DISCLAIMER: If I owned the show, we would have the Pretender on TV for the next 5 years (or more). But I don’t, so please don’t sue me for using the characters.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: I had a hankering for mush so I decided to write this story. It takes place before the last season finale. This is for all you shippers out there. No real plot, just romance, and mush, and “aw shucks” kind of stuff. I’ll leave some shipper warning space for you non-shippers.



“Truce”
by Rachel



Miss Parker parked her car across the apartment building. She hesitated getting out into the frigid air. She checked the address again that she ‘accidentally’ found in Lyle’s desk. With the address was a newspaper clipping with a picture of a man circled in the background. The circled face looked a lot like Jarod, but it was too blurry to be sure. This whole thing probably has nothing to do with Jarod, but if it has to with Lyle, it’s worth exposing. Her enthusiasm in catching Jarod has waned. It’s three days before Christmas and she’s following a lead to a no-name town in the middle of nowhere in the dead of winter. And to make things worse, she was alone. Lonely might be a better word. Her father took her little brother to Europe for the holidays, Broots and Debbie are with his family, Sydney went to visit Michelle and Nicolas, and Lyle is probably having Chinese food somewhere. If she didn’t find Jarod, she didn’t care. Might as well spend Christmas with total strangers. ‘It’s not a bad little town,’ she remembered when she passed through. Christmas decorations lined the streets and the store front windows were flashing with Season’s Greetings. People scurried about buying last minute gifts, greeting each other like they’ve all been friends forever. She quit feeling sorry for herself and daydreamed of getting lost in this wonderful atmosphere--being apart yet a part of the crowd, shaking hands and meeting caring people who would accept her and welcome her. She shook herself out of it and stepped out of the car. She wrapped her coat tighter around her to subdue the cold air that assaulted her and walked toward the building.

As Miss Parker neared the door, a man walking by tipped his hat and opened the door for her. Another time she would have glared at him for assuming she was a lady who couldn’t open her own door. But today, she smiled at him warmly and uttered a sincere thank you. She climbed the small set of stairs and looked for the apartment number, still unsure why she was doing this or why she would trust anything that has to do with Lyle. Maybe she just needed to get away from the Centre.

Already knowing she wouldn’t find Jarod, she picked the lock and entered. She looked around and shook her head. The place was empty--not a scrap or trace of Jarod or anyone who lived there. She turned to leave and stopped abruptly when she heard ‘click, click’ coming from the kitchen. Before she could react, an explosion sent her down to the floor. The smoke and flames tried to engulf the place like an angry dragon. She crawled toward the door and tried to open it but the knob wouldn’t turn. She slid down to the ground, her world spinning out of control. She banged on the door and tried to yell, “help me,” but it just came out a muffled whimper.

The firefighters arrived in minutes to the 911 call. Two of the fighters entered the building and began to search for the origin of the fire. Tenants piled out coughing and crying, but were all fine. One of the men headed toward the end apartment and the other checked the rest, both fighting the thick smoke that blanketed the air. Tom felt and listened on the door and thought he heard a slight tap on it from the inside. He broke the knob and slowly but urgently tried to open the door. Miss Parker scooted out of the way and Tom immediately kneeled in front of her, giving her emergency oxygen and helping her to her feet. He wrapped his arm around her waist and kept the oxygen on her face as he practically carried her out of the building, giving the other firefighter a nod as they passed him in the hall.

Miss Parker took the mask from her mouth and breathe in the air. “I’m fine. Thank you.” Tom ushered her to the fire truck and wrapped a blanket around her for warmth.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” Tom asked, noticing the sadness in the woman.

“Yes,” Miss Parker responded, her eyes filling with tears. Tom returned to his duty and left Miss Parker alone. Now she felt lonelier than ever, even in the midst of the crowd. Someone offered her coffee, but she refused. She walked over to her car and sat behind the wheel. She stared out the window and let herself be hypnotized by the blinking Christmas lights that has become blurry by her tears.

The firefighters contained the fire, puzzled by the little damage the explosion created, as if someone deliberately caused a fire to happen only in the one apartment, but made sure there were plenty of smoke for effect. Tom patted each man on the shoulder and praised him. “Good job, Bill. Good job, Jarod.”

“Thanks, Tom,” Jarod responded. “Where is that woman you took out of the empty apartment?”

Tom looked around and spotted Miss Parker sitting in her car. “She’s in her car, over there. Good looking lady, but sad. Why don’t you make sure she’s alright.”

Jarod looked at the direction Tom pointed and was shocked to see who it was. He was dead on his tracks and didn’t know what to do. Then he saw the tears that fell down her cheek and his heart decided for him.

“Go on, Jarod, she won’t bite.” Tom prodded

Jarod chuckled at that and headed toward Miss Parker.

He put his helmet back on and went around to the passenger side. He tapped on the window and waited for her to turn her head. She looked at him and he opened the door and sat in the car with her. Miss Parker wiped the tears from her eyes and tried to compose herself. She was a little annoyed at the nerve of this guy who was invading her space. “I said I was fine,” she said, narrowing her eyes at the stranger.

“I’m glad,” Jarod spoke as he removed his helmet to reveal his identity.

Miss Parker stared at him speechless for a minute, then she laid her head heavily on the seat. “Oh, it you,” she sighed.

Jarod smiled at her bewilderedly and wondered why she hasn’t reached for her gun and handcuffs.

“Not today, Jarod. I’m too tired and angry. That fire was deliberate, wasn’t it?”

“Yes, but it was meant only to scare whoever was in the apartment. Very little damage was done. Any ideas who?”

“My loving brother, Lyle,” she said sarcastically. “I found the address in his desk. The jerk set me up knowing I’ll follow any lead on you. WHY DID I FALL FOR THAT?!” she yelled, hitting the steering wheel with her palms. “I am SO SICK of this, Jarod!” she cried, tears freely flowing from her eyes. “I’m all alone, it’s almost Christmas, and I walk right into Lyle’s sick joke.” She crossed her arms across the steering wheel and buried her face in them. “I have no one, Jarod, and I hate it.”

“You have me,” Jarod said lightly, putting his hand on her arm reassuringly.

Miss Parker laughed a sad laugh, turning to look at Jarod with her tear-stained face. “Why aren’t you with your family?” she asked sincerely.

“I haven’t been able to locate them. They’ve gone underground to keep safe,” Jarod said sadly. Miss Parker felt his loneliness, too.

“Daddy took little Jonathan away for the holidays.”

“That’s his name?”

“Yeah, I picked it. I was tired of calling him the Baby.”

Jarod’s face lit up suddenly and he made an offer to Miss Parker. “Call truce for tonight, Miss Parker, and I’ll make you fall in love with this town and it’s people.”

Miss Parker was unsure of the drastic offer. She looked at Jarod’s extended hand, then she looked at his expectant face. She turned away, closed her eyes to think, taking in deep breaths. “What the hell,” she muttered, “truce.” She took his hand and shook it.

“Stay at the Hampton Inn and I’ll pick you up at 5. Dress warmly,” Jarod announced as he opened the door to get out.

Miss Parker grabbed his arm, “That’s it? You’re just going to trust me to not bring you back at gunpoint, and I’m just going to trust you to show up at 5?”

“Yes,” he said simply and left.

Miss Parker sat there astonished. “O-kay,” she pondered. “What the hell….” She smiled as she drove to the hotel.

**********

Miss Parker paced in her hotel room glancing at her watch for the upteenth time. “He has 5-4-3-2-1,” a knock interrupted her counting, “seconds,” she continued. She opened the door and saw Jarod standing on the other side, smiling at her like they’ve been friends forever. All she could do was smile back.

“You ready to hit the town, Miss Parker?”

“It’s only 5 o’clock, Jarod. You don’t ‘hit the town’ till after dark.”

“Well, Miss Parker, this town closes at 8, so we have to hit it before it shuts down.”

Miss Parker gave in. “Fine.”

Their first stop was a little bakery on the corner of Main Street. They entered the store and the warmth and smell caused their head to lean back and their eyes to close in pleasure.

“Mmmmmm, it smells wonderful in here,” Miss Parker commented, breathing in the precious aroma.An old Mexican man came out of the kitchen and greeted them happily, hugging Jarod tightly. “Jerud! Mi hermano, my son! Always good to see you. And who is this beautiful young lady?”

“Mr. Gonzalez, this is Miss Parker, a friend.” The man shook her hand enthusiastically and Miss Parker felt a surge of happiness run through her.

“Any friend of Jerud is a friend of mine. Come, come, sientate, sit. I bring you something very special. Something I just created today, but have not found a name for it yet!” the man laughed and disappeared into the kitchen.

A young girl approached their table with coffee cups and a shy smile. “Hola, Mister Jerud.”

“Hola, Carina,” Jarod greeted her.

She placed the cups on the table and reached into her apron pocket and pulled out a single red rose and offered it to Miss Parker. “For the beautiful lady.”

Miss Parker put a hand on her chest and took a sharp intake of breath. She was so touched, her eyes began to water, but she held the tears in. “Thank you,” Miss Parker managed to say as she took the flower from the girl.

The girl walked away smiling while Miss Parker watched in awe. Jarod stared at her grinning. Miss Parker noticed his amused expression and looked away. She lightly slapped his hand that was resting on the table. “Stop looking at me like that,” she smiled, a little embarrassed.

“You’re beautiful when you’re embarrassed,” Jarod said, taking her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.

They went into each store and browsed. Jarod’s favorite was the Candy Store. He managed to persuade Miss Parker to buy something sweet. They walked the street greeting people, smiling at the children, having a great time. Miss Parker made the first move and reached for Jarod’s hand as they strolled. She didn’t care what Jarod thought, or what the others thought. She didn’t even care what SHE thought, she just did what she felt like doing--and that’s to hold his hand. Even though they wore gloves, she could still feel the heat that emanated from his hand. He returned the favor by clasping her hand tightly, entwining their arms, drawing her close to him.They headed toward the Plaza Square where people gathered to witness the traditional lighting of the huge Christmas tree. The town waits till three days before Christmas because that’s how they’ve always done it--for the past 50 years. Who can argue with tradition? They waited with the crowd. Looking around, Miss Parker saw the anxious faces on the children, the pride in the older people, and the joy in others as they wait for this event. She has never felt this good in a long time. She and Jarod were part of a people that enjoyed each other, cared for each other.

“Is everyone ready?” the man announced on the loud speaker.

“YES!!” the crowd roared.

“Alright, you know what to do. Hold on to someone special……”

Jarod squeezed her hand as they waited.

The man plugged in the tree and the lights pierced the darkness, illuminating the tree from top to bottom. It was a magnificent sight. People clapped in unison.

“Merry Christmas, everyone!” the man announced. After a little while, people started walking away, leaving a scant few to stare at the tree in amazement. Jarod and Miss Parker were among the few. Jarod released his hand from hers only to put his arm around her shoulders. “You’re cold,” he noticed. She didn’t resist, it felt too good to resist. He pulled her closer and she wrapped her arms around him underneath his coat, resting her hands on his back, feeling his strength. She snuggled her face into his neck, still not taking her eyes off the tree, a smile of contentment playing on her lips. They stood there in silence--beautiful, peaceful silence.

Mr. Gonzalez and his wife passed the couple who seemed oblivious to the outside world. Mr. Gonzalez smiled a fatherly smile at them, bidding them good night as they walked past. “Good night, Jerud, and Senorita Parker.”

“Good night.”

“I love the way he says your name, ” Miss Parker smiled, still enjoying her position in Jarod’s arms. “How did you meet them?”

“ I was able to save his family when the bakery burned down. I also helped them rebuild it. I have a very special place in my heart for them.”

“And it’s obvious they have a special place in their heart for you.” Miss Parker looked up at him and saw the pride he had for being included in the Gonzalez family. They looked at each other and the natural thing happened. They kissed tenderly, with a touch of passion, but mostly it was a kiss of two friends finding each other again. They gave each other one last squeeze and walked away hand in hand.

Finding stuff to do in a small town is tough, but for Jarod and Miss Parker, they enjoyed every minute of being together. They spent hours in a diner talking. Jarod shared his experiences and stories of people he has crossed paths with. He’s never had anyone to share with, someone who understands who he is, so this was a nice treat. Miss Parker listened intently and was actually impressed and found herself interested in what Jarod has done outside the Centre. She knew what he was capable of doing, but to hear him tell it with enthusiasm and passion, she was amazed. Not a mention of the evils of the Centre ever came up. They have been transported to another place and another time--a place void of lies, schemes, treachery, and secrets. To end the truce at midnight seemed unfair.

***************

It was almost midnight and they walked slowly back to the Inn, wishing for time to stop. They stood in front of Miss Parker’s room, a little uneasy, like two teenagers out on their first date.

“Can I kiss you goodnight?” Jarod asked.

“Yes,” Miss Parker responded, biting her lower lip, unsure why she was a little nervous. “Can I kiss you thanks?” She asked in return.

Jarod smiled and moved in closer and held her at the waist gently. Miss Parker caressed his cheek and they kissed lightly.

“Thank you,” she whispered in his lips.

“Good night,” he whispered back, kissing the corner of her mouth.

They kissed again, this time, a little longer and sweeter, holding on to each other tighter.

“Thank you,” she whispered again.

“Good night,” he breathe out.

They couldn’t stop themselves, they kissed longer the third time, longer, more passionately. They were both breathless when they broke away, their heart pounding in their chest. They both knew that it was their last kiss--a kiss of thanks, a kiss good night, a kiss of friendship, a kiss goodbye.

“Good night, Jarod.” She smiled at him as she untangled herself from his strong embrace.

“Thank you for a wonderful evening, Miss Parker.” He smiled back. He watched her walk into her room and she shut the door slowly. Jarod heaved a big sigh and walked away, both forever touched and changed by the power of their truce.

Disclaimer: I own nothing concerning the Pretender. Suing would not be nice. You don’t really need to read TRUCE 1--I only made small references to it.

Author’s note: MUSH, MUSH, AND MORE MUSH. You non-shippers can turn back now—YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!



“Truce”
part 2
by Rachel



CHRISTMAS EVE MORNING

The darkened halls of the Centre gave Miss Parker chills as she headed to her office. The emptiness and coldness of the place vibrated her very soul, giving her second thoughts about her plans. But to save another from this tomb was warming her heart. The truce she made with Jarod a couple of days ago lightened her spirits. She picked up a few things from her office and as she headed out the door, her cell phone rang.

“What?” she answered, but it was lacking her normal venom.

“Merry Christmas, Miss Parker,” Jarod greeted.

The sound of his voice put a smile on her lips and her heart fluttered just a little. She dismissed the feeling as nerves.

“Merry Christmas to you, too, Jarod,” she greeted back with sincerity. There was no need for pretense or built walls.

“I found my family. Not all, just my father and JJ,” He said simply, without gloating, maybe even feeling a little sadness for her.

“I’m happy for you, Jarod, really.”

“Thank you. What are you doing for the holidays?”

“I’ve quit hosting a pity party and decided to do something about it.”

“Oh? And what would that be?” Jarod asked, relieved that she was going to be fine.

“I’m taking Angelo to my house and I’m going to treat him to a nice Christmas--complete with a Christmas tree and presents. Do you think he’ll like that?”

Jarod smiled. “He would love it! Miss Parker….” Jarod paused, as if wanting to ask her something but not finding the words.

Miss Parker felt his uneasiness and smiled at the thought of finally quenching the Pretender’s smugness. “I have to go, Jarod. I have a million things to get done. I was hoping you’d call, so I’m glad you did. I was going to ask you for a Christmas truce, as friends of course, but since you found your family, I’m sure you’d rather spend the day with them.”

“Thank you for the offer, Miss Parker. Say hello to Angelo for me.”

“Tell JJ I think about him and wish I could see him again.”

“Merry Christmas, Miss Parker.”

“Merry Christmas, Jarod.” Miss Parker heard the click on the other end and she held the phone to her face a little longer, savoring the memory of the smooth voice that lingered on her mind.

Miss Parker traveled the halls again looking for Angelo. She remembered his favored spot and she crouched down at a vent calling out his name. Angelo appeared before her, unsure of why she was there.

She smiled at him and his countenance lightened as if he was recollecting their younger days of friendship.

“I’m taking you away for a couple of days, Angelo,” she whispered cautiously.

“Angelo can’t leave the Centre,” he uttered with concern.

“Don’t worry, it’ll be alright. I have some things I have to get done then I’ll come back for you. Be ready by 8:00 o’clock tonight.”

Angelo nodded, trusting his friend.

“What are you doing, Miss Parker?” an accusing voice sounded behind her. Miss Parker was startled and she hit her head on the top of the vent. She replaced the vent cover and she stood up calmly, facing the questioning face of Mr. Raines.

“I’m looking for a rat, “ she gritted out, “and I found one,” giving him a sneer as she walked passed him.

“Merry Christmas, Miss Parker,” Raines called out.

“Ho, Ho, Ho,” she responded dryly.

“Poor lonely girl,” Raines muttered under his breath.

************

Angelo looked around Miss Parker’s house nervously, feeling misplaced in a home filled with beautiful Christmas decorations--a sight that is so foreign to him. Miss Parker showed him the tree with presents underneath. Angelo clapped for joy, happy like a little child in a toyland. Miss Parker’s heart went out to him. For so many years, Angelo was deprived of the simple joys in life. She smiled victoriously at the little happiness she could give him.

A knock on the door made both of them freeze, a pang of panic creeping upon them. Miss Parker reached for her gun and she ordered Angelo to go into the kitchen and wait quietly. She peered through the window on the door to see who was calling. All she could see were two big boxes, concealing two delivery boys.

“What do you want?” Miss Parker asked curiously.

“We have packages for a Miss Parker?” a muffled voice came from behind the box.

“Fine,” she said, opening the door slowly and returning her gun behind her back, but still remaining alert, “Come in and set them down on the floor,” she said, straining to see the deliverers faces. The two set the boxes on the floor and stood to face Miss Parker. She was speechless, Jarod and JJ were standing in front of her, both smiling. She didn’t realize she was staring at JJ until Jarod spoke.

“Miss Parker, I believe you two have met?”

“Nice to see you again, Miss Parker.” JJ said politely, extending his hand, nervous at the long awaited reunion. She didn’t make a move, just stood there and stared, trying to sort out emotions in her head and heart.

“I hope the offer still stands,” Jarod said, trying to ease the tension, prodding her to react.

“Yes, of course,” she smiled, shaking herself from the trance, hugging JJ tightly. The young man wasn’t sure at first how to react, then he let himself get lost in her warm embrace, inhaling her sweet smell, hugging her in return.

“I can’t believe you’re here!” she cupped JJ’s face, smiling in pleasure. “Angelo!” she called out to him.

Angelo scurried from the kitchen and stopped abruptly when he saw the visitors. He gasped in momentary shock, then smiled a broad smile, a recognition of friends. He rushed toward them and shook their hands excitedly. “Two friends,” he said with gladness. Jarod reached out to him and hugged him. “Good to see you again, Angelo.”

“Angelo,” Miss Parker motioned for him to focus on her, “why don’t you take JJ to the kitchen and show him where the food is.”

“Food?” JJ asked in expectation.

“Come,” Angelo urged. JJ followed blindly, unable to hold in his excitement.

Just when Miss Parker turned to Jarod, he walked away and attempted to follow Angelo as well.

“Where are you going?” Miss Parker asked.

“To get some food before those two eat everything,” Jarod grinned.

“Oh,” Miss Parker said, disappointment trailing in her voice, following Jarod toward the kitchen.

“Oops, I forgot something,” Jarod announced, stopping mid stride, Miss Parker almost running into him. He turned around, grabbed Miss Parker by the waist, kissed her sweetly and tenderly, which she accepted readily. “Merry Christmas, Miss Parker,” he breathe out, sending shivers up her spine.

“Go, get some food,” she smiled, “I think you’ll find Mr. Gonzalez outdid himself with what he made for me.”

“Mr. Gonzalez?” Jarod asked.

“Yes, I called him and he whipped us some holiday cheer. I flew out there this morning and picked them up. He finally found a name for that special heart-shaped bread he offered us. He called it, ‘Parker’s heart’,” Miss Parker beamed with pride and appreciation.

Jarod took her hand and they headed to the kitchen.

They pushed the french doors open and were amused at the sight of Angelo and JJ wide-eyed with pleasure at the spread of food on the counter. The two were tasting everything in sight and enjoying every bite. Jarod joined in their excitement and sat on a stool by the counter. “Wow, everything looks wonderful.”

“Everything IS wonderful,” JJ exclaimed as he took another bite.

Miss Parker walked behind Jarod, rubbing his back and resting her hand on his shoulder. She stood behind him and draped her other arm on his other shoulder and rested her chin on it. When did she become so comfortable with him? She didn’t care. It felt right. “Well? What do you think?”

“Mmmmmm, this is good,” Jarod commented.

“Thank you, Miss Parker,” JJ said sincerely, touched by her generosity.

They ate for a little while, chatting about nothing, talking about everything. A rule was made that no one was to mention the Centre or the past.

“You two have had enough,” she ordered lightly, “You’re going to get sick if you eat any more.”

Angelo and JJ pouted a little but obeyed her.

“That goes the same for you,” she warned Jarod. He nodded, right before he snuck another piece of jelly-filled sweet bread and sticking in his mouth quickly.

“Miss Parker, “JJ interrupted, “can Angelo and I put the presents we brought under the tree?”

“Yes, of course.”

Angelo and JJ walked, almost skipping, out of the kitchen.

Jarod turned around and trapped Miss Parker between his legs, wrapping his arms around her waist. Miss Parker hugged his neck tightly, “I’m so glad you and JJ are here,” she said.

“Why?” Jarod asked, pulling back so he can look into her eyes.

“Because I needed a friend.”

“A kissing friend, I hope,” Jarod smirked.

“Oh, absolutely.” They kissed tenderly, passionately, both enjoying the taste of each other’s lips. Their passion for each other increasing but obvious to both it needed controlling. Miss Parker peeled away and looked intently into Jarod’s eyes, communicating and pleading with her own eyes that there are some things she needs to sort out and wants to take things slowly. Jarod gave her a smile, letting her know he understood and will honor her wishes. Miss Parker hugged him around the neck in gratitude, “Thank you,” she whispered.

“It won’t be easy,” he confessed.

“I know and I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry.”

They embraced for a little while longer, content with each other.

“It’s late, we better get to bed,” Miss Parker noticed the mischief in Jarod’s eyes and she gave him a warning look. “Separately,” she emphasized playfully.

***************

Miss Parker awoke with a jolt, her heartbeat echoing in her ears. She darted her eyes, trying to get accustomed to the darkness. 3:55 a.m. A dreadful feeling pierced her being. She grabbed her gun and cautiously made her way out of her bedroom. She checked Jarod’s room and from what she could see with the dim light of the clock, the bed was empty. Her hand shook in panic and fear, her mind racing and she were unable to think. She quickly opened the room where Angelo and JJ should be and she felt her heart stop. They were gone, too. “No,” she cried silently. “Please, not again,” she pleaded to anyone who might be able to ease her pain. She heard a noise downstairs and she headed there, her gun drawn in front of her, determined to protect and avenge. She saw a light in the kitchen and she kicked the doors open. She froze. Her gun extended in front of her, her eyes blurred by tears.

“Miss Parker!” JJ cried in distress. Angelo cowered in fear. Jarod turned his head and was shocked at the sight of Miss Parker pointing a gun at them.

Miss Parker shook herself out of it and lowered her eyes to the gun. The tears fell furiously and she backed away quickly. “I’m sorry,” she cried, running out of the kitchen, discarding her gun. Jarod motioned for JJ and Angelo to stay and he ran after her.

“Parker!” Jarod called out. Miss Parker stopped but didn’t turn around to face him. She sobbed in her hands, her body trembling.

“Come here,” Jarod consoled, turning her around and enveloping her with his strong arms, letting her cry on his chest.

“I-I thought I slept through it again,” she struggled to say.

“Slept through what?”

*************

“When I found Thomas….” She paused, haunted by the vision of Thomas dead on
her porch.

“I understand,” Jarod said. Miss Parker calmed, relieved that she didn’t have to explain everything , and relieved that everyone was fine.

“I’m sorry for over-reacting,” she apologized, continuing to hold on to Jarod, soothed by his steady heartbeat on her cheek.

“And I’m sorry for giving you a scare like that,” Jarod said, somehow ecstatic she cared that much.

Miss Parker’s head shot up, a worried look on her face “Oh no! JJ and Angelo! I have to explain!” She tried to untangle herself from Jarod and rush to the kitchen but Jarod held on to her to stop her.

“Don’t worry about them, I’ll take care of it. Why don’t you go back to bed and I’ll make sure those two do the same. Then I’ll come by and check in before I hit the sack, too. Okay?” Jarod smiled.

Miss Parker nodded and headed back up the stairs, turning back one last time, just to make sure.

***********

Jarod tapped lightly on the door, pushing it open slowly. He peeked in to find Miss Parker sitting up on the bed, staring off in the distance, lost in thought.

Jarod slipped in quietly so not to startle her. “Hi,” he greeted gently. Miss Parker looked up at him and smiled. Jarod sat on the edge of the bed. Miss Parker scooted over to make room for him. “Are you alright?” Jarod asked concerned.

“I’m fine.”

“What’s really wrong, Parker?” Jarod asked softly.

Miss Parker let out a soft, sad laugh and looked down on Jarod’s hand that rested near her thigh. “It scares me that……” she paused and gently rubbed his arm. “It scares me that I care so much for Angelo, for JJ.”

Jarod lifted her chin and saw the tears, not quite understanding her fears.

“And for you,” she said in an almost inaudible whisper.

Jarod held her tightly. Miss Parker found comfort and peace in his arms. It really did scare her--the feelings, the deep connection, the bond. She wasn’t taught to feel gentleness and concern--especially for Jarod. But on this special moment, this special day, she was going to let her heart win the war.

****************

Jarod woke with Miss Parker still cradled in his arms. He hadn’t expected to spend the rest of the night in the same bed with her, but he couldn’t let her go. He needed her as much as she needed him. He heard noises down the hall and concluded that Angelo and JJ must be up and scurrying down to open presents. Miss Parker stirred and nuzzled deeper into his form.

“I think the boys are awake,” Jarod said.

“Uh, hmn,” Miss Parker mumbled.

“It’s Christmas morning, Parker. Time to open presents!” Jarod announced as he slipped off the bed, but not before kissing her on the top of the head. “I’ll see you downstairs.”

Miss Parker’s body collapsed gently as Jarod vacated the bed, her face buried in the covers, her form unwilling to get up. After a few moments, she, too, crawled off the bed, slipped on her robe, and headed downstairs.

She found JJ and Angelo half buried in the presents by the tree and Jarod reclined on the floor, leaning on the edge of the couch, smiling a very amused smile. Miss Parker came around the couch and nestled herself on the floor. Jarod guided her so that she sat between his legs. She leaned into him, feeling his stubbled chin against her temple. They both sat, shaking their head at the two excited boys that ripped into the gift-wrapped boxes. JJ scrambled toward the couple, not even bothering to get up, but crawled toward them with a present in his hand. “We got something for you, Miss Parker!”

“For me?”

“Open it!”

Miss Parker hurriedly ripped the paper and with wide-eyed wonder held up a brand new pair of ice skates.

“Jarod said there’s a pond not too far from here. We thought it would be fun to go. Say you’ll go. Please?” JJ begged.

“Of course I’ll go.”

“Yeah! We got Angelo a pair, too. This is great! This is the best Christmas, ever!” JJ exclaimed. He scurried off again to examine and marvel at the gifts he received from Jarod and to join Angelo in his delight.

“It’s been so long since I’ve gone ice skating. I hope I still remember how.” Miss Parker voiced worriedly.

“I’m sure you’ll do better than I will. Ice skating is one pretend I haven’t had the opportunity to experience,” Jarod confessed.

“I’m stunned,” Miss Parker said, “something Jarod is not good at? I’m going to take full advantage of this!”

“Yeah, yeah.” Jarod said dryly as he reached behind him to pull out a small package. “I have something for you.” He said as he held the beautiful gift in front of her.

She took it gently in her hands and carefully unwrapped it. Her eyes blurred at the beauty of what was inside. She fingered the necklace and admired it. “It’s beautiful,” she whispered, “where did you get it?”

“I worked at a sapphire mine once.”

“You made this?”

“I worked at a jewelry shop, too.”

“I love it,” she said, motioning for him to put it around her neck. She fingered it one last time before turning her head to give Jarod a kiss. “Thank you.”

Miss Parker turned her body halfway so that she straddled Jarod’s one leg. She wrapped her arms around his neck and touched her forehead with his. “I didn’t get you anything,” she said regretfully.

“What you’ve done for JJ and me is more than I could ever ask for. JJ is right. This IS the best Christmas ever,” he smiled, kissing her tenderly.

Angelo and JJ saw the moment between the two and decided to give them time alone. They got up quietly and headed to the kitchen to eat some more food.

The kisses they shared became more intense. Miss Parker crossed her legs to ease the sensation and Jarod pulled her in closer, pressing his arousal against her side. He kissed her neck and she savored the heat of his breath on her skin. Jarod pulled away quickly and apologized. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t….”

Miss Parker smiled and let out a merry laugh and kissed him again. Angelo and JJ emerged from the kitchen and announced it was time to go skating.

“Can we go now? Please?” JJ pleaded.

Miss Parker and Jarod looked over at the two with the pathetic, begging faces and conceded.

“Alright, “ Miss Parker said. “Let’s get changed and head to the pond.”

“Right on!” JJ exclaimed.

Miss Parker and Jarod looked at each other bewilderedly. “Right on?” they questioned each other, smiling at the phrase that came out of JJ’s mouth.

They all emerged from their rooms dressed warmly for the outing. JJ and Angelo ran downstairs to wait for Jarod and Miss Parker.

“You ready?” Jarod asked Miss Parker as he met her in the hallway.

“I’m ready for this.” She grabbed him by the neck and kissed him passionately. He returned the kiss with equal fervor, pressing her against the wall. Then she slowly broke the kiss and slipped out from under his grasp and headed down the stairs, leaving him still puckered and wanting. She turned back with a teasing smile and reached out for his hand. Jarod clasped her hand and just shook his head.

******

On the way back from the pond, Miss Parker walked with JJ ahead of Jarod and Angelo. JJ took in everything she said and thoroughly enjoyed her company.

“Watch this, JJ. And when I say run, you’d better run,” she said playfully. She *accidentally* dropped a glove and when she bent down to pick it up, she scooped up a handful of snow and formed it into a ball as she stood.

“What did you make?” JJ asked curiously.

“It’s called a snowball,” she whispered. She pivoted quickly and threw the snow, hitting Jarod squarely on the chest. “Now, run!!!”

Jarod was stunned momentarily and with narrowed eyes and a smirk on his face, he ran after the two. Angelo followed closely behind, also sporting a mischievous grin.

Miss Parker grabbed JJ and crouched behind a big rock, frantically forming snowballs, getting ready to pelt Jarod and Angelo when they ran toward them. As Miss Parker and JJ stood to launch their assault, they were greeted with silence. Angelo and Jarod were nowhere to be found.

“Oh damn,” she muttered.

“What?” JJ uttered in distress.

“Jarod is an expert in jungle tactics and Angelo is an expert in hiding,” she explained, looking around for any sign of them. “We’d better skedaddle, cause we are doomed. Go!”

JJ ran as fast as he can toward the house. Miss Parker gathered her skates and headed toward the house herself. But before she can make a step, Jarod tackled her, sending them to the ground in a heap. Jarod pinned her down with his body, holding her wrists above her head.

“Did you think you’d get away with that?” he asked menacingly.

“What are you going to do to me?” Miss Parker asked, smiling nervously.

“For starters, this,” and he kissed her, freeing her arms and they wrapped around his neck instantly.

“For enders, this,” and he stuffed a handful of snow down her back and quickly ran off, leaving her screaming in shock and threats of revenge.

The three boys stood by the house with their hands behind their back, waiting for her. Miss Parker approached them in disbelief.

“You wouldn’t dare!” she gasped.

“We dare,” Jarod announced. He and Angelo threw snowballs at her. JJ on the other hand, threw the snow at Jarod and Angelo, gaining him approval from Miss Parker. After their all-out big snowball fight, they went into the house exhausted and laughing.

******

They played games, ate, and watched old movies. There were times Miss Parker complained at the unfairness of playing games with three geniuses. And when Angelo and Jarod paired up against her and JJ, they didn’t stand a chance of beating the empath and the experienced Pretender.

About 11 p.m., they finally got tired and headed off to bed.

“Good night,” Miss Parker whispered as she kissed Jarod’s cheek. Before he could react, Miss Parker was out of his embrace and headed to her room. Disappointed a little, alright, A LOT, Jarod sighed and went into his own room.

Jarod stood on the side of the bed arranging his things with his back to the door, clad only in his boxer shorts, when three quick knocks came. Without turning around, he called out, “Come in, JJ” He heard the door open and close.

“What do you need, little bro…,” turning around and stopping in mid-sentence when he saw Miss Parker standing there.

“Oh, I thought you were JJ,” he stammered. Jarod was stunned. He was unable to move, his brain was not functioning, and his insides were in a whirlwind. He stared at her in awe as she walked slowly toward him. Her robe gapped, the satin string untying as she moved, revealing gently her long, gorgeous legs. The midnight black teddy she wore hung gently on her perfect body.

“I just wanted to make sure you were comfortable,” she said, her voice teasing and seductive. Jarod could only nod. She stood in front him and ran her hands up his arm. She paused a little, holding his shoulders before running her hands back down his arms and guiding them to wrap around her waist, not once breaking eye contact. He smiled at her goofily, wondering what she was up to, and hoping really hard it was something he wants her to be up to. He didn’t make an aggressive move—just waited for her. She chuckled at his expression and slowly, so painfully slow, brought her face close to his.

“Merry Christmas, “she breathe out. She kissed him gently on the lips, sending shivers up and down his spine. He took his cue, his heart beating out of control, and he held her tightly in his arms, kissing her tenderly and passionately.

In the other room JJ and Angelo lay on their back staring at the ceiling when the computer interrupted their thoughts.

“You have a video phone call,” it announced.

JJ rushed to the computer and accessed the call.

“Dad!” he exclaimed.

“Hello, JJ,” Major Charles greeted. “Where’s Jarod?”

“I’ll go get him,” JJ said hastily and ran out the door toward Jarod’s room.

The tapping on the door and the calling of Jarod’s name interrupted their romantic moment.

Jarod struggled to break free of Miss Parker’s longing kiss and warm embrace, his whole being resisting, but the urgency in JJ’s voice gnawed at him. He opened the door slightly, concealing Miss Parker behind him and the door. She held his one hand and caressed his back with her other hand.

“What’s wrong?” Jarod asked.

“Dad’s on a video call, he want’s to talk to us,” JJ said hurridly.

Miss Parker patted him on the back to urge him to take the call.

“I’ll be there in a minute,” Jarod said as he shut the door. “I’m sorry,” he apologized.

“Go, mustn’t keep the Major waiting,” Miss Parker said lightly, trying to conceal her disappointment.

Jarod kissed her quickly on the lips before heading down the hall.

Jarod sat at the computer and greeted his father. “Dad! You left so quickly. Is it about Mom and Emily?”

“Yes, son. I think I found some clues about your mother’s whereabouts. I’ll need you and JJ to meet me as soon as you can. How soon can you be here?”

JJ peered over Jarod’s shoulder, wide eyed with expectation. “I’ll pack now and we’ll leave right away. Right Jarod?” JJ asked.

“Yes, of course. We’re only a few hours away, dad.” Jarod answered hesitantly. Miss Parker stood in the doorway, saddened by the fact the Jarod and JJ were leaving.

“Fine, son,” the Major stated. “You know where to find me. I’ll see you in a few hours.”

Jarod terminated the call and sat there silently while JJ scurried around the room gathering his things. Jarod finally stood up and walked to where Miss Parker was standing. He didn’t know how or what to feel. He was excited about maybe finding his mother, but crushed that he has to leave the woman that he’s starting to deeply care about. And not just that, she was ready to share her feelings and show how much she cared, too. That’s such a big step for her. The timing was definitely not in his favor. He took her hand and led her back to his room so he can pack before JJ finishes.

Miss Parker watched as Jarod put his things in his bag. There were no words to say and there were no hiding their disappointments and sadness. Miss Parker finally made a move toward him and touched his arm, making him stop packing. She caressed his face with the palm of her hands. He grasped her wrists and kissed each palm gently. Miss Parker smiled at him with understanding. “You know where I live. Just don’t stay away too long.”

“I couldn’t if I tried,” Jarod said, “I’ll call you.”

Miss Parker laughed a little, receiving a confused look from Jarod.

“What’s so amusing?” he asked.

“If that came from anyone else, I’d shoot him for giving me a sorry line. But coming from you, I know you’re serious,” she said smiling.

“Of course, I’m serious,” he said.

“I know.”

Miss Parker kissed him sweetly on the lips and they hugged each other tightly.

Jarod pulled away, his face beaming. “New Year’s Eve. I have plans if you’re interested.”

“Just you and me?” Miss Parker asked.

“Just you and me. I’ll let you know where and when.”

“Are you giving me any clues?”

“Nope.” Jarod said playfully.

Miss Parker pouted and Jarod kissed her again. They broke free and headed downstairs where JJ was waiting.

“Goodbye Miss Parker,” JJ said, reaching out to her to hug her. Miss Parker hugged him back eagerly. “Thank you for everything,”

“You’re welcome, JJ. Come see me again soon?”

JJ’s eye’s gleamed and his smile was broad. “You betcha, Miss P.!!”

After hugs and goodbye’s, JJ and Jarod disappeared into the night. Miss Parker couldn’t sleep so she and Angelo cleaned up to erase any evidence of Jarod and JJ being there.

“Daughter sad and happy at the same time.” Angelo noticed. He smiled at that last comment and went to his room after they finished their task. Miss Parker lay on the bed fingering the necklace Jarod gave her and closed her eyes, wishing for only good dreams to come.

TBC