Love Never Dies    

 Standard Disclamer Ahead!  The characters of Due South do not belong to
me, they belong to Alliance and I am just using them. Please don't sue, as
you won't get much - just a few CD's.  

 This is the follow-up to the story "Just The Same" Before you read this
story, read that one first! Please! I don't feel like answering a ton of
e-mails about who Christine is and how did she and Ray get together. <g>  

 Thanks again to my beta-readers, Nikki and Becky. And thank you to all my
AOL chat buddies. You know who you are.  

 The following story is rated "PG."  Send all comments/chocolate/gorgeous
Mounties and/or Chicago detectives to Audrid@aol.com.  Comments I'll
receive gladly, flames I'll use in the next FK war. 
   
    Love Never Dies 

By Melissa Roule 
    

 Six months had passed since Ray had "died" and left the Mercutio family.
In that time, Christine had retreated back into her shell, a fact no one
seemed to notice. They did notice how she withdrew, but they blamed it on
the fact that her father was in jail.  

 A month after Ray had left the police had come. They arrested Thomas
Mercutio and Shapiro with several charges of murder and extortion.
Christine had witnessed it all, saw how her father shot her a dark look as
if all this was somehow her fault. At that moment, she shut out
everything. She practically lived in her room, coming out only for meals.
Day after day Christine sat in her room, reading or working on a piece of
embroidery. In the five months since her father's arrest she had completed
several tapestries of immense proportions.  

 One cool September day, a letter came for Christine. One of her nieces
brought it up, staying only long enough to hand her the plain envelope.
Christine turned the white package around in her hands a few times. It was
a plain white envelope, her name and address written upon it in black ink.
Christine had a few friends who would often write, she assumed one of them
had sent her another letter describing their new boyfriend or whatever.
Half-heartedly, she opened the envelope and pulled out the few pages
inside.  

 When Christine read the few handwritten pages, her eyes widened. The
letter was from Ray! It wasn't his handwriting, but it was his style of
writing. Obviously, he had dictated the letter to someone. Christine read
and re-read the letter, hearing Ray's voice in her head. He spoke of how
well he was now that he was back home, and how much he missed her. He
spoke of how he was watching the news about updates on the trial of her
father. It hurt to think of the trial, even when she read about how sorry
Ray was. He didn't want her to go through it, but they both knew it would
happen. Putting her father away was the reason he had even come there in
the first place. Given a choice, Christine wouldn't have changed it any
other way.  

 A week after the first letter arrived, Christine received another one
from Ray. This time, the letter was in Ray's handwriting and included an
address where she could write him. She was to address the letter to one
"Ben Fraser" a point Christine was certain to obey. She wrote a return
letter, sending it in secret. She would wait until the mailman came to the
door to deliver the mail and hand it to him then. It wasn't uncommon for
her to write letters, but if they discovered whom she was writing these
recent ones too, she'd probably be killed.  

 Three months and several letters later, the trial of Thomas Mercutio
ended. He had been sentenced to life in jail, a term he was fighting with
all his power. Christmas was nearing and Christine longed to see Ray
again. Sharing letters was nice, but she wanted to speak face to face with
him. She longed to feel his arms hold her, cradling her against the cold
nights. But that wasn't to be. At least not yet...  

*****  

 When Thomas Mercutio was sentenced to jail, the eldest son David took
over. He was more ruthless than his father, driving Christine further
away. He wanted her to marry the son of another family. He wanted her to
marry a horrendous man, just to unite two powerful families. After a
terrible fight with him on this, she decided to run.  

 That night, after everyone had gone to sleep, she packed a few things and
escaped. There were no good-byes, she was too afraid to say any. With a
duffel bag full of money she had managed to stash, and a small suitcase
with clothes, she ran. Christine was too afraid to take a car so she
instead took off on foot. It wasn't long before she had walked to town, a
few well placed phone calls and she got a ride to the next town with an
airport.  

 She took the first flight to Chicago, and from there went to the address
of one Ben Fraser, the man she'd been sending her letters to Ray to. The
building the address matched was a run down apartment building. Surely
this wasn't the right place! But when Christine asked to see Ben Fraser,
she was directed to an apartment upstairs.  

 With a lump in her throat, Christine knocked on the faded, peeling door.
She heard noises inside and finally the door was opened by a tall handsome
man. Christine looked up with wide eyes.  

 "Hi" she smiled nervously, "I'm...um, I'm looking for Ben Fraser"  

 "I'm Ben Fraser," he replied.	

 Christine smiled in relief. "Oh that's good, I thought I had the wrong
address." She offered her hand "I'm Christine Mercutio. I'm a friend of
Ray Vecchio. Is he here?"  

 Fraser took her hand, looking the young woman over. So *this* was the
Christine that Ray was talking about. He was right, she is pretty. "No, he
isn't. He's at his home getting ready for Christmas"  

 Christine frowned. "Oh dear" she said.  

 "I can take you to him if you like," Fraser offered, after seeing the
frown cross Christine's features.  

 "Oh would you?" her eyes lit up. "I've waited so long to see Ray."  

 Fraser smiled at the happy look on Christine's face. He grabbed his
jacket and Stetson, closing the door behind him. "It's no problem. I was
planning on going over to Ray's later anyway."	

 They walked down the stairs and out the building. Fraser led Christine,
carrying her tiny suitcase as she carried the duffel bag. As they made
their way to the Vecchio household, Christine told Fraser of what had been
going on since Ray had left.  She told of how her father had been
arrested, a fact Fraser already knew, he had been following the trial, and
what had happened afterwards. A few tears slid down her cheeks as she
spoke of her family.  

 It wasn't long before Fraser and Christine reached the Vecchio home. For
a few minutes, Christine stood out on the sidewalk, just looking at the
house. It was more beautiful than Ray had described it. Snow covered the
eaves, roof, and the front yard. A lopsided snowman greeted her with a
coal smile. Here children lived in a happy home. Christine held back her
tears, she couldn't cry now.  

 Fraser cast Christine a look over his shoulder before he knocked on the
door. Francesca opened the door after a moment.  

 "Hi Fraser," Frannie purred. She wiped her wet hands on a towel, doing
dishes wasn't how she wished to impress the Mountie of her dreams.  

 "Hello Francesca," Fraser practically stammered. The sensuality radiating
from Frannie was enough to unnerve anyone. "Is Ray home? I need to speak
to him"  

 Frannie looked a bit disappointed. "Sure Fraser,  hang on." She turned,
shouting towards the back "Hey Ray! Fraser's here and he wants to talk to
you!"  

 Out on the walk, Christine winced, she heard the shout out where she was.
 

 A few moments later Ray appeared. His dark sweater had a few flour stains
on it, mixed with a few unnamed ones.  

 "Hey Benny, didn't expect ya this early!" he exlaimed. "Come on in, you
can help Ma in the kitchen. I'm sure she'd welcome you"  

 "Thank you kindly Ray, but I think someone else would like to say hello
first." Fraser moved out of Ray's way, revealing Christine standing behind
him. She had moved up onto the porch when they were waiting for him to
arrive.  

 Ray's eyes widened when he saw Christine. The words he was going to say
died in his throat. "Christine...?" he finally managed to get out. "How?" 


 "Does it matter?" she answered.  

 "No, it doesn't matter." Ray grinned. He pulled Christine into a huge
hug. It had been so long since he had held her like this. So many of the
past nights he had spent awake, his arms aching to have her there.  

 Fraser took their hug as his cue to leave. "I'll be inside" he said
needlessly as he walked through the door. If Christine or Ray took notice,
they didn't say. Their full attention was turned on each other.  

 "I've missed you Ray" Christine said after a moment.  

 "I've missed you too" Ray said "more than you can ever know" He kissed
her then, a sweet yet passionate kiss, much like the first one they had
shared. After all this time apart, it was like they were discovering each
other again.  

 When their lips parted, Ray smiled down at the woman in his arms. "Tell
me, how did you get here?"  

 "I ran," Christine whispered, averting her eyes. "A - After father was
convicted, David took over the family business. Oh Ray, he's worse than
father! David wanted me to marry some horrendous man just to unite our two
families! When David told me that, I ran." The tears flowed freely down
Christine's cheeks. In the time since she had received the news of her
arranged marriage, she had held all her emotions in check. Now that she
was here with Ray, Christine let the tears flow.  

 Ray reached out with one finger, tilting Christine's chin up towards him.
"It's all right" he whispered gently. "You're here now and you're safe."
He kissed the tears that were drying up on her cheeks. "I won't let
anything happen to you, I promise"  

 Christine closed her eyes, listening to Ray's words and feeling his lips
on her skin. She trusted the words he said. She knew she was safe here.  

 Ray pulled away from Christine and gazed into her dark eyes. "Come
inside, I want you to meet *my* family" he smiled.  

 "I'd love to" she answered, following Ray as he led her into the house.  

******	

 Christine was welcomed into the Vecchio household with open arms. Anyone
who was a friend of Ray's was welcome.	

 Christine smiled as children surged around her feet while Ray removed her
coat. Ray introduced his nieces and nephews to her one by one. Next, he
introduced her to his sisters Francesca and Maria and his brother-in-law
Tony. Lastly, Ray introduced Christine to his mother. Mrs. Vecchio drew
Christine to her in a big hug. According to her, anyone who could make her
son Ray smile like that was definitely welcome here.  

 After the introductions, the entire Vecchio family, along with Christine
and Fraser, sat down for the afternoon meal. The meal was a simple pasta
dish, but to Christine, it was the best meal she had ever tasted. The way
everyone talked around her and with her was a wonderful sensation.
Christine found herself smiling and laughing, two things she hadn't done
since Ray had left six months before.  

 Mrs. Vecchio watched her son throughout the meal. She took note of the
way Ray sat near Christine, his arm around the back of her chair. She
watched, pleased when he whispered in her ear, making the young woman
laugh. Mrs. Vecchio noticed the way her son's eyes glowed with love when
he looked at the woman next to him. Ray was in love with Christine, his
every action spoke it to the trained eye of his mother.  

 When the meal was over, everyone helped clean off the table. It was Ray's
turn to do the dishes, but Mrs. Vecchio shooed him away from the kitchen. 


 "You don't have to do this Raymondo" she explained, "Tony will take over
for you today"	

 "But Ma!" wailed Tony, "I did the dishes yesterday! It's Ray's turn!"	

 Mrs. Vecchio turned to her complaining son-in-law. "Raymondo has a guest
here. When you have a guest, he will take over for you"  

 Tony grumbled a minute more, about being unfair and such, but he went
into the kitchen anyways.  

 "Go show Christine around Raymondo," Mrs. Vecchio said to her son,
kissing him on the cheek. "Show her to the guest room and make sure she's
comfortable"  

 Ray nodded and smiled. He planned on showing Christine around after lunch
anyway. He wanted to get her alone for a few minutes.  

 At that moment, Christine walked into the dining room. She had been
helping out in the kitchen but had been shooed out. Guests weren't
supposed to help clean up. She smiled at Ray as he finished conversing
with his mother. His handsome features broke into a grin when he caught
her looking at him. As Mrs. Vecchio left the dining room, Ray held out an
arm to Christine. She gladly stepped into his warm embrace, welcoming the
feel of his arms around her. They kissed briefly, Ray stopping to nuzzle
Christine's neck and hair. The scent of her skin filled his senses, a warm
welcome smell. Now that she was here, he doubted he would ever let her go.
 

 "Come" he whispered "I want to show you around"  He kissed the side of
her neck then turned away, taking her hand and leading her from the dining
room.  

 Ray showed Christine around the first floor quickly. Smiling slightly, he
led her upstairs. He showed her all the rooms, leaving his own for last.
Leading her inside, he shut the door behind them. In one smooth stride,
Ray stood beside Christine. He took her in his arms, placing a very
passionate kiss on her lips. It had seemed like an eternity since he had
held her like this. His mouth moved over hers in the familiar motions they
both knew so well.  

 Many long minutes later, Ray pulled his lips away from Christine. "I
thought I'd never see you again" he whispered to her. He pulled her close,
content to rest his chin on the top of her head.  

 "Neither did I," Christine whispered back. "After we got the news that
you had been killed, my world fell apart." Her slim fingers tightened
their grip on his wool sweater. "I wore that silk shirt you liked to your
funeral." she smiled, looking up at him.  

 Ray smiled back "I saw that. I thought that was a nice touch"	

 "You saw?" Christine was astounded. "How?"  

 "I was there, hiding." He pushed an errant strand of hair behind her ear.
"I saw how you cried for me. I was very touched."  

 Christine was both angry and thrilled.  He was there? He saw her? He
would have seen her take off the ring and place it on the headstone.  

 As if reading her mind, Ray pulled a tiny gold ring on a string from
around his neck. "I saw you take this off. I've been keeping it close to
my heart as a reminder of you ever since. I think you should have it back,
what do you say?" He snapped the piece of string and slipped the ring on
her finger. "Say you'll marry me? Again?"  

 "Of course," Christine laughed. She pulled Ray to her tightly, not
wanting to let go. They kissed again, seeking each other out and finding
what they searched for. Hands that had been empty for so long were busy
with clothing and then skin. The love that had been created in the large
mansion was rekindled here in the small room. Their bodies met in the
sacred union, the passion building before crashing like the tide.  

 Afterwards, they lay together in Ray's bed, the covers drawn over their
nude bodies. Ray ran his fingers through Christine's hair, the silken
strands flowing through his fingers. She nuzzled against his neck, kissing
him softly before falling asleep. For a few long minutes he listened to
the deep rhythm of her breathing before closing his own eyes, seeking the
sweet oblivion of sleep.  

******	

 Over the course of the next few days, Christine quickly grew accustomed
to the chaos of the Vecchio household. She slept in the guestroom, but
spent many an evening hour in Ray's room. They talked, about everything
and nothing, sometimes just being content to hold each other for comfort. 


 Soon Christmas came, the season of giving. Both Christine and Ray
remembered the Christmas one year ago. The night he had asked her to marry
him the first time and the night she said yes. The cozy Chicago house held
fewer decorations than the ones back at the Mercutio mansion, but these
decorations were warmer. Most had been created by loving hands, not bought
in some boutique. Many held the stamp of being shaped and molded by
children's hands. Ray showed Christine some of the ornaments he had made
over the years. To her, they were all so beautiful, each one speaking of
the love put into it. 
   
  On Christmas day, there was the usual exchanging of gifts. Christine had
used some of the money she had and bought gifts for everyone. She had
spent long hours deciding on just the right gift for each member of the
family. Everyone oohed and aahed over their gifts, thanking Christine for
her kindness. Christine in turn just blushed, saying it was the least she
could do for such a wonderful family.  

 The last gift Christine gave out was to her beloved Ray. It had taken a
long time to pick out the right gift for him, but finally she had managed
to do it. When Ray opened the small black box, his eyes widened. Inside
was a beautiful silver Rolex watch. Ray pulled the watch from the box,
turning it over in his hands. His eyes noticed the inscription on the back
and he read it aloud:  

Ray - 
 I count the hours I spend with you, 
 feeling blessed for every one. 
 Consider this a reminder of our time together 
 and our time to come. 
 Love, 
 Christine  

 Everyone gasped as Ray read the beautiful words inscribed on the back of
the watch. His own voice caught in his throat, almost making him unable to
finish the message. Tears slipped from his green eyes, sliding down his
unshaven cheeks.  

 "It's so beautiful Chris," he whispered.  

 Christine wrapped her arms around Ray's shoulders. "You're welcome" she
whispered back to him.	

 He looked up at her misty-eyed. "I don't have anything like this for you"
he confessed. Ray felt awful; his gift of a silver picture frame
containing a picture of them both wasn't nearly as nice as what she had
given him.  

 Ignoring Ray's protests, Christine opened the box that contained the
frame. Her own eyes widened as she caught sight of the picture frame.
"It's gorgeous" she whispered awed as her fingers ran along the silver
filigree. She hugged Ray hard, the tears flowing down her own cheeks.
Suddenly an idea came to her.  

 "Ray if you want to make this even, say one thing." she smiled softly.  

 "Anything" he answered.  

 "Say you love me" she grinned broadly. "That'll make us even, okay?"  

 Ray laughed, "All right, I love you Christine Mercutio. I love you with
all my heart" He kissed her then, chastely on the cheek.  

 Christine laughed, "Good, now we're even"  Her laughter was infectious,
and soon the whole family joined in. Laughing and enjoying Christmas
morning  

******	

 Christmas came and went, as did New Years Eve.  The Vecchio house held a
small celebration for New Years with a lovely meal and wonderful friends.
As they ate, Christine felt a tiny pang of sadness. Her own family was
probably doing the same thing. They were probably eating a simple meal
like the one she now ate, but theirs was in preparation for the feast at
the ball. A few silent tears slipped down her cheeks, but Christine
quickly wiped them away before anyone could notice.  

 New Years Eve night was spent in the company of friends. Christine
couldn't have been happier, she was having a wonderful time. Later that
night, she and Ray slipped upstairs. They stood together in his dark room,
arms around each other.  

 "I seem to remember being in a similar position a year ago" Ray smiled.  

 Christine laughed "Yep, but we were like this *after* I sang" She lay her
head on his shoulder and sighed.  

 "Then you should sing" he whispered back. "Sing the same song you sang to
me that night. It was so beautiful and perfect"  

 A smile crossed her lips. "Alright" she whispered back. After a second,
she began to sing softly. Ray closed his eyes, listening to the low
tones.  He held Christine tighter, moving to the slow tempo of the music.
In the winter moonlight they danced slowly, safe in the circle of the
others' arms.  

******	

 As the weeks progressed, so did the bond between Ray and Christine. They
slept together now, sharing the same bed and bedroom. Everyone knew and no
one really cared.  

 It was soon learned by the Vecchio family, that Christine was a good
cook. She had learned in the kitchens of her family home. The cooks there
had nurtured her bright mind, filling it with delicious Italian recipes.
The taste of her pasta fagiole brought tears to the eyes of whoever tasted
it. Mrs. Vecchio was very pleased with her soon to be daughter-in-law,
even letting Christine cook dinner on occasion.  

 Along with cooking, Christine helped around the house where ever she
could. During the day, when Ray was off working at the precinct, she would
help clean the house, or whatever needed to be done. She was good with the
kids, loving them as if they were her own.  

 Soon, spring came, winter releasing her hold on the windy city. Christine
had overcome most of her fear of being caught by her brother. She even
braved going out with the family, or to a quiet dinner with Ray. She still
looked over her shoulder, but now she did it less often. Fortunately, on
one fateful day, Christine was looking over her shoulder.  

 The whole family was out, enjoying a day out at the park. All the
children were running back and forth, playing games and such. Even
Frannie, Tony, Christine and Ray joined the kids, their laughter mingling
in the warm air. Maria was very pregnant, again, so she sat on a low
bench, chatting with Mrs. Vecchio. Amid a game of tag, Christine stopped
short, her face pale. She backed away, ducking behind a large oak tree.  

 Ray ran up to her "What's wrong?" he asked, almost breathless.  

 "It's David," she whispered, tears in her dark eyes. "He's over there, on
the other side of the park"  

 "Where?" Ray peeked around the tree trying to catch a glimpse of the
older brother Christine feared.  

 "There," she whispered "In the black coat"  

 Ray looked where Christine had pointed. Sure enough, he saw the figure in
the black coat and recognized it as her older brother David. Fear washed
through him. David couldn't see them yet, and Ray wanted to make sure he
never did. It would be quite catastrophic if he did see them. Christine
didn't want to go back to her life there, and Ray was supposed to be dead.
If caught, they would both probably end up very dead.  

 "Come on" he said hurriedly, taking Christine's arm. Quickly, they moved
towards Mrs. Vecchio, their backs to David. Ray explained to his mother
what was happening and he and Christine were leaving but would return.
"You never saw us" he instructed, "In fact, you don't even know us"  Mrs.
Vecchio nodded, her eyes solemn. Frannie nodded too, and ran off to tell
the rest of the family their instructions.  

 Christine and Ray ran to the edge of the park and to the waiting Riv.
Once inside, they took off, getting away as quickly and discreetly as
possible. After the park was out of sight, and they were sure no one was
following, only then did Christine breathe a sigh of relief. Even Ray let
out a shaky breath, slumping slightly in his seat.  

 "That was too close" Christine whispered, huddling in her seat.  

 Ray didn't say anything, his mind focused on getting them away. He went
up one street and down another, all the while thinking of the possible
outcome of the situation if they hadn't gotten away. Would David have been
so brazen as to confront them in the park? Would David have drawn his gun?
Would he? Ray was sure he knew the answer to the last question. Yes, he
would have drawn his gun, but only to defend his family and the woman he
loved. A gun was serious business, never to be drawn lightly. The
reassuring weight of the gun in it's holster comforted Ray. He knew he
could defend himself and Christine should the need arise.  

 Finally, after what seemed an eternity driving, they arrived at a safe
house. The police used it to house informants, but now it stood empty
awaiting the next visitor. Ray unlocked the door, letting Christine
inside. The house was cold, but it was safe, they wouldn't be bothered
here.  

*******  

 The next few days, Christine and Ray laid low in the safe house.  Ray had
made a brief stop at home, picking up a few necessary items. When he had
talked to his mother, she had told him that David had approached them,
saying he was looking for his sister. He had shown her a picture of
Christine, and although she recognized the picture, she had said that she
had never seen the girl before. Ray kissed his mother, he knew it was hard
for her, keeping this secret and not telling anyone Christine was there.
But Ray knew she cared for Christine, almost as much as he did and would
keep her safe the best way she could.  

 During that time, Christine and Ray finally started making their wedding
plans. They both wanted a nice wedding, not too big though. Christine
wasn't about to invite her family, she had cut off all her ties and left
them behind. She had a new life here in Chicago, a life she wasn't about
to give up so easily.  

 They talked long hours, lying in each other's arms in front of the
blazing fireplace. Christine described to Ray her dream wedding. Every
girl had the perfect wedding in her heart, and Christine told Ray hers.
She described the church, the flowers, her dress everything. Ray listened
to her words. He could see everything she talked about in his mind. He
could see her walking down the aisle, looking so beautiful in a gown of
pure white. He could see himself in an Armani tuxedo, or perhaps his
uniform, standing there at the altar. Of course, Fraser would be his best
man, they were best friends after all. Ray wondered whom Christine would
pick for her maid of honor. *It doesn't really matter* he thought *fancy
wedding or not, soon she'll be your bride* Ray liked that thought and he
fell asleep dreaming of it.  

******	

 A few days later, after Ray was convinced David wouldn't be coming after
Christine again, did they return home. Christine was glad for the return.
She liked being alone with Ray, but she missed the noise and warmth of the
other family members. Ray missed it too but he knew that coming home too
soon could have been disastrous.  

 Once again, they settled into the same old routine. Plans for the wedding
continued, but at a slightly slower pace. Neither Christine nor Ray wanted
to rush things. They were quite content with the way things were.  

 Not much later came Frannie's birthday. Christine quickly learned that
birthday's were a big thing in the Vecchio household. The entire house was
a buzz with activity, getting it ready for the party. Lights and streamers
were strung in the backyard creating a virtual magical kingdom. The tiny
white lights twinkled and shone as they were twined around the back porch.
Christine smiled with glee as she helped decorate the backyard.  

 Soon it was time to change and receive the guests. Christine showered and
changed into a dark blue dress. The simple cotton garment clinging to her
slender body. Ray's eyes lit up when he caught sight of her coming down
the stairs. For some reason, he felt awkward standing  beside her in his
jeans, t-shirt and jacket. If Christine noticed his uneasy motions, she
did not say. Instead she took his arm and proceeded to walk towards the
back porch and Frannie's birthday celebration.	

******	

 Several hours later, the party was still in full swing. Frannie had done
the catering herself, and the food was a hit. Christine sat at one of the
tables laughing as she watched Ray swing one of his nieces around the
yard. The child threw her head back, squealing with glee as she twirled
through the air. Ray too laughed as he easily moved among the scattered
people.  

 Wiping a laughter tear from her cheek, Christine let out a slow sigh. In
front of her lay a few empty plates and cups. Between the two of them,
both Christine and Ray had made total pigs of themselves. Now as he
twirled around the yard, she got up and began a slow stroll around the
perimeter. A wave of melancholy washed through her as she walked, but the
feelings didn't register on her face. Although her life had been a dreary
existence, she missed her family deeply. She missed the sounds of her
brothers and sisters, the voices of her mother and father.  

  Soon Christine found herself standing in a secluded spot, away from the
party. The sounds drifted on the cool night air reaching her ears, but
here there was silence. Shivering slightly, she turned her face towards
the sky trying to catch a glimpse of the stars. Their velvety blackness
did not soothe the loneliness nor did it banish the cold. But as cold as
she was, Christine didn't move from her spot her eyes rooted to the sky.  

 Christine shivered again, then felt a warm jacket slip around her
shoulders. Turning, she came face to face with Ray. He had removed his
jacket for her when he saw her shivering. Christine slipped her arms
through the jacket, welcome for the warmth it brought.	

 "Thanks," she smiled, unsure as to whether or not he caught the gesture. 


 "You're welcome," he smiled back, drawing her into his arms. "You looked
cold." He pushed a lock of hair from her eyes, reveling in the satiny feel
of it beneath his fingertips.  

 Christine rested her head on Ray's shoulder. "I was, but I feel better
now" She could hear his heartbeat as it pounded in his chest. Wrapping her
arms around his chest, she pulled herself closer to him.  

 They stood that way for a bit before Ray broke the silence. "Chris?"  

 "Hmmm?" she answered a bit dreamily. The warmth of his embrace had made
her sleepy.  

 "Are you happy here?" The question was blunt, but Ray had to ask. He had
to know her answer. When she had first arrived, he had seen the relief and
joy in her eyes. She was so happy to get away and be with him. Now, the
joy was still there, but it had an edge to it. Almost like pain or
sadness, but Ray couldn't be sure.  

 "Happy?" Christine lifted her head to meet Ray's eyes. "Of course I'm
happy" She lifted a small hand, caressing his cheek.  

 Ray leaned slightly into the soft touch. It hurt him to ask these
questions of her, but he proceeded. "Then why do I see sadness in your
eyes?"	

 Christine pulled out of Ray's embrace. "What are you talking about Ray?"
she laughed uneasily. She turned away from him, "You must be seeing
things." The words were bitter on her tongue. Since that fateful winter
day when he told her the truth, they had shared everything. She didn't
want him to worry about her now, so she was keeping this pain a secret.  

 "I'm not seeing things" Ray protested. He placed his hands on her
shoulders, turning her to face him. "I've seen you when you thought no one
was looking. I've seen you wipe away the tears. Now I know something is
making you upset. Please, tell me what it is. I want to help"  

 Christine looked up at Ray. She could see his eyes glittering in the pale
moonlight. Their gray-green depths shone with love and concern for her. He
did want to help her, but he couldn't if he didn't know what was wrong.
Taking a deep breath to calm her nervous stomach, Christine plunged
forward.  

 "Ray, I'm so happy here, never forget that." She caressed his cheek
again. "But I miss my family. I don't know why though, after the awful way
I was treated I should be glad to get away. I miss my mother, I miss my
father, my brothers and sisters. I was wondering if I - "  

 Ray cut her off before she could finish. "You want to go back don't you?"
He couldn't hide the disappointment in his eyes or his voice. For some
reason, he knew this situation was bound to happen. Christine had left her
family so quickly, it was only natural she wanted to go back. But how long
would she stay?  

 Christine answered that question before Ray could even voice it. "I won't
stay long. Hell Ray, they won't even see me. I just want to see them,
catch a brief glimpse" She looked away, unable to meet his eyes anymore.
Her hand dropped to her side as she turned away from him. 
 "I - I'll leave tomorrow and return in a few days, I promise"	

 The look in her eyes tore at Ray's heart. He knew it hurt her leaving to
go back to the place she hated. It was a big risk going back, she could be
caught and then Ray definitely would never see her again. But he also knew
she missed her family deeply and she would run the risk to catch even the
briefest glimpse of them.  

 "I understand" he whispered softly. "But do me one favor? Give me one
last dance?"  

 Christine turned, a slight smile on her lips. "Of course my love" She
slipped her arms around his neck as his hands encircled her narrow waist.
The slow strains of a love ballad flowed over them as they moved in the
shadows. Ray nuzzled Christine's hair and neck, breathing in the distinct
scent of her. A few days she had said, only a few days. But to him, she
might as well said an eternity. The months that they had been apart had
nearly drove him mad. Since she had come back to him, he never wanted her
to leave his side. His arms tightened briefly, but he knew he would have
to let go. A long forgotten quote flashed briefly across his mind *If you
love something let it go...*  Ray had never fully understood this quote,
but now with Christine in his arms, he understood it completely.  

 When the song ended, Ray looked down at the woman in his arms. She had
rested her head on his chest and had been silent while they had danced.
Ray had simply assumed that she didn't want to ruin their last moments
with meaningless words. He discovered that in truth, she had fallen
asleep. Her dark eyes were closed in peaceful rest, the slightest smile on
her lips. Ray had to smile, she looked so innocent asleep. But experience
had shown Ray she was *far* from the innocent everyone thought she was.  

 Chuckling softly to himself, Ray gently picked Christine up into his
arms. He moved carefully so as not to wake her. It still amazed him when
he picked her up, she seemed to weigh almost nothing. She was feather
light in his grip, a fact Ray now was very grateful for. With slow careful
steps, he made his way inside the house and up the stairs. Once inside his
room, Ray had to juggle Christine's form a bit while he pulled the covers
down on his bed before he could lay her down. Carefully, he began to
undress her. His hands skimmed over her skin as his eyes traced her gentle
curves. He stripped Christine down to her underwear before settling her
under the sheets. Turning away, Ray quickly undressed himself.	

 Slipping under the covers, Ray felt Christine snuggle against him in her
sleep. The day had made him bone-achingly tired and he longed for sleep.
Yet, try as he might, his mind wouldn't allow it. Over and over again, he
thought of how the woman beside him would be leaving in the morning. Going
back to her hometown to see her family. Ray knew Christine was torn
between staying and going but he wouldn't try to change her mind. At long
last, Ray fell asleep totally exhausted.  

******	

 The next morning, when Ray awoke, Christine was gone. All of her personal
things were gone too. The silver picture frame was gone from the bedside
table, the suitcase was gone from under the dresser. Ray knew where
Christine had gone, but that didn't stop his heart from clenching in fear.
He lay back on the pillows, catching the scent of her on the sheets.
Breathing deeply, he wished his love god speed on her journey and a safe
return to his waiting arms.  

******	

 As Ray lay in his bed thinking of her, Christine was on the move. She had
left before dawn and had made it back to her home town. It was nothing for
her to get a car, driving the back roads that led to her old home.  

 The stone fences around the property were as imposing as Christine
remembered them. Their dark gray heights reached for the blue sky. Gulping
nervously, she quickly scaled a nearby tree and took her first look over
the fence. She could see the main gardens, now in full bloom. Many an hour
had been spent there in quiet contemplation, or talking to Ray. Christine
sighed softly and picking up the binoculars that hung around her neck
began scanning the grounds for a glimpse of her family.  

 After a few minutes, she caught sight of a few of her nieces and nephews.
They were playing a game of tag in the sprawling backyard.  Their laughter
soared in the spring air, reaching her ears. Christine let out a small
sigh, she missed her family deeply. There had been quite a few changes in
them since she had left. Her eldest niece, Meghan had blossomed quickly,
becoming a young woman overnight. Even little Elizabeth was toddling all
over the bright green grass, eager to join her cousins.  

 Christine laughed lightly as she watched the children play. She lowered
her binoculars and lay her head against a branch of the tree. If she had
thought to take those binoculars and scan the surrounding trees, she would
have seen that she was being watched. She knew she was the hunter, but she
didn't know that she was also the prey. 
   
 ******  

 That night, after everyone was asleep, Christine dared the impossible.
She had been able to sneak out the house, but could she sneak back in?
With fear in her heart, she tried and was successful.  

 Stealing up the back stairs, she made the way up to her room. The dark
quarters were exactly as she had left them. Nothing had been changed.
Using only the moonlight to guide her, Christine slowly walked around her
bedroom. She ran her fingers over the silk sheets, the cherry side tables.
Tears came unbidden to her eyes, falling down her cheeks, as she knelt on
the plush carpeting. Oh how she missed this place deeply. She missed the
sounds of her family, their familiar voices. The Vecchio family was much
warmer and more caring to her than her real family had been, but Christine
still missed her biological ties.  

 Christine sat there crying on her floor for many minutes. She wrapped her
arms around herself, wishing Ray was there to do the same. She wanted to
lay her head on his chest, hear his voice whispering in her ear. Soon, she
reminded herself, soon you'll be with him again.  

 Soon it was time to go. Sniffling quietly, Christine stood and looked
around her. She tried to commit every square inch to her memory. When she
left, she wouldn't look back, wouldn't come back. This was it, the last
time she'd ever see this room again. With a final forlorn look, Christine
checked to make sure she left no hint of her visit and quietly stole from
the chambers.  

 Sticking to she shadows, slowly Christine made her way down and out the
house. She was completely unaware of the pair of eyes that watched her.
The dark eyes belonged to a man, hired not long after Christine
disappeared, for the sole purpose of finding her. With an evil grin, the
man watched as she made her escape. He had told David that she would
return; it was inevitable considering her strong family ties. Such a thing
was only a matter of time. As Christine scaled the outer wall, her watcher
lifted a walkie-talkie to his lips.  

 "Follow her," he told the person on the other end.  

******	

 After spending a day locked in her hotel room, Christine returned to
Chicago. She had called and spoke to Ray briefly the night before. She
told him which flight she would be on and which gate to meet her at. Their
conversation was short, brief snatches of words. For long minutes they sat
in silence, as if the phone line was their only connection. The heavy
sound of Ray's breathing informed Christine that he was battling yet
another cold. When she got back, she'd be sure to pamper him back to
recovery. It was the least she could do for him.  

 All through the flight, Christine felt anxious. Would Ray meet her at the
airport? He said he would, but she knew his being a detective often made
him break promises like that. Getting a taxi would be no problem, but
Christine wanted Ray. To ease her stomach, she plugged in her Walkman and
listened to the tape Ray had given her. Every song on it was one that was
special to them both in some way. Perhaps they danced to it, or she hummed
the tune to him sometime, or it was played in the background at one of
their quiet meals. The music eased her tense muscles, totally relaxing
her.  

 While the plane taxied on the runway, Christine watched for Ray. Walking
through the gate, she kept her eyes open for him. Her heart thudded in her
chest, was he here? Then suddenly, she caught sight of a familiar
camel-colored coat. It was Ray, his back turned to her.  

 "Ray!"  Christine shouted over the crowds.  

 Ray turned in response to the shout. He immediately saw Christine jumping
and waving for his attention. A big grin moved across his handsome
features.  

 "Chris!" he shouted back.  

 Christine laughed and all but launched herself at him. She covered the
distance quickly, throwing her arms around Ray as he did the same back.
They hugged each other for a long time.  

 "Boy I missed you Ray" Christine finally managed to get out.  

 "And I missed you" he smiled back, "It was odd not seeing you in the
house"	

 "But I was only gone for two days!"  

 "Yeah, but they were the longest two days I've ever spent. Did you know I
worried for you every minute?" Ray let the relief flow into his voice. He
did worry about her, worried about her safety. Now that she was back safe
with him, he never wanted to let go.  

 Christine rested her head against Ray's chest. The relief he felt at
having her safe echoed the same relief she felt at being safe. After a
minute, she lifted her head and stared him in the face. Her assessment
over the phone had been correct, he did have a cold. His face was a bit
pale as if he was overly tired. Christine placed a hand to his forehead,
her fingers cool to his burning brow.  

 "What are you doing?" Ray asked, trying to back away.	

 "Hush!" Christine whispered. She closed her eyes, trying to gage if he
had a fever or not. Finally she opened her eyes, "You've got a cold and a
fever. You should be in bed"  

 Ray grinned a slightly evil grin "Only if you come with me," he teased.  

 Christine's eyes grew wide. "Ray!" she gasped. Punching him playfully on
the arm, she laughed. "Let's go get my luggage. Then we'll see about
getting you to bed" She waggled her eyebrows at him, making him laugh.	

 "Deal," he grinned.  

 Arm in arm they walked away from the gate towards baggage claim. Neither
was aware of a dark suited man watching their every move. Both Ray and
Christine breezed past him, paying him no attention. To them, he was just
another businessman in the Chicago airport. No big deal. Watching them,
the dark suited man took a cell-phone from his suit pocket. He punched in
the preprogrammed number and waited for a connection. It didn't take long.
 

 "I've found her Mr. Mercutio" he said. No explanations were needed, it
was very clear who "her" was. The dark suited man smiled then, an evil
smile as he listened to his instructions.  

******	

 Two weeks had passed since Christine had come back. Her and Ray's life
had returned to normal, or it's closest factor living in the Vecchio
household. It was quiet, nothing out of the ordinary had happened. That
was, until one fateful Friday night.  

 It was early summer in Chicago. School had been let out for the
three-month vacation. Taking opportunity of the wonderful weather sweeping
across the country, the Vecchio clan traveled to Florida. Everyone went,
with the exception of Ray and Christine.  

 The family had been gone for a few days already, their trip was to last
approximately two weeks. The house was quiet without all the noise from
everyone and although Ray and Christine enjoyed the silence, they missed
the noise too.	

 It was on this one night that the fate of their relationship would be
decided. After a particularly satisfying meal of take-out pizza, Ray and
Christine stretched out on the sofa in the living room. Ray had just
closed his eyes, letting the sound of Christine's breathing and the feel
of her warm breath on his skin lull him to sleep, when a loud pounding on
the door interrupted him.  

 "What the...?" he said, his eyes popping open. Christine too had opened
her eyes.  

 Before either of them could react, there came an ear-splitting crack and
the front door blew open. Ray instantly jumped to his feet, pushing
Christine behind him. He felt her hands on his arm, squeezing him in fear
and reassurance.  

 Dark coated figures poured through the broken door, pointing guns at all
angles. Both Christine and Ray recognized the one in the lead. It was
David, Christine's older brother. As he strode towards them, Ray backed up
with Christine moving behind him. Ray could just imagine the look of sheer
terror that was in her eyes. He had seen that fear in her before, back
when he had first met her and every other time she spoke of her family.
The same fear coursed through Ray, but it only fueled his anger.  

 David smiled then, a predatory smile, pure evil. He leveled his gun at
Ray, the muzzle aimed for the heart. Ray didn't move, barely breathed, but
his look shot daggers at this man who had caused so much misery. With the
other hand, David reached behind Ray and grabbed Christine roughly. Her
cry of fear and pain made Ray flinch. He had silently vowed she would
never cry like that again. Now all he could do was stand by and watch as
she was manhandled by her brother.  

 The grip on her arm was like an iron band. Much as she tried, Christine
could not twist out of it. Her struggling stopped when David pointed his
gun at her temple. He leaned in to her, his voice whispering in her ear.  

 "I wouldn't struggle if I were you, cara" he whispered to her in fluent
Italian. The threats that came across in that simple statement made her
stop.  

 Christine ceased her struggling. She knew that David would make good on
his unspoken threats if she fought him. He would hurt Ray, or worse kill
him. Christine wouldn't have been able to live with herself if that had
happened. So instead she relaxed, feeling the cold steel muzzle press
against her head.  

 "Good" David smiled down at his baby sister. He gripped her tighter,
"Now, we're going to walk out of here calmly. No sudden moves. I wouldn't
try to follow us if I were you Detective Vecchio. Not unless you want to
see Chrissy here get hurt" The words dripped like acid off David's tongue.
The hatred he felt for the Chicago cop was almost a physical thing.
Christine cringed inwardly when she saw Ray flinch at David's words. The
threat of her getting hurt ripped at Ray's heart. He would do anything to
see she didn't, even if that meant doing nothing.  

 Clutching Christine like a prized possession, David backed towards the
door. He kept his gun trained on her temple, using it more as a threat to
Ray. The dark suited men that had been waiting for their boss to finish
his business now exited the broken front door. Ray didn't try to follow,
instead he stood absolutely still, his eyes never leaving Christine's. In
those few seconds before their link was broken, Ray tried to convey to
Christine every ounce of love he felt for her.	

 Following several feet behind, Ray watched helplessly as David dragged
Christine down the front walk. He pulled her towards the black limousine,
shoving her inside. Before the door shut on her, Christine peeked out and
looked straight at Ray. She mouthed three words to him *I love you* before
she was blocked from his sight.  

 As the car pulled away into the night, the detective in Ray took note of
the license plates on the limo. *Not like that will help any* he thought
ruefully, *I already know who took her*  Ray's eyes never left the
departing taillights, not until they disappeared around a corner. When
they were gone, only then did he turn and go back into the house. He
picked up the phone and called the precinct. He'd be damned if a jerk like
David stormed in and took Christine away from him.  

 "Over my dead body..." he grumbled to himself waiting for dispatch. He
knew David would do anything to keep them apart and force Christine to
marry for power. Ray also knew he'd do anything to get Christine back. He
just wondered how far "anything" could go...  

END  

Stay tuned for the third chapter to see what happens...  

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