," Cleon frowned, not at all convinced. Elliot continued. "Believe me, you don't want to know. How about you organize tea and coffee, perhaps some food? I need time to sort some things out, okay?" Cleon Manning nodded and left the room.

Jodie had been oblivious to the noise; she seemed to have switched off and stood totally dazed. All she could hear ringing in her ears was Elliot's declaration of his love for Catherine. Nothing else seemed able to reach her; she was in a state of shock.

Joe Maxwell joined Vincent, Catherine and Jamie. "I don't know where we go from here, but I do know there are things you ought to tell Elliot that might help to explain why you have chosen the life you have." He looked very thoughtful as he addressed his remarks to Catherine. She nodded, watching as Vincent gave Jacob back to Jamie.

When Cleon Manning arrived with hot drinks and sandwiches, he looked around for the hooded figure, but Vincent had already returned to the balcony, quite deliberately, to be away from prying eyes.

Leaving the sitting room door open whilst he laid the tray on the coffee table, Cleon saw Jodie slip from the room. As soon as he was able to leave he raced after her and found her at the helipad, tears were coursing down her cheeks. Her arms were wrapped around her body as she shook all over.

His heart went out to her. "Jodie, this isn't what you think. They were close once, a part of him will always love Catherine Chandler, but you're the one he wants to spend the rest of his life with. Sometimes he can be such a jerk."

Jodie wiped away her tears with the back of her hand and said coldly. "Save your breath, Cleon. I've got eyes. I saw the way they looked at each other. I might as well not have been in the room. Now, are you going to take me back to the Big House or not? I've got to pack and get away." She paused to draw breath. "I doubt he will even miss me." Her voice had a ring of bitterness, but how was Cleon to know the misery her last relationship had caused? He climbed aboard and held out hsi hand to lift her inside and within minutes the blades were whirring above their heads as they lifted off.

*****

Catherine refused the coffee that Joe offered her and, instead, drank more water. She didn't feel like eating, but forced a sandwich down. She knew that ultimately they would have a long night ahead of them.

Catherine went to sit beside Jamie and she lifted Jacob into her arms. "I need to speak with Elliot privately Jamie, go check on Vincent for me, will you?" Glad to be able to join Vincent, she went out onto the balcony.

Joe looked at Catherine, she was holding up pretty well, all things considered. He decided he also needed to go get some air but, more importantly, to keep an eye on Vincent. God only knew what he was going through.

"I'll be on the balcony too, if you need me," he called as he closed the door behind him.

Catherine patted the sear next to her inviting Elliot to sit down. His face was ashen; he had never expected such an outcome. At last he spoke, "That night we were at the docks, when we were hiding in the drainage shaft, it was him, wasn't it?"

Catherine nodded and said, "Elliot, his name is Vincent."

Slowly,Catherine managed to tell Elliot all he really needed to know about how she and Vincent had first met, and some of the events leading to her ultimate disappearance. She leaned across to take his hand. "Elliot, you have to understand that I'm living a life some people only dream about and others could never imagine. I'm truly happy, won't you be happy for me?"

Elliot covered Catherine's hands with his and squeezed it hard. There was something she wasn't telling him, and he needed to know. For once in his life he looked defeated. "I promise I'll never repeat what happened tonight, ever."

Catherine laughed gently. "No, I suppose you ever will, Elliot. You took such a risk, but then you didn't know about Vincent, or how he would react when you took his wife and son."

"No, I guess you're right - you generally are." He managed a forced smile. "Can you at least tell me, where are you living?"

Releasing her hand to adjust Jacob's blanket, Catherine sighed deeply. "No, I can't tell you that. I made a promise and it's one I must keep. If you should ever need to reach me, contact Joe Maxwell. He'll get a message to me, okay?" She looked down and found Jacob awake, his large cornflower blue eyes searching her face. "I know, my darling, you're hungry again." She turned to Elliot, "I need to use one of the bedrooms again, and I'd like Vincent to come too." Catherine reached for Elliot's hand again. "Haven't you guess already? Elliot, this beautiful child is my son, mine and Vincent's; and he is my husband."

Total disbelief registered on Elliot's face, as he tried to come to terms with this revelation. Everything began to fall into place, all the need for secrecy, and suddenly an image of Cathy standing in his office with a list of things she needed, various drill bits he seemed to recall. He also remembered walking through a maze of Tunnels the night his father was murdered, and finding himself in Central Park. Most painful of all, was the realization that she had only agreed to marry him if he would halt the construction of one of his towers, she'd have stopped at nothing to help or protect the man she loved.

All Elliot could do now was to raise Cathy's hand to his lips, kiss it softly and even though he was hurting, he admitted, "A part of me will always love you Cathy, but believe me, I do want you to be happy. I realize that as long as you're with Vincent, you will be. I'll go get him." He stood and watched Catherine cradling Jacob, who was becoming fretful and managed a smile, as he said, "By the noise that the little guy is making he obviously needs his mother." Elliot walked to open the balcony door and just said simply into the darkness, "Vincent, your wife and son are waiting for you." He stepped back to allow Vincent to re-enter the room and watched as he followed Catherine who made her way to one of the bedrooms.

Joe and Jamie joined Elliot to finish off the sandwiches and coffee, trying to restore some kind of normality. Suddenly Elliot jumped to his feet. "Where's Jodie?" He picked up the nearest phone and got straight through to Cleon Manning. "What's happening man, where's Jodie?"

Cleon Manning had just returned from the Big House and had promised Jodie that he wuold give her a head start; that much he felt he owed her. He hesitated before answering; he didn't like the way Elliot had behaved. "She persuaded me to take her home, she's okay now," he lied.

Relief washed over Elliot's face as he spoke. "You're sure about that? Yeah, I'm getting there. I've still got things to do here, get some rest and I'll call when I need you to fly me home too. Okay?" It was obvious to those present that Elliot was bouncing back, although somewhat more closely than usual. This evening's encounter had taken its toll of him, physically as well as emotionally. He ran his fingers through his hair and looked at Joe.

"How do we get them all home safely?" It was clear his concern was genuine.

This was something that Joe had already thought about and answered quickly. "I left my car in the parking lot, so as soon as Cathy and Vincent are ready, we can leave." He watched Elliot's reaction, and relented. "Okay, you too Burch. I know you won't rest if you're not absolutely certain they made it!"

When Vincent and Catherine returned, Elliot noticed that Vincent had removed his hood and was making no attempt to hide his face. He walked to stand directly in front of him and when he spoke, Elliot thought his heart would stop. Vincent's voice was hypnotic and belied his appearance.

"Elliot Burch, what you did today was wrong. Because of you I almost lost control completely, this is something I have to live with every day of my life. You must accept that I make no apology for protecting those I love. You should also realize that, but for Catherine, I know I could have killed you. I hope you won't ever place me in that situation again. Do I make myself clear?"

Elliot looked into the face of this remarkable man, and now that he wasn't attacking him, he cold see only gentleness and it humbled him. "Vincent, I'm really sorry for what's happened. Cathy's convinced me that she's truly happy with you, and I want you to know that I wish you both only the best." At this he held out his hand. "Can we at least shake hands on it?"

Vincent's gloved hand gripped his and Elliot once more felt the power of this unique man in that handshake. His legs were about to let him down, but somehow Elliot remained standing, and said, "If you're ready, Joe and I would like to take you all home."

Vincent was about to make for the balcony but Catherine grabbed his arm. "Oh no you don't. We're leaving here together. When we get to the Park that may be a different story." Vincent pulled his hood well down over his face, took Jacob from Catherine and then wrapped them both inside his cloak, holding them close to his heart. It was a touching gesture and one that Elliot did not miss.

Together, they all make their way to the elevator, which took them swiftly to the basement and as the doors opened, they headed straight for Joe's car. Fortunately, the parking lot was deserted, giving no cause for concern. As he started the engine, he glanced across to Elliot who was in the front passenger seat and then looked in the back where Vincent, Catherine and Jamie were sitting close together. Thankfully, Jacob was sleeping soundly.

"Okay, folks, time to get this show on the road. It's been a long day. "Joe sounded tired as he negotiated the exit barriers. It didn't take long to reach Central Park and once they were inside the main gates, Joe felt Vincent's hand on his shoulders.

"Okay Vincent, if you're sure about this." He wasn't happy for Vincent to get out so soon, but was well aware that he'd been finding his way home since he had first ventured Above as a young boy.

Before he got out of the car, Vincent leaned forward to speak to Elliot. "I don't know whether we shall ever meet again, but I certainly hope that if we do, then it will be in much happier circumstances. Goodbye, Mr. Burch," and with a squeeze of Elliot's shoulder, he was gone.

The car cruised its way towards the section of the Park that was now so familiar to Joe Maxwell. It had been the way he had first entered the world Below and it still held a kind of magical aura for him. He stopped the car, got out and opened the door for Catherine and Jamie. "Time to go home, Vincent will be waiting." His voice sounded wistful. "I'll see you very soon Cathy, and you kiddo." and he hugged them both.

Elliot had also got out of the car and wasn't quite sure whether he should attempt to hug Cathy as well, because he didn't know where Vincent might be. She grinned. "It's okay, Elliot, you have nothing to fear from Vincent, besides he's waiting over there."

She turned her head towards the entrance to the drainage Tunnel. "Yes, the very same one you used," she answered the question she knew he was about to ask. "Don't forget, Elliot, if you need to contact me, do it through Joe."

They embraced and then Catherine and Jamie walked across the grassland towards the glow of the Tunnel entrance. Joe and Elliot got back in the car and they sat watching their retreating figures.

Elliot never took their eyes off them, but asked, "Joe, what, no, who is he?"

Joe was also watching, and answered automatically. "He's the man Cathy loves, and after tonight's performance, you'd better believe it!" He reached in the glove compartment and found a pair of night vision binoculars. He looked through them intently, and then passed them to Elliot. "Here, take a look. She's happier than I ever thought possible. I loved her too pal, much good that it did me." The sigh that escaped Joe's body confirmed what Elliot had always suspected.

Elliot focused the binoculars and saw Cathy and Jamie approaching the entrance. He then saw Cathy break away from Jamie and start running, she knew exactly where she was going, sure footed as she picked her way amongst the rocks and running water. The moment she was inside the Tunnel she was joined by a cloaked figure, who lifted her clean off the ground above his head and as he lowered her down his body, their mouths met in a long kiss.

The moment Jamie was inside the Tunnel, Vincent took the baby from her and, before he turned to leave, he lifted his arm waving it from side to side.

"Thanks Joe," he whispered into the night, "You said to give Elliot something to remember, I hope he saw that!" This was something that he and Joe had planned whilst they were on the balcony of the Penthouse. His moment of triumph had been a long time coming.

Swallowing hard, Elliot handed the binoculars back to Joe and cleared his throat. What he had just witnessed was all the proof he needed that Catherine had found her happy life, and although he didn't have all the answers, he was content for the moment. "You still okay to drive me back, or should I take a cab?" he asked, a resigned edge to his voice.

Joe whistled through his teeth. "Jesus, you really are something else. Do you know that? Let's go."

Elliot smiled as he answered. "Someone else said that to me quite recently. I have a lot of ground to make up there, believe me."

"Jodie?" queried Joe.

"Got it in one," Elliot's mind was racing. He had to get to her, try to explain the events of the evening. 'Whatever must she be thinking?'

By the time they reached the Penthouse, Cleon Manning had organized everything for them to lift off immediately. Elliot thanked Joe and promised that, should he ever need to contact Catherine, he would only do it through him.

Joe shook his head. "Good luck with Jodie. I hope she realized what she could be taking on!" Joe got back in his car and with a quick touch of his index to his forehead in salute he drove away.

Cleon Manning followed Elliot into the elevator that would take them to the Penthouse Suite and then they took the short walk to the helipad. As soon as they were airborne Elliot closed his eyes and tried desperately to rid himself of the memory of Vincent's attack. He knew it was going to be some time before he could forget everything that had taken place and what was even worse; he knew it had all been his fault.

Within minutes of touching down, Elliot was all set to go straight to Jodie. Cleon Manning switched off the chopper engine and laid his hand on Elliot's arm.

"We need to talk," was all he said and immediately Elliot recognized the urgency in his voice. Looking towards the house Cleon motioned with his eyes. "Inside!"

As soon as they were in his study, Elliot asked, "What's this all about, what is it that's so urgent?"

Cleon looked him in the face and said quietly, "She's gone. Jodie's gone!"

Elliot stared back as his stomach suddenly hit the floor. "What do you mean she's gone? There must be some mistake."

Cleon shook his head. "Sometimes you can be such an asshole Elliot, and tonight you excelled yourself." He knew that he was probably the only person who could speak to Elliot so bluntly, but he wasn't done yet. "She was devastated to hear you tell Catherine Chandler that you would always love her. Man what were you thinking?"

It was obvious that this news had come as a terrible shock to Elliot, but he knew that everything Cleon had just said was true.

“Well, you seem to be in the driving seat here Cleon, just what the hell do I do now, eh? I can't lose her. I'm in love with her for God's sake!" His fingers raked through his hair and, with his head bowed, he sank into the nearest chair.

In his defense, Cleon Manning told Elliot that he had tried to reason with Jodie, but she wasn't having any of it. "Believe me, I told her it wasn't how it seemed, but she had this idea fixed in her head about you still being in love with Catherine Chandler. I tried to convince her otherwise, but she just packed her bags and got me to call a cab to take her to the airport."

Elliot was on his feet immediately. "What time is her flight? Which airport? I've got to stop her. Come on, what are you waiting for? Let's get moving."

Always ready to do Elliot's bidding, Cleon Manning had the car started and they raced off to see if there was still time for them to make it before her flight took off for England. So as soon as they reached the airport, Elliot jumped from the car and left Manning to try and find a parking space.

When he saw Jodie, Elliot's heart jerked in his chest. 'God, what have I done?' he asked himself, as he walked to where she was sitting in the first class lounge area. Her eyes were swollen and her face blotchy from crying. Her distress was painfully obvious.

Softly he spoke her name, "Jodie?" She looked up as though she had been half expectiing him and her eyes welled with fresh tears.

"Go away. I don't ever want to see you again." She fought back her tears; she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of knowing how much he had hurt her, or how much she still cared for him.

Elliot took her hands in his. "Come, let's go and sit over there; where it's more private. We can't talk here. We really can't and there are things I need to tell you Jodie. Please hear me out."

Grudgingly she got to her feet. "You've got five minutes, because I'm due to board after that and I'm telling you one thing, I don't intend to miss my flight." Her mouth was set in a determined line, even though it was obvious how very upset she was feeling.

Elliot squeezed her hands as he spoke. "What you heard me say to Catherine tonight, wasn't what you thought. Yes, I do love Catherine, but I'm in love with you. That's the difference. What about us, Jodie?"

"It's no good Elliot, there is no 'us'. I've been betrayed before and I won't ever allow it to happen again. I couldn't bear it, I really couldn't. How many times can a heart be mended Elliot? You led me on and I started to believe we had a future together. I began to dream again and now you've ruined everything. I feel as though you've used me. Why didn't you pay for sex if that's all you really wanted?"

The words were harsh and her control was breaking down, she knew by the expression on his face that she'd deeply offended him. She shook her hands free.

"Come to think of it, you did. Call it services rendered, if you like. Perhaps the retainer you paid Ben is tax deductible?"

It was a cruel jibe and it found its mark, because Jodie migh just as well have slapped Elliot's face, his eyes hardened and his expression was icy. When at last he spoke his voice was calm and his tone determined.

"You've still got a lot to learn about me lady, and know this, if you get on that plane, I'll come after you and I will find you. You'd better believe it!"

Her cheeks were flaming when she stood up, and she held her boarding pass tightly in her hand as she pushed past him.

"You do what you like, but I shall make sure I cover my tracks so that you never find me. I don't ever want to see you again. Goodbye Elliot, No.... don't!" He made to try and take her in his arms. "Don't even try to stop me, or I'll cause such a scene."

Her warning was clear. But as she walked away, Elliot called after her. "I meant what I said, Jodie. I will find you."

*****

When Vincent turned back inside the drainage Tunnel, he found Catherine watching him. "Whose benefit was that kiss for?" she teased, knowing full well it had to be something that only Joe Maxwell could have thought of.

Vincent put his head to one side and looked at her fondly. "I was merely making a statement, that's all. Joe asked me to let them know that we were safe and that they would watch out progress with his binoculars. It seemed a perfect way to assure Elliot Burch that we were!"

Catherine grinned. "Oh, what am I going to do with you? Come on, let's start for home. I'm beginning to feel very tired."

Vincent carried Jacob and Jamie said she was perfectly okay with their two bags, which meant that Catherine was not allowed to carry anything.

"Look after yourself, Catherine. Let us worry about who's carrying what." Jamie had always enjoyed spending time with Catherine, but especially since Jacob had been born.

Together, they set off for the home Tunnels, and it didn't take too long to reach the big Iron Gate where they would begin their journey down. The moment it came into view, Vincent walked even quicker and soon had it opened sufficiently. He then reached for the lever that would open the sliding door behind it. Quickly, they all passed through to the other side and Vincent bent his head to draw the gate to, his hand moving to the lever that would close the sliding door back into place. Only now could they all relax properly and suddenly a flashlight bobbing about alerted them to the arrival of Mouse. He was very enthusiastic in his welcome and Catherine noticed he was holding a carrying cradle.

She gave him a big hug and thanked him for coming to meet them. "We're so late, Mouse. How did you know when to come?" she asked.

"Didn't. Took a chance. Mouse knows these things." They all laughed at this remark and between them managed to fit Jamie with the carrying cradle and transfer Jacob without waking him. With Jacob held snugly against her body, Jamie motioned to Mouse to pick up the bags and the two of them went on in front, looking back every now and then to make sure that Vincent and Catherine were still with them.

As they walked Vincent could see that Catherine was becoming exhausted. Instinctively he stopped and lifted her into his arms and, despite her protests, carried her the rest of the way home. At last they arrived at Father's Chamber, where Father and Mary were waiting. Catherine managed to persuade Vincent to put her down, so she could hug them properly. Father's expression was one of deep concern.

"You look exhausted, Catherine. Vincent, you must take the poor girl to her bed at once, and that's an order."

Mary stepped forward to relieve Jamie of her precious bundle and held Jacob close. "Would you like me to keep him in the nursery tonight, Catherine?" she asked kindly.

"Mary, you're an angel. He was fed and changed not that long ago, but if he needs topping up, I know he's in excellent hands. Jamie's taken such good care of us; I'd have been lost without her. See you get some rest, Jamie, and thank you for everything." Catherine leaned against Vincent, as she lowered her head and kissed their child. "Mommy will see you in the morning, sleep tight my darling. Vincent!"

She was taken by surprise, as Vincent lifted her into his arms and just said, "Bed, woman!"

The moment her head touched the pillow, Catherine was asleep. She had wondered whether she would lie awake reliving everything that happened, but thankfully she had been wrong.

Vincent removed his boots and outer garments and climbed into bed beside her, watching her sleep. Alone with his thoughts, he did relive what had taken place and it was a fitful night for him. Eventually, sleep claimed him too, but by morning he felt much calmer and more at peace with himself.

When Catherine woke, she found Vincent leaning on his elbow and watching her. His expression changed when he saw her eyes open and as she moved closer, his arms encircled her body drawing her against him.

He spoke against her hair. "What makes you so happy to be with me, Catherine?"

His eyes gazed into hers as he waited to hear the answer she always gave to that particular question. After the events of the night before, it seemed more important to him than ever before. Now he'd seen Elliot Burch, he needed the reassurance only Catherine could give.

"Because we were meant to be, there's nowhere else I'd ever want to be, if you weren't there to share it with me." She raised her face to his mouth, as he claimed her lips in a long, sensual kiss. "Now that's exactly what I needed, oh Vincent, I love you so much." Vincent eased his body lower in the bed and Catherine laid her head in his neck, turning to nuzzle into his warmth. Moments like these were so precious, just being together. She turned onto her stomach and placed her hands on his chest.

"Know what?" she asked.

He humoured her. "Do I know what?" he whispered back.

"How much I love you, of course. Vincent," she hesitated for a moment unsure how to continue. "I spoke with Peter and," she hesitated again. "Oh you know what I'm trying to tell you, do I have to spell it out?"

Vincent snorted softly and breathed against her forehead. "I don't think you do my love. It's been a long time. I ache to be one with you again, but only when you're quite sure."

Before he knew what was happening, Catherine was undressing herself and encouraging him to do the same.

"Catherine, what, now?" he gasped.

"No time like the present. I'm crazy for you, beloved. Don't tell me that this isn't what you want too?" She ran her fingers along the waistband of his pants. "Come on, it's much more fun if you join in. Otherwise, I might start without you."

Vincent grabbed her to hold her still. "What if someone should need one of us, Jacob perhaps?"

Catherine grinned. "Vincent, Mary is more than capable of giving Jacob a bottle. And look," she pointed to the entrance to their Chamber, "perhaps you didn't notice, but I dropped the tapestry the moment you carried me into our Chamber last night. We won't be disturbed, so no excuses! Kiss me?"

Soon they were completely naked, holding one another, touching and caressing each other, placing kisses in their most vulnerable places. Once Vincent felt Catherine's hands exploring his body, he shifted his position to give her greater access; this was something he always craved. His breath was hot against her skin, and Catherine found that just having him mouthing her name in the base of her throat was arousing her very quickly. The musky smell of him was driving her will; she began pushing against his body, her back arching towards him. Vincent's control was something that she had always had to fight against, and his consideration moved her almost to tears.

"I won't break, my darling, I promise. Love me, Vincent," she implored, her hands continuing to arouse him, as she trailed them in places she knew would break down his last line of resistance.

Catherine moved to lie across Vincent's body and threw back the blanket to reveal his aroused manhood. Even now, after all they had shared, it never failed to amaze him that she could actually like what she saw. Instinctively, her hands reached to hold and finger his penis and he watched as she lowered her head to stimulate him beyond his wildest dreams. She heard his sharp intake of breath as she indulged in fellatio, remembering the first time he had allowed her to do this. As Vincent's control ebbed away, through their bond his heart rejoiced knowing that this was something Catherine had never wanted to do until she met him. Vincent was now eager to take control of their lovemaking, and from experience Catherine knew when to stop.

She felt his fingers rake through her hair as he reached for her, and when she looked into his eyes she whispered, "I need you; Vincent, I need you so much."

In his mind, Vincent could see only Catherine; he could feel only her heart racing against his own, and he knew that he couldn't wait much longer.

His breathing was ragged and his voice husky with emotion as he admitted. "Catherine, when you take me in this way, I'm filled with the wonder of your love, the feel of your mouth and tongue on my skin make me burn with desire." She moved to take him again, but he shook his head. "No more, my love, please. I'm aching with desire already. Are you quite sure this is what you want, it's not too soon?"

Catherine's eyes beseeched him to make love to her, and she willingly surrendered herself as he gathered her in his arms. Her body ached for the release that only he could grant and she trembled as his hands explored her intimately.

When she gasped, "Now, Vincent," there was no more doubt in his mind. In seconds, he entered her body, gently, taking his time; it was the most exquisite joining. Gradually, Vincent increased his rhythm and when he found Catherine keeping pace, his thrusts became more and more powerful, almost lifting her off the bed. Catherine reached to hold his arms even more tightly around her, as she begged; "Deeper, Vincent, deeper." His passionate desire was now taking control of their lovemaking and he realized that his need for release was urgent. His penetration was complete, his blood was on fire for her as it coursed through his veins and his head was spinning. He found his newly regained control slipping away and with one final thrust he climaxed so suddenly that it took them both by surprise.

"Catherine," he whispered against her throat, "I've needed and wanted you for so long. You've made me complete again." His voice was thick with emotion. Gently, he moved and curved his upper body so that his head lay on Catherine's naked breast, taking care not to leave the one part of Catherine that was his alone.

Catherine stroked Vincent's dampened mane back from his face, which was glistening with moisture. The soft tawny down that covered his body gleamed in the amber glow of the flickering candlelight and his heart was beating in time with her own. They were one again and she tightened her hold on him, intending to keep him inside her for as long as it was possible. This special closeness was something that they alone experienced, entering a different world when they made love, and she was content. She had never felt so much at peace as she did now, and a life with Vincent was the only one she needed. Only he could fulfill every hope, every dream, and for that she thanked God. Gently she pulled the covers over them, so that they could drift in and out of sleep, still enjoined.

"Sleep well, my dearest Vincent, sleep well," she whispered against his shoulder, and she closed her arms around him, holding him to her.

*****

As Jodie settled back in her seat, preparing for take-off, she could still hear Elliot's words ringing in her ears. 'I will find you.' She stifled a sob, the memories were so painful and at last she could admit to herself that she had been utterly ruthless in the way she had finished her relationship with Elliot. Well, she hoped it was finished. Again she heard his voice and even though she slept during the long flight to London, when she woke it was to hear the words echoing in her mind, over and over again. 'I will find you.'

'We'll see about that,' she thought. Ben would be a hard nut to crack and without his help, there was no one else that Elliot Burch could turn to. 'Stop worrying. Ben's on your side at least,' she told herself. 'Goodness only knows what Mick will think though; he'd been the one who had got her through the trauma of everything that happened with Tim. Would he be prepared to do it all again?' she wondered. The rest of the flight went smoothly and as soon as Jodie entered the Arrival Hall she spotted Ben waving his arm frantically to attract her attention.

Ben's heart ached when he saw her face; she looked so utterly devastated. He recognized all the signs immediately. He'd seen it all before and it made him so angry. When Jodie had phoned him to say she was flying staight home, he'd detected the heartbreak in her voice.

If only he had known what a bounder Elliot Burch would turn out to be, he'd never have made it so easy for her to stay. All the promises Elliot had made about showing Jodie a good time whilst she stayed on his estate. Now he faced the prospect of helping to pick up the pieces again. 'It hardly seemed possible that it was less than a year ago when Tim Westwood had betrayed her, and now Elliot Burch. Jodie did seem to know how to pick 'em', he thought grimly.

As soon as Jodie reached him, he opened his arms wide and then enclosed her in a protective hug. Ben could feel her shaking, and knew instinctively she was close to breaking down.

"Hey, come on old girl, what's all this? You're home nnow, where you belong," he whispered, as he released her. Jodie attempted a smile and tucked her arm through his as he took charge of the luggage trolley.

"Good flight?" he asked as they walked towars the exit doors.

Jodie seemed very preoccupied, and blurted out, "Elliot says he'll find me, Ben, and the strange thing is, I believe him!"

"Well, I've already had him on the phone and given him short shrift I can tell you. Said you had terminated your contract with me and that I hadn't the faintest idea what you planned to do next. Although, having said that, I do know exactly."

Jodie's eyes quizzed his, as he negotiated the revolving doors that would lead them to the nearest taxi rank.

"I'm taking you for something to eat, and don't shake your head at me like that either, you need to put some more colour back in your cheeks."

Jodie knew it was no use arguing when Ben had his mind made up, and it was probably not a bad idea, she'd hardly eaten a morsel since leaving New York. Ben hailed a cab and once they were inside and the luggage stowed away, she hugged his arm.

"Oh Ben, you really are the best."

The meal was simple, and although Jodie wasn't hungry, she did manage to eat enough to satisfy Ben who was watching her like a hawk.

"Are you done?" he asked, as he watched Jodie pushing what was left of the food around her plate. "If so, I'll just go and give them a ring at home and then we'll hang on here till Alistair comes to fetch us, okay?"

Jodie nodded, it would be good to be home again. After the sudden death of her mother, it was decided that Ben and his wife Claire, should take over the house and that she would have the lodge within the grounds of the small estate, owned by the family. As she sat and reflected, it didn't seem possible that she'd been there six years, in fact, since the birth of the twins, Sophie and Ryan. It had been easy enough to convert two wings of the large mansion house into offices and for Ben and Mick to run some of their business interests from home.

Jodie was the first to recognize that she did come from a privileged background and it was at times like these, she valued being able to make decisions that others might not. Working in the family business had been a rewarding experience, one she had never regretted. Family was very important to her, and she loved having the children to spoil. Deep in her own thoughts, she didn't hear Ben speaking to her.

"Penny for them?" he asked agaiin.

"Don't waste your money," she joked back. "Did you get through to Alistair?"

"Certainly did. He'll be here in about twenty minutes, depending on traffic. Oh, nearly forgot, Bridie sends her love."

A warm feeling touched Jodie's heart at just the mention of her name. Bridie had been a part of her life for so many years; she and her husband Alistair had worked for her family every since she could remember. 'Oh, Bridie, I can't wait to see you,' she thought, and brightened at the prospect.

Alistair Marshall arrived a bit earlier than expected and in a matter of minutes they were speeding towards the motorway that would take them home. Jodie realized that she was totally exhausted and leaned against Ben, hoping she might get some sleep.

Eventually, she felt the car slowing down and as Alistair held up the remote control, the gates opened to allow the car to enter. As soon as he was through, he turned and closed them in the same way. Jodie strained her eyes, drinking in every detail of the drive to the main house.

She turned to Ben. "Aren't you taking me to the Lodge?"

Ben patted her arm reassuringly. "Not tonight love. I'll be happier if you're in your own room and the children will be getting ready for bed, so I can't disappoint them by spiriting you away even before they've said hello. They've talked of nothing else since they knew you were on your way home. Are you okay with that?"

Jodie's eyes filled with tears. "Oh Ben, that's so thoughtful. I wasn't looking forward to being on my own, not straight away. It will be much better to be with my family. I can see the children into bed and then, if you don't mind, I think I shall turn in too."

In his heart Ben breathed a sigh of relief. 'Mission accomplished,' he thought. 'Claire will be proud of me, not to mention Bridie.' Patting her arm, he replied. "Great stuff, I'm glad I thought of it."

The moment they entered the house, Ben's wife, Claire, was trying to restrain her two six-year-olds who squealed with delight as they prepared to launch themselves into Jodie's waiting arms, as she crouched down to greet them.

Above the noise, she managed to sing out. "They've been like this since the moment they knew you were on your way back from the airport." She watched as the children buried their faces into Jodie's neck. Crossing the hall she knelt down and put her arms around the three of them and whispered in Jodie's ear. "I'm so sorry about what's happened sis, but I'm glad you're home." Claire kissed her affectionately.

Jodie leaned to kiss Claire back and then hugged the children close. As she straightened up she told them, "Oh, I needed that. I've missed you so much. Let's see which one of you can be in bed first. I'll be up in a minute to check. There is someone else I must see."

"I've missed you too, Jodie." The warm Scottish voice of Bridie Marshall had Jodie spinning round to find her holding out her arms. "Come here, my pet lamb," she said softly and it didn't surprise her when Jodie dissolved into tears on her ample bosom. "Hush, now, you're safe here. We'll get through this, old Bridie will see to that. Dry your tears, the children are waiting. Run along now, we'll talk later."

Climbing the stairs, Jodie was happy to be back where, she hoped, Elliot would never find her. But, as the saying goes, she told herself, 'never say never!'

In the weeks that followed, it was clear that Jodie needed to recuperate and everyone who loved her rallied to lend their support. She exercised the horses, and swam in the outdoor pool by day, and the indoor pool at night. Little by little, she was recovering some of her old sparkle, but there was a secret that she was keeping from everyone.

'How on earth would the family react when she explained that she wanted to keep the child she was carrying?' At the time it had been conceived, she had been madly in love with the father and honestly believed he felt exactly the same. 'Oh Elliot,' she thought, 'we could have had it all.'

*****

Joe Maxwell cleared his desk, and prepared to meet Elliot Burch. 'What on earth did he need to see Cathy for,' he wondered. "Oh well, only one way to find out," he said aloud. At that precise moment Elliot knocked at his door. Joe shouted. "If that's you, Burch, I'm not in!"

Elliot put his head round the door and bantered back. "Says who?"

Joe grinned and put his hand out across the desk. "To what do I owe this dubious pleasure?"

Shaking Joe's outstretched hand, Elliot wasted no time and came straight to the point. "I need to talk to Catherine."

Joe's eyebrows rose and he frowned. "You know, pal, your timing is crap. You've only just about restored that particular friendship. Why so soon?"

Not about to be fobbed off, Elliot went on. "Jodie's gone back to England. I've tried everything to find her, but I'm hitting blank walls everywhere I turn. But, I will find her, I've just got to. Thing is, when I do, I want to be absolutely certain that I can promise her a meeting with Catherine." He dropped his gueard completely when he admitted. "Joe, Cathy is the only one who can get me out of this mess. I'm desperate here, man. Come on, what do you say?"

"I'm making no promises, Elliot, but I'm seeing her tonight as a matter-of-fact. So call me tomorrow and I'll have an answer, one way or the other. How does that sound?"

Elliot rose to leave and shook Joe's hand again warmly. As he stood in the doorway, he looked so miserable that Joe relented slightly and, sighing, promised. "I'll do my best for you, but don't forget we have Vincent to convince as well. You may find that it will only be possible if I take you to them." He could see that Elliot was looking for positive and waved him out of his office. "Ring me tomorrow and good luck finding Jodie."

*****

When Elliot returned to the Penthouse he heard his phone ringing. Throwing his coat over the back of the couch, he picked it up quickly and cradled it in his neck as he loosened his necktie, answering. "Yes?" He knew that, whoever was calling, it could only be one of a handful of people who had the number to this private line.

"Mr. Burch? Is that Mr. Elliot Burch?"

Elliot was intrigued. He didn't recognize the man's voice at all, but he did detect an English accent. He carried the phone over to the nearest armchair, into which he slumped with his long legs dangling over the arm, whilst he proceeded to kick off his shoes. "Yes, this is he. Who wants to know?"

"I do, Mr. Burch! My name is Michael Jordan and I represent the MBJ Group of Companies. It's been brought to my attention that you've been making rather a nuisance of yourself trying to find a member of my staff, Jodie Phillips. I'm afraid that I'm not prepared to allow this kind of bullyboy tactics to continue. It might work for you, but it certainly doesn't cut any ice with me. I am, however, making it my business now and I have decided to intervene on her behalf, because I do have a particular interest in her personal happiness and well-being."

Elliot hardly knew what to say. He drawn so many blanks lately, he wasn't about to shoot himself in the foot now. He tried not to sound too anxious as he replied.

"Mr. Jordan, if you only knew how desperate I am to put things right between Jodie and me. If I could turn the clock back, believe me, I would. I'm prepared to meet on her terms. Just tell me what you want me to do, and I'll do it. How much has she told you?"

Michael Jordan was doodling on his pad, and couldn't help wondering whether he was doing the right thing interfering in Jodie's life in this way. But he had to do something - that much was blatantly obvious. He decided to go ahead. Perhaps Jodie would thank him one day.

"Shall I say I know enough. Not a pretty story, is it, Mr. Burch? Quite frankly, I'm appalled by your behaviour and I've been undecided for days what to do about you. But Jodie is my reason for calling. At least if I allow the two of you to meet, some good may come of it. Who knows?"

Elliot felt as though his guts were on fire. 'Who the hell did this man think he was talking to?' Undeterred, he controlled his anger, and simply asked, "How soon can I see her?"

"That rather depends on you, Mr. Burch. But I have to warn you that if I allow you to see her, then it will be on my terms and the visit will be supervised. Do I make myself clear?"

With the prospect of seeing Jodie again, at that moment, Elliot knew he would have agreed to anything. His breathing had quicklened but he managed to answer calmly. "Of course, I'll do whatever you say. Just as long as I can see her."

"Very well. Make a note of the number I'm about to give you and you can reach me on it any evening after 7 pm. Don't speak with anyone else about this meeting, that's very important. Book your flight to London and I'll meet you at the airport. Just phone me once you've make your travel arrangements. Goodbye, Mr. Burch."

Elliot ruffled his hair in amazement. He'd tried so hard to find Jodie and now she was being handed to him on a plate. Well almost, but whatever the 'terms' this Michael Jordan might impose, it would be worth it to see her again. His spirits lifted and he felt alive for the first time since Jodie had stormed off and left him standing in the airport lounge.

*****

Joe walked through Central Park, and wondered how he could persuade Vincent and Catherine to meet with Elliot Burch. Once inside the drainage Tunnel, he pulled his flashlight from his pocket and walked briskly to the Iron Gate. In minutes he had accessed the entrance to the Tunnel world, and as Cathy had predicted, he now knew how privileged he felt to be a part of it all. Tonight it was the children's concert, and only the second time he'd been invited. He also knew how hard they'd all been practicing. Perhaps Vincent and Cathy would be in a mellow mood after all that singing! 'Well it's a thought, but who am I kidding?' he asked himself.

Once the concert was over, it was possible to speak to Cathy alone. Joe confided, "Cathy, I don't want you to worry about this. There really is no hidden agenda, but Elliot wants to see you."

Quickly he explained why, and Catherine shook her head at first. What had happened with Vincent that night at the Penthouse had really upset her. But she realized that she must speak to Vincent and Father. It was the way they did things Below. Joe followed her to Father's Chamber, where he and Vincent were relaxing, talking about the concert that had only just ended. As soon as they entered Vincent asked Joe how he'd enjoyed the singing.

Before answering Joe grinned. "They certainly gave it everything they'd got, and that's for sure," at which they all laughed. "They're a great bunch of kids though, you must be so proud of them."

Vincent bowed his head solemnly and then chuckled. "Oh, very proud. Bless them all."

Father motioned for Joe to join them for refreshments, and asked, "There's something you want to ask, isn't there Joe? I'm sure it isn't our herb tea that has brought you down here to see us."

Joe nodded and went on to explain about his mission to help Elliot Burch. He was not expecting the response he got, when Vincent just answered quietly. "Of course, we must help him, Joe. That's what our life Below is all about." He turned to face Jacob Wells. "Do you agree, Father, or do we have to ask the Council? It's not really something for them to even be concerned with, is it?"

Jacob looked thoughtful for a moment and then he spoke. "I don't see what harm it could do. He only wants Catherine to talk with this young woman, doesn't he? So, yes, Joe, I'll allow the meeting to take place, but it has to be here. I know that Vincent would want to go Above if Catherine did, and I really wouldn't be happy about that. So, yes, bring Mr. Burch and Miss Phillips here. Just let us know when and we can alert the sentries."

Joe left wondering again if it was wise to allow Elliot Burch, of all men, to be privy to the world where Catherine and Vincent lived. He consoled himself with the thought that this decision was not one of his making, and after all, Vincent would never let their Community be at risk from anyone. He decided not to wait for Elliot to contact him, but would ring him instead just as soon as he returned Above.

When the phone rang in the Penthouse much later that evening, Elliot was not expecting to hear Joe's voice. "Joe! Back already. Oh man, they won't see me eh?"

"That's where you're wrong, quite the opposite in fact. It's a go." Joe heard the sharp intake of breath and realized how thankful Elliot was.

"That's great, Joe, and man, I owe you big time."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. Good luck finding Jodie. Call me when you do, and we'll take it from there." The click on the line meant the call was over.

Joe walked around his apartment and found he was humming some of the tunes the children had been singing. 'Gee, you're beginning to get to me,' he mused as he undressed for bed.

*****

Elliot's flight was on time and as soon as he walked through the Arrival Hall he saw a tall, distinguished looking man, with a swarthy complexion, standing with a placard just bearing the name 'Burch'. Elliot nodded his head in Michael Jordan's direction and the two men shook hands briefly.

"The meeting is still on? Nothing's happened to change that?" Elliot was anxious that nothing should go wrong. So much depended on it.

Michael Jordan could see immediately what had drawn Jodie to Elliot Burch. He was exactly as she had described him; tall, extremely good-looking, his hair was streaked by the sun from brown to almost blond, with intense blue eyes. Again Michael wondered what Jodie would say when the two of them turned up at The Grange. It was going to be quite some meeting, he half-expected that she would hit the roof, but that was something he would deal with, if and when it happened.

"No, nothing's changed. Mr. Burch, I have to warn you though that I haven't mentioned your visit to Jodie. Chances are she'd have taken herself off somewhere just to avoid you."

He looked at Elliot's face and saw the concern registered there and added, "I'm sorry. But that's how it is."

Together, they took a brisk walk to the airport car park, where Alistair was waiting with the Daimler. Grateful to relax and collect his thoughts after his long haul flight, Elliot closed his eyes. He was well aware that Michael Jordan was watching him, but at this point he really could not have cared less. Deep inside though Elliot couldn't help feeling at a distinct disadvantage, and decided that, for the moment at least, he could afford to bide his time.

As soon as The Grange came into view, Michael decided to wake Elliot. "We're almost there, Mr. Burch. We shall be turning into the drive any minute now."

Opening his eyes Elliot found himself gaping at the landscape in front of him. Rolling hills, beautiful countryside everywhere he looked, with cattle and sheep grazing in the fields on the approach to wherever it was this meeting with Jodie was to take place. At the entrance he noticed 'The Grange' engraved on a plaque on the wrought iron gates, which opened automatically with the remote that Alistair had just used. As soon as the car swept through they were closed in the same way. In the distance the house stood majestically defying the passage of time, it was old, that much was clearly obvious.

Michael Jordan had been waiting to see what kind of reaction all this might have on Elliot Burch, and could see he was impressed, but not fazed. Secretly it pleased him.

"The Grange has been in the family for three generations. Quite a welcoming sight at the end of a hard day."

Elliot swallowed hard, this was his home? "Yes, I should imagine it is," he murmured softly. "Jodie agreed to meet here?" he asked somewhat suspiciously.

Michael knew that Elliot was fishing, and just answered simply. "She needed to be somewhere that would offer her sanctuary and, if she wanted it, absolutely privacy. Something that I've chosen to invade," he added with a rueful look. "I hope I don't live to regret it."

When the car came to a halt at the east side of the house, Elliot noticed a signboard discreetly placed, with the name MBJ Group of Companies on it. He could see several cars, a couple of four-wheel drive vehicles and an estate car, all bearing the MBJ registration plates.

Elliot climbed out of the car and saw Alistair taking his bags out of the trunk. "Here, I'll take those," he offered.

"No need, Mr. Burch, I'll take them. For the time you're here, you will be in the Corporate Suite."

"I will?" he queried.

"Yes, sir. Mr. Michael's orders," Alistair confirmed as he carried the bags.

Michael Jordan beckoned him to follow and the two men entered the MBJ Offices, which were linked to the Corporate Entertaining Suite. The whole concept was quite unique and provided all that was needed for weekend conferences and private consultations. It had its own Board Room, Dining Room, and the lounge area looked over the pastureland surrounding the Estate. As they walked Michael explained how the family had decided to run certain businesses from home, hense the need to have this conversion.

"The house being the size it is, it just made economic sense to combine the two," adding with a wry smile. "But only the personal household know where the line is drawn between business section and our hearth and home."

Elliot followed Michael into the large lounge, and walked to the window to look out over the grounds. His attention was drawn immediately to the paddock where several horses were grazing; he took a good look and then pursed his lips as he spotted a magnificent chestnut Arab. 'No wonder you were so fond of Ashala,' he thought. Turning to look back into the room he said, "Some view you got here, nice and peaceful too."

Michael ran his hand over his mouth, and said ruefully. "When Jodie arrives here, Mr. Burch, I imagine that peace will soon be shattered! Are you sure you're ready for that?" As Elliot nodded, he answered, "All right, then. I think I'd better call her now." He picked up the internal phone and pressed a couple of buttons.

Jodie picked up the phone and was surprised to find Michael Jordan on the other end. "Mick! What a wonderful surprise. What? Okay, I'll come now. Be there in a jiffy."

Michael looked towards Elliot. "Perhaps you'd better sit with your back to that door and then she won't bolt the moment she sets eyes on you."

Withing moments, the door opened and Jodie breezed in, dashing across to throw her arms around Michael Jordan. "Mick, you darling, I'm so pleased to see you. Are you staying the weekend?" She turned because she could see Michael looking over her shoulder indicating that they were not alone. When she saw Elliot the colour drained from her face and she gripped Michael's arms tightly. "Oh Mick, how could you?" She let go of him and was running out of the room before he could stop her.

"Jodie, my darling girl, come back." He turned to Elliot. "This is exactly what I expected. You'd better follow me now, or we shall lose her. This place is huge, there are so many places to hide."

Elliot's mind went into overdrive. 'They were calling each other darling. What the hell did that mean? Had Michael Jordan simply got him to come over on some pretext just to warn him off in person? Was he a rival for Jodie's affections or what? Only one way to find out,' he told himself as he took off and raced after them into the main reception area.

"This way," called Mick as he made a left turn. When Elliot reached his side, he found himself in front of a wall of books. "This is where we enter the family home, Mr. Burch. I'm not in the habit of taking anyone this way. But I am prepared to make a exception in your case." He took a book from the shelf and pressed a large wooden knob on the back wall, which released the door mechanism and the whole bookcase swung open. "Quickly inside. God only knows where she's got to, but we may be able to head her off."

Closing the door behind them, Mick led the way through a large entrance hall, with a galleried landing. "I suspect she'll make for the small family sitting room. It's somewhere she feels safe." 'Damn, I'm betraying her confidence again,' he thought silently. Elliot nodded and followed. He couldn't believe that just seeing him would incense Jodie in this way, and it was then he realized that he'd really got his work cut out to redeem himself in her eyes.

When they finally caught up with Jodie she had, as Mick suspected, taken refuge in the family sitting room. She was curled up in the corner of the old Chesterfield settee, trying to protect herself from a pair of white English Bullterriers, who were giving her a rapturous welcome. Her face was flushed and she was out of breath from running. Michael sat beside her, and immediately got rid of the dogs. "Gert, Daisy, lie down, the pair of you," he commanded.

All Elliot could do was to sit in the opposite chair and watch Michael take Jodie in his arms, trying to placate her. He could wait. He didn't intend to put a foot wrong.

Jodie turned on Michael. "You're the only one who could have arranged this. Why Mick, why? Don't you realize what you've done?"

Michael stroked the hair from her face, and talked to her as if she were a child. "Sweetheart, I couldn't allow you to punish yourself anymore. Enough is enough. You have to face this head on. There's no other way, believe me. If there had been, don't you think I would have found it?"

It was painful for Elliot to watch these tender exchanges, he felt stabs of envy and jealousy piercing his heart; it was almost too much to bear. He uncrossed his legs, hoping to cause some kind of distraction and it worked.

"Mr. Burch, I feel there is something I should explain. I loved Jodie from the moment I first saw her. I was all of eleven, I seem to recall. Loving her and having her in my life has been a most rewarding experience and it's because of how I feel that I've asked you to come here. She has a choice to make and I have to be absolutely sure that she doesn't ever get hurt again. That I won't allow. What is it you want to say that is so important that you would fly thousands of miles in order to just talk to her?"

Elliot was floundering. He hadn't expected such directness, but somehow he managed to remain composed.

"I've come here to ask Jodie to be my wife. I know she's got some fixed idea in her head about me being in love with another woman, but it simply isn't true. He then looked directly at Jodie, who had suddenly pushed her hand into Michael's.

"Jodie, I love you so much. These past three months, I've been desperate without you. Joe Maxwell has been in touch with Cathy and she's prepared to see you, by yourself. If I can't convince you there's nothing between us, I know she can. Will you come back and meet with her?"

He could see he had her attention, but still she moved closer to Michael. "If you need time to make up your mind, I'll wait for as long as it takes." Elliot got to his feet and paced up and down in an attempt to cool off. Finally, he looked directly at Michael and asked, "What are you prepared to offer Jodie, Mr. Jordan? If you've loved her for so long, why haven't you married her yourself?"

The look that covered Michael Jordan's face was one of complete surprise. He hugged Jodie really close, and answered. "Marrying Jodie was never an option for me, Mr. Burch. You see, I'm already married."

Elliot was furious, he heard himself snap back. "Then why are you taking such a keen interest in what concerns her and me? Oh, I get it. If you can't have Jodie, then no one else can."

His words were biting, his temper, fraying rapidly.

Michael crossed the room to face Elliot and calmly tried to reassure him. "You couldn't be more wrong. I said that I loved Jodie, not that I was 'in love' with her. Mr. Burch, she's my sister. Why in Heaven's name would I interfere otherwise. Her happiness means everything to me, and our brother Ben. Families close ranks to protect each other, but in this case, I made a calculated decision to give you a fair hearing."

The relief that covered Elliot's face was clearly obvious. Michael sympathized. "Come, please, this isn't easy. I know now how much she means to you, really I do. I had to be sure of your intentions. Jodie's been hurt badly before. I couldn't ever let it happen again." He went to sit down next to Jodie again. "Can you forgive me, Jo?" How easily the pet name he had for her slipped off his tongue.

"Don't you 'Jo' me, Michael Jordan. I'll deal with you later." She thumped him playfully in his chest. "That's for starters. But you did get the answer you were hoping for, didn't you?"

Jodie looked across at Elliot, who was now recovering from all that had taken place. He felt as though he'd gone ten rounds with Mohammad Ali, but decided it had been worth it. He spoke directly to Michael. "Tell me. How come your name is Jordan, and yet Jodie's is Phillips?"

Michael answered without hesitation. "Our mother was married twice. First to my father David Jordan, and then to Jodie's father Geoffrey Phillips. Sadly, our parents are no longer with us, but after dinner I'd be happy to take you to view our family portrait gallery."

At this Jodie moaned. "Mick, no. You don't have to go that far."

Michael laughed; he was on a roll. "Oh yes I do, but you needn't come if you don't want to," and he gave her a dismissive wave.

He was enjoying spending time with Jodie again, how he'd missed her. "Every one of us is there Elliot, bearskin rugs and all! Seriously,there are some good likenesses of our parents, I'd like you to see those. It's very much a private collection you understand. Incidentally, we used the initials of all our first names to form the Company logo MBJ. Michael, Ben, Jodie. Sibling partners. Works for us."

Elliot hadn't suspected for one moment that Jodie was actually one of the partners. It was not something she even touched on.

"Jodie never mentioned it." His voice sounded surprised.

"Nor would she. Discretion is what has made us successful." Michael was justifiably proud of their achievements. He couldn't help thinking that there was probably a great deal that Jodie hadn't told Elliot Burch and understood only too well why she would choose to keep that side of her life completely private.

Jodie walked across to where Elliot was standing and held out her hand.

"Take a walk with me, Elliot? I think I might need some convincing though; about seeing Catherine. You hurt me Elliot but," her smile was warm and with a toss of her long dark curls, she took his outstretched hand and finished, "perhaps I should. After all, what have I got to lose? As far as your marriage proposal is concerned, you didn't exactly ask me, but I'm prepared to overlook that!" She squeezed his hand, and whispered. "All I'm prepared to say at the moment is, let's take one step at a time!"

"So, can I take it that I'm forgiven for interfering, Jo?" Mich looked fondly at his sister. "We've all been so concerned about you, and at least Elliot has brought a smile to your face. If you're going walking," he recognized the look that came with her raised eyebrows, "of course I know you'll wrap up warm," he finished with brotherly concern.

Elliot couldn't resist the longing in his heart, it was too much to bear. He pulled her into his arms and just held her close, and when she leaned back in his arms. he placed a warm friendly kiss on her forehead. Jodie smiled and then kissed him back lightly on the mouth. "We can at least be friend, can't we? It's a good place to start." Her heart ached when she saw his 'I'm a little boy lost, so you've got to love me' look, and thought 'If only you knew just how much Elliot, how very much.'

Some time later when they reappeared for dinner, Michael leaned that Jodie had agreed to meet with Catherine, that Elliot had already called the airline, arranged for her to be on the same flight as him, and that they would leave two days later.

With the travel arrangements taken care of, they could relax and enjoy being together and getting reacquainted. Elliot hit it off with the twins from the moment he met them, and Jodie watched him carefully. There was so much at stake, she had to make the right decision, and it would be all too easy to accept things at face value. She wasn't sure what the future might hold. She still had to be convinced about Elliot and Catherine. Hopefully, before her condition became obvious to anyone else, that area of concern would be resolved. She was due to have a scan the following day, so she planned to get Mick and Ben to entertain Elliot, whilst she made the excuse she had to do some last minute shopping.

For the moment Elliot was content to enjoy Jodie's company again. Marvelling at the privileged lifestyle that she'd enjoyed from birth and one she didn't take for granted. It was something that really impressed him. He realized more and more that, a life that didn't include her, would be the worst thing that could possibly happen to him. 'Cathy, you've got to come through for me, otherwise, I'm dead in the water,' he pleaded silently.

Sure he was wealthy. He had all the trappings that his success had provided. But Jodie's family had what he termed 'old money,' they were legit, and they were respectable. He sighed; he'd never felt so out of his depth. Nevertheless, he'd come this far; he wasn't going to go down without a fight, and after all that was something he knew all about. Hadn't he had to fight, really fight, all his life for everything he got?

The entire family gathered the night before Elliot and Jodie left, to have dinner together. It turned out to be a really enjoyable experience, especially for Elliot who'd never known the closeness that exists between siblings. He met Ben and Claire, and his charm definitely worked on Michael's wife Annabelle. He hoped in his heart that, one day, he might be a part of this amazing family.

*****

Cleon Manning was waiting to meet them as they walked out of the airport in the throng of passengers, who had just disembarked from the London flight. He took charge of the luggage trolley and asked, "Glad to be back, Jodie?"

Holding Elliot's hand tightly, she replied, "Cleon, ask me in a few days. At the moment he's on a very short leash, and guess who's in charge of that?" Jodie's chuckle was infectious and soon they were hurrying towards the waiting limo.

Seeing the two of them together again Cleon Manning just hoped that, now he had a second chance, his friend would get it right. He'd seen a few women come and go in Elliot's life, but this time he could sense Jodie was different. There was something about her that intrigued him; the expression 'Still waters run deep' sprang to mind. He realized, for the first time, that if Elliot didn't take care he could be the one to get his heart broken. From his first observation of them as Elliot helped Jodie into the back of the car, they appeared to be working things out and he genuinely hoped that they would succeed.

The moment they walked into the elevator of the Penthouse Suite, Jodie could see that Elliot was anxious to call Joe Maxwell. He'd mentioned it several times already on the journey from the airport. Hardly waitiing for the doors to open he walked straight to the nearest phone and put in a call to the DA's Office.

"Hey, that you Joe?" he asked. He was finding it hard to disguise the excitement he was feeling. "Yeah, I know I called you from London, but we're still on for tomorrow morning?"

Elliot paused waiting for Joe to confirm that they would meet at Henry and Lin's shop and start their journey to meet with Catherine. "See you there then and, Joe, really I owe you big time."

Jodie had taken off her coat and was familiarizing herself with somewhere she hadn't ever expected to visit again. "So, what time are we due there?" Dubiously she looked in Elliot's direction as he replaced the receiver.

"Now don't look so worried. It's going to be fine. Er.... it's gonna be an early call though. We must be there by 7:30 am apparently there's some special event taking place and from what I hear we don't want to get caught up in it. Is that going to be okay with you?"

"Of course, I've agreed to this meeting so the sooner we get started and it's over the better. What shall we do this evening? I fancy eating out, how about you?" Jodie was feeling a bit tired after the long flight, but wasn't about to give any cause for concern. "Would be a nice homecoming Elliot, especially if I can have a long luxurious soak in the bath first. Maybe even take a nap? You did say we had a 7:30 call in the morning, didn't you?" Her smile was beguiling, but she knew by the way that Elliot was looking at her that she would get her way.

"Consider it done Jodie, I'll make reservations straight away. Anywhere in particular?" he asked.

"Not especially, you choose. I can dress up or down. It matters not, just as long as the food is good." She was about to walk through to the bedroom when Elliot caught her hand.

"I'm really glad you're here Jodie, thanks for coming back. I promise I won't let you down, please believe me." He wore his little boy lost expression again and it had just the effect on Jodie that he knew it would. A slow smile crept across his mouth, and she couldn't resist, he knew she wouldn't. Leaning against his chest, she wound her arms around his neck and kissed him on the mouth, no pressure, just a beautiful soft gentle kiss that promised so much.

"You hadn't better my lad. Remember I'm watching you!" She bent his head towards her slightly and kissed him again, but this time on his forehead. "Don't let me sleep any later than an hour before we're due to leave, okay? Right, I'm off," and she disentangled herself from his embrace and walked off towards the master bedroom, calling over her shoulder.

"You're in the room next door, yes?"

"Only if you insist," he teased back. They hadn't shared a bed since she had left for England all those long empty months ago, and although it was something they had joked about, Elliot decided he would allow Jodie to make the first move.

"Oh, I do!" she called and he heard the door closing behind her.

*****

After a beautiful evening out together, Elliot felt that they were beginning to restore much of what they had shared before that fateful evening, when Jodie stormed out of his life. He felt his life taking shape again. Hadn't Jodie said she had begun to dream dreams again? Well, so had he. They had turned in well before midnight because of their early start the following morning.

As he had promised Joe was already waiting for them at Henry's shop, and he greeted them both warmly.

"You already know that everyone is trusting you to keep the secret of where Vincent and Catherine live. Can I rely on you never to reveal what you will see?" Joe was making it crystal clear that unless he had such an assurance, then there would be no visit. It could still be called off, he told them as much.

"Joe, you know better than anyone how important this is to me, and I know Jodie feels the same, don't you?"

Elliot turned to Jodie, who nodded, and she assured him. "I'm renowned for being able to keep a secret, Joe, I give you my pormise. I won't betray your trust."

"Good, as long as we know where we stand, we can get going. Ready?" He knocked at Henry's door and the young man showed them through to the back room and moved the packing cases away to reveal the door that would lead to the safe and secret place, where so many wonderful people lived. As soon as they were inside, Joe reached in his pocket for flashlights, and handed one to Jodie and then Elliot. At the end of the passageway that led to the Tunnels, Joe laughed. "I might have guessed it. Henry is such a son of a gun. Take a look at this," and he pointed to a food cart piled high with all kinds of produce. "I tell you that man never misses an opportunity, he is one of the best kind of Helpers."

Jodie and Elliot looked for some kind of explanation. "Helpers?" Jodie queried.

"You'll soon find out, and believe me, what you are about to see will amaze you. I was in a daze for weeks, no, months even. It's a different way of life. Come on, we've got quite a walk ahead of us, and we mustn't be late. You and I will be spending a little time with Vincent while the ladies talk. So let's not keep him waiting."

When they arrived in Vincent's Chamber they found Catherine nursing a sleeping Jacob. Vincent and Jamie had decided to show Elliot and Joe some of their world. And as Jamie left, she tucked her arm through Vincent's and called back over her shoulder. "Take care of my special little boy, won't you?"

Catherine nodded and smiling answered "Always!"

Jodie was mystified, although she chose not to show it. Her mind raced, 'If Jamie and Vincent shared a lift together, why would Catherine want to stay here when she could have everything she wished for with Elliot?' This thought clearly troubled her.

Catherine tucked Jacob snugly in his blanket and then walked over to place him in the crib at the side of the bed. As she turned back, she asked Jodie if she would like some herb tea, which has just been brewed. Jodie was quite wary of Catherine and it was something that she was quick to pick up on.

As Catherine handed Jodie her tea, she asked gently, "It seems very important to Elliot that you and I get to know one another, but I'm not sure that you share his enthusiasm. What is it you want me to tell you, Jodie?"

Taken off guard somewhat by such directness, Jodie lowered her head, unsure how to broach the subject of her relationship with Elliot. The next question completely threw Jodie as Catherine continued. "You love him very much, don't you?"

With her heart thumping in her chest, Jodie struggled not to break down, but at last she answered truthfully. "Yes, I just wish that he could love me even half as much."

Catherine gave a little chuckle. "Oh Jodie, you should stand where I do. He's mad about you! He really needs you in his life. I couldn't be happier."

"You really mean that, don't you?" Jodie was now totally confused and bewildered.

Catherine assured her. "If you knew me better, then you'd know that I never say things I don't mean, but I believe I know what this meeting is all about. You've convinced yourself that Elliot still has strong feelings for me, haven't you?"

Jodie nodded, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "Everything is such a mess. I think the best thing I can do is return to England." Without waiting for a reply, she continued. "I've seen the two of you together and realize that I can't be second best, I won't be. I owe it to myself and to ..." Her voice trailed away as she realized that she had said more than she intended to.

Catherine walked to take another look at Jacob before returning to sit down again. "Jodie, you say you think it will be best if you leave and go home, but best for whom? Certainly not Elliot and I know how very concerned you are, really I do, but what about you?"

At this point Jodie got to her feet as if to leave, but somehow found herself at the crib staring down at the sleeping child. "Catherine, there is something I haven't told you." Jodie turned away, uncertain how to deal with her raging emotions, and then gently touched Jacob's cheek.

Catherine joined her at the crib. "You don't have to tell me, Jodie. I've already guessed. You're pregnant, aren't you?"

Slipping her arms around the shoulders of this tortured young woman, Catherine walked her back to sit beside her on the bed. "Why else would you be putting yourself through all of this? Coming to see me to find out whether or not Elliot and I might still have a future together, when all the time you could be living the most amazing life with the man you love, and who obviously adores you."

Jodie looked into Catherine's eyes and saw such honesty that her heart raced with the infinite possibilities stretching out before her.

"You think so?" She almost begged for reassurance.

"I know so!" Catherine gave her a hug. "What you have to understand, Jodie, is that our relationship never really got started. Yeah, sure, there was a strong physical attraction, but it wasn't meant to be, we both know that now. What's more important, you must believe that, because it is the truth. Perhaps Elliot thinks I might be able to get through to you, as obviously he can't."

At this Jodie smiled wanly and her tears now fell unchecked; the sheer relief was almost tangible. The peace was suddenly shattered by Jacob's crying and they both turned to look in his direction. Catherine was on her feet in an instant and lifted him from the crib and immediately made her way to sit in the big old armchair.

"You've got a mighty pair of lungs young man, just like your father. I guess you're a hungry boy again, aren't you?" she crooned.

Jodie was fascinated and watched how easily it seemed that Catherine could take care of him. "Will Jamie and Vincent be much longer? Can I get you anything? Should I send for someone?"

Catherine raised her head and answered. "No, thanks, I've got everything he needs and besides it will be good for Elliot to get to know Vincent and Jamie better. They didn't exactly get off to a very good start, did they? Hey, don't look so serious. I promise I can handle Jacob."

Jodie looked anxiously at Catherine and asked whether she thought Vincent and Jamie could forgive Elliot for hiring private investigators to find her, especially when it untimately involved their safety and that of Jacob.

Catherine sighed. "There was much that Elliot needed to understand, especially why I can never go back to my old life. We did talk, but you left before he could tell you my reasons for choosing to live here in this Community. Yes, they were concerned for Jacob, we all were. Jamie takes her role very seriously as Godmother, you understand; and she has known Vincent a great deal longer than me, so her first loyalty will always be to him. As far as Vincent is concerned, his family is his life."

At this point Jodie was unable to speak, her mind in utter turmoil. Finally, the words came tumbling out. "You said that Jamie is Jacob's Godmother! I thought that she was his mother. It had crossed my mind that whilst she and Vincent seemed suited, there was a big age difference between them. How on earth did I get it so wrong? I've been so stupid!"

Catherine looked down at her son who was now becoming fretful. "Jodie is a lady who needs straightening out and I think it's time she learned the truth about your mother, don't you? Let's hope we can prove once and for all that she's no threat to her and 'Uncle' Elliot now or ever."

Jodie watched Catherine open her shirt and became completely mesmerized as Jacob started to nurse hungrily.

"See what I meant, Jodie, I've got everything Jacob's needs. He's my son, mine and Vincent's." Her voice became husky as she continued. "Vincent is the most human, human being I have ever known. He's quite unique, that's clearly obvious, but Jodie," her voice faltered. "I owe him everything. He is my life, and now we have Jacob, to share that life. There is only one thing that would complete our family," she put her head back and laughed softly. "A daughter! All I have to do is convince my beloved husband, though it's a bit soon to put him through another birth, especially if it's anything like the last one." She looked directly at Jodie and smiled. "Happy now?"

Jodie lifted her head and her eyes met Catherine's questioning gaze. "More than I ever thought possible, but I'm also wondering how Elliot will react when he finds out that you are Jacob's mother."

She shuddered, remembering how enraged Vincent had been when he arrived at the Penthouse. "When I think of what could have happened to Elliot; Vincent was so angry, Catherine, from where I was standing, I thought he was going to kill him. If it hadn't been for you," and she shuddered again.

Catherine lifted Jacob onto her shoulder and patted his back gently. "But I was there, Jodie. I told Elliot once that there was someone in my life and there was no doubt in his mind when he saw what happened between Vincent and me. He knew, believe me. In that split second he came face-to-face with a truth that once he hadn't wanted to believe. Elliot saw the anger and hatred disappear the moment Vincent heard my voice and knew I was in no real danger."

Holding Jacob close whilst she kissed his closed eyes, Catherine then settled him in his crib. She walked over to Jodie and slipped her arm around her shoulders.

"He already knows the bond there is between Vincent and me; he doesn't need telling. He has seen it with his own eyes. I told Elliot at the Penthouse that this beautiful child is our son. Vincent's behaviour made that much blatantly obvious. It's a pity it wasn't that obvious to you too, but then you weren't the one that Vincent had pinned to the wall, were you?"

At this Jodie relaxed and laughed. "No, and I'm jolly glad it wasn't me! Oh Catherine, I realize now that Elliot could have told me about you and Vincent, but he also realized that I needed to find out the truth for myself. He knows me too well at times, perhaps that's not such a bad thing?"

Jodie turned to look at Catherine and realized immediately why she hadn't answered her. Voices in the passageway had alerted her to Vincent's return and when he entered the Chamber her eyes searched his face hungrily. The exchange between the two of them proved beyond any doubt that every single word that Catherine had spoken had been the truth. The bond between them was staggering.

Vincent looked in Catherine's direction and crossed the Chamber to cover both of her hands with his left hand, whilst his right arm encircled her shoulders as he drew her into his embrace and kissed the top of her head. Catherine leaned into his body and sighed deeply, she was utterly content that much was plain to see.

Vincent held Catherine at arms length and apologized. "I'm afraid I can't stay, my love. I've been captured! However, the children have given me a 'Leave of Absence' pass, would you believe? Jamie managed to get Joe away, but only because they were able to outrun the children who tried very hard to capture them. Poor Elliot didn't stand a chance, he was surrounded so quickly." Vincent nodded over his shoulder. "The children are waiting for me outside. I told them we had special visitors and that you needed to know what had happened to one of them. Really, I should have known better. You would think I'd learned from past experience what can happen when children are in charge. I suggest you stay here until the curfew is lifted - not much longer to wait. I know only too well what's in store for me, but I shall try to intervene on Elliot's behalf. They can't have it all their own way." Vincent sighed. "Believe me, I never intended to ever get caught again after what happened last time."

Catherine was shaking with laughter. "Oh Vincent, I don't believe it! Who'd have thought it? But aren't special visitors excempt?"

Vincent lifted his huge shoulders and sighed. "Apparently not my love. This new Council seem to be making up the rules as they go along. I only went back to reason with them and got myself captured! I will see you at the Great Falls later, won't I? You will come?" Vincent looked resigned, but knew that whatever he was asked to do, he wasn't about to disappoint the children.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world. I'll be there. You can count on me," and her shoulders started to shake and she was laughing all over again at the very thought of what might be expected of Vincent and Elliot.

The sound of her laughter was wonderful to hear, but Vincent held her still, and said with mock severity. "Catherine, just be thankful they didn't capture Father!" And he left the Chamber in a hurry, his cloak swinging wide. They heard the children chanting 'Captured, captured,' as they led Vincent away.

"Catherine, what's going on?" Jodie couldn't wait to hear what had happened.

"The annual game of 'Hide and Seek.' Once a year, the children are allowed to be in charge for a day. They are supervised, of course, but they take their responsibilities very seriously. The sentries are vital to our security, so this is why they impose a curfew. Anyone found breaking it has the choice of trying to outrun their would-be captors or if captured, they have to pay a forfeit. The curfew is only imposed for the morning, because there are so many jobs that have to be done and it wouldn't be practical to have the children running wild all day. They only really ever go after Vincent, but I'm not about to spoil your fun by telling you what he's expected to do. You'll just have to be patient and wait and see."

Catherine had to stop talking because she was laughing again. "It's only a year since Vincent was captured and then it was my fault. I can't believe that he would quite deliberately give himself up to save Elliot. Don't look so concerned Jodie; It's all good fun. No one will get hurt, that's not part of their master plan I can assure you. You see we live by certain rules down here, some more strict than others, so it's only fair really that the children get a chance to take their revenge and pay us back. If they ever manage to capture anybody that is! Oh my, can you hear that racket?"

Jodie heard loud clanking noises, and her eyes widened in surprise. "Whatever is that all about?"

"It's the children sending messages on the pipes to let everyone know that Vincent's been captured. The younger ones are beginning to get the hang of it, takes time, but they do their best. Didn't you ever wonder how Vincent knew where to find us at the Penthouse? Jamie used her own identity code and tapped an SOS on the pipe system in that underground room in the car park. We have a unique way of communicating down here, and she knew that someone would pick it up. Pascal is the most wonderful pipe master, he took over from his father many years ago."

She noticed Jodie's look of surprise. "Yes, some of them have been down here for more than thirty years, hard to believe isn't it?"

Jodie leaned back in her chair, she felt as though she was in a time warp, nothing could have prepared her for this. "I don't know what to say," she stammered.

Catherine smiled. "I felt like that at first. Jodie, I'd like to tell you how Vincent changed my life forever, if you'd like to hear our story? I'd really like you to share just a fraction of what it means to be a part of this special Community."

"I'd love for you to tell me, Catherine, and we do have until midday. I'm not about to get myself captured. How about you?" Jodie was feeling very relaxed and happy, and she lifted her legs over the arm of the chair and settled back to hear what Catherine wanted to tell her.

"Oh no! When Vincent was captured last year, it was like I said, all my fault. And, believe me, never again." Catherine's voice trailed away and eyes glazed slightly as she remembered that unforgettable moment when Vincent had kissed her at Giant Falls in front of the whole Community. Realizing that her concentration had wavered and her mind had wandered. Catherine apologized, "I'm sorry, where was I?"

"By the look on your face just then, remembering something too special to ever forget," commented Jodie.

"Ah, yes, but that's a different story. I'll save that one for another time. For now, I'll start at the beginning...."

In the hours that followed Jodie learned so much about Catherine and Vincent that she felt privileged to be trusted in ways she hadn't believed possible. Catherine also told Jodie about the night Elliot's father had been murdered and it was obvious from her reaction that it was something that Elliot had kept to himself. It helped to fill in just some of the gaps that were necessary for Jodie to begin to understand the sensitive relationship that would always exist between Catherine and Elliot. Catherine could see how her explanation had eased the worries that had been lurking in Jodie's mind, torturing her at every turn.

They also discovered they had much in common, wealthy parents who had provided lifestyles that other people could only dream about. They'd both enjoyed the benefit of a college education, worthwhile careers, foreign travel, designer clothes, but also shared a penchant for getting involved with the wrong kind of man. A firm friendship was forming without either of them realizing, it was one that would stand the test of time.

*****

The younger children were bubbling with excitement, and there were those that remembered Vincent being captured before. The noise was tremendous, they were all chanting and shouting, until in the end Vincent just put one finger to his lips.

You could have heard a pin drop. "Now we can do this as friends, or we can become enemies," he threatened, as he walked between them, growling softly into the faces of those who dared to even blink. "Don't forget, I am allowed to choose victims, to help me complete my forfeit." The children backed away as he prowled amongst them.

He turned and pointed to Elliot.

"This man came down here as our guest, and despite the rules you have chosen to capture him. I would like to suggest that the very least you can do is find a forfeit that is more appropriate than the one I know you have planned for me." At this Vincent put the back of his hand to his forehead and placed the other hand on his chest in a very theatrical gesture and said, "I accept my punishment, but go easy on my friend, please."

The children were jumping up and down. They knew by what Vincent had just said that he would fulfill the forfeit they had planned. The junior Council went into a huddle and it was Jamie who stepped forward to represent them. "Mr. Burch, it has been decided unanimously that you are to sing for your supper."

Elliot groaned. "You're quite sure about this? Okay, but I'd like to make a request." He addressed his remarks directly to Jamie. "Do I get to pick the song... please? I have a special reason for asking."

He looked so earnest that Jamie agreed and informed him that the meal would commence at 7 pm prompt in the Great Hall, and that he would be escorted there, suitably dressed for the occasion. She turned to speak to the children. "Take them both away, and I'll join you soon."

*****

By the time Jamie arrived back at Vincent and Catherine's Chamber, she found Mary about to deliver a tray with some food and mugs of tea.

"Ah Jamie my dear, this is getting heavy. Would you like to relieve me?"

Quickly, Jamie came to her rescue and the two of them walked in to join Catherine and Jodie, who were engrossed in conversation. They stopped, looked up and smiled enthusiastically as they helped themselves to tea and homemade bread and jam.

"Something light my dears, we've got quite a banquet planned for this evening." She turned to Jodie, and said, "Father has asked me to invite you and Mr. Burch to spend the night Below with us, if you'd like." Her lovely face was flushed from helping William in the kitchen, and her cheeks were rosy.

“Before you say a word, it won't be any trouble. We've got everything you might need in our guest Chambers. They're adequate and comfortable, aren't they, Catherine?"

"Oh yes. I have very happy memories of the times I used to spend in mine. I hope it's possible Jodie. Believe me you'll enjoy sharing time with us. Do say yes." Catherine's eyes encouraged her to at least think about it.

"I can't speak for Elliot, but I know I'd love to stay. I'm having such a good time. You've made me so welcome. Thank you." Jodie wondered what Elliot's reaction might be, but she hoped that he would stay too. "Will Joe stay, do you know?" she asked.

Catherine's smile widened. "Oh yes, definitely. Vincent managed to evade capture for years until I got involved last year, so you can bet on it that Joe won't be able to tear himself away until he's seen what the children have in store for him. Of course, Elliot's in the frame as well now, so he won't want to miss that either."

She hugged herself. "Oh, it's going to be such a laugh; I can hardly wait." At that moment Jacob decided it wa time to make his presence felt as he woke from his sleep. Catherine was on her feet in an instant and called. "Okay my precious boy, I'm coming. I know, you're hungry again."

Jamie went to have a quick word with Catherine and then crossed the room to rummage through Vincent's wardrobe. Having found what she was looking for, she finished her tea, picked up another slice of bread and jam and hurried away, calling, "See you later."

Catherine carried Jacob over to Jodie. "Would you like to give him a cuddle while I get him a change of clothes? He's not that hungry, he can last a bit longer. Then I think it would be a good idea if I take you along to my old guest chamber. You look as though you might like to have a nap, yes?"

It was just what Jodie wanted to hear. Fortunately, she wasn't having any other ill effects, no sickness, just tiredness. She studied Jacob's face intently, the large cornflower blue eyes compelling her not to look away.

"Oh, you're going to break some hearts one day, aren't you?" she whispered. "Catherine, he really is a lovely boy, and hasn't he grown?"

"Yes, he takes after his father, whom I'm told also had a voracious appetite at his age. Now, young man, let's feed you and then take Jodie to have a lie down."

She lifted Jacob easily into her arms and relaxed in the old armchair and watched as Jacob began to suckle. "Oh, you can be such a greedy little boy sometimes. Slow down, there's no one else but you, my darling."

As soon as Jacob was satisfied, Catherine sponged him and then changed his clothes. She smiled at Jodie. "Come on, you look dead beat. Now you're a lady in waiting, you must be really sensible and rest whenever you feel the need."

Jodie smiled. "That's something I've got to talk to Elliot about. He's asked me to marry him Cathy, but I have to be sure, especially now." Her hand moved to her stomach, in a touching protective gesture. There was something that she had been holding back, and in her heart she knew that Elliot must be the first to know. Her recent scan had shown that she was expecting twins, that was why she was feeling tired all the time, but apart form that she was fine. 'Might as well hit him with both barrels, I suppose,' she thought. 'I just hope he doesn't make a run for it.' She really hadn't the faintest idea what his reaction might be.

Holding this secret to herself, she felt Catherine's arm around her shoulders, hugging her warmly. "Give him a chance Jodie, don't write him off. You must do whatever you think is best, but I know you'll make the right decision when the time comes. Please, talk to Elliot. I think you'll be surprised by his reaction."

Jode followed Catherine down the Tunnels, thankful that the curfew had been lifted and there were no children about to pounce on them.

When they arrived at the guest chamber that had once been used by Catherine, Jodie was amazed by everything she saw. Catherine walked to the wardrobe, and throwing open both doors said, "If you'd like to wear something more casual this afternoon, please help yourself to whatever you find. I know they're designer labels, a part of my old life, but there might be something you'd like. There's a washroom just around the bend of this tunnel. All we ever ask of overnight guests is that they don't waste water. It's a very precious commodity down here. I'll come for you later - enjoy your nap," and with that she was gone.

Jodie found a bathrobe and towels and decided to take a shower before lying down for her nap. It was incredible how resources had been literally tapped, and soon she was enjoying a warm shower. It didn't take many minutes and she felt so refreshed. Laying her hand on her stomach which was now beginning to swell, she whispered. "Hang in there, little one. I have to tell your Daddy about you, and soon."

Returning to the guest Chamber, Jodie lay down and was soon resting peacefully. The tapping on the pipes woke her and at first she couldn't think where she was. The constant tapping reassured her and she couldn't believe that she had managed to sleep through it. After looking through the guest wardrobe, she decided to wear a chiffon dress in burgundy later that evening, which complimented her colouring and dark hair. It was an empire line, which would disguise her figure beautifully.

'This will do perfectly for now,' she thought, as she came across a warm fleecy-lined, pale blue tracksuit and by the time Catherine arrived with Jacob, she was ready. When Jodie noticed that Catherine was also wearing a jogging suit, she was pleased with her choice.

Catherine saw the burgundy dress hanging on the outside of the wardrobe, and she touched it briefly. "Oh Jodie, it seems a lifetime since I wore this, and when you do tonight, you'll rock Elliot's boat, that's for sure."

Jodie flushed. "You really think so?"

Catherine chuckled. "I know so. I've told you, he's crazy about you. Now let's get started for Giant Falls," and together they began their journey.

"Where are we going?" Jodie asked. "What exactly are Giant Falls?"

On the way, Catherine explained that it was the largest area of water Below, with high waterfalls. "We swim there ourselves and also allow the children who are competent to swim there as well, but always supervised because the waters are very deep in parts. Exercise and being able to take care of yourself in water is very important down here." At last they arrived, and could see that quite a crowd had already gathered.

Catherine walked straight to Father. "Now don't look so worried, Father. You know Vincent will be fine. He's done it many times before."

Father looked concerned. "I know my dear, but I do worry. I can't help it. Ah, here comes the children. There's Vincent, and Mr. Burch."

The Junior Council assembled in front of Father and, Jamie, as spokeperson, told everyone that it had been decided that Mr. Burch will have to sing for his supper in the Banquet later that evening. Then she turned to Vincent.

"I think you're well aware of what's expected of you, Vincent. Would you like to choose any victims this year, or are you prepared to perform your forfeit on your own."

Vincent moved between the children growling menacingly, pausing every now and then, only to find children backing away rapidly. He spun around quickly.

"Where's Joe?" he asked, his voice rasping. Joe's face blanched. 'What was Vincent up to?'

"There he is,'' shouted one of the children. "Behind you, Vincent." Immediately, the children circled Joe, there was no escape. He was brought to stand before Vincent, who leaned to whisper in his ear. "Don't let me down, Joe. It's all in a good cause."

Vincent laughed softly when he heard Joe's, "Oh man!"

Vincent stood at the edge of the pool and motioned for Joe to join him, and speaking quietly he asked him to hold his cloak in such a way that he would be able to drop into the water without being seen. Joe was puzzled, but agreed. It hadn't occured to him that Vincent would want to conceal himself from Elliot Burch, because he was only wearing swimmng trunks. Even though Catherine had assured him time and again that his body was one that any man would be proud of, the fact he was more hirsute than most always bothered him, Now he was particularly conscious of the golden down that covered him.

Vincent released the clasp on his cloak and said dramatically. "It is a far better thing that I do now, than I have ever done before." Joe stepped forward and held Vincent's cloak, in the way that a conjuror might, and then watched as he crouched down and lowered himself gradually to disappear silently beneath the surface of the water. When Joe allowed the cloak to fall to the ground, the children gasped. Vincent was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly, halfway across the cavern he broke the surface of the water and chanting started and could be heard by everyone present, the sound of the words "Climb, climb, climb," was unrelenting.

Elliot and Jodie stood side by side with Catherine; whose face was glowing with pride at the show that Vincent was putting on for the benefit of the children. She handed Jacob to Mary and whispered, "I've got a little surprise of my own, Mary. Look after Jacob for me, will you?"

Without them realizing, Catherine slipped away, and in the shadows she managed to dodge between the rocks and position herself opposite to where she knew he would make his dive. The noise was getting louder and louder, and at last Vincent began his climb to the ledge overhanging the deepest part of the Falls. Suddenly the chanting stopped as they all watched Vincent picking his way to reach the ledge. Once he was safe, the chanting began again, but had changed to. "Dive, dive, dive."

Vincent sat down and swung his legs over the side, just as he had done a year ago and called, "Can't hear you."

"Oh yes you can," the children shouted back.

Nodding, and giving a resigned wave Vincent sprang to his feet and went to look down into the swirling waters, knowing from experience that this was the very deepest part. Drawing himself to his full height, standing tall and erect Vincent looked towards the onlookers, realizing for the first time that he needed to make this dive to prove something to himself. He could see Elliot and Joe and knew this dive was for them too. He took a deep breath and performed a double somersault with a half twist. The roar that went up was deafening. When he broke the surface of the water, he saw Catherine, who was ready in her swimsuit; her jogging suit lay nearby. Realizing she was about to join him, he immediately began swimming in her direction instead of returning to the children.

Their attention was now drawn to the opposite side of the cavern where Catherine had climbed onto a lower ledge. She waved to everyone, stepped back and did a running dive, cutting the water like an arrow. The children were jumping up and down, and stamping their feet. It was bedlam. To see the two people they loved so much putting on such an exhibition was more than they'd ever dreamed of. They watched as Vincent and Catherine swam towards each other, and the chanting began again, but this time, "Kiss, kiss, kiss."

Vincent raised his hand in salute, pulled Catherine into his arms and as their lips were about to meet, the disappeared beneath the surface of the water. The look of amazement on the children's faces was something to behold, it was so typical of Vincent, and he'd had the last laugh after all.

Elliot and Joe had both been watching Vincent intently, and neither of them could believe that he would attempt a dive from such a height.

"Man, ain't he something?" Joe asked Elliot. When Joe turned to look at Elliot, he saw the realization in his eyes that in this world, Vincent had no equal. In those few moments before the dive, Vincent had stood tall, proud and erect, an almost God-like figure, bathed in gold. Elliot had definitely recognized this, but then afterwards all he saw was a unique man performing something quite spectacular for those who shared his life.

"Yes, Joe, he is. I can finally see why Cathy has chosen to live her life with him. What they share is ...," his voice trailed away, and he looked wistful, and then he continued slowly, choosing his words carefully."....something that was meant to be, two halves of the same whole. She really does see the world through his eyes now and we both know he worships her; he'll never let her down. They would die for each other."

He sighed deeply and pushed his hair off his forehead. "Oh man, what I wouldn't give to have just a part of that."

Jamie interrupted this exchange, by handing Elliot a bundle of clothing and she whispered, "Even if you say you can't sing very well, at least you can look the part, can't you? Oh yes, I managed to borrow a guitar from the music group, so perhaps you can drown out your voice, if it's as bad as you say it is. Come on, we haven't got much time before everyone starts making for the Great Hall."

Elliot was about to follow, but Father intercepted Jamie and the children. "Jamie, I'd like for you to allow Mr. Burch to join Jodie in the guest chamber. They have things they need to discuss and perhaps they would have done so already, had it not been for this game we play each year."

He turned to Elliot. "If you're quick, you'll just catch her. Look she's over there."

Needing no encouragement, Elliot soon caught up with her and together they began the walk to the guest Chamber.

Father then took charge and announced that it was high time that the little ones were settled for the night and that everyone else had better get ready for the banquet, assuring them that, "Vincent and Catherine will sort themselves out. We'll leave them to enjoy their swim."

Mary left some robes and towels, and the crowd soon dispersed. They had an exciting evening to look forward to and, after all, the great Elliot Burch still had his forfeit to pay.

*****

Vincent and Catherine resurfaced to find the cavern was emptying quickly.

Vincent spoke first. "That was such a nice thing you did for the children, Catherine. I didn't expect company."

"Did you honestly think that I would miss the chance to swim with my husband? I suppose very soon now, you will be thnking of teaching Jacob?" She grinned knowing full well that he'd already taken him to one of the smaller pools to have a little splash about.

Vincent turned onto his back to float and Catherine swam across his body. "Did you and Jodie get things sorted?" he asked.

Catherine placed her hands on Vincent's shoulders; his body sank immediately and he found himself treading water. "Oh yes, she's in no doubt. No doubt at all about you and me. Elliot wants to marry her, Vincent. I had to do everything I could to help her make the right decision. There are things she has to tell Elliot and who knows? It could happen tonight!" She grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled his mouth towards her. "One more kiss and then I'll race you back. We've just about got time to get ready. And don't forget, it's Elliot's turn to pay his forfeit." The sound of their happy laughter echoed around the now empty cavern.

*****

As soon as they reached the Chamber where Jodie was spending the night, she was glad to be able to sit down and made straight for the bed.

"Are you sure you want to do this now, you look tired?" Elliot took Jodie's hand and asked urgently. "How did it go with Catherine? You do believe me now, you know the truth?"

His concern was touching, and he wore such an anxious expression. Elliot was desperate to know what Jodie had decided, but he didn't want her to rush into making a decision she might later regret.

She looked at his anxious face. "Yes, I do believe you. I'm fine, but tired, that's all. We got on extremely well. I like her, Elliot. Very much." She dropped her head momentarily, and then apologetically she looked at Elliot again.

"Elliot, I'm so sorry I didn't trust you enough, and ran away. But you have to try and understand that at the time I felt so betrayed, jealous, and very bitter. All those old feelings came rushing in on me and I wasn't seeing things clearly. I have to confess that I didn't just come here to meet with Catherine; you see, there was another reason."

Elliot sat down beside her and waited as patiently as he could.

Jodie asked tentatively. "There's something I need to know, Elliot. You've already met my family and realize how important family life is to me. How do you feel about having children? Would you mind having them in your life, at the Penthouse, at the estate on Long Island?"

"Am I missing something here, or what? Whose children?" He was mystified. "I thought Ben and Claire's twins were cute. Oh, I get it. Jodie, you know your family and the children are welcome to come and stay as often and for as long as they like." 'That was a relief,' he thought, but then he saw the look on her face and realized he still hadn't gotten it right.

"What is it you're trying to ask, honey. Spit it out. I'm drowning here."

"Elliot, I'm so sorry. This is very hard." She bit her lip. "Since you followed me to England and we've been back together again, I haven't been entirely honest with you and I'm making a complete hash of this now. But, in my cockeyed way, I'm trying to tell you that I'm pregnant." There she blurted it out.

The look on his face was incredulous, and he stood up walking halfway across the room and kept his back turned.

Jodie went to him. "Elliot?" She pleaded but still he didn't move.

Quietly, choosing her words with great care, she tried again. "I had to tell you because it wouldn't be fair to you if I didn't. I'd never want you to feel I'd trapped you into marriage, just because I was pregnant. You have a choice here, and I shall understand if children don't fit into your scheme of things. I'll have the babies. They won't want for a thing. Oh Elliot, please say something. Anything."

When Elliot turned around, and raised his head to meet her questioning gaze, she saw at once that his cheeks were wet with tears. She reached up to place her hand against the side of his face.

"Elliot?" she asked gently.

He shrugged her hand away and asked brusquely.

"Did you say babies? Are you sure? How many? How long have you known?" So many questions, they came like machine gun fire, and she backed away, totally unprepared for this unexpected display of hostility.

"I did. I'm absolutely sure. Two. Shortly after I returned to England." She answered him just as rapidly.

Elliot moved away from her and sank on the bed. Jodie could see he was distraught. At last he spoke, "I am so hurt, Jodie. If you only knew how much it means to me. How could you even think that I wouldn't want my own children? They're not just yours. They're mine as well, remember." His voice was hoarse.

Jodie sensed how much he was hurting; she moved towards the bed and said quietly. "How you might have felt about having children of your own was not something that ever cropped up in conversation, not once. How could I be expected to know what your reaction would be? It was only after I returned to England that I discovered I was pregnant. Don't you ever forget that I believed that your future lay with Catherine Chandler, not me! I'm overwhelmed that you feel the way you do, especially after the way I've behaved. It's far more than I dared to hope for." She was standing watching as he punched his clenched fist into the palm of his other hand, his knuckles were white.

"That's absolute nonsense and you know it!" Elliot retaliated. "Would you ever have told me? Every man has the right to know that he's going to be a father. I'm no different than anyone else, and the sooner you realize that, the better. What do you take me for? What kind of a man do you think I am for Heaven's sake?" When his steel grey eyes focused on her the look was icy and suddenly she felt afraid.

Inwardly, Jodie shuddered, but bravely she answered honestly. "The only one that I'll ever love, and that's for sure. Can't you forgive me for holding out on you like this? I never meant to hurt you, Elliot, really, I didn't. I've been all over the place since I left you. I felt I'd burnt all my bridges where you were concerned and I've never been so miserable in my life." A sob caught in her throat, her legs seem to belong to someone else and she stumbled.

Elliot was on his feet instantly and held her at arm's length. His voice suddenly became deadly serious. "I do know that I won't allow you to return to England. And what is more, once the children are born I won't allow you to take them away from me either. I want them here with me. You've literally turned my world upside down Jodie, but then I suppose that was your intention." It was a cruel jibe and it struck home.

Jodie's heart catapulted in her chest and she felt as though every ounce of her energy had dissipated in the space of a heartbeat. She gripped his arms tightly, hoping that she wouldn't pass out; no way had she expected this. She was well aware of his reputation, and she'd heard about how ruthless he could be, if the occasion warranted it. Was this one of those occasions? This was refined cruelty, threatening to take the children away from her, even before they were born. Jodie felt scared, angry and helpless all at the same time, but she knocked his arms out of the way.

"Elliot, what exactly are you saying?" Her eyes darkened as she stared at him and she felt the hairs on the back of her neck bristling as a morbid feeling of dread stole across her heart. "If you honestly think I'd trick you into marriage because I'm pregnant, then forget it. You needn't feel any obligation on our account. I don't need anything from you; not a thing. Do you hear me?"

"Loud and clear. But you must see that I can be forgiven for thinking that you might consider me a good catch. You wouldn't be the first." He suggested dryly.

"If that were true, which it isn't, I don't imagine I would be the last either." Jodie was livid with the lid off and pushed him away from her with a force she didn't know she possessed. She felt as though she had been backed into a corner and there was no way out. Her anger spilled over, as she glowered at him.

"Let's get this out in the open once and for all, Elliot, and then we needn't touch on it ever again. I never was attracted to your money. I was attracted to you, and only you. I can assure you that, contrary to what you might be thinking at this moment, your wealth and position has never mattered one iota to me."

Elliot took a step towards her, but she backed further away, so he stood still, and argued instead.

"That's easy enough to say, but you can't blame me for wanting the best for the children. I know you will offer them a loving home and I've seen the lifestyle you've always been used to, but it all takes money. Will the family be prepared to support you financially as well if you can't work? Where will you live for instance, with them in their house or by yourself in The Lodge?"

Jodie suddenly felt desperately tired, and walked past him to sit on the bed again. "Normally I wouldn't dream of discussing such private matters and this certainly isn't the way I would have chosen to tell you, but Elliot, you leave me no option. The Grange is my family home and when my father died, as his natural heir and only child, the house and the entire estate passed to me." She paused, wondering how much more to tell Elliot, but decided he might as well know everything.

"This is where it starts to get complicated. You see, my mother's first husband David Jordan was also an extremely wealthy man, and my mother came from wealthy parents too. The expression 'money marries money' was never truer in their case. Of course, it happened all over again when Mother married my father. When I was born within the first year of their marriage, my father set up a trust fund for me. My brothers already had theirs. David Jordan had taken care of that." Jodie bit her lip uncertainly before admitting. "In my case we're talking about a very substantial sum. It was divided into four parts and I will receive the final part of my inheritance on my thirty-fifth birthday."

Elliot was looking increasingly bewildered, and came to sit beside her on the bed.

Jodie stood up and walked away from him, and continued. "The Grange has been in the family for three generations. My great-grandfather commissioned the building of it; he was the first Geoffrey Phillips, and naturally when my parents married, my mother chose to live there. Mick and Ben were eight and ten at the time. We had the most amazing time growing up together, and have never lost that close bond that siblings can share, if they're really lucky. Finally ..."

But Elliot interrupted her. "There's more?" he asked, not sure if he wanted Jodie to continue.

"Finally," Jodie picked up again. "I also have an apartment in Rome, a medieval house in France and a villa in southern Spain. So you see Elliot, I was telling the truth when I said your money didn't matter to me. It never did. As far as me actually working, well, we only did Cleon a favour really when he first approached us. There is quite a business empire running very smoothly back at home, even though we've now begun importing wine from our French and Spanish vineyards. I can assure you that work won't present any problems either. Whether I choose to work is something for me to decide and, besides, I can always recruit more staff," she added with sublime candour, watching every nuance on Elliot's face.

Jodie had regained her composure and walked to face him, and pushing her hair back from her face, she countered, "So don't you dare threaten me with our babies either or I'll make you really sorry you did!"

He interrupted her again and said smugly. "Our babies!" Elliot grabbed her arms to hold her still.

But she ignored him completely and spat out. "I promise you here and now that you'll never see me again, or them ever. So again, I'm asking, what exactly are you saying, Elliot? Well, I'm waiting?"

Her outburst and all that she'd confided had visibly shocked Elliot, but the more she struggled to free herself, the tighter he held her. This was what he admired and loved about her. The fact that she could take on the world if she had  to, and him in particular. Life would never be dull of that much he was sure.

"Well, it does rather change things, because if I push my case to marry you, perhaps I'll be regarded as a fortune hunter myself?"

Jodie threw back her head and laughed. "That was the one thing that Mick and Ben could be sure you weren't, unlike Tim. Obviously, they've always known about my financial situation, and between us, with professional guidance, we've taken care of all our investments since our parents died. They were always so protective for that very reason. They were suspicious of Tim from the moment they met him, and they did warn me. However, he had an affair, which broke my heart and put me off men forever, or I thought it had, until I met you. I'd been so scared of getting hurt in such a way again and I was so vulnerable, Elliot. You'll never know how hard I tried not to get involved with you. Falling in love with you was all too easy, you can be very persuasive. You swept me off my feet all right, but let's not even go there. After being unceremoniously dumped by Tim, I took that job with you so I could move on, and look where that got me."

"Into bed with me," he whispered against her hair.

Jodie struggled and asked him again. "Elliot, I'm still waiting for an answer. What exactly are you saying?"

He kissed her hard on the mouth to silence her. "I should have thought that was perfectly obvious! The children will stay in this country with their father," and he kissed her again, but this time with an increasing passion.

"You see, he just happens to be absolutely crazy about their mother, and I might also add that he loves her to distraction." At this point, time stood still as their mouths met and Elliot seemed to draw every breath from Jodie's body.

"So you must understand that I have to insist that she stays too," he paused and added with a triumphant ring to his voice. "Because she's actually admitted that she's in love with me!"

Jodie was trembling, her lips parted to speak, but again he silenced any protest she might have dared to utter. Locking his arms tightly around her, he knew he couldn't stay mad at her for long. He loved her far too much to let anything stand in the way of their happiness, and he capitulated without hesitation.

"I dare say we can match each other dollar for dollar, but I have to ask myself, why in God's name are we fighting, Jodie? They say that money is the root of all evil; but it doesn't have to be, not with us. I'll sign any pre-nuptial you like, if that's what it takes, but for now I'd much sooner concentrate on what's far more important, our future, and I'll tell you exactly what I'm saying. I'd like us to be married as soon as I can arrange it, and your family must come out here for the ceremony. I'm definitely 'managing' you and 'arranging' your life Jodie and, this time, I won't brook any argument. It's not open to discussion. Do you understand? Am I making myself clear enough for you?" Elliot was now feeling more confident, and gaining control. He knew exactly what he wanted and he was determined that Jodie should too.

"Well?" He stood back with his hands on his hips, demanding her answer, his tone was self-mocking.

Jodie was momentarily lost for words. This was a side of Elliot she'd never seen before and as he waited for her answer, she realized she didn't mind at all. In fact, for the first time in her life, she knew she'd met her match and she was glad. It was what she wanted. Someone who knew what she needed, and was going to make sure she got it.

He asked again. "Well?"

Her face was radiant as she answered. "Oh Elliot, we're both absolutely crazy, but we've nothing to lose and everything to gain." When he opened his arms she flung herself against him. "You fiend, you monster, I thought for one terrifying moment that I was about to lose everything. You, and my babies." She stopped seeing his expression change, and corrected swiftly. "Sorry, our babies. You wouldn't really have gone that far, would you?" Her eyes begged for reassurance.

Elliot put his head back and roared with laughter. It was a wonderful sound. "You didn't honestly believe that I would ever let you go?" He slipped his hand between them and tentatively placed it on her stomach. "Or them? Jodie, honey, I've dreamed of this moment, though I never expected to happen so soon. You'd better start making some calls when we get home. I'd rather we didn't take any chances with you, travelling in your condition, invite the family over here, if that's what you'd like? Just so long as you will marry me."

Holding her hands to his lips, he kissed them and told her. "Nothing could ever change the way I feel about you. It just makes everything we've shared seem that much more real and so worthwhile. Oh Jodie, no wonder Mick was so angry. Is it any wonder he made it his business to get in touch with me? He must have been mad as hell when you told him."

"But I didn't tell him, not even after he quite deliberately set it up and brought you to our home. I had to speak with you first - after all, you are the father. It was only right you should know about the twins first." She held his hand tightly. "Catherine guessed I was pregnant. She's a very preceptive lady, but she doesn't know you're expecting twins. Here come and look at this. The light is better over here." She walked to the dresser where a large candle burned brightly, and took out an envelope from her purse, and withdrew something, which she handed to him.

Elliot stared hard. "What am I looking at?"

"Your children - it's a scan picture. Look, here's one baby and here's the other." Slowly and lovingly Jodie traced her finger over the shapes. Enlightenment dawned across his rugged features and again she saw his tears. "So can I take it that you do want the three of us then?" She asked, her expression was one full of hope and expectation.

"What do you think? You know I do. Say you'll marry me? I'm not sure whether the fiend or the monster got his answer." Elliot's arms tightened their hold and as he kissed her, Jodie tasted the salt of his tears on her lips.

Jodie's heart swelled as she pulled his face towards her and kissed him back, it was a kiss that set his blood on fire for her.

"I'm still thinking about that one," she teased, and continued to kiss him thoroughly. Breaking away, she promised, "I'll give you my answer later, but only when I've heard whether or not you can sing! Now shoo and go and find Jamie and the children. We've both got to get ready for the party."

Kissing her once more, he left Jodie to change. Alone, she knew she intended to accept Elliot, of course she did. There was no doubt in her mind now. 'But,' she thought, 'he can jolly well wait until later, although,' she reflected, 'surely he must know what her answer would be?' After taking great care with her appearance, at last she was ready, and Jodie walked to join the others as they made their way to the Great Hall.

*****

The Great Hall was a scene of enormous excitement. The older children had been allowed to stay up late and join in the festivities. Nearly everyone was present. Jodie was watching for Elliot, and then he arrived.

Flanked by children on both sides, it was quite obvious, judging by the fit and size, that he was wearing some of Vincent's clothes. The plain cream Tunnel shirt was worn almost open to the waist, with a padded jerkin. He'd been allowed to keep his own pants but was wearing some beautiful, well-worn, red suede thigh-length boots, and was carrying a guitar. He looked very much at home amongst the Tunnel dwellers.

Vincent and Catherine arrived with Jacob, and went to sit with Father and Mary at the long banqueting table. Everyone looked in their direction, and Father got to his feet.

"Well, today has been one I don't think any of us will forget, least of all Vincent. Well done, my boy, you did very well." There were cheers and clapping, but Father silenced them. "It's now time for Mr. Burch to pay his forfeit." He turned to Jamie. "I believe he has been asked to sing for his supper?"

Nodding, Jamie brought Elliot forward. "It's time," she whispered.

Elliot went into the centre of the room and an expectant hush descended as everyone waited, wondering what he would sing. He positioned the guitar across his body and quite deliberately played cords so out of tune that there were some who covered their ears with their hands. Others weren't sure what was happening, and gathered more closely.

Jodie was almost choking with laugher, 'What are you up to?' She thought, knowing full well that Elliot played guitar extremely well, as she recalled all those after supper music sessions with the Martinez family.

Suddenly he stopped and looked rather thoughtful before he spoke. "The song I've chosen is for someone who's come to mean everything to me, and she's here with us now." Then Elliot confided. "And I have to tell you folks that there's a lot riding on my performance tonight."

He looked directly at Jodie, and as he began to play the most haunting melody, he said. "It's called, 'I've never really been in love before'." His voice was rich and warm, and the words were beautiful. He never took his eyes off Jodie, as he sang;

'You came into my life and with a smile you put yourself inside me

I thought that I knew love, but here you are to prove that love had lied to me

How on earth did I exist until we kissed?

I never knew what I had missed and yet I might have never known

Suddenly I'm here with you

I never knew that life would smile and lead me to the only love I'd ever known

What a sweet surprise, looking at myself through your eyes

Now I'm sure, I've never really been in love before

You took away the clouds and like the sun you lit the world and made it shine

My dreams had never seen the light of day. but then you touched this heart of mine

Now I know what I'm about, there's no more doubt

You came and helped me figure out the puzzle that has been my life

I could never let you go, I need you so,

And if there's one thing that I know, I got to have you in my life.

What a sweet surprise, looking at myself through your eyes

Now I'm sure, I've never really been in love before

I've never really been in love before..............

Never been in love, never been in love...........before

All the time he was singing, Elliot moved amongst the children, making his way towards Jodie. As he finished singing, he was just in front of her and held out his hand saying simply, “I understand that I can claim a victim now, Jodie?"

She moved to take his outstretched hand and as he took the guitar strap over his head, he passed the instrument to Jamie. With both hands now free he lifted her high in the air and, as he had hoped, the children began chanting, "Kiss, kiss, kiss." Everyone was cheering and applauding, as Elliot brought her down his body and gently claimed his kiss before setting her back on the floor.

Elliot held Jodie close and his voice was hypnotic. "You look sensational in that dress. I haven't been able to take my eyes off you since the first moment I saw you."

"I had noticed," she demurred. "That was such a romantic thing you just did, Elliot, thank you." Her eyes shone, her face was radiant; anyone could see that she was deeply in love.

Catherine had been watching the proceedings very closely. She had already seen this impetuous side of Elliot, as she remembered the champagne lunch and the roses that he'd delivered to her office. But she had also experienced the senstive side of him and reflected with sadness how he had sat on the edge of the desk in the interview room and rested his head on her shoulder while he wept for his father, who had been murdered the night before. To see him now, blissfully happy and in love, was everything she could have wished or hoped for. And yet, she also knew that there was more in store for him. Slowly, she and Vincent made their way to congratulate Elliot on the way in which he'd paid his forfeit.

At the sound of Vincent's voice, Elliot turned. "Look who's coming towards us Jo," and he grasped Vincent's outstretched hand, whilst Catherine leaned to give him a peck on the cheek.

Jodie had noticed that Elliot had called her Jo on several occasions now, and it reminded her so much of the deep affection shown by her own family. It was such a personal name and she thought happily. 'He wants others to know that we're together, and this is the one way he knows how to make me realize it too. He needed so much to be a special part of her life.' Her heart skipped a beat and her cheeks flushed at the intimacy of the way he'd chosen to use her pet name.

"Well done, Elliot. Who'd have believed you could sing like that? Let's go and have something to eat, yes?" Catherine leaned towards Jodie while she was speaking and in a conspiratorial whisper, told her, "I said that dress would have an effect on him, didn't I? You look stunning Jodie, really stunning."

Unaware of what the women were talking about, Elliot tucked Jodie's arm through his and the four joined Father and Mary at the head of the banqueting table. The meal was informal, the children were still very excited, but getting more and more tired. Eventually, everyone began to leave, and the only ones remaining were Father and Mary, Vincent and Catherine, Joe, Elliot and Jodie.

"Quite surpassed yourself tonight, Elliot," Joe slapped him on the back. He had never expected that Elliot could sing either. "Were you impressed, Jodie?" he asked, a wicked smile playing around his mouth.

"What do you think? Any woman would have been." She leaned into Elliot's embrace and told them all quietly. "I'm so grateful for being allowed to come here and I want you to know that your secret is quite safe. You know why I'm here, and I think the time has come for us to decide what we're going to do with the rest of our lives." She looked up into Elliot's eyes. "Coming?" she invited.

Slipping his arm around her shoulders he hugged her close. "Just try stopping me," he warned gently. "I just hope I'm going to like hearing what you have to say."

Jodie fell into step as they walked through the Tunnels. Iinevitably along the way they stopped to kiss. It was so tender that Jodie's breath caught in her throat. It was obvious that Elliot was in earnest, as he whispered, "And that was only for starters! Oh great, we're almost there."

They walked as one inside the guest chamber, and again Elliot reached to kiss her, but in the privacy of the chamber, he deepened and lengthened the kiss to such an extent that Jodie felt her legs giving way. He leaned back and saw the colour creeping into her cheeks, as he reached behind their heads to release the heavy tapestry curtain, which fell in one fluid movement to cover the opening to the chamber.

Jodie had heard Vincent tell him that to do this would mean there would be no interruptions from anyone.

Her breathing suddenly became erratic and her hands fluttered in the air. "Elliot, what's going on?" she asked, her heart had now started to race at the nearness of him. Being here in this place seemes to defy all normal reasoning, nothing seemed to matter but the two of them.

Standing with his back to the entrance he asked simply. "Well?" His eyes were twinkling; he drew himself to his full height and towered above her. He placed his hands on his hips and adopted such a powerful pose, knowing full well the effect he was having on her.

Jodie knew that she had never felt so loved, so desirable or so wanted as she did at that moment. She looked into Elliot's questioning gaze. "You're wondering what my answer is going to be, aren't you? Elliot, don't you know?" Jodie rushed into his arms and kissed him passionately, noting how quickly Elliot pulled her close into her body.

Her voice became breathless with the closeness of his embrace. "You've spoiled me for anyone else my darling; so I'll have to marry you, because I know I'll die if I don't. Elliot, I know I've never been in love before either. Happy now?"

Elliot led Jodie towards the bed and gazed into her eyes. "Happy? That doesn't nearly begin to describe what I'm feeling right now. Don't even think of asking me to leave you tonight Jo."

She sighed; 'there, he's said it again.'

"We can manage in here together, can't we?" His hand patted the bed. "Just hold me. It will be enough."

Jodie flung her arms around him and pulled him into her body, holding him very close, and as she trailed kisses along his jaw line, her voice was teasing.

"Now, why do I find that hard to believe? I promise I'll be gentle with you and after all we can't deny ourselves the one thing we know we're both very good at, can we?" A mischievous smile played around her mouth, as she turned for him to let down the zipper on her gown. "Incidentally, whoever said that lightning doesn't strike in the same place twice, didn't have a clue what he was talking about."

She turned in his arms, as the gown became a pool of burgundy chiffon around her feet. "Remember that night Elliot? I shall never forget it, never." The look in her eyes brought immediate recall.

Elliot's heart raced. 'Of course, the first time they'd made love.' "You mean the night I seduced you?" He noticed Jodie's look of concern, and dismissed it immediately. "Let's not kid ourselves here honey; it was all down to me. Oh God, Jodie, I was desperate and crazy with love that night, I'd wanted you so badly from the first moment I saw you, and I make no apologies for that. So you could say that it's all my fault." He ran his fingers through his hair and whistled. "Waste of time taking precautions afterwards, wasn't it?"

Jodie's laughter surprised him. "Rather like shutting the stable door after the horse had bolted, I'd say. How are you feeling now - happy, pleased, excited?"

"All of those, and more, much more than I can ever put into words. Perhaps I should show you?" and his clothes soon joined hers on the floor. His powerful long arms snaked to hold her from behind. "Jo?"

His tone was urgent, his embrace more intimate. "That song I sang for your earlier. I meant every word. You do know that, don't you?" Folding his arms loosely around her, she leaned back against him as he began crooning the last few lines. 'I could never let you go. I need you so. And if there's one thing that I know. I got to have you in my life.'

Elliot's hand touched Jodie's stomach and as he caressed the slight swelling, he whispered so softly it was almost inaudible. "Especially now." He turned her to face him and asked. "Do you have any idea how much I love you?"

"I think I'm beginning to. Perhaps it would be better if you were to show me?" Never taking her eyes off her face, Jodie pulled back the patchwork Tunnel bedding, as she drew him to lie down beside her, covering the two of them within its protective warmth against the chill of the cold roughened rock-faced Chamber walls. The two large candles they had lit earlier, flickered, casting a warm amber glow around them, the rest of the room was in darkness.

The lovemaking that followed was slow and gentle, every touch was one to be sought again, every kiss was that much more tender and when they rested; their hearts beat in unison.

Jodie's sigh was one of utter contentment. "Mrs. Elliot Burch, I like the sound of that," she murmured as she drifted off to sleep, and Elliot just smiled, happing in the knowledge that it would soon become a reality. Curling his body around hers, he laid his arm across her in a protective gesture. Whatever the future might hold, he knew he had found his soulmate, the one woman who could make his dreams come true.

*****

When Jodie awoke the following morning she discovered that Elliot was missing. She stretched her arms above her head and then snuggled down under the covers, then heard the sound of footsteps. The tapestry curtain was moved to one side and Elliot appeared with some tea, hot buttered rolls and some fresh orange juice.

"Sleep well?" He put down the tray on the empty half of the bed and gathered her to him, kissing her lightly on the mouth. "We must see everyone before we leave, and Joe is going to lead us out. So come on sleepyhead, rise and shine." He kissed her again as she sat up to take the tray now being placed before her.

"As Mouse would say, 'Okay good, okay fine.' Elliot, isn't this place amazing? Whoever would have thought it even existed. I feel very privileged to have been allowed to come here. How about you?"

"Do you really need to ask? My whole future was hanging by a thread. I shall be extremely grateful for the rest of my life. At least now I feel I have one," and he leaned to lay his hand on her stomach. "I can't begin to imagine what's going on in there, but it will be fun finding out. I'm going to leave you now. I'll be back in about half an hour. Will that be long enough?" Elliot was proving just how attentive he could be and Jodie grinned.

"Fine. I'll just have a quick wash. I can have a lazy old soak when we get home."

Elliot sighed inwardly. 'Home.' How different it sounded when Jodie said it. So many things seemed to be taking on a new meaning.

Jodie was now tucking into her breakfast and blew him a kiss. "Half an hour, you said?" and shooed him away with her free hand.

*****

Vincent and Catherine had arranged to meet in Father's Chamber. He was in deep conversation with Joe when they arrived.

"Really Joe?" they heard him utter.

Intrigued they waited, and Father's face was a trifle anxious as he told them. "It seems that Elliot is prepared to provide materials for some of the work that lies ahead of us. Vincent, it's very generous of him. I know he's already given advice and says that he can arrange for anything we need in future to come down the same route as that large shipment of medicines we had during the plague. Obviously, there will be some large pieces of wood and metal, tools, in fact, we just have to let him know and he'll arrange it. What do you think, should we accept?"

Catherine leaned against Vincent and sighed deeply. She recognized his intentions better than most and thought. 'How typical of Elliot to want to make amends for what had happened, and this was a sure way of being able to provide what they obviously so desperately needed.'

She looked at Vincent and smiled. "He's only trying to make amends, Vincent. Can't we let him, please?"

Recognizing the well thought out gesture for what it was, Vincent said simply. "How can we refuse? it's a very incredible thing that Elliot wants to do, and I think we should accept. Ah, here he comes now."

As head of the Community, Father greeted him warmly. "We're just discussing your offer of help, Elliot, and we accept most gratefully. I'll leave you and Vincent to make the arrangements with Joe. He knows the drill of getting big items down here, don't you?"

Joe just nodded his head, thankful at last that some good had come out of it for Elliot. His first encounter with Vincent had been nothing less than ugly.

Elliot beamed. "That's great, really great. I'm just glad I can help. You've given me so much. It's such a small thing I'm doing in return. I came to tell you that Jodie and I will be ready to leave in about twenty minutes, so can you hang on for us? I know she wants to say her goodbyes in person." He left with a backward wave and called. "Won't be long."

*****

By the time Jodie was dressed Elliot had returned and together they made their way to Father's Chamber. As they had promised they were still waiting and just as anxious to know what had been decided about their future.

Catherine spoke first. "Well Jodie, are you going to end the waiting? What've you decided?"

Jodie took Elliot's hand and held it tightly as she answered. "We've decided to get married. and soon. Cathy, take a look at this." She handed her the scan picture.

Instant recognition dawned across Catherine's beautiful face and her eyes were suddenly moist as she looked at Jodie. "Twins, how fantastic. Look Vincent," and she held the picture for him to see, and then showed it to Mary who had just arrived.

"Oh my, you're going to have your hands full." She smiled and handed the picture to Father and Joe leaned over his shoulder to take a look at what was causing so much excitement.

Joe came forward to shake Elliot's hand. "Man, you don't do anything by halves, do you? Congratulations."

Elliot just hugged Jodie close and grinned. His joy couldn't be contained. "Can't say I do, Joe, but we all know that it can get me into a lot of trouble. It's only now I'm beginning to realize that my life is taking off in a direction I never expected, and I can't wait."

Jodie was just as happy. All she wanted to do now was to place some transatlantic calls and start making arrangements for their wedding. As if he read her mind, Elliot went round shaking hands and giving hugs to Mary and Catherine. When he stood in front of Vincent, he hesitated, but he needn't have been concerned because he suddenly found himself in a bear hug that only served to remind him of the might of Vincent's strength. A bit winded, he shook Vincent's huge hand, and thanked him for allowing him to make the journey into his world Below. Joe was ready to go, and the three of them began their journey Above, feeling as if they had each left a part of themselves behind.

*****

True to his word, Elliot pulled the appropriate strings and the wedding ceremony took place ten days later, on the lawns overlooking the cabin at the lakeside. Jodie's family, and Bridie and Alistair Marshall, had arrived a few days before the wedding. It was a wonderfully happy time for all of them, to be able to share the run up to the actual wedding day.

When Jodie and Mick stepped onto the red carpet just outside the main hall it stretched all the way down to a large bridal canopy, where masses of yellow tea roses, were arranged to form a wedding arbour. At that moment, the sun burst through the clouds, and picked out the delicate filigree embroidery on her designer gown. Jodie had chosen to wear her maternal grandmother's magnificent diamond tiara and matching choker collar, affectionately known by the family as the 'Grannie Grover Gems' and she carried a bouquet of mixed orchids; the whole effect was stunning. Mick placed his hand over hers as she tucked it through his arms and they walked to join their family and friends for the ceremony.

Everywhere looked so magical and when she saw Elliot she felt as though her heart would burst with pride. Impeccably dressed in his morning suit, with his white shirt, gold silk cravet and an orchid in his buttonhole, he looked devastatingly handsome and then she noticed how his hair was curling against the collar of his jacket again. She felt an explosion of heady excitement, just looking at him.

When his eyes turned in her direction, Jodie saw his expression change to one of pure adoration, which she instantly recognized, and again her heart fluttered uncontrollably. She saw her family and the close friends who had been invited to share their day. Joe Maxwell gave her a broad grin as she passed him and went to stand before the minister at Elliot's side.

Cleon Manning stood close by, looking tall and elegant in his morning suit, his crisp white shirt a sharp contrast against his black skin. Jodie had once remarked to Elliot, he wasn't just handsome, he was beautiful inside and out. From the moment Jodie had met him, she had always known that he was someone she could trust implicitly and he had proved her right over and over again. He was the most fitting choice to stand beside the two of them now as a true friend, and to be Elliot's best man and witness.

The service was everything that Elliot and Jodie had hoped it would be, and together they led the way to the main house where a wedding breakfast awaited them. In the ensuing hours relatives and friends came together and celebrated a union that was born out of love.

Joe Maxwell handed the newspaper to Catherine and Vincent, which reported that the marriage of Elliot Burch and Jodie Phillips had taken place at the Estate on Long Island and that the couple had departed for their honeymoon to an unknown destination. There were no photographs; it was a decision that Jodie and Elliot had made not to have any published. Instead, they had some taken for family and friends, and it had been Joe's first job after the wedding to see that the ones for Catherine and Vincent were delivered safely. Catherine studied them carefully, recognizing from Jodie's description members of her immediately family. She noted, with a smile, the designer gown that Jodie had chosen, it was lovely and she looked so beautiful. It was obvious how much in love she and Elliot were, you only had to look at the pictures.

'So Elliot,' she thought, You finally got what you always wanted, someone who loves you, just as much as you love them. And by the look of things you've managed to pick up a readymade family along the way.' They made a handsome couple and her heart surged with happiness as, silently, she wished them well.

*****

In the months leading up to the birth of the twins, Elliot never forgot his promise to help the Tunnel Community in any way he could with whatever was needed to protect their safety Below. His engineering skills proved invaluable, as he advised and guided certain tricky projects. In his own unique way, he was able to contribute and make a difference. Father was quick to see this and he knew he had to speak to Vincent about recognizing all that he had helped to achieve. He smiled to himself; 'It would soon be Winterfest, the perfect time!'

*****

Joe Maxwell opened the envelope on his desk and whistled when he saw the contents. "You old son of a gun," he muttered, as he studied the pictures of two newly born infants. There was no disguising the look of pride on Elliot's face as he posed with Jodie for the photograph, taken only moments after the birth. There were several others of just the twins and an accompanying note scrawled in Elliot's bold handwriting. 'Mother and Father doing fine. Meet the boys. Nathan and Simon.' Joe slid the photographs back inside the envelope, grabbed his coat and made for the elevator; he had a promise to keep.

*****

Elliot turned as Jodie entered the room. "Joe just dropped off this package. Said we're invited Below tonight to celebrate Winterfest. Won't be a problem, will it, honey?"

His eyes darkened to their deepest blue with the passion that suddenly flared up inside him as she closed the space between them, opening her arms wide to embrace him. Elliot savoured the joy he always felt when she did this, tasting the sweetness of her kisses, he hungered inside and held her close.

"Down boy," chided Jodie, recognizing where his actions were leading.

"Honey," he whispered against her throat. "Can't blame a fella for trying, can you?"

Laughing at his 'love me now' expression, Jodie promised. "I'll deal with you later," and then asked. "What's Winterfest?"

"From what Joe told me briefly, it's a very special celebration. Oh yeah, he said to wear something fancy for the party afterwards, but to make sure we take warm topcoats. We can stay over, if you'd like."

"Then that's what we'll do. I presume we're taking the boys. It's about time they met everyone, isn't it?" Jodie's eyes suddenly danced with excitement. "At least there will be plenty of Aunties to lend a hand. Darling, have you got to phone Joe, or is it arranged already?" Jodie knew Elliot was now a frequent visitor Below and it was only since just before the birth fo the twins that she hadn't gone with him.

"No, I said I'd check with you first, honey," and he lifted the phone and placed a call to Joe, who agreed to collect them from the Penthouse later. After his call he unwrapped the package and discovered two beautiful tapered candles, shaded in cream, amber and rose. Showing them to Jodie he asked, "What do you make of these? Whatever their significance, Joe said they were no ordinary candles, and not to forget them, so I think you'd better take care of them."

The journey Below from Henry's shop was soon accomplished. They used the food cart to transport the baby items they needed, and the men took it in turn to carry the children in their traveling cots.

After the initial excitement of being Below and the twins being on display, they were taken to the nursery and settled for the night. Afterwards, Elliot and Jodie joined everyone in Father's Chamber to find them carrying candles, wearing outdoor clothes.

Intrigued, they followed the procession through the Tunnels and they made their way down a long steep stairway of stone steps that had been worn over the years. At the bottom there were two massive wooden doors, with a huge oak beam holding them closed.

Vincent stepped forward and in one easy movement he lifted the beam and set it to one side. He turned back to gaze knowingly at Catherine and it was clear to see his 'Watch me' look.

Then he used his mighty strength to push the doors open, and there was a tremendous rush of air whilst everyone watched and waited. A hush fell as he held out his hand to Catherine and when she reached for it immediately, his voice was inviting and husky as he said, "Can I lead you through the dark, Catherine?"

It was the most poignant moment when Catherine moved to stand beside him and was heard to say, "There is no darkness, Vincent, when you're with me," and they led the procession into the Great Hall which was in almost total darkness.

Father took his place at the top of the table and, as he had done over the years, and retold the story of how the world Below had begun. Father's voice was rich and powerful, his diction so clear that not a word was lost.

'The world above us is cold and grey. Summer a distant memory. Our world has known its winters, so each year we begin this feast in darkness as our world began in darkness. We are part of one another, one family, one community, sometimes we forget this and so we meet here each year to give thanks to those who have helped us and to remember that even the greatest darkness is nothing so long as we share the light.'

It was heart-warming and magical to hear Vincent and Mary reminding everyone what it meant to be a part of one another. Then the moment Father's candle was lit, he passed the light to Vincent, who in turn lit Catherine's candle.

Elliot and Jodie were quite overwhelmed, realizing how special this was. They were sitting opposite Vincent and Catherine and soon their candles were bring brightly too and they in turn passed the light, until every candle had been lit. Once the candles on the gigantic chandeliers were all lit, they were raised above the banqueting table and then the feast began.

When the music started, Elliot swept Jodie into his arms, and as they waltzed he whispered in her ear. "Remember the first time we danced together?"

Moving beautifully in time to the music she answered, “I guess I made the first move after all, didn't I, when I asked you to dance? There was me thinking that you were imagining 'that special someone' in your arms that night, when all the time it was me you were plotting to have your wicked way with."

Elliot laughed at this gentle reminder, "But it worked, didn't it?" he teased.

The evening seemed to pass all too quickly and Elliot and Jodie found themselves surrounded by a circle of smiling faces, everyone holding hands. There were several friends they knew, but many Helpers they hadn't met until tonight. Without them, the music had stopped, and it was then they realized that they were the only two people in the centre, wondering what was about to happen.

Father spoke kindly.

"Elliot and Jodie, you are part of us now.

Come, complete the circle."

As the applause rippled around the room, he held out his hand to Jodie and she went to stand beside him. Vincent beckoned to Elliot to join him and as the two men stood side by side, he shook his hand and then slapped him quite forcefully on the back. Elliot laughed at this sudden good-natured behaviour and then the two men embraced each other Tunnel style.

It had been a truly memorable evening and as Father looked around the circle he said.

"Our unity gives us strength and our shared light will always show us the truth. As we part for another year, let us remember that darkness is only the absence of light, and all winters end."

Jodie could see by the expression on Elliot's face that he had found an acceptance of himself that he'd never known before. The man he was and the man he had become, and curiously it had happened in a world that until a year ago he never even knew existed. This discovery filled her with a sense of belonging too, and as they all raissed their joined hands in the air, she also knew that this Winterfest would be the first of many yet to come.

The END