Laws of Love

Jay woke up early the next morning. She got up leaving a still sleeping and muttering Alex in bed. She went downstairs, gathering her clothes as she went, not that she needed them, she was using some of Alex's, she didn't think that Alex would mind. She went to the kitchen looking for coffee to wake her up. Her body was glowing, and she smiled at the memory of the previous day. That was unexpected, and exactly right. How Alex had known, she just didn't know.

'Alex, hell you don't even have milk?' Jay chuckled under her breath. 'You do need someone to take care of you, don't you?' Jay nearly jumped out of her skin when her phone rang, she grabbed it and her heart warmed when she saw who was calling. 'Good morning sleepyhead.'

'Morning beautiful.' Alex yawned into the phone. 'I woke up and you weren't there, where are you?' Jay now laughed. Alex was such a goof sometimes.

'I'm in the kitchen, which I have to say is completely empty!' Jay scolded Alex, then ruined it by laughing again.

'I love to hear you laugh. I'm sorry, I don't really shop, but I guess that will change. There should be some milk under the sink.' Alex said somehow knowing what Jay was looking for.

'Under the sink? Oh come on Alex! You have yards of cupboards and you put it under the sink?' Jay found it there and was laughing again. 'You really need to organize this kitchen. It is way to beautiful to be treated like this.'

'Ah well I put the things where I can find them. You are welcome to organize.'

Jay got busy making coffee and kept joking around with Alex. It was silly and childish but she could not help but love it.

'Hey why don't you come down and have a cup of coffee.'

'I guess I have to get up sometime. Give me a minute, oh do me a favour?'

'Sure.'

'Could you get my mail for me? I haven't checked it in while.'

'Ok sure thing.' Jay hung up the phone and smiled then went to get the mail. When Jay opened the door there was a note on the doorstep, thinking it might have been Reilly or Jane leaving them a note she picked it up and read it. Her blood froze in her veins. She slammed the door and was running upstairs. 'Alex! Alex!' Jay screamed, Alex caught her in her arms.

'What's wrong? Beautiful what's wrong?' Jay didn't say anything she just handed the note to Alex. When Alex read it, Jay could see a shiver going through Alex. Otherwise Alex didn't react, not that Jay could see. But inside Alex's world was crumbling. 'Call the station. I'll call my dad.' Alex didn't say anything else as she headed to the kitchen to use the phone there. Jay used her phone to call the station.

There were cops every where. Alex now knew how the people felt that had cops trample right into their most private of places and not even notice it. Jay was there, holding her hand. It helped, but she was scared and she didn't know what to do. So she sat there stared at her friends and co-workers going through her life. It was a horrible feeling, one she wished she didn't have to have. When her dad arrived, with her mom and Susan she relaxed a bit more. Family is what she needed, but she gripped Jay's hand tighter as her mom came over to her and kissed her on the cheek.

'We are all here for you sweetie.' Reilly said and got a nod from Susan and Angus.

'Alex do you still have the note?' Angus asked wanting to see it first hand. Alex tried to speak, but with them there her shield was crumbling, bit by bit.

'No, they already took it away.' Jay answered, knowing Alex just couldn't. Angus nodded his head.

'Fine. Then tell me exactly where you found it.'

'I was going to take out the post, and the note was just sitting on the doorstep.' Jay paused for a minute. 'He must have been watching us,'

'I agree. Now what stood in the note exactly?' Jay could not bring it over her heart to tell him, and stared at the floor. It was very personal and chilling. 'Jay I need to know, and I will. But I would like to hear it from you or Alex.' Alex chocked back tears.

'Give me a minute.' Jay swallowed hard. She then looked at Alex and Alex managed a nod. 'Dearest Alex You sure know how to put on one hell of a show! You have one hot piece of ass there. She must have liked what you showed her. Very unladylike the way she let you fuck her. But then I like that. Oh yea, nice place you have there, suits you. Now the question is how long will I let you enjoy it and that hot slut of yours. But then when I'm done with you, she will need a shoulder to cry on, who knows I might just offer it. I wanted to kill you clean, but then you had the fortune of being lucky. I now realise to torture you before I do is more fun. So hang on for me, let me just absolutely ruin your life. Yours truly. Your secret Admirer.' Jay had stared at the floor the whole time. Now she looked up. She could see Angus had more questions, but Susan had her hand on his shoulder.

'That's more than enough.' She said it and Jay could see why no one argued with Susan. 'Reilly and myself are taking Alex and Jay to our place. They need food. Not questions. I'll trust you to keep and eye here and join us when they are done here?'

'You are right. I'll be along.' Susan let Angus pull her down for a kiss. Angus left the room. Susan looked at Jay and Alex and then did what came naturally to her. She pulled them to their feet and into a hug. Both Alex and Jay gave in to it and let themselves be held.

'Now we go home.' Susan said and Led the way to Alex's car outside, gave the key to Reilly and got in.

I have to get away! I can't stand it, it's to much. I need to be alone! Oh fuck I just need a drink and then some oblivion. Oh god Jay! What am I going to do? I need air oh shit! I need to get away. Jog, that's it Alex go for a jog. Clear your mind.

Alex felt caged and nervous. It was better then letting her heart admit that she was scared beyond belief that anything would happen to her or Jay. Jay watched her, and she wished Alex would talk to her, but Alex paced back and forth.

'I'm going for a jog.' Alex suddenly announced.

'I don't...'

'I'm going!' Alex said already heading for the room she still had there. There should be some jogging clothes there. Jay wanted to follow, and talk to Alex when Reilly put her hand on her arm.

'I know it's hard, but Jay let her figure it out for herself first. She is scared and doesn't know what to do. Let her have her jog, she'll be better for it.' Jay nodded, but it didn't sit well with her.

'Now why don't you help me make breakfast. Reilly told me you were a born cook. As I love it myself I would like the company.' Susan recognised that Jay needed to have something to do.

'Uhm, I'm not that good.' Jay blushed.

'Don't believe a word she says!' Reilly laughed seeing Jay blush. 'Having her in the kitchen is a treat. Come to think of it I'll join you in a moment myself.'

'I...'

'Oh modesty is over rated if you ask me. Now I'm curious to see what you can do.' Susan led Jay into her kitchen. Jay sighed, the Conly women had very good taste kitchen wise. 'Ah you passed the first test.' Susan said delighted.

'It's beautiful! Do you know what I thought when I walked in here?' Jay looked at Susan.

'No why don't you tell me.' Susan said as Reilly entered.

'I just thought that the Conly women have great taste when it came to everything kitchen. And I appreciate that.' Susan beamed and Reilly laughed.

'You are a treat Jay.' Reilly hugged her, and Jay realized that was exactly what she needed. 'Feeling better?'

'Yes.' Jay held on for a moment longer. 'You keep doing this for me, when I need it most.'

'Oh sweetie how can I not?' Gripping Jay tighter.

'Thank you.' Jay finally let go, just to see Susan watching them both.

'Well if Reilly hadn't beaten me to it.' Susan said, and turned to the fridge.

They cooked and laughed, but Jay was worried about Alex and what happened that morning. She wished she had answers. She was scared and she didn't know what to do with it. She needed Alex, but did Alex need her?

Shane walked into the third bar and saw his sister sitting, staring at a glass. Probably whiskey that was her drink of choice. He walked over and took the seat next to her.

'You are a creature of habit aren't you? What are you doing here Alex?'

'I've been wondering why I'm not drinking this very fine glass of Whiskey.'

'Bullshit. Try again.' Shane said without breaking eye contact, and saw his sisters eyes laugh. So he knew she was fine.

'Mom?'

'Who else?'

'How long did it take you?' Alex looked at her brother, it had always been him.

'Third bar I tried. You are predictable. So what's really up?' Alex looked at him.

'I wanted to drink myself into oblivion, then I started thinking.' She paused and gave the glass another twirl. 'Then I decided fuck that, I'm doing this Conly style.' Shane looked at her and laughed.

'Flip him the bird!' They said together, Alex nodded and laughed at her brother.

'Now I think I better go home and get me my girl.' Sane nodded and stood up.

'You do that, and I can finally get ready for my date.' Shane winked.

'You have a date! Who would be crazy enough to date a hound like you.' Alex shot back.

'Since you seemed to be having some sort of luck with a Jooste I thought to myself why shouldn't I try one.' Shane grinned.

'You and Jane?' Alex snorted. 'She is going to go on one date with you and realise she is head over heals in love with me.'

'Oh you are just sore because I got the writer and you the cop.' Shane punched Alex lightly on the arm as they headed out.

'Oh bless you!' Alex gave her brother a hug. 'My bike?'

'Thought you might like a ride. Since you and Jay got together you have been neglecting her. Sill gets me that you won her from me.'

'You are just a terrible bluff!' Alex laughed and grabbed the key. 'Hop on Shane let's go.'

'Ugh, I am never playing poker with you again.'

'That's what you said the last time.' Shane got on the back of Alex's bike, he felt like a girl.

'You know this is really bad for my ego.'

'I know.' Alex laughed as she took of. She enjoyed the roar of the bike, but it really wasn't her thing. Shane would get it back come Christmas. Alex wondered what he would bet this year, he was a terrible poker player, she wasn't.

When Alex got back to her dad's house she headed straight to the kitchen. She knew Susan well enough to know that she and Reilly would keep Jay busy there. She walked in and there she was. Alex's heart skipped a beat. She stood in the door and watched her move, so sure of herself.

Jay knew the second Alex entered the house. She didn't know how, but she did. She waited a minute to let her heart calm itself. Then she turned and went to Alex.

'There you are.' Jay said it as her arms went around Alex's middle. She stood on her toes and kissed Alex.

'Here I am.' Alex was a bit shocked that Jay had known that she was there without her saying anything. Reilly and Susan just looked at each other and smiled. 'Beautiful can I talk to you?'

'Always, but first you have to eat. You haven't had anything today.' Alex smiled at Jay.

'Another reason why I love you. It smells good, let me grab some of this and we can get...' Reilly came to Alex and gave her a kiss on the cheek and left the room.

'You two can have the kitchen, for a while.' Susan did the same as Reilly and left. Alex now looked at those steel blue eyes. They looked tired and worried, and she knew she had some part in that.

'I guess you have all been waiting for me?' Alex asked the obvious. 'I didn't mean to make you worry. I just...' Alex didn't know what to say.

'You needed space.' Jay finished for her. She let go of Alex and started to prepare a plate for her. 'I understand.'

'No I don't think you do. You understand some of it, but not all.' Alex took the plate and put it on the table and sat down. She then pulled Jay onto the chair beside hers. 'I wanted space, that is true, but I was looking for more. I fled today. I got scared and instead of talking to you I headed to the first bar I knew.'

'You don't drink.' Jay was a bit confused.

'I don't drink any more. I used to drink, and I drank to much.' Alex could see something on Jay's face she hadn't seen there before. Jay took Alex's face in her hands and smiled.

'But you didn't drink.'

'How do you know?'

'Because you are here talking to me.' Jay kissed Alex gently. 'And if I'm not mistaken you have a plan. Tell me.' Alex's hand went trough her hair, she just couldn't figure Jay out. When she thought she did, she showed another side.

'You are incredible.' Now Alex laughed, and it thrilled Jay to the tips of her toes to hear it. 'You are right, I do have an idea. It won't catch this bastard, but will make me feel better.'

'Well then don't make me wait!'

'I am flipping this bastard the bird!' Jay looked a bit perplexed. 'I'm going to say fuck you in my way.' Now Jay smiled, that fit.

'And how are we going to do that?' Jay emphasised the we. Alex needed to realise they were a team.

'Oh I was hoping you would go along.' Alex now sat back and Jay could hear her stomach growl. Jay laughed and Alex blushed just a bit.

'You look damn cute when you blush.' Jay kissed Alex on the nose. 'Why don't you eat and tell me what you have planned.'

So Alex ate and outlined her plan. They laughed and revised the plan a bit here and there. They were better for it. They had a plan and weren't waiting for the next attack. Life went on, they would see to it.

Jay looked at the bike with some suspicion. Alex smiled as she looked at Jay, took her hand and kissed her.

'Don't worry. I can drive it.'

'Oh it's not that. I know that. I just don't know where we are going to put the groceries.' Alex nearly choked on he own laughter.

'I'm sure we'll think of something. Now hop on.' Alex liked the idea of Jay sitting snugly behind her, and grinned.

'Now explain to me why you have this bike, but until Christmas only?' Jay got on and put her arms around Alex and rested her head against her back.

'It's a little tradition between me and Shane to play poker around Christmas time, but it differs from the other times because we have to put something on the table that we love or would definitely miss. Then we play. The person that wins gets to keep said item for one year, until the next game.' Jay laughed.

'And you won his bike?'

'I'm good at poker, Shane isn't.'

'Oh I see, and when did you start this tradition of yours?'

'I was fifteen, had just gotten the hang of poker, by way of my aunt, and I wanted the Swiss Army Knife my brother had. So I challenged him to a game for the knife, he wasn't stupid and said ok but only if it was for one year. I agreed and the rest is history.'

'Remind me never to play poker with you. Who is the champion.?' Alex snorted.

'I have only lost twice since we started this, and I'm still pissed about it.'

'What you loose?' Jay managed to get out between laughs.

'A pair of absolutely great shades, brand spanking new.'

'And? You said two.' Jay felt Alex shift in her arms. She was uncomfortable. This made Jay smile. It wasn't just her then.

'Ok I was eighteen at the time.' Alex defended herself before she had even said what it was.

'Come tell me.' Jay poked Alex in the side.

'My stash of Play Boy's.' Alex murmured, but Jay heard and nearly fell of the bike, she was laughing that hard. 'Which I let him keep once the year was up.' Alex added sheepishly.

'I wish I could have seen that one.' Jay finally managed.

'Ok can we go now?' Alex changed the subject.

'I think we should. So we are going to Harris first and then shopping?' Jay wanted to get the schedule set in her mind.

'Yip, that is the plan. Now you just hang on to me beautiful.' The Bike roared to life and they were of. Alex loved the feeling of Jay holding on to her. It felt just right.

Alex and Jay stood in front of the house her partner owned. Alex gripped Jay's hand. Jay had a bouquet in the other arm. Alex eyed her.

'What?' Jay snapped, Alex had been on about her bringing flowers.

'He's a man.'

'And I won't go empty handed to any house. Men like flowers.' Jay told Alex for the tenth time. 'Now ring the bell.'

'Sure thing. Flowers?' Alex shook her head and pushed the doorbell. It took a few minutes before they heard footsteps. 'Show time.' Alex said and winked at Jay, just before the door opened.

'Alex! How sweet of you to come by. Come on in.' A woman Jay guessed to be Harris's wife answered. 'And this is your girlfriend then?' Jay could feel the blush rising to her face.

'Hi Lisa.' Alex gripped Jay's hand firmly in hers. 'Lisa this is Jay.' She introduced Jay.

'Well it's nice to meat you.' She looked and saw that Jay's hands were full and took her shoulders and kissed her on the cheek. Jay was to surprised to say anything. 'Welcome and come on in. I'm glad to see you though Alex I am going crazy with Tomy at home!'

'Glad to be of service.' Alex smiled as they were led to the living room.

'You have visitors Tomy.'

'Well, well. I didn't think I'd see you this soon.' Harris looked up at Alex. 'You do know I'm going to lecture you?'

'I figured as much.' Alex said grinning as Harris snorted.

'Always so damn cocky! You brought your better half I see.' Harris turned to Jay, and she blushed. 'Now why is it that she brings me flowers and you come empty handed? Hi Jay?' Harris held out his hand.

'Hi Harris, how are you feeling?' Jay shook his hand and gave him the flowers.

'She doesn't deserve you.' Harris laughed. 'I'm doing good, if it wasn't for the whole in my leg I'd be dancing on the rooftops. Thank you for asking and thank you for the flowers.'

'It's a pleasure.' Jay said sounding more than a little pleased with herself.

'Do you know that you are the first person to bring me anything? I like it.' Alex gapped as Harris handed the flowers to Lisa with instructions to bring them back once they were in water. Jay had in the meantime moved back to Alex and their hands linked of their own accord. 'Sit down you two. I don't like people towering over me.'

They talked for about an hour. Alex told Harris about the letter she had received. Harris did give Alex a very good lecture, Jay just smiled. Alex had gotten lectures from so many people, she wondered how she took it so easily.

'Ok I think we need to be getting on.' Alex said and got up. 'You look good Harris.'

'Thank you both for the visit. Alex?' Harris called her back.

'Yip?'

'There is something about that letter bothering me. Take another look at it, I'll mull it over here.'

'Ok, give me a call if something comes to mind.'

'Bye Harris' Jay said walking out behind Alex.

Alex was in thought as they walked out. If Harris thought there was something in the letter then there probably was. He had very good instincts when it came to things like this. She would talk to Jay, Shane and her dad. Maybe they could figure it out.

What am I supposed to do with all this food? Alex has lost it, we don't need this much. We have enough to feed an army and then some. Taking her grocery shopping might have been a mistake. I have to get her to make a list of the things we need and stick to it when we do our shopping.

Jay smiled at herself. She was already thinking of their shopping. Things were moving faster than she had expected and she found that she didn't mind that much.

'Alex who are you intending to entertain? The local football team?' Alex winked at Jay.

'What we don't eat now we will have for later.' Jay smiled, she guessed Alex would always do her shopping that way.

'We are never going to fit this all on your bike.' Jay stated, maybe that way she would get Alex to leave at least some of the stuff behind. Alex nodded her head and put some things back. 'It still won't fit.'

'Oh come an Jay, I don't like going shopping. This way I won't have to come for a few days.' Jay kissed her and started putting things back. Alex sighed and let Jay put back more than half of what she had put in. 'Next thing I know I'll be making grocery lists.' Alex grumbled. Jay started laughing and had to stop what she was doing. 'What?'

'I was just thinking I needed to get you to make a list.' Alex gave her sad look, she didn't pull of completely.

'I knew it!' Alex then lent down and kissed her. 'But for you beautiful I will do it.'

They paid and left. With a lot of effort they managed to get everything on to the bike. Alex then took them back to her place.

Alex and Jay could see that the police was nearly done and headed into the kitchen. There they found Angus. When he looked up he didn't seem to be to surprised. He motioned for them to sit down with him.

'I thought you two might be back. So you are not going to let this bastard scare you of then.' It was a statement not a question. 'You have an idea Alex?'

'Yip, I'm doing this my way.' He nodded. 'I'm flipping him the bird. Doesn't really help us get him, I know, but it will make me feel better.'

'Oh if we are talking about it, we wanted to invite you, Susan and Reilly to dinner tonight.' Jay added as she got busy putting away the groceries.

'Well I think I can speak for all of us when I say yes. But Alex don't be so sure that this won't help us catch him.' Alex thought for awhile then nodded as she got it.

'He wants me to be scared and fall apart.'

'And when you don't, it will seriously piss him of. He might make a mistake, bound to if he is pissed.' Alex grinned at her father.

'Then I guess we should make it a night to remember. Jay?' Jay had been listening, why neither her or Alex had thought of this beet her. 'Would you mind if we invited a couple more people?' Jay groaned.

'How many is a few more?'

'Mhhh, Shane, your sister and Sally?' Alex asked. Jay smiled as Alex came to her and pulled her towards her.

'If this will help catch this bastard you can invite the whole bloody police station.' Alex laughed and twirled Jay around dipped her and kissed her.

'Well I would have thought that you would be a bit more worried about people going through your stuff, but that's me.' Alex laughed, she didn't need to see the person to know who it was.

'You find anything you like Sally?'

'Mhhh depends?'

'Oh on what?'

'Can I borrow it?' Sally laughed as Alex cocked her hip still holding Jay in her arms. Somehow Alex still pulled it of.

'You are not borrowing anything from me. I'm still waiting to get back the last pair of shoes you borrowed.' Sally shrugged.

'In that case, I didn't find anything.' Angus moved to the door.

'I think you girls can take it from here. Jay when should we be here?' Alex looked perplexed. 'Oh come on Alex we all know she organizes better than you do.' Jay laughed along with Sally.

'It's true Alex.' Sally smirked.

'I think seven would be fine.' Jay told Angus and walked him to the door. Sally and Alex were joking around when she got back to the kitchen. 'Alex could you get a hold of your brother and I'll track down Jane. I have to go get some clothes at my place anyway.'

'Ok, but I think if I get hold of Shane you won't need to tell Jane.' Alex smirked at Jay.

'It would seem that you missed it then.' Sally remarked, everyone knew.

'Missed what?'

'My dear brother is dating your sister.' Jay was shocked then let out a laugh that sounded like a bark.

'Well I'll be damned! I really was out of it.' It amused Jay that Jane had taken an interest in Shane. 'So Alex are you coming with me or am I going to have to drag Sally along?'

'How did you...' Alex thought better of it. 'I want to stick around. Sally would you mind going with Jay?'

'Not a problem. She is better company anyway.' Sally slipped out before Alex could think of a good comeback.

'So you will call Shane?' Jay asked as she walked to Alex and pulled her close to her body, making sure that Alex could feel her body. Alex was left speechless and only nodded. 'Then what are you waiting? Kiss me...' Alex took her mouth, attacking. Taking Jay's lower lip between he teeth, gently grazing her lips. Jay moaned and pressed herself even closer to Alex. They would have kissed the whole day if Sally didn't call for Jay to get moving. 'Now that was a kiss.' Jay whispered.

'I... bloody hell you are an incredible kisser! Now go before I take you on the kitchen floor.' Jay laughed and headed out after Sally.

Sally watched Jay for a while before she talked. She could see that Jay was over the moon, but she had the sneaky suspicion that Jay was as tense as could be. She was a master of disguise so to speak. Well she would like to lighten her load if she let her.

'You know I'm sorry that this is happening to you two. You don't deserve this. And I want you to know that I am there if you need a shoulder or an ear.' Sally let it hang there, hoping that Jay would take her up on it.

'I'm fine.' Jay lied and Sally knew it.

'Jay don't give me that.' She turned Jay towards. 'Look me in the eyes and tell me you aren't terrified and want to fall apart! Do that and I will leave you alone.' Sally waited and Jay looked down she could never lie to someone she considered a friend, in the face. Sally took her to a park bench and sat down. 'You are a friend. I know you see me more as Alex's friend, but Jay I am here for you. Now the question is will you trust me?'

'I do trust you.' Jay answered as she stared of into nothing. It looked to Sally like she was trying to put back the happy face she had worn around Alex. She wasn't doing such a good job of it at the moment. 'Sally if I admit it out loud it will become so much more real. I...' Jay's voice hitched. 'I can't loose Alex, you don't know how much she means to me or how much she has helped me. I can't fall apart, not now, she needs me to be strong, and that is what I will be.'

'No you are right I don't know what she means to you, but I can see it. You two were made for each other. You light up when Alex is around and it's the same with her. I have never seen Alex this happy, and for god's sake this isn't exactly the best situation you guys are in. You have found that someone that everyone searches for. So Jay just lean on me a bit, Alex is my best friend, and it means a lot to me that she has you right now.' Jay kept staring at nothing in particular.

'Sally what am I supposed to do? I can't protect her from this.' Jay finally got out.

'You keep doing what you are doing right now, and Jay give Alex a bit more credit. She knows you are scared.' Sally took Jay's hand into hers. 'Talk to her. Tell her how you are feeling, she will do the same.' Jay nodded she then got up and started to walk towards her place. 'I guess your done talking then.' Sally muttered to herself.

'Thank you. Now lets get my things. I would love to get something that actually fits me.' Jay said motioning to Alex's clothes she was wearing. She needed to think about what Sally said.

'Mhh, does look a bit oversized on you.' Sally shot back then said softly. 'If you need me you know how to reach me.' Jay nodded as they approached her place. They went inside and as they got to her door she found that it wasn't locked, she tensed for a second then thought it had to be Jane.

'I guess Alex must have gotten it wrong, seems to me my sister is home.' They went inside and Jay opened the door to her room and nearly choked at what she saw. 'Maybe not!'

'Well Shane Conly I knew you had a sweet ass, but I didn't think I'd get to see it up close and personal' Sally nearly doubled over laughing. Jane and Shane were trying, frantically, to cover themselves. 'Jay? Is this really your sister?'

'Uhm... I can explain.' Jane was burning red in the face.

'Yes, this is my sister, and she has always had a problem with mine and yours. I can't wait to hear you explain this one Jane.' Jay stared at Jane and she turned even redder. Shane was trying to get to his clothes. 'And you!' She pointed at Shane. 'Do not move a muscle if you like what you got.' Shane froze.

'I... sorry.' He mumbled pulling the duvet more securely over himself and Jane.

'Ok kids I'm waiting, so who wants to go first?' Jay stared at both Jane and Shane. They didn't seem to know where to look or how to explain. 'Jane you are the one with all the words, give it a go.'

'I... uh...well see we...uh.' Jay suddenly started laughing. Making Jane and Shane even more confused.

'That kids means you get of scot free.' Sally laughed as Jay didn't seem to be able to get her laughter under control.

'Uhm could we maybe get dressed?' Shane asked, Jay just shook her head.

'Why bother, I'm just going to grab some clothes and some things from the kitchen and then I'll let you get right back to it.' Shane nearly chocked this time. 'You are changing these sheets, and bloody hell give a woman a warning next time! I really do not need to see my girlfriends brother and my sister going at it in my bed. You will be at dinner at Alex's place at seven.'

'But...'

'Seven, or you will be sorry you didn't come.' Jay looked at them both.

'You are going to tell Alex, right?' Shane asked, already knowing the answer.

'You bet that naked ass of yours!' Jay said as she grabbed her clothes.

'We'll be there Jay.' Jane said.

'Ok have fun!' Sally said as she and Jay went to the kitchen. When they had everything that they needed they headed back. They didn't say much, but they sure had a little something to tell Alex.

Jay went upstairs first putting her clothes in Alex's bedroom. She then just splashed her face with some cold water. She just needed a few minuted alone. It had been such a long day, and it wasn't over yet.

Alex found Jay standing with her hands on the basin, eyes closed water dripping from her face. Jay looked so tired right then, it nearly broke Alex's heart.

'Beautiful?' Jay looked up and smiled at Alex. 'Here. Alex handed her a towel.'

'I'm sorry I didn't hear you come in.' Jay dried her face.

'Are you ok?' Alex asked looking into Jay's blue eyes. She saw the truth.

'Alex I just can't now. I have to get dinner started if I want it to be ready in time.' Alex just pulled Jay to her and hugged as if her life depended on it. Jay immediately fell into Alex, she didn't cry but it was just what she needed, and it was exactly what Alex needed.

'Just hold on to me for a while.' Alex felt better, she knew she would. 'God I need you so bad Jay, it scares me.' Jay's hart jolted. Alex needed her and Jay would be there.

'I know the feeling, but then you hold me in your arms and I would swear I can fly.' They held on to each other tight, Jay resting on Alex's shoulder. She could hear the steady beat of Alex's heart and she calmed down. 'Come on Alex we need to get cooking.' Jay finally took Alex's hand and led her to the kitchen. There they worked side by side for the longest time.

'Oh yea, beautiful I couldn't get a hold of Shane so I guess we are two people short.' Jay snorted out a laugh.

'They'll be here.'

'You caught them?' Jay had to put down her knife, she was laughing so hard.

'Yip I caught them all right.'

'Ok you either find talking to people on the phone funny or you know something I don't know.' Alex looked at her. 'So spit it out.'

'I wanted to tell you when I got here, I guess I forgot. Do you know what I found in my bed when I got home?' Jay asked. It took Alex a minute to catch up, but when she did she ogled Jay, then laughed.

'No way! In your bed?'

'Yes they were...' Now Jay did blush, how was she supposed to explain it to Alex. 'They were busy and we walked in. I don't know who was more shocked, them or us.' Alex hooted with laughter.

'Oh Shane you are just so dead!' Alex danced a little dance, what Jay thought was a victory dance. Alex then went over to Jay and kissed her on the cheek. 'Oh I love you!' Jay laughed. They were still laughing when the doorbell rang. Alex went to get it and soon came back with Susan in tow.

'I thought you might need a hand Jay.' Susan said giving Jay a kiss on the cheek. 'Now what can I do?'

'Nothing.' Jay said, but the look that Susan gave her made her sigh. 'Fine, but you sit down. I'll give you plenty to do!' Jay added as Susan wanted to complain.

They all worked together and Susan could feel the love between Alex and Jay. In all the years she had known Alex she had never seen her in a kitchen, except to eat, but here she was letting Jay teach her. They were so good together. The way they would touch without noticing it. Susan wondered if they knew that a blind man could see they were in love.

Seven on the dot the doorbell rang. Alex and Jay made a bet who it was. Jay said it would be Jane and Shane. Alex said it would be her mother. She went to get the door.

'Ok beautiful you win. I owe you.' Alex winked at her. Shane walked in behind Jane with a sheepish grin on his face, but when he came over to say hello to Jay her heart melted. How could you stay mad at a man holding a bunch of flowers and that look on his face.

'You know just how to butter me up, I guess my sister might have had a hand in it.' Jay went on to her toes and kissed Shane's cheek. 'Thank you, they are lovely.'

'It's the least I can do.' Susan watched, she was very curious. 'Oh there are my favourite girls!' Shane moved and twirled Susan around. 'You taking good care of my little sister?'

'Shane!' Susan laughed. 'Stop I'm getting dizzy!' Shane twirled her right into a chair.

'Oh Susan, this is my sister. Jane this is Susan.' Jay made the introductions. They all chatted a while. Then Reilly arrived and shortly after that Angus and Sally.

They ate and they laughed. It was a family meal, and Jay could see a lot of the tension drain away from Alex. She was a family person, it warmed Jay's heart. With Alex she had found the family she had always wanted. When dinner was done she was not surprised when Reilly helped her in the kitchen. It did surprise her that they were alone.

'Thank you Jay it was a lovely evening. And your cooking, it only seems to get better.' Jay blushed, as she always did when she received a compliment.

'Thank you.'

'I wanted to speak to you alone if you don't mind?' Jay nodded her head, she had guessed as much.

'You know I don't. You have done so much for me.'

'You are family.' Jay stopped and stared at Reilly.

'How can you take me into your family so easily?'

'Because you make my daughter happier than I have ever seen her. And I am honoured to have you as another daughter.' Now Jay had to bite back tears. 'You will take good care of Alex for me, won't you?'

'I would give anything to make her happy. So yes, I will take very good care of her.' Reilly came to Jay and hugged her.

'Alex could not have chosen anyone better. Now I'm going to rally the troops and get them out of your hair. You two have had a long day.'

'Oh thank you.' Jay sighed with a little more than thankfulness. 'I just want it to be us for just a little while.' Reilly hugged her tight.

'I know and I'll have them out of here before you are done here.' When Jay wanted to object she shushed her. 'I'll tell them good night for you, no arguments.'

'Thank you Reilly, thank you.' Reilly left her and had the whole clan gone. Jay was amazed that she actually pulled it of.

Alex was in the meantime drawing Jay a hot bath. She wanted to make Jay forget their worries for a while.

Oh beautiful you make me so happy. I wonder if you understand that? Mhhhh you are, well you are perfect for me. Who knew that love could be this sweet and at the same time hurt so damn much. I am scared of loosing you, I can't bare the thought of not having you with me. And when you smile at me, I get goosebumps!

Alex pulled herself back from her musings and went to get Jay. Jay was still in the kitchen just putting away the last of the dishes as Alex walked in. She loved watching Jay move, but she loved holding her even more.

'Beautiful I have a surprise for you.' Alex held her tight.

'Just not more people.' Jay sighed into Alex shoulder.

'No, no nothing like that. Come on upstairs with me?' Alex asked.

'I'd go where ever with you.' Alex led Jay upstairs and to the bathroom.

Jay walked into a fairytale. Alex had lit dozens of candles and there was the bath hot and steaming with some bath oil scenting the air. Fluffy towels set next to it. Alex closed the door behind them.

'Take a bath with me?'

'How did you know what I needed?' Jay stared to undress. Alex stopped her.

'I just had a feeling. Let me do that.' Alex undressed Jay slowly kissing her softly on her shoulder. When Jay was naked Alex helped her into the tub. 'Is it to hot?'

'No it's just right.' Jay sighed as she sank into the tub. Alex got undressed and got in behind Jay. Jay then settled back and rested her body against Alex's body. 'Thank you Alex.'

'Any time beautiful.' Alex wrapped her arms around Jay's waist and rubbed her stomach with her hands.

'Alex?'

'Mhhh.'

'Tell me about your drinking.' Alex was silent for a moment.

'I was just eighteen when I got drunk the first time.' Alex paused trying to find the right words to explain.

'Just tell me the way it was Alex.' Alex smiled. They were both so completely in tune with each other.

'I had been in a relationship with a girl, my first. We were together for about three years. I thought we were happy, I had these dreams of us being together forever. She told me she was happy, but on my eighteenth birthday she took one of her father's belts and she hung herself in her room.' Alex stopped she had to take a few deep breaths before she went on. 'We had a date that night, and I went to pick her up. I thought she was running late, it would be so typical. So I went to her room to go get her. I found here there hanging from the ceiling of her room. My heart broke. The next day I skipped school and I went to a bar armed with cash and my ID. I drunk myself to a stupor to numb the pain.'

'You were so young.' Jay took Alex's hands into her own and kissed the palm of each hand softly. 'You loved this girl. Now tell me how it ends.'

'I was what you could call a weekend drunk. I worked hard in school and my grades weren't bad. Come the weekend I would drink, usually I could not even get back home, and Shane was always there. He kept it from my parents until I was about twenty. I had drunk so much I had to go to the hospital. Me and Shane were both visiting my mom, so they called her. She tried to get me into a program I absolutely refused. My dad tried I refused. I kept drinking, and Shane stuck with me, taking care of me when I was to drunk to do it. Then when I turned twenty one he told me he had had enough, he told me to go with him. He took me to see Alicia's grave, I had never seen it. I didn't go to her funeral. I cried like a baby, he took me home and told me to go see her dad. I did, and he had a letter addressed to me. Alicia had written it before she killed herself. After I read what she wrote I never took another drink.' Alex waited for Jay to ask what was in the letter, but Jay didn't. She didn't need to know.

'I love you Alex.'

Jay just melted into Alex and tipped her head so that Alex could kiss her. When Alex did it was slow and soft. They stayed in the bath until the water started to turn cold. They got out and dried of. When they went to bed, Alex took Jay in her arms and held on tight. Jay only fell asleep once she knew Alex was sleeping.