3.19 All We Need Is Time

The two weeks that followed were long and difficult days. Heath spent most of the time in a healing chamber alongside his dad in Moonlight Falls before he was able to go home. Exhaling Heath moved stiffly in the front seat. He felt rather than saw Don glance over at him "are you alright?" he heard him ask for the hundredth time.

"I'm fine," he replied swallowing the old familiar annoyance rising up inside him. He hated feeling helpless and weak. It reminded him too much of being trapped in the bubble universe or inside the cell with Dana. During the long days of recovery he discussed his feelings with his dad who shared many of his fears. He just wasn't ready to voice those fears with Don yet.

"Heath please," Don glanced sideways at him "talk to me." His voice came out  in a plaintive plea. He hadn't wanted to sound so needy, so weak. It was the pregnancy hormones but still there it was out in the open. "Please I can't take the silence anymore. Just talk to me. I can handle anything but the silence."

Resolutely Heath stared out the window ignoring Don's request, his plea. What could he say? That he was confused. That he needed time to sort his feelings out. Things had happened too fast. He needed time to catch up. In less than a year he had become a father of a four year old little girl he hardly knew. Fell in love with his best friend that a part of him wondered if it was real or something they were forced into by circumstances and someone else's manipulations. Then there was the fact that Don was pregnant with their second child. It was so much. Too much. He wasn't even nineteen yet and he felt he had lived a lifetime. "I just need time" he mumbled.

"Time? Time for what?" Don asked hitting the steering wheel as his frustration mounted "I've been through the same hell as you. Don't you think I feel overwhelmed too?" His voice rising "Don't you think I'm scared too?" Tremors made his arms shake as he gripped the steering wheel forcing him to pull over before he lost control of the car. Parking Don stumbled from the car.

Staring at the empty seat Heath shivered from more than the cold. He hadn't meant to say anything of what he had been thinking. Hadn't wanted to get into a discussion about his feelings. Hadn't wanted to face the fact that Don's twin sister had died trying to save him. He felt like an ingrate not appreciating the risk Don took to come for him. He had dreamed about him every night even when he had no idea who he was. He had been comforted by the kindness, gentleness and love he saw in those light beautiful blue eyes. He had clung to that and pushed Dana's advances away. What would have happened if he had been able to accept her love? Would she still be alive? Could he have been happy with her? No the answer was always no even if he didn't understand why. He would always belong with Don. Then why was he trying so hard to push him away?

Fumbling for the door handle he nearly fell from the car. Stumbling from the car he crossed his arms calling Don's name into the still cool air. He walked towards the rear of the car, stopping stunned. Don was on his knees rocking back and forth making a soft keening sound that sliced it's way through to Heath's heart. "I'm sorry" he muttered dropping to the ground beside him. He laid a gentle hand on Don's shoulder "I'm sorry" he repeated.

Looking up with tears staining his face Don said " I won't keep you shackled to me if you want to leave. You're free to do whatever makes you happy. I was...I was" he choked on his words struggling to control  his emotions "I was hoping we would be able to figure this out together."

Something melted inside Heath. He couldn't watch his friend, lover, partner whoever else he was suffer. He reached out and pulled Don close saying the only thing he knew to be true "I'm sorry. I don't want to leave. I just don't know what to think. What to feel. Will you help me?" Don slipped his arms around him, holding him tight. This time it was Heath who was crying needing support.

***

A year later Heath watched his little girl blow out her birthday candles. Five years old or the equivalent of it. She had grown so much in the time it took them to get her out of the bubble universe. Anger bubbled inside him for what Silver had robbed them of. Did it matter? Heath wished he could say it didn't but he knew he'd be lying. He wanted those stolen years back. He wanted to hold his newborn baby like he had been able to do with Lilliana.

At the sound of her clear happy voice Heath smiled. He needed to be content with what he had. A beautiful little girl. He couldn't go back and change it. All he could do is be thankful he had her and he hoped there would be no lasting side effects. "Daddy?" he turned at the sound of her voice "daddy are you alright?" Kimberly asked anxiety in her voice and bright blue eyes so much like his own.

"I'm fine princess," he said automatically.

A frown creased her forehead as she peered up at him as if she didn't believe him. "You don't have to worry daddy."

"What makes you think I'm worried?" he asked wishing she wasn't so intuitive.

She smiled sweetly up at him "you always are."

Her words echoed in his mind for the rest of the evening. After putting the girls to bed he sat on his bed deep in thought. He felt Don move beside him. Felt his hand rest lightly on his shoulder "hon it's late you need sleep. Is something bothering you?"

Turning Heath saw the same look of concern on Don's face as Kimberly had earlier that evening. He felt the corners of his mouth twitch "is it that obvious?"

"Only to those who love you" Don told him moving to sit beside him "want to talk about it?"

It was on the tip of his tongue to shove it aside. To push it away from him. Gazing into Don's eyes he knew that would only create a bigger rift between them. "I'm sad that we had so little time with Kimberly before she has to go to school..."

"She would have gone eventually even Lilliana will grow up and go to school."

Heath heard the over patient tone Don was using on him. The same tone he always used when he was afraid Heath would go off on a tirade. "This is different. We haven't had the time with her as we will have with Lilliana. Will she be alright? Are we rushing her? I'm afraid that there will be repercussions we don't know about in the future..." He felt Don pull him close till his head rested on his shoulder.

"She's going to be alright" Don soothed running his hands up and down his back "she's ready. She's bright. Trust her to know if it's too much for her."

"I just wish we had the bonding time that we will have with Lilliana. What if..."

Cupping his face Don said "we will drive ourselves crazy with what ifs. We can't change the past. We can only do the best we can with what we have now."

"What if she's...." Heath's words were cut off by Don's mouth muffling his. All other words, thoughts were momentarily lost by the heat and passion shared between them.

"We cope with things as they arise babe," Don ran his fingers through Heath's dark blue hair "you need to learn to relax. To take each day as it happens."

"I've never been any good at that," Heath closed his eyes relaxing as Don's fingers roamed his body. 

"I grew up waiting, expecting the next shoe to drop."

"I've kind of felt my life was kind of like that too" Don told him kissing a trail down his neck. His hands travelling further down.

Moaning Heath felt his body respond to Don's touch "I think you're trying to distract me."

"Mmm" Don continued his advances no longer interested in the conversation. "Is it working?" he asked lifting his mouth enough to speak before resuming kissing Heath's neck.

"Um uh" Heath wrapped his legs around Don's waist as his fingers gripped the sheets beneath him.

Grinning Don laughed as he said "I'll take that as a yes."

***

"Why couldn't we drive?" Heath asked for the millionth time.

"Relax baby flying is the best way to travel to Moonlight Falls." Don squeezed his partner's hand.

"It doesn't feel like it," Heath grumbled looking past Kimberly's head to gaze out the window hoping to catch a glimpse of land.

Kimberly looked up "isn't this fun daddy?" she asked excitement brightening her eyes. She smiled as she imitated her dad looking out the window. "I can't wait to see Grandma and Grandpa."

"Me too," Heath told her wishing he could enjoy the flight instead of thinking that the plane would suddenly fall from the sky.

Don squeezed his hand again "hey babe it's going to be alright. We'll have fun once we get there."

"I know," Heath turned his gaze from the window to Don "I know I'll have a good time just as soon as the plane touches the ground." He leaned over to tickle their two year old daughter held securely in Don's lap. "I'm looking forward to seeing Irissa graduate high school."

"You miss your family don't you?" 

Nodding Heath sighed "I've really missed my dad. It's probably strange for a 21 year old to say that but I do. For a time it had just been him and me. Even when Irissa came along it still felt like it was him and me against the world."

Don smiled squeezing his hand tighter "you have me now and it'll always be me and you against the world. There's nothing we can't handle together."

"Even flying" Heath asked as the plane rocked a bit as it hit a bit of turbulence.

"That's right babe," Don leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Close your eyes and relax. I'll let you know when we're there."

***

Heath kept glancing around the gathered crowd looking for familiar faces. "Hey babe we'll never get our luggage if you keep letting it go past," Don complained handing Lilliana to him. "Here you watch the kids while I get the bags."

Nodding Heath traded places just in time to see Kimberly point and run off yelling excitedly "it's Uncle Quentin."

Heath hung back enough to watch Quentin scoop up the girl and give the exuberant six year old a hug and kiss. "Well aren't you a sight for sore eyes?" he said after he had a moment to put Kimberly down.

"Heath it's good to see," Quentin pulled him into a hug squeezing him tight taking his breath away.

"Where's mom and dad?" Heath asked once Quentin released him.

"Dad got pulled into a meeting" Quentin rolled his eyes "the fairies are encroaching upon werewolf land. The elders are demanding retribution."

"And mom?"

"At home making sure the house is perfect for you" a smile brightened his features "don't worry so much. I offered to come and get you. She graciously accepted my offer." He looked behind Heath 

"I've got something to ask you." He fell silent shuffling his feet looking around the crowded area.

"Is it something you need to discuss in private?" Heath asked sensing the tension rising between his brother and Don as he joined them. Heath knew Quentin had opened up to Don and told him how he felt about him. It had put a strain on their friendship. So much so that Quentin left Dragon Valley moving back to Moonlight Falls where he had been welcomed back into the pack. It was an unusual turn of events but things were different now that Adam was ruler over Moonlight Falls instead of 

Alessandro. There were even a few humans moving around and mixing with the supernaturals. The world as a whole wasn't quite ready but one day maybe.

"No it's nothing like that" Quentin said running a hand through his hair. "I'm getting married." He smiled shyly as they congratulated him. "Will you be my best man?" He asked "you're the only family I have and...."

"Of course" Heath told him "just tell me where and when."

"Right here in Moonlight Falls. Now that I'm part of the pack again I never want to leave. Reggie's ok with living here."

"Reggie?" Don asked "you don't mean that guy..."

"The one and only" a deep voice said from behind them. Don turned somewhat surprised to see the halfling who had helped them. "Don't look so shocked. It's not like you wanted him. I know a good thing when I see it." He winked at Don before moving to stand beside Quentin.

Heath heard the unmistakable rumble coming from Quentin and suppressed the twitching of his lips that threatened to lift into a silly grin. He brought a hand up to hide the grin that was slowly spreading across his face. "It's nice to meet you Reggie."

Sticking his hand out Reggie grinned at him "no need to hide the pearly whites. Quentin needs to learn to relax. Isn't that right wolfie?" he said turning to his mate.

Quentin met his mates beaming face with a scowl that eventually lifted into bemusement. "That's why I have you Reg. You never take anything seriously."

"Oh but I do," Reggie countered "I take you very seriously. Why else would I have asked you to marry me?"

"I was kind of wondering that myself. All you do is flirt with every guy you meet." Quentin said eyes narrowing as a low rumble began deep in his throat.

"But I always come home with you" Reggie gave him a cheeky grin. Quentin only growled deeper. Shrugging Reggie stepped back and took his mates hand and placed it on his stomach "I only tease. There's only one person I love. I can't help it your a grumpy grouch. Your the father of my baby and any other children we might be blessed with in the future."

Heath stood back watching the by play between his brother and fiance. A wave of jealousy swept through him. He wished his and Don's relationship was like that. Turning his head he looked at Don and wondered if there was something wrong with him that Don hadn't even hinted at wanting to get married. Maybe he thought it was bad enough they had two children together. Was that what was keeping them together? The kids? Turning back to the happy couple in time to see them lip locked in a kiss Heath sighed wishing it were him and Don in that happy state of affairs.

"Dad can we go now?" Kimberly asked growing tired of the baggage claims area.

"We'll be going just as soon as Uncle Quentin is done..."

"Swallowing that mans face," Kimberly giggled watching them "you and daddy should do that." 

Heath felt his mouth drop open as he stared at his daughter. Then he looked over at Don who was still struggling with all the luggage. "Um uh maybe we should" was all he could come up with to say.

"I highly recommend it" Reggie interrupted bending down he gave Kimberly a serious look before asking "will you be our flower girl?"

Turning to look at her dads for approval she nodded "will I get to wear a pretty dress?"

"With sparkles even" Reggie told her much to her delight.

"Like a fairy princess?" she smiled up at him as he nodded at her. Squealing she gave him a hug. "I think I'm going to like you very much Uncle Reggie." Running up to Heath she excitedly asked "can I be the flower girl when you and daddy get married?"

The question hung in the air until Heath swallowed hard nodding "sure princess when your dad and I get married you can be our flower girl." He watched her excited prancing around wishing he was as sure as she was that day would come. He refused to look in Don's direction as he followed Quentin and Reggie to the exit. He was thankful that Quentin hadn't asked him any questions but he was sure Quentin would corner him at some point in their visit. What he wouldn't do for a little alone time with his dad. He needed a little advise before his world fell apart again.

3.18 The Rescue Part 2

They drove for several miles in silence. Quentin stared sullenly out the window before turning his gaze towards Don. His heart still longed with unrequited love for him. "Don what if Heath really is dead?" he asked trying to keep his feelings hidden.

Don clenched the steering wheel turning his knuckles white "I can't think about that. He's alive. I have to believe that he is. I...." He struggled to form the words he needed. He knew Quentin had feelings for him. Heath had told him during their time in the bubble universe. He liked the werewolf as a friend. He doubted that would change even if Heath wasn't in the picture.

"Didn't you feel anything for me?" Quentin asked struggling to keep his voice steady free from resentment despite the hollow feeling growing in the pit of his stomach. "I've liked you since the day we met..."

"I'm sorry," Don shook his head "I wish I could tell you otherwise but I can't. I've only ever liked Heath even when I thought he'd never feel the same way about me." He glanced over at his friend
"Quentin I'm sorry I never knew how you felt. I thought we were friends. I never meant to hurt you."

Swiping at his eyes "I know. I should have told you how I felt a long time ago. I'm sorry for bringing it up now." Quentin sighed turning his gaze out the window "you should turn up here. The portal to Midnight Hollow should be along this road."

Following his directions Don made the turn. "It doesn't look like this road is maintained. We may have to walk."

"Pull over," Quentin demanded "pull into driveway and park the car." He got out of the car shaking his head. When Don joined him he apologized "I shouldn't have had you turn here. It could be a trap. I wasn't thinking. Alessandro's men could be lurking about."

"I doubt that," Don told him "most of them have probably either run off or in battle."

"I hope you're right " he stared a Don's stomach "are you able to walk? I mean for long distances?"

"I'm pregnant not an invalid," Don scowled at the werewolf.

Shrugging he decided against saying anything else. Quentin just turned and started walking through the woods positive Don would follow.

***

Heath moaned as he regained consciousness. What happened? It felt like he had been hit by a truck then flattened by a steamroller. He tried to sit up but his body felt weighted down and the pain shooting through his body almost sent him back to oblivion. Swallowing several times to settle his stomach he liked his dry cracked lips forcing his mind to remember.

The last thing he remembered was knocking the dark haired girl over. She lay unconscious on the floor. He ran for the stairs. Something or someone hit him sending him backwards down the stairs. The familiar face of his attacker sent jolts of fear and revulsion through him. He knew that face. She was the bad lady from his childhood nightmares. She had knocked him down the stairs without a shred of concern for the damage it would cause. His body felt smashed beyond repair.

Moaning he moved slowly as he tried to sit up. Someone must have put him back in his cell. Was this his life? Was there something else out there? Someone else out there? He had to believe there was. The little girl of his dreams ... he was positive she was his daughter. He wasnt sure why but it felt like she was trying to communicate with him. Maybe if his mind would clear he would have his answers and things would make sense. Lying back he knew he wasn't going to get out of this on his own.

***

Alessandro stood before Adam defeated but defiant. "I should never have bestowed the heirship onto you," he spat "you're not even a fully transformed vampire. I refuse to yield to you."

"It doesn't matter if you yield or not," Adam spat at him "your rulership is over. The people of have spoken."

"I still have loyal supporters willing to do my bidding," Alessandro assured him "I will rise again." He looked out towards the assembled crowd "my loyal subjects will rally to support me."

Adam had o shout to be heard over the growing unease of the gathered crowd. "I don't think you can count on the people to save you Alessandro. You have oppressed them long enough."

"The people don't know what's good for them. That's why they needed to be ruled with an iron fist." he declared looking out into the crowd "they have forgotten all the good I have done for them."

"We shall see," Adam told him "we will hold you accountable for your crimes..."

"You can not judge me by mere human standards. I'm above all that. I'm the supreme ruler. Everyone bows down to me. They do my will." Alessandro stepped close to Adam "I am superior to you in every way."

"If that were true then you would have been able to procure an heir instead of adopting me, your brothers progeny." Adam turned his back on him to address the people.

Alessandro sneered as gripped the knife his loyal werewolf elder had given him before dying at his feet. He lunged forward towards Adams unprotected back to the horror of the watching crowd.

***

They approached the portal after Quentin had scouted the area. They froze when a male vioce commanded them to halt. A young male with purple highlighted hair approached them. Quentin growled as he sniffed the air  unable to pic up the strangers scent. "What are you?"

"I'm an IF. We don't give off a scent for werewolves to follow." He rolled his eyes "you should know that if you were a properly trained werewolf," he added unable to keep from taunting the boy.

Don held a hand up to stop Quentin from attacking the man. "Get a grip," he said under his breath "who are you?" he asked the man.

"I could be a friend if your the man I seek," he said in response to Don's question.

"Who do you seek?" Don asked feeling like he was in a bad role play game.

A slight smirk brightened the strangers features "I have a message of someone by the name of Don Olivia from his twin sister Dana." He stepped several steps back as Quentin's growling increased.

"Give me the message," Don demanded ignoring his friend "I'm the one you seek."

Eyeing the angry werewolf the man took a piece of folded paper from his pocket. "She told me to give this to you."

Don took the note frowning as he read it. He sensed Quentin come up beside him. "She says she's sorry. That she'll help us get Heath to safety. She say's we need to hurry because Heath is hurt and needs medical attention."

"Can we trust her?" Quentin asked baring his teeth.

"I doubt it" Don acknowledged "but she has a soft spot for Heath. He's her obsession. If he's hurt it's entirely possible she'll do whatever it takes to help him."

"If I help you," the man interrupted them "can I come with you?"

"You know where we're going," Quentin told him "we can't keep you from following us to Midnight Hollow."

"No I don't mean there. I mean to wherever you go afterwards. I'm a halfling and I'm tired of living where I don't belong and hated because of my human half."

Quentin sniffed the air picking up the strangers scent. Growling softly he said "why am I picking up your scent?"

"It takes a lot out of me to suppress my scent. Not ever halfling can do it. It's taken me a lot of practice." He looked towards the two men "please I'm begging you. Let me help you and once you're away from Midnight Hollow you'll never see me again."

Don turned to Quentin "we could use someone with his knowledge of Midnight Hollow."

"We could but can we trust him?"

***

Adam sensed something was wrong by the reaction of the assembled people. He tried to turn an defend himself but Alessandro was already upon him slashing out with the knife. He felt the knife slice through his back. Felt the warmth of his blood as it gushed from the wound. He fell to his knees as he brought a hand to his side to stop the flow of blood. He looked up into the angry vengeful eyes of his sworn enemy. "I win" Alessandro sneered down at him.

Adam stared up at the man who had made his and his families lives a misery since the day they met. He couldn't believe this was how it was going to end. Defeated by the hands of his enemy. With his death the hope of the people died with him. Mustering what remaining strength he had Adam gripped the dagger Alanon had insisted he carry. He wouldn't let the people suffer on his account. He mumbled something so low that Alessandro strained to  hear.

"What was that?" he asked "Pleading for your miserable life?"Alessandro taunted. Turning to the crowd "I'll have all of you punished for this act of rebellion against me. I'll punish you and all the generations that follow you. First I'll have your would be leader's head mounted on my wall." He rushed towards Adam. He was still kneeling holding his side. He was giving the appearance of everything that was weak and detestable.

Adam could feel his end was near seeping between his fingers but he wouldn't go until he gave his followers one last gift. He knew Alessandro would come in close to finish him off. Hoping he would want to savor his victims face as he breathed his last. Adam gripped the hidden dagger until he felt Alessandro rest the cold metal of his sword on his bowed and bent neck. Lounging forward Adam drove the dagger deep into Alessandros stomach. He felt the swords razor edge slice into his neck as he lunged but he didn't care. It was do or die more likely both.

Ambrogio watched frozen as Adam toppled on top of Alessandro having expended whatever strength he had in attacking Alessandro. Fear coursed through him as he realized he would be facing death again at the hands of his brother. A hate he didn't fully realize he had burned inside him. If it weren't for this brother turning him into a vampire he would never have met Silver. Everything he suffered since then was all Alessandros fault. The loss of his son. Not seeing him grow up. Everything welled up inside him as he watched Alessandro push Adam from on top of him.

Alessandro staggered to his feet pulling the dagger from his stomach and tossed it to the ground as if it were nothing. Screaming in rage he turned to address the people.

***

"How do I know if I can trust you?" the halfling retorted shrugging. He stared at the werewolf a moment before sticking his hand out to Don "I'm Reggie by the way." He smiled slightly as the wolf growled in disapproval or jealousy. He couldn't tell which.

Ignoring the growl Don reached for the halflings hand "I'm Don and this is Quentin."

Winking at Don the man asked "is he your mate?"

"No." Don almost choked "he's helping me rescue my mate."

"Ah that Heath you were speaking of?" Reggie asked then added "good less competition for me." He gave Quentin an appraising glance as he walked up to the portal. "We best get going before the war is over and Alessandro sends his men back to guard the portals."

Grabbing Reggie's arm Quentin demanded "so we've lost the war?" His heart was pounding fast in his chest. He longed to rejoin his pack. Now that would be impossible.

Nodding Reggie sighed "we hoped this was the end of Alessandro's tyranny but the last report I received was Alessandro attacked Adam and took him out. All is lost my friend. Which is another reason why I want out of Midnight Hollow."

"If you don't like Alessandro why didn't you go and fight with the rebellion?" Quentin asked.

"Oh I wanted to but they wouldn't let halflings join," Reggie explained.

"That doesn't sound like Adam," Don protested "he would have accepted halflings..."

"No doubt he would but my pure bred IF leaders wouldn't." Shrugging he continued "so here I am." He pressed some buttons and a moment later they materialized in Midnight Hollow "helping you rescue your mate." He helped Don from the platform "you should rest a moment in your condition. You should be careful that you don't over do it." Laughing when he heard the disapproving growl coming from behind him.

***

Shaking his head Ambrogio stared at Adam's fallen body then glared at Alessandro's back. Moving with the speed his vampire powers provided he swooped up Adam's discarded dagger and plunged it into his brother's back. "You don't get to win. Not this time."

Alessandro staggered to his knees staring in disbelief at this brother. "You can't do this to me. I am your master."

"No Alessandro," he pointed towards Adam "he's my master." There was a  growing rumble as the gathered vampires who had sided with Adam realized their allegiance was still with their fallen master. They rose in mass and rid the remnants of Alessandro's loyal supporters.

For the first time Alessandro felt the first stirrings of fear as the people stood against him. "Why are you doing this to me?" he asked his brother.

"Because of all the promises you broke. The pain you caused." Ambrogio shook his head in disbelief at his older brother. He turned aside when several vampires took Alessandro and led him away to be executed. He staggered to his knees covering his ears with his hands trying to block the screams for leniency. Alessandro may have been a cold blooded monster but he was also his brother. Ambrogio couldn't forgive him his crimes but he couldn't bring himself to witness his execution either. "How is he?" he asked Alanon who was inspecting Adam's wounds.

Sitting back rubbing his chin Alanon sighed "not good not good at all." He moved aside for the healers to attend to him "we'll need to prepare the stasis chamber if it isn't already too late," he instructed.

"No need to wait," one of the healers said "Alessandro hat them prepared several days ago in preparation for battle. It's how he always healed so fast. We've always kept it ready."

"That's good," Alanon watched as they moved Adam onto a stretcher before adding "be careful with him he is pregnant with the heir." He chuckled at their combined looks of astonishment. "Don't be so surprised halflings do it all the time."

"But he's not...."

"No he's not What he is is a modified human thanks to alien technology. I'll explain everything later just heal our leader before he expires." Alanon turned to look at Ambrogio but his words were drowned out by the shouts and cheers from the crowd who had witnessed Alessandro's beheading.

"Well it's done," Ambrogio said his tone flat.

"It had to be done," Alanon told him.

"I know but he was my brother. I mourn what could have been not what he was." Ambrogio told him. Giving his old friend an appraising look he continued "now tell me what you did to Heath."

"What do you mean?" Alanon asked a look of wounded indignation came over his face.

"You gave Heath something to mimic death. Why?" Ambrogio demanded not be be put off.

Hesitating a moment Alanon nodded "I did it was the only way to ignite Adam's fire. To make him strong enough to lead the people to victory."

Frowning Ambrogio too a step closer to Alanon grabbing his arms. "Where did you get the serum?" he nearly hissed the words he was so angry.

"From an IF," Alanon said shaking Ambrogio's hands from him "she promised to see he got home safe."

"What?" Ambrogio shouted "they came and took him?"

"Yes she and her daughter," Alanon shook his "I don't understand. Why are you so upset? The IF's are our allies. Heath is safe. Once Adam is healed we'll tell him the good news."

Ignoring him Ambrogio asked "what IF promised you his safety? Tell me Alanon it's important."

"Windy...."

"Damn" Ambrogio clinched his fists wanting to pound them into Alanon's face.

"I don't understand," Alanon repeated taking a step back from the anger radiating from Ambrogio.

"Of course you don't," he yelled "If you had only talked to me I could have told you that Windy was after only one thing. You do know what an IF's primary goal is don't you?"

Nodding he muttered "to kill the one who gave them life."

"Right I'll give you one guess who that is."

"No it can't be," Alanon gulped realizing his mistake "oh no than she's....."

"Yeah she's Heath's mother. There's nothing we'll be able to do to stop Adam from going after him."

"Yes there is," Alanon said with determination "we go and rescue Heath before Adam wakes up. We'll have his son hear safe and sound when he wakes up."

***

Dana sneaked into the basement after Windy hand gone to bed. Opening Heath's cell she approached the bed cautiously "are you awake?"

Moaning Heath opened his eyes "yes what do you want?"

"I've come to get you out of here," she moved to help him from the bed "we'll have to move quickly before Windy wakes up." 

Eyeing her suspiciously Heath asked "why are you helping me? I thought I was your husband."

Hanging her head Dana sighed I wanted to be your wife. I had it all planned since I was twelve years old. You never saw me though. I let that fester inside me until I became this person." Sighing she continued "who am I kidding I was always this person. Thinking I could take what I wanted. I'm sorry. I know you don't love me. You belong with Don and your daughter. I know that now."

Leaning heavily on her Heath tried to hold back a cry of pain "I don't think I can do this."

"I'll have to carry you," Dana told him.

"You can't do that," Heath protested.

"I did when we brought you here. I can do it again." She adjusted her hold "see easy as pie." She grunted moving towards the stairs.

They made it through the dark house and opened the door when Windy shouted from behind them. 

"Stop you ungrateful girl."

Dana turned to stare at Windy holding a gun on her. "He's my only chance to lure his father into my trap. Put him down. Then you can go."

"What if I don't?" Dana asked trying to ignore the gun pointing at her.

"Then you die," Windy shot twice point blank before the girl had a chance to decide.

Heath fell heavily to the ground looking towards Dana he knew she was gone by the glassy-eyed stare she was giving him. He tried to crawl away but knew the woman with the gun was behind him. Would she shoot him too? He covered his head as people jumped from the trees and shots rang through the air. Windy shot a couple of times before she was over powered. She lay on the ground shackled and hurling insults to any one within hearing.  

A young man dropped beside Dana's prone body. Heath watched as the man reached out and touched her. Despite the tears rolling down his cheeks Heath would have recognized his eyes anywhere. He was the owner of the light blue eyes that have haunted his dreams for days. "Don?" he whispered. The man looked up and moving swiftly pulling him into a fierce hug as they both gave way to a torrent of tears.

3.18 The Rescue Part 1

"Sweetie what do you mean?" Don asked kneeling in front of the little girl.

"I feel daddy. Daddy's not gone," she said her eyes large. Blinking wide eyed as if she was trying to tune into something. "Daddy doesn't like it there. The bad lady is lying..." her voice faded as she looked at Don "you'll bring daddy home like you brought me home?"

Pulling her close he said "I will sweetheart." He kissed the top of her head. How did she know so much? Could she read minds? Was it something else? Was it a connection to the person? She once told them she knew who they ere because they were related. Did that mean .... it must be. Heath was with Dana and Windy. Kimberly would be able to sense their connection to her.

"Daddy," Kimberly's voice came muffled from his shoulder where he was practically smothering her. "I don't like the bad ladies who have daddy. Please bring daddy home."

"Don't worry honey I will," he told her and he knew that he had to try. He couldn't sit back and wait for help. He had to go and face his sister. First he had to find someone to look after his daughter.

***

The citizens of Moonlight Falls and Midnight Hollow gathered around Adam shouting their approval for their chosen leader. Most, if not all were in favor of overthrowing Alessandro giving the rule to the rightful heir. Adam stared at the assembled faces drawing from their energy to keep focused on the task at hand. "Alessandro goes down now," he shouted.  As the people cheered he turned to Alanon "where is he?"

Nodding towards the castle "inside his estate along with his faithful watch dogs."

"So we don't have the support of the werewolves?" Adam stated more than asked.

"Not all of them," Alanon replied "their elder is a loyal supporter of Alessandro. Many are afraid if you fail in your bid for power they will be ostracized and turned out of the pack."

Nodding his understanding Adam's thoughts turned towards his adopted son Quinten. It had been difficult on the boy to be without his pack to hunt with, to play with, to mate with. "Let it be known that no pack member will be disowned. All those who side with me will form a their own pack with their own elder."

Nodding his approval Alanon could not disguise this satisfaction he felt in hearing Adam take control, making decisions. "Very well your lordship," he turned to Ambrogio "send out the proclamation to the werewolves." Ambrogio nodded hasitating a moment eyes filled with worry before he went to do as he was told.

Adam watched him go frowning he asked "is something the matter with Ambrogio?"

Shaking his head "no" Alanon said bluntly handing Adam a plasma juice pack "you need to keep your strength up."

"I really don't feel up to drinking more," Adam protested.

"It's for the baby," Alanon insisted

Sighing "alright," he took the pack forcing himself to drain it. Do we have any up to date floor plans of the castle?" he asked staring up at the foreboding building.

"I can have the archives checked," Alanon told him "is it necessary?"

"If we knew the lay out of the building we might be able to find where Alessandro's weakest point is. He'll expect us to attack the entrance. It appears to be the only way in. I wonder though if he'll consider other more subtle areas. We can exploit those weaknesses."

"I'll send someone to the archives," Alanon said snapping his fingers to get the attention of one of the runners.

***

Pacing the small cramped room he was locked in Heath tried to break through the haze in his mind. He knew he had been here before he was positive of it. Sliding down the wall he held his throbbing head. Why couldn't he remember? Where was he? Who was he? Who was the mysterious person of his dreams with the light blue eyes? He wanted to pound his head against the wall behind hi. What would that accomplish other than give him an even worse headache? 

One thing that was clear to him was whoever the young woman was she wasn't his wife. If they were married he wouldn't be locked down here. She obviously wants him to believe that they are married why else would she even tell him they were? Maybe he could use that to his advantage. Maybe if she believed he had fallen under her spell would her trust him enough to take him out of this cage. Then he could escape. Escape where? He had no idea but anywhere was better than here. He was positive he had a family waiting for him to come home. He had to find them.

Closing his eyes he saw the little girl again pleading for someone to find her daddy. A click disturbed his thoughts as the lock was turned to his cage. Blinking from the glare as the overhead light was turned on above him. He watched as the young woman approached him "why are you on the floor?" she asked looking down at him hands on hips.

Eyeing her he shrugged "it felt like the thing to do" he mumbled.

"It's raining out so we can't go for a walk," she told him sitting cross legged in front of him. "We can do..." her eyes slid to the bed "other things," she insinuated.

Panic knifed through him as he thought he couldn't do that. There was no way he could do that with her. Surely she didn't expect him....He was jolted from his panic by the sensation of someones lips pressed hard against his. Bringing his hands up he pushed her away from him. "I don't know you," he shouted at her.

Blinking in surprise she gathered her feet beneath her eyes dancing with anger. "There's nothing wrong with a wife kissing her husband." She took several steps toward him "you're just confused from working so hard." She attempted to put her arms around him again.

Side stepping advances Heath felt revulsion spread through him. There was something not quite right about this woman and her claims. There was something dark and cold beneath those eyes "I don't know you," he repeated unable to keep the revulsion he felt from his voice.

"I'm your wife," she repeated "all I want to do is hold and comfort you. Why are you rejecting me?" She wrapped her arms around herself as tears slid down her cheeks.

For a moment, for a split second Heath found himself wanting to comfort her. To pull her close until the tears stopped. He must have communicated that thought to her somehow as he caught the cold calculated smile that tugged on her lips and quickly faded away. He froze in place unable to move.

She frowned at him. Tears ceasing their cascade down her face. "You horrible beast," she screamed at him "what does he have that I don't?"

Confusion flooded his mind as a face almost took shape and the identity of the mysterious light blue eyed individual of his dreams almost came to him. He? Did that mean that he was gay? That would explain his utter lack of attraction to the otherwise pretty girl. There was more to her statement Heath was sure of that. Her hatred for whoever it was ran deep "I...I don't understand," he muttered.

"Of course you don't you simpleton," she shouted outraged her plan wasn't working. He was supposed to fawn all over her but he wasn't. Her no good worthless brother was still in the way. She ran to the door "I'll make you love me one way or another," she cried "I tried to be nice but I see something more drastic is required."

Heath rushed her hoping he could over power the girl and escape. He plowed into her knocking her down. Her head hit the wall with a dull thud. She wend down in a crumpled heap at his feet. Ignoring urge to check to see if she was alright he ran towards the stairs. He thought he was going to make. he might have if something didn't come out of nowhere and collide with his head. He fell backwards into nothingness

Windy watched her son land at the bottom of the stairs in an unnatural heap. She knew she should care but that part of her was devoid of any and all feelings. Heath was all Adam the single most hated person of her existence. The child she bore him wasn't hers. Just a colossal mistake. A burden. A tool to use to get to the father. If the boy was hurt Adam would come sooner and her revenge would be complete. If Heath was dead she was no worse off then before. Adam already believed his son was dead.

***

"Kyle I appreciate you and Elliot watching Kimberly for me," Don said.

"Glad to help," Kyle told him easily "I hope everything is ok with Robbie."

"I'm sure it will be but I really need to get on the road if I want to get to Riverview before nightfall," Don told him regretting the lie he had to tell. What choice did he have? If he had them that he was going to rescue his dead boyfriend fro his evil twin sister they'd think he was crazy.

Kyle put a hand on his shoulder "how are you holding up?" he asked.

"As well as can be expected I guess" Don looked away rubbing his expanding midsection.

"If you need anything. Anything at all don't hesitate to call," Kyle pulled the younger man closer 

"Elliot and I will do anything we can to help you through this."

Don almost told him where he was going. Was on the verge of asking him for help but held his tongue. If they did believe him they wouldn't let him go. Not in his current condition. "Thank you," he mumbled pulling away dabbing at his eyes "I appreciate the offer."

"Daddy," Kimberly tugged on his pants leg wanting his attention.

He knelt in front of her pulling her close "I love you baby girl," Don told his little girl "I'll be home soon."

She nodded looking at Kyle who was standing nearby watching. She smiled as she kissed his cheek 

"love you daddy."

"I love you too baby," Don felt his throat tighten threatening to choke him. He had to get Heath away safe he's been through too much for him to fail.

***

The battle was going better then Adam expected. Turning to Alanon "this is too easy."

"What do you mean?" he asked "it's going well. We're winning."

Shaking his head "it's a trap. Call a retreat," Adam demanded scowling at the older man. Nodding the mage complied sending a runner to sound the retreat.

"Care to enlighten me?" Alanon asked where they were alone.

"There's an old saying if it smells like a trap, feels like a trap it is a trap. Alessandro is too intelligent for him to let us take the castle this easily. We need to regroup and figure out what he's up to."

"Why didn't I think of that?" Alanon moaned.

"Are you a strategist?" Adam asked. The other man shook his head "well my dad taught me to play chess from a very early age and sometimes you have to sacrifice a piece to gain an advantage. Lure your opponent into a trap. I think Alessandro is luring us into a trap. Making us think he is weakening," Adam scanned the castle floor plans. Pointing at a spot on the plans he commanded "there. We attack there." As soon as he said it he ran towards the door. 

"Adam" Alanon shouted at him following him "Adam we need you here directing the battle" he said pulling on his arm. 

"No the people need to see their leader. They need to know they don't fight alone. Now get out of my way and do as I say." Adam turned and stalked from the room determined to see this through. In the memory of his son he was going to lead these people to victory. Alessandro was going down or he was going to die trying.

***

Looking down at Heath's bloody and bruised body Dana turned to the older woman "why did you do this?"

"I couldn't have him getting away, now could I?" Windy laughed at the girl. "You really are a fool," she spat the insult out as if it was the only way to rid her mouth of a bad taste.

"You evil hateful bitch," Dana screamed at the woman.

"Isn't that a little like the kettle calling the pot black?" Wendy snickered "If you're really that concerned about him I can arrange for you to stay down here with him."

Dana had the first misgivings about the woman she had trusted. Seeing Heath in this state knowing that this woman had not a shred of human decency in her had her wondering what was wrong with herself. She should never have let her jealousy grow into such an obsession. She couldn't make someone love her. She stared at the older woman wondering if this was going to be her in thirty years. No it didn't have to be that way. She could make things right but she couldn't do it if she was locked up down here. "No he's made his choice let him live with it."

"Good girl," Wendy smirked "you're more a daughter to me then any of my own kids. They're all much too soft."

Hearing those words was like a slap in the face and Dana almost gasped from the sting of them. Well no more. No more wanting what she couldn't have. Trying to force Heath to want her has only caused more misery. Taking a deep breath she turned resolutely towards the cell door "let's get out of here."

***

Once Kyle had left with Kimberly. Don threw a few items into an overnight bag and locked the door. 

Turning he was startled to find Quentin standing behind him. His silent stare was unnerving "Quentin what are you doing here?"

"Coming with you," he stated bluntly.

"I'm going to visit my brother," Don protested.

Rolling his eyes Quentin laughed harshly "you and I both know that's a lie."

Lifting his chin up "what makes you say that?"

"I can smell it," Quentin told him "I'm a werewolf remember?"

"How could I forget? We were roomies for two years. Speaking of which why aren't you at school?" Don asked.

Shrugging "it doesn't seem to be that important when so much is going on here. Let me help you," he pleaded.

Hesitantly Don finally nodded "alright I could use the help."

"So where are we going?" Quentin asked when they had been on the road for a couple of hours.

"Midnight Hollow."

"Stop the car," Quentin demanded.

"What? Why?" Don asked looking over at him ready to fight if he had to.

"Do as I say," he demanded through clenched teeth.

Pulling to the side of the road Don stared at his companion "ok we've stopped. Now what?"

"We can't just drive into Midnight Hollow," Quentin side "we need a plan and I need to know what you know."

Breathing through his nose Don tried to repress his anger. He disliked being told what to do. He was an adult fully capable of making rational decisions. "Kimberly has an ability to sense people and she sensed Heath...."

"You've got to be kidding me," Quentin spluttered "you're going to Midnight Hollow because your little girl has a feeling." He couldn't believe that Don was that gullible he would let a four year old dictate his actions.

"You don't believe me," Don said trying to disguise the hurt he felt "you of all people should know that people can have special abilities." Quentin nodded. He was well aware of supernatural abilities but still..."I couldn't just ignore her. She was too specific. Kimberly can connect, sense people she's related to. The women she described bear an uncanny resemblance to Wendy and Dana. If they have Heath it's not going to be good. He needs help."

"But he's dead..."

"What if they were wrong? What if it was a spell or something?" Don asked. 

Nodding "you're right we have to check it out."