~ 1 ~
1978/Chicago, IL
He was a handsome man. Or at least he might have been if not for the sick fear reflected in his grey eyes and the cold sweat plastering the dark hair to his forehead.
"Please" he begged hoarsely. "Leave my family out of this"
The young man standing before him shook his head slightly, keeping his gleaming revolver on the ashen faced woman in the white lab coat, clutching two young girls to her. She stared back at him, unnerved by his physical beauty -- his pale skin and curly blond hair gave him an unearthly angelic appearance -- but the merciless blue eyes gazing dispassionately at her had nothing in common with heaven.
"It's too late now, John" the young man said softly, glancing over her shoulder at the man standing in the doorway of the laboratory. "If you had closed down the project and turned over the data like you were supposed to, I wouldn't have had to come for it myself. But then," he said, a cold smile curving perfect, cruel lips. " I wouldn't have had the opportunity to meet your brilliant wife. And how fortunate to have your lovely daughters visiting you at work today" His low voice was harsh with sarcasm.
A movement caught his eye and he quickly looked back to find himself facing the mother who despite her terror had placed herself , outmatched and unarmed, squarely between the dangerous young man and her daughters huddled behind her. Her disheveled hair and tearstained face belied the determination in her eyes.
The young man tilted his head slightly and arched an eyebrow in amazement as he sensed the intensity of the emotions raging from her small frame. The young man was intrigued. He sensed her *fear * but also *fierceness*selfless passion*protectiveness* -- a combination he had never encountered before and it made him pause.
She leaned toward the young man and in a voice low enough for only him to hear she whispered vehemently, "Kill me, take me, do anything you want with me, just let the girls go." He looked at the young girls. The older dark haired one had her head down and was holding tightly onto her younger sister. The younger one, her attitude an unmistakable mirror of her mother's, looked back at him with similarly determined eyes.
He snorted derisively. "I don't care about you or your useless offspring. I'm here to get the files on your research"
"How do you know about my project?" she demanded, her heart heavy with the betrayal she already suspected. "It's heavily classified ....."
A mirthless bark of laughter interrupted her. "Yes. Top Secret. Classified by some "government agency" you've never met, no doubt."
His icy gaze swung back to the man still frozen in the doorway watching helplessly. "John," he chided him sarcastically. "I thought you shared all your dirty little secrets with your wife." John's face was pale, his breathing labored. He looked over to his wife, his eyes pleading with her for understanding. "Jana, please, I swear I didn't know...."
Grimacing with impatience, the young man lunged forward with unbelievable swiftness and grabbed the youngest girl by the arm, pulling her up against him. Pinning her arm behind her, he put the gun to her head. "I will ask you only one more time -- where are the files?"
Suddenly, he was blindsided by the mother who had launched herself at him . Without thinking, reacting solely on reflex and training, he fired at the body hurtling toward him.
The youngest girl screamed and threw herself onto her mother as she crumpled to the floor. As the dark haired sister ran to her shocked father for comfort, the younger girl gently gathered her mother into her arms, watching in horror as a crimson stain began to rapidly violate the pristine white lab coat.
Numbly, she raised tear-filled eyes to the killer still standing motionless above her. Desperately she searched his impassive face for a reason, an explanation, but instead found herself staring into the depths of his soulless ice blue eyes. Refusing to back down, she raised her trembling chin and defiantly met his eyes and for a split second saw a flash of -- surprise? respect? -- then abruptly, he turned away, dismissing her.
"If you want to protect what remains of your family, you'll shut down the project and turn over the files" he said in a flat, emotionless voice. The young man walked out of the lab, brushing unconcernedly by John, still standing in the doorway, his arms tight around his sobbing daughter.
Once in his car, he picked up the phone and tapped in a number.
"Done" he said. "No, he's still alive but I assure you he is broken -- he's not a threat to us." As he listened, his lips drew together in a thin line and he ran his hand irritably through his blond mane. "Believe me on this," he said, his eyes narrowing as his low voice took on a harsh edge. "It didn't go exactly as planned but worked out even better. No one will suspect that the female was really the target all along." He put the car into gear and swiftly drove away.
Inside the lab, John hung up the phone. He turned toward his youngest daughter, still kneeling on the floor, silently rocking back and forth as she tenderly held her mother's now lifeless form.
"Sweetheart. The police are on their way." When he didn't get a response, he stepped closer, reaching out for her shoulder. As she raised her head to look at him, he was hit by the full force of the accusation in her brilliant green eyes. It froze his hand in mid-air. As he slowly lowered it, he let it brush against her mass of auburn curls. "I'm so sorry. I swear I didn't know" he said softly, his voice heavy with guilt and grief, knowing it would be the last time she would ever allow him to touch her. As she knelt on the floor, Sloan shut his voice out of her mind. Her father was as dead to her as her mother.
~ 2 ~
1998/Los Angeles
"Sloan? Are you all right?" The concern in the soft voice and the gentle hand on her shoulder abruptly brought Sloan Parker back to the present. She looked up into the worried face of her good friend Ed Tate. Close behind and equally concerned was Tom.
As usual, Tom was standing nearly motionless, his handsome features noncommittal, but as attuned to him as she was, Sloan could feel his agitation.
Sloan put the small framed picture of her sister back on the mantle. As she brushed an errant curl from her face, she took a deep breath to steady herself. Straightening her slim shoulders, she turned to face the two men who were going to great pains not to appear to hover over her. Sloan smiled and tried to brush off their inquiring concern.
"Oh it's just that I hate having to pack everything up and move from this place -- I love it so." she said, thinking to herself that she was being truthful in that aspect. As she looked around the cozy, bright apartment now filled with moving boxes, she felt a pang of regret that she might never be back. But with the additional security needed to keep the Team safe because of Lewis's recent escape, they had all agreed that it would be easier for Dr. Atwood to provide protection for them in one of his agency safe houses.
Ed could tell something serious was bothering her, but he respected her privacy and knew her well enough to know that she would tell him when she was ready.
"Why don't you go across the street to The Bakery and have a cup of coffee" Ed suggested. He nodded toward the personal items remaining on the mantel. "Tom and I can finish up here and then we'll come join you"
When it looked as if Sloan would try to argue, Ed pointedly picked up her coat and held it out for her as Tom scooped up her purse from the couch. Both men hesitated as they saw the familiar determined lift of her chin, but suddenly she smiled and threw up her hands in mock surrender.
"OK, OK! I get the hint" she said laughing.
As Sloan slipped her arms into the coat Ed held and shrugged it on, Tom appeared at her side with her purse which he looped onto her shoulder for her. She turned toward him, her marvelous green eyes still holding a shadow of sadness. Tom reached up and gently cupped her face with one hand. She smiled in recognition of this special sign of affection from him and turned her face slightly to plant a tiny kiss in his palm. She was rewarded by a shy smile and a surge of *warmth*affection* from him.
"Don't take too long " she said and Tom felt *sadness*fear* at odds with the cheerful smile on her face.
As he turned away from the door, he noticed Ed's worried look. Tom tilted his head slightly catching his emotions of "love*sadness*concern* -- these linked to Sloan. He realized that Ed, in his own way, had also sensed Sloan's troubled state of mind despite her reassuring words. Perhaps, he thought, Ed might be able to help him understand Sloan's behavior. Knowing how uncomfortable humans were around his species' ability to sense emotions, Tom quickly composed his features as he walked over to the fireplace where Ed leaned his tall, lanky form.
As Ed looked down into Tom's solemn face, he was struck again by how simultaneously human and non-human members of the New Species were. Over the past months, Ed had come to think of Tom as just another guy. But there were times when his -- otherworldliness -- for lack of a better word, just plain weirded him out. It's hard enough to accept someone stronger and smarter (and in this case, shorter, Ed noted with some small degree of smugness) but that spooky ability the Dominants had of being able to recognize people by their "emotional imprint" or sense what emotions people were feeling made Ed distinctly uncomfortable.
And the exchange he had just witnessed between Sloan and Tom -- what was THAT all about he wondered irritably. Recently, he'd noticed Tom touching Sloan's face in that particular way quite often.
"....Ed?" Tom began hesitantly, unsure of how to broach the subject to Ed. "Can I ask your advice about females?"
Ed blinked. For a moment, he thought he had heard Tom asking his advice on.....
"Females?" Ed repeated stupidly.
Tom nodded, standing quietly, expectantly in front of him. As Ed saw the earnest curiosity reflected in those unblinking eyes he realized that as incongruous as it was, Tom seemed to think that Ed would have all the answers.
"You're asking the wrong guy" Ed said running his hand nervously through his rumpled brown hair. Seeing Tom's unchanged expression and unwavering gaze still on him, Ed jammed has hands awkwardly into his jeans pockets and pushed away from the mantel. "I'm a real lab rat. The only thing with curves I've had my hands on lately are couple of good looking Erlenmeyer Flasks."
A puzzled look came over Tom's face, then as realization dawned on him as to where Ed thought Tom's questions were headed, a smile twitched the corners of his mouth. Looking away, he quickly composed himself and turned to face Ed who was walking toward him with a small packing box.
"Ummm...yes. Well, I'd of course appreciate your help in any area, Ed, but what I need right now is just some human male insight into understanding human female behavior."
'Oh" Ed said, letting out the breath he didn't know he was holding. As he stood at the mantel where Tom was carefully wrapping the remaining items in tissue, Ed could feel himself blushing. Glancing quickly at the other man out of the corner of his eye, he was sure he detected a glint of humor in those otherwise serious eyes.
"Yeah, well. Human female behavior... that's easy to answer" Ed said confidently. Seeing the inquiring arch of Tom's eyebrow, Ed said simply, "There's no understanding human females -- period"
Tom frowned and stared unblinkingly at Ed. Ed laughed and urged Tom to read him. "I'm not pulling your leg, man" he assured him. Tom tilted his head, and sensed that Ed indeed meant what he said.
"Even Sloan?" he asked. Ed nodded his head as he took the tissue wrapped items from Tom and packed them carefully in the last open box.
"But she's so different from other human females I've met" Tom protested, his normally soft voice, rising. "She's a brilliant scientist -- a logical, analytical thinker." This time it was Ed's turn to lift an inquiring eyebrow. "So?" Tom's fingers fluttered in consternation as he gestured. "Why are human females so much more difficult to understand?" Well, so much for the Dominant's superior intellect, Ed thought smiling to himself.
"Look Tom, I'm no authority in this area by any means. All I can tell you is that from my experience, females are a constant surprise. " Ed finished taping the box and stood up to face Tom who was now standing quietly, his face reflecting his disappointment.
"The thing about Sloan though, is that while you might not know what she is going to do, you will always know why"
Ed picked up has jean jacket and thrust himself into it. He noticed that his last remark had piqued Tom's curiosity and he had his full attention. As he tossed Tom's black jacket to him, he looked at Tom appraisingly and decided to continue.
"Sloan has an unwavering personal integrity. Her sense of right and wrong never changes. It's what guides her in the choices she makes, the battles she fights -- the people she loves"
Tom nodded thoughtfully as he zipped up his jacket. He remembered when he had been captured by his own mother and brutally tortured for information and then again when he had been drugged, caged and held as a bargaining chip by Attwood's former boss. Both times, he knew without a doubt, that as impossible as it seemed, Sloan would come. Even though she was inexperienced and up against overwhelming odds, he knew she would not give up until she found him.
"C'mon" Ed said, clapping a friendly hand on Tom's shoulder. "We're finished here."
Focusing on Ed's emotional imprint, Tom released *gratitude*affection*.
Ed froze, a startled look of surprise on his face. He turned toward Tom, as a slow smile spread across his face. "Sloan told me you could do that, I just didn't understand...."
Tom nodded, smiling shyly. "I can't do it with everyone -- just people I know. And like."
Ed gave Tom's shoulder an awkward squeeze. "I once questioned if Sloan was lucky to have a friend like you. Right now, with the exception of yours truly, I can't think of a better friend for her than you."
As they turned to walk out the door, Tom glanced up at the tall young man and thought, human males can also be surprising.
~ 3 ~
Walking alongside Ed, Tom was hard pressed to keep up with his long strides. "You seemed worried when Sloan left the apartment. Is something wrong?" he asked.
Ed slowed his pace, frowning slightly as he looked across the street to see Sloan sitting in the coffee shop window.
"Is it about her sister?" Tom offered. "I sensed her turmoil and pain when she was looking at Tory's picture."
"More than just Tory" Ed said, shaking his head slightly. "I know Sloan's mother was killed when she was only ten but she's never talked it. I think something's happened to bring it all back to her -- I just don't know what."
"That would explain the sadness I felt from her," Tom said. "But when she left the apartment, I also felt her fear."
"C'mon, Tom." Ed said, quickening his pace. "We gotta find out what this is all about."
The two men hurried across the street, their differences forgotten as they focused on a way to help the one person most important to them both.
~ 4 ~
With a sigh, Sloan put down the spoon and pushed away the still untouched cup of coffee, now too cold to drink. As she glanced out of the coffee shop window, she caught sight of Ed and Tom crossing the street. She smiled to herself to see them together. Ed, as tall and lanky as when they first met in grad school, his straight brown hair still continually falling into his big brown eyes. He was in the process of trying to grow a beard now -- without much success she thought affectionately.
And then there was Tom. Nearly a head shorter than Ed but with a powerfully compact build and an agile grace that never ceased to amaze her. As he stepped into the coffee shop and walked toward her, Sloan felt her breath catch as his silvery blue eyes sought her out and held her in their intense gaze. She found herself idly wondering if she'd ever get over that little jolt she always felt in the pit of her stomach whenever she saw him. As she noticed his beautiful mouth curve up at the corners, she knew she'd been busted.
"Tom Daniels, how can I play hard to get with you?" she said with mock exasperation.
His warm smile was reflected in his shining eyes as he slid into the booth next to her and automatically reached for her hand with both of his. "You never struck me as someone who liked to play those kind of games, Sloan."
She loved the way he said her name, drawing it out until it was almost two syllables, his soft voice as much a caress as his hands could be. Impulsively, she leaned forward to place a kiss on his cheek. But Tom had turned his head slightly at Ed's approach, and Sloan suddenly found her mouth on Tom's neck, buried in the curve of his jaw.
Abruptly, Tom jerked away and she felt him release a hot flash of *surprise*desire* and just as quickly suppress it. Sloan leaned back, puzzled by the reaction that small gesture had caused in the usually composed man. Avoiding her eyes, Tom self-consciously touched a hand to his neck, smoothing the collar of his black turtle neck into place.
A tiny smile played at the corner of Sloan's mouth as she mentally filed the reaction away. Turning toward Ed, she took the plate of cookies he was balancing on top of the three coffees. Pushing a fresh cup over to Sloan, he settled himself into the booth across from Tom. She smiled her thanks and when she reached for the cream, she found Tom already pouring some into her coffee.
As she looked at the two men sitting across from each other, she noticed something different between them -- an ease and comfort that had not been there before. She wasn't sure what had caused the change but she was happy for it. Nothing had hurt her more than to think that gaining Tom in her life might cost her Ed. Looking at their expectant faces, she realized that they were not going to allow her to brush them off again. She stared down at the table, her fingers nervously folding and unfolding a corner of her napkin. Letting out a shaky breath, Sloan finally spoke aloud the fearsome memory that had crystallized yesterday in Attwood's office.
"I've met Lewis before. He's the man who killed my mother."
~ 5 ~
She looked up to see both men sitting shock still.
"That was over twenty years ago" Ed blurted out. "How could you know ...."
"I was there Ed." Sloan said quietly, fighting to control her shaking voice.
Wordlessly, Tom slipped an arm around Sloan, releasing *calm*support*. As he nestled her closer to him, she looked up gratefully and leaned into him. Ed reached forward, gently taking one of her hands and patting it awkwardly. Sloan blinked back the tears at the unconditional support she felt from these two good friends. Taking a deep breath she began the story she knew she had to share with them both.
"My mother...I hero-worshipped her. She had an extraordinary intellect and a consuming passion for her work." Sloan looked up, her eyes fierce with loyalty to the woman who had loved and inspired her.
Turning to look out the window, Sloan forced herself to continue.
"My step-father had a passion too," she said, her voice taking on a bitterness neither Tom nor Ed had ever heard. "He was Director of Colegrove Laboratories"
Ed let out a low whistle.
"Was he there when it was shut down?" Ed asked. "I always wondered why the top research laboratory in the US would close practically overnight"
Sloan's face was pale but the eyes she turned toward Ed were dark with anger.
"Oh, he was there all right," she said, her voice tight. "Right there in the lab with Tory and I when Lewis shot my mother."
As the tears began spilling from her eyes, Sloan clamped her hand to her mouth to hold back the sobs that were welling up in her throat.
Tom was startled by the storm of emotions pouring from her. *Anger*love*fear*grief* buffeted him with an almost physical force. Tightening his arm around her, he reached over with his other hand and gently cradling her head, brought it to his shoulder. Lowering his head to lean his cheek against her forehead, Tom closed his eyes and focused on her emotional imprint. Gently and patiently, he sorted through the raw feelings, smoothing the hot, rough edges with his soft touch. As they began to diminish in intensity, Tom was able to release *love*caring* to her.
Sitting across from them, Ed was fascinated by the play of emotions he was observing. He had never seen Tom's concentration so purposeful, so controlled. As he watched, he could see Sloan's body begin to relax and knew Tom was in contact with her, guiding her back from that dark place which had haunted her for over twenty years. Ed sighed in relief when she stopped crying and then smiled in wonder as he realized that both Tom and Sloan's breathing were now in sync.
Tom took a deep breath as he slowly raised his head. Looking across the table at Ed, he sensed *relief*gratitude* and smiled back in agreement.
Ed slid a glass of water over to Sloan as she leaned back in the booth, Tom's arm still protectively around her. Her pallor worried him but he could tell by the determined look in her eyes that she needed to finish her story.
"It was a weekend and he brought Tory and me to the lab, to surprise Mother. Unfortunately, Lewis had also decided it was a good time to catch her alone. By the time we walked in, he had a gun pointed at her and they were arguing loudly. Tory and I ran to her but my step-father stopped in the doorway. We turned and screamed at him to help us but he just stood there, staring at Lewis."
" I didn't understand what was happening," Sloan said, her voice hoarse with emotion. " I just knew that Mother was in danger and he wouldn't protect her."
Sloan's hand shook as she picked up the glass of water, the remembrance of her step-father's betrayal still bitter and painful in her. She took a sip of water, trying to ease the ache in her throat.
"But she was so brave," Sloan said proudly, her eyes shining with love and admiration. "She stood up to Lewis. She protected us."
"She loved you both very much, Sloan," Ed said, reaching over to squeeze her hand. "I'm sure she would have done anything for you." Pain flashed across her face as Sloan jerked her hand from Ed's grasp.
"She did Ed. When Lewis grabbed me to force her to cooperate, she threw herself at him and he killed her instead of me."
Ed fell back against the booth in stunned disbelief. All these years he'd known Sloan, she had never given him any indication of the scope of the tragedy she'd endured. He also began to understand the closeness that Sloan had developed with her mentor Dr. Anne Coulter. Ed could see now, that Dr. Coulter had been a mother figure to Sloan as well as a mentor and friend. For Sloan to lose both women to violent death was even more inconceivable. Ed looked at Sloan with renewed respect for her determination and inner strength.
~ 6 ~
"Sloan, why didn't you tell me about Lewis sooner?" Tom asked as he stroked her tear streaked face.
"I didn't realize the connection myself until yesterday morning, when we were at Walter's office to talk about moving to the safe house."
"What are you talking about?" Ed interjected. "Remember when you left right away because you wanted to start packing?" Tom asked. Ed nodded, realizing that Tom and Sloan had stayed behind to hear more about Lewis' escape. "Walter's boss had given him her file on Lewis. After looking through it, I saw some information I thought would be helpful to Mark, so I left to find him."
"I picked up the folder then," Sloan said, pausing as she remembered leafing through the sketchy reports and grainy surveillance photos until she saw one of a young beardless Lewis -- terrifying and beautiful -- pale skin, curly blond hair and soulless ice blue eyes.
"You have no idea what that was like for me to see his face as he looked twenty years ago," Sloan said her voice shaking as she remembered how suddenly, her nightmares had come crashing down on her. "To suddenly realize that my nightmares were real and that the faceless monster who killed my mother now had a face and a name -- Lewis's"
Sloan looked at Tom, and seeing anger and something much darker reflected in his eyes, she placed her hand gently on his chest. "Lewis has had a brutal impact on both our lives but I won't let him take away what we have together now," she swore vehemently. "Promise me you won't either."
Sloan could see the effort it took Tom to control the rage growing within him. But as he covered her hand on his chest with his, she saw the hardness in his blue-grey eyes begin to ease.
"Well, talk more about it later, Tom," she promised in a low voice. Turning to Ed, Sloan smiled as she reached across the table and warmly squeezed his hand.
"Thanks for caring so much, Ed," she said her eyes bright with emotion. "You're the best."
Ed ducked his head in embarrassment but not before Sloan saw a brilliant smile warm his face.
~ 7 ~
"The only thing that puzzles me, is why Lewis didn't say anything to me when he had me at his hideout," Sloan said, as they walked back to her apartment.
"Maybe he didn't recognize you," Ed offered. "After all, you were only ten at the time."
Tom shook his head. "Lewis knew. He might not have remembered but he would have discovered the connection when he looked into Sloan's history."
At Sloan's surprised look, Tom smiled. "My attachment to you is a matter of much interest to Lewis," he explained. "He would have gone to great lengths to find out everything about you." As they followed Sloan into her apartment, Ed turned to Tom and quietly asked why Lewis wouldn't have used that information against Sloan when he was interrogating her
Tom shrugged. "He would never give away any information he didn't have to. Perhaps he thinks it will be useful at a later time." Sloan looked around for a place to drop her purse and coat, gave up and tossed them onto a nearby stack of boxes. Turning around, she noticed Ed and Tom standing uncertainly by the door. She smiled tiredly, and walked over toward them, making shooing gestures with her hands.
"Go. Both of you. I'll be fine by myself tonight." she assured them. "Atwood has men posted all over the place." Opening the door, she turned to give Ed a hug then a gentle push into the hallway. When she turned to give Tom a hug, she was surprised to see him hesitate, glance at Ed, then self-consciously, but determinedly, lean forward and gave her a quick kiss.
As she shut the door and leaned back against it, Sloan smiled and shook her head. "You're full of surprises, Tom Daniels,".
~ 8 ~
As Walter Attwood shut down his computer and tided up his desk, he glanced around his old office and smiled in satisfaction. It was good to be back in charge of the Whitney Research Laboratories. And now, with the departure of his former boss, he had been able to secure a safe house large enough to accommodate the Team as well as Ray and his family. If all had gone well, everyone would be moved in today.
He wondered briefly where his former boss had gone and if she had kept the incongruous code name of Felicity. Walter remembered an opportunity he once had to uncover her real identity. He had hesitated for only a second before deciding to pass, reminding himself that sometimes you don't want to turn a rock over just to see what might crawl out from under it. Walter repressed a shudder at the memory of her recent self-centered, ambitious machinations that had almost cost him his life as well as those of the team. She had shut down his laboratory and sabotaged the tenuous Peace Talks between him and the head of the Dominant Resistance with the sole purpose of forcing him to help her play both sides against the middle. And to ensure his cooperation, she had arranged for Tom Daniels to be kidnapped.
Walter grimaced angrily, the bile rising in his throat as he remembered the video she had sent the team showing Tom barely alive, drugged, half-naked and caged like a laboratory animal. But his anger over Tom's treatment was nothing compared to the cold fury he saw in Sloan's eyes. Her voice shook with barely restrained rage as she voiced her denial of what she saw. Walter was sure that if he and Ray hadn't physically detained her, that she would have left then and there to start searching for Tom.
So Walter had made his deal with the devil. He had contacted powerful sources in the government that would guarantee Felicity's safety by eliminating the covert government agency she had reported to as well as the faction of Dominants they were working with. In exchange, Walter got the location of where Tom was being held.
But as usual, Felicity's information didn't come free and clear. He remembered standing by her limo and watching her impassive face as she told him that the situation had changed. Her superiors had discovered she was holding Tom and had decided he would be valuable to them for testing.
"So whatever you and your little Team decide to do, Walter, you'd best do it quickly. When my superiors find out about my ... arrangement ... with you, they may decide to get rid of the 'evidence' they're holding."
And with that, she had disappeared from view as the dark limo window slid up and the car sped away. The sudden buzz of his intercom startled Walter of out his musing. "Dr. Attwood, I'm sorry to disturb you, but there is a young lady here who says she has an appointment with you. She says she is Dr. Parker's sister."
~ 9 ~
"Thank you for seeing me on such short notice, Dr. Attwood. I'm Sloan's sister, Victoria Parker."
Walter smiled politely at the tall, attractive young woman who faced him, confidently holding out her hand. As he shook it, he looked closely at her and noticed the concern in her grey eyes and the general air of suppressed exhaustion about her.
"I was just on my way to dinner, Ms. Parker. Perhaps you'll save me from dining alone?"
"I will if you call me Tory" she said, returning his smile.
"It would be a pleasure, Tory." he said offering her his arm. "And please, call me Walter."
As they walked down the sidewalk together, Walter took advantage of the opportunity to find out about the family that Sloan spoke of so infrequently.
"I'm glad to finally meet you, Tory. Sloan's spoken of you but not often. She said you're a nurse -- are you at a hospital in Pasadena?"
"No, I live in Chicago. My dad stayed there after he retired. And after I divorced, I moved in with him."
Walter glanced over at Tory. He could see no resemblance to Sloan -- neither in her dark hair and grey eyes nor her tall, extremely athletic build. He had caught her reference to 'my dad' and wondered if she and Sloan were sisters only through their parent's marriage. As they walked into the little courtyard restaurant, Tory noticed that Walter guided her to a table in the back and it suddenly occurred to her that he was as anxious to hear about Sloan as she was to talk to him about her. They made small talk over the menus as they ordered, and Tory could tell that he was impatient for her to reveal her urgent reason, yet was graciously allowing her to broach the subject.
As she took a sip of wine, she looked at Walter and sighed tiredly. "I hope I'm not imposing on you, but I got the impression from Sloan that she found you to be someone she had not only come to trust, but to consider a friend."
Tory noticed the pleased look that came into his kind eyes as he nodded his head.
"I took over Dr. Coulter's position when she was killed and I expected a great deal of resentment from Sloan but I guess after all we've been though, she's been able to see beyond that and accept my help and friendship."
"Sloan mentioned Anne's death ... and that it's still unsolved?"
Walter nodded and his guarded look warned Tory away from any further questions. Their conversation was halted for a few minutes with the arrival of their dinners. Tory poked at her pasta rather half-heartedly and finally, with a determined tilt of her chin that suddenly reminded Walter of Sloan, Tory put down her fork.
"Walter, the reason I wanted to see you was to ask your help. I don't know what Sloan's told you about our family but she hasn't spoken to dad in over 20 years."
"Since her mother was killed?"
Tory nodded, relieved that Sloan already shared that with him.
"She blames him and despite my pleas, she won't believe that he loves her -- has always loved her -- and needs her acceptance. I've tried to get them together in the past, but Sloan can be so stubborn at times!"
"I hear you on that," Walter said with such feeling that Tory had to laugh. As he watched the laughter brighten her eyes and ease the weariness of her face, he wondered again, what had brought such profound sadness to her.
"So what can I do to help, Tory?"
"The reason we're in town is for dad to see another specialist." Tory swallowed with great difficulty but her grey eyes remained clear and resolute. "None of the doctors he's seen give him much time and I feel that if I can't get him and Sloan together now, it will be too late."
"Walter, I need you to talk to Sloan, help her see the importance of forgiveness and acceptance. She needs to talk to him -- as much for herself as for him. And I have a feeling she'll listen to you."
"Why me, Tory? Why not Ed? He and Sloan have been close since grad school."
She nodded and idly played with her wine glass. "Too close, from Ed's standpoint." she said without looking up. Walter put down his fork and thoughtfully dabbed his mouth with his napkin.
"I admit they are exceptionally close," Walter ventured carefully. "But I never felt there was anything more to it, at least not now."
Tory made a non-committal 'Oh' and continued to eat her dinner but Walter felt he had answered more than just her question. "I'd still like your help, Walter, if you're willing."
"You can count on it." he said smiling warmly. "Now, how about some dessert?"
"Something chocolate?"
"Dessert doesn't count, unless it's chocolate."
~ 10 ~
The day had been hectic with everyone moving in at once and trying to get settled. Now the safe house was quiet. Ray and his family were asleep upstairs, Walter had called in to say he would be late and Ed had left for the library. Sloan sat cross-legged on her bed, warm and relaxed from a long, hot soak in the bathtub. She brushed her still damp hair, closing her eyes and enjoying the soothing rhythm of the stiff bristles running through her thick hair. As he walked by her partially opened bedroom door, Tom glanced in to see if Sloan was still awake. His eyes quickly adjusted to the darkened interior and he paused as he saw her brushing her hair.
The light from the small table lamp cast a warm glow on her rich auburn colored curls. He had a momentary memory flash of the day Ed's drug therapy had given him a glimpse into the vividness of human perception. As he watched the brush, rippling through her thick silky hair, he slowly touched on that memory and brought it into focus. He allowed his heightened awareness to take in the deep reddish gold of her hair and the dark satiny green of her robe against the creamy softness of her skin. As she tilted her head to the side and slowly ran the brush along the back of her head, he found his gaze moving from the pale column of her neck to the deep V of her loosely belted robe. Sloan opened her eyes and looked across the room, suddenly aware of Tom standing in the doorway. She smiled warmly and continued to brush her hair.
"Want to come in? I wasn't going to sleep yet."
Tom hesitated, unsure of the meaning of her invitation. He edged his way into the room and when she patted the bed, he walked slowly over and gingerly sat down facing her. His eyes were drawn to her hair, gleaming in the soft light, catching highlights of gold and dark amber as she moved her head.
Noticing his fascination with her hair, Sloan grinned mischievously and held the hair brush out to him. As he took it from her, a questioning look on his face, Sloan turned herself around to sit with her back to him.
Arching her back, she leaned her head back and shook her hair, the loose curls brushing suggestively over her shoulders. Tom reached forward slowly, and tentatively ran the brush through her hair a few times.
"That's nice Tom, but you can brush harder" Sloan said in a low voice that sent a little shiver through him. Remembering how Sloan had brushed her own hair, Tom began to alternate his brush strokes with a smoothing stroke from his other hand. The silky feel of her hair under his hands, the fresh soapy scent of her skin and the warmth of her thinly clad body so close to his, slowly merged into a new and unsettling experience which he found oddly stirring. Sighing appreciatively, Sloan stretched and arched her back again. As she rolled her shoulders back, she let her head fall to one side. The movement caused the neckline of her robe to slip a little, exposing a lightly freckled shoulder. Lowering his hand from her hair, Tom gently ran his fingertips across the freckles as if testing to see whether they would brush off her shoulder. Slowly Sloan leaned back, grazing her back against chest. As she turned her head, she found that he had leaned forward and his face was now a hairs breath away from hers.
"Umm....that felt wonderful," she said softly, her eyes moving down his face to his mouth, so close that she could feel his breath on her cheek. She saw his lips part and felt a shiver run through him as the brush slid from his other hand.
She could feel the growing heat of his body where they touched and the wonderful heady scent of him filled her nostrils. Sliding his hand from her shoulder, to caress her neck, he lowered his mouth onto hers. Murmuring her approval, Sloan turned in his arms and leaning into him, firmly pushed him back onto the bed. Breaking from his kiss, she brushed her lips across his cheek, exhaled a slow sigh into his ear and kissed it lightly. Remembering his earlier response to her accidental kiss on his neck, Sloan sensuously moved her mouth down to the curve of his jaw. She could hear his breathing grow rough and uneven. As her lips found the sensitive pulse point under his jaw, Tom threw back his head and groaned deeply in his throat. Sloan could feel his entire body tense and his hands grip her painfully, as she pressed her mouth against his erratically throbbing pulse. Opening her mouth to taste him, she suddenly felt him release *desire*need* with an almost physical force. Snapping her head back in surprise, Sloan found herself looking into silvery blue eyes grown dark with passion. The intensity she saw there almost took her breath away. Lightly stroking the still pulsing spot on his neck, Sloan was secretly pleased to feel Tom jerk involuntarily, and hear his sharp intake of breath.
"So," she said seductively running her fingertips along the curve of his jaw. "Can I assume I just discovered one of your better erogenous zones?"
"More than that," Tom said, his voice hoarse and his breathing still labored. With incredible self-control, he gently pushed her away from him. Laying on his side, his head on the pillow next to hers, Tom nervously trailed his fingers along her shoulder as Sloan looked questioningly at him.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you this before," he said haltingly. "But I just didn't know how." Sensing *confusion*worry* dampening her passion, Tom leaned forward and gently kissed her cheek. "It's not you, Sloan," he assured her, stroking the place he'd just kissed. "It's about me." "Among Dominants, there are those who have the ability to make an emotional connection and become partner-couples."
Seeing Sloan's surprised look, Tom nodded. "It is rare, but when it happens, the male establishes the courtship through touching."
Sloan nodded again, as understanding began to dawn. "Starting with casual touching" she said, picking up the explanation. "And progressing to more frequent and more personal touching, right?"
At Tom's nod, she took his hand and placed it along the side of her face. "And how personal is this touching?" Sloan asked softly, already knowing the answer but needing to hear it from Tom. Looking steadily at her, he answered in a low voice, "I would touch only you this way."
Reaching her hand up to cup his face, Sloan arched her eyebrow and playfully asked, "And what if I touched another male this way?"
"I hope you would not." he said simply, but hurt flashed across his face and his eyes searched hers, seeking reassurance. Immediately Sloan regretted her teasing question.
"Never, Tom," she assured him warmly, sliding her arms around his neck as she pushed him back and rolled onto him.
"Only you," she whispered, as she tenderly kissed his lips. "Ever, only you." Tom wrapped his arms around her, his strong hands stroking her back and hips. He leaned into her kiss, gently exploring the soft warmth of her mouth. He could sense *love*tenderness* pouring from her and was amazed at the sensations as they flowed over him. As her mouth released him from their kiss, Sloan lifted her head and sighed contentedly, gently stroking his neck where his pulse was still beating strongly.
"Tom, tell me what it means for you to let me touch you here." She could see Tom's Adam's apple move as he swallowed nervously and glanced away.
"Only partner-couples touch each other there" he said quietly. Looking back at her and seeing her tilt her head questioningly, Tom reached up to tenderly touch her cheek.
"I'm sorry, Sloan." he said regretfully. "I didn't mean to put you in this awkward position. You had no idea what your actions meant to me -- I assure you I don't hold you to anything."
"Let me guess," she said, a smile curving her lips and a soft seductive tone in her voice. "By my actions, have I asked to establish a partner-coupling with you?"
At Tom's mute nod, Sloan leaned forward and deliberately pressed her lips against his pulse. Moving her warm mouth against his skin, she slowly kissed her way up to his ear as she pressed her body hard against his.
"So," she said, breathing the word across his ear, causing him to groan softly and tense his arms around her again. "Show me how you say yes."
~ 11 ~
Giving himself up completely to the need and desire that had been building in him, Tom growled fiercely as he rolled over, dragging her underneath him. He swiftly dropped his head to her neck, urgently pressing his mouth, hot and wet along the curve of her jaw. The feel of her soft body under his, the smell and taste of her on his lips inflamed his senses and sent heat and fire coursing through him. Sloan gasped at the assault, desperately clutching at his shirt as she fought to catch her breath. His body was hard and heavy on hers, pinning her down and making her struggles futile. As his mouth moved roughly on her neck shoving her head back, he wedged his knee between her legs, forcing his body between them. His once gentle mouth now ravaged her neck and his arm tightened painfully around her, lifting her and arching her body up against him. As he moved to the pulse point at the curve of her jaw, she felt his teeth rake her skin as if he were preparing to bite her. Sloan panicked. She had never felt so completely helpless before. And the way he had her head forced back with his open mouth at her neck was suddenly frightening and feral. Her entire body stiffened as a whimper of fear was forced from her throat. Her sudden *fear*panic* were as sharp as a physical blow to Tom. He jerked his head up, his breathing still harsh and ragged. Forcing his mind and body to refocus, he found himself looking into brilliant green eyes dark with apprehension and he realized she was afraid....afraid of him.
With incredible tenderness, he lowered her body and gently laid his head on her breasts. As he lay motionless, his breathing labored and painful, he listened to her heart, beating like a tiny frightened thing and it reminded him how very fragile these humans are. Sloan could only guess at the control it had taken for Tom to stop just then. She didn't know what had possessed him, but she did not hesitate to reach out to comfort him. As she gently kissed his hair, she wrapped him in her arms, hugging him tightly.
"Sloan," he said softly, his voice muffled against her. "I didn't mean to frighten you ... hurt you."
"But you didn't hurt me, Tom. I know you. You would never hurt me." Sloan slowly stroked his trembling body. "You did frighten me a little," she said truthfully "But it was only because I didn't know what was happening."
Tom sighed heavily. "I wish I knew myself." Pushing himself away from her, he rolled onto his back to stare at the ceiling, sighing again. "Except for partner-couples, sex for Dominants is an emotionally detached act -- purely physical and based on need. There is only a sense of completion, no sharing, no intimacy" Tom turned his face to her, his eyes reflecting his sadness and frustration. "When I said that until I met you, I'd never known love, I meant that in both human and Dominant terms."
"I don't understand, Tom" Sloan said reaching out for him. As he gathered her into his arms, he could sense the cold threads of *confusion*misery* running through her.
"My ability to emotionally connect with you -- love you -- is new for me. Tonight, for the first time, I felt desire as well as need. I couldn't resist it. It overwhelmed me and I lost myself in it. I lost my emotional control." "Sloan, don't you see," he said heavily. "As much as I love you, I can't trust myself not to hurt you. It's just too dangerous to even try."
There was a dead silence and then Tom suddenly felt Sloan's feelings of misery and frustration slip away to be replaced by a rising edge of anger.
"I see." she said an ominous tone to her voice. "So, you've decided for us? No further discussion?" Tom leaned back to look warily down into Sloan's upturned face.
Seeing the tell tale flash in her eyes, he hesitantly continued, "I just don't see what there is to discuss...." Shoving him away, Sloan rolled off the bed, jerked her robe into place and angrily stalked into the bathroom, slamming the door full force behind her. As he lay on the bed in the resounding silence, Tom could feel the waves of anger still coming from Sloan. He couldn't understand why she was mad at him when his intent had only been to protect her. He glanced at the bathroom door and wondered how long she planned on staying in there. Thinking of his previous conversation about females with Ed, Tom sighed and rolled off the bed.
Standing uncertainly near the door, Tom glanced back wistfully at the rumpled bed, then turned to go.
~ 12 ~
Stepping into the darkened hallway, Tom's eyes quickly adjusted in time for him to avoiding colliding into Matt Peterson. The young pajama clad boy was standing quietly in the hall, a glass of milk in one hand and a bag of cookies in the other. He looked solemnly at Tom's face, then glanced behind him into Sloan's bedroom.
"Did you and Dr. Parker argue 'bout somethin'?" he asked curiously.
Tom tilted his head and lifted an eyebrow in surprise. "Why do you ask?"
Matt grinned and dug a cookie out of the bag. "You look the same way Daddy does when Mama's givin' him the blues. Want a cookie?"
Tom dropped down to crouch next to the boy and silently accepted the cookie. He touched lightly on Matt's emotional imprint and only found *interest*curiosity* there. Looking over Tom's shoulder, Matt tried to see further into Sloan's bedroom. "Where's Dr. Parker?" "In the bathroom" "Is she crying?"
"No, just mad"
"Did she lock the door?"
"No, just slammed it"
Matt grinned. "Yeah. I heard that when I was in the kitchen."
Digging out another cookie, he sighed and shrugged in a perfect imitation of his father. "Then you're OK."
"I am?" Tom asked, an amused look easing into his eyes.
Matt nodded sagely, "If Mama's cryin' then Daddy's in deep serious. If she locks the door then it means she doesn't even want to talk 'bout it. But if she just slams the door, then it means she's mad and Daddy needs to let her cool down but he better come and apologize."
Tom's mouth quirked up at the corners at Matt's simplistically clear insights. He nodded his head and asked, "But what if it's not his fault?"
Matt paused, his glass of milk halfway to his mouth. He arched an eyebrow at Tom as if to say, 'So?' Tom laughed softly and reached out to gently pat Matt's shoulder as he rose. Looking down at him, he noticed him nervously shuffle his feet as he looked into the half empty cookie bag.
"Umm. Mr. Daniels...?" he began hesitantly. "My parents probably wouldn't like me wanderin' around at night...."
"Especially in the kitchen?" Tom finished for him, his eyes reflecting his amusement. "Don't worry, Matt, as far as I'm concerned, this meeting never happened."
A wide grin of relief spread over Matt's face and wiping his hand against his pajamas, he made a fist and held it out toward Tom. Uncertain, Tom hesitated for a moment, then decided to mimic his gesture. Matt reached forward and tapped his knuckles against Tom's and gave him a nod.
"Catch ya later, Mr. Daniels." Tom watched him disappear up the stairs, taking them two at a time.
~ 13 ~
Pacing back and forth in the tiny bathroom, Sloan tried to hold onto her anger but it was a losing battle. She knew she had been unfair. Whether by Dominant or human standards, love was a new emotion for Tom. Pausing in front of the bathroom mirror, she ran her hands through her hair to try and bring some semblance of order to the wild riot of curls. As she swept her hair back, she noticed a bruise already starting to form on her neck and could only guess at the bruises she would find on her body tomorrow morning. Yet even knowing the force of his emotions, Sloan was not afraid. She knew as fact that Tom was incapable of harming her -- regardless of what he seemed to think. Leaning against the sink, Sloan thought about Tom and how much she still didn't know about Dominant behavior. Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she found herself smiling.
"Well, Dr. Parker. It looks like you have a new area of research ahead of you." At the sound of a tentative knock at the door, Sloan quickly turned to open it. Finding Tom standing there, she stepped unhesitantly into his outstretched arms, wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.
As she pressed against his chest, she had the curious sensation of something smashing in his shirt pocket. Leaning back, she peered into his pocket and to her amazement found a crumbled Oreo cookie.
"...Tom...?" But his mouth came down on hers, and Sloan decided there were better things to think about.
~ 14 ~
Sloan tried, for the fourth time, to tie her scarf to cover as much of the bruise on her neck as possible. Brushing her hair forward, she smiled to herself as she remembered arguing tenaciously with Tom last night until he finally conceded that there was a possibility he could control his emotions when making love to her.
She knew he still had his doubts and she guessed that his agreement was based more on his trust in her than in himself. 'Well I trust you enough for both of us' she thought giving her scarf one last tweak. Suddenly realizing the time, she swore under her breath and started digging through her closet for a pair of shoes. As Sloan walked into the kitchen, she was momentarily startled by the bustle of activity. Ed and Walter were busy talking and eating breakfast at the table with Grace and Matt. Ray was packing Matt's lunch and Tom was leaning against the counter talking to him. Tom had noticed her immediately and by the time she had greeted everyone and walked over to him, he had poured her coffee and was stirring in a little cream. As he handed her the cup, he reached forward and with his other hand lightly touched her cheek as he said softly, "Nice scarf."
Sloan quirked a smile and thanked him for the coffee, pointedly ignoring his remark. She nodded at Ray and then reached up with her hand and lightly touched Tom's cheek in return before turning to join the others at the table. Ray quietly observed the subtle exchange, and smiled to himself. Glancing at his son, he noticed he was still eating his breakfast.
"Matt, gotta get goin' buddy. The van'll be here any minute to take you to school" There was a suddenly flurry of activity as Matt gulped down the last of his juice, kissed his mother, grabbed his backpack, dashed over to Ray, grabbed his lunch and hugged him.
And then to the complete amazement of everyone, he spun around and threw a playful punch at Tom's stomach. Tom's split second reflexes easily caught his fist and they both grinned at each other.
"Catch you later, Matt"
"Not if I'm fast enough, Mr. Daniels" And he was out the door, running to the waiting van.
"I should be going myself" Tom announced casually, pushing off from the counter. The kitchen was a vacuum of incredulous silence as he walked unconcernedly out the door.
~ 15 ~
Ray sighed and shrugged as he walked over and sat down at the table. "As far as I'm concerned, he's been acting a little strange ever since we rescued him from the Wicked Witch. Ed, what do think? Maybe he's still got something in his system."
"No, he's clean." Ed said emphatically. "Back to 1.6 and his usual disgustingly perfect health."
"Although, I wonder," he said leaning back in his chair, cradling his cup of coffee. "The one day he experienced through human emotions might still be with him in some residual way that he can consciously access."
"What do you think Sloan? Have you noticed any particular change in Tom as far as his ability to express his emotions?" Ed watched in wonder as Sloan sputtered into her cup of coffee and flushed a bright shade of pink.
"Whoa! Well, I'll take that as a yes." he said with a laugh and ducked in time to avoid getting hit by half an English muffin.
"OK, people," Walter interjected, trying to get the situation under control before Ed decided to retaliate. "Ray's got a good point here. Tom is still an unknown quantity in many ways."
Holding his hands up to stop Sloan before she could jump to his defense, Walter assured her he wasn't questioning Tom's loyalty.
"I only mean that there is alot we need to learn about the Dominants in general and what Tom's place is in their culture."
"He's damn important, that's for sure," Ray said nodding his head. "Mark's group wasn't even willing to talk with us until they saw the video of Tom in that cage. And even at that, they were still edgy about dealing with your former boss, Walter"
"We all were. " Walter said heavily looking across the table at Sloan who was already lost in thought, remembering that night.
"Have you had a chance to talk to Tom about it, Sloan?"
Sloan looked up and shook her head. "Not yet. I think he talked to Mark when he was recuperating at their safe house. But you know Tom, he'll talk to us when he's ready and not until then."
At Mark's mention, Walter looked at Ed and asked how he and Mark were getting along. Ed rolled his eyes as he pushed back his chair and stood up to leave with the rest of the group.
"We've reached a truce of sorts. I talk to him only when necessary and he no longer looks at me like a bug he'd like to squash."
Walter chuckled in sympathy. "Cheer up Ed. I understand he's brought in another geneticist to work with you. Maybe you'll have better luck today."
~ 16 ~
Sloan had a lot of work to catch up on and before she knew it, Walter was tapping on her door asking if she'd like to join him for lunch. The offer, while unexpected, was a welcome break from the printouts she'd been studying.
As they settled in at their table and placed their orders, Sloan glanced curiously at Walter. He had seemed preoccupied and uncomfortable all the way to the restaurant and she was at a loss as to why. Reaching across the table, she squeezed his hand and smiled encouragingly. "Come on, Walter. Give it up. What's on your mind?"
Clearing his throat nervously, Walter needlessly rearranged his silverware as Sloan watched, a puzzled expression on her face.
"Is it about Tom?" she prompted. "Or something I'm working on? Or Ed's new project at ..."
"It's about your step-father, Sloan"
Walter watched as the incredulous look on her face was quickly replaced by a hard, closed expression.
"You have no right to pry into my personal life," Sloan said abruptly. As she picked up her purse and rose from the table, Walter reached out to catch her wrist.
"Tory came to me, Sloan. She's concerned and so am I." He could see the doubt and hesitation in her eyes and he pressed his advantage.
"I respect your privacy, you know that. I would never interfere in the decisions you make -- professional or personal -- but as a friend, I would like you to consider a bigger picture here." Sloan searched his face and seeing only kindness and concern in his eyes, she slowly sat back down. She remembered the morning in his office when she had recognized Lewis from the old surveillance photos. Walter had helped her over to a chair and sat holding her hand as she wept and unburdened herself of the terrifying story of her mother's murder. He had wanted to call Tom and Ed immediately but did not only at Sloan's insistence that she would tell them herself. And ever since, he had kept her counsel and let her know he was there if she needed him.
"Tory hoped that I would be able to encourage you to consider talking with her and your step-father before they return to Chicago." Walter began. He could see that her expression was still reserved but the hardness had eased in her eyes.
"Walter, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but you don't understand. Tory is so stubborn. She won't listen to any side of this issue that doesn't agree with her."
He paused, his cup of coffee mid-way to his mouth and gave Sloan such a long-suffering look, that she smiled, despite herself.
"OK!" she said putting a hand up to stop his next words. "I concede that she and I are similar in that aspect, but it doesn't change the way things are."
"Nothing can change what has happened, Sloan, but you can change how things are now." Sloan looked at him skeptically and busied herself with the salad that was placed in front of her.
Stirring his soup thoughtfully, Walter tried to broach the subject again. "What has happened, no matter how terrible and tragic is history. Its a story you keep alive only in it's retelling."
"You expect me to forget what happened?" Sloan said bitterly.
"I didn't say that," he said patiently. "I just think you need to let it go in order to get on with your life."
"Your knowledge of what happened that day was experienced through the filter of a ten-year old girl. You've held onto that story and tied it to your back as if you were the only one capable of carrying that burden."
"But I know what happened," she said angrily. "I was there."
"I know you were," Walter said reaching across the table to take her hand. "But so was Tory and so was your step-father. Not just you."
"Sloan, acceptance isn't about admitting wrong or proving right. It's about being open to receiving something that someone is offering you."
"Like friendly advice?" she said with an inquiring tilt of her head.
"That too." he said, smiling warmly.
~ 17 ~
"Hi Ed. My name's Amanda."
Ed turned. If he had been surprised to hear a friendly voice in the lab, he was stunned by the beauty of the woman facing him and holding out her hand. She was nearly his height, with pale shoulder length blond hair and intense aquamarine blue eyes. As Ed numbly shook the hand she offered to him, he wondered who she was and how she knew him.
Seeing his confusion, she smiled and shook her head slightly. "I'm sorry. I know so much about you and your work that I feel I already know you. Would you prefer I call you Dr. Tate?"
"No, Ed is fine. But you still have me at a disadvantage." he said self-consciously smoothing his rumpled lab coat.
She frowned slightly and laid her briefcase on the workstation. "I was told you were expecting me today."
"You're the geneticist?" Ed exclaimed incredulously. "Geez, I'm sorry. I just never expected someone so...." he suddenly stopped, realizing how inappropriate the word 'gorgeous' would be at this moment.
"...tall?" she supplied with an amused arch of her eyebrow. Ed ducked his head in embarrassment and cleared his throat. As he looked back at her, it dawned on him that her startling eyes were unusual in a familiar way. The amused gaze she focused on him was direct and unblinking. She was a Dominant.
Mentally giving himself a good shake, he gestured to the temporary office space he was using.
"Shall we get started, Amanda? I'm anxious to see the data on Dominant reproduction."
~ 18 ~
As they poured over the printouts together, Ed found himself enjoying their discussions. Amanda was not only bright and insightful, but had a surprising sense of humor.
Before he knew it, the morning had gone by. Leaning back to stretch, Ed sighed. He'd forgotten to bring lunch with him and idly wondered if Amanda had any intention of taking a break. As he glanced over at her, he noticed her attention focused on the main door to the lab and soon Mark appeared.
Ed watched her walk quickly over to talk to Mark and wondered if she was reporting on their progress. He saw him nod and hand her a paper bag as he turned to go. Then to Ed's utter amazement, Mark paused and reached out to gently lay his hand on her cheek and smile slightly as she returned the gesture.
As she set the bag on the desk in front of Ed, Amanda chuckled ruefully. "With all good intentions, I made lunch for us this morning then promptly left it on the kitchen counter. Luckily Mark saw it on his way out and brought it over."
Taking out the sandwiches and fruit, she tipped her head and looked curiously at Ed who was silently staring at her. She sensed *surprise*confusion* strongly in him.
"Is it a fair assumption that I'm not like the other Dominants you've met?" she asked, placing a sandwich in front of him. Seeing him nod, she frowned slightly and sat back in her chair and fixed him with her intense unblinking gaze.
"Are you exactly like Dr. Parker?"
"What?"
"Or Dr. Atwood?"
"No..."
"Why not? You're all human. All scientists."
"Yes, but we're different from each other. We're individuals..."
"Well, so are we. Different species than you but still individuals nonetheless. I'm no more like Lewis or Copeland than you are like Dr. Atwood's former boss."
She watched Ed as he thoughtfully ate the sandwich. Rolling an orange over to him, she raised an eyebrow in question.
Ed struggled, unsure of how to express himself. Finally, he blurted out, "But you're so friendly ... and funny ... and ..." "....tall?" she finished, a suspiciously innocent look on her face.
As a smile spread over his face, Ed relaxed and sat back in his chair. "But you're different, aren't you? I mean, even among your species. You seem to have more of what Copeland referred to as vestigial emotions."
Amanda nodded and leaned forward, idly pushing the orange peelings around on the table. "It's not information we would normally share, but considering the work you and I are doing on Dominant reproduction, I think it's something you should know."
"Some of us have the ability to form emotional attachments with each other. Those that choose to do so, form permanent committed relationships."
"Like you and Mark?"
Amanda looked sharply at Ed.
"I noticed the way you touched each other's face. It's the same way Tom and Sloan touch each other."
"They are partner-coupled?" she asked in disbelief.
Ed shrugged. "Amanda, I don't know what that means and I'm not sure I want to. Maybe you should talk to Tom or Sloan."
"Perhaps I should." she said softly.
Reaching for the paper bag, she helped Ed tidy up the table so they could get back to work.
~ 19 ~
"So, how did it go today?" Walter asked as Ed walked into the kitchen.
"Great!" he said enthusiastically, looking over Walter's shoulder to see what he was taking out of the oven. "Wow. Lasagna -- looks terrific."
Walter nodded and smiled. "Glad to hear you had a good day. What's the new geneticist like?"
"Amanda? Man, is she something." Ed walked over to lean against the counter where Sloan and Tom were cutting vegetables. "She's fabulous -- funny, gorgeous and smart as a whip."
At Sloan's amazed look, Ed grinned. "Don't worry -- as usual, my luck runs true. She's married, and to Mark, if you can believe that!"
Enjoying the twin looks of shock on Tom and Sloan's faces, Ed took advantage of the opportunity to lean over and snitch a carrot from Tom's cutting board.
"She said they were married?" Sloan asked pointedly.
"Not exactly," he said, chewing on the carrot. "I think she said 'committed partners' or something like that. Anyway, I saw them touch each other like you and Tom do."
At Sloan's questioning look, he reached his hand out toward her face to demonstrate and was startled when she caught his wrist and moved her head back to avoid his touch. Noticing how she also turned to put herself between him and Tom, Ed looked over her shoulder and was jolted by the intensity of the look he saw in Tom's eyes.
"Hoboy," he said under his breath. He took a step back and dropped his hand. "No offense meant." he said quickly, looking directly at Tom.
"None taken," Tom said evenly, keeping his steady gaze on Ed.
Sloan smiled apologetically and reached out to squeeze Ed's arm.
As she walked by she leaned toward him and whispered half-teasingly, "And next time, don't try that when he's got a knife in his hand."
Ed's eyes opened wide as he glanced back to watch Tom expertly wielding a large kitchen knife on the carrots.
"I'll definitely make a note of that," he muttered to himself as he turned to help Sloan set the table.
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