A Twist of Fate

He looked up at her. "I know, my love. One more week and we'll belong to each other." He stopped, kissing his young bride-to-be in the shimmering moonlight. They continued on their way.

A man watched the couple from a safe distance on a cliff, snickering down at them.

"Now, its time to act. I will have my revenge. It was wise of Ryan to keep her a secret, but he should've been more careful." He got out his gun and positioned it on the cliff. He turned on the scope light, aiming it at the couple. Silently and swiftly, the gun went off.

Josh fell onto the sand. JJ picked him up in her arms. His blood, staining the white, floral dress. "Josh! No, please! Someone help me! Oh, god!"

"I…I…" He took his last breath, dying in her arms.

She leaned her head against chest. "Oh, Josh. No!"

The man on the cliff smiled; his work done its damage.

The woman looked around to find anyone to help her. Looking up on the cliff, she saw the man on the cliff smiling down at her. "Oh, my god!" She looked into his eyes. "I'm sorry, my love." She gently laid her lover on the beach and ran away. The man fired another shot into the sand as a warning.

"You’re next, my dear. You can run, but you can’t hide."

Tom Ryan was sleeping peacefully in his bed, until,

"Tom, wake up!" Cassy St. John yelled.

"Go away!" the detective growled, pulling the covers over his head.

She banged on the door harder. "Tom! Open this door right now before I knock it down!"

She’ll use her gun and then owe me a new door. Tom pulled the covers off, looking at his clock, he grumbled, "It’s six o' clock in the morning." Putting it down, he got out of bed. "You better have a damn good reason for waking me up this early!"

He walked over to the door, in his T-shirt and boxers, and allowed his partner to enter.

She looked at him, sighing. "Get dressed, Tom. We have a DB on the beach."

Rubbing his eyes, he said, "Give me five minutes." He went into the closet and pulled out a pair of tan slacks, a black shirt, and shoes. In a short time, he was dressed, shaved, and ready for work. "Okay, I'm ready. Let's go."

Cassy pulled the sedan just a few inches from the beach. She and Tom got out, walking down to where Sterling Morton was examining the body, writing down notes on his clipboard.

"What do we have here Morton?" Tom asked, kneeling beside the body.

Morton looked up. "One bullet wound to the chest and it appears to have pierced through the heart. Died instantly. But, I’ll have my full report when I finish the autopsy."

Pulling back the sheet, Tom glanced at the body. The color drained out of his face. "Oh my God."

Cassy looked at her partner. "Tom, are you all right?"

Tom didn't answer. He allowed the sheet to fall back into place. Getting up, he went back to the car in silence.

Morton looked at Cassy. "Is he okay?"

She shook her head. "I don't know." She looked back at her partner heading towards the car then back at Morton. "Can you give me the report as soon as possible? I’ve never seen him like this."

"Will do."

"Thanks, Morton." She stood and walked to her partner.

When Cassy approached the car, she saw Tom leaning against it; his face was still ashen. His head was in his hands, rubbing his temples.

"Tom, are you all right?"

Tom didn't answer.

"Tom, answer me please, you're scaring me."

He looked up. Taking a deep breath, he let it out. "The DB is Josh, Cass."

"What! It can't be." She was shocked.

He nodded. "It is Cass." He felt a growing concern inside him for another person that he knew who might be in danger. "We have to find JJ."

She looked up at him, the same fear in her eyes. "Let's get the report first from Morton and we'll go look for her. It could be someone else. You can’t be sure. I didn’t see the body very clearly. We have to wait."

Tom's anger erupted. "No, Cass." His fist connected with the car door. "Whoever did this to Josh is now after her. We have to find her." He sighed, "Look, take me home, and I'll meet you at the station."

She nodded as they got into the car. It was no use arguing with him when he was in this state of mind. "Okay."

"Thanks, Cass. I owe you one."

Nodding, she put the car into gear, leaving the scene.

The young woman ran until she reached her destination. "Tom, will help me. I know he will."

She opened the front door, never thinking that anyone may be home, and entered the apartment. She didn't even bother to close the door. She went towards the bed and collapsed from exhaustion. He will help me. She said to herself before she fell asleep.

Xxxxxx

Cassy pulled up to Tom's driveway. Shutting off the car, she pointed to the front door. "Tom, look."

"What the hell?" He pulled out his gun, moving cautiously towards the door. Cassy came up from behind him.

Tom went inside his house and checked for any signs of an intruder. He saw a slender figure in his bed. He approached the bed, gun at the ready.

"Tom, I’ll call this in."

He shook his head. "No."

The woman lying on the bed heard the noise and woke up with a start. She saw the two people standing over her with guns in their hands and went into a panic. "No! Please! Don't kill me, too."

Tom's heart broke at the sight of his daughter. The dress she was wearing was covered in blood. Her red hair was twisted and mangled, covering her face.

"JJ, it’s dad. It's all right, honey, you're safe."

The young woman calmed down at the sound of his voice. "D ... dad."

He nodded. "Yes, honey. It's me."

JJ looked up. "Oh Dad!" She rushed up towards him, hugging him tightly. She began sobbing into his chest. He held her tightly, feeling her body tremble. He looked at Cassy.

"Cass."

Cassy answered the unspoken question. "Don't worry. I'll tell Harry that you're sick or I’ll think of something." She looked down at her friend. "I'll go over to her house and pick up some clothes for her."

"Thanks, Cass. I owe you another one."

"Just take care of her. I'll be by later on with the report and her things."

Tom nodded and she left.

After Cassy left, JJ looked up at him eyes red and swollen from crying.

"I'm sorry. I…I had no where else to go," she sniffed. "I guess you know about what happened to Josh."

Tom nodded. "Tell me what happened, JJ? I would like to hear it from you."

"We ... We" The tears came again.

Tom gathered her into his arms, letting her cry. He stroked her red hair hoping to calm her down again. "You'll tell me when you're ready."

After a few minutes, she cried herself to sleep in his arms. Tom laid her gently on the bed, pulling the covers over her. He leaned close, kissing her on the forehead. You’ll tell me when you’re ready little one. He went into the living room. Sitting on the couch, he began to ponder on how someone would hurt her or the fact her lover. Who would want to hurt her? I’ve kept her a secret for this long, but now someone has found out. I need to find out who before anyone else gets hurt.

He continued to think, until he drifted off to sleep.

Cassy walked into the station. Seeing the file from Morton on her desk ready, she sat down, opening the file. The image of her friend in Tom's arms sobbing over the death of her fiancée plagued her mind.

She's lost her true love to a monster. The sound of the phone ringing jolted Cassy from her thoughts. She picked up the receiver. "St. John."

"Cassy, it's Morton."

"Let me guess?" she sighed. "You have the a name for the DB."

Rifling through some papers, Morton found the name. "Yes, I do. His name was Josh O' Brian."

Cassy almost dropped the phone.

"Cassy, are you there?"

She regained her composure. "Sorry, Morton. Thanks." She hung up the phone.

Harry walked out of his office and approached, seeing the pale expression on her face. "Cassy, are you okay?"

Cassy was startled by her captain's voice. "Oh, Harry. I'm okay. Here's the report on the DB we found on the beach."

Harry grabbed the file from her and looked at the empty desk in front of her. "Where's Tom?"

"Oh, he's not feeling good."

He looked down at her, sliding his glasses down to the bridge of his nose. "What's wrong with him?"

"Something he ate didn't agree with him," she lied. "I took him home after we left the scene."

Harry nodded skeptically. "Okay. Make sure you update him with the report." He put the report back on her desk.

Cassy nodded. Harry went back to his office.

"You owe me big time Ryan." She picked up the report.

It was about mid-afternoon when Cassy finally left the station. She wanted to stop by JJ's to pick up some clothes and personal items.

She got out, heading towards the door. She checked the doorknob to see if it was locked, but it wasn't. That's odd. She opened the door, gun at the ready, and found the house in shambles. Whoever shot Josh might’ve been here or maybe still is.

"What the hell?' She checked the apartment for any signs of trouble. She put away her gun when she found none.

"Maybe JJ made the mess after she'd left Josh on the beach. I don't blame her. I would've done the same thing if I lost someone I loved."

She looked around the apartment and found some pictures of JJ and Josh together scattered throughout the rooms. She picked one up. "Why would anyone want to hurt them?" She dropped the picture.

Cassy climbed upstairs to the bedroom. It was just as messy as the rest of the apartment. She went to the walk-in closet, opening the sliding glass door. She saw the beautiful, white wedding dress hanging in the closet. She reached out towards it, feeling the velvety material. "One more week and they would've been happy."

She tried to fight back the tears. "Why would anyone what to do this to such a happy couple."

She reached to the top shelf of the closet, grabbing the suitcase. She packed various items into the suitcase. She left the apartment, locking the door behind her.

"So help me God, if I find out who killed Josh, they are going to pay. Justice will be served."

Tom woke up, the second time that day, when he heard someone knocking on his door. "Not again." He went to the door, opening it to reveal his partner.

She handed him the file. "Here's the report for the DB on the beach. You were right. It was Josh." She then handed him the suitcase. "Here's some clothes and personal items from her apartment."

She didn't want to tell him about the apartment. That would be JJ's task to tell him about that. She glanced over his shoulder at the figure in the bed. "How's she doing?"

Tom glanced over at his bed. "She's doing okay, I guess, considering what she's been through."

Cassy nodded. "I know how she feels. I don't know what I would do if I ever lost..." She stopped in mid-sentence.

Tom gave her a curious stare. "Lost what?"

"Oh, nothing." She sighed. "I'm tired. I'm going home and going to bed. It’s been a very long day."

"Oh, no you don't. Finish your sentence, Cassy."

She glared at him. "I said drop it, Tom." She glanced back over at the bed. "Take care of her. I'll see you tomorrow."

He shrugged. "Thanks, Cass. See ya tomorrow." He shut the door. "I wonder what she meant by if she lost..."

He walked over to the table and set down the file. Rubbing his temples, he picked it up and began to read. He examined every detail as to why someone would murder Josh. I need to check the scene for more clues, but I can’t leave her alone. He threw the report on the table in frustration. "Who would do this? I need more answers."

He leaned against the couch, deep in thought.

"Josh! No!"

JJ woke up from her nightmare. But it wasn't a nightmare; it'd been real. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and the sweat from her brow. She heard the TV from the living room and smiled. "Dad."

She got up, going into the living room, finding him asleep on the couch. She switched the TV off.

"Some people never change." She grabbed the blanket on the floor, covering him back up. She saw the suitcase by the door. "Cassy."

Taking the suitcase into the bathroom, she looked at herself in the mirror. For the first time in twenty-four hours, she saw her lover's blood on her dress.

"Oh, Josh. Why would anyone want to hurt you or us?" She said as she took off the dress, letting it fall onto the floor. A lone tear trailed down her face.

"Why?"

She turned on the shower. Stepping into it, she let the water caress her body. She closed her eyes against the spray and began to remember the last night with Josh.

"Just think Josh, we'll be married next week and we'll live the rest of our lives together."

The image of Josh lying in her arms flashed in her mind.

"Josh! No!" She then looked up at the man on the cliff. She saw the look in his eyes. She was next.

"Sorry, my love." She kissed him one last time and left him on the beach, running for her life.

"No!" JJ screamed, sliding against the shower stall. She brought her knees to her chest.

"No!" She screamed again.

Tom bolted from the couch and rushed towards the bathroom.

"No!" she screamed.

Tom found JJ with her knees against her chest, rocking her self. He shut off the water.

"JJ, its dad. Come on open those eyes for me."

JJ looked up at the face, but it wasn't Tom's face she saw looking down at her, it was the killer's. She pressed against the stall.

"No! Please! I won't tell anyone that you shot Josh! Just let me live!"

Tom was beginning to get scared. "JJ, what are you talking about?"

She didn't answer him.

He got up, grabbing a towel off the rack.

"Leave me alone!" she shouted.

Tom ignored her. He went inside the shower and picked her up.

"Let me go!" She started kicking and screaming, trying to break free from Tom's grasp. She punched him in the face, but Tom didn't release her.

He placed her on the bed. "Come on JJ." He shook her gently. "Wake up you're having a nightmare."

She calmed down at the sound of his voice and opened her eyes. She looked down at herself and pulled the blanket over her naked body. "Sorry."

Tom brushed away a strand of wet hair from her face. "That's okay. I heard you screaming from the bathroom. Are you all right? Want to talk about it?"

JJ shook her head. "I was thinking about Josh. The last night we were together." She pulled her knees to her chest.

He put a hand on her arm. "Can you tell me about it? I'll understand if you don't want to."

She nodded. "I can't keep it inside any longer. I have to tell you what happened that night."

He patted her arm. "Well, why don't you get dressed. I'll go make some coffee, and we'll talk about it, just like old times, okay?"

JJ beamed. "You'll never change. Always taking care of me." She got up and went towards the bathroom again. A few minutes, she was dressed. She went towards the living room and sat down on the couch. Tom came from the kitchen with two cups in his hands, placing them on the table.

"So you want to talk about it?" He said as he sat down beside her.

JJ took a deep breath to gather up her courage. "We were walking on the beach talking about the wedding and how we were going to spend the rest of our lives together."

Tom smiled at a memory of when he met Josh for the first time, changing the subject, "I remember when you first met Josh. He was a football star at FSU."

"He was like you." She pointed to his framed jersey on the wall, glad for the abrupt conversation change. "He wanted to be like you and that's why I think you liked him so much." She looked down at the floor. "That's why I loved him so much."

"He was the perfect guy for you. You told him that he had to get past me in order for him to go out with you."

"He passed the test with flying colors, I might add." JJ took another deep breath. "As I was saying, we were walking on the beach talking about the wedding. Then I heard a gun shot and Josh fell onto the sand." She let the tears, she was holding, fall. "I went over to him and picked him up in my arms."

JJ put her head in her hands. Her body was starting to tremble again. "He died in my arms, dad. I held him until his last breath. I’ve lost the man I loved."

She looked into Tom’s eyes, tears streaming unchecked down her face. "I then looked up and saw a man on the cliff smiling down at me. I looked into his eyes and I knew I was next. I left him on the beach and ran all the way to my apartment, hoping he wouldn't follow me. I was in such a rage over Josh's death that I destroyed my apartment and then ran all the way here." She couldn't continue anymore.

Tom gathered her into his arms.

"Why?" she said against his chest. "Why would anyone want to hurt us? We were going to be married and live the rest of our lives together."

Tom held her tighter. "I don't know, JJ, but me and Cassy will find out. I swear to you." He placed his head on hers and finally cried too. He hated to see her in pain. She’s been through so much in her life and now this. After awhile, she fell asleep again. He lay on the couch and just held her. "I swear to you, JJ, we'll find Josh's killer and bring him to justice. I promise you that." He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

The early morning sun peek through the window. The woman felt the rays peeking through the window. She lifted her body off his chest and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She gently shook him. "Wake up sleepy head."

Tom stirred and opened his eyes. "Are you feeling better?"

She nodded. "I'm all right now. Why not you go take a shower and get ready for work. I'll make breakfast."

He smiled. "You talk about me never changing."

JJ got up off him, heading towards the kitchen. "Thanks for last night. You've always been there for me when I needed for someone to talk to and a shoulder to cry on." She noticed the visible bruises on his face. "Sorry about that. I didn't mean to hit you."

Tom waved it off. "That's okay. You weren’t thinking too clearly and I suppose I was the closest punching bag."

She laughed. The first real laugh, since she got there. "Hurry up, you're going to be late."

Tom got up from the couch and went into the bathroom. He looked down at the floor and saw the dress with Josh's blood on it. He picked it up, looking at it. "You are going to pay whoever you are. No one messes with my family and gets away with it." He put the dress into the hamper. He turned on the water in the shower.

JJ saw him coming from the bathroom, heading towards her. She caught a glimpse of the gun on his side and dropped the frying pan.

Tom rushed towards her. "JJ! Are you okay?"

She pushed away from him. The image of the man on the cliff flashed again in her mind. "Don't hurt me please! I won't tell!" She crawled to a corner of the kitchen and put her knees to her chest.

He was scared. "What's wrong?" He looked down at the gun at his side. "Shit!" He put the gun on the counter. "JJ, it's okay. I'm not going to hurt you."

She looked up at him and realized who it was. "I'm sorry." She glanced at the mess on the floor. "I'll clean it up."

Tom shook his head. "That's okay. I'm sorry about the gun. I forgot. Can you forgive me?"

She wiped the tears from her eyes. "You're forgiven." She started to get up. "I'm still a little jumpy, I suppose. Can you stay with me today? I don't know if I can handle being alone, yet. Please."

He nodded. "Okay, let me call Cassy." He got up and went towards the phone. He dialed Cassy's number.

"St. John." Cassy answered from the other end.

"Cass, it's me."

"Hey, Tom. How's JJ?"

Tom took a deep breath. "That's what I called you about."

She gripped the phone tighter. "Is she all right?"

"Yes, she is. I don't think I should leave her alone. I'll tell you about it later."

"Tom, this is becoming a habit for you," she sighed. "I'll cover for you again, but you owe me big time and I mean big time."

Tom smiled. "Thanks, Cass."

"Later, Tom. Take care of her. I'll be by later." She hung up.

Tom hung up the phone. He went back to the kitchen and saw JJ cleaning up her mess. She looked up at him. "Is Cassy mad at you?"

"She'll get over it. She's going to come by later to see how you are doing."

JJ smiled and stopped cleaning. "It's been awhile since I've seen her. I haven't seen her since you two got divorced. I was really looking forward to seeing her at the wedding." She looked down at the ring on her finger, wiping away the tears. "I'm sorry. I'm acting like a big baby."

Tom pulled her up, hugging her. "It's okay. You've lost the most important person in your life. It's okay to mourn for him."

JJ felt an unspeakable rage course through her body. "I want this bastard. He took the man I love away from me." Her words were laced with venom.

Tom pulled her away from him. "You don't know what you are saying?"

"What do you think I'm saying?"

"I know how you feel, but revenge isn't the answer. Let me and Cassy find Josh’s killer and bring him to justice."

JJ's rage grew even stronger. "You know how I feel!" She pulled away from him. "Then tell me how it feels to lose the people you love, like your parents, and then your fiancée." She turned away from him.

He walked up towards her. "What happened to your parents and Josh wasn't your fault. You had nothing to do with that."

JJ turned around, slapping him. "You shut up about what happened to Josh and my parents! It was my fault that they were all killed! Anyone that I love gets killed!" She ran towards the door, leaving the apartment.

"JJ, wait!" Tom shouted, but she was gone.

"Tom, you idiot. What have you done?" Grabbing his gun and jacket, he went after her.

JJ ran way to her apartment. What happened to Josh and your parents wasn't your fault. Tom's words hit their mark. She broke open the front door and went into the bedroom.

She lay down on the bed, crying. She looked up at the pictures. She grabbed one with Josh and one with her parents, and held them against her chest. "I miss you guys so much." Her tears were dripping onto the pictures. "Why did you have to leave me? Why?" She lay back down on the bed. "Why?"

A man saw JJ enter her apartment. He went inside, climbing up the stairs. He heard her crying from the bedroom.

"Good. The bitch is here. Now's my chance."

He reached inside his pocket. Pulling out a cloth, he poured chloroform onto it. He went inside the bedroom. He went towards her, until he heard someone enter the house. He quickly hid in the closest.

Tom ran down the street after JJ. Tom, you why did you say that? Why!? Has she been through enough already? She's lost her parents and now the man she loves. He continued running after her, hoping to catch her. He entered the front door of her apartment, exhausted from running. "JJ, you here?" he panted.

He went up the stairs and heard the crying from the bedroom. "JJ?"

JJ looked up at him. "Go away. Just leave me alone."

He knelt down beside her. "I won't leave you alone."

The man in the closest went towards them.

She paled. "No!"

"JJ! What's wrong?" Tom turned around and was knocked out.

"Dad!" JJ felt the sweet smelling cloth over her mouth. She fell into unconsciousness.

"Now revenge is mine Ryan. Just wait and see."

The man picked her up, placing her over his shoulder. Placing a note on the bed, he left the detective on the floor.

It was mid-afternoon when Cassy's shift at the station was over. She'd told Harry Tom was still sick again and got chewed out for it. You owe me really big Ryan. She pulled up to Tom's driveway, parking her car beside his. I wonder how JJ is doing? I wonder if she's driving Tom nuts, yet. She smiled, remembering the time when she first met JJ. It was when she and Tom were married. He made her swear not to tell anyone about her, and that included Harry.

JJ was still her friend through the divorce, even after the nasty things she did to Tom. JJ always listened to both sides of each story, and now the death of JJ's fiancée brought them together again.

Cassy got out of the car and walked up to the front door. She knocked on Tom's door. "Tom, JJ, are you here?"

She knocked on the door harder. "Tom, JJ, open up its Cassy!" She tried the knob to see if it was unlocked. It was. She opened up the door and entered.

"Where is he?" She looked around for any sign of her friends. She saw the mess on the kitchen floor. "What happened here?" She bent on one knee, checking the mess. "I wonder if he took JJ home? Why didn't he take his car?" She went to go find out where they went.

Xxxxxx

A few minutes later, she turned onto JJ's street. Pulling into the driveway, she saw the front door wide open. "What the hell?" She got out of the car and went into the house. She pulled out her gun. "Tom, JJ, you here?"

She went up the stairs and went towards the bedroom. She saw Tom lying on the floor. "Tom, its Cassy. Are you all right?"

Tom moaned.

"Come on Tom. Wake up."

Tom opened his eyes. "Where's JJ?"

"I don't know. I was going to ask you that." She helped him up. "What happened here?"

Tom tried to stand up on his own, but the room wouldn't stop spinning.

"Easy there, partner." She set him on the bed. Seeing the note on the bed, she handed it to Tom. "What's this?" He read it out loud.

Tom paled.

"Tom, are you all right?"

Tom didn't answer.

Cassy was getting scared. "Tom, what's happening here?"

Tom remained silent.

Now she was frustrated. "Dammit, Tom! Don't shut down on me! Tell me what's going on!"

He took a deep breath and let it out. "Steven Spears is the brother of Robert Spears."

She sat down on the bed beside her partner. "Wasn't he the guy you arrested for murdering a fourteen-year-old girl?"

Tom nodded. "Yes, he was. My testimony put his brother in jail. When his brother went to prison, he ended up with a knife in the back."

"You mean to tell me that this is all about revenge."

"Yes." He got up from the bed. "JJ is some serious trouble. Steven is worst than Robert. He won't stop killing until I'm dead. We've got to tell Harry." He sighed. "I have to tell him everything."

"Are you sure about this? He's not going to like it."

"He has to know Cassy."

"Okay, partner. I’m with you all the way. Let's go tell Harry."

Tom and Cassy left.

Tom and Cassy walked into the station and went towards Harry's office. They entered the office and shut the door. Harry looked up at his detectives. "How's the case going?"

They didn't answer him.

"Well?"

Tom was the first one to break the silence. "The DB on the beach was Josh O' Brian."

Harry nodded. He knew Tom was holding back something. "Anything else you not telling me, Thomas?"

Tom looked towards Cassy for courage. She nodded. "Tell him, Tom."

Harry gave her a curious stare. "Tell me what?"

He turned towards Harry. "There's something I'm not telling you and it concerns this case." He swallowed nervously. "Josh was engaged to my daughter, Jennifer James."

Harry turned towards Cassy. "You knew about this!"

Cassy nodded.

"Harry, she had nothing to do with this. There was a reason why I kept this a secret." He took a deep breath. "JJ's parents were killed in a car crash when she was six. They left me in her care." He walked towards the window. "The only people that knew about her were my parents, Cassy, and now you."

"Why Tom? Why did you keep this a secret?"

"I had to keep her safe. After her parents died, my parents took care of her and so did I. When I went to hear JJ's parent's last will and testament, I found out that she was given to me as a daughter. I became her father for the past fifteen years." He took a deep breath. "When Cassy and I were married, I told her everything and I made her swear not to tell anyone, especially you."

Harry sat down in his chair. "This is a little hard to swallow, Tom."

Tom shook his head. "I know, Harry and I'm sorry for not telling you sooner. I thought I could handle this situation by myself. Now because of me Steven Spears has her."

Harry's ears perked up at the sound of that name. "Steven Spears. How did he find out about her?"

"I don't know, Harry. I know now he's the one who shot Josh. He must've used his connections after his brother was killed."

Harry nodded. "Robert Spears. I remember that you sent him to prison for murder."

Tom looked down at the floor. "Only to knifed in the back by some of his enemies."

"So, you're telling me this is about revenge?"

"Yes, it is. He won't stop killing until I'm dead. If anything happens to her, I don't know what'll I'll do."

"Nothing is going to happen to her, Tom. We won't let it." Harry pointed to Cassy.

"Harry's right, Tom. We won't let anything happen to her."

"I don't know what to say."

Harry put a hand on Tom's shoulder. "Enough's been said for now. Now where did Spears say he had her?"

"At the warehouse district, but if he hears any sirens he won't hesitate to kill her."

"Okay, we'll go with you. If the situation gets worse, I'm calling for backup, but first I have to get a warrant to make it legal."

"Thank you, Harry."

"Okay, let's go get JJ." Cassy said as she got up from the chair.

The three officers left.

The smell of seawater and dead fish assaulted JJ's nose. She woke up and checked her surroundings. "Where I'm I?"

Steven Spears turned to see his prisoner was awake. "Well, its nice to see those beautiful green eyes again."

She turned towards the voice. "What do you want with me?"

"It's not you I want, my dear. The person I want is Tom Ryan." He stepped closer to her. She could feel his hot breath on her body. It made her tense.

"Does this bother you?" He moved closer to her.

She turned away from him. He put his hands on her chest, moving them up and down her body. JJ tried to pull away, but she was tied up. "Stop that!"

"No, baby. I'm going to make you pay for your father's sins." His hand moved lower. "I'm going to have some fun with you first."

JJ tried to blink away her tears. Spears saw them and beamed. "Now, you belong to me and no one else."

"Please, you don't want to do this. Trust me, you better stop what you're doing now."

He let out a hollow laugh. "Or what? Your father is going to kill me. I don't think so. He's going to pay for what he did to my brother, and you are what I need."

JJ spat in his face. Spears slapped her. "You bitch! You're going to pay for that!" He untied her and took hold of her arms.

"Please, don't." JJ begged. "Please."

Spears didn't even listen to her. He threw her against the wall. JJ's head hit it hard sending her to the floor. He picked her up. "Now, what to do first." He looked down her slender body. He moved his hands up and down her body again and again, enjoying the feel of it.

JJ tried to move, but her body didn't respond. She couldn't hold back the tears any longer. "Please, don't."

Spears just smiled. "No, baby. You're mine." He kissed her hard on the lips. JJ tried to move her head, but two strong hands held it into place. She spat in his face again. "Bitch!" He slapped her and she fell to the floor. He grabbed her hard. "Get up, bitch!"

His hand went towards the buttons on her blouse. His touch made her shiver. "That's good, baby. Give yourself to me." He slid the blouse down her shoulders. "You're beautiful." That made JJ shiver even more. His hands reached around her back and unfastened the strap to her bra, pushing the straps off her shoulders. JJ tried to cover herself up, but the effort earned her a slap to the face.

"Don't even think about it! You are mine and you are going to give yourself to me."

JJ tried to shut him out, but she couldn't. She could feel the blood dripping down from her mouth and nose, sticking to her skin. Spears laid her on the floor, plastering his body on top of hers. He hands moved even lower. She tried to squirm away from his touch, but that earned her another slap.

"Bitch! How many times do I have to tell you that you belong to me!" His hands went to the button of her jeans. He unsnapped them and moved the jeans down her slender legs. His lips followed his hands. JJ couldn't do anything to stop him.

"Please, don't."

Spears smiled. "I love it when women beg."

That sent violent shivers down JJ's spine. "Please. You don't know what you're doing. My dad will…."

He rolled his eyes. "Oh, please not this again. I don't want to hear his name again." He slapped her. "Understand."

The tears streak her face. Help me, dad. Please, help me. Her mind cried out for her him, but Tom wasn't there to help her. Spears moved his hands to the rim of her underwear, sliding them down her legs. She was now completely naked. "You're so beautiful. Now I know why Josh loved you. Who can resist you?"

The mention of her lover struck her heart. She glared at him. "You bastard. You'd killed him didn't you?"

Spears smiled. "Yes I did. How did it feel to have him dying in your arms?"

JJ got one of hands free, punching him hard in the face. He had his answer.

"Bitch!" He slapped her. "How dare you do that to me!" He slapped her again and again. "You're not worth it after all." He slapped her again. He got off her and left the room.

JJ sat up, pulling her knees to her chest. "Please help me, dad. Please." She put her head on her knees and cried.

It took about half an hour to get the warrant for Steven Spears arrest, when they did, Tom, Cassy, and Harry headed towards the warehouse district.

When they approached the warehouse, Tom parked the car at a safe distance.

"Look, Tom. There's his car." Cassy pointed out.

Tom gripped the steering wheel until his knuckles were turned white. "If that son-of-a-bitch harms her in any way, he'll wish he never been born." Tom's words were laced with venom.

"Tom, control yourself." Harry said. "Now, let's go get her."

The three of them got out of the car, heading towards the abandoned warehouse.

"Harry, Cass, take the back. I'll take the front."

"Be careful, Tom," Cassy said.

"You too."

Harry and Cassy went around back.

Tom entered the front of the warehouse. He heard faint crying coming from inside. "JJ?" He went towards the crying and saw JJ with her knees against her chest. She was completely naked.

"JJ?"

She didn't answer him.

He reached out towards her. She pulled away from him.

"JJ, its okay. I'm not going to hurt you."

JJ looked up. "D ... dad."

"Yes, are you all right?"

He looked down her body and saw visible bruises on her arms. "What did he do to you?"

She didn't answer him.

He lifted her head so he could see her face. "Oh, my god." Her face was swollen and bleeding.

"I'm so sorry, JJ." He gathered her into his arms, but she pulled away from him.

"Let me go! Don't touch me!"

"JJ, its me."

She looked up at his face then over his shoulder, screaming. "No!"

"JJ! What's wrong?"

Tom turned around and he stood face to face with Steven Spears. "You son-of-a-bitch! What did you do to her?"

Spears just smiled. "You figure it out. You're the cop."

Tom lunged out towards Spears his hands aiming for his throat. Harry and Cassy saw the exchange and rushed towards them.

"Tom let him go!" Harry shouted.

Tom didn't answer. Spears face was turning a bright red as he struggled to breathe.

"That's an order, Srgt."

Tom let him go and went back towards JJ.

Harry got out his handcuffs. "Steven Spears you're under arrest for the murder of Josh O' Brian." He cuffed him and pulled him to his feet.

"It doesn't matter now. I've gotten my revenge," he snarled.

Harry took him away.

Tom picked up JJ and held her. Cassy brought him a blanket from the car. "Here use this."

Tom covered her up.

"How's she doing?"

Tom looked up at her. She started to shake violently from shock. "She need's to get to a hospital fast."

Harry came up from behind. "Already done."

Tom held her close until help arrived.

The wait in the hospital was hard for Tom. He paced the waiting room like a caged animal. It's my fault she's here. I should've protected her. Tom's thoughts were broken when he saw a doctor entered the waiting room.

"Are you here for Jennifer James?"

The group nodded.

"My name is Dr. Stephanie Banks. I've been treating Ms. James. We're going to keep her overnight. Her face is going to be swollen for a few days."

Tom looked at the doctor. "Are there any signs that he ... he" He couldn't finish the question.

The doctor looked at the detective. "No, he didn't, to answer your question. I'm surprised he didn't."

That sent a shiver down Tom's spine. The doctor saw the reaction. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound like that."

Tom waved it off. "That's okay. When can I go see her?"

"Are you her father?"

"Yes."

She looked down at her clipboard and continued, "She's being moved into a private room right now. If you want, you can follow me and I'll take you."

Tom looked at his friends.

"Go, Tom. We'll come get you in a while," Harry said.

"Thanks, Harry." Tom left.

The doctor led him down the hallway and into JJ's room. "You can stay here for a few minutes. I'll be back later."

"Thanks."

She left.

Tom went towards JJ's bed and sat down on a chair beside it. He grabbed one of her hands, kissing it.

JJ's eyes fluttered open. "Where am I?"

"You're in the hospital. Don’t you remember what happened?"

She looked around the room. "Spears?"

"He's going to be locked away for a long time. You don't have to worry about him anymore."

Tears began to run down her face. "He shot Josh."

Tom nodded. "I know he did."

"Why did he have to shoot him? Tell me why."

He squeezed her hand tighter. "JJ, if I knew the answer to that question I would answer it."

"He was a monster, dad. All he wanted was to have his revenge on you, but it cost me everything."

He dropped his head. "I'm sorry you got involved in this. This is my fault. I've should've protected you."

She placed a hand on his cheek. "You did. Trust me you did."

He gave her a curious stare. "How?"

"I kept saying your name and it stopped him for doing anymore."

Tom looked at her face. She’s right. "He ... He" Tom tried to finish his sentence.

JJ placed her other hand on his. "No, he didn't. I've been raised by a cop, remember. You taught me just about everything."

Tom smiled. "I guess I did."

"Yes, you did. You've been a father to me ever since I was six years old. You've been there to protect me no matter what." She placed her hand on his face. "I love you."

"I love you, too." He got up, hugging her gently.

"Well, isn't this nice," Cassy said from the doorway.

JJ beamed at the sound of the voice. "Cassy."

Cassy went up to JJ, hugging her. "It's nice to see you again, JJ."

"You too, Cassy. It’s been a long time."

"So, this is JJ." Harry walked into the room. Tom turned, seeing his captain enter the room.

"Who is this?" JJ asked.

"JJ, I like you to meet my Captain, Harry Lipschitz," Tom replied.

JJ smiled. "Nice to finally meet you Harry. Tom told me some interesting things about you."

"He has, has he."

JJ yawned just as the doctor entered the room. "Look's like I'm in time. Ms. James needs her rest. It's time for you folks to go."

Tom hugged her. "I love you."

JJ hugged him back. "I love you too." She closed her eyes and fell asleep. Tom, Harry, and Cassy left the room.

The funeral held no comfort for anyone, especially for JJ. Tom, his parents, Cassy, Harry, and Frannie were there to offer moral support. JJ stood by Tom as the rain poured down on her.

After the ceremony, JJ went towards her lover's grave, placing a single rose on his grave. Tom was there to offer comfort.

"I will always love you, Josh O' Brian. You'll always be in my heart." She hugged Tom tightly.

"I'll take care of her, Josh. You can count on that," he said silently.

"Dad, can you leave me here for a little while? I just want to be alone to say goodbye."

Tom nodded. "I'll wait for you by the car." He turned around and left her at her lover's grave.

She sat down beside Josh's grave. "There's so much I have to tell you. I just don't know where to begin." JJ let the tears flow. "It probably starts when my parents died. I felt so lost that I hid myself from everyone, then Tom came along and took care of me as if I was his child. Then I fell in love with you. My one true love. Then you were taken away from me." She ran her hands on his grave. "I don't know what to do? I lost my parents, you, and I fear that I may lose Tom and all my friends, too."

"No, you won't JJ."

JJ turned, seeing Cassy standing behind her. JJ wiped the tears from her eyes. "Cassy, I didn't know you were there."

"I'm sorry I scared you. I didn't mean to intrude."

"That's okay."

Cassy sat down on the chair and patted the one next to her. "Come sit with me, JJ. I need to tell you something and you must swear not to tell anyone else."

JJ nodded, sitting down beside her friend. She'd always known that she could trust Cassy.

"JJ, listen to me. You are not going to lose Tom."

JJ felt a rising panic course through her. "You almost lost him once."

"I know, but he beat the odds, remember."

"I remember." She looked into Cassy's blue eyes. "I couldn't come down to see him because you wanted to keep me safe."

Cassy nodded. "A mobster was after him. I had no choice."

"I understand that you wanted to keep me safe. I wanted to be there for him even Tom's parents told me to stay put. I'm thankful now that he's safe."

"I'm glad too, that he's safe."

"What was it you wanted to tell me?"

Cassy took JJ's hands. "I wanted to tell I'll protect Tom with my life and keep him safe for you. I won't let anything happen to him. I swear to you."

JJ hugged her friend. "I know you will Cassy. I know you will." The two friends held each other.

Cassy released her. "Hey, let's go home. Tom's probably getting worried about you."

JJ nodded. "Knowing him, he's probably pacing around the car waiting for me."

The two friends got up and headed towards their cars. JJ ran up and hugged Tom. He held onto her. "Ready to go home?"

"Yes, I am. Let me say goodbye to Cassy first."

JJ ran up and hugged Cassy. "I promise I won't tell. You'll keep him safe for me."

"I will JJ. I will." Cassy released her.

JJ went back to Tom. He opened the door for her. "What was that about?"

JJ smiled. "Oh, nothing."

Tom sighed in disgust. "You two could be sisters, you know that. You drive me nuts sometimes."

JJ just smiled at him.

He put the car into gear and headed home. I know Cassy will keep her promise. JJ placed her hands on the window. Goodbye Josh. I love you. Tom drove away from the cemetery.

Xxxxxx

A few days later, JJ sat on the beach looking out, watching as the waves crashed back and forth against the shore. Her hand traced her face. The memory of the week she endured was still there. She’d remembered the death of her true love, Josh O’ Brian, and the monster bent on revenge that took him from away her.

She looked down at the red book she’d pressed against her chest. It was a journal she started when she was only six years old. The old, red leather book was worn out. She opened the book and turned to the very first entry. She closed her eyes and began to remember a past long ago….

Tom opened the door, entering the room. He saw her sleeping peacefully in the bed. Oh, JJ. How am I going to break it to you gently about your parents and make you understand? He walked over to the chair and sat down. He took one of the small hands and placed it to his lips. The slight movement caused the little girl to wake up.

Xxxxxx

Xxxxx

Thomas,

This is our last will and testament. If you are reading this, we are dead. Steven and I are giving you our prized possession, our daughter, Jennifer. We have no living relatives and we trust you and your parents to take very good care of her. Whatever happens to us, and when she gets older, tell her to always remember that we loved her very much and we always will.

Steven and Angela Andrews

Tom put down the will. He couldn’t believe what he’d just read. Am I ready to be a father? I don’t know if I’m ready to raise a child, let alone a six year old, but I’ve know her since the day she was born.

Grabbing the papers and a pen, Tom signed on the dotted line. JJ is mine now. He handed the papers back to Mr. Stevens. He stood, shaking the man’s hand, and walked out of the office.

A few minutes before going home, Tom decided to stop at the local marketplace to clear his head. He got out of the car and walked around, pondering his thoughts. He stopped in front of the shops, spotting a red leather book in the store window. JJ would love that. Maybe writing down her thoughts will helped her through the pain and maybe help her to understand. He went into the store purchased the book. Wrapping it up, he made the journey back home.

Xxxxxx

Tom didn’t answer her; instead he walked past his parents and went towards JJ’s room. Opening the door, he closed it behind him. He stood there in the dark, watching the little girl sleep. She belongs to me now. I’m a father.

Xxxxx

Xxxxxx

Hey JJ,

I hope your staying out of trouble. Well, I have someone that would love to meet you. My parents already made the arrangements for you to stay down here, during Christmas break. Looking forward to seeing you again. I miss you a lot.

Love, Tom

Xxxxxx

Xxxxx

Xxxxxx

Xxxxxx

Dear Tom and Cassy,

I want you two to sit down together and read this. You two are my dearest friends and I don’t want to lose you both. I know you guys are divorced and probably not speaking to each other, but I know you, right now, are sitting down and reading this.

This is tearing me apart that you guys are fighting like this. You’re probably thinking that I’m just a child and I don’t understand about what’s going, but dammit I do. I want you two to talk to each other as civilized adults that you are, and maybe just maybe after you to talk you’ll maybe become friends again. I know it may take time to heal all wounds.

I know you would do this for me. I’m not saying to get married again, far from it, but to work out your problems and you’ll rekindled that friendship that you once shared since I might lose yours as I am writing this.

Love, JJ

Xxxxxx

He’s angry with me. He hates me. "Hell…hello, Tom." She was trying hard not the burst into tears. She felt that she hurt him and he would never speak to her again.

Xxxxxx

Tom smiled. My little JJ is all grown up. "Um…excuse me, I’m still in the room, remember."

JJ opened her eyes, wiping away the tears. She closed the journal, holding it against her chest.

Tom walked behind her. Finding a spot on the sand, he sat down beside her. "I knew I would find you here."

JJ looked over at him, giving him a half smile. "I was just thinking about the past."

Looking down at her hands, he noticed the red book. "I remember when I gave that to you. You were six and it was the day after your parent’s died."

She sniffed. "I guess it’s sort of my life story. My life with you, Lyam, Margaret, Cassy, and…and…"

Ton pulled her into a hug. "Josh."

"I miss him so much."

"I miss him, too."

She lifted her head from his chest. "I love you." She paused. "Dad."

Tom pulled her into another hug. "I love you, too, my daughter."

They held onto each other, crying over the pain they’d shared.

Xxxxxx

A year past since Josh was killed. JJ arrived in Palm Beach a few days ago without telling anyone where she was going. She’d been spending the year in Boston with the Ryan’s to recover from the shock and guilt she’d felt for not doing something to safe Josh’s life.

She went into therapy, but it didn’t help. The counselors kept telling her that everything will be all right and she can start her life all over again. Yeah right. What a bunch of phonies.

She looked out towards the ocean, missing the peace it would always bring her, but it also reminded her what took place there, a year ago. She closed her eyes and let the memories embrace her.

After a few minutes, she opened her eyes, wiping away the tears. Turning, she headed home.

Xxxxxx

A few minutes later, she walked inside her apartment, locking the doors behind her. She looked around, noticing the change. It was clean and not the mess she left behind. A small smile crossed her lips.

"He must’ve kept it clean after I left." Walking towards the kitchen counter, she picked up one the pictures on the counter. She ran her fingers over the frame. "You’ve always been there for me when I needed you the most." She kissed it. "I love you, dad." Placing it back on the counter, she walked up the stairs and went to bed.

Xxxxx

The early morning sun peeked its way through the window. Tom Ryan was sleeping peacefully, until,

RRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNGGGGGGG!

"Dammit! Who can be calling me this early?" He rolled over, picking up the offending object. "He…hello."

"Good morning, son."

He was now fully awake. "Dad! Good morning to you, too. Is something the matter?"

Lyam chuckled. "Now, son, why do you think that there’s a problem?"

He shook his head. "Dad, remember who you’re talking to. You can’t keep anything from me."

Lyam sighed. "You’re right as always, Tommy. The reason why I called is; have you heard from JJ in the last couple of days?"

"JJ? I thought she was with you guys."

Lyam’s voice turned serious. "No, she’s not. She took a flight without telling us back to Palm Beach a few days ago. We just thought you'd heard from her. She usually goes to you first. We’re really worried about her. This isn’t like her to do something like this."

Tom ran his hand through his hair. "She usually calls me. I’ll go check up on her. That’s if she’s still here."

There was a knock at the door.

"Um…dad, I have to go. Someone’s at the door. I’ll call if I find out anything. Love ya."

"Love you, too, son. Let us know what you find out."

They hung up.

Grabbing a robe, Tom got up and answered the door. The object of his conversation was standing there. "JJ! Do you know how many people are worried about you?"

She rolled her eyes. "Nice to see you, too. Can I come in?"

Opening the door further, he let her in. She walked past him and sat on the couch. He took a seat across from her. She cast her eyes down to avoid his fatherly gaze.

"So, what brings you back so soon? Are you feeling better?" Tom inquired.

Her head shot up. "No, I’m not feeling or doing better. Why does everyone keep asking me that?!" She stood, walking towards the window, tears flowing down her cheeks unchecked. "This was suppose to be our one year anniversary as husband and wife," she choked out.

He walked towards her, placing his hands on her shoulders. She turned, embracing him. Her body trembled against him.

"The counselors told me that everything will be all right and I could start my life all over again. I don’t want to start it over again! I wanted to start it with him."

Tom lifted her face. "JJ, you’re still mourning over Josh’s death. It’s going to be a very long time before you find someone like him again, but don’t let it eat you up inside. You are bright, beautiful, and loved by so many people and we’re worried about you. I’m worried about you."

She pulled away from him. "That was Lyam on the phone, wasn’t it? I’m a grown woman for godsakes! I can live my own life!" She walked past him, grabbing her purse. "Thanks for the chat." She turned to leave.

Grabbing her arm, he spun her around. "You wait, young lady. I know I’m not your father, but I’m the closet thing you have to one, so you’re going to listen to me." He took her by the arm and sat her down on the couch. "Stop taking your anger out on us. We’re trying to help you, but you keep pushing us away. Nothing we say or even do will bring Josh back and you’re going to have accept that."

She slapped him. "How dare you say that? You know you’re right. Nothing will bring back my parents or Josh, but you wanna know something?" A sly smile crossed her lips. "It’s your fault Josh was killed." Standing, she pushed him away. "Because of you and your stupidity the man that I loved is dead."

Her glare intensified. "Why didn’t I see this before? You sent me back to Boston because you felt guilty."

He stood his ground. "You’re way out of line. You have no right."

Her eyes narrowed. "I have every right!" she screamed. "I hope you’re happy." She walked out the door, slamming it shut.

Tom sagged to the floor. He couldn’t believe what he just heard. Of all people in the world, he couldn’t believe that JJ blamed him for Josh’s death.

"Maybe it’s just anger that has consumed her and she need someone to blame. I don’t think that she met that I wanted Josh to die or maybe I did. What have I done?" Putting his head in his hands, he let the guilt over take him.

Xxxxx

JJ set her purse on the counter. Looking at the picture of her and Tom, she threw it against the wall. "You son-of-a-bitch! It’s your fault he’s dead! It’s your fault!"

She ran to every wall, tearing the pictures off one by one. She threw pictures against the walls. She went to her bedroom. Opening the closet, she saw the wedding dress hanging in the plastic dress bag.

"You!" Grabbing the bag, she removed the dress. "It’s your fault!" She ripped it to pieces, scattering them everywhere.

She stood in the middle of her room, looking around, breathing heavily. "What have I done?" She collapsed on the bed and cried.

Xxxxxx

A few hours later, Tom went to check up on her. After their conversation, he finally gathered up the courage to set her straight. Entering the apartment, he stood in the doorway.

"Oh my god!" Walking inside, he saw the total destruction. Broken pictures frames, and pieces of glass were scattered everywhere. Stepping over the mess, he headed up the stairs. He heard faint crying coming from the bedroom. Pushing the door open further, he shook his head.

"Oh JJ, what did you do?"

He approached the bed carefully, sitting down beside her. She heard the noise and sat up. Looking around, she saw what she did.

"What have I done?" She looked at the material in her hand and then at Tom. "I’m so sorry."

He gathered her in his arms, letting her cry. "It’s all right. I’m here, little one. I’m here." He held onto her until she fell asleep. Laying her down gently, he kissed her on the forehead and went downstairs to begin the unavoidable task of cleaning up.

Xxxxx

The next morning JJ woke up to the buzzing of her alarm clock. Sitting up, she stretched. Looking around the room, she noticed it was clean. Grabbing a robe, she headed downstairs. It was clean too. Smiling, she looked towards the couch. She picked up the blanket, covering him.

She placed a hand gently on his face. "I’m so sorry for the things I said to you. What would I do without you?"

"Let’s hope you never have to find out." He said through half closed eyes.

She ducked her head. "Can you ever forgive me?"

Sitting up, he embraced her. "I forgive you, JJ. I know you didn’t mean it. I’m always here for you no matter what."

She held him tight. "I love you, dad."

"I love you, too."

Xxxxx

"Tom, Cassy, can you please come into my office?"

"Sure, skipper." Entering Harry’s office, he shut the door behind them. He motioned them to sit as he took his seat behind his desk.

"What’s this about, skipper?" Tom asked.

He tossed two folders in their direction. They picked them up and began to read them.

"The mayor wants a tight lid on this one. It seems that one of the members of an elite group has been getting death threats."

"What’s the group’s name, Harry?" Cassy asked.

"NSYNC," Harry replied.

"You’ve got to be kidding me. They’re one of the top selling pop groups out there. This could be some crazed fan or it could be just a publicity stunt."

Harry slid his glasses to the bridge of his noise. "We are going to take this very seriously, Srgt. Ryan. Is that clear?"

Tom gulped. "Yes, sir."

"Good. They’re performing right here in Palm Beach for a couple of days. You two have security duty, since the mayor has requested you two personally, but for the life of me I don’t know why."

"It could have been because of the V-TV case. That was a real fun one," Tom said.

Shaking his head, he handed them their passes. "You’ll need to report to a Mr. Robert Peterson. He’s the head of security," he paused. "Oh, Tom, give these to JJ and tell her I said hi." He gave Tom two tickets and a backstage pass. "It might be fun for her to get out, with everything she’s been through."

"Thanks, skipper."

They walked out of the office.

Xxxxx

"JJ, are you home?"

"Be down in a minute!" Few seconds later, she walked downstairs. "Hey dad, what’s up?"

Reaching into his pocket, he grabbed the tickets and pass, giving them to her.

Her mouth dropped. "NSYNC tickets and a backstage pass you’ve got to be kidding me." NSYNC was her favorite group. She started listening to them after Josh’s death.

He shook his head. "Nope, I’m not. Be ready by seven and I’ll explain everything."

She hugged him. "Okay. I’ll see you then and thank you."

He smiled. "Don’t thank me. Thank Harry."

"I think I will."

He left.

JJ picked up the phone, dialing the station.

"Palm Beach Police Department how may I direct your call?"

She paused for a moment. "Um…Captain Harry Lipschitz please."

"May I ask who’s calling?"

"Tell him that it’s Srgt. Ryan’s daughter, JJ."

"Okay, One moment please."

The operator pushed a button and the other end picked up.

"Captain Lipschitz. How can I help you?"

JJ smiled. "Thank you for the tickets, Harry."

"You’re welcome dear and welcome home."

She cringed. "Thanks. Tell your wife I said hi." They hung up.

JJ went into the bedroom to get ready for tonight. Walking into the closet, she picked the perfect outfit and started to remember what Harry had said. It sent a shiver down her spine.

Maybe it wasn’t a great idea to come home. I have a bad feeling about all this. Doing a small touch up, she went downstairs and waited.

Xxxxx

Seven ‘o clock rolled around and still no Tom. "Where could he be? I’m going to kill him." She heard a knock at the door. "Coming!" She opened the door, grinning.

"You ready?"

"Yep, let’s go," she replied, bounding out the door.

Xxxxxx

They arrived at the stadium a few minutes later. "Okay, me and Cassy have to meet the head of security. You stay out of trouble."

She gave him a mock salute. "Yes, dad, I will. Don’t worry, I’ll be fine."

Cassy smiled, whisking Tom away before he started to give her orders.

JJ walked down the long corridor, whistling all the way. She wasn’t watching where she was going and bumped a man walking towards her, falling to the ground.

He helped her to her feet. "Oh, I’m sorry. I wasn’t watching where I was going."

She looked at him and grinned. The man before her was muscular, handsome, and his blue eyes pierced right through her making her melt on the spot. He’s so attractive. He reminds me of someone. I can’t put my finger on it. Maybe…She shook her head. Snap out of it JJ. "Um…I’m sorry." She extended her hand to him. "My name is JJ. What’s yours?"

He shook the offered hand, smiling. "My name is JC. Pleasure to meet you." He saw the pass hanging around her neck. "Are you a fan?"

She followed his gaze. "Well, sort of. I’m here with my dad, Srgt. Tom Ryan. He and his partner are working security detail." She paused, pointing down the hall. "Here he comes now."

Turning, JC saw Tom walking towards them, but he wasn’t alone.

"Well, I see you and JC have met," Mr. Peterson inquired.

JJ ducked her head, blushing. She was really shy when it came to people she didn’t know.

"JC, you’ve got to get ready."

JC nodded. "Yes I know, Robert. I was just on my way to meet the other guys." Taking one of JJ’s hands, he kissed it. "I hope to see you again." He walked away.

"What was that about?" Tom asked.

Shrugging her shoulders, JJ replied, "I don’t know. I’m going to go to my seat now."

He kissed her cheek. "See you later. Have fun and don’t get into too much trouble."

She smiled devilishly. "Oh, I intend too." She left.

"I’ve created a monster." He left to meet up with Cassy.

Xxxxx

The screaming fans tried to drown out the five singers, but to no avail. JJ looked at one singer in particular, smiling brightly. Looking down at her, he did the same thing. Looking out towards the audience, he announced, "This song is dedicated to a very special lady and you know who you are." The fans quieted down as the soft melody began to play throughout the stadium.

JJ eyes began to well with tears. Josh, it couldn’t be. That was our song. That’s who he reminds me of. She continued to listen to the music.

The tears slipped one by one unchecked down JJ’s cheeks. JC looked down at her and continued singing.

The fans screamed as he sang the chorus. JC finished the last line and the crowd cheered loudly. JJ wiped away the tears. Looking up, she froze. Their eyes never left each other. The other band members made there way onto the stage and took their bows, and then left the stage.

She shook her head in disbelief. Josh. It couldn’t be. It just can’t be. She left to go meet Tom.

He saw her coming down the hall watching the tears rolling down her cheeks. He placed a hand on her shoulder. "JJ, are you all right?"

She hugged him. "Can we go home, please? I don’t know if I can stay here."

He bit his lower lip. "It’s going to be awhile. I have to do a follow up on some things. Are you sure you’re all right?"

She nodded, looking down at the ground. "I’ll go get some air and wait for you and Cassy to finish. I’ll be fine." She left.

Cassy walked up behind him. "Is she going to be okay?"

He shook his head. "I don’t know, Cass. One minute she’s fine and then one minute she’s an emotional wreck."

She sighed. "Well, if you were paying attention to the last song, you would’ve realized that was her wedding song."

He slapped his forehead. "Oh, man. I have to find her." He attempted to leave.

She stopped him. "Let her be. I think someone’s already ahead of you on that situation." She pointed to the young man heading in JJ’s direction. "Come on, let’s go see Mr. Peterson. We’ve still got work to do."

He sighed as the young man ran in JJ’s direction. "You’re right as usual, Cass."

She placed a hand on his shoulder. "That’s what’s great about being a father. You have to let them grow up sometime in their lives."

They left.

Xxxxx

JJ stopped running down the long corridor. Sliding down the wall, she buried her head in her hands and cried.

JC walked towards her quietly. Kneeling beside her, he asked, "JJ, are you all right?"

She didn’t answer him.

"Oh, so you’re going to be the silent type are we? Well, I’ll fix that." Placing his hands against her sides, he wiggled his fingers.

She started to laugh. "Okay, I give up! No more! Please stop!"

He stopped. "Gets them every time."

She looked up at him, wiping her face with her sleeve. "I take it you’ve done this before."

He chuckled. "It’s works on the guys when they’re down." He decided to change the subject. "I saw you after I sang my solo. I’ve never seen anyone react that way before."

She cast her eyes down. "Maybe I’ll tell you about it some other time."

"It’s a date then. Um, you want me to take you to your dad?"

She smiled. "I would be honored, JC. Maybe in that date you can tell me what JC stands for?"

He helped her to her feet. "And maybe you can tell me what JJ stands for?"

"Deal."

"Okay, let’s get you to the others before they send a search party." Taking her by the hand, they walked off towards the stadium.

Tom saw them approaching and let out the breath he didn’t realize he was holding. "Are you feeling better?"

She grinned. "Yes, I’m feeling better. All I needed was some fresh air." Blushing, she looked at JC.

Tom saw that and his eyes narrowed. "Um, okay. Let’s take you home, young lady."

JC took her hand and kissed it. "Until tomorrow, my lady."

"Until tomorrow." She giggled and left.

Tom turned and smiled at the young man, saying a silent "thank you".

Nodding, JC smiled back.

Xxxxx

Tom pulled the car into the driveway. He shut off the engine and let her out. She embraced him. "Thank you so much for tonight and for letting me come. I had a great time."

"I’m glad that you did. You wanna know something?"

She gave a curious stare. "What?"

"It’s good to see you smiling and laughing again. I’ve missed that."

She kissed him on the cheek. "You’re right. I feel better now more than ever. I don’t know what’s come over me."

"Maybe it’s a sign or something?"

"I guess you’re right and you’ve been right about a lot of things." She hugged him again. "I love you, dad, more than you know."

"I love you, too, JJ." He turned to leave.

"Oh, tell Lyam and Margaret that I’m doing just fine."

"How did you… never mind." She is my daughter. "I will and be ready at the same time tomorrow."

"I wouldn’t miss it for the world." She entered her apartment, closing the door behind her.

He looked up towards the heavens. "Thank you, Josh. It’s good to see her smile again." He got into his car and left.

Xxxxx

The next morning JC walked into the station. Taking a deep breath, he headed towards Tom. "Srgt. Ryan?"

Tom looked up from his file, grinning. "JC, what brings you here?"

Pulling a note out of his pocket, he handed it to Tom.

He took it and read it. "Another one."

JC swallowed nervously. "Yeah, another one. This time I found this one by my nightstand in my hotel room. The other guys don’t know about it. After I found it, I came straight here."

Tom nodded. "Sit, please."

He sat down.

"I’m glad you came to me, JC. I didn’t get the chance to thank you for what you did for JJ."

"You’re welcome, sir. I’m glad I can help."

"Tom, please." He took another look at the note. "I’m going to take this to the lab and get it analyzed. Maybe this time there’s a fingerprint on it and we can finally nail this guy."

JC squeezed his hands together, nervously. "What am I suppose to do until then?"

Tom scratched his chin. "I can think of something, but I’ll let you know later. If you get another one let me know, okay?"

"Thanks, Tom. I’ll see you tonight and tell JJ I said hi." He got up and left.

Harry saw JC leave and headed towards Tom. "Is that who I think it is?"

Tom chuckled. "Yes, Harry, it was. He got another one. I’m taking it to the lab."

Harry smiled. "I take it JJ had a great time."

"She did." He looked at his watch. "Well, I have a couple of hours to kill until I meet up with Cassy and JJ, so I’m going to see what the lab boys come up with."

"Let me know what you’ve found out." Harry walked back into his office and Tom left.

Xxxxx

JC entered his hotel room and stopped abruptly. "Oh, my God!" His room was in shambles. Walking inside, he looked around. Papers and clothes were everywhere. His notebook he wrote music in was ripped into shreds. Looking up at the wall, he paled.

He ran out of the room, nearly knocking over Justin. "Hey, man, what gives?"

JC ignored him and ran out of the hotel. He got into his car and sped off towards the police station.

Xxxxxx

Ten minutes later, he ran into the squad room. Tom looked up, seeing the fear in his eyes. "JC, are you all right?"

JC stood there.

Placing a hand on his shoulder, Tom inquired, "JC, is everything all right?"

JC swallowed nervously. "No…no. My room was thrashed. I’m…I’m next."

Tom paled. "Oh, God. Okay, I’m going to take you some place safe. It’s not safe for you at the hotel."

JC nodded.

Tom looked at his partner. "Tell Harry I’m going out for a couple of minutes. Get a team at the hotel and I’ll meet you there. I’ll explain later."

Cassy nodded. "I want to know everything when you get back."

They left.

Xxxxx

Tom drove up to the driveway and shut off the engine. Looking over at his passenger, he saw that JC was shaking tremendously. Tom ran out of the car, heading towards the front door. Few minutes later he arrived with help.

"JJ, help me get him inside."

She nodded, helping him get JC inside. Once they entered, JC collapsed from the shock. Tom put him over his shoulder and carried him into the guestroom. He set him on the bed and left. Walking down the stairs, he met the angry gaze of his daughter.

"What the hell happened to him?! And furthermore, why did you bring him here? You know how I feel about this?!"

Tom shrugged. "JJ, I’m sorry. I didn’t think. It was the only place I could think of that would be safe for him to stay and it was on a short notice."

Her anger disappeared. Her mental alarms went off. Safe? "Is he all right?"

He shook his head. "I don’t know. He came to see me saying he was next." He sighed. "I’ve should’ve told you this last night. He’s been getting death threats and Harry assigned Cassy and I to protect him and his friends. That was the deal with the security detail. The mayor put us in charge of protecting them, especially JC. He’s the one getting the most of them."

She put her hand up. "I don’t want to hear anymore. He can stay here, but that doesn’t mean I don’t like this idea one bit."

He kissed her cheek. "Thank you, JJ. I know this doesn’t feel right, but I need your help right now. If theirs is any sign of trouble, call me okay. I mean it."

She hugged him. "I will, but I think I handle everything and you’re welcome."

He left.

She sighed, heading towards the kitchen to fix her guest something to eat.

Xxxxx

Tom walked into the station a few minutes later. He headed towards his desk and noticed a young man sitting opposite of Cassy. She was sitting there writing something on a notepad. She looked up.

"Hey, Tom. This is Justin Timberlake. He’s one of JC’s friends and also a member of NSYNC. We met him last night I think."

Justin shook his hand. "Pleasure to meet you, sir. How’s JC?"

"He’s doing all right. He’s somewhere safe for now."

Justin sat back down. "I saw his hotel room. He ran into me, nearly knocking me on my butt. He looked like he just seen a ghost. I’ve never seen him like that before. It scared me."

"It scared him even more," Tom mumbled.

Justin stood up again. "Take care of him, Mr. Ryan. He’s like a brother to me and the rest of the guys." He left.

"I will, Justin. I will." He sat down at his desk.

Cassy glanced at him. "Where did you take him?"

"JJ’s."

Cassy smiled. "She’s really going to like that."

Tom chuckled. "I don’t think she’ll mind the company. I told her to call me if there are any signs of trouble."

I bet. "Come on hotshot. Let’s go check out the hotel room."

Xxxxx

JJ carried the tray of food up to the guestroom. Opening the door, she entered the bedroom. She saw him standing by the window. She cleared her throat. "Um…JC, I thought you would like something to eat.

He turned. "I’m not hungry."

She shook her head. "Don’t give me that. I know how it feels to be alone and scared." She set the tray on the nightstand. "I’ll be downstairs if you want to talk." She left.

JC looked at the food. "I’m sorry, JJ. You’ve been open with me and now I’m not open with you." He picked up the fork and began to eat his meal.

Xxxxx

Tom and Cassy entered the hotel room. The rest of the members of NSYNC were there, looking at the writing on the wall along with Robert Peterson. The survey crew were taking pictures of everything.

Peterson turned, facing the detectives. "Where’s JC? Justin tells me he went to see you this morning."

Tom nodded. "Yes, he did. He’s somewhere safe for now until this settles down."

"I didn’t know this was going to go this far."

"Neither did we, Mr. Peterson. We are recommending that you guys cancel the rest of your shows until further notice."

Joey stepped in. "No way, dude. What about our fans? I know they paid a lot of money to see us."

Tom glared at the young man. "What about, JC? Don’t you think he’s more important than your fans."

Joey took a step back. "Sorry, I didn’t think."

"It’s all right, Joey. I know we’re all under a lot of pressure and the situation with JC isn’t helping matters much," Tom said.

"Srgt. Ryan is right," Justin responded. "Besides, I haven’t seen my family in over a year and I would like to spend some time to catch up on everything. What do you guys think?"

The group nodded in agreement.

"Good, it’s settled then. We’ll continue the tour after this is all over," Justin said.

"We’ll keep you informed about JC and any possible leads."

Tom and Cassy left with the rest of the group.

Xxxxxx

JC finished his meal and set the tray back on the nightstand. Opening the door, he proceeded to walk downstairs. Stopping abruptly, he stood on the top step, listening to the sad melody playing from the other room.

"Oh, Josh. I’m so sorry." Came a cry.

Josh. He walked down the stairs still listening to the beautiful melody.

JC stopped at the bottom step and peeked around the corner, seeing a sight that scared him. JJ was sitting on the couch pressing a picture against her chest. He saw the racking sobs that coursed through her body. He took a step towards her, but stopped.

What am I doing? I’m invading her privacy. Maybe I should leave. He turned, bumping into a lamp.

She turned with a start. "JC, what the hell are you doing?"

He gulped. "I’m sorry. I-I didn’t mean to intrude. Really, I’m sorry."

She smiled. "It’s okay, really. I’m not use to having company since-"

He walked to the couch, taking a seat beside her. He saw the picture she was holding on the table. He picked it up. "Is this who I remind you of?"

She snatched it, placing it face down on the table. "Yes." She stood, walking towards the window. "He was killed about a year ago."

His eyes cast down. "I didn’t mean to push."

"It’s okay. I suppose it helps talking about it as I’ve been told."

He stood, walking towards her. Placing his hands on her shoulders, she leaned into his embrace. "JJ, life can change in an instant. Trust me I know."

"That’s what he used to say."

"Josh."

She turned, glaring at him. "How did you know his name?"

"I heard you as I was coming down the stairs."

She ducked her head. "I didn’t mean to yell at you."

"It’s all right." He decided to change the subject. "Come on, let’s go sit on the couch and talk. I’ll even tell you what JC means. Maybe you can tell me what JJ means."

They walked towards the couch, sitting beside each other.

"Alright, what does JC stand for?"

"You really want to know?"

"Yes, I really want to know."

He grinned. "It stands for Joshua Scott Chasez."

She looked at him in surprise. "That’s why you remind me of him," she paused. "Now I suppose it’s my turn. JJ stands for Jennifer James Andrews."

He smiled, taking a strand of loose red hair and putting back behind her ear. "I like Jennifer better."

She placed her hand on his cheek. "And I like Joshua better, too."

They leaned closer together, lips inches apart.

"Um…maybe we should call this a night." She stood. "Goodnight, Joshua."

He grabbed her hand, kissing it. "Goodnight, Jennifer."

She left. She entered her bedroom and turned on the light. What am I doing? He’s been dead a year, maybe its time for me to move on. Turning off the light, she went to bed.

Xxxxx

The next morning Tom checked to see how JJ was doing. He got out of the car, carrying the bagels and juice to the front door. He rang the doorbell. The door opened.

"Good morning, Srgt. Ryan. It’s nice to see you again."

He looked at him, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. JC was standing there wearing no shirt, just a pair of jogging pants, drenched in sweat. JC saw the look on his face and chuckled.

Typical father. "I just came from a jog. It was great! I didn’t get mugged by any fans."

He nodded. "That’s great, JC. Is my daughter up?"

"Joshua, who’s at the door?"

Tom did a double take. No way.

"It’s your dad, Jennifer."

"I’ll be right down!"

She walked down the stairs, embracing her visitor. "Good morning." She looked at the bags in his hands. "You brought breakfast. You shouldn’t have. Come in." She shut the door behind him. "So, what brings you here?"

"I wanted to see how you and JC were doing. As I can see everything seems just fine."

She recognized the tone in his voice. "You can stop with the third degree, dad." She chuckled. "I was upstairs sleeping when JC went running. He came back right before you arrived. He’s been a perfect gentleman since he’s been here."

JC interrupted. "I’m going to take shower and let you two be alone." He ran upstairs, slamming the bathroom door.

Her eyes narrowed. "Thomas Patrick Ryan! You had no right to do that!"

"Jenn, I’m just protecting you. You don’t even know him."

"JC’s a good listener, like some other people I know. For goodness sakes, Josh has been dead a year and for the first time in that year, I’m happy and I’ve finally talked to someone who understands me."

He sighed. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to judge him. I’m happy that you’re happy, but if he breaks your heart, I’ll kill him."

She hugged him. "You’re just protecting your little girl and don’t even think about."

JC walked down the stairs. "Is it safe now?"

Tom smiled. "It’s safe, JC. I’m sorry for assuming too much. I guess it’s the cop in me."

"Apology accepted." He looked at the bags. "Let’s eat."

They grabbed the bags and ate their breakfast.

Xxxxxx

Two hours later, Tom walked into the station. Cassy glanced at him, smiling.

"So, how’s JJ?"

He wagged a finger at her. "Don’t even think about it, Cass. They didn’t do anything, not that she would tell me and don’t assume too much."

"Smart ass." She handed him a piece of paper. "The lab picked up a finger print on the death threat."

Tom looked at the paper. "Come on, Cass. We’ve got to get the rest of NSYNC. They might be in danger."

They ran out of the station.

Xxxxx

The man in the car pulled out his gun, kissing it, he said, "Let’s finish what we started a year ago."

Hosting it over his shoulder, he walked over towards the beach. Finding a place to his liking, he set the gun down. Looking through the scope he saw the scene unfold before his eyes. He put his finger in the trigger and waited.

Xxxxx

Tom and Cassy ran into hotel. Flashing their badges, they went inside the penthouse suite.

"Where’s Mr. Peterson?" Tom asked.

"Haven’t seen him since this morning. Is something wrong?" Justin asked.

Tom walked passed him and saw the other security guard. He told him everything they’d discovered. He then turned back to Justin.

"I’m sorry, Justin. I didn’t mean to ignore you. Just needed to talk to him that’s all."

Justin shrugged his shoulders. "Um…okay. Nice seeing you."

Tom and Cassy left the room.

"What did you tell the other guy?" Cassy asked once they were outside the hotel.

"I told him if he saw Mr. Peterson to give us a call and not to let the other boys leave the hotel without us knowing."

"That’s all we can do for now, I think."

"I don’t know, Cass. I have a bad feeling about this."

"I do too, Tom, but we can’t prove anything just yet. We need to wait and see what happens."

They stepped inside the car and drove off.

Xxxxx

"Josh! Josh! No!" She sat up, panting and sweating heavily.

JC ran into the room, panting. "Jennifer, are you all right?"

"I’m fine, JC. Go back to bed."

He wagged his finger. "Oh, no you don’t. This is the second time you’ve shut me out." He sat down beside her, grabbing her hands and gently squeezing. "Tell me what happened a year ago."

"Just let it go!" She ran out of the room and went downstairs.

JC ran after her. "Jennifer, stop!" He grabbed her just before she went down to the beach. Turning, she embraced him. Placing his hands on her hair, he stroked it. "Come on, JJ, let’s get you inside."

He took her into the house and sat down on the couch. "Jennifer, I’m your friend, and I’m worried about you. Every time I’ve asked you about what happened to Josh you just shut down, and tonight you screamed out his name. Please, tell me what happened a year ago."

She looked at him, tears flowing down her cheeks unchecked. "He was murdered right on the beach."

He paled.

"He died in my arms, okay. He died a week before we were supposed to be married. There are you satisfied." She stood, walking towards the window.

JC took a deep breath. "JJ-Jennifer, I’m sorry. I-I didn’t mean to push or to do anything more to upset you."

"It’s not your fault, JC." She walked away from the window and sat back down. "I’ve been afraid to live my life without someone who truly loves me. My fear came true. I don’t know if I can take it anymore."

JC did the unthinkable. He pressed her body against him, kissing her deeply. This time she didn’t push him away. She kissed him back, feeling the connection between them.

He pulled away. "Jennifer, are you sure about this? I don’t want to take advantage of you and if we do take it further, I’m not him."

She skimmed her hand down his cheek. "I’m ready to move on with my life, JC. And if we do take it further, I’ll be with you, not him." With that said she kissed him again.

A gunshot roared through the window.

"JJ, get down!" JC shoved JJ to the floor.

Another gunshot pierced through the window.

"I have to call, my dad." JJ crawled to her cell phone, dialing Tom’s number. "Come on, come on, answer."

The other end picked up. "He-hello."

"Dad, help us. Shots fired. Hurry! Get away from me!"

The line went dead.

"JJ! JJ! Oh my God!"

He grabbed his keys and called Cassy. "Cass, meet me at JJ’s with backup! Now!" Dropping the phone, he ran out of the house.

Xxxxxx

A few minutes later, Tom, Cassy, and backup arrived. He pulled out his gun and entered the apartment. "JJ, JC?"

Walking towards the counter, he found a note.

Tom put the note down and paled. Cassy ran to her partner.

"He’s got her, Cass. He’s got her."

"Who has her, Tom?"

"Steven Spears. Why didn’t I see this coming?"

Cassy paled. "My god, how did he get out of prison?"

"With a little help from the outside."

She nodded. "The note that JC found was from-"

"Robert Peterson," Tom finished.

"Do you know where they are now?"

"Where we caught him the last time."

Cassy nodded. "The warehouse."

"Let’s go!"

Xxxxxx

JC looked around the damp room. He then looked over at JJ, who was still asleep. He crawled to her, nudging her awake. "Jennifer, are you all right?"

Her eyes flickered open. "JC, oh my god!" she screamed.

"What is it?"

She pointed to the door, paling.

"It’s good to see you again, my dear."

JC looked confused. "Who is this guy?"

"Good of you to ask, JC."

JC’s eyes narrowed. "You! You’re the one whose been sending me the death threats, aren’t you?"

The man clapped. "You’ve finally figured it out. I’m proud of you, son."

"What do you want with us, Peterson?"

"It’s not you that I want," he pointed to JJ. "It’s her I want."

JC stood in front her. "You’ll have to go through me first to get to her."

He snapped his fingers. "That won’t be a problem."

Spears pulled out a gun, firing. Grabbing his shoulder, JC fell to the floor.

"JC, no!" She knelt down beside him. "You bastard!" Rushing towards them, Spears knocked her out with the butt of his gun. Putting her over his shoulder, he walked out. Peterson knelt down to JC’s level, pulling back his hair. "I’ll be back for you."

He walked out of the room, laughing.

Xxxxxx

Spears carried her into the next room. Setting her down on a chair, he slapped her. "Wake up, bitch!"

Her eyes fluttered open. "No!"

"It’s nice to see you again. You look beautiful than ever," he said as his hand traced her cheek.

She batted it away. "Don’t touch me!"

"I’ll touch you all I want. I didn’t finish what I started the last time."

Peterson put an end to it. "Steven, enough. You can play with her later. I just want her roughed up a bit," a sly smile crossed his lips, "for when Ryan arrives."

Spears rubbed his hands together. "That can be arranged. I love it when women beg me to stop. First things first." He pointed to the table. "Get me that rope and tie her hands behind the chair."

Peterson grabbed the rope, and tied her hands behind the chair.

"Please, don’t do this. I’ll do anything, please."

Spears smiled. "See what I mean." He slapped her. "Beg for me bitch! Beg for me!"

JJ didn’t say anything as he kept hitting her. Blood began to trickle down her lips, staining her clothes. After a few minutes, the world went black.

"Bitch!" Spears hit her one more time and then untied her. Carrying her over his shoulder, he took her back to JC.

JC looked up as they entered. Pain shot through his shoulder. He grabbed it, but didn’t let them see how much pain he was in. "What did you do to her?!"

The men said nothing as Spears lay her on the bed. He glanced at him, snickering. "Have a nice night."

The door slammed shut.

Xxxxxx

Tom, Cassy, and Harry sat in the car waiting outside the warehouse. Tom’s hands were trembling on top of the steering wheel. Cassy placed her hand on his. "Tom, it’s going to be okay."

"I just hope he doesn’t lay a hand on her or JC."

Harry nodded. "Give me the word, Srgt., and I’ll have black and whites here in five minutes."

Tom shook his head. "No, Harry. If he hears anything, I know he won’t hesitate to kill the both of them, just like the last time."

"Tom, I’m your captain and also your friend. This isn’t like the last time, he’s got backup and he’s ready for us."

He sighed. "Alright, Harry. I’ll give them ten minutes to get here then all bets are off."

"Agreed." Harry pulled out his cell phone and dialed the station.

"Tom, do you think this is a great idea?"

"No, Cass, I don’t, but that’s my daughter he has hostage and if it’s me he wants it’s me he’ll get. Are you with me?"

Placing her hand on his shoulder, she nodded, "Yes."

"Let’s go."

Getting out of the car, they headed towards the warehouse.

Xxxxx

Robert looked out the window, grinning. "We’ve got company, Steven. I’ll get JC, you can have the girl."

Spears chuckled as he went to the other room along with Peterson.

"Get up you, two, we’ve got a date with destiny."

Robert grabbed JC’s injured shoulder roughly as Spears grabbed JJ.

"I have something special planned for you, son."

"Why, Robert? I trusted you. Why?"

"The money, what else is there."

JC gave him a cold stare. "You’ll get whatever is coming to you."

"I don’t think so, JC."

They went into the other room and waited for their company to arrive.

Xxxxx

Tom and Cassy entered the back as Harry went in through a side entrance. They looked around the warehouse carefully, until they heard a scream, "Let me go!"

They proceeded towards the noise.

"Drop the guns, please."

Tom turned. "Peterson."

"And you’re supposed to be the smart one, but I would look before you react."

The cops turned around.

Tom’s eyes widened. "JJ!" He ran to her, but was pushed down.

"I said drop the guns or she dies." Spears emphasized by pressing the gun into her temple.

They dropped their weapons.

"I swear, Spears, if you lay another hand on her you’ll wish you never been born."

The man laughed. "I’ve heard that before, but I suggest you look up as well."

They looked up and saw JC hosted up above them. Sweat was dripping off his forehead from the pain in his shoulder. He was going into shock.

"Now, I know the rest of the world would miss him, so I suggest you don’t do anything stupid."

"What do you want, Steven?"

"You of course, Ryan, for what you did to my brother."

"That was a long time ago. It was my job to put him away for what he did to that girl."

He put the gun to JJ’s head. "Bullshit! And you know it!"

JJ eyes widened. "Dad, please help me, please."

Tom put his hand up. "Take me instead, Steven. It’s me you want, not her."

He pushed her aside. "You know you’re right. I don’t need this bitch anymore. Say goodbye and say hi to your lover for me." He cocked the gun.

"No!" Tom slid to the floor, grabbing his gun. Spears saw that and reacted. Both men fell to the floor, motionless.

JJ’s eyes widened. "No!" She rushed to his side, gently placing him in her arms. This can’t be happening again.

Peterson reacted as well. Cassy and Harry grabbed their guns off the floor, firing. Peterson fell a few feet away, dead. Cassy and Harry rushed to Tom’s side.

"Cassy, get JC. I’m calling for the backup and for medical assistance," he said, pulling out his cell phone.

Cassy did as she was told.

JJ stroke Tom’s hair. "Stay with me. Stay with me." She took one of his hands, placing it in hers. "Don’t leave, please, don’t leave me." She took her other hand applying pressure to the wound.

He didn’t respond to her.

Cassy freed JC. JC grabbed his shoulder as it throbbed in pain. They rushed to Tom’s side. Harry put his jacket under Tom’s head, hoping his detective would show some signs of life. Please, God not like this.

They waited for the help to arrive.

Xxxxxx

An hour later there was still no word on Tom’s condition. JC was rushed to the ER, too, and JJ was at his side, until they pushed her away. Now, she was pacing the waiting room like a caged animal waiting for some news on Tom and JC. Cassy and Harry were standing there watching her.

"JJ, sweetie, come on sit down," Harry finally said, patting the chair next to him.

"Harry’s right. Pacing isn’t going to help. We’re just as anxious as you are."

She glared at them. "No, I’m not going to sit down. I-I can’t sit down."

"Um, excuse me are you here for Mr. Ryan and Mr. Chasez?" a tall red headed woman asked.

They nodded.

"I’m Dr. Delarosa. I’m Mr. Ryan’s doctor." She looked down at her clipboard. "I also have some news on a Mr. Chasez, too."

JJ swallowed the lump in her throat. "H-how are they?"

"Mr. Chasez is going to be fine. The bullet went clean through the shoulder, just missing the bone. I’m releasing him in a couple of days, but Mr. Ryan is a different story."

JJ’s knees began to buckle. Cassy grabbed her, helping her to the nearest chair. The doctor continued. "As I said, Mr. Ryan is a different story. The bullet punctured his left lung, lodging dangerously close to his heart. We were able to remove the bullet and repair some of the damage, but we almost lost him twice on the table, and we had to close him up until he’s strong enough for us to continue."

JJ’s body began to tremble. "W-when can I see them?"

"I can take you to Mr. Chasez now, but it’s going to be awhile before you can see Mr. Ryan. We’re moving him from recovery to ICU, so it may be about ten minutes at the most. Follow me and I’ll take you to Mr. Chasez right now."

She looked at her friends. Embracing Cassy, JJ cried. Cassy held her tight, controlling her own emotions. "Everything’s going to be fine. Your-" she paused to find the right word. "Dad is a fighter. I know he’ll pull through."

JJ released her. "I-I know he is." She followed the doctor.

Xxxxx

JJ followed the doctor in silence to JC’s room.

"I’ll come get you when Mr. Ryan is ready." She left.

JJ entered the room, heading towards the bed.

JC opened his eyes, beaming. "Hey, I never thought I would see you again."

Grabbing his hand, she squeezed it. Looking down at the sheets, she avoided his gaze. "Me, either. I’m sorry for what happened."

He placed a finger under her chin, lifting her head. "This wasn’t your fault, Jennifer. Don’t blame yourself. Besides, I need the extra time off anyway. You know how long it’s been since I’ve had a decent vacation?"

She stood there in silence.

"Jennifer, what’s wrong?"

Her tears flowed down her cheeks uncontrollably.

"Oh, baby." JC pulled her close and held her. "He’s going to be fine. You’ll see." He stroked her hair. "I’m here for you, Jennifer. Let it out." He held her as the racking sobs took control of her body.

She lifted her face, wiping away the tears. She lightly brushed her lips against his. "Thank you."

"Ms. James, he’s ready for you." JJ looked up, seeing Dr. Delarosa standing in the doorway.

JC squeezed her hand. "Be strong."

She let go of his hand, following the doctor.

Xxxxx

They walked into another section of the hospital labeled ICU. They pushed through the double doors and proceeded towards Tom’s room. They stopped.

"I’m warning you now, it’s not very comforting in there. I’ll let you have a few minutes alone with him and I’ll get Srgt. St. John or Captain Lipschitz to take you home."

JJ nodded.

The doctor patted her shoulder. "He’ll pull through, you’ll see. All we have to do is think positive." She left.

JJ’s hand trembled as she opened the door. Standing in the doorway, she paled. Tom was hooked up to machines that were breathing life into him. His tan color was a chalky pale gray. The sound of the heart monitor was deafening. The sound of the respirator was even worse.

I’ve never seen him like this. Gathering up her courage, she went towards the bed. She sat down in the chair beside the bed. Grabbing one of his pale hands, she gave it a gentle squeeze. "Hey, I know you can hear me, so listen up." She wiped away a stray tear rolling down her cheek. "There’s so much I have to say to you, but I don’t know where to begin. I should have never come back to Palm Beach in the first place. I should’ve stayed in Boston and none of this wouldn’t have happened."

The tears flowed down her cheeks, unchecked. She bit her lower lip, to keep from crying out. "You’ve always been there for me. You’re the father I’ve never had. I don’t know what I would do if I ever lost you. I’ve lost Josh, now I’m going to lose you." She swallowed the lump in her throat. "Don’t you dare leave me-" she paused. "Daddy. Please don’t leave me. I need you now more than ever. I wish I can say these things to your face, so you can hear them."

She felt gentle hands on her shoulders. She stood, embracing her visitor.

"Why, Cassy, why?!" she finally cried out.

"I don’t know, JJ." She lifted her face so they were eye-to-eye. "You’ve got to believe that he’ll pull through. Come on, I’ll take you home."

She walked over and kissed his forehead. "I love you, dad. Fight. We need you."

Cassy escorted her out.

Xxxxxx

Three days later, she was still right by his side. She held onto his hand, hoping he would respond to her, but nothing happened. She wiped away her tears, and continued talking.

"You know, you’ve always been there for me whenever I needed you. I don’t know how you’ve ever put up with me. You are my rock, my firm foundation, and I don’t know if I can stand losing you, too. Losing my parents and Josh was hard enough, but now I’m facing the fact that I may lose you."

"Let’s hope it won’t come to that."

She turned. "Lyam! Margaret!" She stood, hugging both visitors.

"Oh, sweetie, are you all right?"

She shook her head. "I don’t know Maggie. I just don’t know. It’s my fault he’s here. It’s my fault. I can’t stay here anymore." She brushed past them and ran out of the room.

Lyam held his wife. "Oh, honey. She’s taking this really bad. I haven’t seen her like this since Josh was killed."

They looked at their son. "Oh, Tommy, come back to us. Please God, bring our son back to us." They pulled up two chairs and sat down next to their son, praying.

Xxxxx

JC was packing his bag as he saw JJ running passed his room. He stopped and ran after her. "Jennifer, stop!"

She didn’t listen.

He caught up to her, grabbing her arm, he said, "We’ve got to talk. Come on, let’s go find some place quiet."

They headed towards the courtyard. He set her down on the bench. She looked down at the brick tile.

"Jennifer, what’s wrong? Is it your dad?"

She took a deep breath. "Yes, no, hell I don’t know anymore."

"Then what is it?"

She looked at him. "Can you honestly tell me that this was my fault that you two are here?"

He shook his head. "No, I don’t blame you. I blame the men that did this to me and to your dad."

She turned away. "I should have never come back to this awful place. It only destroys the people that I love."

Placing two gentle hands on her cheeks, he turned her to face him. "If you’d never came back, I wouldn’t have met you," he paused. "And fallen in love with you."

She pulled from his grasp. "Please JC, don’t say that. You really don’t mean it."

He pulled her closer. "Yes, I do mean it. From the first time I saw you, I fell in love with you. I’ve never met anyone like you before. You’re a bright, beautiful, and caring person. I’ve waited forever for a girl like that. And I know deep down you love me, too."

She kissed him. "I love you, JC. You’ve made me whole and I thank god that I have you, but I don’t know if I can take this anymore, losing the people that I love. I think I’m cursed."

He embraced her. "Jennifer, stop pushing us away. You have me, and your dad, and many other people that love you. Okay? Don’t shut us out."

"You’re right. I have to stop shutting people I care about out." She took a deep breath. "I think I’m ready to go see him now and face my grandparents, too."

"They love you no matter what you do or say." Taking her by the hand, they entered the hospital. They headed towards the ICU ward.

JJ stopped. "I don’t know if I can do this."

He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "You can and you will."

They entered the room. Lyam and Margaret embraced her.

"I’m so sorry for my behavior earlier," she said against Lyam’s chest.

"We understand, dear. We’ll leave you alone for awhile."

She looked at JC. He nodded in assurance. She sat down and took one of Tom’s hands. Lyam, Margaret, and JC left the room.

She took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to say to him. "This scene seems all to familiar to me, except I’m not holding you in arms, watching you die. Tom-dad, I know I may not be the perfect daughter and the past couple of weeks since I’ve been back, I’ve shut you out of my life and look what it has done. I promise I won’t do it again. I just want to reassured by you that everything will be okay and you can call me little one once again." She gave his hand a gentle squeezed, this time it squeezed back.

"D-dad."

His eyes began to flutter.

"Come on, open your eyes."

He opened his eyes. "JJ-"

She kissed his forehead. "Welcome back. I thought I lost you."

He struggled to talk. She placed a finger on his lips. "Don’t try to talk."

He gave her reassuring smile.

"I’ll go get the doctor."

He nodded, slowly.

She ran out of the room nearly knocking over Dr. Delarosa. "He’s awake."

The group let out a sigh of relief.

"That’s good, Ms. James. I’ll go see for my self." She entered Tom’s room, shutting the door behind her.

She hugged JC. "You were right, all of you were."

"Come on, I’ll take you home, and we can talk some more."

She look at the Ryan’s and blushed. "Oops, I forgot. Where’s my manners? Um, JC, this is Lyam and Margaret Ryan, Tom’s parents."

JC smiled. "Pleasure to meet you both."

"Do you have a place to stay?" JJ asked.

"We’re staying at Tom’s until he’s well," Lyam replied.

"I’ll take you home then."

They left the hospital.

Xxxxx

The doctor entered his room to find Tom awake, looking around. She gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Don’t worry, Mr. Ryan, I sent them home for some well-deserved rest. I’m going to call your captain with an update."

He tried to talk, but the respirator was in the way.

"I’ll remove that this afternoon, if all goes well. I want to give the lung more time to rest. You’re not out of danger quite yet. I still need to repair the rest of the damage, but I’m going to wait until your stronger, okay?"

Tom nodded.

"Good. I want you to rest until then, Mr. Ryan." She scribbled something in his chart and left.

Tom drifted off to sleep.

Xxxxxx

The Ryan’s, JJ, and JC entered Tom’s place. Margaret looked at her with concern. "Are you feeling okay, dear? You look kind of pale."

She noticed the tone in her voice. "Yes, Maggie, I’m fine. I’ve been on edge for the past couple of days."

"We’re just worried about you, JJ. We haven’t seen you like this since…"

She put up her hand. "I’m fine, really. All I need to do is rest and go back to the hospital." She kissed them. "I love you both so much."

"And we love you, too, dear."

"Come on Jennifer, I’ll take you home." Looking at the Ryan’s, JC smiled. "It was a pleasure meeting you both."

"Likewise."

They left.

"It seems that our little JJ found someone else. That’s good."

"Yes, Lyam, it does. He’s a very handsome young man and also very caring."

"Come on, let’s get some rest and we’ll go see Tommy a little later."

Xxxxxx

JJ and JC entered the apartment. Shutting the door, JJ embraced him, kissing him passionately. He broke the kiss, trying to catch his breath. "What was that for?"

She kissed him again. "For always being there when I needed a friend and for understanding."

He picked her up carefully, carrying her to the couch. "The last time we tried this, we were shot at." He looked at her seriously. "Are you sure you’re ready for this? Given the situation?"

She placed a finger to his lips. "This has nothing to do with my dad. I’ve been living a sheltered life for a year, shutting everyone that I hold dear out of my life. You freed me, JC. I’m not going to push anyone away anymore." Her hand skimmed down his face. "Especially you."

"After tonight nothing will be the same ever again."

No more words were spoken as the lovers made their way into the bedroom. JC turned on the radio allowing the soft music to ease the tension. He saw her starting to fidget with her hair.

"Jennifer are you sure about this? We can wait."

She walked up towards him, kissing him passionately. He unbuttoned her shirt, letting it slide down her shoulders. She stood there trembling. He rubbed her arms trying to soothe her.

"Are you sure you’re ready for this?"

She nodded in assurance, running her hand down his cheek. "I’m ready."

He kissed her tenderly. "I’m not going to hurt you."

She stood closer to him, pulling his shirt off over his head gently. She kissed his injured shoulder as she ran her hands down his muscular chest, feeling it ripple against her touch. She stopped when she reached his pants. Her hands began to tremble. She started to back away unsure of his response.

He smiled, pulling her closer. "It’s okay, Jennifer."

She unbuttoned his pants and they soon joined the pile. Taking her by the hand, he set her down on the bed. They kissed. His hands roam over her body, as it responded to his touch.

She started to pull away. "I’m…I’m scared. I don’t know if I can do this."

"I won’t hurt you," he replied in a soothing tone. He kissed her hungrily; his desire for her was truly overwhelming. As he began to make love with her, he felt her body begin to resist him. He whispered soothing words and felt her begin to relax. She gave herself to him completely. He didn’t know such trust existed.

Later that night, JJ lay awake staring at him through the dim light of the nightlight. The fact that she was-although no longer- a virgin was something only her family and one other person knew. Josh. She looked up to the heavens, tears brimming the surface of her eyes. They were saving each other for marriage, but fate took that away. Now, it seems to have come full circle.

JC mumbled something in his sleep, and she rested a finger against his lips, kissing him lightly. He quieted down but did not wake up. Smiling, she allowed her fingers to explore, truly amazed that this man’s touch stirred an unknown desire deep within her soul that she didn’t know existed.

Her fingers began to travel down to new territories she just recently discovered. She’d fantasized, as a young girl, about a wonderful man making love to her. She always thought that Josh was that someone, but they never had the chance to share the experience with each other. The actual act wasn’t like anything she’d imagined. It was so much more. JJ gasped softly as her touch brought JC out of his slumber. Smiling at her, he touched her cheek with his hand, putting a loose strand of red hair behind her ear.

"Are you okay?" he inquired in a worried tone. "D-did I hurt you?"

She smiled, shaking her head. "I’m fine, my love. You have shown me so much pleasure that I haven’t thought imaginable." She leaned over, kissing him hungrily. "You’ve made me whole, JC."

"As you made me, Jennifer," he replied, kissing her again.

JJ felt her heart beating wildly as she felt JC’s desires rise and matched her own. She clung onto him as he made love to her again.

Xxxxx

Early in the morning, JJ woke up and headed to the hospital, but she made one stop first. Carrying the bouquet of flowers, she headed up the hill. Stopping, she placed them on the ground and sat down.

"I know it has been a while since I’ve last saw you. There was so much I wanted to tell you and I never got the chance to." She wiped away a stray tear, trickling down her cheek.

"Fate seems to have an everlasting affect on us all. Fate took you away from me and now it’s brought you back in a way. JC is very much like you, but he is also very different from you. You will and always be my first true love and you will have a very special place in my heart. I’m glad you’re watching over me."

She kissed the tombstone. "I’ll always love you, Joshua O’ Brian." She got up and walked away.

Xxxxxx

She put the car into park and headed inside the hospital. She saw JC, standing there waiting for her.

"How did you get here?"

He shrugged. "The Ryan’s brought me, I hope you don’t mind. Besides, I have a doctor’s appointment anyway."

She kissed him. "I don’t mind. I just had to make a stop before I got here anyway."

"You don’t have to explain yourself to me. Come on, let’s go see your dad."

They walked hand in hand down the long corridor. They stopped in front of Tom’s room.

"I’ll wait for you in the waiting room." He kissed her.

She entered the room only to be met by curious stares. She cringed. "What did I do?" She went to Tom’s side, kissing him on the forehead. "How are you feeling?"

"Better. The doctor says that they’ll finish repairing the damage sometime this afternoon."

"That’s great news."

"How are you holding up, dear?"

Looking up at the elderly woman, she replied, "I’m doing a lot better, Maggie. I’m sorry about the last couple of days. I didn’t mean to lose it like I did."

"We’ve all be through a lot. You don’t have to apologize."

Tom looked at his parents. "Um, mom, dad, can I have a minute alone with JJ?"

Uh oh. I know that tone. Margaret kissed his forehead. "Sure, dear, we’ll be in the waiting room."

They left.

He patted the chair next to the bed. "We have to talk," he said in a fatherly tone.

JJ gulped. She knew when he spoke like that she was in some kind of trouble. She sat down in the chair.

"You and JC seem to be getting serious. I saw the way you kissed him and the way you look at him all the time."

"Tom…dad, don’t you dare patronize me. I love JC very much."

"But honey your still-"

She cut him off. "Still, what? In mourning? In way I am, but JC has shown me to look past that and to look towards the future. He’s brought me closure."

He knew the tone in her voice. "You gave yourself to him, didn’t you?"

That made her angry. "Yes, I did. Is that a problem?" she responded by putting her hands on her hips.

"But, what about Josh? I thought he was and still is your true love."

"He still is. He’s in a special part of my heart until the day it stops beating. I love JC and now I know that he loves me."

"I just don’t want to see you hurt."

She smiled. "He won’t hurt me. You told me once when I was a little girl that fate has a mysterious way of changing lives. It changed a year ago when Josh was killed. I thought I would never be the same again. Now, it seems to have come full circle."

He squeezed her hand. "I hope your right about this. You’re not a little girl anymore and I have to let you grow up sometime in your life."

She kissed him. "I will always be your little girl." She hugged him gently. "I love you, daddy."

"I love you, too, little one."

The doctor cleared her throat. "I’m I interrupting something?"

She released him. "No." She looked at Tom. "I have to go." She kissed him on the forehead. "See you later." She walked past the doctor and headed towards the waiting room.

The doctor walked towards him, scribbling something in his chart. "I want you fully rested for this afternoon, okay?"

"Yes, doctor."

"I’m going to give you a sedative so you can relax and rest." She pulled a shot out of her pocket and injected the fluid into his IV. "This should kick in about a couple of minutes."

He lay back against the pillows.

She left the room.

The sedative took affect almost instantaneously. "I hope you’re right about him," he mumbled before drifting off to sleep.

Xxxxx

Later that afternoon, everyone returned to the hospital. Tom’s operation was a success. The doctor told them that he should be going home in a couple of days and should be returning to active duty in about a month. They embraced each other.

"I want all of you to go home. Mr. Ryan won’t be waking up until morning, so I want each and everyone of you to go home and get some rest."

They nodded in agreement.

She left.

"This is so good, Maggie, that he’ll be okay."

"I know, Lyam, god has spared our little boy once again. Now we can return home with some peace of mind."

"We’ll leave once he’s released."

"That’s great." They hugged each other. Amidst the celebration, Lyam saw JJ standing by the window, staring at the sky. "Honey, are you are all right?"

"I’m fine. It’s great that dad we’ll be all right." She turned to leave. "Do you need a ride?"

Something’s eating at her. "No, dear, we’ll grab a taxi. How’s your friend doing?"

She’d been avoiding him all morning. She knew after today, he would leave her. "JC? I don’t know. He’s with his doctor now. I’ll go check up on him."

She went down the hall. Grabbing one of the nurses, she asked, "Where can I find JC Chasez?"

The nurse pointed down the hall. "Right down there. First door to the left."

She smiled and headed that way. She got to the room just in time to see JC putting his shirt back on. She entered the room. "What did the doctor say?"

"He said I can go back to touring."

She swallowed nervously. "Oh, that’s great. I’ll take you to the hotel then."

He grabbed her arm, pulling her into a tender kiss. "I want you to come with me."

She let go of him. "That’s not possible. What about my friends; my family?"

"I love you, Jennifer, don’t you see that. I know they would understand. I know that they want you to be happy."

"I do know they want me to be happy."

"So, you want to come on tour with me?"

She smiled. "On one condition."

"Name it."

"That we’ll have some special times together and I can write each and everyday."

"Deal." He picked her up, swinging her around. "The guys will love you."

"I hope they will. Now, how to break it to my family."

"I’m not leaving until the end of the week, so I’ll give you that much time to tell them."

She kissed him. "I love you, Joshua."

"I love you, too, Jennifer."

Xxxxx

Two days later, Tom was released from the hospital. JJ dropped the Ryan’s off at the airport. With a few kisses and good byes the Ryan’s boarded their plane back to Boston. She headed back to Tom’s and helped him get settled in. He noticed that she was silent, something he wasn’t accustomed to with her. She sat down on the couch, playing with her hair. He sat down next to her.

"Okay, I can’t take it anymore. JJ, what is the matter with you? You haven’t said a word all morning."

She looked at him. "Nothing’s the matter," she lied.

"Uh, huh, sure. Come on, tell me what’s bothering you?"

She took a deep breath. "JC asked me to go on tour with him," she spewed out all at once.

He stood, slowly walking towards the kitchen. "When do you plan on leaving?"

"Saturday morning."

He turned the water on. "Good for you."

She stood angrily, walking towards him; she shut off the water. "What is that suppose to mean? I thought you would understand. I love him don’t you see that or are you just to blind to see that."

Here we go again. "JJ, I don’t have the strength to argue with you. If you want to go with him, that’s fine with me."

"I thought you would be happy for me, but I guess I was wrong." She went to the counter, grabbing her purse. "See you at the airport if you even care." She opened the door, walking passed Cassy, she said, "Maybe you can talk to him." She got into her car and left.

Cassy entered, shutting the door behind her. "What was that about?"

He turned. "Nothing, okay. Just drop it." His knees began to shake as his strength left him. She placed his arm over her shoulders and escorted him to the couch.

"Easy, there, partner. Here sit down."

He sat down, gently.

"Sorry I haven’t been around. I was in Miami working on a case. How are you feeling?"

"Fine. Just peachy."

"Uh huh, right. You didn’t look too peachy a few minutes ago. Want to tell me about it?"

He looked away. "No, I don’t."

"Okay, I will then. What are you two fighting about now?"

He took a deep breath. "She wants to go on tour with him."

She gave him a curious stare. "With who?"

"JC?"

"Oh, I see. You don’t approve of him, do you?"

"It’s not that, Cass. I just don’t think this is okay."

She grabbed one of his hands, placing it in hers. "Tom, listen to me very carefully. I think you’ve forgotten what it’s like to be in love. You and JJ have been through a lot, especially her. She lost her fiancé to a monster, and now she’s found someone else that makes her happy. She will always love you. Maybe this will do her some good. I know JC will protect her. You have to let go sometime."

He released his grip. "Thanks, Cass. If don’t mind, I’m a little tired. I would like to get some rest."

She nodded. "Okay, I’ll leave you alone. Just remember what it’s like to be in love." She left.

Tom got up and walked slowly towards the bed. He lay down on the bed and let the guilt overtake him. What have I done?

Xxxxxx

Saturday rolled around and JC, JJ, and the rest of NSYNC began to board their private plane. She stopped at the boarding gate.

JC gave her a curious stare. "Baby, what’s wrong?"

She looked around. "Why isn’t he here? I thought he would be here, but I guessed wrong didn’t I?"

He gathered her into his arms. "I know he’ll understand." He looked up and saw Tom walking slowly towards the gate. "Um, sweetie, I think you should turn around."

"Why?"

"Trust me."

She turned and smiled.

"I’ll leave you alone. I’ll wait for you here."

She walked towards Tom, embracing him gently.

"Oh, honey. I’m so sorry. Can you ever forgive me?"

She looked at him. "For what?"

"For what it’s like to be in love."

She hugged him again. "You’re forgiven."

"You better go. You’ll miss your plane. Write me okay?"

"I will." She turned to leave, but he pulled her into a tight hug.

"I love you, daddy."

"I love you, too, little one."

She let go of him, heading towards the boarding gate. She stopped.

"Go, I love you. Have fun."

Smiling, she entered the boarding gate and disappeared.

He walked towards the window and watched the plane taxi out of the gate. "Take care of her, JC." He watched the plane take off and then left.

Xxxxxx

JJ walked towards the table picking up the white envelope. She pulled the letter out, sitting down in the large chair in her hotel room. It was a letter from home.

She put the letter down as JC walked into the room. Putting his hands on his hips, he shook his head. "Reading that letter again. Baby, it’s a week old."

She put down the letter, blushing. "I’m sorry. I’m just worried something terrible has happened. I need to go home and find out if this is true," she said, waving the letter. "It sounds like she’s not telling me everything."

He kissed her. "Go, I know the guys would understand and besides your family is important to you. We’ll be in Palm in a few days, so I’ll pick you up when we arrive. I hope everything works out and don’t tell him of our surprise."

She hugged him. "I love you so much. Thank you." She gave him a quick kiss. "I’ll let you tell them."

"I love you, too, Jennifer. You better go pack. I’ll take you to the airport."

"What would I do without you?" She went into the bedroom and began packing.

Xxxxx

JJ arrived in Palm Beach in record time. She gathered her bags and grabbed a taxi to Cassy’s apartment. A few minutes later, she was at her front door, knocking.

Cassy put down the newspaper and went to answer the door. "Coming, just hold on a sec." She opened the door a few seconds later, embracing her visitor. "JJ, it’s so good to see you. It’s been a awhile."

"Six months, to be exact," she said, pulling out the letter from her pocket.

Cassy nodded. "You got my letter."

"Cass, I’m worried. What has happened?"

She opened the door further. "Come on in, and let’s get you settled in. I’ll tell you the rest, if your up to it."

JJ picked up her suitcase and entered the house.

"You can sleep in the guest room if you want to. I’ll go make some coffee."

Something’s up. She seems too distant. JJ entered the guestroom, sitting down on the bed. She pulled out her cell phone. It rang a few times until the other end picked up.

"JC’s pants and boxer club, how may I direct your call?"

She giggled. "Very funny, Chris. Is Joshua there?"

"JJ, hey sweetie. For you beautiful, I’ll go get him. Hold on, okay?"

"Okay, handsome."

She waited for JC to pick up the other phone. As she waited, she began to reminisce about the past few months. She got to know the boys pretty well. She’d discovered each of them had their own special traits. Lance, for instance, was the business persona of the group and he owned his own recording company called Freelance Enterprises. Joey was the flirtatious one. She figured that one out fast when he tried to ask her on a date. JC threatened to beat the crap out of him if he ever touched her.

Chris was the crazy one. He was always the one to play pranks on the others, especially on JC and her. He seemed to play them at times when they were having their special moments together. Justin was the outgoing one and also the youngest, which found her defending him the most from the guys when they picked on him.

Now, there was JC. She’d discovered that he had a serious side and sometimes he took things way too seriously. It drove her mad. He also had a bad habit of waiting until the last minute to do things, but they learned about each other more and their love grew stronger.

A few minutes, later JC picked up the line, jolting her from her thoughts. "This is JC."

She smiled. "I love you."

"I love you, too. I take it you made it safely."

"Yes, I did. I’m over at Cassy’s right now."

"Tell her I said hi and I hope everything works out fine."

"I will. I’ll talk to you later. I love you."

"I loved you first."

They hung up.

She put the phone in her purse and went to the living room.

Cassy was sitting on the couch, sipping her coffee. She looked up at her guest. "You and JC have a nice chat?"

JJ sat down beside her and grabbed the other cup. "Yes, we did. I’d promised to call once I landed."

"I’m glad that you two are getting along so well." She noticed the ring on her finger. "Is that something I should know about?"

JJ blushed. "It was suppose to be a surprise. The guys are scheduled to perform here in Palm Beach in a few days and I was going to pop the news to you and dad, but I guess it’s not a surprise anymore."

She stood, heading towards the window. "Congratulations. I’m glad you found someone again." She choked out.

JJ looked at her friend. Changing the subject, she inquired, "Cassy, you said in your letter that something happened and you would tell me. I know it’s been a week since you wrote me and I could tell when someone doesn’t tell me everything. Remember I used to be at that stage."

Cassy turned, sitting down beside her. "You’re Tom’s daughter alright. Nothing gets past you, does it?"

She shook her head. "Nope, nothing ever does. He’s taught me well."

Cassy took a deep breath, gathering up her courage. "I haven’t spoken to Tom since the incident. You have a right to know. Are you sure you’re ready for this?"

"Cass, tell me what’s going on? You’re starting to scare me."

She looked away. "You know about Virginia, but it’s time to tell you the whole truth," she paused. "I found out about her and what she’d been up to. She was using Tom since he was a cop." She took a deep, calming breath, continuing, "I went to the casino. Tom and I got into a heated argument." She stopped. Her hands began to tremble.

JJ took them. "What happened?"

She has a right to know. I have to tell her. "I told him what she was up to, but he didn’t believe me. He was so in love with her that he was protecting her, but mainly himself from the truth. Then what came next was a nightmare." She swallowed nervously. "He-he said that the biggest mistake he made was marrying me and the fact that he never really loved me."

JJ gasped. "No. I know Tom didn’t mean it."

She stood angrily, walking towards the deck. "I think he did mean it. After everything was said and done, after she was killed, he went to the station and confessed his soul, like he was in church, about everything. I heard most of it and then I walked away," she snapped her fingers. "Just like that; without an explanation."

JJ stood, embracing her friend. "You want me to talk to him. It’s been a week since you’ve seen him last, right?"

She nodded, wiping away a stray tear.

"Okay then. I’ll go over there and try to set things straight. But you two have to work out the worst of it. You both have to hear each other’s side of the story no matter what happens."

Cassy hugged her. "Thank you for listening, JJ. You are a really good friend."

"I will always be your friend. You’ve been there for me when I needed someone to talk to about anything." She took Cassy’s hands, placing them in hers. "Besides I would like to have you as my maid of honor at my wedding."

Cassy beamed. "I would be honored, JJ." She grabbed a tissue from the box and wiped her nose. "I need to go to the station anyway and check up on some things. Will you be all right by yourself?"

"Go, and tell Harry I said hi. Don’t forget to tell him that he and Frannie are invited, too, even though I haven’t met her yet."

She gave a gentle pat. "Trust me you will. She’s a wonderful woman. She’s kind of like my mother in a way. Tom loves her fresh baked chocolate chip cookies, but that’s a different story."

They hugged one more time as Cassy walked out the door.

JJ went over to the phone and dialed a number. She waited patiently until the answering machine picked up. That’s odd. Well, I guess I’ll just go over there. He didn’t know I was coming, but I guess I should surprise him.

Grabbing her purse and keys, she headed out the door.

Xxxxxx

A few minutes later, she pulled up to the driveway to find it empty. Where could he be? Maybe getting some coffee or jogging. She shut off the car and headed towards the front door. Stepping over the large pile of newspapers, she unlocked the door and entered.

Tom’s place was empty. The bed was made, or for the fact it hasn’t been slept in, and the shelves had collected a lot of dust. The dust mark on her fingers clarified that when she ran them across the shelves. Dad, where are you? No wonder you haven’t written me. Walking over to the counter, she found a picture. She picked it up, studying it closely. So, that’s where you went. She put it down and headed out the door, locking it behind her.

Xxxxx

JJ entered Cassy’s apartment. She took out a piece of paper and pen from the top drawer.

She folded the note, placing it on the counter. She grabbed her suitcase from the other room, did a quick check, locked the door, and headed down south.

Xxxxx

Two hours later, she turned onto the dirt road and headed towards the log cabin. She put the car into park and climbed out. Stretching, she looked around, smiling. It was a place of comfort and strength, since she hasn’t been here since Josh was killed. This place hasn’t changed much from the last time. Grinning, she spotted the Mustang a few yards away. Grabbing her suitcase, she headed in that direction.

She knocked.

The door opened. A shocked expression appeared on the detective’s face. He embraced her. "JJ, what brings you here? I’m so glad to see you."

She returned the embrace, smelling the liquor in his breath. "Its good to see you, too, dad. Can I come in?"

He grabbed her suitcase. "Sure, I’ll take this to your room." He bounded up the stairs as she looked around. She spotted the liquor bottles spewed around the living room of the cabin. No wonder you’re surprise to see me. What has brought you to this? She brushed a few bottles to the floor as she sat down on the couch.

"Sorry, the place is a bit of a mess. Here let me get those." He picked up the bottles and threw them in the trash. He then sat down in the chair nearest to the couch. "So, what brings you here? Aren’t you suppose to be in Europe or something?"

She recognized the tone in his voice. JC had gotten that way one night after partying too hard and he ended up sleeping on the couch. He’s drunk. "Um, yeah I was. But, I wanted to come and see how you were doing. You’ve haven’t written me in a month and I was getting worried."

He grew angry. "Cassy sent you didn’t she? Man, can she leave well enough alone." He grabbed a half-empty bottle from the side of the chair and took a swig.

She stood, yanking it away. "No, more. This has to stop." She went into the kitchen and poured the liquid down the sink.

He pushed her aside. "Give me that. I need that."

She held it tight. "No, you don’t." She waved the bottle in his face. "This isn’t going to make whatever is eating you go away."

He slapped her. "How dare you tell me what to do!? You have no right."

She rubbed her stinging cheek. She angrily grabbed the bottle and poured it down the sink. "No more! This won’t help you one bit!"

He slapped her again. "Get away from me!" He grabbed the bottle, finishing it to the last drop, as if it was the last thing on earth.

She watched him drink it. "Go ahead and wallow in your self pity, but don’t take it out on me. Call me if you’re ready to talk, but not for a punching bag." She turned away, tears streaming down her face. She ran up the stairs, slamming the door.

Tom went for another bottle until reality finally set in. "Oh my God, what have I done?" He looked at the bottle shaking in his hands. "I’ve hit my own daughter. What have I become?"

Placing the bottle on the counter, he walked up the stairs, slowly, grabbing the banister for support. He knocked on her door. "JJ, honey, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to do that." The room started to spin and he hit the floor with a thud. She opened the door, seeing him past out on the floor.

Grabbing his arms, she dragged him into the master bedroom. She picked up his legs, placing him on the bed. Damn, he needs to lose some weight. Then she picked up the top half, placing the rest of his body on the bed. She then went into the bathroom. Grabbing a glass, she filled it up with water, placing it on the nightstand. She opened the drawer and placed a packet of aspirin beside the water. She walked quietly out of the room and headed downstairs.

Her cheek began to sting. She grabbed a plastic bag out of the drawer, filling it with ice. Placing it on her cheek, she walked outside and sat on the wooden swing. She it rocked back and forth. Oh, dad. What has happened to you? What is eating you? I’ve never seen you like this. She lay her head against the pillows, watching the sun set, a stray tear falling down her face.

Xxxxx

It was mid-afternoon when Cassy finally arrived back at her place.

"JJ, are you here?"

She set her purse and keys on the counter. She picked up the note on the counter and read it. I hope everything will be all right. The ringing phone broke into her thoughts. She went over and picked it up. "Hello."

"Is Jennifer there?" the voice asked.

Cassy smiled. "No, JC, she’s not. She left me a letter saying to call her on her cell phone."

"Okay, I will. Thanks, Cassy."

"Your welcome and congratulations."

JC gulped. "She told you. I’m going to kill her."

She giggled. "Bye, JC."

"Bye, Cassy and thank you."

They hung up.

She walked out to her deck, watching the sun set. I hope everything is all right, JJ.

Xxxxx

A few hours later, Tom woke up to a throbbing headache. He looked around the room. How did I get in here? He spotted the aspirin and water on the nightstand. JJ. He swallowed them in one gulp. He gently placed his feet over the edge of the bed, standing up slowly. He grabbed the bedpost for support as a wave of dizziness passed.

He slowly walked down the stairs, looking for his daughter. He looked down at his hands. She was only trying to help. Why did I hit her? I’ve never hit her in my life. She didn’t deserve that. Entering the kitchen, he noticed the back door was open. He walked outside. Turning, he saw her fast asleep on the swing. He knelt down beside her. Seeing the bruise on her cheek, he gently rubbed it. "I’m so sorry. What have I done?"

She stirred at the sound of his voice. Her eyes opened only to be met by bloodshot hazel. "You look like shit," she said bluntly.

He smiled weakly. "I feel like it, too."

She sat up and scooted over so he could sit beside her.

"How did you find me? I didn’t tell anyone where I was going not even Cassy."

"You left an old picture of us on your counter. Don’t worry I didn’t tell her where I was going," she spat out. She stood, walking into the house.

He sighed. "JJ, wait." He stopped as a wave of dizziness swept over him. He felt an arm around his shoulders, guiding him towards the couch.

"Sit, I’ll make us some coffee. That should help with the hangover."

He did as he was told. "I know that you’re angry with me and I don’t blame you." He ducked his head. "I’m really sorry."

She handed him a cup of coffee a few minutes later. "You’re forgiven. There were probably times that you were angry with me when I slapped you. Now, I know how you feel." She sat down beside him.

He sipped his coffee, slowly. "I guess you know everything that’s happened."

"Not everything. Tell me about Virginia."

He set the cup down, sighing deeply. "What do you want to know? I thought Cassy told you everything."

"I want to hear your side."

"Where should I begin?"

"For starters how did you meet?"

"Well it started off like this…"

"So, that was our first date. I thought she was the one for me, but I guess I was wrong."

She took one of his hands, gently placing it in hers. "You didn’t know what she was capable of."

He looked down at the wooden floor. "I even wanted to marry her, couldn’t you believe that? I even tried to ask Cassy for permission," he spat out.

"Dad, you have to let go of your anger."

He looked away. "You don’t know the half of it. I did let go of my anger, but in the wrong way. I said some things that should have never been said."

She took a deep breath. "Cassy, told me what happened in the hotel room with you two."

He leaned into the couch, closing his eyes. "She must really hate me."

"Hate you, no, she doesn’t. Hurt, yes. You have some major explaining to do, if you ever decide to return to Palm Beach."

Tom looked at her, tears of guilt and shame trickled down his face. "I wish I could take them back."

Xxxxx

Cassy paced up and down on the deck wondering where JJ might be.

"She hasn’t called me or anything. She’s really going to owe me a huge explanation for this one. She’s just like her father." She walked into her house, sitting down on her couch. Leaning back into the pillows, she felt strong hands cover her mouth.

Struggling to break free, she felt the sharp needle pierce her arm, then nothing.

The man and woman smiled. "Now Ryan will get what’s coming to him. Let’s go."

They left, carrying Cassy away.

Xxxxx

JJ and Tom continued talking.

"So, what happened next?"

"I know Cassy was only trying to help me, but my pride and maybe my lust for Virginia gave into my anger." His body began to tremble.

She gathered him into her arms. "I’m here for you, dad. Let it out."

They held onto each, giving strength to one another. They let go of each other after a few minutes.

Tom wiped his face with his sleeve. "I feel better, now," he kissed her forehead. "Thank you, JJ."

"You’ve been there for me through all my rough times, so it was my turn to repay the favor."

He stood, taking her by the hand; he noticed the ring on her finger. "Is there a congratulations in order?"

She blushed, ducking her head. "Yes. It was supposed to be a surprise."

"Good for you. I’m happy for you. I think JC is the right man for you."

"Thanks, dad. He’ll be here in a couple of days to pick me up. NSYNC is performing in Palm for a few days and he wanted to discuss something with you anyway."

Tom gave her a curious stare. "Okay, do you know what he wants to talk to me about?"

She shook her head. "No, I don’t."

"It must be a man thing."

"Men," she mumbled.

Tom laughed and soon she joined him.

"Why not we call it a night and head back to Palm tomorrow?"

"Sounds like a great idea." He hugged her. "Thank you."

"You’re welcome." She kissed him. "I love you, dad, no matter what you do."

"I love you, too."

They headed off to bed.

Xxxxx

Cassy woke up in a strange room. Where the hell am I? She stood, closing her eyes against the effects of the drugs. After a brief moment it passed. She looked up, paling.

"Well, Detective St. John it’s nice to see you again."

"I could say the same thing about you Ballard," she snapped.

She laughed. "Oh, I would like to introduce you to someone."

A strong, beefy, man appeared in the doorway. "So, this is Ryan’s ex-wife. This is a pleasant surprise."

Cassy looked at him curiously. "Who the hell are you?"

He walked towards her, pulling her head back. "Your worst nightmare. I just have to get one more person for the bait to draw Ryan and his little bitch out in the open, but that’ll wait until tomorrow." He turned towards the woman. "Come on, Charlie, let’s leave her alone to think about her fate."

The woman laughed and left with him.

Cassy walked up to the window, grabbing the steel-iron bars. "Oh God. Tom, please help me, wherever you are." She sat down on the bed. What did he by one more person? I have a very bad feeling about this. She lay down, drifting off to sleep.

Xxxxx

The plane landed early in the morning. Stretching, the five young men checked out the area.

"Hey, cool, no fans. This is a first."

JC laughed. "Chris, you’re too much. We arrived early for that reason."

Chris slapped his forehead. "Duh."

The guys laughed.

"Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m going to see my fiancé. It’s been a while since I’ve held her in my arms. Excuse me."

"Have fun, bro, we’ll meet you back at the hotel. Stay out of trouble."

"Thanks Justin, bye guys." JC waved goodbye and went to catch a cab.

Few minutes later, he arrived at Cassy’s. He knocked on the door. "Cassy, Jennifer, are you here?" He tried the doorknob and found it unlocked. I hope Cassy doesn’t pull her gun out and shoot me. He walked inside the dark apartment. He turned on the light only to be met by a tackle from behind.

He turned. "What the hell?" He felt the back of the gun hit his head; then nothing.

"Bring him with you. Now we’ll get Ryan for sure."

The man did as he was told, carrying JC out of the house.

Charlie placed a letter on the counter and left.

Xxxxx

JJ woke up to the shrilling noise of her cell phone. She rubbed her eyes, grabbing the object in question. "H…hello."

"Jenn, its Justin. Is JC there with you?"

She sat upright, shaking her head. "No, he isn’t. Why? Was he supposed to be?"

"Yes, he was. He was supposed to be here about an hour ago for rehearsal and a press conference. We arrived early this morning, since we’d finished our European tour ahead of schedule."

She gripped the phone tighter, keeping her emotions in check. "Did you try Cassy’s house, just in case he stopped there?"

"I did, but there was no answer. Jenn, I’m worried. This isn’t like him."

"Don’t worry, Justin. I’m sure everything is fine. I’ll be down in a couple of hours. Try to find him until then."

"Okay babe, be careful and I hope you’re right."

"Me too."

They hung up.

Shoving the covers aside, she grabbed her suitcase, pulling out a pair of jeans and a blouse. She noticed Tom standing by the door. "Oh, I’m sorry dad, I didn’t mean to wake you."

"I was all ready up. Is something the matter?"

"I don’t know." She put the cell phone in her pocket. "That was Justin. NSYNC arrived early this morning and JC decided to surprise me."

Tom shrugged his shoulders. "So, what’s the hurry?"

"He was suppose to be at the hotel an hour ago."

"Be ready in five." He placed a hand on her now trembling shoulders. "Don’t worry, I’m sure everything will be fine."

"That’s what Justin said."

He gave her a gentle pat and left.

She zipped up her suitcase. Please be all right, JC. I don’t know what I would do if I lost you. She picked it up and walked downstairs to her car. Tom was already there waiting for her.

"Let’s get this show on the road."

They started their cars and headed back towards Palm Beach.

Xxxxx

Cassy heard the door open as Stan threw JC in with her. She knelt beside the young man, feeling for a pulse. Thank god, he’s still alive. She looked up at her captors.

"What the hell did you do to him?"

Sydney chuckled. "Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. He’ll just have a splitting headache when he wakes up."

As on cue, JC moaned, grabbing his head. "Oh, what happened? Where am I?" He spotted Cassy, kneeling beside him. "Cassy, what’s going on?"

"Good of you to ask, Mr. Chasez, or should I say JC?"

JC paled. "How do you know who I am?"

"I know a great deal of things and I make it my business to know. Stan get in here, now."

Few seconds later, a medium built man stood beside Sydney. "Yes, boss."

"You remember Stan. He can be a little rough at times. He’s also very loyal to me and Charlie." He looked at his cohort. "Take JC into the other room and then get Charlie."

The man nodded and headed towards JC. Cassy took the opportunity to punch the man, square in the jaw. "Don’t you touch him!"

Sydney pulled out a gun, firing. "Stan, take him now." He aimed the gun at Cassy. "Let’s see you try that again."

She stood back, watching them take JC away.

"Cassy, help me, please," JC pleaded.

She ducked her head. "I’m sorry, JC. I can’t."

"Cassy!" JC struggled to get free. "Let me go!"

"Shut up." Stan punched him in the solar plexus. JC groaned as they left the room.

Sydney beamed. "Good, now that matter is taken care of. Please have a seat, detective."

Cassy kept an eye on the gun as she sat down on the bed. "Now, what."

"Tisk, tisk. Be patient, my dear. You’ll soon find out."

Few minutes later, Charlie entered the room. Cassy fought the rising urge to lunge out at her.

Charlie smiled. "Well, I see Sydney has you cornered and Stan has that little wimp."

Cassy clenched her fists together. I have to think of JC’s safety. If I do anything rash, they’ll kill and JJ will never forgive me. "What do you what with me?"

She walked towards her, grabbing her chin roughly. "You’ll soon find out in time or maybe sooner as you think."

Cassy gulped.

Xxxxx

JJ and Tom pulled up to Cassy’s driveway. She climbed out of the car, stopping abruptly as she spotted the open front door. Tom pulled out a gun from his ankle and headed towards his daughter.

"Stay behind me."

She nodded, following him close behind. They entered the apartment. Cocking his gun, Tom checked the area for any signs of trouble.

JJ headed towards the counter. She picked up the note, paling.

Tom uncocked the gun. Putting it in his back pocket, he headed towards her. "JJ, what is it?"

She handed him the note. "Trouble."

He took it and read it out loud.

He crumpled up the note and threw it against the wall. He slammed his fist against the counter. "Dammit, this is my fault."

She gently grabbed his arm. "It’s not your fault, dad. What are we going to do?"

"We’ll just have to wait for them to contact us."

Xxxxx

Stan slammed JC against the wall, punching him in the face. JC fell to the floor. He picked him up roughly. Blood trickled from JC’s mouth and nose. Stan was about to punch him again.

"Stan, enough!"

Stan let go of him, backing off. "Yes, boss."

"Leave us."

He nodded, leaving the room. Charlie walked over to JC, helping him up. "Stan can be a little rough sometimes."

He pulled away from her. "I’ve noticed."

She grabbed him, running her hands up and down his chest. "I can see why she loves you. If it doesn’t work out, look me up."

He grabbed her hands, squeezing them tightly. "I wouldn’t touch you to kiss you. I love only one woman and honey, you’re not it."

She slapped him. "You son-of-a-bitch! How dare you say that to me!" She looked towards the door. "Stan, get in here."

Stan entered the room.

"He needs to be roughed up a little bit more and needs a lesson in manners."

Stan rubbed his hands together, heading towards JC. "Now, where did we leave off?"

JC scrambled to the wall trying to find an escape route, but to no avail.

Stan snickered. "I don’t think so." He slammed JC’s head against the wall, making him dizzy. "Let’s see how your pretty fans will enjoy your new face."

He punched him over and over again, laughing as the young man screamed for him to stop.

Xxxxx

Tom was pacing up and down Cassy’s living room while JJ sat on the couch, clenching and unclenching her fists. The ringing cell phone made her jump. "He…hello."

"Listen to me very carefully, understand. Do you hear the screams?"

She listened carefully, as she heard JC scream. "JC, no. Leave him alone you pig!"

Tom grabbed the cell phone away from her. "Who is this?"

"Guess."

He gritted his teeth. "Sydney. I should’ve known."

"You guessed right, Ryan, and now it’s my turn for payback."

Tom gripped the phone tighter. "What do you want?"

"You, my dear boy."

Tom cringed. He’d said that to him on the island and it was something he wouldn't forget. "What do you want with me?"

"Come to the docks and you’ll soon find out. Meet me there in one hour and bring your daughter with you, too. Talk to you soon. Oh, and Ryan, if I hear any signs of any law enforcement, I won’t hesitate to kill them both on the spot."

He hung up.

Tom slammed the phone shut. "Dammit!" He turned towards JJ sitting on the couch. He sat down beside her.

She was trembling, uncontrollably. "I heard him screaming for help. Dad, it was horrible."

He gathered her into his arms. "I know sweetie. I know."

"What are we going to do?"

"Wait."

Xxxxx

Sydney put the phone on the table, laughing. "I’ve got him where I want him."

He felt slender arms snake around his neck, kissing it tenderly. "Did he take the bait?"

He pulled her down, kissing her passionately. "He did, my dear. Soon Srgt. Tom Ryan and his daughter will meet a terrible fate and we’ll have our revenge."

She fumbled with his buttons, exposing his muscular chest. She kissed a nipple and then another. "What about them?"

He unbuttoned her shirt, letting it fall to the floor. "I’ll let Stan take care of JC and you my dear can have detective St. John."

"I love it when you talk dirty to me."

They disrobed each other in a timely fashion.

Xxxxx

Thirty minutes later, JC was thrown back into the room with Cassy. She helped him to the small bed and examined his injures. His face was severely swollen and his nose and mouth were oozing out blood profusely. His eyes were half way swollen shut.

She gently touched his face. "Oh, god JC, I’m so sorry."

JC tried to lean to one side. "N…not your fault. Owww." His ribs protested the movement.

"Here let me looked at them." She pulled back what was left of his blue silk shirt. She saw the swelling around his rib cage. She gently touched it. JC jumped.

"They might be broken or possibly cracked. We need to get you to a hospital."

JC grabbed his head. He closed his eyes against a wave of dizziness. "You might be right."

She grabbed his hand, squeezing it tightly. "Try not to move. I’ll get us out of here somehow."

The door opened. Cassy looked up, covering his body with hers. "Stay away from him!"

Sydney shook his head. "Don’t worry my dear, no more harm will come to him unless you decide not to cooperate." He tossed her a pair of handcuffs. "Put these on, now."

Cassy looked at JC and relunctly complied. I otta beat the shit out of these guys, but not at the risk of losing JC. JJ would never forgive me. Stan slapped the handcuffs on her wrists behind her back.

"Good." He turned towards the doorway. "Charlie get in here!"

Charlie entered the room, grabbing Cassy roughly. Stan followed suit, carrying the limp form of JC over his shoulder.

He rubbed his hands together. "Soon, Ryan, you’ll be mine." He walked out the room.

Xxxxx

Tom and JJ waited inside the Mustang. JJ reached into the glove compartment, grabbing the spare gun. Tom looked at her. "What the hell do you think you’re doing?"

She glared at him. "I’m not going to lose him like I lost Josh. I know how to fire one of these and I’m not afraid to use it."

He gave her his fatherly look. "JJ, it’s too dangerous. I don’t want you hurt. I don’t know what I would do if anything would’ve happened to you."

She placed a hand on his cheek. "I know, but that’s my best friend and fiancé he has hostage and I’m not going to take this sitting down."

"JJ, it’s too…"

A shout cut him off. "Ryan! I know you’re out there."

Tom looked up and saw Sydney and Charlie standing a few feet away from them. They got out of the car and proceeded to walk slowly towards them.

"You have us, Sydney, show me JC and Cassy."

Charlie left and came back with back up. She pulled Cassy by the hair, making her face Tom.

Cassy smiled. "Tom, I knew you would come."

He held still. "Where’s JC?"

Stan placed JC’s limp form on the ground.

JJ ran towards him. "JC!"

A gun fired.

"I don’t think so. I know you too well, Ryan, drop your piece or," he bent down to JC’s limp form, pressing the gun to his temple. "He dies."

"Let him go you asshole!"

He shook his head. "Such bold words from such a pretty lady."

Tom looked at Cassy as he dropped his gun. Giving him a slight nod, Cassy snapped her head back hitting Ballard and knocking over Stan in the process. They got up. She kicked Stan in the stomach. He fell to the ground with a thud.

Sydney turned to watch leaving a window of opportunity for Tom. He tackled him from behind knocking the gun to the ground. Ballard turned, watching her lover fall to the ground. Cassy tackled her, too, knocking the wind out of both them.

Tom and Sydney fought over the gun on the ground. JJ ran over to JC. Sydney grabbed the gun. It fired twice. JJ fell down beside JC, motionless.

Tom screamed. "JJ! No!"

Tom crawled to her and noticed the gun beside her. Sydney stood, aiming the gun at Tom, cocking the hammer. He held the weapon in his hand; a shot went off. Sydney looked down at the hole through his chest, falling a few feet away, dead.

Tom dropped the gun, going over to Cassy. He quickly grabbed the key from Charlie’s pocket, releasing Cassy.

Cassy cuffed Ballard and Stan together as Tom ran over to JJ and JC. She grabbed the cell phone from Charlie’s pocket and called for help.

JJ’s complexion was rapidly turning pale. Tom noticed that there was blood everywhere.

Tom searched her body for the injuries and found two holes in her chest. Her breathing became shallow as pink foam formed around the edge of her mouth, indicating the lung was hit.

Cassy knelt beside him. "Help is on the way."

Tom removed his shirt, applying pressure to the wound. He cradled her gently in his arms, rocking her back and forth. "Don’t leave me, JJ. Please don’t leave me, little one."

Xxxxx

The rest of NSYNC joined Tom and Cassy at the hospital two hours later. Harry arrived soon after. Tom knew he had some explaining to do, but he knew that could wait until later.

The doctor came through the double doors, wiping his hands on a towel. His gown was covered in blood. He made his way to the waiting room. The visitors looked at him as he entered.

"I’m Dr. Richardson. I’ve been treating Mr. Chasez and Ms. Andrews."

Tom stood up. "How are they?"

"Mr. Chasez is all right. He won’t be able to perform or do any activities for a few days due to the cracked ribs. His face is severely swollen, but no plastic surgery will be necessary."

Tom looked at him, tears threatening to surface. "W-what about my daughter?"

The doctor nodded. "That is a different story. I think you should sit down."

He put his foot down. "Tell me now."

The doctor’s expression turned grim. "Alright. Ms. Andrews is in serious condition. We found two bullets inside her. One punctured her right lung. I’ve put her on a respirator for that injury, but the other bullet, punctured a major artery near her heart."

Tom’s knees began to shake as Harry and Cassy helped him to sit down. The rest of the group gasped.

The doctor continued. "We almost lost her three times in the OR, but were able to repair the damage. But, due to extent damage of her injuries, she fell into a coma, and I don’t know if she’s ever going to wake up. It’s a slim chance to none."

A stray tear fell down Tom’s face. This is my fault. "When can I see her?"

"I’m moving her into ICU right now. You can follow me and wait upstairs."

Cassy stood beside him. He looked up at her. She answered his unspoken question. "I’ll go check up on JC. If he’s awake, I’ll tell him."

Tom nodded.

"Follow me, Mr. Ryan."

Tom followed him, disappearing from sight. Cassy turned to her captain. "Harry, I know you’re upset."

He put his hand up. "Upset doesn’t describe it, but I have a confession and an avid David from both Ballard and her cohort." He hugged her. "I’m just glad that you’re safe."

"At least one of us is safe." She looked over his shoulder at the rest of the group. "Hey, guys."

Justin nodded. "Hey, Cassy. I’m going to check on JC. He’s probably worried about Jenn."

"I’ll go with you." She turned once again to Harry.

"Don’t worry, Cassy. I’ve got to go back to the station to settle a few things with the commissioner. I’ll try to be back as soon as I can." He left.

The rest of the group went to the nurse’s station.

Xxxxx

Tom paced up and down the ICU waiting room. He stopped, looking out the window, letting his tears break through the surface. I have to get out of here. He turned towards the hallway, heading straight for the chapel. He entered, heading towards the altar; he sank to his knees.

"Father, I know it’s been a while since I’ve asked for your help. I know I’ve done wrong in the past, but please don’t make my daughter pay for my sins. She is a light that shines ever so brightly and you know she’s been through a lot. I’m asking you, no, I’m begging don’t take her from this world. I couldn’t bear to lose her. I love her so much. She’s a gift from you and she doesn’t deserve to go this way."

He felt a gentle tapping on his shoulder. He turned.

"Mr. Ryan, can you come with me please? I’ll take you to see your daughter now."

He got up, crossed himself, and followed the nurse.

Xxxxx

NSYNC and Cassy entered JC’s room. He turned his head, as his vision slowly returned to normal. He saw his friends standing by the bed. "Hey, guys."

Justin sat in the chair beside the bed. "You look terrible. I thought you were going to stay out of trouble."

JC laughed, but his ribs protested the movement. "I thought I was too." He looked around. "Where’s JJ? I don’t remember much of what happened."

Silence filled the room. The silence scared him a little. Something is up. "Guys, what are you not telling me?"

Silence.

"Now, you’re all scaring me. Can someone please tell me what’s going on?"

Justin swallowed nervously. He looked at Cassy for support. She gave him a quick nod. He turned back to his friend. "She’s in bad shape, bro."

JC paled. "How bad?"

Cassy stood behind Justin. "She’s in a coma, JC. The doctor thinks she won’t come out of it."

JC closed his eyes; his body trembling. Joey, Chris, Lance, and Justin stood on each side of the bed, giving them their support and prayers. They knew how much she met to him and to them.

"I want to see her."

"You have to rest, JC."

They looked up and saw Dr. Richardson standing in the doorway.

He slowly sat up. "She’s my fiancée. I demand to see her."

The doctor shook his head. "I know who you are and because you’re famous doesn’t mean you get star treatment, not on my watch." He scribbled something on his clipboard. "Her father is with her now. You can see her tomorrow, but if I hear of you trying to sneak in to see her while I’m not around, I’ll post a guard at her room, understand?"

JC ducked his head. "Yes, doctor."

"I’m sorry for being so harsh, but it’s in my best interest to keep my patients healthy and safe."

He looked up. "Is she going to make it?"

Dr. Richardson shook his head. "I don’t know. I say her chances are slim to none, but don’t give up hope." He pulled a syringe from his coat pocket. "This should help you sleep through the night, if may be, and help with the pain." He inserted the needle in the IV line. "You should feel the effects shortly." He turned to the group. "It’s time for you folks to leave now. Mr. Chasez has to get his rest."

They nodded.

"We’ll be back later, JC. Get well and think positive, we’re pulling for her," Justin said as they left.

JC grabbed Cassy’s arm. "Take care of Tom and tell him not to blame himself." His eyes drifted shut.

She gently put his hand back on the bed, whispering in his ear, "I won’t JC. I know it wasn’t his fault." She kissed his forehead and left.

As she walked out of the room, she spotted the doctor heading towards the nurse’s station. She tapped his shoulder. "Dr. Richardson?"

He turned. "Yes."

"What room is she in?"

"Room 216 on the ICU ward. Your partner is already there."

"Thank you."

"Oh, Detective."

She turned. "Yes."

"She’s a fighter. I’m pulling for her. I’m keeping her in my prayers."

It’s not her I’m worried about. "Me too, doctor. Me too."

She headed towards the elevator.

Xxxxx

The nurse escorted Tom to room 216. "I’ll be back in a while." She left.

His hand trembled on the doorknob as he pushed the door open. He entered the room and stood there in horror. Oh god. I’m so sorry. He looked around and saw the machines helping his daughter stay alive. The respirator tube down her throat was scary. It was allowing the lung to heal. The thing that frighten him, was the heart monitor. He watched it skip a beat or two, which caused him to jump.

He walked slowly towards the chair beside the bed. He sat down, taking one of her pale hands into his own, giving it a very gentle squeeze.

"Hey, little one. I know you can hear me. I’m so sorry this has happened to you. I should’ve never gotten you involved in my affairs." He felt the tears brim the surface of his eyes, finally letting them fall freely down his face. "I can’t believe this is happening. You’ve been through so much all ready. You don’t need this."

The heart monitor went flat. Tom’s head shot up. "JJ! No!"

Nurses and doctors ran into the room. "Get the crash cart, stat! Code Blue! Sir, you’re going to have to leave." One of the nurses escorted him out. "You have to wait out here."

Tom watched them pull back the curtain.

The doctor grabbed the cart, reaching for the paddles. "Charge! Clear!"

He looked at the monitor. "Nothing. Charge! Clear!"

Tom leaned against the wall, closing his eyes as he prayed. Please God, no, please. Don’t take her. He felt gentle hands on his shoulders. Looking up, he embraced Cassy.

"I’m here, Thomas. I’m here." She held him as they tried to bring JJ back to life.

"Okay, one more time. Charge! Clear!"

She looked at the monitor, breathing a sigh of relief. "She’s back with us. Good job people. That was close."

Tom let go of her, watching them examine JJ.

"Can I see her now?"

The doctor shook his head. "In a few minutes. We want to monitor her progress, just in case."

Cassy put her arms around his shoulders. "Come on, Tom. Let’s go and get some coffee. We need to talk."

He followed her.

Xxxxxx

They were the only ones sitting in the hospital cafeteria sipping coffee; a deafening silence between them. Tom finally broke the silence. "Cass."

She held up her hand. "Before you say anything, there’s a lot unsaid between us."

He ducked his head. "I told you before. I didn’t mean it. As god is my witness."

She took one of his hands. "I’ve come to realize that now. I know you didn’t mean it. JJ made me realize that you were only trying to protect me, but that doesn’t give into the fact you hurt me very deeply."

He gave it a gentle squeeze. "I wish I can take back what I said to you, but the damage has been done." He stared at her. "Can we be friends again?"

"Tom, no matter what you do or say, I will always be your friend and be there when you need me and vise versa."

"Thanks, Cass. I don’t deserve you."

"You’re welcome. Come on let’s go see her okay?"

They got up and headed back towards JJ’s room. They stopped in front of the room.

"I have to call my parents. They should know what has happen."

"I’ll do that, Tom. I need to go back to the station. I have a lot of explaining to do for Harry about this whole thing."

Tom ducked his head. "So, do I."

"You’re main concern right now is your daughter and Harry understands that."

Tom paused for a moment and then remembered something. "How’s JC?"

"He’s going to be okay. He told me to tell you not to blame you for what happened to JJ. The doctor is going to allow him to see her in the morning."

"How can he not blame me? The person he loves is fighting for her life."

"He understands, Tom. It’s the monsters that did this to him and to JJ who are at fault, here not you."

They walked down the hallway to JJ’s room, watching the nurses checking JJ’s vital signs.

"I should’ve left her at the house."

"You didn’t know this was going to happen. Stop blaming yourself right now. She doesn’t need this." She took his chin, so he was face to face with her. "She needs you to be strong and positive. You’re her father."

Tom looked through the window into JJ’s room. He felt his rage grow stronger. "I need to get some answers. Call my parents. I’ll be back." He turned, running down the hallway.

"Dammit, wait!"

He didn’t hear her.

Entering the room, she sighed. Sitting in the chair, she watched her friend slowly fade away from this world.

Xxxxxx

Tom arrived at the station, heading straight for the lock up area. He flashed his ID and the officer escorted the prisoner to the interrogation room.

He pointed to the chair. "Have a sit, Ballard."

The woman sat down. Tom looked at the officer. "Leave us."

The young officer shut the door behind him. Tom took a seat across from the former detective.

She sneered at him. "How’s your daughter? I heard she isn’t going to make it. Too bad. She deserved it anyway being related to you."

Tom controlled his rising emotions. "I’m only going to ask you this once. Why?"

She rolled her eyes. "You sit there asking me why. You got some balls asking me this. You still haven’t figured it out."

"Figure out what?"

"Why I hate you and your partner so much."

"Then tell me because I must be one stupid cop."

She gave him a cold stare. "You sent my partner and mentor to prison only to meet a shive in the back by people he put there. Then our dear captain favors you and St. John more than anyone here and that just makes me sick."

"Why?"

She rolled her eyes. "Why? Because, I’ve been trying to get respect since I was transferred here. When I teamed up with Tony, I thought I was going to get the respect I so righteously deserve, but then you and St. John had to stick your nose into everything."

His voice rose in anger. "He killed his wife, for godsakes!"

She stood, staring him straight in the face. "She deserved it!"

Tom controlled his rising anger. "Why Sydney?"

"When I heard you were clear of the charges of murder, I decided to do a little investigating of my own. That’s how I met Sydney and we shared a common goal, which was our hatred for you."

Tom stood, pushing his chair back. He couldn’t control his anger any longer. "You bitch! Because of you and your so-called boyfriend, my daughter is fighting for her life. I’m losing her because of you." He lunged at her.

"Ryan! Step away! That’s an order!"

Tom held still.

"Johnson get in here, and take her away." The young rookie went over to the prisoner.

Charlie laughed. "I hope she dies. It does me good to see you in pain."

Tom lunged for her again, Harry held him back.

"Take her away now!"

The rookie took her away.

Harry glared at his detective, whose hands were shaking from anger. "Take a seat, Srgt."

Tom picked up the chair, sitting in it.

Harry slid his glasses to the bridge of nose, glaring at his detective. "I want answers and I want them right now."

He sighed. "What do you want me to say? That I let her get to me or the fact that I’m an emotional wreck."

The captain’s anger disappeared. "Tom, I know you’re in pain right now, but that doesn’t explain what you just did. I want you to take the weekend off to get your head on straight and to stay with your daughter. You’re not off the hook, though. Report to my office first thing Monday morning, we’ll explain this further."

Tom nodded. "Thanks, Harry."

He gave him a gentle pat. "Don’t be afraid to ask us for anything, okay. Tell her we’ll praying for her."

Tom shook his head.

Harry left the room, and Tom followed.

Xxxxxx

The heart monitor going flat woke Cassy with a start. "Oh god, not again."

She was shoved aside by one the nurse’s. Cassy was escorted out of the room. She watched in horror as once again they tried to revive her friend.

"Clear!"

"Nothing. Charge! Clear!"

Tom ran down the hallway to Cassy. He looked into room. "JJ! No!" Cassy held him back.

The doctor tried again. "Charge! Clear!"

They looked at the monitor. Her heart started to beat again. They all breathed a sigh of relief. Tom started to walk into the room, but was held fast.

"No more visitors at this time. We’re going to get an eye on her. I’ll let you know if anything changes in her condition."

He looked one more time at his daughter and relunctly complied.

"Will you make sure he gets home, Srgt?"

Cassy nodded. "Yes, I’ll make sure."

The doctor left.

"Come on, Tom, let’s get you home."

He left with her.

Xxxxxx

Cassy pulled into the driveway, shutting the engine off. Tom sat in the seat, staring out the window.

"Tom, come on, I’ll get you settled in."

Tom got of the car, heading towards the house. He inserted his key into the door. He entered and stared at the emptiness. Just like the rest of my life. Walking towards the couch, he sat down, rubbing his eyes.

Cassy sat down beside him. "When was the last time you’ve gotten some sleep."

"It’s been a while."

"Well, go freshen up and I’ll help get you to bed."

"Cass, you don’t have to baby me. I’m a grown man."

"I’m your friend and I’m not babying you."

He kissed her forehead. "Thanks for everything." He headed to the bathroom.

Cassy heard the water running; indicating that he was taking a shower. She walked to the bed and pulled back the covers. She heard the water stopped and saw him walk out the bathroom wearing only a towel around his waist.

Tom looked down blushing. "Sorry, I forgot."

Cassy smiled. "It’s okay. It’s not like I’ve never seen you naked or anything before." She turned and allowed him to get dressed.

"It’s safe now."

She turned and saw him wearing a pair of sweats. "Okay, let’s get you to bed."

He lay down on the bed pulling the covers over his tired body. She fluffed his pillows a little. She felt his hand on her arm. "Stay with me."

She glanced at him. "Tom, I don’t think…"

"I don’t want to be alone tonight. Please, Cass."

"I’ll sleep on the couch."

"No." He patted the spot next to him. "I promise I won’t bite."

"Are you sure?"

He nodded.

"If you try anything, I’ll kill you." She went to the other side and lay down beside him. This feels right somehow. He pulled her closer to him. She didn’t pull away.

"Goodnight, Cass."

"Goodnight, Tom."

They drifted off to sleep.

Xxxxxx

It was early morning when JC finally woke up. He slowly sat up and saw his friends standing in the doorway. "Hey guys."

"Hey, bro. How do you feel?"

JC groaned. "Sore."

Justin chuckled. "That’s an improvement."

He laughed. "Don’t make me laugh, Justy." His look turned serious. "How’s Jennifer?"

The group cast their eyes to the floor, except Justin. "They almost lost her twice last night."

JC gasped. "My god. Is she all right?"

"I’ll answer that question for you."

They looked up as Dr. Richardson entered the room.

"She’s still in serious condition, but she’s stable for right now. We’re keeping a close eye on her as you all ready know."

"I want to see her."

"I know you do. Let me examine you and I’ll have one of your friends get a wheelchair for you."

The group complied and went to go get a wheelchair as the doctor examined JC.

Ten minutes later, JC was being pushed into the ICU ward. They stopped in front of her room. Tom turned. "JC."

JC stood up slowly from the wheelchair, wobbling a little bit to the side. Tom stood and put his arms around his shoulder. "Here, let me help you."

They walked slowly towards the bed. Tom’s parents helped JC sit in the soft chair beside the bed.

"I’ll leave you alone."

He looked at Tom. "Thanks."

"We’ll be right outside if you need us."

The group left, leaving the young man to be alone with the woman he loved.

Xxxxx

What is this? Oh my God, it’s the first time Tom and I argued. She continued to watch the scene.

Xxxxxx

JC took her pale hand into his own. "Oh, baby. This isn’t what I had in mind for you as a surprise. I planned something more than this. Come back to me, baby. Come back to me." He closed his eyes and began to sing a song that he wrote only for her.

"And I will take you in my arms, and hold you where you belong, ‘til the day my life is through, this I promise you, this I promise you. I’ve loved you forever, in the lifetimes before, and I’d promised you never, will you hurt anymore, I will give you my word, I will give you my heart, this is a battle we one, and with this vow, forever has now begun."

"Over and over I fall, when I hear you call, without you in my life, baby, I just wouldn’t be living at all."

JC wiped away the tears falling freely down his face. "Come back to me baby." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze again and this time he felt it squeeze back. "Jennifer?"

He looked at the heart monitor and it started to beat faster and faster, along with his rapid breathing. He glanced back at her. "Come on, honey. We need you. I need to hold you in my arms again."

Her eyes began to twitch and then flutter. He continued to encourage her. "Open your eyes, Jennifer. Look at me."

Her green eyes opened and he smiled. "Hey, welcome back."

Her eyes looked around the room, hazily. She tried to smile.

He stood up gently, planting a kiss on her forehead. "Rest now." He reached for the panel, pushing the intercom button. "Get Dr. Richardson in here now." Few seconds later, he heard the doctor’s name over the hospital intercom.

Five minutes later, the doctor, the Ryan’s, Tom, and the rest of the group stood in the doorway.

"She opened her eyes."

They let out a sigh of relief. The doctor entered the room and looked at the heart monitor, scribbling something on his clipboard. "This is very good news. She’s a strong, determined, young lady. She just up her chances."

"Is she out of danger?" Tom asked.

"Yes and no. I’ll still keep a close eye on her just in case, but I do believe she’ll pull through."

JJ’s eyes began to flutter open once again. The doctor turned.

"Well, Ms. Andrews. It’s nice to see you awake." He turned to the group. "Now, please excuse me while I examine her."

JC stood up slowly allowing Tom to help him to the wheelchair.

"I’ll come get you when I’m finished."

They left.

Dr. Richardson walked towards her, sitting down on the chair. "You don’t look like a woman who almost died on me twice just twenty four hours ago."

JJ tried to smile, but the ventilator was in the way.

"I’ll remove that in due time, if all goes well. I want to give the lung a little more time to heal. For the time being, I want you to regain your strength, okay?"

She nodded slowly.

"Good. You are one lucky woman, Ms. Andrews. I’m glad God was on your side." He stood, checking the heart monitor one more time. "I want to keep a close eye on this until I’m certain it’s okay to take you off."

She reached over slowly and squeezed his hand as to say thank you.

He smiled. "Your welcome, Ms. Andrews. I want you to rest. I’m going to let your family know of your progress."

She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. The doctor left.

Xxxxx

Two days later, JJ was moved into a private room. Tom filled her on the details of what happened after she was shot.

"I can’t say that I’m happy for her. She deserves whatever is coming to her."

"Well, honey, I believe that you’re right. I’m just glad your safe." Tom gave her a gentle hug.

"Me too."

She looked up, beaming. "JC." She held out her arms, pulling him close.

He held onto her. "I’ve missed this."

"The doctor says that I’ll be released in a couple of days. I have to take it easy for a while." Pulling him close, she whispered in his ear, "Did you tell him?"

JC slapped his forehead. "Oops, I forgot, but with everything going on…"

"Tell me what?" Tom asked.

JC swallowed nervously. "I would like you to be my best man and to stand beside my friends at our wedding."

"I would be honored, but I have to walk her down the aisle and give her away. Have you set a date?"

The couple looked at each other and then smiled. "Christmas, and we’re going to have it right here in Palm Beach."

The group cheered as the couple kissed.

"Let’s get started then."

Xxxxxx

Christmas time rolled around quickly as it began. The young bride walked out of the limo only to be met by reporters, press, and screaming NSYNC fans. The Ryan’s rushed her passed them and took her into the church.

"I’ll take it from here dear. Go check up on Tom and the rest of the group."

Lyam kissed his granddaughter and wife, then left.

"Come on, honey, let’s get you ready."

JJ smiled, following her.

Cassy handed her the dress and she slipped into it. They stood there looking at her. The white, ivory dress shimmered in the sunlight. She’d looked like an angel. The women beamed.

"You look beautiful, JJ."

She embraced her friend. "Thanks, Cassy."

They heard someone knocking on the door. Cassy opened to reveal Tom standing there in his tux. He stood there in awe of her. "You look spectacular, sweetheart."

She hugged him. "Thank you, dad."

"Are you ready?"

She looked at her friends and then at her father. "Yes."

He held out his arm. "Let’s do it."

She locked her arm into his and walked alongside him. They stopped at the chapel door. He hugged her. "I love you, little one."

She tried not to cry. "I love you, too, daddy."

They heard the music start and the priest calling the congregation to stand up. Tom and JJ walked down the aisle. The guys patted JC on the shoulders. JC stood there, watching his beautiful bride walk gracefully down the aisle.

Once they got to the front, the priest slowly put his hand down and the congregation sat down. He then looked at Tom and JJ. "Who gives this woman to this man?"

Tom let go of her hand, handing it to JC. "I do." He then took his position beside Lance.

The couple stared into each other eyes as the priest began his sermon.

"May I have the rings please?"

Lance handed Tom the rings as he handed them to the priest.

"Place this ring on her finger and repeat after me."

JC placed the ring on her finger.

"Do you Joshua Scott Chasez take Jennifer James Andrews to be your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold, for sickness and health, for richer or poorer, till death do you part?"

He looked into her eyes, smiling, he replied, "I do."

Tom handed him the other ring. JJ placed it on JC’s finger.

"Do you Jennifer James take Joshua Scott to be lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, for sickness and health, for richer or poorer, till death do you part?"

JJ nodded. "I do."

"Now, JC, Tom, and NSYNC would like to present a gift of song to you, Jennifer."

The guys took their positions on stage. JC started to play on the piano as Tom grabbed the microphone and began to sing.

JC sang the next verse.

The rest of the group joined in and then the song ended, with the church clapping loudly. The priest finished. "Now, may I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Chasez. You may kiss the bride."

They kissed and the church cheered once again. The young couple walked down the aisle and started their new life together.