3.28 The Passage of Time - Finale

Heath moaned from his position on the floor. Where was he? The last thing he remembered was Gerald forcing a kiss on him. The man's eyes kept changing color. Sitting up holding his head Heath looked around the room he was in. Blinking he groaned as he took in the familiar room. It couldn't be. He squeezed his eyes shut counting to ten hoping it was just a dream. Opening his eyes again, heart plummeting to his toes when he was still where he shouldn't be. He began to shake as he wrapped his arms around himself. He gave way to the fear engulfing him.

He reached out with his mind and felt .... nothing. Her comforting presence was gone. It served to confirm the awful truth of where he was and who Gerald really was. Why the man had given him a bad feeling from the moment they met. Heath held his stomach wondering what was coming next. If this time he would survive being here alone.

***

The sudden silence was deafening as Adam breathed heavily still holding his head. "Daddy are you alright?" Keenan asked fear in his voice and unnatural light eyes.

"Yeah" he gasped ruffling the boys white hair "give me a moment to collect myself." He tried to smile to reassure the boy but knew from experience that it wouldn't. It's devastating to watch one's father be in pain and unable to help them. Weakly he got to his feet and resumed his seat on the bench.

"Should I get Mommy?" Keenan asked. Nodding Adam let him go knowing it was better the boy feel like he was doing something to help.

It couldn't be possible. It shouldn't be happening. Adam reached out with his mind and touched his advisers minds. "Come now" he commanded "we have trouble." He knew they would come. He was after all ruler of both Moonlight Falls and Midnight Hollow. Without question they would drop everything and come.

***

Don received the call from the school that Kimberly was having an anxiety attack. He sat through a long winded lecture from the school nurse about getting her the best help to cope with her anxiety. The entire time Don nodded without hearing a word that was being said. His thoughts on Heath and the trouble he was in. He should never have let him go alone. That Gerald character showed up, he was sure of it. If he hurt his husband he would have to answer for it Don thought. While the stupid woman droned on Don pleaded with whoever was listening for Heath to be alright.

After what felt like hours Don was allowed to take Kimberly home. He could tell she had been crying from the way her eyes were red and swollen. She sniffed intermittently as she tried to curb the tide of tears. "Daddy's gone."

Don's hand jerked on the steering wheel "what do you mean gone?"

"He was there, that man you don't like and Daddy was scared." She looked out the window swiping at her eyes. "Then he was gone. I can't feel him anymore. I can't connect with him..."

Don could feel his heart pounding in his chest as if his heart was trying to escape his chest. It hurt worse then any physical blow he had ever received. His mind recoiled from what 'gone' could mean. Was Heath dead? Was...oh god no. Anything but that he thought. 

Kimberly turned to him "he has Daddy doesn't he?"

***

With a feeling of trepidation Heath walked to the glass doors hoping he was wrong. He screamed upon viewing the breathtaking landscape. Shaking he fell to his knees covering his head with his hands. It couldn't be but it was.

Heath gave vent to his despair. Once his tears had been spent he sat up leaning against the railing. His back to the panoramic view. He couldn't deny it anymore. No matter how much he wanted to. He was back in the bubble universe. 

He was alone. No one to talk to. No one to keep him sane. No one to care whether he lived or died. Again he found himself rubbing his stomach. It was going to be a surprise. Now it may as well be a death sentence. He smiled sadly "Don would have been so happy. He wanted more children. I thought four was more than enough."

He was almost eight weeks pregnant. A permanent reminder of Heath's first art show. Heath had been shocked. Scared remembering how difficult his first and only  pregnancy had been. Don made being pregnant look easy. Heath didn't enjoy it or the subsequent nausea, the aches and pains, the raging hormones. He had no happy memories of being pregnant other than being with Don, knowing he was loved. Now all he felt was numb. He'll feel scared tomorrow once his situation soaked in. How long would it take for his father to find him? How many years would lapse this time? Two weeks would be difficult, four weeks would be impossible.

***

"Are you sure?" Alanon asked putting a comforting arm around Ambrogio.

Nodding Adam sighed "I wish I wasn't but I got the message loud and clear from Heath. It's him. I don't know how he escaped but we all knew he would eventually."

"I thought we'd have more time," Ambrogio said quietly leaning into Alanon.

"We all hoped for more time," Adam confessed "the last think I want is for him to find out about my son." Adam couldn't keep the anguish he felt from filtering into his voice.

"Has he made contact with anyone?" Alanon asked trying to focus on the concrete things "Once he does we'll have a better idea what we can do. Where to look for Heath."

"Wouldn't he be in the same bubble universe?" Adam asked. What if Heath was in a different bubble? What if time ran backwards or went twice as fast? The possibilities were endless. He rubbed the top of  his nose hoping for calm, for inspiration. After eight years of ruling over thousands of supernaturals he could still feel helpless when it came to his family.

"He would definitely hide Heath in a different bubble universe" Ambrogio spoke softly "It'll take time to search all of them not to mention the disruption it'll cause."

"How so?" Adam asked. He didn't really care how disruptive it might be. His son was in trouble. That's all he cared about.

"We can't all go into bubble universe." Sighing Ambrogio prepared himself for a blast of Adam's ire when he continued "for instance your needed here...."

"The hell," Adam shouted standing up "I will not sit around doing nothing. Waiting for someone else to find my son...."

"Who will run Moonlight Falls? What if there are more skirmishes in one of the other dimensions that you need to mediate? You can't risk causing chaos here to go and look for Heath yourself." 

Ambrogio shook his head "Alanon and I will search for him."

***

"I'm coming with you," Don asserted "he's my husband."

Shaking his head Percy tried to reason with the younger man "your children need  you."

"They need Heath," Don almost yelled "I won't sit back and do nothing. We need all the people we can get searching for him."

Percy nodded putting a hand on the man's shoulder. Ambrogio and Alanon are searching for the most likely bubble universes where Silver could be hiding Heath. Until then all we can do is wait."

"How long will it take?" Don fretted "Heath worries all the time about the time we lost with Kimberly. Now this. We have to find him quickly."

"We're doing all we can," Percy assured him.

"Don nodded looking down "I suppose you're on your way to Moonlight Falls?"

"I'm the only one who can help Adam maintain the peace the while Alanon is occupied with searching for Heath." He gave Don a stiff smile "Adam feels as bad as you for not being able to physically search for Heath. We all have to do our parts until this is all over."

"My part evidently means watching the kids while they ask me where their Daddy is," Don rubbed the bridge of his nose "I wish I hadn't..." he sighed "the last conversation I had with Heath ended in an argument. He'd call every night and talk with the kids but wouldn't talk to him. What if that's the last..."

"Don he loves you" Percy told him "don't start doubting that. He knows you love him."

Nodding Don wished he was as confident in that as Percy was.

***

Why hadn't he told Don about the baby? Heath kept asking himself through out the day. Why hadn't he told Don he loved him the last time they were in the same room together? He should have given in to Don's request and cancelled the show but he wanted to prove he was capable of making his own decisions. As twenty-six year of age he should be able to make decisions that effect his career.

The thoughts and recriminations kept assaulting him. He had endless hours to contemplate what he could have done differently. The words he should have said but didn't. What if he never saw his kids or husband again?

"Didn't I tell you if you were mine I'd never let you out of my sight?" the now familiar voice of Gerald filled the room.

"I'll never be yours," Heath asserted.

"You'll pine for that wretched husband of yours forever," Gerald frowned "you'll never feel his tender touch, his soft sweet kisses, his loving gaze as he peers into your eyes." Laughing harshly "you're mine now."

"Never," Heath shook his head "I'll never be yours....I'd rather be dead."

"That my dear boy can be arranged," the man shouted as his body transformed before Heath's eyes into the man who had caused him so much trouble in the past.

"Silver," Heath gasped in shock, horror and acceptance.

"The one and only," Silver gave him a nasty grin "you'll agree to be mine or I'll rip that unborn fetus from your womb and eat it before your eyes."

Shaking Heath backed away from the monstrosity before him. Crossing his arms in front of him as if he could protect the child growing inside him.. What choice did he have? He had to protect his child. Don's child. He took a deep breath "I'll be yours once that baby's born. You leave me alone until then."

Silver walked towards Heath anger bright in his eyes "you're in no position to make demands." He stopped in front of Heath leaning over him forcing a rough kiss on him "but I agree. I want you free from all attachments to any other man." With those words he disappeared.

"Wait," Heath cried " Come back." He fell to his knees contemplating Silver's ominous words. What did they mean? What was he going to do to his child once it was born? Would he be so cruel as to wrench the child from him as soon as it was born? Yes the answer was yes. He had done it before with Kimberly. Heath knew he had to figure out how to escape from this prison before the baby was born. He had bought the child a little more time but that was it.

***

Don watched the twins playing outside. Their happy voices and laughter grating on his nerves. He twisted the ring he wore on his left hand around and around. Would he ever see Heath again? As each year passed it grew less and less likely.

"Dad," Noah called from the swing set "will you come and push us?"

"Please dad," Madeline called "make us go really high."

He smiled at them despite the ache in his heart. Wherever Heath was in time and place he was missing so much of his kids lives. He did his best telling them about their Daddy but the twins had so few memories of their own and Lilliana had grown into a sullen teenager.

"Dad," Kimberly lightly touched his shoulder "will we see him again?" She spoke softly keeping her voice low.

"I don't know baby," he replied. The days he had believed he would had long past. "It's been eight years Kimberly....I..." his voice became strangled as he tried not to cry.

"Dad we can't give up hope," she insisted trying to sound confident.

Lilliana stopped in her tracks on her way into the house. Scowling she asked "why not? I'm tired of hoping he'll ever come back. Alanon and Ambrogio have failed to find him. We'll never see him again. Never." She shouted running into the house crying.

Kimberly turned to follow after her when Don reached out and grabbed her arm. Shaking his head "let her grieve. She's right we can't live in expectation that Heath will ever come home." Twisting his ring around his finger "it's time we move on with our lives."

***

Kimberly nodded walking away. She knew her dad had a point but she couldn't give up hope just yet. Somewhere out there her daddy needed their help. Her help. 

"You're right he does," Silver spoke in her head.

She gasped out loud shocked at the unexpected intrusion. Sh looked around to make sure her dad hadn't heard her. He was occupied with the twins and hadn't noticed. "Where's my daddy?"

"Not yours anymore" Silver taunted "he's mine. At least he will be when the brat is born."

"What?" she asked dumbfounded by Silver's laughter in her head. The sinister intent sent chills through her "what have you done to him?"

"I'm saving his life," Silver taunted her "I need you to come into the bubble universe and deliver the brat and take it back with you."

"Whose child is it?" she asked confused.

"Heath was pregnant when I took him into the bubble universe. He won't be mine until I get rid of every last vestige of his former husband. I would rather have ripped the fetus from his womb except he would never have been mine if I had done that. Instead I promised that I wouldn't harm the child."

"I don't understand," Kimberly cried "it's been eight years...."

"In your time but to Heath it's only been eight months. It's your choice either come with me or not. Either way their lives are in your hands." His voice faded from her mind and was gone.

***

"Grandpa did you hear that?" she asked as soon as she was sure she was alone in her mind.

"Yes," Adam replied. Kimberly could hear the anger in his voice.

"What should I do?" she pleaded.

"Exactly what we planned," Adam told her confident in her ability "You can do this. Once your there I'll be able to join you. Together we an close that bubble universe behind us locking Silver in there."

"But he'll just keep coming," she complained.

"It's the best we can do until we can figure out how to stop him for good." Adam told her " I know it's not what you want to hear. Silver is so much more powerful then we are."

"And he has no moral compass," she added.

"You can do this," Adam assured her.

"I know but I..." she swallowed "I never wanted to see Silver again."

"I'll be there with you," Adam told her "Silver won't hurt you. I won't let him."

***

Kimberly spent a restless night waiting for Silver to contact her again. She regretted not sharing what was happening with he Dad. If he knew she wouldn't be able to hold him back.

 

"Follow my instructions" Silver's voice said inside her mind caused her to jump. Lilliana looked at her funny but chose to ignore her. "Go to the back yard and enter to portal that I will open for you."

Standing Kimberly mumbled "I'm going outside." Lilliana smirked uncaring what her sister was up to. Heart beating fast Kimberly did as instructed. Disoriented she looked around the room in dismay. It looked like the same house she remembered from her time with Silver.

Groaning from the bed caught her attention. She moved in the dim light "Daddy" she cried grabbing his hand.

Despite the pain Heath's eyes opened wide in surprise "Kimberly? How? It ....it can't be...."

"Daddy it's me," she kissed his hand "Silver brought me here to deliver the baby."

Heath tried to sit up hampered by his pregnant belly "what happened to my little girl?"

"I'm still here Daddy. I'm just not so little anymore." She blinked back tears at the pain she saw in his eyes "I'm sorry Daddy it's been eight years back home."

Heath swallowed the bile that rose in his throat. "I've lost so much time. I'll never get it back. I should just stay here."

"That's crazy talk and you know it," Adam spoke firmly once he arrived through the portal Kimberly held open for him. "If your Grandpa can come back after being gone for sixteen years you can too. He'll help you adjust. We all will."

It was almost too much for Heath to handle but he nodded trying to lift his bulk from the bed. "Help me up so we can get out of here," Heath said "if I'm going home I want my baby born anywhere but here."

Heath landed hard coming through the portal. Kimberly half dragged him out of the way so that Adam could come through. Without checking to see how his son was doing Adam turned threw the potion into the opening of the portal. A small explosion occurred within the portal. "That should keep him contained for a while." 

"Grandpa the baby's in trouble," Kimberly looked up "I feel it's pain."

Adam looked at Heath's ashen complexion. It was amazing that he was still conscious considering the amount of blood on the ground beneath him. He picked him up stating "get your Dad and meet us at the hospital." He ran the distance to the hospital knowing his vampire powers would be quicker then driving or waiting for an ambulance.

The next day Heath opened his eyes to find his husband staring down at him "I'm sorry."

"Shh," Don stroked his face "there's no need for that. We both said and did things we both regret." He leaned over and pressed his lips softly on Heath's "I love you."

"I love you too," Heath blinked back tears "I've missed so much....."

"It's alright. There's still time. The kids love. I love you," Don repeated "we will get through this."

Heath closed his eyes afraid to ask the one thing that could break him "the baby. How's the baby?"

"He's in the neonatal unit. He's small and his lungs are under developed but he's a fighter. Just like his Daddy." Don didn't ask if the baby was his. He knew Heath would never cheat on him and according to Adam and Kimberly he understood Heath was in a bubble universe where time moved much slower than it had for the rest of them. There was one thing is needed to know "why didn't you tell me?"

"I was going to" Heath mumbled "I wanted to surprise you. The night before I left all we did was argue....I....I wanted it to be a happy occasion."

"Oh Heath it would have been. It still is. This baby we will raise together....you and me."

Tears sprang to Heath's eyes "I thought maybe you wouldn't want me after so long. I never gave up hope that I'd see you again even after I made that promise to Silver."

"What promise?" Don asked. 

Looking down Heath hesitated but don had to know. "I promised I'd be his if he'd let the baby live. I didn't know what else to do. I had to buy the baby some time."

"He didn't touch you did he?" Don asked his voice gruff as he pulled Heath into his arms. 

"He never touched me Don" Heath shuddered "he kept saying he was saving if for after the baby was gone. Other then the kisses he would force on me he never touched me." Heath sobbed upon his husbands shoulders "I'm sorry. You must hate me."

"Babe I could never hate you," Don stroked Heath's face "what Silver did was out of your control. We will get through this together. I love you. You're my everything."

Smiling Heath captured Don's lips with his "I've longed to feel your arms around  me, to hear your voice, to taste your lips. Don I love you so much it hurts."

"I know babe. I know I felt the same way" Don told him "but we have all the time in the world to enjoy each other now."

3.27 Should Have Listened

Leaning against the wall Heath gulped in several deep breaths. He didn't like that man. He was too sure of himself. Heath felt weak in his presence. He didn't want to go anywhere with that man no matter how lucrative or beneficial it might be for his career. Walking unsteadily he entered the dining room He stood staring into the crowd trying to locate Don.

"There's space at me table," Gerald whispered in his ear. His warm breath moving Heath's hair tickling his skin.

"I'm joining my husband" Heath said attempting to step aside to let the older man pass by

"If you were mine I'd never let you out of my sight" he spoke just above a whisper in the younger man's ear while his hand landed roughly on Heath's bottom. Gerald smiled in fiendish delight when the younger male jumped in surprise tensing at the man's touch.

Heath turned lips curled up in distaste "don't touch me," he snarled as he walked away from the man feeling nauseated. So focused on getting away from Gerald he almost walked past Don until Don waved him over.

"How did it go?" Don asked excited for him "Mr Huntington said Gerald is from a prestigious Art Gallery in Bridgeport. This would be great for your career in getting your name out there."

"I don't like him," Heath said.

"What? Why?" Don asked losing his smile "he seemed very personable and nice."

"He came on to me Don," Heath said keeping his voice low not wanting to cause a scene.

"Are you sure?" Don asked putting his fork down "maybe you were misinterpreting things..."

"I understood perfectly well," Heath hissed.

Don reached over and took his hand "calm down...."

"I won't calm down," Heath's nostrils flared incensed by the implications. "They guy grabbed my ass" his voice trembled with barely suppressed anger.

"he what?" Don exclaimed eyes darkening as he looked around the room. He stood up when he spotted the man. His hands clenched into fists when Gerald lifted his wine glass in a mock toast and winked.

"Don please" Heath clutched at his had "don't make a scene. Please. Can't you see that's what he wants."

Don let Heath coax him into his seat "I'm sory I should have listened to you."

"I might have done the same in your shoes," Heath acknowledged not wanting to argue the point.

"He put his hands on you" Don looked down at his half finished plate "that's inexcusable."

Heath nodded picking at his food. The excitement of the evening having faded into the past. "I should have handled the situation better."

Shaking his head Don scowled across the table at him "none of this is your fault. I shouldn't have let you go off alone with that guy."

"Why?" Heath looked up sharply "don't you think I can take care of myself?"

"No that's not what I meant," Don protested "if we had been together none of this would have happened..."

"You think I'm weak, incapable of thinking for myself..."

"No that's not it," Don denied "it's just" he sighed "you've been sheltered most of your life. You don't know how the world works."

Heath opened his mouth to refute his husbands stinging comments when Mr Huntington approached them. "I hope you're enjoying you're evening." Don and Heath both nodded eyeing each uneasily 

"Good good," he clapped his hands together "Gerald is very interested in organizing a showing of your work in Bridgeport. Several rich clientele have voiced an interest in seeing more of your art."

"No" Don said interrupting the man's smooth words.

"I hope that decline of this fantastic and lucrative offer has nothing to do with Gerald's behavior..." he rubbed his chin as the two men glared at each other from across the table. "Oh I see. I'm sorry. Gerald tends to come across rather brash and uncouth when he wants something..."

"In this case my husband" Don growled.

"Let me assure you that Heath will not be dealing directly with Gerald in Bridgeport. In fact Gerald will be in France during the proposed showing." Mr Huntington continued to expound upon the 

proposed showing.

Heath nodded agreeing with most of what was being said "I'd like to do the show as long as I don't have to deal with Gerald."

"That  can and will be arranged" Mr Huntington assured him "so do I have your approval to set this 

up?"

Without looking at his husband Heath nodded saying "yes I'll do it."

***

The month leading up to the art show in Bridgeport were filled with tense days. Neither Don or Heath were willing to admit they were wrong both ignoring the bigger issue. Don sat in front of his computer trying to ignore his husband as he painted nearby. He typed a few words as his stomach twisted in knots knowing that in less then a week Heath would be in Bridgeport for a month. "I don't like it" Don said suddenly in the quiet room.

"What don't you like?" Heath asked from his easel "I finally made a decision of my own and you've been mad at me ever since."

"It wasn't your decision to make" Don growled getting up from the computer.

"Not my decision" Heath gasped "it was about my work, my career. How is that not my decision to make?"

"You know it's not about your work," Don said pacing the length of the room.

"You're jealous"

"The guy put his hands on you," Don was practically yelling at this point.

"He's not even going to be there," Heath told him keeping his voice low and steady "you know what Mr Huntington said. He's going to be in France while I'm there. I'll be working with his assistant...." he tried to recall the woman's name. Snapping his fingers Heath said "Samantha". Walking towards Don he wrapped his arms around him. "I don't see the harm in doing the show. Where's the danger?"

Don leaned forward resting his forehead on Heath's chest "I just don't trust the guy."

Dropping his arms Heath tensed "which means you don't trust me."

"I never said that" Don protested "I want you to do well in this venture. I really do. I just wish it wasn't with him."

"It's not with him," Heath said stepping away from Don. "Everything has been set up without even talking to him. I've only dealt with Mr Huntington or Samantha. Why can't you let this go?"

"Because because i can't" Don ran a hand through his hair trying to reign in his galloping emotions. Why couldn't Heath see he was walking into a trap? "Heath please this Gerald character is a smooth talker. I wouldn't put it past him to fake this supposed trip to France..."

"Don't you think I verified that this France trip is legit?" Heath asked "I don't want to deal with the guy either." He sighed heavily bowing his head looking at his feet. "I love you Don. I would never do anything to jeopardize what we have."

Don moved to embrace his husband "I know. He kissed Heath's cheek tenderly "I worry and" he sighed "I'm jealous."

"I knew it," Heath gloated before laying claim to Don's mouth "there's nothing he has that I want. You're my everything."

***

A week into his trip Heath was awakened from a deep sleep by someone knocking on his hotel room door. Groaning Heath shuffled to the door, peeked through the peep hole. The sight that greeted him was enough to send shock waves through his system. Opening the door his face sporting a huge grin "can I help you?"

"Special delivery for Heath Van Winkle" the delivery boy said holding a large bouquet of roses.

Heart hammering Heath took the roses after tipping the delivery boy. Closing the door Heath read the note attached. 'You make my heart beast faster than a rocket to the moon. Can't wait to see you babe.' Smiling Heath said the note beside the roses before reaching for his phone. He knew it was too early to call. Don needed his rest to keep up with the kids. He sent a quick text thanking him.

Still smiling Heath laid back down before turning the beside light off. Heath glanced at the roses marveling at how wonderful his husband was for thinking of him. He couldn't wait to go home to thank Don properly and to hug his kids. He missed his family something chronic.

***

Walking into the Gallery Heath stopped dead in his tracks shocked and dismayed. The one person he didn't want to see was standing with his back turned to the door. Heath recognized the men by the way he stood and moved. The man's voice sent shivers down his spine. Heath moved to retrace his steps hoping to leave before he was noticed. As he was about to slip through the door a voice behind him said "how did you like my apology?"

Closing his eyes Heath swallowed over th lump in his throat. "The roses...were from you?"

"Yeah babe...."

"Don't call me that" Heath demanded pushing open the door turning to leave. Heath felt his arm being grabbed from behind.

"Where do you think you're going?" Gerald asked harshly "we have things to discuss."

"I was told you weren't going to be here," Heath mumbled wrenching his arm from the man's grip.

"Things change," Gerald shrugged "whether you like it or not you're mine or the next three weeks. Now get your ass inside."

Shooting the older man an angry glare Heath walked past him into the gallery. Jumping when the man slapped him in the rear. Without turning Heath kept walking to the sounds of laughter. Clamping down on his anger not wanting Kimberly to know and inform Don of any issues. As much as he hated to admit it Don had been right. This had been a set up. Now he was here alone. He was such an idiot. He should have listened. He had thought he was safe...Gerald wasn't supposed to be here. Everything was going well until he showed up.

"The brooding look will drive all the women wild but we need you to smile for a few of the pictures," the photographer said.

Heath tried to focus on the demands of the photographer as he requested one pose after another. The entire time he felt the leering gaze of the Gallery manager. He knew for certain he shouldn't have come but the last thing he wanted to do was go home. He was twenty-six years old. He needed to be able to make  his own decisions. Good or bad this was his decision.

Once the pictures were done Heath headed for the door. "Where do you think you're going?"

Stopping Heath gritted his teeth "were done. I'm going back to my hotel room."

"Only if your inviting me up to your room" Gerald's voice was deep, suave dripping with honey. "Otherwise we have a lunch date."

Shaking his head Heath had the fleeting thought that he was being toyed with. "Where?" he asked turning to face the dreadful man.

His lips quirked up looking very much like the cat who ate the canary. "To an Italian restaurant." Looking Heath up and down "you'll need to change."

Thinking this was his way out Heath said "this is all I have."

Rubbing his chin Gerald nodded "we'll go shopping for the needed attire." He ordered his chauffeur to pick them up. Stopping in front of the man's clothing store. Heath shook his head "I can't afford anything in that store."

"That's the beauty of having a rich boyfriend," Gerald said putting a hand on Heath's knee rubbing softly.

"I'm married and you're not my boyfriend," Heath said throwing the man's hand back at him.

Chuckling softly Gerald leaned over and spoke in Heath's ear "for now. Soon though you'll be mine."

"Fat chance in hell," Heath muttered reaching for the door.

"That door doesn't open" Gerald told him taking his hand "a safety mechanism preventing anyone from exiting the car into traffic."

Heath had little choice but to follow Gerald out of the car and into the men's store. The entire time Gerald held his hand tight parading him around to the sales men as his property.

An hour later Heath eyed his reflection in the mirror. He didn't recognize himself in the clothes Gerald insisted he wear. Tears threatened to spill from  his eyes. He came to Bridgeport to prove he was capable of making his own decisions. Instead he was involved in some sort of fatal attraction with an older man that seemed to be leaps and bounds ahead of him. There was something sinister about the older man's intent that went beyond anything Heath had dealt with before. Even as he thought that he realized there was something familiar about the man like he had met him before. Something that made his heart race and his skin tingle whenever the man touched him.

Panic knifed through him as he rummaged through his discarded clothes searching for his phone. He knew he had it when he left the hotel. Had it through the photo shoot. Had it when he got into the car. With a sudden unwelcome thought he knew Gerald had it. He was completely cut off from everyone.

***

"Babe what's taking so long in there?"Gerald asked through the dressing room door "we're going to be late for our dinner reservation."

Taking several deep gulps of air Heath gathered his things. He dabbed at his eyes making sure there were no traces of tears or fear on his face. Opening the door he found Gerald waiting for him in what appeared to be patience. In reality Heath could see the barely contained rage. "I can't find my phone" Heath told him by way of explanation.

"You must have dropped it in the car" Gerald told him putting an arm around him drawing him close. 

Heath stiffened in the man's embrace. He felt Gerald's lips press into his cheek. "Don't make a scene." Gerald whispered in his ear "or someone might get hurt."

Heath looked into the man's eyes and blinked. He thought he saw the man's eyes change color from dark to light blue. He knew those eyes. Stunned Heath nodded accepting things. Accepting there was no way out. "Good" Gerald smiled as he led Heath from the store.

Getting into the car Heath sat as far over on the seat as he could get away from Gerald who seemed unperturbed by his futile attempt to put space between them. The man leaned over forcing a kiss on his captive that left them both breathless. When he released Heath there was the the shift in eye color again confirming Heath's deepest fears. As the car drove past the restaurant where their supposed lunch date was going to be Heath knew he was a goner.

Biting his lip Heath tried not to give voice to his fears, his suspicions. He did the only thing he knew could help him even though it was already too late. He opened his mind and sent an urgent plea for help. Even as he did so Gerald once again assaulted him with a fierce kiss. Heath could only hope that Kimberly was able to shut down the link before she connected with Gerald.

***

Kimberly gasped in shock as she sat in class causing the other students and teacher to look at her. She was engulfed in waves of anxiety and fear. She couldn't breathe. She saw the teacher approach her talking to her. No sounds reached her ears though. She watched the woman's mouth move but that was it. She couldn't respond. Couldn't speak. Couldn't hear. Her vision dimmed as the panic increased. She reached out to the one person she knew needed to hear her Daddy's cry for help.

***

Adam was relaxing with his young son Keenan when he received the SOS blast. Crying out he dropped to his knees holding his head in his hands. He was vaguely aware that his son was calling for him. "Daddy Daddy" Keenan cried tugging on his arm.

With tremendous effort Adam dampened down the emotions sweeping through him as wave after wave of anxiety was sent to him. His granddaughter was relaying Heath's plea for help. With gut wrenching realization Adam knew beyond doubt their old enemy was loose and they were all in danger.

3.26 Sometimes A Little Rain Must Fall

Heath woke up alerted to a noise on the baby monitor. He tossed the covers aside and swung his feet over the edge of the bed. He turned to see Don groaning as he sat up rubbing his eyes. "Go back to bed. I've got this." Without a word Don nodded and closed his eyes, snuggling into the blankets.
Padding barefoot to he twins room Heath found Noah fussing in his crib while Madeline was screaming like someone was killing her. Upon seeing his Daddy Noah raised his arms to him expecting to be picked up. Heath bent and kissed the top of his head  "sorry bud but I have to see what's wrong your sister first."

"How's Daddy's little girl" Heath asked the dark haired girl with light gray eyes that she shared with her brother.

"Tummy hurt" she informed him snuggling into his shoulder.

"No sooner had  he picked her up he heard gagging sounds from Noah's crib. After throwing up Noah began to howl.

Heath looked up when the door burst open and Don came into the room. "What's going on in here?" he asked taking in the putrid smell of vomit hanging in the air, the screaming toddlers and his mouth twitched as he observed his husband covered head to toe in vomit.

"It's not funny," Heath scowled at him in no mood to be laughed at after being puked on and surrounded by sick screaming toddlers. "I think the flue bug has officially landed in our house."

"I can see that," Don said lifting Noah from his crib "let's get you cleaned up."

An hour later they had the vomit cleaned up, the kids asleep and they were back in their own bed. Heath cuddled next to Don resting his head on his chest "no. My answer is no."

Running his fingers through Heath's blue hair Don smiled "that's ok after that I don't even want to think about having more kids."

Closing his eyes Heath smiled "four kids is more than enough."

Don pressed his lips on Heath's forehead "I know," he said softly trying to hide his disappointment. "I love you," he murmured as he listened to Heath's even breathing and knew his husband had fallen asleep.

***

Heath crawled out from under Don's arm careful not to wake him. He had to get up and get the girls off to school. Breakfast had to be made and homework gathered. "Kimberly. Lillianna. Time to get up," Heath said coming into their room.

Moaning Kimberly opened her eyes blinking "morning" she said stretching.

Lillianna barely moved. "Come on sweet heart. Time to get up." Heath repeated tugging on her blanket.

"I don't feel good," she complained pulling on the blanket.

Sitting on the edge of the bed Heath felt her forehead. "How's your tummy?" he asked.

"It hurts," she whined covering her mouth suddenly. She made it halfway to the bathroom before throwing up.

"Eew gross," Kimberly cried from behind them.

Heath  nodded agreeing with her "Kimberly can you go get your Dad for me?"

"Sure Daddy" she said tip toeing carefully around them careful not get any of the yuck on her. She knocked on the door before entering he room. "Dad" she called as she approached the bed "Dad" she repeated a little louder.

"Mmm" he muttered not quite awake.

"Dad get up" she demanded "Daddy needs you." Those words got the desired reaction she wanted.

Don sat up "what's wrong?" he asked tossing the covers aside.

"Lillianna is throwing up all over the place and the twins are screaming," Kimberly informed hm. Tugging on his hand she tried to hurrying him out of the room.

"Alright I'm up," Don told his ten year old daughter. He got up to check on the twins who had once again vomited all over themselves and their cribs. Groaning Don went through the slow process of cleaning everything and everyone up. He tried to get the babies to eat something but each time they refused opting instead to throw the bowl and it's contents on the floor.

"Bye Dad," Kimberly called as she went out the door glad to get away from the mess and chaos even if it was school. At least there she wouldn't be surrounded by screaming, whining, vomit producing siblings and stressed out parents. "love you Daddy" she called in her head knowing that Heath would want to know she was leaving.

"Love you to sweet heart," he thought back "have a good day at school."

"I will Daddy" she replied as she got on the bus.

After helping Lillianna clean herself up and she was sleeping soundly again Heath went out into kitchen. He watched Don try unsuccessfully to feed the twins. Taking pity on him Heath said "they won't eat if the think they'll throw up again," he said "what they need are pedialytes to keep them from becoming dehydrated." He went to the freezer and produced a couple of freezer pops. The twins took them eagerly much to Don's surprise.

"But their Popsicle" he protested.

"Made especially to keep sick kids from becoming dehydrated" Heath told him. "See what you miss when you leave me home alone with the kids all the time?"

"I'm beginning to see why you say you have your hands full," Don conceded knowing he couldn't stay home and patiently take care of babies. Glancing at the clock Don got up and ran to their room to get dressed. When he emerged he found Heath in the twins room putting them in their cribs. Kissing him quickly he said "sorry babe but I've got to go to work."

"I know" Heath nodded stifling his irritation of being the one left behind to care for all the kids. Someone had to do it. Just wished it wasn't always him.

Deciding he needed a shower if he hoped to get the scent of vomit from his nostrils he went into the bathroom groaning when he saw the pile of dirty sheet that don had thrown there. Retracing his steps he tossed them into the washer. He stuck his head into the twins room and then into Lillianna's room to make sure they were all sleeping alright.

Sighing in relief that they were still sound asleep he went and took his shower making sure he brought the baby monitors into the bathroom with him. After his shower he attempted to work on his painting. He made quite a bit of revenue with is paintings and they were in great demand at the local gallery. He wondered if he should do a showing like the gallery manager suggested. He wondered if he was really good enough or was it just he had no real competition in Dragon Valley. He'll have to discuss it with Don eventually as it would require some adjustments.

***

Don came home early to a quiet house. Checking on the kids finding them resting in bed. Coming into his room he expected to find Heath at his easel painting. "Heath I'm..." his voice drifted as he found Heath curled up on the bed moaning. Coming closer he reached out a  hand "Heath honey are you alright?"

Heath opened his eyes blinking trying to bring Don into focus. "You're home early" he mumbled sitting up.

Don put a hand on Heath's forehead "you feel warm..."

"I'm freezing" he contradicted shivering.

"You have the flue" Don said pushing back onto the bed "lie down and get some rest."

"I can't be sick" Heath protested despite allowing Don push him onto the bed "the kids need me to take are of them and Kimberly needs help with her homework...."

"I can handle it," Don soothed "just close your eyes and sleep." He watched as Heath's eyes closed before he walked towards the door. He stopped briefly to admire Heath's latest painting. He wished that Heath would take the gallery manager's offer to do a show. He wondered if he should suggest it. He really was good.

A noise behind him caused him to turn a Heath made a hasty beeline towards the bathroom, hand over his mouth. A few seconds later he heard the unmistakable sounds of retching. It was a only a matter of time before the flue made it's way through his entire house.

***

A week later everyone was back to healthy. The flue had run it's course. Don was sitting in front of his computer staring at a blank screen. He had an editorial to write for the paper and he couldn't think of what to write about. He glanced up at Heath who was painting another beautiful picture. "Have you considered the art galleries offer for a show."

Heath's smooth strokes faltered "how did you know about that?"

"Mr Huntington mentioned it in passing" Don shrugged "he's really impressed with your skill and ability."

Taking several deep breaths Heath tried to control the tremors he felt at the idea of putting his art out for display where everyone could see, criticize...."What if no one likes it?" His voice full of doubt and misgivings.

Standing Don approached him "you have nothing to fear. I'll be right there with you."

"Do you really think I can?" Heath asked turning to face Don "your not just saying that to save my feelings?"

Chuckling softly Don put his hands on either side of Heath's face  "babe I wouldn't do that. Not because I don't want to spare your feelings but you don't need me too. Your paintings speak for themselves. All you need is to believe in yourself."

Heath looked into his partners light blue eyes. The same eyes that had never failed to comfort him in the last eight years they've been together. "You'll be there? On opening night?"

"And every night there after," Don told him pulling him close "You know I love you right?"

Heath started to reply when Don's lips pressed down on his. It never failed to fill him with wonder that he had been lucky enough to have Don in his life. He never wanted to take him for granted or the live they had built together. "I love you too" he said when Don released him. He looked up maintaining eye contact "with you I can do anything."

"I hope one day you'll see that you don't need me to be a success," Don held his face with his hands "I want you to know that your enough in your own right. You don't need me or anyone else to validate who you are."

"Thank you," Heath murmured giving his husband a hug "I needed to hear that." He kissed Don's cheek before turning to his half finished painting "now you need to get back to work and I have a painting to finish."

Don nodded releasing him "I think I'll go a for a walk. I need some fresh air before I sit back down and stare at my blank screen."

Heath's brow furrowed "writers block?"

"Yeah I just can't think of a good idea," Don shrugged "maybe some exercise will awaken my muse."

"If not," Heath gave him a suggestive smile "we can always try what helps me."

"Hmm" Don purred wrapping his arms around his husband pressing his body tight against his. 

Heath's face turned towards him as Don devoured his mouth in a passionate kiss. "As tempting as this is I really need to take the kids out so you can call the manager."

"Rain check," Heath said hopefully while his pulse quickened as it always did when Don touched him.

"Definitely" Don groaned as he released him.

***

"Nervous," Don asked coming up behind Heath as he attempted tie his bow tie. "Here let me do that."

"I hate dressing up" Heath groaned turning towards Don allowing him to straighten out he mess he had made.

"Perfect" Don said smiling at him "this reminds me..."

"Of our wedding day" Heath finished for him "can you believe it's been five years?"

"It feels like a lifetime," Don squeezed him tight "I love you more now then I did then if that's possible."

"I feel the same about you," Heath sighed turning in Don's arms "are you ready?"

Laughing "I've been ready...."

"I didn't take that long," Heath protested.

"Rolling his eyes Don shook his head "you spent most of your time on that bow tie...and your hair..."

Blushing Heath looked at the floor "I wanted to look my best...."

"And you do," Don said "I'm sorry if I make you think otherwise" his tone apologetic.

"You'll have to do better than that to make it up to me," Heath pretended to pout.

"Lets see," Don said as he kissed Heath's forehead, his eyelids, the tip of his nose. He peppered 

Heath's face with sweet butterfly kisses "how's that?"

"It's a start," Heath smiled "but you'll have to do better to make up for all the mental anguish..." His words were cut off as Don pressed his lips to his giving him a firm but gentle kiss on the mouth.

"Better?"

"Oh yeah," Heath nodded breathlessly.

"We better go before the guest of honor is late" Don said laughing at Heath's obvious frustration.

***

Walking into the gallery Don held Heath's hand squeezing it firmly. Hoping to reassure him that despite everything this was a good thing. Leaning close he whispered "you ok?"

Heath nodded vaguely as he stopped staring at the busy exhibition room "there's no many people."

The manager stepped forward upon seeing them "Mr Van Winkle such a delight that you finally allowed us to display your work. As you can see it's causing quite the stir in the art community." Mr Huntington took Heath's arm and escorted him around the room. He stopped beside a well dressed man around the same age as himself early to mid forties. "I want you to meet someone," he explained as the man in question finished his conversation with a voluptuous older woman in her late fifties early sixties. "Gerald I would like you to meet the young and talented artist responsible for tonight's show."

The man turned and smiled "finally" he said taking Heath's arm and leading him away. Before Don could protest or follow Mr Huntington grabbed him directing him towards another exhibit. "Gerald has some things to discuss with our young artist." Don turned to see Heath trying to break free from the older man. His face clearly displaying his unease at the situation. Don gave him a slight nod and a wave saying above the crowd "I'll meet you at our table in the dining room."

Heath nodded clamping down on his anxiety. He knew he had come to rely on Don a little too much over the years and knew he needed to branch out and become more independent. He hoped this show was a step in that direction but it did little to settle is misgivings as Gerald led him away to a secluded area. Once they were beyond the main exhibit Heath asked "where are we going?"

"Some place private where we can talk." Gerald opened a door into a dark office. Turning the lights on Gerald motioned towards the couch "have a seat."

Hesitantly Heath walked past the older man and sat down assuming Gerald would sit behind the desk. Standing by the window Gerald let the silence in the room lengthen before saying "it's a beautiful night, don't  you think?"

"Err yes," Heath agreed uncomfortable being alone with the man. He tried to still his racing thoughts so as not to alert Kimberly that he was experiencing a large amount of anxiety and alert Don. He had to be overreacting to the situation.

The man nodded turning from the window. Gerald went and sat next to Heath on the couch. "It doesn't compare with the beauty of my company..." he laid a hand on Heath's thigh squeezing slightly.

"I uh should be going," Heath stammered leaping to his feet almost running to the door.

"I'm sorry," Gerald said "I promise that won't happen again." He held his hands up and moved to sit on the nearby desk. "I really brought you in here to discuss your future." He smiled watching Heath hesitate by the door "I promise I'll be on my best behavior. I apologize for my lack of manners."

Heath frowned turning from the door "what about my future?" he asked remaining by the door poised to take flight at a moments provocation.

"I would like you to come to Bridgeport with me. I know your paintings would sell well in that venue. Many people here tonight are from Bridgeport. Just think your name would be a household name among art collectors and art aficionados." He went on to describe what he could do to promote Heaths and his work at some length. "So what do you say? Do we have a deal?" To his disappointment and expectations Heath shook his head. 

"It sounds too good to be true," Heath moved towards the door "I'll have to discuss this with my husband."

Gerald came and stood behind him "I hope this refusal of my offer isn't due to my deplorable behavior earlier this evening."

"Ah no sir," Heath shook his head "I just have... other responsibilities to consider. Like I said I'll have to discuss this with my husband and let you know."

"Very well," Gerald smiled handing him a card "call me at that number and I'll set everything up."

"You're pretty sure that I'll say yes," Heath mumbled taking the card.

Gerald gave him a suave self-assured smiled that sent tingles down his spine. "I always get what I want. At the moment what I want is you."

Swallowing Heath backed out of the room. Once again he felt things sliding out of his control.