《The Love She Wanted》


 Prologue

    ¡®She¡¯s such a sweet girl.¡¯ Nicholas Fisher thinks about his neighbour, the shy Annalise Smith, a beautiful blonde with bright blue eyes. ¡®We haven¡¯t spoken to each other very much but¡­.¡¯ Nicholas thinks as he sips his coffee. Looking back on their conversations, despite her awkward demeanour he is intrigued by her. ¡®I know she likes me¡­¡¯ He says contemplating his feelings.


    ¡®He¡¯s so handsome¡­¡¯ Annalise thinks as she sighs in regret. ¡®Why can¡¯t I have a proper conversation with him?¡¯ She thinks back to her conversation with her neighbour Nicholas Fisher. ¡®His soft brown eyes¡­his amazing brown hair¡­ and the way he smiles.¡¯ It was rare for someone to make an effort to make Annalise feel conformable and Nicholas did exactly that. ¡®If only I didn¡¯t fall for him, I wouldn¡¯t be this nervous¡­.¡¯ Annalise says as she sighs and lies down on her bed.


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    ¡®Why did she leave me¡­¡¯ Benjamin MacLerie says as he finishes his drink, his black hair messed up and his green eyes filled with tears. He sits at the bar with his best friend, Hugh Tompkins Jr. as he watches his friend drink his sorrows away. ¡®Why wasn¡¯t I good enough for her¡­¡¯ Benjamin thinks to himself unable to remember the happy times he had with his ex-wife. The sole memory of her leaving him kept replying in his mind as he continues to sob.


    Trying to deal with the problems at hand, each person tries to do what they think is best. But sometimes one good deed can lead to something much more than one can handle. From delightful conversations to disastrous situations, the change that can be brought from one chance encounter can impact not only one¡¯s actions but one¡¯s feelings.

 At the Bridge

    ''All I want is to be loved by someone¡­.'' Annalise Smith thought to herself as she drives around town late at night. She drives around aimlessly, trying to comfort herself. The empty streets leave her with no one to confront but herself. With a growing frustration inside her, she recalls the events of the day.


    Today was like any other day for Annalise. She is a Ph.D. student studying psychology and is now doing an internship on campus. It is a great learning experience as she observes Dr. Knightley treat various patients. After a long day, Annalise just wanted to go home and relax. But as she leaves university grounds she checks her social media and finds out her ex-boyfriend is getting married. A picture of her ex and his new fianc¨¦ annoys Annalise as she tries to ignore it. As she returns home she bumps into her neighbour and crush Nicholas Fisher. Nicholas is a journalist and is now heading to a live celebrity event. He being a gentleman, briefly speaks to her before he leaves. This short conversation however, sadly made Annalise realize certain things.


    Annalise now drives around town with various thoughts going through her head. She is single and in her late twenties, she has not been in a proper long-term relationship and the man she has a crush on for more than a year sees her as nothing more than a friend. Annalise''s hands begin to tremble, clenching the steering wheel as she tries to control her tears.


    ''Why can''t I be in a relationship? Why am I so unlucky in love? Why can''t I ask Nicholas out?'' As her mind fills with such questions, the last question stuck with her. ''I have known Nick for a year and have barely tried¡­'' Annalise thinks back to how they met and how kind he was to her. He was one of the few people she felt comfortable around, which she found liberating. Despite this, she has never made an effort to try and get close to him. This wasn¡¯t because she didn''t know how, but rather she was nervous to.


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    Trying to comfort herself, she finds herself driving across a bridge. She takes a deep breath, looks around and notices a sports car parked there. She begins to slow down as she notices a man leaning over the bridge looking down. She slowly parks her car and quietly gets out, careful not to startle the man. She approaches him slowly and as she gets closer she says softly "Excuse me¡­"


    "What?" The man says as he jumps up and turns around, startling her. "Hi¡­" He says looking drunk. He tries to stand straight and takes a few steps towards her. "How may I help¡­.?" He says as he loses his balance and falls to the ground.


    "Are you ok?" Annalise says as she tries to help him up.


    "Yup¡­" He says as he sits on the ground. He looks up at her. "Can you help me?"


    "Sure¡­" Annalise says as she sits down next to him.


    "I am trying to get there." He says as he points to the railing of the bridge.


    "There is nothing there." Annalise replies despite understanding what he meant. "How about we stay here." As she says these words the man begins to cry bitterly as he tries lying on the ground.


    "What''s the point?" He says in a soft voice. "Staying here? What can I do here?"


    "Relax." Annalise says as she tries to hold him up, patting his back. "Let''s take you home."


    "I don''t want to go home¡­"


    "Ok¡­ let''s just walk to my car then." Annalise says as he begins to calm down. "Come on, let''s get you up." She says as she stands up. Though hesitant at first he slowly stands up too, though not steady on his feet. He leans on her as she puts his arm around her and they walk closer to her car. Once she gets to her car, she opens the passenger''s seat and just then the man turns her around. Startled at what was happening she leans on the car with him coming closer to her. He looks her straight in the eye and what was first an upset look had now turned passionate. He leans in closer as Annalise cannot look away as she begins to notice not only the passion but pain in his eyes. He leans in closer and opens his mouth and says.


    "Scar¡­"

 Where Am I?

    Benjamin MacLerie could not remember what happened as he opened his eyes the next morning. Waking up in a strange bed he looks around, examining his surroundings. With a terrible headache, he tries to remember the events of the previous night. He gets up from bed and stretches as he hears what seems to be the sound of a whistle coming from the other room. He slowly opens the door to find Annalise making breakfast. She notices him, smiles and begins a conversation.


    "Good morning¡­" Annalise says with a smile. "Did you sleep well?"


    "Yeah¡­" Benjamin says sceptically as he approaches her.


    "Coffee?" Annalise says trying to sound as comforting as possible.


    "I am sorry but where am I?" Benjamin asks as he looks around.


    "You''re in my apartment." Annalise says as she pours him a cup of coffee. Benjamin sits down and begins to drink it, trying to think straight through the pain. "I am Annalise by the way."


    "Benjamin¡­" He replies looking confused. "Anna¡­"


    "Ann." She corrects.


    "Sorry, Ann." Benjamin says as he takes a sip of coffee. "Something happened last night, didn''t it?" He says trying to sound oddly sure of himself.


    "So you do remember." Anna replies as Benjamin''s face grows regretful.


    "I am so sorry." He says swiftly. "I don''t know what''s gotten into me these days. I seem to be doing this a lot."


    "You have been throwing up on people a lot?" Annalise asks with a slight grin.


    "Throwing up¡­?" Benjamin asks as he suddenly remembers what happened. "This is so humiliating. Let me pay for dry-cleaning."


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    "That''s alright." Ann reassures him.


    "No, it''s not." Benjamin says and he takes another sip of coffee. "Where is my car?" He proceeds to ask as the coffee has helped kick-start his thinking.


    "It''s parked downstairs." Ann replies. "I got it towed while you drove with me." Benjamin still does not remember most of what happened the previous night. And although he has a lot of questions, he refuses to ask out of embarrassment.


    "I don''t seem to remember certain details." Benjamin says trying to cover his tracks.


    "You want me to catch you up?" Ann asks.


    "No." Benjamin says firmly. "I remember most of what happened last night." He says confidently.


    "You do?" Ann asks smiling.


    "Yes¡­." Benjamin lies. "I was aware of what happened."


    "Even what we discussed?"


    "Yes." Benjamin says not sure of what they discussed. "Well¡­thank you." He says as he finishes his coffee quickly, trying to get out of what he considers an awkward situation. "I should get going." He says as he swiftly stands up.


    "Wait." Ann says as she looks around trying to find something. She then takes out and hands him a card with her professional information.


    "You''re a therapist?" Benjamin asks as he takes and examines the card.


    "Psychologist." She replies. "I have written my personal number on the back."


    "Alright." Benjamin says believing this is in connection to the dry-cleaning and towing charges. "Thanks." He says as he leaves taking a deep breath, unable to recall most of what happened last night. He gets into his car and drives home, trying to recall all that he can. As he approaches his house, he sees various police cars waiting outside. As he slows down he lowers the window and asks one of the officers "What''s going on officer?"


    "Benjamin MacLerie?" The officer says seemingly recognizing him.


    "Yes."


    "Kindly step outside the vehicle." Not sure of what is happening he calmly parks the car and gets out.


    "Sir, where were you last night?" The officer asks.


    "I was out¡­" Benjamin asks as another officer approaches him. "What happened?"


    "Your ex-wife Scarlet MacLerie, was kidnapped last night." Benjamin''s mind sinks at these words. He remains unresponsive for a moment as he is unable to properly take in what he has heard. "Sir we would like you to come with us."


    "How did that happen?" Benjamin asks as these words barely leave his mouth.


    "She was at the residence of Mr. Gregory Morgan. He was brutally assaulted¡­" On hearing these words Benjamin let out an unconscious smile. "Is something funny?" The officer asks angrily.


    "No¡­" Benjamin replies as the officer stares him down.


    "Please come with us we have a few questions to ask you." The officer says as he puts his hand on Benjamin.


    "Wait¡­Why me?" Benjamin asks now growing concerned.


    "After the threats you made, you are a suspect."

 Mystery Woman

    Benjamin is now at the police station, waiting to be questioned. He is shocked to learn about what happened to Scarlet but at the same time devastated that he is a suspect. Scarlet was Benjamin''s high school sweetheart and they were married for 8 years. About 10 months ago she left him for another man named Gregory Morgan. Benjamin was a professional fencer who had won a few Olympic medals. Gregory was on the same fencing team and though he couldn''t beat Benjamin in a match, he won the heart of his wife. Scarlet left Benjamin feeling betrayed and broken. He soon took to drinking to numb the pain. A few weeks ago Benjamin saw the two of them together and verbally assaulted them. The police got involved and though no charges were filed, he was heard saying ''I will kill you, Gregory! You better watch your back because I will kill both of you!!"


    These were the words the police must have heard and connected Benjamin to the crime. The fact that he smiled when he heard about Gregory did not help the situation. But knowing that the one who caused him so much pain was beaten horrible was oddly satisfying for him.


    "Mr. MacLerie." An officer says as he walks into the room. "I¡¯m detective Oscar Smith; this is my assistant Dean. We would like to ask you a few questions."


    "Sure." Benjamin says as he sits up straight.


    "Where were you last night?" Oscar asks.


    "I was out." Benjamin replies.


    "That''s alright but where exactly were you?" Oscar asks. Benjamin thinks back, he was drinking at his house and then drove out. This was all he remembered.


    "I was drinking at home and then decided to go for a drive."


    "We saw that." Dean says. "We reviewed the security footage in your building. You left at 9:30 last night."


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    "And returned this morning." Oscar says as he peers into Benjamin''s face. "Where did you go?"


    "I went out for a drive."


    "Where?" Benjamin was not sure about what happened last night and hence couldn''t answer this questions properly. "Mr. MacLerie, where were you last night?" Oscar asks sounding stern. Trying to think back he suddenly remembers Ann.


    "I was with someone." Benjamin says suddenly.


    "Who?" Dean asks.


    "This girl¡­." Benjamin says.


    "I see. And does ''this girl'' have a name?" Oscar replies sarcastically.


    "Yes." Benjamin says taking out the card and handing it to Dean. "Call the number on the back. That''s my alibi, I was with her all night." Benjamin says as Oscar looks at Dean who steps outside to make a call.


    "You better not be lying to us Mr. MacLerie." Oscar says firmly.


    "I am not." Benjamin replies strongly staring at the strong, slightly intimidating officer.


    "I made the call, she will be here soon." Dean says as he enters the room and returns the card to Benjamin. Oscar looks at Benjamin as he goes out of the room to wait for this mysterious woman. Benjamin is made to wait outside as well. After about half an hour Oscar comes and sits next to Benjamin.


    "Thirty minutes and still no sign of this woman of yours¡­" Oscar mocks.


    "She will get here." Benjamin replies confidently. And just then the door opens and in walks Annalise.


    "Ann." Both Oscar and Benjamin called out at the same time. The two of them look at each other confused as a strange tension begins to build.


    "Hi." Ann says as she approaches the two men.


    "What are you doing here?" Oscar asks calmly.


    "I got a call about Benjamin." She replies as Oscar realizes the situation.


    "Yes¡­" Oscar replies and is soon joined by Dean.


    "Hi, Ms. Smith we have a few questions to ask you." Dean says and is interrupted by Oscar.


    "We know Dean¡­" Oscar says uncomfortably.


    "So you are Dean!" Ann replies. "I am Ann, Oscar''s¡­"


    "Little sister." Dean interrupts as he shakes her hand. "It''s so nice to finally meet you. Oscar has told me so much about you¡­" Benjamin takes a good look and notices the resemblance.


    "Well¡­ Hi¡­¡± Ann says smiling softly.


    "Ahem" Oscar says as he clears his throat. "How do you know Benjamin?" Oscar asks curiously.


    "Well, he will be coming to our campus for counselling sessions." Ann replied.


    "What?" Benjamin looks up shocked by her words.

 Responsible

    "Therapy?" Oscar asks as he looks at Benjamin who at that moment tries to hide his confusion.


    "Yes, we met last night, we got to talking and he decided it would be best for him to come for counselling." Ann replies as Benjamin has no recollection of this conversation.


    "And after that you went your separate ways¡­ right?" Oscar asks.


    "No, he stayed over at my place." Ann replies. "He left this morning." She then looks to Benjamin and asks. "What happened?"


    "Nothing to worry about." Oscar says calmly but Dean interrupts him.


    "His ex-wife was kidnapped and her lover was assaulted last night." As Dean says this Oscar stares at him, not wanting to worry his sister.


    "Oh my¡­" Ann says.


    "As you can see, I was with Ann last night." Benjamin says as he stands up and puts his hand on Ann''s shoulder. "I could not have committed that crime because I have an alibi."


    "That is not enough¡­" Oscar says trying to keep his cool. "What time were you together?"


    "We met at around 11:30. We arrived at my apartment at around midnight." Ann says noticing her brother''s agitation. "If you want, you can check the security footage at my building." Ann says as she moves away from Benjamin. "I''m sure there is footage of us going into my apartment and him leaving."


    "Of course, we will do that." Dean says.


    "Is that all¡­?" Ann asks. "I have to¡­"


    "Yes." Oscar says abruptly. "You can go." Ann then turns to leave the room. "Bye Ann¡­" Oscar says with a bright smile. Benjamin finds this new change of pace interesting. The first overbearing and intimidating detective is now the loving older brother. His smile is so warm, Benjamin almost forgot about his previous behaviour.


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    "I better get going too¡­" Benjamin says.


    "Not you!" Oscar says firmly as he reverts to his cold persona. He approaches Benjamin and says "This is not over."


    "Look." Benjamin says now frustrated. "Why don''t you ask Gregory who attacked him last night, instead of coming up with fairy tales."


    "He''s in a coma." Dean replies. "Didn''t you hear?" Benjamin looks surprised on hearing this and backs down. "We will find out who did it." Dean says as Benjamin nods and slowly leaves the building. Dean then looks at Oscar, who is clearly annoyed by the situation.


    "What are you looking at?" Oscar says noticing Dean staring at him.


    "Just wondering what''s bothering you so much." Dean replies.


    "What was that man doing at my sister''s place!" Oscar says.


    "Talking¡­I guess" Dean says with a smirk which is met with Oscar''s deadly gaze. "Grow up Oscar, she''s not a kid."


    "You don''t have to tell me that. I just think she would be a bit more responsible about these things." Oscar says defensively as Dean gives him yet another look. "What?"


    "Be more responsible? She is not dating someone who only wants to meet in secret." Dean says.


    "Ruby is different ok. She just wants to take things slow." Oscar replies trying to stay calm.


    "I¡¯m just saying¡­ In this day and age, what does she have to hide? And to a cop¡­who can easily look up information¡­"


    "Look, I really like her ok.¡± Oscar interrupts Dean. ¡°And I know it is difficult to understand but, I trust her." Oscar says as he picks up certain files from the desk next to him. "Enough of this, let''s get back to work." Dean and Oscar then continue their work.


    Meanwhile, Ann goes back to university and finishes her day. As she returns home, she sees Nicholas opening his door.


    "Hi." Nicholas says. In a moment, Ann looks at Nicholas, a very handsome gentleman, and is overcome. "How are you Ann? You seem to be in a good mood." Taking a deep breath, Ann speaks.


    "Hi. What makes you think I am in a good mood?" She says unsuccessfully trying to hide her nervousness.


    "I heard you humming." He says as he approaches her, pretending to trip. "Man, I am so clumsy." He says. She can''t help but smile, Nicholas was an observant and compassionate man. He knew certain situations made Ann anxious and would usually try making jokes, sometimes at his own expense to cheer her up.


    "It was a nice day today." Ann says. "How was that event you went to?"


    "It was fine; the usually snobs you know." He says smiling sarcastically. "Well, I better get going." Nicholas says cutting the conversation short.


    "Wait¡­"

 Lets Go Out

    ¡°Wait.¡± Ann says as Nicholas looks back at her. She looks at him, takes a deep breath and says. ¡°I was wondering¡­if you are free¡­maybe we¡­¡±


    ¡°I would love to go out with you Ann.¡± Nicholas says giving a bright smile as he cuts her off. ¡°But I¡¯m busy today, maybe tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Sounds good.¡± Ann says trying to contain her excitement. ¡°I have to go.¡± She says as she quickly opens her apartment door and runs in. She sits on the couch, her heart pounding and her body trembling. She smiles, happy that she finally managed to ask out Nicholas as she hugs a pillow next to her. Taking her time to calm down she gets up excited for tomorrow, hoping all will go well. A few hours later there is a knock on her door. Not expecting any visitors at that time, she opens the door to find Benjamin.


    ¡°Hi, Benjamin.¡± She says pleasantly surprised.


    ¡°Hi, Ann.¡± Benjamin says. ¡°You look nice.¡± He says awkwardly as she looks down at her sauce-stained apron and messy appearance.


    ¡°Thanks¡­¡± Ann says weirdly.


    ¡°Sorry, I just didn¡¯t know what to say.¡± Benjamin says trying to better the situation. ¡°Can we talk?¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­ Come on in.¡± Ann says as she opens the door.


    ¡°Actually¡­¡± Benjamin says standing at the door. ¡°Can we go out? Dinner¡¯s on me¡­ unless you have already made dinner?¡±


    ¡°No, I haven¡¯t.¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°Great, I¡¯ll meet you downstairs.¡± Benjamin says swiftly. ¡°Take your time, I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±  Benjamin jolts away leaving Ann to wonder what had happened. Regardless, she gets ready and goes to meet him and he drives her to D&Zzzz, a popular restaurant in the neighbourhood.


    ¡°This is a lovely place...¡± Ann says clearly a little nervous.


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    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Benjamin asks noticing Ann¡¯s discomfort.


    ¡°No, I am fine¡­ just takes me a while to adapt.¡± Ann says calming herself. ¡°You know we can get separate cheques.¡±


    ¡°That is not necessary, I asked you to meet me out of the blue. It¡¯s only fair.¡± He replies smiling. Ann continues to wonder why he asked her out in the first place. He did not say much on the car ride over but had only superficially complimented her outfit. After ordering, there was nothing else left for them to do, but to discuss why he wanted to see her.


    ¡°So, why did you want to see me Benjamin?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°Please, it''s Ben.¡± He says as he continues. ¡°It¡¯s about this counselling.¡±


    ¡°Yes. I have already booked your appointment.¡± She says enthusiastically.


    ¡°What? I¡¯m a busy man Ann¡­ how could you know when I¡¯m free?¡± He asks surprised.


    ¡°You told me that night¡­¡± She says. ¡°You don¡¯t remember¡­¡±


    ¡°I do remember.¡± He says though he recalls nothing. ¡°The reason I called you here was because I changed my¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± Benjamin and Ann look back and see Benjamin¡¯s best friend Tom and Nicholas at the door calling out and waving at them.


    ¡°That¡¯s him¡­¡± Ann whispers as they wave at each other. ¡°Followed your advice, I asked him out and he said yes¡­¡± She says excitedly as Benjamin nods, pretending to know what she¡¯s talking about.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Tom asks as he and Nicholas come to their table.


    ¡°We were just having dinner.¡± Benjamin replies.


    ¡°Hi Ann.¡± Nicholas says as Ann smiles.


    ¡°You two know each other¡­¡± Tom asks as he smirks.


    ¡°Yes¡­ This is Ann. And Ann this is Hugh Tompkins Jr.¡± Nicholas says introducing them to one another.


    ¡°Wait, the Hugh Tompkins?¡± Ann asks surprised.


    ¡°The one and only.¡± Tom replies smiling. Hugh Tompkins Jr. is a famous jazz composer and musician. He is not only known for his music but good looks and charity work.


    ¡°I love your music¡­¡± Ann says as they begin a conversation. Benjamin gets annoyed at this development.


    ¡°What are you sitting so glum for?¡± Tom asks smacking Benjamin¡¯s shoulder. Benjamin smiles and takes a sip of whiskey. ¡°You know what would be a great idea, let¡¯s have dinner together.¡±


    ¡°That sounds great.¡± Nicholas says as they sit down at the same table. Ann is nervous being around someone famous who she admires, Nicholas quickly taking note of this tries his best to make her feel at ease. In all of this Benjamin sits quietly barely speaking as he continues drinking. After a great dinner, they decide to meet for drinks at a bar. Nichols and Tom stay at the table for a few moments to discuss certain things as Ann and Benjamin go to the bar. After they order some drinks, Benjamin who is clearly tipsy begins to speak.


    ¡°Listen Ann, I don¡¯t want no counselling.¡±

 Whats Your Problem

    ¡°What?¡± Ann asks looking at his serious face. She noticed his grumpy behaviour all evening as she kept wondering what had caused it.


    ¡°I said I don¡¯t want any counselling. If I said anything that made you think that I wanted counselling, please forget it.¡± Benjamin says as he orders and drinks another shot.


    ¡°I knew it¡­¡± Ann says. ¡°You don¡¯t remember what we talked about that night do you?¡±


    ¡°I am not some drunk who forgets stuff when he drinks.¡± Benjamin says defensively.


    ¡°It¡¯s common to forget stuff when you drink.¡± Ann replies. ¡°Alcohol affects how nerves communicating with the hippocampus part of the brain causing people to forget.¡± Benjamin sniggers at these words. ¡°You know what else alcohol does, it makes people tell the truth.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Benjamin stares at her as she continues.


    ¡°All I am saying is with the conversation we had, I do think you meant it when you said you needed help.¡± Ann replies calmly.


    ¡°I would never say that!¡± Benjamin says firmly. ¡°I am fine¡­¡±


    ¡°Look Ben, why not give counselling a try. I mean maybe subconsciously you do think that it won¡¯t be a bad idea.¡± Ann says as she is aggressively interrupted by Benjamin.


    ¡°I am fine!¡± He says intimidating Ann causing her to take a step back bumping into some women standing behind her.


    ¡°I am sorry.¡± Ann says as she turns around.


    ¡°You should be, you spilled my drink.¡± The woman replies.


    ¡°It was an accident.¡± Ann replies.


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    ¡°Maybe it was subconscious.¡± Benjamin replies rudely as Ann turns to look at him, the woman takes a drink and pours it on Ann¡¯s head.


    ¡°Oops¡­¡± She says as she and her friends laugh. At that moment, Ann is reminded of high school and how badly she was bullied. Her feelings take over and she feels humiliation, pain and anxiety once again. Despite the loud music, all she can hear are the laughs of the women echoing in her head. As she stands there motionless she feels someone putting a coat around her. She looks up and sees Nicholas as he puts his arm around her firmly, standing strong.


    ¡°Is there a problem, ladies?¡± He asks firmly.


    ¡°Yes, she spilled my drink.¡± The woman replies rudely.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I saw.¡± Tom says holding his phone. The women immediately recognize Tom and smile. ¡°I saw you throwing a drink at my friend.¡± Tom says as the women¡¯s expression change to concern.


    ¡°No¡­I mean¡­¡± The woman tries to explain.


    ¡°Let¡¯s end this here¡­¡± Tom says firmly. ¡°Walk away¡­¡±


    ¡°We are huge fans.¡± The woman says as she tries to get close to him.


    ¡°Then I expect you to treat my friends with respect.¡± Tom asserts himself respectfully as the women look stunned. ¡°Please leave¡­¡± Unable to say a thing the women leave silently and Tom looks at Ann who is trembling.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take her out for some air.¡± Nicholas says as they leave and Tom turns to stare angrily at Benjamin who looks unbothered.


    Nicholas takes Ann out to a park nearby and lets her sit on the swing. He lets her wear his coat and offers her his handkerchief as she wipes the drink off her face. She sits there trembling as he sits on the swing next to her. He looks at her patiently waiting for her to calm down.


    ¡°How do you do this?¡± She asks him after a few moments.


    ¡°Do what?¡± He asks.


    ¡°Comfort me without saying a word.¡± Ann says softly without making eye contact.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± Nicholas says smiling as she looks at him. ¡°I guess it¡¯s because I have been what many might consider odd growing up. Many had tried to make me feel better by forcing certain things on me but all I really needed was time and a little space.¡± Ann smiles as he looks at her with such compassion. ¡°You are a really amazing woman, you know that.¡±


    ¡°I know¡­¡± Ann says softly. ¡°But that¡¯s my problem¡­ I will soon have a Ph.D. and doctor to my name. I have had enough guys ask me out to know I am pretty. But I¡­.¡± She says clenching the swing. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ I know it¡¯s hard to understand.¡± Nicholas then gets up and kneels in front of her.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to explain¡­¡± He says with comforting eyes. ¡°Nor do I have to understand. Just let me be there¡­¡± As he says this someone approaches them.

 I am Fine

    Benjamin approaches them with an uncomfortable look.


    ¡°Hi¡­¡± He says as the two of them stare at him. ¡°Are you ok?¡± He asks half-heartedly.


    ¡°I am fine¡­¡± Ann says as Nicholas stands up and stares at Benjamin.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Nicholas says sounding tough. Ann has only seen Nicholas¡¯s kind and compassionate side, now she is about to see his strong and defensive side of him.


    ¡°I just came to check on her¡­¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Why?¡± Nicholas asks firmly.


    ¡°What do you mean why?¡± Benjamin asks. ¡°Didn¡¯t you see what happened?¡±


    ¡°I did. Did you?¡± Nicholas stands strong and determined in front of Benjamin who is now growing angry.


    ¡°Look this wasn¡¯t my fault ok. That woman was the one who threw the drink at her.¡± Benjamin says defensively.


    ¡°But you just stood by, doing nothing.¡± Nicholas says. ¡°It didn¡¯t seem to bother you then? So why now?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault¡­ she was telling me I needed counselling but the truth of the matter is I¡¯m fine.¡± Benjamin says as Nicholas takes a moment to listen to his words.


    ¡°What did she say exactly¡­¡± Nicholas asks as Benjamin looks at him silently. ¡°Are you really angry because of something like that?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand! I am fine and I don¡¯t need help¡­¡± Benjamin shouts.


    ¡°Keep telling yourself that¡­¡± Nicholas says as he turns around and walks away. Just then Benjamin is about to charge at Nicholas but is interrupted by Ann.


    ¡°Nick¡­¡± She says softly. ¡°The reason people come for counselling is when they realize something is wrong and they want to make it right again.¡± Nicholas looks at Ann and smiles as he holds her hand. Without much to say, Benjamin turns around and storms off. As he walks away he sees Tom who stares at him angrily and walks away. Nicholas stays with Ann and takes her home.


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    After about an hour, Benjamin is sitting alone at a bar drinking. He is soon joined by Tom who sits next to him. They look at each other silently for a moment then Benjamin begins to speak.


    ¡°I know what you¡¯re going to say. What is wrong with you? How could you just sit back¡­¡±


    ¡°No that is not what I want to say!¡± Tom says interrupting him firmly. ¡°Ben we grew up together. I have known you for years and this¡­Isn¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°What is that supposed to mean¡­¡± Benjamin asks angrily.


    ¡°Look at yourself¡­Ever since Scarlet left you have changed so much.¡±


    ¡°Everyone changes.¡±


    ¡°But this is not a good change¡­.¡±


    ¡°Look, I know what I am doing¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh save it!¡± Tom says as he takes a shot. ¡°The man I knew wouldn¡¯t just stand by and watch something like that happen. He wouldn¡¯t just watch something like that happen and not try to help¡­ He would not walk around like a zombie, go for fencing practice and then go home only to sleep for most of the day. And he certainly would not sit around, get drunk, act like a buffoon and then pretend he is in control and actually knows what he did!¡± Just as Benjamin is about to say something Tom stops him yet again. ¡°Don¡¯t bother with the excuses Ben. You can lie to everyone, but at least be honest with yourself.¡± Tom says as he gets up and storms off. Trying to brush off his words, Benjamin continues drinking. He knows what Tom said is the truth but he cannot admit it.


    He goes home that night, drunk as ever and throws up in the bathroom. He sits on the ground thinking about what Ann said earlier. ¡®Nothing is wrong with me¡­¡¯ he says to himself. As he sits there all alone with his thoughts, he thinks back to a year ago. He was happy with his wife, with his friends¡­ his life. Ever since she left, it was like she took his happiness along with her. ¡®No¡­I am fine¡­¡¯ he thinks to himself. He thinks about his daily routine these days, he recalls how fencing used to be his favourite thing, but now it is just something he does. He has been sleeping an unusual lot as well. ¡®I am just tired¡¯ he thinks to himself. ¡®I need to sleep¡­ tomorrow morning it¡¯ll be like today didn¡¯t happen¡¯. He thinks as he gets up from the bathroom floor and goes to his bedroom. Unsteady on his feet, he ends up bumping into a table and something falls to the ground. Benjamin picks it up and sees a photo of himself, a picture of him smiling as he had won an Olympic medal. He looks at the photo and looks up and sees his reflection. The shocking difference he sees in the photo and the mirror breaks down the walls he¡¯s been building up for months. ¡®I am not fine¡­¡¯ he finally admits as he falls to the floor sobbing.

 First Date

    The next day Benjamin decides to go for counselling. Though not sure if it will help, he now realizes that he does have a problem. He calls up the university that Ann is interning in and books an appointment for the next day. He stays in bed the entire day with his thoughts, finally ready to confront what he really feels.


    Ann goes to university and spends her day working and studying. She does not think about Benjamin much but instead, she dreams about Nicholas. His behaviour the previous day was like a dream come true for her. Though she was grateful he stood up for her, his acceptance and understanding of her left her weak in the knee. He promised to have dinner at her house today and she is ready to cook for him the best meal of his life. As the time comes for Nicholas to arrive, Ann gets everything ready. Nicholas being a very punctual man rings the doorbell at the exact time he said he will arrive.


    ¡°Hi¡­¡± Nicholas says as Ann opens the door enthusiastically. ¡°You look beautiful.¡± He says looking at Ann all dressed up.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She says smiling. ¡°Come in.¡±


    ¡°This looks lovely¡­¡± Nicholas says as he looks at the food set out on the table. ¡°Did you make all this?¡± Nicholas suddenly realized that Ann had worked hard and made all this food from scratch.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ann replies happily.


    ¡°You should have told me.¡± Nicholas says sighing. ¡°I would have helped you. I thought you would have ordered out or¡­¡±


    ¡°No, it''s fine.¡± Ann says. ¡°I love to cook. It¡¯s a hobby.¡± Nicholas looks at Ann and despite her fresh look with makeup, understands how hard she must have worked to make this dinner.


    ¡°Well then¡­¡± Nicholas says. ¡°I will make sure to enjoy it all.¡± As they sit down to talk Nicholas tastes the food and is amazed at the flavour. ¡°You really are a good cook.¡± He compliments her. They enjoy the meal making small talk and after dinner Nicholas insists on doing the dishes.


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    ¡°You don¡¯t have to¡­¡± Ann says trying to take the plate from his hand.


    ¡°You made such a lovely meal and now it¡¯s my turn to clean this up.¡± As they lightly argue as to who can wash the dishes there is someone at the door. Ann lets go of the plate and goes to check and standing at the door is Oscar.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°What? Am I not allowed to visit my sister.¡± Oscar says as he walks past her into her apartment.


    ¡°Not unannounced.¡± She says as she closes the door and Oscar notices Nicholas who comes out from the kitchen.


    ¡°Hi. Nicholas.¡± He says stretching out his hand. Oscar stares at him for a second and shakes his hand.


    ¡°Oscar¡­Ann¡¯s brother.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you.¡± He says as he continues to take the rest of the dishes to the kitchen. Oscar looks at him and then looks at Ann.


    ¡°Let me help with that.¡± Ann says ignoring her brother, following Nicholas to the kitchen. Oscar is left alone in the living room for a moment and then he follows them to the kitchen.


    ¡°Did I interrupt something?¡± He asks intimidatingly.


    ¡°No, not at all.¡± Nicholas replies politely. ¡°We were just having dinner. By the way¡­ your sister is an amazing cook.¡± Ann blushes and looks away.


    ¡°I know.¡± Oscar says. ¡°She has cooked for me many times.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here Oz?¡± Ann asks abruptly.


    ¡°Yes, I just wanted to talk to you about¡­¡± He looks at Nicholas and whispers in Ann¡¯s ear. ¡°Benjamin MacLerie.¡±


    ¡°What about Benjamin.¡± Ann replies in a normal voice. Nicholas seems uninterested in the conversation and continues to do the dishes. Oscar then clears his throat and begins to speak.


    ¡°It¡¯s about the other day. We have found certain evidence.¡± Oscar says normally and turns to Nicholas. ¡°I believe you are not aware but there is a man named Benjamin MacLerie and his¡­¡±


    ¡°Wife went missing¡­I know.¡± Nicholas replies.


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Oscar asks surprised.


    ¡°I am a journalist. I have my sources.¡± Nicholas says as he turns to Oscar. ¡°But how do you know about this?¡± Nicholas asks curiously. ¡°Ben¡¯s friend has kept this well-hidden. Not anyone would just know about this.¡±


    ¡°He is the investigating officer in this case.¡± Ann replies promptly with Oscar looking regretful at Ann¡¯s words.


    ¡°That right.¡± He unwillingly admits. ¡°On that subject¡­¡± Oscar says looking at Ann seriously. ¡°I need you to stay away from him.¡±

 Oh Brother!

    ¡°Stay away from him.¡± Oscar says capturing the attention of Nicholas.


    ¡°Why? Did you find something?¡± He asks.


    ¡°That¡¯s not for you to know.¡± Oscar replies coldly.


    ¡°He¡¯s right.¡± Ann says. ¡°I have the same question; did you find something?¡± Oscar looks at Ann who stares at him strongly.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Oscar mutters. ¡°The crime scene is almost spotless. The only thing we found is a footprint of a size 8 shoe.¡± Nicholas and Ann look at him, as he continues. ¡°You know Benjamin''s shoe size is 8.¡±


    ¡°A lot of guy¡¯s shoe size is 8.¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°My shoe size is 8.¡± Nicholas adds.


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Oscar says in a soft voice.


    ¡°Look Oz. No one can be in two places at once. He was sleeping in my room that night, he did not go anywhere nor could he.¡± As Ann says these words Nicholas turns away and continues doing the dishes.


    ¡°I know. We even checked the security footage; he was here.¡± Oscar says as he lets out a sign. ¡°I just don¡¯t want you in danger¡­ok. So please don¡¯t get involved anymore.¡±


    ¡°Ok¡­¡± Ann replies swiftly.


    ¡°Great¡­¡± Oscar says surprised at her response. ¡°Now that that¡¯s over with. What are you two up to?¡± He asks as Nicholas lets out a mischievous smile and Ann looks at him annoyed.


    ¡°We just had dinner.¡± Nicholas replies.


    ¡°Great¡­¡± Oscar says. ¡°Ann can you make me some tea?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Ann replies causing Nicholas to laugh. ¡°If this is all you want to say, you can go now¡­¡±


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    ¡°Why?¡± Oscar says as Ann tries to get him to leave. ¡°Oh come on! I will even help cleaning up¡­¡± He says as he approaches and stands next to Nicholas and notices something on his arm. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a tattoo¡­¡± Nicholas says pulling up his sleeve. ¡°Amazing, respectful, and talented.¡±


    ¡°Looks weird, especially the way it¡¯s put¡­one on top of the other.¡± Oscar says as he takes a closer look. ¡°Can¡¯t read the whole thing, just the first letter¡¯s all big and kind of just looks like ¡®art¡¯.¡± Oscar comments.


    ¡°Thought it was a good idea in college.¡± Nicholas replies.


    ¡°I think it''s unique.¡± Ann replies smiling as she takes a cup out of Oscar''s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t you have work to do¡­¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Oscar says hoping to stay.


    ¡°Well, we do.¡± Ann says dragging him out of the kitchen. ¡°We will talk later and next time, please call before you just show up.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Oscar says as he looks at Ann who has now opened the door. ¡°Is something going on between you two?¡± Oscar asks and Ann looks at him annoyed.


    ¡°That is none of your business.¡± She whispers as she forces him to leave. ¡°Good night!¡± She says as she closes the door. She knows her brother is very protective of her and can get over-involved in her relationships. Of course, he means well, but the fact he is a cop and owns a gun has scared off many men, which is why she rarely keeps him informed about her love life. She goes back to the kitchen to see Nicholas with a bright smile. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°It was nice seeing you like that.¡± He says. ¡°Your quite different around your brother.¡± Ann looks a little concerned at these words. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t give me that look.¡±


    ¡°I just hope you don¡¯t think I am faking or something¡­¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°Faking what?¡±


    ¡°You know; the way I act.¡± Ann says as she looks at Nicholas. ¡°I am used to my brother so another side just comes out of me.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Nicholas says. ¡°We all act differently with different people.¡± He takes a few steps forward and stands beside her. ¡°I just hope one day you will be that comfortable with me¡­ like in the way you communicate not the throwing me out of your house part.¡± He says as Ann chuckles as well.


    ¡°He gets nosy sometimes.¡± Ann says.


    ¡°I can see that.¡± Nicholas says. ¡°And I don¡¯t mean to overstep but¡­ why was Benjamin at your house?¡± Nicholas asks as Ann realizes she should tell him the truth. She tells him about how they met and their conversation when he was drunk. About how he admitted he needed help and he told her he remembered everything. ¡°Well¡­ Isn¡¯t that something.¡± Nicholas says sighing.


    ¡°It is.¡± Ann says.


    ¡°I do agree with your brother though.¡± Nicholas says. ¡°It''s best you keep away from him. Especially after what he did to you¡­¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Ann says strongly. ¡°I won¡¯t force him; he must first be ready to get help.¡±

 Seeking Help

    After a beautiful evening, Ann goes to university the next day. Upbeat and happy she is ready to work hard. As the day goes by she becomes a witness to something many thought would be impossible. Benjamin comes in for counselling that day leaving Ann both surprised and amused. As he enters, he notices Ann but is unable to bring himself to tell her anything. She sits with Dr. Knightly as the session begins. Although hesitant to share, he tries to tell his story. As he speaks he notices Ann¡¯s expression turning to compassion. He decides to swallow his ego and speak. The session goes smoothly and he leaves with Ann happy at his progress. Though he wants to talk to Ann himself, he is very uncomfortable after the experience and goes home. Despite his initial discomfort, he feels slightly relieved like a burden is off his chest.


    That day when Ann goes home, she finds Nicholas waiting for her. ¡°Hi¡­¡± He says.


    ¡°Hi¡­¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Another good day?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you always know¡­¡± Ann says smiling.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you come in.¡± He says as he opens the door. ¡°I have something for you¡­¡± Ann looks at him curiously as she decides to go into his apartment. She steps into his apartment nervously and is amazed at how well kept it is. She is amazed by the amount of order she sees in the room, even his books are arranged alphabetically. ¡°I bought you some snacks.¡± He says as he points to a bag of snacks at the table. ¡°I¡¯ll make some tea to go with it.¡± He says smiling.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ann says as she sits down. ¡°I am not much of a cook; tea is the best I can make.¡± He says as he is about to make tea.


    ¡°Let me help¡­¡±


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    ¡°No¡­¡± He says. ¡°You did not let me help you last night, so now it¡¯s my turn.¡± She smiles and sits down as he makes her tea. He pours her tea and she takes a sip. Her face immediately reacts to the tea she just put in her mouth. She has never had such a horrible tea in her life.


    ¡°It¡¯s good.¡± She says unsuccessfully trying to enjoy it.


    ¡°Does it taste that bad?¡± Nicholas says as he takes a sip and is shocked by the taste. ¡°Oh my¡­ Don¡¯t drink this.¡± He says as he takes the tea from her hand. ¡°I just got this at the store, I heard it was good. Let¡¯s just have the snacks.¡± He says as he gets rid of the tea. They sit down and laugh and have a good time as they dig into the snacks.


    ¡°Oh and guess what, Benjamin came in for counselling today.¡± Ann says.


    ¡°You¡¯re kidding.¡± Nicholas says in unbelief.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t believe it either.¡± Ann says.


    ¡°He finally listened to someone. That¡¯s a first.¡± Nicholas says. ¡°Tom and Fiona have been trying to get him to go for months.¡±


    ¡°Fiona?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°His sister.¡± Nicholas answers.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much of his story you know but¡­¡± Ann says and is interrupted by Nicholas.


    ¡°If it is his ex-wife story, everyone knows.¡± Nicholas says as he pauses for a moment. ¡°Then again I know his full story, his mom died when he was a toddler, he had a great relationship with his dad before he died of cancer a few years ago. Then his wife left him for his teammate which was the talk of the town.¡±


    ¡°You sure know a lot.¡± Ann comments.


    ¡°It¡¯s my job to know.¡± He replies. ¡°So I take it you are not going to stay away¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Ann replies as she sighs. ¡°I understand why people are concerned but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡± Nicholas says as he notices Ann¡¯s face growing concerned.


    ¡°I had a friend who used to be like him.¡± Ann says. ¡°Not arrogant or rude, but was in deep trouble. When she said she needed help, she wasn¡¯t taken seriously because she didn¡¯t do anything drastic yet.¡± Ann says with tears in her eyes. ¡°The day she took that step she didn¡¯t have a chance; it was all over. And the worst part was, she told people but they didn¡¯t take her seriously,¡±


    ¡°I am sorry¡­¡± Nicholas says as he holds her hand.


    ¡°He¡¯s lucky. He has a friend and sister who are trying to help¡­ not brushing it off.¡± Ann says as she looks at Nicholas. ¡°I can¡¯t look the other way¡­¡±

 Hi Again

    ¡°I can¡¯t look the other way,¡± she says as she is being comforted by Nicholas. He slowly comes closer to her and gently places his arm over her shoulder and pulls her in. She leans on his broad chest and begins to cry. He quietly rubs her back as she holds him. ¡°Thank you.¡± She whispers.


    ¡°No matter what you decide, be careful,¡± he says as she smiles knowing she can lean on him. Though she has certain concerns about how Benjamin behaved with her previously, she wants to help him. Despite this, she decides to not approach him, but if he asks her for help, she will gladly.


    Three weeks go by with Benjamin coming for counselling twice a week. He is prescribed certain medications and continues to share. She is happy to see him sharing more as the weeks go by. Her relationship with Nicholas also has grown and she is enjoying their time together. One day as she goes to pick up something from the grocery store, she takes a shortcut through a park. As she walks there that evening she runs into the one and only Benjamin.


    ¡°Hello,¡± he says staring at her surprised. He has not spoken to her privately since that day at D&Zzzz. He feels embarrassed about his actions and is not sure what he can say. He has been avoiding her for the past few weeks and though he feels she will forgive him, he feels puzzled.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Ann says. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Benjamin says letting out a sigh. ¡°I came out for a walk. Dr. Knightly said I should go for a walk¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nice,¡± Ann says smiling. ¡°Most people just say they do this stuff, very few actually do. Good for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± He says as he notices her holding a bag. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Just some coffee,¡± Ann replies as they look at each other awkwardly. ¡°Ok, I better get going,¡± she says as she is about to leave.


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    ¡°Wait!¡± Benjamin calls out, ¡°Want to walk with me? For a while?¡± Ann smiles and nods her head as she joins him for a walk. She is happy that he is finally willing to talk to her. As she walks beside him he decides to talk, ¡°This counselling thing is not so bad.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Ann replies. ¡°But these things take time. Don¡¯t expect to build Rome in a day.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± He says. ¡°Call me impatient but I am not sure this walk is really helping.¡±


    ¡°You are impatient,¡± Ann replies as he lets out a small smile. ¡°Things will take time. Have you started on a hobby yet?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°I am just not sure what to do. Plus, I don¡¯t feel like doing much anyway.¡±


    ¡°Can I make a suggestion?¡± Ann asks as Benjamin looks at her curiously.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Why not try picking up on an old hobby,¡± Ann says as Benjamin looks confused. ¡°Something you liked doing as a kid perhaps. Something you used to do but couldn¡¯t find the time for anymore. Such a hobby will help; re-doing such activities can be quite motivating, not to mention it¡¯ll bring back good memories too.¡± Benjamin gives a smile and nods just then Ann gets a message on her phone. She quickly checks her phone and says, ¡°I have to get going.¡±


    ¡°Nick?¡± he asks.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she replies smiling.


    ¡°For what it¡¯s worth, I really am happy for you guys,¡± Benjamin says as she smiles at him and walks away. Though he is not sure of the details, he figured out she likes Nicholas and now they are together. And according to what she said earlier, he has a feeling his drunk conversation with her gave her the push she needed to ask him out. After about ten minutes he returns to his apartment and opens the door to find Tom and his sister Fiona there waiting for him.


    ¡°Hello bro,¡± Fiona says as she comes to him and hugs him.


    ¡°Fiona, what are you doing here?¡± Benjamin asks surprised.


    ¡°I just came by¡­ where were you?¡± she asks.


    ¡°I went out for a walk,¡± he says as he sits on the couch.


    ¡°Since when do you go for walks?¡± she asks sarcastically.


    ¡°Since he¡¯s going for counselling,¡± Tom whispers in her ears. ¡°Don¡¯t make a big deal out of it.¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness! I am so happy!¡± Fiona says hugging Benjamin once again irritating him. ¡°Tell me how do you feel now?¡±


    ¡°I share my feelings enough Fiona. Let it go,¡± Benjamin says as he gets up and walks away from her trying to avoid the subject as Tom and Fiona look at him smiling brightly.

 Someone

    Benjamin notices the bright smiles on their faces and asks, ¡°Now what is wrong with the two of you?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± they both say knowing Benjamin too well. Asking about counselling will just irritate him, so they decide to let him talk at his own pace.


    ¡°Just tell me!¡± Benjamin demands.


    ¡°You just look different,¡± Fiona says promptly.


    ¡°Yeah, like you finally got something off your chest,¡± Tom adds as Benjamin stares at him.  ¡°Kidding! Kidding!¡± Tom says trying to stop Benjamin deadly gaze.


    ¡°Come on Ben,¡± Fiona says as she sits down. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to talk to your sister?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t usually come here for no reason. Did something happen?¡± Benjamin asks curiously.


    ¡°Well yes, I have some news,¡± Fiona says gesturing the two of them to sit down.


    ¡°What?¡± Tom asks looking concerned.


    ¡°I¡­am finally in a relationship!¡± Fiona says smiling while both the men look at her in utter surprise.


    ¡°What?¡± Benjamin asks. ¡°With who?¡±


    ¡°There is this guy, we have been seeing each other for some time and now I think its going to be something serious,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°I am so happy for you,¡± Tom says hugging her.


    ¡°When will we meet him?¡± Benjamin asks.


    ¡°Depends, when are you free?¡± Fiona asks as Benjamin stares at her contemplating the situation.


    ¡°Friday, Dinner,¡± he says as Fiona smiles at his reaction. ¡°But,¡± Benjamin says firmly. ¡°I am not going easy on him.¡± As the three of them laugh and continue their conversation, they are blissfully unaware of the terrible turn the investigation is about to take that night.


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    Two days later Ann decides to go to the park to see if Benjamin is there. As she walks through the park at the same time she did the other day, she sees Benjamin walking towards her.


    ¡°Hi,¡± he says, this time with him carrying a packet of groceries.


    ¡°Hi, went shopping?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Benjamin says looking at Ann. ¡°I am meeting my sister¡¯s boyfriend today, so she is planning on cooking.¡±


    ¡°Oh, she cooks?¡± Ann asks enthusiastically.


    ¡°No, actually,¡± Benjamin says looking at the groceries. ¡°She is going to try to cook, so I went to buy instant noodles, a microwave dinner,¡± he says as Ann laughs. ¡°Trust me I need it Anna.¡±


    ¡°Ann,¡± Benjamin and Ann say at the same time.


    ¡°Why do you like being called Ann and not Anna?¡± Benjamin asks curiously.


    ¡°Anna is my mom, Annabel,¡± Ann replies as Benjamin nods.


    ¡°Well, I better get going,¡± Just as Benjamin is about to turn and leave he is tackled to the ground by a woman.


    ¡°You murderer!!¡± She shouts as she hits him. ¡°You killed her! You killed my sister you horrible, horrible man.¡± Ann looks on stunned by what she is witnessing. She freezes, unable to move and just then a police officer runs up to her and gets the woman off of Benjamin. ¡°No¡­.¡± She cries as she is forcibly dragged away.


    ¡°What is going on?¡± Benjamin says under his breath, just then Oscar and Dean come running.


    ¡°Ann, are you ok?¡± Oscar says noting his sister is shaken by the situation. He hugs her trying to comfort her. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Are you ok?¡± Dean asks Benjamin who is lying on the ground confused. As he helps Benjamin stand up he looks at the woman who is still screaming at a distance.


    ¡°Maria?¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Who was that?¡± Ann asks in a soft and shaken voice.


    ¡°That was my sister-in-law, Maria,¡± Benjamin answers as he looks at Dean and Oscar who are staring at him. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°We found her body,¡± Dean says after a moment of silence. ¡°We called her sister to identify her and,¡± Benjamin¡¯s face turns pale at these words. His ex-wife¡¯s body was now found, she was dead. Before he thought she was kidnapped and assumed she would be found alive, but now the horrible reality sets in. His ex-wife is dead. Benjamin does not take the news well as he sits down on the ground looking devastated. As one tear rolls down his cheek, he is now consumed by sadness. The woman he loved, cannot come back to his life anymore¡­she was gone, forever.


    ¡°Mr. MacLerie,¡± Dean calls out. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I am fine,¡± Benjamin lies.


    ¡°I am so sorry Ben,¡± Ann says as she tries to get close to him, only to be stopped by Oscar.


    ¡°The car is parked back there,¡± Oscar whispers in her ear. She looks at him as she nods. She decides to listen to her brother, not sure what happened. She turns around and leaves, with Benjamin, Dean, and Oscar now alone.

 It Was You

    As Benjamin sits there for a moment, he takes a deep breath and stands up.


    ¡°Are you sure it is her?¡± Benjamin asks with teary eyes.


    ¡°I am afraid so,¡± Dean says with Oscar staring at him unsympathetic.


    ¡°We will get the one who did this. You know that,¡± Oscar says in a condescending tone.


    ¡°What is that supposed to mean?¡± Benjamin asks becoming frustrated.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Dean says trying to defuse the situation only to be interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°It means that I will catch the one responsible,¡± Oscar says as he gets in Benjamin¡¯s face. ¡°Other people might believe your innocence but I do not. I will find out how you did this and you will be arrested.¡±


    ¡°I did not do this!¡± Benjamin shouts while Oscar stares at him unbothered. Benjamin wipes his tears, turns around and walks away leaving the groceries on the ground. Dean looks at Oscar as Oscar brushes off his stare. Dean tells him to drive Ann home while he handles Maria. On getting into the car Ann looks at him furiously.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Oscar asks as they get into the car.


    ¡°Upset¡­ and mad.¡± Ann says as Oscar nods his head. ¡°What did you say to him?¡±


    ¡°Nothing that needn¡¯t be said,¡± Oscar replies calmly.


    ¡°He was with me that night you know. There is no way he,¡± Ann is interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°I know,¡± Oscar says firmly. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean that he didn¡¯t hire someone or maybe,¡±


    ¡°What do you have against him Oz?¡± Ann asks. ¡°I don¡¯t think he.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t think?¡± Oscar says trying not to get angry. ¡°Just because you don¡¯t think he could kill someone doesn¡¯t mean that.¡±


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    ¡°I know!¡± Ann says firmly as they both turn silent.


    ¡°Look, call it a gut feeling, but I think he did it.¡± Oscar says trying to explain himself.


    ¡°A gut feeling?¡± Ann replies. ¡°That¡¯s what you are going on?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Oscar says. ¡°I just feel he is bad news. That¡¯s why I wanted you to stay away from him!¡±


    ¡°Everyone is not out to get me,¡± Ann says firmly. ¡°Unless you give me some solid proof, I don¡¯t see any reason I should stay away from him.¡± Ann words silence Oscar as he is mentally preparing to find the one who killed Scarlet. The two of them stay quiet the rest of the car ride, both in deep thought.


    Meanwhile, Benjamin runs home feeling a great sorrow coming over him. As he opens the door he sees Fiona who is getting ready to cook.


    ¡°What happened to you?¡± Fiona asks noticing Benjamin¡¯s horrified expression as he storms in and goes to his room. ¡°Ben,¡± she calls out as she follows him into his room. Benjamin lies down on the bed, burying his face in a pillow. ¡°Ben, what happened?¡± Fiona asks sitting beside him patting his back. After a few minutes of crying bitterly, Benjamin slowly moves away from the pillow, his eyes red and filled with tears.


    ¡°She¡¯s gone,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°They found her body. Scar is dead,¡± Benjamin says burying his face in the pillow once again.


    ¡°Ben, I am so sorry,¡± Fiona says hugging him as he now cries on her shoulder.


    ¡°You know what¡¯s worse,¡± Benjamin says trying to control his tears. ¡°That stupid detective thinks I did it!¡± he says as he continues to weep.


    ¡°You listen to me right now!¡± Fiona says finding it unbearable to see her brother cry. ¡°The truth will prevail ok. That cop has no idea what he¡¯s talking about, I know you can never hurt her. Everyone knows,¡± Fiona says comforting her brother.


    ¡°I am sorry Fiona,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can make it to dinner.¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± She says wiping tears from his eyes. ¡°We can do that some other time ok,¡± she says as she continues to comfort him.


    After Oscar drops off Ann, she goes to her house furious and finds Nicholas waiting for her.


    ¡°Hello, beautiful,¡± Nicholas says noticing her blatant frustration. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°My idiot brother. That is what!¡± Ann says annoyed as she tries to control her anger. ¡°He thinks Benjamin killed his wife.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas asks confused.


    ¡°They found her body,¡± Ann says trembling as Nicholas hugs her. ¡°He looked so devastated. He looked heartbroken and Oscar just had to make the situation worse.¡±


    ¡°What did he do?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ann says as she hugs Nicholas. ¡°I heard shouting and Ben stormed off in tears.¡± She pauses for a moment and lets herself relax in Nicholas¡¯s arms. ¡°His sister-in-law didn¡¯t help either, she attacked him and called him a murdered.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas says as he notices Ann looking angry. ¡°Ann, do you really believe his innocence?¡± He asks surprising Ann.

 She Said What!?

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ann says noticing the regret on Nicholas¡¯s face.


    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t know him very well personally and neither do you. But you can¡¯t deny that his sister-in-law would know him,¡± Nicholas says as Ann looks at him surprised. ¡°I am not saying she is right, maybe she¡¯s frantic and a little irrational but, what if there is something?¡± Nicholas says as Ann considers his words.


    ¡°He says it¡¯s a gut feeling,¡± Ann says. ¡°Oz says he has a gut feeling.¡±


    ¡°Gut feelings are sometimes right,¡± Nicholas says as Ann lets out a sigh. ¡°And other times they are wrong,¡± he adds as she looks at him and she gives a smile.


    Back at the police station, Oscar arrives angry at his sister''s behaviour. Waiting for him there is the clearly furious Dean.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Oscar says ignoring his stares. ¡°Did we find anything else?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Dean replies coldly and then looks at him. ¡°Since you are not going to respond to my subtle gestures I am just going to come out and say it. What you did today was uncalled for, not to mention unprofessional!¡±


    ¡°What did you want me to say to him?¡± Oscar says as he turns to Dean. ¡°I am sorry for your loss?¡± Oscar says sarcastically.


    ¡°You practically told him he was a suspect,¡± Dean replies.


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°You are not stupid. You know,¡± Dean is interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°Yeah, I know. I just wanted to keep my sister safe,¡± Oscar says getting angry. ¡°I mean why was she with him in the first place.¡±


    ¡°Oscar!¡± Dean shouts getting his attention. ¡°I know you are worried about your sister and I also know why you suspect this guy. But now we must look for proof! Because without it this guy is innocent,¡± Oscar takes a deep breath and nods his head in agreement.


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    ¡°Got the autopsy reports yet?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have plans today?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°Not anymore,¡± Oscar says as Dean hands him the files from this case.


    For the next three weeks, Ann does not talk to Oscar. She is unable to contact Benjamin as well, who hasn¡¯t shown up for counselling either. Ann leaves the university one evening only to run into someone unexpected.


    ¡°You¡¯re the woman who was with him that night,¡± Maria says as she approached Ann. Ann looks surprised, recognizing Maria. ¡°So you are his new toy,¡± Maria says with her villainous eyes analysing Ann making her uncomfortable. ¡°What is he giving you? A comfortable life? False promises?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ann replies softly unsure of what to say.


    ¡°Whatever,¡± Maria says. ¡°I just came here to warn you. You think he is all nice and sweet, he is a monster.¡±


    ¡°He,¡± Ann despite being intimidated tries to speak but is interrupted by Maria.


    ¡°You''re trying to defend him aren¡¯t you?¡± Maria asks as she stares Ann down. ¡°I have been keeping track of him for the past week. He¡¯s up to something. Buying costumes, sneaking off to an abandoned building, he is definitely trying to hide something.¡± Maria says as she turns to walk away from Ann. ¡°I warning you, don¡¯t try and defend him again,¡± Maria says briefly looking at her angrily before walking away.


    Ann returns home thinking about her encounter with Maria says. She meets Nicholas that evening but her odd silence is noticed by Nicholas.


    ¡°You want to call Oscar, don¡¯t you?¡± Nicholas says as she gives Ann her phone. ¡°Just call him. Seriously, you wanted to for days now.¡±


    ¡°I am still mad at him,¡± Ann replies sternly.


    ¡°Ok, what¡¯s really going on?¡± Nicholas asks peering into Ann¡¯s face.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Usually you tell me that ¡®he¡¯s wrong and the reason he didn¡¯t call is that he¡¯s got nothing on Benjamin,¡± Nicholas says as he puts the phone away. ¡°What bothering you?¡± Ann then proceeds to explain her encounter with Maria as Nicholas listens intently. ¡°So, why didn¡¯t she tell the cops this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ann replies sighing.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what is really bothering you is it?¡± Nicholas says as she comes closer to Ann. ¡°You are worried Oscar is right,¡±


    ¡°I just¡­ don¡¯t,¡± Ann is gently interrupted by Nicholas.


    ¡°Don¡¯t want to find out you fought your brother to defend a murderer,¡± Nicholas says these words with such compassion. Every word he said was true and Ann is left contemplative. If it is true, she fought with her brother for nothing. As she lets out a deep sigh Ann, Nicholas too sighs and says ¡°If it¡¯s that important, I¡¯ll do some digging.¡±

 Lets Find Out

    ¡°You will?¡± Ann says looking at Nicholas. He was a proud man who took immense pride in his work. He would never use his connections to find out private information for his personal use. The fact he was willing to pull some strings to help out Ann meant a lot to her. As her eyes grew and her heart raced, he embraced her. ¡°I love you,¡± Ann says and in a moment she realizes what has slipped out of her mouth. As she tries to move away from his arms but he holds her tight and says.


    ¡°I love you too.¡±


    Ann could not stop smiling the next day. She never thought she would be with someone who she loved and who loves her in return. Since day one, Nicholas has been nothing but good to her. And has always proved his affection with actions over words. For the first time in three weeks, she was not thinking about her fight with Oscar. After a few days, Nicholas comes to her with information about Benjamin.


    ¡°Alright,¡± he says ready to tell her everything he knows. ¡°About three weeks ago Benjamin had gone to a store and bought a mustache, wig, and some other items which I am unsure of.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says looking confused.


    ¡°And for the past two weeks, he¡¯s been going to an abandoned building, in the center of town, right next to the animal sanctuary. Every Tuesday and Thursday, at 4 in the evening,¡± Nicholas says seemingly finishing his report.


    ¡°What is he doing there?¡± Ann asks becoming concerned.


    ¡°That I am not sure,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°So what now? Should we tell your brother about this?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Ann says swiftly getting up. ¡°We are not telling him anything unless we find something.¡±


    ¡°Ann, this is as much information as I can get,¡± Nicholas says seemingly disappointed with Ann¡¯s unsatisfied reaction.


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    ¡°Then I think we should see for ourselves,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas says sounding shocked at her rash words. ¡°Ann, we don¡¯t know what this guy could be hiding. It could be dangerous.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann says looking determined and emotional. Nicholas knows Ann is sensitive about this since it caused her a great deal of pain. As Nicholas lets out a long sigh he says.


    ¡°Fine. Let''s go check it out this Tuesday,¡± Nicholas says bringing a smile to Ann¡¯s face. ¡°But don¡¯t go without me.¡± Ann is happy to have Nicholas with her and is ready to find out the truth. Though impatient, she waits for Tuesday trying to hide her agitation. But Nicholas is able to see her turmoil and has done his best to be her comforter.


    On Tuesday, Ann gets off early from her internship and waits at the decided place for Nicholas. Nicholas arrives at the exact time he said he would be there and Ann is ready to follow Benjamin.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°There is something I have to tell you.¡± Ann looks at Nicholas who looks a little nervous and wonders what could cause the calm and collective Nicholas to break a sweat.


    ¡°I am here.¡± Oscar says as he runs to the two of them. Ann looks surprised at Nicholas who nods at her.


    ¡°Thanks for being here,¡± Nicholas says.


    ¡°I had to be,¡± Oscar replies as he looks at Ann briefly. ¡°Hi, Ann.¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°Oz¡­¡± Ann replies as the tension in the air builds.


    ¡°Why did you call me here?¡± Oscar asks as he turns to Nicholas.


    ¡°I believe, Mr. Benjamin MacLerie is up to something suspicious. And we are here to follow him and find out what,¡± as Nicholas explains he is cut off by Oscar.


    ¡°What? Why involve my sister in this?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t involve me, I involved him,¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°But why would you put yourself in something so,¡± Oscar¡¯s words are shushed by Nicholas as they see Benjamin. Benjamin looks around almost as if he is making sure he is not being followed. ¡°Ann, leave this to me,¡± Oscar says as he puts his hand on the gun he is carrying.


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas looks at him in shock at his overreaction. And at that very moment, he completely understood Ann¡¯s frustration with her over protective brother. ¡°We want to find out what he¡¯s up to not scare him off.¡±


    ¡°Put that away idiot,¡± Ann says as Oscar reluctantly let¡¯s go of the gun. He knows his sister¡¯s stubbornness and there is no changing her mind. He decides to keep her safe and follow Benjamin. The three of them patiently follow Benjamin with Nicholas leading. They follow him to the abandoned building and sees him going into a room. After fifteen minutes of waiting and no sign of Benjamin coming out, they hear a burst of loud laughter.


    ¡°The time has come! The time has come!¡±

 Building

    They hear one loud voice saying ¡®the time has come.¡¯ Unsure of what is happening, Oscar decides to take the lead and goes ahead and looks in the room. With Nicholas right behind him, Oscar is ready to charge, only to be slowed down by Nicholas, who dares to look through the crack in the door.


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas says. ¡°What is this?¡± Oscar then looks through the crack and lets go of his gun. He then gets up and slowly opens the door enough to look inside, careful not to be noticed. There he a group of about 8 men, dressed up in cosplay. Ann unsure of what they are seeing is misled by their silence. She comes closer and opens the door in one push, worried her fears are proven true. Before anyone can stop her, the door swings open in a matter of seconds, revealing a bunch of people inside the room, all in costume now staring at the three of them.


    ¡°I am ready, I am ready,¡± Benjamin says running out of one of the rooms in costume. Now everyone turns to stare at him, leaving him confused with the unwanted attention. As he looks at the door he sees Annalise, Nicholas and Oscar. ¡°Ann? Nick?¡± Benjamin says surprised. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± He says ignoring Oscar.


    ¡°We were just,¡± Ann stutters trying to find an excuse.


    ¡°Ben, what is all this?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Well,¡± Benjamin says looking a little embarrassed. ¡°I was told I needed to start a hobby. Preferably one from childhood and I used to love doing this. I know it¡¯s been a long time since I have but, it helps keep me busy.¡± Benjamin says looking at Ann as she smiles happily, weirdly relieved he took her advice.


    ¡°But why here?¡± Oscar asks. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be trespassing.¡±


    ¡°We aren¡¯t.¡± One of the guys in costume says. ¡°This building is my dad¡¯s.¡±


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    ¡°Yeah.¡± Another guy adds. ¡°If anyone is trespassing it is you.¡± Just then Benjamin notices the expression on Oscar¡¯s face.


    ¡°Sorry to disappoint you detective but you won¡¯t find anything here.¡± Benjamin says confidently. ¡°I suggest you do your job properly and try to arrest criminals, not innocent cosplayers.¡± Just as Oscar is about to retaliate, Nicholas lets out a laugh.


    ¡°I am sorry.¡± Nicholas says trying to control his laugh. What they had expected to be a blood bath was nothing more than a simple game. The difference between expectation and reality had caused Nicholas to realize the hilarity of the situation. Ann begins to laugh as well, finding her false assumptions and behavior hilarious. Looking at the two of them laughing some of the cosplayers join in, finally, there was nothing but laughter heard in the room. Though unsure of what was so funny, laughter was truly contagious at that moment. After a few moments, the tension in the air was erased and Ann, Nicholas, and Oscar were invited to join in. An innocent live action game which was played in an abandoned building, a perfect setting for the game. With the mood lightened, Nicholas decides to join in leaving Ann and Oscar alone.


    ¡°So,¡± Oscar says after a few moments of silence. ¡°That¡¯s your boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°He¡¯s a good guy.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± Ann says as the two siblings smile having a normal conversation. ¡°It¡¯s almost like he knows exactly what to do.¡±


    ¡°True,¡± Oscar says. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine you two going alone and you breaking the door down without a second thought.¡± Ann and Oscar smile.


    ¡°Sorry, I panicked,¡± Ann says. ¡°As much as I hate to admit it, you are right. I do let my emotions take over. This would have ended badly in another situation.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Oscar says as Ann stares at him and he smiles. ¡°You know I have someone too,¡± Oscar says with a slight blush. ¡°I really like her.¡±


    ¡°She sounds great,¡± Ann replies


    ¡°She is, she is smart, pretty, and is just so¡­ I feel like myself around her,¡± Oscar replies as Ann can feel the affection in his words. ¡°I¡¯ll introduce you two later.¡±


    ¡°I would like that,¡± Ann says. ¡°So how does she feel about the real you?¡± Ann says teasing Oscar as Nicholas watches from a distance. He is happy that the two siblings finally made up. Just then Oscar gets a call and he answers it. His expression now turns serious as he calls out.


    ¡°Benjamin!¡± Oscar says. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Benjamin asks.


    ¡°Gregory Morgan has woken up from his coma.¡±

 Is He Innocent?

    Benjamin, Oscar, Ann, and Nicholas race to the hospital. Gregory Morgan has been in a coma since the night Scarlet was kidnapped. His waking up would give the police a proper story as to what happened that night. Benjamin grows impatient hoping to find out exactly what happened to his ex-wife. He also hopes Gregory¡¯s story will prove his innocence once and for all, but that was not his main concern. At the hospital, Dean and Maria are waiting for them.


    ¡°What is he doing here?¡± Maria asks spitefully as she looks at Benjamin.


    ¡°What is she doing here?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°She was at the station again when I got the call from the hospital. And she just followed,¡± Dean says annoyed.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, would you please let us do our job,¡± Oscar says. Maria comes to the station almost every other day trying to find her sister''s killer. Despite her good intentions, she has proven to be nothing more of a nuisance to the investigating officers. Oscar and Dean even sneak off trying to avoid her.


    ¡°Why is he here?¡± Maria shouts.


    ¡°Please,¡± a nurse says as she approaches them. ¡°This is a hospital. Please be quite!¡±


    Dean talks to the nurse who takes them to Gregory¡¯s room. As everyone waits outside, Dean and Oscar are the only ones who are allowed in. Gregory lies in bed barely conscious looking horribly battered.


    ¡°Mr. Morgan,¡± Oscar says as Gregory opens his swollen eyes and looks at them. ¡°I am detective Smith. This is my partner. I would like to ask you a few question.¡± Oscar says softly as Gregory lightly nods and says softly.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Could you tell us,¡± just as Oscar is about to finish his question a growing sound of an argument is heard from the hallway, and in a moment Maria bursts in along with Benjamin.


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    ¡°Tell us Greg. He did this to you, didn¡¯t he? Ben is responsible for this,¡± Maria says as she leans over Gregory.


    ¡°You are not allowed here,¡± Oscar says as Dean tries removing her.


    ¡°Just say one word and it¡¯ll be ok,¡± Maria says. ¡°Tell them Ben did it!¡± Maria says frantically.


    ¡°No,¡± Gregory says in a small voice. ¡°Not, Ben,¡± The room grows silent at his words. Benjamin looks relieved and Maria looks distraught as the detectives look at Gregory and then at Benjamin. Just then Gregory closes his eyes and the monitor starts beeping and a nurse comes running in.


    ¡°What did you do?¡± the nurse says. ¡°Get out! Everyone leave,¡± she says as a bunch of doctors arrive and tend to Gregory. As everyone leaves the room, Benjamin lets out a smile and Maria stares at him angrily.


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t prove anything,¡± Maria says.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am if you get involved with this one more time I will have you arrested for obstruction of justice!¡± Dean says firmly and with these words Maria understood she should be careful from now on. She stares angrily at Benjamin and storms off.


    ¡°I believe I owe you an apology,¡± Oscar says not making eye contact.


    ¡°It''s fine,¡± Ben says half heatedly as he stretches out his hand. Oscar then shakes his hand and notices the name ¡®Scarlet¡¯.


    ¡°You have her name tattooed on your arm?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ben replies coldly.


    ¡°In a heart,¡± Oscar says noticing the heart tattoo drawn around her name. He lets go and asks. ¡°Where¡¯s Ann?¡±


    ¡°Nick took Ann to the cafeteria,¡± Benjamin replies. ¡°I guess I better get going,¡± he says as he turns around and leaves. Oscar and Dean speak to the doctors about Gregory, they inform him that Gregory is in a delicate condition at the moment and its better for them to try and talk to him tomorrow. They decide to let him rest until he is in a condition to talk. Oscar then visits Ann and Nick and informs them on the current situation. Ann is happy to find out Gregory admitted that Benjamin was innocent. They soon leave and go home, Nicholas lets Ann rest as he drops her off at her apartment. She goes to bed that night completely relaxed and ready for a good night¡¯s sleep.


    The next day early in the morning Oscar gets a call from the hospital. He rushes to the hospital in haste not only to find out Gregory had died the previous night, but he had been murdered. One of the nurses said she saw someone, who she assumed was a doctor coming out of his room. As she went to check on him she found him with his throat slit. She tries to save him, even called others but ultimately they were unsuccessful. But before he died he said something, and what the nurse believes he said was.


    ¡®Heart Tattoo¡¯

 Thinking

    ¡®Heart tattoo¡¯ Oscar thinks to himself, remembering the tattoo on Benjamin¡¯s arm. Frustrated he was not able to keep a witness alive he rushes back to the station. Dean also arrives early that day and they discuss what happened.


    ¡°Heart tattoo?¡± Dean says. ¡°That could be anyone.¡±


    ¡°Or someone we know,¡± Oscar replies.


    ¡°But he did say Benjamin didn¡¯t do it.¡± Dean replies.


    ¡°I know,¡± Oscar says sighing. ¡°I just,¡± Oscar says as he looks around.


    ¡°I got last night¡¯s security tape.¡± The two of them watch it and find someone in a black hoodie and black pants coming into the hospital late at night. That person goes into a room the hospital staff claims was empty and he comes out in a doctor¡¯s uniform wearing a mask. That person enters Gregory''s room, leaves, changes in the same room and walks out the door.


    ¡°A perfect crime,¡± Dean says. ¡°Guess someone is trying to cover up their tracks.¡±


    ¡°True,¡± Oscar says watching the tape over and over again. ¡°He¡¯s about the same height.¡±


    ¡°Would you let that one go!¡± Dean says.


    ¡°We seem to have reached a dead-end here,¡± Oscar says. ¡°The body of a woman was found a few weeks ago stabbed multiple times, no DNA, no hair, no nothing. We have no idea who took her or where she has been. What¡¯s stranger is that she died about two days prior to us finding her.¡±


    ¡°Maybe the killer kept her to kill her later,¡± Dean says sighing. ¡°Maybe there is something on how Gregory was killed. The murder weapon?¡±


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    ¡°Scalpel. Probably found it in the hospital,¡± Oscar replies.


    ¡°What about the room he changed in?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°Before we could get anything there, the hospital moved someone into that room,¡± Oscar says sounding frustrated. ¡°The stab wounds for Scarlet were done by a man.¡±


    ¡°Great, that brings us down to about half the population.¡± Dean says sarcastically. ¡°There has got to be something. Anything!¡±


    ¡°Wait, we did inform the doctors not to tell anyone Gregory was awake. Not even his family,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°That means that the person who killed him,¡± Dean says as he begins to realize what Oscar is saying.


    ¡°Must have been in the hospital!¡± Oscar says as they hear a knock on their door and its Maria. For the first time in the investigation, they were happy to see her.


    ¡°What?¡± She asks confused at their delighted expressions.


    ¡°Maria where were you after you left the hospital?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°I went to Scar¡¯s place,¡± Maria says as she looks through her purse and takes out a newspaper article and hands it to them. ¡°I went to find this, I was looking through her stuff all night and I finally found it.¡± Oscar and Dean look at it and find it''s an old newspaper from 27 years ago. It was a report about the suicide of a woman.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°It¡¯s a report,¡± Maria replies. ¡°Benjamin¡¯s father killed his mother and made it look like a suicide.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Oscar says as he read the article. A woman who jumped off a building was the wife of Robert MacLerie.


    ¡°He denies it, but Scarlet always knew,¡± Maria says. ¡°His dad killed his mom, just like Benjamin is responsible for my sister.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for this information, Maria. That will be all,¡± Dean says as he gestures her to leave. ¡°And please keep in mind what I said yesterday unless it is important to leave us be.¡± Maria though annoyed, nods her head and leaves. Oscar reads the article and his suspicion of Benjamin grows. He decides to keep looking now more determined to find the killer.


    Meanwhile, Benjamin wakes up quite relieved, unaware of what happened to Gregory. Nicholas and Ann spend quality time together, with Ann finally at ease with everything, Nicholas now finds he solely has her attention. Benjamin also spends time with Fiona, happy to see her brother in a good mood again, she decides to host a dinner party. Benjamin invites Ann and Nick, while Fiona invites Tom and her boyfriend. The dinner was two days away and Benjamin convinced Fiona not to cook. Two days later, Ann and Nicholas reach Benjamin¡¯s house and are greeted by Fiona.

 Dinner Party

    ¡°You must be Ann,¡± Fiona says smiling as she shakes her hand. Benjamin has told her about Ann and Fiona is happy to finally meet her. ¡°Come in.¡± She says as she invites them in.


    ¡°Hi Nick,¡± Benjamin says inviting them in. ¡°Good to see you, Ann.¡±


    ¡°Hi Ben,¡± Ann says as everyone greets each other and sits down in the living room.


    ¡°I have heard so much about you,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t heard much about you though,¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°It''s alright,¡± Fiona says smiling. ¡°Ben doesn¡¯t like to admit he has a beautiful sister.¡±


    ¡°Beautiful? You?¡± Ben replies sarcastically as Fiona smacks him in the head, as the group laugh. With such a lovely start, the group continue to make small talk. Soon the men go to the kitchen to get a few drinks, then Fiona leans in and talks to Ann.


    ¡°You are a miracle worker. Tom and I have been trying to get him to go for counselling for months but he just never listened,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°He still needs counselling,¡± Ann replies. ¡°He hasn¡¯t shown up for a few weeks.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Fiona asks. ¡°I¡¯m sure he will start again. Just give him time, this was so difficult for him.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann replies sympathetically as they are joined by the men.


    ¡°What were you two whispering about?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Probably Fiona¡¯s new man,¡± Benjamin says smiling.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°Yes, after years and years of being single. She is finally taking a chance,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°He¡¯s right,¡± Fiona replies happily. ¡°This is my second relationship and my first serious one.¡±


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    ¡°Wow,¡± Ann says. She secretly feels relieved knowing that she is not the only one who has not been in a serious relationship prior to this.


    ¡°Fiona was always very picky when it came to men,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°She only wanted the best or no one at all. And I have to say I think I like this is the guy. She seems really happy because of him, unlike the first guy.¡±


    ¡°He was a jerk and I was a kid, what else to say,¡± Fiona says smiling. ¡°Besides, I know you¡¯ll like my boyfriend Ben, he¡¯s amazing and sweet and,¡± Fiona then realises she is going on and on about her boyfriend and gets embarrassed. ¡°Enough about me, what about you?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Ann blushes as she looks at Nicholas.


    ¡°Ann is one of a kind,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°That¡¯s all I have to say.¡± Nicholas looks at Ann passionately as Ann holds her hand.


    ¡°Get a room,¡± Ben says as all of them laugh. Ann notices Benjamin¡¯s change in behaviour. He is so different from the man she met on the bridge, he is now smiling. Despite knowing he has a long way to go, she¡¯s happy. This improvement warms her heart. Just then the doorbell rings and Fiona gets up enthusiastically.


    ¡°I think it''s him,¡± Fiona says as she excitedly goes to open the door. She smiles brightly as she brings in her boyfriend. Fiona walks in with flowers, while holding her boyfriend¡¯s hand. ¡°Everyone, I would like you to meet¡­¡±


    ¡°Oscar?¡± Ann says as she sees Fiona holding her brothers hand.


    ¡°Ann?¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Benjamin asks as he stands up aggressively.


    ¡°I think I should be the one asking that question,¡± Oscar replies.


    ¡°This is my house,¡± Benjamin replies.


    ¡°Wait, how do you know my brother?¡± Fiona asks looking confused.


    ¡°That¡¯s my brother,¡± Ann says standing up.


    ¡°And the guy that accused me of killing Scarlet!¡± Benjamin replies as Fiona¡¯s smile fades as she lets go of Oscar¡¯s hand and steps away, looking at him with disgust.


    ¡°Ruby, I,¡± Fiona then interrupts Oscar.


    ¡°How could you think my brother would do something like that?¡± She asks. ¡°No! How could you harass my brother like that!¡±


    ¡°Harass? I didn¡¯t,¡± Oscar says trying to explain himself.


    ¡°You did!¡± Benjamin says as he comes forward and stands next to Fiona. ¡°And now answer my question. Why are you here?¡± Oscar keeps quiet for a moment, realizing that he is in love with Benjamin¡¯s sister. ¡°You better not be playing with my sister¡¯s feelings!¡±


    ¡°I would never,¡± Oscar shouts.


    ¡°Don¡¯t shout at him,¡± Fiona says defending Benjamin.


    ¡°Ruby I swear. I had no idea he was your brother,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°As if that changes anything,¡± Benjamin says approaching Oscar. ¡°You would do anything to try and get to me wouldn¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°Ben!¡± Ann says now getting angry. ¡°I admit Oz has his faults but he would never.¡±


    ¡°Shut up Ann! Why hasn¡¯t anyone taught you to shut up!¡± Benjamin says in a cold dominating voice startling everyone.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Nicholas shouts moves to Ann¡¯s side holding her.


    ¡°No one talks to my sister that way!¡± Oscar says getting in Benjamin¡¯s face. Just then the front door swings open.

 Truth and Pain

    ¡°Alright, who is ready for a great evening with some good wine?¡± Tom lets himself in as he says these words in a jolly as ever tone, holding a bottle of wine.


    As he takes a few steps, he looks to find everyone in the room staring at him with a cold glare. The mood of the room says he¡¯s entered into a warzone and the looks of the people there confirm it. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. He was just leaving,¡± Fiona says as she turns away from Oscar.


    ¡°Ruby,¡± Oscar says hoping to explain himself.


    ¡°What? What can you possibly say for me to believe that this isn¡¯t a sham! You accuse my brother of murder and then suddenly get close to me! Your disgusting,¡± Fiona says as she prepares to walk away.


    ¡°How about this¡­ You and I met each other five months ago before any of this started. And from that moment I wanted to be with you. And I have told you that time and time again,¡± Oscar says with a heavy heart as Fiona stops in her tracks. ¡°Or how about the fact that your brother threatened to kill Gregory and Scarlet a few weeks before the assault.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie,¡± Fiona says turning to look at him.


    ¡°I am not!¡± Oscar asserts himself. ¡°You think I just decided to suspect your brother without cause. Yesterday a man was at the hospital and he killed Gregory Morgan. A man of his height and physique. Not only that, no one knew Gregory was awake, not even his family. We kept that quiet to protect him but still, he was found with his throat slit. Benjamin was at the hospital and saw him wake up, his final injuries were done by a man, as he died he said the perpetrator had a heart tattoo. What am I to make of all this?¡± Oscar says sounding frustrated. ¡°Not to mention your family history, your father being responsible for your mother¡¯s death.¡±


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    ¡°Enough!¡± Benjamin shouts in one loud voice. ¡°Get out! Enough of your lies and misconceptions. My father was a great man; he would never hurt my mother. After her death, he didn¡¯t even look at another woman because he loved her so much. So get your facts right,¡± Benjamin says as he points to the door.


    ¡°Leave.¡± Oscar turns around to leave and as he reaches the door he turns around to see Fiona wiping a tear from her cheek.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you would think I am capable of using you. That you think all our time together was a sham,¡± Oscar turns around trying to control his tears. ¡°I hate to see you cry Ruby, but you¡¯re not the only one here who¡¯s had their heart broken tonight.¡± Oscar leaves crying as Nicholas holds Ann as she begins to cry, watching her brother become emotional.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Nicholas says as he angrily stares at Benjamin as they leave.


    ¡°I should go too,¡± Tom says as he leaves closing the door behind him. Fiona goes to the guest room without saying a word and cries, as Benjamin is left by himself in the living room.


    Two days later, Oscar is at the station working and is visited by someone unexpected. Fiona stands before him in his office asking him for a moment to talk. With a painful heart, he decides to hear her out.


    ¡°That day you said my dad was responsible for my mom¡¯s death. I¡¯m sure you read about it in the papers, how he was cheating on her and how she said in an interview that she feels neglected.¡± Oscar had done some digging and had found these articles. ¡°I just wanted to say, that it was true. Every bit of it was true.¡± Oscar looks at Fiona silently as she continues. ¡°Ben was only three years old when it happened. He was too young to remember, but I wasn¡¯t. He used to bring women home, mom used to scream and break things. He was always drinking and doing what he wanted. Then one-day mom told him to choose between her and some woman, so he walked out of the house. So mom jumped.¡±


    ¡°Sorry,¡± Oscar says softly.


    ¡°When dad found out he was devastated. He realized his mistake, cleaned up, and became the man Benjamin knew him to be. I never told him about what happened so that¡¯s why he thinks it¡¯s a lie,¡± Fiona says looking at Oscar. ¡°I just wanted to clear that up. And just because his father was like that doesn¡¯t mean Benjamin killed his ex-wife. Yes, he was angry but he¡¯s a good guy. He would never hurt her.¡± Fiona says as she stands up to leave.


    ¡°Wait.¡±

 The Talk

    ¡°Wait,¡± Oscar says as he opens a drawer in his desk, takes out a file and hands it to Fiona. Fiona looks at it for a moment before looking back at Oscar. ¡°Since we are being honest, I want you to see this.¡±


    Fiona takes the file and opens it. In it is a statement made by Scarlet a few weeks before her kidnapping.


    ¡°A few weeks before her kidnapping, Benjamin had assaulted Scarlet and her boyfriend. The police got involved and we had to put him in a cell for the night. He was heard screaming ¡®I¡¯ll kill you.¡¯ And though no charges were filed, she said she was worried something might happen. Her boyfriend assured her there¡¯s nothing to worry about.¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s true,¡± Fiona says softly as Oscar nods his head in agreement.


    ¡°I did not randomly choose Benjamin,¡± Oscar says as he takes the file from Fiona. The two of them sit silently for a moment and then Fiona leaves the room. Oscar lets out a painful sigh as Dean comes into the room.


    ¡°You ok?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Oscar says trying to avoid the question.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry pal,¡± Dean says.


    ¡°What for?¡±


    ¡°I have known my whole career. You never reveal details of any investigation, not even to your sister,¡± Dean says recalling Oscar¡¯s fight with his sister that lasted a few weeks. Oscar ignores these words as he goes through various papers. Dean understands his silence and leaves him be.


    That evening, Benjamin is at the sports club fencing, hours after fencing practice is over. He stays there alone waving a sword around unenthusiastically, almost like he was trying to swat a fly. As some time passes, someone opens the door.


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    ¡°Oh. Hi,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Hi Ben,¡± Nicholas says as he walks in. He is dressed in fencing gear and is holding a sabre (sword). ¡°May I?¡± He asks approaching Benjamin.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you fence,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°I rarely do,¡± Nicholas says as he stands in front of him. ¡°I just wanted to see you in your element.¡± He says taking a stance and putting on his helmet. Benjamin smirks, puts on his helmet and the match starts.


    ¡°Looks like I win. No surprise there,¡± Benjamin says removing his mask.


    ¡°Time to get serious then,¡± Nicholas says removing his mask, he throws it aside and taking an aggressive stance. Benjamin is a professional with years of training, he found Nicholas¡¯s actions cute and laughable. But with a serious face, he throws his mask aside as well and decides to continue sparring for a while.


    ¡°So why are you here all of a sudden?¡± Benjamin asks as he tries to stab Nicholas.


    ¡°I wanted to talk to you at your strongest,¡± Nicholas looks at Benjamin as he smirks. ¡°I wanted to tell you, you are a selfish man,¡± As Nicholas says these words in a cold voice, Benjamin is thrown off guard and Nicholas wins a point.


    ¡°What? What do you mean?¡± Benjamin asks as they begin sparring again.


    ¡°I am going, to be honest. Stop using your pain as an excuse to hurt others,¡± Nicholas says startling Benjamin with his behaviour and winning a point again.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hurt anyone,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°If anything I am the victim here, being accused of killing my wife! Why is everyone after me for that?¡±


    ¡°Because you behaved so badly people believe you are capable of anything,¡± Nicholas says in a calm yet dominating voice.


    ¡°What?¡± Benjamin says softly, sounding agitated.


    ¡°Just look at the way you treat Ann, isn¡¯t that proof enough?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying!¡± Benjamin says getting angry.


    ¡°Tell me, did you ever apologize to her for what happened at D&Zzzz,¡± Benjamin remains silent for a moment. ¡°Or rather were you ever going to apologize to her?¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Benjamin says as Nicholas uses technique and brute force to knock the sabre out of his hand as he charges.


    ¡°You¡¯re so selfish,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°You even ruined your sister¡¯s relationship and for what? Your ego?¡±


    ¡°I said shut up!¡± Benjamin says as he charges at Nicholas ready to punch him. Nicholas steps aside and punches Benjamin in the gut causing him to fall on his knees.


    ¡°You have nowhere to run now. You can¡¯t blame anyone but yourself,¡± Nicholas says coldly. Nicholas stood before him tall and strong leaving Benjamin on his knees.


    Nicholas took the sabre and puts it against his neck boldly. ¡°You have done enough.¡±

 Now What?

    ¡°You have done enough,¡± Nicholas says as Benjamin looks at him speechless.


    ¡°You hurt Ann many times and though she is ready to forgive you, I on the other hand, am not. You watched your sister cry as you threw her boyfriend out, destroying her chances at love, which you of all people know are very slim. She would never trust another man again and that is all because of you,¡± Benjamin stares at Nicholas clenching his stomach.


    ¡°I¡­I just,¡± Benjamin tries to explain being confronted with his behavior.


    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas says. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. You have no right to behave the way you do just because you are hurting cause newsflash, in many ways, we all are hurt.¡± Nicholas turns around and leaves with these words.


    Benjamin is left there alone and though defensive at first cannot help but consider his words. With the explanation Oscar gave, Benjamin understands why he is considered a suspect in his ex-wife¡¯s murder. It was true that asking Ann for forgiveness did not cross his mind. Even when he yelled at her a few days ago, he never thought he should apologize, despite seeing her shaken. He also thinks about his sister Fiona, all these months she seemed happy. Even before she admitted to being with someone Benjamin did notice a change in her. Benjamin never knew why she was always skeptical about dating, but finally hearing she was with someone made him happy for her. And now, he has to return home, to remember how he was responsible for breaking his sister''s heart. As much as he hates to admit it, Oscar did make his sister happy and though he didn¡¯t get along with him, he has seen his behavior with Ann and can rightfully conclude, he is a good guy.


    That evening, as Fiona was taking a walk around town, she bumps into Ann.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Fiona asks skeptically and on guard.


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    She notices Ann carrying something in a bag and takes a moment to think.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Fiona says. ¡°Can we talk?¡±


    Without much to say Ann nods and invites her back to her place. As skeptical as she is, Fiona knows she did her wrong and wanted to apologize properly.


    ¡°Here we are,¡± Ann says as she opens her apartment door after what she considers a long awkward walk back to her place. Though they didn¡¯t talk much, there was a growing tension. After offering her some coffee, Ann sits next to her and the two women begin to talk.


    ¡°You have a nice place,¡± Fiona says looking around.


    ¡°It is,¡± Ann replies. ¡°Oscar doesn¡¯t visit much if that¡¯s what your worried about.¡± Not wanting to waste any time, Ann is upset about the way Fiona treated her brother.


    ¡°I know you think he¡¯s right, and I understand that,¡± Fiona says letting out a sigh. ¡°And though I understand his reasons as well, he still hurt Ben.¡±


    ¡°And you hurt Oscar,¡± Ann says in a soft stern voice. ¡°Oscar is a good guy. And to be fair he did explain why Benjamin was a suspect. Maybe if you talk to him he can explain further.¡±


    ¡°I have,¡± Fiona says interrupting Ann. ¡°He explained everything and I understand. But don¡¯t you think he was too much.¡±


    ¡°He was,¡± Ann agrees as she takes a sip of coffee.


    ¡°Even you agree he was wrong at some point,¡± Fiona says letting out a small chuckle. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says looking at Fiona directly. ¡°That he¡¯s human? He makes mistakes?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant,¡± Fiona says while Ann hides her troubled emotions growing in her heart. ¡°You are a psychologist. You know what Ben¡¯s going through. He doesn¡¯t deserve to be treated that way.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°So then what¡¯s wrong with saying that?¡± Fiona says trying to defend her words. ¡°He did ill-treat my brother and that is good enough reason to never see him again.¡±


    ¡°Benjamin hurt me too you know,¡± Ann says silencing Fiona. ¡°I think it¡¯s obvious I am not the best with confrontation, many situations make me anxious. Ben knew that but still he.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious!¡± Fiona says sounding irritated. ¡°That¡¯s different. He made a mistake and acted out.¡±


    ¡°Actually its different because he¡¯s your brother,¡± Ann says silencing Fiona. ¡°The same way Oscar is my brother and I care about him.¡± After a small pause Fiona says.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be with Oscar anymore.¡±

 That鈥檚 Reassuring

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be with Oscar anymore.¡± Fiona says sounding upset. Ann listens to these words and lets out a loud sigh.


    ¡°Ok,¡± Ann says as Fiona looks at her surprised at her one-word answer.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Fiona says unable to conceal her confusion.


    ¡°It¡¯s your relationship. You know what to do,¡± Ann says as Fiona stares at her making her uncomfortable. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you two should be together. I barely know much about Oscar¡¯s relationships to begin with. But one thing I know is, if one of you decides it¡¯s over, it over,¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Fiona says trying to hide her true feelings.


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame though, I thought you could make each other really happy,¡± Fiona listens to these words seemingly heartbroken and she gets up.


    ¡°Sorry about what happened at dinner the other day,¡± Fiona says trying to hide her tears and she runs out of the apartment. She jolts past Nicholas who has just arrived at his apartment. He notices Fiona¡¯s tears and goes to Ann¡¯s apartment. As he opens the door he calls out.


    ¡°Ann?¡± Nicholas lets himself in and sees Ann sitting at the table. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Ann says with her voice trembling as Nicholas comes close to comfort her.


    ¡°What did she do?¡± Nicholas asks defensively as he puts his arm around her.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Ann says as Nicholas notices Ann smiling. ¡°I think she and Oz will make it.¡±


    Nicholas knowing Ann was worried for her brother¡¯s happiness smiles and asks.


    ¡°How do you know?¡± After explaining what happened in detail Nicholas smiles and says. ¡°Well, she does certainly care.¡±


    ¡°Otherwise she won¡¯t be this upset when I told her it might be over,¡± Ann replies.


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    ¡°Looks like my psychologist is finally using some tricks in real life,¡± Nicholas smirks as Ann smiles and lets out a small laugh. ¡°You can relax now,¡± Nicholas says embracing her.


    ¡°Thanks to you, I¡¯m more relaxed than usual.¡±


    The next day, Ann is visited by Oscar that evening.


    ¡°Hi, Oz,¡± Ann says. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Oscar replies. ¡°You wanted to see me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ann says as she makes him his favorite tea and cookies.


    ¡°Just like mom makes,¡± Oscar says as he sits down at the table. ¡°What¡¯s the occasion?¡±


    ¡°Oz,¡± Ann says sighing. ¡°Are you ok?¡±


    ¡°Because crazy Ben destroyed my relationship. No,¡± Oscar says as he begins to eat. ¡°But I am a big boy I will get over it. Got any whipped cream?¡± Ann smiles and hands him a tin of whipped cream. ¡°So what if she¡¯s great. I¡¯ll find someone else. But man was she pretty, she just had this smile that made my great go crazy.¡± Ann nods as Oscar keeps eating and after a few moments continues. ¡°So what if she¡¯s Benjamin¡¯s sister. I didn¡¯t know, nor do I think it should matter. I am supposed to be a protector justice and if Ruby can¡¯t see that then, it¡¯s her loss.¡± After a few moments of silence, Oscar speaks yet again. ¡°It¡¯s not like I targeted him on purpose. We were together before that and how do you expect me to treat a murder suspect. I know I can overdo it sometimes but, I just wanted to protect my sister and,¡± Oscar says as he looks at Ann who looks at him comfortingly. ¡°How do you do it?¡±


    ¡°Do what?¡±


    ¡°Get me to talk,¡± Oscar says as they both laugh. ¡°Feels kind of nice, letting it out.¡±


    ¡°So why do you call her Ruby?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°She¡¯s pretty, like a ruby,¡± Oscar says as he sighs and continues. ¡°The day we met she was out shopping for a neckless. She told me she loves rubies but didn¡¯t tell me her name. So I decided to call her Ruby,¡± Oscar says with a heavy heart recalling happy memories.


    ¡°You should have told me,¡± Ann says. ¡°Why you suspect Benjamin.¡±


    Oscar looks at her quietly as she speaks. ¡°Your own sister wasn¡¯t offered an explanation but Fiona was¡­You must really like her.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Oscar says sounding upset. ¡°But I don¡¯t think it¡¯ll work out.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, things are too complicated now,¡± Oscar admits.


    ¡°Is my brother giving up?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°No,¡± Oscar says sighing. ¡°But the way things are, I can only be hopeful.¡± Ann and Oscar spend the evening talking and after that he leaves she goes to meet Nicholas.


    ¡°Hi, Nick,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Hi. You look happy, so I guess you talked things out with Oscar,¡± Nicholas says smiling.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ann says. ¡°There isn¡¯t much I can do right now but it was nice to clear things up with him.¡±


    Nicholas embraces Ann like he usually does, but this time something felt different. What was always a comforting hug, was now passionate, strong and even protective. Not sure what brought out this new change but Ann embraces it, believing she is getting closer to him.

 Now we are going somewhere

    A few days later Ann is walking in the park and notices Benjamin sitting on the park bench. As he makes eye contact with her, he immediately looks to the ground. Ann wants to approach him, but after the way he treated her she is hesitant. Against her better judgment, she wants to find out what¡¯s wrong but she decides to walk past him. As she walks by she hears Benjamin calling out.


    ¡°Ann wait,¡± as she turns back she sees Benjamin still staring at the ground. Thinking she had heard misheard, she turns around to walk away.


    ¡°Ann please, I need to talk to you,¡± she looks at him as she notices Benjamin staring at the ground, not lifting his head as he speaks.


    ¡°Ben, is everything alright?¡± Ann asks approaching him, concerned about his strange behaving.


    ¡°Please sit here,¡± Benjamin says as he pats the empty space on the bench next to him. ¡°I need to say something, don¡¯t reply, just listen.¡± Ann sits next to him slowly, unsure of what to expect.


    ¡°I am so sorry,¡± Benjamin says sighing. ¡°Ever since day one I have been nothing but horrible to you and you have been nothing but be nice to me.  You always looked out for me and in return, all I did was hurt you.¡±


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann is interrupted by Benjamin.


    ¡°I am not finished,¡± he says still looking at the ground. ¡°Not once did it occur to me that I was hurting you. Despite your pain being so obvious. I have been selfish.¡± These words Benjamin says with a heavy heart. ¡°I should not have treated you that way. Both you and your¡­brother.¡±


    Ann puts her hand on Benjamin¡¯s shoulder and pats him three times as Benjamin lifts his head to look at her. Her comforting eyes made his eye fill with tears. The past few days Benjamin spent contemplating every word that came from Nicholas¡¯s mouth and has decided to do what¡¯s right. As he looks at Ann he feels at ease, knowing she forgives him, but as they start talking, he begins to feel something else he didn¡¯t expect.


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    Meanwhile, at the station, Dean and Oscar look for men in the hospital who fit the profile of the man they saw in the surveillance footage. Just then one of the other officers come in with some new information.


    ¡°What?¡± Oscar asks. ¡°Where did this joker come from?¡±


    ¡°She was on leave, she returned today,¡± the officer says as a woman enters the room.


    ¡°Hello. I am Dr. Jessica Walter,¡± the woman says as Dean and Oscar introduce themselves. The room is tense as Oscar looks anticipatingly as the woman sits down.


    ¡°So, Dr. Walter. Can you tell us what you saw?¡± Oscar says as she leans back comfortably while Dean takes notes.


    ¡°Well, I saw someone in a surgical mask, a Str8 black hoodie, and black pants leaving the hospital. I had gone out for a smoke and as I was returning he walked past me,¡± Jessica says.


    ¡°What type of hoodie?¡± Oscar asks curiously.


    ¡°Str8. It¡¯s a brand popular in Brazil. My cousin lives there and usually wears it here when visiting.¡±


    ¡°But how did you notice that?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°The folds on the sleeves, at least at the hem of it,¡± she says. ¡°It¡¯s quite unique, it looks like pleated cuffs, but also like a ribbon spread with deck of cards.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Oscar says softly.


    ¡°I¡¯m a fashionista, I notice these things. In fact, this brand is known for its design, quite unique, very recognizable,¡± she says proudly. Oscar and Dean look at each other and thank Dr. Walter.


    ¡°The brand of the hoodie,¡± Dean says once Dr. Walter leaves. ¡°Now that is something we can go on.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not get our hopes up,¡± Oscar says seriously. ¡°If this is a common brand then.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not,¡± Dean says as he looks it up immediately. ¡°It¡¯s not common here yet, the brand is trying to make its way into the market here.¡±


    ¡°But not yet,¡± Oscar says smiling as he reads what Dean has found. The two of them smile happy with their new facts.


    That night, Nicholas meets Tom for dinner and a few drinks.


    ¡°Thank you once again,¡± Tom says smiling. ¡°You really did me a solid by not publishing that.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who pulled some strings,¡± Nicholas says smiling. ¡°I was just following orders.¡±


    ¡°Yes. But if you didn¡¯t tell me the press knew that Benjamin was a suspect in Scarlet¡¯s murder case. I can¡¯t imagine what would have happened,¡± Tom replies as Nicholas smiles. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it,¡± Nicholas says smiling as they make small talk.


    ¡°So how are things with you and Ann?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°All good,¡± Nicholas says as Tom looks at him. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I just think you¡¯re lucky. Moved here over a year ago, met the perfect girl next door asked her out, and now you''re together. It¡¯s such a cute story,¡± Tom remarks as Nicholas gives an uncomfortable smile.

 Heart to Heart

    ¡°Did I say something?¡± Tom notices his words have caused a strange reaction in Nicholas.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Nicholas says shaking it off. ¡°Actually it was she who asked me out,¡± Nicholas says smiling. Despite his outer calm and composed appearance, Nicholas was having an emotional crisis within.


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s strong of her,¡± Tom says.


    ¡°She is,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°I think that¡¯s what I appreciate about her. She¡¯s just always so nice and sweet.¡±


    ¡°Yes, she is nice. Then again thinking about it, she is a psychologist and understands certain things better than others. I guess that¡¯s why she sympathized with Ben despite him acting like an idiot,¡± Tom concludes.


    ¡°No,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°She¡¯s just a nice person. The reason she¡¯s helping him is because she believes she can make a difference. She is not a fool; she knows when she has to back out.¡±


    ¡°Someone cares,¡± Tom says sarcastically making Nicholas laugh. ¡°I have only known you for over a year and you have never looked at a woman other than Anna. She must be really special to you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Ann, and yes. Is that so wrong?¡± Nicholas replies feeling uncomfortable. ¡°What about you? Anyone special?¡±


    ¡°You know me, no one I keep around for too long.¡± Tom says sarcastically as Nicholas looks at him.


    ¡°What about Fiona?¡± Nicholas asks with a straight face startling Tom. ¡°Ben doesn¡¯t know does he?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you owe me a hoodie?¡± Tom says trying to change the subject as the two of them laugh. ¡°No, he doesn¡¯t know. And this thing for Fiona happened recently, it¡¯s not serious. Just a crush I don¡¯t plan on pursuing,¡± Tom says and after a moment of silence, he asks in a serious tone. ¡°Is it that obvious?¡±


    ¡°To me, and anyone with eyes,¡± Nicholas says causing Tom to smile. ¡°I have seen her come to your show, the way you are around her.¡±


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    ¡°She has someone else,¡± Tom says interrupting Nicholas.


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°She never dates. The last time she did she was in high school and now,¡± Tom says sighing. ¡°You know, the strange thing is when she told me she was dating, I was genuinely happy to see her happy. Yes, I was bit hurt but, it was like it was worth it.¡±


    Nicholas smiles as Tom says these words and he says, ¡°Not to mention she¡¯s your best friends sister.¡±


    ¡°And yes, she is my best friend¡¯s sister, so of course, she is off-limits,¡± Tom says smiling. ¡°She is sweet, strong, and an amazing woman. Have you seen some of her work in engineering, it¡¯s amazing. The woman is practically a genius. And she does it all by herself,¡± Tom says as Nicholas listens and notices something.


    ¡°Tom,¡± Nicholas says as he turns and looks back. ¡°Does Fiona also like to go out drinking and getting drunk by herself?¡±


    ¡°I doubt it; she would never be that reckless. She will always have someone¡­¡± Tom is interrupted by Nicholas pointing across the room and as Tom turns around he sees Fiona. She is sitting at a table drunk and having another drink. ¡°What in the?¡± Tom says as he and Nicholas stand up and approach Fiona.


    ¡°Oh hi, guys,¡± Fiona says as she gestures the two men to sit down.


    ¡°Fiona, what are you doing here?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°I am drinking,¡± She replies swiftly. ¡°What¡¯s the matter boys, you can¡¯t see as well as you used to?¡±


    ¡°I can see that,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°Are you here alone?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Fiona replies. ¡°My friend was with me but left. Said she had an emergency.¡±


    ¡°And she left you here by yourself?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°No, she called Ben.¡± Fiona replies. ¡°He¡¯s supposed to be here now. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s taking him so long.¡±


    ¡°What time did she call Ben?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°10:45¡± Fiona says as she puts her head on the table. Nicholas and Tom look at the time and find it''s only 10:50. The two look at each other realizing Fiona is really drunk. As Fiona tries ordering another round of drinks, Tom decides to take Fiona home. With Nicholas¡¯s help, Tom gets Fiona in his car and he drives her home. He calls Ben and tells him he¡¯s bringing Fiona to his place. As he uses Fiona¡¯s spare key to open Ben¡¯s door and he takes her to the guest room. As he puts her on the bed to sleep she begins to cry.


    ¡°Fiona?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°Why?¡± Fiona says. ¡°Why did it have to be him? Why did I have to treat him that way?¡±


    ¡°Oscar?¡± Tom asks in a soft voice.


    ¡°I thought we would make it. I know he was just doing his job but, my brother,¡± Fiona says crying as Tom holds her, he looks at her and says.


    ¡°You can make it. Since Benjamin is innocent there¡¯s nothing to worry about. He¡¯s just doing his job,¡± Tom says smiling as he notices Fiona staring at him.


    ¡°Oscar¡­¡± Fiona says as she leans in to kiss him.

 What Have I Done?

    The next morning Nicholas and Ann are having breakfast together. Ann is happy and Nicholas notices her upbeat attitude.


    ¡°Did anything good happen yesterday?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°You can say that,¡± Ann says. ¡°Ben, he apologized to me.¡±


    These words cause Nicholas¡¯s face to change from delight to suprised. ¡°That was really nice of him, wasn¡¯t it? I can truly see a change in him now,¡± Ann notices Nicholas¡¯s changed expression. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ann but that¡¯s what you said last time,¡± Nicholas says trying to sound as kind and comforting as possible. ¡°But the way he yelled at you that day, I¡­¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Ann replies. ¡°It is difficult for him. So I think.¡±


    ¡°Ann that is not an excuse for him to treat you that way,¡± Nicholas replies as he holds Ann¡¯s hand. ¡°I don¡¯t want to sound possessive, but I worry he might hurt you again.¡± Ann smiles, happy that Nicholas is worried about her.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. I know you think I am being too forgiving here but, at least he realizes his faults.¡± Ann says and is interrupted by Nicholas.


    ¡°After I confronted him,¡± Nicholas says these words and looks at Ann who is shocked by his actions. Nicholas has always been calm and composed, doing something like this was unlike him. ¡°I am sorry,¡± Nicholas apologizes realizing what he¡¯s just blurted out. ¡°I just.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann says as she hugs him tightly, now smiling. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Without realizing it, Nicholas¡¯s actions have brought Benjamin face to face with himself. Ann finds this along with Nicholas¡¯s new fondness of her flattering. Nicholas hugs Ann, angry at how things turned out. What he¡¯s angrier about is his actions, he didn¡¯t have to confront Benjamin, but he couldn¡¯t let it slide after what he did to Ann. After they embrace and the two of them continue eating their breakfast.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Back at Benjamin¡¯s house, Fiona wakes up with a terrible headache. Not sure of what happened the previous night Fiona begins to think back. Finding thinking a difficult task, she lies back on the bed as Benjamin walks in with a cup of coffee.


    ¡°Good morning sleepy head,¡± Benjamin says sitting next to Fiona. ¡°Time to get up.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°Up, I got you coffee,¡± Fiona looks at Benjamin and slowly gets up and takes a sip of coffee. ¡°Feeling better?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Fiona says full of regret. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I was so drunk. I have never been this drunk in years.¡±


    ¡°These things happen,¡± Benjamin says as he watches Fiona sit up. Fiona tries to think back, hoping to recall what happened the previous night and suddenly recalls something. She remembers meeting Tom and trying to kiss him. Suddenly Fiona¡¯s eyes fill with tears as she begins to feel guilty.


    ¡°No,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Benjamin says noticing Fiona¡¯s teary eyes.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Benjamin asks concerned about his sister.


    ¡°I think I kissed Tom last night,¡± Fiona says crying.


    ¡°What? He kissed you?¡± Benjamin asks in disbelief.


    ¡°No, I kissed him,¡± Fiona corrects. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I did that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s ok, it¡¯s just a kiss, I¡¯m sure Tom doesn¡¯t take it seriously,¡± Benjamin says trying to comfort Fiona.


    ¡°You know what,¡± Fiona says. ¡°I never understood how someone could cheat on someone they claim to love. It made no sense, even when dad used to go off with other women, I never understood how he could come home and tell mom he loves her.¡±


    These words shock Benjamin since he doesn¡¯t have memories of his mom and by the time he grew up, his dad was a different man. ¡°Yesterday I kissed Tom, I can¡¯t believe I did that to Oscar,¡± Fiona says unable to control her emotions.


    ¡°Fiona,¡± Benjamin says as he hugs her.


    ¡°I never wanted what happened to mom to happen to me, and now I have hurt someone I care about. How will he react when he finds out?¡± Fiona says crying regretfully. Benjamin sees his sister¡¯s pain and understands how much Oscar means to her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°Right now are you guys still together?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Fiona replies. ¡°I hope we are; I shouldn¡¯t have done something like that.¡±


    ¡°Fiona, don¡¯t give yourself such a hard time,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°I mean, if you¡¯re not together it doesn¡¯t mean you cheated.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a technicality,¡± Fiona replies. ¡°I hoped we¡¯d work things out, but now.¡±


    ¡°Fiona, it¡¯s alright,¡± Benjamin says as he is interrupted by Fiona.


    ¡°Ben, it hurt a lot when you saw Scarlet kissing Greg,¡± Ben recalls the pain and understands Fiona¡¯s concern. Fiona is his sister and he doesn¡¯t want her to be upset. But these words bring back painful memories for Benjamin and he now understands how Oscar might feel. Following a heartfelt conversation, Benjamin decides to take matters into his own hands.

 New Turn

    The next day, Oscar is at the police station going through details about sales of the Str8 hoodies. The number of people who bought the hoodie is a little over a hundred in online sales, which Oscar is tracking. As Oscar is doing this, Dean comes rushing into the room.


    ¡°You are not going to believe what I just found.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Oscar asks curiously as he stands up and as a man is brought into the room. ¡°Who is this?¡±


    ¡°Just someone I found on the side of the street,¡± Dean says as Oscar looks at the homeless man who looks confused at the situation. He is leaning on a crutch as he clearly has difficulty walking. Though it was difficult to recognize at first but the man was wearing a dirtied Str8 hoodie. ¡°Look,¡± Dean says as he pulls up the man¡¯s sleeve and reveals a heart tattoo on his arm.


    ¡°Oh my goodness,¡± Oscar says as he gets close to Dean¡¯s ear and whispers. ¡°Where did you find this guy?¡±


    ¡°I was out having a donut near this hospital when I saw this guy going through the trash,¡± Dean says smiling. ¡°He says he¡¯s been hanging around the hospital for a while, I think he might have something to do with Gregory¡¯s death.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir,¡± the homeless man says sounding panicked. ¡°I had nothing to do with anyone¡¯s death, I am innocent. Please believe me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Mr¡­¡± Oscar says calmly.


    ¡°Mike. Call me Mike,¡± the man replies.


    ¡°Mike, we would like to ask you a few questions,¡± Oscar says. ¡°Would you like something to eat first?¡±


    Mike happily agrees and they take him into a room and give him something to eat and a glass of water while Oscar and Dean watch him through a glass window.


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    ¡°What do you think? Is he faking?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± Dean replies. ¡°He clearly has a problem with his leg, we checked,¡± Dean says as he pauses for a moment. ¡°But it makes no sense how a man like that could get an expensive foreign hoodie.¡± Dean and Oscar watch the man eating, as he looks grateful for the food. ¡°The biggest problem, in this case, is motive. Why would someone other than Benjamin want to kill either Scarlet or Gregory?¡±


    ¡°I have been thinking about that,¡± Oscar says. ¡°What if this isn¡¯t some motive-driven murder. What if it was just for fun?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Dean asks. ¡°There has been no report of a serial killer in town.¡±


    ¡°No, but there has been a record of one serial killer that keeps skipping town after murdering a few people,¡± Oscar says as Dean begins to think about this possibility. ¡°All of this makes no sense, he didn¡¯t kill Gregory the first time, but assuming he made a mistake and thought he was dead, why didn¡¯t he try to kill him after that?¡± Oscar says as he continues thinking for a moment. ¡°What if he didn¡¯t care that Gregory was alive because he got Scarlet. What if he thought Gregory would wake up long after he had left town? So even if Gregory said something, he would never be caught.¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t care to kill Gregory until he found out he woke up,¡± Dean says. ¡°Do you think this guy is still in town?¡± Following this discussion, they enter the room where the homeless man is waiting for them.


    ¡°Thank you so much, officers. You are so kind,¡± Mike says.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, we have to ask you a few questions,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°Where did you get that hoodie?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°This thing, it was given to me by my friend Ronnie.¡± Mike replies.


    ¡°Ronnie?¡± Dean asks suspiciously.


    ¡°Yes. He told me I could have it,¡± Mike says smiling seemingly grateful for the hoodie.


    ¡°I see; Mike could you please explain further. That hoodie your wearing is very expensive and could belong to someone else,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t steal it; I swear,¡± Mike says defensively. ¡°Ronnie said he found this in the dumpster the day he gave it to me. I swear I am telling the truth.¡± The man¡¯s words make them think for a moment. With nothing else to go on and sure that Mike, a man who has trouble walking, couldn¡¯t have done it. They take a leap of faith, they inform officers around town to keep an eye out for this Ronnie guy, a man who Mike described in detail. As Oscar and Dean break for lunch that afternoon, someone is waiting for Oscar outside the station.

 Awkward Try

    Benjamin is standing outside the police station waiting for Oscar. Dean and Oscar stop in their tracks, surprised to find him standing there, as he begins to approach them.


    ¡°Hello, gentlemen,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Oscar says sceptically. ¡°Can we help you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I wanted to talk to you. It''s about Fiona,¡± Benjamin says as Oscar looks at him surprised. Dean pats Oscar on the back and with a quick smile leaves the two of them to talk.


    Oscar and Benjamin stand silently as Benjamin looks around and asks, ¡°Where¡¯s Maria, shouldn¡¯t she be around here?¡±


    ¡°She hasn¡¯t since we threw her in jail,¡± Oscar says surprising Benjamin. ¡°She was getting too nosy and disturbing us. We put her in for obstruction of justice, just for a night though.¡± Benjamin smiles at these words as Oscar looks at him.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to smile, I mean,¡± Benjamin tries to explain but is cut off by Oscar.


    ¡°I understand. She is a handful,¡± Oscar says understanding his frustration with Maria. ¡°So, what about Fiona?¡±


    ¡°Do you love her?¡± Benjamin asks startling Oscar. ¡°I mean; I think it¡¯s too soon for love but do you like her?¡±


    ¡°What? Why would you?¡± Benjamin interrupts Oscar.


    ¡°Because if you are, I think you should be together,¡± Benjamin says these words avoiding eye contact with Oscar. Oscar is speechless with these words, believing Benjamin would be against their relationship. ¡°I am not eager on this relationship,¡± Benjamin admits. ¡°But the truth is my sister is very happy with you. Although I don¡¯t understand why.¡±


    ¡°Ben,¡± Oscar says in unbelief.


    ¡°What do you say? Can you make my sister happy?¡± Benjamin asks now making eye contact with Oscar looking serious. Oscar gives a brief smile and speaks.


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    ¡°I am,¡± Oscar says smiling as he lets out a sigh. ¡°I am just not sure if she wants me.¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy, she is nuts about you,¡± Benjamin says painfully admitting what he knows to be true. ¡°So, would you forgive her if she did something stupid?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Oscar asks surprised by his words.


    ¡°I think it''s best she tells you herself,¡± Benjamin says with a straight face worrying Oscar. Not sure of what he¡¯s talking about, Oscar looks concerned. Noticing his expression Benjamin says, ¡°Just give her a chance. Please.¡± Not sure what to expect Oscar goes with Benjamin to meet Fiona.


    As they arrive at her place they enter with Benjamin¡¯s spare key. They enter and find no one to be at home. ¡°She is probably sleeping,¡± Benjamin says as they go to her room looking for her but she isn¡¯t there either. Just then they hear someone at the door, they hear Fiona¡¯s voice, along with Tom¡¯s. Benjamin closes the door nervously as Oscar looks at him suspiciously.


    ¡°Thank you for meeting me. I know you are busy,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°Oh, it''s nothing, you sounded serious though,¡± Tom says as the two of them sit in the living room while Fiona makes him a cup of tea. They haven¡¯t noticed Oscar and Benjamin who are now hiding in her room.


    ¡°Tom?¡± Benjamin whispers as he now becomes worried. He did not expect Fiona to bring Tom home nor did he tell her he was bringing Oscar to see her.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Oscar asks as Benjamin is left without words. He wanted Oscar and his sister to talk it out but now he fears he has led them into a really awkward situation. As these thoughts go through Benjamin¡¯s mind Oscar listens in on Fiona and Tom¡¯s conversation.


    ¡°I think it''s obvious, I wanted to talk to you about what happened,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°I expected as much,¡± Tom says. ¡°I understand ok, you were drunk and.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Fiona says cutting him off. ¡°I regret it so much. I wish it didn¡¯t happen,¡± These words cause Oscar to stand still unsure of what to believe. He knows Fiona and she is not one to behave in a way which is implied in this conversation.


    ¡°It¡¯s ok, it could have happened to anyone,¡± Tom says.


    ¡°That¡¯s no excuse,¡± Fiona says with teary eyes. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I did that. If Oscar finds out I don¡¯t know what he¡¯ll¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey calm down, it¡¯s no big deal,¡± Tom says trying to comfort Fiona. As Oscar hears these words he is left confused. If what she is implying is true, then what next. Oscar¡¯s heart slowly breaks as he hears their conversation. He sits down on the bed with a devastating look. Benjamin looks at Oscar and the look on his face reminds of him of how he reacted to Scarlet¡¯s betrayal.


    ¡°Fiona, it really isn¡¯t a big deal. I don¡¯t understand what Oscar has to do with this but.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Fiona says. ¡°We kissed and I am technically still with.¡±


    ¡°Wait, you think we kissed?¡±

 Honest Understanding

    ¡°You think we kissed?¡± Tom says surprising everyone. Oscar jolts up from the bed and opens the door slowly, looking at Fiona and Tom as they continue talking.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t¡­we?¡± Fiona asks.


    ¡°No,¡± Tom says. ¡°You wanted to kiss me thinking I was Oscar but as you leaned in you threw up on me.¡±


    Fiona, Oscar, and Benjamin let out a sigh of relief as a smile comes across Oscar and Fiona¡¯s faces. ¡°I¡¯m glad you throwing up on me makes you so happy,¡± Tom says sarcastically as Fiona laughs.


    ¡°No, I just thought I would havr hurt Oscar,¡± Fiona says letting out a chuckle, sounding relieved.


    ¡°You really like that one, don¡¯t you?¡± Tom says hiding his broken heart as Fiona nods her head.


    ¡°But I have been so horrible to him. I accused him of trying to frame my brother without giving him a chance. And now I tried kissing you, I don¡¯t know if he¡¯ll,¡± as Fiona says these words Benjamin abruptly opens the door.


    ¡°Yes, he will,¡± Benjamin says revealing himself and Oscar standing in her room. Fiona and Tom are shocked to see the over enthusiastic Benjamin, standing in front of the now embarrassed Oscar.


    ¡°Ben, what are you doing here? And is that Oscar?¡± Fiona says looking utterly surprised.


    ¡°Yes, Fiona. Oscar is here to speak to you,¡± Benjamin says as he brings Fiona close to Oscar as the two of them look at each other silently. Following a moment of silence, they turn and looks at Tom and Benjamin who are staring at them.


    ¡°I think we should go,¡± Tom says as he takes Benjamin and they leave the apartment. Fiona and Oscar look at each other unable to find the words.


    ¡°Oscar, I¡­,¡± as Fiona tries to explain to Oscar he steps forward and interrupts her.


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    ¡°I heard,¡± Oscar says leaving Fiona speechless. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Fiona replies. ¡°You were only doing your job,¡±


    ¡°I was horrible to Ben you know.  You had every right to get angry,¡± Oscar admits as Fiona looks at him.


    ¡°He cried when he found out Scarlet was dead.,¡± Fiona replies as she lets out a sigh. ¡°I know Ben¡¯s innocent. And I also know it¡¯s your job to investigate.¡±


    ¡°Fiona,¡± Oscar is interrupted by Fiona.


    ¡°Let me finish,¡± Fiona says abruptly. ¡°I know Ben will be proven innocent at the end of this. I should have known you wouldn¡¯t suspect him for no reason. I overreacted.¡±


    ¡°No Ruby,¡± Oscar says sighing as he comes closer to her. ¡°I don¡¯t blame you for reacting that way, I know how sensitive you are about relationships and in that situation.¡±


    ¡°No! This was my fault, I even tried kissing someone else,¡± Fiona says.


    ¡°You thought it was me. And that wouldn¡¯t have happened if¡­¡±


    As this back and forth continues between them, the two of them pause for a moment and let out a laugh. The two of them look at each other realizing not only how sorry they are but also how much they care about each other. Not wasting another moment, they embrace, as their hearts race finally ready to let go of everything and focus on them.


    ¡°I missed you,¡± Fiona says.


    Oscar leans in lovingly and whispers in Fiona¡¯s ear ¡°I love you.¡±


    Fiona slowly let¡¯s go of his embrace and looks at him. His eyes looks at her lovingly, as she feels the confidence in his words. She knows he means it and she is sure of how she feels about him.


    ¡°I love you too.¡±


    With a happy smile on his face they embrace again, Oscar leans in to kiss her but she holds his face. Oscar looks confused and Fiona says, ¡°Just wanted to make sure it¡¯s you this time.¡±


    As the two of them let out a laugh, they spend the rest of the afternoon in each other¡¯s arms.


    Benjamin is now leaving the building, knowing his sister is in good hands. Tom and Benjamin talk for a while before going their separate ways, Benjamin is now oddly relieved with what he has done. Tom on the other hand, though slightly hurt, is happy to know Fiona can now be with the man she loves.


    Ann is happy as ever, with Nicholas now making more time for Ann. It seems strange to Ann, but Nicholas seems to be cherishing every moment they spend together. That day, Ann insists on going out for coffee and they go to a caf¨¦.


    ¡°So what the occasion?¡± Nicholas asks sarcastically.


    ¡°Nothing special,¡± Ann says as she gives out a mischievous smile.


    ¡°What are you planning?¡± Nicholas asks suspecting Ann is up to something.


    ¡°Ok I admit, I do have something else in mind,¡± Ann admits as Nicholas smiles. Just then there is someone standing at the door as Ann waves. Nicholas looks back and is surprised at who she invited to join them.

 A New Note

    Benjamin waves at Ann as Nicholas looks surprised at Ben.


    ¡°Ann, what is this?¡± Nicholas turns to Ann and whispers as she smiles.


    ¡°I know you think Ben is a bit much, but give him a chance, for me,¡± Ann wasn¡¯t sure what happened with Nicholas and Benjamin, and now she has invited him here to talk. Though Nicholas is annoyed with Benjamin, Ann¡¯s attempt to help the situation amuses him.


    ¡°Hi, Ben,¡± Nicholas says as Benjamin approached.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Benjamin says looking at the two of them. The memory of their most recent encounter is still fresh in his mind. Though he understands Nicholas had every reason to confront him, his ego is still hurt.


    ¡°I¡¯m so glad you came,¡± Ann says as Benjamin sits down. ¡°Would you like anything?¡±


    ¡°A latte would be nice,¡± Benjamin says as he tries to ignore Nicholas.


    ¡°How are you Ben?¡± Nicholas asks normally, giving out his usual unintimidating vibes, pretending not to notice his discomfort with the situation.


    ¡°I am fine,¡± Benjamin replies. ¡°How are you?¡±


    Unsure of what is causing this unusual air of what she considers awkwardness, Ann decides to give the two men a moment to talk privately. She excuses herself and goes to the lady¡¯s room. As she leaves Nicholas begins to speak.


    ¡°She is really sweet you know that,¡± Nicholas says as Benjamin nods. ¡°You know she and Oscar had a pretty big fight because of you and they didn¡¯t talk for a while. When we followed you to that role-playing thing the two of them made up.¡±


    ¡°Do you have a point?¡± Benjamin asks trying to be civil.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t call Oscar that day, I did. And being the sensitive and caring girl she is, she thinks that all I need is a chance to know you. To understand and sympathise,¡± Nicholas says as he lets out a sigh. ¡°Though I know what you¡¯re going through, I don¡¯t understand why she thinks your behaviour can be excused.¡± Benjamin lets out a small chuckle as he listens to Nicholas¡¯s words.


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    ¡°She is sweet,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just try and get along,¡± Nicholas says cutting the conversation short as Benjamin nods in agreement. As they joined by Ann. The men, swallow their ego and continue to talk like nothing happened, making Ann happy.


    ¡°Fencing sounds a lot more complicated,¡± Ann remarks. ¡°I always thought it was just a type of sword fighting, but it has so many rules.¡±


    ¡°Though it originated from sword fighting it is quite different,¡± Benjamin continues to explain the history of fencing.


    ¡°This is so interesting,¡± Ann remarks as Nicholas listens in. ¡°Do you give lessons?¡± This question startles both Benjamin and Nicholas for very different reasons.


    ¡°Why do you ask?¡± Nicholas asks curiously.


    ¡°I was just thinking it¡¯ll be nice,¡± Ann remarks as she secretly dreams of Nicholas as her knight in shining armour.


    ¡°Well, the club does have lessons for beginners,¡± Benjamin says.


    ¡°Great,¡± Ann says enthusiastically. ¡°How about we take a lesson together.¡± Ann looks at Nicholas with bright, enthusiastic eyes. Unable to say no to her, he says in a soft voice.


    ¡°That would be nice.¡± Ann then turns to look at Benjamin.


    ¡°It''s usually every Friday. I sometimes take classes too.¡± Benjamin realises Nicholas didn¡¯t tell Ann he could fence and assumes she doesn¡¯t know about their match either.


    Ann¡¯s enthusiasm leaves Benjamin with a bright smile, almost causing him to forgot what Nicholas did to him. Nicholas begins to notice this in Benjamin and feels oddly jealous as Benjamin enjoys his conversation with Ann.


    Following this conversation, they go their separate ways with Nicholas and Ann return to her place. Ann is happy with what seemed like Nicholas and Benjamin getting along. As they get enter her apartment Ann begins to say something.


    ¡°You know, the night I met Benjamin, I was really upset. I felt lonely, he was so drunk. I ended up telling him how much I liked you and he told me if I wanted you so bad I should just ask you out.¡± Nicholas looks at Ann as she tells him this. Though Ann mentioned how she and Benjamin met, she didn¡¯t tell him about this conversation.


    ¡°I told him I was scared that you would reject me to which he said ¡®if he says no, at least you¡¯ll know. Maybe he is just as nervous about asking you out.¡¯¡± Ann says and looks at Nicholas and smiles. ¡°I am really happy Nick,¡± Ann says as she hugs him.


    ¡°Ann,¡± Nicholas says as she hears his heart pounding.


    ¡°I love being with you,¡± Ann says. ¡°It¡¯s so simple, no pressure to be something I¡¯m not, no lies,¡± Ann says as she looks into Nicholas¡¯s eyes. ¡°Thank you, for making me feel loved.¡±


    ¡°I love you Ann,¡± Nicholas admits as she remains in his embrace. As she smiles Nicholas finds himself in emotional turmoil as the joy he feels with her in his arms now turns to concern.

 Play Time

    A few days later, Ann and Nicholas are going to the sports club to try fencing. With Ann being happy with a relationship believes strong, she can¡¯t stop smiling when Nicholas is around. For a while now Nicholas has been showing her a stronger and passionate side. Though she can¡¯t wrap her head around what brought about this change, she is ecstatic with it.


    As they are at the club, Benjamin is teaching the beginners class that day. Before they enter they change into their fencing gear and Ann waits for Nicholas right outside the gym. She looks through the door and sees Benjamin fencing but she notices something. The Benjamin that she usually speaks to who has now become more relaxed around her, now looks different. The man who is standing in the gym talking is someone so gloomy. He seems so unaffected, and even though he smiles, anyone could tell he was just putting on a face. This was the first time Ann observed this, she heard about clients who were open and free with their counsellors. But following their sessions, they return to their shell, as they go about daily life. Benjamin might have made some progress but Ann overestimated it. Benjamin becomes enthusiastic around her since he is comfortable with her, but otherwise, he returns to his shell.


    Nicholas notices Ann deep in thought and pats her on her shoulder. Ann looks at Nicholas with concerned eyes and without another word, Nicholas embraces her making her feel at ease. Without saying anything Nicholas has comforted Ann yet again and he is happy to be by her side. As they smile, they enter the gym ready for their lessons.


    ¡°Alright. Good job everybody. Will hopefully see you all next week,¡± Benjamin says as the class concludes, finishing what Ann considered the longest class of her life. With Ann struggling to catch her breath, Nicholas is standing by her side, is not as out of breath as his girlfriend.


    ¡°This was exhausting,¡± Ann says exhausted after her first class.


    ¡°Not so easy is it?¡± Nicholas says smiling. ¡°You really should consider exercising,¡± he says noticing her struggling to catch her breath.


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann replies. ¡°I just can¡¯t see myself at the gym surrounded by all these fitness models.¡± Nicholas lets out a small chuckle at these words. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


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    ¡°What?¡± Nicholas jumps hearing Ann¡¯s voice sounding somewhat serious.


    ¡°Why did you laugh?¡± Ann asks sarcastically as she begins to breath normally.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Nicholas says smirking, trying to defend himself as Benjamin walks up to them.


    ¡°Enjoyed your class?¡± Benjamin asks smiling.


    ¡°Yes. It was fun,¡± Ann replies. ¡°You do this professionally, consider me impressed.¡±


    ¡°Your boyfriend is really good too,¡± Benjamin replies as he looks at Nicholas cunningly.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ann replies smiling proudly.


    ¡°Yes, didn¡¯t he tell you?¡± Benjamin asks in a condescending tone.


    ¡°I did tell her I fenced, but I wouldn¡¯t say I¡¯m really good,¡± Nicholas replies surprising Benjamin. Nicholas did tell Ann he knew how to fence and that he had joined the beginners class solely to keep her company.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you are,¡± Ann replies smiling. ¡°He¡¯s really modest.¡±


    ¡°Ann, why don¡¯t you go change, I¡¯ll catch up. We have dinner plans to get to,¡± Nicholas says as he looks at Benjamin. Ann smiles not picking up on the growing tension between the two and goes to the locker room.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get to the point here Ben,¡± Nicholas says in a serious tone. ¡°What did you think? I didn¡¯t tell Ann that I fence?¡±


    ¡°Last time you didn¡¯t,¡± Benjamin replies. ¡°But I am still sure you didn¡¯t tell her about our little match.¡±


    ¡°Looks like someone is now being honest with himself about his feelings,¡± Nicholas says smirking in a condescending tone as Benjamin¡¯s smile slowly fades. ¡°You like her.¡± Benjamin nods his head, having previously encountered Nicholas¡¯s cold behaviour. He lets out a deep sigh.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Benjamin says. ¡°But if you think that¡¯s the reason I¡¯m being spiteful your wrong. I still haven¡¯t forgotten what you did to me in this gym.¡±


    ¡°Let it go,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°Ann might let this side of you slip with an apology but I¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop involving Ann in this,¡± Benjamin replies getting angry. ¡°This is between you and me got it!¡±


    ¡°You seriously expect me to believe this has nothing at all to do with the fact that,¡± Benjamin interrupts Nicholas as he says these words.


    ¡°I know what I am,¡± Benjamin admits. ¡°I have just gone through a bad breakup and I have a lot of baggage. Ann deserves to be someone like you who is¡­stable.¡±


    ¡°What is this about?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°You and me,¡± Benjamin says seriously as Nicholas grins.


    ¡°So what do you want? An apology?¡± Nicholas says as Benjamin looks angrier than before but just then they hear a woman scream. As they hear another scream, the two men slowly realise¡­Ann is in danger.

 Trouble

    As Ann leaves the gym to go to the locker rooms, she feels tired after what she considers a three hour workout. This makes her consider if she should start working out, noticing how bad her stamina is. As she enters the locker rooms she notices that it is oddly empty. This makes her suspicious, as she walks around and makes her way to the showers. The locker room is completely empty, feeling uneasy, she decides to get changed quickly and leave. Just as she finishes changing she hears the door open and as she turns around, she sees a man. Someone dressed in staff uniform, but his look on his face says otherwise. With messy black hair and what she considers is insane eyes, Ann becomes worried. Just as she is about to scream he runs close to her, puts a knife to her throat, and says.


    ¡°Scream and I will cut out your vocal cords.¡±


    Ann is left trembling with what is happening. ¡°You¡¯re coming with me,¡± the man says in a chilling voice as Ann is left frozen with fear. ¡°Move!¡± He demands as he tugs her arm, but Ann doesn¡¯t move. Getting angry he uses force to move her and just then someone else enters the room, sees what is happening, and screams. With the man being distracted, Ann takes all the strength and courage she has and screams loudly. This alerts people and people come running in.


    The man hits Ann and holds her at knifepoint. ¡°Stay back!¡± he says placing the knife at Ann¡¯s throat as he takes her out of the locker room into the hallway. Just then many people arrive to see this commotion. Benjamin and Nicholas also reach the scene.


    ¡°Rodney?¡± Benjamin says shocked.


    ¡°Benjamin,¡± the man says angrily as he holds Ann violently retraining her by twisting her arm. She is in pain but is too frightened to move.


    ¡°You know that guy?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Yes. He was Scarlet¡¯s stalker. He was in a mental institution and,¡± just then Benjamin is interrupted by Rodney.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Rodney shouts hysterically. ¡°You killed her! You took my wife away from me.¡±


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    ¡°Rodney. Scarlet was my wife, not yours,¡± Benjamin replies.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Rodney says. ¡°You took her away from me, she loved me,¡± he says furiously.


    ¡°Rodney, wait. Let¡¯s talk about this,¡± Benjamin says trying to control the situation. ¡°Let her go and we can talk.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Rodney replies as he presses the knife to Ann¡¯s throat alarming Nicholas.


    ¡°Rodney, it¡¯ll be ok just relax,¡± Benjamin says trying to talk to Rodney meanwhile, Nicholas slowly moves towards Rodney. The man is distracted with Benjamin and doesn¡¯t notice Nicholas.


    ¡°Scarlet is ok. She is waiting for you, in fact, that¡¯s why she left me,¡± Benjamin lies.


    ¡°No. You¡¯re a liar!¡± Rodney says and just then Nicholas holds his writs and pulls it away from Ann¡¯s throat. He hits Rodney¡¯s wrist causing him to drop the knife. Nicholas kicks Rodney away into a glass case nearby, causing it to partially break and a sword kept in it to fall down. Nicholas holds Ann is who terrified, now trying to say something under her breath.


    ¡°It¡¯s ok,¡± Nicholas says comforting Ann who is now able to move. She embraces Nicholas and begins to cry, slowly breaking down in his arms. Benjamin comes closer to Ann and kneels next to her watching her cry. Ann is barely able to speak but Nicholas stays with her as helps her stand up to leave. Just then Rodney gets up angrily and charges at them. Ann terrified, this time screams as she holds onto Nicholas. As Benjamin stands close to Ann ready to defend her, Nicholas kicks Rodney and he is thrown back to the glass case. This time some of the glass shards impale him, as Nicholas covers Ann¡¯s eyes. He then carries her and takes her away from the scene while Benjamin shouts.


    ¡°Call an Ambulance.¡±


    In a few minutes, an ambulance arrives, Ann and Rodney are taken to a hospital nearby. Rodney is pronounced dead on arrival and Ann is given a few medicines to calm down. Shocked and terrified by what happened Nicholas stays by her side the entire time. Benjamin calls Oscar who arrives at the hospital to take care of his sister but at the same time, Benjamin believes they have found the one who killed Scarlet.


    A few years ago Scarlet had a stalker who was obsessed with her. Not only that, he believed that she was in love with him too. He even went so far as to try and hurt Benjamin believing that he was keeping her away from him and that Rodney had to ¡®save¡¯ her from this monster. He was caught trying to stab Benjamin and was found mentally unstable by the court of law. He was sent to an institution, never seen since, and now he appears out of nowhere. Benjamin believes he beat up Gregory and took Scarlet, she probably rejected him and in anger he killed her. He was unstable and couldn¡¯t believe what he had done and so, he probably came back for Benjamin. Thinking of this scenario, Benjamin tells Oscar what he knows.

 Heart

    Ann slowly gains consciousness a few hours later. As she opens her eyes she sees Nicholas sitting next to the bed.


    ¡°Hello, sleepyhead,¡± Nicholas says softly noticing Ann waking up. With a comforting and genuinely happy smile, Ann looks at Nicholas.


    ¡°Hey, sis,¡± Oscar says as he comes closer to her. Ann has only just noticed Oscar standing in the room.


    ¡°Oz,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Rest, don¡¯t strain yourself.¡± Oscar says concerned as Nicholas gently holds her down to the hospital bed, making her lie down.


    ¡°What happened¡­to that man?¡± Ann asks slowly remembering a few details of what happened.


    ¡°I arrested him,¡± Oscar says as he looks at Nicholas. Oscar doesn¡¯t want to worry his sister further and hence hides the fact that Rodney died.


    ¡°Ok,¡± Ann says as she looks at Nicholas. ¡°Thank you for saving me,¡± Nicholas smiles and holds Ann¡¯s hand as she holds his hand with the remaining strength he had left.


    ¡°Nick, can we talk outside?¡± Oscar asks as Nicholas nods at his words. Ann lets go of Nicholas¡¯s hand and the two of them go out to the hallway to talk as she rests.


    ¡°Well, I believe we found Scarlet¡¯s killer,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°That guy?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Yes. Benjamin told me he was Scarlet¡¯s stalker and he fits the profile. The height, stature, he even has a heart tattoo on his arm,¡± Oscar says.


    ¡°Heart tattoo?¡± Nicholas asks sounding confused.


    ¡°Yes, those were Gregory¡¯s last words, heart tattoo,¡± Oscar says as Nicholas thinks for a moment. ¡°Well I am relieved, we thought this was done by some serial killer or something,¡± Oscar says as he and Nicholas let out a laugh. ¡°Now, about Ann.¡±


    ¡°I will take care of her,¡± Nicholas says as Oscar nods.


    ¡°I have to get to the station, got certain things to do,¡± Oscar says as Nicholas nods. Oscar has grown to trust Nicholas with his sister and so he knows she¡¯s in good hands. As the two of them shake hands, Nicholas returns to Ann¡¯s room and Oscar leaves.


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    As Ann is ready to leave the hospital and Nicholas takes her back to her apartment. Not wanting to be alone after what happened, Nicholas lies down beside Ann as they talk.


    Meanwhile back at the station, Dean and Oscar put together all the pieces and though it fits, Oscar is somehow unsatisfied with what they have found. Benjamin is also at the station as he gives an official statement about Rodney. It only makes sense in this situation that a crazy ex-stalker would try and kill Scarlet. But killing Gregory the way he did, it looked like a well-calculated plan. Looking at Rodney¡¯s previous records, he was too reckless, leaving evidence everywhere making it easy for the police to find him. This murder seems to be executed in a manner a man like Rodney couldn¡¯t have done it. With this worry and nothing else to go on, Oscar is ready to conclude the case but them some officers enter the room with a strange man.


    ¡°Why am I here, I didn¡¯t do anything!¡± The man shouts.


    Oscar and Dean look at the man and realize, this is Ronnie. The same man Mike had described is standing in front of them. Though Oscar feels they can¡¯t go anywhere with this, he takes a chance and decides to talk to the man. Benjamin insists on being there and Oscar feels he owes Benjamin for the way he treated him before. And so on the condition, he says nothing, Benjamin is allowed to observe them questioning Ronnie.


    ¡°Look, I did nothing, I stole nothing,¡± Ronnie says and is interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°That is not our concern. What we want to know is do you recognize this?¡± Dean shows him the hoodie and Ronnie looks a little shaken.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t think so,¡± Ronnie says nervously.


    ¡°Really, because your friend Mike was here a few days ago. He said you gave this to him,¡± Oscar says intimidating Dean.


    ¡°Look I found it in the dumpster and I told him to take it. Alright!¡± Ronnie says defensively as Dean and Oscar stare at him quietly for a moment. The silence is slowly getting to Ronnie as he tries to control his hands from trembling.


    ¡°Is there something you¡¯re not telling us?¡± Dean asks as Ronnie breaks down crying.


    ¡°It belonged to him! The man who killed Harry,¡± Ronnie cries. ¡°That night Harry was going to look in the dumpster for something to keep us warm. After a while, I went to see what was taking him so long and I saw him being killed, stabbed to death by a maniac The killer was wearing this and after killing Harry he threw the jacket in the trash, took his body, and left,¡± Ronnie says as he continues to sob.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell the police this?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°I did! they didn¡¯t believe me,¡± Ronnie says unable to control is tears.


    ¡°Did you notice anything about this man? Other than his jacket?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°Yes, I barely saw it, as he left with the Harry. He came out into the light and I saw he had a tattoo on his arm. It was a,¡± Ronnie is interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°A heart tattoo,¡± Oscar says sighing feeling they have reached a dead end yet again.


    ¡°No,¡± Ronnie says surprising everyone. As everyone stares at him he continues, ¡°it wasn¡¯t a ¡®heart¡¯ tattoo, it was a ¡®art¡¯ tattoo.¡± These words cause Oscar¡¯s heart to sink, as he begins to realise he overlooked one small detail, which could now be fatal.

 This Cant Be

    As Ann begins to feel drowsy in Nicholas¡¯s arms as they have a heart-to-heart talk. Enjoying each other¡¯s company Ann talks to him so comfortably. She tells him how her previous relationships were and how happy she is with him. Nicholas listens and giving Ann a loving smile.


    ¡°Nick I am so happy I have you,¡± Ann says. ¡°I just feel so comfortable, like nothing can hurt me.¡±


    ¡°Ann, you are putting me on a pedestal again,¡± Nicholas says smiling uncomfortably. ¡°Ann there is something I need to tell you,¡± Nicholas voice is now serious in a different way, one that Ann hasn¡¯t heard before.


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says smiling. ¡°You said you¡¯ll tell me after fencing class. You haven¡¯t yet. What is it?¡±


    ¡°I think you should rest,¡± Nicholas says sighing regrettably. ¡°You had an eventful day.¡±


    ¡°Tell me when I wake up,¡± Ann says as she yawns.


    ¡°I promise,¡± Nicholas says, though concerned about what he promised, he is ready, to be honest with her. His assuring eyes make her feel safe as she drifts off to sleep with Nicholas by her side.


    Back at the station, Oscar begins to fear the worst as he realizes something. What if Gregory didn¡¯t say ¡®heart¡¯ tattoo but instead said ¡®art¡¯ tattoo. He remembers how he saw the letter''s A, R and T on Nicholas¡¯s arm. Nicholas explained it stood for amazing, respectful and talented.  The first letters of these words were large and easily noticeable compares to the rest of the word. They were written one below the other, causing many people to see it as ART, even Oscar at first. Nicholas was also at the hospital and he knew that Gregory was out of his coma. He fit the exact profile of the killer and he remembers how Nicholas casually mentioned his shoe size was 8. Just then Tom enters the room where he sees Oscar, Dean and Benjamin waiting. Oscar looks up at concerned as he abruptly stands up.


    ¡°Where was Nicholas the night Scarlet was murdered,¡± Oscar snaps.


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    ¡°What?¡± Tom asks looking confused as Dean steps forward and tells him the date.


    ¡°You had an event on that day right?¡± Benjamin asks.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Tom replies as Oscar lets out a momentary sigh of relief.


    ¡°I told you Nicholas couldn¡¯t be there. He was busy with this live event all night,¡± Benjamin says looking relieved.


    ¡°All night?¡± Tom asks as everyone stares at him. ¡°What is going on?¡±


    ¡°Just answer the question, sir. Was Nicholas with you at the event?¡± Dean asks.


    ¡°Yes. He was at the event but it wasn¡¯t all night,¡± Tom says. ¡°It was live in a way but it was recorded a few hours before it was aired. Nick left early from that event too.¡± Tom recalls as everyone looks at him shocked. ¡°Can someone tell me what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Oscar thinks Nicholas is the one who killed Scarlet and Gregory,¡± Benjamin replies as Tom laughs.


    ¡°Him? No way!¡± Tom says laughing. ¡°Nicholas is a nice guy. He would never¡­¡± Tom is interrupted by Oscar.


    ¡°He fits the profile perfectly. His height, his weight. And now we found out that he has an ¡®art¡¯ tattoo, which was Gregory¡¯s last words before dying.¡±


    ¡°Oscar also said no one knew Gregory had woken up except for me, Maria, Ann, and Nicholas, and that night he was found dead,¡± Benjamin adds.


    ¡°Wait, why can¡¯t it be Maria? She¡¯s crazy anyway!¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°That¡¯s because the wounds inflicted were done by a man,¡± Oscar replies as an officer comes into the room with a report in his hand. Dean looks horrified as he says.


    ¡°We ran the name Nicholas Fisher. There is no previous record of this man.¡±


    ¡°Wait, that can¡¯t be right,¡± Tom says.


    ¡°Tom, he moved here over a year ago didn¡¯t he?¡± Benjamin says now looking concerned. ¡°You introduced me to him, did you know anything about him before that?¡± Tom thinks back to their meeting and realizes Nicholas was so friendly he never bothered doubting him for a second. As Tom stands there speechless he looks around and sees the hoodie in a plastic packet on the table.


    ¡°Where did you get that?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°The killer was wearing this, do you know something?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°That¡¯s mine,¡± Tom says as everyone looks at him. ¡°I mean; I have one just like it.¡±


    ¡°Where is it?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°Nick borrowed it,¡± Tom says softly. ¡°He said he lost it and told me he¡¯ll buy me another one.¡±


    As evidence begins to pile up against Nicholas, as Oscar begins to worry about Ann. Realizing that Nicholas might be a serial killer, Oscar rushes to Ann¡¯s apartment to warn her and arrest him. But by the time they reach her apartment, no one answers the door. They break in to find Ann missing and Nicholas gone. In a sudden moment, Oscar realizes the grim truth, Nicholas did commit those murders.

 Isolation

    As Ann wakes up the next morning, she slowly opens her eyes and notices an unfamiliar ceiling. She looks to the right and sees Nicholas sitting on a chair next to her. In a moment she begins to get a horrible stench. She sits up and asks.


    ¡°Nick, where am I?¡±


    Just then Nicholas hugs her. Not holding anything back Nicholas embraces her tightly this time making her feel uncomfortable.


    ¡°You remember I made a promise to you yesterday,¡± Nicholas says while hugging her. ¡°I am going to tell you the truth right now. I killed Scarlet and Gregory.¡± These blunt words shock Ann as she suddenly wants to move away from Nicholas. His voice is cold and uncaring when he admitted to murder and his embrace is very different from what it usually is. She is so scared to fight him that he she stays still.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I am scaring you,¡± Nicholas says as he moves slightly away, loosening his grip from her, now looking into her eyes. ¡°I am willing to explain myself to you if you give a chance.¡± Ann nods her head unsure of what will happen. He nods his head and says, ¡°how about we go outside for a walk. We¡¯ll talk there.¡±


    Nicholas says as he leaves the room immediately. Ann composes herself quickly and looks around the room. She finds her phone on the desk right next to her and switches it on. She is about to send her location to Oscar but in a moment she hesitates. The man she loves has claimed to kill two people and she knows she has to do the right thing. But the memories of her and Nicholas suddenly comes back like a river, causing her to question herself.


    ¡®I have to do what¡¯s right!¡¯ Ann thinks, ignoring those memories and the emotions that accompany. She pressed send, sending her location to her brother with the word ¡®HERE¡¯. She gets up hides the phone under the mattress, not sure what to expect. She knows if Nicholas killed Scarlet, he might be ready to kill her too, but she doesn¡¯t want to believe that. She stands in front of the door just as Nicholas opens it startling Ann.


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    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Nicholas says as he holds Ann¡¯s hand, this time with love in his eyes. ¡°Close your eyes¡­downstairs is¡­messy.¡±


    Ann closes her eyes and follows Nicholas who leads her by hand. As she does, she can¡¯t help but wonder why she trusts enough to close her eyes and be led by him. He could be leading her to her death for all she knew, but the warmth of his hand wipes away all her doubt as she again feels secure around him. Soon they are outside and Ann takes a deep breath of fresh air, leaving that cabin and the horrible stench that was in it. She sees Nicholas taking a few steps ahead of her and she asks.


    ¡°You killed Scarlet and Gregory?¡± Ann asks nervously, standing behind Nicholas as he stops in his tracks. He nods his head and Ann takes a few steps closer to him. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Just because,¡± Nicholas replies as he starts walking not looking at her. Ann begins to walk beside him looking at his face as he avoids eye contact.


    ¡°And you planned to pin it on Benjamin?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°No,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°That just happened. It wasn¡¯t my intention.¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you at a live event that day?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°It just said it was live. The event was recorded a few hours prior to its broadcast,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°It was a good alibi.¡±


    ¡°You knew my brother was a cop,¡± Ann says with a heavy heart. ¡°Did you date me to get to him.¡± Just then Nicholas stops yet again and Ann stops, standing beside him. On his face, she sees yet another expression she hasn¡¯t seen on him before. It was fear. Nicholas didn¡¯t want Ann to hate him, but he knew he had to tell her the truth. As he takes a deep breath and answers.


    ¡°Yes and no,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°At first I did date you as a cover-up but then I.¡±


    Nicholas looks at Ann and says with all sincerity. ¡°I had no idea Oscar was going to be assigned this case. When you asked me out I said yes because I thought it would be nice for my image and also I did think you were cute. I had no idea you knew Benjamin or that any of this would happen.¡± Nicholas looks at Ann and affectionately as he puts his hand on her cheek. ¡°I had no idea someone would threaten you. Yesterday, I was the first time in a long time that I was scared I thought something would happen to you.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ann asks. ¡°Why did you kill them?¡± Nicholas looks at Ann who wants the answer. Nicholas takes a step back and looks around as he contemplates what to tell her.

 Tell Me The Truth

    ¡°Why did you kill them? Was it for fun?¡± Ann asks startling Nicholas as he watches the emotional Ann looking at him furiously. ¡°Do you even have anything to say? Answer me!¡±


    ¡°My life wasn¡¯t always bad.¡± Nicholas says letting out a cold chuckle startling Ann. ¡°I guess, growing up, I had a perfect life or so I thought. My earliest memories of my father was him beating me, while my mother laughed while she kicked me. It wasn¡¯t long before my grandparents knew, they went to court, took me away and left town to avoid my parents. After that things seemed perfect. I grew up, they way many put it ¡®normally¡¯. Had friends, got in trouble for skipping class, the usual.¡± Ann listens carefully as she witnesses true emotions in Nicholas, with his voice sounding truly happy at the thought of joyous memories.


    ¡°But then one day, my mom returned. She was crying, begging to be let in. My grandfather was very cautious, but soon even he realized she was telling the truth. She said my father had beaten her almost every day and that she even ended up having a miscarriage because if it. She said when she lost her baby she knew what kind of a monster he was. ¡®How could a father hurt his own child¡¯ she said. That made me furious,¡± Nicholas¡¯s cold voice makes Ann tremble as she stands there motionless as he continues.


    ¡°Though I was mad, grandpa was always there for me. He convinced me that holding on to my hatred would only hurt me, and in a way he was right. My mom never cared about me, she barely spoke to me at all after she arrived. No matter how much I wanted it, that woman would never love and I should have realised that sooner. Though she was my mom, my grandparents treated me as their own, so much that, I didn¡¯t lack the affection of a mother and father because of it.¡± Nicholas lets out a laugh, though she smiles Ann can clearly hear the pain in his voice.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t do anything. My dad came looking for my mom, he broke down the door and went on a rampage. By the time I got home, I saw him standing bloodies over their bodies, with my mother standing beside him¡­ smiling. I had enough, so I found a knife and fought back.¡±


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    ¡°Nicholas,¡± Ann says as her eyes fill with tears. With his story, Ann realises, maybe he was a man who was forced by circumstance to take such extreme measures. ¡°You were arrested?¡±


    ¡°No Ann,¡± Nicholas replies normally. ¡°I was too young, and the cops thought it was self-defence.¡±


    ¡°But why now?¡± Ann asks with tears begin to flow down her cheek. ¡°Did Scarlet and Gregory deserve it?¡±


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Nicholas replies as he lets takes a deep breath. ¡°Maybe someone thought they did.¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Ann asks as Nicholas turns around and replies.


    ¡°It means you should wait for your brother,¡± Nicholas says trying to hide his painful smile as Ann realises he knew she called Oscar.


    ¡®What is happening?¡¯ Ann thinks. ¡®Why did he tell me all this? Why did he bring me here? Was it for Oscar to find something? Was it to clear Benjamin¡¯s name?¡¯ With all these questions pilling up in Ann¡¯s mind, she watches as Nicholas leaving. Without thinking Ann jolts towards him and embraces him.


    ¡°Nick¡­,¡± Ann says crying.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Nicholas asks as his heart begins to pound. ¡°Ann, I am not going to jail. I can¡¯t stay here. The cops will be here soon and you can return. You can go to your brother and go back to your normal life.¡±


    ¡°Are you serious?¡± Ann says mustering up all the courage she can. ¡°After everything! You were always there for me, you held me when I was weak, you were my shoulder to cry on but most of all¡­ You did this to me!¡± Ann shouts as Nicholas removes himself from her arms and turns to look at her.


    ¡°Ann?¡±


    ¡°You see what you did to me,¡± Ann cries. These words cause Nicholas to feel a tug of guilt, something he hasn¡¯t felt in a long time. Ann cannot tear herself away from the way she feels. Even though Nicholas just admitted to murder, all she can recall was how he was there for her. She cries and looks at him, though her mouth couldn¡¯t speak the words in her heart it was obvious, she didn¡¯t want him to leave her side.


    ¡°Ann, I am nothing but trouble,¡± Nicholas says holding her shoulders. ¡°Ann I have killed people, I can¡¯t stay. I have done horrible things with my life and so far all I have done is used you. You seriously can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡®SLAP¡¯

 Thats What You Did

    Ann slaps Nicholas with all the strength she has. Though it didn¡¯t hurt him physically, he was shocked by Ann¡¯s actions.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you say! You can¡¯t just leave like this. It¡¯s not fair!¡± Ann cries as her emotions take over completely. ¡°You just can¡¯t tell me you committed such a crime and then just leave! Especially after everything we¡¯ve been through together!¡± Ann cannot be rational at this time; her words leave Nicholas speechless as he stands before a crying woman. He wants to comfort her desperately, but he worries what his actions would do to her. Everything he did until now has left her like this, and what he does now, will impact her greatly.


    ¡°Ann, I¡¯m a killer,¡± Nicholas says in a small but cold voice, trying to sound as unemotional as possible.


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann says as she tries to calm down. ¡°But you never told me why you killed Scarlet and Gregory. That means you had a reason.¡± Ann says as she lets out a painful chuckle. "Maybe someone thought they deserved it," Ann says sarcastically. "I have no idea what that means though I want to believe that someone put you up to that. It¡¯s strange, despite everything, I stand here hoping.¡±


    ¡°Ann¡­ I,¡± Nicholas is interrupted by Ann.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t say anything. I don¡¯t know why you suddenly decided to tell me everything or why you allowed me to call my brother. It¡¯s almost like you want to clear Benjamin¡¯s name.¡± Nicholas is silent as Ann continues. ¡°I don¡¯t know what your hiding from me but, it¡¯s nice to get to know you, I mean, the real you Nicholas. Even if it was for a short time, thank you for being honest¡­I guess.¡± Ann is emotionally confused at this moment, a part of her doesn¡¯t want Nicholas to leave and that overshadows his crime in her eyes.


    ¡°Ann,¡± Nicholas says as she abruptly leans forward and kisses him, embracing him tightly. Nicholas is left emotional as his heart begins to race and for the first time in a long time, it wasn¡¯t because he killed someone. Nicholas embraces her and reciprocates the kiss, his feelings cannot be contained as he feels at peace with her. However, as soon as he felt this moment of happiness, a dark wave of emotion takes Nicholas over and he removes himself from her embrace.


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    ¡°Ann, I can¡¯t stay,¡± Nicholas whispers as Ann nods her head, accepting his decision as she tears roll down her cheek.


    ¡°Bye¡­¡±


    ¡®Thank you for making me feel again,¡¯ is what Nicholas wanted to say but couldn¡¯t bring himself to. Ann¡¯s reaction has made Nicholas question a few things, but he decides to keep it to himself.


    ¡°I will come see you Ann, someday,¡± Nicholas says as Ann looks up at him. ¡°I promise.¡±


    Ann smiles knowing Nicholas will keep his word. Nicholas turns around and runs away as Ann turns around and nervously walks back to the cabin still shaking from the whole experience. She is extremely emotional and oddly at peace with how everything has ended. As she reaches the cabin she dares not go inside due to the horrible stench. She stands outside patiently, replaying what happened in her head and about ten minutes later she hears sirens. A few police cars come rushing and pull up outside the cabin where Ann is waiting. Oscar jumps out of the car and runs to her.


    ¡°Ann!¡± Oscar rushes to her side and hugs her thankful she is alive. Ann is happy to see her brother and relieved hugs him. ¡°Are you ok? Did he do anything to you?¡±  Oscar asks concerned as he notices Ann trembling while the other officers go into the cabin.


    ¡°We found a body,¡± One of the officer¡¯s shouts.


    Oscar immediately takes Ann away from the crime scene putting her in a police car and driving her to a hospital to ensure she is ok. The officers find the body of Harry; the one Ronnie saw get killed. Dean and Oscar return to the crime scene and look for clues, but can¡¯t find any. Nicholas ensured he left no traces behind, leaving Oscar and Dean with nothing to go on.


    After a few hours Oscar goes to check on his sister in the hospital, now sure Nicholas was a serial killer.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ann replies to Oscar¡¯s questions. Oscar doesn¡¯t ask her too much, knowing what she might have gone through. But still, he is furious with what has happened and hates that he couldn¡¯t protect his sister. To Oscar, not noticing Nicholas¡¯s true character is what he considers the biggest mistake of his life. To see his sister in the hospital, seemingly in denial, was the most painful thing to him. Though the doctors confirm she has not been harmed physically, Ann stays in the hospital overnight. One day she is threatened at knife point, the next day she finds out her boyfriend is a killer, that¡¯s a lot to take in. With a help of a few medicines, Ann falls asleep slowly beginning to calm down.

 Choices

    ¡®What have I done?¡¯


    Nicholas sits in a motel room all alone, with one lamp beside his bed flickering as he contemplates. ¡®Why do I feel this way?¡¯


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Annalise Smith,¡± Ann says as calmly as possible as a handsome man moves into the apartment next to hers. Nicholas looks at her and can only think one thing.


    ¡®This one will be so easy.¡¯


    ¡°Hi Anna,¡± Nicholas replies with his charm on.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s Ann,¡± she says in a soft voice.


    ¡®She¡¯s trying to hide her shyness, how cute.¡¯ Nicholas is well aware of his good looks and knows what he can do.


    ¡°I am so sorry Ann,¡± Nicholas replies stepping forward as he stretches out his hand. ¡°You can call me Nick, Nicholas Fisher, I am a journalist.¡± Ann takes his hand as he looks at her with his dashing eyes. As she introduces herself, Nicholas had already understood the type of person she is and now he did what he knew best.


    Nicholas then began to talk to her kindly every chance he got, playing to what he knew she wanted.


    ¡°You are so passionate about psychology,¡± Nicholas says complimenting her.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Annalise says. ¡°It¡¯s so interesting. Actually I think you¡¯ve noticed I.¡±


    ¡®Listen to her, she really is convinced I care.¡¯ Nicholas thought mockingly as he looks at her like he is taking note of her every word.


    ¡°I really love to help others. I might not be the most qualified yet but I want to do my best.¡±


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    ¡®How sweet.¡¯ Nicholas thinks as they finish their conversation. ¡®She¡¯s nice, too nice and na?ve. Maybe I shouldn¡¯t.¡¯ Nicholas stops for a moment, alarmed.


    ¡®Why would I think that? It¡¯s nothing personal right? And besides she¡¯s a psychology student, shouldn¡¯t she see someone like me coming a mile away.¡¯ Nicholas says brushing off his concerns but this was something he never thought off before. He has never felt guilt for using anyone, he felt it was because they deserved it because they were stupid enough to believe him. At least, that¡¯s what he wanted to think. Despite such thoughts, he brushed them aside every time as he ensured Ann would fall for him. Portraying himself to be the man she has dreamed of having, it was soon obvious she has feelings for him.


    For a few months, Nicholas took time to settle in, even made a quick friend in Hugh Tompkins Jr., who trusted him quite easily. Then again who wouldn¡¯t trust Nicholas, the deceivingly handsome and charming gentleman, who moved to town not too long ago. Things were going smoothly, Nicholas had settled in, everything was in place and now, he finally took a job, his real job.


    Of course killing was his real job, moving from town to town, starting a new life and eventually disappearing. That was his life, why he did this, sometimes even he didn¡¯t know. How all of this started was quite simple, a young orphan boy needed money. Someone heard about what he did and offered to pay him.


    ¡®You already have blood on your hands, you can do this for me right. I¡¯ll pay you, besides the cops can¡¯t do anything to you. Your too young.¡¯ This sounded so frightening at first, especially to a young boy who lost his family in one frightening incident. But eventually with some convincing he couldn¡¯t deny the truth, he had no money. About to drop out of school and constantly being told this, he agrees. He didn¡¯t enjoy what he did, but he had no choice is what he thought. He could now pay his school tuition fee, but something was wrong, he couldn¡¯t stay there any longer. And so one day, he packed up and left, knowing no one would come looking for him. Thus, Nicholas found himself walking down a terrible road, eventually learning to kill as a profession.


    Thinking back, Nicholas thought killing Scarlet was just another job. And of course soon he would leave town and never return. He just needed to make sure he would never be suspected and what better way to do that than with a romantic alibi.


    ¡°I would love to go out with you.¡±


    It was lucky for him, the timing, Ann asked him out at the perfect time. Though Nicholas didn¡¯t expect her to make the first move, he didn¡¯t think too much of it. The real shock came however, when he realised Ann knew Benjamin.

 Regret

    Annalise was sitting there having dinner with Benjamin.


    ¡®What is going on?¡¯ Nicholas thought as Tom waved at Benjamin. They soon joined them for dinner as he realised, Ann wants to help Benjamin. Even without Tom asking him to cover up Benjamin¡¯s outburst, his broken hearted state was a well-known secret. Nicholas was happy when he got a chance to comfort Ann because of Benjamin. This gave him a chance to get closer to her and anyone could have seen his actions were making her fall for him even more.


    It wasn¡¯t long after he found out that Oscar was in charge of Scarlet¡¯s case. Another good turn of events, Ann¡¯s overprotective brother was gladly spilling some facts about the case to keep her away from Benjamin. But something strange was happening, Nicholas actually began to enjoy his time with Ann. He often found it annoying how easily he could manipulate such women, but with Ann, every moment with her was oddly refreshing. He also didn¡¯t want to admit to himself that he didn¡¯t like Ann trying to help Benjamin. But all these feelings he supressed, it was not his concern, all he wanted was to make sure he gets away with this and Ann was the way to do it.


    ¡°I can¡¯t look the other way,¡± Ann says as Nicholas comforts her. He doesn¡¯t get in her way because he thinks it¡¯s not his problem, nothing was. Even when he helped Ann follow Benjamin, he did so only as a cover. This would definitely put Nicholas in Oscar¡¯s good books, which he needed. This trip proved beneficial in one other way, he found out Gregory was awake from his coma.


    ¡®How is this idiot awake?¡¯ Nicholas though. He expected him to wake up for months later but now Nicholas was at the perfect place. He not only got such valuable information but also knew, Gregory can speak. It wasn¡¯t that he saw Nicholas¡¯s face but one phone call caused him to make up his mind, Gregory had to die.


    ¡®Of course no one would suspect me,¡¯ Nicholas thought to himself arrogantly. ¡®Benjamin is acting too suspicious. Even that silly game is suspicious. I won¡¯t be surprised if Oscar hasn¡¯t let go of that yet.¡¯ And he was right, Oscar hadn¡¯t.


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    ¡®This is such an interesting development,¡¯ Nicholas didn¡¯t let his face express what he felt. He wanted to laugh so much when he saw Oscar was dating Benjamin¡¯s sister. With what was happening, Nicholas sat and watched as Ann tried to defend Oscar.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Nicholas shouts at Benjamin¡¯s words and immediately rushes to Ann¡¯s side. This was not what he would have said but his anger was great. He bit his tongue as the rest of the conversation continued. He took Ann home but couldn¡¯t say a word, she was upset and all he did was hold her hand. He could not ignore it anymore, Nicholas is attracted to Ann and what bothers her, bothers him.


    That was the only reason he confronted Benjamin at the gym. He would have never done that if it was just another girl, but Ann began to make him feel a lot of things. Nicholas is now protective of Ann and wants her to be happy. He now cares for her and not just what she can do for him.


    ¡®This cannot last,¡¯ Nicholas knew. ¡®I can¡¯t stay nor will she ever be with me if I told her the truth.¡¯ Nicholas no longer wanted Ann to just be some girl he manipulated but a part of him wanted to be with her. The guilt he carries stood in the way and he knew he could never be happy. Though she gave him joy, he knew it wouldn¡¯t last.


    ¡®She deserved better.¡¯ Nicholas thought. He knows she would always be thinking of him and would compare her future relationships with him. But not the real him, he knew he would have to tell her the truth for her to move on. ¡®All her past relationships did not end well and neither will this. But at least she would hate him and be thankful she didn¡¯t end up with a murderer,¡¯ he thought.


    ¡®Slap¡¯


    ¡°You did this to me!¡± Ann cried as Nicholas watches. For the first time he truly came face to face with what he¡¯s been doing. This was how he affected her, everything he did, every moment of manipulation hoping to one day be used to defend him was now on display. He never thought of how his actions would affect others, the woman who he hoped would hate him after he confesses is now unable to. Ann is emotionally confused and this is because of what he did. This tore him apart; the one woman he grew to like after all these years is now suffering because of him. He thought she would be hurt, then with enough of reason hate him and move on. But things weren¡¯t so simple now.


    ¡°I promise I¡¯ll see you someday,¡± Nicholas said without thinking.


    ¡®No¡­¡¯ Nicholas now thinks regretfully as he tries to control his emotions. ¡®Why did I say that?¡¯


    ¡°DAMN IT!¡± Nicholas shouts as he trashes the room angrily.


    ¡®WHY CAN¡¯T SHE HATE ME LIKE EVERYONE ELSE!!¡¯ Nicholas thinks as he falls to the floor, now crying.

 The Love He Gave

    A month later, Ann lives alone continuing her internship as usual with Benjamin now coming for counselling on a regular basis. Benjamin and Ann have now become good friends, with his name now cleared. Benjamin is making good progress much to Ann¡¯s delight. Benjamin¡¯s feelings for Ann grow stronger the more he spends time with her. As their relationship grows to a proper friendship, Benjamin decides to leave asking her out for later. Oscar and Fiona¡¯s relationship is going strong as she is happy her brother is now proven innocent. But Oscar on the other hand is worried about his sister Ann. She never told him a thing and always avoided the topic, concerning Oscar. Ann also was concerned, she knows she shouldn¡¯t feel this way, but she hopes to see Nicholas someday. She knew what she felt was wrong but she can never forget how well Nicholas treated her. He truly gave her the love she wanted, but maybe it wasn¡¯t the kind of love she needed. Meanwhile Dean and Oscar reach a dead end with this case, with not much evidence to tie Nicholas to these events the case goes cold. Tom who was shocked by these events tries to make sense of it all. He finds it difficult to believe his friend did all of this and Ann¡¯s silence on the matter leaves him with a few questions. As everyone continues with their lives, the memory of Nicholas lives on in their minds. Whether good or bad, he did affect their lives in many ways.


    Meanwhile outside of town near a stream, Nicholas sits peacefully all alone listening to the sound of the water. Just then a car drives up to him and stops out of it steps a woman and Nicholas begins to speak.


    ¡°It took you long enough, Fiona,¡± Nicholas says.


    ¡°Here¡¯s everything,¡± Fiona says as she steps out of the car agitated. ¡°The car you asked for, the money. Now get out of my life!¡±


    ¡°Took you long enough to pay me. You are the worst client I ever had,¡± Nicholas remarks. ¡°First you tell you to kidnap Scarlet so you could kill her, then when you chicken out you tell me to do it. Then instead of paying me the rest of the money, you order me to kill Gregory.¡±


    ¡°You caused me more problems with what you did,¡± Fiona replies angrily.


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    ¡°Me? You¡¯re the one who wanted her dead,¡± Nicholas replies smirking.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to frame my brother for it,¡± Fiona says angrily.


    ¡°How many times must I tell you, I didn¡¯t,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°You should have thought it through before you hired me. Your brother did threaten them, didn¡¯t he?¡±


    ¡°That is not an excuse,¡± Fiona says trying to deny her hand in her brother¡¯s mess.


    ¡°You are the one who wanted them dead, sweetheart,¡± Nicholas says staring into Fiona¡¯s eyes intimidating her.


    ¡°They hurt my brother. What else was I supposed to do,¡± Fiona says softly as Nicholas shrugs his shoulders. ¡°And please don¡¯t come back. Oscar is so worried about Ann because of you and I don¡¯t want him to worry anymore.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you tell your beloved boyfriend that you hired me to commit that murder. That would help him wrap up that case. Or how about you just tell your brother I¡¯m sure he,¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t need to know anything,¡± Fiona interrupts angry as ever.


    ¡°Are you sure? You did a good job pretending you didn¡¯t know me,¡± Nicholas says as he smirks. ¡°To be honest I wasn¡¯t sure it was you when we met that time for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Fiona says. ¡°I don¡¯t have blood on my hands.¡±


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Nicholas says as he stands up and walks towards her and takes the car keys from her aggressively.


    ¡°What did you do to her?¡± Fiona asks as Nicholas looks at her. ¡°Ann I mean, she isn¡¯t saying anything about what happened. What story did you tell her?¡±


    ¡°I told her the truth,¡± Nicholas says shocking Fiona. ¡°Not the whole truth, I left you out of it.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Fiona asks confused.


    ¡°Because I care about her, she deserves the truth,¡± Nicholas says.


    ¡°You can¡¯t care about anyone,¡± Fiona says in a detesting voice. ¡°You are a killer, that¡¯s all you will ever be.¡±


    ¡°Maybe to you,¡± Nicholas says his expression turns serious. ¡°She deserves the truth and so does Oscar.¡±


    ¡°Listen!¡± Fiona¡¯s outburst is interrupted by Nicholas¡¯s deadly stare.


    ¡°You do whatever you like Fiona. But don¡¯t blame others for your mistakes. You started this mess and one day, Oscar will learn about what you did. Until then,¡± Nicholas says as he gets into the car and looks at the back seat and sees two brief cases of money.


    After checking everything, he drives off as Fiona stares at him. Nicholas drinks some water he carried with him, spilling some on his arm. He wipes it off smudging his art tattoo as a result. Nicholas drives away smiling remembering his time with Ann.


    ¡°I will see you soon¡­. Ann¡­¡±

 I Do

    4 Years Later


    ¡°Do you take this man to be your husband, to have and to hold, through sickness and in health till death do you part?¡± the priest asks.


    Annalise smiled, dressed beautifully with her hair tied in a bun and a bouquet in her hand. As she takes a deep breath, she looks at her brother, who couldn¡¯t seem happier.


    ¡°I do,¡± Fiona says smiling.


    ¡°I now pronounce you man and wife.¡±


    With this announcement the priest left not wanting to interrupt, as Oscar doesn¡¯t waste a second to kiss is new wife. As the crowd cheer to congratulate the couple, Annalise becomes a little emotional and begins to tear up. As the couple leave the building happily followed by the guests, Annalise stays behind to compose herself.


    ¡°Everything went off without a hitch,¡± Benjamin says as he walks closer to Ann and hands her a handkerchief.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know about that,¡± Ann replies, carefully wiping her tears but not her makeup. ¡°We almost didn¡¯t have a bouquet for the bride.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so that¡¯s what all the shouting was about,¡± Benjamin says sarcastically as the two of them share a laugh.


    ¡°Your sister was not that loud Ben.¡±


    ¡°I beg to differ. I¡¯m just glad nothing else went wrong, otherwise we would be on a manhunt right now for my ballistic sister who though the sky wasn¡¯t the perfect color for the occasion,¡± Benjamin says sighing as Ann chuckles. ¡°Thanks for taking care of it so well. You are nothing short of amazing.¡±


    Fiona was not easiest bride to deal with, as the day of her wedding drew near should would grow more and more anxious. She wanted the perfect wedding and ensure nothing or no one could ruin in. Annalise knew Fiona didn¡¯t think about relationships or getting married, Oscar changed that. Her excitement unleased in one blow when she was proposed to.


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    ¡°If I didn¡¯t tell you this already you look stunning,¡± Benjamin says as he whispers in her ear.


    ¡°And you look really good in that suit,¡± Ann says smirking as she kisses Ben on the cheek.


    ¡°What is this? Ann is ok with a little PDA?¡± Benjamin teases as Ann blushes.


    ¡°Everyone has left, no one is around, no need to make a big deal out of this,¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°I love you Ann.¡±


    Right now, at the alter another couple kiss as they embrace each other. Benjamin and Annalise have been a couple for about two years now. Following Benjamin going to therapy and slowly recovering, he and Ann began to hang out. Soon their friendly meetings had turned into romance, with Benjamin liking Ann for a long time. Ann too had grown to love Benjamin and though she has moved on, a part of her always felt otherwise.


    ¡°We better get going,¡± Benjamin says as they head for the reception.


    The reception was lively with everyone having a wonderful time. Oscar and Fiona are now meeting the guest as Annalise sits down, taking a moment to breathe.


    ¡°Here she is, the sister of the groom,¡± Emma sits down next to Annalise as she takes out her phone. ¡°Selfie time.¡±


    Though tired Annalise smiles for a few more pictures with her best friend. As Ann relaxes her face, Emma begins pinching her cheeks.


    ¡°What are you doing Em?¡± Annalise asks as she now rubs her cheeks.


    ¡°It hurts smiling that much doesn¡¯t it,¡± Emma comments. ¡°Same with my cousins wedding, just pinch your cheeks, open your mouth wide and close it. It¡¯ll help loosen the muscles.¡±


    ¡°Thanks Em,¡± Ann says. ¡°Next time just tell me instead of pinching me out of the blue.¡±


    The women laugh and talk, allowing Annalise feels at ease.


    ¡°Now it¡¯s time for the bouquet toss.¡±


    ¡°We are so going,¡± Emma says as she pulls Annalise to the front. Fiona stands smiling as she turns around as the women surround her.


    ¡°You better take care of my sister,¡± Benjamin says smiling.


    ¡°And you better take good care of mine,¡± Oscar says standing next to Benjamin as they watch Fiona preparing to throw the bouquet.


    Fiona then throws the bouquet close to Annalise as she reaches out to catch it.


    ¡°Ann,¡± Fiona says turning around as she steps forward to hug her now sister-in-law, who has caught the bouquet. Annalise is so surprised by the outcome, she didn¡¯t notice Emma holding off the other women behind her. Annalise happily looks around and sees Benjamin as she holds onto the bouquet blushing, Emma then comes and hugs her from behind. As the women talk Benjamin puts his hand in his pocket and tightly grips a ring box.

 Perfect

    The next morning, following a well-deserved sleep, Anna slowly opens her eyes as she notices Benjamin coming into the room with a tray.


    ¡°Good morning sleepy head,¡± Benjamin says as he sets down the tray and sits next to her.


    ¡°Morning,¡± Annalise says still feeling sleepy.


    ¡°Coffee?¡±


    Annalise takes a sip of coffee as she looks at Benjamin, beaming with happiness.


    ¡°I never understand how you can have so much energy. Don¡¯t you get tired?¡± Annalise asks as Benjamin smirks.


    ¡°Well, I guess I¡¯m happy the wedding is finally over. I finally have you all to myself,¡± Benjamin smiles as Ann thinks back to the past few months. The two of them were busy with the wedding and work. Despite their constant efforts to spend time alone, they were always interrupted. Now that Oscar and Fiona are off on their honeymoon, there¡¯s no one around to get in their way.


    ¡°I missed you, Ben,¡± Ann says leaning on Ben as she closes her eyes.


    ¡°Hold on now, you aren¡¯t sleeping just yet. I have something really special in mind for us.¡± Ben pauses and says, ¡°We are going out for the weekend.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says surprised.


    ¡°Just the two of us,¡± Ben says smirking as Ann is happy to have some time off with Ben. Yet in a moment her smile leaves her face as she yawns.


    ¡°Still tired, are we?¡± Ben asks as Ann nods her head. Ben takes the coffee cup from Ann and says, ¡°Sleep in for a while, we¡¯ll leave at noon.¡±


    ¡°But where are we going?¡± Ann asks as she lies back down.


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    ¡°You¡¯ll see,¡± Ben says walks out of the room with a spring in his step.


    Benjamin had everything planned out, the perfect weekend and the perfect proposal. First, he¡¯ll take her to a resort, he managed to book a beautiful cabin near the mountains. A perfect place close to the main building but far enough so they can have their privacy. Following a perfect day of showing her with love and spending time with each other, he will ask her to marry him under the stars. Having the place well decorated, Ben wants to give Ann all the happiness she deserves. And so, he happily packs for the two of them and they drive out the ¡®Erins¡¯.


    ¡°This is amazing,¡± Ann says as she enters the Erins resort. She stretches feeling refreshed and energetic as she slept in the car while Ben was driving.


    ¡°Nothing but the best for you.¡±


    ¡°What is up with you? You¡¯ve been acting like this all day,¡± Ann asks as she peers into his face.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re still dreaming,¡± Ben says brushing off her question calmly as he proceeds to the counter. Having everything prepared, he is excited but also nervous. Taking a deep breath, he is convinced nothing can ruin this weekend, and just then he hears the sound of thunder. He looks outside and sees the sun shining bright with a few drops of rain barely visible.


    ¡°Nothing to worry about sir,¡± the receptionist says. ¡°Just a drizzle, it¡¯ll pass.¡± Ben decides not to think much of it but two hours later, the drizzle is now turned into a storm.


    ¡°Just a drizzle? You have got to be kidding me,¡± Ben says in an unsettling tone as he looks out the window, watching as raindrops violently fall against the glass window.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Ben,¡± Ann says as she hugs him from behind. ¡°It¡¯s still a lovely evening, the fireplace looks nice and cozy.¡± Though Ben is concerned about his plans to propose, Ann¡¯s smile is all he needs to enjoy the moment. They soon learn that the rain has proved too much and the resort won¡¯t be able to bring them food. Making good with what have, they decide to cook, but all they find is some instant noodle. Ben is now visibly disappointed with this turn of events as Ann tries her best to keep him happy. As the sound of raindrops intensifies Ben begins to consider abandoning his plans.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Ann asks as the two of them are now sitting near the fireplace.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Ben says as he doesn¡¯t want to ruin the surprise. Ann moves closer to him and wraps her arms around him.


    ¡°I really enjoyed today.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to lie you know,¡± Ben says sighing. ¡°This rain ruined everything.¡±


    ¡°Not everything, it¡¯s nice spending time with you after so long,¡± Ann says as Ben smiles, unable to stop thinking about his proposal.


    ¡°Lighten up Ben, what¡¯s the worst that can happen?¡±


    ¡®KNOCK KNOCK¡¯

 Knock Knock

    Ben and Ann hear a knock on the door and they wonder who it could be at this hour. The hotel said they couldn¡¯t send food, and no one in their right mind would be wandering around in this weather.


    ¡°Who could that be?¡± Ann mutters as she opens the front door and finds no one there.


    ¡°It¡¯s just the rain,¡± Ben comments as he looks outside from over her shoulder, finding no one. The two of them decide to ignore the sound and relax, but as they close the door, then they hear it again.


    ¡®KNOCK KNOCK¡¯


    This time, they are sure about what they heard and realised the knocking isn¡¯t coming from the front door but from somewhere else. Ben and Ann go to investigate and find the knocking coming from the backdoor. Though Ben appears to be brave, he can¡¯t help but recall a horror movie he saw recently, this was how the killer got into the house. Nevertheless, Ben goes ahead of Ann and decides to slowly open the door. Just as he touches the handle, he hears the sounds of something hitting the floor and hurriedly opens the door.


    ¡°Oh my gosh,¡± Ann says as she looks over Ben¡¯s shoulder to see a man having black hair lying on the ground covered in blood. Ben quickly picks him and as soon as he looks at that man¡¯s face, he is unable to hold onto him.


    ¡°Nicholas¡­,¡± Ann murmurs as Ben catches the man before he falls again and brings him into the cabin.


    ¡°We need to call a doctor,¡± Ben says as he puts the man on the couch examining him. The man¡¯s head is bleeding and Ben waste no time putting pressure on his wound. The man lying unconscious has a strong resemblance to Nicholas aside from his hair. This sudden encounter has left Ann in a daze as she watches her boyfriend try and save the man.


    ¡°Ann?¡± Ben calls out as he notices his girlfriend¡¯s dilemma. ¡°Ann, are you alright? Say something,¡± Ben says as he leaves the man and stands close to her putting his hands on her shoulder. Ann is unable to look away from the man and speaks.


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    ¡°Save him. We have to save him.¡± Trying to comprehend the situation Ann finally moves closer to the man and examines him. ¡°We need a doctor; we have to try and stop the bleeding before it is too late.¡±


    ¡°Ok,¡± Ben says as he attends to the man while Ann tries to call an ambulance. She paces around the room making a few phone calls, she then pauses looking anxious. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°They can¡¯t come because of the rain,¡± Ann replies softly. ¡°Some tree fell somewhere and something happened. Turns out they can¡¯t come here.¡±


    ¡°What do we do?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°I called the hotel, and they said they had a doctor staying there,¡± Ann says. ¡°He¡¯ll be here soon.¡±


    Silence soon fills the room as the doctor arrives shortly after that with one of the resort employees, who clearly used the umbrella for himself. Drenched from the rain, there stands a young man having silky long brown hair and deep hazel eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m Dr. Kai,¡± the man says politely as he walks in and takes off his coat. The hotel employee follows him, a short, thin man with a large nose, having an uncaring and cold demeanor. The doctor notices the man bleeding on the couch. ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know. He was knocking on the back door and when we opened it, he fainted and¡­¡± Ann says stammering.


    ¡°No need to worry miss,¡± the doctor says calmly. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it.¡± Ben takes Ann to another room and quickly returns to help the doctor. After a while, he soon leaves to join Ann in the other room. Ann looks troubled and Ben too cannot help but think of the same thing.


    ¡°I think we should call the police,¡± Ben says.


    ¡°What? Why?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean why?¡± Ben asks surprised. ¡°If that man is Nicholas, then that means¡­¡±


    ¡°Ben how many times must I tell you, Nick was innocent,¡± Ann replies sounding agitated.


    ¡°Ann.¡± Ben knows Ann has been in denial since the incident, no matter how many times he asked her she always said the same thing.


    ¡®Nicholas is innocent.¡¯


    ¡°Ok, he might be innocent but he is still a suspect. I mean Oscar would have a few questions for him.¡±


    ¡°Ben, Oz is on his honeymoon right now,¡± Ann says sternly. ¡°You are not planning on calling them, are you?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. Fiona would never forgive me if I did,¡± Ben says sounding disappointed. ¡°But this is really important,¡± Ben says burying his face in his hands.


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann says as she sighs. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a good thing. Maybe this guy isn¡¯t Nicholas at all, maybe just someone who looks like him.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±

 What Would You Do?

    ¡°Excuse me,¡± the resort employee comes in interrupting. ¡°Dr. Kai would like to have a word with the two of you.¡± Ann and Ben reluctantly stand up and go to the other room where the man is now lying on the bed with his head bandaged.


    ¡°Is everything alright doctor?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°He is fine, stabilized,¡± Kai says. ¡°He¡¯s a strong one, I¡¯m impressed at how he managed to be alright after such an injury.¡± Ann lets out a quiet sigh of relief as she looks at the man now lying on the bed.


    ¡°Do you happen to know who this man is?¡± Kai asks.


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t,¡± Ann says as Ben stares at her as she continues. ¡°He just showed up at our door earlier.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve done what I could,¡± Kai says sighing. ¡°I suggest when the rain calms down, we take him to a hospital for a thorough check-up.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, doctor,¡± Ben says.


    ¡°No need to thank me,¡± Kai says. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be off now. Do let me know if he needs anything else.¡± Kai opens the front door and a strong gust of wind enters the cabin.


    ¡°Wait, you don¡¯t plan on returning now?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°I think you should wait here for a while,¡± Ann adds.


    ¡°That would not be necessary,¡± Kai says. ¡°Besides I love the rain.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± the resort employee says. ¡°When we found you, you just returned from a walk.¡±


    ¡°In this weather?¡± Ben asks admiring his courage to walk around at a time like this.


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    ¡°Some people like the rain and I am one of them,¡± Kai says with a bright smile on his face. ¡°I¡¯ll see you around.¡± After the two of them leave, the room becomes silent with Ben and Ann having to make an important decision.


    ¡°So, you don¡¯t think we should hand him to the police?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann says now looking concerned. ¡°This man is probably not Nicholas¡­¡±


    ¡°What if he is?¡± Ben asks now becoming annoyed. ¡°He at least needs to be investigated. I mean that¡¯s the least we can do, innocent until proven guilty right?¡±


    ¡°I agree, but if this man isn¡¯t Nicholas what would that say about us?¡± Ann says as Ben stares at her confused at her words. ¡°This man was gravely injured and he came to us for help.¡±


    ¡°He fainted at our doorstep,¡± Ben says. ¡°I hardly think him that counts as him asking for help.¡±


    ¡°He injured his head. He¡¯s in a really delicate state right now, if something happens to him then it¡¯s on us.¡±


    ¡°What is the matter with you?¡± Ben says now running out of patience. ¡°Ann I don¡¯t understand this, why are you defending a killer?¡±


    ¡°This again Ben!¡± Ann says as she raises her voice. ¡°How many times should I explain this to you?¡±


    ¡°Ann, you seriously expect me to believe¡­,¡± Ben takes a deep breath as he tries not to yell. ¡°Once this man wakes up, I¡¯ll decide if we should call the cops or not.¡±


    ¡°Nick is innocent,¡± Ann says under her breath as Ben stands up, tired of hearing the same nonsense.


    ¡°Get some rest, it¡¯s late.¡± Ben leaves Ann and goes to the kitchen to get something to drink. As he pours himself a glass of wine, he stands there contemplating.


    ¡®Ann isn¡¯t completely wrong. This man has just suffered a terrible head injury, if we don¡¯t handle this properly his health would just get worse.¡¯ Ben thinks as he walks around the kitchen.


    ¡®When he wakes up, I¡¯ll ask him who he is,¡¯ Ben thinks as he seems to have a plan in mind. ¡®He might not admit to the truth once he sees me but at least that¡¯ll get him to be better.¡¯ Ben then leaves the kitchen and walks to who he thinks is Nicholas¡¯s room. Before he can come in Ben stand at the door and sees Ann sitting on a chair next to the injured man. In a moment all rationally Ben had for this situation had gone out the door as his emotions take over.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ben asks as he burst into the room.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t have the tattoo,¡± Ann says as she points to the man¡¯s arm as Ben look at the man. ¡°I knew he wasn¡¯t Nicholas.¡±

 Questions

    ¡°I knew he wasn¡¯t Nicholas,¡± Ann says, her voice sounding relieved with a hint of disappointment, as Ben barely notices the change in her voice.


    ¡°So what?¡± Ben says. ¡°Anyone can have a tattoo removed.¡±


    ¡°Ben, please think about this rationally,¡± Ann says sighing. ¡°I don¡¯t want to falsely accuse someone. We need to take this slow.¡±


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t,¡± Ben says angrily. ¡°We should just call the cops and let them deal with this situation.¡±


    ¡°Ben please calm down,¡± Ann says but is interrupted by the now aggressive sounding Ben.


    ¡°No Ann, you need to think about this properly but you clearly can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I am thinking more clearly that you,¡± Ann replies trying to sound calm. ¡°Ben you angry now and I guess I understand why. Your life was turned upside down after Scarlet died and now¡­¡±


    ¡°Ann, this is now just about Scarlet,¡± Ben replies. ¡°It¡¯s about me not wanting a killer out on the loose.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know that. You can¡¯t just assume such things, Ben.¡±


    ¡°Assume? Ann Nicholas has killed more than just one person. He was responsible for Gregory too. The guy was a killer and a liar,¡± Ben says.


    ¡°We should calm down and let him rest. When he wakes up¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wake him up,¡± Ben says surprising Ann as he approaches the sleeping man.


    ¡°Ben!¡± Ann shrieks as Ben shakes the man who is lying down.


    ¡°Wake up man, are you just going to lie there pretending to sleep while we argue,¡± Ben says aggressively ignoring Ann. ¡°Give us some answers! Wake up!¡±


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    ¡°Ben! That¡¯s enough!¡± Ann says tugging on Ben¡¯s arm as he finally lets the man go. He is still fuming but Ann¡¯s touch calms him enough to let go. ¡°Would you please just relax.¡±


    ¡°How do you expect me to relax when¡­¡± Ben¡¯s words are interrupted by the man who is now trying to open his eye. Ben is shocked at what is happening and stands there silently as Ann goes closer to him.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Ann says as the man turns to her and tries very hard to keep his eyes open. ¡°Can you tell you your name?¡± The man looks at her and then looks up seemingly turns pale. ¡°Relax, everything is going to be alright, we will take care of you,¡± Ann says lovingly as Ben clenches his fist, wanting to interrupt so badly, but he doesn¡¯t. He knows now is the best chance he has to let this man confess, and maybe Ann will finally admit to the truth. ¡°Could you please tell us what¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Name¡­¡± the man says in a soft voice. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± he says as he begins closing his eyes again. Ben steps forward to speak but is silenced by Ann¡¯s deadly gaze. The man is now unconscious, Ann checks his pulse and it¡¯s normal, the man seems to be sleeping.


    ¡°I think he¡¯s lying,¡± Ben says.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Ann says angrily. ¡°What on earth was that? You¡¯re lucky nothing happened.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°No Ben,¡± Ann says sternly. ¡°You aren¡¯t coming in here anymore until he wakes up in his own time. If the rain stops in the morning, we will call an ambulance and not a word of this to Oscar or the cops.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am,¡± Ann says as she gestures him to walk out of the room and he does, knowing he let his anger take over. After they leave the room the two of them decide to get some sleep. As they lie down and Ann tries to relax as Ben embraces her and says.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ann.¡± Ann looks over her shoulder to see the remorseful Ben. ¡°I overreacted, it¡¯s just after seeing him, I don¡¯t know what came over me.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Ann replies. ¡°It¡¯s difficult for me too. I thought I¡¯d never see him again.¡± Though Ann though she could wait for Nicholas, their time apart proved to be too much. Soon she gave up on the idea that she would ever see him again and decided to move on with her life. ¡°Let¡¯s just get some sleep,¡± she says embracing Ben as the two of them close their eyes.


    They barely sleep for five hours before they get up, both restless. The rain has now stopped and they decide to call an ambulance to take the man to the hospital. They soon hear someone outside and see Dr. Kai walking towards the cabin.


    ¡°What are you two doing up so early? Couldn¡¯t sleep?¡± Kai asks.


    ¡°No,¡± Ben lies. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a doctor, I guess duty calls,¡± Kai says smiling as they let him in, He goes to examine the man, who is now gaining consciousness, looking around tired and confused.


    ¡°How are you feeling,¡± Kai asks as Ben and Ann look on anxiously as the man speaks.


    ¡°Who am I?¡±

 Assumptions

    At the hospital Ann and Ben sit outside after hearing the news, the man has amnesia.


    ¡®This means he doesn¡¯t remember who he is or anything about his past,¡¯ Ann thinks as she can hear the doctors in the other room discussing the situation. Ann and Ben sit side by side, silently in a daze both thinking. A part of Ann would like to believe this man is not Nicholas but she cannot ignore the hope that this man may be her old lover. Of course, she will never tell Ben that.


    ¡®What if he¡¯s just acting. He did a good job of hiding among us like last time. He even convinced Ann that he¡¯s innocent. I don¡¯t trust him.¡¯ Ben thinks as memories flood his mind. He has always wanted justice and he cannot ignore the resemblance or his gut feeling.


    ¡°Well, he doesn¡¯t seem to remember anything,¡± Kai says as he approaches the couple.


    ¡°Will he be alright?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°Well, he¡¯s not bleeding but certainly some damage has been done. I think we can¡­,¡± before Kai can finish his words Ann interrupts him.


    ¡°Maybe we can help,¡± Ann says as Ben looks at her surprised. ¡°I am a psychologist; I have a friend that has done extensive study on amnesia and I don¡¯t mind helping him out.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Kai asks. ¡°This will not be easy. I mean, he doesn¡¯t know where he lives and¡­¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann replies. ¡°We¡¯ll treat him and help him get back on his feet.¡± Just as Ann says these words Ben eyes catch onto the opportunity in front of him.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, we¡¯ll take care of him¡­ If that¡¯s alright with you?¡±


    ¡°I have no objections but you¡¯ll have to ask him too.¡±


    With these words Dr. Kai goes and speaks to the man. Ann and Ben still don¡¯t talk to each other both preoccupied with their own thoughts and intentions. Dr. Kai announces that the man agrees to speak to them before he makes a decision and so, Ann and Ben enter the room. There sits the man on the bed with bandages around his head, looking around a little confused but with a child-like curiosity. As the strangers enter the room the man looks at them cautiously for a few moments.


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    ¡°Hello,¡± he says nervously.


    ¡°Hi,¡± Ann replies. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Better,¡± the man says as he looks at Ben. ¡°I heard you were the one who helped me. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°It was nothing,¡± Ben replies apathetically.


    ¡°We heard you don¡¯t remember anything about your past,¡± Ann says as the man nods looking upset. ¡°Well, if you want, we can help you out.¡±


    ¡°I heard the doctor say, thank you so much for your offer,¡± the man says earnestly.


    "I¡¯m sure they told you that I¡¯m a psychologist. I have a friend that can help you. You don¡¯t need to worry about anything, you will have our complete support.¡±


    ¡°I feel like I want to say yes,¡± the man says softly as Ann¡¯s face brightens with his words. ¡°I really don¡¯t know what to say or where to start.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s start with what should we call you?¡± Ann says smiling as the man looks confused and disappointed at the fact he can¡¯t remember his own name.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure¡­¡± he murmurs.


    ¡°How about Nicholas,¡± Ben says still standing at the corner of the room. ¡°For now, till you remember.¡± In Ann¡¯s mind, there¡¯s no way Ben is convinced of what Ann hopes for, so she stares at him, pondering.


    ¡°That sounds good,¡± the man says innocently. ¡°Nicholas¡­¡± The man seems oblivious to the tension in the room as Ann and Ben now meet eye to eye.


    The man stays in the hospital for an extra day while Ben and Ann finally discuss the situation. Ensuring to keep Nicholas out of the conversation, they decide to let him stay with them. Armed with different motives Ben and Ann decided to drive the recently named Nicholas back to their place.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t thank you enough for what you¡¯re doing for me,¡± Nicholas says as he enters their apartment.


    ¡°We know, this is the fiftieth time you said it,¡± Ben says sounding annoyed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you to the guestroom, you can freshen up,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± As Nicholas goes to freshen up. Ann stares then at Ben who¡¯s been growing increasingly annoyed with Nicholas.


    ¡°Would you stop that.¡± Ann says.


    ¡°What? He does not stop thanking us, it¡¯s getting annoying,¡± Ben replies.


    ¡°We promised to help him. Be a bit more patient.¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± Ben says knowing he has been short-tempered the entire drive home. Knowing what he does, that fact that Ben hasn¡¯t attacked the man should have been an achievement.


    ¡®It¡¯s for the best¡¯ Ben and Ann think. As everyone freshens up and makes themselves comfortable, Ann and Ben are secretly preparing for the truth.

 The Look

    ¡°What would you like for dinner Nicholas?¡± Ann asks as she ties her hair up.


    ¡°Anything would be fine. Maybe I can help,¡± Nick says.


    ¡°You can cook?¡± Ben asks raising his eyebrows.


    ¡°I think so,¡± Nick says letting out a chuckle. ¡°I mean maybe I was a chef or something, I won¡¯t know till I try.¡± Though Ann and Ben know it was highly unlikely, Ann decides to let him help out in the kitchen. Ben joins them as they watch Nicholas cutting the vegetables in a normal manner. Expecting some sinister work with the knife Ben asks him if he is willing to cut the chicken.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Nicholas says.


    ¡°Come on, just give it a try,¡± Ben says seemingly friendly. The oblivious Nicholas takes the chicken as Ann turns her back preparing a salad.


    ¡°Ouch,¡± Nicholas says causing Ann to turn around to see his hand bleeding.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°You were supposed to cut the chicken not your hand,¡± Ben says surprised at the amount of blood as Nicholas covers his wound with a towel.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get the first aid kit,¡± Ann says running to the other room while Ben looks at Nicholas, who now seems to be in pain.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°A little,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°Not as bad as getting hit on the head.¡± Nicholas chuckles to himself while Ben seems to be looking for every opportunity to dig deeper. Ben and Nick go to the living room where Ann comes in and tends to Nicholas¡¯s wound.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Nicholas mutters.


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    ¡°What are you sorry about?¡± Ann replies attentively ensuring his wound is taken care of. ¡°We all get hurt in the kitchen sometimes.¡±


    ¡°Right,¡± Nicholas says looking at Ann feeling nothing but grateful to have fainted at their door. It was thanks to the two of them that he is not only alive but is taken care of in such a lovely manner. Nicholas begins to stare at Ann as he feels appreciative, while Ben notices the slight grin on his face. Ben didn¡¯t bring Nicholas here because of Ann, he had his own intentions, but looking at what¡¯s unfolding now, Ben begins to regret his decision.


    ¡°All done,¡± Ann says as she stands up. ¡°Now you stay here while I prepare dinner.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Nick says as he begins to relax while Ben sits next to him silently. After about ten minutes and Nick noticed Ben¡¯s uncomfortable stares, Ben then suggests he watch a movie while he helps Ann in the kitchen.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Ann says as Ben comes closer to her. ¡°Is everything ok? You seem on edge.¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s fine,¡± Ben lies as he watches Ann cooking. After a few moments, a grin appears on his face as he comes close and kisses her. ¡°I swear you could become a professional chef?¡±


    ¡°Because my cooking is great?¡±


    ¡°Because your cooking is great and you look great cooking,¡± Ben replies as Ann blushes. Ann always felt her tired appearance would not be well received and was nervous when Ben first insisted that they cook together. But soon, Ben¡¯s admiration when watching Ann cook made her feel really special. She now enjoys his company in the kitchen and isn¡¯t worried about making a mess.


    ¡°What¡¯s Nick doing?¡± Ann asks causing Ben¡¯s grin to disappear.


    ¡°I told him to watch a movie.¡± Just then the two of them hear their doorbell ring.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it,¡± Nick says loudly wanting to help in any way possible.


    ¡°Thanks Nick,¡± Ann shouts from the kitchen. ¡°Wonder who could that be?¡±


    ¡°No idea,¡± Ben replies and in a sudden moment, the two of them hear the sound of glass breaking. They both rush to the dining room to see Nick looking at the two of them confused, while a shocked Tom stands in the hallway. His eyes wide open and his jaw dropped, the shock of seeing the man leaves Tom speechless.


    ¡°Tom,¡± Ben says as he comes closer to Tom who can¡¯t take his eyes off Nicholas.


    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Nick asks unsure of what is happening. ¡°Should we call a doctor?¡± Nick grows concerned with Tom¡¯s stares, it was like being followed by the eyes of someone in a creepy portrait.


    ¡°He¡¯s fine,¡± Ben replies as he holds Tom shaking him to his senses. ¡°He just didn¡¯t expect visitors, right?¡± Ben grips Tom¡¯s arm nudging him to play along.


    ¡°Right,¡± Tom says softly as the shock. ¡°Who did you say you are again?¡±


    ¡°Nicholas.¡±

 The Act

    ¡°Nicholas,¡± he says. ¡°It¡¯s really nice to meet you.¡± Nicholas smiles hoping to make Tom feel comfortable. Tom lets out a weird high pitch noise as Ben pinches him.


    ¡°I think he¡¯s just tired,¡± Ben says. ¡°I¡¯ll let him get some rest.¡± Ben says pulling Tom away from the situation as Nicholas looks uncomfortable.


    ¡°Did I do something?¡± he asks.


    ¡°No,¡± Ann answers calmly. ¡°He¡¯s a performer, must be practicing animal noises or something.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m no expert. At least I don¡¯t think I am but I¡¯m sure no animal sounds like that,¡± Nicholas looks at Ann who was trying to cover up for Tom.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, he acts weird sometimes,¡± Ann says brushing it off. ¡°I better clean that up.¡± Ann notices the broken bottle in the hallway realizing Tom must have dropped it having seen Nicholas.


    ¡°Let me help,¡± Nicholas says not thinking too much of the weird man.


    No way,¡± Ann replies. ¡°I don¡¯t want you hurting yourself again. Just stay put.¡± Nicholas sighs feeling useless, unable to help.


    ¡°What on earth was that?¡± Tom says finally composing himself while sitting in the guest bedroom. ¡°Nicholas? Why is he here? And what was with his hair? And why is his head bandaged like that? Why was he pretending to meet me for the first time?¡± Though Tom finally manged to get a few words out, his desperation hinders Ben from getting a word out. ¡°Did you call the cops? Please tell me you called the cops? Or are you waiting for Oscar to return from his honeymoon for him to?¡±


    ¡°Would you just listen,¡± Ben says sternly beginning to lose his patience with his hysterical friend. Ben gives Tom a drink as he now calms down, now ready to listen.


    ¡°What is going on?¡± Tom asks concerned noticing his friend¡¯s annoyance with the situation. ¡°Ben?¡± Ben sighs and explains the whole story, as Tom begins to understand why Ben would allow that man in his house. Ben explains that he plans on keeping a close eye on Nick but Tom is worried about something else.


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    ¡°How is Ann handling all of this?¡± Tom asks as he tries to reads Ben¡¯s expression.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Ben says. ¡°She doesn¡¯t think this guy is Nicholas but as always she is the first to volunteer to help.¡±


    ¡°Ok,¡± Tom says. ¡°Maybe he isn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Maybe he is,¡± Ben sighs as Tom understands why he would think that.


    ¡°If you¡¯re planning on trying something, I¡¯ll be more than happy to help,¡± Tom says as Ben smiles.


    ¡°You¡¯re so confident I¡¯ll do something stupid, aren¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°If you are, might as well get some results,¡± Tom replies as the men let out a laugh.


    Soon Ann calls them for dinner and Tom meets Nicholas yet again, this time more composed.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, I¡¯m Tom. Really sorry about earlier,¡± Tom says as he now greets Nicholas warmly.


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, is everything ok?¡± Nicholas asks.


    ¡°Everything is fine now. I just didn¡¯t expect someone like you to open the door, that¡¯s all,¡± Tom replies.


    ¡°Someone like me?¡± Nick asks curious about his words as Ben and Ann stare at Tom awaiting his response.


    ¡°Usually, Ben and Ann are alone here. I was expecting one of them, when you suddenly opened the door, I guess I was a little too startled,¡± Tom lies calmly.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Nick says. ¡°Sorry to startle you.¡± The well-mannered and polite Nick still leaves Tom uncomfortable and with a lot of questions. The rest of the evening goes casually with Nicholas enjoying the food and all having an unusual yet casual conversation. Introducing themselves and what they do to Nicholas, he is left amazed with the talent he¡¯s surrounded by.


    After dinner, Ben goes to leave Tom in his car, this was an excuse to talk to him and hear what he thinks. Meanwhile, Nick decides to help Ann with the dishes, not taking no for an answer.


    ¡°What do you think,¡± Ben says as they leave the apartment.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Tom says and then pauses for a moment. ¡°He doesn¡¯t seem like Nicholas at all.¡± Tom remarks.


    ¡°He could just be faking you know,¡± Ben says. ¡°Truth is I can¡¯t really tell with such conversations.¡±


    ¡°So now what?¡±


    ¡°We have to do something, a trap perhaps,¡± Ben says as Tom looks at him nervously.


    ¡°Not now, he clearly has a lot of healing to do. Maybe in sometime, we can try to see what he knows,¡± Tom says as Ben nods. Tom is secretly thankful that his friend is thinking before he acts.


    Though impatient Ben knows this might take time, if he is facing the brilliant manipulator like Nicholas, he has to beat him at his own game. Ben mentally prepares for what is to come as he puts on a smile. He returns to the apartment and talks to Nicholas without a care in the world.

 First Session

    A few days later, Nicholas has quickly become comfortable with his surroundings and now helps out in the house. Ann helps dress his wounds which seem to be healing well. Ann and Ben are surprised with the man¡¯s kind and loving nature, but what surprised them more was his ability to mess up so easily. Despite good intentions, Nicholas was clumsy often hurting himself or even broke things. Because of this Ann keeps an eye on him and is around when he¡¯s doing chores. Ben is left puzzled with this man¡¯s actions, unable to comprehend how someone could act so convincingly. There are times Ben too had to convince himself of what he believed. Ann on the other hand begins to feel that the man living with them might not be her ex-boyfriend. Though there are times his words and actions truly remind her of him, his behaviour in general nothing like Nicholas. Despite this, a part of her hoped otherwise.


    After Nicholas takes a few days to relax, Ann finally takes him to meet Emma. Emma is really excited to meet Nicholas and is really curious about him, while Nicholas on the other hand is nervous.


    ¡°Just relax, she is the smartest person I know. If anyone can help it¡¯ll be here,¡± Ann says as Emma walks out of her office.


    ¡°Hi, you must be Nicholas,¡± Emma says with a warm professional smile.


    ¡°I think so,¡± Nicholas says letting out a nervous chuckle.


    ¡°I see you haven¡¯t lost your sense of humour,¡± Emma says smiling as she looks at Ann. Ann knows Emma is very good at her work but she is also nervous to discover the truth. ¡°I¡¯ll see you at lunch,¡± Emma says as Ann nods. She puts her hand on Nicholas¡¯s shoulder to reassure him, as he smiles trusting her judgement. As Ann leaves Nicholas is taken into her office where he sits down nervously.


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    ¡°Please make yourself comfortable,¡± Emma says. ¡°I have some tea and biscuits if you like.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s alright,¡± Nicholas replies.


    ¡°You know, I was thinking about redecorating, maybe putting up some posters,¡± Emma says as she sits down on a chair opposite him. ¡°I¡¯ll be having some tea if you don¡¯t mind.¡± Nicholas nod as she pours herself a cup of tea.


    ¡°Your office is great,¡± Nicholas says. ¡°Maybe you can put in some flowers or plants or something.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t really think of that,¡± Emma replies. ¡°Taking care of real plants is a pain, even after a lot of effort they might just wither away.¡±


    ¡°You can keep some fake plants,¡± Nicholas says as Emma smiles noting him becoming more comfortable.


    ¡°Nicholas, how have you been feeling?¡± Emma asks.


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling better.¡±


    ¡°I can see that, Ann and Ben have taken really good care of you,¡± Nicholas smiles at Emma¡¯s words. ¡°I looked over your report, that was quite a bad injury you had.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Nicholas said. ¡°My head feels better and honestly I feel at ease. I mean I am upset I don¡¯t know who I am but I feel so relaxed. Like something has been taken off my shoulder.¡±


    ¡°Well, we all like a breather every now and then,¡± Emma smiles and she continues. ¡°Can you tell me why you chose the name Nicholas?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± Nick says. ¡°Ben and Ann did.¡± Emma pauses for a moment and then continues to talk to him for a while about his stay.


    ¡°You seem to be recovering fine,¡± Emma says by the end of the session. ¡°There is no particular cure to help with amnesia but for now I suggest you try and live a normal life.¡±


    ¡°Would my memories ever come back?¡± Nicholas asks looking disappointed.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Emma replies kindly as Nicholas smiles as she takes note of his expression. Nicholas felt at ease now and though he didn¡¯t remember anything he knew something heavy lies in his past. Ever since his injury he has felt relieved and though curious, he enjoys the peace he has right now. After the session Nick returns to the apartment, as the day goes on Emma and Ann meet for lunch.


    ¡°How was your day?¡± Ann asks as she sits next to Emma.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just cut to the chase,¡± Emma says smirking. ¡°You want to know how it went with Nicholas right?¡± Ann smiles as Emma continues. ¡°Before anything, did your and Ben know someone named Nicholas?¡±

 Asking Questions

    ¡°Did Ben know someone named Nicholas?¡± Emma asks as Ann¡¯s smile is wiped off her face. ¡°Maybe I should ask, do you know someone named Nicholas?¡±


    ¡°Emma¡­,¡± Ann says in a soft voice looking concerned. She knows Emma would notice such things easily and so there¡¯s no point in trying to lie to her. ¡°Yes, we did. He was my ex-boyfriend.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Emma asks shocked. ¡°You never mentioned this ex named Nicholas before. I thought we were closer than that,¡± Emma teases. ¡°We were supposed to be best friends but you¡­I can¡¯t take this betrayal.¡±


    ¡°Emma, let¡¯s be serious please,¡± Ann says sternly. ¡°Did he remember something?¡±


    ¡°Ann, you know how these things are,¡± Emma says. ¡°So, care to tell me what¡¯s really going on? Who is that man?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ann lies, though her statement is true.


    ¡°But does this guy remind you of him or¡­,¡± Emma asks analysing Ann¡¯s contemplative look. ¡°Well, if it¡¯s something important you¡¯ll tell me,¡± Emma says quickly giving Ann her space. ¡°About Nicholas though, he suffered a really bad head injury.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll take some time before he remembers,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°There are situations where people never remember,¡± Emma replies. ¡°It¡¯s best for him to try and live a normal life now.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Ann knows the best thing to do is leave Nicholas alone and not pester him about his memories. Despite this, a part of her cannot take the suspense and just wants to know the truth.


    ¡°How is Ben taking all of this?¡± Emma asks. ¡°You both knew your ex right, and I know Ben, he¡¯s the jealous type.¡±


    ¡°Surprisingly Ben doesn¡¯t seem to be jealous or anything so far,¡± Ann says as Emma looks at her friend as if she lied. ¡°Really, Ben just keeps an eye on him, mainly because he¡¯s clumsy. He just gets annoyed with how many times he says sorry and thank you, nothing else.¡±


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    ¡°That¡¯s new,¡± Emma says genuinely surprised. ¡°I am so curious about this ex of yours. Did he get along with Ben or something?¡±


    ¡°Why would you ask that?¡±


    ¡°He said Ben suggested the name.¡± Emma says peering into Ann¡¯s face again looking for answers. ¡°Did he set you guys up or something.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ann says knowing why Emma would be curious. Though Ben is over Scarlet, her betrayal left a deep scar in his heart. Ben had become quite possessive and often jealous. And though he rarely acted on it, his obvious facial expression told the world what he was thinking. Ann¡¯s understanding of Ben made things easier for their relationship, but she assumed the worst when he agreed to bring Nicholas home. This time, Ben surprised Ann by behaving maturely.


    ¡°So how was your day?¡± Emma asks knowing she won¡¯t get many answers at the moment.


    ¡°Well, it was strange,¡± Ann says. ¡°You know my patient, Kane, he said he couldn¡¯t sleep for the past few days and asked for sleeping pills.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so wrong about that?¡± Emma asks.


    ¡°It¡¯s the way he asked for it,¡± Ann says. ¡°He¡¯s normally soft-spoken and polite, but today he seemed so desperate.¡±


    ¡°You lost me.¡±


    ¡°I mean he was behaving strangely; it wasn¡¯t like him at all. I wanted to talk to him to see what¡¯s going on, he just demanded the pills and ran out of the room as soon as I gave him the prescription. Usually when I say something off, he sits down and tries to figure it out, but he didn¡¯t this time,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°I told you something is off about that man,¡± Emma says.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t seem that bad though,¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°Usually,¡± Emma replies. ¡°Does he normally as for pills?¡±


    ¡°No. But he does have insomnia so I do prescribe him some pills at times. He tries his best to sleep without them but sometimes he needs a little help,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Ah well, anything else happen?¡± Emma asks as the two women continue to talk. Meanwhile, across town Ben is at the gym while Tom goes to visit him.


    ¡°How¡¯s everything going?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°Fine, I think,¡± Ben answers irritably. ¡°Nick is really¡­ something.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t get anything did you?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t get a read on that man,¡± Ben says as he sits next to Tom and drinks some water. ¡°He¡¯s just so¡­ I don¡¯t know,¡± Ben takes a moment to catch his breath and turns to Tom. ¡°There is something I¡¯ve been thinking about¡­¡± Ben says as Tom listens in.


    Back at the apartment, Nick sits around bored of watching movies. As he looks around the apartment for something to do as he remembers Ben has a PS4 with him. He goes to his room and finds the games at the top of one of the shelves. As he reaches to take it, however, he holds on to something small. He takes it down curiously and is surprised to find a ring box.

 Outing

    Ben returns home to find Nick grinning ecstatically on his return.


    ¡°Is everything ok?¡± Ben asks confused.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Nick says trying to stop smiling.


    ¡°Really, are you all right?¡±


    ¡°I just beat your high score,¡± Nick says as Ben looks at the screen and realizes, he no longer has the top score.


    ¡°You have got to be kidding me,¡± Ben says irritably as he approached Nick. ¡°How did you?¡± Ben becomes distracted with the game as Nick¡¯s smile is justified. However, the real reason he was so happy was because he found the ring box and realised, Ben was going to propose to Ann. He was truly happy for them and couldn¡¯t contain his excitement.


    ¡°I will work on this later,¡± Ben says and then turns to Nick. ¡°You know, Tom and I were planning on hanging out today. If you want to join us, you can.¡±


    ¡°Really? I won¡¯t be intruding, would I?¡±


    ¡®Well, you are living here,¡¯ Ben thinks but says, ¡°It won¡¯t be any trouble. Besides, I think you¡¯d like to get out for a bit.¡±


    ¡°Sounds great,¡± Nick says with a bright smile making Ben uncomfortable with his upbeat persona. Ben goes to freshen up and relax while Nick continues playing.


    Little does Nicholas know that Ben and Tom are now going to take him to D&Zzzz in hopes that they would find something about Nick. Right now, Nick seems really innocent and Ben wants to know something, whatever it may be.


    That evening after Ann returns the two of them step with Nick wearing some new clothes he brought recently. Though Ann is concerned, Ben¡¯s behaviour reassures her that he is helping the man out of the kindness of his heart. The men go to D&Zzzz where they meet Tom, order some drinks and just begin to enjoy the evening.


    ¡°So, Nick, you like this place?¡± Tom asks.


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    ¡°It¡¯s nice,¡± Nick says trying to enjoy himself. He looks around the room as he sips on some whiskey, at times watching the match being played on the screen at the corner of the room.


    ¡°You like football?¡± Ben asks sipping on his mocktail.


    ¡°I guess,¡± Nick replies. ¡°You hang out here often?¡±


    ¡°At times,¡± Tom says raising his eyebrows. ¡°Not our usual place but it¡¯s nice.¡±


    ¡°So, Nick, is football the only thing that caught your eye or something else?¡± Ben asks as Nick looks and sees a group of women at the bar standing beside the screen ordering some drinks.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t,¡± Nick says as he blushes slightly taking a sip from his drink surprising both Ben and Tom. Ben and Tom look back and realise what Nick understood.


    ¡°Not your type?¡± Ben enquires.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I have a type. I¡¯d like to think I¡¯ve dated but, those women won¡¯t pay attention to me,¡± Nick says as Tom thinks back to the time he spends with Nicholas, a man with so much confidence and charisma, he can sway anyone¡¯s heart. Despite the resemblance, the man before them seems like the type who would have drinks thrown at his face for saying something stupid.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you did,¡± Ben says. ¡°But what do you think your type is?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not really sure,¡± Nick chuckles. ¡°I guess maybe long hair and beautiful eyes,¡± Nick says as Ben interrupts.


    ¡°You like blondes?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°Not in particular,¡± Nick replies. ¡°I just think that sometimes a connection is all you need.¡± Tom sits observing the conversation as Nick turns to him, ¡°What about you Tom, anyone special in your life?¡±


    ¡°No, just had a break up,¡± Tom replies and before Nick can say anything he continues. ¡°I¡¯m fine and I¡¯d rather not talk about it. Sometimes it¡¯s better to be single than with the wrong person.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Nick replies. ¡°Ben is really lucky that way. He has the woman of his dreams.¡±


    ¡°Nice of you to assume that,¡± Tom replies.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve seen it. The way he looks at her,¡± Nick¡¯s bright smiles as Ben begins to feel uncomfortable. ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll say yes.¡±


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Ben asks just as Nicholas silently realises his tongue just slipped.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but earlier today I was looking for games and I found the ring box,¡± Nick says surprising Ben and Tom. ¡°I know it¡¯s not my place but¡­¡±


    ¡°But you can look through my stuff?¡± Ben asks now becoming angry.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make excuses,¡± Ben says. ¡°What do you think I brought you to my house so you can invade my privacy!¡±


    ¡°Ben¡­,¡± Tom says as Ben abruptly stands up and begins to walk away from the table.


    ¡°I need some air,¡± Ben says as he walks away. Ben goes the front door and after opening it slams it shut in anger but that¡¯s not what happens. As he turns around, he notices Nick had followed him and is now lying unconscious on the floor. As Tom rushes to his side Ben, stands shocked unsure of what happened.

 Wrong Conclusions

    Tom and Ben take Nick to a hospital, Ben has slammed the door into Nick¡¯s face so hard that he lost consciousness. Ben didn¡¯t expect Nick to follow him in the first place nor did he expect he could knock somebody out with such ease. As they sit silently waiting for the doctor¡¯s diagnoses, Tom speaks.


    ¡°Ben, that wasn¡¯t really your fault you know. You didn¡¯t see him; he shouldn¡¯t have just rushed after you like that¡­¡±


    ¡°This is such a mess,¡± Ben says letting out a frustrating sigh, though slightly happy at with himself.


    ¡°Ben I was thinking, maybe this guy isn¡¯t Nicholas,¡± Tom says grabbing Ben¡¯s attention. ¡°Hear me out, the Nicholas we knew and I did know him best, was sophisticated, smart and charismatic. This guy he just seems like a¡­ a¡­¡±


    ¡°A walking fruitcake?¡± Ben says as Tom nods.


    ¡°That¡¯s one way to put it.¡±


    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s faking,¡± Ben insists trying to convince himself of the man¡¯s identity. ¡°He did trick everyone before, it doesn¡¯t seem difficult for him to do it again.¡±


    ¡°Ben, Nicholas had a spark to him. It was something that just attracted people to him and you can¡¯t hide that such a quality even if you tried.¡±


    ¡°I guess you¡¯re right,¡± Ben reluctantly admits. ¡°But what if he is Nicholas and he¡¯s not faking but has really lost his memory.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say buddy but I really think your wrong,¡± Tom says.


    ¡°I just hope this guy is ok,¡± Ben says. And though evidence has presented itself in such a way, Ben does not want to think otherwise.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll be fine. But Ben,¡± Tom now changes his tone. ¡°But why didn¡¯t you tell me you were going to propose to Ann?¡±


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    ¡°I just wanted something private and special,¡± Ben answers as Tom smiles happy with the news. His best friend plans on taking the next big step in his relationship, despite this, Tom can¡¯t help but feel a little betrayed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure Ann is going to love it,¡± Tom says.


    ¡°She would have but I completely forgot about it,¡± Ben says as Tom nods thinking the entrance of Nick in their lives has preoccupied Ben. But Ben has a different take, he blames Nick for ruining his proposal weekend with Ann. What¡¯s more, Ben didn¡¯t think about it until he returned, causing Ben to feel more irritation with him. Ben slowly looks up, he sees Ann at the end of the corridor and turns to Tom. ¡°You called Ann?¡±


    ¡°Was I not supposed to?¡± Tom asks confused.


    ¡°Ben! What is the meaning of this?¡± Ann says staring at him angrily. ¡°I thought you would take care of him.¡±


    ¡°I did,¡± Ben says trying to defend himself. ¡°I swear this was not intentional.¡±


    ¡°He has a bad head injury,¡± Ann replies. ¡°This could make it worse; I can¡¯t believe this happened. I knew I should have come with you guys.¡± Ben knows he should have been more careful and feels a part of him wanted to hurt Nick. Ben also knows that he has to keep Nick around to find the truth, and that was something he didn¡¯t want to compromise. Despite this what hurt the most was seeing his girlfriend get worked up over a man who looked like her ex.


    Soon the doctor comes and informs them that Nick is fine and he is now awake. The three of them go to Nick¡¯s room where he sits on the bed smiling.


    ¡°Nick is everything alright?¡± Ann asks as she comes closer to him, concerned.


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Nick says. ¡°My name is Andrew.¡±


    ¡°Andrew?¡± Ann looks confused while Ben ponders if this is another one of Nicholas¡¯s tricks.


    ¡°You remember?¡± Tom asks.


    ¡°Just my name,¡± Nick says smiling brightly. ¡°I don¡¯t know anything else but I¡¯m sure my name is Andrew.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you Andrew,¡± Ann says hiding the disappointment in her voice. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m ok. The doctor said I just need some rest.¡±


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann says as she turns to Ben sternly. ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything to say to Nick¡­ I mean Andrew.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ben says annoyed by Ann defending Andrew.


    ¡°Like I¡¯m sorry I slammed a door in your face? I¡¯m sorry I hurt you, I should have been more careful,¡± Ann demands.


    ¡°Look Ann,¡± before Ben can make any attempt to cover for himself, Andrew speaks.


    ¡°The door thing, that wasn¡¯t Ben. It was the wind,¡± Andrew says unconvincingly. ¡°The wind was so strong it pushed the door right back,¡± he says giving a dorky smile. Ann decides not to pursue the matter and they soon leave the room as the doctor comes in to check on Andrew. As Ann speaks to the doctor, Ben pulls Tom aside and whispers.


    ¡°Did you see the way he lied just then?¡±

 Contentious

    ¡°Did you see the way he lied just then?¡± Ben whispers as Tom looks at him in shock.


    ¡°Ben, even a child could tell he was covering for you.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s totally faking,¡± Ben says convinced. Tom stares at his friend concerned as Ben¡¯s face now turned maniacal. It was a strange feeling Ben had when he heard Andrew lie, it wasn¡¯t what he said but the way he said it, almost like he was mocking him. He felt that before when fencing with Nicholas and in almost every one of their interactions. Now Ben had a certain reassurance, this man is Nichols. But Tom on the other hand is convinced otherwise.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just take him home and no more incidents please,¡± Ann says sternly as the two men nod. Tom no longer has any agenda against the man but Ben does. He is convinced of the man¡¯s identity but not his circumstance.


    About a week later, Andrew is still recovering and has decided to take an online course to help him get a job. Ben is now determined to expose ¡®Nicholas¡¯ but cannot get close to him with Ann¡¯s constant interference. Ann has made sure Ben would not hurt Andrew again and so would not let Ben take him out or even come near him again.


    Ann is in a constant struggle with her emotion and now at work, she cannot help but sigh because of the situation.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Emma asks noticing her friend deep in thought.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± as Ann replies Emma can¡¯t take her silence on the matter any longer.


    ¡°I know I said I¡¯ll give you your space but we¡¯re best friends so that¡¯s not going to happen,¡± Emma says hoping to see a grin however she¡¯s met with silence. ¡°I know it¡¯s about Nicholas but I don¡¯t know the details. You seem so different ever since¡­¡±


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Ann says sighing and then pauses for a moment. ¡°He said he remembers his name is Andrew.¡±


    ¡°That was quick,¡± Emma says surprised. ¡°Is that all he remembers?¡±


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    ¡°So far,¡± Ann replies. ¡°He remembered when Ben slammed a door to his head knocking him out.¡±


    ¡°What is wrong with your boyfriend!¡± Emma says annoyed. ¡°Sorry Ann, I know you love him but he can¡¯t be this impulsive all the time. This could have ended terribly.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I said,¡± Ann says. ¡°I think Ben is convinced this guy is my ex.¡±


    ¡°Why? Does he look like him or something,¡± Emma comments as Ann gives her a look. ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Nicholas used to have brown hair and had a tattoo as well. This guy doesn¡¯t have that.¡±


    ¡°Yet, you think this Andrew and Nicholas are the same person?¡± Emma asks. ¡°It¡¯s not unlikely but I mean you can change your hair colour and remove a tattoo. But if he says he remembers his name and it probably is not Nicholas.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Ann lets out a painful sigh again. She wants the man she brought home to be the man she once loved. It was not because she hoped he returned to her life, but, simply because she wanted to relive the memories she had with him, the way he spoke, the way they laughed together, the way he made her happy...


    Ever since she saw him in that cabin, all her buried feeling suddenly sprouted up like a flower in spring. But like the season¡¯s change, the situations caused her joy to be short-lived. She has gone through his reports and she knows for a fact that he has amnesia. In order to protect him from the police and other dangers, she wanted to have him close and so, brought him home. However, this recent revelation about this name left Ann disappointed and with many questions. ¡®Who was that man living in her house? Why does this man look like Nicholas? And where is the real Nicholas?¡¯


    ¡°Ann, there¡¯s a lot you aren¡¯t telling me, right?¡± Emma asks noticing her friend¡¯s clear dilemma.


    ¡°If I knew the answers, I would have told you,¡± Ann replied.


    ¡°Does he know?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°That you guys named him after your ex-boyfriend,¡± Emma says and, in that moment, Ann realised what might happen if he found out. ¡°He needs to know.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann says as she finishes lunch. She knows that hiding such information from Andrew is not a good idea. If he found out otherwise, not only would he feel betrayed but he would worry they brought him here with ill intentions. Not wanting to upset the already hurt man, Ann decides to tell him the truth soon.


    Ann then goes to her office as she takes a moment to calm down and think. Admitting such a thing to Andrew would crush him, in his eyes, Ben and Ann are two kind strangers who helped him. He even went so far as to cover for Ben, there¡¯s no saying how he would feel when he learns the truth. But what worried Ann the most is Ben telling him, she knows she can handle the situation better. Also, Ben might say certain things that aren¡¯t necessary in Ann¡¯s opinion and it¡¯s better she tell Andrew before Ben does.


    ¡°May I come in doctor?¡± a tall man with hazel eyes and silky brown hair stands at the door.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Kane.¡±

 Strange Return

    ¡°Good afternoon, Kane,¡± Ann says smiling as she gestures for the man to come inside her office. ¡°Been sleeping well?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been sleeping fine,¡± Kane replies smiling as he sits down on the couch opposite Ann.


    ¡°So, the pills helped huh?¡± the man looks at Ann confused for a moment, and then she continues. ¡°You came in a few days ago and asked for some sleeping pills remember?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Kane lies unconvincingly as Ann takes notice of this.


    ¡°You came in here seemingly disturbed and rushed out before we could talk about anything,¡± Ann says. ¡°Would you like to share what was going through your mind then?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Kane says as his expression slowly turns horrid. ¡°You gave me sleeping pills?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ann says. Kane has never behaved like this; he usually comes in for things like insomnia among other things. He was abused by his family as a child and has been seeking therapy to recover.


    ¡°I was not feeling well that day,¡± Kane says unable to shake off the expression of fear slowly creeping onto his face. ¡°I guess I must have forgotten about it,¡± he says smiling for just a brief moment before giving into a sinister feeling


    ¡°You want to talk about it?¡± Ann asks, now growing concerned.


    ¡°Not really,¡± Kane replies trying to regain his composure. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I was rude though.¡±


    Kane was a man who wanted to better himself, he always wanted to hear the truth no matter how bitter. He was a well-mannered individual and would never enter a room without permission, but last time he just barged in and sat down. He didn¡¯t bother sharing his issues and just demanded sleeping pills. He just kept avoiding questions and after the prescription was written he ran out without saying even a thank you. Right now, Kane looks nervous and he¡¯s trying to explain himself the best way he can, but he is unable to find the right words. Not wanting to push him, Ann decides to leave it alone and continues with a normal session.


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    ¡°Thank you, doc,¡± Kane says after the session. Ann cannot shake off the feeling that something¡¯s wrong but she knows Kane will tell her if something is bothering him. She doesn¡¯t think too much of it and continues with her day.


    That evening as she returns home, she finds Andrew now taking a break from studying.


    ¡°How¡¯s it going,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Good,¡± Andrew says smiling. ¡°I think I¡¯m good with accounts, this course is helping me polish some skills. Though I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be getting some high-paying job with this.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s ok,¡± Ann replies smiling. ¡°It¡¯ll take some time. But how are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Better,¡± Andrew says letting out a chuckle. ¡°You always ask me that the minute you get home.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because of your injury,¡± Ann replies. ¡°I know you¡¯re healing but it¡¯s important to monitor your health.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯m not allowed out of the house,¡± Andrew says. ¡°It really wasn¡¯t Ben¡¯s fault I swear.¡± Andrew has noticed a certain distance between the couple following that incident. He blames himself for their problem but doesn¡¯t realize the real reason.


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann replies and lets out a sigh. ¡°It¡¯s just that you cannot afford more hits to the head right now.¡± Ann had returned home one day to find Andrew wanting to get a job. Though that was a good sign the fact that he wanted to work in a construction site worried everyone including Ben. Andrews has been very clumsy around the house and the damage he can do to himself around dangerous equipment was horrifying to think about. ¡°You can start looking for work next week.¡±


    ¡°Must I wait that long?¡± Andrew asks disappointed.


    ¡°It¡¯s for the best,¡± Ann says. ¡®By that time, his would be healed better and even if he gets hurt it won¡¯t be that bad,¡¯ Ann thinks. Ann looks around the apartment, Ben isn¡¯t home yet and she remembers that has to pick up groceries first. Ann now sees the perfect opportunity, but she is also anxious about what will be the result of that opportunity.


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Ann says in a deep and heavy voice. ¡°There is something I have to talk to you about.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± the clueless Andrew asks. Ann sits down next to him and he looks at her examining her strong expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid we haven¡¯t been completely honest with you,¡± Ann says after a small pause. ¡°When you first fainted at our door that day, you reminded us of someone, someone we knew.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Andrew asks now worried and though Ann is hesitant for a moment, she knows it¡¯s better she tells him before anyone else does.


    ¡°Nicholas, my ex-boyfriend.¡±

 Vulnerable Exchange

    ¡°You reminded us of Nicholas, my ex-boyfriend.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Andrew says looking shocked.


    ¡°You look like him, except¡­ your hair colour is different and he has some tattoos as well,¡± as Ann says these words Andrew takes a minute to takes in what¡¯s he just hears. He buries his face in his palm and following a few moments of silence he asks.


    ¡°Is that why you helped me?¡±


    ¡°We would have helped anyone in that situation,¡± Ann replies. ¡°I admit at first, I assumed you were my ex and that did motivate me a little to help you. But I wanted you to hear this from me and know that I will be doing my best to help you no matter what.¡±


    ¡°Now I understand why Ben wanted to name me Nicholas,¡± Andrew says giving a small smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know about my past but I know you both helped me; the reason doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not upset?¡±


    ¡°Not really, I mean it does make sense why the both of you care about me so much. The way you two take care of me by not letting me do too much work or the fact that you guys keep an eye on me to make sure I¡¯m alright. I couldn¡¯t have asked for anything better for anyone in my situation,¡± Andrew says innocently putting Ann and Ben on a pedestal.


    ¡®Does he not realise how much of a danger he is to himself?¡¯ Ann thinks completely dumbfounded by Andrew¡¯s words.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s what I wanted to say. Sorry, we didn¡¯t tell you sooner,¡± Ann says relieved that everything is out in the open.


    ¡°How was he?¡± Andrew asks abruptly as Ann looks at him. ¡°Nicholas. He must have been an amazing guy.¡±


    ¡°He was,¡± Ann says recalling tender memories. ¡°He was really smart and amazing in so many ways.¡±


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    ¡°He must have gotten along well with you and Ben.¡±


    ¡°Why would you think that?¡± Ann asks curiously.


    ¡°Ben was the one who wanted to name me Nicholas,¡± Andrew said smiling. Ann smiles uncomfortably unable to determine her boyfriend¡¯s intentions with this na?ve man. Yet she was sure of one thing, Ben would not have let Nicholas into his house without his own agenda. She now wonders if Ben has decided to stop pursuing Andrew or does he still have his doubts. ¡°Well¡­?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says as she remembers what she¡¯s in the middle of a conversation. ¡°Nicholas was amazing, he was always there for me and just¡­¡± Ann says unable to control the memories slowly rushing back. She stops speaking and just gets lost in thought, for a long time all questions about Nicholas were related to his crimes. For the first time, she had the chance to talk about their fond memories together. She becomes overwhelmed she smiles as a tear begins to roll down her cheek.


    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Andrew says coming close to Ann.


    ¡°Yes¡­,¡± Ann says wiping the tear from her eyes trying to avoid Andrew¡¯s gaze.


    ¡®He looks so much like him,¡¯ Ann thinks not wanting to lose hope. She knows the man in front of her is not Nicholas but someone like him. She secretly worries Nicholas would never come back to her and though she knew it was for the best, it still hurt.


    ¡°Hey,¡± Andrew says taking her hand and, in a moment, she was transported back in time. She remembers the tender times Nicholas was by her side and the way he held her. Andrews eye¡¯s sparkled, filled with compassion as she now couldn¡¯t look away.


    ¡®His hands, they are the same,¡¯ Ann thinks as she comes closer to lean on his shoulder. When her head finally reached his shoulder, she had felt something. The solace she always felt in Nicholas arms as the walls came down, like nothing separated them. She moves back and looks at Andrew whose smile is both comforting her and clearly hurting him. In her eyes Andrew is shattered to see her cry and this reminds her of Nicholas all the more. As Andrew holds her hand once again Ann is now delighted as she is sure of one thing.


    ¡®This man is Nicholas,¡¯ Ann thinks as she lets out a painful smile as tears still fill her eyes. ¡®I have no doubt about it, I have to protect him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Ann says not wanting to move away. ¡°I just haven¡¯t talked about this in so long I just.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Andrew says in a smooth voice. ¡°Everything is going to be fine.¡± Ann smiles even more with these words as Andrew puts his hand on her cheek wiping her tears away as she gently lets her face rest in on his palm. Just then the door swings open and in walks Ben.


    ¡°Ann¡­¡±

 Unsaid Conversations

    ¡°Ann,¡± Ben says as he walks in carrying a bag full of groceries. He looks up and stops in his tracks as he sees Ann crying with Andrew holding the hand of the woman he loves. As Andrew and Ann move away from each other, Ann looks concerned about Ben¡¯s reaction to the situation. Ben stands there filled with rage as he stands there silently with a deadly gaze, his eyes fixed on a man he now detests.


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann says worried about how Ben might react.


    ¡°Ann was just telling me about her rough day at work,¡± Andrew lies trying to explain the situation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep these in the kitchen,¡± Ben says as he turns around and walks away. Ann immediately rushes after him while Andrew is left alone in the other room. Andrew knows he might say the wrong thing in this situation and decides to give the couple their space.


    ¡°Ben?¡± Ann says as she enters the kitchen.


    ¡°You had a rough day huh?¡± Ben says sounding disappointed. ¡°I just thought you¡¯d tell me about it like you normally do.¡±


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann says. ¡°Andrew just asked me a few things and¡­¡±


    ¡°You got carried away,¡± Ben says knowing how emotional Ann can get listening to people¡¯s problems all day. He hugs Ann passionately wanting to comfort her and Ann sighs in relief. Despite his warm behaviour, Ben could not contain a certain emotion that was now very evident to him. Though he knows he has to act as he normally does, he cannot look at Andrew anymore the same way. The couple then goes about the rest day like normal and Andrew decides to not pursue the subject, happy everything has been resolved.


    A few days later Andrew is now having another session with Emma.


    ¡°How is everything going Nick, I mean Andrew,¡± Emma says smirking.


    ¡°Everything is great, I started applying for jobs yesterday. Hoping to hear back from them soon,¡± Andrew says now comfortable sharing with Emma.


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    ¡°Everything ok with Ben and Ann?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Andrew replies. Emma always asks him about the couple since Ann has been shying away from giving her more detail. ¡°There was this incident though. Did you know I look like Ann¡¯s ex-boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Emma replies in one word as he continues.


    ¡°That¡¯s why Ben named me Nicholas,¡± Andrew adds. ¡°I thought they had a good relationship with that Nicholas but turns out that wasn¡¯t the case.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°Ann started crying when I asked her about him,¡± Andrew says seemingly guilty for opening old wounds. ¡°I thought they were close but I guess not. I mean she just said that he was amazing and started crying and¡­ I don¡¯t know but I think this guy might have done something terrible. It¡¯s a good thing she had Ben now, he¡¯s so understanding of her.¡±


    ¡°You think he¡¯s understanding?¡± Emma remarks in a slightly sarcastic tone.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Andrew says delightfully. ¡°He walked in on me comforting Ann when she was crying, though he looked furious Ann talked to him and everything was all right after that.¡± Emma raises her eyebrows knowing this wasn¡¯t like Ben at all. Whether he suddenly matured, had a lapse of judgment or was just playing stupid, Emma knew something was strange.


    ---


    ¡°That is not a good idea,¡± Tom says as he eats a snack with Ben at the gym.


    ¡°I¡¯m convinced Tom, this guy is Nicholas,¡± Ben replies stuffing his face with a sandwich.


    ¡°Because of that ¡®lie¡¯ he told?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ben says abruptly acting like he doesn¡¯t want to talk about it. ¡°I just felt it, I know it¡¯s him,¡± Ben says as he continues eating.


    ¡°Ok,¡± Tom says knowing his friend won¡¯t say anything further. ¡°But isn¡¯t doing this going to just put him in more danger? And if Ann finds out¡­¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t,¡± Ben says defensively. ¡°I know Ann is protective of this guy but if we just get the truth out then¡­¡±


    ¡°Then what?¡± Tom asks and Ben abruptly looks at his friend seriously. ¡°Ben, you know Ann hasn¡¯t admitted to anything. She¡¯s not ready to talk, what if she just defends him like she always does?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know ok. She still says Nicholas is innocent and,¡± Ben says sounding frustrated. ¡°I just need her to see the truth.¡±


    ¡°I think she already did,¡± Tom remarks. ¡°Didn¡¯t her brother find her in some abandoned cabin with dead bodies and a missing Nicholas?¡±


    ¡°Maybe he threatened her?¡± Ben says trying to wrap his head around why his girlfriend¡¯s behaviour. A few months after the incident she never told anyone about what happened, she would always just avoid the subject. Wanting to desperately know the truth, Ben wants to desperately take matters into his own hands. ¡°Will you help me or not?¡±


    ¡°Fine, but this is the last time.¡±

 Encircle

    That evening Ann and Emma are at her apartment talking to Andrew as Tom and Ben walk in.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s everybody doing here?¡± Ben asks casually, hoping not to put a pin in his plans.


    ¡°We were just planning on going shopping,¡± Andrew says smiling. When Andrew first got there, he had borrowed some of Ben¡¯s clothes and though they did eventually buy him some new clothes, Andrew didn¡¯t particularly like their style.


    ¡°We were planning on going with him,¡± Emma says.


    ¡°That¡¯s too bad,¡± Ben says. ¡°We were hoping to have a boy¡¯s night tonight.¡± The two women shoot a deadly stare at him as he clears his throat and continues. ¡°Maybe we should take him shopping and then hang out. Right Andrew?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ann says before Andrew can answer. ¡°We are going shopping and coming home, nothing else."


    "How about we let Andrew decide," Ben counters and before an argument can ensue Emma interrupts.


    ¡°How about we all go? We first go shopping and then we can hang out or wherever. Is that good?¡± Ben and Ann share a glance as Andrew steps in.


    ¡°Sounds great!¡±


    Tom is slightly relieved that he would not be the only one keeping an eye on Ben and what he does. After about half an hour the four of them go shopping, Andrew feels relaxed when searching for something he considers his style. After that, Ben decides to put his plan into motion and takes Andrew along with the rest of them to his gym.


    ¡°Woah,¡± Andrew says as he steps in excitedly. He was always was curious about fencing and now he has a chance to try it out.


    ¡°Place looks great huh?¡± Ben says smiling as Ann looks at him suspiciously. Not wanting to make a scene she silently walks in. ¡°You want to try?¡± Ben says showing him a sabre as Andrew stretches out his hand to hold it.


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    ¡°Wait,¡± Ann says firmly controlling her tone. ¡°I don¡¯t think this is a good idea.¡± Andrew looks disappointed knowing her medical expertise is probably correct. His expression reminds her of a puppy just wanting to play, knowing she would feel bad if she disappointing him. ¡°Put on a helmet first and do not take it off at all costs.¡± Andrew smiles as Ben takes him to put in their gear. Emma too becomes curious and wants to try fencing, as she leaves to find some gear, Ann and Tom and now left alone.


    ¡°What is he planning Tom?¡± Ann asks softly.


    ¡°What do you mean,¡± Tom says feigning ignorance knowing Ann is catching on. ¡°Ben said Andrew wanted to try fencing so.¡± Ann knows Andrew had always been fascinated with fencing especially the way Ben describes it. She knows Ben would be more careful now and not try anything, nevertheless she is still worried.


    ¡°Look at me,¡± Andrew says walking in happy as ever. Emma and Ben walk in beside him and they start a class. Ben gives him basic instructions and Andrew is able to keep up easily. Ann, Emma and Tom are happy with his progress while Ben sees this as a red flag.


    ¡°All right, let¡¯s take a break!¡± Ben says. Emma is out of breath with a tough training session.


    ¡°Ben, you don¡¯t look tired at all,¡± Emma remarks. Despite going to the gym herself and helping Ann out with fitness, she finds herself no match for Ben¡¯s training. But what she didn¡¯t consider was, Ben did not design this for beginners. As Andrew sits down and wipes the sweat off her face, Ann smiles to see him happy doing something.


    ¡°That was fun?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Andrew replies. ¡°You can just tell Ben¡¯s a professional.¡± Ann smiles proudly as Ben notices her grin. Trying to contain his jealousy has proven too much for him and he says.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s have a practice match,¡± these words fly out of Ben¡¯s mouth as he smiles brightly. Tom knows no one can be ready for a match after just one lesson, a short one at that. But before anyone could raise any concerns Andrew gets up enthusiastically.


    ¡°Sweet,¡± Andrew says innocently as Emma stares at him in wonder.


    ¡®This is not going to end well,¡¯ Emma thinks as they begin a match. She sits next to Ann who looks growingly concerned. Tom on the other hand tries not to look as his best friend makes another foolish decision.


    ¡°We¡¯re done,¡± Ben says. ¡°Looks like I win.¡± Ben stands victorious over Andrew who looks exhausted as the three spectators find Ben¡¯s actions nothing short of pathetic.


    ¡°You were amazing,¡± Andrew says taking off his helmet as Ben walks away hoping to be met with applause but is met with silence. Ann stares at him only angering him more.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go! What¡¯s taking you so long.¡± Ben looks back and finds Andrew now lying on the floor unconscious.

 Suppression

    The four of them are now in the hospital as the doctors take care of Andrew. Ben sits next to Ann as he knows he will be blamed for what happened. Though he is convinced he didn¡¯t do anything, the stares he received at the gym and even at the hospital made him anxious. Before he could say a word Ann begins to speak.


    ¡°What on earth was that, Ben!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t play dumb with me!¡± Ann says sounding agitated. ¡°Why did you fight him like that? You¡¯re a professional and you didn¡¯t even go easy on him.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I did go easy on him,¡± Ben defends. ¡°And let me make one thing clear I did not put him in this condition. I didn¡¯t hurt him in any way.¡±


    ¡°Ben, you tired the guy out so much he passed out,¡± Tom says standing next to him, irritating Ben as he avoids eye contact with his best friend.


    ¡°Good news, he¡¯s not dead,¡± Emma says walking up to the group after talking to the doctor. ¡°Looks like he¡¯s good to be your punching bag after a while, right Ben?¡± Ben¡¯s jaw drops as the trio stare at him. He doesn¡¯t want to admit it but he may have overdone it.


    ¡°Do you think he¡¯ll remember anything else now?¡± Ben asks hoping for a positive answer only to be ignored.


    ¡°He was just exhausted wasn¡¯t he,¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Emma replies. ¡°It was almost like he didn¡¯t pass out. Just fell asleep.¡± Emma and Ann talk and they decide to go get some medicines for Andrew while Tom and Ben stay put.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Ben?¡± Ann remarks in annoyance. ¡°He really shouldn¡¯t behave this way. I¡¯d expect him to learn but no.¡±


    ¡°Ann but what about you?¡± Emma asks. ¡°I saw the way you reacted when Andrew was unconscious. I understand if Ben¡¯s jealous, or even if he thinks this guy is your ex.¡±


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    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ann asks feigning ignorance.


    ¡°Ann, you truly believe this guy is your ex, don¡¯t you,¡± Emma says after a pause. ¡°Ann, you know Ben can be the jealous type. Not to mention his last relationship ended so badly, I understand why he would be envious of Andrew.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± Ann says. ¡°I love Ben and he knows that.¡±


    ¡°But you can¡¯t forget this Nicholas either?¡±


    Ann is left in thought as she tries to make sense of her own feelings.


    ¡®I know I love Ben. And I know I convinced myself that Nicholas is just an old chapter but¡­. Ever since Andrew has entered their lives, a lot of old feeling had begun to come up. I would never hurt Ben, but I don¡¯t want to see Nicholas hurt either.¡¯


    ¡°Just give me the medicine!¡± A familiar and aggravating voice brings Ann back as she sees Kane, standing tall as he demands, while he grips his arm in pain.


    ¡°Kane,¡± Ann says as she approaches the man who looks unhappy to see her. ¡°What happened to your arm?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, just got reckless,¡± he says as he pulls down his sleeve trying to hide his blood-covered arm.


    ¡°That looks bad,¡± Emma says. ¡°You should get that checked.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m alright.¡±


    ¡°No, you are not,¡± Emma says as she aggressively pulls up his sleeve to reveal his injured arm.


    ¡°I said stop!¡± he shouts pulling his sleeve down aggressively. ¡°Where¡¯re the meds!¡± As the pharmacist places them on the counter, Kane throws the money and rushes out the front door.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± Emma asks unshaken as she couldn¡¯t help but notice, his arm looks like he had an object removed from it.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I just hope he¡¯ll talk about it,¡± Ann says sighing pondering on his strange behaviour.


    ¡°Well, he doesn¡¯t want to talk about it, that¡¯s for sure,¡± Emma remarks.


    ¡°You ok,¡± Ann asks for the sake of being polite, knowing nothing so small could affect the toughest woman she knows. The cashier looks hesitant to take the money, noticing some of it has the man¡¯s blood stains on it. Emma hands him a note and takes the blood-stained money as change. The two women pretend as if nothing happened and proceed to buy the medicine.


    They go back and find Andrew is now awake.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Emma asks.


    ¡°Little tired,¡± Andrew says as he chuckles.


    ¡°Glad you¡¯re ok,¡± Tom says as Ben nods, both standing in the corner of the room.


    ¡°I am actually embarrassed,¡± Andrew admits. ¡°To think I passed out just from about an hour of sports. I don¡¯t think I¡¯m that weak, am I?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not,¡± Ann replies. ¡°You¡¯re just in a delicate state, that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°If you want you can slowly try and get your strength back,¡± Emma says. ¡°Just bit by bit if you exercise and work out, you¡¯ll soon be back to normal.¡±


    ¡°Your right,¡± Andrew says. ¡°What do you think Ben? Can you help me out with that?¡±

 Uneasy Lifestyle

    ¡°No!¡±


    Despite the echo, Ben happily agrees.


    It¡¯s been about five days since Ben started coaching Andrew. Despite wanting to continue with a sport he was advised to start with some basic exercises. Along with this Emma joined them every day to ensure Andrew doesn¡¯t over-exert himself. Ben was not a fan of this idea, but Ann didn¡¯t give him a chance to say anything as she and Emma continued discussing Andrew¡¯s condition.


    With this new exercise routine, Andrew was as lively as ever and Ben was given a sharp warning every day not to try any stunts again. Despite agreeing, he wanted to plan something but couldn¡¯t think of anything or anyone to help him. Since the incident, Tom has been avoiding the subject and Ann was watching him like a hawk. Ann was worried when Andrew first asked Ben to coach him, Ben¡¯s enthusiasm worried her even more and so she was happy to have Emma join them. Despite this she didn¡¯t want Andrew out of site and so she stuck to him every chance she got. She thought this was a great idea however this began a fire inside Ben he didn¡¯t know how to deal with.


    ¡°Ann, the spaghetti looks cooked,¡± Andrew says looking for a fork to check.


    ¡°Let it be Andrew. I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let her boss you around Andrew,¡± Ben replies as he comes close to Ann who is making a salad. ¡°She likes to think she can boss anybody around just because it¡¯s her kitchen.¡± Ben put him arm around her waist and gently kissed her neck, pulling her close to him.


    ¡°Ben,¡± Ann whispers as she blushes and moves away from him. Andrew silently chuckles noticing Ann¡¯s shy but happy reaction. Ben has been like this the past few days, not allowing even one opportunity to pass without him showing his affection for Ann. Andrew just admires their affection for one another as he begins to think about himself.


    ¡®How long can I stay here? I don¡¯t want to overstay my welcome. I should soon get a job and get out of their hair. I am clearly in the way,¡¯ Andrew thinks to himself as he plans the next steps of his life.


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    ¡®Why is Ben acting so romantic?¡¯ Ann thinks as she brushes him away yet again. She is happy with the extra affection but she also looks at Andrew from the corner of her eye. His smile is a short but painful reminder to her, that this man is probably who he says he is.


    ¡°Yep, it seems cooked,¡± Andrew says after tasting it.


    ¡°Great, now I¡¯ll just finish up. The two of you can set the table.¡±


    ¡°Yes General!¡± Ben says sarcastically as he and Andrew move to the other room and the doorbell rings.


    ¡°Who could that be?¡± Ann asks entering the living room as Ben goes to open the door.


    ¡°Hello brother,¡± Oscar says as Ben is taken aback, not expecting Oscar and his sister to be back so soon. ¡°Look, I told you he¡¯d miss me.¡± With a mischievous smirk, Oscar opens the door before Ben could react and sees Andrew setting up the table.


    ¡°What?¡± Fiona whispers under her breath in shock as Oscar¡¯s mood now flips from fun and easy-going to aggressive and fearful. Just as Oscar is about to take a step toward the unsuspecting Andrew, Ben in a panic, tackles him, forcefully dragging him to the kitchen as if controlling a stubborn child throwing a tantrum.


    ¡°Ben!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way I¡¯m letting you win,¡± Ben shouts. Everyone in the living room hears these words as the kitchen door closes, only hearing the sound of things falling.


    ¡°A friend of his?¡± Andrew asks unsuspectingly.


    ¡°My brother,¡± Ann replies. ¡°And my sister-in-law, who happens to be Ben¡¯s sister.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Andrew greets Fiona, stretching out his hand and Fiona shakes his hand, visibly trembling.


    ¡°You must be tired,¡± Ann says before Fiona can utter a word. ¡°Andrew, could you go buy me a couple of bottles of soda, I think we are out.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Andrew says as he leaves immediately. Just then Ben and a furious Oscar enter the room.


    ¡°We can explain. That¡¯s not Nicholas but some guy named Andrew,¡± Ann says quickly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t say,¡± Oscar says sounding increasingly annoyed. ¡°And at what point did you decide that it was ok for Ben to tackle me and dump a dirty kitchen rug in my mouth?¡± The women couldn¡¯t control their laughter and neither could Ben. ¡°Ben!¡± Oscar calls out as Ben takes a step back expecting some backlash. ¡°Why did you let Nicholas into this house?¡±


    ¡°What? Oz, he is not,¡± Ann tries to defend her boyfriend but is interrupted.


    ¡°You know how Ann is and yet you still allowed this?¡± Ann is hurt by her brother¡¯s words but decides not to challenge him.


    ¡°The guy has amnesia alright. We found him injured on our doorstep and he can¡¯t remember who he is,¡± Ben says trying to convince Oscar, who notices the subtle concern in Ben¡¯s voice. Oscar looks at Ann and is unsure of what¡¯s going on but he was going to find out.


    ¡°I¡¯m back,¡± Andrew says as Oscar turns around.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Oscar.¡±

 Not Enough Answers

    It was a normal dinner with everyone trying to behave as casually as possible. Well, all except Andrew who assumed his resemblance to Ann¡¯s boyfriend had created this air of tension.


    That night Ben decides to sneak out and go meet Oscar, hoping he¡¯ll believe what he knows to be true. About ten minutes after Ben leaves, Ann notices he¡¯s gone and fears her suspicions are true. She goes to the kitchen to make herself some tea, trying to calm down and think ahead.


    ¡®I can¡¯t let Ben or Oz try anything again. Andrew is still recovering, if something happens then will Nicholas remember who he is? What am I thinking!? I¡¯m still clinging to the hope that Nicholas would has come back. Didn¡¯t I move on from this? How could I, he gave me so much to remember and he promised¡­,¡¯ Ann¡¯s thoughts fill with memories and she becomes emotional. She hasn¡¯t talked to anyone about Nicholas for a long time and she craves to be heard. ¡®I just want to meet him one last time.¡¯ Ann thinks as she hears someone approaching.


    ¡°Ben?¡± Andrew walks in and sees her smiling strangely. ¡°I thought you were Ben.¡±


    ¡°Sorry to disappoint,¡± Andrew says as Ann¡¯s expression shows a hint of disappointed.


    ¡°Want some tea?¡±


    ¡°No thanks, just couldn¡¯t sleep,¡± Andrew comments as the kitchen descends into silence.


    ¡°I,¡± Andrew says with a voice so tenderly. ¡°I know Ben was trying to protect me from your brother because I look so much like your ex. I could even tell it was quite awkward at dinner because of me. The only one who didn¡¯t seem affected was your sister-in-law, but everyone else was really making an effort.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to keep thanking us, Andrew. We do this because we want to,¡± Ann says as she pours herself a cup of tea, avoiding eye contact.


    ¡°Can you tell me more about him?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann turned around and looked at Andrew as he asked curiously. ¡°Nicholas, my ex?¡±


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    ¡°Yes,¡± Andrew asks innocently hoping to have some of his many questions answered but Ann¡¯s contemplation makes him regret that decision. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to, then¡­¡± Ann chuckles at his words and begins to talk.


    ¡°Nicholas was an amazing guy, Andrew¡­ Though we didn¡¯t date for long, I really felt we were serious about each other, about us. It¡¯s funny but I was actually hoping for a future with him. I guess what I liked most about him was that he always knew what to say. More like, he knew what I wanted and he always gave that to me. Not really sure if that was his best quality but, it¡¯s really difficult to forget about someone like that.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Andrew says as Ann stares at him. ¡°Not that I have been in a similar situation or anything¡­ I think. But the way people make you feel sometimes is just unforgettable.¡± After a moment Andrew laughs and continues, ¡°Ok, maybe I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about because I can¡¯t recall anyone who made me feel like that.¡±


    Ann let¡¯s out a chuckle and is unable to say another word and before she realises it, her eyes are now filled with tears again.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to,¡± Andrew says feeling guilty. ¡®Every time I ask her about him, she becomes like this. What did he do to make her like this?¡¯ Nicholas thinks to himself silently.


    ¡°No,¡± Ann replies smiling through the tears. ¡°I really haven¡¯t had the chance to talk about Nicholas since I last saw him. I¡¯ve just had so much bottled up inside that right now, it¡¯s just such a relief. I know it might seem like I cry every time I talk about him and I do but, it¡¯s just so emotionally liberating to finally talk without judgment...¡±


    ¡°Ann,¡± Andrew asks after letting out a difficult sigh. ¡°Why did you guys break up?¡± Ann¡¯s smile immediately leaves her face and she looked up at him seriously. She turns away from him quietly as Andrew realizes that wasn¡¯t something she wanted to answer.


    ¡°He left.¡±


    Those words weren¡¯t enough for Andrew to get the full picture but with Ann¡¯s stone face, he begins to understand why her brother reacted the way he did. How could her brother possibly be calm when seeing the man who broke his sister¡¯s heart. Andrew steps forward and puts his hand on Ann¡¯s shoulder trying to comfort her. This small gesture caused Ann to fly into his arms as she shed a few tears, calming herself in the process. Ann leans into Andrews¡¯s strong arms as he embraces her, delicately allowing her to express what words could not. This moment is soon short-lived as they hear the front door open. Ben walks in as Ann desperately composes herself while Andrew takes a step back.


    Ben has a serious case of d¨¦j¨¤ vu as he enters the kitchen but he pretends not to notice. After a short conversation as everyone goes to bed, with Ann now feeling a bit relieved. Ben on the other hand is enraged, as his jealousy almost consumes him. As soon as he notices Ann is asleep, he quickly takes out his phone and sends a message:


    ¡®Do it!¡¯

 Diligent Perusal

    A few days later Andrew is now taking a walk outside by himself. The sun is shining brightly and he hopes for a few clouds to save him from this heat. As he walks, he notices a slow-moving police car pulling up beside him.


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Oscar calls out.


    ¡°Oscar?¡± Andrew says surprised. ¡°I almost didn¡¯t recognize you,¡± Andrew says as he scans the car and Oscar in uniform wearing sunglasses. ¡°You look so cool.¡± Oscar¡¯s once comfortable smile is now a little embarrassed, but brushing his feeling aside Oscar continues.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I was just out for a walk,¡± Andrew replies trying to look comfortable in the heat. Yet as the sweat slowly makes its way down Andrew¡¯s face, Oscar reads the situation differently.


    ¡°How about we go for a drive?¡±


    Oscar and Andrew drive around making small talk. Oscar tries to hide his intentions, however, with every word out coming out of Andrew¡¯s mouth, Oscar finds it more difficult to control himself. Ben had warned Oscar about Andrew¡¯s ¡®behaviour¡¯, but Oscar never prepared for this. He loves children, but a grown man, one who resembles someone he detests, acting so excited with every little detail in a cop car, was too difficult for him to take.


    ¡°Do you want to come to check out a crime scene with me?¡± Oscar says abruptly. ¡°I mean, I¡¯m on my way to¡­¡±


    ¡°That would be so amazing,¡± Andrew says excitedly as he continues to explain why. Oscar just tunes him out in an attempt to restrain himself from strangling his annoying passenger.


    ¡®I know I should have taken my time with this guy, but I don¡¯t think I can take another second of this.¡¯


    Oscar drives faster than usual as they arrive at a crime lab he has specifically set up for Andrew. Considering murder his forte, Oscar is hoping for some clarity or better yet evidence that confirms his and Ben¡¯s suspicions.


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    ¡°I hope you can handle a little blood,¡± Oscar says in a subtle sarcastic tone as his lip curls into a devious grin.


    They soon arrive at the forensic lab right not to the police station, where the body of the victim was being examined. A middle-aged man who has been brutally stabbed in the abdomen and left on the street, died before he could get to the hospital. He was on a date when he was abducted from a parking lot, the woman he was with was knocked unconscious while he was taken away. She called the cops when she gained consciousness, and about a day later the man was found.


    ¡°Poor guy,¡± Andrew remarks as some of the doctors explain what happened. Oscar notices Andrew staring at the man¡¯s lifeless body, as he is soon shown pictures of the crime scene and how the man was found. Andrew seems undeterred by the gruesome site.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Oscar asks curiously examining Andrew¡¯s focused face.


    ¡°I feel bad for the guy. Seems like a terrible way to go,¡± Andrew¡¯s comment annoys Oscar even more.


    ¡°Who do you think did it?¡± Oscar bluntly asks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Andrew says sounding sympathetic.


    ¡®Either this guy is for real or Nicholas is the best actor I have ever met,¡¯ Oscar thinks to himself as another officer approaches him with a theory. Oscar has been asking question after question to try and get a reaction out of Andrew.


    ¡°It must have been personal,¡± the officer states. ¡°Why else would they ignore the girl? I did a background check on the man, turns out he has a brother on the wrong side of the law. Maybe this was a family issue, or a rival took the brother out to send a message.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s possible,¡± Oscar says unable to get the reaction he wants out of Andrew. But just as he is about to give up Andrew asks.


    ¡°Has this been happening in other towns?¡± The officer and Oscar look surprised at Andrew¡¯s question. ¡°Well¡­?¡±


    The officer looks at Oscar who gives him a nod. As the officer goes to get this information, Oscar asks, ¡°Why did you ask that?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Andrew says looking contemplative for a moment. ¡°I think I saw an article in the papers recently about another guy who has his insides from his stomach ripped out. He was found on the street just like this guy.¡± In a few minutes, the officer returns with reports from similar incidents, Andrew was right and with this Oscar is finally content.


    ¡°Some deranged killer or something,¡± the officer comments. Oscar turns to Andrew who is still looking at the body as the officer continues summarising his findings. ¡°None of these victims had anything in common except they were all male,¡± he continued.


    ¡°Their blood type,¡± Andrew says. ¡°What about their blood type?¡±


    Oscar snatches the papers out of the officer¡¯s hand and examines them quickly,


    ¡°They all have the same blood type,¡± Oscar says with a smile of satisfaction.

 Wrong Direction

    ¡°They all have the same blood type,¡± Oscar lets out a chuckle as Andrew now rubs his head. ¡°You ok there pal?¡±


    ¡°I just have a headache right now,¡± Andrew replies as Oscar doesn¡¯t buy it.


    ¡°How about you sit down,¡± Oscar says as he guides Andrew inside a room. ¡°Sit here.¡± Oscar has just led Andrew to his office where he sits right across him, shoulders back and head held high. He leans forward in a cocky manner, but Andrew is too distracted with his headache to notice.


    ¡®I would love to see him talk his way out of this now,¡¯ Oscar thinks as he¡¯s now ready for the interrogation of his life but just then.


    ¡°Sir!¡± an officer bursts into his office.


    ¡°What?¡± Oscar says in a frustrating growl.


    ¡°Sir we have just arrested the killer, he¡¯s brought on for interrogation.¡± For a moment the blood drains from Oscar¡¯s face as he looks shocked. He can¡¯t understand what¡¯s happening but it¡¯s almost like he was back in time. Nicholas was within his reach but no evidence to prove anything, just like right now. As the officer repeats himself, Oscar sinks further into his own world thinking there is no way out, no way to prove what he knows, no way to convict ¡®Nicholas¡¯.


    ¡°Oscar?¡± Andrew¡¯s voice brings him back. ¡°I think I want to go back and rest, I don¡¯t feel too good.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Oscar answers defeatedly. ¡°Let one of these guys take you back.¡± Oscar tries to brush all of his feelings away as Andrew walks out with one of the officers. He soon puts on a professional face and goes to meet his seniors. The woman who was knocked out had seen the face of the man who attacked her date, she identified him and now he¡¯s in custody. Oscar quickly flips through the file and enters the room where the man sits trembling unable to look up.


    ¡°So, Mr¡­. Kane is it?¡± Oscar asks as he tries to wipe off all trace of disappointment from ten minutes ago.


    ¡°I swear I have done nothing wrong,¡± Kane says in a terrified tone.


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    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so nervous,¡± Oscar says non-chantant manner. ¡°I¡¯m just about to ask you some questions.¡±


    ¡°I was at home the entire night. I was reading a book and didn¡¯t leave my apartment,¡± Kane says as the agitation in his voice only further irritates the already disappointed Oscar. ¡°Please I didn¡¯t do anything, I shouldn¡¯t be here.¡±


    ¡°Would you just shut up! I haven¡¯t said anything yet.¡± Oscar shouts as he notices the visibly shaken Kane. He backs down, pretends to go through the file in his hand, gets up and leaves the room.


    ¡°That was professional,¡± Clarissa comments.


    ¡°Not now Clarissa,¡± Oscar says trying to ignore her. Clarissa Hansley, this strongheaded woman was assigned as Oscar¡¯s partner during police training. Always excelling in everything she did, she was quickly everyone¡¯s favourite but her attitude made her a rival to everyone. She had been watching Oscar¡¯s interaction with Kane from the other room with a mischievous grin, ready to make a comment. ¡°So, this is the guy,¡± Oscar says with a sigh.


    ¡°You know, there is more than one way to get a confession out of someone. Maybe you should try being more aggressive next time, he looks so relaxed.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± Oscar says. ¡°But you know me, always hated serial killers.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Clarissa¡¯s mouth hangs open as a proud Oscar gives her a superior smile.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you know, this has been happening in a few towns, men being left on the street with their insides out,¡± Oscar smirks as he notices Clarissa¡¯s envious expression. ¡°You knew that didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°There is no way you figured that out,¡± Clarissa comments as Oscar lets out a laugh.


    ¡°Why? Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d notice something you didn¡¯t,¡± Oscar smirks and before another word can escape his mouth.


    ¡°Sir your friend was right on the money about this murder. Twelve murders, all done in the same way starting from the north and now the latest was in our town,¡± the officer says walking in unaware of the conversation. As Clarissa smiles as she puts her hands on her waste, standing as if posing with the biggest catch of the day.


    Oscar is not as bothered with Clarissa as he normally would be, feeling disgusted that he must now refer to Andrew as his ¡®friend¡¯. The officer continues and Clarissa discusses the man¡¯s clear mental state. Oscar seems to be in his own world until he hears a familiar voice.


    ¡°Ann? What are you doing here?¡± Oscar asks nervously.


    ¡°I was asked to come here, regarding Kane. Is everything alright?¡± Suddenly a flashback played in Oscar¡¯s mind as he stayed silent. Ann was Kane¡¯s doctor and so she was called in for the case. Clarissa decided to brief Ann on the situation in hopes she can get him to calm down and talk.


    Ann goes in and meets Kane, the man seeing a familiar face finally beginning to calm down. Following a few short exchanges, Kane finally says.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you.¡±

 Snitch?

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you,¡± Kane says taking a deep breath and shutting his eyes really tight. ¡°I know you won¡¯t believe me, but I trust you, Dr. Smith. Even if there is no evidence now, there will be a time when there is. Promise me you¡¯ll testify on my behalf.¡± Ann nods with a reassuring smile.


    ¡°We just want to know the truth, Kane,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°First promise me you will testify. I know they¡¯ll come after me, but you can do something about them. Your brother is a cop, he can protect you.¡± Kane¡¯s words make Oscars heart heavy as he watches them from the other room.


    ¡°Just relax first,¡± Ann says in a soothing voice. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll do whatever it takes.¡±


    ¡°Ok,¡± Kane says firmly staring at Ann. ¡°Here it is. You know I was abused growing up right, my parents always wanted a girl child for¡­whatever reason. What I didn¡¯t tell you was, I had brothers,¡± Kane says sighing deeply, looking as if he was about to vomit. ¡°We were all locked up, barely fed, barely taken care of, then our mom just left and our dad brought home someone else. She only saw us once when we were eight. She didn¡¯t say anything, I don¡¯t even remember what she looked like, I don¡¯t know if she did it on purpose but she unlocked the door. That was our chance and we took it. We ran out of the house,¡± Kane says now trembling as he avoids eye contact. ¡°We ended up in an orphanage, it was decent enough. There we learned a few things, read, write, get a job¡­ act normal. But he¡­ always wanted more. He told me and I couldn¡¯t go through with it. He said he¡¯ll still support me and I didn¡¯t have a choice,¡± Kane says now hyperventilating.


    ¡°Kane, get a hold of yourself,¡± Ann says in the most compassionate manner. ¡°I think we should¡­¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Kane says desperately. ¡°I¡¯ve held this in long enough. You have to stop them, I don¡¯t know why they¡¯re doing this but, STOP THEM!¡± Kane says before he emotionally collapses. A medical team rush in to help him Ann stands up shocked, Oscar takes her out of the room as Kane is taken care of.


    ¡°That was really something,¡± Clarissa says as Ann sips coffee in her office, trying to take in all she has heard.


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    ¡°She doesn¡¯t need to be here,¡± Oscar says as Clarissa ignores him.


    ¡°How long has Kane been coming to you.¡±


    ¡°Two years,¡± Ann replies as she keeps sighing. ¡°I knew he had an abusive past but to think he¡¯d say something like that.¡±


    ¡°Which part?¡±


    ¡°He has brothers,¡± Ann mutters loud enough to grab Oscars attention.


    ¡°Can you explain a bit more Ann,¡± Clarissa says as she sits next to her while Oscar dreads the idea of his sister being involved with yet another maniac.


    ¡°I have seen his file, it¡¯s true he was abused but he had a brother, he was killed by his parents, and that¡¯s why they finally got arrested. He was at the orphanage by the time that happened,¡± Ann says feeling nothing but sympathy for the poor man.


    ¡°You know he probably killed like 12 people we know off,¡± Clarissa says surprising Ann.


    ¡°There is something called tact you know,¡± Oscar says from the corner of the room.


    ¡°I¡¯m just telling her she shouldn¡¯t feel bad for someone like that. I mean someone who sympathizes with a killers can do anything, if you ask me they are better off behind bars,¡± as Clarissa laughs at her own comment as Ann furiously stands up.


    ¡°So, I should be arrested? Is that what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    ¡°Calm down it was a joke. And besides, I was just telling the truth. Kane was identified by the woman who was attacked today. And from everything else we saw today, he¡¯ll clearly plead insanity.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you should do your job instead of making sick jokes,¡± Ann says causing Clarissa stand up.


    ¡°What did you say to me?¡± Clarissa says as Ann who looks determined as she stands her ground against an intimidating opponent. ¡°I¡¯m the one who arrested that man and you were supposed to give your ¡®professional opinion¡¯ on him not play his attorney. You¡¯re the one who needs to do their job.¡± Ann stares angrily as she continues in a cocky tone, ¡°Oh, did I hurt your feelings? You¡¯re supposed to be a professional and not involve your feelings, right?¡±


    ¡°I am not involving my feelings!¡± Ann defends. ¡°Its not right to convict someone wrongly.¡±


    ¡°Convict? My job is to arrest, conviction will be decided by a jury,¡± Clarissa says as she prepares to walk away.


    ¡°You¡¯re still judging him though,¡± Ann says as Clarissa turns to stare at her.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Clarissa says in a snarky tone, trying to remind herself to not engage in violence with a civilian. ¡°It is my job to judge such people because if I don¡¯t innocent people will die.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know his story. What if it¡¯s not his fault and¡­.¡± Clarissa cannot control her laughter as Ann looks at her angrily, ready for confrontation.

 Apathy

    ¡°You are dumb, aren¡¯t you?¡± Clarissa says mockingly as she tries to control her laughter. ¡°I don¡¯t care what anyone has been through, a crime is a crime.¡± Before Annalise can muster up any courage to say a word Clarissa continues. ¡°You know I just arrested a couple who was beating their children. The husband grew up in an abusive home and the wife insisted that beating the kids was the only way she would¡¯ve been safe from her husband. I should have just let them go¡­ poor things.¡± Clarissa didn¡¯t have to say another word for Ann to feel attacked.


    ¡°That is not what I meant!¡±


    ¡°Oh, then what did you mean?¡± Clarissa¡¯s tone now becomes aggressively mocking or as many would say, this is the tone you use to piss off a monk.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean you should have let them go,¡± Ann replies as calmly as she can. ¡°But you don¡¯t know Kane like I do. There is something wrong with him and he needs help.¡±


    ¡°You were supposed to be giving him help, weren¡¯t you?¡± Annalise bites her lip in anger unable to find an answer. ¡°But you did help him I guess, you did give him those sleeping pills.¡± Ann looks at her confused. ¡°Did I forget to mention the man was knocked out with sleeping pills¡­ medically prescribed sleeping pills.¡± As a flashback plays before her eyes, Ann is utterly horrified and speechless.


    ¡°¡­,¡± Ann tries to speak but is horrified.


    ¡°I hate people like you, think they know better,¡± Clarissa says in a smug tone. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you this. The man that was killed, was a single father and now his kids have lost both their parents.¡± Annalise feels guilty for a split second but tries to reclaim himself.


    ¡°You¡¯re not being serious right now.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m not,¡± Clarissa gives out a two-syllable laugh. ¡°Must pain you to break away from your ¡®oh-so-perfect everyone is good on the inside¡¯ world. Well, that isn¡¯t reality now is it.¡± Annalise finds it difficult to swallow but she knows Clarissa wasn¡¯t wrong. This was a truth she always dreaded, she always wanted to believe the best in people and never wanted to assume otherwise. Ann suddenly remembers all the times people asked her why she chose her profession and everytime her answer was the same.


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    ¡®To help people¡­¡¯


    Her memories of being bullied left a permanent mark on her, she wanted no one to feel the pain she did. But now she was in a dilemma, what was she supposed to do when someone who was hurting was also the one afflicting pain on others? This was too much for her.


    Ann suddenly leaves, bolting out the door on the verge of tears but Oscar stands at the corner of the room motionless. Clarissa stands with her head held high and after a moment she turns to stare at Oscar.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°That was strange,¡± Clarissa says and before Oscar can open his mouth she explains. ¡°You¡¯re normally so protective of her. What happened?¡± Deciding not to answer Oscar finally bolts out of the room to catch up to Ann. He quietly opens the car door for her as she gets in. They drive silently back to her place, both wanting to say so much but holding back.


    As Oscar drives Ann back to her apartment, Andrew is now lying down talking to Emma who is by his side.


    ¡°Are you feeling better now?¡± Emma asks in a sweet voice.


    ¡°I am,¡± Andrew replies as he sighs looking exhausted.


    ¡°Helping solve a murder case is a lot, I would not recommend you try that again?¡± Emma asks out of pure concern over the man lying pale before her.


    ¡°Tell me something Emma, why do you think Oscar took me to that crime scene?¡± Andrew replies with a tired smile.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Emma asks curiously.


    ¡°I might be dense sometimes, but I know Oscar took me there for a reason. I know Ann and Ben aren¡¯t telling me the entire truth either.¡±


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Emma says sighing. ¡°I know they might seem odd now, but they really mean you no harm.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±


    ¡°I know, but all I¡¯m saying is don¡¯t think too much about it. Just focus on yourself right now,¡± Emma says smiling as she¡¯s happy with Andrew¡¯s progress. She sits there as Ann walks in through the door.


    ¡°Emma? Andrew? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I should ask you that? You look like someone died,¡± Emma replies.


    ¡°Andrew are you ok?¡± Ignoring her best friend Ann runs up to Andrew who is lying down. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Nothing severe,¡± Andrew replies as Ann is overwhelmed with emotion. ¡°Are you ok?¡± Ann nods her head not wanting to worry him further but then she turns to Emma.


    ¡°What triggered this?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Andrew begins to explain. ¡°Oscar took me to a crime scene and¡­¡±


    ¡°HE WHAT!¡±

 Final Straw

    Ann¡¯s fury could not be more obvious, even Nicholas flinched on seeing the fire in her eyes.


    ¡°What did I say?¡± Emma rushes to Ann¡¯s side gesturing her to calm down. Taking a violent breath, she notices her friend next to her only when Emma¡¯s nails dig into her skin.


    ¡°I know,¡± Ann whispers as she leaves the apartment without saying a word, obviously about to go confront Oscar. Emma tries to give a comforting smile to Andrew who nods, knowing she is about to hunt down her best friend. As Emma runs out of the apartment, she quickly catches up to Ann.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Emma asks.


    ¡°To talk to Oscar.¡±


    ¡°Just talk or¡­,¡± Ann¡¯s eyes pierce Emma, as her playful face slowly turns serious. ¡°Look, I don¡¯t think making a scene at his workplace is a good idea.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not at work,¡± Ann says as they reach the parking lot. Oscar is standing by his car. He stands there with the keys in his hand, thinking back on the events of the day. He doesn¡¯t notice his sister stomping and fast approaching.


    ¡°WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?¡± Ann¡¯s words echo in the empty parking lot. Oscar is stunned seeing her this angry as Emma steps forward trying to stop her. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡±


    ¡°Ann, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Oscar asks genuinely concerned.


    ¡°Why? You think he hurt me? Is that it?¡±


    ¡°Ann, I¡¯m sure he didn¡¯t but this is police work. I know your sympathetic because he¡¯s your patient but.¡±


    ¡°You think this is about Kane?¡± Ann asks, sounding disgusted by her brother¡¯s lack of understanding. Oscar stands there a moment as Emma speaks up.


    ¡°It¡¯s about Andrew. He told her you took him to a crime scene.¡±


    ¡°He what?¡± his words echo just as Ann¡¯s did but Ann doesn¡¯t let him continue in his rant.


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    ¡°What is that supposed to mean? Did you scare him into not telling me?¡±


    ¡°Ok, now your just being dramatic. Why would I ever do that?¡± Oscar replies defensively, trying to keep calm while dealing with his hysterical sister.


    ¡°You tell me! Why would you do that? Because you think this guy is Nicholas, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Why do you?¡± Oscar¡¯s patience is at an all-time low right now as Ann looks like she is about to hit him.


    ¡°You really need to let that one go you know. You can¡¯t solve them all. It was a sad case, Ben got over it and so should you,¡± Ann says sternly as Oscar is now mad with rage.


    ¡°Ben got over it?¡± Oscar voice now trembles in rage. ¡°You really think he just got over it? Or is he just tired of being disappointed by you?¡±


    ¡°What is that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°IT MEANS,¡± Oscar pauses and then lowers his voice. ¡°You have not been honest with either of us and everyone knows it. I haven¡¯t given up hope that you will one day come clean but Ben¡­ Do you really think he¡¯s happy with you defending a man who has killed his ex-wife.¡±


    ¡°Ben has made amazing progress and he has moved on¡­¡±


    ¡°Moved on? You think this is about moving on! People were killed Ann; this isn¡¯t something you just let go of. You cannot let go of something like this. I cannot, especially when I know I have a chance to catch a serial killer.¡±


    ¡°Oscar!¡± Ann now has tears in eyes as Emma stands back and watches this exchange, shocked by her friend¡¯s behaviour. ¡°How many times do I have to¡­¡±


    ¡°Ann, do I really look that stupid to you?¡± Oscar says as his turns away. ¡°We aren¡¯t kids anymore Ann. I am not going to pretend things are the way you want them to be. The truth is, even when I gave you evidence, you always made excuses.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because those are assumptions,¡± Ann tries to defend.


    ¡°Really? Then what about today? What if you¡¯re wrong about Kane.¡± This name rings a bell for Emma as Ann is left speechless.


    ¡°Ok, but that¡¯s different. With Nicholas,¡± Ann tries to explain but Oscar is emotionally exhausted.


    ¡°You know what Ann, I care about facts, whether you like it or not. I did what I thought was right. And I did it to protect you.¡±


    ¡°From what? Andrew is innocent and Nicholas¡­,¡± Oscar raises his eyebrows as Emma too notices a change in her voice as she pleaded these words.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that too many times. Same line, different name,¡± Ann is left unable to say anything else. ¡°And just so you know, all this time I was trying to protect you from yourself and your decisions.¡± Having said enough Oscar gets into his car and drives off, leaving Ann shaking and crying. Emma tries to comfort her but Ann doesn¡¯t say a word as she just cries silently.


    Meanwhile, back at the apartment, Andrew is unable to sleep. He slowly gets up, wondering where everyone is but is too tired to leave the apartment to investigate. With a bad headache, he goes to find some medicine. Looking through the desk drawers he finds something he¡¯s sure wasn¡¯t there before. Hidden in plain sight was an envelope, he curiously opens it and his jaw drops on reading the contents.

 The Note

    As his chest grew heavy, he sat down on the bed reading the contents of the note over and over again.


    ¡®We both know what you are after. Meet me at Ryz palace on the next full moon at midnight - Alone.¡¯


    It was an odd note, a short one, but something about it made Andrew feel uneasy. It was not handwritten, but typed on what seemed to be an old paper. The edges were torn off and Andrew had never heard of this place before. He knew someone had put it there but, to whom was it addressed? Who was it from?


    ¡®Could it be for me?¡¯ Andrew thought.


    Meanwhile, in the parking lot, Ann tries her best to get a grip, as she can¡¯t stop crying. Emma leads Ann to sit by the stairs on the first floor and offers her some water, giving her the space and comfort, she needs.


    ¡°He really didn¡¯t,¡± Ann mumbles. Emma hears her words but doesn¡¯t reply. She just waits for Ann to relax, and hopefully not descend into panic.


    ¡°You feeling better now,¡± as the tears stop and Ann can now meet Emma¡¯s eye she nods. ¡°You want to go back upstairs or¡­¡±


    ¡°I think I want to just sit here for a while,¡± Ann says as Emma nods now sitting next to her. They sit silently and all that can be heard is Ann¡¯s sigh.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about Andrew,¡± Emma says casually. ¡°He¡¯s probably up there sleeping; he¡¯ll be fine on his own.¡± Whether it was because she wanted to put Ann¡¯s concerns to ease or if she was trying to change the subject, it didn¡¯t matter. Ann was just happy Emma wasn¡¯t asking the obvious questions. As they sat there, they didn¡¯t know Ben had returned and is now taking the elevator back to the apartment.


    ¡°I¡¯m back,¡± Ben says. Having not heard from Oscar, Ben was curious about what happened. He was hopeful and didn¡¯t expect anyone to be at home. He wanted to greet the empty house, a house where he and Ann can now live away from her past.


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    ¡°Hi Ben,¡± A weak voice said from the bedroom. Ben now lets out a painful sigh as he realises things might have not gone according to plan. Putting on a smile he goes into the room.


    ¡°What happened to you?¡± Ben says noticing Andrew¡¯s condition. ¡°You seem drained.¡±


    ¡°It was quite an eventful day,¡± Andrew¡¯s small smile does not register with Ben as he notices the paper in his hand.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Andrew hands it over to Ben who is as surprised as Andrew is. ¡°What on earth is this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Andrew replies as he takes a heavy breath.


    ¡°Ryz palace? That place got knocked down after a terrible earthquake, nothing there but rubble now,¡± Ben says suspiciously.


    ¡°Did you do this?¡± Andrew jokes.


    ¡®Well, I know who you are and what you want, I just don¡¯t have proof.¡¯ Biting his lip before these words can escape his mouth, he answers.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡®Oscar said he was going to test him with a crime scene, I think he would have given me a heads up if he was planning this¡­,¡¯ Ben thinks.


    ¡°I thought so too,¡± Andrew says and they hear the door open. Ann and Emma walk in, Ann¡¯s face tells her story and Ben almost forgets what he¡¯s doing and rushes to be by her side.


    ¡°What happened?¡± he whispers embracing her. Ann feels relieved and embraces him, holding him in her arms for a few minutes. Emma leaves them to each other and joins Andrew.


    ¡°What you got there?¡± Emma asks and he hands her the note.


    ¡°This is interesting. Where did you get it?¡± Andrew explains everything and Emma quietly listens, thinking. She tells Andrew not to think too much of it and to rest. Listening to his doctor¡¯s orders, Emma leaves him to rest joining Ann and Ben is the living room. Ann is now smiling, looking relaxed.


    ¡°You lovebirds done?¡± Emma says walking up to them and handing Ann the note as Ben¡¯s eyes widen.


    ¡°What do you mean what I am after?¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s for Andrew,¡± Emma replies as Ann now looks concerned.


    ¡°Where did you find this?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°It was in his room,¡± Ben says as Ann looks at him suspiciously. ¡°I didn¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°Calm down,¡± Emma says.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be for Andrew, right?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°Yes, I do think it was for Andrew. Whoever left this clearly wanted him to find it. That¡¯s why it was in a drawer where he keeps his medicines. He¡¯s alone most of the day as we all know, so he definitely would have been the first one to come across it.¡±


    ¡°Probably a prank,¡± Ann says.


    ¡°It¡¯s too strange to be a prank,¡± Ben comments. ¡°Why would anyone pull a prank like this? Telling a man with amnesia they know what he wants and to meet him someplace alone?¡±


    Soon a discussion arises with regard to the note. And despite the various opinions on what to do, if the note was real and who could possibly send it, there was one thing everyone suspects.


    ¡®The one who sent this thinks Andrew is Nicholas.¡¯

 Unpredicted

    ¡°Don¡¯t wait up, got some work,¡± Oscar says as he kisses his wife before turning to leave.


    ¡°Ok,¡± Fiona says embracing him. She knows he¡¯s nervous about something, but she doesn¡¯t ask knowing her tendency to freak out over simple cases. As he smiles and leaves, Fiona sighs hoping everything will work out well.


    Now, Andrew now stands at Ryz palace among the rubble, his feet unsteady as he notices the full moon appear behind the clouds. A cold breeze slowly brushes his cheek as he shivers in anticipation.


    It was after a lot of questions, discussions and even quarrels over the note that everyone¡¯s curiosity got the better of them. Ben knew he needed backup and wanted Oscar to be there. Despite his fight with Ann, Oscar couldn¡¯t refuse Ben¡¯s secret invitation and unknown to Ann her brother was tagging along in the distance. Ben also mentioned the incident to Tom but he decided to let Ben update him on the situation instead of joining them. And despite Emma¡¯s interest, she too had to sit this one out.


    They all wait at the appointed time with Ann and Ben hiding nearby by the trees and Oscar and Aron, Oscar¡¯s assistant for the night, carefully hiding in the scenery around them. Oscar holds his breath, unsure of what he¡¯s expecting. Ben tries to remain calm, but as time passes by he begins looking around impatiently. A lot rests on tonight¡¯s supposed meeting in a certain way, even if it¡¯s not the answers they expect, it will put their minds to rest for a little while.


    Andrew keeps looking at the watch and tries not to look at Ben and Ann¡¯s hiding place. Andrew too grew more tired of waiting and despite wanting to talk to the ones hiding, he holds his tongue. After half an hour, Andrew is now sure it was all some cruel prank. He looks up at the night sky disappointed, as everyone feels the same way. As he is about to turn and walk away, he hears footsteps.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Andrew asks turning around swiftly, his eyes scanning the area. He sees a small person approaching him, wearing an oversized shirt, a cap and a mask carrying a backpack. As the person walked towards him everyone leaned forward trying to examine this mysterious person. ¡°Who are you?¡± his question caused the person to stop just a few feet away from him. The person then looked around, as if to ensure no one would see them.


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    ¡°You came alone?¡± A woman¡¯s voice echoed as everyone looked in surprise.


    ¡°Yes. No one knows about the note,¡± Andrew lies as convincingly as possible. The woman then took off her mask and to everyone¡¯s shock, Fiona reveals her face.


    ¡°Fiona¡­?¡± Oscar¡¯s words escape his mouth softly as the man was baffled to find his wife standing before Andrew. Ben didn¡¯t think Fiona was capable of such a cruel prank and wanted to say something. But Ann tugged on Ben¡¯s shirt before anything could be said or done, causing him to sit there relaxed, as if ready to watch a show.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Andrew asks confused.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to pretend anymore, it¡¯s just us. Let¡¯s talk,¡± Fiona was serious, everyone could tell that much, but no one could see a reason why.


    ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t play the fool, Nicholas. We both know what you¡¯re after.¡± Oscar fears that Fiona is trying to get a confession out of the man and he braces himself ready to step in.


    ¡®What is she doing?¡¯ Ben thinks. He knows his sister cares about him, but pulling a prank like this was the dumbest thing she could have done in his eyes. He also wondered why she wouldn¡¯t tell him about such a plan, but his concerns throw all his questions out the window as he watches on nervously.


    ¡°Nicholas?¡± Andrew took a moment to gather himself. ¡°But Fiona, what does Nicholas have to do with this? I mean, I heard I looked like him but¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired of you pretending alright, when I paid you, I told you to leave and never come back,¡± Fiona says aggressively. ¡°It¡¯s because of you there¡¯s bound to be trouble, I don¡¯t want my brother getting hurt again. He already got hurt once because of you.¡±


    ¡°But what did I do to your brother? I never¡­¡± Andrew is aggressively interrupted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even try to blame me,¡± Fiona says letting out a taunt. ¡°You were the one who killed them ok, I had nothing to do with it.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Andrew¡¯s voice trembles and his face turns pale.


    ¡°Still playing games, are we?¡± Fiona says sounding impatient. ¡°I have no time for this, take the money and leave,¡± she says throwing a bag on the ground.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Stop acting like you don¡¯t know! You said so yourself that you would come to see her, you came here to get Ann back didn¡¯t you? I am telling you right now to leave and never come back!" Fiona shouts.


    ¡°Fiona, I think you misunderstand¡­,¡± Andrew says trying to remain composed.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ll do anything for money,¡± Fiona lashes out. ¡°Do you want another assignment? You want me to find another one of Ben¡¯s ex¡¯s for you to kill?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±

 Talk To Me

    ¡°What?¡± Ben¡¯s words echo through the night as Fiona trembles recognizing his voice. Turning to her right, she sees Ben standing there, staring at her in utter shock.


    ¡°What did you do?¡± she shouts taking two steps aggressively towards Andrew as he steps back.


    ¡°No Fiona! What did you do?¡± Ben shouts firmly approaching her. ¡°Answer me, Fiona! What does this mean?¡± Ben says now standing in front of Fiona. She looks up and sees not only the disappointment and anger in Ben¡¯s eyes but also the hope that maybe this was all a bad dream. Fiona¡¯s guilt overtakes her as she is unable to talk. ¡°Fiona!¡± he demands as she lets out makes a high-pitched shriek as if in danger.


    ¡°Ben, calm down.¡± Fiona now notices Ann rushing to him, hoping her arms with somehow comfort and calm Ben. Fiona looks around for an explanation but can only find panic as she sees her husband, standing afar as she feels her world falling apart as he stares at her silently.


    ¡°I can explain Oscar,¡± Fiona mumbles. ¡°Ben please, it¡¯s not what it sounds like.¡±


    ¡°What does it sound like Fiona?¡± Ben asks.


    ¡°Ben please,¡± Ann although just as shocked by what has just happened, she tries to salvage the situation. ¡°We can all calm down and talk about this.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it right now and all I want to know is the truth.¡± Ben stands before Fiona with Ann holding his arm.


    ¡°I¡­,¡± Fiona says. ¡°They hurt you, Ben; I just did what I thought was right for you.¡± The truth escapes her lips as she closes her eyes tightly.


    ¡°Did you hire Nicholas to kill Scarlet and Gregory?¡± Ben asks as she Fiona bites her lips fearing the truth might slip out. ¡°Yes or no!¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Fiona says breaking down as tears roll down her cheeks. ¡°You were so upset Ben; I couldn¡¯t bear to see you like that. It was all her fault Ben I had to do something.¡± Ben couldn¡¯t believe what he is hearing. He stares at her silently as his mind was now racing with many questions but he doesn¡¯t know if he wanted the answers. ¡°Please look at me Ben,¡± Fiona steps forward and holds his face in her hands hoping to get Ben to look at her. He closes his eyes as he begins to cry as well and all Ann can do is watch. ¡°Ben, if she was around, you never would¡¯ve been happy. You could never move on with her around, something had to be done. Please understand.¡±


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    ¡°So, killing her was the first thing that came to mind?¡± Ben doesn¡¯t open his eyes as he says these words softly, trembling with frustration.


    ¡°Ben please don¡¯t say that. I didn¡¯t do anything; it was all Nicholas I¡­¡± Ben removes himself from Fiona¡¯s grasp and begins to walk away. Ann tries to catch up to him.


    ¡°Not now Ann, please¡­,¡± his voice told her everything she needed to know. He wanted his space to process everything. She now looks at Fiona who looks completely lost, caught in her own web. She wants to run after her brother but she knows it won¡¯t be of any use. As Fiona looks at her sister-in-law standing there silently, she suddenly remembers, her brother was not the only one who needed an explanation. She looks around frantically to see her husband looking at her stunned. She isn¡¯t sure how to interpret his blank stare but the moment he turns and walks away she runs after him.


    ¡°Oscar wait!¡± she runs after him as fast as she can with Aron, following closely behind Oscar. Oscar walks at a faster pace and Aron catches up to him.


    ¡°Sir, should we ¡­¡±


    ¡°Discuss this tomorrow,¡± Oscar says firmly. Noticing Fiona approaching, Oscar walks ahead while Aron turns around and leaves looking satisfied.


    Fiona is out of breath as she runs faster to catch up to Oscar. She calls his name but he doesn¡¯t slow down, until he hears her fall.


    ¡°Ruby?¡±


    ¡°Oscar please listen to me,¡± Fiona says trying to stand up.


    ¡°Are you ok?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine just please listened to me.¡± Oscar doesn¡¯t approach her but Fiona picks herself up and closes the distance between them. ¡°You might be thinking some really horrible things about me right now but if you just listen.¡±


    ¡°It is what it is Ruby,¡± Oscar says seemingly at his wits end. ¡°You just admitted to being behind the murders of two people.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t kill them Oscar I swear. It was Nicholas, he convinced me and¡­.¡±


    ¡°And you listened to him?¡± Oscar asks. ¡°I thought Ann was insane for defending a killer. But now I find myself wanting to defend you.¡±


    ¡°I am not a killer Oscar, please don¡¯t say that,¡± Fiona pleads.


    ¡°No,¡± Oscar says. ¡°Even if you didn¡¯t do it yourself, I can¡¯t image what got into you. How could you think this was, ok?¡±


    ¡°She hurt my brother.¡±


    ¡°And Nicholas hurt Ann, but I wanted him arrested¡­¡± A silence falls between the two and all that is heard is the sound of Fiona sobbing.


    ¡°Why did he kidnap Scarlet?¡± Fiona looks up at Oscar as he is painfully prepared to hear the truth.

 Justification

    ¡°Why did he kidnap Scarlet?¡± Oscar asks again. ¡°You know, don¡¯t you?¡± He hears Fiona taking a deep breath as she begins to speak.


    ¡°It was a while after she left Ben,¡± Fiona says softly, slowly lowering her gaze not wanting to look at her husband. ¡°Ben was not in good shape as you can imagine and though Tom said everything would be alright, that we would get Ben back. I knew he was right and I just needed to be there for him, but then I saw¡­¡±


    ¡°Saw what?¡± Oscar asks curiously.


    ¡°She was so happy. Smiling and laughing without a care in the world.¡± Oscar could see Fiona¡¯s pain. ¡°We ran into each other, we talked normally. I did my best to be polite but she then asked me how Ben was doing. I was furious.¡± At that moment her expression and the way she spoke was like she was reliving a memory and Oscar was standing there witnessing it. ¡°She knew how Ben was doing. She knew what she did and the impact it left on my brother. She just wanted me to admit how upset he was for the sake of her own twisted ego.¡±


    ¡°Ruby.¡±


    ¡°Let me finish!¡± Fiona shouts trying to maintain an ounce of composure. ¡°I tried to tell myself that maybe, just maybe, she wasn¡¯t that bad. But when I lied and told her Ben was doing fine, she said ¡®I didn¡¯t expect that.¡¯¡± Rage filled her voice as she continued. ¡°She just wanted to hurt him; it was so obvious¡­ how could I forgive someone like that.¡±


    ¡°And that was when you found Nicholas?¡± Oscar asks as Fiona takes her time to answer.


    ¡°It was more like he found me,¡± Fiona says as Oscar looks at her startled. ¡°It¡¯s true I did think of killing her but I did not have any plan for it. I was contemplating different ways to ruin her life, but one thing stopped me.¡± Fiona sighs. ¡°I thought that if things went bad, she might run back to Ben.¡±


    ¡°You still didn¡¯t answer my question,¡± Oscar says looking agitated.


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    ¡°Tom and I were out in a bar one day and we were talking about the whole Ben and Scarlet situation. I think he must have overheard us or something, I was waiting for a cab outside when he said ¡®I can help you get rid of your problems.¡¯ I thought he was drunk but, I got curious so I asked him what he meant.¡±


    ¡°So, your curiosity ended up killing Scarlet,¡± Oscar comments. ¡°Let me guess you agreed immediately? Was it your idea to have her kidnapped? Tortured maybe?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Fiona says softly as Oscar¡¯s eyes widen as he is now in shock. ¡°But I couldn¡¯t, I saw her there unconscious and I couldn¡¯t. I am not like him¡­ please Oscar,¡± Fiona begs.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Oscar says in a tired voice. ¡°I cannot take any more of this. It¡¯s too much.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you understand, it was all for Ben. I would do anything for my brother. That woman was torturing him, every moment she lived happily. She did it to hurt him¡­¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Oscar says and then pauses for a moment. Fiona looks at him with a glimmer of hope in her eyes, hoping he now understands. ¡°Every time Ann defended Nicholas I thought about what a horrible man he was and how much he deserved to be punished. Not because he killed someone but because he somehow convinced my sister to defend him. He clearly has a grip on her that even I couldn¡¯t break and I couldn¡¯t stand it. To see her so weak, hurt and I was scared that she might put herself in danger to protect him and I couldn¡¯t allow that. What hurts the most is that now, I realise, that it was because of you, my sister is the way she is.¡±


    ¡°Oscar¡­,¡± Fiona says softly in a heart-wrenching voice.


    ¡°I am her brother and you not only hurt me but her as well. And I will not put her in a place where she has to go through something like this again.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying, Oscar?¡± Fiona says desperately. ¡°You love Ann the way I love Ben. You would do anything for her and you know it. Why is it that¡­¡±


    ¡°What you don¡¯t understand the reason that monster came into her life in the first place was because of you! The reason Ben was suspected of murder because of you! That everything that happened was because of you!¡± Oscar¡¯s voice trembles as his heart breaks with these words. ¡°Leave Fiona¡­.¡±


    ¡°Oscar please, I didn¡¯t mean for this to happen,¡± Fiona says now sobbing. ¡°It went wrong so quickly I didn¡¯t know what to do.¡±


    Oscar looks at her one final time with tears in his eyes as she realised, no matter what excuse she gave, he was right. She has nowhere to run; her back is against the wall as the consequences of everything she did has finally caught up with her. She now realises she has broken the hearts of many, but Fiona is not the only one face to face with a disastrous truth.

 Response

    Ann stands there as Oscar and Ben leave the scene, wanting to chase after them she takes a few steps and then realises someone was waiting for her. She looked and sees Andrew staring at her, his expression both frightened and confused. She takes a deep breath knowing she has come explaining to do but is too concerned about her boyfriend and brother to think straight.


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Ann says. ¡°You should go back to the apartment¡­¡±


    ¡°Ann, what was she talking about?¡± Andrew asks firmly. She looks at him unsure of what he wants to hear. She knows she shouldn¡¯t have lied to him in the first place and despite knowing he might one day find out; she did not see this coming.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Ann lies as she tries to walk away. ¡°Let¡¯s just go back, I need to find Oscar and Ben. They are probably¡­,¡± just then Andrew tugs on her arm and she now stares at him.


    ¡°Forget them!¡± the expression on Andrew¡¯s face screamed rage as she now gets nervous trying to remove herself from his grip. ¡°There is something you are hiding from me isn¡¯t there.¡± Ann does not want to reveal the truth to him like this, a truth she herself has been ignoring. But with Fiona¡¯s confession, she is left without words. ¡°I asked you a question.¡± Andrew tightens his grip on her arm as she now lets out a soft cry of pain.


    ¡°You¡¯re hurting me, Andrew.¡±


    ¡°Just tell me one thing, did you know about Nicholas killing those people?¡± The pain in Ann¡¯s heart hurts much more than her arm as she struggles.


    ¡°Andrew please¡­¡± She closes her eyes tightly as she hopes she can close her ears too.


    ¡°Yes or no. It¡¯s that simple. Just tell me, did you know or not,¡± Andrew pulls her closer and looks her in the eye repeating the question. Ann is unable to get the words out but her silence the look on her face tells him everything he needs to know. He abruptly lets her go as she lets out a sigh.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°I knew it was too good to be true.¡± Ann looks at Andrew who is now on the verge of tears.


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    ¡°Andrew,¡± Ann says beginning to panic. ¡°Let me explain, we did not bring you here to¡­¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t make any sense that a stranger would let me live with them. The doctor told me there was something not right but I didn¡¯t listen. I feel like a fool,¡± he says in disappointment.


    ¡°No Andrew, you don¡¯t understand. We really did want to help you.¡± Ann says pleading desperately as she cannot bare to see Andrew cry.


    ¡°Please I can¡¯t take any more lies. You thought I was Nicholas¡­ that I was some killer,¡± Andrew now buries his face in his palms trying to control the emotional storm in his heart.


    ¡°No,¡± Ann replies softly. ¡°Please Andrew, Nicholas was my ex-boyfriend and I loved him. Yes, he made a few mistakes but.¡±


    ¡°Mistakes?¡± Andrew says now angry. ¡°Did he accidentally kill them or something? Wait, I don¡¯t want you to tell me, you¡¯ll probably just lie about it. I can¡¯t take this anymore,¡± Andrew says. ¡°That¡¯s why your brother was so curious about me, why Ben always acted weird around me. You were trying to frame me?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Ann says trying to convince him to hear her out. ¡°There was no proof, Nicholas was innocent.¡±


    ¡°Innocent? Proof?¡± Andrew asks growing frustrated. ¡°So, then what was this some kind of sick prank? A setup?¡± Ann begins to cry and tries to explain.


    ¡°When we first brought you in the cabin that day, I admit I thought you were Nicholas. But you are so different from him, he had a tattoo and different hair and just¡­,¡± Ann says trying to control herself. ¡°I swear we just wanted to help you, then Oscar got involved and I think Ben might have.¡±


    ¡°They thought I was some serial killer,¡± Andrew says looking devastated.


    ¡°No,¡± Ann says. ¡°They don¡¯t know¡­¡±


    ¡°Know what! I am not a murderer, Ann!¡± Andrews¡¯s voice echoes in the lonely night. ¡°Tell me at least one thing,¡± Andrew steps forward and looks at Ann crying. She momentarily stops and looks up and sees his earnest eyes. ¡°Did you at any point believe I was Nicholas?¡±


    ¡®No,¡¯ Ann¡¯s mind lies but she remains speechless. Seeing how much he wants the truth she couldn¡¯t bring herself to deceive him once more. After a few moments, she nods and he takes a few steps back.


    ¡°Thanks for being honest,¡± Andrew says softly as he begins to walk away. Ann takes a step forward but can¡¯t proceed, she can offer him an explanation to stay, nor can she bring herself to lie to him. She stands there watching him leave and cries bitterly, trying to remind herself to find Ben and Oscar.


    A few moments later someone approached her, with tears in his eyes Ann looks up hoping to see Andrew, but it¡¯s Ben. He stands there looking at her emotionally, as she wipes her tears away, ready to comfort him. He comes closer and gently places his hand on her cheek as she looks up and notices his tears as well. Without a word, the couple embrace and cry.

 Tensity

    It¡¯s been three weeks since the encounter, Fiona¡¯s truth came as a shock to everyone and tension is now the new normal in their lives.


    ¡°Guys it¡¯s Fiona, she would really like to talk to you,¡± Ann says persuasively as she looks at Ben and Oscar who stare aimlessly at the television screen. For a moment they look at Ann with dull eyes and turn away as if she said nothing. Ann goes into the kitchen and says, ¡°Sorry Fiona, I guess they are not ready yet. Just give them some time, I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll come around.¡±


    ¡°Ok,¡± Fiona¡¯s faint voice replies. Ann cannot help but listen in as Fiona tries to stop her tears. This is how it has been ever since that dreadful night; Ben barely talks to his sister anymore. It¡¯s not like he hasn¡¯t spoken to her at all, but their conversations don¡¯t go past him asking if she is ok. He listens to everything she has to say but doesn¡¯t reply, often saying he¡¯s busy when he¡¯s tired of listening to her.


    Ben desperately wants to ignore Fiona, but he knows his sister is not in the best place right now. With her marriage falling apart, he cannot ignore her, but he still tries.


    Oscar on the other hand seems to be holding himself together better than his wife, that is as long as her name is never mentioned. Ann has caught him crying a few times, Ben has noticed it as well, but he never bothered. He doesn¡¯t expect sympathy from Ben and he fully understands why. Oscar tries to put on a brave face for his sister, but she sees through him every single time. Despite the circumstance, this was probably the first time in a long time Oscar truly felt like he could finally understand his sister.


    Ann on the other hand was trying to help things get back to normal as soon as possible. She has been in constant contact with Fiona though, she always begs Ann to help save her marriage. Despite Ann¡¯s attempts, Oscar just keeps avoiding the subject while Ben barely reacts to Fiona¡¯s calls unless he thinks it¡¯s ¡®urgent¡¯.


    She hasn¡¯t contacted Andrew ever since that night either. She heard from Emma that he was in touch with her, seemingly the only person he trusted. He now lives by himself in a small apartment and even has a part-time job now and even planning on pursuing studies.


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    Emma was left in the dark about the details of the night, Ann didn¡¯t tell her and did everything to avoid the subject in the beginning. But she eventually under the pressure, released some of her stress by mentioning her brother¡¯s marriage and Ben¡¯s strained relationship with his sibling. Emma didn¡¯t push the obviously anxious Ann to reveal what she didn¡¯t want to mention, however, Emma¡¯s curiosity still remained.


    Eventually, she heard Andrew came in for a session with Emma. And knowing Emma, Ann even prepared for a confrontation regarding the night¡¯s incidents but unexpectedly that never happened. She was relieved a week after the visit, at the time she was sure Emma would never find out.


    ¡®Andrew didn¡¯t tell her what happened, perhaps that¡¯s the kind of man he truly is¡¯, Ann thought.


    This was the new normal for the family, a painful reality of stubborn hearts and painful decisions. But things weren¡¯t going to be like this forever.


    ¡°You called Emma?¡± Ann says walking into Emma¡¯s office one morning. Emma would normally go to Ann whenever she wanted to talk and so her call was suspicious. As Ann walks in she is stunned as she sees Andrew waiting there, sitting next to Emma.


    ¡°Come in Ann.¡± Emma¡¯s calm demeanour is difficult to read and Ann is emotionally startled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we just want to talk.¡± Ann walks in cautiously, her glance moving from Emma to Andrew.


    ¡°Hello Ann,¡± Andrew says normally as she sits down.


    ¡°How are you, Andrew?¡± Ann asks softly trying to calm herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m good. Got a job, starting to figure life out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Ann smiles as a small smile is seen on Andrew¡¯s face as well.


    ¡°Good. Now that the introductions are out of the way, lets get started.¡± Ann stares at Emma who is radiating in all her professional wisdom. ¡°Andrew, is there something you want to as Ann?¡± Ann stares at Andrew unsure of what will come, what he¡¯ll ask, and more importantly how she will answer. Andrew straightens his back and lets out a sigh and then proceeds with his question.


    ¡°Do you love Ben?¡± Ann¡¯s eyes widen and her mouth is slightly open, in shock with his question. She is speechless for a few moments allowing the question to sink in. She then looks at Emma who nods and she closes her eyes briefly. She looks at Andrew who sits before her awaiting her answer.


    ¡°Yes, I do,¡± Ann replies. ¡°But what does that have to do with anything?¡±


    ¡°For now, Ann, please answer my questions,¡± Andrew replies in a politely stern voice. Ann looks at Emma again who is taking down some notes. She doesn¡¯t know what is the meaning of this scenario but she knows Emma is in control of the situation.


    ¡°What else?¡± Ann says.


    ¡°Do you love Nicholas?¡±

 Misconstruction

    ¡°Do you love Nicholas?¡± Those words echo in her mind time and time again as if she fell down a rabbit hole. That was the only question on her mind right now as the memories come back one at a time. All good memories and the difficult times, it¡¯s like she¡¯s transported back in time into the arms of her ex-boyfriend. She could almost feel his touch, his warm embrace as she melts away. She clings onto her chair tightly as she looks at Andrew, who is waiting for her answer.


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Ann asks defensively. ¡°First do I love Ben, then do I love Nick? Are you testing me or something?¡± Andrew then looks at Emma as she looks at her notepad and nods at Andrew.


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk later,¡± Andrew says smiling as if accomplished something. He gets up and walks out the door and now Ann and Emma are left alone.


    ¡°Em, care to tell me what was that about,¡± Ann¡¯s words are both aggressive and defensive but Emma smiles calmly.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Emma replies. ¡°Don¡¯t be mad at him, I just wanted to test out something.¡± Emma then takes out some chocolates and offers them to Ann. ¡°Don¡¯t say you don¡¯t want them, I got them especially for you.¡± Ann looks at her suspiciously but still takes them. She begins to eat one and then they proceed to talk about casual events, from the weather to work they touch upon everything. Ann truly forgets the emotional rush from about twenty minutes ago, that is until Emma asks.


    ¡°Ann, can you please tell me something about Nicholas.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡±


    ¡°Because you have hidden enough from me and as your best friend I have the right to know,¡± Emma¡¯s playful smile lets Ann drop her guard and for the first time in a long time, she spoke about Nicholas to her hearts content. This time she wasn¡¯t met with annoyed eyes or hopes of a different answer, she was just heard. She spoke about their time together, how he made her feel and how she felt so special with him, that she would choose her over everyone else.


    ¡°He really loved me,¡± Ann says finally at ease saying it out loud. Emma looks at her friend with a faint smile and asks.


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    ¡°And you loved him?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ann says and then pauses realising what she just said. ¡°I mean, I moved on and now I am with Ben¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave Ben out of this,¡± Emma says. ¡°Let¡¯s stay on Nicholas. You must have been hurt when he left.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ann replied. ¡°But he said he would find me someday.¡±


    ¡°And you were hoping he would,¡± Emma says as Ann looks disappointed in herself.


    ¡°I love Ben,¡± Ann says. ¡°I would never leave him and¡­¡±


    ¡°Again, let¡¯s leave Ben out of the picture,¡± Emma says. ¡°I am not questioning your relationship with Ben, but if you were single and he returned, would the two of you get back together.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ann says with a smile so small but bright. She then pauses for a moment and thinks about Ben and everything they had been through as a couple. She remembers his patience and kindness, how he never left her side, despite knowing she was covering up for his ex-wife¡¯s killer. She cannot help but feel like she¡¯s betraying Ben just by admitting she would have gone back to Nicholas if he wasn¡¯t around.


    ¡°Ann,¡± Emma says regaining her attention. ¡°Is there something you would like to share?¡± Ann looks at her best friend with tears in her eyes as Emma lends her a box of tissues. ¡°You know you can tell me right.¡±


    ¡°Ben loves me despite everything,¡± Ann says while crying. ¡°Despite knowing that¡­ I am¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re what?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± the words don¡¯t come of Ann¡¯s mouth but Emma asks another question.


    ¡°Ann, why do you love Nicholas?¡± Ann looks at her friend confused. ¡°I am not asking you to repeat yourself, I am asking you why you feel so close to Nicholas.¡±


    ¡°He is such an amazing guy,¡± Ann replies. ¡°He makes me feel so special.¡±


    ¡°So, you like him because of the way he makes you feel,¡± Emma¡¯s words catch her attention as she looks at her confused. For a moment Ann thinks back to her description of Nicholas and their relationship and notices one shocking detail, she always talks about how he made her feel as opposed to who he was. The times he embraced her and seemed to bend over backward for her were her core memories, unlike the ones she had with Ben. Good or bad, she remembers every moment with Ben lovingly.


    ¡°Emma!¡± Ann tries to defend her realization but is cut off by her best friend.


    ¡°It¡¯s ok Ann, these things happen. Most often people never realize it happening unless it¡¯s too late.¡± Emma places a book on the table and smiles at Ann. ¡°I¡¯m going for lunch,¡± she then proceeds to leave the room as Ann takes a look at the book. She takes a deep breath and despite her emotions screaming at her she decides to pick it up.


    Eventually following a tiring day, Ben now sits alone at a pub holding a drink in his hand. As she stares into space, he turns back feeling a hand on his shoulder.

 Chat

    Ben feels a hand on his shoulder and as he looks up, he is surprised to see his brother-in-law standing next to him in uniform. Despite living together, they haven¡¯t spoken much nor has either of them made an effort to communicate and so this was surprising. Both the men don¡¯t say a word for a few moments and then Oscar speaks.


    ¡°May I?¡± Before Ben can react, Oscar takes the glass from his hand and chugs the drink down in one gulp. ¡°Whiskey?¡± Ben nods as Oscar sets the glass down next to him and sits beside him. ¡°I should not be caught drinking on the job. Promise you won¡¯t tell anyone.¡±


    ¡°Tell them what?¡± Ben asks as Oscar smirks.


    ¡°I think we need to talk,¡± Oscar says as Ben looks at him seriously.


    ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°You can say that,¡± Oscar replies. ¡°I want you to forgive Fiona. Go back to her, talk to her, stay with her awhile. She really needs you right now.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ben says with a slight irritation.


    ¡°I mean she needs you. Things are falling apart right now and,¡± Oscar pauses for a moment and then continues difficultly. ¡°She needs her brother.¡±


    ¡°She needs her husband as well,¡± Ben replies boldly as Oscar looks at him. ¡°She keeps talking about you, all the time. I barely talk to her but I listen¡­ sometimes. And though she apologised to me, she wants to sort things out with you as well. She misses you a lot.¡± Ben¡¯s words are met with silence and as Oscar looked like he was searching for the right words.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t think things will ever work out between us Ben,¡± Oscar says with a heavy heart.


    ¡°So, you don¡¯t love her anymore?¡±


    ¡°I do,¡± Oscar admits painfully. ¡°But love isn¡¯t the only thing that keeps a relationship together.¡±


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    ¡°Then what is it?¡± Ben¡¯s confrontational tone has made it difficult for Oscar to react calmly.


    ¡°Do you remember when I thought you killed Scarlet? I didn¡¯t want you anywhere near Ann because I was afraid. But all the while, I overlooked the one man who could have hurt her the most and look at what¡¯s happened,¡± Oscar frustratingly buries his face in his palm and orders a drink. ¡°I¡¯m not even sure what¡¯s happened to Ann but¡­ there¡¯s something about her that was just different after that day and I have never forgiven myself for that.¡±


    ¡°You mean the way she kept defending a murdered?¡± Oscar looks at Ben as he sighs. ¡°I guess I understand. She never mentioned what happened that day but, every time it was brought up she just¡­ had this look in her, like¡­¡±


    ¡°She was hypnotized or something,¡± Oscar completes. Ben nods and Oscar is given his drink.


    ¡°I still don¡¯t see what that has to do with Fiona.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how this will help Ann. All these years I was hoping that she would come back to her senses but,¡± Oscar chugs his drink in one gulp yet again. ¡°In many ways, I understand why Fiona put herself up to it. But I cannot give Ann another excuse to support that monster.¡±


    ¡°I guess I understand,¡± Ben says after a small pause. ¡°Things are already complicated as it is but¡­¡± Ben¡¯s words are interrupted by the front door opening. Hoping to escape this conversation they turn back to see who has entered. Ben has immediately forgotten what he has to say as a gentle smile causes even Oscar to stare. The men can¡¯t tell if it¡¯s the cold breeze from the rain outside but the man standing at the door, but a shiver ran down their spine. Calm and relaxed the man approached both of them as they kept their faces stone cold and ready for a fight but all they hear is a chuckle.


    ¡°Relax, we are not at war here,¡± Andrew pulls up a chair and sits next to the men as they stare at him suspiciously. ¡°I thought I was the last guy you wanted to see but by the way you¡¯re staring I think I might have been wrong.¡± The two men avert their gaze and briefly glance at try and sit back down as Andrew orders a drink.


    ¡°You seem well,¡± Oscar comments putting on a nonchalant act.


    ¡°Yep,¡± Andrew replies in an upbeat tone. ¡°I think ever since I moved out I had some time to clear my head. Things are going good for me now; I got a job nearby and the doctor says my head is doing fine as well. So overall no complaints.¡±


    ¡°Good to know you¡¯re so happy,¡± Ben says while sneaking a stare at Andrew who doesn¡¯t notice.


    ¡°You don¡¯t seem very happy,¡± Andrew¡¯s words cause the atmosphere to freeze up. ¡°You don¡¯t seem to be doing well either Oscar.¡± Oscar pauses for a moment and then says with all hostility.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean how are things with your wife.¡±


    ¡°Soon-to-be ex-wife.¡±

 Dissemble

    ¡°Soon to be ex-wife,¡± Oscar says as he breathes heaving, controlling his raging emotions. Everyone could tell he fought everything within him to say those words. But he soon turned away as began to lose control as he tear up. He quickly tries changing the topic. ¡°So, where are you working?¡±


    ¡°At that place two blocks down,¡± Andrew replies as Oscar interrupts him.


    ¡°That¡¯s cool. I heard it¡¯s a great place to work,¡± Oscar says now beginning to regain his composure.


    ¡°What place two blocks down?¡± Ben says sounding irritated. ¡°Is there even a place there?¡± Ben looks at the confused Andrew and says, ¡°I¡¯m sure it exists but you know¡­ go on.¡±


    ¡°Like I was saying, it¡¯s this place¡­,¡± Andrew is interrupted once again.


    ¡°What do you mean by ex-wife?¡± Ben says spitefully. ¡°You¡¯re declaring yourself single before even signing the papers?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Oscar says wanting desperately to change the direction of the conversation. ¡°Like I said I just don¡¯t think we would work things out.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re just giving up after one bump in the road? You said and I quote: ¡°I will break every wall, cross any path and do everything in my power to make you happy?¡±¡± Oscar tries rolling his eyes but just can¡¯t get himself to.


    ¡°That¡¯s poetic, you came up with that by yourself?¡± Andrew asks.


    ¡°No, he did,¡± Ben says now looking directly at Oscar who looks like he wants to run away. ¡°You didn¡¯t just come up with that, you kept thinking for weeks about putting your feelings into words and now I find out all that was a lie.¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t!¡± Oscar says finally bursting. Ben¡¯s condescending tone along with the memories he has been trying to supress now rip open his heavy heart. His trembling voice portrays a lot of what he wants to be running from, his anger, his fear.... ¡°I can¡¯t, I can¡¯t¡­¡± Despite wanting to say so much this is all he manages to say. He finds himself having reached the end of the cliff and all he can do is imagine the very thing he¡¯s been running away from right below. Now, all he needed was one push.


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    "You can¡¯t divorce her?" Andrew says with an alarming calm voice. Ben and Oscar now stare at Andrew as he continues. ¡°You love her, but things are just difficult now. You still want to be with her.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Oscars small voice tickles Andrew¡¯s ear.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know exactly what¡¯s happened and but, just try not to run from her.¡± These words slowly touch Oscar like a gentle refreshing breeze. Oscar takes it in with open arms and as he begins to let himself feel everything he avoided. But it was not overwhelming, but just a pinch painful with a whole lot of comfort, yes, he wanted to comfort her. He wanted to tell her everything will be ok and she did what she had to do, even if it wasn¡¯t the truth. He remembers his sister crying in his arms, all he wanted to do was protect her, just like Ben wants to protect Fiona.


    ¡°What kind of advice is that?¡± Ben utters.


    ¡°Just something I picked up,¡± Andrew replies and chuckles. ¡°So, how¡¯s Ann?¡± Andrew feels like he stepped on a landmine with that question as the men stare at him. He tries to ignore it and begins talking about work, the men calming down eventually and commenting every now and then.


    ¡®Run away from her,¡¯ those words chime in Oscar¡¯s head as he knows no matter where he goes or what he does, he can never run away from her. And just then it hit him, maybe¡­just maybe this was how his sister felt.


    That evening Ben is working out harder than ever, alone in the gym. It was very late that night and he told everyone that he would lock up. Not slowing down despite his shortness of breath, he pictures himself face off against everyone who annoys him. He continues as he hears the gym door open slowly, ignoring it he works out even harder making it difficult for his body to keep up with his mind.


    ¡°Ben?¡± His name was spoken gently but it echoed in his mind as he began to slow down and eventually stop. ¡°Ben?¡± the concerned voice asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Ben replies as he hears footsteps approaching him. ¡°Thanks for coming.¡±


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t expect to hear from you. Or think you¡¯d want to meet at the gym, so late.¡±


    ¡°Guess I just wanted to talk alone,¡± Ben replies as he sits down and now turns around. His face red as drops of sweat run down his forehead. His chest contracts and expands as he is trying to control his breathing.


    ¡°You don¡¯t look good.¡±


    ¡°I was just working out,¡± Ben replies. ¡°It¡¯s normal if you come to visit me at the gym. This is usually what I do.¡±


    ¡°I have and this isn¡¯t what you usually do.¡± After a small pause and a sigh, Fiona continues. ¡°Why did you call me here Ben?¡±

 Consequential Chatter

    ¡°Why did you call me here Ben? Is everything ok with you and Ann,¡± Fiona asked sounding concerned as her brother¡¯s expression remained emotionless.


    ¡°Sure, I mean we don¡¯t fight much but that is because we don¡¯t talk much either. Everything is tense and home and just¡­anyways that¡¯s not why I asked you here.¡± Ben taps the mat as Fiona approaches and hesitantly sits down.


    ¡°What is it?¡± As he sits next to Fiona, he notices his sister¡¯s swollen eyes.


    ¡®She was probably crying before coming here,¡¯ Ben thinks. Despite wanting to comfort his sister and hopefully lighten her burdens by giving her a listening ear, Andrew¡¯s words echo in his mind.


    ¡°Did you really think I would get better if Scarlet died?¡± Fiona¡¯s eyes widen and so does her mouth as she was caught off guard by this method of direct questioning. ¡°Don¡¯t freak out or anything, I just want to have an honest conversation.¡± Fiona stares at him unsure of what she is supposed to say.


    ¡°Ben, I just didn¡¯t like seeing you like that,¡± Fiona says as Ben shakes his head.


    ¡°I know,¡± Ben says looking at his nervous sister. ¡°You tell me, did you think I¡¯d get better if she died? And please be honest, I know it¡¯s a tough conversation but it¡¯s one we need to have.¡± Fiona feels like the wrong step will land her in sinking sand, feeling cornered she thinks of what to say. ¡°No thinking, no lies,¡± Ben says in a commanding voice. A few moments of silence follow as Fiona¡¯s guilt gets to her; she lets out a sigh ready to talk.


    ¡°I¡­ honestly don¡¯t know what I was thinking,¡± Fiona admits averting her gaze. ¡°I just didn¡¯t want to see you in pain anymore. When she left and you called me, I¡­ didn¡¯t know what I could have done to make you feel better. At first, I thought after some time you would just get over it and move on but that didn¡¯t happen.¡±


    ¡°The drinking bothered you, didn¡¯t it?¡±


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    ¡°It wasn¡¯t just the drinking but what you were becoming. Nothing mattered to you anymore, the only thing you did was wallow in your sorrow and pain and nothing we did seemed to help you.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ben asks sounding startled.


    ¡°Come on Ben, Tom and I tried everything, and every time you were in denial, you always blamed yourself, and no matter what we tried, it always ended with you crying over her. Nothing we did seemed to help you at all. You were suffering and I couldn¡¯t bare it,¡± Fiona sounds emotional as she continues. ¡°I just thought if she disappeared you might get a chance to move on, I didn¡¯t think you would be suspected or¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not important,¡± Ben interrupts. ¡°But why did you think of killing her? I know I was difficult at that time but did you think I was that hopeless? Why kill her? There might have been other things you thought about, right?¡± Ben looks curiously hoping for her to say yes to this question but there was only silence.


    Fiona did think about so many things with that question, but she brushes off those thoughts just as quickly as they were suggested. She not only wanted her brother to be happy but she wanted revenge as well. She loved her brother a lot, so much that she hated the ones who hurt him. She knows what she did was wrong, that¡¯s why she wanted to cover it up so badly.


    ¡°Ok,¡± Ben sighs seemingly disappointed.


    ¡°No Ben, I did think of other ways to help you but¡­,¡± Fiona tries making up one excuse after another, hoping her brother would believe in at least one. Ben just nods and Fiona is unable to read his expression. She apologises desperately hoping Ben would react in some way, but he didn¡¯t, he just listened.


    ¡°Wow¡­,¡± Ben says after Fiona finishes. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you felt that way.¡± Ben takes a few moments trying to find the words. ¡°Fiona, what you did was wrong, I think even you know that. Even if I was never suspected or anything, it was still wrong. There¡¯s no excuse for that.¡± Fiona nods as she begins to cry. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can just look past this just yet but, I¡­¡± Fiona hugs her brother before he can say another word and she just cries. She tries to say something but she cannot stop herself as she breaks down. This was all she wanted at this moment, a reconciliation with her brother¡­ and eventually her husband.


    One evening a few days later, Ann is out by herself sitting at a bar lost in thought as her mind jumps around going to different places. She noticed the change in both Ben and Oscar¡¯s behaviour the past few days and even Fiona sounded better as well.


    ¡®I think Fiona and Ben were talking. That¡¯s nice at least,¡¯ Ann thinks smiling while letting out a sigh.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡±

 Willingness

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡± Ann turns around and is surprised to see a familiar face. ¡°Is this seat taken?¡± Clarissa sits down as Ann is left speechless. She sits there silently paying attention to Clarissa¡¯s every move.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ann asks on guard.


    ¡°Well, I am secretly following a guy and I¡¯m going to arrest him,¡± Clarissa says pointing to an old man. ¡°You want to help me take him down, just tackle and I¡¯ll cuff him.¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Ann asks stunned while Clarissa laughs.


    ¡°You are so easy to fool,¡± Clarissa laughs as Ann sits tight trying to ignore her. ¡°Come on now, you didn¡¯t think I came here to bully you or something.¡±


    ¡°Look I have a lot on my mind right now so can you please¡­¡±


    ¡°So does Oscar,¡± Ann looks surprised at Clarissa¡¯s words.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ann asks as Clarissa ordered a drink and looked at her. Her face though looking stern has a relaxing feature to it. She takes a sip of her drink and then answers.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s been going on with him but I know you do. So, I just came to say tell your brother to shake it off, we have work to do,¡± Clarissa says as Ann continues to stare at her. ¡°You want one?¡±


    ¡°No thanks,¡± Ann replies holing up a glass of soda.


    ¡°I know that,¡± Clarissa says rolling her eyes. ¡°You really need to stop stressing out. I came here to relax and then I saw you. So I thought two birds, one stone.¡± Ann decides to ignore her wanting a break from all the drama. ¡°You want to ask me for advise? I don¡¯t know if I want to do that.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your advise,¡± Ann replies annoyed.


    ¡°Clearly. That¡¯s why you¡¯re here alone just staring into space,¡± Clarissa¡¯s words leave Ann troubled. ¡°Look, I am not great with words or advise but if you want someone to listen, I guess¡­I¡­¡±


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    ¡°You were right,¡± Ann interrupts Clarissa. Ann orders another drink for herself quickly finishing the one in her hand. She seems hesitant and determined, rehearsing her words before she says it out loud ¡°It¡¯s a crime is a crime and there is no excuse, no matter how much we try and explain it.¡± Ann then looks Clarissa in the eye and continues, ¡°I¡¯m here alone because I am trying to make peace with that.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to make peace about, just accept it and move on,¡± Clarissa replies dully.


    ¡°How do you do that?¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°You seriously expect me to give you some sort of three-step program or something? Though I understand that¡¯s part of your job,¡± Clarissa says sarcastically as Ann rolls her eyes. ¡°Can¡¯t you take a joke?¡±


    ¡°Never mind,¡± Ann replies as she ignores Clarissa once again.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just keep feeding into your feelings and then wonder what to do. You know what to do. Now it¡¯s a question, do you want to do what¡¯s right or what you feel.¡± This was true, Ann knew that and at times she even repeated this statement. Just as Ann is letting these words sink in the women hear someone call out. They look behind and they see Fiona. Ann notices Fiona seems to be looking a lot better and so she gets up and hugs her.


    ¡°How are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m ok¡­doing better,¡± Fiona says giving a soft smile. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°If you say ¡®hanging out with a friend¡¯ I am going to barf,¡± Clarissa says as she stands up. ¡°Duty calls.¡± With those words, Clarissa walks away and Fiona looks at Ann.


    ¡°Forget her,¡± Ann says as they sit down. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Just wanted some fresh air, I spoke to Ben¡­ it wasn¡¯t one-sided this time.¡± Ann brightens up upon hearing the good news.


    ¡°What did he say?¡±


    ¡°Nothing much but¡­¡± Fiona says and then pauses. ¡°It¡¯s a start. He was really trying to hear me out and¡­¡±


    ¡°Give him some time. This is difficult for him too you know.¡±


    ¡°Actually, Ann I am glad I ran into you,¡± Fiona says as Ann looks at her. ¡°I have never given you a proper apology and I am so sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry for what?¡±


    ¡°Everything,¡± Fiona replies. ¡°It¡¯s stupid for me to think I have no fault in this but¡­ if it wasn¡¯t for me not only will Scarlet still be here but, you wouldn¡¯t have loved Nicholas.¡±


    ¡°What is that supposed to mean?¡± Ann says defensively. She then takes a deep breath trying to control herself as Fiona speaks.


    ¡°Ann, you wouldn¡¯t have met him if it wasn¡¯t for me. And as much as I have my own problems, I can tell you are in turmoil as well. This was emotional for all of us and all because of one decision I made.¡± The guilt in Fiona¡¯s voice causes Ann to sigh irritably.


    ¡°Fiona, let¡¯s just let it go and move past it,¡± Ann says firmly. ¡°We all have made mistakes and have done stupid things.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Fiona asks noticing a certain change in Ann¡¯s behaviour.

 Off the Record

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Fiona asks noticing a certain change of behaviour in Ann. Ann sits there gripping her drink wanting to avoid everyone and everything.


    ¡°You know,¡± Fiona says. ¡°I read a really interesting book lately.¡±


    ¡°You read?¡± Ann asks.


    ¡°No.¡± Fiona giggles but Ann doesn¡¯t seem amused. ¡°But I did see the movie. It wasn¡¯t great but one thing that was said that stuck with me was¡­¡±


    ¡°Fiona,¡± Ann says in a soft yet assertive voice. ¡°Everything will work out.¡± Fiona stares at Ann who seems oddly composed.


    ¡°I know this isn¡¯t what you want to talk about but¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already talked about it,¡± Ann says recalling the conversation she had with Emma. Her best friend proved that she was the one person who understood her like no other. Ann didn¡¯t give into her friend theory at first, why would she, she has been defending herself long enough.


    ¡°I am not attacking you,¡± Emma says giggling.


    ¡°Would you be serious here,¡± Ann replies with teary eyes.


    ¡°I know what I should take seriously, Ann,¡± Emma replies giving a smirk. ¡°But even you need to be reminded that not everything in life deserves the same level of importance.¡±


    ¡°What would you know,¡± Ann says trying her best to maintain her composure.


    ¡°You are doing so well,¡± Emma says softly. ¡°We can continue this conversation another time if you¡¯d like¡­¡±


    That was one thing Ann hated the most, the first step to getting help admitting you have a problem. Ann felt like a child forced to take her medicine; Emma knew what she was doing so well to the point Ann was jealous. Emma was exceptional when she managed to bring Ann¡¯s years of denial to a halt, all to Ann¡¯s dismay of course.


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    ¡°Let¡¯s order,¡± Fiona says abruptly causing Ann to return to reality.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Ann says. ¡°What do you like?¡±


    ¡°What do I like? Are you about to take my order?¡± Fiona says trying to lighten the mood. Ann forces a laugh and the women take a seat at a nearby table and order a few snacks. They continue talking avoiding certain topics, as Ann¡¯s mind visits various scenarios both past and future, and without any hesitation, she asks.


    ¡°Did Ben say anything about Oscar?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Fiona asks anxiously. She has been begging for a chance to talk to Oscar, so much so that Ann¡¯s question seems more like a snide comment.


    ¡°I mean, did Ben say anything about trying to get the two of you to talk?¡±


    ¡°No. Did he tell you something?¡± Fiona asks hopefully as Ann realises what she revealed.


    ¡°No,¡± Ann lies. Despite her disappointment, the women quickly direct the conversation to non-serious topics as they enjoy the evening.


    Meanwhile, Andrew walks alone seemingly enjoying the night time breeze without a care in the world.


    ¡°Andrew.¡± He turns around and smiles.


    ¡°What are you doing here doc?¡±


    ¡°I was just going out,¡± Emma says smiling as she walking up to him. ¡°You just enjoying a walk right now.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Proud of what you did?¡± Emma¡¯s words catch Andrew off guard as he lets out a nervous giggle. ¡°Come on, you didn¡¯t ask me how it went. I know you¡¯re curious.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure Ann will be ok,¡± Andrew says sounding optimistic.


    ¡°You know that despite what I told you?¡±


    ¡°I know doc,¡± Andrew says. ¡°But I think all Ann needed was someone to talk to and who better to do that than her best friend? And besides, by the way you just asked me, I think I know how it went,¡± Andrew answers with a delighted smirk.


    ¡°This was very unusual for me,¡± Emma says. ¡°My patient telling me to work on someone else while he needs all the help he can get.¡±


    ¡°But you helped me a lot already,¡± Andrew responds.


    ¡°I had to,¡± Emma replies remembering how accident-prone he was when he was moving into his new place.


    ¡°I¡¯m just glad she heard you out,¡± Andrew responds with a certain calmness in his voice. Emma was happy as well, despite knowing something was off she couldn¡¯t do this on her own. And so, when Andrew suggested this, it was the perfect opportunity.


    ¡°Why did you decide to do this all of a sudden?¡± Emma asks peering into his face and hoping for a reaction.


    ¡°I just¡­,¡± Andrew seems to be looking for the right words as Emma watches him silently. ¡°They helped me a lot...¡±


    ¡°So, you just decided to be the bigger man,¡± Emma says. ¡°I have to say despite everything that¡¯s happened I didn¡¯t expect you to be this rational. I wish I could help you get your memories back but know this, you¡¯re a great guy.¡±


    ¡°Yep, the great guy who got hit on the head and now has no idea who he is,¡± Andrew laughs in response as the two of them walk around.


    ¡°I better get going,¡± Emma says noticing the time.


    ¡°Meeting a friend?¡± Andrew asks curiously.


    ¡°An old friend.¡±

 Comrade

    It was a while back that Clarissa was surprised to find an old friend wanting to see her. Despite being in the same city they were both always too busy to catch up, that¡¯s just how their friendship was. Not bothering with formal greetings Emma and Clarissa were happy to hang out, and soon, Emma revealed the real reason for her visit. The women switch to professional mode as Emma spoke briefly and showed her some bloody currency. The story of an injured man demanding medicine aggressively didn¡¯t seem too out of the normal to Clarissa but she accepted the notes Emma gave her. Despite realising this may be of no use to them, Clarissa was intrigued and decided to send the bloody notes to the lab for testing. She did not think of it since.


    Then a few days ago, she sees Emma yet again, this time the visit did not involve anything serious. Deciding she needed a break from such an unhealthy and hectic schedule, Clarissa gladly accepted Emma¡¯s offer to buy her coffee. What followed was a lot of small talk and some light hearted jokes but something had then hit her. Upon her return, Clarissa got the result of the notes Emma gave her from the lab.


    ¡°This is really something,¡± Clarissa says as her eyes scan the papers in front of her. She then throws them on the desk as she hears a knock on her door.


    ¡°Hello there.¡±


    ¡°Emma,¡± Clarissa says relaxing her stern expression. ¡°Thanks for meeting me here.¡±


    ¡°No problem,¡± Emma replies. ¡°Is it officer or should we just go by names?¡±


    ¡°You tell me, doctor. I do want your professional opinion after all.¡± The women laugh and Emma sits down next to a messy desk, she scans it taking in as much as she can and fighting every urge to go through everything.


    ¡°So, I shall get to the point, this is about what you told me. That man at the hospital,¡± Clarissa¡¯s tone was now stern, sitting straight and making eye contact, she showed Emma what to expect from someone in her position. ¡°Why did you think it was important to report him, informally.¡±


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    ¡°When it happened, I did think it was important to report him. He was a patient and I was aware of his history and was obviously worried. I knew it would be difficult to do something if I just went to the station to make a complaint so I spoke to you.¡±


    ¡°Any other reason,¡± Clarissa asked.


    ¡°If I am being honest, I found something different about him. I gave you the currency he threw at the register because I was hoping you would confirm something.¡±


    ¡°And what is that?¡±


    ¡°I think you know,¡± Emma smirked as her eyes visited the file that was thrown on the table for a split second.


    ¡°What if you¡¯re wrong?¡± Clarissa replies.


    ¡°What else do you want to ask me?¡± Emma doesn¡¯t hesitate to guide the conversation. Right now, the two women both wanted to discuss the same thing, but rushing into it wasn¡¯t the way to go. And so, they continued playing this word game, dancing around the point while occasionally visiting it.


    Back at the apartment, Oscar is sitting alone watching a movie. He doesn¡¯t pay attention as he stares into space, trying not to entertain a single thought. He watches as the actors on screen demonstrate their emotions through tears and outbursts as me mechanically stares at the screen. Soon he hears the door open behind him and he speaks.


    ¡°Can you make some tea for me? I¡¯m thirsty.¡±


    ¡°You want me to make you tea?¡± Ben asks as he approaches Oscar who does not turn back to look at him.


    ¡°I thought it was Ann.¡± Oscar replies as if glued to his seat.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind making some tea for you¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s ok,¡± Oscar immediately replies as he recalls the time Ben did make tea for them. It wasn¡¯t that Ben was a bad cook, Oscar has just always been hesitant with Ben¡¯s tea-making skills after that one accidental disaster.


    ¡°What are you watching?¡± Ben asks as he comes closer to him.


    ¡°Not sure,¡± Oscar replies. ¡°Join me?¡± This was normal for the both of them, an easy escape from awkward conversation, they just let some random movies fill the silence between them.


    ¡°No,¡± Ben says turning off the movie. ¡°We need to talk!¡± Ben says in a serious tone as Oscar looks at him surprised. This was the first time he had seen Ben like this since the incident and he was in no mood to go along with it.


    ¡°What now?¡± Oscar replies irritably. ¡°And let¡¯s not repeat ourselves.¡±


    ¡°You are going to meet Fiona and talk to her,¡± Ben spoke sternly as Oscar ignores him. About a minute later he repeats himself as Oscar sighs, finally deciding to answer.

 Square Up

    ¡°You are going to meet Fiona and talk to her.¡± Ben repeats yet again.


    ¡°No,¡± Oscar replies biting his tongue stopping himself from saying more.


    ¡°You are going to see her,¡± Ben pauses giving weight to each word watching Oscar¡¯s expressionless face grow irritated.


    ¡°No. And don¡¯t talk to me that way, I made by decision and I am not changing my mind.¡± Oscar gets up and tries to talk away but Ben stops him. ¡°Move¡­¡± Oscar gentle voice radiated his rage as Ben seemed unmoved.


    ¡°Not this time pal.¡±


    ¡°Ben there is nothing left to say. I said everything I needed to the last time we spoke,¡± Oscar stares at Ben as he continues. ¡°We have nothing more to say to each other.¡±


    ¡°Did you really hear her out?¡± Ben stops Oscar this time with his words. ¡°You said you told her everything, but did she tell you what she wanted to say.¡± Oscar wanting to desperately avoid this conversation tries to move away but Ben doesn¡¯t give in easily.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± Oscar asks.


    ¡°Someone has to Oscar,¡± Ben replies. ¡°This was difficult for me as well but we can¡¯t play the silent game forever.¡±


    ¡°Silent what?¡±


    ¡°Do you really plan on living the rest of your life without talking to your wife?¡± Ben¡¯s words sting Oscar. ¡°There must be something you want to say?¡±


    ¡°Nothing!¡± Oscar says in an authoritative tone.


    ¡°Then why aren¡¯t you filing for divorce?¡± Oscar¡¯s eyes widen as Ben stands his ground. ¡°If you want to end it just end it, don¡¯t lead her on like this.¡± After a few minutes of silence, he continues. ¡°Just be honest with yourself and try talking it out.¡±


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    ¡°We aren¡¯t¡­,¡± Oscar is unable to continue talking and Ben interrupts him.


    ¡°You will talk to her or at least give her a decent goodbye,¡± Ben says as he holds Oscar¡¯s arm as he tries to move away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it,¡± Oscar says. Neither of them needed to speak another word as their eyes said it all, they both were stubborn and didn¡¯t want to say or hear anything else. The men stood in silence for a moment and then the fighting begins. As Oscar tries to get free from Ben¡¯s grip, the men find themselves pulling and pushing each other across the room. Soon, Oscar gets irritated and hits Ben causing him to let go. But before Oscar can talk away, his face meets with Ben¡¯s fist. Oscar holds his ground as the two men fight, knocking down things as they wrestle, landing punches on each other every now and then.


    ¡°YOU WILL SPEAK TO HER¡± BEN SHOUTS.


    ¡°OVER YOUR DEAD BODY¡±


    ¡°IF YOU HATED HER SO MUCH YOU SHOULDN¡¯T HAVE MARRIED.¡±


    ¡°I DON¡¯T HATE HER I LOVE ¡­¡± as the words proceed out of Oscar¡¯s mouth, he lowers his fist and Ben loosens his grip as the two men slowly separate. They breathe heavily, as they begin to relax sitting next to each other. Despite not making eye contact, Ben knew he got his point across. Oscar just stared at the floor as his heart began pounding, unwillingly recollecting all the good times he spent with Fiona. Ben soon raises his head at Oscar who seems both relieved and frustrated having finally owned up to how he feels. The time he has ignored Fiona has been brutal for him, and though he stands by his decision, it didn¡¯t make it any easier for him.


    ¡°I guess we¡¯re finally talking,¡± Ben says but Oscar doesn¡¯t reply. Ben goes to the kitchen and takes out an ice pack. He returns and hands it to Oscar, who hesitantly takes it and the men sit down next to each other quietly. Oscar sits there contemplating everything but at the same time feels a huge burden off his chest.


    ¡°I guess I should¡­ call her¡­,¡± Oscar admits.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to push it,¡± Ben admits as he now notices the results of their fight, realising they both have more than a few bruises. Ben sighs and continues, ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a goodbye, I think you need to let her down easy.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I want that,¡± Oscar says. ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why I¡¯ve been avoiding her.¡±


    ¡°In a way, I have as well,¡± Ben replies. ¡°I wanted to propose to Ann but, ever since Andrew¡­ I was worried she wasn¡¯t over him.¡± Oscar nods as he feels embarrassed forgetting that Ben was about to propose to Ann. ¡°I was so busy focusing on Andrew that I forgot what¡¯s most important to me.¡± Oscar looks at Ben who is now speaking with conviction. Just then Oscar¡¯s phone rings and he looks at it.


    ¡°Work.¡± Ben nods deciding to continue their heart-to-heart after the phone call. But as Oscar picks up, a grim expression takes over his face as he turns to Ben.

 Bombshell

    ¡°What do you mean Ann has been kidnapped?¡± Oscar shouts over the phone as Clarissa doesn¡¯t bother with many details over the phone. Promptly giving them the location, Ben and Oscar rush to the scene as Clarissa takes care of Fiona.


    Clarissa had driven back to the bar because she forgot her wallet, but what she saw was an injured Fiona lying barely conscious on the ground. After she was given immediate medical attention, as she insisted, she tell them what happened before being taken to a hospital. She was stubborn and didn¡¯t give them a chance as it was only after that she was finally driven away to a hospital.


    ¡°He isn¡¯t allowed here,¡± Clarissa says noticing Ben following a frantic Oscar.


    ¡°Let it go for now Clarissa,¡± Oscar demands. ¡°Just tell me completely what happened.¡±


    ¡°Well, the two of them were just enjoying their time having a few drinks, and when they left someone in a ski mask had jumped out of a vehicle grabbed Ann and put something over her mouth. Fiona tried to fend them off but he just pushed her aside and she hit her head. Ann could barely scream as they took her away and drove off. Fiona was able to remember most of the car number so that will help. She¡¯s now at a hospital.¡± Oscar is now extremely concerned but Ben gives him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯ll check on Fiona, you look for Ann.¡±


    ¡°But¡­,¡± Oscar looks at Ben who is standing strong despite the bruises. Oscar nods and the two men now get to work. Ben rushes to the hospital and finds that Fiona is all right. As her wounds are being bandaged up, she looks up at her brother concerned and as he approaches, she speaks.


    ¡°Did you find Ann?¡±


    ¡°Not yet, Oscar is on it. How are you feeling?¡± Ben says concerned; his mind is occupied with many things.


    ¡°It looks worse than it is, I am fine,¡± Fiona says sounding concerned. ¡°I told them everything I saw¡­ if only I was faster.¡±


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    ¡°You did the best you could,¡± Ben says reassuringly.


    ¡°Who do you think is responsible for this?¡± before Fiona can continue, the two of them look at each other, both having the same name in mind.


    ¡°You said one person grabbed her, so that means someone else was driving right,¡± Ben says trying to think logically.


    ¡°Anyone can be an accomplice,¡± Fiona comments.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave that to Oscar for now,¡± Ben says. ¡°Right now, rest. I am sure Ann will be found soon, she¡¯ll be safe and sound.¡± Ben¡¯s reassuring smile puts Fiona at ease. But deep down, Ben is in pain, unable to find answers and now sitting helplessly in a hospital while the love of his life is in danger. He knows he cannot leave Fiona alone at a time like this, but a part of him wants to rush out and conduct a manhunt all on his own.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go talk to the doctor,¡± Ben says as he leaves Fiona to rest. As he leaves the room, his suppressed concern finally reaches his face and he lets out a helpless sigh. The doctor informs him that Fiona is fine and that she can be taken home soon. This shines a ray of hope for Ben as he can now look for Ann. As he goes to buy a few medicines he runs into someone he never expected.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Ben asks in a tone that is both shocked and frustrated.


    ¡°Ben?¡± Andrew replies with a smile that soon leaves his face. ¡°Is everything all right? Why are you¡­?¡± Ben doesn¡¯t want to say anything, knowing the evidence is right in front of him but his emotions take over.


    ¡°If you¡¯re here, then where is Ann?¡± Ben looks at the medicine in Andrew¡¯s hand. ¡°Are those for her?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Andrew says now sounding concerned. ¡°Did something happen to Ann?¡± Ben though irritable at the discovery, begins to narrate what had happened and Andrew looks alarmed.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Andrew says as he looks at Ben. ¡°Are you sure about this? Maybe there has been some mistake?¡±


    ¡°My sister is in this hospital right now and you¡¯re telling me she¡¯s lying?¡± Ben¡¯s defensive words cause him to literally bite his tongue and Andrew stays silent. Despite Andrew having quite a few comebacks to that statement that was not the most important thing at the moment.


    ¡°She needs to be found fast,¡± Andrew says promptly and seriously. ¡°In which direction did they take her?¡± Ben replies to this question but cannot help but add a snarky comment.


    ¡°Tell me, if you would have kidnapped her where would you take her?¡± he cannot help but notice serious contemplation on Andrew¡¯s face, as Ben ignores Andrew to buy the medicine. ¡°You are seriously thinking?¡±


    ¡°I think I might have an idea,¡± Andrew replies. ¡°I have regained a few memories, not all of them but¡­ I think I know where she might be.¡± Ben grabs Andrew¡¯s collar and is now fuming but before he can say a word Andrew confronts him. ¡°You want her back safe and sound, right? Then you have to trust me!¡±

 Restraint

    Ann slowly opens her eyes as her head feels heavy, she tries to move and realizes she is restrained. She allows herself to lie back down and closes her eyes tight, trying to comprehend what has happened. Opening her eyes slowly, her vision slowly gets steady as she looks around. She finds herself in a plain white room, a lot of plastic laid out on the floor and she is strapped to a chair that is leaning back. She takes a few deep breaths attempting to calm down and think about her surroundings. A window that is taped shut, freshly painted walls and nothing unique that could give her any clues; she begins to wonder what day it is. She tries to move and she soon hears someone at the door. Though panicked, Ann decides to pretend to be passed out.


    ¡°This is stupid boss, why are you doing this to her?¡± She hears the footsteps of two men walking in.


    ¡°I told you some things are personal.¡±


    ¡®That voice! It¡¯s familiar.¡¯ Ann thinks.


    ¡°What about me?¡± the other man says. ¡°You promised.¡±


    ¡°Just trust me. Some of these things take time and you will be all right soon. Heck, she could be the one too, you have the same blood type.¡±


    ¡°I know. I just hope this works.¡±


    ¡°It will.¡± Despite the one saying having a calm and assuring voice there was something about it that just made the listener uncomfortable. Despite this feeling, she was left with a lot of questions and she begins finding it difficult to control her fear. Her mind rushes in different directions, all considering different scenarios, but she tries to focus on their conversation hoping for answers.


    ¡°Should I wake her up?¡± Ann feels the man touching her arm and she cannot stop herself from trembling.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to. Look who¡¯s awake!¡± Ann doesn¡¯t open her eyes but someone twists her hand causing her to react. Looking up she now sees Kane but next to him, the man whose hand is touching her arm is none other than Dr. Kai.


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    ¡°Kai?¡± Ann says, her voice trembling and her eyes wide open in complete and utter shock.


    ¡°Surprise,¡± Kai says. ¡°You missed me, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ann says while still staring at Kai. ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± she asks now turning to the other man, noticing his pale face. ¡°What is happening Kane? Just talk to me.¡±


    ¡°Not Kane,¡± Kai says with a calm smile followed by a giggle. ¡°Allow me to introduce to you, Python.¡± Ann looks at the man, who looks sick but his emotionless smile sends chills down her spine.


    ¡°You¡¯re his psychologist, aren¡¯t you? We met a few times but we didn¡¯t get a proper chance to talk¡± Ann is frozen in fear and is unable to answer him properly.


    ¡°Ok, I¡¯ll be nice,¡± Kai says. ¡°Allow me to introduce myself, I am Kai and this is Python, my dear brother. Thank you for taking care of my other brother Kane, he was such a delicate soul. It¡¯s very unfortunate that he gets blamed for everything we do.¡±


    ¡°What¡­¡± Ann says trying to take in all the information that was in that sentence. A strange day and a strange situation, she realises that her patient¡¯s story was true, every bit of it. A man who was declared crazy for telling the truth. She did have a few questions as well, many questions, but before begins to grasp reality as Python violently grabs her hair and she lets out a scream.


    ¡°That¡¯s the matter? Don¡¯t want to talk now?¡±


    ¡°Let her go.¡± The man immediately does so but his eyes stay on her as she tenses up.


    ¡°What do you have against me?¡± Ann says with her voice trembling. ¡°What did I ever do to you?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that unusual,¡± Kai says sarcastically. He then comes close to her and whispers in her ear. ¡°You protected the man we were after.¡± His breath lightly brushes her ear and she trembles as she looks at him, expecting more details. ¡°That man you took in, the one you found unconscious in that cabin that day, he was supposed to be mine. He somehow managed to escape, I would have had the final laugh too if you and your boyfriend wouldn¡¯t have interfered.¡±


    ¡°All of this was because of Andrew,¡± Ann says with nervousness and then she notices the anger in his voice.


    ¡°Yes, that man¡­Andrew or Nick or whatever he decides to call himself,¡± Kai seems in control of his tone as Ann hopes he does not let out his fury. ¡°Just tell me why you want to help him. Are you one of those types that just want to fix everyone and everything? I always hated your kind, a disgusting reason to become a doctor.¡± Ann is unable to say a word as he rolls his eyes. ¡°Forget it, the past is just a waste of time. But now, let¡¯s see what you can do for me.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ann says. ¡°This doesn¡¯t make any sense, why are you after him? What did he do? And what do you mean what I can do for you?¡±


    ¡°So many questions,¡± Kai says as Python grabs her hair again and she screams.

 Plummet

    Python grabs her hair as Ann screams. ¡°Have anything else to say?¡± Python¡¯s words hiss at her as Ann feels a shooting pain as he violently lets her go.


    ¡°Why...,¡± the words quietly escape Ann¡¯s lips as she shudders in fear expecting another blow. She shuts her eyes tightly and hears a deadly giggle followed by a cough. She slowly opens her eyes and notices Python now coughing and Kai patting in on the back.


    ¡°As you can see, my dear brother is suffering,¡± Kai says.


    ¡°It¡¯s ok, it happens when I get excited.¡± Python¡¯s words though soft were like poison pangs to Ann as she looks away.


    ¡°Are you afraid?¡± Kai asks. Ann lets out a sigh but doesn¡¯t look at the pair.


    ¡°HE ASKED YOU A QUESTION!¡± Ann screams but Kai puts his hand on her head gently stroking her hair. After a few moments, she looks up at him and sees a certain kindness in his eyes as she begins to calm down.


    ¡°Please stop all of this,¡± Ann pleads. ¡°Let me go. We can get him treated; he won¡¯t suffer like his, we can get him the best doctors and¡­¡±


    ¡°You wench!¡± Python shouts and raises his hand but then coughs. ¡°You think any doctor would care?¡±


    ¡°We¡­ can¡­ help¡­¡± Ann can barely say these words as she feels Python¡¯s angry gaze wrapping around her throat.


    ¡°The only one that can help is my brother and we were about to succeed if it wasn¡¯t for that rat!¡± Ann closes her eyes again as Kai removes his hand.


    ¡°My brother is sick and we need an organ donor, that idiot Andrew or whoever, he got to the guy before we did. And well let¡¯s just say he was too brutalized to be used. Now my brother has to find a perfect match with someone else.¡± Despite being in pain Ann opens her eyes and understands one thing, Andrew is Nicholas or maybe there is someone else with the same violent habits. Ann allows herself to explore the alternate option, hoping she could be wrong, not because she didn¡¯t want Andrew to be Nicholas, but because she hated to admit he did not change his ways.


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    ¡°What?¡± Kai says. ¡°We¡¯ll get to him, but first we need you to stop interfering.¡± Ann looks at Kai confused again and he explains. ¡°You are convinced of my brother¡¯s innocence before, I can tell you are the interfering type aren¡¯t you.¡± She now notices a sinister gaze in Kai¡¯s eyes and is terrified.


    ¡°¡­¡± her mouth opens but the words don¡¯t come out. She has so many things to say but the way Kai is looking at her right now has robbed her of her voice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Kai says taking a knife out of his pocket. ¡°This will be over soon.¡± Ann¡¯s mind now is at a standstill knowing what is to come. She knows her mind cannot begin to comprehend the sinister man¡¯s mind, but she knows one thing he will not make it easy for her. She tries to cling onto a thread of hope that someone will find her. If they will find her? She turns her head as she looks away but Kai holds her and forces her to look at him.


    ¡°Please¡­,¡± Ann says now begging.


    ¡°It¡¯s always more memorable this way,¡± he says as he slowly digs the knife into her cheek. Ann is too terrified to scream but just as the knife goes deeper into her skin, it abruptly stops. The fire alarm has gone off and the brothers look at each other.


    ¡°Well, I guess if the fire is enough to take care of you,¡± Kai says. ¡°Lucky day huh?¡±


    ¡°Wait, you¡¯re not going to leave me here?¡± Ann asks as Python stuff a rug into Ann¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Well, I had every intention of making your last moments the most painful, however, the fire will do that job for me just as well.¡± Python gives Ann a disturbing smile as the two men walk out of the room and she hears them lock the door.


    The sirens continue and Ann begins to panic. She tries to get out of her restraints but she is unable to scream. Ann fears as her mind runs through various scenarios, worried this is her final moments. She closes her eyes accepting her fate, remembering all her good memories with her brother, her friends¡­ with Ben. She begins to cry, dreaming of a future she fears she can¡¯t have, a family, a life with the man she loves and maybe¡­ a final meeting with Nicholas? Her mind remembers the good times they had together but she is also reminded of everything else. She begins to sink into despair and just then.


    ¡°Ann?¡±

 Break Out

    Ann hears a calming voice uttering her name, above the sirens and the chaos, this voice was clear. She thought this was her mind playing tricks on her at the last moment, as she remembers the calmness a certain someone always felt.


    ¡°Ann.¡± She heard it again and this time she felt someone pulling on her restrains, she immediately opens her eyes and finds Andrew before her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry I¡¯ll get you out,¡± he says removing the rug from her mouth allowing her to talk.


    ¡°Andrew¡­,¡± Ann says and for a moment she notices something different, his mannerisms, the way he spoke to her, touched her. ¡°Nicholas?¡± Still thinking this is a dream she just sits there staring at the man, who is hurrying to set her free.


    ¡°What have they done to you?¡± he says gently placing his hand on Ann¡¯s wound as she turns her head from the sting. It was at this moment that she was sure, Andrew was here, she actually had someone who had come to save her.


    ¡°Andrew,¡± Ann says in disbelief. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Here you save you!¡± he says knowing there is nothing he can do about the cut on her face. He signs and looks around noticing nothing that can help the situation. ¡°Let¡¯s just go¡­¡±


    ¡°Andrew wait!¡± Ann says now finally free and holding his arm. ¡°Before anything else, I just wanted to apologize. I didn¡¯t tell you everything because I didn¡¯t know what to say. I did want to see my ex and when you showed up, I thought that maybe¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sorry Ann, you were right.¡± These words echo louder than the chaos around them. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he says noticing Ann¡¯s shocked expression.


    ¡°Nicholas?¡± the words were soft and gentle but audible enough for Nicholas to stand still for a moment and look at her with guilt, he nods his head once and then says.


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    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here before¡­¡± Ann doesn¡¯t waste a second jumping into his arms. Both fearful and relieved, she embraces Nicholas and he wraps his arms around her. It was almost as if their breathing was synchronized, as they just spend a few moments in each other¡¯s embrace. Ann feels the same comfort she has always felt in his arms and lets her emotions take control. She cries and then smiles, happy that she gets to see him again. He looks at her with loving eyes that soon turn serious as he reminds her of the dangerous predicament, they are now in.


    ¡°I¡­I¡­,¡± Ann has so many things to tell him, but she doesn¡¯t know where to start.


    ¡°We can talk later ok.¡± Despite what he says her mind goes in another direction. Should she start by telling him how happy she is to see him again, or how she is happy he¡¯s there for her right now¡­ or maybe how angry she is to find out he killed someone else not too long ago?


    ¡°Ann, we need to get out of the building before they return,¡± Nicholas says with a caring but stern voice.


    ¡°Just tell me one thing.¡± Before Ann can say anything else, Nicholas speaks.


    ¡°I am so sorry about everything Ann,¡± Nicholas says sounding guilty. ¡°You are in danger because of me and what I did.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true?¡± Ann¡¯s words burst out of her lips with a tremble in her voice as Nicholas realizes what she means.


    ¡°I am not sure what he told you but, it probably is,¡± Nicholas says sighing.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Ann!¡± Nicholas slightly raises his voice but takes a deep breath and calms down. ¡°I know you have questions and all of that but now really isn¡¯t the time for this. First, let us get you safe, then you can yell at me or whatever¡­¡±


    ¡°Just tell me one¡­¡±


    ¡°I know I promised I would see you again but I never planned to. After we parted ways, I tried my best for you, but everything always led me down that same path. That¡¯s all I can say for now, I¡¯ll explain everything else later. Now come on!¡± Ann looks completely devastated and disappointed and Nicholas pretends to not notice Ann¡¯s feelings. He quickly tugs her arm and gets her out of the room as she looks out to see smoke. She now realizes the reason for his desperation and regrets allowing her emotions to take control of her.


    ¡°Nick¡­,¡± Ann says clinging onto Nicholas.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know a way out,¡± Nicholas leads Ann as she holds his hand. Oddly enough, he does not try and use the fire escape but the stairs. Ann is nervous about where he¡¯s leading her but she trusts him, they go down but then they abruptly stop.


    ¡°What did I tell you Py, these people are too smart for their own good.¡±

 Cut Off

    A booming voice grabs their attention. Python looks at them angrily as Kai gives a devious smile. As Ann begins to panic, she is surprised to find Nicholas throwing back a smile just as devious. Blocking the path is Kai and Python who seems to be struggling trying to keep his composure. Ann coughs a few times with Nicholas stepping in front of her shielding her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s make this easier,¡± Kai says without wasting a moment. ¡°You come with us and we¡¯ll let the lady go. Deal?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Nicholas answers in an arrogant tone. Ann looks at Nicholas surprised but he continues, ¡°Here¡¯s a counter, you come with us and get what you deserve.¡±


    ¡°I will give you¡­,¡± Python stops like an obedient slave as Kai raises his hand.


    ¡°Or, we¡¯ll just take the girl and show her exactly how cruel life can be.¡± His words send shivers down Ann¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Drop dead,¡± Nicholas says under his breath as Kai begins laughing.


    ¡°You were right,¡± Python says smiling. Ann doesn¡¯t notice the serious expression on Nicholas¡¯s face as he stares at them, like a predator ready to pounce. However, his sense of responsibility holds him back like a leash, deciding not to act on impulse he simply lets out a growl.


    ¡°Py¡­¡±As Python is about to take a step forwards, Nicholas throws something at them and it sprays out a green gas. What follows is a huge commotion of insults, coughs and even screams as everyone scrambles trying to keep their focus. Nicholas doesn¡¯t waste time getting Ann out of there, as they both cough and run out of breath, Nicholas throws Ann over his shoulder and runs to the rooftop. As he sets her down, Ann who is still coughing, gets angry.


    ¡°What is¡­. wrong with you?... How¡­ can we¡­Escape¡­¡± as Ann is about to raise her voice Nicholas covers her mouth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t shout they can still find us,¡± Nicholas says allowing her to catch her breath as he steps away from her. They stand there silently enjoying the fresh air and after a few moments Nicholas continues. ¡°I had Oscar smoke out the building. That was just to lure them out. You don¡¯t have to worry, it¡¯s all under control. The plan will work out perfectly and those two are definitely going to get caught.¡±


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    ¡°Why?¡± Ann says softly. ¡°Why did you do it though?¡±


    ¡°So I should have just let them kill you?¡± Nicholas asks sarcastically turning to Ann. His black hair slowly moving in the wind as his eyes now turn gentle. He has so much to say but doesn¡¯t know where to start or if Ann even wants to talk to him anymore. If Kai did tell her the truth, he feared she probably never wanted to see him again.


    ¡°Do you¡­,¡± Ann says trying to find the words. ¡°When you were at the cabin, did you really forget or was it all just an act?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Nicholas answers in one word. ¡°I really didn¡¯t recognize you or Ben or anyone else at first. I didn¡¯t know what it was but I just knew I could trust you that I would be safe with you.¡±


    ¡°Safe?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Nicholas says sighing. ¡°When I didn¡¯t remember, I just kept having these weird gut feelings. When I saw Kai that day, something in me was screaming that I shouldn¡¯t trust him.¡± Ann gives a very small smile as she is happy to know he feels like he can trust her. After another pause, she continues to question him.


    ¡°But why the name Andrew?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my real name,¡± Nicholas replies as Ann looks at him surprised. ¡°You didn¡¯t think I would have given you my real name, did you?¡± Ann looks disappointed though his statement makes sense. There are another important thing Ann wants to ask but is nervous about the answer.


    ¡°When did you¡­¡±


    ¡°Remember?¡± Nicholas smirks. ¡°After I moved out, it was strange but memories slowly started coming back bit by bit. I didn¡¯t tell Emma though, but eventually I had enough information to know what¡¯s what.¡±


    ¡°So it just came back all on its own?¡± Ann asks curiously.


    ¡°Maybe,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°There were a few things here and there that helped. Difficult to point it out, but the way I felt after I left was a huge part of it.¡± They both stand there silently with Nicholas seeming to contemplate something. Ann isn¡¯t sure what else to ask though she has many questions. ¡°I ran into Kai a few days ago, pretended I didn¡¯t remember, I had a feeling he was onto me but I didn¡¯t think he would hurt you,¡± Nicholas says and then pauses for a moment. ¡°Then again, that man is just blood thirsty and will say anything to keep that big lug around. I regret that it was your cabin I passed out at that day Ann, all I have done is be a nuisance to you and Ben.¡±


    Just as Nicholas finished these words Ann rushes up to him and raises her hand.

 Reflection

    As Nicholas¡¯s words dance in Ann¡¯s ear, she begins to get angry. Tired of everyone blaming him for everything bad that is going on in her life, she was furious to hear he agreed with them. She rushes to him filled with rage and she raises her hand but she is stopped as he grabs her palm. In a moment she is filled with a raw sense of confrontation as he stares at her.


    ¡°Why are you angry Ann? Is the truth that painful?¡± Nicholas asks. Ann sees the conviction in his eyes and is left speechless. ¡°This is the truth Ann, I made enemies and he was after me, he almost killed me but you saved me and now he is after you¡­ because of me.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Ann says trying to break out of Nicholas¡¯s grip. ¡°I made the choice to bring you in that day. To take you home¡­ It¡¯s my fault things are like this. If I had just¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous,¡± Nicholas replies. ¡°Ann seriously asks yourself, if you didn¡¯t meet me, would you be in this situation?¡± The deepness in his voice engulfs her as she begins to sink, desperately trying to reach for air.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true,¡± Ann defends. ¡°You saved me¡­ You protected me and¡­¡± Nicholas puts his hand on her cheek and she pulls back from the stinging pain. She then recalls the fear she felt, the hopelessness, the despair. She holds her cheek knowing what he true, as she silently backs away from him emotionally.


    ¡°I might have not hurt you directly Ann, but I am the one that cause you a lot of pain. From the moment we met, I knew what I was doing, despite my regret I feel right now, it doesn¡¯t change what I did.¡±


    ¡°Nick¡­¡± Ann says as she recalls the memories of them together.


    ¡°You were living a happy life with Ben and then I interfered. Aren¡¯t you at least mad at me for that?¡± Nicholas asks earnestly.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t your fault,¡± Ann replies. ¡°You said that you didn¡¯t remember. And what were we supposed to do? Ignore you? I¡¯m just glad that you are ok¡­¡±


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    ¡°I wish your big heart could understand what I did.¡±


    ¡°I do understand,¡± Ann replies.


    ¡°Ann, I know why you think I am the victim in this situation, but I deserve everything that¡¯s coming to me,¡± Nicholas looks away for a moment and then continues. ¡°You were caught in the crossfire of everything I did, I cannot stress enough that I am a bad guy¡­ that I¡­¡±


    ¡°I know you killed those people; I know, you have done a lot of wrong but...¡± Ann voice becomes deep with pain, her finally admitting the truth out loud leaving Nicholas shocked and silenced. ¡°But you did save me back there, and I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on but you teamed up with Ben and Oscar to save me, didn¡¯t you? You could have just run away, left me here and not get involved but you didn¡¯t. Even back there, you tried to set things right, I just didn¡¯t care¡­¡± Noticing a change in Ann, Nicholas with give a melancholic smile as he admits.


    ¡°I should have never told you I¡¯d see you again, that was selfish of me. I knew if I came back, we would be together again. I couldn¡¯t reject you, but I couldn¡¯t hold you back either.¡± Nicholas says as his eyes tear up.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ann asks in a soft voice as a cold breeze blows across the roof.


    ¡°You moved on Ann, you met someone you care about and someone who loves you. You moved on without me and I couldn¡¯t be happier for you,¡± Nicholas says while giving a painful smile. ¡°I know you missed me, looking back on it, I know you were hoping it was me. But what hurt the most, was how I came between you two.¡±


    ¡°Nick¡­ that would never¡­¡±


    ¡°When was the last time you and Ben spend some quality time together? You know, other than the times he was trying to prove a point,¡± Nicholas remarks and Ann thinks back realizing the impact that Nicholas has made in their lives. ¡°He loves you so much¡­ And I can tell you love him,¡± Nicholas¡¯s heart breaks with these words. He lets out a sigh and Ann steps closer to him.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t,¡± Nicholas objects and takes a step back.


    ¡°I ruined everything. Ben he¡­ he was going to ask you to marry him.¡± Ann looks shocked by these words. ¡°You would be happily planning a wedding right now if it weren¡¯t for me. I hurt you in so many ways just being here, just staying by your side. Please, Ann, I tricked you. I made you depend on me, reply on me and not in a good way.¡± Nicholas expects another slap from Ann, but all she does is embrace him. He turns to look at her, her eyes are filled with tears as she holds his face in her hand. Her eyes are compassionate as he looks at her. Before he can say another word, Ann mouths the words.


    ¡®I know.¡¯

 Strategy

    Earlier at the hospital, Andrew had told Ben he might know where Ann is and that was all Ben needed to hear. He was desperate, his sister was injured and the growing fear of what could happen to his girlfriend was enough for him to hear Andrew out.


    ¡°The night I collapsed at your cabin; I was kidnapped by a mad doctor. I think you can fill in the details of what he was planning to do to me, anyways I escaped but it wasn¡¯t without getting injured. When I woke up, I had no memory of what had happened the previous night, or anything else for that fact. That¡¯s was until Dr. Kai followed me here.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ben says listening impatiently, questioning the story he is being told.


    ¡°Yes, over the past couple of weeks, I began to remember. I didn¡¯t want to believe it either but, when I saw him here, I knew it wasn¡¯t a dream. Anyways I pretended that I didn¡¯t remember anything and I thought he was planning something on me but ¡­¡±


    ¡°So now he¡¯s after Ann?¡±


    ¡°I think I know where they took her.¡±


    Despite Ben¡¯s doubts, he convinced Oscar to cooperate. Having nothing else to go on, this was their best chance to save Ann. As per their plan, they decided to let Andrew rescue Ann, while they created a diversion and pull the fire alarm. It worked for the most part, they noticed Kai taking the fire exit coming out of the building.


    ¡°He was right,¡± Oscar said as Ben nods in agreement. The two men were both surprised and relieved to know Andrew was telling the truth however they still had doubts until.


    ¡°Where did he go?¡± Ben notices that Kai is no longer to be seen.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Oscar declares.


    ¡°What if this is a trap,¡± Ben says as he and Oscar discuss the different scenarios and possibilities of what is awaiting them inside the building.


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    ¡°That¡¯s the signal!¡± Clarissa shouts. Andrew had taken a green smoke bomb with him, he said if he was ever found out, he will use it to signal them, and he did. Oscar was now ready for action and was determined to find his sister. Soon they found Kai and his brother who was on the ground coughing.


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± Kai says in a concerned voice. ¡°You don¡¯t understand he will kill Ann,¡± he says coughing.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Oscar says sounding concerned as Ben also joins them in the arrest. ¡°Andrew¡­ that man, he wants to kill her!¡± Kai says sounding concerned causing both Ben and Oscar to pause momentarily.


    ¡°What are you trying to say?¡± Ben mutters now growing worried.


    ¡°Ben, you know me, right?¡± Kai pleads. ¡°You have to find her before he does anything! He¡¯s a monster, he set this whole thing up!¡± Ben contemplates what to do, but he thinks back to this entire scenario and realises, everything that Andrew said has happened¡­ even this.


    ¡®Is he telling the truth?¡¯ both Ben and Oscar think as they look at each other.


    ¡°Please! He has taken her to the roof, there¡¯s no saying what he¡¯s doing to her there,¡± Kai says desperately noticing he is no longer being questioned. As he is ready to deliver a few more lines, he is abruptly stopped after he hears someone coughing.


    ¡°Interesting,¡± Clarissa says stepping forward, with arrogance and disdain at the tip of her tongue. ¡°That¡¯s not what your brother said.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not my brother,¡± Kai says hoping to hide the truth as Python looks on confused. ¡°This man is sick and he needed my help. That¡¯s why he came to visit me. He wanted to help so badly that¡­¡±


    ¡°That he threw a couple of blood-stained bills on a counter in exchange for medicine?¡± Clarissa looks at Python knowing easy prey when she sees it. ¡°Did you forget that you left your DNA sample there that day? An old friend of mine brought it for testing finding that wound on your arm strange. Now tell me, was that from helping out your brother or murdering someone for fun?¡±


    ¡°My brother would never¡­¡± Python says and then coughs.


    ¡°I have no¡­¡± Before Kai can say anything, he is cut off by the stubborn Clarissa who briefly looks at him to share a deadly stare.


    ¡°This will be much easier if you just own up now,¡± Clarissa says smirking. ¡°You don¡¯t want your precious doctor to get hurt now do you?¡± The fear in Python¡¯s eyes told it all. With a nod from Clarissa, Oscar grabbed Kai and started beating him.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Python shouts panicking at what he¡¯s witnessing.


    ¡°This is ridiculous, I have rights,¡± Kai protests but Oscar is blinded by rage as he lands a few more blows.


    ¡°I did it!¡± Python admits. And before Kai can intervene Ben covers his mouth with his hand and soon the words just begin pouring out of the desperate Python¡¯s mouth.

 Last Step

    ¡°I did it!¡± Python admits in a desperate tone. ¡°I need a liver transplant and Kai was trying to get it for me,¡± he admits as Kai begins to panic thinking of anything and everything that could stop him. ¡°He tried everything but¡­,¡± Python continues. ¡°We had no choice. This was the only way¡­ we had to look for a donor for me! That¡¯s why we came up with this plan¡­ I swear we never meant to hurt anyone, Kai just¡­,¡± Kai quickly bites Ben¡¯s hand causing him to let go.


    ¡°What is wrong with you! Just get away from here!¡± Kai shouts and Python breaks away from the people restraining him and like a robot, he follows his brother¡¯s orders and runs away with policemen in pursuit.


    ¡°Oscar! Ben!¡± Clarissa says as the two men rush after Python, while the other officers restrain Kai.


    ¡°He is crazy,¡± Kai says as he stares at Clarissa. ¡°He¡¯s dangerous, he left me here and¡­¡±


    ¡°You expect me to believe that he was lying?¡± Clarissa interrupts.


    ¡°You believe that rubbish?¡± Kai responds in a concerned tone. ¡°You will soon understand what I mean and what he¡¯s capable of.¡±


    ¡®SHOT¡¯


    For a moment Kai smiles and then reverts back to his compassionate persona.


    Meanwhile, Nicholas embraces Ann, they stay there silently in each other¡¯s arms silently both wanting to say so much but not finding the words. Everything was out in the open, everything was bright and clear, even the fact that when Nicholas leaves this time, he will never be coming back.


    Just then, they hear someone frantically screaming and running upstairs. Nicholas takes a few steps ahead curious about what¡¯s happening, but he is surprised to see Python now bursting through the door, having almost lost his sanity. He rushes towards them looking as if he had gone insane and he fires two bullets. Nicholas immediately jumps in front of Ann and is now on the ground. As the gunshots are fired, a group of police offers rush in and tackle Python to the ground before he can shoot Ann. Pinned down, they ask him where he got the weapon from, as he stares at Ann angrily who only notices Nicholas now covered in a pool of blood. Ann who is horrified with what she¡¯s just witnessed, rushes to Nicholas¡¯s side.


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    As Andrew and Oscar hear the gunshot, they rush even faster praying Ann is all right. As they get there, they are horrified to see Ann is now covered in blood, while holding Andrew. They come to assist her only to discover she is perfectly fine and the blood is from none other than Andrew. The men feel guilty realizing their doubts and concerns were not only baseless but completely wrong. The police officers tend to him as much as they can, trying to keep him alive, but that proved too much of a task, as he breathed his last breath right in front of them. Ann breaks down from what happened and though the time of death wasn¡¯t told to her, she knew what happened.


    As Andrew¡¯s body is taken to the hospital, Ann couldn¡¯t hold back her tears and is now mourning for him. Ben and Oscar both comfort her as they drive to the hospital, as Ann too needs to get medical attention and she doesn¡¯t object. At the hospital, with emotions at an all-time high Oscar finally comes face to face with Fiona, who was resting in one of the other rooms, unaware of what happened.


    Standing at the door he takes a step forward making himself visible to her and she immediately sits up and stares at him. They silently look at each other, as Fiona asks about Ann. Following a brief update with Oscar trying to control his emotions, they soon embrace and cry finding comfort in one another, while leaving the difficult conversations for another day.


    Ben smiles on seeing this and he immediately returns to Ann who is still crying uncontrollably. She is being comforted by Emma who embraces her as she sheds a few tears as well. Ben stands in the hallway for a while, just watching Ann cry, Emma soon gestures for him to come in. He comes close to her and wipes her tears, despite being happy to see him, knowing she¡¯s alive, the pain of seeing Nicholas die takes her over. As she continues to cry Ben embraces her, comforting her and allowing her the opportunity to unleash every emotion she wants to express. There was a lot going through his head that evening, and many questions about Andrew, who he had strongly suspected was Nicholas. But all that didn¡¯t matter now, because what he saw had convinced him of one thing.


    ¡®I don¡¯t care who that man was anymore, all I know is he saved Ann¡¯s life. And it¡¯s because of him I have her with me and that I am grateful for.¡¯

 Series Finale - Transfigured Love

    ¡°Just promise me¡­¡± the words echo as Ann sits up breathing heavily.


    ¡°Everything ok?¡± Ben asks immediately sitting up next to her. He holds her gently as she calms down, slowly taking deep breaths and allowing herself to get lost in Ben¡¯s comfort. She leans on him without saying a word and after a while, they both go back to sleep.


    This was something that happened every now and then, what happened to Ann that was traumatic, but she had Ben with her every step of the way. The night terrors have slowly reduced since then, but it happens¡­ and Ben is just as comforting every time. It¡¯s been a crazy couple of months for Ann, she¡¯s gotten back to her normal life for the most part, she still has a lot of healing to do but she¡¯s working on it.


    Clarissa on the other hand, never got tired of bragging about the look of horror on Kai¡¯s face when the officers brought Python down to the police car. It was just as Clarissa had expected, if Python would die in a police chase, Kai could say whatever he wants, but now his options are limited. The proof of everything that has happened was Python himself, but getting there was a tough road.


    It took some convincing and a lot of effort even from Emma who finally managed to convince Python to testify against his brother. Emma says the clincher was when he started getting better without taking the medication his brother prescribed.


    Of course, the truth behind what Kai and Python had done shocked everyone. What even Clarissa thought was a straightforward manipulation and murder cause ended up being so much more. Kai had been using his brother Kane as a fall guy the entire time to commit not only one string of murders across the country but many more crimes as well. He even gained the confidence of his patience and overdosed them and in some cases, he would convince Python to kidnap people so he can torture them. Kai had even begun to poison Python and convinced him he needed a liver transplant. And what would happen to the so-called donors that were a perfect match with Python, the autopsy reports spoke for themselves.


    At the trial Kai couldn¡¯t take it anymore and didn¡¯t like the idea of spending the rest of his days in jail, so he took his own life. Python on the other hand was handed over to be treated, the obvious mental scars that remain will take a lot of time to heal.


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    Meanwhile, Oscar and Fiona are now working on their relationship. The two of them are slowly growing back together, doing everything they both can. Fiona says she wishes everything would go back to the way it was, but Oscar says otherwise. To him knowing the truth had put together so many things, it especially helped him understand his sister. In certain ways, despite the pain, it did help them both. Ben believes Oscar¡¯s feelings towards their situation changed after what happened that night. Then again it affected all of them, everyone took away something from that experience, the memory of Nicholas affected all of them and they tried to make the best of it.


    Few weeks later


    ¡°Ben, why are you that face?¡± Ann asks, her eyebrows raised.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I am so tired of asking you the same thing. Just give me an answer,¡± Ann says as Ben kisses her cheek.


    ¡°If you mean handsome?¡± With a wink and an unusual amount of confidence, Ben spends the evening delightfully flirting with the woman he loves. Ann was showered with gifts that night and though she had her questions, she treasured every second of it.


    After dinner they went for a long walk, talking about everything and anything that came to mind. It was perfect until Ben suggested they go home. A part of her was disappointed, she was expecting a proposal, but she was ready to wait. She knew Ben would have something planned and it was only right for her to give him his space. He had always been so accommodating to her and she was more than happy to be there for him.


    As they walk in, Ann is ready to relax but is met with a beautiful sight, tons of fairy lights, flower petals and balloons, all coming together to a sign that was written the most beautifully.


    ¡®Will you marry me?¡¯


    ¡°Yes¡­,¡± Ann said in a soft voice. ¡°Yes! Yes!¡± With each yes Ann¡¯s voice kept getting hire and hire. Ben smiled at her reaction and kissed her.


    ¡°Come on Ann, let me ask you properly.¡± He got down on one knee a ring, it was a magical moment, but Ann was too excited to pay attention to the words. As she jumped into his arms once again, he put the ring on her finger and they kissed again. Ann embraced him, trying to put into words how happy she was.


    As the night went on, Ann found herself looking out the window, as Ben slept comfortably. She pondered about Nicholas; it was a scary sight she witnessed that night he died. He tried to tell her something but with all the chaos, she barely heard him. Despite this, a part of Ann knew what he said, she knew and with a smile recalling their last conversation, she felt all loose ends tie up. With a sigh, she smiled and went back to bed and hugged Ben.