Soul Mates

This Chapter picks up the morning after Ben and Meg's reunion at the Cottage.

Chapter 11 - Enemies

It was almost ten the next morning when Ben woke to the sound of running water and the sense that he was alone. Unconsciously his hand searched the adjacent pillow for her. When he opened his eyes, he knew immediately where she was.

The hot steam from the shower felt so good on Meg's skin as she moved the soap laden loofah sponge down her neck to her breasts. Within seconds she became lost in the silky feel of the soap as she moved the sponge from one breast to the other in a slow circular motion. The images of Ben flooded her senses as the sponge brushed against her skin. She couldn't believe how quickly their relationship had changed. At first she was afraid to trust him again for fear that he was still reeling from Kiko's death but now she knew he was ready for a new beginning and would never hurt her again.

Suddenly, she felt his mouth kissing the back of her neck and untangling her fingers from the sponge. "Let me", he whispered as he moved the loofah over her breasts, then slowly down her stomach and between her legs. "Oh Ben, that feels so good. Something tells me that you've had a lot of practice at this." Ben turned her toward the showerhead and watched as the water rinsed over her body. "Meg, no one has ever made me feel the way you do." He dropped the sponge on the shower rack and moved a leg between hers, lifting her slightly off her feet. Meg could feel herself becoming aroused as she felt his warm soft lips continuing his sensual assault on her neck. "Ben, I need you so much. Within minutes, they both satisfied each other's need. Exhausted, Meg collapsed onto Ben's thigh as he placed his hands on the wet tiles in an attempt to support their weight.

Moments later, Ben sat on the edge of the bed and watched Meg dress. "I can't tell you how great it feels having you back in my life. I only wish we could stay here forever." "I know Ben. There's a part of me that wants to shut the world out completely. But we can't. I need to get back to the city." Reluctantly Ben agreed, reached for her hand and led her from the cottage.

It was almost three in the afternoon, when they walked into the foyer of Meg's condo. Ben placed her luggage on the bed saying, "I hate to leave but I should get back to my place or I'll be wearing these clothes to the office tomorrow. I'll pick you up here tomorrow at 7pm, so rest up because I plan on spending the night". He leaned down and passionately kissed her good bye and disappeared into the elevator.

As she prepared for bed, she couldn't help but review the events of the past week. "It's amazing how a week could begin and end so completely different", she thought. Within minutes of slipping under the comforter, she was fast asleep.

When Meg entered her office, she was surprised to find Jason waiting for her. "Jason, did we have a meeting?" He smiled as he poured a cup of coffee. "No, I just wanted to stop by and make sure you were feeling okay. From your expression, it appears that you're more than fine. Want to tell me what's going on?" Meg blushed as she removed her coat and sat behind the desk. "Something tells me that Ben has a everything to do with your attitude. Am I right?"

She felt like a little girl hiding a secret from her best friend. "Jason, I can't believe what has happened. I tried so hard to get Ben out of my heart. I even tried to get involved with other men but I couldn't get past my feelings for him. When I saw him at the Winery all those feelings came flashing back. After the accident, we became involved again. Jason, I love him."

For a minute Jason sat quietly, the look on his face quickly turned more serious. "Meg are you sure?" "Of course I'm sure. What kind of a question is that?" Jason stood up, walked to the side of the desk where Meg was sitting and sat on its edge. "Meg, listen to me, please. Ben is a very dear friend but I don't want to see you get hurt. Are you sure he's not just on the rebound from his relationship with Kiko?" She smiled and reached for his hand. "I was concerned about that too but I know now that he isn't. He won't hurt me Jason, I trust him." "Meg, just promise me that you will take it slow." Before she could respond, Lisa entered the office, telling Meg that Susan wanted to see her immediately. She said good bye to Jason and disappeared down the corridor.

It was almost six when Meg closed her briefcase and received the call from Ben. "Meg, I hope you're ready for a night on the town." "Well, I thought we could have dinner at my place." "Oh, I'm sorry I made reservations at the top of The Mark, I hope you don't mind." "No, not at all. I'll go home and change, why don't you pick me up in about an hour."

When they arrived at the restaurant, the Maitre d' led them to a romantic table in the corner with a beautiful view of the city. There was a white rose at her place setting. Meg picked up the flower and took in the scent saying, "Ben, this is lovely. Thank you."

"Meg, this is only the beginning. By the way did I mention that you look more beautiful than ever." She smiled and sat down as the Maitre d' held her chair. They spent the next two hours dinning and talking about their future. Just as Ben poured the last of the champagne into Meg's glass Cassie approached the table with a girlfriend. "Well, this is quite a surprise. I've been calling you for the last two days to tell you that I was coming home early but you haven't been around. Now I know why." Ben dropped his napkin on the table and smirked saying, "Cassie, we already went through all of this when I called you over the weekend". "I remember, that's why I flew back last night. I must say you didn't waste any time getting over Kiko." Ben's facial expression quickly changed more serious, then stood behind Meg's chair saying, "If you'll excuse us, Meg and I were just about to leave before you showed up." As they started toward the entrance, Ben hesitated saying, "Meg, would you wait for me at the elevator, I need to speak to Cassie for a minute." She nodded and headed out of the restaurant. Ben turned back toward Cassie and took a deep breath trying to calm the rage he was feeling. "Just so it's clear, if you ever make a remark like that again about Kiko or bother Meg in any way you will be very sorry." "Is that a threat Ben?" "Take it anyway you want." Before she could respond he turned and headed toward the elevator. Cassie tightened the grip on her purse as she watched as Ben and Meg disappeared behind the elevator doors. "I wouldn't get to comfortable Ben, nothing lasts forever."

When they entered the Foyer of the Mansion, Ben slid his arm around Meg's waist saying, "Something's wrong, you haven't said a word since we left the restaurant." "Nothing, really." He pulled her toward him. "Now, I know that tone. Come and sit down so we can talk." Just as they sat on the sofa, Mrs. Landsbury appeared in the doorway. "Excuse me Mr. Evans, here's the Champagne you asked for and the other item has been taken care of as well. If there isn't anything else, I will retire." "That will be all, thank you Mrs. Landsbury, for everything."

After he poured the Champagne, handed Meg a glass and sat beside her, he pleaded with her again to tell him what was wrong. "It just seems like this is the day for people reminding me that maybe this is all too soon after losing Kiko." Ben placed his glass on the coffee table, reached for her hand and kissed it saying, "Do you mean that someone other than Cassie made a remark about Kiko?" "Don't be upset with him, but Jason was concerned when I told him that we were in love." "I'm not angry, he's your best friend and he's cares about your happiness. But he doesn't know what my relationship with Kiko was like. I wouldn't have married her if I wasn't in love but before she died we both knew I hadn't stopped loving you."

Ben leaned down and kissed her lips. "Kiko also knew that I was committed to her and would never act on my love for you. I've already told you that before she left for Indonesia she wanted me to decide whether or not I wanted to stay married. What I didn't tell you is that I decided not to end my marriage. I think that's what made it so difficult when she died. I never got the chance to tell her how I really felt." "Ben, I'm sure she knew. That's the kind of man you are, that's why I fell in love with you." "Well, I hope she did but there is one thing I am sure about and that is that she was the type of person that would have wanted me to be happy, and I am. Now, let me show you just how much I do love you." Ben reached for her glass, placed it next to his on the table and pulled her into his arm, kissing her passionately. As the kiss deepened, he bent down, scooped her into his arms and carried up the stairs to his bedroom. Leaning against his face she whispered, "Ben, I love you so much." "I love you too Meg. Just let me prove it to you."

With Meg still in his arms, be pushed the partially open bedroom door with his back and lowered her to the floor. Meg gasped when she saw the room filled with white roses, lit candles and a romantically set fire. As she looked around the room, he wrapped her in his arms saying, "I've waited my entire life for someone like you and I've been trying hard to find just the right time for this." "Right time for what?" "Ben slowly moved away, walked to his dressing table and withdrew a small black velvet box from the top drawer.

When he turned back to face her he said, "Yesterday when we came back from the Winery, I bought something. I've tried in so many ways to show you how I feel but there is no better way than by asking you to spend the rest of your life with me." "Ben, what are you saying?" He opened the box and withdrew a three-carat Marquee shaped blue white diamond. The tears started to stream down Meg's face as she watched Ben kneel on one knee and reach for her left hand. "Meg Cummings, will you marry me?" Brushing away the tears, she took a deep breath before replying. "Oh, Ben are you sure?" He stood up saying, "I've never been so sure about anything else in my entire life. I've never loved anyone or wanted anyone more. Please say that you will be my wife". Meg threw her arms around his neck saying, "Of course I will marry you. I love you so much". When he pulled away from her embrace, he placed the ring on her finger and kissed her as passionately as he could.

As the kiss deepened, his hands unzipped her dress, then moved to the shoulder straps, pulling them down her arms until the dress slid over her breasts and dropped to the floor. She stood in front of him wearing a pink silk bra and matching panties. Ben cupped her face in his hands. "Meg, you are so beautiful. I want you so much."

His hands moved to the back of the bra and unsnapped it, then slid it down her arms and tossed it to a nearby chair. He immediately turned his attention to the panties, sliding them slowly down her legs. When she stepped out of them, he stood scooped her into his arms and laid her on the bed.

Ben stood back staring into her eyes as he discarded his clothes. Within seconds he moved over her resting on one arm as his free hand stroked her face. "I love you Meg Cummings." Before she could respond Ben covered her mouth and used his tongue to trace her lips. As he kissed her neck, Meg moaned and moved his hand to her aching breast.

"God Ben, I love your touch, all these months without you have been so hard." Ben continued massaging her breast as he stared into her eyes saying, "We'll never be apart ever again. I promise I won't let that happen." For the next hour they made love with more passion than ever.

Exhausted, Meg collapsed onto Ben's chest, breathing so hard that it was impossible to speak. "Meg are you okay?" She released a deep sigh before responding. "I'm great. I love making love with you Ben." His arms tightened around her sweat drenched skin and placed a soft kiss on the top of her head. "Before you Meg, I never knew what it was like to make love like this. I still can't believe that you gave me another chance to make up for the past." Meg placed a finger over his mouth saying, "Shhhh, we're here now, that's all that matters."

"How did I ever get so lucky?" "We're both lucky to have something that most people never find in a lifetime. I love you Ben more than I can say and don't ever want to lose you." He tilted her mouth toward his saying, "You will never lose me. We're going to be together forever, I promise you. I plan on spending the rest of my life making all of your dreams come true". After kissing her mouth, he reached for her hand and guided it to his growing erection saying, "This night is not nearly over." Meg smiled and willingly submitted.

It was almost nine the next morning when Meg woke to find Ben lying on his side, resting his head on his hand and staring at her. "Good morning. Did you sleep well?" He reached for her hand and softly nibbled on her fingers saying, "When I wasn't to busy with other things". "Ben, I can't even put into words how you make me feel."

He leaned down and kissed her passionately before pulling away. "Even though I would love to stay in bed all day, I think it would be a good idea if we join Jonathan and Susan for breakfast and tell them the news. I left word with Mrs. Landsbury that we wanted to speak to them. So we have plenty of time for a nice long hot shower." Smiling devilishly, he stepped out of bed, reached for her hand saying, "Come with me".

It was almost 10am when Ben and Meg stood at the entrance of the main dinning area. Ben gave her hand a reassuring squeeze saying, "Don't be nervous, Jonathan already loves you". "Good Morning Father, Susan." "Good morning you two." He stood and hugged Meg saying, "I must say Meg you look radiant. It looks as though Ben took very good care of you after that nasty fall." "He certainly did. I feel great." "Well, why don't you two have a seat. Whatever it is, it must be important. Mrs. Landsbury even made all my favorites for breakfast so I get the feeling she's in on this little conspiracy to put Susan and me in just the right mood", he laughed.

Jonathan and Susan watched as Ben pulled out Meg's chair and sat down next to her, placing his hands over hers. "Okay Ben, why don't you tell us what is really going on here. You said it was very important so don't keep us in suspense." Ben released a deep sigh before responding. "It's about me and Meg. I know this may come as a shock but last night I asked her to marry me and she accepted."

For a few seconds Jonathan and Susan sat silently stunned. "Meg and I have had feelings for one another for a very long time and this weekend we had the time to work out some issues and agreed that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together." Jonathan was the first to stand and walked to Meg saying, "Are you sure Meg?" "Well, when we ran into Cassie last night I may have had some doubts but Ben convinced me that he really wanted to spend a life together. I hope you're not upset." "Not at all as long as you're happy", he said as he placed his arms around hers, hugging her tight. "I'm very happy and I know Ben loves me."

He turned to Ben, extended his hand saying, "You better take good care of her or you'll have to answer to me". "I will Dad, I love her very much." As Ben and Meg kissed, Jonathan leaned over and whispered in Susan's ear. "I never thought I would see the day that he would be so in love but I do believe Meg has changed all that".

As Susan was congratulating them, Jonathan asked Mrs. Landsbury to bring in some champagne so they could make a toast. "I know this appears very sudden but we are very much in love and have been for a very long time." "Ben, there are only two people that matter here and it's you and Meg. If you're sure, then no one else's opinion is important. As for me, I couldn't be happier. I waited a long time for you to find the kind of love that I have and you know how I feel about Meg. She's like a daughter to me and now she'll be part of our family. Susan and I couldn't be more pleased and I know if your mother was alive she would feel the same." Ben embraced Jonathan and thanked him for his blessing.

After Mrs. Landsbury distributed the champagne, Jonathan started his toast. "Congratulations Ben and Meg, I hope you will be as happy as Fiona and I were for so many years and as happy as Susan and I are now. The best advice I could offer would be to love each other through the hard times as well as the good ones. It's important that you have an open and honest relationship. Be happy and never let anyone come between what you share."

Two hours later, breakfast was over and Jonathan and Susan smiled as they watched Ben gently brushing a few loose strands from Meg's eyes. "So, have you two thought about a wedding date?" "Actually, we didn't get to that point but I for one don't want a long engagement. How about you Meg?" "I feel exactly the same way Ben. The sooner the better." Susan smiled saying, "Great, I can't wait to plan the perfect bridal shower". "Now, that's a great idea just make sure some of the gifts include some very special negligees", laughed Ben. Before Susan could respond Meg playfully hit Ben's arm. "You are so bad, but I love it." "Well, Meg you better get use to it. He's very much like his father." Jonathan stood laughing, then leaned down and kissed Susan on the lips. "I hate to break this up but I have a meeting to get to and I'm sure you two would like to spend the rest of the day alone so run along. Just one more thing, why don't you two go to The Mark for a celebratory dinner this evening, on us."

"Thanks Dad, that sounds great. I'll be sure to order the most expensive wine", Ben said laughing. As they watched Ben and Meg drive away, Jonathan squeezed Susan's waist saying, "She's the best thing that has ever happened to him". "I know, I've never seen Ben so content. It seems as though he's been waiting for her all his life. I just hope Cassie doesn't do anything to come between them." Jonathan kissed her cheek. "She better not or she'll have to deal with me."

It was almost seven when Meg stepped out of the shower, wrapped herself in a towel and entered the bedroom. Her underwear and dress were laid out on the bed. Within minutes she was standing in front of the full-length mirror in her panties, bra and garter belt, placing the diamond studs in her ears. "God, I can't remember ever being so happy." As soon as she finished zipping up her dress, she ran her hands over her dress in a smoothing motion.

Suddenly, Ben appeared in the doorway of the bedroom. He couldn't understand how she managed to look more lovelier each time he saw her. She was wearing a low cut off the shoulder dark blue dress. Her hair was brushed back off her face into a twist at the back of her head, held together with a saffire-studded comb.

"You look stunning." "Ben, you startled me." He walked toward her saying, "I'm sorry, I called your name but you didn't hear me." He slid his hands around her waist and pulled her close to his chest, placing a very passionate kiss on her lips. A few seconds later he broke away saying, "Maybe we should stay in, you look good enough to eat". "Ben, I hope this is the way it's going to be when we're married." He reached for her hands, kissed them saying, "I will always want to make love to you more than anything else and it's too late to change your mind about marrying me". Meg smiled and kissed him softly on the lips. "I have no intention of changing my mind, so you're stuck with me now. Let's go to dinner so we can get to bed early."

After being seated at a window table overlooking the Bay, Ben reached across the table for Meg's hand saying, "I know we haven't talked about this yet but I want you to move in with me as soon as possible". "I don't know what to say. I guess that would make sense seeing as we'll be spending most of our free time together." "What do you mean, most? I was hoping we would be spending all of our time together."

"Well, in that case, how about moving into the condo with me? I think there would be plenty of room for the two of us." Ben kissed her hand again. "Actually, I'd rather you moved in with me. I know you love your condo and I don't mean to put any pressure on you, but Jonathan and Susan wanted to let you to know that there is plenty of room at the Mansion. He would really love the entire family under one roof." Before she could respond, the waiter arrived with their appetizers.

Two hours later, they were back at Meg's condo. "Why don't you start a fire, I'm going to change and I'll be back in a few minutes." "Just make sure you don't take too long", he said placing a soft kiss on her lips. After she disappeared into the bedroom, Ben started a fire and poured a couple of Brandys.

A few minutes later as Ben sat on the sofa staring into the fire and reflecting on the past few days, he couldn't help but send up a silent prayer. "I will never stop thanking you God for bringing Meg back to me and I will spend the rest of my life making all of her dreams come true."

He closed his eyes and rested his head on the back of the sofa as images of Meg flooded his mind. "I hope you haven't fallen asleep on me." When Ben opened his eyes he continued blinking not knowing if he was dreaming. She was standing in the firelight wearing a dark blue lace negligee that cut low over her breasts. Meg became nervous when he didn't respond. "Ben, don't you like it? I bought it especially for tonight." Before responding Ben stood and walked toward her, placing his hands on her face. "Meg, you take my breath away." She reached up on her toes and placed a kiss on his lips saying, "Is that better?" With that, he scooped her into his arms and carried her into the bedroom as she nuzzled his neck.

After placing her on the bed, he stepped away and stripped off his clothes. When he approached the bed, Meg sat up to meet his mouth as he lowered himself over her. As his tongue moved deeper into her mouth, his fingers moved under the straps of the negligee and pulled them slowly off her shoulders and down her arms, past her aching breasts. Ben paused for a moment moving his eyes up and down her form. "God, Meg you are so beautiful. What did I ever do to deserve you?" "You loved me, that's all."

For the next few hours Ben and Meg made love. As they lay in each others arms, he tightened his grip saying, "Meg, promise me something." "Anything, what is it?" "Promise that you'll never keep anything from me. If something is bothering you, I want you to tell me. I don't want us to have any secrets." "I promise, as long as you will do the same. I don't want you to ever keep anything from me either." "You have my word Meg, I want us to have a great life." Ben rolled over, straddling her waist and covered her mouth with his, circling her tongue with his and massaging her breast with his hand.

As her moans grew louder, Ben moved over her and began making love to her. "Oh God Ben, please don't stop, I want you so much." Minutes later, they both collapsed exhausted onto the bed. Ben pulled Meg onto his chest and stroked her hair as they recovered from their explosions. "Sometimes, I think you're going to kill me Meg. But what a way to go", he laughed, burying his face into her hair.

She moved her finger in a circular motion around his nipple saying, "Are you sure you want to still get married? It's not to late to change your mind". Ben placed his fingers under Meg's chin, tilting it toward his mouth and kissed her lips. "Not a chance, I have no intention of letting you go now that I found you again. You're stuck with me I'm afraid. All kidding aside Meg, I am so blessed to have you in my life and I will do whatever is necessary to keep you as happy as you are at this moment. I hate to say this because I would love to spend all night making love but we better get some sleep, seeing as we both have early meetings, remember?" Meg nodded in agreement and turned on her side as Ben curled spoon like behind her, wrapping his arms tight around hers and burying his face in her hair. He kissed her softly on the back of her neck and whispered, "Good night Meg, I love you". "Night Ben, I love you too."

Within seconds, they fell sound asleep, dreaming of the future that was ahead and unaware that there was a violent storm brewing, unfortunately this one was man made.

The morning doves were singing when Ben forced his eyes open. Cradled in his arms was the one woman he had waited his entire life for and now she was here right where he wanted her to be. He lay there softly stroking her hair thinking that he would never let anything come between them again. "Please don't tell me we have to get up, I'm too comfortable to move. Besides I think you might have something else in mind", she said giggling. "If you don't stop moving like that, we'll never get to work." Meg ignored his remarks and continued her seduction. "Okay, you win, come with me", he said taking her hand and pulling her toward the bathroom. After entering the shower, Ben leaned down toward her ear and whispered, "Now I'm going to give you what you wanted". Meg looked over her shoulder and smiled. "Promise?"

During the next few weeks Cassie tried repeatedly to remind Ben of his marriage to Kiko in an attempt to convince him that his relationship with Meg was more of a rebound than true love, however, Ben was not swayed. She was furious when he recommended that she stay out of his life until she learned to accept Meg on his terms.

Three days before her Bridal Shower Meg was just about to leave her office when the telephone rang. "Meg Cummings, may I help you?" "Meg, it's me. Philip." She couldn't find her voice to respond. "Meg? Are you there?" "Yes, uh, I'm, uh, I'm here. How did you find me?" "I'm in town for an art show and I saw the article in the paper regarding your upcoming wedding." "Philip, that's none of your concern and I'm late so please don't call me again." "Meg, I can't do that I still love you and I know you love me. Just give me another chance. This guy you're engaged to is nothing more than a playboy." Meg was furious hearing his words. "Who the hell do you think you are telling me these things? I'm late and I have no intention of continuing this discussion. So just leave me alone." After slamming down the phone, she took a deep breath to calm herself down. "God if Ben learns that Philip is in town, he would kill him. I just pray that's the last I hear from him."

The night of the bridal shower and Ben's bachelor party, Meg was lying on the bed on her stomach talking to Tracy on the telephone when Ben came out of the bathroom wearing a towel around his waist. He stood looking at her for a few minutes as she chatted, crossing her legs back and forth in a playful motion. Each time her legs unlocked, the towel rose a few inches exposing her firm round bottom. Feeling the hardness between his legs growing, Ben stripped off his towel and placed his hands on her legs, gently pushing them onto the bed. She struggled to concentrate on Tracy's conversation as his hands moved slowly up her legs to her firm round buttocks, softly massaging and kissing the skin that his fingers were exploring. "Oh sorry Tracy, I lost my train of thought. Why don't we talk about this when I get to the party." Suddenly, Ben crawled onto the bed and straddled her back, supporting his weight by resting on his forearms.

As he started to kiss the back of her neck, Meg said, "Tracy, I really have to go. There is something that I have to do before I leave. I'll see you at the party". After hanging up the phone, Meg laid her head on the bed moaning. "Ben, you're going to make us both late." Before responding, he tugged at her towel until it slipped from underneath her and dropped it on the floor. "Did you honestly expect me to ignore you when you're lying there half naked wiggling that beautiful little behind at me. Baby, I can't wait until we get home tonight. I want to make love to you right now".

A half hour Ben collapsed at Meg's side saying, "Do you think they would mind if we skipped the parties tonight?" Reluctantly, she gently pushed away from him saying, "We can't do that, besides they would all know what we were doing. But I do have something special for a little later". She climbed out of bed and picked up a box sitting on the top of the dressing table and withdrew a small black lace teddy. "I bought this especially for later when you get home, that is if you're not to tired". "There is no way I plan on being that tired", he laughed placing a kiss on her lips. "Come on let's take another quick shower and I promise not to start anything this time." "It's not just you that I'm worried about. Promise me that it will always be like this." Ben slid his arms around her waist saying, "Meg, the way we feel about each other will never change. Come on I don't want to make us later than we already are".

Down the hall in the Master Suite Jonathan, wrapped in a towel, was shaving when Susan stepped out of the shower and dried herself. After she returned her towel to the rack she moved behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. "Mmmm, I love watching you shave. It's so sexy." "Well, if you don't stop rubbing up against me, I won't be able to finish", he laughed. "I thought you said you would always make time for me?", she said placing a love tap on his bottom before leaving the bathroom. As she walked toward the bed, Jonathan wiped the shaving cream off his face and ran up behind her and playfully tackled her onto the bed. "Well, a promise is a promise", he said before kissing her as passionately as he could. Breaking away from the kiss Susan moaned, "Oh Jonathan, you make me feel like a teenager in love". "It's wonderful isn't it. What a shame we have parties to go to, I'd rather spend the entire night right here." "Well, then we better stop talking and concentrate on what's important before Meg and Ben come banging on our door." Jonathan smiled and began his sensual assault.

As they dressed Meg couldn't help but ask, "By the way how wild is this bachelor party going to be?" He laughed saying, "Do you honestly think Jonathan or Jason would organize that type of event". Ben walked over to her and closed his arms around her saying, "You're the only woman that I will ever want or need". Meg smiled and covered his mouth with hers. As the kiss became more passionate, the in house phone rang. "Okay, I'll tell her, thanks Harrison. Susan's in the limousine waiting, so you better hurry." Meg ran her hands over her dress smoothing it as she went saying, "Well, I'll see you later, don't have to much fun without me".

"Not a chance. Just make sure you keep your promise to wear that great Teddy for me later." She smiled and turned to leave, but before she reached the door, Ben slid his arms around her waist saying, "I love you". "I love you too now let me go so I can get back early." He spun around and kissed her again before she ran out of the bedroom.

Minutes later Ben was heading toward the staircase when he ran into Jonathan coming from his bedroom. "Well, it looks like we both had trouble letting our ladies get to their party." "Very funny Son." As they stepped into the limousine Ben's cell-phone rang. "Ben, where the hell are you?" "I'm on the way Jason, we should be there in about fifteen minutes. Bye." He hung up the phone and suddenly got an empty feeling in the pit of his stomach thinking, "I can't believe that I miss Meg already".

They had only been at the Bachelor party for about two hours when Ben's cell phone rang. "Oh no you don't", Jason said as he grabbed the phone and turned it off. "It's probably Meg and you two can just wait until this party is over." "Jason, you're just jealous that she fell in love with me." He laughed saying, 'You're right and if you ever make her unhappy, you'll have to answer to me". "Yeah, you and my father", Ben said laughing.

A few minutes later, Jonathan and Jason found Ben alone pacing on the terrace. "The party is inside, what are you doing out here alone? Is something bothering you?" "I don't know I just feel like something is wrong with Meg." Jonathan placed an arm on his shoulder laughing, "Ben, I think that's what happens when you're in love. When you're not with the one you love it makes you uneasy. I know that's exactly how I feel when I'm not with Susan and it's how I felt about your mother". "I guess you're right Dad, I've never felt this way about anyone before. I still can't believe how lucky I am to have found someone like Meg and that she feel in love with me."

Suddenly, Jonathan's cell phone rang. "If that's Susan, please tell her I want to speak to Meg." He smiled nodding as he answered the phone. "Hello, this is Jonathan Evans." Ben watched as the expression on his father's face changed drastically. "Doc what are you talking about?" He paused for a moment while he listened. "What do you mean they're in the hospital? Is everyone okay? We'll be right there. Please call Doctor Jim Martin and tell him I want him on their cases." Jonathan closed the cell phone and turned to Ben. "Don't panic but there's been an accident, Susan and Meg are in the hospital. I don't know how bad it is but we need to get there as soon as possible." Jonathan placed a call to his driver, Thomas. "Please bring the car around, we have to get to the hospital." "Yes, sir I'll be waiting."

As the elevator opened to the ICU floor, Ben, Jonathan and Jason ran toward the nurse's desk but were intercepted by Tracy as they approached. "Tracy, where's Meg and Susan?" "Meg's in room 312 and Doctor Martin is with her. He's been in there for over an hour. Susan is in 310 and Dennis is still in the Emergency Room. The Nurse said that Doctor Martin would be out any minute to give us a full report." Ben grabbed Tracy's arm saying, "What the hell happened?" Tracy started crying saying, "Their limousine was in an accident on the way to the party, that's all we know right now". Jonathan pulled Ben's arm away saying, "Calm down Ben, this isn't doing any good." "I'm sorry, you're right, I'm just need to see Meg."

Before Tracy could respond, Dr. Martin emerged from Meg's room. "Doc, is Meg okay?" He suggested that they all take a seat before he explained Susan and Meg's condition. "I don't want to sit. Please just tell me how they are?" Jonathan placed an arm on Ben saying, "We're all concerned Ben. Just let Jim tell us how they're both doing." Reluctantly, Ben agreed.

When they all were seated, Dr. Martin explained that Susan had suffered a light concussion, along with some minor contusions and abrasions. Meg, however, was more critical having suffered severe head injuries as a result of the accident. He paused before continuing. "There's more isn't there?", asked Jonathan. "Yes there is. Meg hasn't come around as yet and the longer she remains unconscious, the greater the possibility of a coma."

Ben jumped out of his seat yelling, "What the hell are you saying?" That she's in a coma?" Doc rose and walked toward Ben. "No I'm not saying that and I know this news is upsetting but you need to know that if she doesn't wake soon it increases the chances of her slipping into a coma. She's not there yet." Jonathan stepped in front of Ben trying to control the situation. "Has she suffered any damage to the brain?" "Oh my God, what the hell are you saying now? That Meg could be brain damaged?" Jonathan placed his hands on Ben's shoulders. "Ben you need to relax and let Jim explain."

"We have no way of telling until she wakes how severe the damage to her brain is, if any. We've run a number of tests that should tell us more", responded Jim. Jonathan interrupted again saying, "Is there anything that we can do, Jim?" "First, I think it would be a good idea if someone would sit and just talk to her. Even though she's unconscious, I believe she'll know she's not alone and that's important to her waking up. Also, if you're so inclined, you can pray." "Can I see her?", asked Ben. "Yes, but please don't say anything that might upset her. Just talk about anything that might remind her of happier times." "I'll keep that in mind. I just want to be with her. Thank you Doc."

Just as he headed to Meg's room, two Police Detectives intercepted him. "Excuse me Mr. Evans, I'm Detective Carl Wilson and this is Detective Robert Chow. Jonathan extended his hand saying, "Yes, I remember. We've met before". He had met both officers at various Police Benefit parties and knew of their excellent reputations. Carl Wilson, an African American in his early fifties was highly decorated and had been with the force for over thirty years. Robert Chow, a son of second generation Chinese Americans, in his mid thirties was one of the youngest Detectives on the San Francisco force.

"We need to talk to you about the circumstances surrounding your driver's alleged accident. "What do you mean alleged?" "From the reports that we've received from some of the witnesses, it appears that the limousine might have been intentionally driven off the road. We were just on our way to the Emergency Room to interview your limousine driver and we're still trying to locate the man who was driving the other car."

Ben leaned against the wall to Meg's room shaking his head in disbelief. "I can't believe this. Was it road rage?" "It's to soon in the investigation to tell but until we know we're assigning a Police Officer for both woman around the clock for their protection." "Well, don't worry we'll make sure no one gets near either of them. Look I don't mean to be rude but I need to see Meg, so if you'll excuse me." Just as he was about to turn and enter the room, Ben looked back over his shoulder saying, "By the way if I ever find the person that did this to Meg, I'll kill him." Jonathan grabbed his arm saying, "Ben, don't say anything else. You'll have to excuse my son, he's very upset. His fiancée is in serious condition and I don't think this is a good time to be questioning him." Before they could ask any additional questions, Ben disappeared behind the door of Meg's room, closing the rest of the world out. The detectives excused themselves saying that they would be back as soon as they interviewed their limousine driver.

When he entered her room and saw her, he gasped in horror. Meg's head was completely bandaged, her face had multiple bruises and cuts. She was hooked to a breathing machine and an IV was attached to her arm. He couldn't believe that only a few hours earlier, she was in his arms making love and joking about the bridal shower. Now she was lying close to a coma connected to machines helping her breathe. The realization of her condition overwhelmed him to the point of hysteria.

Jonathan was discussing Susan's condition with Jim when they heard Ben scream, "Meg please wake up". Opening the door to her room, Jonathan found Ben lying his head on the bed next to Meg's side crying like a young child. Dr. Martin rushed into the room warning Ben to control his emotions, or he would have to leave. "I'm sorry, I just didn't expect to see her like this. She looks so hurt. Please let me stay. I won't lose control again, I promise." Jonathan turned to Dr. Martin pleading with him to leave Ben with her, assuring him that he would be fine.

After leaving Meg's room, Jim introduced Jonathan to Susan's attending physician, Dr. Alexis Smith. "I know Alexis, Jason has brought her to our home a number of times. It's nice to see you again, how's my wife?" As Alexis explained the extent of Susan's injuries, Jim excused himself and returned to Meg's room.

An hour later as Jonathan was sitting on Susan's bed holding her in his arms the detectives knocked on her door and asked to speak to him. "I'll be with you in a minute." "Go ahead Jonathan, I'll be fine." He leaned over and kissed her on the lips. "I'll be back as soon as I can. I can't tell you how scared I was when they told me you were in an accident. I don't know what I would have done if I lost you." Susan smiled and hugged him saying, "I'm not going anywhere. But I would love to go home as soon as possible". "I'll ask Alexis if she can make the necessary arrangements as soon as I finish speaking to the Detectives."

When Jonathan joined Carl and Bob in the waiting area, he was informed that after interviewing Dennis, their limousine driver, it didn't appear to be an accident. From their investigation, it looked as though they had been deliberately run off the road.

"What are you saying? Someone did this on purpose? That's not possible, Meg and Susan don't have an enemy between them." "I'm sorry Mr. Evans but it looks as though they have at least one", said Detective Chow. "Please don't take offense, I know both your reputations and I'm happy to have you on this case, but I'll be hiring my own investigators to find out exactly who's behind this so called accident." "Mr. Evan's I'm not sure that's a good idea, you should let the police handle this."

Jonathan faced both the detectives saying, "I'm sorry I can't do that. My wife was hurt in this accident and Meg is like a daughter to me. I will do whatever I have to in order to find the person responsible". "We can't stop you Mr. Evans but the commissioner won't be happy with us if we don't talk you out of that decision." "Detective, if that happens, you call me. I'll be more than happy to place you on my payroll, that is, if you're interested. If you'll excuse me, I need to make some calls."

An hour had gone by and Ben was still at Meg's side. Jonathan knew there was no point in trying to convince him to go home and get some rest. Instead, he called the house and asked Mrs. Landbury to pack Ben a bag. He then called the Chief of Staff and asked permission for another bed to be brought to Meg's room for Ben. Seeing as the hospital's Pediatric Wing was donated by Jonathan's company his request was quickly granted.

Ben was still sitting at Meg's bedside when an orderly rolled the additional bed into the room, as Jonathan followed behind. He handed Ben his overnight case saying, "Here are a few things for the night. I knew you wouldn't leave her." Ben paused for a second before responding. "Thank you, I can't leave." "I know Son, just call me if you need anything. Okay?" "I promise. Just promise me that you will find the bastard that did this." Jonathan laid a hand on his shoulder saying, "I don't think Meg needs to hear things like that, do you?" "You're right, it's just so hard to see her like this." "Just don't worry about who is responsible, I'll take care of it, you have my word. Just take care of Meg, she should be your only concern."

"I know and she is. I'm so scared Dad what if she...." Jonathan squeezed his shoulder in an attempt to stop Ben from continuing the thought. "Meg will come back to us, just keep talking to her and tell her we all need her. I need to get back to Susan, so I'll talk to you tomorrow." Jonathan patted Ben on his back and left.

Ben sat in the darkness at Meg's side holding her hand and talking to her in a soft voice. "Meg, I love you more than I can say. Please come back to me." He continued to stroke her hair as he leaned down and kissed her lips. "I waited my entire life to find you, I can't live without you." He continued stroking her hair and kissed the side of her face. "I need to tell you a secret. You know how you always tell me I'm so strong. I'm really not. I'd be lost without you, I am lost without you. I love you so much Meg. Please don't leave me. We need more time together." He picked up her hand, brought it to his mouth and softly pressed her fingers to his lips.

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This Chapter picks up the next morning following the accident at the hospital. Note: I'm no medical expert so what you are about to read is completely fabricated. Just bare in mind that I'm not a real writer and medicine is not my field.

Chapter 12 - Coming Home

It was almost nine in the morning when Jonathan arrived at the hospital and found Meg's friends, Tracy, Steve, Randy and Jason in the waiting area. From their appearance it was obvious that none of them had slept much. "Good morning everyone, is there any news?" "No, not yet", responded Jason just as Dr. Alexis Smith emerged from Susan's room and approached. "Excuse me Mr. Evans, your wife is ready to be discharged". "Thank you Alexis." She handed him a prescription. "Please make sure she takes her medication as prescribed for at least another week." "I certainly will. Would you please tell Susan that I will be in to pick her up as soon as I stop by to see Ben and Meg."

When Jonathan entered Meg's room he found Ben slumped over in a chair resting his head at her side. His bed had not even been slept in. "God, I wish there was something I could do to bring her back to him", he thought. As he stood watching Ben sleep, Meg began to moan. "Oh my god!" Jonathan stepped out of the room and yelled to Jason to get Dr. Martin and tell him that Meg appeared to be waking up. He ran back into the room and shook Ben by the shoulders. "Ben, Meg is coming around. Ben! Wake up." "What?", he groaned. Jonathan continued shaking him until he was completely awake. Realizing what Jonathan was saying, Ben covered her hand with his saying, "Meg, can you hear me?"

She struggled to open her eyes. "Ben? What happened?" Before he could respond, she placed her hands on her temples wincing in pain. "Oh God, my head hurts so much. Where am I? It's so dark." "Meg its morning. The sun is shinning." Meg continued holding her head. "What are you talking about? I can't see anything." Ben gently grabbed Meg's shoulders saying, "Please lay back and try to relax, the Doctor will be here any minute."

"Oh God Ben, I can't see, please tell me this isn't happening. Oh God Ben. No! She continued screaming until Dr. Martin and the Nurse entered the room. "Ben, what's going on in here?", asked Jim. "I can't see!", Meg screamed. "Ms. Cummings, this is Dr. Martin, I know you're scared but I need you to relax. We have to run some tests before we know what's going on. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Meg released a deep sigh and nodded. "Now, the nurse is going to give you something for the pain and to help you relax but I need you to try and not fight the medication. We need you to be as calm as possible during the exams." "I'm so scared."

Dr. Martin patted her hand saying, "I know you are and I'll try to get these tests over as soon as possible. I will explain what's going to happen before we do anything, so please if something is scaring you please tell us." Jim stood and faced the others in the room. "I know you all want to help Meg but I need you to leave for a few minutes while I complete my examine. We also need to take her for a KAT scan. You can see her after that." Reluctantly, Ben and Jonathan left her room.

An hour later Dr. Martin joined Jonathan and Ben in the waiting area. "I wish I had better news but at this time we're unable to tell if Meg's blindness is a temporary or permanent condition. The KAT scan results indicate that her brain is severely bruised and swollen and until the swelling goes down we won't know what's causing the blindness."

Ben collapsed on a nearby chair gasping in disbelief while running his hands through his hair. "This can't be happening, not now. We're getting married tomorrow." Dr. Martin placed a hand on his shoulder in an attempt to comfort him. "Ben, I'm so sorry but it's too early to know if Meg's condition is permanent but she's scared and she needs your support. If you can't do that, I think it would be best if you didn't see her right now."

"What the hell are you talking about? I love Meg whether she can see or not. I'm just concerned about what this is going to do to her", Ben yelled. "I can understand that but you need to be strong for her. Jonathan and Meg's friends hearts ached as they watched Ben stand and walk to the window of Meg's room. "All I can tell you is that it's going to take a few days before we know any more. Until then it's important to do whatever you can to help Meg stay as calm as possible. If anything changes, I'll call you." "Thanks Jim." "Why don't you give me a few minutes to explain this to Meg and then you can visit. If anything changes, I'll call you immediately", Jim said before disappearing into Meg's room. Ben stared through the window as he watched Jim talking to her. When he got up to leave, Ben entered the room.

"Ben is that you?" "Yes", he said as he sat on the chair next to the bed and placed her hand in his, rubbing his fingers softly over hers. "I'm so sorry can you ever forgive me? I've ruined everything" "Meg, what are you talking about? Forgive you for what?" "I asked Dennis to speed because we were late. He didn't want to but I insisted. It's just that I was so excited about the bridal shower. It was all my fault." Ben pulled her hand to his mouth and kissed it. "Meg, the accident had nothing to do with how Dennis was driving. The Police said that it was the other driver's fault. There was nothing Dennis could have done. Please don't think about that anymore, I'm just so happy you're okay."

She raised her hand searching for his face saying, "You call this okay?" "Meg, it could have been a lot worse. I know it's hard to understand that right now but you're alive and that's what really matters. "I know Ben. It's just that I'm so scared. Dr. Martin said they won't know for some time whether or not my blindness is permanent." "Baby, try not to think about that right now. I know it's hard but I'm here and I'm not going anywhere. We can handle this together. Okay?" Meg just nodded without responding. "Well, until I can take you home I'm staying with you." "What do you mean?" "Jonathan made arrangements for another bed to be brought in so I can be here all night". "I'd rather be at home in our bed with you." Ben kissed her hands. "I want that too and when the nurses disappear for the night, I plan on slipping into bed with you. How's that?" "I can't wait." "But you have to do something for me. I want you to close your eyes and get some sleep or they won't let me stay." "Okay, I will. I promise."

The next four days passed slowly waiting for the latest KAT scan results. It was almost 10am when Dr. Martin and Dr. Jane Kramer, the hospital's top neurosurgeon, entered Meg's room. "Meg, it's Dr. Martin and Dr. Kramer, I'm sorry it took so long but the latest results indicate that the cause of your blindness is a blood clot. We should be able to control it with drugs but it will take some time." "You said 'should be able', what if the drugs don't work?", asked Meg. Dr. Kramer moved closer to Meg's saying, "First of all there are two different medications that we would like to try. But if they don't work, then surgery is our third option." Meg squeezed Ben's hand tighter. "So, when do we begin?" Dr. Kramer smiled saying, "We'd like you to start the first drug therapy right away. You will be on that for about three weeks. If that doesn't work, we'll put you on the second drug. Three weeks after that, we'll take another KAT scan and decide whether or not Surgery is necessary. I know this news is upsetting but let's not get ahead of ourselves." Meg nodded and leaned against Ben's chest.

"Can I go home?", she asked. "Well, I think we can release you tomorrow, providing you don't experience any negative side affects from the medication before then. I'll be back in a few hours to see how you're feeling." "Thank you", Ben said as he held Meg and waited for the Doctors to leave. "Are you okay?" "I think so and I'm going to concentrate on this first treatment and nothing else." He lowered his head and kissed the top of her head saying, "I think that's a great idea". They spent the next four hours holding each other and talked about everything but her situation.

It was almost 5pm when someone knocked on the door. Ben looked up and saw the person he was waiting for waving to him through the window of Meg's room. "Oh, that's my surprise for you." "Ben, what have you done?" Before responding he stepped outside the room for a minute. When he returned, Meg heard the sound of metal wheels rolling across the floor toward the right side of the bed and the aroma of a very familiar food filled the air. "Oh my God, that smells like Pete's Veal Scaloppini?" "Hello Miss, I heard you could you use something other than hospital food." Meg smiled reaching out her hand in the direction of his voice saying, "Pete, is that you?" He covered her hand with his and kissed it. "It sure is, we were all so concerned about you. Rosa and Jake send their love, oh and Apache too." "That is so sweet. I can't believe you did this." "Well, enjoy the meal. I'll leave you two alone now. It was good seeing you Miss." "Thank you so much Pete. Please tell Rosa and Jake I'm doing well. Would you also make sure Apache gets an extra treat tonight." "I sure will. Night."

"Ben, this is so incredible. You always seem to know what I need." "Well, the best is yet to come. So get comfortable, I'm about to feed you the best meal you've had in a very long time. Unfortunately, we have spring water instead of Champagne." Meg laughed as she adjusted her position in the bed. "During these past few days I almost forgot how lucky I really am." Ben leaned across the bed and kissed her softly on the lips. "We both are and I'll be damned if I let anything ruin the great life we're going to have. No matter what happens. I love you with all of my heart and soul Meg." "I love you too."

"Now, open wide for a taste of heaven." He sat and watched as she slowly savored the veal and smiled. "Now, that's what I was hoping for. I love to make you smile." Meg couldn't resist laughing. "Well, if you really want to make me happy, you can also feed me some of that delicious Fettuccini Alfredo I smell."

As he tried to place a small portion of Alfredo in her mouth some of the cream sauce spilled over on to the corner of her lips. Ben immediately leaned down and kissed it off her face saying, "Mmmm, that's delicious". "Thank you for this Ben, it's just what I needed." "You're more than welcome my love."

Two hours after dinner, Dr. Martin and Dr. Kramer returned to Meg's room and asked to speak to Ben and Meg separately. As Jim escorted Ben to the waiting area, Dr. Kramer sat on the chair next to Meg's bed and started to explain the importance of getting professional assistance for her blindness during the coming weeks.

Outside her room Jim and Ben where sitting in the waiting area when Jonathan and Susan joined them. "Ben, how's Meg?" "She's fine, so far she seems to be handling the new medication well and Jim was just about to explain what we need to do after we take her home tomorrow." Susan threw her arms around his neck saying, "Oh, I'm so happy she's coming home".

After they took their seats Jim said, "Meg needs time to adjust to her blindness and she is going to need all the support she can get, both personally and professionally." "She has me and always will. She doesn't need anyone else." "Ben, please don't get upset with what I'm about to tell you. Meg is going to need people who are qualified to teach her things that she needs to learn about being blind and the sooner she gets started the better, even if it's not permanent. Dr. Kramer has placed a call to the Blind Institute in LA and they have a therapist available".

"Wait a minute, don't you think we should wait until we see if the drugs work?" "Actually Dr. Kramer believes that the sooner she gets professional help the less frightened she'll be during the next few weeks." "What are you saying, that I can't help Meg?" Jim tried to calm him down before continuing. "Ben, I know you care deeply for Meg but she needs to work with people that are not personally involved with her. Please allow us to do what we need to in order to get her adjusted." "And what the hell am I suppose to do, sit back and do nothing?"

"No Ben, Meg needs your love but you can't teach her how to live in darkness. And you don't want her to become totally dependent on you for all her needs, do you? Before he could respond, Jim continued. "From what I know about Meg, she wouldn't want that. Am I wrong?" Ben continued running his hands through his hair as he tried to absorb his words. "I hear what you're saying. It's just that I love her so much and can't stand to see her suffer. So what happens next?"

"Well, for the next few weeks, maybe months, Meg will have to relearn everything from brushing her teeth to eating a meal with no one's assistance. That's where the therapist comes in. At first it will involve a few hours a day then gradually increase. When she leaves the hospital tomorrow, she will have two choices of where that training will be preformed. One option is for the therapist to live with her and the other, which is more widely recommended, is for her to live at the Blind Institute until...."

"What the hell are you saying? Meg's not going anywhere!", Ben yelled. Jonathan interrupted saying, "Jim, I have to agree with Ben, Meg's coming home with us". "Normally I wouldn't recommend it because of the amount of care she'll need but if she's staying with you at the Mansion I'm sure she'll receive plenty of assistance until she can become self-reliant again." "And how long will that take?", Ben asked. "It's hard to say, everyone is different. It all depends on how cooperative Meg is with the training. In addition, she will need her family and friends. There is also the possibility that she won't require long time care if the medication is successful. I hope that answers some of your questions?"

Ben stood and approached Meg's door, then paused. "Does she know?" "Yes, Dr. Kramer is explaining all of this to her and I'm sure she's very upset, which is understandable but she's also a very strong young woman. I think she just needs time to adjust." "Can I see her now?" Jim patted him on the back saying, "Yes, as soon as Dr. Kramer leaves but please try and convince her that she needs her rest. Oh before I forget, the Therapist Paul Kasden will be here tomorrow morning around 8am to explain the details of his training." "Okay, I'll tell her." When Ben saw Dr. Kramer leave Meg's room, he hurried inside.

"Jim, if there is anything that Meg needs, please don't hesitate to call, we'll bring in the best Specialists we can find. Whatever she needs." "Jonathan, she is getting the best medical attention but if we need to bring in other Specialists, I'll let you know. Dr. Kramer is one of the best in her field. Now if you'll excuse me, I have other patients I need to see. I'll check back in with Meg as soon as I'm done."

As Ben moved toward Meg's bed, his heart ached looking at her lying on her side holding a pillow tightly to her chest. "Ben? Is that you?" "Yes Meg, I'm here", he said as he lay on the bed spoon-like behind her and stroked her hair. "Do you want to talk about what Dr. Kramer told you?" "No not now, I'm really very tired." He tightened his arms around her and kissed the back of her neck. When he heard her breathing slow as she drifted off to sleep, he gently stroked her hair saying, "I love you Meg and I'm going to do whatever it takes to give you the life you deserve. Now sleep and have only sweet dreams of our future together." He gently moved off the bed, undressed and climbed into his bed watching her sleep until he too drifted off.

It was almost one in the morning when Ben heard Meg crying in her sleep. "Ben, where are you? "Ben!" He jumped out of bed and ran to her side. "Meg, I'm here, please calm down", he whispered as he climbed into her bed and cradled her in his arms. "I thought you left. Ben, I'm so scared." He pulled her tight against his chest, stroked her hair and whispered, "I love you. I'm not going to leave you now, try and get some sleep. They'll make me leave if you don't".

She struggled to move closer into his arms. "Ben, I don't want to live at the Blind Institute." He tightened his grip saying, "Oh Baby, I have no intention of letting you go there. Jonathan and I already told the Doctors that you're coming home with us, besides Susan has already hired additional staff so it's to late to turn down their offer. So don't think about that anymore and get some sleep. I'll hold you all night. I love you Meg." "I love you too."

The next morning when Jonathan and Susan entered Meg's room they found her dressed and sitting alone on the bed. "Well, Susan what do you think, does Meg look anxious to get out of here?" he said laughing. Susan walked over to Meg and kissed her saying, "She sure does. So where's Ben?" "He's signing my release papers." Just then Ben entered the room. "Do you still want to get out of here?" "Are you kidding, I can't wait." As he helped Meg to her feet a nurse arrived with a wheel chair. "Ms. Cummings, if you'll take a seat I'll take you to your car." Ben led her to the chair and settled her in before the nurse escorted her out as everyone else followed close behind, along with her Police escort.

Jonathan and Susan entered the Foyer and watched as Ben guided Meg up the front steps of the Mansion. When they reached the entrance, the entire staff was waiting to greet them. As they welcomed her, Zeus came running to her side and nudged her hand. Using Ben's arm to steady herself, she slowly stooped down and felt for Zeus's face, then rubbed his ears saying, "Zeus, I missed you so much. How would you like to be my guide dog for a while?" As if understanding he raised his head and licked the side of her face. They all laughed watching the playful exchange.

"Okay Zeus that's enough I need to get Meg up to bed." Meg reached for his hand and stood. "I am a little tired." "Well, in that case", Ben said as he scooped her into his arms and headed up the stairs. "Ben, I'm not that tired", she laughed. "I know but I'll use any excuse to hold you in my arms."

Jonathan and Susan followed them into the bedroom as a servant carried her suitcase. After Ben led Meg to the sofa in the sitting area, Susan sat down beside her. "If there is anything I can do, please just ask." "Thank you for being so kind. I'm really very happy to be here with all of you." "Excuse me Sir, is there anything else I can do?" "No Edward, we'll be fine, thank you."

After Jonathan and Susan left the room Ben sat on the sofa next to Meg and asked if she wanted anything. "Actually, I would love to take a hot bath but I'm afraid I need some help." Ben reached for her hand urging her to stand, "Well, that's the best offer I've had all day. I can't think of anything I would rather do." He guided her into the bathroom, helped her out of her clothes and sat her on a chair as he prepared the bath. "Meg it's ready, do you want me to wash you?" She smiled saying, "No, I need to try to do this on my own. Please understand." "I do but I'm here if you need me."

He opened the door to the shower and guided her hands to the rail then helped her sit down in the warm water. "Are you sure you'll be okay?" "I'll be fine, don't worry." "The Shampoo and Soap are directly to your right on the shelf. I'm going to leave the shower door open and I won't be far if you need anything." Reluctantly he left the bathroom and sat on the bed listening for her. Seconds later he heard the shampoo bottle hit the tiled floor and the sound of her crying. For a few seconds he resisted the impulse to run to her even though the Therapist had warned him that she might grow too dependent. But when she continued crying Ben ignored Paul's advice stripped away his clothes and hurried into the bathroom.

He gently slid into the tub behind her and cradled her in his arms whispering, "Baby, don't cry, I'm here. I think you're trying to do too much to soon. You know what Paul said. You have to learn how to do this with his help. Until then, let me take care of you." He picked up the soap-lathered sponge in his hand and slowly rubbed it up and down her arm. The tears continued streaming down her face as she leaned her head against his chest. Ben closed his arms around her again and held her as tight as he could without hurting her. "Please don't cry Meg, I'm here. I'll always be here for you."

"Ben, I'm sorry all I seem to do lately is cry. It's just that I'm so scared." He lowered her arms to her side, then moved the sponge over her neck and down to her breasts saying, "Let me take care of you. Just try to relax".

He moved the sponge in a circular motion around her breasts and over her nipples as she continued to lean back against his chest. Within seconds the tension in Meg's body started to disappear. "God Ben, this feels so good. It's been so long since you've touched me. I've missed you so much." "I've missed you too. Now, sit up so I can wash your hair." As Ben massaged the shampoo into her hair Meg moaned saying, "This feels so great. I wish we could stay here forever". "Well, I hate to spoil this but the water is losing its warmth and I don't want you to catch cold. So let's get you rinsed off." Ben helped her stand, turned on the Shower and moved her under the showerhead, allowing the water to rinse over her body.

When all the soap was gone, he turned off the water, stepped out of the tub and pulled a towel off the nearby rack. After wrapping her in it, he lifted her out of the tub and lowered her to bathroom floor. "How's that?", he asked as he towel dried her hair. "Great."

When she was completely dry he scooped her into his arms and carried her to the bed, then pulled the covers over her chest saying, "Now I want you to get some rest." Meg grabbed for his arms. "Ben, don't leave me. Please!" "Baby, I'm not going far. I just need to go downstairs for a few minutes and make some calls, then I promise I will snuggle up beside you and hold you all night." Meg squeezed his hand. "Don't be long, I get so lonely without you." "I won't, I promise. Now, go to sleep. If you need me, don't get out of bed by yourself. The house phone is by the bed just pick it up and ask Mrs. Landsbury to get me. Okay?" "I'll be fine, just hurry back." He leaned down, kissed her lips and left. Outside the room Ben nodded to the Police Officer and headed downstairs.

Almost an hour had past since Ben had gone down to the Library where the Detectives were waiting to discuss the accident. "I don't understand this, how is that this car deliberately drove our limousine off the road and disappeared with no leads. That doesn't seem possible." Jonathan interrupted saying, "Ben they're doing their best". "I'm sorry, I know but you need to understand how important Meg is to me and the thought of someone hurting her on purpose scares me to death." "Well, until we know who the target is, we are keeping an officer assigned to both Mrs. Evans and Ms. Cummings", Detective Harris responded.

Upstairs Meg started thrashing in bed as the dreams of the accident flooded her thoughts. Suddenly, she started screaming for Ben causing the officer to enter the bedroom concerned that she was in trouble. "Ms. Cummings are you okay?" "Who are you? Where's Ben? I need Ben. Ben!" Officer O'Malley pressed his radio microphone calling to the officer in the foyer to get Ben.

Before the officer reached the Library, Ben heard Meg's screams and ran upstairs toward his bedroom, followed by Jonathan and the Detectives. He ran to her bedside and cradled her in his arms. "Meg, it's okay, I'm here." "Ben, there's someone here. Who is that man?" Ben stroked her hair trying to reassure her that she was safe. "He's a Police Officer assigned to guard you."

"I'm sorry Miss, I heard you cry out and I just came in to see if you were okay." Ben continued rubbing his hand up and down her back trying to comfort her. "It's fine, it's my fault I should have explained this to her. Meg, this is Officer Thomas O'Malley, he's been assigned to you until the investigation about the accident is resolved." "I'm sorry if I scared you Miss." Meg took a deep breath and released it saying, "No, it's not your fault, I just had a bad dream and I didn't expect anyone to be in here. Please forgive me." The officer smiled saying, "There's nothing to forgive, I'll be outside in the hall if you need anything."

Ben looked away from Meg saying, "Thanks Tom, I appreciate it. Dad, I'm going to stay with Meg, I'll talk to you tomorrow." Tom returned to his post outside her room while Jonathan and the Detectives headed back toward the Library. "Ben, tell me the truth, why has a Police Officer been assigned to protect me?" "Meg, don't worry about that now." She reached for his face saying, "Please don't keep anything from me. I can't handle that right now". "Okay, Meg. The Police think there is a possibility that the accident may have been intentional." "What are you saying? Someone did this to Susan and me on purpose?"

He rubbed her back saying, "We don't know that yet but until we do, the Police want someone assigned to both of you. I'm just so sorry I didn't tell you before I left." Meg lay against his chest and released a deep sigh. "I'm okay but would you do something for me?" "Anything, you know that." "Would you please tell Officer O'Malley that I'm sorry I yelled at him?" Ben squeezed her tight. "You're amazing. How do you manage to always be more concerned about everyone else?" She placed a love tap on his chest. "Ben, I'm not a saint, please don't treat me like one. I'm very tired, can we go to bed?" "You don't have to ask me twice", he said as he stood, undressed and slipped under the covers pulling Meg to him in a spoon-like fashion. "Close your eyes and dream of the future that we're going to have.
I love you so much and I'll always be here to take care of you."

It was almost 10am when Meg woke as Ben entered the bedroom carrying a tray. "Hey sleepyhead, it's about time you woke up. How about some breakfast?" Meg reached her arms above her head stretching saying, "I'm starved but don't tell me that you actually made it?"

"No, don't worry", he said laughing. "Sonja wouldn't let me near her kitchen. She insisted on making her special eggs benedict, I hope you like them." "I'm sure I'll love it, afterwards could you help me get dressed?" "Don't you know that I would do anything for you." As Ben sat next to Meg placing the breakfast tray over her lap she said, "Hopefully after a few sessions with my new therapist I won't have to depend on you to feed me". Ben leaned down and kissed her on the cheek saying, "Gee, I thought it was kind of sexy."

After breakfast Ben told Meg that he had to go to the office for a few hours and would be back around one. "Oh, by the way, Mrs. Landsbury has prepared a room for Paul, so after he gets settled she'll bring him to you." Meg assured him that she would be fine with Officer O'Malley until Paul arrived. "Okay, if you're sure?" "Ben, I'm fine. Go and take care of your business. You know what Paul said, it's best if you're not here during my sessions. It's easier on both of us, just wish me luck."

Ben placed a finger under her chin, tilting it toward his mouth. "You can do anything you set your mind to. I love you Meg Cummings." "I love you too Ben Evans." As he left the bedroom and closed the door he turned to Officer O'Malley. "I'll be back in a few hours Tom, please make sure you don't leave Meg alone until the therapist arrives and call me if she needs me". "You can count on me Mr. Evans."

An hour later, Meg opened the door calling to Tom. "I wanted to go down to the Solarium, would you help me?" He smiled and offered her his arm as they headed down the hall. When they reached the Solarium, Tom pulled out her chair and joined her at the table. Mrs. Landsbury entered the room offering them some Iced Tea. "I'd love some, thank you." "Miss, is there anything that you would like for lunch?" "Actually, I had a late breakfast so I'm fine for now. Tom would you like anything? I'm sure Sonja would be happy to fix you something." "A sandwich will be fine." "Sir, Sonja has just made some Roast Beef and Ham, why don't I bring a platter of both and then you can decide. It's a beautiful warm day, would you like to have lunch on the patio?" "Oh, I would love that, thank you Mrs. Landsbury." "Tom would you take me there?" "Sure thing Miss", he said offering his arm and leading her to the beautiful brick laden patio.

Tom moved her to a chair at the table and then sat beside her. Before he could say anything, he saw Zeus running toward them from the garden. "Uh, Meg there's a very large security dog heading our way." She smiled saying, "Zeus, is that you? Come here boy." He immediately ran to her side and laid his head in her lap. Tom shook his head and laughed. "Do you have this affect on everyone?" Meg just smiled. "Oh, he's really such a sweetie. We hit it off the first time we met. Didn't we boy?", she said as she playfully rubbed his ears. "He seems so protective of me and I trust his instincts. He must like you, otherwise, he would be growling." "Well, I'm glad for that. I'll make sure I stay on his good side", he laughed. "I don't know if Ben mentioned it but sometimes Zeus likes to come to my room to be with me, so just let him in, okay?" "I sure will."

A few minutes' later two young women, in starched uniforms, approached the table carrying platters of meat and bread, along with a pitcher of Iced Tea. For the next hour, before the therapist arrived, Tom and Meg talked about families, friends and their jobs.

The first Therapy session went well but was tiring, so Meg decided to take a nap before Ben came home. Two hours later as Tom sat readying outside Meg's bedroom Mrs. Landsbury approached carrying a florist box. "These flowers just arrived for Miss Cummings." "Thank you, I'll take them to her."

He took the long silver box, knocked on Meg's door and entered saying that something had arrived for her, then placed the box in her extended hands. "Ben is such a romantic", she said opening the box. "That's strange." "What is?" "Well, Ben always sends me white roses. But these smell like Lilies. Is there a card?"

"Yes, right here." "Would you mind reading it to me?" "Are you sure?" "I'm positive, Ben wouldn't say anything too intimate knowing that someone else would have to read it for me." He removed the card from the envelope and started to read the message. "I was sorry to hear about your accident and to hear that you...." Meg could feel something was terribly wrong. "Why did you stop? What is it, please tell me." "Meg, these aren't from Ben, it's unsigned and you don't need to hear the rest." "Tom, please tell me what it says. It can't scare me more than what my imagination is doing to me. Please." "It just said that they were sorry to hear that you lost your sight."

She released a deep sigh. "Oh, is that all? You don't have to feel bad, I'm going to have to get use to that kind of remark. Could you please do me a favor and ask Mrs. Landsbury to place these in some water?" "Sure, I'll be right back. By the way your friend is back for a visit."

Meg laid her head back on the pillow, closed her eyes and relaxed an arm at the side of the bed. A few seconds later Zeus laid his head against her hand. "Hey fella, where have you been? I thought you forgot about me." He lifted his head and placed a few soft licks on her hand. "Zeus, don't tell anyone but I'm not sure if I can live like this. Do me a favor and stay with me." She moved her hand to the top of his head and patted him as she drifted off to sleep. As if he understood what she had asked Zeus laid at the side of her bed, watching over her as she slept.

Tom picked up the phone in the hallway, dialed the Police Station and asked to speak to either Detective Wilson or Chow. "Hello, this is Carl Wilson, what's up O'Malley?" "Ms. Cummings just got some flowers and a threatening note, I think you should come over here as soon as possible." Carl told him that they would be there as soon as possible and not to allow anyone access to the Mansion except for family and staff.

Twenty minutes later, Carl Wilson and Bob Chow entered the foyer and were ushered into the Study. Where's Ms. Cummings?" "She's in her bedroom resting, I contacted the rest of the family but they aren't home yet. I called you as soon as I read the card."

Tom showed the Detectives the box of Lilies, along with the card, that he had placed in a plastic bag to protect any fingerprints. "Jesus. I was afraid of this. Well, now we know it wasn't an accident and who the target is, but we still have no idea who's behind this." As they continued discussing the situation they turned in the direction of the hallway as Ben, Jonathan and Susan entered the room. Seeing the Detectives, they immediately knew something was wrong. "Is Meg okay?", asked Ben. Tom moved in front of him saying, "She's fine, she's in her bedroom resting."

"Then would someone tell me what's going on here?". Detective Wilson was the first to respond. Jonathan reached for Ben's arm saying, "Ben, try to keep calm, we don't want Meg to hear about this." "Just tell me what happened?" "Meg received a dozen Lilies an hour ago. She thought they were from you and she asked Officer O'Malley to read the card." Before he could continue, Ben interrupted. "I never send Meg anything but White Roses."

Tom quickly responded. "That's what Meg said after she opened the box and then she asked me to read the card." "Okay, so who were they from?" Carl handed him the unsigned computer generated card to read. As he read the note he couldn't believe his eyes. It said they were sorry to hear that she had survived the accident but the next time she wouldn't be so lucky. Ben sat down on the sofa, running his hands through his hair and gasped, "Oh my God! Does Meg know?" Tom assured him that she had no idea of what it really said.

He explained that when he realized what was in the note, he lied to Meg and told her the person was sorry to hear about her blindness. "And she believed you?" "Yes, she seemed fine. She just asked Mrs. Landsbury to place the flowers in a vase and then went into the bedroom for a nap." "Well thank God for that. I know you are doing your best to protect Meg, but I think it's time we hire some additional security. There is no way, anyone is going to get to her as long as I have anything to say about it."

Carl sat down next to Ben on the sofa, "Ben, I know I didn't agree with that decision at first but now I think hiring private security is a good idea. We don't want to see anything happen to Miss Cummings either. Well, we need to get this card and box back to Police Laboratory so they can examine them for prints. We'll be in touch. Oh before I forget, from now on no one gains access to this house unless they're on Jonathan's list." "Is that all for now, I'd like to see Meg." "Just one more thing, now that we know Meg was the original target we have a direction for our investigation. We're going to need a list of people that are close to you or Miss Cummings that may have a grudge, whether personal or professional. That includes people that you were involved romantically with in the past. The sooner we can have that, the better." "I understand, I will get that to you later this afternoon."

Jonathan tapped Ben on the shoulder saying, "I'll take care of arranging the private security, why don't you go see how Meg is doing". "Thanks Dad, there's something I need to do first." Ben turned to Tom and asked him to return to Meg's room, then picked up the phone and ordered two dozen White Roses from his favorite florist, then headed for the Foyer. "Harrison, I'm expecting a delivery from Haworth's within the hour, please send them to my room as soon as they arrive." "Yes, sir Mr. Evans."

Ben smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder saying, "Thank you Harrison. Would you also have all packages that arrive checked out before Meg ever receives anything. And make sure the staff doesn't tell her anything about this, especially the new servants." "Yes Sir!"

As soon as the flowers arrived one of the servants knocked on the bedroom door. Ben took the roses and thanked her. "Ben, what are you do up to?", asked Meg. He walked toward her and placed the flowers in her outstretched arms. "I believe these are from your lover." "Really? but I was hoping that was you", she said giggling.

"I'm so glad that I am and I hope you will always want me to be", Ben said leaning down and kissing her softly on the lips. "So tell me how your session went with Paul?" "It was fine, I think I'm learned a lot but I'm afraid I have a long way to go." Ben sat down beside her and placed his arm around her waist squeezing gently saying, "I'm sure you're his brightest student, and prettiest." Meg leaned her head on his shoulder and placed a soft kiss on his neck. "How did I ever get so lucky to find someone like you? You always seem to know exactly what I need to hear. He looked down at Zeus lying close by saying, "I'm not the only one that seems to know what you need. I like your new body guard by the way". Meg couldn't help but laugh.

Placing his hand under her chin, he tilted her mouth toward his and kissed her. When the kiss became more passionate, he slowly pulled away and stroked her face saying, "Before we get carried away, Jonathan and Susan wanted to know if you would like to join them for dinner tonight?" "Are you sure that's what you really want?" Ben tapped her nose with his finger saying, "Don't tempt me".

An hour later, they entered the living room where Jonathan and Susan were waiting. "I'm so glad you felt up to joining us Meg. Can I offer you some champagne?" "Perrier for me please but I would like to sit down first." Ben patted her hand saying, "I'm sorry are you okay?" "I'm fine, I just get a little dizzy when I stand in one place too long." Ben led Meg toward the sofa nearest the fireplace and sat beside her as Jonathan waited for Sara, one of the servants, to pour their drinks. "Ben, I think this would be a great time to give Susan her gift, don't you?"

He stood up and walked toward Susan as he pulled out a velvet box from the inside pocket of his jacket. "I hope you like it, Meg insisted that I pick out something special for everything you did for her." "You didn't have to do this." Meg smiled and insisted she open the gift. "Oh Meg, what a beautiful tennis bracelet. I've always wanted one." "I know. I'm so happy you like it." Susan leaned down and kissed her. "I love you. Excuse me for a few minutes, I need to check on dinner." Ben walked over to Meg and leaned down saying, "I need to speak to my Dad for a few minutes, will you be okay?" "I'm fine, don't worry so much. Besides, Zeus will keep me company." Jonathan stood in the doorway smiling as he watched Zeus sitting at Meg's side silently keeping guard.

As soon as they entered the Library, Jonathan explained to Ben that he had placed some calls regarding Meg's new security and that they would be arriving in the morning. Ben sat in the oversized leather chair near the fireplace and placed his face in his hands saying, "I couldn't bare it if anything else where to happen to her. She's been through so much already." "We aren't going to let anyone hurt Meg ever again, you have my word. Why don't you get back to Meg, I'll make some calls and we'll...." Before he had a chance to finish, Mrs. Landsbury came into the study without knocking. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but Mrs. Evans asked that you come back to the library right away."

When they approached the Living Room, Susan was standing in the entrance motioning to them to be quiet. As they moved behind her their hearts sank as they watched Meg sitting with Zeus, unaware anyone else was watching. "Oh God", whispered Ben.

She looked like she was in her own private world sitting facing the fire with her hand extended toward the warmth of the flame. There were tears running down her face. Ben walked over to her and knelt down, placing his hands on her face. "Meg?" She didn't answer as he wiped away the tears. "Meg, are you okay?" "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do this." "Don't apologize, just tell me what's wrong." "It's just that sometimes not being able to see hurts so much. I can feel the warmth of the fire but I can't remember what the colors of the fire look like."

Before responding, Ben pulled her to her feet and held her against his chest, running his hand up and down her back trying to comfort her. "Well, that's what I'm here for, to remind you." Meg released a soft laugh and hugged him tight, then slowly pulled away. "Okay, that's my quota for today's self-pity. I'm starved, can we eat?" They all laughed as Susan took Jonathan's arm saying, "I think that's a great idea, let's have dinner."

When the first course was placed in front of Meg, Ben leaned over and asked if she needed his help. "No, I think I can handle this. It all smells so wonderful and familiar." Susan smiled saying, "You can thank Mrs. Landsbury, she insisted on making all of your favorites. Fresh Pacific Salmon, roasted herb potatoes and asparagus in hollandaise". Meg moved her hands to the table feeling for the Knife and Fork, as they all silently watched. "I hate to say this but I feel your eyes on me."

"Sorry Meg." "Please don't apologize. I'm fine but I would feel better if you all went on with dinner and ignored me a little." "You're right", Ben said as he turned to Jonathan and asked about the new acquisition in London. They continued chatting and watched as she moved the utensils around the plate searching for the food. Slowly she drew a fork of food to her mouth but as it got close to her lips it dropped to the plate spilling over onto the table. Meg tried desperately to laugh it off saying, "I'm sorry my table manners are not what they use to be." Ben placed a hand over hers. "Let me help." Pulling her hand away she said, "Just let me try again."

Moving her hand toward the side of the dish where she thought she had laid the knife she knocked over her wine goblet shattering it into pieces as it fell to the table. She immediately broke into tears saying, "Oh, I'm so sorry please forgive me."

Ben pushed away his chair, moved to Meg's side and placed his arms around her. "Meg, it's okay." She ignored his comments and continued to cry. "Susan, I'm so sorry that I broke your crystal. I shouldn't have come down for dinner. Ben, please take me back to our room." Ben tightened his grip as he stood pulling her to his side. Susan moved to Meg's side and took her hand saying, "Meg, it's okay, the crystal isn't important. You are". "Maybe I should go back to my Condo." "Don't even think that. We all want you to stay here. Maybe this is just to soon", Ben said as he guided her out of the dinning room and up the stairs to their bedroom.

Before they reached the first step, Meg stopped and turned back saying, "Jonathan, Susan, I'm very sorry for spoiling dinner. Please tell Mrs. Landsbury that I appreciate everything she did tonight."

"Meg, please don't apologize. We can only imagine how difficult this is for you so please don't think about it anymore." Suddenly Zeus ran up to Meg and leaned his head against her leg. Jonathan slid his arm around Susan's waist saying, "I guess he wants to spend the night with you too." She stroked Zeus's head softly for a minute. "That's fine with me."

As they watched Ben and Zeus lead Meg up the stairs, Jonathan leaned close to Susan's ear and whispered, "Zeus seems to know when he needs her the most."

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This Chapter picks up the day after Meg has problems having dinner with Jonathan and Susan.

Chapter 13 - Changing of the Guards

It was almost four in the afternoon the next day when Ben arrived home and headed upstairs with Steve Harris and Mike Cousins from Corporate Security. Steve was in his early forties, 6' 2", dark brown hair slightly graying at the temples and dark brown eyes. Mike was closer to 6', blonde, blue eyes and in his late thirties. Both were ex-military and still had the look about them, clean cut and extremely physically fit. "Hi Tom, is Meg taking a nap?" "No, I just checked on her, she's inside in the sitting area with Zeus." "Well, before we go in I'd like to introduce Steve Harris and Mike Cousins, they head up the Executive Terrorism Division of Evans Communications and they'll be taking over here starting today. "It's a pleasure to meet you both. Uh, Ben before you go in I think you should know that there was another delivery today. I turned it over to the Police Lab before Meg saw it." "What the hell was it?"

Jim took a deep breath. "It was a box of dead flowers, along with a note saying that she would be joining them soon". "Why the hell didn't you call?" "I did but your secretary said you were on your way home." "Jesus, if I ever get my hands on the person that's doing this to Meg, I'm going to...." Before he could finish, Steve placed an arm on Ben's shoulder when he saw Meg standing in the doorway of the bedroom.

"I thought I heard your voice Ben, is something wrong?" He quickly moved to her side, reached for her arm and led her back into the room toward the sofa saying, "No I'm sorry, how was your day?" "Ben Evans, you're trying to change the subject. I heard the tone in your voice but I couldn't hear what you were saying, "I know those Lilies that came the other day were not sent by a friend, I overheard one of the servants. So tell me did I get more flowers?"

When he didn't respond, Meg searched for his hand saying, "Ben, you promised last night that there would be no more secrets. Please tell me." "Yes Meg, there was another delivery and it was also unsigned. Tom turned it over to the Police Lab but I don't want you to worry about it. That's why these gentlemen are here. Ben stood and motioned them to approach.

"You remember Steve Harris and Mike Cousins from Corporate Security." She extended her hand for them to accept saying, "Oh, yes. You're in charge of Executive Terrorism. It's nice to see, uh, meet you again. Forgive me, it's a hard habit to break", she smiled. They both responded saying it was their pleasure. Before Ben could continue, Meg interrupted saying, "Please don't take this the wrong way but do you really think that I need this type of protection?" Ben placed a kiss on her hand before answering.

"Well, there's no point in arguing because Jonathan hired them and I'm afraid you don't have a say." She laughed and patted him lightly on the chest. "I just feel bad that I'm putting everyone out." Steve moved closer to Meg saying, "Ms. Cummings, please don't feel that way. This is our business and we can't do that job unless you want us here. Besides you wouldn't want us to get fired, would you?" She couldn't resist laughing. "Please, call me Meg. I'm sorry, I really do appreciate everything that's being done for me but sometimes I get a bit edgy, just ask Tom." "Don't believe a word she says, I can't remember the last time I enjoyed an assignment more. By the way Meg, even though I won't be assigned to your personal safety, I'll still be on duty outside the Mansion." "Well, just make sure you come in and keep me company from time to time?" "I promise. I better get back to the Station and check in."

Ben walked him out as Meg continued chatting with Steve and Mike. Just as they finished describing the schedule over the next few days, Ben returned and handed them a list of people who were allowed access to the house. As they continued reviewing the procedures, Meg interrupted, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to be rude but I'm feeling very tired. I think I should lay down before dinner." Ben helped her back to bed as Steve and Mike said their good byes and headed for the Library. After tucking her under the covers, he leaned down and kissed her on the lips. "Sweet dreams my Love." Meg reached for his hand saying, "Are you sure I can't persuade you to take a nap with me?" "There's nothing I would love more but I need to speak to Steve and Mike about their schedules. But I'll make you a deal."

Meg smiled saying, "What's that?" "I will hold you until you fall asleep." Ben climbed into bed behind her, placing one arm above her pillow and another around her waist. "I love you so much Meg", he said as he placed a soft kiss on her neck. "How did I ever get so lucky to find someone like you, Ben?" "I'm the lucky one and I plan on proving that to you every day for the rest of our lives. Now, close your eyes and sleep."

After he was sure that Meg was asleep, Ben joined Steve and Mike in the Library. "I know Jonathan explained how important Meg's safety is but I need you to understand that she's my life and I don't want anyone near her without security. Unless I'm with Meg, I want someone near her at all hours. Is that clear?" "Perfectly", answered Steve and Mike.

"I know you've spoken to the Police Detectives regarding that list of people they were investigating. Is there any news?" Steve was the first to respond saying, "Actually, there is news about your ex girlfriend Cassie Andrews." "What about her? I know Cassie wasn't happy about my relationship with Meg but she couldn't be responsible for her accident." "Women who feel scorned have done much worse I'm afraid. As for Ms. Andrews, she was a strong suspect at first but no longer. The night of the accident she was in Milan for a fashion show. A few days later she attended a party at a private villa and apparently suffered an accidental drug overdose." "What? Is she alright?" "She will be but I'm afraid she's been confined to a private clinic in Italy ever since so she is certainly not responsible for the flowers and death threats."

"I didn't know she was even involved with drugs. So, is there anyone else?" "Well, most of Ms. Cummings friends have checked out so far but we're still investigating Philip Martin." "Philip? Meg hasn't heard from him since she left him over a year ago." "I'm afraid that's not quite true. According to Jason McCarthy, Mr. Martin was recently in San Francisco and telephoned Ms. Cummings the night before the accident. She refused to see him and it appears that he never made contact after that but we're still investigating his alibis. Is there any reason why Ms. Cummings did not tell you about the call?" Ben hesitated for a moment before responding. "She probably didn't want to upset me." "If there's anything that he's ever done to make you think he might hurt Ms. Cummings you need to tell us", insisted Mike. "Meg doesn't want anyone to know so I expect you to keep this between us." They both nodded in agreement. "The last time Meg saw Philip was in New York over a year ago. What no one else knows is that the night she left him, he raped her." Just hearing the word caused Steve and Mike to exchange looks of disgust.

"Well, we're certainly not going to exclude Mr. Martin." "If that's all, I really would like to see how Meg is doing. Just make sure you do whatever it takes to protect her from whoever is doing this." Steve shook Ben's hand saying, "You can count on us, we'll take very good care of her. Mike will be on duty until the morning and he'll be outside your bedroom if you need him. When you need to go out, someone will be with Meg at all times. There will always be two men on duty in the house and two on the grounds outside around the clock. You have our Cell and Beeper Numbers in case of an emergency. Please tell Meg, that Mike and I will meet with her every morning just to review her schedule for the day."

It was almost 7pm when Steve headed for the front door saying goodnight as Ben and Mike headed upstairs. They ran into Susan as she was leaving his bedroom. "Is everything okay Susan?" "Yes, I was just checking on Meg and she's still asleep. I think we should let her rest. If she wakes up later I'll fix her a late night supper, otherwise, I'll see you both tomorrow." Mike took a seat in the hall and opened the book he had brought with him to pass the night. "Mr. Cousins, Mrs. Landsbury will be up shortly with your dinner tray. If there is anything else you need, just press Line 1 on the house phone. Goodnight", Susan said as she headed downstairs.

A week had past since Meg had been released from the hospital, she and Paul were becoming more comfortable with one another. Even though she was gaining more confidence, Ben couldn't shake the uneasy feeling he had regarding Paul. There was something he just didn't trust.

After breakfast Ben stood at the edge of the bed and kissed Meg goodbye saying that he would be home around 6pm. "So what have you planned for today?" "Well, after Paul's lesson Susan said she has someone coming in to help me pick out a new wardrobe." "Great. Do me a favor and buy something wonderful. I'll see you later my love", he said as he leaned down and placed another kiss on her lips. "You keep that up and I won't let you leave", she said smiling. "I'm going. Bye."

Hours later at the end of the daily training session Paul excused himself saying that he had some research to do on his computer. "Thanks Paul, I'll talk to you later." As he headed upstairs he saw Harrison talking to a man in the Foyer who was requesting to speak to Meg. The visitor explained that he was from her office and needed to discuss some business. When Harrison and the young man entered the living room Meg was sitting with Zeus at the far side of the room and Steve was standing outside near the patio entrance.

"Excuse me Miss, there is a Mr. Hennison here to see you." "Mr. Hennison? I'm sorry I don't remember you." "Hello Meg." Hearing his voice made her feel as though her heart had stopped for a minute. "Philip? Is that you?" "Yes Meg it is." "Harrison would you please ask Steve to come in here." "Yes, Miss. Would you like me to stay too?" "No, I'll be fine with Steve and Zeus but please call Ben and tell him that Mr. Martin is here." "Right away Miss." Harrison sensed something was terribly wrong.

"Philip, how did you know where I was?" "I'm in the city for another exhibition and just read about your accident in the local paper. I realize that you might not want to see me, uh, I mean hear from me but I was concerned when I heard you were hurt. I also brought you these", he said walking toward her with a bouquet of flowers.

As he approached, Zeus released a soft growl causing Philip to stop in his tracks. Just then Steve entered. "Meg are you okay?" "Steve, this is Philip Martin." "Would you like me to escort Mr. Martin out?" "Meg, please just hear me out, then I'll leave if you want." Meg took a deep breath before responding. "Alright just for a moment." "Thank you. But I'd really prefer it if we could speak alone." "Steve is here for my protection and I feel more comfortable if he stayed." "Meg, I only came to see for myself that you were okay and I'm glad I did. This place is like a fortress, you should be around your friends. What on earth are they protecting you from?"

"Philip, that's none of your business. And if that's all, I think you should leave." "Meg, I'm sorry but I can't pretend that I don't care besides I brought some flowers don't you want them?" Meg shook her head saying, "No thank you. I can't act as though nothing happened between us. I think it would be best if you just left." He placed the flowers on the nearby table and sat at the opposite end of the sofa from her. "Meg, please let me stay for a few more minutes." She released another sigh saying, "Okay Philip but make this quick".

"Ever since you left New York I've wanted to tell you how sorry I was about what happened that last night we were together. I guess I was hoping you could find it in your heart to forgive me." "Philip, right now I have a lot to deal with and what happened between us is not one of them. You must realize that I'm not comfortable with you being here and Ben is expected any minute, I think it would be best if you left before he gets home." Steve motioned to Philip to get up saying, "You heard Ms. Cummings".

Suddenly, Zeus released another low growl. Meg patted his head saying, "It's okay fella, he's leaving". "Alright I'll go but this Ben Evans has you living like a prisoner." "You have no right to talk to me like that." "Meg, it's just that I hate to see him or his family doing this to you." "Philip, you don't know these people and you have no part in my life now. I want you to leave." As Steve walked closer to him and was about to reach his arm, Ben entered the living room.

"What's going on here?", asked Ben as he walked across the room, sat next to Meg and placed his arms around her. "Ben, I'm glad you're home." Philip extended his hand saying, "We've not been introduced, I'm Philip Martin." Ben just sat holding Meg in his arms without responding. He could feel the anger rising but tried to control it for Meg's sake.

"From the look on your face it appears Meg has told you all about me but that's not important. I only came here because I was concerned for Meg." "I can assure you that Meg is well provided for." "Really? From what I've read in the papers, she has had quite a few problems since she got involved with you." Ben stood and walked toward Philip saying, "As you can see, Meg is fine and I will make sure she always is, so if you don't mind I would like to spend time alone with my fiancée." Ben turned to Steve saying, "Would you please stay here with Meg while I escort Mr. Martin out?" Steve nodded and walked back toward Meg. Before Philip turned to leave he said, "Meg, I'm glad you're doing well but please think about what I said. Don't let these people isolate you completely." Ben motioned toward the door saying, "It's time for you to leave."

As soon as they were in the Foyer Ben grabbed Philip's arm before he reached the front door. "I didn't say anything in front of Meg because I didn't want to upset her but if it were up to me I'd have you prosecuted for raping her. And if you ever come near her again I will personally make sure you pay for hurting her like that. Now get out and don't come back." After Harrison closed the door, Ben instructed him to notify the staff that Philip was not to gain access to the Mansion in the future. "Yes Sir! I'm sorry for letting him see Ms. Cummings." Ben patted Harrison on the shoulder saying, "It's not your fault, you had no idea who he was."

When he returned Meg was sitting quietly patting Zeus and Steve was standing nearby. "Thank you Steve, I'll take care of things from here." Before sitting down next to Meg, he whispered to Steve to get someone to follow Philip. He moved toward Meg sat down and kissed her on the lips. "Baby, are you okay?" "I'm fine, I was just so shocked that he showed up after all this time. It's funny I always wondered how I would feel if I ever met him again." "And how do you feel?" "A bit frightened, but Zeus and Steve were here, not to mention Harrison, who I got the feeling wanted the chance to throw Philip out. They made me feel a lot more secure."

He pulled her close to his chest and tightened his arms around her back saying, "Well, he won't ever bother you again. I'll make sure of that". "I don't want to talk about him anymore. Are you home for the rest of the day?" "Yes, I am. What did you have in mind?" "Well, I thought maybe we could go up to our room, so we can be alone. And before you ask, no I'm not tired", she said as she snuggled closer in his arms. "So what do you think?"

Ben hesitated for a moment. "Actually, I've already made plans for an early dinner picnic near the pool and Sonja has everything ready, she even packed a snack for Zeus. So, how about it? It's such a beautiful day." "Well, how could I possibly refuse. I'd love too."

Almost a half-hour later, Ben and Meg were sitting on the sprawled blanket sipping their drinks while Zeus playfully chased one of the other security dogs nearby. Suddenly, Ben leaned over and kissed Meg softly on the lips. "Now, wasn't this a great idea?" "Well, I'm not sure it was better than mine." Ben smiled saying, "You're such a little temptress". "I use to be more successful than I have been lately." Meg placed her glass down and lay back on the blanket silently urging Ben to follow. He braced himself as he moved over her and covered her mouth with his. As the kiss became more passionate, Meg moved her aching center closer to the bulge growing between his legs. Ben could feel his resistance dropping with each kiss but knew that she wasn't ready to make love, not yet.

He slowly moved away and sat up saying, "Well, unless we want to give the Security guards something to talk about we better stop. Besides, I'm starved." Meg sat up confused by his reaction but tried to tell herself that his attitude would change if she set the right mood.

The next morning Ben worked in the study while Meg attended her latest training session with Paul. "Meg, how would you like a bit more independence getting around without one of us being here to help you?" "Are you kidding? I would love it." "That's what I thought. Since Zeus appears to be very close to you I was wondering if you would like me to see if he could be trained as a guide dog." "Gee, I don't know if he would like that." Paul laughed. "Well, I can assure you that if he doesn't like it, he won't be cooperative." "I think it's a great idea but I need to ask Jonathan, Zeus is really his companion. I'll let you know after later today or tomorrow."

It was after 9pm when Ben and Meg entered the living room where Jonathan and Susan were enjoying an after dinner drink. "Hey you two, we didn't think you were going to join us tonight", Jonathan said. "Sorry we had dinner in our room. Meg was feeling a bit tired after her session this afternoon. As he led Meg to the sofa Ben said, "Speaking of the session, Meg has something to ask you".

"Jonathan, before I ask I just want you to know that it's important you tell me how you really feel about my request." "Okay, I promise." "Well, it's about Zeus. Paul wondered if you would mind if Zeus were to be trained as my guide dog. I realize this is asking a lot so I won't be upset if you're not comfortable with this. After all Zeus is yours."

He smiled at Susan, then looked at Zeus sitting by Meg's feet and laughed. "Meg, Zeus hasn't been mine since you came to live with us and that was his choice. I think he would love to be your guide dog. After all he's never to far away from you lately. Aren't I right Zeus?" He looked up and barked in response. "Well, then it's all settled. Ben, can I get you a Brandy?" "Sounds great. I also wanted to talk to you about something for a minute."

As Ben and Jonathan sipped their Brandy and talked quietly about Philip's visit, Susan sat next to Meg and whispered, "Something's bothering you. Can I help?" "It's about Ben but I can't talk about it here." "Why don't we go to your room so we can speak privately." Meg squeezed her hand and nodded. "Excuse me Ben, I'm going to take Meg to her room. Why don't you give us a few minutes?"

He walked over and kissed Meg saying, "I want to talk to Jonathan about something but I won't be long." He watched as Susan and Meg headed upstairs, then returned to his conversation with Jonathan.

Upstairs Susan helped Meg to the sofa in the sitting area saying, "What's this all about Meg?" "I think Ben's feelings for me have changed and I think he's afraid to tell me because of what I've going through." "What are you talking about? Ben loves you." "Susan, I know he loves me but it's not the same. He hasn't touched me since I came back from the hospital. I think my blindness has changed the way he feels." Susan placed her hands on Meg's shoulders saying, "I'm sure you're wrong, he probably doesn't think that's what you want right now". "But I need him so much and I really miss the closeness we use to share." "Well, maybe you just need the right setting." "Would you help me select something sexy to wear tonight?" "Actually, I have just the perfect negligee for you. I bought it for your bridal shower but I never got a chance to give it to you. Believe me Ben won't be able to resist".

It was almost eleven when Ben and Zeus entered the bedroom. Meg was sitting on the sofa near the fireplace. He moved in front of her saying, "Meg, are you okay?" "I'm fine but I would like to take a shower, can you help me?" "I'd love to. Zeus, you stay here", he said leading her to the bathroom.

After Meg finished washing, Ben helped her out of the tub, wrapped her in a towel and started to towel dry her hair. "Why don't you finish your shower, I'll be fine." "Are you sure?" "Yes, don't worry." He leaned down and kissed her shoulder before stepping back into the shower. Meg smiled as she felt her way to the vanity table in the bedroom and sat down on the ottoman. As soon as she was settled she reached for the box that Susan had left on the right side of the table and unwrapped the black lace nightgown. Tossing aside the towel she pulled the negligee over her head and smoothed the gown down over her body with her hands. She sat bushing her hair and thinking about how wonderful it would be to make love again.

A few minutes later Ben called to her as he turned off the shower and wrapped a towel around his waist. "I'm in the bedroom and Zeus is taking good care of me." He smiled as he entered the room and saw her sitting at the vanity, the glow of the fire from the fireplace was reflecting off her back. She looked so beautiful in the sexy back-less negligee with thin silk straps. The front of the gown was cut low just above her nipples, flattering her generous cleavage. Ben dropped the towel, stepped into a pair of black silk pajama slacks and walked behind her. "Meg, you look so beautiful. Is that new?"

"Yes, it was a bridal gift from Susan. Do you really like it?" Before answering he slid behind her on the ottoman and pulled her between his legs. "I've never seen you look more beautiful", he said as he moved his hands slowly up and down her arms. Ben could feel the hardness between his legs growing as he felt the softness of her skin but decided he better stop before he got completely lost in his desire for her. "She's not ready for this", he thought. "Meg, are you sure you're warm enough?"

She leaned her head back against his chest saying, "Mmmm, I'm very comfortable but would you do something for me?" "Anything." "My neck and back muscles feel a bit tense, would you rub them for me?", she whispered as she moved the straps of the negligee off her shoulders. Ben took in a deep breath before moving his hands to the sides of her neck gently massaging with his long strong fingers. He watched her reflection in the mirror as she reacted to his touch, moaning softly and pleading with him to work his magic down her back. His fingers slowly moved from her neck to just above the back of the negligee, which was cut above the base of her spine.

"Oh God, that feels so good, don't stop." He knew it was a mistake to continue because he was only becoming more aroused but he couldn't resist the desire to please her. As his hands stroked her lower back, he stared into the mirror and watched Meg's breasts moved up and down with each breath. She looked so alluring as the negligee barely clung to her hardened nipples as her breathing became more rapid. Suddenly, her hands started rubbing his muscular thighs, gently squeezing as she went. He knew he was nearing the edge and had to stop knowing that she needed her rest. "Baby, it's late. You should be sleeping", he said moving her straps back to her shoulders as he stood and taking her hand in his helping her to her feet.

When they reached the side of the bed Ben pulled the comforter back for her. As he turned back toward her to guide her into the bed, Meg slid her fingers under the straps of the gown, pushing them off her shoulders and allowing it to drop to the floor. "It's too warm for this", she said as she kicked it away with her foot and reached for his hand. Ben stood there fully aroused, admiring her naked form as she climbed into bed. "I can't get into bed with her, not like this", he thought. He pulled the comforter gently under her arms saying, "I want you to close your eyes and get some sleep." She grabbed his hand saying, "Aren't you coming to bed?"

"Uh, not right away, there are a few papers I need to review for a meeting tomorrow. But, I won't be long, I promise. Now get some rest. Good night." He leaned down and softly kissed her forehead. As soon as she heard him close the bedroom door behind him, Meg turned on her side and started to cry. "Oh God, it's really over between us. This time for good. Damn it! Why did this have to happen to me?"

Downstairs Susan entered the kitchen and saw Mrs. Landsbury pouring a cup of tea. "I guess I'm not the only one having trouble sleeping." "No there are a few of us in that situation tonight I'm afraid", smiled Mrs. Landsbury. "Really? Who else is awake?" "I saw Ben entering the Study when I came down the hall to make my tea." "Oh no, that's not a good sign, I think I better check on him. Please leave me some tea, I'll be back in a few minutes."

When she entered the Study Ben was sitting behind the desk nursing a drink. "What are you doing down here?", asked Susan. "Excuse me?" "I'm sorry, I just thought you would be with Meg. She was so looking forward to spending some private time with you. That's why I gave her my bridal gift tonight." "What are you talking about Susan? That's not what Meg needs right now." Susan sighed shaking her head giving him a frustrated look. "What? What did I say?" "Ben, have you talked to Meg about that?" "No, why?" "I just think you might be surprised. I think she needs you more than ever. Please talk to her. Good night." Ben placed his glass on the desk and said good night as she turned and left.

He tried to make as little noise as possible as he entered the bedroom and was shocked when he saw the empty bed. Turning toward the sitting area, he saw her curled in a ball on the sofa with a shawl draped around her and Zeus was lying on the floor at her feet.

When he approached he saw the tears running down her face. He knelt on the floor in front of her, gently pushing Zeus away and placed his hands on her hips. "Meg, did you have a bad dream?" She took in a deep breath before responding. "It wasn't a dream." "Then, what was it. Please talk to me." She sat silent for a few seconds. "Ben, I need to ask you something very important and I need you to be honest with me. I can deal with anything but a lie." Ben sat next to her and took her hands in his. He was afraid to tell her the details of the security investigation but knew it would be worse if she learned he had lied to her. "Meg, ask me anything, I promise I will tell you the truth."

Meg hesitated for a moment then said, "Have your feelings for me changed?" Ben couldn't believe the question. He could never imagine falling out of love with her. "How could you ask me that? I love you more now than I ever have. What have I done to make you think that?"

She attempted to speak but couldn't stop herself from bursting into tears. "Meg, please talk to me, you can tell me anything you know that." She wiped the tears away from her eyes saying, "You haven't wanted to make love to me since I lost my sight." "Meg, that's not true." "Ben, you can't deny that every time I try to get close, you pull away. How do you explain what happened tonight? I even asked Susan to help me select a sexy negligee hoping that you would want to make love to me, but that didn't happen."

"Oh Meg, I am so sorry. I had no idea you felt this way. The only reason I've pulled away is because I wasn't sure you were ready. And you're right, ever since the accident I've been so afraid of making love because I was afraid of hurting you in your condition. I can't tell you how hard it has been laying next to you every night with you in my arms and not making love." Meg squeezed his hands saying, "Ben, I'm not a china doll. I won't break and I need you to show me that you still love me." Before responding, he placed a soft kiss on her lips. "I love you Meg and more than anything I want to show you just how much." Suddenly, she felt his hands sliding the shawl off her shoulders and down her arms, leaving her completely naked. "God, you are so beautiful." Before saying another word, he scooped her into his arms and carried her to the bed.

After lying her down Ben stepped away and stripped off his robe. As he slid his pajama slacks down his legs and kicked them away his eyes moved up and down her naked form. Within seconds he was lying at her side resting on an arm as his free hand stroked her face and kissed her quivering lips. "When I saw you in that sexy negligee, you took my breath away. And when you asked me to massage you neck and back I thought I couldn't be more aroused but I was wrong. I could hardly breathe when you stepped out of that gown and stood in front of me completely naked. I knew if I climbed into bed with you I wouldn't be able to hide how aroused I was and I didn't want you to feel pressured."

Meg moved her hands to his face saying, "Oh Ben, I was so afraid we had lost the connection that existed between us and that was so strong before the accident." "That could never happen, I love you more now than I ever have." He covered her mouth with his, teasing her as his tongue dipped in and out. As the kiss grew more passionate, his hand moved slowly down her neck to her aching breast.

Her moans grew louder and more urgent as his mouth traced the skin where his hands caressed. "Oh Ben, I've missed you so much." "I've missed you too", he said moving over her and then slowly began making love to her as gently as he could. His sensual movements matched her moans until the explosion that was building washed over them.

A few seconds later, Ben collapsed at Meg's side pulling her to his chest and closing his arms tightly around her back. "Baby, are you okay?" She released a deep sigh saying, "I couldn't be better. I've missed being with you like this." He buried his head into her hair and placed a kiss on the top of her head. "So have I. I love you more than I can say. Please promise me something." "Anything." He lifted her mouth to his and kissed her before continuing. "Promise me that you will never keep anything from me ever again. I couldn't bare it if I ever lost you." Meg snuggled closer to his chest saying, "I promise, no more secrets. I was just so afraid that you had fallen out of love with me after the accident and I hated the thought that you might be staying with me because you felt sorry for me." Ben tightened his embrace. "Baby, nothing could ever make that happen and I'm not with you because I feel I have to be. I love you so much and I've never wanted anyone more in my entire life. Now, I want you to do something for me. I want you to get some rest or Dr. Martin may tell us that love making is out of the question." "Well, I wouldn't want that. Good night Ben, I love you." He gave her another tight squeeze saying, "Good night Love." Within minutes they were both sound asleep.

Another week had past and Meg was becoming more comfortable with the new security and Paul Saunders. To the dismay of Ben, Meg was also becoming more dependent on Paul for assistance. He was also unaware of the severity of her headaches and the amount of difficulty she was having sleeping. The fact that her world was recently thrust into utter darkness, caused her internal body clock to be confused. Paul had explained to her that it was similar to a condition experienced by transcontinental travelers, commonly referred to as Jet Lag. With Paul just down the hall from Ben and Meg's room, she was able to get help during this adjustment period without disrupting Ben's sleep patterns.

Around 2am Meg slowly slid out of bed trying not to disturb Ben. After pulling a robe over her shoulders, she picked up Zeus's harness and whispered to him to lead her to the bedroom door. As soon as she opened the door, Mike stood and waited until she stepped into the hallway before reaching behind her and closing the door. "Meg, do you want me to take you to Paul's room?" "No, not tonight. I'd like to give him a break but I was wondering if you would like to join me for a snack?" Mike smiled saying, "I'd like that".

When they arrived in the kitchen, Mike sat Meg at the table, then joined her. "Is there something I can fix you?" "Actually, I have a bit of a headache and was hoping Sonja had made me some of that special tea that Paul gets for me." Just as he stood to look for the tea, one of the new servants entered the kitchen. "Is there something you were looking for Sir?" "Who's that?" "My name is Karen, I was hired just a few days ago." "Oh, it's nice to meet you. I was wondering if Sonja had left me some tea." "Yes, I believe she did. I'll get it." "Thank you very much. Mike, I know you missed dinner because you were waiting to see if I needed your help so why don't you see what Sonja left for you in the refrigerator."

"Excuse me Miss but Mrs. Landsbury doesn't like anyone making a mess after the staff has retired for the evening." Before Meg could respond, Mike interrupted. "Actually Meg I'm not really hungry", he said as took the tea from Karen and placed it in front of Meg. "Well, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed." "Goodnight Karen." As soon as she left, Meg reached for Mike's hand and squeezed it saying, "Not to friendly is she". "No, she isn't." "So tell me, how do you pass the long hours sitting outside my door?" "Well, I read a lot."

"I really miss reading, especially those Romance Novels", she giggled. "Well, I was just about to start a new book tonight. It's not a Romance but would you like me to read to you while you have your tea?" Meg smiled. "Really? I'd love that but are you sure you wouldn't mind?" "Not at all, it should be fun." Mike opened Tom Clancy's latest novel 'The Bear and The Dragon' and started to read aloud.

An hour later at the end of Chapter 3, Mike asked if she wanted him to continue. "Actually, I'm feeling a bit tired so how about we continue tomorrow night?" "I'd like that", Mike responded as he stood and helped her to her feet. Ten minutes later Meg slid under the comforter and snuggled close to Ben, trying desperately not to wake him. Within seconds as she listened to his soft breathing, she fell into a sound asleep.

The next morning after the daily meeting with Mike and Steve, Meg asked to speak to Susan privately. As soon as they entered the Dayroom, Susan led Meg to the sofa and sat beside her. "Don't tell me you're still having problems with Ben?" Meg laughed saying, "Not at all. In fact things couldn't be better. Thank you so much for helping me with that and I almost hate to ask you for another favor...." "Don't be silly, you're family and you can ask me anything."

"Well, you know that I've been having some difficulty sleeping and until last night I've been asking Paul for help. When I woke last night I asked Mike to join me in the kitchen for a late night snack so Paul could get some sleep. I realize I'm asking a lot but it's not for me, it's for Mike. I know Mrs. Landsbury has the kitchen staff prepare meals for the security staff around midnight but Mike doesn't usually join them because he doesn't like to be gone if I wake up." "And you want something prepared for Mike a little later?" "If it's not too much trouble would it be okay if Mike fixed whatever he would like when he's with me?" Susan smiled saying, "Of course, but this is your home you don't have to ask my permission."

"I appreciate that and please don't take this the wrong way but when we were in the kitchen early this morning one of the new servants, I believe her name is Karen, said that Mrs. Landsbury left specific instructions that she didn't approve of late night visitors. I was wondering if you could ask her to make an exception in Mike's case." Susan hugged her saying, "Of course I will and don't spend another second thing about it". "Thank you Susan. Well, I better go. Zeus loves his morning walks."

She watched Meg and Zeus head toward the garden as Steve followed discreetly behind, then picked up the house phone and asked Mrs. Landsbury to join her in the Dayroom. When she arrived, Susan explained what had happened. "Mrs. Evans I hope you believe that I would never leave any such instructions." "Of course I do which is why I wanted to speak to you before we meet with the kitchen staff. I'm sure you agree how important it is to make Meg feel as comfortable as possible especially considering everything she is dealing with." "I more than understand and I'm sorry for letting something like this happen." Susan reached for her hand saying, "This isn't your fault but I need your help to make some necessary changes. So let's go in and address this issue." Susan went on to explain exactly how important it is for Mrs. Landsbury to handle the situation with her staff but that she wanted to be there to emphasize the seriousness of it.

As they opened the door to the kitchen, they heard someone saying, "I hope this isn't going to take long, I didn't get much sleep because some people can't sleep through the night." Susan and Mrs. Landsbury quickly moved into the room and glared at the young woman who had made the comment. "Is there a problem?" "No, Mrs. Landsbury." "Really? I understand that you told Ms. Cummings early this morning that I had left specific orders regarding her visits to the kitchen." "I only informed Ms. Cummings that the security man she was with could have eaten with the other security people at the normally scheduled meal time for the late night shift."

"That's not your job and I certainly think your comments regarding Ms. Cummings sleeping habits are completely inappropriate. Therefore, your services are no longer required. Please pack your things immediately. Any wages that you are due will be waiting for you when you leave." After Karen left the kitchen, Mrs. Landsbury told the staff that Mrs. Evans wanted a word with them.

"I have full confidence in Mrs. Landsbury and her concern for this family. So in the future if anyone has a question regarding the policies in this home, she is the person to contact for confirmation. If it isn't clear by now Ms. Cummings happiness is of utmost importance and I expect everyone to keep that in mind. Now, if you'll excuse me I need to get to the office. Thank you." Susan thanked Mrs. Landsbury and left.

"Well, I only have a few things to add and even though the permanent staff does not need to hear this I would like them to stay until I've finished. First of all for those of you that are new, if you have any questions or concerns I encourage you to ask a permanent staff member or come to me directly. As Mrs. Evans stated, Ms. Cummings is very important to this family and we need to do whatever we can to make her feel comfortable. To begin with she appears to be having difficulty sleeping. As a result, I will be assigning a staff member to assist her if she requires anything from the kitchen for herself or anyone else. After the meeting I will assign someone to this task. Are there any questions?"

Valerie, one of the senior kitchen staff members, offered to volunteer for the evening shift. "Thank you Valerie, I think you're perfect for the job and if there is anything Ms. Cummings needs you have my permission to act without asking my permission. I should also tell you that Mrs. Evans insisted that anyone working that shift receive additional pay. Now, if there are no more questions, let's all get back to work. Valerie since you're on duty tonight, you are relieved of all other duties and I think you might want to get some rest." Valerie nodded saying, "Thank you I will".

"Before I forget Valerie, Ms. Cummings trainer, Paul Sanders, has purchased some special Chinese tea for her headaches, please make sure there is always some available." "I certainly will Mrs. Landsbury."

Two hours later after Meg's session with Paul, Harrison led Tracy, Steve and Randy to the Pool area where Meg was sun bathing, with Zeus at her side. "Excuse me Miss, your friends are here. "Well, don't you look like the lady of leisure?", Steve laughed. "Steve, is Tracy and Randy with you?" "We sure are, you didn't think we would miss an opportunity to spend the afternoon in all this luxury did you?" "Gee and I thought you just missed me", she smiled. As they were taking turns hugging and kissing Meg, Mrs. Landsbury appeared and interrupted saying, "Excuse me Ms. Cummings, I was wondering if your guests would enjoy a Barbecue for lunch?" "Oh, that sounds wonderful if its not too much trouble." "Not at all, it would be my pleasure. It will be set up shortly."

Tracy sat next to Meg on the chaise saying, "I'm so glad Ben invited us today, we've missed you so much. It's great to see that you're surrounded by people that care so much about you." "They really do Tracy, I'm very lucky. Even the security staff has been so wonderful."

"Well, Meg how about a swim?", shouted Randy from the edge of the pool. "Uh, I'm not feeling like swimming today, you guys go ahead." Randy moved to her side and sat down on the chaise. "Okay, Little One what's going on? Steve and I could never get you out of the water when we use to go to the beach." Meg smiled saying, "I'm just not interested in swimming today". Randy took her hand in his. "Be honest, have you been in the pool at all since you lost your sight?" "No, no I haven't." "That's what I thought and I understand, I really do."

Meg pulled her hand away saying, "How can you say that? You still have your sight". They all stood looking at Meg not sure how to respond. "You're right Meg I do have my sight and I'm sorry if I sounded insensitive." "Oh Randy you didn't, it's me. Sometimes I get a bit snippy, please forgive me." Randy placed his arms around Meg and pulled her tight into his arms. "There's nothing to forgive and I don't want to upset you but I would like to talk to you about why you don't want to go swimming. Just hear me out and if you want to throw me out afterwards, I'll go and I won't be upset." "Randy, you can say anything."

"You know that I hold swimming classes for some of the local kids at my family's home every morning before I go surfing. What you don't know is that the kids I teach are blind." "Oh my god Randy, why didn't you ever tell me?" "It never occurred to me until now. That's why I can tell you're afraid to go back into the water and that fear is completely understandable. Most of the kids that are in my class were not born blind so they are experiencing exactly what you are, which is why I think I can help. If you'll let me." Meg reached out her hands to Randy saying, "I'm just so scared Randy. I don't think I can do it". "Well, that's why I brought you this life preserver", he said placing it in her hands. "Randy, you can't be serious? I'm a great swimmer." "Not anymore Meg. Just like everything else this is one more thing you need to relearn and until you do this jacket will calm your fears when you're in the pool. Just put it on and trust me." As she slipped into the jacket Steve said, "And Tracy and I will be in the pool right beside you to make sure nothing goes wrong". Meg took a deep breath and then Randy's arm as he guided her to the pool.

For the next hour, Meg laid against Randy's back with her arms around his neck as he swam slowly around the pool with Tracy and Steve at their side. Just as they were helping Meg out of the pool, Mrs. Landsbury joined them at poolside. "Excuse me Miss Cummings, the barbecue is ready. Would you like us to start serving the Hors D'ouevres?"

"That would be great but I warn you, Steve and Randy have large appetites", she laughed. "I don't think that will be any problem", Mrs. Landsbury said smiling as she turned and headed back to the house. Tracy helped towel dry Meg saying, "Boy, I can get use to this kind of treatment". "Great. Does that mean you'll come around more often and visit?" "Absolutely." "Randy, would you have time to give me some private swimming lessons. I'm sure Ben would be more than happy to pay you." Randy moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist saying, "Well, I'd be happy to squeeze you in around 9am every morning, if that's not to early. There's only one condition, I won't accept any pay. But you can feed me", he said laughing and kissing her on the cheek.

Two hours later as Tracy, Randy and Steve were leaving, Meg thanked them for their visit and asked them to come back soon. "Well, I for one will see you tomorrow morning at 9am sharp", said Randy as he hugged and kissed her goodbye. Steve patted him on the shoulder saying, "Come on Randy give the rest of us a chance to say our good-byes".

As Zeus led Meg upstairs with Steve, Paul was heading toward her room for their afternoon session. "Meg, are you ready for our next lesson?" "I sure am", she said taking Paul's arm as he led her into her bedroom while Steve took his position in the hall. After taking a seat on the sofa in the sitting area Meg asked if they could postpone the session for about an hour. "I didn't want to say anything in front of Steve but I'm not feeling that well. Maybe I overdid today swimming with my friends." "What's wrong?" "My headaches seem to be getting worse lately and they're making me feel dizzy and nauseous at times."

"Well, why don't I get you some of my special tea, it usually seems to help. In the meantime I think you should lay down until I get back", he said as he reached for her arm and led her to the bed. When he returned he waited until she finished the tea before telling her that he called Dr. Kramer. "What did she think?" "She said the symptoms you were experiencing were a result of the pressure the clot is causing on your brain. She didn't think it would be necessary for you to come in before your scheduled KAT scan at the end of the week but she wanted to make sure you keep taking the medication until then." "Okay, thanks Paul but let's keep this between us. I'm actually feeling better so why don't we get to that lesson. I would like to finish before Ben gets home." "Sounds good to me."

It was almost 2 am when Ben rolled over and sensed that Meg wasn't in bed. He looked around the room and Zeus was also missing. Maybe she went to see Paul, he thought. He pulled his robe over his shoulders and headed out of the bedroom. On Mike's chair was a note. "We're in the kitchen." As he approached the door to the kitchen, he heard her voice. He was surprised to find Meg, Mike and Jonathan sitting at the table talking and laughing.

When Jonathan saw Ben, he moved his fingers to his lips, signaling that he shouldn't say anything. "Well, you two I'm going back to bed. Thanks for the cookies but I better get back before Susan notices I'm gone. Good night." Jonathan moved toward Ben in the doorway. "Okay, Mike where did we leave off? Chapter 23?" Mike smiled at Jonathan and Ben. "Uh, yes I think you're right." He opened the book and started reading as Jonathan pulled Ben into the hallway.

"Dad, what the hell is going on?" He continued pulling Ben toward the stairs saying, "It's okay. It happens every night." "What are you talking about?" "Ben, Meg hasn't been sleeping, you know that. What you don't know is that she has sweet-talked Mike into joining her for an early morning snack. He's also been reading to her from those books he brings with him every night." Ben shook his head in disbelief. "Are you saying that this has been going on for weeks and no one told me?" Jonathan laid his arm on Ben's shoulder. "Meg didn't want you to worry, besides, Mike has been taking very good care of her. So why don't you go back to bed and pretend that we never had this conversation." Ben smiled and walked down the hall toward his room.

He lay in bed resting his hands behind his head and waited for her return. About an hour later Meg opened the bedroom door and felt her way to the bed. After stripping off her robe, she patted Zeus on the head and slipped into bed.

She slowly moved toward him until she felt the warmth of his skin against her back. Ben rolled over and slid his arm around her waist saying, "Mmm, now this feels much better." "I'm sorry, did I wake you?" "No, not at all. I was just dreaming about showing you how much I love you." Meg smiled and kissed his forearm. "Well, if you're not too tired, would you care to show me again?" He turned her over on her back and softly stroked her face. "Do you have any idea how much you mean to me?" "Yes, but I never get tired of you telling me." He leaned down and kissed her passionately. She slowly broke away from the kiss saying, "And I never get tired of you showing me". "I'm so glad you feel that way."

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This Chapter picks up the morning after Ben finds out that Meg can't sleep at night and Mike is helping her.

Chapter 14 - Therapist or Threat

It was almost eight thirty when Ben woke reaching for Meg. "God, don't tell me she woke up after I fell asleep", he thought as he grabbed his robe and headed out of the bedroom. When he saw that Mike was not sitting in the hall he knew they must be in the Solarium. As he entered the room he felt relieved seeing Meg sitting with Steve and Mike eating breakfast. He couldn't deny that he was pleased that Paul was not with them. "So there you are", he said as he leaned down kissing Meg. "Didn't you get any sleep?"

Meg reached for his hand that was resting on her shoulder. "Actually, I just got up an hour ago. I thought those sleeping techniques that Paul showed me were great, but yours are much better", she giggled. "I'm glad I could help", he whispered leaning down and kissing her on the lips. As he took a seat Martha appeared asking if he would like some coffee. "Martha, please let me." Before he had a chance to respond, Martha placed the Coffeepot in front of Meg, along with a fresh cup. They all watched as she placed her hand around the cup and slowly poured until she felt the heat of the liquid reach her finger positioned just inside the cup's rim. After handing him the cup, Ben reached for her hand and pulled it toward his mouth kissing it saying, "I'm so proud of you." "By the way, where's Paul this morning?" "Oh, he left earlier, he said he had some things to prepare for my next session." "Oh really, what does he have planned for today?" Meg took a sip of her juice before responding. "I don't know, he said it was a surprise." Ben's expression quickly changed from a smile to a frown.

"Meg, you know how I feel about his surprises. Do you know anything about this Steve?" "No, I'm afraid not but I'll find out before he takes Meg anywhere. "I would appreciate that!" Steve and Mike could tell Ben was not pleased. After she headed upstairs to her bedroom to dress Ben made it clear to Steve and Mike that they were to be fully briefed by Paul before he made any plans for Meg. "Ben, did something happen?", Steve asked. "Let's just say that I don't trust him and I can't shake the feeling that he has his own agenda." Steve poured another cup of coffee saying, "Well, we ran another check on his background and so far nothing has shown up that would cause any concern. He's highly regarded in his profession because of his results". "Well, I can't deny that Meg seems to be making remarkable progress since he's been helping her. Maybe I'm just being too protective but keep an eye on him. Okay?" They both assured him that they would do everything to make sure that Paul's plans for Meg would be closely scrutinized.

"What about Philip, is their any news?" Steve shook his head saying, "No, I'm afraid his story checks out about his time in San Francisco. Even though I would love to nail him for being responsible for Meg's accident, there doesn't seem to be any evidence to connect him". "So, we're no closer to finding the person responsible. That's just great." "Ben, I know you're frustrated but we haven't given up. The good news is that she hasn't received any threats in the past two weeks." "That doesn't make me feel any better."

Suddenly, Paul appeared in the doorway of the Solarium. "Good morning!" "Morning Paul." Ben stood and faced him saying, "Why don't you have a seat, Meg's in her room getting dressed. She mentioned that you were planning a surprise for today's session." "Uh, yes I am. I hope you don't have any objections." "Not as long as you run it by Steve and Mike first. By the way, since Meg is doing so well, I don't think it will be necessary for you to stay here at the house after next week."

Paul spun around in his chair saying, "Ben, I don't think Meg is ready to be alone." "Well, she's not alone. Meg has me. She and Mike have also bonded and I think we can handle the evenings with her from now on. So, if you'll excuse me, I need to get dressed and to the office." When he headed upstairs, Steve asked Paul for a detailed description of the day's plans. "Well, I'm taking Meg and Susan shopping at the Embarcadero and then to lunch at The Mark. Is that a problem?" Steve shook his head. "Not at all, Ben just wants to make sure any plans with Meg are reviewed by us first." "Really? I get the feeling Ben is upset with me." Steve shook his head saying, "I wouldn't know, you'll have to ask him."

Suddenly, Meg and Susan appeared in the doorway. "Paul?" "Yes, I'm here. Are you ready for our adventure?" She couldn't resist laughing, "Are you serious? I'm dying to find out what you have planned." Ben walked up behind her, sliding his arms around her waist and pulling her to his chest. "Just make sure you don't have to much fun without me." "You know I would rather spend the day with you. Will you be home late?" "No, but I'll call you later." He turned her around and kissed her softly on the mouth. "Have a good time and I want all the details when I get home."

It was about 1pm when they entered "Clothes By Design", an upscale boutique in the Embarcadero. The shop owner, Anna Gerring, greeted Meg and Susan and ushered them to one of the larger fitting rooms as Paul and Steve stayed at the entrance of the dressing area. "Please excuse the crowd, our photographers and models are in the midst of creating our new catalog. I realize it appears to be a bit frantic but I promise, you won't be disturbed and I have some wonderful items for you." Susan took Meg's arm saying, "We'll be fine. Meg, why don't you get undressed while I get those outfits that I asked Anna to set aside." "Sounds great. It's a lot easier taking off my clothes than putting them on", she laughed."

After Susan left Meg couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching. "Meg, stop this. It's the first time you've been out in public and that's what's making you uneasy", she told herself. She removed her sundress and stood in just a pair of panties waiting for Susan to return.

"Meg, you won't believe these outfits, they are all...." Susan abruptly stopped before opening the door. "They're all what? Don't leave me in suspense. Come in and describe them to me." She opened the door, and placed the outfits on the dressing hook saying, "I forgot something, I'll be right back". She closed the door and stripped the taped note off. "Steve, get in here", she whispered and handed him the note which read, "There's something next door for Meg."

When he opened the adjacent dressing room's door there was a message on the mirror, written in red lipstick, that read, "You can't protect her every minute of the day. I will get to her and soon". On the nearby chair, there were Polaroid's of Meg. "Jesus, we need to get her out of here right now. Get Meg dressed and I'll call the Police." Susan nodded and went back to Meg's room.

"Meg, I'm sorry but Anna just told me that one of the photographers accidentally knocked over a lamp and it started a small fire in the back room. It's out now but the Fire Department wants everyone to leave just as a precaution. I'll help you get dressed." "Well, Paul was right this was an adventure". They both laughed as Susan lead her to Paul and asked him to take her to the limousine. As soon as they left Steve pulled Susan aside saying that he had called the Police and they were sending over a Forensic team. He also told him that the lead Detectives would meet them back at the Mansion.

An hour later, Paul and Susan led Meg into the Living Room where Jonathan and Detectives Wilson and Chow were waiting. "Hey, there are my two favorite ladies. I hope you bought something great for this weekend's party." "We tried but it didn't work out to well for our first outing", Meg sighed. Jonathan reached for her hand saying, "I'm sorry to hear that. You were so excited about that trip." "That's okay, it was only my first attempt. Besides, I have a lot of gowns so I'm sure I have something for the party."

"Meg, I hate to interrupt but it's been a long day and I think you should rest before dinner", said Paul. "Yes, I'm feeling a bit tired." "Well, why don't you take her upstairs, and we'll see you in a few hours. I'm sure Ben will be home by then", said Susan.

They all stood without saying a word for a few moments before Jonathan broke the silence. "Okay, does someone want to tell me what the hell is going on?" Susan handed Jonathan the photographs as he listened to Steve explain what had happened. As they discussed the situation Ben came running through the Foyer and joined them. "Where's Meg?" Jonathan grabbed him by the arm insisting that he sit down while they explain. "Ben, Meg is fine but we need to show you something that is very upsetting and before you ask she's not aware of any of this."

"Dad, what the hell happened?" "As you know, Susan took Meg shopping this morning and it appears that the person that has been stalking her knew all about it." Ben looked at Jonathan afraid to ask the question but couldn't help himself. "Please, just tell me what happened." "While she was in one of the dressing rooms at the boutique waiting for Susan, someone took photos of Meg." "What do you mean Photos? And where the hell were you Susan?" Jonathan interrupted saying, "Ben, calm down this is not her fault." Susan sat down next to Ben and placed her hand on his. "That's okay, you're right I shouldn't have left her alone. I thought it would be okay since it was only for a few minutes but I was wrong. Apparently, there was someone in the adjacent room and he took pictures as she got undressed".

Jonathan handed him the Polaroid shots. Ben shook his head in disbelief as he leafed through the pictures of her undressing, the last of which showed her sitting half-naked on the dressing room chair. "Oh my God, are you sure she doesn't know?" Susan laid her arm on his saying, "She has no idea".

Ben stood up and yelled, "I want these destroyed. I don't want anyone else to see them". Detective Wilson grabbed the pictures from him saying, "Ben, I know you're upset but this is evidence. We can't destroy them." "Are you crazy? I won't allow you to do this to her. Do you know what will happen if Meg finds out about this? She'll feel as though she was raped, again. I can't do that to her. "What do you mean again?", asked Detective Wilson. Before he responded, Steve said, "We shouldn't get into that now". "What if she were the woman you loved?", yelled Ben. Detective Wilson and Chow tried to convince Ben that they didn't want to hurt her anymore than she already had been either but they were obligated by Law to turn over everything regarding the case.

"Ben, I have a wife and two daughters and I probably would feel the same way", responded Detective Wilson. Before he could continue, Jonathan interrupted again saying, "I don't think it's necessary that all these photos be entered as evidence. Don't you agree it's enough that we have pictures of her undressing and the threatening message on the mirror?" Reluctantly they agreed, handed Ben the more explicit pictures and watched as he laid them on the fire in the fireplace.

When they were completely destroyed, Ben turned and faced the others saying, "Thank you. I know how difficult this is for you both but I'll do anything to protect her. If you'll excuse me, I need to make sure Meg is okay". "Go ahead Son, I can handle this."

After Ben left Jonathan walked the Detectives out and then rejoined Steve, Mike and Susan in the Library. "I'm sure, you've already thought of this but it's pretty clear to me that whoever is doing this is close. How else would they have know exactly where she would be today?" Steve nodded saying, "We agree, they would have had to know the details of her shopping trip in order to set up the hidden camera. We're running more background checks on everyone close to Meg and we're interviewing the people at the boutique. We'll get to the bottom of this and soon". "Well, I need to make some calls, so I'll let you two get back to the investigation. By the way, if you need more people on this, get them. I don't care what it costs."

It was almost six when Ben, Meg and Paul joined Jonathan and Susan in the dinning room for dinner. As Ben and Jonathan made small talk Paul described the table setting for Meg. Suddenly, Martha and two male servants appeared with the first course.

Ben smiled as he watched Meg feeding herself. He was so thrilled that she was becoming more independent every day. "Meg, you're doing so well these days." "Well, I have Paul to thank for that. He's a great instructor." Paul smiled responding, "I couldn't do it without a great student." "Oh, Paul I meant to ask you something. Remember how you told me that unfamiliar situations might trigger some odd feelings?" "Yes, why?" "Well, you know that I'm comfortable in my bedroom or other rooms in the Mansion if I'm alone. But today when I was alone in the boutique's dressing room I had the oddest feeling that someone was watching. Is that normal?" They all looked at each other not knowing what to say. "Actually, that's a pretty common feeling. It's only because the environment is unfamiliar." Meg laughed. "Oh, I'm so glad you said that. I was afraid I was getting paranoid."

Jonathan patted Meg's hand saying, "Well, I'm just sorry you and Susan weren't able to get those new gowns you wanted for this weekend's party." "That's okay, as I said earlier I have plenty of gowns", Meg responded. "Oh, then I guess you wouldn't be interested in the special arrangements that I made." "Jonathan, what have you done?" "Well, I called Le Sac Chanel and they're sending over a selection of gowns and other items tomorrow for you and Susan to choose from." "Oh, you shouldn't have." Susan interrupted before she could continue. "Meg, I don't think we should be so hasty. After all, Jonathan went to all this trouble and we wouldn't want to disappoint."

He smiled saying, "Well, you can't blame me if I like spoiling the most important women in my life. Besides, Ben was in on this little conspiracy. So he shares some of the blame or thanks." "Susan, how did we ever get so lucky to find these two?" Ben reached for Meg's hand, brought it to his mouth and kissed it. "Well, you can thank me later." For the next two hours, they enjoyed the rest of the meal and kept the conversation light.

It was around noon the next day, the people from Le Sac Chanel were modeling the clothes for Susan and Meg upstairs, while Ben and Jonathan met with Steve and Mike in the Study. "Well, as I mentioned we ran some additional background checks on everyone close to Meg and we uncovered some more information about Paul Saunders", Steve said. He went on to explain that as a result of what had happened yesterday, Mike broke into Paul's Personal Computer earlier this morning when Paul was out. Mike interrupted adding that Paul had been receiving and sending emails from a mysterious Web Site.

From what they could determine, someone was blackmailing Paul into feeding them information about Meg. "So why haven't you turned him over to the Police?" "Ben, we met with the Detectives this morning but there isn't enough hard evidence and they believe that based upon the emails, Paul has no idea who is involved." Ben shook his head. "Are you telling me that you expect me to allow him anywhere near Meg now?" Jonathan placed his arm on Ben's shoulder saying, "I'm not crazy about that either but until we know who is really behind this maybe it's the best thing we can do". "The only reason Steve and I don't think Paul is really a threat is that he asked us what happened to Meg at the boutique. We just repeated the story about the fire that Susan originally told him. But from his last email it appears he didn't believe us because he sent false information about Meg's schedule for the rest of the week. So, we believe that Paul was completely unaware that she was in any danger yesterday."

"Wait, you said Paul's being blackmailed. What could they possibly be holding over him to make him do this to her?" Steve explained that Paul's older brother Joseph had been confined to an institution for the severely retarded in San Diego since the age of 16 and that they were the only family that either of them had. A few years ago, during the middle of the night, Joseph's roommate committed suicide. No one suspected foul play at the time but someone is threatening to send the authorities information that could reopen the case. They said they would make sure that Joseph would end up being transferred to a hospital for the criminally insane if Paul didn't do what they wanted."

"Well, I'm still not happy about him being around Meg but the last email makes me think that he may be having a change of mind about helping this nut whoever they are", said Jonathan. Ben moved to the Bar and poured a drink. "So what do we do now?" "Well, we discussed it with Detective Wilson and he agrees we should watch Paul more closely but let it play out a little while longer. We also thought there might be a way to make him play his hand, that is if you willing to go along with it?" "Well, let's hear it, right now he's our only real lead", said Ben.

Steve went on to describe a plan which would involve leading Paul to believe that they would be pulling security off Meg next week. "It's the only way we can see what his reaction would be but we're going to need Meg to be involved. So you'll have to discuss this with her Ben."

"Do you think he'll buy that?" "Well, he isn't aware of what happened at the boutique yesterday and there haven't been any flower deliveries since Paul arrived, so I think it might just work", responded Mike. "Okay, I'll talk to Meg as soon as I can and let you know."

Suddenly, they heard the clamor in the hall as the Le Sac Chanel boutique sales people were leaving. "Remember, we tell Meg only what she needs to know in order to expose Paul", said Ben. Before he could continue, Susan and Meg entered the Study. "Well, from the look on my wife's beautiful face and Meg's smile, I'd say you two had a very successful afternoon." "We sure did. Thank you so much for doing this."

Jonathan leaned down, giving Meg a hug and a kiss. "You're more than welcome". Ben quickly moved behind her, wrapped his arms around her waist and placed a soft kiss on her neck. "I love to make you happy." "You always do, but I get the feeling we interrupted something very serious." Ben tightened his grip and laughed. "I can't hide anything from you. Steve, Mike if you'll excuse us I think this would be a good time for Jonathan and me to tell Susan and Meg what's been going on." They nodded and left.

"Meg, where's Paul?" "In his room, do you want me to ask him to join us?" "No, what we need to tell you Paul can't know anything about. Come and sit down." Susan and Meg sat quietly as they listened to Ben explain what they had learned about Paul and the plan to draw him out. When they finished, Meg didn't respond. "Are you okay?", Ben asked. "I'm fine but I think you're wrong about Paul though. I trust him and if you give him the chance he'll tell us the truth." "Meg, I love you but you always see the best in people. I admit that Paul has helped you a great deal but that's his job."

She squeezed his hand saying, "Ben, I may not be able to see but Paul has taught me to read people in a new way and I believe that he will never do anything to hurt me. He's under a lot of pressure and if he wanted to hurt me, he had plenty of chances before now. But I do agree we need to find out who is doing this to all of us." He leaned over and kissed her on top of the head. "Okay, enough of that for now. I don't know about anyone else but I'm starved." "How about the four of us having dinner on the patio tonight, its such a warm evening?" "Oh, I would love that. Let me take a quick shower and I'll be down in about an hour." Ben stood, helped Meg to her feet saying, "Sounds great."

As he led her upstairs he leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Do you think it will only take an hour to shower?" Meg giggled and placed a love tap on his chest. "Only if you behave but I must admit I wouldn't mind if you didn't."

It was almost nine the next morning when Paul joined them in the Solarium for breakfast. "Morning Paul, wait until you hear the great news." "What's that Meg?" "Steve and Mike just told me that I won't be needing round the clock security after next week." Paul slowly lowered himself into a chair. "Uh, do you think that's a good idea?" "Well, she hasn't received gardenias for a few weeks now so it seems that they weren't from the same person that caused the accident." "I guess you know what you're doing. I, uh, almost forgot I need to pick up some more of that special tea so I better get going." "Paul, you can ask Mrs. Landsbury to have one of the kitchen staff pick some up for you", said Susan. "That's okay, the tea is a special blend that's prepared by a shop in Chinatown. So I'll see you later Meg, I won't be long."

After he left, Steve assured them that Paul would be kept under surveillance at all times. "I know you don't trust him but he will tell us if you give him a little more time." Jonathan smiled saying, "I'm sure he will Meg but you can't blame us for wanting to keep you safe". "I really do appreciate everything all of you have....", she stopped and began massaging her temple. "Meg, what wrong?" "It's just a headache. It will pass in a few minutes. Excuse me for a few minutes." "She seems to be getting those headaches more often. Have you spoken to Jim or Dr. Kramer?", asked Jonathan. "Yes, I spoke to Jim and he said it was to be expected, unfortunately."

A little after 3pm as Paul and Meg finished their latest session Harrison called her room to tell her that there was a delivery for her in the living room. Paul helped her downstairs and led her to the beautiful planter of gardenias sitting on the piano. "Mmmm, I love the smell of gardenias, so who are they from?" "I'm sorry Meg, there's no card. Maybe they're from Ben?" "No, he only sends me white roses but they still smell beautiful."

As Meg pulled a fresh gardenia off the plant and took in its fragrance, Steve entered the room. "Hi there, I hope I'm not intruding?" "Not at all", responded Meg. "If you'll excuse me for a few minutes I wanted to speak to Mrs. Landsbury before dinner", she said as reached for Zeus's guide handle and headed toward the kitchen. Steve turned toward Paul saying, "Harrison told me there was another flower delivery for Meg."

"Uh, yes, it's on the Piano", responded Paul. Steve shook his head saying, "I guess we were wrong assuming that Meg's accident might not be linked to the person sending her flowers. Well, there's no way we'll be pulling security off Meg anytime soon". "I think that's a good idea. I better go see Meg, we're working on something special for Ben." "Whatever you have planned, you need to run it by me or Mike first. You know how Ben hates surprises." Paul nodded and described the next session before he left.

It was almost 5pm when Ben couldn't resist the urge to head home for an early dinner with Meg, especially since she had hinted that she would have a surprise for him when he came home. Prior to the accident, he couldn't wait to see what her next surprise would be but these days it only made him uneasy.

Steve was sitting outside the bedroom reading when Ben came down the hall. "Hi Ben, you're early. Meg said you wouldn't be back until six." "I know but she said she had a surprise and my curiosity got the best of me. I assume she's in our room." "Yes, she's with Paul." "Really? Any more news about him?" Steve just shook his saying, "Well, you know about the flowers, right?" "Yeah, Jonathan called me." "Mike checked it out. Paul ordered them from a Florist downtown an hour after he left this morning. He paid cash, thinking we couldn't trace it and we wouldn't have known if we didn't have him under surveillance. It's obvious he didn't want the security pulled off Meg." "Well, maybe he can be trusted after all. Thanks. I'm going to check on Meg".

When he entered the bedroom, he was surprised not to find them there. Suddenly, he heard voices and the sound of the shower coming from the bathroom. When he walked through the doorway, Ben couldn't believe his eyes. There were two forms behind the shower door.

Hearing Meg's voice he jerked open the door and stood in disbelief. Paul was standing directly behind Meg with his hand covering hers, as she moved the soap-laden sponge over her legs. The shock of seeing them together blocked out the fact that they were both wearing bathing suits. All he saw was the woman he loved with a man he didn't trust. "What the hell are you doing to Meg?", he screamed as he reached into the shower and scooped Meg into his arms.

As he carried her into the bedroom, Steve came from the hall and Paul came rushing from the bathroom wrapped in a towel. "Ben, please calm down. It's not what you think", Meg pleaded. He never heard a word she was saying as he grabbed the robe off the bed and draped it over her. "What the hell do you think you were doing with her?" She placed her hands on his chest, pleading with him to calm down but all he could see was Paul's hand on her. Ben grabbed her shoulders in an attempt to move her out of the path of himself and Paul but she stood her ground. "Ben, listen to me, please! This is all my fault."

"Meg, what are you talking about?" "Please sit down and let me explain." He reluctantly agreed. As they sat on the sofa near the fireplace, she turned toward Paul saying, "Why don't you get dressed while I speak to Ben".

Steve stood in the doorway as Meg continued trying to calm Ben. "Please try and relax while I explain. I didn't mean to make you angry, I just wanted to surprise you." He covered her hands saying, "Baby, I'm not angry with you. I just don't understand what's going on. What surprise are you talking about?" "I'm sorry I upset you but this is all part of the training. I asked Paul to promise not to say anything to you because I wanted to surprise you tonight by showering and dressing myself."

"But I'm usually here, I should be the one that helps you with those things." Meg paused for a moment before continuing. "Please try to understand. I don't want you to have to help me, I need to learn how to do these things by myself. I'm not a child and I need Paul to help me learn how to be more self-reliant. You know that." "Meg, are you saying that I make you feel like a child?" She slid her hands up his chest searching for his face saying, "No, I'm saying that this blindness makes me feel like a child and I hate it!"

Ben pulled away from her hands, stood and headed toward the door. "I'm sorry for reacting the way I did, but I don't understand. This is more than I can deal with right now. I need to go for a walk, I'll see you later."

She yelled to him when she heard Steve trying to stop him. "Ben, please don't leave like this." He paused and took a deep breath before responding. "I just need to be alone for a bit to clear my head. I know I'm probably wrong but you need to understand that it's just so hard for me to watch someone else give you something I can't."

"Ben, don't do this to me! You know that I can't chase after you." Before leaving, he walked back over to her, leaned down and placed a kiss on her head. "I'm sorry, I can't stay." Steve stood in the bedroom doorway and watched as Ben ran down the stairs, then turned back towards Meg who was crying. "Meg, is there anything I can do?" "Yes, uh, would you please go after him and make sure he's okay." "I sure will, I'll send one of the other security guards up as soon as I leave." "Thank you, Steve."

Within minutes Ken was on guard outside her room. Inside Paul, fully dressed, emerged from the bathroom. "Meg, I'm so sorry for all of this. Is there anything I can do?" She didn't reply, she just shook her head and continued crying. Paul's heart began to ache as he stood there watching Meg in such pain, knowing he was responsible. "I know you want to be alone but you really should change out of that wet bathing suit before you get sick." "I know, I'll do that right now", she said wiping the tears away from her eyes. When she disappeared into the bathroom Paul returned to his room. "If I hadn't come here I would never have hurt her. When Ben comes back I'm going to tell them the truth", he told himself.

Less than an hour later, Paul left his bedroom and was told by Ken that Ben was in the Library with Steve. When he entered the room Ben and Steve were sitting in the large leather chairs near the fireplace. "Excuse me, Ben I need to speak to you." Ben stood, walked over to the bar and poured another scotch. "That's a bad idea, I'm not in a very receptive mood and I'm a hell of lot more concerned with Meg's feelings than yours." "So am I. She was very upset when you left. That's what I wanted to speak to you about." "So now you're going to tell me how Meg feels?" "That's not what I meant. I know that since I arrived I've done some things that have caused friction between you and Meg. I want to apologize for that. I also want to give you my word that it will never happen again." Ben turned to face him and smirked.

"Ben, I don't expect you to believe me. I just want you to know that I was wrong in not explaining Meg's training in detail before now. She still could have surprised you tonight even if I had discussed it with you ahead of time." "Really, then why didn't you?" "I guess I thought that if you didn't learn about it until after Meg's surprise, it wouldn't matter." "So, is that what you wanted to tell me?

Before he could answer, Detective Wilson and Chow entered the room, seconds in front of Mike and Jonathan. "What's going on?", asked Ben. "I called them, they need to hear this. First of all I don't know who's involved but a few days after I accepted this assignment I received an email from someone regarding Meg." Paul went on to explain how he received the threatening emails and how he agreed to go along with their request for fear of hurting his brother.

He continued describing the events of the last few weeks and that he was even responsible for ordering flowers to make sure that they didn't remove her security. "I know you will find this hard to believe but I would never do anything to hurt Meg." "I believe you Paul", Meg said standing in the doorway of the Study with Zeus and Ken. "Meg, you shouldn't be here", replied Ben. "Oh, yes I should. Paul, I need to ask you something." Paul reached for her hand saying, "You can ask me anything." "I trust you with my life. Will you help us find out who's doing this? I give you my word no one will ever hurt Joseph." "You know about my brother?" "Yes, Ben told me a few days ago and I'm very sorry. I knew you would tell us when you were ready and I'm sure you all have a lot to discuss so if you'll excuse me, I think I should go back to bed." Meg turned and extended her hand, "Ken are you there?" "Yes, Miss", he said as he placed her hand around his elbow. Ben moved to her side whispering that he would see her in a few minutes.

After she left Jonathan turned to Paul and informed him that they had known all about his involvement with his blackmailer. "If you knew, why did you let me stay on?" Jonathan placed his arm on Paul's shoulder saying, "Well, Steve and Mike thought you could help us. But more importantly, Meg believed in you and she told us all that you would tell us when you were ready. She was right." "I'll do whatever I can to protect Meg." "Well, that's what we wanted to hear."

An hour later, Ben entered the bedroom, the only light was coming from the fireplace and somehow he sensed she wasn't asleep. Without saying a word, he stripped off his clothes and walked into the bathroom. Twenty minutes later, he stepped out of the shower, wrapped a towel around his waist and moved to his side of the bed. He stood for a few seconds looking at her before dropping the towel and slipping under the comforter.

After moving closer to her he softly stroked her hair and whispered, "Meg?" She just lay there not wanting to respond for fear of getting into another argument. "I'm sorry you're asleep, I wanted to tell you how sorry I am, again. It seems that all I do lately is apologize. I guess I wanted to be the only one you needed". He released a frustrated sigh and then continued. "And yet all I do is hurt you, and that's the last thing I ever wanted. I know this is no excuse but I'm just so scared of losing you. I just hope tomorrow you can forgive me, again."

Ben rolled onto his back, placed an arm behind his head and turned toward her saying, "I love you Meg". She waited a few seconds and slowly turned toward him. "I thought you were asleep", he said as he rubbed her arm. "I wanted you to think that because I didn't want to argue again." "Please forgive me." Meg hesitated for a few seconds before responding. "Only if you promise that you will never run out on me like that again. I wasn't sure you were coming back." Ben moved closer and kissed her. "I promise. And I will never leave you, please believe that." He pulled her to his chest and held her tightly in his arms until they both feel asleep.

A week had past and they were no closer to discovering the identity of Meg's stalker. The frequency and intensity of her headaches were increasing. It was mid morning, Meg and Paul were in Dr. Kramer's office waiting for the results of the latest KAT scan and making small talk when Dr. Kramer entered. Before saying a word she placed the test results on the desk and sat down.

"Meg, I'm afraid the drug isn't reducing the blood clot. In fact, it's getting larger which is why your headaches are more severe. I'm going to switch you to the second drug treatment that we previously discussed. I know this news is very disappointing but I don't want you to get too discouraged. We've had great results with this drug in similar situations. Surgery is still our last alternative and we're not there yet, so please just give this new drug a chance. I've also increased your pain medication. How are those relaxation techniques, that Paul has been teaching you, working?"

"They really do help when nothing else seems to." "Good, make sure she keeps doing them Paul. I don't want to scare you but I'm afraid that the headaches will be much worse if the clot continues getting larger. You might also experience more dizziness and nausea. I want you to come in for another scan in three weeks, so please make sure you take all the medication."

"Well, I can't say I'm not terribly disappointed but I'm not giving up." As they stood to leave, Dr. Kramer added that Meg should continue keeping a journal of her condition during this next phase.

During the ride back to the Mansion, Meg asked Paul not to let Ben know how bad her headaches were because she didn't want him to worry. Paul tried to convince her that it would be better if Ben knew the truth but she insisted that it would only cause more tension between them. "You know that Dr. Kramer said that any stress will increase the intensity of my headaches and I can't take anymore. Please trust me."

When they entered the living area Meg excused herself telling Paul that she was feeling a bit tired and wanted to lie down for a while. "I think that's a great idea. Why don't you get settled while I get you some of my special tea." As he approached her bedroom, he asked Steve if he knew when Ben was expected home. Steve checked his watch and replied that he was expected within the hour. Paul thanked him and entered Meg's room. After he made sure she had taken the new medication and drank the tea, he headed for his bedroom to work on his computer.

Almost an hour had passed when Paul returned to the hall. "Steve, is Ben with Meg?" "No, he hasn't come home yet. Is there a problem?" "Uh, no, I just think he should be here when she wakes up." Just as he headed downstairs, Ben came through the Foyer. "Hi Paul, how's Meg?" "Not good, Dr. Kramer told her that first drug treatment wasn't working so she prescribed the new drug therapy. She's resting but I don't think she is taking the news too well." "Damn it! Why didn't you call me?" "I did, but your secretary said you were on the way home." He placed a hand on Paul's shoulder apologizing for his outburst and headed to his bedroom.

As he entered he saw her lying on her side and holding her head in her hands. She was obviously in a great deal of pain. He moved onto the bed behind her and gently cradled her in his arms. "Meg, what can I do?" "Just hold me until I fall asleep." "I can't think of anything I would rather do", he whispered as he kissed the back of her neck. For the next two hours, Ben laid there with his head buried in her hair as she slept.

When she woke Ben was still holding her. "What time is it?" "About five thirty in the afternoon. Go back to sleep." "If I do that I won't sleep tonight. Besides, I feel much better now." "Paul told me what happened at Dr. Kramer's office. Why didn't you call me?" She turned toward him saying, "I asked him not to call because you said you would be back by noon." She then laid her head on his chest saying, "Please don't blame him, he tried to get me to call. I don't want to talk about this anymore so I'm going to take a shower before dinner. Would you please ask Sonja if she would just make me some soup, I'm not very hungry." "Do you need any help?" Meg moved off the bed and headed for the bathroom saying, "No, I'll be fine. I'm getting pretty good at this."

As Ben and Meg were having dinner with Susan and Jonathan, Paul sat at his computer reading the latest email instructions regarding Meg. It made him sick as he stared at the words, "Keep up the good work making Ben jealous. Meg's coming along nicely. I was thrilled to hear that her condition isn't improving. The more she suffers the better." Paul went to the hall and motioned for Steve. When he entered the room, Paul pointed to the computer screen saying, "I just received this". "Did you or Meg tell anyone about the results of her Doctor's appointment?" "No one, other than Ben but anyone could have found out considering all the people that see her at the hospital." "Well, it looks as though we may have a lead. Send him a response."

Later that evening Jonathan and Ben were in the Library talking about the latest test results when Susan entered saying that she was tired and wanted to go to bed early. As they headed to their room, Ben said his good nights and told Mike, who was sitting outside Meg's room, that he would see him in the morning.

When he entered the bedroom Meg appeared to be sound asleep and Zeus was lying next to her side of the bed. He bent down and patted him on the head saying, "You better make sure you take care of Meg when I'm not around". He turned and headed into the bathroom to shower. Fifteen minutes later Ben came from the bathroom, with a towel wrapped around his waist. He took a deep breath when he saw Meg sitting on the Oriental rug in front of the fireplace. The only light in the room came from the fire and a few candles on the mantel. Next to her on the floor was a bottle of Champagne and Spring Water chilling in a bucket of ice. "I thought you were asleep."

"I planned it that way. As soon as you started the shower, I called Susan and Mrs. Landsbury. They set the mood", she giggled. "Well, it's a wonderful surprise", he said as he knelt down beside her. "You look so beautiful and sexy. Is this another new surprise?", he said as his fingers traced the edges of the low cut dark blue silk negligee. "Yes, I'm glad you like it. It was part of my wedding trousseau." "Well, you'll just have to buy another trousseau. You know when I saw you asleep I must admit that I was a bit disappointed. I miss spending time with you like this. I've missed something else too."

He leaned down and softly kissed her lips as he slipped his fingers under the thin shoulder straps and pulled them down her arms until her breasts broke free of the gown. He sat for a moment without saying a word as he absorbed her beauty. "Meg, do you realize how beautiful you are?" She smiled and blushed saying, "Even if I can't see?" He placed his hands on the sides of her face and kissed her forehead. "I can't imagine how hard this is for you to go through but whether you can see or not you are still the most beautiful woman that I've ever known."

Before saying a word he covered her mouth with his as he placed a hand on her back and lowered her to the floor. Her hands reached for his head and gripped his thick black hair pulling him closer when he moved from her mouth to the side of her neck kissing her soft skin. Suddenly, she felt his hand moving up her leg under the negligee toward the growing ache between her legs. When he reached the top of her thigh Meg released a loud moan. "Ben, you're making me so hot. I don't think I can take it anymore."

She continued panting harder as he continued his sensual assault. Feeling she was near the edge, he moved quickly over her and began a slow seductive rocking motion as he made love to her.

"Oh Ben, I've missed you so much." Before saying a word, he kissed her lips and used his tongue to circle hers while he continued making love. Suddenly, he broke away from her mouth saying, "Baby, I want you so much. Tell me what you need." Meg moaned pleading with him for more and Ben willing compiled until their explosions washed over them.

A few minutes later Ben lay at her side, resting an arm on the pillow behind her head as his other arm moved around her back pulling her against his chest. "It feels so different when you make love to me now. It just seems to be so much more intense." Ben rubbed his hand up and down her back. "Do I still please you?" "Oh Ben, more than ever. I've never felt anything like it before. It's so hard to describe, my body feels so much more sensitive to your touch. And my sexual desire seems much stronger. I wish I could explain just how wonderful it feels. I mean it always was great between us but not being able to see has heightened my other senses. Paul told me that this would start to happen."

"You discussed our love making with Paul?" "No, silly. He just told me that not being able to rely on my sight would intensify my other senses." "Well, for me, every time we make love it's better than the last. Meg, I will do whatever I can to make sure we never loose this feeling." She moved closer to his chest almost as if she wanted to enter his very soul. "I'm not sure how to say this because I don't want you to misunderstand." Ben continued stroking her back saying, "You can tell me anything". "I am so sexually satisfied each time we make love but, uh...." "But what?" "Lately, it's almost as though I can't get enough of you and the pleasure you give me." Ben smiled and placed his hand under her chin, tilting it toward his mouth.

After kissing her lips he said, "You had me worried. Does this mean you want more?" "Yes, but I need to ask you something first. We've been talking just about me." "What do you mean?" "Since I lost my sight, I haven't given you the same kind of pleasure." "Meg, what are you talking about? You always please me." She gently pushed away from his chest saying, "You know what I mean. I miss taking care of you before we make love." "Baby, I love you and what we have is perfect. You give me such pleasure. I also think that what we have now is what we both need." "I'm happy you feel that way but I miss pleasing you and I promise once I get more comfortable with my blindness I'll be that way again."

Ben scooped her into his arms and laid her in the bed. As he moved over her he said, "Meg, why can't I make you understand, that what we have is all that I want or need. And if you still don't believe that, give me your hand". He guided her to his growing manhood. "You keep me in a constant state of arousal. Anymore and I'm afraid you'd kill me." She smiled and pulled him closer. "I want you so much and I love the way it feels when we make love. I feel like we're one." Ben began making love to Meg again, more passionately than before matching the pace of her moans. "God, I've never wanted anyone as much as I want and need you. I love you Meg." An hour later they fell into an exhausted sleep.

It was almost 2am when Paul was awakened by Mike. "Paul, it's Meg, she's downstairs and needs you." As they headed down the stairs Paul asked, "What happened?" "I don't know, she couldn't sleep again and I was reading to her when all of a sudden she started having another headache. This one seems worse than the others. She's in the living room lying down. Mrs. Landsbury is with her."

When she heard his voice, she called for him. "I'm here Meg." "Paul, I'm sorry to bother you but I need your help. I tried to get rid of this headache on my own but it's not working. This one is really bad." He sat beside her and stroked her hand. "Take some slow deep breaths. That's it, now try to think of a quiet peaceful scene." A few seconds later Meg cried out, "It's not working. Oh God this one is so bad, I can't think!"

Paul patted her hand saying, "Keep trying. Mrs. Landsbury, would you please make some of my special herbal tea while I get her a warm towel. Meg, try and relax. I'll be right back". He started toward the bathroom and motioned to Mike to step into the Foyer. "Get Ben. She needs him more than anything else right now", he whispered.

Mike knocked on the bedroom door as he entered. "Ben, wake up! Meg needs you." Ben immediately stretched his arm on her side of the bed saying, "What? Were is she?" "She's in the living room, she's having a bad headache and needs your help. Hurry, please." Ben jumped out of bed and followed Mike into the living room.

"Meg, I'm here." "Ben? What are you doing up?" "Stop it Meg, I know about your headache. What can I do?" "Paul, you promised." "I'm sorry Meg but he needed to know and we need his help. Ben, she needs to relax. Try to help her concentrate on a peaceful image." Ben cradled her in his arms and began describing the last time she was in Apache's stall. As he continued talking and rocking her, Paul came back and placed the warm towel on her forehead.

By the time Mrs. Landsbury returned with the tea, Meg's breathing had relaxed somewhat. Paul poured her a cup saying, "Here's some tea. You need to drink this." After she finished she lay back down on Ben's lap and listened to him describing the time they were in the Cottage at the Winery. Ten minutes later, Meg was sleeping soundly. "She should be okay for the rest of the night." "Well, I should get her back to bed", Ben said as he stood with her in is arms and headed for the stairs. "Ben, after you put Meg to bed, may I speak to you for just a few minutes?" "Okay, I'll be right back."

After he had placed her in bed, Ben joined Paul in the hallway outside his room. "Paul, I'd like to thank you for asking Mike to wake me tonight." "She needed you Ben and I think you need to know something." "Does this have anything to do with the promise that she mentioned?" "Yes it does. Did Meg tell you about the new medication?"

"Only that it was a new drug therapy. Why is there something else?" "I'm afraid so. Dr. Kramer also increased the strength of her pain medication. Her headaches are getting more severe, not to mention more frequent. She asked me to promise not to tell you because she was afraid it would create more tension between you two. But after tonight I decided that I couldn't keep that promise. She needs you and according to the Doctor, the headaches are going to get worse before they get better." "Paul, I appreciate you telling me this. I wish Meg didn't feel that way but considering the way I've been reacting lately, I can't blame her. That will change though. Well, we both need to get some sleep." Paul nodded saying good night and disappeared down the hall just as Ben entered his bedroom and slid quietly into bed beside a sleeping Meg.

Just as the morning meeting with Steve and Mike was about to end, Paul entered the Solarium. "Morning everyone. Meg, I suppose you're upset with me for breaking my promise." Meg smiled saying, "No, not at all Paul. Ben and I talked about it and we agreed that there wouldn't be anymore secrets. I'm sorry for putting you in that situation." "Please don't apologize, I'm just glad he knows now. Well, if that's all I have some errands to run." "Errands?" "Yes, you finished the last of the tea early this morning and I need to get more." "Paul, before you go, would you look at some pictures that Mike has and see if you recognize anyone?" "I'd be happy to."

After reviewing the folder of photographs that Mike handed him, the only picture that Paul felt looked familiar was that of Cassie Andrews. "Well, she was a Super Model so you might have seen her picture in a magazine", said Ben. "Um, I don't think so but it's possible", replied Paul. "Well, we're back to square one but at least we do have one advantage. We may not know who is behind this but they don't know that you're on our side now. So just make sure you continue to let Steve or Mike review any new emails before you respond. Okay Paul?" "Absolutely."

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This Chapter picks up after Paul reviews photographs of suspects.

The Finale

Chapter 15 - Exposed

Another three weeks had elapsed since Meg started the new drug therapy and her headaches were getting more severe. The latest KAT scan showed no evidence of reducing the blood clot so Dr. Kramer and Dr. Martin scheduled her for surgery. Meanwhile, Jonathan invited Doctor Ron Shaffer, a friend and the head of Neurology at Cedars Sinai, to the Mansion for the weekend so they could discuss her case.

Just as they were about to sit down to dinner Ben entered the living room saying that Meg was not feeling well and would not be joining them. "Ben, you remember Ron and Maggie Shaffer", Jonathan said. "Yes, it's nice to see you again. I'm glad you were able to take time out of your busy schedule." "It's no problem, I have a seminar in the city this weekend anyway. I'm just sorry your fiancée is so ill." "So am I. I hope that you may be able to offer some advice after you get to see her tomorrow." "Well, I'm looking forward to meeting her, Jonathan and Susan have been telling us all about her. She sounds wonderful." Ben smiled saying, "She is".

As they headed into the dinning room and sat at the table, Ron explained that he would really need to examine Meg and review her medical records before he could give an opinion.

"Well, I called Dr. Martin and he said that he would send her records over tomorrow morning. The way Meg's been feeling lately, I doubt if she'll be up for anything until then." "Ron, have you had many patients like Meg?" "From what Dr. Martin described, she does sound to be suffering from a blood clot that I've treated before. However, I must say that I'm a bit surprised that her pain medication is not as effective as it should be, which is why I wonder if there isn't something else that is causing her condition to be worse. That's why I'm anxious to see her records."

Just as they were starting the main course, they heard Zeus barking. "Something's wrong, he was with Meg when I left", Ben said as he pushed his chair away from the table and ran up the stairs. Jonathan and Ron followed immediately behind. Before he reached the bedroom, Steve had already gone in to check on her.

When Ben entered Steve was kneeling beside Meg who was lying unconscious on the floor at the entrance to the bathroom. "Oh my god what happened?" "I don't know. I heard Zeus barking and I came inside and found her like this", responded Steve. Dr. Shaffer knelt down and felt her pulse. "Call the hospital and tell her doctors that we're on our way."

Ben pulled the comforter off the bed and wrapped her in it before lifting her into his arms. Jonathan, Ron and Steve followed Ben as he carried her downstairs toward the limousine.

It had been almost a half-hour before they entered the emergency room of SF General. Dr. Martin was at the Nurse's station reviewing Meg's chart when they arrived. "Ben, what happened?" He just shook his head saying, "I don't know. Two hours ago she complained of another terrible headache and wanted to take a nap. Then we found her lying on the floor unconscious and she wouldn't wake up", he said as he laid her on the waiting gurney. "I've called Dr. Kramer and she's on the way. Try and relax. I'll be back as soon as I have any news." Reluctantly, Ben agreed to go to the waiting room and wait.

Just as Ben was instructing Steve and Mike to keep Security around Meg at the hospital, Jonathan and Susan came rushing into the waiting area with Dr. Shaffer and his wife. "Ben, how's Meg?" "She's still unconscious. Dr. Martin is with her now and Dr. Kramer is on her way. He told me to send Ron into the examining room as soon as he arrived." "I'll do whatever I can to help her Ben, I promise." Jonathan placed his arm on Ben's shoulder saying, "Well, she's in good hands. Why don't you sit down and try to relax." "I can't! I need to tell her I love her. What if she doesn't...." Before he could finish, Susan interrupted. "Meg is going to be fine. You have to believe that." Ben just nodded and sat down.

Almost an hour later, Dr. Shaffer and Dr. Martin entered the waiting room. "How's Meg?", asked Ben. "She's still unconscious and Dr. Kramer is scrubbing for the operation, she decided that she couldn't afford to wait." Ben sat down and placed his head in his hands. "Ben, they have no choice." "What do you think, Ron?", asked Ben.

"I'm only here as a consult Ben but I know of Dr. Kramer's reputation and she's one of the best in her field." Suddenly, a nurse appeared interrupting. "Excuse me Dr. Martin, here are Ms. Cummings blood-work results that you asked for." He shook his head after reviewing the chart and handed it to Dr. Shaffer. "These can't be right, are you sure the laboratory ran this twice?" The nurse nodded and left. "What do you think Dr. Shaffer?"

"What's wrong Ron?", asked Jonathan. He didn't respond right away so Jonathan pressed him again as to why he appeared concerned. "Well, you said Meg had been taking a drug therapy for the blood clot in addition to pain medication and yet there's no trace of those drugs in her blood." Ben stood up and interrupted saying, "What are you talking about? Paul and I always made sure Meg was taking both drugs."

Dr. Martin placed his hand on Ben's arm saying, "Ben, we're not trying to upset you but Dr. Shaffer and I are very confused about these results. Do you happen to have those pills with you?" Paul nodded and pulled them out of his jacket pocket. "After reviewing the label, he handed them to the Nurse and asked her to have the Laboratory run a priority analysis on both. "Look, I don't understand any of this", said Ben. "We don't either. The label indicates that they were filled by this hospital's pharmacy." Paul interrupted saying, "Well that's not exactly true. Dr. Kramer filled them from the medicine cabinet in her office each time I brought Meg in for tests. Come to think of it, that's where I saw that woman's photo that Mike showed me."

"What photo? The one of the model, I forget her name." "Do you mean Cassie?", asked Ben. "Yeah, strange uh?" Dr. Martin interrupted, "What has Dr. Kramer's sister have to do with any of this?" They all stood in shock. "Her sister?", asked Ben. "Yes. Actually, she's been more like Jane's daughter than a sister. She changed so much after Cassie's drug overdose a few months ago." Ben grabbed Dr. Martin's arm. "Oh my God! Jim you need to stop that operation, I think Dr. Kramer is the one that has been stalking Meg."

Just as Dr. Kramer was about to make an incision into Meg's scalp, the doors of the Operating Room (OR) flew open. "Stop her!", yelled Steve. Before she could respond Mike grabbed her arm and removed the scalpel from her hand. Dr. Martin immediately followed instructing the staff to move Meg to another OR room. Before scrubbing for the operation, Dr. Shaffer returned to the waiting area.

"Ben, Meg is safe and Dr. Kramer is in custody. I'm going to perform the operation with Dr. Martin's assistance as long as you agree." "Absolutely, I just want you to help her." "I know you do and I assure you we will do whatever we can but...." "But what?" "I'm not sure if we can save the baby."

"What are you talking about, what baby?" "Oh I'm sorry, I thought Dr. Martin had a chance to tell you that the latest test results we ran show that Meg is six weeks pregnant." Ben collapsed on a nearby chair running his hands through his hair. "This can't be happening." "Ben, I realize you're upset but if it comes down to a choice between Meg or the baby's life, we will have to abort her pregnancy. I know this is difficult to hear but I want you to know what we're up against. We're also going to do everything we can to save them both. Now, I really have to get back to Meg. I will talk to you immediately after the operation."

Jonathan and Susan sat next to Ben trying desperately to comfort him. "Ben, I'm sure Meg and the baby will be just fine. They are in good hands with Ron and Jim, you know that." "Dad, if it weren't for me Meg, and now our baby would not be in there fighting for their lives." "Stop saying that! Meg loves you and you need to concentrate on how happy she's going to be when she learns about the baby." Susan placed her arms around Ben hugging him saying, "She's strong. I know they'll both be fine."

Three hours later Dr. Shaffer and Dr. Martin emerged from the OR informing everyone that Meg had come through the operation well but they wouldn't know if there would be any brain damage until she woke up.

"What about the baby?, asked Ben." Dr. Shaffer patted him on the shoulder saying, "Your child is just fine. By the way, congratulations Ben!" Ben released a deep sigh and shook his hand saying, "I can't thank you enough for saving them both. Meg will be so thrilled when I tell her about our child." "Ben, I'm not sure we should tell her until she's fully recovered from the operation. She has plenty to deal with regarding her blindness. We still don't know if her sight will be restored." "Oh, I didn't think about that. I promise not to say anything until you tell me she's ready to deal with it. I need to see her." "Okay Ben, but only for a minute. She needs to rest."

When he entered her room she looked so fragile. Ben quietly sat in the chair next to her bed, brought her hand to his mouth and kissed it. "Meg, I love you. Please come back to me. I need you so much and you have so much to live for. More than you know." As the tears ran uncontrollably down his cheeks he placed a hand on her stomach, gently stroking. "You're carrying the best part of our love. I need you, we need you." Suddenly a nurse entered the room saying. "Excuse me Mr. Evans, but you need to let her rest now".

Almost six hours had passed and Ben was still surrounded by Paul, Steve, Mike, Jonathan and Susan in the waiting room when Detectives Wilson and Chow appeared. "Ben, excuse us but we need to discuss Dr. Kramer." Before they could continue, Dr. Shaffer appeared. "Is Meg awake?" "No, I'm sorry not yet. I have the test results from the medication that Meg was taking. They weren't drugs, they were placebos." Ben shook his head trying to understand what he had just been told.

Detective Wilson interrupted saying, "I'm afraid it's true. Dr. Kramer just gave us a complete confession." He went on to say that Cassie hired someone to run Meg's limousine off the road in an attempt to kill her. She thought if Meg was out of Ben's life he would return to her. When Meg survived and Ben became even more devoted, Cassie tried to kill herself. Dr. Kramer placed her in a medical spa and became obsessed with paying Meg back for all the pain she had caused Cassie. She then blackmailed Paul Saunders into making Meg dependent on him knowing that if Ben had been aware of the pain she was in he would have taken her to another Doctor. She filled all her prescriptions with sugar pills guaranteeing that Meg would not get well and at the same time cause her to suffer as much as possible. He went on to say that her plan was also to ensure that Meg would then suffer severe brain damage during the operation and no one would have ever suspected.

Ben ran his hands through his hair saying, "God, this is all my fault". "What are you talking about? You didn't do this to Meg", Jonathan responded. "You're wrong, after Cassie tried to break us up by convincing me that you were involved with Meg, I should have known she wouldn't give up." Detective Harris interrupted saying, "Ben, we knew of your history with Ms. Andrews and no one suspected her or knew of her connection to Dr. Kramer. You can't blame yourself. This may not be much comfort but Ms. Andrews and Dr. Kramer will never hurt Meg again, we can promise you that. We need to get back to the Police Station, so please tell Meg we're praying for her."

Jonathan thanked them as Ben just sat there with his face buried in his hands. "Ben? Are you okay?" "No, I don't think so. This just makes me sick to my stomach."

Dr. Shaffer interrupted saying, "Ben, I know you're shocked by this news and this may sound strange but Dr. Kramer did one good thing. She hired Paul. If it weren't for his relaxation techniques and herbal teas, Meg's pain would have been far worse. I still don't know how she endured what she did." Ben smiled saying, "That's easy. You don't know Meg. She's the most remarkable woman I've ever known." "Giving her placeboes was a blessing in disguise in one way. Chances are that if Meg had been taking the medication that she should have been, your child would never have survived."

Before Ben could respond, a nurse appeared saying, "Excuse me Dr. Shaffer Miss Cummings is awake and asking for Mr. Evans. Ron reached for Ben's arm saying, "Wait, I know you're excited about the baby but please give Meg the time she needs to recuperate first." He nodded and ran toward her room.

Ben pulled a chair to the side of Meg's bed, sat down and reached for her hand. "Meg? Can you hear me?" At first there was no response, then her eyes slowly started to open as Dr. Shaffer entered the room. "Excuse me Ben, would you please step outside for a moment while I examine Ms. Cummings?" Ben placed a soft kiss on Meg's hand and left the room.

While he was talking to Steve, Dr. Shaffer emerged from the room saying that Meg appeared to have suffered little or no brain damage but they would still have to wait for further tests. He also agreed that Ben could see her as long as she remained calm. Ben thanked him and quickly returned to Meg's side.

"Meg? Can you hear me?" She slowly opened her eyes and turned toward the sound of his voice. "Ben?" "Yes, it's me baby." "The Doctor told me what happened. I don't remember anything after I went to bed." Ben brought her hand to his mouth, kissing it as he spoke. "I'm so sorry, I should have known you were in pain all these weeks." "Ben, please don't do this to yourself. I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to worry. Are you upset with me?" Before responding he leaned down and placed a kiss on her lips. "I would never be upset with you. Please get some rest, I want you to get better soon so I can take you home." Meg nodded and fell back asleep.

When he left Meg's room, Jonathan and Susan were talking to Steve. "Hi son, how's Meg?" "She just fell asleep and wasn't having any headaches. But they have her very sedated so we're just going to have to wait and see. I can't tell you how glad I am that she's awake. I just wish I could bring her home so I can take care of her and the baby."

"I know you do son but they both need this place for a while longer. I know you two have been through a lot, especially Meg, and I can't tell you why this happened but you two have something very special. Now that Meg's back with us, we won't ever let anyone hurt her again. And now you also have a little one to think of." "Oh my God, I still can't use to it. Dad, I'm going to be a father." Jonathan placed his hands on Ben's shoulders saying, "It's a great feeling, I know. I remember when Fiona and I learned about you, we celebrated for at least a month. Wait until you tell Meg, I'm sure you two will be celebrating for at least that." "You're right. I can't wait to tell her but I think Ron is right about waiting until she can come home."

A week had past and Meg was improving rapidly. It was almost ten in the morning when Ben arrived with Paul to take her home. When they entered her room she was sitting on the edge of the bed with her suitcase at her side and talking to a nurse. "Well, it looks as though someone is awfully anxious to go home", Ben laughed. "I've been waiting an hour, where have you been?" Ben placed a kiss on her mouth and said, "I'm sorry, Paul and I were getting some last minute instructions from Doc. "Okay, you're forgiven. Can we go home now?" Ben smiled and handed Paul the suitcase as he led Meg to the wheelchair.

Before they stepped out of the limousine, Jonathan, Susan, Mrs. Landsbury and Harrison stood in the open Foyer waiting to greet her. "Meg, we're so glad you're home", Susan said as she gently hugged her. "Mrs. Landsbury has a wonderful lunch prepared. Why don't you go upstairs and I'll have a tray brought right up." "Actually, if you wouldn't mind I would prefer to eat downstairs. I'm a bit tired of being in bed." Just then Zeus came running down the stairs and wedged himself between Susan and Meg. "We're not the only ones that missed you." She knelt down and massaged his ears saying, "Zeus, I missed you so much. "Zeus, wait here. You can visit with her later", said Ben as he tugged at her arm. "Uh, why don't you all go in I need to speak to Meg privately for a minute." Ben reached for Meg's hand and led her to the study.

When they entered the Study Ben led her to the sofa. "Ben, is there something wrong?" "No not at all my love. Actually it's great news." "Oh, that's good I could use some." He took her hand and held it as he told her that the test results showed that she was pregnant. When she didn't respond Ben asked, "Meg, did you hear what I said? We're going to have a baby. I am so happy. Aren't you?" "Pregnant? I can't be." Before he could respond, Mrs. Landsbury came into the room and told them that lunch was ready. Ben helped Meg to her feet saying, "Come on let's celebrate."

Just as they all were seated Ben announced that Meg's pregnancy was no longer a secret and that it called for a celebration. "Mrs. Landsbury, we need some champagne and some spring water for my beautiful mother to be." Everyone stood, hugging Meg and telling her how happy they all were.

Mrs. Landsbury came from the kitchen with a three of the servants carrying trays of food. Meg took in the aroma of the food saying, "If I'm not mistaken, I would swear that Mrs. Landsbury is spoiling me again with one of my favorites. Crab Cakes?" She moved to Meg's side and placed some lemon butter sauce to the right of her plate.

Before she left, Meg placed a hand on Mrs. Landsbury's arm saying, "Thank you. Not just for this, but for everything you've done for me." She patted Meg's hand and smiled. "It's my pleasure. I'm glad you're home and congratulations." Jonathan lifted his glass of Champagne and proposed a toast. "Welcome home Meg. This place hasn't been the same without you. And I might add that we're all pretty tired of Zeus moping around here for the past week. I can't imagine how jealous he will be when the little one arrives."

"Jonathan, I want to thank you and Susan for everything you did, most of all for Dr. Shaffer. He saved my life, and our child." Jonathan leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. "Well, you're very welcome and you will get to thank him personally next week. Susan is planning a little welcome home party for you. And don't bother arguing, she's been planning it for the last week", Jonathan laughed. "That is so sweet, I could use a party. Susan, maybe you could take me shopping for something special." "I was hoping you would ask. In fact I've already made an appointment for us with Pierre. And he has the most exciting fall collection which he wants you to choose from before anyone else." Meg sat silent for a few seconds as she fought the tears welling up in her eyes. "Susan, thank you for doing this. It's just what I need." Jonathan touched her arm saying, "Okay you two, this was suppose to be a happy occasion". "They're happy tears, I assure you."

Ben patted her hand saying, "Well, I think this would be a great time to reset our wedding date. What do you say Meg? I already asked Susan and she said she could make all the arrangements." "Uh, I'm sorry but suddenly I'm feeling a bit tired. Would you mind if I went to our room and lay down?" Before she could say another word, Ben moved behind her chair and helped her up. "Actually, I could use a nap too. So if you will all excuse us, I'm going to take my beautiful fiancée up to our room. We can set that wedding date tomorrow." Jonathan and Susan stood and hugged her before Ben led her up the stairs. Susan placed her arm around his waist saying, "I hope that's all that is wrong. Meg seems upset to me". "I know what you mean."

By the time Ben emerged from the bathroom, Meg was already in bed. As soon as he slid under the comforter, she moved onto his chest and sighed. "God, I've missed you so much." He placed a soft kiss on the top of her head and wrapped his arms around her back. "You realize that you've spoiled me. I hate sleeping alone. I love you so much Meg and I can't wait until we set a wedding date." Meg released a soft sigh but didn't respond. "What's wrong?" "Nothing, I'm just tired." Ben slid his hand on her stomach and said, "You two rest. I promise that I will take care of you both for the rest of my life". Meg lay there without saying a word, still trying to absorb the news of her pregnancy. Within minutes they feel asleep.

The next morning when they entered the Solarium where Jonathan and Susan were waiting Ben gasped, "Oh Meg, this is great, the room is decorated for a baby shower." "Meg, you look wonderful. Pregnancy agrees with you", Susan said as she hugged her. Before she could respond, Harrison entered the room announcing that the other guests were arriving. "Oh Susan, I'm not sure I'm ready for this." "Meg, you don't have to do anything but sit back and enjoy the day. Everyone is so excited for you and Ben."

During the next hour, Meg sat as Susan described each baby gift. It was almost three when Ben and Jonathan returned. "Well, it looks like we have all that we need for our baby's first year", Ben laughed. Meg sat silent. "Hey, what's this all about? Are you feeling okay?" "I'm fine, it's just a little overwhelming." "Well, I think it's time Meg and I set a new wedding date." Meg broke into tears. "Baby, what's wrong?" "I can't marry you", she said crying as she grabbed Zeus's guide handle and felt her way up the stairs toward their bedroom. "Susan, what happened here?" "I don't know, she's been so quite all day. I thought she was just taken back by the surprise party but I'm afraid there is something else bothering her. "Let me talk to her", Ben said as he ran after her.

When he entered their bedroom, Meg was lying on the bed crying. "Meg, what's wrong? I thought you were happy about the baby?" "Oh Ben, I am very happy about being pregnant but...." "But what?" "It terrifies me. How can I be a mother when I can't even take care of myself?" Ben laughed saying, "Oh, is that all?" "How can you joke about this?" "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sound insensitive but there is no one that I can think of that would make a greater mother than you." "Ben, do you realize that I won't be able to teach our son or daughter the things a sighted person can?"

He reached for her hand and rubbed the back of it with his thumb saying, "I have no doubt that you will be able to teach him or her more than most of us ever could. Besides, there will be plenty of others around to help so please don't feel this way". "Ben, Dr. Shaffer said there was no guarantee that my sight would return even though he was able to remove the blood clot. Maybe we should wait until we know for sure before we set a wedding date."

"Why would you ask me that? Don't you know by now that I can't live without you. It doesn't matter whether you can see or not. Does it change the way you feel about me?" Meg moved her hand to his face saying, "Not at all. I could never fall out of love with you. I just want you to think about it before you make your decision." "You're right, maybe I should." He could feel her pulling away and tightened his grip. "I'm teasing. The truth is, I would be lost without you. I am lost without you. If you don't believe me just ask anyone." She smiled and snuggled closer to his chest saying, "I love you so much". "I love you too Meg and I love our child, now let's go back down to the party. I can't wait to see all the great gifts."

Before Ben realized it Saturday had arrived and Susan's party was in less than five hours. When he entered the Solarium, Meg was sitting with Susan reviewing the plans for the party. "There you are. Are you all set for your appointment with Dr. Shaffer?", asked Ben. "I sure am." As he helped Meg from the table, his cell phone rang. "What now? This is Ben Evans." There was a pause as he listened to the caller. "Can't someone else handle this? Oh, okay I'll be right there." "What's wrong?", asked Meg. "I don't know, Jonathan insisted that I handle some issue at work. I'm not sure why he's so insistent, he knew that I wanted to take you to your Doctor's appointment. Are you sure you're going to be okay?" She stroked his face saying, "I'll be fine, Paul will be with me. Just take care of what you need to do and don't be late for the party." "I promise, I won't be."

It was almost seven when Ben entered the Foyer. "Dad, where's Meg?" "She's fine, she's in the Library with Paul and Dr. Shaffer. "Why don't you go upstairs and change." Ben nodded and headed to his bedroom. Forty minutes later he appeared in the living room looking around for Meg as Jonathan and Susan approached. "Where's Meg?" Susan wrapped her arm around his saying, "She should be here any minute. Wait until you see her, she wanted to surprise you with her new dress." Suddenly Susan looked past Ben. "So, what do you think?"

When he turned around Meg was entering the room on the arms of Paul and Dr. Shaffer. She looked radiant wearing a dark blue off the shoulder satin gown cut low revealing her generous cleavage. Her hair was pulled back from her face in a twist and held tight by a diamond studded comb.

She was also wearing color-tinted glasses. He loved to tease her about the various colors that she owned but it made her feel more comfortable in public with her blindness. It was hard to believe that it had only been a week since her release from the hospital. She had never looked more stunning. "Well, this was certainly worth the wait. You look beautiful", he said as he took her arm from Paul. "Hi Paul, I see that you're still taking great care of my girl." "Evening Ben." "I'm glad you like the dress, Pierre made it especially for me. Wasn't that sweet?" Ben pulled her into his arms and placed a soft kiss on her mouth. "Actually, I think it's because he's in love with you too. So should we join the others, they're all dying to see you and the sooner we get this party over with, the sooner I get you all to myself." Meg patted his chest in a playful manner saying, "I can't wait".

"Meg! You look incredible", said Jonathan as they approached. "You sure do Meg, Pierre was right about that gown. Now, let's get you some spring water, Jonathan wants to make a toast." Susan motioned to one of the servants that Ben and Meg were ready to be served.

"Excuse me everyone, may I have your attention for just a few minutes. Mrs. Landsbury would you please make sure everyone has a glass of champagne." He waited a moment before continuing. "Susan and I would like to thank everyone for joining us tonight to celebrate Meg's recovery. In addition, we would like to announce the news that Ben and Meg are expecting a child." The room burst into applause. "Before we let you all get back to the party, there are just two more things. First Meg would like to say something."

"I just wanted to thank all of you for the love, friendship and protection that I've received during the past few months. I wouldn't have made it through without your support."

Jonathan gave her a gentle embrace then continued. "Now, I have a very special gift for Ben. I had planned to give this to him at his bachelor party a few months ago but never got the chance. Now, I think it's the perfect time." Jonathan turned to Ben and handed him the gift-wrapped box saying, "I waited a little over thirty years to give this to you".

Meg slid her arm around Ben's waist as he opened the box. "Oh Ben, what a beautiful pocket watch", she said. "Yes, it is. It was my grandfather's and he gave it...." Ben closed his eyes for a second trying to understand what she had just said. "Wait, how did you know what it was?" Meg smiled saying, "Well I think I can still recognize a pocket watch when I see one."

"Meg, uh, are you saying you can see?" She just stood there smiling and nodding her head as the other guests gasped. Ben lifted her into his arms and kissed her as hard as he could. Suddenly, Dr. Shaffer moved behind Meg saying, "Ben, please go easy Meg is still recovering and she's expecting".

"Oh, I'm so sorry, are you okay?" "I'm fine, I'm just so happy." "So, when did this happen?" Dr. Shaffer interrupted saying, "It started a few days ago with just seeing some shadows but today was the first time she started to make out details. And before you get ahead of yourself, Meg's eyes are still very sensitive. So for the next week, make sure that she is always wearing the tinted glasses whenever she's outside or in rooms with lights. She really shouldn't be without them unless she's in a dimmed room. I've given Paul some instructions so you should review them too." Ben pulled Meg close to his chest saying, "I will, I promise. I'm just so happy this has happened. I can't thank you enough."

Meg pulled away from Ben's chest, turned and placed a kiss on Dr. Shaffer's cheek. "Thank you so much for giving my sight back to me." "You are more than welcome but please promise me you will take it easy." Ben slid his arms around her waist and pulled her back against his chest. "I'll make sure of that. Maybe you should sit down." Meg leaned her head back saying, "Not yet, please. I'd rather stay like this for a while longer".

Almost an hour later Meg pulled Ben away to the terrace saying, "Come with me, I'd like to ask you something". When they had reached the edge of the terrace Ben laughed saying, "Well, it must be serious." "It is. It's about our wedding. I know we originally planned to have a large celebration but to tell you the truth after everything we've been through lately I would really prefer something much more intimate." "What did you have in mind?" "Well, would you mind if it involved only Jonathan, Susan and a few close friends?" "Not at all, if that's what you want." She smiled and kissed him saying, "It is. So when do you want to set the date?" "Well, why don't you let me handle the arrangements. You know how I like to surprise you." "Well, I can't wait. Let's get back to the party before someone comes looking for us."

As Ben discussed the wedding plans with Jonathan, Susan approached. "I don't mean to interrupt but I wanted to tell you that Meg was feeling a bit tired and I just took her upstairs. "Is she okay?" "She's fine, she just wanted me to tell you where she was." "Well, if you two will excuse me, I'll see you tomorrow." As they watched Ben race up the stairs, Jonathan leaned over and asked, "Is Meg really okay?" "She's just fine, I think she wanted some private time with your son." Jonathan laughed and gave her waist a gentle squeeze saying, "Well, thank God the party is breaking up, I would love some private time with you too Mrs. Evans. And wait until I tell you what Ben has planned for his and Meg's wedding".

Ben entered the bedroom and found Meg sitting at her vanity rubbing moisturizer on her arms. He bent down and kissed her shoulder. "I thought you'd be asleep by now, Susan said you were tired, are you felling okay?" "I'm just fine, I was waiting for you." "In that case I'll take a quick shower and join you in a minute", he said placing a kiss on her lips.

When he emerged from the bathroom, Meg was lighting the candles on the fireplace mantel. He moved behind her, slid his arms around her waist and kissed her shoulder before turning her around. "You look so beautiful", he said removing her tinted glasses, scooping her into his arms and placing a kiss on her lips. After laying her in the bed he stripped off the towel and slipped next to her, placing one arm above her head on the pillow and the other around her waist. Meg placed her hands oh his face saying, "I've missed being able to look into your blue eyes while we make love". "And I have missed the way you look at me. Your eyes are so expressive. I love you so much." He leaned down, covered her mouth with his, circling her tongue. As the kiss became more passionate, his hand moved to her breasts and began a gentle massage.

Ben slowly broke away from her mouth and kissed his way down from Meg's ear to the base of her neck as his hand moved over her flat stomach and stopped for a few seconds, rubbing in a circular motion. "I can't wait to see him or her start to show." "Oh, Ben I can't wait either. We are so blessed." He returned his attention to Meg's lips as he slid his hand between her legs.

"Mmmm, that feels so good. Now you know why I wanted to leave the party." "Baby, I was so afraid that you would be too tired. But I was prepared to wait." Meg brought his mouth back to her neck saying, "There was no way I was going to sleep before celebrating like this". Ben continued his sensual assault with his tongue as his fingers continued to caress her soft skin. "Oh, Ben you're making me so hot." He quickly moved over her and began a rhythmic love making motion as her moans grew louder. "I love you so much Meg and I love pleasing you." "You always do my love." Ben's pace increased until the explosions that were building washed over them.

A few moments later, Ben rolled onto his back pulling Meg onto his chest and cradling her in his arms. "Every time we make love it gets better. I hope that never changes." "It won't Ben, not if we never let anything or anyone come between us." He tightened his grip saying, "I will protect what we have with my life. We've been through so much and I love you more than ever." Meg smiled and stroked his chest saying, "It's so hard to believe that during this entire nightmare, we created a child." "I know, he or she is going to be a very special child. Now, even though I could spend the entire night making love, I don't want you to overdue. So close those beautiful eyes and gets some sleep."

"I know I should, it's just that I don't want this to end yet." Ben rubbed his hand up and down her back saying, "Don't worry, we're going to have plenty of time during the next few days to spend together." "Do you mean it?" "I sure do. I've taken the some time off work and I have a wonderful surprise for you at the end of the week." "I can't wait." Pulling her spoon-like to his chest and tightening his arms around her tiny form, Ben placed a soft kiss on her neck saying, "I love you Mrs. Evans to be". "I love you too Mr. Evans and I love that I am carrying your child." "We are going to have such a wonderful life, now get some sleep."

A week later Meg's sight had improved so much that she no longer required the special tinted glasses. After her latest appointment with Dr. Shaffer, she was given a complete bill of health for herself and the baby. She had tried since the night of the party to get Ben to reveal his plans for the wedding but without success. He loved to tease her about using her special charms to persuade him but afterwards he always refused to divulge his plan saying that she would thank him later.

It was almost 9am on the morning that Ben had promised to finally reveal the surprise he had planned when Meg woke to the sound of his voice. "Good morning Love", he said leaning down and kissing her softly on the lips. "Did you and our little one sleep well?" "We sure did and we can't wait to hear all about our surprise." Ben smiled and stroked her face with the back of his hand saying, "Well, you have to shower and dress first if you want to find out what it is". Meg jumped out of bed and reached for his hand, playfully pulling him toward the bathroom. "Come on then, you know I love surprises."

After they showered and dressed Ben led Meg through the Foyer and toward the waiting Limousine. "Good morning Mr. Evans. Miss", said Dennis as he tipped his cap and opened the door. "Good morning. Is everything ready?" "Yes Sir!"

Ben slid into the back seat next to Meg laughing, "This is killing you isn't it?" She patted him on the chest saying, "Ben Evans what are you up to?" He grabbed her hand and kissed it before responding. "If I tell you, it wouldn't be a surprise. Just sit back and enjoy the ride." Meg slid into his arms and smiled enjoying his little game.

Less than an hour later they arrived at San Francisco International and pulled along side a private jet. "Ben, where are we going?" Without responding he smiled, grabbed her hand and led her toward the stairs. "Good morning Mr. Evans, welcome aboard."

When she entered the main cabin Meg gasped. Already seated were Jonathan, Susan, her friends Tracy, Randy, Steve and Jason with their companions. "What is going on?" Ben slid his arms around her waist and pulled her back against his chest saying, "Well, we're getting married and these are our witnesses". "Ben, are you serious?" "I sure am. You said that you really wanted a very private wedding after everything we've been through these past months so that's what you're going to have." Meg spun around and threw her arms around his neck saying, "I love this". "I thought you might, now take a seat we have quite a trip ahead of us. And before you ask, no I'm not telling you where we're headed."

For the next six hours and after a stop over in Atlanta and Miami for refueling, the plane approached the small Caribbean Island, Virgin Gorda. When they landed the limousines were waiting to take them to the private launch.

Ten minutes after they departed, the launch arrived at the private island. It was a short walk to the main entrance where a number of resort personnel were waiting to greet their new guests. Ben stopped for a minute, gave Meg a gentle squeeze, leaned down and kissed her. "Welcome to Necker Island." "Oh Ben, this is incredible!" Just as she threw her arms around his neck and kissed him, the resort manager approached.

"Mr. Evans, Ms. Cummings, welcome to Necker Island. My name is Joanna Roback and my staff and I hope your time with us is a very memorable one. "Thank you Ms. Roback. Have all the arrangements been made?" "Yes, sir. If there is anything else, please just ask." "I certainly will." "Well, why don't we get your family and friends settled. Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Evans are in the Bali Hi pavilion, you and Ms. Cummings are in the Bali Lo hidden paradise and your remaining guests will be staying in the Great House. I'm sure you would all like to relax for a few hours before we meet in the main resort's Living area, so if you'll follow you assigned staff we'll get you settled."

"Okay Ben are you going to tell me what this is all about?" "I told you, we're getting married. You said you wanted a private ceremony with only a few select people, so that's exactly what you're going to have. Now come with me, you're going to love this."

As Ben and Meg were led inside the Bali Lo Balinese style pavilion Meg gasped when she saw the magnificent open-air interior and ocean view. In the Master Bedroom was a four-poster bed with Balinese throws. On the antique bench, at the foot of the bed, was a pair of Indonesian wedding sandals. The private Master Bath contained a large open air shower with glass and rock lined walls allowing the view of the ocean to be enjoyed while showering or bathing. Outside the Master Bedroom, was the private pool and Jacuzzi.

After the staff placed their luggage in the bedroom and left, Ben moved behind Meg and slid his arms around her waist. "So, what do you think?" Meg leaned her head against his chest saying, "Ben, when I asked for an intimate wedding, I never pictured anything as romantic. How did you find this place?" "Oh, that was easy. Jonathan called Richard Branson, the CEO of Virgin Airlines, who owns this island and rents it out for private parties. Jonathan and Susan's little hideaway is almost as romantic as this, but then I doubt there is a spot on this island that isn't romantic. But the best is yet to come."

After they showered and changed, Ben and Meg joined the others in the main room of the Great House. "Well, we weren't sure you two were going to join us", laughed Jason. "After seeing our pavilion I wasn't sure either", giggled Meg.

"Excuse me Mr. Evans, everything is ready." "Thank you Ms. Roback." "Just give us a few minutes to get dressed." "What are you talking about Ben?" "Susan, why don't you show Meg her surprise and we'll meet you outside." After they left Ben and Jonathan were escorted to a separate room as the other guests were taken to the private garden.

It was almost sunset when Ben, dressed in an off-white suit, shirt and tie and casual loafers, joined the minister at the edge of the beautiful cliff side garden. Susan appeared shortly afterwards, smiled at Ben and stood at the Minister's side. Seconds later soft Balinese wedding music started to play as Jonathan led Meg toward Ben. She was wearing an ankle length white-lace strapless cotton dress and carrying a bouquet of wild white orchids. Her black thick hair was long and flowing, with one side tucked softly behind her ear with a beautiful single baby orchid.

When they reached the makeshift altar, Jonathan turned and kissed Meg softly on the cheek, presented her hand to Ben, then took his position at Ben's side. The minister smiled at the couple and recited a traditional Balinese wedding prayer, then asked Ben and Meg to declare their love in their own words. Meg turned to Susan and handed her the flowers before taking Ben's hands.

Ben smiled, softly rubbed the back of her hands with his thumbs and stared into her beautiful blue eyes for a few seconds before speaking. "Meg, this past year has taught me more about Love than I ever knew existed. When you first came into my life, I thought I understood what love meant but I was wrong. It wasn't until that love was tested, more than once, did I realize what a true gift it really is. What we share is stronger and more powerful than anything in this world. Meg, you've made me love in a way I never thought I could and its inspired me to live every second of my life not just go through it. You make me believe in love and I'll never let anyone or anything take that away from us. I love you Meg, with all of my heart and soul." Ben turned toward Jonathan and took her ring, then faced her again and placed it on Meg's finger saying, "Take this ring as my sign of love and fidelity."

Meg took a deep breath, wiped the tears that were falling down her cheeks and began to place the ring on Ben's finger saying, "Ben, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. I never imagined finding the kind of love we share. It completes me in ways nothing, and no one, ever has. Before I fell in love with you, I never truly understood what it meant to be someone's Soul Mate, but now I do. What we share is more passionate, honest and fulfilling than any relationship I've ever known. We may not know what the future holds but I am sure that we'll face it together. I love you Ben, with every part of my heart and soul."

The minister smiled saying, "Now that you've declared you're love, I would like to pronounce you husband and wife. I invite everyone to join me in congratulating Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Evans." Their friends and family responded in cheers and applause as Ben pulled Meg into his arms and kissed her.

As they moved to the outdoor reception area, they all received a glass of Champagne for Jonathan's toast. For Meg it was a glass of Ginger Ale. "Ben, Meg, I want to wish you all the happiness and love you both deserve. I know you both will protect and nurture it now and during the years ahead. Ben, I'm sure Fiona is very happy that you found the kind of love that she always wanted for you. Meg, welcome to the family. I couldn't ask for a more caring and loving daughter. Congratulation to you both."

The reception area was beautifully located in a cliff side garden and surrounded by wild flowers and Palm trees. There was a long Teak table, set beneath a Balinese pergola with hanging ceramic bell lamps, containing colorful place settings and baskets of fresh fruit. Shortly after dinner, Ben and Meg said good night and returned to their very secluded Bali Lo pavilion.

The entire stone pathway surrounding the hideaway and pool area was completely illuminated by six-foot bamboo torches and the interior was romantically candlelit. Meg wrapped her arms around Ben's neck, raised up on her toes and kissed his lips saying, "This is so romantic. Are we only here for the night?" "Not a chance, Jonathan booked the entire week for everyone else and two weeks just for us." Meg smiled and hugged him as tightly as she could. "In that case, I don't want to waste a minute of this. Why don't you wait here while I get changed."

"Wait." Ben gently grabbed her arm and pulled her back toward him then leaned down and kissed her as passionately as he could. Seconds later, Meg broke away from his mouth saying, "If you keep that up, I won't be able to show you my surprise". "Well, in that case don't be long."

Less than an hour later Ben, dressed in a dark blue silk robe and matching boxers, stood on the open air deck watching the ocean waves breaking against the shore and getting lost in the images of Meg standing in front of him when he recited his wedding vows. He looked at the star filled sky and offered up a silent prayer. "Thank you God for bringing Meg and the best part of our love into my life. I never thought life could feel so complete and I promise that I will do whatever I need to in order to protect what we have."

"I hope I didn't lose your interest." Ben turned and smiled when he saw Meg, dressed in a floor length white silk laced negligee, standing in the bedroom doorway. "You will never lose my interest." He walked slowly toward her and cupped her face in his hands saying, "I love you Mrs. Evans". Before she could respond he leaned down and softly kissed her lips. "I love you too, Mr. Evans. I can't thank you enough for everything you did to make this day so special." "Meg, I plan on spending the rest of my life making all our dreams comes true." "Oh, before I forget I have a very special wedding gift for you." Ben smiled and pulled her to his mouth kissing her again before responding. "Well, don't keep me waiting."

Meg walked over to a nearby table, picked up an unmarked envelope and handed it to him. "Take a look". He withdrew the contents, which appeared to be a black and white photograph. "She's beautiful isn't she?" "Oh my God Meg, is this our baby?" "She sure is. I would love to name her after your mother and mine, if that's okay with you. Fiona Emily Evans." Ben wrapped his arms around Meg and spun her around, kissing her as passionately as he could. After he lowered her to her feet he said, "I thought I couldn't be happier after you recited your vows but I was wrong. She's beautiful Meg and so are you. I love her name and I think we should call her Em for short".

Before she could respond, Ben scooped her into his arms, carried her into the bedroom and lowered her to her feet at the side of the bed. Staring into her eyes and without saying a word, his fingers slid under the thin silk straps of the negligee and slowly pulled them down her arms until the gown dropped to the floor. He stood for a few seconds admiring her naked beauty before placing one hand gently at the side of her neck while moving his other hand to the middle of her back and lowering onto the beautiful Balinese four-poster bed.

Stepping away he stripped off the silk robe and boxers, then laid on the bed at her side. As he placed one arm above her head and the other across her stomach he whispered, "I love you Meg Evans." "I love you Ben Evans and I always will".

Ben covered her mouth with his, moving back and forth from her lower lip to the top softly sucking. Hearing her soft moans, he moved his hand slowly down her neck to her aching breasts and began a gentle massage. "Oh Ben, I love the way you make me feel. Please touch me." Hearing her pleas, he moved his hand from her breast over her soft stomach toward her aching need. "Oh God Ben, you're making me so hot. Don't stop please!"

He moved his hands to the side of her face and pulled her toward his lips. "I can't believe what you do me and I can't wait any longer to make love." After kissing her as passionately as he could, he slid her beneath him and moved between her legs, while resting on his forearms. Within one smooth action he began making love and slowly increased the pace of his movements as her moans grew more urgent.

Sensing she was nearing the edge he leaned down close to her ear and whispered, "I love you Meg". "Ben, I want you so much!" "I'm here my love." After a few more minutes, Ben's back arched feeling the release they both desired.

Seconds later he collapsed at her side and gently pulled Meg to his chest, wrapping his arms tightly around her sweat-drenched back. They lay silent until their breathing relaxed, enjoying the completeness they both felt. Meg softly stroked his chest with her fingers saying, "I love you so much Ben". "I love you too Meg, with everything that I am. Every time we make love it's like the first." She snuggled closer against his chest and smiled saying, "Do you promise that we'll live happily ever after?"

Before responding he rubbed his hand slowly up and down her back then kissed the top of her head. "Well, I was never one for Fairytale endings but I can promise you that as long as we share this strong loving connection we can handle anything life has in store for us." Meg gently moved away from his chest and kissed his lips then said, "Well, maybe we should work a little harder at keeping that connection".

The End

Soul Mates Footnote

My inspiration for Ben and Meg's wedding site came from Clive Robertson's actual wedding and honeymoon site. I read about this island in Architectural Digest a year before he traveled there but I didn't send away for a brochure until I learned about Clive and Libby's wedding. My hope is that my hubby and I get to spend a week at this very romantic hideaway someday. I apologize for not having a scanner so I could share the pictures of this paradise with you all. But if you would like to see some pics go to this site "http://www.neckerisland.com"

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