theclockisticking   

Standard Disclaimer: due South and it's characters belong to Alliance. I
just use them for fun. Hopefully they will return to their world unharmed
and ready for other people to play with them. 
 

WARNINGS: AU Adult Situations/Descriptive Sex Francesca/Fraser Pairing
NC-17 or X (considering what you think) 
 

Spoiler for Our Mountain. :) 
 

Originally posted to RedSuitsYou@onelist.com 
 

This is the continuation of "A Night at the Opera" & Caught in the Act.
There is a small challenge tie-in story called "You've Been Creamed." Hope
whoever reads them enjoys them. If you dont...(Icecat62 sticks tongue out
and runs.) 
 The Clock is Ticking Icecat62 
 
 

 Youre sure? Yes Im sure. I measured the room twice. There is no way we
can fit a king sized bed in there and still have room for anything else. A
double would be better. But that is so small. Francesca. A king will not
fit. If it could I would purchase one. Besides. Its just wasted space. It
all depends on how you use it. She smiled at him wiggling her eyebrows
suggestively. 

 Fraser shook his head at her. They were in a crowded mall shopping for
things for the house. According to Francesca the number one priority was
getting the bed. He had argued with her over this. But he finally gave in.
When Francesca Vecchio wanted something she got it. He had learned that
the hard way. 

 He felt very self conscious standing in the middle of a store with
nothing but beds in it. It was as if everyone were looking at them.
Knowing the only reason they were buying one was to have sex on it. He
would have been perfectly happy sleeping on his bedroll 

 "If you insist on getting a double then let's go check them out." She
pulled him over to the other section, flopping down on one. "Come on
Benton. Lay down." "What?" "I said lay down. We have to try it out." 

 He stood looking down at her, nervously fingering the brim of his
stetson. "Francesca are you sure we are allowed to do this here?" "It's
not like Im asking you to do me right here. I just want you to lay down.
See what the bed feels like." "Oh. All right." 

 Looking around he cautiously sat on the edge of the mattress. Francesca
grabbed him by the collar of his flannel jacket and yanked him down. "Just
lay down and relax." "I can't" Francesca sighed. "Benton. Just relax. We
are looking to buy a bed. We're not breaking any laws. We're not doing
anything." 

 *How can I get him to relax? Ah.* "Close your eyes." He looked up at her
nervously. "Why? What are you going to do?" "Nothing. I promise." "The
last time you made a promise to me you didn't keep it." "When was that?"
She was getting exasperated. "When I went into your bedroom to wake you
up." *Damn he has a good memory!* "You knew I wasn't serious." "I did
'not' know. And you broke your promise." 

 *Great. Hey, wait a minute!* She started laughing. Fraser looked up at
her. What was she up to? "What?" "You lied to Marias son." "How did
you..." "Ha! I got you! You should see how red you are." She leaned down
towards him. "Did I ever tell you how sexy you look when you blush?" 

 He only turned more red and started to sit up. She quickly pinned him
back down. "Francesca. Please don't do anything. We are in a public
place." He was pleading with her. "O.K. I promise." She laughed as she
said it. He looked up at her again. "How did you know?" "Know what?" She
grinned down at him. She wanted to hear him admit to it. 

 "How did you know that I...lied to Maria's son." Smiling at him she
spoke. "Because he came over to Maria and I the other day and asked if he
had a bruise on his neck. Diefenbaker had stepped on him. We just about
died laughing when he told us why he thought he would have a bruise." 

 "It's really not very funny Francesca. I did lie to him." "Oh come on
Benton. You said a little white lie to him. How would you have explained a
hickey to a kid? That's Maria and Tony's job." "But I lied to a child."
"O.K. Whatever! You're totally corrupt and evil. But even the damned need
to sleep. We're trying out beds. Now relax." 

 *Now what would make him feel comfortable?* She smiled. Yes. It was
perfect. "Now close your eyes and pretend that it's snowing. And you're
all alone." 
 
 
 

 

 Margaret Thatcher strode through the mall. She hated shopping during the
Christmas season, but the sale of the Chanel pumps was a deal that she
could not resist. She had also managed to find a new jacket as well. She
was very pleased at how her excursion was going. 

 She walked quickly by a store and stopped. Taking three steps back, she
looked in the window. Was that Constable Fraser? Then she noticed a very
small, petite woman talking to him. She watched as the woman grabbed him
by the hand and pulled him across the isle. And then she yanked him down
on a bed. Laughing and talking to him. 

 She watched as Fraser tried to get up only to have the woman pin him back
down. Squinting she looked twice. *Damn it! Turn around so that I can see
your face better. Oh my God!* "Francesca Vecchio? He's involved with her?"
She stopped herself. She had spoken that out loud. Fraser had told her
that he was involved with someone. But Francesca Vecchio? She was
so...so...loud. So unlike Fraser. Then it sank in. He had put in a change
of address. It had been nagging at her. Why did the location seem so
familiar? His new place of residence wasn't very far from the Vecchio
home. He now lived on the same street as they did. And Francesca had to be
the reason why. 

 He was involved with 'her'. *But why her? Why would he even want
her...stop it.* She mentally chided herself. She had almost thought why
not me. Why would he want Francesca when he could have her. But he
couldn't. Because of their working relationship, she would have never
allowed it. 

 She watched as Francesca slowly leaned down and began kissing Fraser. Her
mouth dropped open. They were in a public place for God's sake! And to
make matters worse he was returning her kiss. Wrapping his arms around
her. As they pulled apart she saw Fraser reach up to touch Francesca's
face. 

 Thatcher quickly turned away from the window and walked away. Blinking
back tears. *I am not crying! There is something in my eye. There is no
reason to be upset. He is your junior officer. And that is all he ever
was.* As she walked out of the mall she decided that she hated shopping at
Christmas even more than before. 
 
 
 

 

 "Are you relaxed now?, Francesca whispered. "Umhmm." Looking down at
Fraser she could never get over how he looked. How could a man his age
look so completely innocent? She had heard one of the nuns talking about
him last year. After he had sung in the choir at the Christmas services.
What were her exact words? 'He has the face and the voice of an angel.' 

 She ran her fingers lightly through his hair watching him smile as she
did it. "Have I told you today that I love you Benton?" He opened his eyes
and looked at her. "No. But you can tell me as often as you would like."
She bit her lip. Oh who cares if we're in a public place! 

 She leaned down and kissed him. Expecting him to pull away from her in
embarrassment. But to her surprise he reached up to hold her. Kissing her
back. She didn't want to stop, but for once she did. It's wouldn't look
right. She did have some tact. 

 He was staring at her. When he looked so serious it would scare her. He
reached up and gently touched the side of her face. "I love you
Francesca." She was beginning to get nervous. Why she didn't know, but she
had to do something to change it. 

 "Benton." "Yes?" "We should try a few more beds." "Oh. Yes. Sorry." He
sat up looking back at her. He still looked serious. "Is there anything
the matter?" He didn't answer her. "Benton?" "Uh no. I'm sorry. I was just
thinking. It's nothing." He stood up offering his hand to her. They
continued testing out the mattresses. 
 
 
 
 
 

 She was beginning to get irritated with him. He wouldn't pick one. He
wanted her to choose what she liked the most. "Why do you want me to pick
out the bed?" He tugged at his ear. "Because I really do not have a
preference. A bed is a bed." "But you have to like one more than the
other." He sighed. How could he make her understand? 

 He had slept on the floor most of the time. Occasionally he would sleep
in the small bed at his apartment. But he was use to his bedroll. He had
slept on the ground most of his adult life. A bed was so...soft. The most
he had ever slept in a bed was when he had been shot in the back. The
prospect of sleeping in one all of the time was strange. If he were to
have a bed then Francesca should pick it. She would be the one who would
need to be comfortable. 

 He repeated his statement. "Francesca. I have no preference. A bed is a
bed. I would prefer if you choose one that you would like." "But I'm not
going to be sleeping in it all the time." He stared back at her. That was
the problem 

 The fact was he wanted her to stay with him all the time. Each time that
he had to say goodbye and return to the house alone he felt empty. He
wanted to feel her by his side when he fell asleep and he wanted to see
her face when he woke up. Except for their first time together he hadn't
had that with her. He wanted her. He needed her. But he still felt that
she hadn't completely given herself to him. She was still holding back.
And it hurt. 

 Francesca could tell that she would never get him to choose. She had
wasted enough time arguing with him. A sales person walked over looking at
Fraser. "Have you decided sir?" Fraser looked over at her, waiting for an
answer. Rolling her eyes she pointed at a bed to the right of where she
was standing. "He'll take this one." It was the most expensive one that
they had looked at. Yes it felt nice. She did like it. A lot. But she
could have made do with a cheaper one. 

 Since he wouldn't make up his mind, she'd force him to by picking one
that he couldn't really afford. "Is that the one sir?" The sales person
looked back at Fraser. He didn't pause, blink or hesitate. "Yes. That will
be the one." He looked at Francesca with a blank expression. No emotion at
all this time. "Would you excuse us please." 

 Fraser and the salesperson walked away from her. She sat on the bed that
she had picked. Feeling guilty. He couldn't get this one. She knew from
Ray what he made. She had seen how he had lived before. What was she
thinking? But because she had picked it, he was getting it. 

 She watched him across the store, signing papers and talking with the
salesperson. Then she followed him with her eyes as he came back to her.
Holding his hand out to her. "Would you care to go to lunch now or would
you prefer to continue to shop?" Taking his hand she stood. "Lunch. I
guess." 

 As they walked out of the store she looked up at him. He had that look of
complete concentration of his when he was mentally calculating something.
She could almost hear him thinking. He's probably trying to figure out how
he is going to pay for everything that she was telling him he needed. 

 Her chest began to tighten. He didn't need anything! He never did. When
they had moved his belongings over to the house he had almost nothing. The
things that he placed the most value on were in that one trunk. And they
were mostly things that had belonged to his parents. His father's
journals. His mother's few pieces of jewelry. Some old pictures. And his
gun that he could never use while he was living in the United States. He
didn't have a permit to carry a weapon. 

 Fraser didn't need anything. He was making the small house into a place
for her. Letting her pick the colors. The patterns. The plates and the
linens. The bed. He was making it her home. Not his. The only thing he
seemed to want was...her. He wanted her! 

 She couldn't breathe. She had to sit down. "Francesca?" She jerked her
head in his direction. But she couldn't speak. "I...I..." *I can't
breathe! I'm going to pass out!* The last thing she saw the frightened
look on Fraser's face as she collapsed. 
 
 

 
 

 "Francesca!" Fraser caught her as she fell. He held her not knowing what
to do. *Dear lord! Get a hold of yourself. You are a Mountie for God's
sake.* Picking her up he looked around. Ah. Mall security. He calmly
walked over to the guard, carrying her. 

 "Pardon me. Could you direct me to the nearest heath care facility?" The
guard stared at him and Francesca. "Uh sure. What happened to her?" "She
fainted." "That's not good buddy. Follow me. She didn't fall or anything
did she? If she did ya' have to fill out some forms." "No she didn't."
"Good. We don't want a lawsuit on our hands." 

 Fraser followed the guard down a side hallway where he was directed to a
room. A nurse greeted him at the door. "Hi, My name is Laurie Chaser, I'm
the nurse on duty here. Could you please place her on the exam table?"
After Fraser set Francesca down he backed away so that the nurse could
look at her. 

 "Her pulse and blood pressure are fine. Pupils are normal. Did she say
anything before she passed out? Like she was dizzy or didn't feel well?"
"No she did not." The nurse turned directly to Fraser and asked, "Is she
pregnant?" Fraser just stood and stared at Francesca lying on the table.
"Excuse me? Sir? Do you know if she may be pregnant?" He kept looking at
her. "Uh. No. Not that I am aware of." 

 He backed slowly away from the table and bumped into a chair. He sat
down. Still staring at Francesca. She couldn't be! They hadn't been
together that many times. And each time they had been careful. Neither of
them wanted to take any chances. It had to be something else. Maybe she
was coming down with the flu. 

 Francesca started moving and Fraser jumped up and stood next to her.
"Francesca." He was almost afraid to touch her. "Francesca look at me
please." She finally opened her eyes and found herself looking up at
Fraser. "What happened? I thought we were going to lunch?" Then she
remembered. "Can we go home Benton?" He looked over at the nurse. "Yes.
I'd say that it's safe to take her home. But you (she pointed at
Francesca) should see a doctor." 

 The nurse pulled Fraser aside. "I'd recommend that your wife take a
pregnancy test just to be certain." "But she not... Yes. I'll make sure
that I tell her." That was the second person who assumed that they were
married. He walked back over and helped Francesca up. 

 "Do you want me to carry you?" "Carry me? I can walk thank you!" She
snapped at Fraser. "Sorry", he said as he backed away from her, holding
his hands up in front of him. She looked so angry. What had brought this
on? 

 Francesca immediately felt guilty for yelling at him like that. But she
had passed out. She wasn't dying. And she wasn't about to tell him why.
That would only hurt his feelings. "Can you just take me home? I don't
feel well." 

 He moved to take her arm and she pulled away from him. "Please. I can
walk by myself." She folded her arms across her chest. *At least this way
he can't hold my hand. I just don't want him touching me right now.* 

 The ride home was quiet. Francesca closed her eyes and leaned against the
window. She didn't want to talk to Fraser. All she wanted was to be left
alone. "Francesca?" *Why can't he just leave me alone!* "What!" She didn't
bother looking over at him. Maybe he would take the hint. "Nothing." 

 The moment that he pulled the car into the driveway she opened the door
and got out. She walked quickly up the steps of the porch, hearing him
catching up to her. Following her into the house. Feeling a touch on her
arm she wheeled around. She could hear her voice getting louder, but she
couldn't stop herself. "Look Fraser! I just don't feel well. Can't I get
sick and not have you panic over it?" 

 *Oh my God! I didn't mean to do that.* She almost reached out to him, but
she quickly stopped herself. *No! I am not going to apologize to him. I
did enough of that when I was with the Pig. If he wants me so badly, then
he's going to have to accept this part of me as well.* "I'm going to bed.
I'll call you tomorrow." 

 Without waiting for an answer she turned to go up the stairs. Only to see
Maria standing by the kitchen entrance. *Shit! How much did she hear?*
Ignoring the look on her sisters face, Francesca ran up the stairs.
Leaving Fraser and Maria standing in the foyer. 
 
 
 

 

 Maria watched as Francesca ran up the stairs. And then she looked over at
Fraser. The poor guy. He didn't look like he had a clue as to what was
going on. "Benton?" He looked over at her. "What's going on?" Maria could
tell that Fraser didn't know whether or not to talk about it. "You can
tell me. We're family remember?" She watched as a sad smile appeared only
to be replace by a look of confusion. 

 "I don't know. We were at the mall. Shopping. And then we were walking to
get lunch. And then she passed out." Maria scrunched up her face. "She
passed out?" "Yes. I observed her in the car. She didn't appear to be ill.
The nurse at the mall said Francesca should make an appointment with a
doctor. To make certain she is...well." 

 *He's not telling me something.* "I'm sure Frannie is O.K. Don't worry.
I'll make sure that she goes to the doctor." "Thank you. I didn't want to
say anything about it to her. She wasn't very receptive to any type of
conversation." "I could tell." She smiled back at Fraser and he gave a
weak nervous smile in return. 

 "Are you staying for dinner?" He shook his head. "No. I do not think it
would be wise for me to do so. I will wait until Francesca contacts me.
Thank you kindly for asking." "You're welcome Benton. Have a nice
evening." "Goodnight Maria." 

 She closed the door and watched Fraser as he walked away from the house.
Turning to look up the stairs she decided she would get to the bottom of
this mystery. 
 
 
 

 

 Francesca heard the door to her room opening. "Look! I told you..." She
stopped in mid yell. It was Maria. And she was giving her the eye. *Oh
God! I don't want to talk about this.* "What?!" 

 "Spill it Frannie. What's going on? Benton said that you passed out.
Why?" "I don't know why. I just did. I think I may be getting the flu."
Maria looked at her sister. *She lying. She knows why. Two can play at
this game.* 

 "Are you pregnant?" "No!" "Are you sure?" "Yes I'm sure! I'm not due to
start my period for another two days." "Did you use condoms every time
Frannie? I know you. Sometimes you get a bit carried away. Maybe you
forgot." "Oh give me some credit Maria! I'm not stupid. Of course we did.
That's not something that you can easily forget." 

 "What else did you use?" "What else do I need?" "How about a spermacide
or the pill. You know condoms aren't always enough." "I said I'm not
stupid!" Francesca pulled the box of Lucky 13 condoms out of the drawer of
the dresser next to her bed and threw then at Maria who caught the box
before it hit her in the face. "Read the label!", Francesca spat out. 

 "O.K. Let's see. Best on the market. Prevents STD's. Ah. Size large. Good
for you Frannie. Has a spermacide in them. Nice choice Frannie. But it
might not be enough." She threw the box back at Francesca. 

 "Excuse me Maria. But did you read anywhere on the box 'warning, does not
work on Canadian sperm'? No! They work. I'm not pregnant!" "I hate to
break it to you Frannie, but do you know how many children there are in
this world that are a product of condom users? From the look on your face
I'll take that as a no." Maria walked closer to Francesca's bed. "How do
you think Tony and I had child number two Frannie?" She watched as
Francesca's face paled, but she quickly recovered. 

 "It's not the reason. I know I'm not pregnant." "If you are positive you
aren't, then why did you pass out?" "I had a panic attack O.K.! Are you
satisfied now?!" Maria stared at Francesca. She hadn't had one of those
since she was married to Gino. Why would she be having a panic attack? She
started laughing. "A panic attack? Why? What is so bad about your life
that you would have one of those now? You have almost everything that you
want." 

 Francesca played nervously with a pillow. Pulling at the material. "He
wants me Maria." "What?" "Benton wants me." She spoke it slowly. Looking
at her sister. Maria didn't see happiness in Francesca's face. She saw
fear. Why in God's name would she be afraid of Benton Fraser? She felt a
chill come over her. 

 "He hasn't hurt you has he?" "No! No Maria! He would never hurt me!"
"Then what is wrong? Of course he wants you. He loves you Frannie. Isn't
that what you wanted?" "I don't know what I want." Maria stared at
Francesca in shock. Then in anger. 

 "What do you mean you don't know what you want?! You've spent the past
two years of your life chasing after him. Crying to me about him. Throwing
yourself at him. And now that you have him you don't know if you want
him?!" Maria's voice began to get louder as she was talking. Who cares she
thought. No one was in the house except for us. I'll scream at her if I
have to. 

 "What is this? Was it all a game to you? Let's see if I can catch the
Mountie, make him love me and then toss him aside after you've used him?
Is this some sick game of yours to make up for all the shit you've gone
through in the past? Because if it is you are a fool Frannie!" Francesca
opened her mouth to speak, but Maria cut her off. 

 "Shut up! I'm not through talking. I've sat here in this same room for
the past two years listening to you talk about him. Telling me how perfect
he is. Maria isn't he nice. Maria isn't he beautiful. Do you know what I
think? These past few months that you two have been together I've gotten
to know something about him. Yes he is everything you've always spoken
about. And more. 

 "I want to know what is wrong and why you're willing to ruin the best
thing you've ever had. He is the best that you're ever going to get
Frannie. There isn't going to be anyone better. He's the prince in all
those stupid fairy tales that Ma use to read to us growing up. What is
wrong Frannie?" 

 Francesca started crying. "I don't know. I'm afraid." "Afraid of what
Frannie?" "I'm afraid he's going to take over my life. He'll have me. Then
he'll control me. I don't want that happening again." Maria looked at
Francesca. She sighed. It was all about Gino. Gino the pig. Gino the
control freak. Gino the abuser. She hadn't realized just how badly
Francesca's failed marriage had affected her. She was comparing a pig to a
prince. She almost laughed again but she stopped herself. Francesca had
opened up to her and she wasn't about to ruin it by laughing at her. 

 Maria sat on the bed next to Francesca. Pulling her into a hug. Rocking
her back and forth. Stroking her hair. "Frannie. Benton is not Gino. The
only thing they have in common is their hair color. You know how much he
loves you. You know he would never hurt you. Look deep inside yourself.
Can you honestly say he would ever do anything to you?" 

 Francesca hugged Maria tightly. No Benton would never do anything to hurt
her. But she could hurt him . Easily. Just as she did today. "Frannie. You
should talk to him about this. "I can't. Not now." "Then you should do it
tomorrow. The sooner the better. You really hurt his feelings. You didn't
see his face when you ran off without at least giving him a hug goodbye.
He looked like a puppy that had just been kicked." 

 Francesca laughed between crying. Squirrel. Angel. Puppy. Always
something small and fluffy or innocent. That was Fraser. "I'll talk to him
tomorrow. Thanks Maria." "Hey. What are sisters for? Here's a tissue. You
look a mess." Francesca laughed as she wiped her face. "When you've
cleaned up, come down to the kitchen. I want to have dinner done before Ma
gets home." "O.K." 

 Francesca sat on her bed alone. Maria was right. Benton and the Pig
weren't the same. She would talk to him and tell him everything. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Fraser sat at his desk at the consulate. A pile of papers in front of
him. Untouched. He kept replaying yesterday over in his mind. Trying to
see what had gone wrong. 

 He and Francesca were shopping. She finally picked out the bed. Then they
were walking to get lunch. And she fainted. But the nurse asking him if
she were pregnant. He didn't know. Francesca would have told him. She
wouldn't hide something of that nature from him. 

 Then her anger. He hadn't expected that at all. Maria had said she would
take care of Francesca. He wouldn't have to worry about her. But it was
past lunch and Francesca hadn't called him. No call to say that I am O.K.
What was she hiding? 

 "Constable Fraser!" He jerked up in surprise. Oh dear. It was Inspector
Thatcher standing in front of his desk. "I would like to see you in my
office please." She turned and walked away from him. He quickly stood up,
cracking his knee on the desk. Rubbing it as he walked he entered her
office. 

 Thatcher was already seated. *Uh oh. What did I do now?* He shut the door
and sat in the chair directly in front of her desk. Watching her face.
Trying to gauge what mood she was in. 

 "I have received transfer papers for you. Ottawa. A nice posting I might
add." She held the papers out to him. "Constable." She shook them
slightly. Taking them from her he looked at them. Ottawa. Canada. Not
exactly home, but the closest he had gotten to it in over two years. 

 They were letting him come home to Canada, He should have felt ecstatic.
But he only felt...he didn't know what he felt. Fear? Despair? What about
Francesca? What about Ray? If he left, what would happen? Would Francesca
go with him? 

 She had everything here. Her family. Friends. Her work. The only thing
that she would have if she came with him would be...him. And was that
enough to make her want to go? After yesterday he wasn't all that certain.
But they were offering him a posting in Canada. 

 Thatcher watched Fraser's face. The emotions were barely there and they
passed quickly. But she knew him well enough to see them. Shock.
Happiness. Sadness. She was a bit surprised when the papers had come
through. And it made what she had decided to do even harder. 

 Smiling inwardly she began to speak. "That is not all Constable" He
looked back at her. What else could there be? "After our discussion about
your pay, I had looked into a few things. It seems that there was a
...problem concerning your wages." 

 She found that there had been a major problem. The R.C.M.P. was purposely
underpaying Fraser. And she had never even thought to correct it. When she
had first taken the posting in Chicago she had noted the pay difference
but had assumed that it was a result of a disciplinary action. 

 But after reading his records again and the past year of personally
working with him, she knew that it was not the case. She had decided that
she would personally fix the problem. No one was going to continue to do
this to someone under her command. 

 She had pulled a few strings and called a number of people. She had been
pleasantly surprised to to find out that she had a better reputation than
she had originally thought. And the name of one Bob Fraser still meant
something to alot of people, 

 "You have a second option to consider. You can stay here at the
consulate. Your pay will be increased to it's proper rate. And you will be
awarded a back pay differential starting from the time that you were
posted here. To compensate for the...error." She handed him another paper
showing his new pay and his back wages. It was a nice sum of money for
someone in his position. 

 Fraser hadn't said anything to her. He was staring at her. *Oh this is
too good. He had no idea that I would be doing this. But how would he have
known?* "They have been watching you Constable. They do read the papers.
And the reports that I send them. Your association with Detective Vecchio
has reflected well on Canada." 

 "Do you have a problem with any of this?" "No sir." "I don't need to have
an answer from you today. Take the night to think it over and let me know
tomorrow morning what you have decided. Do you have any questions?" "No
sir." "Good. Dismissed." 

 She watched him as he stood up. Still staring at the papers in his hand.
Then he looked back at her. He was totally confused. Just the way she had
hope he would be. Now all she had to do was wait. 

 As soon as he walked out of her office she began to grin. That was fun!
She already knew what his answer would be. She may never have him, but she
would be damned if anyone else but her would control him. 
 
 
 
 
 

 "Ray have you talked to Benton today?" "Yeah. He's coming here after he's
done at the consulate." Ray looked up at Francesca from his desk. "Don't
go making any plans for tonight. He's mine." "Huh?" "Stakeout. It might go
on all night. It depends on whether or not the drug deal goes through. So
don't think about waiting up to see him either." 

 "I won't. I just want to talk to him that's all. And Ray." "Yeah?" "Keep
your voice down. O.K.?" She nodded indicating the squad room. "Frannie."
Ray crooked a finger at her. She leaned down. "When are you going to let
everyone know?" "When I'm ready." Ray gave her a dirty look and waved her
away. "Go back to your desk Frannie." "If you see him before I do, tell
him I need to talk to him. Don't go until I do. All right? Ray. Ray!"
"Yeah I'll tell him. Go away, I have work to do." "You know you can be so
ignorant sometimes." 

 She walked away from his desk and sat at hers. She tried working, but she
couldn't keep her mind on what she had in front of her. And she kept
looking up to see if Fraser had come in. She needed to talk to him. All
she wanted to do was apologize. But will he listen to you? Oh, don't be a
dope Frannie. Like Maria said, he loves you. He'll listen. 

 She stopped moving. She watched as Fraser walked into the room. Her heart
rate began to speed up. Partly from nerves and partly because he always
had that effect on her. He had gone home to change before he had come
here. She found herself staring at him. He had on his hiking boots, a blue
flannel shirt with a white t-shirt underneath it and a pair of very old
faded blue jeans. She loved it when he wore those jeans. They fit him like
a glove. 

 He walked directly over to Ray's desk as he had a hundred times before.
It must be snowing outside. She could see it on his jacket that he held in
his hand. And he was tapping his stetson against Ray's desk knocking the
snow off of it. 

 O.K. Here it comes. She watched as Ray pointed over at her. Fraser nodded
his head yes. Then he sat down. Finally. He's looking over at me. She
froze. No smile. No look of recognition. And then he turned back to Ray.
Oh great! Now Ray was looking over at her with a puzzled expression. She
got up and walked down the hall towards the main interrogation room.
Looking in she found it to be empty so she went in and closed the door.
How could he ignore her like that? She needed to talk to him. But it
looked like he didn't want to talk to her. 

 Someone knocked on the door. *Great! I can't even brood in private.*
"What!?" Fraser opened the door and stood at the entrance. "Ray said that
you needed to talk to me." "Can you sit down?" "I would prefer to stand
thank you." She didn't like what she saw. He had that same nervous
tenseness about him that he use to have before they had begun dating. Face
unsmiling. Eyes guarded. Posture stiff. And he was nervously playing with
his stetson. That was a dead giveaway. 

 He was afraid to come in and be with her. Afraid of what she might say to
him. "Please Benton. Come sit down." He stood shifting from one foot to
the other. Then with a sigh he closed the door and came to sit beside her.
If I didn't know any better I would swear that he's going to start crying.
She felt a pang of guilt. Did I really hurt him that much? 

 "I need to apologize for yesterday. I'm sorry I snapped at you. It's
just...I have alot of things on my mind. We need to talk about them. I
know that you and Ray are getting ready to leave soon so I won't go into
the details right now. Can you come over tomorrow after work? So we can
talk?" He looked at her sadly. "I know. I have a few issues to discuss
with you as well." 

 Francesca was taken aback by that. He had a few things to discuss with
her? "What do you mean?" They were interrupted by a knock on the door. Ray
peeked in. "We gotta' go Benny. I'll be waiting in the car." "I'll be
there in a moment Ray." He turned back to Francesca. "I can't talk about
it right now. It's too complicated." "What is it Benton?" Now I've done it
he thought. She looks upset. 

 "No it's not that. It has to do with work. He reached over and took her
hand. "Do you trust me?" "Yes" "Do you love me?" He is afraid she thought.
"Yes I love you. What makes you think that I don't?" He raised his
eyebrows at her and just looked at her. "Look Benton. I'll explain
everything to you tomorrow. Just because I get mad sometimes it doesn't
mean that I don't love you." Thank God. He's finally got a smile on his
face. A small one, but at least he didn't have that scared nervous look
anymore. 

 "I do have to go. Ray will be upset if I am not out there soon." He stood
up to leave. Francesca didn't let go of his hand as she stood up beside
him. "I think you forgot something." She pointed at her lips. "I don't
know about that Francesca." "What do you mean by that?" "You forgot about
me yesterday. In the foyer." 

 He was looking down at her. Trying to stay serious. But he couldn't.
Smiling he tapped her nose with a finger. "But I forgive you." He leaned
down and gave her a quick kiss. "Wait. Don't go just yet. It's my turn." 

 She pulled him down to her and kissed him, parting her lips to take his
tongue in. Running her hand through his hair. When she let him go she knew
that he was no longer upset with her. "I believe that we are even now", he
said. Francesca grinned back at him. "At least until tomorrow night. I'll
repay you some more." 

 Francesca followed him back into the squad room. So what if someone saw
her walking with him. They would just think that she was still mooning
over him and bothering him like she always had in the past. It was none of
there business anyway. 

 He stopped at her desk as she sat down. Looking up at him she mouthed the
words 'be careful'. He quickly picked a piece of paper and a pen off of
her desk. Then just as quickly he put them back and walked away from her.
Picking the paper up she began to smile. He is too cute for his own good.
Mr. Formal had doodled a little heart with their initials in it. Folding
the paper she placed it in her pocket. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Ray looked over at Fraser. They had been sitting in the Riv for over two
hours. Observing a warehouse. Neither one of them had talked the entire
time. That in itself was not unusual. They had sat for hours before and
had never spoke a word to each other. They didn't have to speak. It was
always a comfortable silence. 

 But tonight Ray could see that something was bothering Fraser. He needed
to talk, but he was hesitant. Every time that Ray thought that he would
begin he would only turn away and look out the window. Tapping his fingers
occasionally on his knee. It was driving Ray nuts! 

 "Come on Benny! Spit it out!" Fraser jumped slightly startled by Ray's
outburst. "Spit out what Ray?" *Great. He's going to try and avoid
talking. Not this time.* "You've been wanting to say something ever since
we got here. What is bothering you? Is it Frannie?" 

 Fraser turned away from Ray and looked out the window trying to decide
what to say. Ray tapped him on the shoulder. "I'm over here. Talk to me."
Fraser looked back at Ray. Uh oh. He's got that look in his eye and he's
biting his lower lip. This is not going to be good Ray thought. 

 "I've been offered a transfer to Ottawa Ray." Ottawa. Canada. The
bastards are finally going to let him come home. But what about Frannie?
He sat not knowing what to say. Fraser was going to leave them. He knew
that he would go back one day, but he wasn't prepared for the feeling of
overwhelming sadness that came over him. His best friend would be gone. 

 *You gotta' say something.* "Uh, that's nice." He paused not really
wanting to know the answer to his question. "So when are you leaving?"
Fraser opened his mouth to answer Ray only to be cut off by the radio.
"The deal is going down gentleman." It was Detective Huey. "Shit. Come on
Benny. We'll take about it later." Fraser nodded to him as they jumped out
of the Riv, running towards the warehouse. 

 Stopping at the door Ray looked over at Fraser. He always looked so calm.
It was times like these that Ray worried the most. Fraser didn't carry a
weapon. Each time that they went into a situation like this Ray always
wondered how Fraser would defend himself. But there was no other person
that he would have chosen to be his partner. 

 "You ready?" "Yes Ray." "On three. One...two...three." Fraser kicked in
the door and Ray ran in first as a cover. They reached the far side of the
building. Ducking behind a stack of boxes Ray began to get nervous.
"Something's not right Benny." 

 Fraser quickly scanned the area. Out of the corner of his eye he caught
the glint of metal in the rafters above them. "Ray!" He grabbed Ray and
threw them both forward to ground close to the wall, hearing gunfire as he
did it. 

 Ray rolled over from his position on the ground and began firing up at
the shooter. He saw Huey and Dewey on the other side firing their weapons
as well. Then silence. Ray could see the gunman hanging limply over a
catwalk. "Huey! Any more?" he yelled across to them. 

 Apparently not because he watched as the two detectives began climbing
the stairs, holstering their weapons. "All clear Vecchio!" "It's about
time they said something." He turned to talk to Fraser. "Benny, thanks
for...." He stopped and looked down. A chill washed over him. *Shit! He's
been shot!* 

 Kneeling down next to Fraser he checked his pulse. Strong and steady.
What was the matter? He pulled his jacket back. Nothing. Pulling his
flannel shirt out of his jeans he saw blood on his white t-shirt. *Oh my
God!* Grabbing his radio he yelled in it. "Officer down!" He could hear
Huey on the radio. "What's wrong Vecchio?" "Fraser's been shot." 

 He pulled the jacket and flannel shirt back up. It can't be bad. There's
not a lot of blood. Then he pulled the t-shirt up. It was a long graze
going across the side his chest. Ray was confused. He shouldn't be out
from that. What in the hell is wrong with him? 

 He looked over at Fraser's face and then he slowly turned his head to the
side. "Geez Benny." His cheek and temple had the start of a nasty bruise
and he had a cut above his eyebrow. "Looks like you've knocked yourself
out." 

 Huey and Dewey came walking up to them. Looking at Fraser in
apprehension. "How is he?" Ray felt relieved. It wasn't serious. "He threw
me down out of the line of fire. Cracked himself in the head doing it. A
bullet grazed him on the ribs. He should be O.K. though." 

 He watched as Fraser slowly began to move. Opening his eyes he saw what
appeared to be Ray kneeling next to him. His vision was blurry, his head
was pounding and he felt nauseous. Attempting to stand he fell back. Now
he felt sick to his stomach. And why did his side hurt so much? Reaching
over he felt his ribs. They were sore to the touch and were damp. Bringing
his hand to his face he could see blood. 

 "Ray." "Yeah Benny. I'm right here." "I think that I am going to be
sick." Damn Ray thought. He has a concussion. Ray watched as Fraser rolled
over clutching his side and he began to vomit. Ray grabbed him by the
shoulders. What in the hell am I going to do now? Fraser finally stopped
and was breathing heavily. 

 *I know I'm not supposed to move him, but I am not going to let him lay
near that.* He pulled Fraser up and sat him against the wall. Fraser still
had his hand to his side and was sitting with his eyes closed. Ray could
tell by the look on his face that he might lose it again. *Great. This is
just friggin' great.* 

 "Benny. Look at me for a sec." Fraser opened his eyes and squinted at
him. "How many fingers?" Ray spoke as he held up two fingers. "Four."
"You've got a concussion. A nice one. Don't move." "I won't Ray." He
closed his eyes again and sat still trying to not make himself sick again.
Then he thought about Francesca. His eyes popped open. 

 "Ray!" *Shit. What is wrong with him?* "What Benny?" "How am I going to
explain this to Francesca?" Huey and Dewey both gave Ray a strange look.
Huey started smiling. "Yes Ray. Just how is he going to explain this to
Francesca?" He put an emphasis on her name. Dewey looked at Ray and
started laughing. "Uh Vecchio. Why does he need to explain anything to
her?" 

 "It must be the concussion. You know how he is around Frannie. Come on.
Fraser and Frannie?" He made a face while he said it. Huey and Dewey
looked at one another and then looked down at Fraser. Nah. Fraser would
never be with Frannie. That was ridiculous. Fraser squinted up at the two
figures. Oh dear. The voices belonged to Huey and Dewey. Francesca would
not be pleased. 

 Huey spoke up. "He must be pretty bad Vecchio. I hope they check him out
thoroughly when you get him to the hospital." "Don't worry. I'll make sure
they do." 
 
 
 
 
 

 Francesca ran up to the hospital door. Her heart was pounding. She knew
that Ray had told her mother that it wasn't serious. That Fraser was all
right. But the fear wouldn't let go of her. She had to see him to know if
he really was O.K. 

 When Ray had called the house Mrs. Vecchio had answered the phone. She
knew as soon as her mother had started talking that something was wrong.
Whenever her mother was upset she would speak in Italian. Maria and she
had been folding laundry, talking quietly. Both of them had stopped,
straining to hear what was being said. 

 "Francesca please come here. Maria could you go and get the car. Thank
you." "Ma what's wrong?" Her first thoughts were something had happened to
Ray. "Sit down please." She remembered sitting down and holding her
breath. 

 "That was Raymondo." She exhaled in relief, but immediately tensed up
again. What was wrong? Her mother continued to talk. "He said not to
worry. But you need to go to the hospital. Benton has been hurt." 

 Francesca jumped up from her chair when she heard that. Her mother had
grabbed her by the arms, trying to calm her down. "He is O.K. He is fine.
You just need to go and see him." Her mother wouldn't let her go until she
was breathing normally. 

 "What happened?" "Raymondo said he will tell you when you get there. Tell
Maria to take you. I will watch the children. Go." Francesca started to
run out of the room. "Frannie!" She stopped and turned back to her mother.
"Do not run. You will do no one any good if you are hurt too." "Yes Ma." 

 And now she was at the hospital. She left Maria in the parking lot,
running all the way. Standing at the admittance desk she was breathing
heavily, trying to get the words out. "I need...I need to know...what room
Benton Fraser is in." 

 The receptionist looked calmly up at her. "Fraiser. F-r-a-i-s-e-r?" "No!
Benton Fraser. F-r-a-s-e-r. He came in here about and hour ago. He's a
police officer. Well, he's not exactly a police officer in the U.S., he's
R.C.M.P." 

 The receptionist looked at her like she was crazy. "Let me check." The
woman slowly looked over a chart. Then a second one. Slowly flipping
through the papers. Francesca wanted to reach over the desk and slap her.
"Oh. Here he is. Admitted into the emergency room. Shooting victim. Benton
Fraser." 

 "He was shot!?" Francesca yelled out. The receptionist looked sorry that
she had said it. "Uh, yes. He must be O.K. though because they have him in
a regular room. Not ICU. Third floor. Room 16." The nurse hand her over a
pass. He was shot. Ray said he was fine, but how could he be. He was shot.


 Rushing over to the elevator she punched the button. Hugging her arms
around herself she began to cry. Before the door opened Maria caught up to
her. "Frannie! Wait up." She turned to her sister. "Maria he was shot!"
"Calm down Frannie. Where is he?" "Room 316." "O.K. Look at me. Take a
deep breath. Ray told Ma he's fine. Just calm down." 

 The elevator doors opened and she jumped in, pulling Maria with her. She
never knew an elevator to be as slow as this one was. "Frannie, you're
going to make yourself sick if you don't calm down." But she couldn't help
it. "But he was shot!" "Frannie he's O.K." The doors opened and she bolted
out of the elevator. Maria grabbed her to keep her from running. 

 Looking at the numbers of the rooms she started down the hall. Slowing
down as she neared the room she could hear Ray talking. And then Fraser's
voice. He was O.K. He sounded more than O.K. because he was complaining to
Ray. She quickly wiped at her face with her hands. Maria touched her arm.
"Come on Frannie." 

 Fraser and Ray looked over at the door. Francesca was standing there
trying not to cry. "Uh. I'll be back in a minute Benny. Maria, you want a
cup of coffee?" "Sure Ray. Go ahead Frannie. We'll be back in a bit." They
both walked out of the room leaving the two of them alone. 

 Fraser didn't want to look her in the eye. He hadn't meant to get hurt.
He had no reason to feel guilty. But he did. Because he ended up hurting
Francesca as well. "Would you care to sit down?" He indicated a chair next
to his bed. 

 Francesca walked the side of his bed looking like she was going to sit
down. But instead she came over and hugged him. Crying into his shoulder.
"I thought you were dead." Dead? But Ray told him that he told Mrs.
Vecchio that he was fine. 

 "Francesca?" He gently pushed here away from him. Stroking her hair with
his hand. Looking at her with a worried expression. "Why would you think
that I was dead?" "The receptionist said that you had been shot. I mean I
thought you were dead at first. Then just badly hurt." "But I'm not." He
smiled at her. "I'm just a little dizzy and my side is sore. That is all."


 "What happened?" She reached out to touch his face where he was bruised.
Watching him flinch as she did it. But he didn't move away from her touch,
even if it did hurt him. After he explained what had happened she had
calmed down. She was almost back to being her normal self. 

 Adjusting the blanket on his bed she tucked it around him. She sat down
on the bed. "How long do you have to stay?" She watched his face. She
could tell that he was irritated. He didn't like hospitals at all.
"Overnight. For observations. I told Ray that I would rather go home. I've
been hurt worse than this before and I never had to stay in a hospital."
"Yeah Benton. And when you were hurt where was the nearest hospital?" She
had crossed her arms and was giving him that Vecchio look. "That is the
exact same thing that Ray said. He refused to sign me out." 

 Closing his eyes he lay back further in the bed. "I'd rather go home."
"Benton?" He looked up at her. "Maybe I can get you out of here. What if
you came back to our house? You could stay in my room." 

 Ray walked in just as she said that. "Over my dead body he will!"
Francesca stood up and walked quickly over to Ray, glaring up at him.
"Can't you take your mind out of the gutter for one minute? He could stay
in my room. I would sleep on the sofa. He's been shot! What do you think I
was going to do?" She continued to glare at Ray. "Well? Come on Ray. Look
at him." She gestured in Frasers direction. "He couldn't do anything even
if he wanted to." 

 Fraser spoke up. "That's not entirely true Francesca." He stopped
talking, realizing what he had just said. Oh dear. Ray was giving him a
dirty look. "Yeah right Frannie. My mind wouldn't be in the gutter if you
two weren't all over each other all the time." 

 "Ray!" Francesca smiled. Goody. Maria was going to lay into him. "You are
such a hypocrite! How dare you say that. If I remember correctly every
time I turned the corner you and Angie were all over each other." "But we
were married!" "Oh no you weren't! You were dating. And excuse me, but who
did I catch in the back seat of the Buick? On Easter Sunday after dinner."


 Ray's mouth hung open. Francesca could not believe it. "Maria caught you
and Angie? In the back seat of a car?! Oh how classic Ray." She turned
back to Fraser who had watched the entire exchange. He looked like he was
about to start laughing. Francesca pointed at him. "You are coming home
with us." She turned back to Ray. "And you are going to go and sign him
out. I'll be back. I need to use the restroom. You had better get moving,
because I want to go home." She walked out the door with Maria in tow. She
whispered to her and laughed. "Thank you Maria." 

 Ray turned back and looked at Fraser who was grinning back at him. "You
got caught in a car?" Ray couldn't believe it. Fraser of all people who
blushed at everything was making fun of him. "Hey it's no worse than a
kitchen", Ray snapped back at him. Fraser snickered. "But a car Ray?
That's like being caught behind the barn." "And a kitchens not?!" "At
least we had the decency to be in a private home Ray. You were in a car.
And just how old were you anyway?" His grin grew into a smile. 

 "I bet it was your father's car wasn't it?" "Yes." Maria didn't tell on
you either." It was a statement not a question. "No. She didn't Benny."
"It must have been nice having your sisters when you were growing up." Ray
watched Fraser as he grew quite. "Yeah, but you have an older sister now
Benny. You have Maria." Fraser's smile returned. "I know." 

 He quickly changed the subject. "You had better go and sign me out Ray."
"Look you really shouldn't go home tonight." "I'm not going home Ray, I'm
going to your house." Fraser tilted his head to the side. "Frannie and
Maria are coming back. I can hear them." "I'll be back in a few minutes."
Fraser lay back in the bed happy. He wouldn't be spending the night in the
hospital thanks to Maria. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Ray watched as Fraser made his way up the stairs. Francesca was helping
him. He couldn't believe that he let Maria and Francesca brow beat him
into letting Fraser come back to their house. He should have stayed in the
hospital. They weren't there watching him throw up. They didn't see him
trying to stand up only to fall. 

 What if something happens to him tonight? What if his concussion was
worse than it appeared? Ray yelled up at the two retreating figures. "If
something happens to him, don't blame me! He should have stayed in the
hospital!" Francesca yelled back down at him. "Oh shut up Ray!" 

 Maria stood beside Ray and spoke to him. "Oh give them a break. He didn't
want to stay and he can't be all that bad. He made it up the stairs
without falling." She was smiling at Ray. "Maria, it's not funny. You
didn't see him before we got to the hospital. I did." "Look. Frannie is
going to keep an eye on him. He'll be fine. If anything is wrong she'll
see it." "Yeah, she'll keep an eye on him all right. And her hands." 

 "Ray. Don't you remember what it's like to be in love? And think how long
they waited to be together. Can you blame them?" "But they might not be
together much longer." "What's that supposed to mean." Maria was eying Ray
suspiciously. 

 "He's been offered a transfer. To Ottawa." Maria looked back up the now
empty stairs. "Ottawa?" "Yup. And if he goes...do you honestly think
Frannie will go with him?" "She'll go Ray." "No she won't Maria. She
couldn't make it without us. We're her family." "I don't think you
understand Ray. She loves him. She'll go." "No she won't." "Ray don't
argue with me. I know what I'm talking about. She'll go." "I know I'm
right this time. She won't go." 
 
 
 
 
 

 "We're almost there Benton." He was hurt worse than she had originally
thought. Maybe Ray was right. He should have stayed in the hospital. They
had stopped in the hallway and Fraser was leaning against the wall with
his eyes closed. "Come on. If Ray see you like this, he'll take you right
back to the hospital." That got him moving. 

 He was holding tightly onto her trying not to stumble. *Please don't let
me drop him. There is no way I could ever get him up if he did fall.* She
finally got to her room. "Here we go." As she closed the door she watched
Fraser. He sat on her bed putting his head in his hands, leaning forward
putting his elbows on his knees. 

 "Oh no you don't!" Francesca grabbed her wastebasket and set it in front
of him. "If you're gonna' puke, do it in the basket not on my carpet." "I
am not going to puke as you so kindly put it. I am just a tad dizzy." "Uh
huh. I've seen enough people in this house throw up. You're gonna' chunk
Benton." 

 He squinted up at her. "Chunk?" "Didn't you ever hang out with your
buddies up north. You know. Go out on the town, get loaded and chunk?" He
looked at her blankly. "Blow chunks. Vomit. Get sick." He placed his head
back in his hands. "No Francesca I did not. You know that I do not drink."


 "Didn't you at least go out with the other guys? You had to have seen one
of them barf at one time or another." "Francesca I did not associate much
with anyone. I didn't quite fit in." "What do you mean?" "Could we stop
this discussion please? I'm not feeling very well." "Yeah. I can tell.
You're starting to get cranky." "I am not cranky." 

 Francesca stared at him. He's cranky. "Let's get you into bed." She knelt
down and unlaced his boots, yanking them off and tossing them carelessly
across the floor. "Head up. Lift your chin up." She quickly unbuttoned his
shirt and pulled it off." You know these clothes are ruined." *Aw darn it!
There's blood on his jeans. Maybe I can get the stain out.* 

 "We should have stopped by your place and picked you up some clean
clothes. Oh well. I guess Maria or Ma can go over in the morning and get
them for you." She patted him on the shoulder. "Come on. Slide over." She
helped him lie down, putting a few pillows behind his head so that he
didn't have to lay flat. 

 "You're not going to be sick are you?" "No. I'm fine Francesca. I feel
better now that I am lying down." She turned away from him, folding his
shirt and setting it down on her bureau. Looking in the mirror she noticed
that he was staring at her. 

 "Are you O.K.?" "Yes I'm fine." "No you're not. Something's wrong. I can
tell." He sighed and shifted, moving into a more comfortable position.
Putting his hand on his side he noticed that it wasn't as painful. The
antiseptic numbed it some. 

 "Francesca? Do you think that we could have that talk now instead of
tomorrow?" "What?" "You had said that you had something to talk to me
about. And I had something to discuss with you." She tensed up. "Uh yeah.
I guess we could." She nervously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. 

 Leaning against the bureau she folded her arms and looked back at him. He
gave her a small smile and patted the bed. "I think that it is safe to sit
here with me. I'm not going to do anything that Ray could get mad about."
She smiled back at him and climbed up on the bed to sit next to him. "But
I might do something to you." "No you won't. At least not until we are
finished our discussion." 

 "O.K. you first." "No I insist. Ladies first." She laid her hand on his
chest and looked directly into his eyes. "You know that I love you."
"Yes." She took a deep breath. "I really don't know how to say this." Oh
no. There's that serious look again. She started to pick at the tape on
his bandage. 

 Putting a hand over hers he looked at her with a puzzled expression. "Is
something wrong? Have I done something?" She let out a small laugh. "Yes
you have. You've made me realize that you aren't him. Gino." *There. I
said the Pigs name.* 

 "I don't understand." "Of course you don't. You're so nice. You would
never think about doing anything to hurt me. It's not in your nature. But
it doesn't mean that I wouldn't think that you might. Do you know anything
about him? My ex-husband. 

 Fraser began to rub her hand softly with his thumb. Looking at her. "Yes
I do. I have asked Ray a few questions about him." Francesca looked at him
totally confused. "Why would you ask Ray about him? Why not me?" "Because
I needed to know why you were acting the way you do." "What is that
supposed to mean!" 

 He didn't know if she was getting angry with him, but he wanted to get
everything out in the open. If he didn't she would never stop comparing
him to Gino. "You haven't let go of him Francesca. He is still here. In
this room. Sitting between us. Until you forget about him and what he has
done, you will never give yourself to me." 

 "Give myself to you?! What am I? Property? I can't be who I am? I have to
give up everything and hand myself over to you?" Her voice was getting
louder as she spoke. "Francesca that is not what I am trying to say to
you." "Then what do you mean?" She angrily snatched her hand away from
his. 

 He sighed in frustration. "I don't know why, but every time I try and
discuss something serious, it always comes out the wrong way." He ran his
thumb across his brow. "Francesca what I mean is give of yourself. Not
give up who you are. You are always holding back. I don't want that." She
was looking at him in apprehension. "What do you want?" He gave a small
laugh and looked straight at her. "You." "But...you are so frustrating
Benton. I know you are nothing like him. You can't be. But it's hard for
me to forget." "Can you at least try? If I say something that you don't
like, tell me." "Oh believe me I will." 

 She moved over and lay down next to him. "Now you tell me what you have
to say." He didn't feel that their discussion about Gino was over, but he
didn't see the need to push the issue. Francesca seemed content. "I've
been offered a transfer to Ottawa." 

 "Ottawa!" she yelled out. *Oh dear.* "O.K. You said you wanted me to tell
you when I don't like something. I don't want to move to Ottawa." "I've
already thought about that. I do not want to go there either." "But you
will. It's Canada. You're going to go home." She pulled herself closer to
him. He would be leaving her. 

 "It's not home Francesca. Home is in the Territories. But I have also
learned that home isn't about a piece of land or a building. It's about
family and the people that you love. And right now Chicago is home." "So
you're going to stay?" *Yes! He's not going to leave me!* "How can you? If
you don't take the transfer what will happen?" 

 He reached over and hugged her to him. "Thanks to Inspector Thatcher,
nothing is going to happen. She has given me a second option. My pay is to
be adjusted and I am to receive back wages for the two years that I have
been posted here. That is if I stay here in Chicago." 

 Francesca was suspicious. "Excuse me? But why would she do all of that?
Ray said that she is a real bitch to you." Inspector Thatcher is not
a...bitch Francesca. And please do not ever refer to her as that again."
"She wants you. You know that don't you?" 

 Now he was beginning to grow uncomfortable. "No I am not entirely sure
what she ever wanted from me. She's my superior officer. Nothing more. And
because of her actions, my life will be changed." 

 "I still don't trust her. Especially around you. I mean look at you.
Dressed in your uniform, walking around her all the time. Looking the way
that you do. How could she not want you?" "Francesca I could care less
what anyone else wants. Do 'you' want me?" 

 Francesca tapped her fingers on his chest. "Yeah. I guess I'll keep you.
You're pretty good in bed and you're nice to look at." She grinned up at
him and snuggled closer. "That is so very kind of you Francesca." Fraser
replied dryly. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Francesca began to run her fingers lightly over Fraser's chest, being
careful not to touch his wound. "So. Do you think that you really can?"
"Can I what?" "You said at the hospital..." Fraser lay there thinking back
to what he had said at the hospital and he began to laugh. "Francesca! We
can't! You know that. Ray is in the other room. And I don't know if I'm up
to it." 

 She ran her hand slowly down his chest. Slipping it so that her hand
rested on the zipper of his jeans, softly caressing him. "We could try and
see if I can 'get you up' to the challenge", she replied grinning at him.
"Francesca. Ray is in the room right next to us. Getting caught once is an
accident. Getting caught twice would be stupidity." 

 "But unlike you Benton. I've locked the door." He eyed the door. Yes it
was closed. But he couldn't tell if it was locked. He caught Francesca
looking at him. "Oh come on Benton. Where's your sense of adventure? We
never did get to finish what we started. Thanks to Ray," she said
sarcastically. 

 She sat up and unbuttoned his jeans. He didn't move to stop her. Her
smile grew bigger. "I believe that you're going to accept my challange?"
He looked at her licking his lower lip. "You did say you locked the door.
Are you certain?" Francesca jumped up and unlocked the door. Opening it.
Then closing it again. Clicking the lock shut. 

 "There. You saw me do it." She climbed back on the bed and unzipped his
jeans. Tugging them by the legs. "Come on Benton. Help me out here." He
was now smiling back at her. "You are amazing." "I know." She pulled his
jeans off and tossed them on the floor. "Since you're hurt, how about I do
all the work?" He cocked an eyebrow at her. "And what exactly do you want
me to do?" "Nothing. Lay there and watch. I'll do all of it." She was
grinning evilly down at him, wiggling her eyebrows. He laughed at her and
went to shake his head, wincing at the pain. 

 Francesca almost changed her mind. *Nah. He's fine. Besides. Once I get
started he's gonna' forget all about his head hurting.* She started by
kissing him lightly. Making a trail down the side of his face to his neck.
Putting her hand on his chest she could feel his heartbeat. It was picking
up. Good. 

 Reaching the pulse point on his neck she began to suck at him.
"Francesca." "Yes...Benton?," she talked between kisses. "No marks
please." "I...won't...I ...promise." She laughed nuzzling him. 

 "Pardon me." She stopped kissing him, sitting back up. Looking down at
him in annoyance. "What now?" He was smiling at her and nodded slowly at
her, indicating her clothing. "Aren't we forgetting something?" She began
smiling again. *No he's not hurt bad at all. O.K. He wants me to strip.
Let's see what he thinks of this.* 

 She stood on the bed looking down at him with a teasing smile. Slowly she
began to disrobe. And with each piece of clothing she took off she would
twirl it once or twice and throw it randomly across the room. She watched
his face to see his reaction. Yes he more than liked it. "I thought Ray
said you didn't like strip clubs Benton. Ray said you didn't even look at
the women." "You're not a stripper Francesca." 

 He followed every move that she made. And his breathing had increased.
Looking further down his torso she gave a satisfied laugh. "You know
you're going to rip those sooner or later." She pointed down at his boxers
as his erection strained against the material. He blushed at her comment.
"I told you what that does to me Benton." 

 She was kneeling at his feet completely nude. "I think I should take
these off now." She tugged at his boxers. He wasn't shifting his weight to
help her. "If you don't lift your butt up I'll never get them or you off."
He only laughed at her. "O.K. You asked for it." She yanked at them. Then
a second time. Satisfied to hear the material tearing. Upon hear that
sound he finally moved. "I thought so.", she replied with a laugh. 

 Lying next to him, her chin resting on his chest, she traced a lazy path
up and down his erection. Watching in fascination as he tightened and
bobbed each time she touched him. "What does this feel like to you?" He
laughed softly. "It feels like fire...it's..." He stopped talking as she
wrapped her hand around him and began to slowly move up and down his
length. 

 Looking at his face she noted he had closed his eyes again. His
expression was relaxed even though his body was tense. I think I'll change
that. Moving forward she began sucking him, seeing him jerk in surprise.
He hadn't expect her to do that so soon. This is going to be a lot of fun
she thought. 

 She continued to suck and pull at him. Occasionally biting him. Running
her fingers nails across the inside of his thighs. Looking up she saw that
he was again gritting his teeth. And his hands were gripping the material
of the bedcover. She licked at him again. "Benton?" He didn't answer her.
He only shifted slightly. 

 "Benton." "Yes." "Can I ask you a question?" He finally looked down at
her. "You may." "Why do you grit your teeth this way?" She imitated him.
He moved his head to the side trying not to laugh. "Would you prefer that
I yell out so that Ray comes in?" She started laughing. "You yell? You
haven't made any noise when we've done something." "That is because we
have always been where people could hear us." 

 "How about the kitchen?" He snickered. "I was about to when Ray walked
in. Imagine if he had heard me?" "I can't wait until the bed comes. I want
to hear you." "Oh don't worry, you will. I just hope I don't scare you
off." She looked at him like he had to be joking. "You can't be that bad."
Maybe that's why he was gritting his teeth in the bathroom that time.
Maybe he was afraid of how I would react. 

 He hesitated before answering her. It wouldn't be very chivalrous talking
about women from his past. But if he didn't say her name it wouldn't be
like he was specifically saying who she was. "Well...there was a woman
once." Francesca froze. He was going to tell her a about a woman from his
past. And it was about sex! "She..." He stopped. "She what Benton?" 

 He began to blush again. "Oh come on! I'm sitting here naked with you,
holding you I might add (as she tugged him) and you're getting
embarrassed?" He smiled at her. "I can't help it. I'm sorry." "Finish your
story or I'll leave you like this." (she tugged at him again) "Well she
compared me to a rutting moose. She said that if I were to be any louder
they would hear me in Toronto." 

 He started laughing at her expression. "You're kidding me right?" "No."
She looked at him trying not to smile. "I think we should consider sound
proofing the bedroom Benton. It is a very small house in a really small
neighborhood. And with Mrs. Rizzo across the street." "I believe that may
be an option that we will have to consider." 

 "I think we've talked enough." She leaned past him, opening up the drawer
of the dresser by her bed. "Can't do anything without these." As she
pulled the Lucky 13 condom out of the box she thought back to what Maria
had said. But she had to be wrong. Francesca debated with herself. Condoms
were different now. With AIDS and all the other diseases they had to be
better than when Maria had used them. 

 Tearing open the packet she held it out to Fraser. "Would you like to do
the honors?" He shook his head lightly at her. "No thank you. You said I
wouldn't have to do anything but watch." "You're really going to milk this
concussion for all its worth aren't you?" 

 As she rolled the condom on she watched his face. He looked like he was
going to say something, but he stopped. Straddling him she leaned down to
kiss him. "What's the matter?" "Nothing." Nothing unless you count the
fact that you may be pregnant and you're not telling me. But then again,
if she were, what they were doing wouldn't matter. 

 He pulled her back to him into a deep kiss, running his hands over her
back, then moving to kiss her neck. Reaching down between her legs he felt
that she was wet. "Francesca. I haven't even done anything to you." She
pulled back a bit from him and looked into his eyes. "I'm no different
than you Benton. Just looking at you does it to me." 

 She leaned back down and kissed him passionately. Then pulling away again
she moved herself over him. Easing herself down on him, only stopping when
she had engulfed him. She began to kiss his shoulders and neck, moving
back to his mouth again to let their tongues meet. Sucking and pulling at
one another in an erotic dance of flesh, all the while moving her body so
that they slid against one another in a smooth pumping motion. 

 She did this for sometime, enjoying the feeling of him in her. Nothing
was rushed. Then she moved away from him and crouched in a squatting
position, her hands resting on his stomach. Moving up so that he was
almost completely out of her. Only to thrust back down in a quick, hard
push. She watched the emotions shift across his face. Desire. Lust. Love. 

 When she picked up her pace she noticed with a touch of satisfaction a
panicked expression. "Stop!" He jerked up into a sitting position.
Grabbing her by the waist, holding her down so she couldn't move upward.
His breathing ragged, he closed his eyes and rested his head on her
shoulder. 

 "Don't be so loud Benton. I bet Ray heard that." "I'm sorry. I just
didn't want to yet. I want you..." "You want me to what?" He took a deep
breath. "I want you to come first." "Why?" She watched as he swallowed
trying to control himself. "Because I want you to." "You are a strange one
Benton Fraser. Always the gentleman. Ladies first. Am I right?" Looking at
her he gave her an embarrassed grin and nodded. "I can't help it. I'm..."
"I know. You're sorry." 

 He stopped talking and was looking at her intently. Running his hands
through her hair. Gently touching her face. And then she saw a smile of
contentment. Happiness. He finally found what he had been looking for.
Tentatively she returned his touch. She finally understood what he had
been talking about. It wasn't about giving herself up to him. It wasn't a
physical thing. It was more spiritual. He wanted her love. And for the
first time she could feel that connection between them. It still
frightened her, but it was no longer that feeling of terror. It was one of
completion. They were a part of each other now. 

 They both slowly moved towards one another, their lips meeting. Arms
embracing. Touching. She felt herself being rolled over so that she was
beneath him. Then he began to make love to her. But again it was
completely different. All because she had let go. Then the quickening.
feeling the tightness and the heat. Know that she was loved. She began to
moan, digging her nails in his back. Feeling the pleasure that he was
giving to her. Knowing that it was the same that she gave to him. 

 They both stopped. Looking at one another. Not moving. He leaned down to
kiss her and as he pulled away he spoke. "Thank you." At first she was
confused, but she then she figured out what he was thanking her for. For
giving herself to him. Reaching up she traced the smile on his lips with
her fingertips. "You're welcome." 

 When he withdrew from her it was with a sense of sadness. He wished that
they didn't have to use anything so that he could have stayed like that
with her until they fell asleep. Breaking the physical connection with her
usually made him feel incomplete. But this time as he settled down beside
her he knew that he still had a connection to her. Pulling Francesca into
his embrace they nuzzled and kissed one another. Content and satisfied.
Drifting off into sleep. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Ray woke up and rolled over in bed. Five o'clock always came too early
for him. Yawning he rubbed the sleep from his eyes. The he began to think
about last night. Poor Frannie. When Fraser transferred to Ottawa her
heart would be broken. Ray knew that she would never follow him there. 

 He had tried listening to the two of them in his room last night. He
could hear the soft murmurs of voices. The occasional laugh. Then
Francesca's exclamation of shock. She had practically screamed the word
Ottawa. The entire household had to have heard her. Then all he heard was
their talking as he drifted off to sleep. 

 Throwing back his covers he put on his bathrobe and walked to Francesca's
room. He might as well get them up. Francesca had to get ready for work
and he just wanted to check on Fraser. He would let him know that he would
call the Dragon Lady and tell her what had happened and why he wasn't
going to report to work today. 

 Crap. Her door was shut. He hesitated before trying the knob. It wasn't
locked. Good. That meant they were smart enough not to do anything last
night. Fraser was in no condition to do anything much less...yuk! He was
thinking about them that way again! 

 Opening the door he stepped inside of the room. "You have got to be
kidding me!" He couldn't believe the two of them. Francesca's clothes were
thrown randomly about the room. Shoes in the corner, her bra hung off of a
lamp and her shirt was on the dresser. The room was a mess. And Francesca
lay curled up in the bed sound asleep. By herself. 

 Aw geez! Ray spotted the box of condoms on the dresser. But where in the
hell was Fraser? Ray knelt on the floor. Nope he wasn't asleep on the
floor or under the bed. This is just great! Ray walked over to Francesca
and pushed her in her back. 

 "Frannie. Frannie! Get up! Where's Benny?" "Huh?" Blinking a few times
Francesca looked up. She started to sit up and saw that it was Ray. She
hurriedly looked next to her to see where Fraser was. He wasn't in the bed
with her. Ray saw her confused expression. 

 "Where's Benny?" "I don't know." *Shit!* She saw the box of condoms and
watched as Ray looked at them and then looked back at her. "You know you
two are worse than a couple of rabbits." She stuck her tongue out at him
and snatched the box up, shoving them in her dresser drawer. "You're just
jealous." Ray rolled his eyes. "Yeah. I'm real jealous Frannie." 

 "Where'd he go?" "I said I don't know." Looking up she saw a piece of
paper on her bureau. "Hand me that Ray." "Why don't you get up and get it
yourself." "Ray, just hand me the freakin' paper!" He picked it up and was
about to read it. "Ray! Don't you dare! Does it say Ray on the front? No.
It has my name on it. Hand it over." 

 He sighed and flung it at her. 'What's it say?" She read it. She was mad
that he had left without saying goodbye to her first, but then she smiled.
He was such a romantic. "Francesca. I will see you after work." "That's
it? That's all he said?" "Yes Ray. That's all you need to know." It was a
short note. What she had left out was the way he signed it. I love you.
Completely. Benton. She loved even looking at his handwriting. It was
precise and beautiful. Just like he was. 

 "Get up. You have to go to work. I'm gonna' stop at his place first, then
the consulate. You tell Lt. Welsh why I'm late. " "Whatever Ray. He's O.K.
If he went to work it means that he's all right." "No it just means that
he's an idiot! He shouldn't be doing anything except lying in bed.
Sleeping." He put an emphasis on the word sleeping. 

 "Get out Ray." He waved a hand at her. She could be such a pain. How come
she looked so damn happy? A feeling of shock hit him. Maria was right.
Francesca was going to go with Fraser to Ottawa. 

 "You aren't going to go with him are you?" "What? To work?" "No! To
Ottawa!" Francesca looked at Ray like he was crazy. "Ray he's not going to
Ottawa. He's staying in Chicago. At the consulate." Now it was his turn to
be confused. "He's not going to Ottawa?" "No." "And you're not going to
Ottawa with him?" "No again Ray. He's staying here. With me." She gave him
a satisfied smile. 

 "Now if you will excuse me, I have to get ready for work." Ray walked out
of Francesca's room and down the hall. Why would Fraser stay in Chicago?
Well duh! Francesca. But it had to be more than that. He had desperately
wanted to go home now for over two years. And now that he had the chance
he was turning it down. God he's hard to understand! 
 
 
 
 
 

 Ray stopped at Fraser's house. He wasn't there. I can not believe he went
to work! Does that man have a brain? Someday he's going to do something so
stupid and he's gonna' end up getting hurt really bad. 

 Walking up the steps of the consulate he saw Fraser standing stiffly at
attention. He stopped and stood directly in front of him. "You know Benny,
this is perfect. I can talk and you have to listen." Ray moved closer to
Fraser, standing only inches from his face. 

 "You can be a real horses ass sometimes. Do you know that? You don't ever
stop to think about other people. All you care about is yourself. I don't
want to stay in the hospital Ray. Sign me out Ray. Then Frannie and Maria
come in. You have them so wrapped around your little finger that it's
pathetic. Maybe you can charm the crap out of them, but I'm not falling
for it." 

 "You should have stayed in the hospital. What if something happened? Huh?
Did you ever stop and think about that? What if Frannie woke up in the
middle of the night and you were having seizures? You didn't once think
about that. And now you're standing in front of this stupid building. But
not for long." 

 Ray smiled at Fraser, holding up his index finger. Taking it he placed
his finger tip on Fraser's jacket. "This is where the bullet zipped across
ya' isn't it?" Ray pushed in slowly on Fraser's chest waiting for him to
flinch or pull back. "Pretty good Benny. But I'm not done." He kept
smiling at Fraser and then he poked him hard in the ribs. "Oh look. You
blinked. Now you're in trouble." 

 "Did you tell the Dragon Lady you were hurt? No I doubt it. You probably
snuck out here with you're hat pulled down so she couldn't see your face.
Why? Because you're selfish. Duty first." He poked him harder. "That hurt
didn't it? You flinched. You shouldn't be on duty. You should be at my
house. In bed. But you're standing here in pain. Like an idiot." 

 Ray backed away from Fraser and walked into the consulate. When he cam
back out he had Inspector Thatcher with him. And she was not pleased. Ray
walked back to Fraser. "Observe." He took off Fraser's stetson. She looked
at the bruising on his temple and cheek and the gash above his brow. Her
face darkened. 

 "Constable you are relived of duty as of this moment. But before you go I
would like to talk to you. In private." Thatcher turned away from them and
walked back into the building. "I'll be waiting for you out front by the
car Benny." Ray kept smiling. For once he was in control of the situation.


 Fraser walked into the consulate and entered Thatcher's office, shutting
the door behind him. She was already seated, glaring at him. "Sit down
Constable." She watched him as he sat stiffly in the chair. Tapping her
pen angrily she began to speak. "When someone under my command is injured
I expect to be apprised of the situation. Not mislead. Do you understand
this Constable?" "Yes sir." "You will not report to duty for two days.
When you come back we will discuss this further." 

 "What I would like now is to know your answer." "My answer to what
question sir?" She pursed her lips in annoyance. "Are you going to accept
the posting in Ottawa?" She looked at his face. Please say no! "No sir. I
would prefer to stay here in Chicago." "Good. I will send in your refusal
of transfer." Smiling she stood up and held her hand out to him. "It will
be nice to have you stay. You are an asset." Standing he took her hand and
shook it. "Thank you sir." "Dismissed." 

 He stood looking at her. It looked as if she were about to say something
more to him. "I believe that Detective Vecchio is waiting for you." "Uh,
yes sir." He slowly walked out of her office. That wasn't what she was
going to say. He was certain of it. Looking back at her he sighed and
closed the door. Talking with her was always so difficult and confusing. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Fraser walked out of the consulate to see Ray standing next to the Riv.
Upon seeing Fraser he broke out into a big grin, pulling open the door to
the car. "Your chariot awaits." Fraser didn't argue or say anything except
to get in the car. Ray whistled happily as he walked around to get in. 

 As soon as Ray sat in the car and closed the door Fraser turned to him.
Well, here goes. I'm finally gonna' get him to yell at me. "I'm sorry
Ray." Ray blinked in surprise. He figured that Fraser would want to pop
him one. Instead he was apologizing. "I didn't realize that I was being
selfish." He turned away from Ray and sat staring out the windshield,
waiting for Ray to start the car. 

 "Wait a minute! What happened to you getting mad at me! And yelling at
me?" Fraser turned back to Ray with a confused expression. "But I admitted
that I was wrong. I apologized. There really is no need for us to argue."
"You take all the fun out of everything. You know that don't you?" "Yes
Ray." 

 Putting the car in gear and driving away from the consulate a thought
popped into Rays head. "Hey Benny." "Yes Ray." Fraser turned to look at
him. "Good choice." Fraser was again confused. "I don't believe I
understand." Ray smiled broadly. "Lucky 13's. I hear they're supposed to
be the best." *Oh yes! You got him this time!* Ray watched in delight as
Fraser turned a deep red and quickly turned away from him. 

 Then Ray began to feel guilty. They had returned to Ray's house and
Fraser hadn't spoken to him at all the whole ride back. "Come on Benny.
Back to bed." Fraser dutifully followed Ray, still refusing to talk. Ray
brought Fraser into Francesca's room and stood watching as he slowly began
removing his uniform. 

 Lanyard, collar and buttons were unfastened. Then Fraser moved stiffly,
trying to get the jacket off. "Let me help Benny." He moved slightly away
from Ray. "No thank you Ray. I can do this myself." He finally maneuvered
his way out of the jacket and set it aside on a chair. 

 "This is what I'm talking about. You can't even get your jacket off."
Fraser looked over at Ray hesitating. "It wasn't this bad until you poked
me." "Oh yeah! Blame me. It's all because I poked you. All right. Your
side hurts more now because I poked you. How about the head?" Ray tapped
his own head as he spoke. "I have a headache still." "And your vision?"
"It was better before we left the hospital." 

 Again Ray watched as Fraser continued to undress. This time to slowly
undo his boot laces. "Look at you Benny. You're getting tired just
unlacing your boots." Fraser kept his head down to hide his smile. *No I'm
not tired because of undressing. I'm tired from lack of sleep.* His smile
grew even wider as he thought about last night. Of what happened between
him and Francesca. 

 He hadn't realized that he had stopped unlacing his boot and Ray had bent
down to see if he was O.K. "And why do you have that stupid grin on your
face?" Fraser tucked his head down further in embarrassment. Ray stood up
and looked at Fraser. Then at the bed. No he wasn't in that bad a
condition. He and Francesca had managed to do 'that' last night. 

 Ray continued to look at Fraser. I guess I might as well ask him. I'm
gonna' have to sooner or later. "Benny." Fraser looked back at him as he
pulled the second boot off. "Yes Ray." This time it was Ray's turn to
hesitate. He ran a hand over his head. *Oh what the hell!* "What are your
plans for you and Francesca?" He almost blurted out 'are you going to
marry her' but he bit his tongue. 

 Fraser had a thoughtful look on his face. "It all depends on Francesca.
If you're asking me if my intentions are to marry her...she's not ready to
have anyone ask her." "Not even you?" Ray replied in a surprised tone. "No
Ray." "Did you ask her and she said no?" "No Ray. If I were to ask her I
don't want to think she may say no. I would rather wait until I am
positive that she would say yes." 

 "But that might take forever! You know Frannie." Fraser smiled at that.
Yes he knew Francesca. "Ray correct me if my statement is wrong. But do
you want me to ask Francesca to marry me?" He kept his face blank as he
looked at Ray. Ray started laughing at him. "You are too much. Get
undressed and get in bed. I have to go to work. If you need anything Ma is
downstairs. "You didn't answer my question Ray." "I'll see you after work
Benny." Ray walked out of the room and closed the door behind him. 
 
 
 

 

 Francesca sat at her desk going through a pile of papers. Squinting at
the reports, trying to decipher the handwriting on them. "You'd think you
people would at least learn how to write!" She shouted out to no one in
general. Letting her mind wander away from her boring task she thought to
herself 'but at least I have Fraser'. That brought a satisfied smile to
her face. Pushing aside the work, she opened a drawer. I wonder what color
polish I should use? 

 Detectives Huey and Dewey were across the bullpen. Looking intently at
Francesca. She didn't look any different. And when she began to polish her
nails Huey spoke." She's not acting any different. I don't think she's
with the Mountie. She would be acting different. Look at how Ray changed."
Dewey argued with him. "Yeah, but Ray's a guy. We're talking Frannie here.
Fifty bucks says the Mountie is slipping her the Canadian bacon." 

 Huey turned to Dewey with a look of revulsion. "You have no manners at
all do you?" Dewey held his hand out to Huey. "Bet. He's doin' her." Huey
grabbed his hand and shook it. "You're on. But how do we find out?" Dewey
chewed on a toothpick. "Easy. The next time the Mountie and Francesca are
here together I'll go over and ask him. 

 "Get out! You wouldn't do that." "For fifty dollars I will. I know I'm
right. He'll either die from embarrassment or he'll take a swing at me."
Huey made a face. "Fraser would never hit anyone." "Yeah? Well the silent
types are the ones to watch out for. You know the saying. Still waters and
all that." "It's a bet then. I just hope you have the money, because the
Mountie is not with Frannie." 
 
 

 
 

 Ray walked into the house shaking the snow off of his coat. Hanging it up
in the foyer he walked into the den. Good. He's not in here. That means
he's still in bed. Running up the stairs he checked Francesca's room. The
bed was made and Fraser wasn't in the room. O.K. I'll check the bathroom.
Maybe he's getting a shower. He wasn't there either. He better not have
left Ray thought angrily. 

 Running back down the stairs he went into the kitchen. Maria and Mrs.
Vecchio were standing at the window looking out into the backyard. "Ma,
where's Benny?" She nodded her head out towards the yard. Ray followed her
gaze. Maria's three children, Diefenbaker and Fraser were outside building
a snowman together. 

 "Why is he not in bed?" Ray sounded irritated. "Oh come on Ray! He was
bored to death. He slept in until ten. What more do you want? Give the
poor guy a break. Besides, he's only been out there for a half an hour."
Ray looked at his mother. "Ma is that right?" Maria rolled her eyes at Ray
and returned to looking out the window. "Yes. And I said that he was
allowed to go outside and play." Mrs. Vecchio smiled as she said it. 

 Maria looked back at Ray. "Why are you home anyway?" "I came home to
check on him." "Ray. He is not a little kid!" "Oh yeah Maria! What's
that?" Ray pointed out the window. Maria started to laugh. Fraser was
chasing Diefenbaker around the yard. He finally caught up to Dief and
tackled him. The both of them rolling about in the snow. "He's a big
overgrown kid." Maria leaned in close to Ray and whispered. "That's not
what Frannie tells me." "You are sick! The two of you are sick!" Maria
only laughed at him. 

 Ray looked back outside. "What is he doing?" Fraser was laying stretched
out in the snow. Not moving. "Oh God! I knew he should have stayed in the
hospital!" Ray rushed out the back door, running through the deep snow. He
knelt down looking at Fraser. "Benny!" Fraser's eyes popped opened and he
calmly looked up at Ray smiling. "Ray! You're home early." Ray closed his
eyes in relief. "Don't you ever do that to me again." "Do what Ray?" 

 Ray looked down at himself. "I can not believe that I ruined my pants and
shoes. And for what?" Fraser hadn't moved. He stared at Ray from his
position on the ground. He was puzzled. Why was Ray in such a panic? He
rolled over in the snow and knelt by Ray. Looking up into the sky he held
his hand out to feel the snow falling against his skin. 

 "Isn't it beautiful Ray." "No it's not. It's cold and it's wet and you're
going to get sick. You shouldn't be out here. You should be in bed."
Fraser stood up and offered his hand to Ray and pulled him up. "I won't
get sick Ray. This is warm compared to back home." Ray watched as Fraser's
smile faded. Home was so far away. He missed the Territories. 

 "Frannie said you're not going to Ottawa." "Yes Ray that is correct."
"But I thought that you wanted to go home?" Fraser shook his head and
laughed bitterly. "Ottawa would never be home Ray. It would be like
Chicago." He looked directly at Ray. "Except I wouldn't have any family in
Ottawa." Ray smiled at him. They stood for a few minutes watching Maria's
children playing with Dief. "I don't know about you, but I am freezing.
How about coming in and having lunch with me." "I'd like that Ray." 
 
 

 
 

 Later that evening Ray sat in his recliner in the den. It was getting to
be an every night occurrence. Maria was doing needlepoint. Ma was reading
a book. The kids were already put to bed. Tony was out doing who knows
what. And Francesca and Fraser were curled up on the sofa together. They
were supposed to be watching the television, but when Ray would look over
at them they were usually talking softly to one another. Occasionally a
hug or a quick kiss would be given. 

 Ray hated when they talked to each other like that. It was like being
constantly left out of a conversation. What in the hell could they talk
about all night? Then he noticed Francesca. She was slowly inching her
hand down Fraser's chest. She was using her other hand to rub the back of
his neck. Her hand had almost reached Fraser's waist when he calmly laid
his own hand on hers and held it. Ray could see that she was trying to
reach her hand down further, but he wasn't letting her. 

 Ray watched as Fraser leaned in and whispered to Francesca, then he
lightly kissed her neck. She started laughing. "You two need to have a
cold bucket of water thrown on you!" "Ray! Ma. Ray is being a pig! Again."
Mrs. Vecchio looked up from her book. "Please Raymondo. Leave them alone."
She immediately returned her attention to her book. 

 Fraser took that moment to untangle himself from Francesca. "I think that
it is time I should go home anyway." "Whoa Benny! Wait a second. You're
not going anywhere." "Excuse me Ray?" "Thatcher said two days. The
hospital said two days when I signed you out. You're staying here
tonight." "Ray I have stayed here more than I have at my own place. I
should go home." "Ma!" Ray yelled out to his mother never taking his eyes
off of Fraser. Mrs. Vecchio did not look up from her book this time.
"Benton. You are to stay here tonight." 

 Fraser sat back down on the sofa. "Ray, that wasn't very nice." Ray
grinned back at him. Then he turned to Francesca and looked straight at
her. "Oh yeah. Benny is sleeping on the sofa and you're gonna' sleep in
your room." Francesca smiled at Ray. "Or I could sleep on the sofa and he
could sleep on the sofa." "Yes...no!" Francesca started laughing at Ray. 

 "Oh come on Ray. You don't think that Benton and I would..." She stopped
talking and looked over at her mother. Then she snuggled back up to
Fraser. Whispering over to Ray. "You don't think we'd do anything here do
you?" She patted the sofa and laughed. Maria looked up from her
needlepoint, looking first at Francesca and then at Ray. She covered her
mouth with her hand, turning her head to the side and laughed softly. Ray
in turn looked over at Maria and then looked at Fraser narrowing his eyes.
Ray whispered back to Francesca never looking away from Fraser who had
picked up the remote and was changing the channels trying to ignore the
whole conversation 

 "I know you did 'that' down here." Mrs. Vecchio stood up. "Excuse me, but
I am going to bed. I will see all of you at breakfast. Goodnight."
Everyone said their goodnights to her as she left the room. As soon as Ray
heard his mother's steps retreating up the stairway he yelled at Francesca
and Fraser. "What is wrong with the two of you? You did 'that' in the den.
What if someone came down and saw you?" 

 The two woman laughed loudly. Fraser sank down in the sofa. Blushing and
turning his head away from Ray. He leaned towards Francesca and whispered
to her. "Francesca, do you have to tell your entire family our personal
business?" She hit Fraser lightly in the chest talking in a normal tone of
voice. "Oh come on Ray. I'm only teasing. Do you honestly think that
Benton would ever do something like have sex on the sofa while everyone
else was upstairs asleep?" She was smiling at Ray as she spoke. 

 "Yes I do Frannie. 'Cause if you wanted to, you'd find a way to get him
to do it. And you did." "Ray..." Fraser stood up and cut off Francesca's
response. "Excuse me Ray. Francesca. Could we talk please. In private." He
held his hand out to her. Once she took hold of his hand he pulled her up
and drug her out of the room. 

 Maria looked at Ray. "Uh oh. It looks like Frannie's in trouble." Ray
started to get up out of his recliner. "Oh no you don't Ray! Sit back
down." "Look Maria..." "No. You look Ray. Leave them alone. If they have a
problem then let them fix it. Don't butt in and make it worse." Ray leaned
slowly back. It was killing him not knowing what Fraser was saying to
Francesca. 
 
 

 
 

 "What is your problem?" Francesca snapped at Fraser. He had literally
dragged her into the kitchen from the den. Fraser crossed his arms and
leaned back against the sink in the kitchen. "My problem? Francesca you
were discussing something very private in front of Maria, Ray and your
mother." 

 "Huh?" Francesca gave him a confused look. "There's nothing private about
it Benton. Everyone knows we're sleeping together." He stared back at her
trying not to get angry. Stay calm. Stay relaxed. "Yes Francesca, everyone
knows that we are. It's almost...I don't know. Expected? But they do not
need to know when we have and where we have done it." 

 "But I talk to Maria about everything! You don't expect me not to talk to
her? Do you?" His head was pounding now. He wanted to yell at her.
Sometimes, well most of the time, Francesca could be very aggravating when
she wanted to be. "No I am not saying that you should stop talking to
Maria. I just wish that you would refrain from talking about our having
sex, in front of Ray and your mother. You know it bothers Ray. And to talk
about it in front of your mother. It's disrespectful." 

 Francesca pulled a chair up at the table and sat down. Looking up at
Fraser she knew that he was angry with her. No one besides her or Ray
would have been able to see it. The set of his jaw. His posture. He was
angry. But his face was composed and his voice modulated. He was so good
at masking his feelings. How he did it never ceased to amaze her. 

 But he was just as bad a she was. Holding back his emotions wasn't good.
If he wanted her to let go then she would get him to do the same. They
would just go about it differently. 

 She smiled up at him. "But I like to talk about 'it' in front of Ray."
Fraser ran a hand through his hair. Oh now he's aggravated. This is really
pissing him off! "Francesca please. I am asking you. Please do not in the
future talk to Ray about our having sex. I don't believe that I am asking
too much of you to do that." She kept smiling at him. "But that 'is' too
much too ask." "Pardon?" "I said, it is too much to ask. I like to piss
off Ray. And for some reason just the thought of you and me doing 'it'
gets him mad." 

 "Francesca! If it gets Ray upset, then why do it?" Ooohh! His voice is
starting to rise. She leaned forward resting her elbows on the table,
cupping her chin in her hands. Her smile grew bigger. "Because it's fun."
"What is fun about getting someone angry?" Now he's gesturing with his
hands. This is much better! 

 "I don't know. Maybe I like to see someone run their hands through their
hair, let their voices rise and start gesturing at me. Especially if
they're cute." She continued smiling up at him, trying to look innocent.
Fraser blinked one or twice looking at her. Then it dawned on him. She was
baiting him. Trying to get him angry. And she was doing a good job of it. 

 He walked over to the table and sat down next to her. Rubbing his temple
lightly he then placed his head down on his folded arms on the table. He
didn't want to argue. He just wanted her to stop tormenting Ray. Francesca
wasn't smiling any more. She had a worried frown. 

 "Benton? Are you O.K.?" He tucked his head face down on his arms. His
response was muffled. "Yes." "What's wrong?" He waited a few seconds
before answering her. Wishing his head would stop hurting. "My head hurts
and you are purposely trying to get me angry. Why?" 

 "I'm sorry. It's just that you never show any emotions. I thought it
would do you good to let out a little anger." Francesca lightly stroked
his head as she talked. "I mean, you wanted me to open up about how I
feel. I think you should be more open with how you feel too." He didn't
answer her. "Benton?" 

 Was he asleep or did he pass out? "Benton." She shook him by the shoulder
trying to get him up. He slowly moved his head to the side and squinted at
her. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to fall asleep while you were talking. What
were you saying?" 

 "It wasn't important. How about we get you to bed." As he stood he lost
his balance and caught himself by grabbing the edge of the table.
Francesca looked at him as she stood up beside him. "How long have you
been dizzy?" "I haven't. It happened only now." "Are you lying to me?" He
frowned at her. "No I am not lying to you. My headache is worse. That is
all. There's nothing else wrong with me." 

 "You're tired and you have a headache. That's it?" He smiled down at her.
"This is late for me and you know it." Francesca moved to him and wrapped
her arms around his waist, hugging him close to her. "If something's wrong
you'll tell me. Right?" He returned her hug and kissed the top of her
head. "Yes I will. There is nothing to worry about. I'm tired. That is
all." 

 "O.K. I believe you. But you're not sleeping on the sofa. You're sleeping
in my bed." "But Ray..." Francesca brought her hand up to his mouth to
silence him. "I'll sleep on the sofa. No arguing. Remember." He kissed her
hand before she pulled it away. 

 He pulled her tighter to him. "No arguing. No fighting. No talking about
sex in front of Ray." He looked down at her. Francesca was laughing softly
at him. "Uh huh. I can't promise you, but I will try. Is that enough?"
Looking at her he couldn't stay angry. How did she take hold of his heart
this way? He had tried repeatedly through the past year to figure it out.
And failed. Francesca had touched something inside of him. She made him
happy. It would be enough. 

 "Yes I suppose it will have to do." Leaning down he kissed her slowly.
Then passionately. Enjoying the taste of her tongue in his mouth and her
hands caressing his back. He could feel his heart beginning to race, but
the pain in his head became worse as well. But he didn't stop. The pain
was well worth the pleasure. 

 Francesca was the one to pull away first. "For someone who isn't feeling
all that well you're pretty spunky Benton." "Spunky. I have never been
called that before." They held each other for a few minutes more, enjoying
the quite time alone. 

 "Benton, we should get you up to bed now. I'll tell Ray so he doesn't
freak on us thinking we're sneaking up to have sex." Francesca lead him by
the hand back into the den. Maria and Ray looked up at them as they walked
in the room. 

 "Ray. Benton's going to sleep in my room and I'm going to sleep on the
sofa." Ray looked at her. He didn't trust her. "Why?" "Because he's tired
now and he's going to bed now. He can't sleep in the den if you're
watching the television." "Oh." 

 Ray looked over at Fraser. He didn't look too hot. He was squinting again
like he did at the hospital. *I knew I was right in making him stay here.*
"You O.K. Benny?" "Yes Ray. I'm fine. I'm tired. Nothing more." "O.K. But
you'll let me know if there's something wrong?" Fraser sighed. They were
all too overprotective. "Yes Ray, I will tell you. Goodnight Ray.
Goodnight Maria." "Night Benny. I'll see you in a few minutes Frannie." 

 Francesca gave Ray a dirty look as she and Fraser turned and left the
room heading upstairs. Maria smiled over at Ray. "See. I told you they
could solve their little problem all by themselves." 
 
 
 
 
 

 "Come on Benton. Strip down and get into bed." He saluted her. "Yes sir.
Into bed sir!" Francesca laughed at him and pulled at his shirt. "I'm
serious. You need to get in bed. You don't look all that well." Fraser
quickly disrobed as Francesca watched him. I wish he was feeling better.
But I guess I shouldn't push my luck she thought. She was lucky to have
gotten him to do anything last night. 

 Fraser got into her bed and slid under the covers. They felt soft and
cool. He could feel himself drifting as soon as his head touched the
pillow. "Benton." "Hum." "Can I stay here with you for a while?" He didn't
answer her. He fell asleep faster than anyone she had ever know. 

 "Benton?" Yeah. He was out. She almost left the room. Oh the hell with
Ray! Francesca turned the light off, leaving the door to her room wide
open. Crawling onto the bed she snuggled up close to Fraser's sleeping
form draping an arm across him. 

 Ray couldn't say anything to her. She was fully dressed, the door was
open and she was on top of the covers. Not under them with Fraser the way
she wanted to be. Laying her head on his chest she listened to the steady
rhythm of his heartbeat as she fell asleep. 
 
 

 
 

 Ray rubbed his face with his hands. "I don't know about you Maria, but
I'm gonna' go up to bed. Do you want me to leave the t.v. on or turn it
off?" "Leave it on Ray. Besides Frannie will come down soon. "Yeah I know
she will. I'm gonna' send her down. I should have got her down here two
hours ago." 

 Maria shook her head. "Ray. Can't you leave them alone? Just for one
night?" "Nope. I'll leave them alone after they get married." Maria sat up
quickly and dropped her needlepoint. "Benton's going to ask Frannie to
marry him?!" "No! I did not say that. Don't even repeat that." 

 "You know something. He said the M word to you." "Yes he said it only
because I asked him what his plans were concerning Frannie. He said she
wasn't ready to be asked." "I don't know Ray. She wasn't too sure until
last night." "Oh. Because he gets shot now she's ready?" "Nooo. Don't you
tell Frannie I told you. She would get embarrassed. Do you promise?" Ray
rolled his eyes and held his hand up like he was being sworn in. "I
promise." 

 Maria leaned forward in her seat smiling. "They were having sex last
night..." "I don't want to hear it!" Ray put his hands over his ears.
Maria jumped up and flung his hands down. "Oh don't be so juvenile Ray!
You know they do it. I know they do it. It's only natural. What did you
expect? He wasn't going to ever touch her? Be for real!" 

 "Yeah I know they do. But I don't want to know about it. Is that too much
to ask?" "She's your sister Ray and he's your best friend. Don't you and
Benton ever talk about sex?" "Maria this is Fraser we're talking about. He
lives by a different set of rules than us. He doesn't talk about sex or
his personal life. I for one am glad he doesn't talk about sex to me. I
don't want to know about it. Especially if it involves Frannie." 

 "You know Ray, that is really sad. He needs someone to talk to. We're his
family. You should talk to him about it." "But why?! Why do I need to know
about his sex life? Huh? Why?" "Ray you are such a...I don't know. You are
so hung up about talking about sex. I hope that if Benton ever does talk
to you about it you won't brush him off." 

 "Believe me Maria. The last person I have to worry about talking about
sex to me is Benny. I'm going to bed." "Whatever. You never did let me
finish telling you about Frannie." He waved her off. "Tell me tomorrow.
I'm tired." 

 Ray climbed the stairs. I really am not in the mood for this. As he
walked closer to Francesca's room he was surprised. The light was off, but
the door was wide open. He approached the door cautiously. He didn't hear
anything. Peeking into the room he was relieved. 

 Fraser and Francesca were cuddled up together on her bed. But she was
fully dressed and on top of the covers. It looked like she was finally
using some common sense. He stood in the doorway watching the two of them
sleep. They looked so peaceful together. He was about to go and wake
Francesca up, but something stopped him. Instead he walked to his room and
went to bed. 
 
 

 
 

 Fraser opened his eyes to a dark room. He had to think for a moment where
he was. Francesca's room. And she was curled up beside him in the bed. As
his eyes adjusted to the dark he looked at her next to him. Reaching out
her softly traced the contours of her face. She was so beautiful. 

 With a sigh he slid out from under the covers and her embrace. His head
still ached but not like it had last night. Getting dressed in the dark he
thought about what he would do all day. Eat and sit around the Vecchio's
home doing nothing. Or he could go home, change, come back and convince
Ray to let him go to work with him. 

 He felt better and he didn't feel that it was necessary for him to lay
around all day doing nothing. He wrote a short note to Francesca
explaining where he went just in case she woke up and found him gone.
Placing it on the bureau he walked back over to the bed and he kissed her
lightly before leaving the room. 

 He moved silently through the house and was greeted by Diefenbaker at the
door. "You need to stretch your legs too", he whispered as he ruffled the
fur behind Dief's ears. Opening the door up he watched as Diefenbaker ran
outside and began bouncing around in the snow. 

 It was a beautiful morning. Dark, cold and the snow sparkled like
diamonds in the moonlight. He felt another pang of sorrow for his life in
the Territories. But he shoved those thoughts aside. His family and his
love were here in Chicago. "Let's go Dief." 

 He began a slow jog to his house down the street, breathing in the cold
air, feeling better the more he moved. He picked his pace up. If he didn't
hurry Ray would be up and about before he could get back to the Vecchio's.
It would be easier to deal with Ray if it appeared that he hadn't left the
house. 
 

 
 
 

 Ray walked to Francesca's room. "Aw come on!" Fraser wasn't there. Just
like yesterday. Ray made his way downstairs. "I'm gonna' kill him." As he
reached the bottom of the steps he heard a noise coming from the kitchen.
Cautiously he edged himself around the corner of the doorway. 

 It was Fraser setting places at the kitchen table.. Ray stepped into the
room. "What do you think you're doing?" Fraser looked up at Ray smiling.
"I'm making breakfast." Ray smiled back at him, but his voice was
sarcastic. "I can see that. I mean what do you think you're doing?" Fraser
stared back at him keeping a blank face. 

 "Oh no you don't! You're gonna' do or say something that I'm not gonna'
like." Fraser kept looking at him while he set down the napkins. Three
places Ray observed. But only he and Francesca needed to get up and go to
work. Ray also noticed that Fraser's hair was still wet. He has already
showered and changed. "Where did you get the clean...you went back to your
place didn't you Benny?" 

 Fraser was now taking out eggs, bread and cinnamon. He was going to make
french toast. One of Ray's favorites. "Yes Ray." Fraser continued getting
other ingredients out of the cabinets. "What do you think you're doing?"
Fraser turned and gave Ray a funny look. "I believe that I told you. I
am..." "I know. Making breakfast. Don't play the innocent Mountie with me
Benny. It won't work. What are you up to?" 

 Fraser calmly cracked a few eggs in a bowl and began stirring them adding
the other ingredients in a bit at a time. "I am not up to anything Ray. I
am making breakfast for you and Francesca. And myself." "But you're not
going to work. We are." "Yes I know that I'm not going to the consulate
today." 

 Ray continued watching Fraser as he dipped the bread in the egg mixture
and cooked the pieces until they were a golden brown. Damn that smells
good thought Ray. He's up to something. I know it. 

 "Something smells good!" It was Francesca. "Mornin' Ray." She walked up
to Fraser and hugged him from behind. "Goodmorning Benton." "Goodmorning
Francesca." She hugged him tighter, running her hands down his chest.
Reaching further down she grabbed him. He jumped. "Francesca stop! I'm
trying to make breakfast." 

 Releasing him with a laugh she walked over to the refrigerator and got
out the orange juice and poured herself a glass. "What are you up to
Benny?" Francesca looked at Ray and then at Fraser. She could see his
face, but Ray couldn't. Fraser looked at her and smiled. It was all she
could do not to spit out her orange juice. Fraser was trying to do
something. Something that Ray wouldn't want to do. She settled back
against the counter, eager to see what would happen next. 

 "I'm making breakfast Ray. Would you like butter and syrup or powered
sugar with your toast?" "Butter and syrup." "The coffee is done. Go ahead
and get a cup. Francesca would you like coffee or tea?" "Nothing thank you
kindly." She smiled at him. 

 As Ray turned to pour his coffee she mouthed to Fraser 'what are you up
to?'. He smiled back at her and mouthed 'watch'. They sat down and began
to eat. "This is really great Benny. Where did you learn to make this?" 

 "My mother use to make me french toast this way. I remember watching her.
Trying to see what she would put into it. I don't know if I have all the
ingredients right. She never wrote it down. I must have been five when I
asked her what she used. She told me it was magic and love." 

 Francesca looked at Fraser sadly. His mother had been dead for almost
thirty years. But her mood shifted quickly. Fraser really was going to do
something that was going to set Ray off. He was softening Ray up. The
french toast. The family story. Fraser was good. What a manipulator! She
would have to watch herself around him. The little bugger knew how to get
what he wanted. 

 Fraser cleared his throat. "So Ray. What do you have planned for today?
At work I mean." "I was gonna' do paperwork. I'm really far behind and
with Christmas coming up I don't want to be stuck doing overtime to work
on junk like that." "Being that I am not allowed back at the consulate
until tomorrow, I could come in today with you and help you. I can type
alot faster than you. We could get it done before lunch with the two of us
working on it." Ray ate another forkful of the french toast. *This stuff
is great!* 

 "Sure Benny. Thanks alot. That would really help me out..." Ray's voice
trailed off. "Hey! Wait a minute!" Fraser quickly changed the subject.
"Would you care for more french toast? I still have some of the egg
mixture left." "No! You are not going to work with me today!" 

 "Ray. You just said that I could. You need the help. Why can't I help
you?" "You are supposed to stay home and stay in bed." Fraser didn't
answer Ray and continued eating. Francesca looked over at him and he
smiled at her as Ray ran a hand over his face. 

 "You're staying here Benny." Fraser continued to ignore Ray. Francesca
finished her breakfast and rinsed off her plate. "You're not going
anywhere today." "But I already have Ray. I jogged to my place, showered,
changed, jogged back and made breakfast. I believe that I am capable of
sitting behind your desk and typing reports." "Benny. You are supposed to
take it easy." "Typing Ray. I'm not going to be chasing anyone. I am going
to be typing reports." 

 Fraser gave him the big eyed Mountie look. "I hate when you do this to
me!" Fraser continued to stared at Ray. "O.K.! O.K.! You can go. But
you're gonna' sit and type. Nothing more. Do I make myself clear?" "Yes
Ray." 

 Francesca walked over and smiled down at Ray. "You had better hurry or
we're gonna' be late for work if you don't." She stood behind Fraser and
kissed him on the back of his neck. "I'll be back down in a bit Benton.
I'm gonna' go and take my shower now." She turned and ran out of the
kitchen and up the stairs. 

 Ray sat still and then he jumped up. "Wait! Shit! She's gonna' use all of
the hot water if I don't get my shower first." Fraser watched Ray as he
ran out of the kitchen. He could hear him running up the stairs and then
pounding on the bathroom door demanding that Francesca let him shower
first. Poor Ray. Between him and Francesca he didn't stand a chance. 
 
 

 
 

 Ray sat and watched as Fraser flew through another report. It wasn't even
eleven and they were almost done all of his backlogged paperwork. He
couldn't believe how fast Fraser could type to begin with. And he had
changed all of Ray's filing. It was so damned organized now. How in the
hell was he ever going to find what he needed? There wasn't any clutter.
His desk looked more like Fraser's at the consulate than his own. 

 The funny part was catching Fraser watching Francesca all morning. She
had purposely worn the shortest, tightest skirt that she owned. When she
had come down the stairs Ray had thought that Fraser was going to pass
out. And to his further surprise Fraser hadn't complained to her that she
shouldn't wear it to work. "Benny. Aren't you gonna' say something to
Frannie? Tell her to go and get changed." "No Ray. It is Francesca's
decision as to what she wears. Or for that matter, what she doesn't wear."


 "Benny. Benny." Ray snapped his fingers in front of Fraser's face. He
quickly looked back to the report in front of him, blushing. "I'm sorry
Ray." "You know if you keep looking at her like that, someone's gonna'
figure out that something's going on between the two of you." Ray watched
as Fraser looked back to Francesca again. This time he frowned. "Benny."
His features tightened and Ray saw what he thought might actually be anger
in his eyes. 

 Ray looked over to where Francesca was standing. She was trying to get
over to Ray's desk and her path was blocked. By a very large, very good
looking Detective Tom Dougherty. As long as Francesca had been after
Fraser, Tom had been after Francesca. And she had always said no to him.
Because she was 'saving' herself for one Benton Fraser. 

 Fraser looked like he was about to get up. "Benny don't move. If you go
over there the only thing that will happen is Frannie will end up getting
mad at you." Francesca finally managed to make it to Ray's desk. Tom was
right behind her. 

 "Here's the report you wanted Ray." She turned her attention to Fraser.
"Hi Frase. What's up?" Tom spoke up from behind her. "Nothins ever gonna'
be 'up' with him Frannie. Why don't you quit wasting your time trying to
get the little ranger and go out with me." "Piss off Tom." Francesca said
over her shoulder. But he didn't give up. "You'll come around sooner or
later Frannie. I can wait." He made a gun out of his hand and shot at
Fraser with it. "See ya' later pretty boy." "You're a real asshole Tom."
"Now is that a nice thing to say to your future brother-in-law Ray?" He
laughed as he walked away from them. 

 Ray looked back at Fraser. He had his mask back on. The calm, blank look.
And he had resumed typing the report. Francesca whispered to him. "I'm
sorry Benton." He continued typing and without looking up he spoke. "That
is quite all right Ms. Vecchio." She kept staring at him waiting for him
to look at her. And he kept ignoring her. She gave up. "I expect to see
you at twelve. For lunch." She then walked away down the hall. 

 "Benny, you know you should take a break. You've been typing all
morning." "I'm fine Ray." Reaching over he put his hands over the keys of
the typewriter. "Take a break." He nodded his head in the direction that
Francesca had gone. Fraser finally looked up and then at the hallway. "I
believe that I will Ray. Excuse me." 

 He finally found her in a dark hallway at the back of the precinct. "It's
about time you found me." She sounded peeved. He leaned against the wall
across the hall from her. Looking at her intently. "May I ask you a
question Francesca?" She leaned against the wall behind her and crossed
her arms. "Yes." "Are you in some way ashamed of me or our relationship?"
"What?!" She started laughing. Was he serious? "No! Why would you ever
think that?" He looked at her and shifted his position. "We have been
together for over three months and the only people who know about us are
your family. Why do we have to keep it a secret? Why can't they (he
gestured down the hall) know about us?" She could see the hurt in his
eyes. It really did bother him that no one knew that they were together.
But why? 

 "Benton, why do they need to know? What difference would it make?" "Maybe
if they knew, people like Detective Dougherty would not approach you any
longer." She started laughing again. "You're jealous!" Fraser looked at
the ceiling and let his breath out slowly. Why did she find this so
amusing. "Maybe I am. I'm sorry that I care for you." "No don't be sorry.
I'm sorry. But you have nothing to worry about. I don't care one bit about
Tom. I never have." 

 She walked across the hall and stood only inches from him. "I've always
loved you. I waited for you." "Just as he has been waiting for you."
Francesca looked at Fraser. She couldn't believe it. He was actually
worried about her leaving him...for Tom! She laughed again and grabbed
hold of Fraser hugging him tightly to her. 

 "But Benton. There's one big difference. You had feelings for me. You
loved me. I feel absolutely nothing for Tom. He's a big jerk." She could
feel him relaxing. "But why can't we tell them?" She gave in. "O.K. I will
tell them. After lunch. Will that make you happy?" "Yes. It would make me
feel better." "I still can't believe you. You were jealous!" 

 He didn't answer. Leaning down he kissed her. Neither one gave any
thought as to were they were and began to kiss each other deeply. Pulling
one body tightly against the other. Running their hands across each other.
Francesca found herself being pushed up against the wall as Fraser kissed
her neck, stroking his hand against her breast. "Benton." She kissed him
sucking at his tongue, pulling him to her. She broke off the kiss and
pushed him back slightly. "We're at the station not at home." They both
were breathing heavily, eyeing one another. 

 She didn't release her hold on him and pulled him tighter against her.
She could feel his erection hard against her stomach. "Are you going to
get you're bed soon?" He started to laugh and nuzzled her neck. Then he
kissed her. "Saturday." She kissed him back. "We'll finish this Saturday
night." Neither one wanted to be the one to let go first. They stood
together trying to regain their composure. "Benton we really need to start
paying attention to what we're doing. Someone will see us." She grinned as
she said it. 

 Fraser finally released her and backed slowly away from her smiling.
"It's a date Ms. Vecchio. Saturday night." "I believe we should get back
to work. Ray is probably having a cow by now." Francesca said. "After
you." Fraser gestured down the hall. Francesca straightened her shirt and
skirt and then wiped a smudge of lipstick form Fraser's mouth. "Thank you
Mr. Fraser." 
 
 

 
 

 Detective Dewey jerked his head back. They didn't see him. Huey would not
believe it! He couldn't believe what he had just seen. Fraser and Frannie.
In the hallway. If they had taken it a step further, they would have been
having sex! Yeah, Fraser was doin' Frannie. And judging by what he had
just seen he was doin' her but good. That wasn't an innocent kiss or two.
That was...geez, it was like watching a porn flick. 

 He made his way quietly back down the hall and into the bullpen. Now all
he had to do was wait for the two of them to come back so he could collect
his fifty dollars from Huey. Sitting on the edge of his desk he rubbed his
hands together in anticipation. 

 He watched as they came walking into the bullpen together. Looking at the
two of them he would have never known that they had just come back from
groping one another. Fraser was impeccable and emotionless as ever. And
Frannie was...Frannie. Francesca sat at her desk and Fraser made his way
back to Ray's desk. Dewey jumped up and cut Fraser off. 

 "Hey Fraser. Can I talk to you a sec?" "Yes Detective Dewey. How may I be
of service?" He looked so innocent. Mr. Nice Guy. The overgrown boy scout.
Oh this is gonna' be great! He moved closer to Fraser and talked to him in
a low voice. "You're hittin' that (he pointed over at Francesca) aren't
you." Fraser looked over at Francesca and then back at Dewey with a
confused expression on his face. 

 "I would never hit Francesca." Dewey stared at him. Was this guy for
real? "No Fraser. I mean you and Frannie." Dewey made a ring out of his
left index finger and thumb and was poking his right index finger in and
out of the circle. He watched in delight as Fraser turned a deep red and
stared back at him. Yeah. He's doin' her! 

 Fraser took a step towards him. Uh oh. Dewey quickly stopped his hand
gestures. "Uh look Fraser. There's no need for violence." He said as he
slowly backed away from him. Turning he bolted across the room over to
Huey's desk. Oh shit! He had never seen that expression on Fraser's face
before. He was actually angry! 

 Fraser stood where he had stepped forward. He was now staring at Dewey
from across the room. He didn't look angry anymore. Dewey watched as
Fraser turned and walked over to Francesca's desk. Leaning down to her
Dewey could tell that Fraser was telling Francesca what he had said,
including the gestures. 

 "What!?" Francesca screamed out. Dewey turned and ran out of the bullpen.
An angry Fraser was one thing. A livid Francesca was something to be
feared. She went running after Dewey down the hall. 

 Fraser looked over at Huey's desk. Now at Huey. The detective brought his
hands up. "I had nothing to do with that." The entire room had stopped
working and they were all watching the exchanges. Ray walked back into the
bullpen holding a candy bar. He noticed that Fraser was staring at Huey.
Huey looked upset and everyone else was looking at Fraser. 

 "O.K. Benny. What's going on?" Fraser leaned over to Ray and whispered.
"It appears that Detectives Huey and Dewey did not believe you when you
tried to tell them that Francesca and I were not involved." Ray leaned
towards Fraser and whispered back. "So what's the big deal?" "Ray. It was
the manner in which Detective Dewey presented his knowledge of our
relationship to me. And I proceeded to tell Francesca." "And what did he
say?" 

 Fraser stood for a moment with an embarrassed expression and then he told
Ray what Dewey had said and his answer. Ray only laughed. "You know you
can be so dense sometimes, you know that don't you?" Fraser looked down at
his feet and then back at Ray. "Not really Ray. I was trying to get him to
change his line of thinking." 

 "You mean you knew what he was saying?" "Yes Ray. I had heard that
expression before. It is not entirely accurate, but I have found that most
phrases involving sex rarely are. An example would be the phrase blow job.
The person in question does not blow..." "Benny." Ray was smiling now.
"What else did he say?" "It is not what he said. It was a gesture." "A
gesture?" "Yes Ray." Ray looked at Fraser and Fraser looked back at Ray.
"Benny. You have to make the gesture so that I know what it is." "Oh.
Sorry." 

 Fraser turned his back to the room and discretely repeated Dewey's hand
gesture. "And you told Frannie?!" Ray was laughing again. "Yes Ray. I was
going to handle the situation myself, but being that Francesca was the one
who had wanted our relationship to remain private, I felt it should be
resolved by her." "And where is she?" "She is in pursuit of Detective
Dewey at this moment." Fraser smiled at Ray. 

 "You're enjoying this aren't you Benny?" He watched as Fraser hesitated,
but he kept smiling. "I know that it is inappropriate for me to do so. But
yes. I am." Ray smiled back at Fraser and lightly punched him on the
shoulder. "Way to go Benny." 

 Francesca stormed back into the bullpen and stopped directly in front of
Huey's desk. "You know you're all a bunch of pigs!" She was shouting.
"O.K. people I am only going to say this once so listen up!" All eyes were
on Francesca. "Fraser and I are dating. We are a couple. I don't want to
hear any more wisecracks or jokes. Or bets!" She screamed the last comment
in Huey's face. "Do I make myself clear? Good!" 

 She walked over to Fraser who was still smiling. "And what's so funny
Benton?" He opened his mouth to speak when Lieutenant Welsh stepped out of
his office. "Excuse me ladies and gentleman. Do we have a problem here?"
Huey pointed over at Francesca and Fraser. "They're dating." "And what is
the big deal about that? They've been together since late September."
Everyone now turned and looked at Welsh. 

 Francesca crossed her arms and glared at him. "How did you know?" "It was
obvious. All you had to do is watch how the two of you were acting around
one another. That is why I am the lieutenant and all of you are not." He
smiled, but it only lasted a second. "Now everyone back to work. This
isn't a social club it's a police station." He walked back into his office
and closed the door. 

 Everyone slowly moved back to their work, still looking at Ray, Fraser
and Francesca standing together. Francesca gestured around the room. "This
is exactly why I didn't want to let anyone know." "Francesca, they will
get use to it and then no one will care." She stood glaring at everyone.
Daring them to make a comment. "Frannie you're overreacting. Now that
everyone knows, it's no big deal. Benny's right. In a few days no one will
care. You'll be yesterdays gossip." 

 She remained tense. "We'll see. I'm gonna' go back to my desk. Don't
forget Benton. Lunch in forty minutes." "I won't forget." Ray and Fraser
sat down at Ray's desk. "So. Is everything O.K. now?" "It appears to be
Ray." Ray sat and watched Fraser as he finished the report that he had
been working on. "You know I never pictured you as being the jealous type
Benny." Fraser looked up at Ray with a slightly embarrassed expression. 

 "Neither did I. I never gave much thought about it until..." He stopped
talking and looked down at the floor. Ray grinned. "Until ol' Tomcat
Dougherty was moving in on your territory." Fraser looked back up at Ray
in annoyance. "Ray, Francesca is not my 'territory'. She is...my
girlfriend." "Uh huh. Frannie's more than that to you and you know it."
Fraser opened a file. Then he put a new report form in the typewriter
before finally answering Ray. "Yes. She is." 

 Ray watched as Fraser looked over at Francesca. She still had an angry
expression on her face. She saw that he was looking at her. She mouthed
'what?' to him. He started smiling at her. He mouthed back 'I love you'.
She grinned and shook her head looking away. "Benny." Fraser quickly
looked back at Ray still smiling. "Yes Ray." "You are sickening." "Thank
you Ray." 
 

 
 
 

 Detective Dewey limped back into the bullpen holding an ice pack to his
face and sat down at his desk. Ray saw him as he entered and smiled.
"Excuse me Benny, I'll be right back." Fraser looked over at Dewey and
then at Francesca raising an eyebrow at her. She smiled and blew him a
kiss before turning back to her work. He returned his attention to Ray and
Dewey. 

 "Hey Dewey. What happened?" Ray was grinning down at him. He was
obviously in pain. "You're sister is nuts Vecchio!" "Well, maybe if you
didn't provoke her she wouldn't get upset. What did you and Huey do that
pissed her off?" "Nothing." "Yeah. Right. I know what you said to Benny.
But what else did you do? Frannie said something about a bet to Huey."
Dewey gave Ray a guilty look. "O.K.! I made a bet with Huey that Fraser
was doin' her. Are you satisfied?" 

 Ray's smile disappeared. "Benny is not doin' my sister. He and Frannie
are involved in a relationship." "Yeah, whatever Vecchio. Relationship,
sex, it's all the same." Ray leaned down and spoke in a tight voice,
enjoying the fact that Dewey flinched as he came near him. "No. There's a
big difference. So if you don't want to get hurt again, you'll keep your
mouth shut." 

 Ray eyed him. "Let me see." Dewey pulled the ice pack away from his face.
He had a large bruise on his cheek. Ray laughed. "She punched you?" "Yeah
she punched me. After she kicked me." "You know you're a lucky man. You
should be glad that's all she did. Frannie has a bad temper." "I can see
that." 

 Ray walked back to his desk still laughing. "Take a good look at Dewey.
Frannie did that to him. Are you sure you want to be with someone who is
capable of that?" Fraser looked back at Dewey and smiled. "Actually it
makes me feel quite safe Ray." 

 They continued to work in silence, finishing up the last report. "Thanks
for your help Benny. This would have taken me all day to do." *It probably
would have taken me two days, but I'm not gonna' tell him that. * "You're
welcome Ray. Thank you for letting me come to work with you today." Ray
snorted. "Like I had a choice." 

 Francesca walked in between the two of them tapping her watch. "Twelve
noon. Lunch time. Let's go Benton." She walked around Fraser and picked up
his jacket. "Are you coming Ray?' Francesca glared at Ray from behind
Fraser. "Nah. It doesn't look like Frannie wants me to." Fraser gave him a
confused look as Francesca took his hand and began pulling him from his
chair. 

 "Come on. We only have an hour and I'm starving." Fraser found himself
being lead through the hallways of the 27th. And each person that they
passed would stare at them. "Francesca, please slow down. People are
staring." She didn't slow down, but continued making her way out of the
building. Fraser pulled his jacket on. He thought it was a beautiful day.
Nice and cold. 

 "Geez, it's freezing out here!" Looking at the amount of leg that was
showing beneath her coat Fraser wanted to laugh. Of course she would be
freezing. She had almost nothing on. "I believe that your choice of
clothing would be the reason for your discomfort Francesca." "Ha Ha. Very
funny oh Mountie from the north. I'll have you know that I wore this skirt
for you." He smiled at her as they continued walking away from the
building. "I appreciate your effort, but I believe that you should dress
more appropriately for the weather. I would not want you to see you get
sick on my account." She shivered. "I think I'll take your advise." 

 They entered the small diner across the street from the 27th. It was
always packed with the police and clerks from the station. Again Fraser
noticed the stares as he sat down and looked around. People were looking
at the two of them. Some with expressions of disbelief. Others catching
him looking their way would quickly avert their gaze from him. 

 He leaned towards Francesca over their table and talked to her in a low
voice. "Francesca. Is our being together really that big of a shock to
everyone?" As she looked around she noticed the stares and the
whisperings. This is what she hadn't wanted. "Yes it is Benton." "Why?"
She looked at him. How could he be so obtuse?" "Benton. How long have I
known you?" "A bit over two years." "And how long have I been trying to
get you to go out with me?" He stared back at her. "Point taken." 

 "I think everyone is wondering why all of a sudden you're with me." And
I'm sure none of their thoughts are good she thought to herself. Then
Fraser began to laugh at her. "No. I think they are all wondering why Ray
hasn't shot me for being with you." She smiled back at him. He was right.
Everyone knew how Ray had felt that time he had thought that Fraser had
slept with her. 

 They placed their orders and continued talking about everyday things.
What they were going to buy someone for Christmas. When they were going to
go shopping together. Francesca lowered her voice and leaned towards
Fraser. "I don't think you're gonna' be very happy about this Benton. You
know when I said we could continue on Saturday what we were doing in the
hall." He grinned at her. "Yes." "We can't." He cocked his head to the
side. "Why not?" 

 Francesca looked around and then whispered, "I forgot. I have my friend
coming over later today and she's not leaving until Sunday." "Oh. That is
quite all right Francesca. I understand. Have I ever met her before? Where
is she from?" "Benton." She stared at him. "My friend." She drug out her
pronunciation of the word friend. He was now looking at her puzzled. "Your
friend?" Francesca rubbed her eyes with the palm of her hand. She
continued whispering. "My period Benton. I'm gonna' be on my period."
"Oh." 

 There he goes blushing again. She grinned lewdly and reached under the
table to squeeze his knee. "You had better stop blushing or I'm gonna' do
something to ya'." He tucked his head down trying not to smile. "I believe
that I can wait until after your 'friend' goes home after her visit." 

 Their food arrived and they continued talking. Fraser couldn't help
looking at all of the people who insisted on staring at them. He even
noticed a few glares directed at Francesca from some of the women. She was
correct. Their being together was not expected at all. 
 
 

 
 

 When they returned form lunch he again noted the reactions from those in
the bullpen. He felt like laughing. They were only two people who were
dating one another. Why did they all treat it as if it were a big deal? He
moved to kiss Francesca before he went back to Ray's desk, but she stopped
him. "No way Benton." "Why?" She sighed. "Let them get use to the idea of
seeing us together. I don't want anyone having a heart attack from
watching us kiss." 

 "That is ridiculous Francesca. A coronary attack can not be brought on by
someone watching me kiss you." He was beginning to get irritated. Walking
back to Ray's desk he sat down. He still could not figure out why his
being with Francesca was causing so much turmoil. He wanted to talk to Ray
about it, but he didn't know if his asking him would cause additional
problems. His thoughts were interrupted by Ray. 

 "Earth to Benny!" "I'm sorry Ray. What did you say?" "I said grab your
coat. We're going out. I have an interview to do with a murder witness.
The call came in while you and Frannie were at lunch." He looked at Ray.
"I thought you said that I couldn't do anything but sit at your desk and
type." "Hey. I'm only trying to be nice. If want to stay here and be
stared at it's your choice. Or you could come with me." Fraser stood up
and shouldered on his jacket. Sitting by himself and being stared at for
the rest of the afternoon would not be pleasant. 

 "Let me tell Francesca where I'm going." Ray made a face. "You don't have
to tell her where you are going every minute of the day. She'll survive
without you. Come on." Fraser hesitated. He knew Ray was correct, but he
also knew that Francesca would be upset if he had left without telling
her. "Give me one moment Ray." He walked over to her desk and scribble a
hasty note and went back to where Ray was standing. "You are so whipped
Benny." "Whipped?" He knew it wasn't a compliment because Ray laughed at
him. "Yeah. Ask Frannie what that means." "I will Ray." 
 
 

 
 

 It was late at night and Francesca sat in her room. Fraser had gone home
hours ago. She couldn't sleep. Looking at her pocket calendar she counted
the days on it for the tenth time that night. And for the tenth time she
had the same number. Twenty-seven. She wouldn't have been upset if it
weren't for the fact that since she was twelve, twenty-seven had been the
magic number. 

 Like clock work, every twenty-seven days she had her period. Always
starting in the afternoon. Always before dinner time. She could plan her
schedule around it. Her period of all things had been the envy of all the
girls at school. She never had to guess. So no matter how unpunctual
Francesca might be, her body was always on time. 

 She was scared to death. Opening up the drawer of the dresser next to her
bed she picked up the box of Lucky 13 condoms. She read the label and the
insert. She and Fraser had been careful. Or at least she thought they had
been. Francesca thought about the talk that she recently had with her
sister. Maria's second child was from her sister using condoms as her only
method of birth control. Then she started laughing. What had she said to
Maria? Something about the box not warning against Canadian sperm? 

 She hugged the box to her chest and began to cry. What if she were
pregnant? She had to be. She was never late! She sat for several minutes
crying. Wanting to go to Maria, but not wanting to. How could Maria
understand? She would only laugh at her. Oh come on Frannie you're only a
few hours late she would say. 

 Francesca lay down on her bed closing her eyes, trying to sleep. What was
she going to do? She wanted children, but not this way. And was she ready?
What type of mother would she be? And how would she explain this to
Fraser? Oh my God! How was she going to explain this to her mother?! She
eventually cried herself to sleep. 
 
 

 
 

 Each day that Francesca was late sent her into a panic. People were
noticing how she was acting. And every time someone would ask her what was
wrong she would brush them off with the standard answer. I don't feel
well. I think I'm coming down with the flu. It always worked. The person
asking her would back away and leave her alone. They didn't want to chance
getting sick around Christmas. 

 The only person she couldn't use the flu line on was Fraser. And she had
sidestepped him as well. "Francesca. Is there something wrong? Have I done
something to upset you?" What was she supposed to say? Oh yeah Benton, you
did something wrong. You had sex with me and now I'm pregnant. "No Benton,
you haven't done anything wrong. You remember my friend that I said was
going to visit me?" At first he had looked at her confused and then he
smiled. "Yes. Your 'friend'." 

 Looking at him smiling at her like that...she couldn't tell him. She
lied. "Well sometimes when she visits me I don't feel well." "Oh. You are
O.K. though? Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?" God! Why
did he have to be so nice all the time? She hugged herself to him and
tucked her head onto his shoulder. He held her, softly stroking her hair
and rubbing her back. 

 She had fallen asleep sitting on the sofa with him. When she woke up he
was still holding her. He hadn't moved for nearly three hours. "I was
wondering when you were going to wake up." He was tracing a path over her
face with his fingertips. Looking at her. And all she saw was love in his
eyes. She could feel the tears welling up with each touch. He trusted her.
He loved her. And she was lying to him. "Francesca?" She pulled him to her
kissing him. And when he moved away from her, she knew that he was
worried. He knew something was wrong. But he didn't push her for an
answer. He only drew her tightly to him embracing her. 

 When he left that evening to walk home she watched him. Yes she was lucky
to have Fraser. But she needed to tell him what was wrong. As long as she
was lying to him, she wouldn't be happy. 
 
 

 
 

 "Maria. Can I talk to you?" "Sure Frannie. Pull up a chair." Maria was
sitting in the kitchen at the table making a shopping list. Putting her
pen down Maria looked at her. "So what's up Frannie?" Francesca bit her
lower lip and picked up the shopping list, pretending to look at it.
"Frannie?" She continued to look at the list as she spoke. 

 "How did you know that you were pregnant?" "What?" "When you were
pregnant. How did you know you were?" "You're pregnant?!" "I don't know."
She began crying. She was so sick of crying, but she found herself
constantly doing it. Maria reached over and hugged her. "What makes you
think you might be pregnant? Besides having sex I mean. How late are you?"
"Three days." "Three days?" Maria laughed. "Three days? That's all?
Frannie, I've been two weeks late before!" She continued laughing. 

 Francesca angrily pulled away from Maria. "I am never late Maria. Every
twenty-seven days like clock work. I have never been a day late." "Ever?"
Maria looked at her surprised. "Never." Maria now stared at her. She was
taking her seriously now. "Have you taken a test yet?" "No I haven't. They
all say wait a week." "Buy one and keep it handy. The faster you know, the
quicker you can decide on what you want to do." 

 They sat next to each other not speaking. Maria was waiting for Francesca
to say something further. I guess I'll have to drag it out of her. "Have
you talked to Benton about this? Does he know?" Francesca shook her head.
"No, I haven't told him." "Frannie! You have to tell him. You can't keep
something like this from him. It wouldn't be fair. If you're pregnant,
it's his responsibility too. He should know!" 

 "But what if I'm not? Then I've caused a lot of trouble for nothing." "I
don't care. Pregnant or not he should know. You should never keep a secret
like this from him. It's not fair to him and it's not fair to you." "O.K.,
I'll tell him. Tomorrow. I'm supposed to go over to his house and help him
decide where the bed will go in the room." "So the 'bed' is finally
arriving." "Yes." Maria smiled at her trying to make Francesca relax. "I
guess you're not going to break it in now are you?" Francesca laughed
weakly. "No I don't think so. Once I tell him, he probably won't be able
to talk, much less do anything else." 

 Francesca played with the list in her hands. "Maria, do you think I'll
make a good mother?" Maria hugged her again. "Yes Frannie you will. You'll
never have to worry about that. And you know Benton will make a great
father. You see how he is with my kids. He loves children. I wouldn't be
surprised that once he gets over the shock he'll be happy. You know how he
wants a family." 

 "I know. But I don't think he was planning on getting one this way."
Maria sighed. Poor Frannie. "There are some things you just can't plan.
Accidents happen. Don't worry. Things will work out. You'll see. Just talk
to him." "I know. I'll tell him. Thanks Maria." Francesca hugged her
again. Talking to her sister had helped. But now her stomach was churning.
She still had to tell Fraser. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca smoothed down the front of her coat. She knew it was stupid to
wear a summer dress in this freezing cold, but if she was going to give
Benton some bad news she wanted to look good while doing it. Taking a deep
breath she knocked on the door. 

 Fraser opened it and smiled down at her. "You don't have to knock
Francesca. Just come in." He hugged her, picking her up and bringing her
into the house. "You're mighty happy Benton." He was more than happy. She
could tell. It had to be the weather. When it was cold and snowy he was
always happy. 

 "Isn't it a beautiful day! Oh. Sorry. Let me take your coat." Taking her
coat off he noticed her dress. It was a bit summery for this time of year.
"And what is the special occasion?" "Uh, nothing. I just thought that you
might like it." Looking at her he knew that something was still not right.
She wasn't telling him something. 

 "I have the frame and mattress upstairs. We need to figure out where it
goes. He took her hand and led her upstairs. "I also have a surprise for
you." Francesca started smiling. Fraser's excitement was infectious. 

 Walking into the bedroom she saw something leaning against the wall
covered in Fraser's old Hudson blanket. "I found this at a used furniture
shop. I'll have to refinish it, but it's beautiful. Solid walnut." He
pulled the blanket off. It was an intricately carved head and foot board
set. It was obviously very old. But the pattern was beautiful just as he
said. There were flowers and vines all across it. 

 Francesca knelt down by it running her hands over the patterns. "Benton,
this is lovely." Fraser knelt down beside her. "I knew that you would love
it." He smiled and traced the pattern in the center. "Do you know what
this symbol is Francesca?" "Yes." She ran her fingers over the two rings.
It was a symbol of marriage. Maybe she was worrying for nothing. It was
obvious that he was ready to settle down. He might not take the news of
her possibly being pregnant as something bad. She began to relax a little.
I'll wait until we get the bed set up before I tell him. 

 Standing she hugged him as he stood up beside her. As he held her Fraser
could feel her relaxing. She wasn't as tense as she was when he greeted
her at the door. "Where do you think we should set the bed up?" Francesca
looked around the room still holding onto Fraser. "Up against that wall
(she nodded in the direction she wanted) facing the window. That way when
we get up we'll have the sun shining down on us. I mean on you." Now he
had her doing it. She was slowly starting to think of this as her house. 

 "That sounds good Francesca." He moved away from her and set the frame up
and placed the mattress on it. It didn't take him very long to do it. She
took the sheets and pillows from the closet and they made the bed
together. She had chosen plain white sheets. The comforter was a pattern
called winter frost. A pale blue with white. She had thought that he might
like waking up to the pattern of snow around him. 

 She lay back on the bed and patted the spot next to her. "Lay down. Let's
try it out." She had already decided that the right side of the bed was
her side. They lay there quietly side by side. She reached over and took
his hand. "Benton?" "Hum." "You're not falling asleep are you?" "No
Francesca. I'm just relaxing." It was now or never. 

 "How many children do you want? I mean when you finally go to have them?"
He opened his eyes and rolled over so that he was leaning on his elbow
looking at her. "I believe that it would be up to the woman in question.
But I would like to have at least two. I always wanted a brother or
sister. It was...lonely being by myself all the time." 

 He rested his head next to hers on the pillow. He ran a finger slowly
down her arm. Francesca could feel the goose bumps go down her spine. She
looked at him and he was smiling softly at her. "You have goose bumps. Are
you cold?" "No not really." She rolled over so that she lay in the crook
of his arm, putting her head on his chest. He started rubbing the back of
her neck. "That feels good." 

 Stretching against him, she ran her hand lightly across his chest and
shoulder. "And when you have children Francesca how many do you want?" She
couldn't resist. Even under stress she had to tease him. "Six." He pulled
away from her. "Six?" She started laughing. "You should see your face
Benton. It's not like you wouldn't mind making the babies." He laughed at
her. So she was thinking of him as fathering her children. Things were on
the right track. 

 "But six? That is a lot of mouths to feed and a ton of diapers. How about
four." "Five." "Four. It is between two and six. A compromise of sorts."
"O.K. Benton. Four. No more. No less." She hugged him laughing. Now to
tell him that child number one might be on the way. 

 "Benton." Yes?" "Do you remember my friend that was supposed to visit
me?" He pulled her closer to him. "Yes. She is going home tomorrow." She
paused. God I am scared to death. "Um. Well...she hasn't come over yet and
I don't know if she's going to visit me for a while." She felt him tense. 

 "Benton?" She moved slowly away from him. Looking at his face she saw
shock. He blinked once or twice and ran a hand through his hair. She sat
up on the bed looking down at him. "She hasn't visited you and you don't
know if she coming over?" "Yes." 

 She tucked her chin on her knees. "And when are you going to find out?
Have you gone to a doctor yet?" He sat up looking at her with concern.
Francesca closed her eyes. No I am not going to cry. "Francesca don't
worry. Every thing will be fine." He moved over and hugged her. 

 "I don't know if I'm ready for this. A baby is a big responsibility.",
she spoke into his shoulder. He remembered their discussion before. How
she had said that if she had an accident she would keep the baby. But
listening to her talk, he wasn't so sure she would. Yes he wanted a
family. But not at the cost of someone else. 

 "Francesca. Whatever you decide I will be there for you. I'm not going
anywhere." As he held her Francesca thought about what Fraser had just
said. Did he think that she wanted an abortion? She pulled away from him
wiping at her face with her hand. "Benton. I know we talked about this
before. I haven't changed my mind. If I am pregnant and that is still an
if at this point. I will keep the baby. 

 She watched as he visibly relaxed. Yes, he did think she was planning on
having an abortion. God this is a mess. She could hear a phone ringing.
"Did you get your phone?" "Yes. The line was hooked up yesterday." "It's
ringing." He made a face. "I really did not want a phone." "Who has the
number?" "Ray and Inspector Thatcher. I was going to give you the number
tonight." The phone was still ringing. She looked at him. "Don't you think
you should answer it?" 

 "I believe our current conversation is more important than a phone call."
She sighed. "Come on. Get up." She jumped off the bed and grabbed his
hand, pulling him downstairs. The phone was still ringing and he was
looking at it. "Well? Answer it!" Fraser reached out and picked it up.
"Fraser residence, how may I help you?...Oh...No...Yes. Thank you Ray." He
looked at the receiver and hung it up. 

 Francesca rolled her eyes. "What does Ray want?" "He yelled at me for
taking so long to answer the phone and asked if he was interrupting us.
And he wanted t know if we are coming over for dinner. I took the liberty
of saying yes. Then he hung up on me." Francesca looked at her watch. It
was only four. Dinner wouldn't be ready until six. She chewed her lip.
Stay here and talk some more about her possible pregnancy or go home and
avoid the subject. 

 "Come on Benton." She walked into the living room, grabbing her coat and
his heavy flannel jacket. "Let's go back to Ma's and help her with
dinner." As they walked back to the Vecchios, Fraser pulled her close to
him to keep her warm. 

 "You know if you are, you will have to dress warmer than this." "Yes, I
know. I was only wearing it to soften the blow." They walked for a while
in silence. "Have you made an appointment with a doctor yet?" "Yes. I
called this afternoon. She won't be able to fit me in until late next
week. Maria said that I should use an over the counter test, but I don't
trust them" 

 "Francesca?" She wasn't paying attention to him. He could tell that she
was lost in her thoughts. "If you are pregnant, does this mean I won't get
a Christmas present?" She stopped walking and turned to him in shock. Only
to find him laughing at her. She hit him lightly in the chest. "That is
not funny. "I was only seeing if you were paying attention to me." She
looked at him smiling. "A baby would be a pretty big gift. I don't think I
could top that." 

 They continued walking until they reached the porch where Fraser stopped.
He blocked Francesca from opening the door. "What is wrong?" "I know that
you have talked to Maria about this. But have you told Ray or your
Mother?" "No! Are you crazy? Ray would freak! And Ma. I don't even want to
tell her." 

 Fraser raised his eyebrows at her last comment. "I think that you under
estimate your mother Francesca, All she wants is for you to be happy. It
wouldn't matter what you would do. She'll always love you. Just as I
will." He leaned down and kissed her, hugging her to him. "You don't
realize how lucky you are to have your family Francesca. It won't be until
they are gone that you will know what I am talking about." 

 She hugged him back. Yes she did know that she was lucky. And knowing
that Fraser had no family of his own, it hit her even harder. Her family
was the most important thing in her life. Fraser was a part of that family
now. And maybe in nine months there would be an addition to it. 
 
 
 
 
 

 Ray knew there was something going on. Ever since Fraser and Francesca
had begun dating they had been close. But now they seemed to be up each
others ass. If he had to watch them hold hands or whisper to one another
one more time he was going to puke. They were quiet during dinner, but
they sat too close as far as Ray was concerned. And having to watch the
two of them sitting on the sofa. Gag. 

 "Excuse me Frannie. But what do you think you're doing?" "What does it
look like Ray? I'm sitting." "That is not sitting Frannie. You sit on the
sofa. Not on Fraser." And when did Fraser learn to slouch? He never
slouched. But here he was slouched on the sofa with Francesca sitting
between his legs, leaning back against him. He had his arms wrapped around
her and his chin was tucked on her shoulder. 

 "You know you two can go up to your bed Frannie", Ray said sarcastically.
Francesca brushed him off. "We're comfortable here." "You two are making
me sick." "Then stop looking at them Ray." "Butt out Maria." Maria sat up
in her chair. "No. You need to leave them alone for one night. Or would
that be too much to ask?" 

 Ray watched as Fraser and Francesca again whispered to one another and
then Francesca leaned back to kiss him. "What is with you two?" Fraser and
Francesca both spoke at the same time. "Nothing Ray." Then they started
laughing. "Forget it!" Ray grabbed the remote and turned the volume of the
television up. He was getting angry. Fraser knew something and he wasn't
telling him. Maria and Francesca were hiding something from him too. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca shifted a few times trying to get more comfortable. "Are you
O.K.?" Fraser had whispered into her ear. How could she explain to him why
she was so fidgety? Fraser was trying to comfort her. But laying against
him like this. Feeling him pressed against her back. His breath hot on her
neck. He was driving her nuts! When Ray had said to take it up to her bed,
it was all she could do not to grab Fraser and take him upstairs. 

 She wanted him. It was sheer torment to lay against him like she was
doing. And he had no idea what he was doing to her. She tried moving once
more only to have Fraser tighten his grip around her waist. "Francesca
please.", he whispered in a pleading voice. "Stop moving." She stopped and
paid close attention to his body beneath her. Apparently she wasn't the
only one having a problem with the way they were sitting. 

 A wicked smile appeared on her face as she turned her head to look at him
over her shoulder. When he saw how she was looking at him she also saw
panic on his face. "No." Fraser gave a slight nod across the room. "Ray."
Francesca turned back so she could look at Ray. Her smile grew even
bigger. Fraser hadn't seen that Ray was asleep in his recliner. And Maria
had left the room! 

 She twisted so she was now lying down on him, looking into his face. They
spoke in low voices. "Francesca, you are going to get us in trouble." "Oh
who cares. Ray's asleep. You've been driving me nuts all night. I can't
take it anymore." She reached forward hugging him around the neck and
kissed him hungrily, grinding her body into his. He was trapped on the
sofa and he couldn't move or protest too loudly or Ray would wake up. 

 She was about to pull back when he pulled her tightly to him. God he felt
so good! She drove her tongue into his mouth, pressing her hips against
him. She was rewarded with a small moan from Fraser. This is ridiculous
Francesca thought. They were both adults, but where were they? On the sofa
with Ray playing chaperone. 

 She wanted Fraser now. Not tomorrow. Not in a few days. Why did she have
to wait? Ray wouldn't have. He would have gone to his girlfriends house
(if he had one) and she wouldn't have seen him until later the next day.
She pulled roughly away from Fraser. "Get your jacket. We're going to your
house." Before he could protest she stood up. 

 Fraser grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back down on the sofa.
"Don't do that!" "What?" "What if Ray saw me get up like this?" He removed
his hands from his lap. Francesca started laughing softly. Fraser quickly
cover himself, placing his hands back in his lap. Francesca caught her
breath. She was laughing too much. "I'm sorry. I keep forgetting." She
snuggled up to him and pointed at his lap. "We'll wait until he's calmed
down a little." 

 Looking down at his lap she smiled. "You know if you didn't wear your
jeans so tight it wouldn't be as noticeable." Reaching over she grabbed at
his erection and he slapped her hand away laughing. "Do you want to go to
my place?" "Yes." "Then don't do that again." As she lay against him she
kept looking over at Ray, praying that he wouldn't wake up. 

 She heard Fraser begin to hum softly to himself. Looking at his face he
was relaxed, his posture slouched slightly forward. Tugging at his shirt
she tried to get his attention. "Benton. Benton. What are you doing?"
Without looking at her he answered her. "I am attempting to lower my heart
rate so that we may leave before Ray wakes up." A smile flickered across
his face and was replaced by a relaxed look once more. 

 "You are too much." Francesca started to laugh softly again. He wanted
her as badly as she wanted him. "Benton." She poked him in the ribs. "Stop
it." "What did you do before you were with me?" She loved teasing him. He
opened his eyes and looked at her quizzically. "Do what?" "You know. Did
you take care of business yourself or did you find the occasional partner
to take care of it for you?" She nodded at his lap so there wouldn't be
any doubts as to what she was talking about. 

 Fraser blushed and turned away from her trying not to laugh. "Francesca,
you ask the most personal questions of anyone I have ever met." "Well?"
"What does it matter?" "How do I know you're not diseased or something."
She was grinning at him. "That is highly unlikely. Besides I have been
tested." "Tested?" She watched as he chewed on his lower lip. He opened
his mouth to speak and then closed it. "You've been tested for what
Benton?" 

 He looked at her as serious as she had ever seen him. "AIDS and any other
sexually transmitted disease." The shock on her face must have been
evident, because he rushed out an explanation. "No. It's not what you are
thinking. When I was with...Victoria. I wasn't as careful as I am with
you. It happened so quickly and I really didn't care at the time. When I
came home from the hospital, Ray had suggested that I get tested. I was
lucky. I was as you would say disease free. I have had the HIV testing
done in three month intervals since my contact with her." Francesca didn't
know what to say. Her teasing had turned into a deep conversation. It was
not what she had expected. "And have you had any other 'contact' since
her?" He looked directly at her. "No. Not until you." 

 She tried to lighten the mood. "So that means you sorta' took the matter
into your own hands so speak." She was grinning evilly at him. Again he
turned pink. "Oh come on Benton. You did. Didn't you?" Without looking at
her she saw him smile. "Yes." She laughed and poked him in the side again.
"I knew it!" "Stop poking me!" She looked down at his lap. They could go
now. But she couldn't resist one last dig. 

 "And when you did. Were you thinking of me when you did it?" Fraser
stared laughing a little too loudly and she had to hurry and cover his
mouth with her hand. "Benton! You're going to wake Ray up!", she squeaked
out. When he calmed down she removed her hand. Francesca I can not believe
you!" He was shaking his head at her. She snickered. "Well?" He started to
stand up, but she held his arm so he couldn't. "Answer me. Did you think
of me when you did it?" "Francesca!" He was getting exasperated, but he
was still smiling at her. 'Answer my question or I won't go home with
you." He pulled at his earlobe. "Yes. On occasion I did. Are you happy
now?" 

 He moved to get up and again she stopped him. "And what was I wearing?"
Again he started to laugh at her. He had given up trying to avoid her
questions and answered her quickly. "The black leather negligee that you
wore to my apartment that time. Now let's go!" He stood up and grabbed
her, picking her up and carrying her out of the den and into the foyer
before she could ask anymore questions. 

 "You really liked it?" "Yes I did." He was looking at her grinning. "Do
you still have it?" She laughed. "Yes, but I'm not gonna' go and find it
now. We have to get out of here." Fraser set her down and they put their
coats on. "Hold on a sec." Francesca ran into the kitchen and left a note
saying where she had gone. Running back into the foyer she grabbed
Fraser's hand. 

 "Wait. Where is Diefenbaker?" "Oh come on Benton. He was asleep on
Angelo's bed the last time that I saw him. Let's go!" "I really should go
and get him." Francesca had enough. "I think I hear Ray." Without even
stopping to listen, Fraser pulled Francesca out the front door. 
 
 

 
 

 Fraser pulled Francesca down the driveway and about twenty yards down the
sidewalk, almost at a run. Francesca protested loudly the entire time.
"Benton! Slow down!" When he did slow down to a walk he was laughing. "I
am sorry Francesca, but I do not wish to argue with Ray." "You are such a
chicken! Why don't you stand up to Ray once in a while?" Fraser only
grinned at her. "I did not see you waking Ray up to tell him we were
leaving. You snuck into the kitchen and left a note." "That's different."
"In what way?" "He's my brother." That did not make any sense at all to
Fraser. 

 "And what does that have to do with anything? Ray is my best friend. I do
not wish to argue with him. What good would it do?" Francesca smiled at
him. "Chicken." Fraser looked at her trying to think of something,
anything, that would get her off of this topic. He was not about to start
a confrontation with Ray to satisfy her. 

 "Ah." "What do you mean by ah?" "Ah means I am a chicken. But what shall
I call you?" "Huh?" "You have a very important matter to discuss with your
mother, but you have not done so." Francesca snatched her hand from him.
"That is not fair. That is totally different and you know it!"
"Francesca." He reached to take her hand back. "No." She put her hands
behind her back. "You know I should go right back home now for that
comment." 

 Looking angrily at Fraser, Francesca spun on her heel and began walking
home. He hesitated and stood where she had left him not knowing what to
do. Then he ran to catch up to her. "Francesca I am sorry. Please do not
go home." "I don't think so. Give me a reason why I should go with you."
She kept walking and ignored him. Fraser walked along side her thinking.
Glancing at her he could see that she wasn't as angry as she pretended to
be. 

 Grabbing her, he swung Francesca around crushing her to him. Kissing her
until he was certain that she would have trouble catching her breath.
Still holding her he pulled back. Good he thought. She was breathing hard.
But she could still speak. "Not good enough." Arching an eyebrow at her he
leaned into her. Taking his time in a slow passionate kiss, backing her
against a car parked in the street. Pushing against her he moved from her
lips, nibbling gently at her neck. Moving to her ear he whispered, "Is
that good enough?" 

 Francesca slowly nodded yes. "Good. Let us go back to my house." Moving
away from her Fraser held his hand out. She grabbed his outstretched hand
and gave him a dirty look. She was still breathing hard. "You don't fight
fair." "That is because I do not like to argue. It is a waste of energy."
They walked in silence the rest of the way. Nearing the door to Fraser's
house, Francesca thought of how she could repay Fraser. If he wasn't going
to fight fair then neither was she. 

 Looking around she noticed how dark it was in front of the house. Fraser
hadn't left the front light on. She would have to talk to him about that.
Watching him walk in front of her she was trying to decide. Should I or
shouldn't I. Granted it was freezing out here, but he deserves it. I'll
show him not to play with me! He had the keys in his hand ready to unlock
the door when she reached around him and grabbed him. Fraser jumped and
dropped the keys. Laughing he moved to pick them up, but he couldn't.
Francesca had tightened her grip on him. 

 "Francesca please let go." "No. It's 'my' turn." She couldn't see his
face , but she could feel him tense up. *Dear lord what is she going to
do?* His heart began to pound. Both in fear and in excitement. He never
knew what to expect from her. "I want you to turn around and then it's my
turn." "And if I do not?" She began to squeeze him. "O.K.! Stop! I will
turn around." "Keep you hands where I can see them." 

 Raising his hands above his head he felt her release her hold on him. He
turned slowly to face her. Fraser smiled nervously. "Is this better?"
"Much better. Now I didn't struggle against you so you can't struggle
against me. Deal?" He eyed her. What was she planning to do? "I am not so
sure about this." "Oh come on Benton." She smiled at him. "You big
chicken." He frowned at her. "I promise I will not try to get away from
you. Now what are you planning to do?" 

 Leaning down she found the keys that Fraser had dropped and placed them
in her coat pocket. "Let's see how you like it Mr. Fraser. And don't touch
me." She grabbed him by the head pulling him to her, kissing him softly at
first. Slowly inching her tongue into his mouth. As she increased the
passion of her kisses she ran her hands under his jacket and shirt,
digging her nails into his back. Moving her hands down she tried to edge
them into his jeans. Damn! She pulled away from him. 

 "Benton, you look good in them, but can't you wear a pair of jeans that
fit?" Before he had a chance to answer her she had them unbuttoned. When
he reached down and buttoned them back she slapped his hands. "You
promised you wouldn't use your hands." She unbuttoned them again and
shoved her hands into the back of his jeans. He surprised her again. No
boxers. When had he gotten into this habit? 

 Grabbing his ass she pulled him in close and began kissing him again,
kneading and squeezing him. Feeling his arms wrap around her, she wanted
to laugh. She had him. Moving to kiss his neck she heard him breathing
heavily. He was pulling her to him, slowly moving against her. Yes this
was a good idea. He was as worked up as she could get him. It was time to
go in. It was freezing standing here she thought. The house would be
better. 

 Francesca tried to move away from Fraser only to have him tighten his
hold on her. He had grasped her from behind and was kissing her
passionately. Using one hand he yanked her coat open. He inched his hand
between her legs. It was freezing outside, but as he slowly caressed her
she forgot all about the temperature. He sucked at her tongue and bit at
her lips. Feeling his fingers sliding against her and then inside her,
then out again to softly stroke her, she had to touch him. She needed to. 

 Reaching roughly between their bodies Francesca ripped open his jeans and
freed his erection and began pulling at him, matching the caresses that he
was giving her. She increased her pressure and he followed her. Looking up
into his face she found him staring back at her. His eyes glittered darkly
in the moonlight. Their breath coming out in clouds of steam around them.
He claimed her mouth again and she responded by jamming her tongue deep
into his mouth. 

 Roughly nipping at him as she pulled back. Trailing kisses down his neck,
she bit him low on the shoulder. "Oh God Francesca!" "Benton!" She hissed
a whispered voice at him. He had yelled that out. Fraser quickly tucked
his head onto her shoulder, trying to control himself. Then he kissed her,
long, slow and deep. She pulled at him harder felling him tense and with a
certain satisfaction she heard him moan. Again he matched her movements
and she felt the heat course though her. Jerking against him, her orgasm
pulsated through her body and he quickly followed. She could hear his
muffled cries against her shoulder as he bit down on her coat. 

 Francesca continued to stroke him, sliding the warm stickiness onto him
and around her hand, not wanting to stop. Jerking, Fraser grabbed her arm
to stop her. He released her arm and pulled her to him. They stood
together embraced, breathing hard. As her body relaxed Francesca again
felt the cold. Shivering she finally spoke. "We need to go inside. I'm
freezing to death." Fraser backed slightly away, reaching into her pocket
for the keys. Without releasing her he unlocked the door. 

 He surprised her by picking her up and kicking the door open. Still
holding her he kicked the door closed and carried her upstairs and laid
her gently down on the bed. Reaching over he lit the lantern sitting on
the small dresser by the bed and turned it down low. Fraser sat next to
her looking at her with a curious expression. They stared at one another
and as he looked her over she saw a pink flush rise in his cheeks. A smile
tugged at his mouth. "I'm sorry about your coat." Looking down, Francesca
started laughing. Sitting up she took his face between her hands and
kissed him. "You are the only man that I know who apologizes for getting
excited." 

 He was now smiling at her and he again looked at her with that
expression. Francesca poked him in the chest. "What Benton?" Looking
directly into her eyes he asked her, "Francesca what do you want?" Without
hesitation she answered him. "You." She knew that wasn't the answer that
he wanted to hear, but he accepted it. He wanted to be with her tonight,
but again he hesitated. 

 "Do you think that we should? With you possibly being in 'that'
condition?" Grabbing him by the shirt she yanked him down on top of her
laughing. "My sister said that she and Tony were still doing it when she
was seven months pregnant. Besides. We don't even know if I am." "But from
what you have told me it is highly probable." "Yes it is. But it doesn't
mean we can't. Besides. I know how much you want to." He grinned at her.
"And you do not?" "Benton. Stop talking." 

 They made love three time that night. And each time Fraser handled her
like he was afraid that she would break. The fact that what he had been
doing to her felt so good was the only thing that kept her from telling
him to stop treating her as if she were made of glass. They lay curled
together. Francesca was exhausted, but it was a nice kind of tired.
"Benton. What time is it?" Reaching past her he looked at his watch on the
dresser. "A quarter past three." "Oh I am going to pay for this."
Snuggling back into her Fraser laughed. "In what way?" 

 Francesca hugged him. "No. Not 'that' silly. I mean when I go to mass. At
eleven this morning." They lay silently together. Running a hand across
his chest Francesca spoke again. "Benton?" "Hum?" "Would you go to church
with me today? I mean, it's not like you don't already go. You sing in the
choir on occasion. But would you go with me? And sit with the family?"
Family. The word always made him feel happy. "Yes Francesca. I will attend
mass with you." "Good. Do you think you will be able to wake up in time
and get me up too? I could shower here and then get changed at home."
"That sounds fine to me. If we are to attend mass then I suggest we go to
sleep." Tucking herself into his shoulder Francesca kissed him and drifted
off into sleep. 
 
 

 
 

 "Francesca." Fraser gently pushed her on the shoulder trying to wake her
up. She only curled against him, ignoring him. Fraser pulled the covers
off, exposing her nude form to the cold air of the room. He smiled in
satisfaction as her body responded to the cold. Nipples erect, goose bumps
on her skin. She tucked into a fetal position shivering. Kneeling by her,
he ran his fingers down her side. She fidgeted, but did not wake. Again he
touched her gently. 

 Francesca's eyes popped open. She saw a naked Fraser kneeling before her
grinning. "You are difficult to wake up." Sitting up she grabbed the
comforter and wrapped it around her. "It's freezing in here! Don't you
have the heat on?" He pointed at the window. "I like the fresh air." "You
may be a polar bear, but I'm not. Close the window." He stared at her.
Rolling her eyes she looked back at him. "Close the window...please." 

 Smiling Fraser walked over to the window and shut it. Turning back
towards the bed he stopped. Francesca was staring intently at him. "What?"
He could feel the heat rising in his face. *Damn.* She started laughing.
"I'm sorry Benton, but you look so darn good. Coming and going." "We have
to get ready for church. Remember?" There he goes trying to change the
subject away from him again. "Yes I do. But we have some time. Lay down
and let's 'snuggle' for a bit." 

 Shaking his head at her he smiled. "We do not have time for 'that'." "We
would if you didn't want to take forever doing it." "I do not take
forever. I like to enjoy what we do. Not rush through it like I have
picked you up on a street corner." "Did I just hear what I thought you
said?" She laughed. "I'm glad you think I'm better than a prostitute." She
sat grinning at him as he walked towards the bed. 

 Fraser sat down next to Francesca and covered her mouth with his hand as
she opened it to speak. "No I have never purchased the favors of a
prostitute." She pulled his hand away still smiling at him. "How did you
know I was going to ask you that?" "Because I am starting to understand
how you think. I do not know if I should be pleased by this fact or
afraid." She pushed him. "Oh I'm not that bad. Am I?" "No you are not
bad." 

 She was the best thing that could have happened to him. She was getting
him to live his life. Not observe other people living theirs. He gave her
a quick kiss and moved away before she could grab him. "We have to get
ready. I will go and shower first." "How about we shower together?" "I
think not. And pouting will not change my mind." "I am not pouting." "Yes
you are. I will be back shortly." 

 Francesca watched as Fraser walked out of the room. She shouted at his
retreating form. "You have a nice ass!" Pulling the comforter tighter
around her she laughed. She knew he was probably blushing again. Looking
around the room she relaxed. It felt like home. The bed and linens they
bought together. He chose the head board set knowing that she would like
it. And where had he found the small dresser next to the bed? It was
another old piece and it was also intricately carved on the front. He was
so old fashioned. His manners. His speech. His choice of furniture. Thank
God his thinking wasn't as old fashioned as the rest of him. 

 With a sigh Francesca got out of bed. She would have loved to have lain
in it all morning snuggled up to Fraser. But if she didn't go to
mass...well she didn't want to think about it. Facing Ray when they went
back to the house would be bad enough. But if she didn't show up to go to
church with the family...her mother would kill her. She didn't want to
push things. The best part about dating Benton was she could get away with
things that she normally couldn't have with anyone else. Her mother liked
him so much she could practically get away with murder. But skipping mass?
No way. 

 Walking over to the closet she looked in. He really didn't have that much
in the way of clothing. Everything was neatly ironed and hung in order.
Several uniforms, a few jackets, shirts, jeans and three regular suits.
The black suit that he wore to the opera brought a smile to her face. Then
there was a dark charcoal suit and a light gray one. 

 She pulled the charcoal suit, a tie, his dress shoes and a crisp white
shirt out and set them down on the bed. He would look very presentable at
church today. Going back to the closet she pushed the clothes away from
the jackets. He could wear the pea coat. Wait a minute. Pushing the rest
of the clothing all to one side she smiled. Hanging at the very back was a
long, black wool coat. Very nice Benton. You've been hiding a few things.
She had never seen him wear this before. He would look really good in it.
She took the coat out and placed it next to the other pieces of clothing. 

 She could hear him walking towards the room. Turning towards the doorway
she watched as he came in, toweling his hair dry as he spoke to her. "I
have placed a towel and wash cloth for you on the rack." Taking the towel
off his head he looked at the clothing on the bed and then at Francesca.
"And I put out your clothes for going to mass. I'll be back in a few
minutes." As she walked by him she let her hand trail across his stomach,
softly scratching him. "I expect you to be dressed by the time I get
back." 

 Walking over to the closet he smiled and shook his head. The closet was a
mess. He straightened it up before getting dressed. He was almost finished
when she came back into the room, her towel wrapped around her. "I am
freezing! If I'm going to stay here again please don't leave the window
open." Looking at the bed Francesca noticed that Fraser had gotten some
things out for her. "I have put out some sweats for you to wear home. It
is too cold for you to wear that dress again." 

 "Why thank you kindly Benton. But you weren't thinking about the cold
last night at the door were you?" He tucked his head down, smiling but not
answering her. As she pulled the sweats on she looked Fraser over. "You
should wear suits more often. You know you could be a model. You have the
right facial structure for it." She watched as he picked up his coat
looking embarrassed. 

 "Why is it you get so, I don't know, flustered when someone tells you how
nice you look?" Fraser looked at the floor as he spoke. "It makes me feel
uncomfortable. I don't believe that I am all that attractive and when
people say things of that nature...it bothers me. People look at me, but
they don't want to know me. Does this make any sense to you?" She sighed.
"Yes Benton it does." 

 Francesca sat on the bed staring at Fraser. Remembering all the times
that she had ogled him. All the passes that she had made. And how she had
never gotten to know him before the date at the opera. And then she
thought of all the other people who would stare at him. Between the odd
uniform and his good looks he brought a lot of attention to himself. She
had never once thought about how he must have felt when people made sexual
advances or comments to him. Instead of being flattered by them he was
upset. 

 "I'm sorry." Fraser looked at her quizzically. "What are you sorry for?"
"For all of the times that I treated you like a thing and not as a person.
I never knew how you felt about it. You should start telling people how
you feel Benton. Maybe they would stop doing it if they knew how you
felt." He cleared his throat. "I have a problem doing that. When people
make their comments or...advances, I'm usually too embarrassed to make a
proper response. And in some instances a response would be impolite."
"Then I guess I'll have to start doing it for you." Fraser shook his head
looking slightly panicked. "No. I really don't think that will be
necessary." "Uh huh. We'll see Benton." 

 As he put his coat on, Francesca reached for hers. "We have a problem."
She held her coat up to Fraser smiling in delight as his face turned a
deep red. He quickly walked over to the closet and brought back his pea
coat for her to wear. He grabbed her coat and tossed it on the bed. She
was laying back on the bed laughing. "Can you imagine if I wore that back
home? Can you picture Ray's face?" With an embarrassed grin he grabbed her
hands, pulling her up off the bed. "I think that we had better go or we
will be late. You still have to get dressed." "I know. But you have to
admit it might be worth it just to see Ray's face." 
 
 

 
 

 "Are you ready?" "Yes. I will keep Ray occupied, while you dress. Then we
will attend mass and then go to the mall." "Right. Now whatever you do,
don't let him browbeat you. You know he's going to be mad, but don't let
him treat you like shit." "Francesca there really is no reason for you to
say that. Ray can not help how he feels anymore than we can. I will handle
the situation. You get dressed." "Oh all right. But don't let him push you
around. Promise?" "Yes I promise." Opening the door Francesca gave Fraser
the thumbs up and ran up the stairs to her room to get changed. 

 Fraser cautiously walked into the kitchen. With a sigh of relief he found
only Mrs. Vecchio and Maria. "Benton! I didn't hear you come in. Where's
Frannie?" Maria was smiling at him as she spoke. "She is getting dressed.
For mass." "And judging by your appearance you're going with her." "Yes."
Maria nudged her mother. "Would you like some coffee? Or maybe tea?" "Tea
please." 

 Mrs. Vecchio came over and took his coat. "You look very nice this
morning Benton." "Thank you Ma." Maria watched as Fraser and her mother
sat down at the table. She could see that he was nervous. He was waiting
for Ray to come in. The lamb awaiting slaughter. She wished that Fraser
would stand up to Ray. He was so quiet at times. And the way that he let
Ray talk to him was ridiculous. But she also knew how much he cared about
Ray and his feelings. 

 "Here's your tea." "Thank you." The three of them sat at the kitchen
table talking about what type of flowers he should plant in the spring
when Ray walked into the room. Fraser turned to look at Ray. Remain calm.
Do not argue with him. "Goodmorning Ray." Ray stood staring at him.
"Mornin' Benny." *Hum. He didn't call me Fraser. He is not as angry as I
thought he would be.* "You're going to mass?" "Yes Ray. Francesca asked me
if I would go with her today." "Oh." 

 Ray still stared at him. "Are you feeling well Ray?" "Huh? Oh. No. I'm
fine. Are you gonna' stay for dinner tonight?" "I will have to ask
Francesca. We are going to go shopping after mass. I don't know if she
would prefer to eat dinner out tonight." Francesca walked in. "We'll come
back for dinner Ray. Is that O.K. with you Benton? Or did you want to go
out somewhere?" "I would prefer to come home." Ray nodded at the two of
them. "Oh. O.K." 

 As they stood in the pew Ray looked over at Fraser and Francesca. They
were sharing a hymnal as they sang. Fraser had chosen not to sing in the
choir today. And when they had entered the church together he had noticed
some of the looks the couple had received. Now that they had made their
appearance together in church their relationship would be put under a
microscope by the other parishioners. Mainly the noisy old biddies Ray
thought to himself. He would have to talk to Francesca. She couldn't be
staying overnight at Fraser's house anymore unless she wanted to be
labeled the neighborhood tramp. 

 Fraser coming to mass with Francesca was the nail in the coffin as far as
Ray was concerned. He had his doubts before, but now he was positive. The
two of them would get married. Fraser knew how serious the Vecchio's were
about their religion. He wouldn't have come with her if he wasn't planning
on being with Francesca permanently. The only mystery left now was finding
out what they were hiding from him. He knew that Maria would know what it
was. Francesca told her everything. And he vowed that before the day was
over he would know what it was. 
 
 

 
 

 Ray stood with Maria on the steps of the church watching Fraser and
Francesca walking down the street together, arm in arm. They were headed
to the mall to do some Christmas shopping. Ray had been a little miffed
when neither one of them asked if he would care to join them. He felt
Maria nudge him. "I bet he asks her by Christmas." "What?" "I bet you
Benton asks Frannie to marry him by Christmas." She was smiling happily at
the two retreating figures. "No! He can not do that!" She turned calmly,
looking at Ray in amusement. "And why not?" "Maria, they have only been
together for a few months. It would be stupid for him to ask her." 

 Maria look as if she was going to say something to him but she stopped.
"Oh come on! You know something. Tell me. Did he tell you he was going to
ask her?" Maria looked at Ray trying to decide whether or not to tell him.
"Oh don't tell me! You helped pick out the ring." Ray was sarcastic now.
Maria narrowed her eyes. Ray was being jerk. "You know I really shouldn't
tell you. Benton hasn't. And by the way you act sometimes I don't blame
him." "What's that supposed to mean?" "You overreact Ray. If it isn't
something that you approve of you lash out at people. It's no wonder you
don't have many close friend. And as quiet as Benton is I've always
wondered why he chose to be friends with you." 

 "Ha ha. Come on Maria. What is going on?" *Oh what the hell. He'll find
out sooner or later.* She pulled him over to a corner of the building so
they could be by themselves. "You have to swear not to say anything to
anyone. Do not tell Benton or Frannie I told you this. And I'm serious
Ray. If you say anything to them, I swear I'll never talk to you again. Do
you promise not to say anything?" Ray rolled his eyes. His family could be
so dramatic. "I promise." 

 Maria looked around and lowered her voice. "Frannie might be pregnant."
"What?!" Ray shouted it out. The other parishioners turned to look at the
two of them. "Ray!" Maria yanked him around the corner of the building so
they were now out of sight. 

 "What do you mean she might be pregnant?" His voice was low and tight.
"She's late Ray. And Frannie said she's never been late." "How could she
be pregnant?" Maria crossed her arms and smiled at him. "Oh you know what
I mean. I thought they used...you know." "Well Ray, there's a chance that
the 'you know' didn't work." "Aw geez." "Remember. You promised. Not a
word to either one of them. Or to anyone else." "This is great! This is
freaking great!" 

 "I hate to break it to you , but if you haven't noticed they aren't very
upset over it. They were at first, but now..." She shrugged her shoulders
and smirked at Ray. "They can't have a baby." She started laughing. "And
why not? Come on Ray. They're both over thirty. They both want a family.
This isn't the way either of them had planned it, but if Frannie is
pregnant they will have a baby." 

 Ray ran a hand over his head. He had wanted to know. And now that he knew
he wished that he didn't. The two of them parents? "You said she wasn't
positive. Has she seen a doctor?" "She's going next week." "Great. This is
great. Merry freaking Christmas!" "You are a selfish pig! You could try
and be happy for them." Maria walked away leaving Ray to brood in silence.

 
 

 
 

 Francesca was very happy. For some reason Ray hadn't said anything at all
this morning about her staying the night at Fraser's house. Why, she
didn't know, but it was nice not having to argue with him. She and Fraser
were walking through the mall, her arm tucked in his, looking like...as
much as she hated to admit it, like a married couple. The only thing that
was missing was a kid or two trailing them. 

 She found herself looking at other woman pushing their babies in their
strollers. Wondering if she would be doing that soon. She had always
wanted a family of her own. With the possibility of it happening, even if
it was an accident, she couldn't help getting excited. 

 Feeling her hand being squeezed she looked up at Fraser. He was smiling
at her. How embarrassing! He caught her staring at other women's children.
He chuckled in amusement as she blushed. "So that is what I look like."
"I'm sorry. But aren't you starting to get use to it? I mean the idea of a
baby." He stopped walking and pulled her to him. "Yes I am. I had thought
I was the only one until I caught you just now." He kissed her and hugged
her again. 

 "Benton. PDA." He pulled back looking at her. "Public displays of
affection." Francesca started laughing and hugged him back. "For someone
who never liked people touching him you sure do a lot of it." "But you are
not just anyone." She smiled a cat like grin. "I know." 

 As they moved to walk Fraser stopped. "Could you wait here a moment? And
don't look where I'm going." "Why?" "I saw something that I would like to
give you for Christmas. So do not look." "O.K. Benton. But remember. We
agreed we would keep the gifts small. Nothing over fifty dollars. Don't
overspend." "Yes madam." He turned her away from him. "Wait here please."
She laughed. "Don't worry I won't leave you. Ever." 

 She could hear him walking away from her. She found herself smiling
again. He was so damn cute. Always surprising her by the way he acted with
her. She wished that he would have made his move a year ago. They could
have been married and had a child by now. Married? Yup! I am ready. I
didn't think I would be but I am. The thought left her feeling warm and
happy. If he asked her there would be no hesitation on her part now. 

 Her smile of contentment slowly faded. Oh damn! Walking down the mall
towards her were two former friends from high school. Two very catty
former friends. As they neared her she tensed up ready to do battle. "Well
look who it is Tina. Frannie 'Vecchio'. How are you?" Tina and Leah. Two
woman who never let her forget how much better their lives were than hers.
Both married. Both had nice homes. And both had children. Just what she
needed to make her day. 

 Plastering a fake smile on her face Francesca began the niceties of a
stilted conversation. "I'm fine." Leah looked Francesca over. "You're
looking nice. Still not married? No children?" She was smirking as she
spoke. Francesca gritted her teeth as she spoke. "No I'm not married."
Tina spoke again. "You know it's a shame you and Gino got 'divorced'. You
would have had kids in middle school by now." Francesca felt her face
getting hot. *Yeah. And if I stayed with Gino I would have been beaten to
death by now.* 

 "Yes. I suppose we would have. But things didn't turn out that way." "No
Frannie they didn't. You know you never could keep a man too long. You
must not be doing something right." Francesca looked down at her feet. Do
not cause a scene. Do not punch her in the face. She felt someone standing
by her side. "Excuse me." Thank God! It was Fraser. Now she could get the
hell away from those two bitches. 

 "Francesca. Aren't you going to introduce me to your friends?" He was
smiling down at her holding her hand so that she couldn't walk away. "Uh.
Yes. Um...Tina. Leah. This is my...boyfriend. Benton Fraser." The two
women were staring at him mesmerized. They looked at Francesca and then
back at Fraser again. 

 Fraser hugged Francesca to him as he spoke. He was eyeing the two women,
a small smile still on his lips. "Where are your friends from?" "We went
to the same school." "Oh. Then you are both classmates of Ray." Francesca
almost burst out laughing. Tina's face darkened. "No we did 'not' go to
school with Ray. We were in Frannie's class." 

 "Oh dear. You have my apologies. It's just that the both of you look much
older than Francesca." Tina glared at Fraser and grabbed Leah by the arm.
"If you will excuse us we have a lot of shopping to do." Francesca watched
in delight as Tina drug Leah away from her and Fraser. Turning to Fraser
she started laughing. 

 Pulling away, she turned and looked up at him"Benton Fraser that was
rude!" She laughed some more to the point where she was almost crying. "I
can't believe it! You of all people! Did you know what you just did?" He
cocked his head to the side smiling down at her. "Yes. I heard them
talking to you as I approached. They were not being very nice to you."
"But 'you' were rude! Did you see their faces?" He was looking at his feet
trying not to laugh. "I apologize for my actions. In the future I will
refrain from doing something of that nature." She grabbed him and hugged
him tightly. "I think I'm starting to rub off on you." She gave him
another small hug and whispered, "Thank you." 

 Looking down she noticed a small paper bag in his hand. She reached for
it. "What's that?" He quickly hid his hands behind his back. "Do not peek.
You will ruin the surprise." She grinned at him. "I promise not to peek if
you give me a kiss." He leaned down and kissed her, feeling her hands
reaching around his back. He brought his arms up and around her, holding
her so she couldn't move. 

 "You promised Francesca." "I said I wouldn't peek. I didn't say anything
about getting a direct look." Fraser shook his head at her and let go of
her. Francesca held her hand out. "Come on. Let's finish shopping so we
can go home." He backed away and rolled the bag up, tucking it inside the
inner pocket of his coat. Taking her hand they began walking through the
mall. "Let's go get Ray's present together. How's that sound Benton?" "A
gift from the both of us?" "Yeah. And I know the perfect thing to get
him." 
 
 

 
 

 All during dinner Ray kept looking at the two of them. All he could think
about was Francesca being pregnant. And Fraser the father? God what a
mess! They weren't even married. What in the hell were the two of them
thinking? He mentally kicked himself. They knew what they were doing at
the time, they just weren't careful enough. They shouldn't have been doing
anything as far as he was concerned. Things were moving to fast before,
but now it was like a runaway train. How in the hell could he stop it? 

 The more he watched them during dinner he slowly came to accept it. He
may not like it, but there really wasn't much he could do about it now.
The occasional smile. Their touching one another. Whispering small things.
Geez. It still made him want to gag watching the two of them. They were in
love and they were going to have a baby. Looking further down the table
Ray watched his mother. He wondered what she would think of Fraser once
she found out that Francesca was pregnant. 
 
 

 
 

 After dinner everyone wandered into the den. It was rather crowded. The
kids were all sitting on the floor with Diefenbaker. They were watching
'Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer'. Ray looked over at Francesca and Fraser
who were cuddled up on the sofa. Arms wrapped around one another with
Francesca laying her head on Fraser's chest. Then he looked at Fraser's
face as the program continued. Ray looked back at the television and then
back at Fraser again. What in the hell is he thinking? 

 Bits of emotion flickered across his features. Disbelief, confusion and
then anger? No not anger. He looked miffed. Fraser looked down at the
children on the floor and then back at the program shaking his head in
disagreement. Ray couldn't wait for show to get over so he could question
Fraser about it. He waited until Maria took the kids out of the room and
turned to Fraser. 

 "So Benny. What was that all about?" "Pardon?" "During Rudolph. What was
wrong?" Fraser took a deep breath and rubbed at his earlobe. "Ray, that
was a very disturbing program." "What?" Ray started laughing and Maria and
Francesca sat up looking at Fraser curiously. "In what way Benton?"
Francesca looked as him waiting for an answer. Looking around at the
expectant faces he knew what he was about to say would probably bring
about an argument. "It's nothing." "Oh no you don't. You're not going to
avoid this one. What is wrong with Rudolph? It's a kids Christmas show.
What could be wrong with it?" Francesca crossed her arms and stared at
him. He might as well get it over with. 

 "Santa Claus is supposed to love and accept everyone, yet he treated
Rudolph as an outcast because of the color of his nose. That could be
construed as a form of discrimination. It was only after he had helped
Santa that he was finally accepted. This program shows children that you
will only be accepted if you are like everyone or if you do something for
someone. These are not very good examples for children to follow." 

 "That is the most ridiculous thing that I have ever heard you say. It's a
kids Christmas program!" Ray shook his head laughing again. "But not a
very appropriate one for the true meaning of the season Ray. Good will
towards all mankind. Not only those that fit in." Ray slowly stopped
laughing. Fraser was serious. Ray looked at him trying to figure how his
mind worked. 

 Christ. He wasn't talking only about Rudolph. He could have been talking
about himself as well. Fraser didn't fit in. He was different. The red
nose, the red jacket. The way people treated him until he did something to
help them in some way. Ray wondered if Fraser had any idea that he was
comparing himself to a kids show. "I never thought about it that way, but
I still like to watch it. It's part of Christmas." Francesca laughed and
poked him. "Oh come on Benton. Lighten up. We all grew up watching Rudolph
and look at us." Fraser raised an eyebrow at Francesca. 

 She pinched him. "Ow! What was that for?" "You deserved it." Fraser
pulled away from her and stood up. "I believe that I should go home." "Oh
come on Benton, I was only teasing you. Sit back down." She patted the
empty space next to her. "No. I really do need to go home. It is nine
o'clock." "Oh. I'll see you out." She held her arms up to him smiling.
"Pick me up?" He reached down and scooped her up off the sofa. Ray turned
away from the two of them. There they go being cutesy with each other.
Without looking back at Fraser, Ray said goodbye. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca and Fraser were standing in the foyer softy talking to one
another. "Thanks for letting me use your coat." "You're welcome. I will
try and clean yours before I return it to you." Again she watched as
Fraser tucked his head down in embarrassment. How in the hell could he do
the things that he did with her and still get embarrassed at something as
small as that? "Benton." Moving towards him, she pulled him close to her.
"You had better get use to things like that happening because you're never
gonna' know when or where I'm gonna' get you to do it." 

 Laughing she pushed him back up against the door. "Who knows. Maybe I'll
get you to do it right here." "That is highly improbable Francesca." "Uh
huh. And it was highly improbable that I would get you to do something on
the sofa. Or in my room. Or in front of your house last night. Face it.
You can't say no to me." Fraser looked directly into her eyes. "No." She
snickered and grabbed him by the ass pulling him tightly against her. 

 "I bet you I can make you do it on the porch tonight." He laughed at her
and tried to move away. She only tightened her grip on him. "Francesca, we
can not do that." "Yes we can. When will we get the chance again? Hum? And
I know you want to. You always do." She had been moving slowly against
him, pulling him against her the entire time that she talked. Yes Fraser
could say no to her, but his body definitely was saying yes. 

 "No. I will not be doing anything on the porch tonight." "Yes you will."
"No I will not." She was teasing him now. Running her hands along his
chest she reached up and rubbed his neck gently. "Then how about a kiss?"
He eyed her suspiciously. "A kiss?" "Yup, a kiss." "Nothing more?" "I
didn't say that." "Francesca, I have to go home." "Then kiss me and you
can leave." 

 He leaned down and kissed her. It started out as a soft kiss. Feeling her
tongue he automatically opened his mouth to taste her. Her kisses were
always so nice. She felt so right in his arms, her small body tucked
against his. He found himself wrapping his arms around her as she
intensified the kiss. What started out a something simple was again
turning into something that should be stopped before they got out of hand.


 He broke away from her to see her staring up at him a seductive grin on
her face. "On the porch?" She knew she had him worked up. It was so easy
to do. "No." He couldn't believe he said no to her. God he wanted her.
"No? You want to. I know you do." She reached down between them and
stroked him softly through the material of his suit. He pushed against her
hand and pulled her to him kissing her once more. She felt so good. Moving
to her neck he breathed in her scent. "Come home with me." It was a
whispered plea. 

 "I can't do that. Not two nights in a row. Ray would have a fit and I
don't know if Ma has noticed me not being home yet." "And I can not go out
and do 'it' on the porch as you so kindly put it." Francesca sighed in
frustration. "But I want you. Now." "And I want you, but I do not want to
go out on the porch. It's not how I want to be with you." He paused trying
to decide how to ask Francesca. Holding her tightly he kissed her once
more. "Why don't you move in with me?" Laying her head on his shoulder she
closed her eyes. Live with Fraser. That would be nice. "I can't do that.
We're not married." "But we have sex and we are not married." *He's got me
there.* "That's different." 

 "In what way?" "No one sees us having sex Benton. Well, except for that
one time Ray caught us, but that doesn't really count. If I move in with
you everyone will know what we are doing. It wouldn't look right." Fraser
smiled down at her. "And if you are pregnant, everyone will know that we
have done it." Francesca laughed. "O.K. You win. I concede. But I can't
move in with you. I want to but I can't." Fraser looked at her sadly. "But
I want to be with you." 

 "Don't look at me like that!" The big eyed Mountie look. That's what Ray
called it. And she could see why it worked. "I can't. Ma wouldn't approve
of it. Would you like to have Ma angry at you?" "No." He sighed and hugged
her and then let her go. "I should go home now." "Benton. Thank you for
going to church today. It meant a lot to me." She kissed him and ran her
hand through his hair. "I'll see you tomorrow after work?" "Yes. I will
stop by for a short visit. I have some things to do tomorrow night."
"Anything special?" "Yes. Something for you." She gave him another quick
kiss. "Goodnight then" 

 Fraser turned to leave and then stopped. "Where is Diefenbaker?"
Francesca smiled. "He's in the den behind the sofa." Shaking his head
Fraser walked back into the den. "Hey. I thought you left already?" "No
Ray. We were...talking." Fraser looked at the stretched out form of
Diefenbaker. "Dief. Dief!" Diefenbaker opened an eye and looked at him.
"Time to go home." Stretching, he got up and loped out of the den. "'Night
Benny. Don't forget. I'll pick you up in the morning." "Yes Ray.
Goodnight." 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca walked back into the den and flopped on the sofa. Hugging a
pillow she sat staring blankly at the television. Maria got up from her
chair and sat next to her. "What's wrong Frannie?" Leaning back Francesca
blinked back tears. "I hate this." Maria looked at her in surprise. She
could see Ray's eyes open wide. He couldn't believe what he had heard
either. 

 Francesca turned and saw the two of them staring at her. "No! Not that. I
love Benton. You know what I hate? I hate having to sit here, knowing that
when I go to bed tonight he won't be there." Ray rolled his eyes and
looked back at the television. Maria waved him off. "What does he know.
When was the last time you saw him with a woman?" "Very funny Maria." 

 She hugged the pillow tighter. "He asked me to move in with him." Ray
almost jumped out of his recliner. "You are not moving in with him!" "Shut
up Ray! I already told him I couldn't." "Oh" Ray breathed a sigh of relief
and settled back in his recliner. Thank God she used her head for once. 

 "If it wasn't for Ma I would move in with him now." "Why? What would you
need to do that for? He lives right down the street." Maria looked at Ray.
"Are you alive? Do you not see them together?" He snorted at her. "Do I
see them? I think I 'saw' more than was necessary thank you." "You are so
funny Ray. No. They are a couple. That means two. Don't you remember how
you and Angie use to be?" 

 Ray sat quietly for once. Yes he remembered. He and Angie would lie in
bed every night. Talking about their day. Waking up to next her. "Yeah
Maria. I remember. Francesca broke into his thoughts. "I ought to go over
and stay the night." "You did that last night. That's enough." She stood
up and threw the pillow at him. "You don't know anything!" Francesca ran
out of the den and up the stairs. Ray could practically feel the house
vibrate when she slammed the door. "Great. Why not wake up the entire
house." 

 "That was really nice Ray." "You know you are all a bunch of fruitcakes.
So she loves him. Big deal." "When did you get to be so cynical Ray?"
Maria was looking at him sadly. "She wants to be with him. What is so
wrong with that?" Maria stood up and moved to leave the den, but stopped
at the doorway. "Why can't you be more supportive? You should be happy for
them. Nether one of them has ever had this before. All they've ever had is
pain. Frannie had Gino and Benton had Victoria." 

 "Maria I do understand, but they are going about this all wrong." Maria
smiled at him. "No. I think they're doing it right. They're happy
together. Isn't that what love is all about Ray? Finding someone that
makes you happy and sharing your life with them. Maybe if you would open
your eyes you'd see it." 
 
 

 
 

 Ray pulled the Riv up in front of Fraser's house and honked the horn.
Fraser and Diefenbaker came out and settled into their customary places.
"Ray could you please not blow your horn when you pull up. Mrs. Rizzo left
me a complaint in my mailbox the last time that you did it." "Well maybe
if you would be waiting outside like you did when you lived at the
apartment, I wouldn't have to." 

 "I apologize Ray. I have been working on something in the morning." "Oh.
And what is Mr. Fixit doing to the house now?" "I'm not working on the
house." Ray waited for an explanation. It figures. He was going to have to
ask him what it was. "O.K. Can I ask you what you're doing?" "I'm making
part of Francesca's Christmas present." "That's nice. What is it?" "I'd
rather not say. I would like it to be a surprise." "I won't tell your
secret to Frannie." "But if I tell you Ray you'll know what the other gift
will be. Christmas is less than two weeks away. You will see it then." 

 "Benny can I ask you a question?" "Yes Ray." "How come, since you've been
dating Frannie, you keep shit from me?" Fraser remained silent. "Right now
you can't even tell me what you're making Frannie for Christmas. What is
with you? I was use to you not telling me stuff, but a stupid Christmas
gift. What is wrong with you?" Ray was getting angrier as he spoke. His
voice rising. 

 "What is it? Now that you have Frannie you can't speak to me?" "It's not
that Ray, it's.." "It's what? What is the big secret? What are you hiding?
You can't tell me what it is. Why?" "If I tell you what it is then..."
"Yeah! I'll know what goes with it. Let me guess. It's a freaking cradle
right?! Because you knocked up Frannie." Oops. Ray stopped his tirade. He
glanced over at Fraser. *Uh oh.* 

 Fraser sat staring ahead out the windshield, not moving. "I'm sorry
Benny. I didn't mean to say it like that." Fraser turned away avoiding any
eye contact with him. "You must have talked to Maria." "Yeah. Look, I'm
sorry. I didn't mean to say that. But why couldn't you tell me?" "About
the gift?" There he goes trying to avoid the subject. "No not the gift!
About Frannie. About her being pregnant." 

 "We don't know for sure Ray. She will not see her doctor until Thursday."
Fraser remained silent, still not looking at him. *I can't believe I said
that. Geez.* Ray pulled the Riv over and parked. "Benny. Look at me. Why
didn't you say anything about it to me? Why did I have to hear it from
Maria?" Ray watched as Fraser picked imaginary lint off of his pants still
refusing to look at him. 

 "Hey Benny. I'm over here. Talk to me. Why didn't you tell me. I'm
supposed to be your best friend." Fraser finally spoke to him. He could
see how upset Fraser was. He wished he could have taken the words back.
"But you are also her brother. I didn't think that you would be very
pleased about the situation. I know that you are not entirely happy with
me being with Francesca." 

 Ray laughed. "It's not really you that I'm not happy with. She could be
dating anyone else and I still wouldn't be happy. I just don't want to see
Frannie get hurt again. And what makes it worse is she's with you. "Why
thank you Ray. That makes how you feel perfectly clear." "Let me rephrase
that. It's because you're my best friend and she's my sister. Either way
if something bad happens between the two of you I lose. Do you see where
I'm coming from?" 

 "Yes Ray. But I am not going to hurt Francesca." "Not intentionally no.
But what if something goes wrong? What if it doesn't work out between the
two of you? "Nothing is going to happen Ray." "How do you know?" Fraser
smiled at Ray. "Because." "Because isn't an answer Benny." Fraser sat
looking uncomfortable. He looked like he was going to say something. *Sex.
He's gonna' talk about sex to me. About him and Frannie. Aw no please. I
don't want to hear about it.* 

 "I know Ray. Because when we...are together we're happy. When we are
apart we want one another. That is how I know." Ray breathed a sigh of
relief. No details on the sex part. Thank God! "Yeah, but the first few
months of a relationship are always like that." Fraser ran a thumb across
his brow. "Ray when we are together we fit. I feel complete. I really can
not put it into words. I know that we belong together." 

 "Look Benny. All I want is for the two of you to be happy. But it looks
like you're rushing things a little. The both of you need to slow things
down. Get to know one another." "But I do know Francesca." Ray could see
there would be no changing his mind. About anything. "Promise me you won't
do anything stupid." Fraser gave Ray a blank look. Ray sighed again. "What
I mean is if Frannie is pregnant, don't run out and get married to make it
look good. Get married when and if you're both ready." Fraser only nodded
his head in agreement saying nothing. 

 "Ray we're going to be late for work. Do you think we could go now?" "Oh.
I guess that means we're done talking." Ray started the Riv back up and
pulled into traffic. "No, we can still talk. I don't want to be late.
Inspector Thatcher frowns upon tardiness. I would prefer not to irritate
her so early in the day." Ray snickered. "All you have to do is show up
and she's irritated." 

 They drove for a minute in silence when Ray started thinking about
Thatcher. "Hey Benny. Does Thatcher know about you and Frannie?" "I have
told her that I am involved in a relationship, but I did not specify who
it was." Ray's eyebrows went up. "Ooohhhh." "What does 'oh' mean?" "Oh
means you bugged Frannie to let everyone at the precinct know about the
two of you, but no one at the consulate knows?" Fraser looked guilty. "No
Ray." 

 "I wonder what Frannie would think about this. Let's see. You didn't tell
the Dragon Lady you're dating Frannie. And at one time you had a thing for
said Dragon Lady. If I were Frannie, I would think you were keeping an ace
in the hole in case the two of you didn't work out." Fraser's eyes
widened. "That is not the reason." "Then what is the reason?" "I never
gave it a thought." "Uh huh. Tell that to Frannie." 

 "Would you like me to tell Meg for you?" Fraser gave Ray a panicked look.
"No. I believe I would prefer to tell her." Oh this is good thought Ray.
He didn't correct me when I said he had a thing for her or when I called
her Meg. "Can I watch while you tell her? To make sure you do." "Ray I
would never lie to you. I will tell Inspector Thatcher about Francesca." 

 "Yeah you better. Wouldn't that look nice if Thatcher found out about the
two of you at the Christmas party." "Oh dear." "You forgot about that
didn't you?" Ray was smiling. "That would be really awkward if Thatcher
walked in and saw Frannie hugging all over you. How do you think that
would make her feel?" " I don't know Ray. I never could figure out if
she..." Fraser's voice trailed off. He knew Ray had trapped him. 

 "Yes! I knew it! You sat here over and over denying that you had a thing
for the Dragon Lady and you did. You wanted her!" Ray was having trouble
controlling his laughter. Ray gave Fraser a look. "You never, you
know...did anything with her did you?" Fraser shook his head. "No Ray. We
never...well except for the kiss on the train..." Ray started laughing at
him again. *Dear lord when will I learn to keep my mouth shut.* "Oh this
is great! I thought you and Thatcher did something that time. But noooooo.
She's my superior officer and I am her junior officer. Yadda yadda yadda.
You had it bad for her and she wanted you!" Fraser turned red and looked
out the passenger window. 

 "What made you choose Frannie over the Dragon Lady?" "That is personal
and I did not choose one over the other." "Oh come on Benny. Why did you
suddenly want Frannie?" "I did not suddenly 'want' Francesca." Then when
had it been? Ray thought back. No. It couldn't have been then. "You two
didn't do anything that time she went to your apartment? Was it then?"
"Ray I am not going to tell you. I do not wish to discuss this any more."
"Before or after Victoria?" "Ray! That is enough!" "O.K. O.K. Boy you are
touchy this morning." 

 Ray looked at Fraser again. *I can't resist!* "Hey Benny?" "Yes?" Fraser
was getting irritated with him. Ray was grinning as he spoke. "What was it
like to kiss Thatcher?" Fraser ignored him. "You know I can't say that I
blame you. She's a really nice looking woman. It's a shame she's such a
bi.." "Ray!" "O.K. Sorry. Are you sure you still don't have a thing for
her. You're getting awfully defensive." 

 "No I don't have a 'thing' for her. She is my superior officer..." Ray
cut him off laughing and Fraser shot him a dirty look. "...and as such she
deserves my respect. If you would try and get to know her, you wouldn't be
as judgmental." "Oh yeah. Get to know her. I know enough already. She's
rude, arrogant, stuck up and she treats you like shit. You're her whipping
boy. Anytime she's miffed she'll take it out on you. Why? Because she
knows you won't say a damn thing in your defense. Duty and honor. You're
the perfect Mountie, blindly following orders." 

 Ray could see that he was getting to Fraser. Good. That's what he gets
for hiding things from me all the time. He pulled the Riv over. They had
finally reached the consulate. "I'll pick you up at five." "You don't have
to Ray." "No, but I will." Fraser got out and let Diefenbaker out of the
back seat. Before closing the door he leaned down into the car. "If I am
the perfect Mountie who always follows order, then what am I doing in
Chicago?" Fraser closed the door in Ray's face before he could reply and
walked up the stairs of the consulate. 
 
 

 
 

 "Frannie. Frannie!" Francesca looked up from her desk to see Ray standing
over her. "I've been calling you for the past two minutes. What's the
matter with you?" "I don't feel well O.K.? "What's wrong?" Francesca waved
him off and rubbed her temples. She had a pounding headache and her lower
back hurt. 

 Ray stood looking down at her. "If you're feeling too sick to stay come
over and get me. I'll take you home." She gave him a nod. "Thanks Ray." He
walked back to his desk and sat down. Every now and then he would look up
from his work to check on Francesca. She had her head resting on her desk
at the moment. 

 *She must really be sick. Wait a minute. Morning sickness?* Ray took a
second look at her. *Is that what it is? But wouldn't she have been sick
already?* He watched as Francesca got up and walked out of the bullpen in
the general direction of the bathroom. *She is pregnant. She's having
morning sickness. She gonna' go in their and puke her guts up.* 

 Ray sat in his chair trying to think what the kid would be like. He
hadn't really thought about it before. The only thing he could picture was
a kid that would look like Fraser, and have a bad temper and a loud mouth
like his sister. The thought brought a smile to his face, but it quickly
faded as he saw Francesca coming over to his desk. 

 "Frannie?" "Can you take me home Ray? Please." She was pale and looked
like she was about to cry. *Oh great.* "O.K. hold on a sec." He grabbed
his coat and went to tell Welsh where he was going. "Is she O.K. Vecchio?"
"I'm sure she's all right sir. It's probably just the flu." It was so easy
for him to say it was the flu. No one would want to hear 'my unmarried
sister is knocked up by the Mountie'. What he wouldn't give to see the
faces of people if he said that. 

 Francesca had stayed waiting for him at his desk. She hadn't moved to get
her purse or coat. Shaking his head Ray brought both items over to her.
"Come on. Let's go." She methodically pulled her coat on and walked out to
the car. Once inside she settled next to the window not moving or
speaking. "Frannie are you all right?" She ignored him and pulled further
away, staring out the passenger window. 

 "Frannie?" *Christ, what is wrong with her?* Once he got home, Ray lead
Francesca into the house. "Let's put you to bed." "No!" She yanked away
from him and stood in the foyer not moving. "The den?" *Oh geez now she's
crying.* When he went to take her in the den she leaned against his
shoulder crying even harder. He sat her down on the sofa where she pulled
away from him again and curled up into a ball. 

 *What is wrong with her?* Ray covered her up with a blanket and sat in a
chair looking at her. "Frannie what's wrong?" "Leave me alone." That was a
start. She would at least talk. "What's wrong Frannie?" "Go away!" She
began sobbing uncontrollably. *Oh boy. What now?* He sat tapping his
fingers on his knee. *Who would she talk to? Fraser! Duh*. He got up and
went to the phone in the kitchen and dialed the number of the consulate. 

 "Canadian consulate. Constab.." Ray cut him off. "Benny." "Ray?" "Yeah. I
need you to come home. Something's wrong with Frannie. She said she wasn't
feeling well so I brought her home. Now she won't talk to me and all she's
doing is laying on the sofa crying." "I'll be right there." Ray looked at
the receiver. No goodbye, no nothing. Fraser had hung up on him. 
 
 

 
 

 Fraser hung the phone up without even a thought as to saying goodbye to
Ray. Something was wrong with Francesca and it didn't sound good. He
walked over to Thatcher's office and knocked on her door. "Come in."
Inspector Thatcher watched as he walked up to her desk. He looked tense.
*I wonder what he's going to want now?* "Excuse me Inspector, but an
emergency has come up. I am requesting permission to leave." "May I
inquire as to the nature of this 'emergency'?" Fraser shifted nervously on
his feet in front of her. *Please just let me go.* "It's personal sir.
Family." *Family? Oh. The Vecchios.* She sat and tapped her pen. She might
as well let him go. He wouldn't be lying about an emergency, but who knows
what it really could be if it involved Detective Vecchio. She wouldn't put
it past the him to tell Fraser a lie to get him out with him on a case. 

 "Permission granted." She could see the look of relief on his face as she
spoke. *Maybe it really is an emergency of some sort.* As he turned to
leave she stopped him. "Constable. If there is anything that you may need,
do not hesitate to call." "Thank you sir." He backed away from her,
turning he quickly left her office. 
 
 

 
 

 "Ray!" "We're in the den Benny." Fraser walked into the den, seeing
Francesca balled up on the sofa crying. Walking over to her he sat down
next to her. "Francesca?" As soon as he sat down she wrapped herself
around him, her sobs muffled against his jacket. Hugging her he looked
inquiringly at Ray. "I don't know what's wrong. She won't tell me." He
stood and watched at Fraser hugged her, gently rubbing her back. "I'm
gonna' go make some coffee. Maybe she'll tell you." 

 He sat holding her as she continued to cry. "Francesca. Please. Tell me
what is wrong." "I started..." Her voice was choked off from crying. "You
started feeling sick?" "No." He slowly pushed her away from him and held
her face in his hands. "Please tell me what is wrong so that I can help
you." She looked heartbroken. *What could possibly upset her this much?* 

 He watched as she took a deep breath, looking at him sadly. "I started my
period." She then tucked her head down and pushed herself back into his
chest. *She started her period? Why would she be so upset over that?* She
started her period. That meant she wasn't pregnant. He felt himself slowly
going numb as her statement sunk in. They weren't going to have a baby
together. All his hopes. Everything that they had talked about seemed to
slip away. 

 He pulled her up and hugged her tightly to him. "It will be all right
Francesca." It was barely a whisper as he said it. Ray was just about to
enter the den when he saw the two of them holding one another tightly. Was
Fraser crying? He couldn't tell from his position in the doorway. What was
wrong? It had to be something really bad, because he hadn't seen Fraser
get this upset over anything since Victoria. He wanted to know, but he
didn't want to intrude. Backing slowly away from the entrance Ray went
back to the kitchen. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca pulled away from Fraser. The two of them looking at the other,
not knowing what to say. Francesca laughed weakly. "We must both look a
mess." He reached out to wipe a tear from her face. "I am sorry
Francesca." Taking a deep breath she sat up straighter. "So am I. I
thought I was. I never missed my period before. You know when I first
thought that I was pregnant I almost died. But once I got use to the
idea...I wanted that baby so bad. But there never was one. I've been
dreaming about something that never existed." 

 "But it can. We can always try later. When things are right." Francesca
reached over and hugged Fraser. "I know but..." Her voice softly faded.
"But what Francesca?" She could feel the tears welling up again. "I was
ready now." The words coming from her mouth surprised her. She heard
Fraser sigh. "As was I." They sat quietly together, lost in thought. 

 Ray peeked back into the den. At least they weren't crying anymore, that
was a good sign. He was almost afraid to enter the room. What had upset
the two of them so much? "Hey you two. Is it safe to come in?" Francesca
looked up at him. "Sure Ray." "Are you O.K. Frannie?" "Yes I'm fine." "Ray
knew Francesca." "You knew?" Ray looked at them confused. "Wait a minute.
I knew what. About you being sick? I'm a little lost here." Fraser looked
at Ray like he was dense. "You knew about Francesca possibly being
pregnant. Maria told you." "Oh. Uh yeah Frannie, I did." Francesca gave
Ray a frightened look. "You didn't tell Ma did you?" "No! No way! That was
your job to tell her." She visibly relaxed. *Thank God her mother never
knew about any of this.* 

 "Well I'm not pregnant." "You're not? That's really good news!" Ray was
smiling happily. *Thank you God for not letting Frannie be knocked up.*
His smile quickly disappeared as he saw Fraser and Francesca staring
blankly at him. *I am batting a thousand with these two.* They obviously
didn't feel the same joy that he felt. "Sorry." Francesca looked angrily
at him. "Don't worry Ray. I expected as much from you." 

 "Give me a break Frannie. I'm sorry, but were you two really ready to be
parents?" The two of them answered Ray in unison. "Yes." Ray blinked in
surprise. "You're both serious aren't you?" "Sorry Ray, we are ready, even
if you aren't." Ray stared out them. They were dead serious. No wonder
they were so upset. They really wanted a baby. They were ready to start a
family together. 

 Fraser was looking at him with a confused expression. "Ray?" "Yeah." "I
am curious. Why are you so surprised by our statements? You know that
Francesca and I have wanted to have families of our own. I have stated
this before and I have heard you tell me how much Francesca had wanted her
own children." "Yeah I knew that. But I didn't think you would want a kid
with each other. I never saw the two of you being together and having a
baby." 

 Francesca grinned at Ray. "We may not have a baby now, but you had better
start getting ready for it Ray. Sooner or later were gonna' have one." Ray
felt his mouth drop open. She was dead serious. This wasn't her teasing
him to piss him off. She really meant it. "Well, I hope you wait until you
get married." 

 Francesca waved a hand at him and curled up against Fraser. Ray looked at
Fraser who was smiling back at him. "You're gonna wait aren't you?"
Neither one would give him an answer. "Come on! Don't do this to me. You
both need to use common sense. You get married and then you start having
your kids." He looked pointedly at Francesca. "You should at least think
about how Ma would feel about all of this." They remained silent, still
smiling at him. 

 Ray threw his hands up. They weren't paying any attention to what he was
saying. "I hope you don't mind but I'm going back to work." As he stood up
to leave Fraser stopped him. "Ray." "What?" "Thank you for taking care of
Francesca." "Sure. Don't forget. She's was my sister before she was your
girlfriend. I'll see the two of you at dinner." 
 
 

 
 

 After Ray left the house Francesca began asking questions. "Benton. Do
you really want to have children with me?" He hugged her tightly. "Yes I
do. I can not picture anyone else who I would want to be with." "When do
you want to start?" "Francesca!" "Oh who cares what Ray said. We're ready,
why wait?" "We should wait until...we are married." Fraser looked
cautiously at Francesca waiting to see her reaction. "Oh all right! But I
don't want to wait too long for you to ask me." 

 Francesca curled tightly around Fraser. She could feel the tears welling
in her eyes again. She quickly wiped them away, but Fraser saw her do it.
"Things will work out. We may not have a baby now, but some day we will."
"I know, but I can't help it. I wanted that baby now." Fraser released her
and sat up. He began to undo his boot laces. 

 Francesca looked at him curiously. "What are you doing?" "I am taking my
boots and jacket off so that we may lay on the sofa and take a nap." She
laughed at him. "A nap? I thought maybe you changed your mind and wanted
to start working on making a baby now." Fraser smiled at her and shook his
head. "That would be impossible at this moment. A nap will do us both some
good." 

 Francesca sat watching Fraser remove his boots. How could a man unlacing
his boots look so tempting. It must have something to do with all the
leather and the intricate lacing, because watching him do this simple
action was making her feel light headed. *How can I feel this way after
finding out I'm not pregnant? God he is so sexy.* He continued removing
the other pieces of his uniform. Unbuckling the leather Sam Browne, all
the straps. The collar and buttons of his red serge jacket. She stared at
his fingers as he slid the lanyard off his neck. It was all she could do
to not jump up and attack him. *I am sick. I have got to be definitely
sick.* 

 When he unhooked his suspenders and moved to sit next to her she put a
hand out to stop him. "Wait a minute." Fraser stopped and looked at her
confused. *He has no idea what he's just done to me!* She could feel the
blood pounding throughout her body. "Benton, you don't start a striptease
and then stop before you're done." He raised an eyebrow at her smiling
slightly. He pushed her hand away from his midsection and stretched out on
the sofa, pulling her down against him. He whispered in her ear, "I will
do a proper striptease for you at a later time." Francesca flipped over so
that she was facing him, pressed up tightly against him." Don't think I
won't forget." "I have no doubt that you will not forget. You never do
when it comes to things like that." 

 Francesca tucked against his chest trying to relax. They weren't about to
do anything. He wouldn't even try. She lay listening to the steady beat of
Frasers heart and the calm rhythm of his breathing. She couldn't believe
that she wasn't pregnant. She had been so sure that she was. Now she
wondered if something was wrong with her. Pushing those thoughts aside she
smiled to herself. Fraser had said they should wait until they were
married to try and have a baby. It was all she could do not to grab him
and ask him when he was going to ask her to marry him. Now she had
something else to focus on. He defiantly was going to ask her. But when? 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca walked out from her gynecologist visit relieved. There was
nothing obviously wrong with her, but her doctor did some blood work and a
pap smear as a precautionary measure. If her doctor wasn't worried then
neither was she. But there had been one thing her doctor had said that
bothered her. The Lucky 13's did their job. It was her body that had
failed her. 

 "Francesca things like this can happen. As you get older your body begins
to change. You are over thirty. Things won't be the same as they were when
you were twenty. It could also be attributed to stress or a change in your
environment. I wouldn't worry about it. As soon as I get the results back
I'll call you. Other than that, see you in a year." She had smiled at her,
patted her on the back and left her alone to get dressed. 

 She sat on the table in the cold room. *My clock is ticking. My
biological clock is running out of time! Fraser had better pick up the
pace a little. If he doesn't marry me soon and get me pregnant who knows
how long I have left before the clock stops working at all.* She had
promised to call Fraser as soon as she finished her appointment, but she
decided to go shopping instead. She still hadn't found a gift for him and
Christmas was only a few days away. *What in the hell am I going to get
him?* 

 Walking along the street she passed store after store. Power tools? Yeah
right. He hand sanded everything, what would he need with a power sander.
He really didn't have any hobbies, except he had a thing for woodcarving.
She laughed to herself. *Here's your gift Benton. A nice block of wood.*
As she looked in the windows she stopped. Standing in front of a store she
saw it. The perfect gift for Fraser. 

 She walked in, made her purchase and hugged it to her chest smiling all
the way home. After looking it over in the store she found that it was
more than perfect. It was incredible! She wished that Christmas were
tomorrow. She couldn't wait to see the look on his face when he opened it
up. 
 
 

 
 

 "Benton." "Hum." Francesca pushed Fraser on the shoulder. "Benton, we
have to get up. Ma said that she wanted us at dinner by five." He looked
over at her through narrowed eyes. "What time is it?" "It's three-thirty."
With that he closed his eyes and turned away from her. "Oh come on. Get
up! I know you're not tired. We only did it twice." He stretched and
rolled over, grabbing her. "Would you care to try for three?" "I knew you
weren't tired. Faker." 
 
 

 
 

 They had spent the morning working on the living room, sanding the floor
and washing the walls. It wasn't how Francesca envisioned spending her
Saturday morning, but Fraser had more than made up for it after lunch. She
had been scrubbing one of the walls when he had walked up and hugged her
from behind, placing one of his hands on top of hers, moving the brush
over the wall in a smooth circle. The water had dripped down her arm as
they worked together. 

 "What do you think you're doing?" "I'm helping you." His breath was warm
on the back of her neck, as he nuzzled her. "You are not helping me.
You're..." She stopped talking as he trailed soft kisses on the back of
her neck. "You know we can't do anything." He continued kissing her,
pulling her shirt off of her shoulder, biting her lightly. "Why not?"
"Benton! I'm still on my period." 

 She heard him laugh as he hugged her, pulling her against him. "So.
You're 'friend' won't mind will she? Isn't she supposed to go home soon
anyway?" "We can't do it now." "Why not." "Because. I told you why." She
heard him sigh as he held her tighter, pushing against her. "You have
never...when you were..." "No! That is so...so..." "Dirty?" "Yes! It's
not...you know what I mean." Taking the brush from her hand he dropped it
in the bucket of soapy water and turned her to face him. "Not if you do it
right it's not." 

 He began kissing her and touching her body lightly with his finger tips.
Each time she would go to protest he would silence her with a kiss. He
could be very persistent and persuasive when he wanted something. Before
she knew it he had her up in the bedroom. She had to admit to herself that
it was incredible. He had always made sure that she was enjoying herself,
but this time it had been utterly ridiculous. 

 Every time that she had reached to touch him, he had pinned her arms down
or brushed her hands away. Everything was done to please her. It wasn't
until she was in the middle of her orgasm that she finally figured him
out. The way that he was looking at her. He was turned on by watching her.
Not by what she could do to him. Yes he enjoyed what she did, but he 'got
off' so to speak on watching her. The moment he realized that she had
reached her climax, he would follow. 

 She grabbed him as he lay next to her, breathing heavily and smiling at
her. "Benton Fraser you are a perv." He only laughed and kissed her on the
nose. "Why am I a 'perv'? "You'll put yourself through torture waiting for
me. You do it every single time we make love because you're too busy
watching me. Why can't you come first? And don't give me that line about
ladies first." "I am not a 'perv' Francesca. I do believe in ladies first.
It is not a line. I like to see you when you do." "You are a perv Benton."
With an evil grin he slid his body on top of hers and kissed her hungrily.
"Then I am your perv Francesca." 
 
 

 
 

 And here he was wanting to go at it a third time. As hard as it was to do
it she pushed him away. "No. We have to go downstairs, clean up and then
get showered and changed. We don't have time for 'that'." She nodded down
at his erection. He smiled. "I thought I was the only one who could say
no." "If we didn't have to go to dinner I'd be more than happy to." Then
call Ray and tell him we will not be over for dinner." She stared at him
in amazement. "No. How about 'you' call Ma and tell her why 'you' don't
want to come over for dinner." 

 He started laughing and shook his head no. Pushing himself up he got off
of the bed and pulled his jeans on and tried zipping them up, but he was
having some trouble doing it in his current condition. "I told you your
jeans were too tight." He smiled at her again. "They are not too tight.
They fit me comfortably when I am not...this way. I believe I will go
downstairs and begin cleaning up." "Uh huh. And that's all we're gonna' do
is clean. Don't get any ideas...perv." 
 
 

 
 

 As they picked up the living room Francesca kept looking over at Fraser.
She couldn't help herself. Watching him had always been a favorite pastime
before she had dated him. Why would it change now? He caught her staring
at him and gave her a shy smile. "That's a big improvement." "An
improvement on what Francesca?" "You didn't get embarrassed when you
caught me looking at you." "I believe that I am starting to get use to
it." 

 Did you know that every time you came into the station with Ray I would
watch you?" "Yes. I would catch you doing it. Then you would come over and
purposely torment me." "I never tormented you. I teased you." "It might
have been teasing to you, but it was torment to me. I wasn't allowed to
respond to you in any manner." 

 Francesca let out a short laugh. "And how do you think I felt? I was
throwing myself at you. I couldn't figure it out. One minute I would get
the feeling that you were interested in me and the next minute you would
be running away in panic from me. That Benton is torture." Fraser looked
over at her guiltily. "I am sorry. I shouldn't have run. It's my fault for
us being apart for so long." "Well that's over and done with. The past is
the past. We're together now." 

 Brushing her hands off she surveyed the room. "Not bad. You have the
floor finally sanded and I finished the walls. This place won't look half
bad when we're done with it." She caught herself again thinking that this
was her home. She looked over to see Fraser looking at her from across the
room, a small grin on his face. He noticed what she had said. "I know what
you're thinking so stop it." "I'm not doing anything but watching you."
"Uh huh. I think I'll go and get my shower now." 

 She ran up the stairs hearing Fraser's voice as he ran up behind her. "No
you don't! I'm not going to take a cold shower." Grabbing her at the
bathroom entrance he picked her up. "Put me down. I was here first." "No.
Either I shower first or we shower together. I am not waiting until after
you. I have found out the hard way why Ray panics if you shower first."
Francesca squirmed trying to break his hold on her. "Yeah. But you 'need'
a cold shower. So put me down." "Fine. I will put you down." 

 Fraser turned and set Francesca down and before she could react he was in
the bathroom. The door shut in her face and she heard the click of the
lock. "Why you...Benton Fraser open the door!" She pounded on it. "I said
open the door!" She heard him on the other side mocking her in a whiny
voice. "No. I was here first." "If you don't open the door I'll tell
everyone at dinner what we spent all afternoon doing." She covered her
mouth trying not to laugh. "I'm serious. I will." 

 "You wouldn't dare. Not with your mother and the children at the table."
"I could say it in a certain way so the kids wouldn't understand it, but
Ma would. Besides. She knows we have sex. I told her." The door flew open
and she jumped back. Fraser was staring at her in surprise. "You told your
mother?" "Yup." Walking past him into the bathroom she began peeling her
clothes off and got into the shower. Fraser stood looking at the curtain
as she pulled it closed. 

 "You did not tell her." "No. You're right. I didn't. But I'm in the
shower first and you're standing out there." She giggled, pleased at how
easy it was to trick him. "Francesca, you are a very good liar." "I'm not
a liar. I just don't tell the truth when it suits me." She could hear him
removing his clothes and then he pulled the curtain back, stepping into
the tub with her. 

 "You are a devious liar." "And I'm good at it. Wanna' soap me?" Fraser
took the soap from her and smiled. "Yes I would like to soap you. I have
never showered with a devious liar before." "That's enough." "Enough lying
or enough soap on the wash cloth?" "Oh all right. I'm sorry I tricked you.
Is that better Mr. Perfect. Do you forgive me?" "Only if you do something
for me." "Like what?" He wriggled his eyebrows suggestively. "Oh no you
don't. That's bribery." "No, it's more like prostitution. Sex for
payment." She started laughing. "I'm gonna' tell Ray you wanted to buy my
services." Fraser grinned back at her. "And he won't believe you because
he already knows that you give your 'services' to me for free." 

 She grinned back at him. "Like you would ever talk to Ray about sex.
That'll be the day. You'd die of embarrassment." "I believe that what we
do together is personal. It should only be between us. Not your entire
family." "And I told you I tell Maria 'everything'." She watched as Fraser
fidgeted with the washcloth, the water from the shower beating down on his
chest. *God he's so beautiful and he's all mine.* 

 "You tell Maria 'everything'?" "Yes. She could sit and describe every
scar on your body and how big your..." Fraser cut her off. "No! You did
'not' tell her that! Did you?" Fraser stood staring at her, an embarrassed
flush creeping up his chest to his face. *Oh my God. She really does tell
Maria everything. She isn't teasing me.* Francesca laughed at him. "No I
didn't tell her how 'big' you are." He relaxed slightly, swallowing
nervously. "But she did happen to read the size on the box of the
condoms." 

 "Francesca! You can not be telling her these things!" His tone was almost
pleading. "I didn't 'tell' her, she read the label on the box. She
congratulated me when she saw what size you used." Fraser groaned and
closed his eyes, leaning against the shower wall. "How do you expect me to
sit at the table tonight?" "Oh don't be silly. She's known this for some
time." Francesca couldn't resist another dig. "She said you have a really
tight ass too." Fraser looked back at her in shock. 

 "But how...I mean why..." "Benton come on. You should be use to it. She
may be my sister, but she's not blind. She looks at you. She even told me
she wished she could be me for one night. I mean look who she sleeps with.
Tony. Mr. Coach Potato. She's only making an observation and she only
talks about it to me. We don't go around the neighborhood posting flyers
about you." 

 Fraser handed her the soap and washcloth moving to get out of the shower.
"Benton what are you doing?" Without answering her he flung the shower
curtain open and stepped out, grabbing a towel as he left the bathroom.
"Oops. I think I went a little too far this time." Turning the water off
Francesca wrapped a towel around her and hurried out of the bathroom.
"Benton?" She walked cautiously down the hall. "Benton?" 

 Looking around the doorway of the bedroom she saw Fraser sitting on the
edge of the bed. He had his jeans already on and he was angrily lacing his
boots. "What are you doing?" This was not good. He wouldn't look at her or
speak to her. She sat down next to him only to have him stand up and walk
across the room to the closet. Yanking a shirt off of a hanger he put it
on and began buttoning it as he walked towards the door. "Benton?" She
jumped up and ran in front of him blocking his way out. 

 "Please talk to me." He turned his head away from her and spoke in a low
voice. "Please move." "No. Sit down and we'll talk." "There's nothing to
talk about Francesca. Please move." "No." He tuned away from her and sat
back down on the bed. She slowly approached him and stood in front of him.
"Benton look at me please." He tucked his head down, refusing to look at
her. Francesca took a deep breath. *Good going Frannie. You've really
screwed this up.* How was she going to straighten this out? 

 Reaching out she went to touch his face only to have him pull away from
her. "Please do not touch me." She sighed. "Benton I am sorry. I didn't
mean to upset you." She sat next to him, laying a hand on his arm. He
flinched, but at least he didn't try to leave. "I'm sorry. It's just that
I do talk to Maria. I always have. Everything that I have ever done I've
told her about it." He spoke to her in a shaky voice. "You told me to tell
people to stop when I don't like something that they are saying to me." He
finally looked at her. She had upset him to the point that he had tears in
his eyes. *He is so sensitive!* Fraser was nothing like anyone in her
family. "I am asking you to stop telling Maria every detail of our
personal life together." 

 Francesca hugged him, be he didn't move to return it. "I can't promise
not to talk to her. I always have. But I will try and limit what I tell
her. Would that make you happy?" He wrapped his arms around himself and
stared at his feet. "I suppose it will have to do. It doesn't really
matter anyway. You have basically told Maria everything about me." He
looked at her sadly. "Am I nothing more than what you see? If I didn't
look the way that I do, would you still care for me?" 

 "How can you say that! Yes I would still love you. I have to admit that
when Ray first brought you home for dinner that time all I cared about was
how you looked. But the more I got to know you, the more I wanted you. You
were always so nice and polite. You didn't treat me like I was stupid.
You're the only one who ever encouraged me to take the civilian aid job.
No one else thought that I could do it. I love 'you', not what you look
like." 

 She hugged him tightly. He finally reached around her to hold her,
tucking his head on her shoulder. She sat holding him, running her hand
over his head and back. Feeling the tension in his body. "Come on. Lay
down for a bit." "No. We still have to get ready to go. Your mother is
expecting us for dinner." "I'll call her and tell her we'll be late. Let's
lay down for a while." Easing away from Fraser she stood up and pulled the
comforter back. Crawling back across the bed she hugged him from behind
and softly kissed his neck. "You'll feel better after a little nap. I know
it helped me the other day." 

 Reaching around him she unbuttoned his shirt and pulled it off. "Could
you take your boots off? Please." Good. He was finally listening to her.
Once he pulled his boots off he turned away from her and removed his
jeans. Then he slid under the comforter. Closing his eyes he turned his
back to her. Francesca sighed. How could she do this to him again? She had
done this before and it was only from a few words from her. 

 Francesca could feel him pulling away from her emotionally. His body
language was telling her loud and clear. What if things stayed this way?
Her chest tightened. No. He still loved her, even if she did hurt him.
*Well I'm going to fix it. He's not going to stay this way. I won't let
him do this to himself. To us.* He needed to know that no matter what, she
did love him. 

 Removing her towel Francesca crawled underneath the comforter, curling up
against him. She felt him tense up again at her touch. She began to slowly
run her hands along his back and shoulders, lightly rubbing him. "Relax.
I'm not going to do anything. I'm just gonna' give you a message. It'll
help you sleep." She continued rubbing him. Pulling the comforter back,
she sat up and worked her way down to his feet. Picking up a foot she
pushed her fingers into the sole, watching him stretch as she rubbed it.
He was enjoying this. Good. Anything to take his mind away from the pain
that she had caused him. 

 By the time she had made her way back up to his neck her fingers had
begun cramping up, but she wasn't going to stop. He finally looked
relaxed. Shaking her hands out she told him to roll over. "No." "Why not?"
She could tell that he wasn't angry with her, so what was the problem? "Oh
come on. Roll over so I can finish your message." He slowly turned over to
face her. His hands covering himself, with a look of embarrassment on his
face. "I'm sorry." Looking down at him she tried not to laugh. "I was
giving you a message. I wasn't trying to seduce you." "I can't help it. It
felt...good." 

 With an evil grin she leaned down over him placing her hands on his
shoulders. "Sir. Would you like me to message that cramp out for you?" She
was reward with him turning a deep shade of pink. Arching an eyebrow at
him she laughed. "By the way you are acting you would have thought that we
had never been together before." 

 Reaching down she caressed his cheek with the back of her hand. "I am
sorry Benton. I never meant to hurt you. I'll try and not do that to you
again." Taking her hand he kissed her fingers. "You are forgiven." He
reached up and gently pulled her to him. Kissing her almost tentatively.
She pulled away from him looking into his eyes, running a hand through his
hair. "I do love 'you', not this." She moved her fingers along the side of
his face. "Never forget that." 

 Leaning down she kissed him again and found herself locked in a
passionate embrace. Smiling in satisfaction she returned it, running her
tongue against his. She knew she had him back. If he was the least bit
angry or unhappy he wouldn't have been doing this with her. Pulling away,
he rolled her over and pinned her beneath him. "I love you Francesca." He
hesitated and then spoke again. "I am sorry for getting so upset. It's
just that..." Placing a hand over his mouth she stopped him. "Actions
speak louder Benton. Show me how much you love me." 

 She watched as he smiled down at her. Not a nervous smile, but a teasing
one. She tensed up in anticipation. His showing her was going to be very
enjoyable. He began to kiss and nibble her. Starting at her neck and
working all the way down to her toes, he carefully avoided that one spot
that she did want him to kiss. *Oh please Benton just do it. I can't stand
it.* He stopped and she looked down at him only to have him flash her a
feral smile. "Do you want me too?" He spoke it in a seductive whisper.
Francesca slowly nodded her head yes. *Is he crazy? Do I want you to?
Isn't it obvious?* 

 She more than wanted him to. Fraser looked down at her. He knew how badly
she wanted this. The thought sent a wave of excitement through him. Maybe
she was right. Maybe he was a perv, because he was finding it difficult to
control himself. Kneeling he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, trying
to will himself to calm down. He felt like his heart was going to jump out
of his chest. 

 He jerked back as he felt Francesca bring a foot up and rubbed it against
his erection. She smiled at him knowing what she had done. She was
purposely trying to make him come before her. "Don't do that Francesca!"
His breath was coming out in short gasps. "Why not Benton. Why can't I?"
She sat up and grabbed him around the neck, pulling him down to her,
reaching between them she held his erection tightly in her hand. He tried
pulling away from her, but she refused to let him go. This was one time
that she wouldn't let him have his way. 

 She kissed him, pushing her tongue against his lips. He refused to open
his mouth to her. *So. He wants to play hard to get.* She forced her
tongue between his lips running her tongue along his teeth. Then she bit
him gently as she stroked him, as she increased her pressure he moaned
slightly and she shoved her tongue into his mouth, having him kiss her
roughly back in return. She could feel him tensing up. 

 He again tried pulling away form her only to have her lock her arm around
his neck. "Not this time." She whispered his ear. "You first." She bit him
hard on the shoulder, with a satisfied feeling he jerked against her
insistent caress, his hands clutching her shoulders. "No. I
can't...don't..." His voice was choked and his breathing was ragged and
heavy. He grabbed at her hand to stop her, but she wouldn't let go. She
tightened her hold and pulled him harder, twisting and tugging him,
feeling his body arch against hers as he came. The warmth spreading across
her stomach. She continue pulling at him even after he had stopped. "Oh
God... please...stop!" He shouted at her clutching at her hand. 

 He was looking down at her, trying to breathe. His eyes were dark with
passion as he stared at her. Releasing her hold on his neck she pulled him
down to her, hugging his body to hers. "Now that wasn't all that bad was
it? The world didn't come to an end did it?" She was laughing at him as
she spoke. "No it didn't. But we're not done yet." He pulled roughly away
from her embrace and moved down her body. Biting and licking her as he
went. No he wasn't finished much to her delight. He kissed her and licked
her. Biting and nibbling at her until she came. 

 "Benton stop! Please." He had wrapped his arms around her thighs, looking
up at her with an evil grin. "No. See how you like it." He returned to
her, slowly sucking at her. "Oh...no...Benton stop..." She tried pushing
his head away, but he didn't move an inch. She clutched and grabbed at his
shoulders. She almost laughed when she thought about paybacks being hell,
but this was heaven. "Please!" He gave her a long, slow lick and looked up
at her again. "Please what Francesca?" His voice was tight, his eyes
narrowed. 

 "Please. I want you." "You want me to what?" "I want you to..." He looked
at her questioningly. "You want me to do this." He again licked her
softly, kissing one thigh and then the other. "Tell me what you want?" Her
breath came out in shuddering gasps as she tried to speak. *Where did he
learn to do this?* "I need you...inside me." With a smile he released her
and slid his body up hers. Pushing his renewed erection against her he
asked her again. "Is this what you want? Are you sure? I can go back and
finish..." 

 She kissed him, moving to bite at his neck only to have him pull back as
she nipped him. "Not on my neck Francesca. No marks. Remember?" Nodding
her head she began to softly suck at his shoulder, feeling Fraser moving
against her. "You want this as badly as I do...you perv." He laughed into
her hair breathing deeply. "You smell so good." As he pulled away she
looked up at him grinning. "Maybe we should fight more often." "No
Francesca. We should never fight. We can have this without fighting." 

 He moved back to her, kissing her. They pushed against one another,
letting their tongues slide and touch. "How do you want it?" Francesca
looked at him confused and then she smiled. "Soft and gentle. Like the
other night. Do you think you can last that long?" "I believe that I can
control myself if you do not do anything like you just did." 

 She moved away from him and opened the dresser next to the bed pulling
the box of Lucky 13's out. Opening it she took the last condom out. "I
think you had better go and get more of these. They do work you know." She
lay back down looking up at Fraser and then back at the condom in her
hand. "Benton. Do we really need to use this." "Francesca, we have already
discussed this." "But we're both ready. Why wait? Why can't we make a baby
now?" 

 She could see him hesitating. She knew that she wasn't being fair. He
wanted a child just as much as she did. Maybe even more. He almost gave
into her, but the nagging voice of Ray's popped into his mind. *Think
about Ma!* "We can wait. Have patience. We will try when the time is
right." He took the condom from her. "Do you still want to? I will
understand if you don't." "No. I still want you. I'm not here to make a
baby with you." She grinned up at him. "At least not today." 

 She watched him roll the condom on, her body shivering in anticipation.
He could go from kinky, to rough and then to gentle. And when he was
gentle their lovemaking took on a whole different quality. It was making
love. It wasn't just sex. As he entered her she let out a contented sigh.
This was so good. Wrapping her legs around his back she brought his face
to hers to kiss him. This time it was a slow lingering kiss. There was
none of the heated urgency from a few moments before. 

 He trailed his lips to her neck. Licking her gently and nibbling at her
ear. He spoke to her in soft whispers. Words that she didn't even
understand. He had a tendency to speak in some language that she had never
heard before. When she had asked him what he was saying he would only tell
her that it was an Inuit poem about love. But she didn't really care.
Hearing his voice as he moved within her only added to the moment. 

 As she began tensing she had closed her eyes pushing her head back into
the pillow. Fraser laid his hand along side her face. "Francesca look at
me." She opened her eyes to see him softly smiling at her. "I love you
Francesca Vecchio." He barely whispered it as he leaned down to kiss her.
As her climax pulsed through her body she grabbed his face staring into
his eyes. Trying to see the soul of this man who possessed her. 

 It would be so easy to spend forever with him. It didn't matter that they
had argued only a short time ago. She loved him. And she knew that he
loved her. Whatever came between them they could work it out. Cuddling up
against Fraser she smiled as he wrapped his body around hers. Closing her
eyes once more she relaxed. Feeling herself slowly drifting to sleep. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca's eyes popped open. "Benton? Is that the phone?" They both sat
up looking at the clock beside the bed. "Oh dear." "Five-thirty! Shit."
Looking at one another they jumped out of the bed and ran down the stairs
laughing. "We are in trouble Francesca. You never called your mother." "I
know. Ten to one it's Ray too." 

 Fraser picked the phone up. "Fraser residence how may...Yes Ray. Yes, I
realize that it is five-thirty. Yes. We lost track of time. What were we
doing?" He looked down at Francesca who shrugged her shoulders. "We were
having sex Ray." "Benton!" Francesca screamed and reached to grab the
receiver, but he held her back laughing. "Hello? Ray? Are you still there?
Yes, we'll be over in approximately a half hour. Yes Ray, I know we are.
Understood." 

 Hanging the phone up Fraser looked smugly at Francesca. "How does it feel
to have someone know your personal business?" She ran a hand over her face
looking irritated. "It's not so funny now is it Francesca?" "No it's not
Benton, but you didn't think about what you just did. Did you? Ray is
going to be pissed when we get there." He stood for a moment looking
blankly at her. "No. I didn't think about that." "I thought so. Benton, I
really do want you to open up more, but you need to learn when to do it." 

 Taking his hand she pulled him back up the stairs. "We have to hurry and
shower. Why didn't you say an hour?" "We only need a half hour. And I'm
first." Francesca gave him a dirty look. "No arguing Francesca. Remember?"
"O.K. but hurry up!" "No, you will have to hurry. I will be showered and
dressed before you have even dried yourself off." "Ha ha." 


 

 They were out of the house in record time and jogged most of the way to
the Vecchio home. Francesca was laughing and out of breath by the time
they reached the porch. "You had better be ready to pay the piper, because
Ray is gonna' be really mad at you." Fraser only smiled at her. "No he
won't. He'll be too embarrassed and he won't even say a thing to me about
it. He doesn't like to think of you and I 'together'. "You're right. He
won't say anything to you. But wait until he starts giving you those dirty
looks. You're gonna' wish you never said that to him." She reached up and
gave him a quick kiss. "Come on. I'm hungry and Ma said she was going to
make stuffed shells for dinner." 

 After hanging their coats up they walked into the dinning room. Everyone
greeted them except for Ray. He only glared at Fraser. Francesca was
right. Ray was mad at him. As he sat down he started laughing. He couldn't
look at Ray without giggling. "Excuse me." Fraser stood up and hurried
into the kitchen. Francesca soon followed him. "Are you O.K.?" *Oh great.
Ray's got him crying.* As Fraser lifted his head up to look at her she
started smiling. He wasn't crying he was laughing. "What is wrong with
you?" He held a hand up to her and bent over trying to breathe. Once he
had gained some control he looked back at her. "I apologize. But every
time I look at Ray all I want to do is laugh." "Why?" "All I can picture
is him watching us having sex and screaming the word rabbits at us."
"Rabbits?" "Yes. Ray said on the phone that we were nothing but a couple
of rabbits." Francesca grinned back at him. "Well. We are. Sorta'." 

 "Come one. You have to eat." "I don't know if I can." He was wiping the
tears from his face. "Yes you can. Pretend you're on duty and Thatcher
will give you hell if you so much as blink. Will that work?" He thought
for a moment and then nodded. "Yes it will. And Inspector Thatcher would
not give me hell." "Whatever Benton. Let's go and eat." *What is with him
always defending her?* 

 Fraser managed to make it through dinner without laughing again.
Francesca had been correct. If he tried hard enough he could remain still,
but every time he looked at Ray he had a small smile on his face. He
wasn't at the consulate standing guard. For some reason standing still for
your country was easier than trying to not laugh at a friend in his home.
He could tell that Ray was mad at him, but he would get over it. Ray
always did. That was one of the qualities that he admired in Ray. His
ability to forgive. 
 
 

 
 

 "I can't believe you volunteered us to do all the cleanup Benton. You
could have at least let Maria help us when she offered to." "No. I am
still having a problem with knowing what she knows about me." "You don't
have to worry about her making a pass at you or anything like that. She
really likes you, but not in that way. Plus if she tried I would kill
her." "But you said..." "I know what I said. I was joking. She doesn't
know about all of your scars, but she does know about the condom size. I
told you she read the box. I'm sorry." 

 She watched as he turned his head away from her. "God you blush so easy."
She couldn't help laughing at him. "It's not funny. I can't help it." "I
know it's not, but watching a grown man blush is just so damn cute." He
started fidgeting with the towel in his hands. "Who did you get for the
pollyanna at work?" "Oh. Let's change the subject away from you. Just for
that I'm not telling you. Besides. It's supposed to be a secret." Fraser
grinned at her. "And when have you ever been able to keep a secret?" 

 Francesca stuck out her tongue at him. "Very funny. You tell me who you
got and then I'll tell you who I got." Fraser made a face at her. "I take
it you picked someone that you don't like. Who'd ya' get?" "Tom
Dougherty." She looked at him, her eyes growing wide as she laughed. "Oh
that is too funny. You can't stand him!" He paused trying to think of a
polite way to say it. No. There wasn't a nice way to say it at all. "No I
do not like him." "Jealous." "I am not jealous. I don't like the way he
looks at you or talks to you." "Jealous." Francesca sang out the word to
him. 

 "So what did you get him?" Fraser looked at her with a mischievous smile.
"A blow up doll." Her mouth dropped open. "You got him a blow up doll!"
Francesca practically screamed it out. "Francesca lower your voice. I was
only teasing you. I did not buy him that." "I hope not! You'd start a
fight by doing something stupid like that." "It was tempting, but I could
not bring myself to go into the store to purchase it. I stood outside the
building for twenty minutes before I finally left." 

 "You are amazing." Francesca shook her head at him. "In what way?" "I've
thought about this before. How do you do some of the things that you do
with me and not be able to go into a porn shop? Or for that matter, get
flustered when someone talks about sex to you?" Fraser grinned shyly at
her. "That is different." "In what way?" Shrugging his shoulders he turned
away from her. "It just is." "And how do you know what a blow up doll is?"


 "Who did you pick Francesca?" She stared at his back. "You're really good
at avoiding an issue you don't want to talk about. Turn around so I can
see you. Not that I mind the view of your butt." Fraser turned around and
smiled at her. "And acting cute and innocent won't work with me anymore.
You may be cute, but you are not innocent. Not by a long shot." "I never
claimed to be innocent. You just assumed that I was." 

 Francesca crossed her arms as she looked at him. He was still smiling at
her. "Well what did you expect? Thank you kindly, goodmorning, how are
you? You were always so nice and polite and you blush at the drop of a
hat. Of course I thought you were innocent." "And that is why you wanted
me so badly. Because you wanted to see what you could do to corrupt me." 

 Francesca broke out laughing. "That is 'not' why I wanted you!" Fraser
crossed his arms and leaned back against the counter staring at her, a
slight smile still on his lips, his eyebrows raised. "Well...maybe a just
a little." "No Francesca. A lot. When you came to my apartment that night
you had an objective in mind. To seduce a supposed innocent. If I recall
the expression on your face, you were shocked when we were first together.
You had no idea that I would have any experience at all. I thought that
you were going to have a heart attack when I suggested that we try a
sixty..." "Whatever! You sidestepped the question again." "What question?"
"What did you get Tom?" "And you never told me who you picked." 

 Francesca put her hands on her hips trying to act angry, but she failed.
She smiled at Fraser tapping her foot. "You first Benton." "I chose an
impersonal present. A gift certificate to Eileen's Outback Steakhouse."
Francesca buffed her nails on her sweater. "Unlike you, I didn't chicken
out. I have Dewey. I bought him a book on self defense and a couple of
scratch off lottery tickets." 

 Fraser put the towel in his hands down and walked over and hugged
Francesca. "That is why I love you. You always do what you want. You
aren't afraid to let people know how you feel." "You're getting better at
it. You still have along way to go before you can call yourself a real
Vecchio, but you're working on it." 

 Francesca rested her head against Fraser's chest. They were alone in the
kitchen. It was quiet and relaxing. "What do you want to do tonight
Benton?" He hugged her tighter and kissed the top of her head, not
answering her. Looking up at him he smiled seductively at her. "You are
kidding me right? You couldn't possibly be able to do that again. At least
not tonight." "Oh I could, but I can tell by your expression that you
could not." They stood silently, thinking of what to do. 

 Fraser face brightened. "Let's go caroling." "Caroling? Are you serious?
Benton, no one goes caroling around here any more. We could go to the
mall." His smile faded. "No. No more shopping. I would like to enjoy
Christmas. I would rather step into a bear trap than go to the mall
tonight." His face brightened again. "Let's go out walking and look at the
Christmas lights and decorations." Francesca reached up and ruffled his
hair. "I was wrong Benton. You are still an innocent." Fraser pulled away
from her, taking her hand he started leading her towards the den. "Let's
go and see if Ray and everyone else would care to join us." 
 


 
 

 Ray. Would you care to go walking with us to look at the Christmas
lights? Ray was leaning back comfortably in his recliner. Nah. You two go
out and have a ball. Francesca looked at Fraser. He definitely was not
going to be taking no for an answer. She could tell by the set of his jaw
and the look in his eye, that Ray was going with them. Like it or not. 

 Why would we require a ball to go out and look at lights Ray? Ray turned
ready to argue with Fraser. Benny I didnt mean... Fraser was grinning down
at him. Come out with us and look at the lights Ray. Frasers excitement
was infectious. You know Benny, youre nothing but an overgrown kid. Yes
Ray. Does that mean you will come with us? Ray stood up. Like I really
have a choice? 

 Between the two of them Francesca and Fraser talked the entire family
into going out with them. Even Tony. Francesca had to admit to herself
that it was a good idea. The Christmas spirit was definitely in the air.
The crisp cold air. The snow crunching beneath their feet. The
decorations. This was Christmas. 

 She started smiling, watching Fraser walking ahead of her with Marias
youngest son Angelo. They were holding an animated decision on how Santa
got down the chimney. Francesca let out a disappointed sigh. He was so
good with children. And they werent going to have a baby. 

 You O.K. Frannie? Ray walked along side of her, hugging her around the
shoulder. What? You look kinda sad. Im O.K. I was watching Benton and
Angelo. Yeah, Bennys really good with kids. Francesca smiled at Ray. I was
thinking the same thing. You know Frannie, I really am sorry about the
other day. I didnt mean to act like that. I know you are. But I really did
want that baby Ray. Im ready. 

 Looking ahead of her she began to laugh. Fraser and Angelo had flopped in
the snow to make angels together. Francesca smiled wistfully. God Ray its
so easy to hurt him. Huh? Oh. Im sorry. Forget it. I was thinking outloud.
No Im not gonna forget it. You said it and I want to know what you mean by
that. Sssh. Dont be so loud, hell hear you. Lowering his voice Ray leaned
towards Francesca. Then tell me what you mean by that. What did you do to
him this time? Thats not funny Ray. 

 Francesca hesitated. Fraser had asked her not to talk about their
personal life with her family. But she wasnt going to be talking about
sex, so it wasnt exactly the same thing. Well, I sorta told him that I
told Maria a lot of personal stuff about him. He really got upset Ray. She
played with the buttons of her coat. Maybe Ray had already talked with
Fraser about this before and he would have an answer. 

 Have you ever talked to Benton about how he looks? Ray stared at her. *I
dont know where this conversation is going, but what the hell.* Yeah. In a
way. Ive always teased him about how women throw themselves at him. How
its the uniform that they want and not him. You know it never fails. If
were out somewhere theres always some hot looking woman hitting on him. He
doesnt realize how easy it would be for him to get what ever he wanted. 

 Thanks a lot Ray, Francesca replied dryly. Oh. Sorry. Its not like he
ever would take them up on their offer. You know he wouldnt. He never did
before and now that hes with you. You know what I mean. Yes I know he
would never do anything. Did you know that hes really self conscious about
it? Yeah hes always turning red and trying to get away from them. 

 Were not on the same wavelength Ray. Im talking about how he looks. Hes
really self conscious about it. Ray gave a short laugh. Youre kidding me
right? No, I wish I were. He feels that if he didnt look the way he does
then no one would care about him. And to top it off, he really doesnt
think hes all that attractive. It confuses the hell out of him. 

 Ray looked over at Fraser. He was kneeling next to Angelo, pointing out
some small detail in a lighting display. How could he not think he was all
that attractive? He looked like he could be on a magazine cover and he was
self-conscious about it? Ray shook his head. Yeah Frannie. Hes sensitive
thats for sure. Its because he still has what we dont. Innocence. Its like
all of the bad shit rolls off of him and he still stays pure. Saint Benny
of Chicago. 

 Francesca snorted. Oh hes not a saint Ray, Ill let you know that right
now. Ray held his hands up. I dont want to know Thats between you and him.
And maybe you should consider not telling Maria everything. Hes a really
private person Frannie. You shouldnt go broadcasting your personal life.
If you want to chase him away, thatll do it. I know. I found that out the
hard way. 

 Francesca chewed on her lip. He almost left me today because of it.
What?! Are you kidding me? Ray. Keep your voice down. He can probably hear
us. Francesca looked up and saw that they were a good distance from Fraser
and Angelo. Hopefully he wasnt paying any attention to what her and Ray
were talking about. He had ears like a bat. 

 No Im not kidding Ray. But I was able to get him to stay and talk to me
about it. He doesnt really get mad or anything. He just ...closes himself
off. Hed rather be alone than to be in pain. And this is exactly why I
didnt want you two going out with each other. Its too late Ray. I have him
and Im not gonna let him go. Francesca looked around at the lights. *So
much for Christmas cheer.* 

 Its so hard to get him to open up. As soon as he gets angry or hurt he
hides it. He wont let anyone know how he feels. But Ill tell you one thing
Ray. Sooner or later Im gonna get him to do it. Youre not gonna provoke
him or something stupid like that are you? No! Dont be an ass Ray. I would
never do that to him. But if something happens, Im gonna force him to do
something. 

 Aw come on Frannie. Leave him alone. If he doesnt want to get mad, then
let him be. Oh youre one to talk. Look what you did to him after all of
the shit with that bitch. You might as well have stabbed him in the heart
trying to get him to cry. Ray shot her a dirty look. Thats different. He
needed to let it go. And I think he needs to let go of some of the anger
in him. He has a lot of it saved up thats for sure. 

 Francesca stopped talking as Fraser jogged up to them, grabbing her hand
and laughing. You have got to see this! He pulled Francesca away from Ray,
practically running, with Francesca yelling for him to stop. Yeah. Theyre
perfect for each other. Theyre both nuts. 
 
 

 
 

 "So Benny did you tell Thatcher about you and Frannie?" Fraser looked
away from the report that he was reading at Ray's desk. "Yes. Well no."
"Did you or didn't you tell her?" "She already knew." "How did she find
out?" Fraser grinned shyly. "She saw Francesca and I at the mall.
Purchasing my bed." "And she has no problem with the two of you being
together?" "Why would Inspector Thatcher have a problem with my being with
Francesca?" 

 Ray looked blankly at Fraser. "Benny. I'm not trying to be mean or
anything, but for someone who is as smart as you, you can be really dense
sometimes. The Dragon Lady is in love with you." "She is not." "Yes she
is. But the two of you were so busy worrying about protocol that you both
sat and let it pass you by." 

 Fraser rubbed his brow with his thumb. "Yes I will admit that I had
feelings for her." "See! I told you." "But I do not love her Ray. I love
Francesca." "Yeah, but that doesn't mean she's stopped loving you. You had
better be careful around her." "Don't be ridiculous Ray." Fraser stood up
and walked away from him. "Touchy." 

 As Fraser walked away from Ray he noticed Francesca standing in the
hallway talking to an officer, a report in her hand. As she moved to walk
into the bullpen he blocked her path. "Fraser." Francesca smiled up at
him. She still didn't like the idea that everyone knew about their
relationship. "Ms. Vecchio." He was staring at her with a look of mischief
in his eyes.*Uh oh. What is he up to now?* 

 He slowly looked above him and then back down at her with an expectant
look on his face. She looked up and then quickly looked down at the floor.
"We are standing under the mistletoe Francesca. According to the custom I
believe that we must kiss. Am I correct?" "Uh yeah Benton." "Don't you
think you should kiss me?" Francesca didn't move. 

 Fraser took her chin in his hand and tilted her face up to him. Leaning
down he began to softly kiss her. She couldn't help herself. She felt her
arms encircling him as the kiss deepenedd. He pulled away from her with a
pleased expression. "Merry Christmas Francesca." "Merry Christmas Frase."
"Frase?" "He's this really good looking Mountie that I know." They began
kissing again oblivious to the stares of those around them. 

 Ray stood at his desk watching the two of them. *When are they going to
come up for air?* Then he saw Thatcher walking in from the other side of
the bullpen. She stood watching Francesca and Fraser. Ray couldn't help
feeling sorry for her. Her loss was Francesca's gain. Ray walked over to
Thatcher. 

 "Merry Christmas Inspector." She kept looking over at Fraser with a sad
expression on her face. "Merry Christmas Detective." "Would you care for
some punch and cookies?" "That would be fine." Thatcher walked over with
Ray to the small table set up with Christmas treats. She kept looking over
at Fraser and Francesca who had finally moved apart and were talking
softly to each other. 

 "Go figure huh. Benny and my sister. You would have thought that they
would be the last two people to get together." "You are correct in that
summation detective." *Oh this is gonna' be one happy party.* "Benny,
Frannie. Come over and get some punch." They both turned to look at him.
Seeing Thatcher next to Ray, Fraser broke out into a grin and began
walking over to join them, leaving Francesca standing by herself. *Uh oh.
Bad move Benny.* 

 Ray saw Francesca's eyes narrow as she walked over. Once she reached
Fraser's side she looped her arm through his in a possessive hold.
"Inspector Thatcher. I'm glad that you could make it. Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas Constable." She gave Fraser a warm smile and then she
looked Francesca over. "And how are you today Ms. Vecchio?" "Oh I'm fine.
And yourself?" 

 Francesca maneuvered herself so that she was now standing in front of
Fraser and leaning back against him. He brought and arm around her wait
and hugged her. "I am well thank you." Thatcher replied in a neutral tone.
She could see by Francesca's actions that she was telling her in no
uncertain terms that Fraser was hers. Thatcher thought back to the hickey
on Fraser's neck. Yes Francesca would choose that crude method to let
people know that Fraser was taken. 

 She found herself wanting to laugh. There was no need for Francesca to
get so possessive over Fraser. It wasn't like she would even try to take
him from her. Even though she felt if she chose to do so it would be an
easy task. She was his commanding officer. Whether or not Francesca knew
it, she was in complete control of his life. Not her. She smiled at
Francesca staring at her. Watching the smaller woman beginning to glare at
her. 

 "Francesca is something wrong?" Fraser could feel her tensing up. "No
Benton. It's just a bit warm in here. That's all." Fraser released her and
put ice in a cup filling it with punch, handing it to her. "This should
help cool you off." Francesca looked at Thatcher once more as she drank
her punch. *She had better back off. I don't care if she still wants him
or not. She blew it.* 

 "Merry Christmas!" All four faces turned to the doorway as Turnbull
bounced into the bullpen. Thatcher rolled her eyes. *Please do not let him
embarrass me.* Much to every ones surprise Turnbull was the perfect
Christmas host. He organized the gift giving and he didn't cause a fuss at
all. He even got a some officers to sing Christmas carols with him. 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca pulled Fraser away from the group, holding her gift in her
hands. They went over to a desk and sat down. Placing their gifts next to
each other. "So what did you get? Who had your name?" Fraser looked down
at the tag and swallowed nervously. "Who had you for your gift Benton?" He
showed her the tag. It was from Catherine in forensics. Francesca
grimaced. "Open it." "Maybe I should do this in private." "No. Open it
now. Here." 

 Fraser cautiously pulled the paper back and opened the box. "Oh dear." He
closed the box holding the lid down. "What is it?" "Uh...I don't think
that you would really want to know Francesca." "Let..me..see..it." She
spoke through gritted teeth. Fraser slowly opened the box so that she
could see what he had received. It was a book. A hardback copy of 'The Joy
of Sex'. There were also a pair of red silk panties. 

 "What a whore! Where is she?" Francesca scanned the room looking for
Catherine. Fraser quickly grabbed her by the arm. "Francesca please.
Forget about this." "Forget it? How can I forget this!" She grabbed the
panties out of the box and shook them in his face. Fraser looked around
nervously. *Thank God no one saw her do that.* 

 He plucked the panties from her hand and shoved them back in the box.
"Who had you?" "What?" "Who picked you?" Francesca angrily grabbed her
package off of the desk and looked at the tag. She began smiling. "Oh I
guess we'll just forget about this too won't we Benton?" She showed him
the tag and watched in delight as his face darkened. 

 "What's the matter Benton? It's only a Christmas gift." "Open it."
"Excuse me? I didn't hear you?" "Open the box. Now." "Sure. Whatever you
want." She ripped the paper off and opened the box. As they both looked
into the box they burst out laughing drawing the stares from everyone in
the room. "You have got to be kidding me?!" "I believe that we should
introduce Tom and Catherine to one another." In the box was the same gift
that Fraser had received. Sans red silk panties. 

 Francesca got up and sat on Fraser's lap. He looked up in surprise at
her. "Francesca this is not the place for you to be sitting on my lap."
She raised an eyebrow at him. "You're the one who wanted everyone to know
about us being together. Isn't this being together?" 

 She pulled her copy of the book from it's box and began flipping through
the pages smiling. "This one looks interesting. What do you think of this
Benton? Would you like to try this one?" She held the book so that he
could see the picture. He pulled away laughing. "What's the matter Benton?
Afraid to try this one?" He blushed and turned his head away from her. 

 "Come on. Don't you want to try this? It looks like it would be...good."
Fraser chewed on his lower lip and looked back at her. "Francesca. It is
good. Really good. I have done that before." She blinked once or twice
looking at him and then back at the book in her hands. "You did...this?"
He blushed even more and without paying attention to what he was doing he
rested his hand on her thigh absently rubbing her knee with his thumb.
"Yes." "When? With who?" 

 "Lower your voice Francesca." He looked around to see if anyone was
looking at them. "I did that years ago. And I will not tell you with whom.
It would not be chivalrous." She looked at him and then back at the
picture. "You did this?" She pointed at the same photo in disbelief. "Yes
Francesca. Now would you please put the book away and get up." 

 Ignoring Fraser she flipped through the book until she found an even more
intricate sexual position. "This one looks like it would hurt." She again
held the book out so that he could see the picture. Instead of pulling
away he closed his eyes, a flush rising on his cheeks. When he looked at
her she knew that she had struck a nerve. He was now staring at her, a
smile tugging at his lips, his eyes slightly narrowed. "No Francesca. That
is 'not' painful." 

 He shifted beneath her smiling. She looked at her lap and then back at
him smiling. She peeked at the picture again. "You did this too I take
it." He slowly nodded his head yes still smiling at her. "Would you maybe
want to try this? With me?" Her voice became low and seductive as she
breathed into his ear. "I have some filing to do." 

 Fraser looked around the bullpen. It was so tempting. *God why does she
do this to me all the time?* "No. We can not go and...file. It would not
be appropriate." "And this is?" She squirmed in his lap pressing her
weight down on him and kissed him pushing her tongue into his mouth. He
groaned softly and pulled away from her. Leaning back toward him she
kissed him gently on the neck and whispered in his ear. "I'm going to get
up and I'm going to go and file. You 'relax' here for a few minutes and
then come and help me." 

 She was just about to stand up when Ray came walking over to them. "Hey
what did you two get?" Francesca slammed the book shut, flipping it over
so that Ray couldn't see the cover, nervously tucking a strand of hair
behind her ear. "Nothing special Ray." 

 Ray looked at the two of them. Francesca was jittery and Fraser was
flushed and wouldn't look at him. "Frannie do you really think you should
be sitting on Benny's lap here?" "Oh. No. I'll get up." As she began to
stand up Fraser grabbed her around the waste, holding her in place. Ray
looked at them. *You have got to be kidding me? This is too gross. O.K.
They want to play around out in public. I'll show them what can happen
when they do it." 

 "What's the matter Benny?" He smiled evilly at Fraser. Looking across the
room he saw Thatcher talking to Lieutenant Welsh. His smile grew even
bigger. "Hey. How about we go over and see what Thatcher got. Are you
gonna' stand up or what?" Fraser blushed and stammered as he spoke.
"I...but...no. No I do not need to see...what I mean..." He looked up at
Ray. "Could you please stop it." "Stop what Benny." "You know what." "No I
don't. What's your problem? Can't you get up?" Francesca snickered.
"That's the problem Ray." Fraser pinched her. "Ow! Why did you do that?"
"Francesca please." 

 Ray looked back at Francesca. "What did you two get?" She slowly handed
the book over to Ray. "Oh great! This is nice. Who gave this to you?" Ray
sounded pissed. "Tom Dougherty." Ray raised his eyebrows and looked at
Fraser. "And you don't mind?" Fraser pushed his gift over to Ray. Ray
opened the box and started laughing, reading the tag as he did it. "Great
minds think alike. Maybe those two should get together. "Nice panties."
Ray fingered the red silk material. "She has good taste." 

 Francesca snatched the panties from Ray and threw them in the wastebasket
next to the desk. "She's a whore Ray." "Now that is not in the Christmas
spirit Frannie." "I don't care. She's a whore." Ray turned back to Fraser.
"So I guess you two were over here 'studying' the book." They both looked
at him slightly embarrassed. 

 "I was right. You are rabbits!" Fraser started laughing loudly and
Francesca put a hand over his mouth. "Benton stop it! Don't egg him on.
Are you going to stop? Can I remove my hand?" He nodded yes. "I am sorry."
"You are not sorry. Neither one of you are going to be happy until someone
else catches you. Grow up. Quit acting like two teenagers. "Yes dad." "I'm
serious Frannie. Keep it out of the office. You of all people Fraser
should know this. Mr. Protocol." 

 Fraser stared up at Ray. "He is correct Francesca. We need to show more
restraint out in public. I apologize Ray." "Yeah well it's really not your
fault. Frannie's a bad influence on you." "Ray!" "It's true Frannie! You
would have never and I mean never seen Fraser think about ever letting a
woman sit in his lap out in public. But you have no problem getting him to
do anything." "You know Ray. I think I'm really a good influence. Aren't I
Benton?" 

 Fraser remained silent not wanting to get in the middle of their
argument. "See. He knows he's wrong. Why can't you admit it? You two have
a problem." Francesca looked up at Ray as she wrapped her arms around
Fraser's neck. "It's not a problem. It's called love Ray. You ought to try
it sometime. It's really nice." Ray stood looking at her chewing on the
inside of his cheek. *God she is annoying.* "No Frannie you have a
problem. Try and tone it down a little." "Whatever Ray." 

 As he turned to leave Francesca stopped him. Picking up Fraser's copy of
the book she handed it to him. "We don't need two of these. Maybe you can
go over and share this with the Inspector." Ray looked directly at Fraser.
"You know Frannie. That might not be a bad idea. I don't work with her."
Ray tucked the book under his arm and walked over to where Thatcher stood
and began talking to her. 

 Francesca watched them and then looked at Fraser. He was lost in thought.
His face blank. "Is there anything wrong Benton?" He smiled up at her
hugging her waist. "No I was just thinking." *I wonder if Inspector
Thatcher would ever consider going on a date with Ray?* 
 

 
 
 

 "Hey! Chocolate chip cookies!" Ray reached out to pick a cookie up only
to have his hand slapped. "Don't touch them. They're for tonight."
Francesca put another batch of cookies in the oven. "Since when did you
start baking cookies?" Ray snatched a cookie and ran around the table.
"Ma! Ray's eating the cookies!" "Hum. Not bad Frannie. Why are you making
them? You never make cookies." 

 "Benton said he likes chocolate chip cookies." Ray grinned at her. "Well
you're making too many. He'll only eat a couple." "Not when he tastes
these." "Frannie. When he eats dinner here how many times have you seen
him eat dessert?" Francesca stood thinking. "He hardly ever does. You know
Ray. Now that I think about it he really doesn't eat alot. Ma is always
yelling at him to eat." 

 "My point exactly. He's not a big eater and he doesn't really like
sweets. If you want to get on his good side buy oranges and tangerines."
"What?" "He likes citrus fruits. They didn't really get them up his way
all that often. He loves oranges." "You mean I made all of these cookies
for nothing?" "I'm sure everyone else will eat them." "Why didn't you tell
me this before?" "You never asked me." 

 Francesca stomped her feet and did a little dance. "Oh come on Frannie,
stop that!" "I can't help it Ray. Nothing is gonna' ruin my day. I love
Christmas!" "It's Christmas Eve." "Yes I know that. But it means tomorrow
is Christmas. I can't wait until Benton opens his present!" "What did you
get him?" "It's a secret." 

 "You know you two are both a couple of pains in the ass. Why can't you
tell me what you got him?" "O.K. I will. But you have to tell me what he
got me." "I don't know. He wouldn't tell me. It was a secret he said." "Oh
he's so cute!" "You are sickening." 

 "He's coming over here around three. He said Thatcher is supposed to be
letting him off early. I'm surprised she's letting him go." Francesca
began stacking the cookies in some containers as she talked. "Ray. Do you
know if Benton and Thatcher ever...you know...had sex or anything?"
*Benton said that they didn't, but let's see what Ray says.* 

 Ray bit into a cookie and sat thinking of what to say. It wasn't really
any ones business what Fraser use to do, but this was his sister he was
talking to. "As far as I know he never...did it with her. I think it went
only as far as him kissing her. But he really did like her alot. I bet if
she weren't his boss, you wouldn't be seeing him at dinner tonight." 

 "You are so ignorant Ray! Why did you have to say something like that?"
"Because you're my sister and I don't want to see you hurt. And you should
know one more thing. She still loves him." "Yeah and how do you know? Did
she open her bleeding heart to you? Did she cry on your shoulder? No? Then
you don't know shit Ray! Benton is mine, not hers." 

 "No she didn't tell me Frannie. But the next time you see her around
Fraser pay attention. She may not act like some love struck idiot like you
did, but if you watch her looking at him you can tell." "Yeah I've seen
her looking at him. Who wouldn't? But that's all she's ever going to do is
look. She's the one who sat back and did nothing. I may have been more
obvious than her, but guess what Ray? I have him and she doesn't! And that
is all that matters." 

 "Yeah, but what if he still has feelings for her?" Francesca snorted. "I
know he loves me." "Uh huh. Until I see a ring on your finger I wouldn't
be so smug. She's been trained to fight and I bet if she decides that she
wants him you'll have a battle on your hands." Francesca only smiled at
Ray. "That will never happen. He loves me. I have nothing to worry about
so you might as well shut up about Thatcher. I'm not going to let you ruin
Christmas for me." "I'm just letting you know Frannie." Francesca turned
her back to Ray and began singing Jingle Bells as she finished putting the
cookies on the rack away. 
 
 
 

 

 Francesca hid behind the bush in the front of the yard. She was watching
Fraser as he walked up the road. Diefenbaker was bouncing all around him
in the snow. She couldn't help it. Watching him walk was enough to get her
blood racing. That smooth loping stride. The way his eyes took in his
surroundings. He always looked alert, but still relaxed. And he had those
boots on too! 

 She crouched down into a small ball, staying as quiet as she could, but
as he neared the house he began to smile and looked in the direction of
the bush. "Francesca you can come out now. I know you're freezing."
Diefenbaker flashed past her and ran up onto the porch scratching to get
in. She could hear the click of the door. Someone was letting him in. She
jumped out and ran up to Fraser leaping at him and laughing as he caught
her. She grabbed him around the neck and kissed him. When she pulled back
from him he still held her up, her feet dangling in the air. 

 "How did you know that I was hiding behind the bush?" Fraser hugged her,
nuzzling his face into her hair, breathing deeply. He then murmured into
her ear. "Strawberries. You're hair smells like strawberries." He began to
softly kiss her neck. "That feels good." He stopped and she heard him
sigh. "What's wrong?" He put her down and with an embarrassed look hugged
her. Even with her coat on she could feel him. 

 "Good Lord Benton! Ray said I'm the one with the problem." She laughed.
"I think it's you. What is it? You went without sex for so long you have
to make up for lost time?" He pulled her tighter against him. "No. That is
not it. I just want to be with you." "But you are with me." "You know what
I mean Francesca." Fraser turned his head looking towards the house. "Ray!
Don..." 

 Snow splattered across his neck and shoulders. Ray had hit him with a
snowball. "Hey look! I hit a rabbit with a snowball!" Ray was at the
corner of the house, laughing and pointing at Fraser. "Excuse me
Francesca." He tipped his stetson and bent down to scoop some snow up,
packing it tightly between his hands. "Aw come on Benny!" Ray turned and
ran with Fraser running after him. *Oh this is gonna' be good.* 

 Francesca ran around the house just in time to see Fraser grab Ray by the
collar of his coat and haul him down into the snow. "Let me go!" Ray was
laughing and then he started yelling. "No! Don't! God that's freezing!"
Fraser was stuffing snow down the collar of Ray's coat laughing at him as
he did it. 

 "Say you are sorry Ray." Fraser now had Ray pinned down by the arms. "No!
You're a freaking rabbit!" Fraser started laughing harder. "I am 'not' a
rabbit." "Yes you are!" Say you are sorry or I will stuff snow down your
pants." Ray snickered. "That's what you need to do to yourself rabbit!
Thumper. Humper!" Ray laughed hysterically until Fraser started shoving
snow down the front of his pants. 

 "No! Benny no! Stop! All right! I'm sorry! Stop!" Fraser backed off and
stood up with his hands on his knees looking down at Ray's prone figure.
Ray started scooping the snow out of his pants. "I am not a rabbit. I
enjoy Francesca's company." He held his hand down to Ray and pulled him
up. The pair turned to look over at Francesca who held a snowball in her
hand. 

 "You enjoy my company?" Fraser quickly stepped behind Ray. "Yes
Francesca. Very much so." He peeked around Ray's shoulder and felt a
snowball whiz past his head. "Pardon me Ray." He stepped around Ray to see
the panicked expression on Francesca's face. "You wouldn't dare!" He took
two steps forward before he was jumped from behind by Ray. 

 "Frannie help me!" She ran over and the two of them tried to hold Fraser
down only to have him squirm out from under them and run to the far side
of the yard. He was laughing and holding his hands up. "Truce! No war on
Christmas Eve." 

 Ray nudged Francesca. "Admit that you're a rabbit." Fraser only laughed
at him. "Admit that you're a rabbit Benny and we'll call it a truce."
Fraser nodded his head yes. "I am a rabbit. Now do we have a truce?" "Yes
we do. Frannie?" "Yeah I guess so. Can we go in now? I can't feel my
feet." Fraser walked over to them, a smile still on his face. "But it's so
nice out." 

 She grabbed him by the hand. "I have snacks. Cookies and those big fat
oranges." "Navel oranges?" "Yup. I bought them this morning." As they
walked up to the house Fraser whispered to Francesca. "I am not a rabbit."
She whispered back to him. "I know you're not. You're a perv." 
 
 
 

 

 Francesca couldn't believe it. After dinner her mother had suggested that
Fraser go home and bring his clothes and gifts back to the house and stay
the night. This way he could be there when the family opened the presents
up and he could go to church with them. It wasn't like he couldn't walk
over in the morning. She knew that her mother was doing this for two
reasons. One because she didn't want to see Fraser spend Christmas Eve
alone and two it would solve the problem of her wanting to go to his place
to spend the night with him. 
 
 
 

 

 "Oh come on Ray. Give me the keys." "No. Why can't you walk?" "Don't be
an idiot. We have to bring back his clothes and the gifts. How are we
supposed to walk and carry all of that?" "Then I'll drive you both over
and help you bring the stuff back." "Give me the keys." Francesca was
getting frustrated. *God is he dense?* Leaning forward she whispered in
Ray's ear. "It's Christmas Eve and I would like to spend some time alone
with him. Do I have to draw you a picture?" "Why did you have to tell me
that!" Ray handed her the keys to the Riv looking straight at Fraser. "See
you in a few 'minutes'." 

 As Ray walked away from them Fraser took Francesca by the arm. "What did
you say to him? He looks mad at me now." "All I said is I wanted to spend
some time alone with you." "Ah." "Yup. And he's putting two and two
together." "And what do you have in mind?" She reached over and grabbed
his hands. "How about page twenty-seven." Fraser stared at her. "Page
twenty-seven?" *It must be a guy thing because he's just as clueless as
Ray.* "Think Benton. Page twenty-seven. Of a certain book that we both got
the other day." 

 She watched his face as it finally clicked in. "Really?! Page
twenty-seven?" "Consider this an early Christmas present." She was
rewarded with a very big smile from Fraser. Judging by his reaction the
other day and by the way he was starting to act, page twenty-seven must
really be something. 
 
 
 

 

 The drive over to Fraser's house was short, but Francesca couldn't help
feeling nervous. Turning the ignition off she looked over at him. She had
never seen him get this excited over anything before. His breathing was
already heavy and he was fidgety. *What have I gotten myself into?* Her
heart started racing and it wasn't from excitement. 

 "Benton are you sure this isn't going to hurt?" He glanced over at her
and laughed, his fists clenched in his lap. "You have to trust me. Would I
ever do anything to hurt you?" "No." Francesca stared out the windshield
watching the snow fall. She was still unsure. She felt a gentle touch on
her arm. "I won't hurt you Francesca. This...I can't explain it. You have
to do it to know what I am talking about. But if you are afraid to, you
don't have to do this. I don't want you to do something that you're
uncomfortable with." 

 "I know, but I said that we would." "That doesn't matter, If you don't
want to we won't. I want you to enjoy what we do, not be afraid of it." "I
know. Looking at how you're acting I know it's going to be 'interesting',
but the picture. I mean come on. It looks really painful." "We're not
going to do it then. You're not going to enjoy it if you're tense." "I am
not tense." "I believe that you are. Look at your hands." 

 Francesca looked at her hands gripping the steering wheel. Her knuckles
were white. Jerking them down she placed them in her lap. "We had better
go and get my things Francesca. Ray expects us back soon." Fraser got out
of the car and walked around opening her door for her. Holding his hand
out to her he grinned. "Don't worry. I won't bite you." She took his hand
trying to relax. 

 "Francesca we are not going to do anything but go and get my things." He
hugged her rubbing her back. "But I said..." Fraser cut her off and pulled
her towards the house. "I know what you said. And I am saying that we are
going to do nothing. When you are ready maybe we will try it someday.
Maybe we will never do it. It doesn't matter." 
 
 

 
 

 They were in the bedroom and Francesca sat on the edge of the bed
watching Fraser pack his clothing. He kept grinning at her every time he
looked in her direction. She finally had enough. "What is so funny?"
"Squirrel." "What?" "You look like a squirrel." "That is not funny!"
Fraser chuckled shaking his head. "I am sorry Francesca, but you do. I can
only imagine how I might have appeared to you that time, but you
definitely look like a squirrel. How did you put it? Before you hit it?"
She finally smiled back at him. "You're never gonna' let me live that down
are you?" "No." 

 Fraser went back to the closet and brought out a garment bag. "And what
is that?" Fraser unzipped it and showed her. "A new suit." "When did you
buy it?" "I was out the other day and I decided that it would be nice if I
had something new for Christmas Day. I wouldn't want your family to have a
certain membership of the congregation talking about Francesca's boyfriend
wearing the same suit two times in a row." "You're right. Some of those
old biddies can be pretty catty. But you didn't have to buy it just
because of them." "I didn't. As you have said I do have a somewhat limited
choice of attire." 

 Zipping the bag closed Fraser picked his bags up and moved to leave the
room only to have Francesca block his way out. "Aren't you forgetting some
thing?" "No I believe that I have everything." She crossed her arms and
nodded at the bed. Glancing back he saw nothing on the bed. "There's
nothing there. I have everything." "You're as bad as Ray." Reaching over
she took the bags from him and set them down. 

 "We're not going to do page twenty-seven, but there's nothing wrong with
doing the introduction section. A little making out, the standard
missionary position. Does that sound O.K. to you." "Yes I believe I could
make do with that." Francesca stepped forward and shoved him in the chest.
"Make do? I believe I'm spoiling you." 

 She pushed him back onto the bed stripping her clothes off so he could
watch her. Crawling across the bed she straddled his hips and pulled off
his shirt. "I see you're going to be cooperative this time." "Yes. We
really don't have a lot of time. Ray is probably looking at his watch as I
speak." "Oh too bad! Maybe if Ray would get a girlfriend he wouldn't worry
so much about us." Francesca made a face. "What is wrong?" "I just thought
about Ray doing it with someone. Yuk!" "Francesca that is not very nice." 

 She finally stripped Fraser and they began kissing and touching one
another. Francesca still felt guilty about her promising page
twenty-seven. *Maybe I can make it up to him another way*. She maneuvered
herself so that she lay on top of him. "What do you think you're doing
Francesca?" "Oh nothing much. I know how much you like it this way."
Fraser rolled her over pinning her beneath him. "No. That is not what you
said we were to do. You said we would make out." He leaned down and kissed
her. "Then you said we would do the missionary position." 

 He nudged her legs open with his knee. "You do remember what you
specified? What you were about to do is not in the introduction section of
the book." "You are a real pain, you know that?" "Thank you kindly." He
released her arms and kneeled over top of her looking down into her eyes.
"What are you doing?" "Looking at you." The intensity of his gaze was
making her blush, bringing a smile to his lips. 

 Reaching above her head he picked up the Lucky 13 that was resting on her
pillow. "I am glad to see that I can still...how would you put it? Make
you hot?" Francesca snickered, her face still pink. "That is one thing you
don't have to worry about Benton." She looked at him smiling. "Can I do
the honors sir?" He handed her the condom. "If you would like to." "Sit
up." He gave her a look. "Why?" "Don't you trust me?" He smiled down at
her. "No." "I'm not gonna' do anything. It's easier if you sit up.
Please." Fraser sat back on his knees looking warily at her. "You're not
going to do anything?" Francesca moved and knelt in front of him. "Maybe."


 She wrapped her arms around his neck and began kissing him, pushing her
tongue against his lips until he finally opened his mouth. She pulled back
giving him a look. "You can be so difficult sometimes. Just relax." "But
you..." She covered his mouth again to silence him. She could feel his
arms come up slowly around her as he pushed against her. 

 Dropping the condom back on the bed she ran her hands through his hair
pulling him to her. She felt him run his hands down her back and ass
slowly rubbing himself against her. He pulled away from her mouth to suck
at her neck, lightly nipping her. "That feels so good Benton." Her words
came out in a breathy whisper. God she loved it when he would touch her
like this. Gently. Softly. 

 When he made his way back to her mouth she gently bit him. She could feel
the smile on his lips as she kissed him. He loved it when she would bite
him. Something about them and Dief having something in common. Pulling
back she pushed him gently away. Kissing the scar on his collar bone she
worked her way down his chest and then to his abdomen. As she reach down
he grabbed her hand. "No." She looked at him smiling. "Why not? I know you
like it. You grit your teeth when I do it." 

 Fraser looked at her seriously, but a hint of a smile touched his eyes.
"If you do that, we won't be able to do anything else." "Oh...has the
Mountie lost his ability to control himself?" "If you do that? Yes." "Then
I think we should...get down to the business at hand." He nodded his head
yes. "O.K. Where is it?" She looked down on the bed and picked it up. She
pealed the coin open and dangled the condom in front of him. "Are you
positive we need this?" "Francesca we have already..." "O.K. O.K. I'm
kidding." 

 She grabbed his erection to put the condom on hearing an intake of breath
from him. "Oh you really are sensitive tonight aren't you? I must be doing
something right." She could resist a sharp tug. "Francesca don't do that!"
"Is that panic I detect?" She tried not laughing and it came out in a
choked sputter. "No it's not panic." She could tell that he was getting a
little upset with her. "O.K. I'll stop. I don't want you having an
accident." She snickered again. 

 He pushed her back on the bed and pinned her down. "You think you're
funny don't you? How would you like it if I did this." He held her down
laying his body on hers so she couldn't move her arms. He was smiling
evilly at her as he freed one hand and ran it down her side. "No. Benton
you better not be doing what I think you're going to do." "Why not? An eye
for an eye. Even Steven." 

 He lifted his body up enough so that he could slide his hand between her
legs, but he found that she had closed them tightly. She stuck her tongue
out at him. "How's that smarty pants. What are you gonna' do now?" He
raised an eyebrow at her. "Considering I outweigh you. Considering I am
stronger than you. I believe that I have many options available to me." 

 He grinned at her as he wedged a knee between her legs and slowly edged
them open. "I believe that I have ample access now to my intended target."
"Benton this isn't fair and you know it." "Oh really...and it wasn't fair
the other day when you wouldn't let me go." Francesca started laughing at
him. "That's different. You deserved it." "As do you." He caressed her
watching her face as he did it. Her eyes closed, her lips parted. The rise
and the fall of her chest as her breathing increased. 

 She opened her eyes and saw him staring at her intently as he softly
touched her. He always knew what she liked. How did he know just where she
needed to be touched. She could feel the moan building up and she tried to
suppress it biting her lip and pushing her head to the side. 

 She felt him release his hold on her only to slide his arms around her.
He again move her legs further apart and slowly pushed himself into her.
He didn't pull back out or move from her. When she looked at him he had a
gentle smile on his face. "I love you." He whispered it and then kissed
her gently at first and then with more passion. 

 Wrapping her arms around him she slowly dug her nails into his back,
feeling him arch against her. Then he began to move within her, taking his
weight on his arms. She could only think to herself that this is what they
meant by lovemaking. This was so good. She could tell that he was again
holding back. He always did. But as she felt her body tightening all she
could picture was the photo from page twenty-seven. *What would that be
like? Would it feel like this?* 

 Francesca frantically pushed Fraser up from her. "Stop!" She looked at
his face. It was a mixture of confusion and a struggle for control. She
knew that he was trying really hard not to come. It was obvious by the
pulsing within her that he was ready. "Francesca." He swallowed trying to
speak. What...what is wrong?" *This is ridiculous. He can't talk. I can't
talk! Geez!* "I want...I want..." 

 Fraser leaned his head against her shoulder, gripping the sheets above
her head. "What? What do you ...want." Taking a deep breath Francesca ran
her nails down his back as she spoke. "I want to try...twenty-seven." She
felt him jerk against her groaning as he did it. "No." It was spoken in a
tight voice as he pushed his head down on her shoulder, his body straining
against her. *He did not!* 

 "Benton? Did you..." He raised his head slowly, looking embarrassed and
shocked at the same time. "I...I am sorry." His face and chest began
turning a deep shade of red. "I have never...had this happen before." It
was spoken in a whisper. Francesca started laughing in between gasps for
air. She could feel the heat radiating from his body. "Never?" "No." 

 She wore a very pleased expression on her face. "Damn I'm good." Fraser
slowly withdrew from her and rolled off of her. The look of embarrassment
still on his face. "I am sorry." Turning his head to look at her he
grinned slightly. "Yes, you are good." 

 Tucking against his shoulder Francesca lightly ran her nails down his
chest. "Do you think maybe you could...recover and try it?" He quickly
rolled over so that she was beneath him again. "I believe that I can do as
you request." She had to admit that he had one of the fastest recovery
times that she had ever seen. It really didn't take much on her part to
get him ready. Just the idea of getting to do page twenty-seven was enough
to excite him. 

 "What is with you? Did they have something in the water up there where
you're from?" He laughed at her. "That's exactly what Ray said to me
before." "What?!" "No! He wasn't revering to this." He gestured at his
erection laughing. "It was something completely different." "I would hope
so Benton. How do you think I would feel if I found out that Ray had
gotten to you first?" 

 "Would you care to try it now?" "I'm game. But you had better put your
safety on this time. You're pistol has a touchy firing mechanism." Fraser
blinked at her and then began laughing. "It doesn't matter. I have a speed
loader." "You are sick Benton." "You started it." 

 By the time they had arranged themselves into the position Francesca was
more curious than afraid. "This is really awkward Benton. Are you sure
that this isn't going to hurt?" He laughed softly in her ear and kissed
her neck. She notice that he was again breathing heavily and they hadn't
even started. "No it will not hurt. You will enjoy it." He began running
his hands along her body, kissing her shoulder and arm. "Francesca you are
so beautiful." 

 She couldn't help giggling. "I feel like a pretzel Benton and I think I
look like one. How could I be beautiful?" She felt him partially push into
her, teasing her. "Benton?" He pushed his entire length into her, but
again he didn't withdraw. His excitement was evident by his breathing and
the way his hands touched her. Then he began to slowly make love to her.
The sensation was the same, but it was also different. *It has to be the
positioning.* 

 He withdrew slowly and then shoved himself back against her. She gasped
in shock, clutching at him. "Oh...God!" Her voice was choked. He repeated
what he had done several times, always watching for her reactions. "Do you
like this Francesca?" His voice was teasing as he moved against her.
"Yes!" He kissed her neck, softly stroking her breast, moving his hands
along her stomach, pulling her tighter to him. He increased his movements
but they weren't as rough. He alternated between smooth long strokes and
short quick thrust. 

 "Benton...oh...please...that is...so...good." She grabbed at the sheets
pulling them back from the bed as she came. A strangled cry emerged from
her throat that shocked her. She heard him yell out something but she
couldn't understand it. "Oh my God." She whispered it lightly as they
quickly pulled apart from one another. 

 She rolled over on the bed staring at Fraser, breathing heavily, but with
a smile on her lips. "You were...right. That was..." She tried to describe
how she felt. "Different?" Fraser answer for her. She shook her head yes.
"Different." He moved to lay beside her and pulled her to him. They lay
together breathing heavily and looking at each other. 

 He ran a finger down the side of her face. "I told you I would not hurt
you." Taking his hand she held it against her chest. "I know you wouldn't.
But the picture. It does look pretty bad." He laughed softly and wrapped
his arms around her tightly. "We should go back soon. We have been gone
too long. Ray will be angry with us as it is." "Too bad. He knows we're
not just packing clothes and gifts. 

 "You would think that he'd be happy with us for doing it here and not on
the sofa in the den tonight." "And we will never be doing something of
this nature ever in the den again. It is too dangerous." "Uh huh."
"Francesca I am serious." "I know you are. But if I want you to, you will.
Because I'm good." She kissed him and sat up. "Let's get up and go back. I
bet you ten to one Ma has the hot cider ready by now." 
 
 

 
 

 They walked into the living room and placed the gifts around the tree.
Fraser hugged Francesca from behind. "Thank you for my early Christmas
present." She couldn't help laughing. "You're welcome. But we kinda'
shared that gift." Walking back into the foyer Francesca took the garment
bag from him. "I'll take this up to my room and you can go put that one in
the den. I'll be down in a few minutes." She gave him a quick kiss and ran
up the stairs. 

 Walking into the den Fraser glanced at Ray sitting in his recliner. Ray
looked up at him as he came in and then he looked at his watch. As Fraser
sat down on the sofa Ray began to sing. "Here comes Peter Cottontail,
hopping down the bunny trail..." "Uncle Ray!" *Shit! Where did Angelo come
from?* Angelo raced up to Ray and grabbed his arm pulling on it. "No!
That's an Easter song! Why are ya' singin' an Easter song? It's
Christmas!" 

 Fraser looked over at Ray smiling. "Yes Ray. Could you please explain to
Angelo why you're singing an Easter song." "Uh, I...well..." "Why Uncle
Ray?" Angelo stared up at him waiting for his answer. "I forgot that it's
Christmas?" Angelo made a face at Ray. "You're silly!" He punched him on
the arm and ran out of the room. 

 Ray snapped at Fraser. "That wasn't very funny!" Fraser leaned back on
the sofa looking calmly back at Ray. "I'm not the one with the fixation
with rabbits." Ray spat back at him. "And I'm not the one who has a
problem with constantly doing it!" Fraser held his breath. *Remain calm.
Do not argue with him. He is only baiting you.* He stared back at Ray not
answering him. 

 "Hey!" Both men swung to look at Francesca standing in the entrance of
the den. "Knock it off the both of you. It's Christmas Eve. Geez, you
would have thought that there were two little boys fighting in here." She
walked over and sat beside Fraser snuggling against him. She poked him in
the chest. "Twenty-seven." "Stop it!" He grinned at her and turned away
trying not to laugh. 

 "What is that supposed to mean? Twenty-seven." Ray was looking at
Francesca knowing that it wasn't something good. Francesca shrugged. "The
twenty-seventh precinct. What else." Ray looked from Francesca and then to
Fraser. "That is 'not' what it means Frannie." "And why not?" Ray pointed
at Fraser. "Because he wouldn't be red in the face and laughing that's
why. You two are sick." 

 "No we're not sick, we..." Fraser grabbed Francesca and covered her mouth
with his hand. "How about we all go and see if your mother needs any help
in the kitchen. Please." "Hey. Fine with me." Ray stood up and walked out
of the room. Fraser released Francesca and stood up waving a finger at
her. "No more. You said you wouldn't talk about us." "All I said was
twenty-seven." "And thanks to you, Ray has a copy of the book." 

 "Oh come on Benton. What are the chances of him figuring it out?"
"Francesca, Ray is a detective. He will figure it out sooner or later."
She waved a hand at him. "He won't even look at it. You worry too much."
She stood up and grabbed him by the hand. "Let's go in the kitchen and
kiss in front of him." "Francesca!" "I'm only kidding! Relax. You would
have thought that after doing everything that we did you wouldn't be so
uptight." "That has nothing to do with this." "Well it should." She pulled
him out of the den. "Let's go help Ma." 
 
 

 
 

 Walking into the kitchen they found Ray slicing vegetables. "Hey Benny.
Want a carrot?" "Ignore him Benton. Ma do you need some more hands?" "Yes.
Please, could you both make the stuffing." They stood over the table
tearing apart several loaves of bread. Francesca looked up from the slice
in her hand to see Fraser smiling. He walked over to the window. "It's
snowing." Francesca ran up behind him, looking out. "Look Ray! It's
snowing! We're gonna' have Christmas snow!" 

 "You never change Frannie. You know Benny, when she was a little kid, she
use to get so excited at Christmas that she would almost make herself
sick." "I wasn't that bad. Come on. Look at it. Isn't it beautiful?" Ray
walked over and peeked out into the yard. "Yeah it is." He walked back to
the cutting board and continued chopping up the carrots and potatoes that
he had before him. 

 Fraser remained silent, staring out the window. Francesca looked at him,
reaching over she took his hand. "You miss home don't you?" He didn't look
at her, but kept watching the snow as it drifted to the ground. "Yes. I
do." Squeezing her hand he turned away from the window and led her back to
the table where they continued tearing apart the bread in silence. 

 *I might as well ask him. He's thinking about home now.* "Benton. If you
were ever offered a transfer back to the Territories would you take it?"
He looked at her with a thoughtful expression. "It would depend." "Depend
on what?" He smiled at her and then looked down at the table. "It depends
on certain circumstances." "And what might those circumstances be?" "I
don't know." "You don't know? That's not an answer." "I can't say because
I don't know what my life will be like in the future. Circumstances change
and they could alter my decisions or feelings as to whether or not I would
go back." "Now that's a sorta' answer." "That is the best one that I can
give you at this moment." Francesca smiled. "It'll do. For now." 

 Ray kept silent, listening to their exchange. He knew exactly what
circumstances Fraser was referring to. Francesca, marriage and children.
And he knew that she knew what Fraser meant by his answer to her. She was
just trying to force him to say it. "Ma. I'm done the veggies. What's
next?" His mother walked over to him and set down a large pile of celery
and onions. "You may now dice these for the stuffing." "How did I get
stuck with this?" "You walked in first Raymondo." 
 
 

 
 

 "Well, I'm gonna' hit the sack. See you in the morning." "Goodnight Ray."
"'Night." Ray looked pointedly at Francesca. "Don't stay up too late.
Tomorrow is gonna' be a busy day." Francesca only grinned at him. Once he
left the room she stood up and got a bag out from behind the sofa. Fraser
watched as she pulled a pair of pajamas out. 

 "Don't look at me like that. I am 'not' spending Christmas Eve upstairs
in my room alone. Not when you're down here. I'm sleeping on the sofa with
you." "Francesca is that wise? I do not believe that it will go over well
with Ray 'or' your mother." "Yeah right. Maybe Ray will get peeved, but
not Ma. She really likes you. She won't be saying anything if she sees me
with you as long as I'm wearing these." 

 Francesca held up the pink flannel pajamas to him. "These don't exactly
scream 'take me'." She stripped her clothes off and put the flannel
pajamas on. "Your turn." Fraser got up from the sofa and pulled out his
red long johns. She sat watching in amusement as he changed. "You know we
look like two kids on a sleep over." 

 She patted the sofa. "Lay down so we can snuggle." "Yes madam." They
tucked against one another. "Now isn't this better than sleeping alone?"
"Yes. Much better." Turning over Francesca hugged and kissed Fraser. "I
can't wait until you see what I got you. You will be so surprised!" Fraser
could see the excitement in her face. She had been dropping hints about
how great it was going to be. Now he wondered if what he made her would be
much of a present. 

 He played with the top button of her pajamas as he talked. "You didn't go
over the limit did you?" "Nope. Benton, you won't believe it when you see
it. I couldn't believe it! It's the best gift you're gonna' get tomorrow."
"Then maybe we should go to sleep so that tomorrow comes sooner." Tucking
her head down against his chest she smiled to herself. *He is going to be
so surprised!* "Merry Christmas Frase." "Merry Christmas Ms. Vecchio." 
 
 

 
 

 Fraser could feel the presence of someone in the den with them. Before he
had the chance to move a bright light flashed. Then he heard laughter.
Opening his eyes he saw Maria standing across the room laughing, with a
camera in her hands. "Oh you two are sooo cute! I think I'm going to have
to have this one enlarged." Fraser nudged Francesca. "You both look like
two little kids!" She looked Fraser over. "Do your long johns have a
button flap on the butt?" This time Fraser shook Francesca. "Huh?"
Francesca looked up at Fraser with blurry eyes. "Francesca. Maria is
taking pictures of us." 

 "Frannie!" As she turned her face to the voice a light flashed in her
face. "Maria!" Francesca yelled and jumped off the sofa. Tripping she fell
to the floor. Maria screamed and laughed, running out of the room.
"Maria!" Francesca scrambled to her feet and ran out after her sister. 

 Fraser lay back down running his hands over his face. Life with the
Vecchios was one adventure after another. He sat up and looked cautiously
around. Standing he strained to listen if Maria was coming back. He
quickly stripped off his long johns and pulled his jeans on. With his
shirt in his hand he walked out into the foyer, only to be blinded by the
flash of a camera. Maria ran into the kitchen laughing as Fraser blinked
trying to clear his vision. *Is this how it is at Christmas here?* 

 Francesca came running down the stairs. "Where is she?" Fraser pointed
into the kitchen. Francesca ran in and then he heard them yelling and
laughing. Pulling his shirt on he walked in and saw Francesca grappling
with Maria, trying to get the camera from her. "Maria give it to me!" "No
way Frannie!" Seeing Fraser, Maria laughed as she spoke. "God knows I
could probably sell the pictures of you to the women at the station." 

 Fraser stared back at Maria feeling the heat rise in his face. *Dear
Lord. Can't I make it through one day without blushing?* Francesca put her
hands on her hips. "That's enough Maria." Maria backed away. "O.K. O.K.
I'm only kidding. But you're not getting these pictures. They'll go with
all the other photos in the Christmas album. Oh, by the way Benton. Merry
Christmas. Wait here. I'll go and bring everyone down." 

 As Maria left Fraser turned to Francesca. "Is it like this every
Christmas?" "Yeah it is. Fun isn't it?" She flung herself at Fraser
hugging him tightly. "Merry Christmas Benton Fraser." She pulled him down
to her kissing him deeply, only letting him go when she knew he was
reacting to her. "Merry Christmas to you Francesca." He backed her up
against the refrigerator and kissed her the same way as she had done to
him. Only he prolonged it, which proved to be a mistake in the Vecchio
home. 

 There was a flash of the camera. "A porn shot! Nice!" Then the fading
laughter of Maria echoed in the hall as she ran. Fraser sighed hugging
Francesca. "May I please catch her and stop her?" "No." "Why not?"
"Because she hasn't gotten to Ray yet." She smiled a satisfied smile.
"When she's done with Ray then things will quiet down a little." They
could hear screaming and laughter coming from upstairs. "She's in his room
now." 
 
 

 
 

 Francesca lead Fraser into the livingroom. "Sit down here." He sat in a
large overstuffed chair in the corner of the room. Then Francesca sat in
his lap. "Ray is going to say something when he sees us." "We're not at
the station. Besides this is the best seat to watch the kids open their
presents. Wait until you see their faces. It's priceless." 

 Fraser watched in amusement as Maria's three children filed into the room
one by one. The lights on the tree were on, Christmas music played in the
background. It was very homey. Once Ma, Tony and Ray came in and sat down
Maria nodded to them. "Go ahead." Fraser jumped in surprise at the
shrieking noises coming for the children as they tore into their gifts.
Francesca looked at him grinning. "You've never seen anything like this
before have you?" He shook his head laughing. "No. This is.." He paused at
a loss for words. Francesca filled in the word he was looking for.
"Chaos?" "Yes." 

 She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned against him. "If you
think this is bad with three kids imagine what it will be like when we
have four." She hugged him and kissed him on the cheek before looking back
at the children. Their children. It made Fraser happy thinking about
Francesca and him having their own family. He hugged her back resting his
head on her shoulder. 
 

 
 
 

 "You guys have anything left to open?" "No!" Three voices called out
loudly. "Santa left us alot!" Angelo blurted out as he sat holding a truck
in his hands. "Yes he did." Maria stood up and walked over to the tree.
"How do you guys want to do this? Do you want me to hand the gifts out or
do you want to sit next to the tree and open them?" 

 Francesca stood up and grabbed Fraser's hand pulling him across the room.
"I want to sit by the tree." Francesca sat cross-legged by a pile of gifts
patting the space next to her. All of the adults sat around the tree while
the children sat on the chairs and sofa playing with some of their toys.
As the adults started opening their gifts Fraser watched en rapt. He
hadn't even touched a single gift when Francesca finally noticed what he
was doing. 

 "Benton. Is something wrong?" "No." He had a big grin on his face. "It's
rather overwhelming." "You've never had Christmas like this?" Fraser
opened his mouth to speak and then stopped, trying to think of how to
describe his Christmas days as a child. He absently played with a ribbon
on a package as he spoke. "Christmas was...not anything like this. We
never had a real tree such as this one. It was a bush or sometimes
nothing. We never had many decorations either. I remember my father using
emergency flares as lights because we had run out of candles. Most of the
time he wasn't there anyway." Fraser smiled sadly. "Dinner was whatever
could be caught. Caribou, beaver or something equally unusual. And as for
toys..." He sighed. "I was never allowed to have any toys. My grandparents
felt that they were wasteful." 

 "Oh Benton, that is so sad!" It was spoken by Maria and she was crying.
Fraser tucked his head down in embarrassment. Everyone had stopped opening
their gifts and had been listening to him talking to Francesca. "I
apologize. I didn't mean for everyone to hear me." "Benny you're kidding
right?" "Actually Ray...no." Francesca reached over and squeezed his hand.
"You're never going to have that type of Christmas again." 

 She picked up a box and handed it to Fraser. "Here. Open this." He looked
at the tag. "I'm almost afraid to." "Why? Who's it from?" "It's from Ray."
He looked over at Ray who was grinning back at him. He pulled the ribbon
off and carefully unwrapped the box. He slowly opened the lid and looked
in. He started laughing and quickly closed the box. "What is it?"
Francesca reached for the box, but he pulled it away from her. "No." "Oh
come on Benton. Let me see it." He looked over at Ray and shook his head.
Reaching inside he pulled the gift out of the box. Francesca rolled her
eyes. "Ray that is not funny." "He thinks so." Ray pointed at Fraser who
was laughing, holding up a stuffed toy rabbit. 

 Tony spoke up. "Why in the hell did you buy him a toy rabbit?" "It's
between Benny and me. You don't need to know." Fraser ran his fingers over
the rabbit. "Thank you very much for the present Ray. Every time that I
look at it I will think of Francesca." Francesca slapped him on the arm.
"Benton!" He pulled away from her laughing. "I am sorry Francesca. But I
will." "Here. Open another one but save my gifts for last." "If I have to
open yours last then you have to save mine for last as well." 
 
 

 
 

 They continued opening up their presents until only their gifts to each
other were left. Ray leaned forward in his spot by the tree, eager to see
what the secret gifts were. "Benton I want you to open yours last." "Why?"
"Just humor me. Please?" 

 She pulled over her gift from Fraser. It was a large package wrapped in
bright gold foil paper. A red ribbon and bow on the package had a card
attached to it. "Open the card first or last?" "First." Francesca tore
open the envelope. She stared at the card, flipping it over and then back
again. "Where did you get this?" Fraser looked confused. "The paper? At
the art store in the mall." "You drew this?" "Yes. Do you like it?" "It's
beautiful." 

 Francesca held the card up so that everyone could see it. "Hey that's our
house. I thought you could only draw faces Benny." It was a detailed pen
and ink sketch of their house, complete with Christmas decorations. She
looked closer at the picture. "Look. There's Diefenbaker and Angelo." "Let
me see!" Angelo scrambled off the sofa and looked at the card, pointing at
it excitedly. "That's me!" 

 She finally opened the card, reading the script inside. *Even his
handwriting is beautiful.* It was in simple words that he expressed all
that they had been through and all the things that the future could hold
for them. She definitely did not want anyone else reading this. This was
private. It was meant only for her. "What's it say Frannie?" Maria was
looking at her curiously. She had never seen Francesca close to tears over
a card before. "It's private Maria." Her comment brought a smile to
Fraser's face. She reached over and hugged him and gave him a kiss. "Thank
you." 

 Fraser looked at her expectantly. Hopefully she would like her gift as
much as she liked the card. Francesca took the ribbon and bow off and
carefully tore the paper off. Opening the box she pulled the tissue paper
back to see what was inside. "You have to take this back." She looked up
at Fraser angrily. "You promised not to spend over the limit. We agreed on
fifty dollars." 

 Fraser went to answer her. "But Francesca..." "No! Take it back!" Ray
didn't want to see them fighting on Christmas day. "Frannie. Why not keep
it. So he spent a little over the limit you agreed on." Fraser turned to
Ray. "But Ray...." Francesca pulled the gift out of the box. It was an
intricately carved wooden music box. Maria's eyebrows shot up. "Geez
Benton! Ray she should be angry. Frannie do you know how much those things
cost?" Fraser shifted to look at Maria. "But Maria...." He wheel around
and looked at Francesca when she spoke. "Yes I know! They cost anywhere
between three hundred and four hundred dollars!" She spat it out in a
heated voice. "Francesca!" Fraser had gotten tired of being cut off by
everyone and yelled at her. Everyone looked at him in shock. 

 "I am sorry for yelling, but would you please listen to me. I can 'not'
take it back." "Why not?!" He ran a hand through his hair in frustration.
"Look at the lid and then open it up." Francesca stared at the lid. The
carving was delicate and beautiful. "This looks familiar." She sat staring
at it her brow knitted in concentration. 

 "Oh my God!" She looked up at Fraser. "Have you figure out what it is?"
Her mouth had dropped open. She couldn't believe it. "This is the picture
from the magazine. This is from 'Our Mountain'!" "I was wondering how long
it would take you to figure it out." "You made this?" She stared at him in
disbelief. "Yes. Do you like it?" 

 Francesca was speechless. There seemed to be no limit to the things that
he could do. "This is unbelievable." "Open it." She pulled the lid back
and music began to play. She started laughing. "This is the theme song.
The one where Analise stands on top of the mountain and proclaims it as
their mountain!" "That is the one part of the box that I did buy. Do you
remember that day at the mall? When I made you turn around so I could go
and buy you something." "Yes I remember." She grinned remembering how he
had insulted the two catty ex-friends that were attacking her. 

 "And what is this?" "That is the rest of your present." She unwrapped the
small box and found a thin gold bracelet. "Benton this is nice (she held
up the bracelet), but I love the music box." She grabbed him and hugged
him. "Thank you very much." She sat holding the music box in her lap
looking at the details. "This is so beautiful." "I am pleased that you
like it." "I don't like it, I love it!" 

 She picked up a box and handed it to Fraser. "Open this first. It's not
the main gift." Fraser peeled the paper back, grinning when he pulled the
box open. He held a t-shirt up to his chest. It had a Canadian flag with
the words in bold red lettering saying 'Made in Canada' on it. "You don't
have any fun shirts. The closest thing you have is your 'Property of the
RCMP' shirt." "Thank you Francesca." He folded the shirt back up and set
the box aside. 

 He looked at Francesca, noticing how excited she was getting. What could
she have gotten him that would cause her to act like this? Picking up the
box that she pushed over to him he hefted its weight. "It is a book." "Oh
come on Benton! Don't ruin the surprise. Just open it!" Pulling the paper
back he opened the box, a surprised look appeared on his face. "This is
old. Where did you find this?" "At Carol's Use Bookstore downtown. Do you
like it?" "Yes." 

 Ray craned his neck to get a look at it. "What is it about Benny?" Ray
couldn't believe that Frannie would get that excited over a book. Fraser
held it up. "It is a book on the Yukon and North West Territories."
Placing the book on his lap he slowly turned the pages. Smiling as he
recognized things. He got more excited when he realized that some of the
photos were from his home. 

 "Look!" Ray had never seen Fraser look so excited or happy. "What? Let me
see." Fraser pointed at a picture. "It's my father's cabin! And here's our
sled team. This is home Ray!" Francesca watched Fraser in anticipation.
"Benton." He looked quickly up from the book still smiling. "Turn the page
to the book mark." There was a thin, red silk ribbon marking a page. He
looked at her curiously. This is what she had been so excited about. 

 He slowly opened the book to the marked page, his smile fading. He sat
staring at the picture running his hand across it. "What's the picture of
Frannie?" Maria asked. Francesca waved her off. She moved over and sat
next to him. "Benton. Do you like it?" He didn't answer her, but nodded
his head yes, never taking his eyes off of the page. Putting the book down
in his lap he reached over and hugged her tightly. "Thank you Francesca."
His voice was almost a whisper. When he pulled away from her she saw that
he was crying. Yes, she had done well. 

 "Benny can we see it?" Fraser took a deep breath and wiped a hand over
his face. He picked the book up, turning it so that everyone could see it.
The photo took up the entire page of the oversized book. It was a black
and white photo of two Mounties. One older, the other much younger,
standing side by side. "Hey that's your dad!" "Yes Ray." "Who's the
other..." Ray squinted and moved forward, his eyes popping open. "That's
you! Geez you look like a little kid! How old were you?" 

 Fraser's face got red. He always did look younger than he really was and
when he was a young man he was always mistaken for a boy in his early
teens. "I was nineteen Ray. This was taken shortly after my graduation
from the academy. I remember there was a photographer in the area that
wanted us to pose for some pictures. I never did know why. Now I do. This
was one of the few times that I got to work with him." He set the book
back in his lap still looking at the picture. "My father was about the
same age as I am now when this was taken. *At my age my father was
married, widowed and had a son.* He sighed and turned the page. His
sadness was soon replaced by happier memories. Each page held pictures of
places that he had lived in, visited or heard about. This book was home.
He reached over and hugged Francesca again. "This is the best gift that
anyone has ever given me. Thank you very much." "You're welcome Benton.
I'm glad you like it." 

 Ray looked around the room. *This place is too quiet.* Clapping his hands
together he spoke. "I don't know about any of you, but I'm starving. Who
wants pancakes and eggs?" The kids jumped up and ran for the kitchen.
Everyone got up except for Fraser and Francesca. Ray stopped at the door.
"Are you two coming?" "In a minute Ray." Francesca turned back to Fraser.
"So how did you like your first Vecchio Christmas?" "It was nice. Your
family is so different from how mine was." "Yeah. We're different all
right." 

 She looked at him expectantly. Fraser didn't know what she was waiting
for. "What?" "Do I get my Christmas kiss?" "Francesca, what was that in
the kitchen?" "That was my Christmas grope. I want a kiss." Setting the
book aside, Fraser stood up and pulled Francesca up to him. Wrapping his
arms around her he looked down at her. "Merry Christmas'. Embracing her he
kissed her deeply, softly caressing her back. 

 "Hey!" They broke apart startled. "Come and eat breakfast while it's
hot." "Ray! Please stop doing that!" "I told you Frannie. It will always
happen because you two are always going at it. Get use to it. Come and
eat. We have to get ready for church soon and if you don't eat now you'll
starve before mass is over." He smiled and ducked out of the room leaving
them alone to continue their kiss. 
 
 

 
 

 "You're sure that this is O.K.?" Fraser was standing in Francesca's room
in only his boxers. She was in her underwear, a dress in her hand. "Why do
you worry so much? We're getting changed to go to church, we're not having
sex." "But would your mother..." Francesca reached over and placed a hand
on his mouth. "I've told you before. Ma likes you. A lot. She won't say
anything." "Liking someone and letting them get undressed in front of
their daughter are two entirely different things. How do you know she's
not going to be upset?" He looked at her waiting for an answer, pulling
his pants on. 

 Francesca thought back to her talk with her mother after Fraser had taken
her to the opera. Her mother knew she would sleep with Fraser if given the
chance. And she had to know that they had been sleeping together for some
time now. Her mother may have been old school, but she wasn't stupid. 

 "Benton." Francesca slipped on her dress turning her back to him so he
could zip it up. She then sat on her bed with her shoes in her hand. "Ma
knows that we have sex. She has to. She's not blind. She talked to me
about it even before we did anything." Fraser stopped buttoning his shirt.
"You're mother talked about us? Having sex?" "Don't look so shocked. I'll
quote her. Get to know him before you 'know' him. She said that to me
before we even did anything. Didn't you ever wonder why I never tried
something for so long?" 

 He had unzipped his pants to tuck his shirt in, smiling at her. "I
thought that you were worried about what Ray would do if we did anything.
That's what I worried about." He chuckled softy. "When he pulled his car
up to me that morning I thought that I was a dead man." Francesca smiled
back at him. "You know Ray wouldn't have shot you." "Maybe he wouldn't
shoot me, but from his previous reaction, I thought he was going to hit
me." "But he didn't. You have to hand it to him. He stayed reasonably
calm. Look at him now. He's finally starting to loosen up about us being
together." Fraser thought about the stuffed rabbit that Ray gave him this
morning. She was right. 

 Francesca pulled her shoes on and stood up, walking over to Fraser who
was adjusting his tie. "Here, let me do that." She tighten the knot and
then smoothed down the front if his shirt. She started grinning at him.
"What?" "Nothing." "No Francesca. What are you thinking?" She paused
looking at him. His blue eyes were staring back at her. "Don't you feel
like we're already married or something?" He stopped buttoning his jacket
and smiled shyly at her. "Yes." 

 "Stop that Benton." "Stop what?" "Looking so cute. You're up to something
I can tell." "No I'm not. I'm getting dressed for church." He held his
hands out to her and as she touched them he interlaced her fingers in his,
bringing them up to his lips he kissed them. "I am not up to anything."
Pulling her to him her kissed her forehead, then her eyes and then her
lips, never letting her hands go. 

 Francesca opened her eyes back up to find him staring at her. His gaze
was making her feel as if he were seeing into her, not at her. It was very
disconcerting. "Why are you looking at me like that?" "I'm trying to see
all of you Francesca." "And what do you see?" "You. Goodness. Light.
Someone I can understand." He released her hands and wrapped his arms
loosely around her, leaning in he kissed her gently. Hugging her he
whispered in her ear. "I love you Francesca." He had said the words
before, but for some reason, the way he said them now made her want to
cry. "I love you too Benton." She hugged him back, laying her head on his
shoulder, feeling him softly stroke her hair. 

 There was a knock at the door. It was Maria. "Are you two decent?"
Francesca slowly backed away from Fraser, adjusting the lapels of his
jacket. "Yes Maria, you can come in." Looking at the two of them she
didn't know what to think. "Am I interrupting anything?" "No. We were
about to come down." "Good. Ray thought that maybe you guys were trying to
get a quickie in." Maria watched as both of them blushed. She grinned
evilly at them. "You did not!" Fraser looked at her, his face getting
redder. "No, we did not. We were talking." "Uh huh. Well let's get
cracking. The church will be packed today." 

 As they walked down the stairs Maria looked at Fraser. "Are you going to
sing with the choir today." "No, I would prefer to sit with the family."
Ray was standing at the bottom of the steps staring at them. As they
walked into the foyer he spoke to Maria. "Well. Was I right?" Fraser
looked directly at Ray. "No." Ray raised his eyebrows. "No? That's good.
Now I don't have to force you two to go to confessional after mass." 
 
 

 
 

 After the mass was ended Fraser excused himself and walked over to talk
to privately with Father Behan. Every once in a while Father Behan would
look in the direction of the Vecchios and smile. "Frannie. What is Benny
doing?" "How should I know? Do I look like I can read minds?" "You have
such a smart mouth. And in church too." They watched as Fraser shook
Father Behan's hand and walked back to them. 

 "What was that all about Benny?" Fraser looked at Ray blankly. "I had
some personal questions to ask the Father." Ray sighed. "Don't tell me.
You can't tell me." "Yes Ray." "How would I have ever guessed that?" 
 
 

 
 

 Everyone changed out of their church clothes into more comfortable
clothing like jeans and sweaters. Tony and Ray lounged around in the den
watching footballs games. Maria and Mrs. Vecchio were in the kitchen
preparing a light lunch for everyone. Fraser had pulled Francesca outside
to play in the snow after asking them if they needed any help. Maria
shooed them out the door. She was now looking out the window into the yard
watching them as her children and Diefenbaker ran around the two figures
laughing. 

 Ray walked into the kitchen grabbing some crackers off of a plate on the
table. "Ray come and look at them." "Maria I see enough of it all the
time." "Come on Ray. Just look." He walked over to the window and looked
out. "When have you ever seen him look this happy?" Ray watched Fraser and
Francesca. They looked so relaxed with each other as they packed the snow
onto the snowman that they were building. Fraser's whole demeanor was
open. Every movement, every smile, every gesture seemed different to Ray.
"Never. I've never seen him act like this." 

 "They're really lucky to have found each other." Maria looked at Ray
grinning. "You're next you know." "Oh no! Don't even start! You're not
setting me up with anyone." "I won't, but I bet he starts looking for
you." She gestured out the window. "Benny? You're nuts. He can't even talk
to women and you think he's gonna' set me up with one?" Ray snorted.
"That'll be the day." "I bet he will. Now that he's found what he wants,
he's going to start worrying about you. He's going to want you to be as
happy as he is." Maria smiled and patted Ray on the shoulder. "You had
better polish up on your dating skills Ray. It's going to happen." 
 
 

 
 

 Dinner was an event. There was more food than was necessary and everyone
ate until they were stuffed. Francesca paid close attention to Fraser as
he ate. *Ray was right. He doesn't like junk food, but he sure can pack
away the vegetables.* He caught her watching him eat. "What?" "I'm just
watching you to see what you like to eat." Fraser leaned into her and
whispered. "I like to eat you." 

 "Benton!" Francesca yelled it out. The entire table stopped eating and
looked at her. Her face turned red. She hit Fraser on the shoulder. "What
is wrong Francesca?" He looked at her innocently, with a slight smile on
his lips. "Nothing. Sorry everyone. I didn't mean to shout." Yelling at
the table was normal for the Vecchios, but screaming at Christmas dinner
was frowned upon by her mother. Francesca pulled Fraser's arm and
whispered to him. "You're gonna' pay for that." He whispered back to her.
"I certainly hope so." 
 
 

 
 

 Dinner was over. Christmas was over. The gifts, going to mass. *God I
hate when Christmas is over.* Francesca put on her jacket and walked
through the kitchen heading out to the back porch. "Maria, I'll be out on
the porch for a while." O.K. Frannie." Maria smiled at the retreating
figure of her little sister. She was such a drama queen. Always getting
depressed after Christmas was over with. 
 
 

 
 

 Fraser stood out on the front porch staring at the street lights wishing
he could see the stars. Kneeling down he spoke to Diefenbaker. "So what do
you think Diefenbaker? Should we add her to the pack?" Dief gave a short
answering bark. "Thank you. I was hoping you would approve." He ruffled
the fur behind Dief's ears and walked back into the house. Francesca
wasn't in the den so he went to the kitchen. "Maria do you know where
Francesca is?" "She's on the porch." "Thank you kindly." *He is so polite.
Frannie is so lucky.* 
 
 

 
 

 He found Francesca standing by the porch railing looking out into the
yard. Wrapping his arms around her, he held her, resting his chin on her
shoulder. "What is wrong Francesca?" Leaning back into him she sighed. "I
hate when Christmas is over. I can't help it. I get so depressed. Now I
have to wait a whole year before I can have this 'feeling' again. She
sighed and covered Fraser's hands with her own. They stood together
silently for a few minutes. 

 Fraser slowly released her and stood back. "Francesca." She didn't turn
around, she kept staring out at the yard. "Francesca look at me please."
Turning around she noticed that Fraser was eyeing her nervously. When he
began to talk his voice was slightly shaky. "I know we have been together
for a short time, but I know that I will never be able to find what I have
with you with anyone else." Taking a deep breath he reached into his
jacket and pulled a small box out. Francesca's eyes widened. 

 He moved down and knelt before her on one knee, opening the box he
presented it to her. "I love you and I am asking you to spend the rest of
your life with me. Will you marry me Francesca Vecchio." "Oh my God." It
came out as a whisper. *He's asking me to marry him!* She had thought
about this moment for some time now, but she wasn't prepared for the
emotions that ran through her. Love, fear, nervousness and apprehension.
But love was the strongest. In a tearful voice she answered him. "Yes. Yes
I will marry you Benton." 

 She watched as he smiled at her and took the ring out of the box. With
trembling hands he slipped the ring on her finger. She stared at it in
shock. He asked her to marry him! Fraser stood up and took her hands in
his. His voice was still shaky as he spoke to her. "I promise to do
everything that I can to make you happy." Francesca couldn't help it. She
hugged him tightly and to her and began to cry, her voice muffled in his
jacket. "I can't believe that you asked me." She started laughing. "Ray is
gonna' be pissed." Fraser laughed as he hugged her. "I know." 

 They pulled slowly away and Francesca finally took a close look at the
ring on her hand. "Benton this is way too expensive. How could you afford
this?" "You may thank Inspector Thatcher. I used some of the money from
the back pay that I received." "It's beautiful." It was a marque cut
diamond. It had to be at least a carat Francesca thought. It's so big. She
reached up and wiped a tear from Fraser's face. "You know you're the first
man that I ever met that wasn't afraid to cry in front of me." "You can
thank Ray for that." He leaned down and kissed her holding her tightly.
She was really his now. When he moved from her he held her hands, slowly
walking backwards. "I believe we should go in and tell them." Francesca
laughed. "This will be fun." 

 They walked into the kitchen expecting to find Maria, but the room was
empty. "This will make it easier. They're probably all in the den." She
took a deep breath and exhaled loudly, holding Fraser's hand tighter. "Are
you as nervous as I am?" He nodded his head yes. "Let's go Francesca. We
have to get this over with." "Oh boy." She took another deep breath and
watched as Fraser did the same thing. They looked at one another and
sputtered out their laughter. "This is ridiculous Francesca. We're both
adults. We shouldn't be afraid to tell them." He picked her up and walked
out into the foyer before he set her down. "The sooner they know the
better. Are you ready?" Francesca bit her lip. "Yes." 

 They walked cautiously into the den. Ma was reading and Ray, Tony and
Maria were watching television. Maria turned towards them as they walked
into the room. "I was wondering when you two were coming back in. You have
to be freezing." Maria looked at Francesca's face. *Oh no. She's been
crying.* "Francesca are you O.K.?" Ray turned around when he heard Maria
say that. Smiling brightly Francesca flung her left hand out in front of
Maria's face. Maria stared at her hand in shock. Maria jumped up out of
her chair yelling. "Ack! Frannie! Oh my God!" Grabbing Francesca she
hugged her and then she grabbed her hand looking at the ring. "I can't
believe it!" She looked at Fraser who was standing behind Francesca,
looking nervous as hell. She could see that he was waiting for Ray's
reaction. 

 Even Tony stood up and walked over. Taking Francesca's hand he looked at
the ring. "Christ Ray. Look at the size of this thing." He grabbed Fraser
by the hand and shook it. "You did good Fraser." He shocked everyone by
hugging Fraser and patting him on the back. "Welcome to the family." When
Mrs. Vecchio stood up and walked over to them the room grew silent. This
was the only person whose opinion really mattered. She didn't look at the
ring. She looked directly at the two nervous figures that stood before
her. 

 "Are you certain about this Benton? Do you truly love my daughter enough
to marry her?" Fraser didn't hesitate. "Yes Ma." "And you Francesca. Do
you feel the same way?" "Yes Ma." Mrs. Vecchio hugged Francesca and then
Fraser. She then turned towards Ray. "Raymondo. You have said nothing.
What are your feelings concerning this?" Ray stared at them. *God I can't
believe he did it! He's gonna' marry Frannie.* Running a hand over his
head he let out a sigh. "There's not much I can do about it. You two are
obviously ready even if I'm not." 

 Ray finally smiled at them, watching the relief in their faces as he did
it. Hugging Francesca he whispered in her ear. "I hope you know what
you're getting into." "I do Ray. This is what I want." Fraser looked like
he was ready to pass out as Ray turned towards him. "Well Benny. I guess
this means Tom Dougherty isn't going to be my brother-in-law." Fraser
blinked in confusion and then he finally grinned at Ray. "No I believe
that is impossible now." Ray shook Fraser's hand. "Congratulations." *Oh
what the hell.* Hugging Fraser he pulled away smiling at him. "You had
better not hurt her..." Fraser finished his sentence. "Or you will kill
me. Understood Ray." 

 They all stood, taking a few minutes to admire Francesca's ring. "Since
it's Christmas and this is a special occasion, how about a toast?" "That's
a good idea Ray. I'll go and get the glasses and wine out." Maria drug
Francesca and her mother out to the kitchen, their happy voices could be
heard as they walked away. Tony flopped back in a chair and began channel
surfing. Ray stared at Fraser who looked like he was finally starting to
relax. 

 "Are you sure about this Benny? Is this what you really want?" "Yes Ray.
This is more than I had hoped for." *Yeah his mind is set. There's no
trying to talk him out of it.* Ray turned to Tony. "You comin'?" "Huh?"
"For a drink." "Sure." Tony heaved himself out of the chair and followed
Ray and Fraser into the kitchen. 

 As they entered the room Francesca looked at Fraser, a smile still
plastered on her face. She was playing nervously with the ring on her
finger. Occasionally sneaking glances down at it. *I can 'not' wait to go
to work and stick this in Cathy's face!* Fraser walked over to her and
drew her into him so that he was holding her from behind. Leaning against
the counter he observed the room. 

 Maria was filling the glasses up with wine. Mrs. Vecchio had brought out
some cheese and crackers and was arranging them on a plate. Tony was
digging through the refrigerator to find something else to eat. And Ray.
Ray was actually looking at him and Francesca with a smile on his face.
Fraser returned it with one of his own. 

 "O.K. Who wants to make the toast?" Maria looked at Fraser. "Benton?" He
shook his head no. "I believe that as head of the household the honor
falls on Ray." "Me?" "Yes Ray. You." "Oh boy. Let's see. I'm not really
good at this stuff. Give me a second to think." Maria handed the glasses
out and then stood next to Ray. "Are you ready?" Ray turned the stem of
the glass in his hand. "It's not much on such a short notice." He let out
a breath and then began to speak. "Here's hoping that the two of you find
together what you have been searching for all of your lives. Happiness and
love. Congratulations to the both of you." Ray raised his glass and took a
sip. 

 Francesca who was already keyed up emotionally started crying. She set
her glass down and ran over to Ray hugging him. "Geez Frannie, it wasn't
that good." "Yes it was. Thank you Ray." "You're welcome. And I am serious
about what I said." "I know you are." Fraser walked over to Ray, looking
nervous again. "I'd like to thank you too Ray." "What for Benny?" He took
Francesca's hand in his, squeezing it as he talked. 

 "You could have made things really difficult for us if you had wanted to.
I know you really did not approve of my being with Francesca and you still
have reservations about us." Ray started to speak, but Fraser held up a
hand to stop him. "But you have never tried to interfere to the point
where you wouldn't let us be together." He paused taking a deep breath.
"You have always been there for me ever since I arrived in Chicago. I'd
like to know that when the time comes, would you do me the honor of being
my best man." Fraser looked at Ray, his heart pounding. He couldn't
believe he actually worked up the courage to say all of it to Ray. 

 Ray smiled warmly back at Fraser. "The honor is all mine Benny. Yeah I'll
do it." Maria looked at Francesca, the excitement evident on her face.
"When's the date Frannie?" "I don't know. He just asked me. Oh Maria this
is going to be so much fun! I'll have to pick a date. Then book the church
and hall. Order the flowers and invitations. Oh and we are gonna' have a
great time finding a gown! I can't wait to start!" Francesca hugged Fraser
and gave him a kiss. Ray looked at his sister like she was nuts. "Fun?
Planning a wedding is 'not' fun." He looked at Fraser. "They aren't fun at
all. They're a living hell. I hope you're ready for all of it." Fraser
looked back at Ray wondering if he was kidding. By the look on Ray's face
he could tell that he wasn't. "Oh dear."