Sleep Tight

By C

 

 1

 

          The clock blinked 11.30pm; the lights fizzled as it was stepped over by a well-heeled male foot.  The owner of the smart patent leather shoe strolled into the bathroom to straighten his jacket.  He cast a glance over the reflected image in the mirror.  The girl had once been an attractive slim blonde she now looked like a bedraggled mess.  Her blonde hair was streaked with sweat and traces of blood.  Her makeup was smudged; her mascara had run black lines down her face as she cried.  Her neck was marked with a raging red line.  The only perfect thing about her was her alluring black underwear.  The man turned and walked back to her casting one last disgusted glance in her direction.  He picked up his leather jacket and walked to the door “You didn’t make the grade baby!” he laughed as he left.

 

          “Hey man it’s me” Matt greeted his brother’s lazy hello with enthusiasm.  He smiled as it took Jeff all of two seconds to wake up and greet him warmly.  Then came the question ‘where the hell are you bro?’ Jeff didn’t mince words Matt smiled looking up at the airport information sign.   “Airport,” he replied, “I’m in New York.” Matt had to hold the phone away from his ear as Jeff yelled excitedly “Hey hey calm down!” Matt chided, “I’m not coming home just yet.” Jeff sounded deflated “Look I have a coupled of training camps to check out and I want to visit a couple of people” Matt could hear someone else in the room with Jeff, ‘Look when are you coming home?’ Jeff asked it had been a year since he had seen his brother.  Matt had taken off travelling after a shoulder injury knocked him out of training.  “I’m not sure, a month maybe.” Jeff made some huffing noises Matt laughed to himself ‘Cant you come home earlier?’ Jeff asked his voice reminiscent of a child begging for more time to play with his friends.  Matt sighed ‘There’s someone I want you to meet.’ Jeff finished.  Matt smiled “I’m sure Lesley wont mind waiting another month.” Jeff tried to protest but Matt cut him off.  “Look I have to go they're calling my flight.  I’ll call you.  Okay?” Jeff sounded dejected but reluctantly agreed to abide by Matt’s wishes.  After all what was another month?

 

          Claire flopped on to the double bed and relaxed, she was ready for a hot bath and an early night, the latter of which she knew she wouldn’t get.  The door slammed shut as Patsy threw her bag to towards the bed, it landed with a thud on the floor, Claire smiled as her friend pulled the band out of her hair and ran her fingers through it to loosen it up.  She smirked at Claire “So what bar do we hit first?” Claire laughed “You’re nuts!” Patsy smiled as she sat on the edge of the second smaller bed “I’ll make a deal with you” Claire lifted her head just enough to cast at suspicious glance at her friend “You can have the double when we get in.” Claire laughed it wasn’t much of a deal so far “If we’re in before midnight it’s mine!” Claire shook her head and covered her face, “Fine I’ll be ready at five to twelve!” Patsy laughed throwing a pillow at her.  Claire sat up finally “Guess I better check in.” Patsy groaned and flopped back on the bed, Claire laughed as she pulled out her phone and pressed the speed dial. “Hi it’s me, we just hit the hotel.”  Patsy rolled off the bed and stretched “Hi pops!” she yelled as she headed to the bathroom.  Claire smiled “Yeah she’s in good spirits.” Claire laughed as she walked over to the dressing table and looked at her reflection in the mirror.  She rubbed her face and pulled the clip from her long brown hair, she wondered if she looked as tired as she felt.  “Yeah I’ll tell her when she gets the hell out of the bathroom!” Claire shouted as Patsy stuck her head out and threw a towel at Claire.  Claire caught it and laughed, “Everything is fine I promise, we’ll be checking the venue tomorrow so don’t worry.  We’ll see you in a few days.  Bye.” She smiled as she hung up the phone, Patsy waltzed out of the bathroom “Tubs running babe” she flashed Claire a grin “I’ll go get some take out while you slob out in the bath!” Claire threw the towel at Patsy as she grabbed her purse and waltzed out of the room.

 

          Matt stretched as he climbed off the plane, he’d just hit town and wanted nothing more than to sleep.  He walked to the rental desk and waited, he needed a car, he had plenty travelling to do.  He smiled at the blonde behind the counter; she was attractive bobbed hair with flower slides holding it back off her face.  She smiled at him sweetly he knew she found him attractive, “Hey I need a car for around three weeks.” She nodded and began typing on the computer “You be in time for a while will you sir?” she enquired Matt smiled “I haven’t decided yet.” He handed over his drivers licence and waited.  His attention waned towards the girl and was attracted to raised voices at another counter.  A man in his late thirties was kicking up a fuss, he was really having a go at the girl behind the counter, she was only a young thing fresh out of high school Matt thought as he excused himself and approached the desk.  “Hey” he said brightly the man glared at him Matt smiled at the girl “Your friend needs a hand” he nodded in the direction of the desk he had just left; he winked at the girl as she rushed over.  “What the hell are you doing!” the man spat Matt just smiled “I’m stopping you from making a fool of yourself.  Give the kid a break.” Matt instructed before walking away. 

 

          Patsy rapped on the bathroom door; she was already for a night out.  Her black velvet trousers clung to her shapely form, while her red strapless top showed off her body to her best advantage, her hair softly brushed her shoulders as she lent against the door waiting for an answer.  Finally the door creaked open, Patsy smiled at Claire.  “Finally” she handed Claire her purse Claire gave her a sarcastic smile.  Claire picked up her black wrap and looked at Patsy “Well?” Patsy smirked “You’ll do” Claire laughed as Patsy wrapped her arm round Claire’s bare shoulders as they walked to the door.  Claire pulled her shawl round her shoulders as they stood waiting for the elevator.  Claire stepped in and cast a quick glance at the man resting against the wall, he seemed to take both her and Patsy all at once, he smiled at them making Claire shiver she suddenly felt very self-conscious and wished she’d chosen to wear a top that didn’t bare her midriff and shoulders.  Patsy noticed her unease and had to admit the guy gave her the creeps too. She locked her arm through Claire’s as they rode down in silence.  The doors opened a Claire gave a sigh of relief.  She shrugged off the feeling, which weighed on her shoulders as Patsy beamed “Come on so many bars not enough time!”

 

          Sammy slipped on to the couch next to Shannon he lifted his arm allowing her to snuggle up against his chest.  “What’cha thinking?” she asked as she fiddled with the buttons on his shirt, he smiled at her “Well I’m thinking about the film anymore.” Sammy smirked “Good!” she sat up quickly and reached for a magazine from the table “So we can discuss the wedding?” Shannon pretended to groan as Sammy opened the magazine and looked at the bridal flowers.  “Sammy do I have to pick the flowers?” Sammy elbowed him in the chest “You have to help!” Shannon rubbed his eyes with his free hand and looked at Sammy rather than the pictures.  “Which one do you like?” she asked consumed with the pictures not noticing as his hand slipped down her arm “I like this one” he said nibbling on her shoulder Sammy giggled “Please baby we have to think about these things!”  Shannon continued to nibble “But I want to discuss the honeymoon!” he whispered against her skin making her shiver. “Hen night!” she shouted suddenly startling Shannon he grinned “Guy could get a complex or an injury when you jump around like that.”  Sammy flashed him a stunning smile as she turned to sit astride him.  “I forgot about the hen night.  I mean I forgot the hotel!” Shannon sighed “I cant believe your gonna leave me on my own for three whole days!”  Sammy smiled wickedly “Well I better give you something to tide you over” Shannon smiled as she loosened his shirt and slid her hands across his chest moving in slowly for a soft and passionate kiss.

 

 

The young girl pulled her coat close to her body as she left the airport; her feet were killing in her tight shoes as she walked.  She headed across the road and waited for the bus checking her watch.  She was surprised when the midnight blue sedan pulled up beside her the passenger door opened, she crouched down to look inside, she smiled as the man spoke to her and then she nodded before climbing into the car.  She listened to the music and closed her eyes complaining as the man headed out of the town away from the bright lights.  The girl opened her eyes and looked at the dark haired man “I didn’t expect to see you again.”  She said quietly the man turned and smiled at her handing her a small bottle she looked at him confused “It’ll warm you up” he replied.  She smiled and undid the cap sipping the vodka soberly.  The man pulled off the main drag and smiled to himself as he pulled up at a small motel.  He flashed the girl a smiled she hiccupped, why was it, he thought, they always trusted what he gave them to drink.  He shook his head as he climbed out of the car.

 

The sun was warming the grass as Connor played on his mat under the watchful eye of his nanny Jennifer.  Jennifer smiled as he crawled towards her, he was eighteen months old and she loved every minute of the three days a week she spent watching over him.  The baby loved her, mind you she thought he loved that many people she thought he’d love everyone on earth one day.  He was a beautiful baby who looked so much like his mother but had a cheeky smile just like his dad.  Jennifer’s attention wasn’t diverted as the phone rang, she reached out and picked up the handset, which lay on the chair behind her.  “Hello?” she greeted warmly, “Hey Sammy what’s up?”  Jennifer smiled as Connor climbed over her legs “Yeah I know, I arranged to juggle my week.  Okay I’ll be calling Claire later she’s checking on a venue for Michael I’m sure she’ll call you before she gets back.”  Jennifer smiled as Connor studied the grass and scrubbed his blonde hair into it before beaming up at Jennifer with a large grass stain on his forehead.  Jennifer fought to restrain a laugh.  “Of course it’s okay.  Look if there’s anything you need me to do just call me okay.”  She shook her head as she put down the phone, gathering Connor in her arms she smiled at his cheeky grin “What am I gonna do with you!” she tried to scold as she laughed carrying him inside. 

 

The sun warmed Claire’s skin as she sat outside the coffee shop waiting for Patsy.  Claire checked her watch before sipping her orange juice.  They had had a relatively good night.  Patsy had danced the night away with three different guys but none lived up to Patsy’s expectations.  Claire wouldn’t describe Patsy as fussy but it would take a certain type of guy to get Patsy into a steady relationship.  Claire smiled as Patsy joined her, Patsy smiled as she slumped in the chair, “Remind me not to drink again!” Claire laughed as Patsy rubbed her temples “Here” Claire pushed a second glass of juice towards Patsy “I told you not to attempt to keep up with that guy.”  Patsy laughed and pulled a face.  “So what’s our plan of attack?” Claire shrugged watching as Patsy sipped her juice slowly Patsy definitely had a big hangover.  Claire bent down and pulled a pack of aspirin from her bag, she threw them at Patsy “We check out the venue make sure it lives up to it’s promises.”  Patsy nodded taking the tablets “Then what?”  Claire rubbed her shoulder “We check out the show see what kind of audience we could expect.  Patsy nodded “Okay lets get going!” she enthused as she downed the last of her juice to drowned out the bitter taste of the tablet. 

 

Matt woke up late, he hadn’t realised how tired and jet lagged he was.  It was almost four in the afternoon, he sat up and stretched, he had time for a long hot shower and a good meal then he would head out he had a long drive ahead of him.  He climbed out of bed and rubbed his face, it had been a long lonely year.  Matt was ready to throw himself back into training, he was ready to get his life back together.  He stood and flicked on the TV before walking into the bathroom.  As he turned on the shower the pulsating water drowned the newscaster’s voice out.  The picture of a young girl reflected in the bathroom mirror as Matt climbed into the shower, her imaged steamed up as he scrubbed his hair with his hands.  “The girl, twenty year old Stacy Connors was found by police in the early hours.  She appears to be the second victim of a killer the police are naming the Gentleman.”  Matt closed his eyes and let the water pound his face.

 

“Yeah well if you don’t want to let us look around then you lose the contract” Patsy pointed out as she stood arms folded in front of the five foot balding venue owner.  He seemed to snarl at her as Claire hung back trying not to laugh.  Patsy definitely had a way with words, the man shot Claire a glare “You gonna let her talk to me that way?” Claire nodded “Why not you’re the one being awkward” the man threw his hands up and nodded reluctantly.  “Okay okay but give me an hour?” Patsy shook her head “Now or never buddy we have more venues to check out.”  The man seemed very reluctant to let them into the small auditorium.  “I, it’s just we’re preparing for a show.” Patsy laughed sarcastically “We know that’s why we’re here now you can sit her and bitch about us all you want but we’re going to have a look around.”  Patsy waltzed out of the door Claire followed her biting her tongue.  Patsy shot her a dazzling smile and Claire couldn’t help but burst out laughing.  “Hey!” Patsy joked “Your ruining my image!”  They both laughed as they walked through the corridors checking out the backstage area.

 

Lesley watched as Jeff fiddled with his bike, she had no idea what he was doing she just liked to watch him work.  “Damn it!” he screeched as he jammed his fingers.  Lesley walked down the steps and rubbed his shoulder “Lets see” she took his hand in hers and smiled as he scowled “You are such a baby!” she commented as she checked over his fingers “See it’s nothing.” Jeff sighed throwing down his screwdriver “Paddy mick!” Lesley joked as Jeff stood hands on hips staring at the ground, finally Lesley sighed, “He’ll come home when he’s ready.” She soothed stepping forward and gently caressing the side of his face “Give him time.” Jeff stared into her blue, green eyes and smiled “I miss him” Lesley nodded “I know.  But it’s only another month.  He’ll be home soon and then within a week you’ll be sick of him.” Jeff smiled and nodded his girlfriend made a lot of sense sometimes.  “Okay” he relented “Now you gonna fix that or you just want to kick it?” Jeff laughed as he stared at his bike.  He kicked the tyre swiftly making Lesley laugh and then greasy hands and all he pulled a protesting Lesley into a strong embrace. 

 

Matt dumped his bag in the boot of the car and walked to the drivers door, he shivered he could feel eyes on him but he was all alone in the car park, it had gone six and it was starting to get dark.  He jumped into the car and started the engine.  A he pulled out of the driveway he didn’t notice the other car slipping out behind him.  The city roads were busy as Matt weaved his way through town, it would be a nightmare coping with interstate traffic, so Matt decided to use a short cut.  He pulled on to the back road and headed out.  The other car stuck to him like glue running the odd red light when it had to.  Matt found the back road he wanted was pleasantly quiet he boosted up the CD player and relaxed.  As he hummed along to the music he felt a sudden jolt pushing his car forward “What the…” he was unable to finish as he car was thumped again from behind.  Matt struggled with the steering wheel staring at the dark shadow in his rear view mirror.  He hit the accelerator wanting to put as much space between him and the shadow as possible. 

 

Patsy was looking around the seating area while Claire headed towards the ring, the place was practically empty, Claire was surprised, it wasn’t ready for the show in two hours.  Claire was beginning to doubt if they could use this place.  “What did he say the capacity was?” Patsy shouted, Claire turned “Two” she replied holding up two fingers Patsy shook her head “In his dreams” she muttered.  Claire turned and wondered why a ladder was left standing on what she assumed was the ramp way.  She shook her head as she looked up.  “You’ve got to be kidding me!” she remarked mounting the ladder.  Patsy looked over “What’s up?” she called heading down towards the ring.  Claire shook her head as she reached the top of the ladder “I don’t believe it!” there waiting for her was a light rig, it’s wires still hung from the attachment another six feet higher.  Claire knew this was not a place they would be doing business.  She prepared to climb down the ladder as Patsy called out “What’cha found darlin?”

 

Thump!  Matt felt the impact this time on his side of the car, “Damn it!” he cursed pulling the car off the edge of the road.  A second hit forced the tyres into the ditch.  Matt tried to pull up but the other car was still there holding him off.  Matt accelerated he needed to get ahead before the bend in the road.  The attacker seemed to pull away slightly Matt swerved the wheel but was met with another forceful blow.  It knocked him off the road; Matt struggled to hold on to the wheel as the car careered down the bank.  He ploughed through trees and churned up mud.  Matt starred out of the window as the car hit something in the dark and left the ground.  He raised his hands instinctively as the car rolled over the roof dented on impact.  It rolled twice more before resting the wrong way up deep in ditch a mile down from the road.  Matt lay unconsciously suspended upside down blood running from his head and arms.  The attacking car pulled away and took the corner at speed the driver laughed to himself “Got the message boy!” he laughed.  His rejoicing was cut short when the headlights of an oncoming car blinded him.  He swerved viciously and sent his own car into a spin he struggled to control it his breaks and tyres whining under the pressure.  The car stopped he breathed out and rested his head back closing his eyes happy to have escaped the close call.  As he congratulated himself he didn’t feel the thud of the truck as it ploughed in to him jack-knifing its load and crashing his car into the barrier.

 

“What are you up to?” Patsy wondered as she walked down the isle, Claire seemed to be climbing down the ladder.  Then they both heard it a strange noise and all the lights dimmed.  Patsy watched in horror as Claire’s body was propelled from the ladder and landed with a resonant thud in the ring.  “Claire!” Patsy yelled breaking into a run.  She jumped the barrier and scooted under the bottom rope of the ring.  “Someone get an ambulance!” she yelled to those she heard running in to help.  “Claire!” she shouted looking at her friend who lay pale and motionless on the canvass.  “Talk to me!” Patsy yelled, she could see someone climbing into the ring, she reached out a hand to touch her friend to shake her awake when she was pulled back “Don’t touch her!” the man yelled.  Patsy pushed him away “Get the hell off!” she returned to Claire “She’s been electrocuted!” the man screamed Patsy spun round strain at him.  “What the hell!” The man shook his head as he looked at the young girl who he was sure was dead.

 

          Claire felt strange her whole body tingled at first it wasn’t it wasn’t a bed sensation then it stung like hell.  Claire felt herself let go off the ladder, she wondered how fast she’d fall but she didn’t she was the first female superman, flying faster than a speeding bullet.  The canvass was cold as Claire hit it, her eyes were already closed her vision was filled with bright lights.  There was a sudden calmness that filled her as her world closed in on her.  She felt warm and safe as the tingling sensation left her body. 

 

The night was cold; Matt’s body was racked with pain as he reached slowly across his body to his seat belt.  He pressed the button releasing the belt his body seized as he hit the roof of the car; he sucked in as much air as he could.  He felt his eyes grow heavy his mind was cloudy his life seemed so far away.  Why was he so stubborn why didn’t he just go home?  He closed his eyes his whole body shook uncontrollably.  

 

The ambulances rushed across town, Patsy was sitting shaking inside one, her heart beat fast in her chest “Is she okay?” she asked the EMT ignored her.   “Is she alive!” Patsy shouted the EMT looked up from Claire’s unconscious body.  He looked worried Patsy grabbed Claire’s hand and squeezed “Come on pull through it!” she encouraged.  Claire’s eyes never flickered.  The EMT looked grave as the ambulance pulled into the hospital.  The doors opened and Patsy watched as they rushed the stretcher into the building.  Patsy followed close behind not wanting to let her friend out of her sight. 

 

The EMT’s slammed through the door the man on the stretcher was losing a lot of blood, it dripped into a bag at his side.  The stretcher stopped the doctor rushed over and began barking orders to his nurse.  The man fought them lashing out, the last place he wanted to be was in hospital.  He tried to sit up fighting against the two male nurses who were pushing him back down.  His eyes were wide as the second stretcher crashed in, he caught a glimpse of the girl, she was young with brown hair and pale skin.  The nurses pushed him down as a second doctor rushed in. 

 

Patsy stood in the hall the nurse refused to let her into the emergency room.  “She’s family!” Patsy yelled the nurse just pushed her back “The best thing you can do right now is leave her to the doctors.”  Patsy felt like screaming she turned away from the nurse “Is there anyone you can call?” the nurse asked Patsy rested against the wall and nodded “Yeah, yeah there is.”  The nurse led her to the desk; Patsy wiped her eyes before hitting the keys.  The phone rang three times before it was answered.  “Hi Lesley it’s me Patsy.  I need you to do something for me.  There’s been an accident.”

 

“What’s her name?” the doctor asked the nurse looked up from the needle she was pushing into Claire’s arm “Claire” the doctor nodded “Claire can you hear me?”  He saw a flicker “Can you open your eyes for me?” Slowly she responded her eyes flickering open.  “Good girl your gonna be okay.” The doctor checked the monitor her pulse was low but stable.  “Damn it!” the doctor attending to Claire turned, Claire could see past him to the other stretcher as she looked not sure of what she was seeing not really seeing anything at all.  The mans eyes shot open, Claire started, her nurse pulled out the needle and said words to soothe her.  Claire couldn’t hear her she just saw the man slowly lifting his arm reaching out to her before her world went black.

 

Lesley put down the phone and stared at Jeff, her bottom lip was shaking as he approached her “What is it?” he asked his voice comforting and concerned as he rubbed her arms “Claire’s been hurt.”  Jeff pulled her into a hug “Is she okay?” Lesley shook her head “She’s unconscious.  We have to tell Michael.”  Jeff nodded “Okay make the call I’ll get the car we’ll catch a flight and you can be there by morning.” Lesley nodded she was never amazed when Jeff came up with exactly what she needed they were so in tune it was unbelievable.  She let him go and turned back to the phone, the last thing she wanted was to break the news to Michael on the phone she needed someone to be there with him.  She picked up the handset and dialled, “Hi Shawn, is Jennifer there?” Lesley waited patiently for Jennifer to come to the phone.  “Hi?” Jennifer said her voice was as calm and friendly as ever Lesley closed her eyes she wasn’t sure what kind of reaction to expect.  “Hi Jennifer it’s me.  I have some bad news.” 

 

Matt could feel himself floating almost as he tried to pull himself up the bank.  He couldn’t believe how hard it was to travel a few inches.  He stopped his head hurt like hell and his hands were so cold they wouldn’t work properly.  Matt sighed was this how it was going to end, his life over before he’d even had a chance to live it properly.  He closed his eyes, he wouldn’t give up he had to keep going.  He opened his eyes and blinked the bank had melted away in to a shallow incline; there were spring flowers around him and a noise.  He sat up slowly and took in the beauty of the waterfall.  “Where the hell am I?” he wondered slowly realising his head didn’t hurt and his body was warm.

 

The tall man strode down the corridor, the nurses and doctors paid no attention to him despite his size, he was nearly seven feet tall with broad shoulders and a muscular frame.  His brown hair hung bout his face as he walked shielding his eyes, he wore a deep red coat over a black t-shirt and black trousers.  He opened the door of the emergency room and walked over to the stretcher, he pulled back the cover and looked at the man.  He frowned “What you playing at.” He turned and looked round the room, throwing back the cover he walked over to the other bench and looked, on the floor there lay a piece of paper towel.  He bent down and picked it up paying no attention to the orderly as they came into remove the body.  “Can’t say any one will be sorry to see this guy go.” One said as they tucked the sheet round the body and clicked off the brakes.  “You know they found a body in his truck.”  The tall man turned and watched as they pushed the trolley out of the room.  HE sighed and picked up the towel.

 

Patsy was dozing in the chair while Claire slept off the anaesthetic she had been given.  Claire moved slowly every bone ached; she opened her eyes and let them drift round the room, until they rested on the man standing in the doorway.  “Hi” she whispered her throat dry, he smiled and walked over and perched on the bed, “Your gonna be fine” he replied Claire nodded slightly “ he touched her forehead with the back of his hand, she blinked and tried to shrug off the clouds in her brain “Easy little one, you need to rest.” The man smiled at her Claire felt totally comfortable with him, his hands were warm as he touched her face, his eyes were green and friendly.  They reminded her of the ocean they changed as she looked at them like the rolling of the waves.  “Here” he whispered pouring her some water, he helped her lift her head and take a sip from the glass “Now rest.” He said Claire closed her eyes and felt his lips brush her forehead she wondered as darkness washed over her why a doctor would kiss her.

2.

 

The sun warmed Claire’s skin as she sat by the window staring out at the garden.  She had recovered fully and quickly from her shock.  She had been slightly amused by Michael causing such a fuss in the hospital that the nurses were happy to discharge her after two days just to get rid of him.  Since she had come home, he hadn’t let her out of his sight.  Patsy was moaning having Michael in there house morning to night was driving her crazy.  He would arrive at six and leave at midnight, in-between times he would harass Patsy no end.  Claire smiled as she heard Patsy shouting “Michael!”  Claire laughed she knew exactly what he’d done and that he’d done it on purpose.  She slipped off the window seat and walked out of her bedroom, it was eight o’clock and Michael wanted them to come down to breakfast.  Patsy however wanted to have a long hot shower and she told him so, well she shouted at him, which between the two of them was the equivalent of a conversation.  “I’m gonna get you Hayes!” she yelled as she came out of her bedroom wrapped in a fluffy towel dripping cold water all over the wood floor.  “When can we send him home?” she asked as Claire smiled and shrugged as she wandered down stairs.



Michael smiled at her as she walked into the kitchen; he pulled out a chair for her to sit in.  “Thanks” she said as she took her seat, Michael walked over to the bench and brought her a full English breakfast Claire pulled a face.  “You have to build your strength up.” Michael pointed out Claire shook her head “But I don’t need a heart attack!” Michael sat next to her “Your sure your okay?” Claire smiled and took his hand in hers “Pops I’m fine.  I promise I’m okay.” Michael nodded.  He had a special bond with Claire, after all he had delivered her and he took his role as godfather very seriously.  He had been in England on a tour while cutting his teeth in the wrestling business, he was a flamboyant performer and was working in social clubs round England for a promoter.  He had just finished his match when a man and his wife were brought into the changing rooms; she had gone into labour a week early.  Michael staid with them while they waited for the ambulance, it was the strangest thing suddenly he was thrown in to a terrifying situation, the baby was coming and no one knew what to do.  Michael moved quickly as his promoter yelled relayed instructions from the emergency operator.  After a half hour he had a little bundle in his hands, she cried and then looked up at him with big blue eyes.  He knew right then and there he would always love the little girl. 

 

“Hey pops” Claire said, bringing Michael back form his day dream “How is Paul doing?” Michael smiled “Good,” he pinched as slice of bacon from her plate “He’s taking to training, I mean he’d much rather be in the ring himself but his back is too tender to risk it just yet.”  Claire nodded “I might pop in and see him today maybe treat Shelly to lunch.” Michael nodded “Just don’t go mad.” Claire laughed “When will you stop wrapping me in cotton wool?” Michael smiled “Never I’ll even come back and haut you!” Claire laughed as he stood and grinned at Patsy, she stood in the doorway in her dressing gown her hair still damp as she flopped into the chair, “Thanks I needed waking up!” she scoffed as Michael smiled and kissed her head “Ah what would my girls do without me?” Patsy shot Claire a mischievous glance “Have hot showers!” she retorted starting off yet another playful argument.

 

“The body of the young nurse was found at eleven am.  She had been strangled by her own scarf, policing would like anyone with any information to come forward.” Jennifer flicked over the TV; sometimes the news was so depressing.  Connor on the other had was always a ray of sunshine, even when he was attached to her leg while she tried to pack away his toys, “Hey little man!” a voice boomed, Connor looked round Jennifer’s leg and beamed at Shane.  He let go and began crawling towards him.  Shane was tall with long black hair, he wore a baseball cap, lose jeans and a white football shirt.  He crouched down and gathered the baby into his arms, “Now what you doing to my girl huh?” Connor giggled as Shane tickled him; Jennifer laughed and walked over to them kissing both her favourite guys.  “How’s it going?” she asked Shane smiled “Well, Shawn has given me the day off so I thought I’d come and annoy you.  Give you two big kids to look after.”  Jennifer smiled she never minded when Shane wanted to annoy her she loved it.  “Well I guess you can walk with us over to Claire’s place.” Shane nodded “How is she?” Jennifer smiled as she picked up Connor’s sweater “Good, I think she’d do a lot better if Michael laid off her.” Shane smiled pulling faces at Connor who giggled and pulled at his hat.  “Yeah well we all wish that sometimes,” Jennifer laughed as she turned and caught Shane pulling fish faces and Connor attempting to copy him. 

 

Matt opened his eyes and studied the tall man who sat beside him “Your telling me I have a choice?” the tall man nodded Matt wondered what he was hiding behind the long hair that covered his eyes.  “Yes” the man, replied his voice was low as he watched the water roll past him “Okay I chose to go back.” The man nodded “Can I show you something first?” Matt studied the man as he rubbed his hands, “Show me what?” the man turned and looked at him “Something that might interest you.” Matt sighed as the man stood and walked to the water he couldn’t help but feel confused.  He’d been in this place for a long time, more than a day he figured but time had no effect here.  There was no night no day so to speak you rarely got tired and you rarely needed to sleep.  Matt looked up at the man and sighed, “Show me.”

 

Claire sat with Connor on her lap playing with her necklace, concentrating hard on it as it reflected the sunlight, he couldn’t quite figure out how to catch the glistening and hold it in his hand, but he was going to try.  Claire smiled and then looked up at Jennifer, “So what did you get her?” Jennifer poured out the orange juice as Shane smiled inanely “Why do I get the feeling it’s not something she can use in the kitchen!” Claire looked from Shane to Jennifer she knew they had come up with one hell of a theme for Sammy’s hen night, or nights after all three nights in Vegas was one hell of a party.  “Well,” Jennifer began Claire wasn’t sure she wanted to hear this, “When I saw it I couldn’t resist!  It’s your fault you put the idea in my head!” Shane couldn’t hold back his laugh anymore.  Claire stared at him bemused she had the feeling there was something Jennifer and Shane had been up to in private she didn’t want to know. 

 

“Hey get your butt back in that ring!” the young boy turned and frowned at Shelly, she was standing outside her office door hands on hips watching him.  He threw up his arms and walked back to the ring, no one wanted Shelly to shout.  She smiled and walked back into her office, where Paul was sitting smirking “Keeping wrestlers in check is my job!” he commented as she turned the key in the lock.  “And keeping you in check is mine!” she sat on his lap which made him smile as he rubbed his hand up the inside of her leg under her skirt.  “Now what are you gonna do without me this weekend.” Paul shrugged “Go insane” he whispered against her neck, “Ah ah!” Shelly whispered bringing his face up level with hers “I have a lunch date in an hour.” Paul smiled wickedly “So we do it twice.” Shelly laughed as he nuzzled her neck and let his fingers fiddle with her thong.  “By the way” he kissed her skin as he spoke his breath tickling her neck “Who you having lunch with.”  Shelly moaned slightly as his fingers stroked her “Wouldn’t you like to know!” She teased as Paul stood taking her with him and sitting her on the desk, “Oh you want me to torture it out of you!” he laughed Shelly smiled and lent back on the desk “Torture away!” she said with a smile.

 

The giggles could be heard all round the garden, matt watched as the baby tried to move faster than his body could.  Connor stopped and looked up at the two men and smiled, Matt felt his mouth open a bit as the child reached for him.  He stepped back reflexively as the young girl came round the corner of the house “Connor” she called Matt lifted his eyes from the baby who was now thumping on his feet.  Matt watched the girl intently as she strolled over he wondered what she would say to him after all what would she think having two very strange men standing in her garden.  Claire smiled at Connor as he played with the grass, she crouched beside the baby “What you up to little one?” The man with Matt smiled slightly at her words, Matt opened his mouth to speak wanting to apologise before the girl screamed and demanded they leave.  But she didn’t scream, she gathered the baby in her arms and he threw his arms round her neck, “Da!” he said Claire looked at his face as he turned and looked out at the garden “Da!” he pointed at Matt, Matt froze the girl looked straight at him.  The baby in her arms reached out to Matt the girl smiled “You’re a little nutter Connor.” She whispered kissing his cheek “What are you after?”  Matt was confused why was she looking at him and not screaming, wanting him to get away from her baby.  Her eyes waved and she looked past Matt, he turned seeing another man cross the grass, “Dada!” the baby yelled and tried to jump out of Claire’s arms,  “Oh now I get you!” she laughed as the man walked between Matt and his companion and took the excited baby out of Claire’s arms, planting a huge loud kiss on the baby’s cheek.  Connor giggle and pulled at the man’s cap, Shawn smiled and then pulled a face, which made Connor laugh even more.  Shawn then smiled at Claire and kissed her cheek “Okay Kamikaze” Claire smiled at him sarcastically.  “Yeah well I thought if you could do it.” Shawn laughed and shook his head Connor mimicked him “So what do we say babe is she nuts?” Connor jiggled in his arms “There you go it’s official” Shawn looked at Claire “Your nuts.”

 

Matt shook his head wondering why neither one of the couple were paying attention to him or his friend.  “They cant see us” the man said, Matt turned looking at him, “Touch her” the man gestured Matt turned back and studied the girl he shook his head “I don’t want to scare her.” The other man smiled “You wont.” Matt reached out slowly; the girl was still talking to her companion while the baby fiddled with his sunglasses.  As Matt stepped forward letting his fingertips touch her arm.  Connor laughed and jumped in Shawn’s arms, Matt jumped back.  “What you seen?” Shawn asked looking around the wind ruffled the grass “You are a strange one babe!” he laughed.  Matt reached again as Connor studied him intently, Matt touched her bare arm, his finger running down her soft skin.  She shivered, “You cold?” Shawn asked Claire shook her head “Come on lets go see if we can raid your auntie’s fridge!” Shawn laughed at the baby who clapped.  As the couple walked back to the house Connor looked over Shawn’s shoulder and waved at the men.  Matt turned to study his companion.  “They can’t see us?” he asked, the man nodded “Or hear you.” Matt was confused “But she moved I mean she felt something.” Matt could see a smile growing on his companion’s face.  “She can feel you and when you’re ready she’ll be able to see you.” The man turned and started walking away, Matt had a headache, his new friend talked in riddles and his brain was not ready to decipher them. 

 

Lesley finished her role of film and watched Jeff as he finished training.  He stopped lifting weights and smiled at her, “What?” he asked, she shook her head “Just thinking I’m gonna miss you tomorrow.” Jeff sighed, “Four nights, how will I cope?” Lesley smirked “You have a hand.” Jeff laughed as she winked and walked over to her camera bag.  He shook his head and reached down in to his bag pulling out his phone.  Lesley heard him huff, she knew he was anxious to see Matt but she also knew Matt wasn’t ready to come back.  She pushed her camera into its bag and turned “He’s not ready” she tried to sound comforting, Jeff shrugged “I wish he’d just call.”  Lesley perched on the edge of the bench beside him massaging his shoulders “Look you said yourself Matt wasn’t in good shape when he went away.” Jeff rolled his head “I just want to see my brother is that so bad?” Lesley stopped rubbed and rested her chin on his shoulder “No it’s not.” She kissed his cheek as he covered her hand with his.  “Come on then I have you for what another eight hours.”  He smiled Lesley laughed “Eight hours ten minutes.” Jeff pulled her to her feet “Better not waste any time then.”  He pulled her towards the showers.

 

Claire was laughing as Connor aimed and fired peach moose at Shane hitting him on the cheek, “Hey!” Shane protested wiping the sticking pale orange fluff off his face.  Shane licked some of the moose off his fingers “You know that actually tastes quite good.”  He waltzed over to the high chair and crouched by Connor “Aim it in here buddy” Shane sat mouth open as Connor jiggled in his chair contemplating his move.  Shelly shook her head and whacked Shane across the back of his “I don’t know taking food from a baby!” she mocked, Shane turned and stuck his tongue out giving Connor enough time to splat Shane in the eye.  Claire and Jennifer couldn’t help but laugh as they stood by the sink making lunch, Jennifer almost choked on her coffee as she laughed.  Shane stood wiping his eye and chasing after her “Don’t you dare!” Jennifer laughed as she ran out of the kitchen closely followed by a jeering Shane.  Claire returned to the salad she was making, Shelly stood next to her picking up a knife to finish off the cucumber Jennifer had started to chop.  “You okay babe?” Shelly asked looking at Claire concerned Claire turned her head slightly “I’m fine” Shelly studied her, she could see a slight bruise through Claire’s fringe, it was the only reminder of her unexpected flight.  Shelly nodded and reached up to move Claire’s hair “Good.” Claire smiled and sighed, “So if it’s not the accident what is bugging you?” Claire shook her head “It’s nothing.”

 

“I don’t get any of this” Matt said as he rubbed his head and followed his friend through the corridors of an apartment block.  “You will.” Was the only reply he got, Matt rolled his head as they stopped outside apartment 2c.  “Now what?” Matt asked “You’ve shown me a happy family what’s this the flip side of the coin?” The man opened the door, Matt stepped inside “Not exactly” the man whispered as Matt passed into the neat and minimal apartment.  A young woman walked over to the couch and picked up her bag, Matt watched, she was a tall blonde in her late twenties.  She walked into the bedroom and dumped the content of her bag on the bed, Matt looked at the man who pointed back at the room.  Matt turned wondering what they were waiting for, he felt like going back to the lake this wasn’t interesting him in the slightest.  His eyes widened as he looked back into the room, there standing behind the woman was a familiar face brandishing a scarf.  “No!” matt yelled darting forward, his companion held him back “Wait!” he demanded, “Wait?”  Matt spat “He’s gonna kill her!” Matt watched in horror struggling with his friend as the man stepped up to the girl and wrapped the scarf round her neck.  Matt froze as he watched the man twist his hands trying to garrotte the girl.  The man was more stunned than Matt was when the girl just walked away from him, undisturbed.  Matt relaxed as the man approached her again wrapping the scarf around her for a second time only to have her waltz away, Matt studied his friend as he leaned against the door frame “I told you not to worry” he said as the girl pulled on her coat and walked past them out of the apartment.  Leaving her attacker standing staring after her. 

 

Lesley sighed as she ran her fingers down Jeff’s bare back, he moved his head to look at her, “You have to go she’s one of your best friends!” eh said almost reading her mind.  Lesley smiled “You want to come in my suitcase?”  Jeff turned over and took her hand in his kissing it softly “I have two shows this weekend, you go have a goodtime and I’ll see you Monday.”  Lesley sighed and flopped back on the bed, “I hate it when you make sense.”  Jeff laughed at her a fiddled with her hair, “You know you want to go.”  Lesley nodded vaguely “You want to see how Claire’s doing don’t you?” Lesley looked at him; he always knew what she felt even when she didn’t.  She nodded she wanted to check on her best friend.  She wanted to make sure her brain hadn’t been fried totally.  Lesley sighed, “Okay” she moaned, “I’ll go” Jeff laughed at her as she pulled a face.  Jeff sat up in bed and smiled and stretched “We have another hour till you have to go.” He glanced back flashing a mischievous grin, Lesley laughed as he disappeared under the duvet. 

 

Claire sighed as she settled on to the porch seat beside Shelly, Patsy handed her a mug of coffee Sammy sat on the porch rail swing her legs.  Jennifer had just put Connor down for his nap on the other side of the porch she walked over and slumped on to a pile of cushions Patsy had put out.  “He’s sound.” She said relieved, Claire smiled “What time is Lesley getting here?”  Sammy asked anxious to get away, she wanted to be in the bright lights of Vegas now “I’m picking her up from the airport at seven” Claire replied laughing at Sammy as she looked like an excited child.  “So what was it you were gonna tell me in the kitchen? Shelly asked nudging Claire, Claire shook her head “Oh it doesn’t matter.” Claire shrugged off the cold feeling and sipped her coffee.  Jennifer picked up on the looks traded between Claire, Shelly and Patsy.  “Okay what’s all this?” Jennifer asked staring straight at Claire, Claire shook her head “It’s nothing” she defended wary of all the eyes on her “I’m fine!” she laughed blushing slightly.  “So why are you so defensive?” Sammy mocked Claire rolled her eyes “She’s having nightmares.” Patsy provided Claire rolled her head and smiled sardonically at Patsy “Thanks!” Patsy smiled “Your welcome.” Shelly rubbed Claire’s arm “What kind of nightmares?” Claire rubbed her head “There just nightmares.” She answered.  The girls exchanged worried glances, “Look guys I’m fine it was just a stupid nightmare!” Claire said as stood and walked into the house. 

 

Shelly studied Patsy “Well?” Patsy sat on the chair and pulled at the cushion Jennifer had gone inside to talk to Claire while Sammy sat watching the clock.  “She woke up screaming” Patsy said quietly “When I went in she was so scared she was pale and shaking.”  Shelly shook her head “You think she’s reliving the accident?” Sammy turned “You can’t blame her if she is, it sounded nasty I’d hate to think how it looked and felt.”  Patsy shook her head “It’s not the accident.  She dreamed that someone was murdered.”  Shelly looked at Patsy her mouth slightly open Sammy was now paying full attention to the conversation “A murder?”

 

Jennifer looked at Claire as she stood washing the dishes “If it’s no big deal why are you so stressed?”  Claire relaxed her shoulders “I’m sorry I flew off it’s just” she picked up the towel and wiped her hands “I feel so stupid about it.  I scared Patsy half to death.”  Jennifer smiled “Just tell me this are you feeling okay?  I mean not just health wise.” Claire smiled “I’m fine, I promise you I’m okay.  The odd ache health wise but my mind is in full working order.” Jennifer smiled “Good” she hugged her friend.  “Then that’s all that matters.”  Claire smiled but she still couldn’t shake the cold feeling that settled on her when she thought about the dream, it was so real so vivid.  “Jennifer!” came Sammy’s shrill voice “Someone wants you!”  Jennifer sighed hearing a cheeky laugh.   “Oh well that was short lived.”  Claire laughed as Jennifer walked out a smile on her face.  Claire looked back at the water and sighed ‘it was just a dream’ she told herself not even believing her own thoughts.

 

“He was going to kill her.  He had the scarf round her neck!” he turned to look at his friend who was resting against the car “You knew he couldn’t hurt her” The man nodded Matt threw up his hands “Will you just tell me” the man looked past him as Claire walked down the steps and jogged over to the car, Matt turned glancing at her as she stepped past him.  The man smiled at Matt as he lost track of his thoughts as the girl climbed into the car.  Matt looked back at his friend who was now sitting in the passenger seat “What the?”  Matt sighed and closed his eyes “I’m in the twilight zone!” He opened his eyes and sighed not surprised that he was in the backseat of the car while Claire reversed out of driveway.  “You gonna tell me why we’re stalking this girl?  You got a thing for her or something?”  Matt could feel the guy laughing at him.  “I give in” Matt slouched in the car watching the world pass by as Claire drove them to the airport. 

 

Lesley was waiting for the plane to land, for the past hour she had been thinking of how hard the next three days would be.  She knew they would be hard in a good way.  It would be great to have a girl’s weekend but she would also miss the warmth of Jeff’s body when he snuggled up to her in the middle of the night.  The taste of his lips on hers, the way he looked in her eyes, she sighed and rolled her head on the head rest, she really had to think of something else otherwise she’d be missing Jeff so badly she’d get back on the plane and go right back to him.  The plane screeched and rolled to a stop, Lesley smiled “Home sweet home” she whispered to herself.  Claire was waiting for her outside baggage claim.  Lesley couldn’t believe how well she looked so soon after her swan dive off the ladder.  Lesley walked over and hugged Claire tightly “How was the flight?” Claire asked smiling at her friend “It was okay you know” Claire took Lesley’s bag “Come on, the others are waiting for us.”  Lesley smiled as Claire walked her to the car and dumped her bag in the boot.  Lesley slouched in the passenger seat and waited for Claire to start the engine.   Claire spun the car Lesley felt her stomach lurch “I hate you” Claire laughed.  Ever since Claire learned to drive Lesley had hated her spinning the car in reverse at speed.  She was sure Claire did it just to make her feel sick. 

 

“So” Lesley began “Is Sammy ready for her big night?”  Claire nodded “She’s counting the minutes till we go and yes she caved on your dress.”  Lesley smirked “What?”  Claire laughed “You think I don’t know that you called Sammy whining cos the dresses were short?”  Lesley coughed “Moi?  Would I?” Claire chuckled as she looked at Lesley’s red face.  “She caved okay.  You have your wish the dresses are ankle length now” Lesley smiled “All the dresses?” Claire nodded “Yeah sure Sammy wants us all to look a like.”  Lesley nodded “I wasn’t meaning to be a pain” Claire laughed “Making you feel guilty am I?” Lesley stuck out her tongue in response.  Matt smirked watching the two brunettes chat and trade comical insults all the way to the house.

 

The tall man with long red hair strolled into the hospital; he looked around and saw the two nurses with puffy eyes he knew he was in the right place.  He walked over and solemnly smiled at them “Can I help you?” one asked dabbing at her eyes, “I’m sorry I understand that you’ve lost a college.”  The nurse studied him “You a reporter?”  Mark chuckled that was the last thing people ever accused him of being.  He shook his head as the nurse studied his green eyes; she had to look up at him he was almost seven feet tall.  “Who are you then?” Mark smiled and bowed his head “I’m looking for a friend of mine, I heard she was treated her a few nights ago.”  The nurse nodded “What’s her name?” Mark smiled “I don’t know.”  The nurse scowled “What was she treated for?” Mark shook his head “Let me guess you don’t know that either.  Thought you said she was a friend?” Mark rested on the counter and smiled his friendliest smile at the nurse “She’s someone I need to find.” The nurse sighed, “I don’t think I can help you.”  Mark placed his hand over hers, “Please.”  The nurse looked in to his eyes and relented there was something magnetic about this man, “You know anything about her?” Mark nodded “She would have lost consciousness the same time someone died.” The nurse nodded “Anything else?” Mark looked up “It would have been an unexpected death, not a patient you’ve been treating for a while.  Both would have been brought in together.”  The nurse knitted her brow as she looked at the computer “So two people in an accident.” She tapped the keys “No” Mark said, the nurse looked up at him “Two different accidents they weren’t related.” The nurse nodded “I’ll try but I don’t like your chances.”  Mark smiled he knew he could find what he wanted here.

 

Matt shook his head he couldn’t believe they were standing in the girls room while she was changing “What are you some kind of voyeur?” His friend smiled at him as Claire walked out of her bathroom and over to the bed, Matt sighed, he felt like he was watching a documentary, the day in the life of…. Well of whoever this girl was he still wasn’t sure.   She climbed in to bed and sighed as she rolled over burying her head in her pillows and closing her eyes, Matt sensed a hesitation in her, and she didn’t want to go to sleep.  “She’s afraid” his friend filled in.  Matt studied him “Afraid of what?” he looked at the girl she seemed okay to him.  She had a lot of friends gathered around her, she’d had some sort of accident but she seemed okay to him.  “Just wait.”  Matt sighed and looked out of the window.  It wasn’t long before his head snapped round, there was something wrong he watched as the girl tossed and turned on the bed, it was like she was fighting something.  Matt watched his friend his head hung low.  “What’s wrong with her?” Matt whispered as he walked over, she was still asleep; her body was beaded with sweat.  “Take a look,” the man said, Matt looked at him then at the girl, he sat on the edge of her bed and looked down at her “How am I supposed to do that?” 

 

The room seemed to warp round him, it moved so fast his vision was so blurred Matt felt dizzy.  He was no longer in the girls room but in another room, a lounge room.  There was a scream. He snapped his head round and saw the woman writhing on the floor she was choking.  “No!” Matt heard the disembodied voice it brought him back to the bedside, the girl was sitting bolt upright breathing hard.  She rubbed her face and flopped back on to the bed.  “She had a nightmare?” Matt turned to look at his companion; he shook his head “What she saw was very real.”  Matt was confused, “You want to just spell this out for me?” The man walked over to the bed “Sshh” he leaned down over the girl and whispered to her, her eyes remained closed, “Easy little one, it’s over now.” He brushed his hand across her cheek, she seemed to calm down and drift into a peaceful sleep.  Matt stood “Well?” he had had just about enough of this.  He wanted to know what was going on and he wanted to know now. 

 

The woman opened the door of her home, she was just finished her shift at the bar, she sighed kicking off her boots, she smelt like a beer barrel.  After all one had just soaked her.  She flopped on to the couch and closed her eyes all she wanted was a hot bath and a good nights sleep.  She stood slowly and headed towards the bathroom as she walked she felt something brush her neck.  She ignored it and walked towards the door, as she reached for the handle she felt herself being jerked back.  She grabbed at her neck; she could feel something and someone.  “Help!” she screamed her voice coming out as a choked whisper.  She struggled and felt her feet kicked out from beneath her she fell face first to the ground, writhing in terror she scratched at the hands tightening the scarf on her neck.  She felt her heart beat falter.  Her eyes bulged out the blood vessels bursting covering her eyeballs red, her hands scratched at the carpet trying to drag herself towards a possible escape.  He body was tight and her brain gasping and screaming for air.  “There now” a voice said as she stopped struggling, the fight gone from her.  Dean straightened and loosened the scarf from her neck; he smiled at her “You just don’t know how to make the grade.”  He sighed and studied himself in the mirror.

 

“Don’t!” The man yelled as Matt dived forward wanting to rip Dean’s head off, he missed and hit the floor he gathered himself up and watched as Dean walked out of the door whistling.  “Why didn’t you do something!” Matt yelled, the man shook his head “I cant.  She was already dead.”  Matt stared at him “Look around you, isn’t it familiar?”  Matt knew the room, he knew the woman, he’d seen her a half-hour before.  “She dreamed this?” Matt muttered the man nodded “But you were here you knew you could’ve stopped this!” The man shook his head “I can’t stop any of it.”  Matt sighed, “Then why are you showing me this?” The man walked out of the door Matt followed.  They walked out of the building crossing the street and somehow they were back at the lake.  Matt sighed and sat down his head was spinning, “You remember the guy?” Matt nodded “He was the guy in the airport.”  Matt looked up “Oh shit, it was him.  The guy who killed me!”

3

 

Claire got out of bed she couldn’t remember her dream but she was thirsty as hell and her throat hurt.  She padded downstairs and into the kitchen, Sammy was already seated at the table nursing a glass of water.  She smiled at Claire “Hey couldn’t sleep?”  Claire shook her head “Needed a drink.  You?”  Sammy held up the glass Claire pulled a face opening the fridge and pulling out the orange juice.  Sammy chuckled as Claire joined her “Water is good for you.” Claire smiled “That why it tastes so bad?”  Sammy shook her head “Did you have another dream?” Claire nodded “I think so but I can’t remember it now.”  Sammy nodded Claire looked at her face she was hiding something “What?”  Sammy shrugged “I walked past your room earlier I felt something.” Claire wondered if her brain was always this cloudy “You felt something?”  Sammy nodded “Or someone.” Claire lifted her head “Okay you wanna tell me what you mean?”  Sammy nodded “You weren’t alone in there tonight, someone was with you.”  Claire shivered “They weren’t there to hurt you.”  Claire smiled “They?”  Sammy nodded “There were two one stronger than the other but both good.  I know you think I’m nuts when I say I’m psychic but I did feel something.  I think something was watching out for you.” 

 

Matt couldn’t believe it; he paced up and down as his guide sat watching him “You know what this is all about?”  The man nodded “Tell me?” the man sighed, “I asked you to make a choice to go or to help.  I’m asking you to help the girl.”  Matt shook his head “No.” he stared at the man who stood “You wont help her?” Matt shook his head “You bastard” Matt stared at the man “How would you know what I am?”  The man shoved Matt “You don’t see it do you!”  Matt tried to shove back but the taller man was stronger and intent on making his point  “I showed you what can happen!  I showed you the girl!  You saw her you saw her dream!  Now your telling me you won’t help her!” Matt stumbled and slipped into the water.  “Back off” he yelled at the man  “This isn’t my problem!” the man turned throwing back his head, Matt jumped out of the water as it burst into flame.

 

“Okay guys!” Shelly yelled “You know where your rooms are we get separated you know where to go and don’t lose all your money tonight Sammy!” Sammy looked offended as they walked out of the hotel.  Claire hung back with Lesley who was worrying about her.  “Are you sure you’re okay?”  Claire hugged her friend “I’m fine I promise” They walked out of the door the man in the suit stood staring at them, he smiled and followed them to the Majestic casino.  Claire sat at the table with Shelly and Lesley while the others danced, the man stood watching all the girls, hell if they were all together he could have some fun.  The girls all looked good anyone of them would give him the excitement he wanted.  He sighed just thinking about it turned him on. 

 

Matt stared at the guy “Where the hell are we?” Matt looked around; he was surrounded by people and noise.  The man looked at him “I want to make sure you know what your doing.”  Matt sighed, “I made my choice.” The man nodded “I know.” He looked at the dance floor of the hotel and smiled “They all seem so happy.”  Matt turned and watched as Claire walked on to the dance floor with Lesley they laughed and chatted as they danced.  Matt half smiled at the girl, she was sweet he guessed.  She seemed nice enough and she had no stable image, he remembered her hair being curly when she was in the garden, wavy when she went to bed and now it was straight.  He smiled as she said something and Sammy hugged her wildly.  Claire winked at Lesley and they moved away from the others, Patsy and Shelly smirked at each other as Claire and Lesley approached the DJ.  Matt didn’t take his eyes off them he smiled as they worked their way through the crowd laughing.  Then he froze, his mouth dropped open as he saw the killer.  He watched as Claire passed him, she didn’t see him; he reached out and smiled as his fingers touched her skin.  Claire turned reflexively, the man smiled she was his mark for tonight.  He couldn’t explain why but there were girls he couldn’t touch and he didn’t know why.  It was starting to get annoying, there were women he wouldn’t and there was something stopping him from having her. 

 

Sammy screamed as the girls came back and the DJ started playing “Time of my Life” from Dirty Dancing.  Sammy couldn’t believe Lesley and Claire has suspended between them a blow up male doll dressed in a tux with an L-plate on his back.  Patsy laughed as Shelly retrieved a hat they had left at the bar, it was covered in condoms, fluffy chicks streamers and had bottle corks suspended from the back.  Everyone on the floor laughed as the girls danced around a red faced and laughing Sammy.  Matt watched the man as he stood staring at the girls “Who is he?”  His companion rested on the rail “You remember what happened to you?”  Matt nodded “Yeah well in his haste to celebrate knocking you off, he played one on one with a truck.  It won, squished him up against the wall.  He made it out of the wreck just. The girl on the other hand didn’t” Matt stared at him “The girl” Matt closed his eyes and remembered the girl at the airport he shook his head “I thought he was just being a jerk!” Matt looked back at the girls but they had gone.  He looked at the bar, time had flown it was gone three. 

 

Patsy closed the door as Claire smiled “She out of it?”  Patsy nodded “She’s hugging her dream date and singing!” Claire laughed as they walked to the elevator; they were on the floor below Sammy and Jennifer who were both drunk and probably comatosed on their beds by now.  Claire rubbed her neck as the doors opened.  The girls stepped inside and rode the elevator down a floor.  In their own room Claire flopped on to the bed, she was exhausted Patsy laughed “I’m gonna have a soak in the tub.”  Claire waved weakly from her bed.  Patsy laughed throwing a pillow at her before going into the bathroom.  Matt stood on the balcony watched as she rolled over and closed her eyes.  “So why her?  What has she to do with any of this?”  The man sighed “Nothing that’s the sad thing.”  Matt looked at him confused “You’ve made your choice.”  Matt sighed, “I’m sorry for her okay, but what the hell am I supposed to do?” the man shook his head “What ever you feel like.”  Matt closed his eyes.  He could hear her moaning in her sleep, his friend walked into the room “Sshh little one” he soothed Matt watched finding the man’s attention to the girl almost fatherly.  Matt sighed resting on the doorframe, he watched as the man worked his magic and then sighed he looked solemn.  “What?” Matt asked, the man just looked up, Matt felt cold.

 

“Police describe the attack as unprovoked and heinous.  The woman was found around six am, it appears she had been strangled.”  Sammy opened her eyes, her head hurt and her body ached.  Her inflatable friend was taking up most of the bed.  Two nights in Vegas felt like a month.  She sat up slowly looking at the TV screen; she took in the live feed of the police searching the area near a casino.  Sammy recognised the place, they had been there she had lost fifty bucks there last night.  She was glad that was all she lost.  She slumped back on the bed and closed her eyes.  Patsy walked on to the balcony and handed Claire a glass of juice laughing at the sight of her friend still in her pyjamas but wearing her sunglasses.  “Over do it did we?”  Claire chuckled she felt fine, no hangover, then again she didn’t drink.  What was bothering her was her dream, she saw a woman and a bright light, the woman was hanging form it.  She sighed “Last night!” Patsy nodded taking in the view “You bet, got any plans?” Claire smirked “I’m a traditionalist.”  Patsy laughed and suddenly realised why they has all packed some of the most peculiar things. 

 

Matt watched as the police loaded the body into the coroners van.  His companion stood head bowed.  Matt studied the crowd his eyes settled on his enemy “I don’t even know his name.” His companion looked up and followed Matt’s gaze to the man who stood in his black suit with a smile on his face. “Dean” he replied Matt nodded “Does he see us?” his companion shook his head.  “No he has no idea what’s going on just that he can’t always get the women he wants and he hates it.”  Matt sighed and followed the man as he walked away “I don’t know your name either.” The man lifted his head “You can call me Kane.” Matt nodded as they walked across the road.  Kane headed towards the coffee shop and waited outside, inside Claire stood at the counter she was talking with the shop owner.  Matt smiled she had changed again her hair was curly and pulled back off her face.  He shook his head wondering if her personality was the same, was she a different person everyday. 

 

The bike growled to a stop, Mark studied the house it was a two-storey building with a window in the attic.  It was set back from the road with a stone driveway and a large garden.  It was a light blue wood house with a white porch swing.  He climbed off his bike and walked round the outside of the house, it would suit a family he thought feeling a pang inside.  “Can I help you?”  Mark turned and smiled at the older man with the blonde hair.  “Hi, I’m looking for Claire?” Mark studied the man, he didn’t smile “And who are you?”  Mark stood his ground, “Someone she’s gonna need to talk to.”  Michael studied the tall man, he was well built he wouldn’t be out of place in the ring.  “Do you wrestle?” Michael asked Mark nodded “I fight.”  Michael smiled and walked closer holding out his hand “Michael Hayes.  Claire is my goddaughter; she’s out of town till tomorrow. “  Mark smiled this man had a good grip, “How do you feel about a work out?”  Mark nodded anything to waste time till Claire got home.  He needed to talk to her and soon.

 

The sun set on Vegas as the girls walked along the strip, Claire and Lesley had arranged the last night as a special treat, and Sammy had no idea what they had up their sleeves.  They walked into the Summit a nightclub come restaurant.  Sammy was in awe of the place it was outlandishly decorated.  Lesley squeezed her eyes shut not wanting to laugh as the waitress came over, Shelly chocked on a laugh their waitress was guy dressed in a pair of tight shorts with a bow tie.  Sammy beamed at the tanned muscular body.  The girls had already decorated her outfit with condoms, horseshoes, garters and confetti.  Sammy was led to a table right in front of the stage and dance floor.  There she enjoyed the drag act, the magician and the singer who serenaded her.  “So far so good” Lesley whispered as the tune “You can leave your Hat on” belted out.  Sammy screamed as the naval officer walked towards her licking his lips.  Jennifer laughed as the man leaned over to kiss Sammy; Jennifer nipped his bum and received a wink.  Lesley pulled out her camera and began snapping. 

 

It was almost four when they got to the hotel.  Claire and Lesley were practically carrying Sammy while Patsy Jennifer and Shelly sang at the top of their voices.  Claire opened the bedroom door and struggled to pull Sammy to her bed where she dumped her and left her already a sleep.  Claire shook her head as she stepped out into the corridor; Lesley smiled at her “Nice choice” she laughed as they thought about the stripping naval officer.  “I’ll tell Jeff to hire the costume!” Claire joked as Lesley walked into her room with Shelly still laughing.  Patsy pressed for the elevator “I’ll be glad to get home and get some sleep.”  Claire nodded “Yeah I just want to sleep for a week.”  Matt stared at the elevator when he heard the bell the door opened slowly as he in hailed sharply “No!” he cursed seeing his enemy in the elevator-waiting scarf in hand.  Kane held Matt’s arm they both watched as Claire stepped inside.  As Patsy moved in the door shut “What the!”  Patsy hammered on the call button but nothing happened.  Inside the elevator Claire was doing the same “Oh come don’t do this.”  The lights flickered “Please don’t” she begged, she knew something was wrong, a cold chill descended on her.  Matt rushed forward and looked at the doors “Do something!” he shouted turning to Kane “What do you want me to do?” Matt stared at him “Help her!” Kane shook his head.  “I cant.”  Matt stared at the door he felt his heart lurch as she screamed “Claire!” Patsy yelled hammering on the elevator door.  The screaming continued.  Matt felt his anger rising “Damn it help her!”  Kane continued to shake his head “I cant Matt only you can do that.”   Matt stared at the doors “He’ll kill her” Matt wanted his words to have an effect why wasn’t this guy doing anything why wouldn’t he help.  He watched as Kane pushed back his red hair and settled his green eyes on Matt “Choose” he said.  Matt stared at the door the girl was still screaming.  Matt shook his head and stepped back turning his back on the elevator Kane watched him. Claire screamed once more Matt bolted turning and diving at the door. Kane smiled

 

“Claire!” Patsy yelled two hotel employees ran up to her begging her to calm down “My friends in there!” she screamed.  They nodded and began pulling at the doors. Inside Claire could feel cold hands on her throwing her into the walls she feel to the ground covering her head something scratched at her pulled at her hair.  She felt herself being lifted, kicked and punched she struggled lashing out in the darkness meeting nothing but air and then she fell hitting the floor with a hard thud.  It knocked all the air out of her, there was another crash Claire pushed herself up against the wall and waited.  It was suddenly very silent.  Patsy jumped back as something hard hit the doors buckling them.  The men pulled at them the huge dint giving them leverage to writhe the doors open.  Patsy didn’t wait she rushed inside and found Claire curled up her arms badly scratched and bleeding “What happened?” she asked as she lifted Claire’s shaking head.  Claire had no idea.  Patsy helped her to her feet “Come on lets get you out of here.”  Claire nodded as Patsy walked her out and down the stairs leaving the two men to stare in wonder at the door. 

 

Claire lay on her bed and closed her eyes, Patsy sat next to her staring at her arms, “You didn’t see anything?” Claire shook her head “No it was too dark.”  Patsy nodded the scratches Claire suffered weren’t deep but there were visible grip marks on her arm, Lesley couldn’t quite believe it as she carried over a damp flannel.  “I talked to the bellboys they said the light above you shattered” Claire nodded she knew that wasn’t true but what was the truth?  Patsy dabbed her arms gently most of the scratches were already fading.  The bedroom door opened as Jennifer came in carrying a first aid kit “I got it from the desk.”  She sat on the bed by Claire and dabbed her arms with antiseptic.  “How’s your head?” Claire nodded “Still on my shoulders.”  Jennifer closed the box “You’ll be okay!” she joked Claire nodded “Yeah I will.  Sobered you lot up pretty quick.”  Claire would do anything to change the subject and stop everyone looking so scared.  “Okay guys” Patsy said “Time to turn in we have to catch a flight tomorrow.” Jennifer and Lesley obeyed saying goodnight and leaving.  Claire sighed as Patsy walked over and pulled the covers over Claire “Thanks mom” Claire joked her eyes heavy Patsy chuckled and walked over to her own bed “Night daughter!” Patsy laughed.  Claire rolled over and looked out of the window. 

4.

 

“They’ll be home in a hour.” Michael said handing Mark a mug of coffee.  “Now you want to tell me why you are so intent on seeing Claire?” Mark shrugged “She had an accident I have some questions about.”  Michael nodded “It should never have happened what idiot leaves live wires on a metal ladder and then turns the power on.”  Mark shook his head “She fully recovered?” Michael nodded as he sipped his coffee “She has had a few nightmares but she’s doing great.  She’ll be damned if she’ll take time off work.”  Mark smiled sounded this girl was very strong minded “What does she do?”  Michael adjusted his trousers as he sat back in the chair, “She works for me.  She’s a talent and venue scout.”  Mark sat forward knitting his brow “Talent scout for what?”  Michael smiled and nodded at the pictures on the mantelpiece “Wrestlers.  Despite her parents best efforts I corrupted her” Michael laughed as Mark stood to look at the pictures.  Claire stood with another girl, an attractive auburn haired woman.  Mark studied both girls “This is Claire?” he pointed at the longhaired brunette Michael nodded “Yeah that’s her.  That was taken about six months ago when the guys got their pro contracts.”  Mark nodded and returned his attention to the other woman “Whose this?” he pointed at the other girl Michael smiled “That’s Patsy, pretty isn’t she?” Mark blushed slightly as he sat back down.  “So tell me about Claire?” Mark asked swiftly changing the subject.  Michael chuckled he didn’t imagine Mark was the type of guy you could make nervous easily.   “Well, what do you want to know?”  Mark shrugged any information would a bonus to him.  “How long have you known her?” Michael smiled “You could say I was the first person she ever saw.”  Mark sat back in the chair while Michael reminisced.

 

Sammy caught up to Claire as they left the airport “You okay?”  Sammy looked at Claire’s arms; Claire had worn her black v-neck jumper on purpose so her arms would be covered.  Claire smiled “Doesn’t look like it’s my month.”  Sammy shook her head and smiled.  Outside Shawn, Shannon and Shane were waiting for them.  Sammy beamed as she saw Shannon she dropped her bags and ran in to his waiting arms smothering him in kisses.  Claire, Pasty and Shelly stood laughing as Jennifer walked over to Shane and hugged him “You’d think we’d been away for a month!”  Shelly joked “No Paul then?” Patsy mocked as Shelly pulled a face.  Claire looked at Lesley “Aw don’t worry you’ll be back with Jeff tomorrow.”  Lesley smiled sweetly she had done nothing but think of Jeff since she left him.  “Come on then” Claire encouraged “It’s bloody cold out here!” Shelly and Patsy laughed as they walked towards Shawn.  Sammy waved goodbye to the girls as She climbed into Shannon’s car “That’s her hibernating for the next three days.”  Claire smiled “Well she has three days to make up for.”  Lesley laughed as they climbed into the car “I think she’s starting already” Claire looked out of the window and saw Sammy practically sitting on Shannon’s knee as he pulled out of the car park.  “So did you guys behave?”  Shane asked as he opened the door for Jennifer, she smiled and nodded “It was definitely an experience.”  Shane jogged round and climbed in.  “Did Sammy like her new man?”  Jennifer laughed “Yeah she spent the past two night cuddling him.”  Shane laughed “Wonder if Shannon minds sharing his bed.”  Jennifer smirked and kissed Shane on the cheek “I’m just glad we don’t have to share with anyone!” 

 

It was dusk when the car pulled up outside the girl’s house, Patsy, Claire and Lesley thanked Shawn as he lifted out their bags and then they waved as Shawn left to drop Shelly off at home.  Claire wondered as they walked up to the front door whose the bike was and she knew Patsy was thinking the same thing, with a touch of admiration for the perfectly cared for machine.  As they walked in and dumped the bags, Claire studied the door into the living room “I’m gonna make some tea” Lesley said walking into the kitchen as Claire wondered over to the door, “Hey” she said studying the strange man sitting on the chair.  Michael stood and smiled at her “Hey how was your trip?” Claire smiled at Michael as he walked over and hugged her, “Good.  Lesley’s making tea” Michael nodded “This is Mark, he has a couple of questions about your accident.”  Michael walked out of the room as Mark stood; Claire had to crane her neck to look him in the eye.     “What are you?  Insurance or something?” Mark smiled “Not exactly.”  Patsy stumbled into the room laughing she stopped as her eyes feel on Mark forgetting what she wanted to say “Who’s this?” she asked studying Mark as he studied her.  “I’m not quite sure,” Claire, answered nudging Patsy to tell her to stop staring.  Mark half smiled as Patsy managed to tear her gaze from his strong arms and chest.  “I’m gonna get take out Michael has emptied the fridge and you have to play war with him about the cigars.”  Claire laughed, “Is your guest staying?” Patsy shrugged “I’ll get extra we can have it for breakfast.”  Claire pulled a face as Patsy left. 

 

Kane was waiting patiently for Matt to wake up.  He sat watching his reflection in the water; he never changed, never aged.  He sighed and turned as Matt sat up rubbing his head.  “What the hell did you hit me with?”  Kane smiled “No one hit you, you were the one doing all the hitting.”  Matt half smiled “Is the girl okay?” Kane nodded Matt sighed “Good.”  Matt walked over to where Kane was and sat on the small wall that he didn’t remember being there.  “Why didn’t you help her?” Kane shrugged “I can’t.  Only someone connected to her can.”  Matt rubbed his head “I don’t get it.”  Kane smacked him on the shoulder almost sending him sprawling back.  “You and the girl have something in common.”  Matt eyed him warily Kane chuckled “Are you ready to help her now?”  Matt sighed and nodded slowly.  Kane smiled “Good.  Maybe she wont die then.”  Matt’s eyes widened with fear.

 

Claire studied Mark as they walked out on to the porch “So what questions do you have for me?”  Mark smiled being as friendly as he could “When you had your accident do you remember much of what happened?” Claire smiled “I fell from a twenty foot ladder on to canvas, needless to say I had one hell of a headache.  So no I wasn’t taking too much notice of what was going on around me.”  Mark almost laughed it was good the girl had a sense of humour.  “Did you lose consciousness?” Claire smiled “A few times” Mark nodded and sighed why did he have to be right, why couldn’t it of just been a coincidence.  Claire sat on the porch swing and studied him “Nice bike” Mark smiled “Thanks.  What happened to your arm?” he pointed to the scratches, Claire pulled her jumper sleeve down and smiled.  “I had a run in with an elevator” Mark smiled “May I?” he asked moving forward, he crouched in front of Claire and smiled “I wont hurt you little one” Claire stared at him her mouth dropped open slightly as he gently touched her arm and examined the pale marks.  He looked up at her face “What is it?”  Claire studied his green eyes “Why did you call me that?”  Mark smiled and shook his head. 

 

“She’s gonna die?” Matt was exasperated Kane shook his head “No I said she would’ve died but you made the right choice.”  Matt stood and began pacing he wished the dull ache in his head would go away so he could concentrate.  “Everyday you’re here you get stronger.”  Matt turned and listened hoping he would be able to ignore the pain in his head.  “Unfortunately so does he.” Matt sat down “The killer you mean?  Dean?” Kane nodded,  “As you both get stronger the more danger the girl is in.”  Matt shook his head “Back up okay.  What do him and me have to do with her?  I’ve never seen her before.”  Kane nodded “It’s easier if you ask her.”  Matt looked confused “How do I do that?” Kane smiled “Time for your first lesson.” 

 

“So you got what you need big guy?”  Patsy asked as she walked on to the porch, Mark turned and smiled at her.  She didn’t return it as she stood arms folded protectively in the doorway.  “Your friend seems like a nice girl” Patsy scowled “What are you some kind of jerk off lawyer?”  Mark laughed out loud which made Patsy angry.  “Do I look like a lawyer?”  Patsy cast a sceptical glance “Nah you look too scummy to be a lawyer.” Mark smiled “Thanks.”  Patsy smiled sarcastically “So what are you?”  Mark shrugged “A friend.”  Patsy laughed at him, she had known a lot of con men in her time and she didn’t like this guy’s attitude, the fact he had one hell of a body she would like to get to know didn’t come into it.  “Look buddy I eat guys like you for breakfast so why don’t you do one and stay the hell away from Claire.”  Mark stood and stepped forward, this woman was not only had a body he was dying to touch but a temper he would definitely enjoy getting the better of.  “Don’t you think that’s up to your friend.”  He heard her growl and smiled as she turned walking into the house and slamming the door “See you tomorrow.” He laughed as he walked off the porch. 

 

“Who the hell does he think he is!” Patsy ranted as she walked into the lounge,  “Well I thought he was an okay guy” Michael said looking at Claire who nodded “You two have no idea!” Patsy said storming out of the room and stamping upstairs.  Michael laughed “Looks like someone was rubbed up the wrong way.”  Claire laughed wondering if Patsy was mad because she hadn’t been ’rubbed up’.  Claire shook her head as she finished her tea “What did he want then?” Michael asked Claire shook her head and walked over perching on the arm of the chair “Not quite sure pops.”  Michael patted her leg and smiled at her reassuringly.  “I wouldn’t worry about it.  I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”  Claire nodded as Michael stood “Now give me a hug and I’ll get myself home.”  Claire smiled and stood to hug him  “Night pops.”  Michael kissed her forehead before leaving.  Claire closed the door after him and sighed, Mark’s words were bothering her, she knew she’d never heard his voice before but she had been called ‘little one’ she rubbed her neck as she walked up to her room. 

 

The lights blinded Matt momentarily, he felt like someone flashed a camera in his face.  He focused slowly watching as Claire walked across the room, Kane had left him alone said this was something he had to figure out himself.  Claire opened her bag and sighed looking out of the window, for the first time Matt really looked at her.  He had seen prettier girls that he admitted to himself but this girl looked good to him.  She had brown hair, which was straight and shoved behind her ears as she watched the rain dance on the windowpane.  Matt wondered how he was supposed to talk to her, how was he supposed to get the answers he needed from her.  He sighed as she turned and walked over to her bed, Matt watched as she opened a draw and pulled out a vest she pulled at her own jumper lifting it away from her body.  Matt closed his eyes there were some things he wouldn’t intrude on even if he were in a position too. Claire pulled on her vest and then changed her trousers Matt opened his eyes slightly checking she was decent.  He sighed when he saw her throwing the cushions off the bed before she climbed in.  Just as she was about to settle down the door creaked.  Patsy peaked inside “You asleep?”  Claire smiled “Yep sound!” she replied as Patsy walked inside.  “What did the jerk want?” Claire sighed sitting up “What jerk?” Patsy sat on the edge of the bed, “The guy with the hot bike.” Claire smirked “You mean the hot guy with the bike?” Patsy rolled her eyes “Oh please!” Claire laughed, “I don’t really know what it’s about.  Guess I’ll find out tomorrow” Patsy rolled her head “he’s not coming back!” Claire giggled, as Patsy walked to the door “Don’t expect me to be nice to him!” Patsy closed the door after her. 

 

Claire snuggled down under the covers and sighed, she closed her eyes, Matt waited nervously biting his lip.  He stepped close to the bed and crouched beside it, he sighed as he gently stroked some hair from her face, he felt himself being pushed back he in hailed quickly his hand tingled and he saw it.  He saw her on the ladder, he felt the jolt she felt as she rocketed backwards and hit the ground.  Matt breathed in deeply before moving forward again this time he touched her hand.  He saw the door open and the doctors rushing around, their voices were muffled as they spoke, Matt could see Claire lying on the bed, her eyes were open, just, he could tell she was struggling to stay awake.  Matt turned his head and felt revulsion, there dying was Dean.  He watched unable to do anything as Dean reached out to Claire her eyes closed the instant his did.  Matt had a sudden feeling of dread.  Dean flat lined.  Matt opened his eyes, “I told you she was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”  Matt sighed and walked over to the window he rested against the frame “So what do I do?”  Kane smiled “What you have to.  The more time you spend with her helping her the stronger you get. I don’t know why it just does.”  Matt shrugged “Stronger how?”  Kane walked over to Claire and watched her sleep “In time she’ll be able to see you in her dreams, then she’ll see you for real.”  Matt smiled “People can see me?” The thought warmed him, “She can see you.”  Matt sighed he guessed it was better than nothing “Other things come in time, you’ll figure it out.”  Matt nodded “Yeah well I can always ask you.”  Kane shook his head “Why can’t I ask you?” Matt asked wondering what he had let himself in for “This is the last time I can be here she’s your responsibility not mine, I’ve used all my cards up here.”  Matt shook his head “I can’t do this on my own.”  Kane smiled “You’ll be surprised at what you can do eventually.”  He bent over and kissed Claire’s forehead gently “Take care of her” he said as he slowly faded away. 

 

Lesley was sitting at the breakfast table when Claire got up, she tutted as Claire came into the room “Your disgraceful!” she said a tone of laughter in her voice “Leave me alone it nine am!” Lesley smirked “That’s what I’m talking about!” Lesley finished Claire shook her head and sat down at the table “I don’t have to work till lunch leave me alone!” Claire mocked.  Matt sat on the kitchen bench missing the taste of food.  “So what you got planned for the day?” Lesley asked as Claire grabbed a glass of juice “I have a meeting with Paul and Shelly about one of the new guys.  That is after I drop you at the airport.” Lesley smirked “Yeah send me home” Claire smiled “I know you miss him.  But I miss you too you know!” Lesley smiled “Yeah well there are things he does that you definitely cant!” Claire laughed as she drained the glass “Okay I’m gonna shower.”  Lesley shook her head “That all the breakfast your gonna have” Claire turned and smiled “Yup” she walked out of the room leaving Lesley to mock her alone.  Matt watched for a moment before following Claire upstairs he decided to wait on her bed while she took her shower.  He closed his eyes and waited, she had dreamed of some girl last night he knew it but he wasn’t sure what he could do about it.  Kane hadn’t left him with much information. 

 

Mark walked up on to the porch which was still wet from the rain, he sighed as he pulled back his fist to knock he was surprised when the door opened.  Lesley stood in front of him, she was level with his chest, she bit her lip as she looked up and smiled “Hi there!” she greeted Mark nodded “Claire around?” Lesley nodded “Come on in, she’s getting dressed.  Why don’t you go in to the kitchen I’ll tell her you’re here.” Mark nodded “By the way who are you?” Lesley asked as he stepped inside, Matt offered his hand “Mark” Lesley shivered he had a very deep voice.  “Lesley.  Nice to meet you.  I’ll go get her.”  Lesley jogged off upstairs, while Mark found his way in to the kitchen.  He stood in the doorway and watched as Patsy who was still dressed in her favourite black silk nightshirt danced around singing along to the radio.  She stopped as she spun and saw him.  She looked him coldly in the eye “Don’t you knock!” Mark smiled “Why would I when I can see a show like that!  Don’t stop on my account.”  Patsy pulled another face and took her toast and sat on the bench.  Mark took a seat and sat staring at her while Patsy made no attempt at conversation.  He had to admit she was a fine looking woman even this early on the morning.  Her hair was wavy and messed up from sleep, she had obviously ran her fingers through it as she came down to breakfast.  Her skin was tanned and her eyes were bright.  Mark half smiled he was definitely going to find out how it felt to wake up next to this one.

 

Thump, Paul sighed and shook his head, he had been working with the nineteen year old for over a month now and the kid just wasn’t getting it.  Paul had thought he had a lot of untapped potential, it turned out the kid had a lot of untapped energy but his coordination was shot.  “Take a break!” he shouted into the ring, turning to see Shelly standing in the doorway of the office “How’s he doing?” she mouthed Paul shook his head.  He was going to have to admit defeat.  He walked over to the office and went inside, Shelly shook her head and rubbed his shoulders as he sunk into the chair.  “Poor kid, he wants it so bad.”  Shelly sighed and sat on his knee “There nothing we can do?” Paul shook his head “Maybe.  Is Claire coming by today?” Shelly nodded “She’s coming to help Shawn pick the guys for the next event.”  Paul rubbed Shelly’s leg “Good I’ll have a word see if there’s a junior fed we can send him to.”  Shelly nodded and stood smoothing out her black trousers.  Paul smiled taking in her body appreciatively.  “I was thinking we could have a quiet dinner tonight?”  Shelly shook her head as she reached for her jacket “Not a chance remember its Andrew’s pro party tonight.”  Paul sighed and rubbed his head “Yeah well tomorrow night.” Shelly smiled coyly “We’ll see!” she sang as she walked out of the office.

 

Lesley knocked on Claire’s door and stepped inside.  Claire was just finishing getting dressed Lesley walked over and sat on the bed, “You have a visitor.” She said as she straightened the cushions.  Claire turned and looked at her as she fastened her necklace.  “I have?” Lesley nodded as she stood and walked over to the draw that was still open a crack Lesley pushed it shut “Yeah the strange guy from yesterday.  Guess he’s here to ask you more questions.”  Claire nodded “Oh goody.”  Lesley flashed her a grin “He doesn’t look like an insurance agent.” Claire nodded “I know but if he’s not that what the hell is he?” Lesley shrugged as Claire contemplated the thought.  She pushed it to the back of her mind as she descended the stairs.  She could feel the tension as she walked into the kitchen; Patsy was sitting sipping her coffee while Mark sat staring at her.  Claire rolled her eyes Lesley giggled and hid behind Claire’s shoulder as mark turned “Morning.” Claire greeted as she stepped in giving Lesley just enough time to compose herself even if Patsy was shooting her with the funniest glare.  Claire walked over to the coffee pot and poured herself a mug, “Would you like one?” Mark nodded as Claire grabbed another cup.  She handed it to Mark and then looked from him to Patsy, she exchanged amused glances with Lesley.  Finally Claire coughed Patsy looked at her and read the look she received she rolled her eyes and dropped off the bench “If you wanted me to leave you just had to say!”  Claire laughed as Patsy sauntered past Mark, pushing Lesley away from the door as she reached her.  Claire and mark could both her Lesley burst out laughing in the hallway. 

 

Connor was sitting in his playpen while Shawn cleared the breakfast table.  His wife was upstairs packing she had been called away to stay with her cousin who had broken her leg.  Connor cooed as he heard the key in the door “Hey!” Jennifer shouted as she walked into the house. “In Kitchen” Shawn called back as Jennifer took off her jacket and hung it on the coat rack.  Connor was shouting for her as she walked into the kitchen “Jen!” she smiled and walked over lifting him out of the pen.  Shawn smiled as Jennifer walked over carrying Connor as he sucked on a plastic elephant.  “What’s going on?” she asked Shawn shrugged “Ah well Keri decided to take a swan dive.  She’s having trouble getting around so Keri is gonna go ferry her about for a little while.”  Jennifer nodded “She’s gonna miss Sammy’s wedding” Jennifer sounded disappointed Shawn nodded “I know it’s a shame but it cant be helped.”  Jennifer nodded “Okay little man lets get you dressed!” she cooed at Connor who was still wearing his Thomas Tank Engine pyjamas.  Jennifer walked out of the kitchen with Connor as the phone rang.  “Hello?” Shawn greeted as he grabbed the phone from its holder on the bench.  “Hey Claire, yeah a half hour that’s no problem.  I could actually do with it being an hour late I have to take Keri to the airport.”  He jammed the phone into his shoulder as he finished washing the dishes.  “Yeah that’s great I’ll see you there.”  He pulled the phone from his shoulder realising that he would have to change his shirt since he had left a lump of foam on his shoulder. 

 

Claire and Mark walked out of the side door and on to the porch.  Claire motioned for Mark to sit in one of the chairs he did so and waited for her to sit before he sat forward rubbing his hands.  “How’s your arm?” Claire smiled “Good.” She replied “But I get the feeling your not here to talk about that.”  Mark nodded solemnly Matt studied him as he stared intently at Claire.  “This girl was killed the night you had your accident.”  Mark pulled a newspaper article out of his pocket and handed it to Claire.  She looked at the picture and then at the headline “I heard about this, they found her body in a car wreck.” Mark nodded he reached out and unfolded the paper “You recognise him?”  Claire studied the man’s round face; it was like a flash to her, the guy in the lift leering at her and Patsy Claire shivered.  “Yeah he was in the same hotel as me and Patsy.”  Mark smiled reassuringly “That the only time you saw him?”  Claire thought about it Mark could see she was trying to come up with an answer for him.  He sat forward and rubbed her hands “Don’t worry about it.”  Claire shook her head “Why do I get the feeling you know?” Mark nodded “You and him were treated in the same emergency room.”  Claire sat back in the chair, “That’s why you’re here?  I was treated in the same room as some sicko and you what want to ask me about it?”  Mark shook his head “No not exactly.  This is very hard to explain.”  Claire waited patiently she was definitely intrigued.  “When he died you lost consciousness according to your chart your pulse was border line due to the drugs they were giving you.”  Claire nodded so far she understood Mark rubbed his hands “Only he didn’t go away.  When you woke up you brought him back.”  Claire’s eyes widened “What?”  She felt like she was in the middle of some b-class sci-fi movie.  Mark wasn’t sure how to explain this; there was after all no science to it, no way to prove it.  “Somehow in the split second you were both in the same place, not here and not passed on.  You were pulled back he fought passing on and latched on to you.  When you woke up he was free.”  Claire rested her head on her hands; this was all a little too weird.  “Your saying I brought some killer back to life?” Mark shook his head “No, he’s still dead but he’s still killing and he needs you to do it.” 

 

“Get the hell out!” Patsy yelled she had been listening to Mark from inside for the past few minutes.  Lesley had tried to stop her saying it wasn’t their place to interfere but Patsy had heard enough.  She would admit Lesley knew Claire inside out but she too was close to Claire and the last thing she wanted was some jerk preying on her friend when she was still a little shocked to say the least form her accident.  Mark looked at Patsy, he wasn’t stunned to see her there instead he stood and faced off with her “Who the hell do you think you are trying to scare her like that!”  Lesley smacked her head and mouthed ‘sorry’ to Claire.  Claire shook her head and tried to get in-between Patsy and Mark.  While Claire and Lesley were more passive when it came to arguments Patsy was up front and in your face.     Mark took all the daggers she spat him and just stood blank faced staring into her.  “Are you some kind of sick and twisted weirdo that you have to prey on a young girl!”  Claire shook her head as she pushed Patsy back “Cool it okay.”  Patsy felt a tinge of guilt she knew Claire was capable of taking care of herself, if anything Claire was more dangerous than her.  Patsy had never seen Claire angry in the four years she’d known her.  Claire could be so quiet when she was angry but you knew you were in trouble by the look in her eyes.  Patsy looked in Claire’s eyes, there was no fear no anger just a look that told Patsy to back down.  “How about I come back when your friends less emotional!” Mark growled.  Claire shot him a look that said ‘thanks a lot’ he didn’t even need to hear the words to know she was being sarcastic as Patsy flew at him “Emotional!” She yelled Lesley rolled her eyes sure Mark was antagonising Patsy on purpose.  She got the feeling these two would get off on teasing each other.  Mark moved towards the house as Patsy yelled and cursed at him.  Claire shook her head as she heard the door click Patsy was still yelling “He cant hear you you know.” Patsy stopped and smoothed her v-neck t-shirt she studied Claire.  Claire wasn’t amused but she wasn’t angry either “What?” Patsy asked defensively “I just was interested in what he had to say.”  Patsy sighed, “I’m sorry but I think he’s a con man.”  Claire nodded “I know.”  She walked inside leaving Patsy hot and flustered on the deck.

 

Jennifer looked at Connor as he cooed and pointed out the birds, Shawn was saying goodbye to Keri, Jennifer thought it best to leave them alone for a while and Connor was in desperate need of a nap but he was so afraid he’s miss something he refused to sleep.  Jennifer hoped the fresh air would have the desired effect.  So far Connor was talking to the birds and waving at the cars as they walked along the streets.  Jennifer shook her head “So much for a nap!” she joked to herself as she took the turning that led to Claire’s house, “Let’s just hope Claire is ready for some company.”  Connor seemed to understand her and clapped his hands.  Jennifer shook her head and laughed at the little boy as he cooed at the trees.  Jennifer looked up as the bike roared past she wondered what was louder the engine or the little boys yells of excitement.  She didn’t have long to think about it as Sammy beeped her horn as she pulled up next to Jennifer.  “Hey babe!” Sammy greeted as Jennifer looked through the window “Hey what’s up?”  Sammy smirked proudly “I got the dresses for you girls to try on!  Throw Cons in the back and let’s go!” Sammy was bouncing in her seat as Jennifer lifted Connor out of his buggy, Sammy jumped out of the car and rushed to help her drop the buggy and load it in the trunk. 

 

The sweet country music played as Lesley folded her clothes and packed them in her bag, she smiled at Claire as she sat on the bed, helping.  “You’re not mad at her are you?” Lesley asked Claire shook her head, “No course not.  Mind you I would’ve liked to know where he was taking it.”  Lesley shivered “He was talking about a murderer and you want to know where he was going?” Claire smiled and shrugged “Morbid fascination I guess.”  Lesley shook her head “I can’t believe I’ll miss Andrew’s party tonight.”  Claire smiled “Can’t you stay another night?” Lesley shook her head “I got a photo job at eight tonight and there’s the little matter of missing my boy!” Claire smiled she liked to see her friend happy and Jeff certainly did that.  Claire had meet him a couple of times face to face, he was definitely a strange one, multi coloured hair and weird taste in facial art.  Claire had often asked how long it took him to shave the intricate patterns into his beard.  Lesley looked at her “You got business today?” Claire nodded she handed Lesley her hair brush “I have to meet Shawn after I drop you off, but that’s not till four. “  Lesley nodded and checked her watch it was just turning eleven thirty.  She zipped up her bag, “Well guess I’m packed.”  Claire smiled “Seems a bit of a trek you’ll be back here Friday!”  Lesley grinned inanely “That’s why I’m leaving you all my dirty washing!”

 

“Guys!” Sammy yelled as she walked inside carrying the five dress bags, Patsy came out of the lounge and smiled “Hey what’s all this?” Sammy smirked “Dresses babe!” Patsy moaned as she walked over to Jennifer and said hi to Connor “Tell me little man why can’t we just wear jeans!” Connor giggled at the faces Patsy pulled as Sammy stuck her tongue out.  “What’s all this?” Lesley asked as she walked down stairs with Claire, “Fashion show!” Sammy cheered “What about Shelly?” Claire asked as Sammy took the dresses in to the lounge “She’s on her way I called her from the store.”  Claire shook her head and followed everyone into the living room.  Matt watched the girls as Sammy laid out the bags on the couch Claire and Jennifer sat on the floor playing with Connor who seemed intent on getting to the fire.  “Okay who wants drinks?” Patsy asked she wandered to the kitchen with Lesley to get the order of juice and sodas.  “Nothing greasy!” Sammy yelled after them.  Patsy looked at Lesley “Greasy?  What does she think I’m making!”  Matt moved across the room taking a seat on the couch as he moved Connor’s eyes followed him and he attempted to crawl to the sofa.  Claire let him go Matt watched him intently as Connor attempted to climb on the couch next to him.  Claire stood to fetch the fireguard while Jennifer went to grab some toys to keep him amused.  Sammy turned and lifted him on to the couch; she froze as she stared at the couch where Connor was now sitting intently jabbering at the seat beside him. Claire put up the guard and turned round, Sammy stepped back, “You didn’t tell me you had a guest.” She whispered Claire studied her face “What are you talking about?” She asked as she walked over and sat on the edge of the couch next to Connor.  “Oh nothing its just there’s a presence in here.”  Claire looked from Sammy round the room.  Matt was amazed as Connor continued to jabber at him and even started to grab at his leg.  Matt swallowed hard and looked at the baby it seemed strange to him that this child could see him.  He motioned for the baby to be quiet and to his surprise it was, Matt smiled and Connor fell back against Claire giggling.  “Sammy what are you talking about?” Claire repeated Sammy was carefully looking round the room “I don’t know but there is someone here!” 

 

“Oh don’t you start!” Patsy commented as she carried the tray into the room.  Matt continued to pull faces at the baby it seemed to amuse him as he lay back and watched intently.  “I’m telling you there’s someone here!” Matt glanced up at Sammy.  She wasn’t even looking at him but she knew he was there okay she didn’t know it was a man but she knew there was something. “Start what?”  Patsy sighed as she placed the tray on a table in the corner “Another freaky conversation” Sammy looked at Claire as she shook her head “Never mind.” Sammy shrugged and turned picking up one of the dress bags “Lesley!” Sammy shouted holding out a dress Lesley took it and walked upstairs, “Jennifer!” Jennifer took the next dress and went upstairs.  Patsy and Claire soon followed.  Claire got to her room and closed the door; Matt had followed close behind her.  He stood in the room as she unzipped the bag and looked at the dress she smirked Lesley had got her way the dresses were ankle length.  Claire pulled at her top; Matt coughed forgetting himself for a moment.  Claire stopped and turned; Matt froze as she looked round the room.  “You can hear me” he whispered Claire swallowed hard.  She wasn’t sure whether she was actually hearing or voice or whether her mind was playing tricks on her.  “Whose there?” she asked quietly, Matt couldn’t believe it she was talking to him, she was staring straight ahead he stepped up closer to her “My name is Matt” he replied Claire turned and walked past him to the door she opened it and checked along the corridor.  She breathed out slowly as she closed the door.  This definitely wasn’t a nightmare; it was the middle of the day.  “Can you hear me?” he asked wondering if she was just hearing the floorboards creak.  “Matt?” she asked Matt sighed “Yeah I’m here” Claire turned around Matt was surprised when she seemed to look straight at him “Where are you?” Matt smiled to himself, he remembered Kane’s words, ‘in time’ he sighed, “Look towards the window” he whispered, she did so.  “Why are you here?” she asked he could see her shaking slightly “I’m here to help you”.  Claire didn’t seem sure; he wasn’t surprised he wasn’t sure how he would react to hearing a disembodied voice. 

 

“Hey who you talking to?” Claire turned and looked at Lesley as she stood in the doorway wearing her dress.  It fitted her perfectly and the pale lilac suited her.  The dress was a plain bodice with a slightly fitted skirt “You look like a princess.”  Claire commented covering the fact she was talking to herself.  “Thanks.” Lesley replied stepping inside and closing the door, “You need a hand with yours?” Claire smiled “No you go on down I’ll be right there.” Lesley nodded and left the room, Claire looked back to the window, suddenly she was very wary of changing in her own room.  “You still here?” she asked in a hushed voice, Matt didn’t reply.  She sighed with relief she slowly lifted her top, Matt bit his lip as he stood behind her he knew this was wrong but something inside him wanted him to stay, he closed his eyes as she pulled off her trousers he slowly stepped back as she stepped into her dress.  Matt could hear her moving he opened his eyes and caught a glimpse of her as she walked out of the room.  He sighed and sat on the bed, he smiled realising he was getting stronger he now had a connection with the girl. 

 

 

Sammy clapped as Connor sat on her knee and the girls breezed into the rooms, the complimented each other on the dresses and fiddled with each others straps making sure the dress fell right.  Sammy couldn’t help but beam, she had to restrain Connor he was dying to get on the floor and fiddle with the yards of silk fabric he wasn’t used to seeing his ‘aunts’ in.  After five minutes of Sammy making the girls twirl and walk in the dresses Claire excused herself and went to the kitchen where she took the phone and checked the number Mark had left with Michael.  She waited as the phone rang twice, the gruff voice greeted her with a sharp “Hello!” she found it hard her voice she was nervous about asking her question “It’s Claire” she was surprised at the sudden change in tone “Hey you okay?” she felt relieved slightly “I need to talk to you.”  She checked that everyone was still in the front room to her great relief they were “Has something happened?” he asked his voice filled with concern.  “Who’s Matt?” she asked hoping to have her fears put to rest “No one to be afraid of” Mark replied Claire felt a weight lift from her shoulders “There’s a party tonight at Jokers.” She smiled when she heard him agree to be there.  “Claire” Sammy shouted Claire smiled hung up the phone and went back to her friends.  “Where did you go?” Lesley asked Claire shook her head “Left the oven on” she joked making Sammy glare at her with horror.

5.

 Lesley looked at the airport information board “Well guess I’m off!” Claire smiled “Okay take care!  I’ll see you Friday!” Lesley nodded as they hugged “Say hi to Jeff for me” Lesley smiled “I will.”  She took her bag and walked through the departure gate.  Claire walked slowly out of the airport she wondered if she had really heard the voice in her room or was she imagining it.  She climbed in to her silver BMW and sighed resting her head on the seat, “Sorry to see her go?”  Claire opened her eyes and smiled “Okay what are you?  Am I going insane? Are you my conscience?  Are you some freaky practical joke?”  Matt chuckled “None of the above.” He replied looking at her from his space in the passenger seat.  Claire started the engine and pulled out of the parking space, “So what are you?” Matt sighed “I’m here to help.” He replied it was as simple as that.  Claire shook her head as she drove if she told anyone she was hearing voices they’d think she was nuts.  “No offence but err what if I don’t want you to help me?” Matt bit his lip he didn’t want to scare her “I don’t think it works like that.” She nodded as she pulled up outside the school.  She hesitated before getting out of the car, “I’m not gonna ignore you, but I err, I don’t know what I’m supposed to do here.”  Matt smiled “That’s okay truth is I’m not sure either.”  Claire nodded as she climbed out of the car. 

 

Patsy was sitting working on the computer when Michael came in.  “Hi” he greeted warmly as he poured himself a mug of coffee, Patsy smiled “Good you’re here you can have this!” she handed him a pile of papers.  Michael smiled “Thanks” he mocked.  “What’s up?  You look like your milk is sour!” he pointed at her coffee, Patsy shook her head “That guy that came here.  What do you make of him?” Michael shrugged “Seems like a decent guy to me.  But you don’t trust him.”  Patsy shook her head “There is no way he’s an insurance agent so what the hell is he?  You know he was here earlier saying Claire had something to do with a murderer!”  Michael stared at her his eyes wide “What?” Patsy nodded “I’m concerned that’s all I’m gonna say.”  Michael nodded as Patsy went back to the computer.  He remembered he hired Patsy for a lot of reasons, she was a great communicator, she took no crap from anyone and she was close with Claire and that she would watch out for her like a sister and vice versa.  He knew his trust was not misplaced he just wondered if he had lost some of his good judgement.

 

Paul folded his arms over his chest, “I just don’t want to break the kid.”  Claire nodded she knew what he meant, it had been a long time for him, his back injury had plagued him so much he’d left the ring for an undisclosed amount of time and it drove him nuts.  He hated standing back watching instead of getting in there, but as Shelly constantly reminded him, ‘time heals all wounds and if you don’t give it time the wound will never heal.’ Claire looked at Shawn his mind wasn’t exactly on business, he’d just dropped Keri at the airport he was missing her as soon as he let go of her hand.  “Okay what if we send him to the junior fed in Ohio?” Paul nodded “You think they’ll take him?”  Claire smiled wickedly “Depends on whether we give them a choice.”  Paul grinned he would never of thought when he first met Claire that she was capable of doing half the stuff she did.  Now he was surprised if there was something she couldn’t do.  “Get him packed and ready and ship him out Wednesday morning.”  Paul smiled and agreed Shelly opened the door and came in breathless.  Paul studied her he knew something was wrong, he was the first out of the door, Shawn followed quickly, Claire could hear screams of pain as Shelly grabbed the phone hammering the numbers “Stupid son of a bitch!” she cursed.  Claire went outside to the ring and saw a very green wrestler lying in the middle of the canvas cradling his knee to his chest.  Paul was trying to calm him down while Shawn looked at his leg.  Claire walked over to the ring and looked at the concerned faces of the trainees.  “What happened?” she asked one of the boys looked at her and pointed at the guy standing on the apron, Claire really didn’t want to know this.



Sammy dropped Jennifer off at Shawn’s house, Connor had finally dosed off in the car.  “What were you talking about before?” Jennifer asked Sammy smiled “When?” Jennifer cradled Connor in her arms as Sammy carried the buggy up to the house, “In the lounge you said something about there being” Sammy perked up “Oh you mean the ghost.”  Jennifer shivered “Ghost?” Sammy chuckled “Not a scary one, it was just when I went to help Connor on to the couch I could feel someone there.  It was like they were just watching us trying to stay out of the way.”  Jennifer shivered again as they walked through to the kitchen “Even if it is friendly not so sure I like the idea!” Sammy chuckled as she rested on the counter and looked at the morning paper “Can you believe this another one has been found.”  Jennifer laid Connor in his cot and walked over she studied the picture, another woman had been found in Vegas.  Sammy shuddered “I’m sure I’ve seen her before.”  Jennifer read the article carefully “You probably did she worked in the hotel.”  Sammy looked stunned and grabbed the paper “Now that is really creepy!”

 

Michael stormed in to the school “What the hell is going on!” he bellowed as the paramedics moved the young boy accompanied by Paul out of the building.  Claire sighed and looked at the young man next to her “Tell him” she said flatly the boy swallowed hard and looked at his feet.  Claire was seething inside this kid was nothing but trouble; she called Michael so she could fire him.  “Seems Johnny boy here decided to put a figure four on without supervision and he screwed it up.”  Johnny looked up at Michael like a scolded little child “It was an accident!” he protested weakly.  Michael was red in the face “An accident!” he yelled Shelly shook her head and stepped up “Michael I need you a sec” she pulled him away and began whispering, “Claire wants him out!” Michael nodded as he stepped into the office.  “Wait there!” Claire ordered before going in herself.  She looked at all the faces Shawn stood “You can’t keep him.”  Michael nodded “He’s bad for business” Shelly added.  Michael finally looked at Claire.  “He’s injured two guys already this kid makes three and he doesn’t learn.  He’s arrogant and self centred and we cant control him.  He’s just not willing to listen and I’m not willing to wait till he breaks someone’s neck.”  Michael nodded “So we send him home.”  Shawn nodded, as did Shelly, Michael stepped forward and signed the papers Shelly had already prepared.  “Tell him to pack his bags.”  Shelly nodded and walked out of the office.  Michael looked at Claire “Come for a coffee.” 

 

Lesley was glad when the plane touched down she grabbed her bags and headed out of the arrivals gate.  She beamed when she saw Jeff standing by the gate wearing a red baseball cap and white t-shirt.  Even the red jeans were sedate for him.  He beamed at her and gathered her into his arms burying his face in to her neck, he kissed her softly making her tremble “I missed you he whispered as she pulled him closer “I missed you more!” she replied looking up into his green eyes.  Jeff smiled “The hotel is ten minutes away.”  Lesley beamed as he grabbed her bag and rushed her out of the airport.  “The party go okay?” he asked as they climbed into his rental coupe.  “Yeah we had a laugh” Lesley wasn’t going to enlighten him any further after all it was a girl’s weekend.  Jeff smirked as she grinned and turned up the radio.  “I was worried about you.” He began suddenly very serious “Why?” Lesley asked innocently Jeff shrugged as he pulled up at the lights “Those women who got killed out there.”  Lesley nodded she had been reading the paper on the plane, she suddenly felt very scared at the thought of being that close to that kind of horrid event.  “We were safe as houses!” she enthused trying to convince him it hadn’t bothered her, but Jeff knew different.  “Yeah well your grounded for a little while” Lesley looked at his serious face and laughed. 

 

 Claire sat in the booth wondering if her invisible friend was listening in on all of this.  Michael smiled at her but she could tell she was in for a lecture of some sort.  “I spoke to your mom today.”  Claire nodded and pushed her hair behind her ears “Why didn’t you tell her about the accident?” Claire shrugged sitting back “Why worry her pops.  It wasn’t serious” Michael gaped like a fish.  Claire smirked “Look I had a shock but I’m okay now. What would be the good of scaring the hell out of them when there is nothing they can do.”  Michael shook his head “I’m supposed to take care you!  If anything happens to you it’s my responsibility.”  Claire smiled at him sweetly “Pops I’m twenty two.  I live here cos it’s my choice, I work for you cos it’s my choice.  I know you worry and I know you’re here for me and I’m glad you are.  But my actions are not your responsibility. “  Michael sighed “Next time just tell me so I don’t come close to putting my foot in my mouth!” Claire nodded and waited she knew there was more to come.  “What else is bugging you pops?”  Michael fiddled with his cup “I was talking to Patsy earlier.  She’s worried.”  Claire nodded “I know she is.”  Michael looked up at her while he sipped his coffee “Tell me” he said quietly Claire shrugged she wondered how she was supposed to say this she swallowed “He’s not a con man, he just wants to talk to me.”  Michael sat back and waited “He knows a little bit about it, he just wants to help me.”  Michael nodded and reached for her hand, Claire beamed at him “If you say it’s okay.”  She nodded “But if he does anything to hurt my girls.”  Claire chuckled. 

 

The reflection pleased Patsy as she fastened her silver herringbone belt around the top of her red leather trousers.  She smiled she knew she looked good, with her black lace top showing off her figure.  She looked at her feet and then towards the window, she smirked “Boots” she whispered to herself after all it looked like rain.  She walked out of her room and knocked on Claire’s door, “You ready?”  She opened the door and stepped inside, Claire smiled and nodded, she was dressed in a black pair of patterned trousers and an electric blue strapless top she was just fastening her watch, “Taking the car?” Claire nodded “I’ll drive.”  Patsy smirked “Don’t you always?” Claire pretended to hit her across the head as they walked out of the bedroom.  Claire paused at the door and looked behind her she couldn’t help but wonder every second where Matt was.  Was he always with her, was he always by her side, watching her every move.  “Come on!” Patsy encouraged she was in the mood to party.  Claire couldn’t help but smile as she walked downstairs. 

 

The bar was heaving as Mark stepped inside, it was mix of club versus bar.  He shook his head and made his way to the corner of the bar.  He sat on the stool and ordered his beer.  He studied the crowd something told him some of Claire’s friends were already there.  There was a rowdy group of men in the corner laughing and toasting each other.  Mark recognised one face, Sammy he recalled, she was the one who was way too full of energy for his liking.  Then again if the girl couldn’t have a good time before she got married when could she.  He turned and looked at the door as if someone tapped him on the shoulder.  Patsy stepped inside, Mark felt his jaw hit the floor she looked damn hot to him.  She definitely suited red; mind you he would like to see how she suited wearing him.  He sighed and felt the corner of his mouth twitch into a smile she definitely had an effect on him. 

 

Claire walked across the bar to the group of men, Matt was close behind her, he couldn’t believe how many men were here the girls he knew were out numbered three to one.  Sammy greeted her with a hug and kiss on the cheek, she was already three drinks up on Claire and Patsy “Your late!” Sammy yelled over the noise of the jukebox.  Claire smiled “No I think you were early!” Sammy giggled, “I guess I was!” Claire turned feeling something touch her arm, she smiled up at Andrew, he beamed back his blonde hair falling round his shoulders he held out a bottle of soda to her Claire smiled “Thanks!” he nodded “One of these days I’ll get you a beer!” he joked Claire shook her head “And you’d get it right back, you know I don’t like it.” Andrew smirked “So I’ll get you a sprit!” he mocked Claire swigged the coke and continued a conversation with Sammy and Andrew.  Patsy stood by the bar laughing with Brian, Paul and Shelly.  Matt spent the evening standing by the bar watching as Claire chatted to her friends, he laughed as she danced with one of the guys she gave up when he started bouncing about.  She glanced over his shoulder and saw Mark watching her.  She nodded at him and he pointed to the door.  Claire excused herself from Scottie and walked to door, Matt was already outside when she got there. 

 

“Hey” she greeted Mark smiled at her “How you doing?” she looked around and nodded “I’m a bit” Mark looked to his side “Confused?” Claire nodded Mark sighed he felt sorry for the young girl she didn’t deserve all of this.  “What can you tell me?  Why am I hearing voices?” Mark rubbed her arm affectionately  “You remember what I said earlier?” Claire nodded “Something happened when I was unconscious” Mark nodded Matt coughed, Claire looked sideways Mark looked up.  “He’s here huh?”  Claire nodded “I think so.”  Matt stepped protectively close to Claire “I’m here.”  Mark looked at the air beside her “Well listen up Matt you might learn something too.”  Claire frowned “Who is he?”  Mark smiled “I don’t know much about him.  All I know is he’s linked to the killer.”  Matt looked at Claire “He killed me too.” Claire swallowed hard and shivered “He’s gonna help you, he has to before he can go where he’s supposed to be.”  Claire nodded “How do you know all this?” Mark smiled Matt looked stunned as Kane rolled off the side of the building, he had been invisible in the shadows “Ask him why Kane is here?” Claire looked up at Mark “Whose Kane and why is he here?” Mark rubbed his chin and chuckled “Kane is my brother.”  Claire and Matt both stood mouths open Mark leaned forward and nudged her chin up “I’m haunted too kid” he explained. 

 

Patsy was looking round the bar, she was on a high Andrew had made a good dance partner for a while but now he’d collapsed comatosed at one of the tables.  Patsy was disappointed none of the guys had the stamina for her.  Standing at the bar she looked at Shelly, “Where’s Claire?” Shelly looked around and shrugged “She was here a minute ago.  She’s probably in the ladies” Patsy nodded and decided to have another drink while she waited.  Scottie sat next to her “What’s up babe?” he hiccupped “Your drunk!” Patsy commented Scottie smiled “Your not too sober yourself!” he defended Patsy laughed this was very true.  The cold wouldn’t touch her tonight, she smiled thinking at least she wouldn’t need a hot water bottle tonight.  Her mind wandered there was one kind of water bottle she would welcome but she wasn’t going to find it at the bar tonight.  Scottie ordered her another bottle and a shot of tequila.  They laughed and raced each other downing three shots before Patsy even tasted it.

 

Claire shook her head as she tried to understand what Mark was telling her.  “I don’t understand how can he be using me?” Mark sighed this wasn’t easy to explain it must be even harder to understand.  “He can’t kill just anyone.  He only has an allotted time each night that he can kill” Claire studied Mark, he was trying to lay this out as simply as possible and she did appreciate it even if she wasn’t too sure she had a clue what he was talking about.  Mark stopped and seemed to looked at someone, “He’s talking to Kane” Matt informed her as he watched Kane and Mark swap messages without talking.  “When I was twenty five I was out with Kane.”  Mark began we hit a couple of clubs in Texas.  We went into one really rough bar, the kind were the night wasn’t over till there was a fight.”  Claire smiled at the image Mark let his smile fade “We’d been drinking for hours, we were both well oiled.  There was this guy he was giving the bar maid a load of abuse.  But the end of the night he was starting to get physical with her.  I stepped in told the guy to back off before I made him and he threw a punch.  It was such a mess fists flying and everyone getting involved.  I remember a fist coming at me and I fell back into a table, Kane yelled something and pulled this guy back the guy spun round and my world ended.”  Claire could see a lot of pain in his eyes, Kane stood next to Mark his head bowed “The guy ran left Kane lying in a pool of blood.  I couldn’t believe it, I held on to him as long as I could.  Tried to keep him conscious keep him with me.  But I lost him.”  Claire watched as Mark folded his strong arms, “I hit rock bottom it was my worst nightmare.” 

 

Patsy had had enough; if Claire was in the ladies something was very wrong.  Patsy emptied the bottle she had and took her fresh one with her as she wandered over to the ladies and went inside “Claire!” she yelled looking under the cubicle doors.  “Claire!” she huffed “Where the hell are you!” Patsy walked out of the ladies and walked through the bar checking for Claire.  “She had had just about enough when she caught sight of something the door opened as two party-goers walked inside.  She saw a strong shoulder she knew.  “That bastard!” Patsy cursed as she headed to the door.  “It took a while, but each day brought something new, something different.  I feel something, then hear things, a few days later I could see him.”  Claire nodded “I get you could see him I mean he is your brother.”  Mark nodded “But I’ve never met this guy.”  Mark nodded and closed his eyes “Matt and Kane have something in common.”  Claire waited Mark opened his eyes and fixed a steady gaze on her “They both need to make it right.  They need to stop someone else getting hurt and they can’t do it alone.”  Claire nodded returning Mark’s intense gaze “I thought I told you were to go!” Claire and Mark both snapped their heads round to look at her.  “Is he trying to scare you again!”  Claire opened her mouth to answer but Patsy was already on a role.  “I can’t believe you!  What the hell is your damage!  Do you get off scaring girls!”  Mark smirked which he knew immediately was a mistake.

 

Patsy couldn’t believe he was smiling at her, he had the nerve to look her in the eye and smile, even if he did look hot he was starting to get under his skin.  Claire was talking to her, defending Mark but Patsy couldn’t hear her she had one goal in mind wiping that smug grin off his face and she knew just how to do it.  She stepped up to him still hurling abuse he didn’t back down and he didn’t notice as she raised her arm pouring the contents of her bottle over his head.  Mark was slightly stunned as the beer trickled down his face he could hear Kane laughing at him.  Claire hid her smirk well as she grabbed Patsy’s arm “Just stop it!” Patsy looked at Claire and knew she was in trouble but she wasn’t finished Mark walked into the bar; Patsy shrugged off Claire’s hand and followed him inside.  “Wow man she’s really hot for you!” Kane mocked as Mark walked over to the bar “I told you to take a shower!”  Kane clutched his side it was beginning to hurt.  “And where do you think your going!” Mark heard Kane choke on his laughter as Patsy walked up to him slapping him across the back of the shoulder Mark barely turned Patsy was incensed.  She grabbed another drink from Scottie’s hand and poured it over his head.  “Oh man!  You definitely know how to win the ladies!” Kane joked as Mark turned glaring at Patsy.  Paul saw the look and stepped protectively between them.  Claire shook her head she couldn’t believe it Matt stood next to her biting his lip, he really wanted to laugh but he could tell Claire wasn’t amused.   Scottie nudged Patsy who looked towards Claire, she sighed as Claire walked out the door knowing it was her cue. 

 

The covers were soft and inviting as Matt lay atop them next to Claire she lay facing him, not that she would know it.  He appreciated being able to talk to her he missed normal conversation.  “She really doesn’t like him does she?” he asked his voice warm as he spoke Claire smiled “The problem is that she does like him.”  Matt felt confused; he had witnessed the silence between the two women all the way home.  Patsy had looked so sheepish she would glance at Claire every few seconds but Claire was intent on not talking to her.  She knew that would get her point across better than shouting.  “I don’t get it.  She soaked the guy in beer!” Claire smiled at the image of Mark dripping on the bar “Patsy doesn’t often fall herself.  Guys fall for her but she’s usually detached from the relationship.  Mark gets under her skin and she doesn’t like it.”  Matt smiled and rested up on his elbow “So she picks fights with him” Claire nodded “She wants him to bite to prove he is what she says and then she doesn’t have to like him.”  Matt chuckled he could never figure out women.  Claire seemed nice enough though, he could talk to her she wasn’t afraid of him she responded to his words and she seemed to be generally interested in hearing him.  They were both silent for a few minutes “You still there” she whispered not being able to see the guy was a bit disconcerting.  She wondered what he looked like she wondered what sort of person he was.  “Yeah I’m here” he whispered back as she closed her eyes, “I’m not going anywhere.”  He reached out and gently touched her hair he couldn’t feel it, or her and it hurt. 

6.

 

“Your kidding right!” Patsy almost spat out her toast.  Claire sat opposite her Patsy knew from the look she was dead serious.  Matt sat on the kitchen bench enjoying the spectacle.  “Come on!” Patsy protested Claire picked up her mug and sipped Pats sighed and shook her head “You better do it.” Claire informed her Patsy groaned as she sat back “He’s a jerk!  In fact I am sorry!”  Claire raised her eyebrows Patsy smirked “Sorry I wasted good beer on him!” Claire didn’t laugh as Patsy had hoped in fact she refused to budge “You were drunk and now that you’re sober you know the right thing to do is go see the guy.”  Patsy threw up her hands “I’m looking out for my little sis and this is the thanks I get!” Patsy hoped to tug at the heartstrings since the last thing she wanted to do was look up into those deep green eyes again or to see his rippling muscles.  “Patsy I asked him to be there I wanted to talk to him” Patsy rolled her eyes “So, the guy is a conman” Claire shook her head “Look I wanted to hear what he had to say and he was kind enough to meet me he certainly didn’t deserve a shower!” Claire stood and walked to the door “Go apologise or I will think you’re more attracted to him than you say!” she commanded.  Patsy knew it was useless to argue; the last thing she wanted was Claire mad at her.  She didn’t think she could stand the silent treatment, figuring it was better to get it over with she stalked upstairs hating every step.

 

The engine whined groggily Mark groaned as he picked up a wrench and went at his bike “Man she got to you!” Kane chuckled as Mark dropped the wrench “Get over it!” he growled as Kane laughed over the event like he had done every five minutes since Mark took his beer shower.  “I know you said the girl was hot but I thought you meant hot looking!”  Mark glared up at his brother “Drop dead!” Kane smirked “Already did that thanks!” Mark flashed a sarcastic grin as he flicked the key.  Patsy sat in her car hammering her hand on the wheel to the song on the radio.  Whatever kept her mind off what she was about to do was good.  She sighed telling herself over and over ‘I’m doing it for Claire’.  She could see the house through the trees it was a log cabin just outside of town, one of the holiday homes.  Mark looked up as he saw the car pull on to his driveway, he smirked “Guess she changed her mind!” he laughed as Kane pulled a face and faded out there were just some things he didn’t want to see.  Patsy sat behind the wheel watching Mark for a minute, why did he have to look so damn appealing.  She took a deep breath “You owe me big time” she whispered as she climbed out of the car and walked as confidently over to him as she could.  Mark didn’t even look at her “Hey!” she greeted, Mark stood up straight his back to her “Look I was” she was cut off by Mark as he turned round and fixed his green eyes on her.  She opened her mouth to speak but was cut off by his lips brushing hers.  She tried to push him off but found herself wanting to melt into his embrace.  He was warm and strong his tongue slipped in to her mouth, Patsy moaned slightly as she sunk into the kiss, his arms wrapped around her strongly.   Her brain screamed at her but she blocked it out until he finally pulled away, she staggered slightly and looked up at him, his eyes sparkled.  “I, I” Patsy threw up her hands turned and rushed to her car.  She wanted her brain to kick in but it wouldn’t it was as if she were floating.  She gunned the car out of the driveway needing to breath knowing if she looked into those eyes again would make her lose all of her self control. 

 

Claire lay on the bed and sighed raising her eyes to the ceiling “I hope they were wrong last night.  Thought maybe they were worrying over nothing.”  Matt walked over and sat on the edge of the bed he looked at the paper.  Claire could feel tears in her eyes “I just helped him kill her” she whispered not looking at anything in particular.  Matt could feel her pain, she felt guilty it was as if she were the one with the scarf strangling the life out of the poor woman.  “It’s not down to you.”  Claire shrugged “Who else can I blame?  It’s not like I can see the guy or spit in his face.  Hell I don’t even know how to stop him.”  Matt wanted to reach out to her to comfort her the only power he had was words and he couldn’t imagine they would be of much comfort right now.  “It’s gonna take time.”  Claire rolled her eyes, she contemplated how much coffee and energy drinks she could stomach.  If the killer operated through her dreams then she would simply stop dreaming.  Matt gazed at her his eyes committing every detail and feature to memory.  After all he needed something to dream about in the afterlife. 

 

The rain beat down on the wood frame as Jennifer stood Connor in her arms watching it bounce on the grass.  She sighed hoping the storm front would move off before Saturday after all none of them would look very good in washed out dresses and panda-eyed makeup.  Connor whimpered Jennifer looked down into his rosy face he was missing his mom.  Jennifer hugged him tight “She’ll be home soon little man,” she promised as she watched Sammy’s car pull on to the drive.  Sammy jumped out and ran up to the porch “Hey” she greeted “I brought a video hoped we could slob out?”  Jennifer nodded as Sammy ducked inside.  “So what do you make of Patsy last night?” Sammy asked as she shrugged off her jacket and hung it on the kitchen chair.  “I think Patsy has a really really big crush on a mystery man!” Jennifer laughed making Connor smile Sammy nodded “Yeah that’s what I figured that’s why I just invited him to the wedding!” Jennifer’s mouth fell open, she was sure she still had water in her ears from the shower because she couldn’t be hearing Sammy right.  “You invited him?” she stuttered Sammy nodded exultant in her master plan.  “Well I figured people always get together at weddings, it sets a romantic mood!” Jennifer was stunned to say the least she wondered if Sammy was a little too high on the thought of her upcoming nuptials.  “She will kill you!” Jennifer finally decided sure once Patsy saw the guy she would take his head of with her lethal bouquet.  Jennifer wondered if lily petals were sharp enough to tear skin.  Maybe Patsy wouldn’t need the flowers she’d just use her bare hands to rip his head off.  Sammy slouched on the couch basking in her glory as Jennifer shook her head and looked at Connor who studied her intently as if he understood the implications “There’ll be tears before bedtime!” Jennifer said as Sammy smiled to herself not heeding any criticism of her actions. 

 

The wipers squeaked as they slid across the windscreen of Shelly’s coupe.  She stopped in the driveway and looked up at the porch wondering what the hell Claire was doing.  She seemed to be having an argument with someone.  She was gesturing with her arms, nodding and shaking her head but Shelly could be damned if she could see who Claire was conversing with.  As she climbed out of the car, she saw Claire stop and turn she waved and Claire waved back.  Shelly ran up to the house “Boy it’s wicked toady!” she commented, “Not interrupting anything am I?” Claire shook her head as she shoved her hands in her pockets “Nope.”  Shelly looked around waiting to see the mystery man or woman “You here alone?” she asked looking confused Claire smiled and nodded “Come on I’ll get you a coffee and you can dry off.”  Shelly smiled and nodded still looking around the porch as they went inside.  Claire walked into the kitchen and went over to the coffee pot while Shelly dumped her bag on the table, “I have some papers for you to sign and a couple of new requests,” Claire smiled and nodded “More talent to check out?”  Shelley nodded and raked in her bag for the papers and information she had prepared for Claire.  Claire took the coffee to the table and sat down, Shelly looked puzzled “I could’ve sworn someone was here.”  Claire smirked and shook her head “No just me and the ghosts.”  Shelly wasn’t sure if Claire was making a joke or not.  Matt chuckled from his spot on the bench, “You do realise if you say anything she’ll think your nuts.”  Claire smiled trying not to laugh at his tone “What’s so funny?” Shelly asked watching as Claire flushed red Claire shook her head “Just remembering what Patsy did last night!” Shelly laughed remembering the sight herself “Where is the beer queen anyway?”  Claire picked up the papers still flushing red “She’s gone to apologise.”  Shelly baulked almost knocking her cup off the table “She what!”

 

Patsy stopped the car she had been driving for half an hour and she had ended up at the beach.  At least that’s what they called it, it was a small cove perfectly secluded perfect for getting away from the world.  She climbed out of the car and walked down the small bank on to the sand.  Her head was spinning all she could see were his green eyes, all she could feel was him caressing her, holding her close.  His soft lips brushing hers it was so intense so passionate.  She always said someday someone was going to sweep Claire off her feet, she never thought it would happen to her first.  She never thought there would be someone who could mess up her perfectly ordered head with one quick embrace.  She knew the kiss had lasted moments but it felt like eternity, she had never felt so warm in her life.  She shook her head as the rain matted her hair ‘what the hell am I thinking!’ she scolded ‘this guy comes out of nowhere and he thinks he can just butt in to my life!’ she wanted to be furious with Mark but there was something inside her pulling her back to that moment to that sweet sensational kiss.  That was it she had enough, she turned to walk back up to her car and froze as if the rain cemented her to the spot. 

 

“She was what?” Lesley asked as she sat on the edge of the ring waiting for her two models to get ready, “Your sure she was talking to herself?”  Lesley was surprised by the loud and emphatic ‘yes’ as it echoed through her body.  She sighed “Okay I guess you know what you saw.”  She looked up as the two young men headed towards the ring, she held up a hand to beg a minutes more privacy.  The men nodded and stopped chatting in the aisle.  “Look I have to get to work.  Shelly I know okay I know it’s strange but Claire’s fine I would know if she wasn’t” Shelly was ready to argue Lesley knew she hadn’t seen what Shelly had but she was positive that there would be a perfectly reasonable explanation for what was going on.  “Maybe she was rehearsing a speech for the wedding and kicking herself for getting it wrong?”  Shelly was quiet for a moment, she knew the ‘conversation’ was more intense than Claire preparing a speech for the wedding.  But she knew it was time to relent and let this one go.  If it happened again then she would worry.  “Shelly thanks for telling me but I’m sure it’s nothing.”  Shelly agreed reluctantly and let Lesley get back to her shoot.  Lesley closed her phone and waved to the guys they walked towards her “Everything okay?” one asked as he climbed onto the apron Lesley nodded “Pre wedding anxiety!” she laughed hoping that that was all it was.  But having the nagging feeling that Shelly was right out of her head. 

 

 

The living room was silent as Claire sat curled up on the couch reading over the papers Shelly had given her.  She rubbed her eyes and picked up the television remote she flicked on the channel and returned to reading.  The newscaster was reporting on the rise in road rage incidents.  Pictures of a car being pulled from a ditch played as he spoke.  Claire looked up and shook her head disgusted at the thought someone could take it that far.  She stood taking her glass into the kitchen for more juice and an aspirin.  Her head was beginning to pound, as she walked back into the room she glanced at the screen.  The glass slid through her fingers, the juice lapped over the sides as it twisted in the air and splashed outward as the glass shattered hitting the hard wood floor.  Matt turned he was standing on the porch watching the rain; he rushed inside and stared at Claire.  She had tear streaming down her face as she looked at the young woman on the screen.  Claire knew immediately what had happened, the woman a young waitress from the restaurant the girls had been too before they left Vegas.  She could see her smiling as Claire signed the cheque.  They had brunch at a small family restaurant a block from the airport.  The woman whose name had been Tania had taken their order and brought their coffee and food.  Claire could see her smiling in her head.  She closed her eyes slowly and was hit with the intense gut wrenching flash of the woman being strangled.  She was walking home singing to herself when something wrapped round her neck.  Claire shook as the woman tried to scream but the scarf tightened.  Claire staggered forward grabbing the chair, Matt was beside her “It’s okay!” he said calmly Claire shook her head watching the woman fade in her head.  As she crumpled to the ground, her body limp and lifeless Claire heard it.  She shivered visibly Matt reached out trying to touch her wanting to comfort but his hand offered no comfort as Claire heard the deep throaty laugh in her head. 

 

“Here!” Patsy stared as Mark walked down the bank holding out a black fleece for her “It’s dry.” She shook her head but made no attempt to walk away she was sure her legs would buckle if she even tried.  Mark shook his head and snorted, “Stubborn one aren’t you” Patsy shot him the best glare she could manage.  He wasn’t even phased he just looked at her a smile tugging at his lips.  His eyes were beaming while his body tried to hide his amusement.  He walked over and draped the fleece round her shoulders, Patsy could feel the warmth of his body, she felt herself waver slightly falling into him.  She knew she was losing control of her muscles which annoyed her she wanted to put as much distance between them as she could, but she couldn’t move, she slowly realised she didn’t want to move.   Mark lifted her chin gently “You know when you shut up your actually quite pretty!” Patsy felt herself flush with anger she stormed away from him her legs tingling all the way, she afforded herself a backward glance as he stood watching her go “Go to hell!” she spat as she fell up the bank.  Mark laughed shaking his head as she pushed herself up the bank and over to her car.  She jumped in and slammed the door “Jerk!” she shouted as she started the engine. 

 

Matt crouched in front of Claire she was still trembling with fear.  “When Mark said I’d be able to hear you I didn’t think I’d be able to hear him too.”  Matt shook his head “I’m sorry” Claire wiped her eyes and looked up, in the direction of the voice “I can hear him laughing.  It’s like he’s in my head.”  Matt leaned forward he wanted to hold her hand to squeeze it to be reassuring.  “He’s not in your head!  He can’t touch you.”  Claire closed her eyes “But he can touch them because of me.” Matt shook his head “No!” he said sternly “It’s not you!  This isn’t down to you!  You’re not responsible for any of this!”  Claire sat back “But it’s my responsibility to finish it.”  Matt felt himself shiver her eyes were so blue so intense and he knew she was determined to end this one way or another.  The door banged making them both jump as Patsy stormed in and up stairs.  Claire jumped up wiping her eyes and hurrying to aid Patsy.  “Damn him!” Patsy yelled as she slammed the bedroom door, she writhed off the fleece and hurled it to the floor.  Claire opened the door slowly and took in the sight.  Patsy was standing pulling at her tight fitting white v-neck t-shirt her black jeans were encased with sand and her shoes were squelching on the wood of her bedroom floor.  “What happened to you?” Claire asked concerned “I did it for you just remember I did it for you!”  Patsy yelled pointing at Claire accusingly.  “I take it, it didn’t go too well then.”  Patsy growled as she pulled her top over her head.  Claire watched as she threw he top down and then kicked the fleece.  “The bastard!” she spat, Claire walked over touching her shoulders “Tell me what happened?” Patsy sighed and took two deep breaths to calm herself and stop her hands from shaking Claire took Patsy’s hands in hers “Just tell me?”

 

“I went over to apologise just like you asked me to.”  Patsy began sinking on to the bed Claire watched her as she rubbed her hands “I was about to say I was sorry when you know I wasn’t!” Claire smirked “What did you say to him?” Patsy shook her head “That’s just it I didn’t say a damn word!” Patsy stood and walked over to the bathroom door, Claire watched her stunned by her whole attitude “Patsy what happened?” Patsy stopped and turned pulling at the towel she had grabbed from the sink.  “He kissed me!” she said turning and looking at Claire with what she hoped look liked anger.  Claire shook her head “Did you kiss him?” Patsy opened her mouth to protest her innocence but knew her friend knew her better.  “Maybe a little.” Claire nodded “Take a hot shower I’ll make you something to eat.”  Patsy nodded and went into the bathroom finally admitting to herself that she did actually enjoy being kissed by Mark.  Claire walked down the stairs glad her friend hadn’t noticed the red tinge to her eyes, Matt stood he had waited on the bottom step for Claire to return, “You okay?” he asked Claire nodded “Yeah I’m okay thanks.”  She looked at the front door; she could see a shadow on the porch.  “I didn’t hear the door.” She whispered Matt smirked “I think he’s biding his time.”  Claire walked over and opened the door; Mark turned quickly and sighed with relief when he saw Claire.  “Hey” he greeted sheepishly Claire smirked as she stepped outside closing the door quietly “Hey yourself.”  Mark studied Claire’s face and smiled “She told you.”  Claire nodded her eyes laughing at him “Don’t you know girls discuss everything!” Mark rolled his eyes and sat on the porch rail, “Well?” he asked Claire chuckled “Well what?” Mark gestured to the house “She mad at me?”  Claire nodded rubbing her arms as the breeze caught her “She’s livid.  But that’s a good thing.”  Mark cast a confused glance at her Claire shook her head “When she’s obnoxious and quick tempered and you get her to bite at everything you say it means she likes you.”  Mark chuckled at the absurdity of it Claire stepped forward to try and explain, “Patsy is choosy about guys okay.  She doesn’t like guys that let her walk all over them who bow to her every whim.  She gets bored with that.  She likes guys who challenge her and who makes her jump out of her skin and you do that.”  Mark smirked happy that he had the same effect on her that she had been having on him.  “So now I get to play protective big sis.  Your hurt her and I kill you.”  Mark laughed and nodded “Deal” he held out his hand and Claire shook it. 

 

The night rolled in Dean couldn’t feel the cold; he smiled as the woman he had been watching all day climbed out of her car.  She was ideal; he couldn’t wait to touch her.  The thought of her skin touching his made him salivate.  His fingers tingled with longing and excitement.  She walked into the apartment building, Dean followed his leather shoes making no sound on the flooring as her squeaked as she walked.  Dean joined her in the elevator and waited she rubbed her neck tired from being on her feet all day.  He licked his lips her skin was so soft, barely tanned it was extremely inviting.  He stepped forward and reached out to feel the skin on her neck to run his fingers up and down her spine.  His eyes flashed with anger as his fingers moved straight through her like she wasn’t even there.  He reached again she was as solid as a rock but to him she was like a cloud.  His anger welled up and he growled grabbing with both hands and having her step out of his grasp.  “What the hell!” he spat.  He wanted her he really wanted that woman and something was stopping him.  As the elevator doors closed he punched them denting them but never feeling a thing.  “I’m gonna get you damn you!” he yelled towards the heavens. 

 

Claire shivered as she sat watching the TV Patsy looked at her “You okay?” Claire nodded “Yeah but I think someone walked over my grave.”  Patsy shuddered “Don’t get me started.”  Claire looked sideways sure she could feel something she dismissed it as Patsy stood “You want a drink?”  Claire nodded as Patsy walked into the kitchen Matt moved from his place on the arm of the couch and sat next to Claire.  “What is it?” Claire shrugged as she tried to think of a way to describe the feeling “It’s like someone poured ice down my back.”  Matt chuckled “Maybe they did.”  Claire shook her head and smiled as Patsy walked into the room “Did you say something?”  Claire shook her head guiltily Patsy handed her a glass and went to sit next to her, she paused when she saw the look on Claire’s face.  “What?”  Claire shook her head and smiled as she heard a thud.  Patsy sat on the couch and studied Claire as she rested back “That was close” Matt said, as he picked himself up off the floor after diving off the couch so Patsy didn’t end up on his knee.  He wasn’t quite sure how that would work.  After all he couldn’t touch her so did he just flatten out like a balloon or turn into a puff of smoke and reform somewhere else.  Either way he wasn’t looking forward to finding out. “What is up with you?” Patsy asked as Claire tried to get lost in the movie “Is it something that jerk said?”  Claire shook her head “Don’t ask me to give you a reason to hate him.  I think he’s a nice guy.”  Patsy huffed and folded her arms “Well I don’t!” she said like a child Claire smirked “No of course you don’t!” Patsy spluttered “I, I!” Claire looked her friend in the eye “Admit it!  You think he’s hot!” Patsy staggered and tried to find and answer but she came up dry.   “I think he’s a jerk!” she finished grabbing the remote and turning up the TV Claire laughed as Patsy tried to drown out the conversation. 

 

Dean closed his eyes and saw it, it was a fuzzy image but there was definitely something to it.  Something he had been missing for so long.  He walked the street and felt an unexplainable pull towards the building.  He stood on the street corner and stared at it.  He could see it if he concentrated he could see faces, images, noises in his head they made no sense.  But here there were answers.  He walked into the building and looked around, he felt his heart lurch as if someone was pulling it out of him.  He walked towards the room where the intensity of the pain grew he staggered grabbing the doorframe.  He looked up and there it was, there he was lying on a bed looking grey.  The tubes hung from his mouth and his chest cavity was open he moved forward slowly stumbling as he went.  The intense feeling grew in his head it was as if someone had sucked all the air out him and dumped an anvil on to his chest.  He stood looking down at the table he could see his heart, the man was holding it, squeezing it with his hand Dean ran his own hand over his chest he couldn’t feel it.  There was no tell tale thump, no movement at all he looked at the man who seemed to see him and shook his head.  The piercing beep hit Dean hard, TV never warned him how painful that noise could be.  “No!  No!” he yelled, “Do something!”  He grabbed for the man but he turned moving away disappearing in to the darkness.  “No help me!” he yelled imploring the man to come back, but he was gone and the blackness that had swallowed him was encroaching on Dean.  He grabbed at the body pulling it into him “Breathe” he looked up as the smoke reached out like tentacles wrapping round the still grey form of his earth bound body “Damn it Breathe” he shouted looking down at his own greying face “Don’t let me die!” to his surprise the eyes shot open only they weren’t his dark lifeless pools, they were blue, bright blue and they were afraid.  The tentacles of dark vulgar nothingness grabbed at the body pulling it away from Dean, Dean let it go in fear “You didn’t get me!” he chuckled “I beat you!” The tentacles reached for him but as he laughed they faded and disappeared leaving him standing in the empty emergency room.  “You didn’t get me!”

7. 

 

The wind blew cool as the curtains rose and fell like a heart beat.  Matt turned away from the window, and looked at Claire, she seemed to be sleeping peacefully.  He walked over to the bed and sat on the edge she was dreaming he could see it.  Her eyes moved reflexively, he had watched her try to stay away trying to combat the urge to sleep drinking cup fulls of coffee and watching late night TV.  Her eyes had been so heavy but he knew she would make it.  He sat with her as she explained her reasoning,  “What if this guy can only kill at certain times, I mean all these women have died around three am.”  Matt had to agree it was a strong coincidence “And if I have to dream his killings first then I can’t sleep before then.”  Matt had thrown up his hands; he had to let her try.  He wasn’t sure it would work but he wasn’t sure what would.  Claire opened her eyes and turned over “Why are you so nervous?” she asked still half asleep, Matt wondered if she was really awake or if this were some kind of dream.  He staid silent watching her as she rolled over to face him “Matt?” she said as she pulled her pillow under her head and blinked waiting.  “How did you know I was nervous?” he asked as Claire smiled “Because I know I am.” She replied simply Matt chuckled “Move over.  Stop hogging the bed.”  Claire smiled and moved to allow Matt to lie on the bed beside her.  “Tell me about your family.”  He said as he looked into her blue eyes “Tell me how you got here?” Claire smiled softly “You want the novel or the made for TV version?” Matt laughed as Claire sighed and plumped up her pillow.  “I was born at a wrestling event.”  Matt smiled that was one of the more original reasons for being in the business.  “Michael delivered me and my parents asked him to be my God father.  All through my childhood I would come here for holidays with my parents.  Michael used to take me to events and send me programmes from all of the ones he was at.  When I hit sixteen I came out and knew I wanted to work here.  My parents were reluctant but they agreed that at eighteen if I went to University I could come here.  So after college that’s what I did.”  Matt nodded finding himself strangely drawn into her eyes; there was something different there something he had never seen in someone before.

 

Mark sat in the chair in front of the fire watching it crackle; he sighed and rubbed his eyes.  “So what now?” he asked as Kane sat on the chair next to his.  Kane shrugged “The guy is getting mad and you know what happens when they get mad.”  Mark nodded and picked up his bottle of beer from the floor he knew all too well what happened when the bad guys got mad, they wanted to know why they couldn’t do the things they wanted and when they find out it often had a very sickening effect, Mark knew insanity wasn’t pretty especially in dead guys.   “Why didn’t you tell the kid the truth?” Mark asked as Glen stared into the flames and shrugged “I didn’t tell him one way or the other” Mark shook his head “Your call.”  Kane slouched in the chair “You gonna tell her?”  Mark shook his head “In time I will.  Why scare her right now?”  Kane nodded he had to agree they the girl had been plunged into a nightmare and they could make it worse so why hurry to add even more stress to her life.  Mark remembered how hard he had it when he found out his life, as he knew it was over and he had a new job to do whether he liked it or not.     The loud knock woke him from his sombre thoughts, Mark stood and walked to the door wondering who would be calling at this time of night.  He opened the door and stared in to Patsy’s grey eyes a slow smiled spread across his face.   “Hey” he greeted his Texan accent ringing in Patsy’s ears.  Against her better judgement she had driven here.  She had passed by Claire’s room unable to sleep and heard her talking, she assumed she was dreaming as she peaked in the door and saw Claire tucked up in bed.  She smiled and headed out.  She intended to take a quiet drive clear her head so she could sleep but something had drawn her here.  Now she was looking into those green eyes and she knew she was in trouble.

 

Lesley sat on the chair by her hotel room window.  Jeff stepped out of the bathroom drying his freshly dyed hair.  Lesley smiled as she saw the red stains on the hotel linens.  “You know one of these days they’ll charge you for that.”  Jeff smirked and shrugged “I’m just giving boring towels a new lease of life.”  Lesley smirked and then went back to looking at her small photo album, Jeff walked over and crouched beside her “Reminiscing?” Lesley looked and him and nodded, he could tell there was something wrong by the darkness in her eyes, “Shelly called” Lesley began as she flipped the pages of pictures over and over.  They showed her relationship with Claire over the years, how they’d changed, they were kids when they met around nine years old they knew they would be friends instantly.  “What did she say?” Jeff asked smiling at the picture of Lesley in the mid eighties with curly hair and a puffball skirt.  Lesley smiled at the picture and quickly turned the page, he cheeks tinged with red as she cringed at the old snap shots.  “She said she caught Claire talking to herself.”  Jeff shrugged as he moved to sit on the edge of the bed “So what everyone does that.  You do that!” he pointed out Lesley nodded “Yeah but I don’t have conversations with someone who isn’t there.”  Jeff sighed and watched as Lesley fingered a picture of her and Claire on the beach, it had been taken at New Year and they looked so happy so optimistic for the year ahead.  “I heard her too.  We were trying on dresses and she was in her room, she was talking to nothing.  Having a conversation with something I couldn’t see.”  Jeff stood and walked round the bed to the phone he picked it up and dialled a number “What are you doing?” Lesley asked Jeff smiled “Getting us an earlier flight.”  Lesley smiled Jeff was one of the few people who understood her relationship with Claire.  They were as close as sisters, they always had been.  She stood and walked over to him kissing his cheek and smiling as she whispered “Thank you” in his ear. 

 

 

“So when are you a bridesmaid?” Matt asked quietly Claire smiled “Saturday” she took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she relaxed her body “You got a date?” Matt asked chuckling Claire half smiled “Kind of.”  She replied Matt wondered if she was thinking of him.  “What’s his name?” he asked edging round the subject, “Adam” Matt was disappointed he wondered who this guy ‘Adam’ was, he felt his heart tighten.  “He your boyfriend?” Matt asked wondering why he’d never contemplated if she was involved with someone or not.  “No, he’s an old friend” Claire replied quietly Matt looked at her as she seemed to lose the battle with sleep, he smiled to himself and snuggled down beside her watching her as she slipped away “Sweet dreams” he whispered and watched as the edges of her mouth tugged into a smile.  Matt felt himself relax for the first time in a long time; he closed his eyes and felt himself drift slightly.  Then it happened a sharp pulsating pain gripped his body, Matt fought to open his eyes and struggled to breathe as the pain radiated through him in waves.  Something clawed at him pulling him away tensing his muscles and pulling him into the darkness.  Matt grabbed out instinctively wanting something to ground him and he found it.  The image of Claire he had so perfectly noted and held in his memory grounded him.  The thought of leaving her with no one to turn to scared him more than the waves of pain he was experiencing.  He felt the waves dissipate and his body relaxed, his breathing was ragged as he lay on the bed, wondering what the hell just happened to him.

 

Patsy didn’t stop to think about what she was doing she instinctively moved forward Mark didn’t back down or look away as she pulled his face to hers and kissed him.  Her lips brushed his and she slipped her tongue inside his mouth entwining it with his.  Mark pulled her forward wanting to deepen the kiss, he ignored the coughing laughter coming from the couch as he pulled Patsy inside and swung the door closed.  Patsy pulled away and looked into his eyes “This means nothing” she whispered as a grin crept across Mark’s features “We’ll see.” He said as he kissed her jaw line Patsy moaned softly as her hands moved over his chest feeling his muscles as they flexed with movement.   “Guess I’ll let myself out!” Kane interrupted Mark ignored him as he let his hands move over Patsy’s black shirt, down her back to the top of her thighs.  He lifted her effortlessly and carried her into his bedroom.  Closing the door behind him he could still hear Kane laughing in the other room “Keep the noise down!” he mocked as Mark cursed him mentally.  Patsy stepped back from Mark and unbuttoned her shirt, she could tell he was excited, she stepped forward running her fingers over his leather vest as she pulled at the buttons, he massaged her waist and made her shiver as his fingers slipped under her shirt and traced her spine.  Mark dipped his head and drew her into a passionate kiss Patsy knew she was fighting a losing battle but she couldn’t get him out of her head.  Her desire was ragging and she hoped once she had experienced him it would be enough; she paid no heed to the little voice in her head warning her once would never be enough.  Instead she slipped her hands into the waistband over his trousers and pushed them from his body, his arms tightened around her as he moved her to the bed.  Patsy lay back on the silk covers and waited biting her lips as Mark removed her trousers and then let his fingers lazily trace patterns across her skin.  She reached down pulling his head to hers as his tongues slipped into her mouth she shuddered feeling the intense feeling fill her.  Her hands ran the length of his body as they moved together.  His eyes never left hers as he felt her quiver with pleasure he too smiled into her eyes as his body gave up everything to her.

 

Patsy opened her eyes she could feel Mark’s heartbeat as she lay with her head on his chest, he was already awake, his fingers softly circling her shoulder Patsy closed her eyes again she had to admit she had never felt anything like it before, Mark had not only made love to her the way no man had before but he had rocked her to the core.  She felt him move his arms wrapped around her pulling her close to him, feeling her warm soft skin against his, she couldn’t help but sense a vulnerability around him.  “Promise me” she whispered “Promise me you’ll leave Claire alone” she felt Mark tense she knew it was the least romantic thing she could say and she didn’t want him to think that was why she was with him but she had to protect her friend.  Mark was a guy and Patsy wouldn’t deny she was hotly attracted to him but Claire was her friend and she would always be family.  Mark seemed to let her go “I cant do that.”  Patsy sat up and looked at him as he studied her “If you care about me at all” Patsy began her eyes imploring him to listen to her with his heart not his head “You’ll stop harassing her.”  Mark shook his head “If you care about her at all you wouldn’t ask me to do that.”  Patsy sighed Mark was so dam infuriating.  Patsy pushed herself out of the bed and grabbed at her discarded clothes Mark watched her intently her spirit was what he found attractive.  “Patsy” he said sternly she ignored him not wanting his tone to make her shiver the way it did “Patsy” he repeated, she stopped her back to him knowing if she looked into those eyes she would melt into him again.  “I’m not here to hurt her and if you look past your feelings for me you’d see that!” Patsy felt her blood rush to her face “Feelings for you!” she laughed turning fixing him with a loathing glare “I have no feelings for you!” she said storming out of the room.  She wanted out and fast while she still held a little of the conviction she had mustered against him.  Mark lay back and smiled “See you at the wedding” he chuckled. 

 

The warmth of the sun woke Claire early, she opened her eyes and breathed in the fresh air, she could never be sure lately if she were alone, She looked at the space next to her wondering if Matt where lying there, “Matt?” she whispered there was no reply, she sat up wondering what they had discussed in the early hours she had been so tired she couldn’t remember half of their conversation.  She pushed back the covers and decided to get ready, she was sure Matt would be around somewhere.  Once she had showered and changed Claire walked down stairs surprised to find a full breakfast laid out on the table, she watched as Patsy finished making pancakes “What’s all this for?”  She asked Patsy shrugged “Couldn’t sleep thought I’d cook.”  Claire nodded and took a seat “Oh lover boy is here” Patsy joked, Claire looked bemused “Adam?”  Patsy nodded in the direction of the lounge “He’s asleep on the couch, go wake him” Claire smiled and stood while Patsy finished setting the table she jogged into the lounge.  Matt stood in the doorway of the lounge, he hadn’t realised how long he had been glaring at Adam but it was over an hour since he had arrived.  Matt watched as Claire walked over and kneeled by the couch.  Adam was in his mid twenties, around six feet tall with long blonde hair Claire reached out gently and touched his cheek.  Adam shifted bringing his arm up to his face, Claire giggled and his eyes shot open, Matt felt himself go red with anger as Adam touched Claire’s face “Hey babe” he greeted a large smile on his face.  Claire winked and pulled him up “Come on Patsy’s been cooking up a storm.”  Adam moaned as he was pulled to his feet.  Claire pushed him towards the kitchen but paused herself as the phone rang, she picked it up “Hello?” she greeted surprised to hear Lesley reply, “Hey I’m at the airport, can you make room for two tonight?”  Claire beamed “Of course I can.  What’s going on?” Claire asked as she laughed as Adam pulled faces from the kitchen “Nothing much we just got an earlier flight.  We’ll be there around four.”  Claire smiled giggling as Adam stuck his tongue out at her.  “Yeah okay, you need me to pick you guys up?”  Lesley and Claire discussed arrangements for later in the day while Adam jeered from the kitchen.  Matt decided he didn’t like Adam he didn’t know why he just wasn’t prepared to give him a chance. 

 

Sammy jogged up the steps to her home, she opened the French doors and stepped inside “Shannon!” she shouted as she carried the two brown bags of groceries through to the kitchen “Shannon?”  She repeated leaving the bags and jogging upstairs.  She was positive Shannon would be there having had a long lie in he would probably be singing in the shower.  Sammy opened the bedroom door and felt the smile disappear from her face.  Shannon was in the middle of the room hanging in mid air gasping for breath and scratching at his neck.  “Shannon!” Sammy screamed as she watched him reflexively kicking his legs panicking as his airway snapped, Sammy heard the crack as his neck broke and his head lolled forward before his body fell limply to the floor “Shannon!” she cried rushing forward.  Sammy sat bolt up right in bed, her skin damp with sweat “Hey baby it’s okay I’m here” Shannon soothed sitting up beside her and rubbing her shoulders “It was just a nightmare.”  Sammy nodded and allowed him to pull her back into him holding her tightly as her body shook “It was just a dream” he soothed.  It took minutes of Shannon’s repeated soothing to calm Sammy.  She lay in his arms feeling his warmth letting the sadness and fear of her dream slip away but all the while she knew there was a message hidden within.

 

After breakfast Adam excused himself and went to shower and change after his late night flight.  Claire stood washing the dishes while Patsy dried them “So you gonna tell me what really happened last night or you just want to keep lying to me and pretending everything’s all right.”  Patsy shrugged as she piled the plates on the bench “Everything is all right.” She replied nochalontly Claire flicked foam at her “It’s blatantly not!” she countered as Patsy wiped the foam off her top she shook her head “It’s not important.”  Claire rolled her eyes as she dried off her hands and took Patsy by the arm.  She led her over to the table and made her sit “Now spill it” Claire demanded.  Patsy sighed and threw up her hands in defeat “I went to see Mark last night.  I don’t know why I did it but when I got there we ended up making love.”  Claire studied her friend Patsy seemed resigned about something but Claire couldn’t figure out what it was just yet.  “So?” Claire replied Patsy stood and began pacing “I messed it up okay.”  Claire waited Patsy was definitely mad at herself “I asked him to leave you alone.”  Claire closed her eyes “You didn’t have to do that.”  Patsy shrugged “You would say that.  You don’t see it but he’s bad news.” She sighed and sat back down “I just don’t think he’s good news for you.”  Claire shook her head taking Patsy’s hands in hers she looked deep into her friend’s eyes “You don’t have to worry about me.  Mark isn’t here to cause trouble.”  Patsy pulled her hands away “You would say that your so damn naïve sometimes!” Claire sighed, “Do you like the guy?” Patsy looked at Claire and nodded truthfully “Then stop thinking about me and do what’s right for you for a change.  I’m not a kid you don’t have to protect me from anything.  If you like him then go for it.”  Patsy sighed she nodded but had already resigned herself to the fact that she had lost Mark.

 

Matt had been quiet all day, Claire didn’t understand why he had answered her with ‘yes’ and ‘no’ every time she asked him something.  Now it was eight in the evening, Claire was getting ready to go to dinner with Adam.  They were meeting Lesley and Jeff at the restaurant.  Lesley had called to say there had been a change of plan they would be spending that night at Shane’s so he and Jeff could catch up.  Claire pulled on a long black skirt and corset style top with thin straps.  Matt stood by the window watching, he was seething inside and he didn’t know why he turned to look at her as she ran her fingers through her straight hair “Have a good night” he said his tone as even as he could make it.  Claire picked up her purse “Your not coming?” he audibly sighed “No I’m gonna stay here think.”  Claire nodded “Okay, I’ll see you later.” She walked to the door and paused as if she wanted to say something but she stepped out and closed the door leaving Matt standing staring longingly at the door.  Claire shook her head she felt bad as if she were doing something wrong.  She walked down the stairs slowly suddenly very reluctant to go out.  Adam beamed at her “You ready?” he asked she nodded and took his arm.  Patsy smiled “Have fun guys” she said, “You won’t come with?” Claire asked wanting her friend to join them and not brood over what she had done the night before “Nah I’m gonna meet Shelly for a beer.”  Claire nodded and smiled “Ok.  Have a good time.” Patsy smiled “You too!”  She waved the couple off and then grabbed her own coat she had only told a little lie.

 

Adam looked at Claire as she climbed into the drivers seat “You sure your okay?” he asked she smiled and nodded “Don’t worry about me.” Adam looked at her seriously “But I do worry about you, your like a sister to me” Claire smiled touched by his sentiment, she leaned across and kissed his cheek, Matt watched on from the bedroom window he felt himself snarl.  Claire started the car and pulled out of the driveway.  Matt turned back and stared at a smiling Kane “That’s called jealousy pal. Just cos you’re here it doesn’t mean your immune to emotions.”  Matt sat on the bed next to Kane and shook his head “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”  Kane smiled “Sure you don’t.  Look a word to the wise be sure of what you want before you do anything about it cos you wont be the only one that gets hurt.”  Matt sighed Kane’s words had a resonance inside him “She can hear him” Kane nodded “She can hear you what ever you can do so can he.”  Matt nodded and rubbed his face “She staid awake most of last night thinking it would preventing him from killing.”  Kane chuckled “In a way she’s right.  He can only kill them if she dreams it first, if she has seen them he needs her to make the connection otherwise he is powerless.  I figure by now he has an idea that something is happening.  He wont know about her yet but it wont be long.”  Matt shivered “Are you saying he could come after her?” Kane nodded he took a deep breath “Claire is his link to the earth but she’s also the nose round his neck.  It’s like he’s on a leash and she’s holding him back.  If he sees her as a threat who knows what he’ll do.”  Matt nodded he understood his role “That’s why I’m here.”  Kane nodded standing and walking to the window watching as Patsy walked away from the house.  “How do we stop him?”  Kane turned “It’s a matter of time.  You can prevent him from doing his worst but it’s takes time to learn how to beat him at his own game.  It’ll take you time to learn what you can do.  You’ll be surprised at the power you have but remember he’s equal to you.”  Matt shook his head “Can’t you just tell me to shoot the guy?” he asked Kane laughed throatily.

 

Adam held the door of the restaurant open for Claire, she stepped inside and scanned the tables, she could see Lesley and Jeff sitting by the window on the right.  She led Adam over, Lesley managed to drag her eyes from Jeff long enough to smile and hug both Adam and Claire.  Jeff greeted Claire with a hug and Adam with a firm handshake.  “You guys okay?”  Claire enquired as they sat “We’re good” Jeff replied picking up his menu and smiling at Claire “So how come the early flight?”  Jeff shrugged “I was gonna have a match but it was cancelled so we thought why not come back early.”  Claire nodded as Jeff winked at Lesley he knew Lesley didn’t want to make Claire suspicious of her home coming after all Claire would probably berate them for coming home early for her sake and then say there was nothing at all wrong.  Jeff knew that was something Lesley wanted to find out for herself.  “Glad to be back Adam?” Lesley asked Adam grinned “Of course!  Who wouldn’t be glad to be back with his two favourite girls?”   Lesley and Claire both groaned in all the years they had known Adam his lines had never improved.  The young waitress walked over and smiled at them, she had wavy red hair tied back with a clip; she beamed at Adam who returned her smile.  Claire and Lesley looked at each other and fought to restrain themselves from laughing.  After they had ordered and Adam had finished flirting the allowed themselves to laugh at his antics “You never change!” Lesley accused Adam threw up his hands pretending to be offended “What did I do!” he protested Claire giggled “She means in the past five years every restaurant we’ve gone to you’ve hit on each and every waitress!” Lesley joined Claire in giggling, “I hate to think how many you’ve taken home!  I guess you just have a thing for the uniform!”

 

Jennifer and Shelly both stared at Sammy open mouthed, “That’s awful!” Jennifer finally said “What a horrid dream!” Shelly nodded in agreement she shivered at the thought of seeing Paul struggling for every last breath, it didn’t bare thinking about.  “I think someone’s gonna get hurt.”  Sammy said solemnly Shelly placed her drink on the table gingerly “You what?”  Sammy fixed her with a cold gaze and nodded “Someone we know is gonna get hurt.”  Jennifer shook her head “Sammy you had a nightmare!  You’re under so much stress I’m not surprised your having nightmares.  But to read anything in to it” Jennifer shook her head, Shelly took Sammy’s hand in hers “Shannon is gonna be fine.  Nothing’s gonna happen to him.”  Sammy smiled and nodded “I know it’s not Shannon.  I dreamed it was but I know that was just a message to tell me it would be someone close.”  Shelly shook her head she was always sceptical about Sammy’s premonitions.  “So who is it?” Sammy shook her head “I don’t know.”  She looked at Jennifer for support and found it “I just know it’ll happen soon.”  Jennifer nodded “We’ll all be careful.” She promised Sammy nodded but she knew there wasn’t anything her friends could do this was something she had to figure out before it was too late.

 

Dean sat on the stool in the restaurant, damn he missed food, he salivated over the steaks as they were carried out of the kitchen, What he wouldn’t give to taste on, he sighed as the waitress walked by him, she was pretty but he knew he couldn’t have her.  He couldn’t taste her he wasn’t quite sure what was going on or why he could taste certain women but he knew this he was dead and it was actually not a bad deal.  He smiled to himself as he watched the waitress work, he imagined having her, which was almost as good as touching her.  He would just have to wait and see what girl he could have.  He liked his lips in anticipation of the thrill he would soon receive.  The one thing that bugged him was the blue eyes, his eyes were dark, so why had they shone bright blue and full of fear.

 

The beer bottle clinked on the bar Patsy smiled at the noise and waited for the barman to pour her another tequila shot and beer chaser.  She was feeling no pain as the clear liquid filled the glass.  She downed it and swigged a mouthful from the bottle before glancing at the man next to her he smiled at her approvingly.  She stood shakily at first she got her balance and held out a hand to him “Dance with me!” she demanded the man nodded pulling her on to the floor in a tight embrace.  Mark sat in the corner watching her every move.  She let the man she was with run his hands down her body, she knew he was interested in taking things further but for some reason the willingness the alcohol had given her dissipated and she pushed him away.  “No” she said wagging her finger at him.  The man reached for her only to have her push him again “I said no!” she spat turning to leave the room span before her eyes as he grabbed her and whirled her round to face him.  Mark had had enough he moved quickly has hand like a hammer on the guys shoulder knocking him an inch or so down into the dance floor.  “You heard the lady!” he growled the man stepped back away from them intimidated by Mark’s stature and physique.  Patsy stared at Mark “What the hell do you want!” Mark smiled “You” Patsy was stunned by his openness as he stepped in to her “But I want you sober.”  He picked her up before she could protest and carried her out of the bar. 

 

 

The door creaked as Claire peaked into Patsy’s room she sighed and shrugged “Not there huh?” Adam asked as Claire closed the door “No, she must have staid over at Shelly’s.”  Adam nodded and yawned “Well I’m gonna crash out.”  He leaned in and kissed Claire’s cheek “Night” Claire smiled and whispered back.  She watched Adam go into the spare room before she walked into her own.  She glanced at her watch and sighed, it was two thirty, one more hour and she could sleep peacefully.  She sat on the edge of the bed and rubbed her shoulders “Have a good night” Claire turned to look at her stacked up pillows, there was nothing there, she sighed, “It was okay.” She stood and took off her necklace “How bout you?” Matt watched her from his spot on the bed “Quiet.” His eyes followed her to the window, he stood silently and walked over to her touching her shoulder lightly knowing she couldn’t feel him there he looked into her eyes “I’m sorry” he whispered Claire shook her head “What for?” he could tell she had no idea what he was talking about.  “It’s just so hard for me and I got angry and I took it out on you.  I’m sorry” her eyes held no malice towards him if anything they were desperate to comfort him “You don’t have to apologise.”  Matt sighed he wanted so much to touch her face to bring her eyes to look in to his to see how he felt.  “I got jealous today.  I saw you with Adam and I, I envied him.  I was angry because you are all I have, you’re the only one who even knows I am here.”  Claire hung her head she hadn’t considered how much Matt had lost or who being pulled away from his family would hurt him.  “You miss you’re family” she whispered softly “Do they know you’re here?”  Matt could hear himself telling his brother he’d see him soon he turned away from Claire “No.”  Claire closed her eyes and let the tear trickle down her face, “I don’t think they know I’m dead.”  Matt struggled with the words as he looked at the floor.

8.

Patsy rolled over her eyes opened slowly she could feel her head pounding and her mouth was dry as she focused in on the room.  She wondered when she had had her walls painted.  Suddenly she sat up, regretting the move as soon as the head rush hit knocking her vision and balance off.  She closed her eyes and waited for the sickness to fade slowly she opened them again.  She knew this room; she knew this room wasn’t hers.  “Oh shit!” she moaned pushing back the covers she was relieved to find herself still fully dressed that was something at least.  She staggered to the door and opened it quietly; she checked her watch it was just past five am.  She stepped gingerly out into the lounge room, she sighed with relief as she spotted Mark still sleeping on the couch.  She bit her lip as she watched him momentarily mesmerised by the movement of his chest.  She closed her eyes and moved as quietly as she could to the door.   She allowed herself one last lingering look at him before she clicked the door handle and stepped out in to the cool morning air.  Mark opened his eyes at the second click and sighed he had never met a woman like Patsy and he had certainly never put as much work into getting any bodies trust. But he knew she was worth the wait and the fight she just had to figure that out.

 

Lesley was wide-awake she sat at Shane’s breakfast table not reading the paper in front of her.  She was mentally analysing every word Claire had uttered and every movement she had made last night.  Lesley could think of nothing unusual, her friend was her usual self, happy, friendly, warm and ready to mock anyone who gave her the opportunity.  If she had acted strangely in the past couple of weeks Lesley was willing to put it down to delayed shock and stress.  If she had been talking to herself Lesley was sure it was just her own way of coping, she would be berating herself if she felt bad or encouraging herself to pull it together and you couldn’t fault her for that.  Lesley was happy now she had finished deliberating her friend was okay and there was no reason to worry about her.  Lesley shivered as a soft hand traced across her shoulders “You’re up early” Jeff said as he kissed her good morning Lesley smiled “There’s a lot to do before tomorrow” Jeff smiled as he sat down “Does that mean Claire’s okay?”  Lesley nodded “Yeah she is.”  Jeff took her hand and squeezed it “Good”.  He shot Lesley a cheeky smile “So this bridesmaids dress it look better on or on my floor?”  Lesley shook her head and chastised her boyfriend with a kiss.

 

The printer kicked in as Claire stared at her screen.  She remembered the conversation she had with Matt only a few short hours before.  “What happened to you?” she asked as she sat by the window she heard him take a deep breath “I was driving heading out of state when this car rammed me.  Every time I pulled myself ahead he came after me, I lost control and the car hit the skids.  I remember it flipping but that’s it. “  Claire blinked and looked at the screen the image she was staring at brought her close to tears.  The car was a mangled wreck being pulled out of a deep ditch.  It had been found two days ago.  She closed the screen as she heard someone coming down stairs.  Claire stood and walked out of the dining room she smiled at Patsy who was shoving her hair under a baseball cap.  “Hey” she greeted Patsy smiled weakly “Hi” she managed to choke out “What time did you get in?” Patsy shrugged “Late you were asleep.”  Claire nodded as she walked into the kitchen “You better hope Sammy doesn’t catch you looking like that she’ll kill you” Patsy sighed as she hoisted herself on to the kitchen bench Claire handed her a glass of water and two aspirin.  Patsy nodded a thank you then swallowed the tablets.  “Just give me twenty minutes” Claire smiled and poured her a coffee to aid in her recovery.  The banging at the door made Patsy moan as Claire handed her the mug and rushed to the door.  “Sammy!” she greeted loudly.  Patsy balked on her coffee and ran to the sink, she splashed her face with cold water hoping it would wake her up and make her cheeks rosy instead of grey.

 

“Sammy?” Claire repeated as she looked at her friend, Sammy’s bottom lip was quivering as she stepped inside “Sammy what’s wrong?”  Sammy took off her hat and sunglasses.  Claire bit her lip “Look what she’s done to me!” Sammy cried as her hair fell in back combed mess around her shoulder, her makeup was like something out of a horror movie.  Her eyes were covered in thick black eye shadow and mascara, her lips were painted bright red and her cheeks were smudge to a bruised state with an orange blusher.  “She was supposed to make me look beautiful!” Sammy whined, “I can’t get married looking like this!”  Patsy stepped out of the kitchen and chocked on a laugh as Claire shot her a ‘don’t you dare’ look.  Patsy retreated and grabbed a towel to bite on.  “Sammy listen to me” Sammy was pacing in the hall way “She said she was gonna curl it so it looked like it was natural!”  Claire rolled her eyes “Sammy!” she shouted Sammy turned and looked at her “I’ll fix it.”  Sammy nodded slowly “But what about tomorrow I can’t let her anywhere near me and there isn’t time to book anyone else!”  Claire nodded taking Sammy by the shoulders “Leave it to me okay.  I’ll sort it.  Now you go upstairs in my bathroom you’ll find some cleanser go take off that stuff with that and then take a shower.”  Sammy nodded and headed up stairs still crying.  Claire walked into the kitchen and looked at Patsy “Don’t!” she said almost laughing herself as Patsy shoved more of the towel into her mouth so she couldn’t laugh.

 

Claire and Patsy were quick to jump into action, Claire began calling around the others getting them together getting them to grab their makeup and styling gear.  Patsy called the make-up artist and sacked her as nicely as possible before going and grabbing her own make-up and hair dryer.  Claire found magazines and marked hairstyles while Patsy made the front room into a make up parlour.  Claire then drove Adam and his stuff to Shane’s house where he’d be spending the night.  Leaving Patsy to sit consoling Shelly who was still crying.  Claire smiled as she walked into Shane’s apartment “Your early!” Shane greeted as he hugged her “Jennifer isn’t here yet” Claire smiled and hugged him back “It’s okay I already called her.  We had a bit of a nightmare.”  Shane let his mouth drop open in mock horror “Don’t tell me she forgot her lipstick!”  Claire smirked “No but you were close.”  Claire walked into the lounge where Jeff was playing on Shane’s Nintendo she dropped on to the couch beside him “You winning?” she asked brightly Jeff winked at her “You bet!  You look shattered though!” Claire laughed “Thanks!” Jeff laughed and sat back his game on pause “I just meant you looked harassed!” Claire touched his arm lightly letting him know she was joking, “You were right the first time.”  Claire rolled her eyes as she heard Adam banging around in the spare room.  “Where’s Lesley?” Claire asked stretching as Jeff walked into the kitchen “She just popped to the shop something about a rescues idea for Sammy.”  Claire giggled and followed him “A good rescue cure.  Erm you guys got cucumber?”  Jeff looked at her quizzically “For Sammy’s eyes! She hasn’t stopped crying since she got to my place.”  Jeff laughed and raided the fridge “Would tomatoes work?”  Claire shook her head laughing as Jeff held two ripe tomatoes next to his eyes.  Jeff put them back and leaned on the bench “You really okay?” he asked Claire smiled “Yeah just got a couple of things on my mind” Jeff shrugged “Wedding things?”  Claire smiled and motioned with her hand “Little of this little of that.”  Jeff chuckled “You sound like my brother” Claire smiled “How is he?” Jeff shrugged “Still in hiding!” Claire smiled as he shook his head “He’s gone looking for a school to train at, I told him we have the best one here but he wants to check out everything.  Matt can be so stubborn!” Claire lifted her head she had forgotten that Jeff’s brother was called Matt.  She’d never met him neither had Lesley but she had heard a lot about him.  “You okay?”  Jeff asked Claire was suddenly very pale. Claire nodded “I’m fine.”  She felt a friendly hand on her shoulder “Of course she’s okay!” Lesley said brightly.

 

Jennifer smiled at Connor as she packed her overnight bag with extras heat tongs and powders she thought Sammy would suit.  Claire would be there any minute with Lesley; She closed the bag and picked up Connor “Now be very good for your dad okay?”  Connor beamed at her as she carried him and her bag down stairs.  Shawn hung up the phone and smiled at her taking Connor from her arms “Come here baby!  Let’s let Jennifer get ready for her night out.”  He smiled and winked at Jennifer “Keri okay?” she asked as she pulled on her jacket “Yeah she’s fine she’ll be another couple of weeks” Jennifer nodded “Thanks for being here” Shawn said Jennifer smiled and nodded she could hear the door she leaned forward and kissed Connor “Be good” she said as she walked to the door “That goes for you to!” she said to Shawn as she stepped outside.  She threw her bag in the boot of the car and jumped into the backseat.  “Hey” she greeted.  Now what’s all the fuss?”  Claire smirked “Sammy had a run in with a gothic make up artist!”  Jennifer laughed out loud as Claire backed the car out of Shawn’s driveway. 

 

Sammy had managed to get all the gel and spray out of her hair.  Her face was red from scrubbing, she sat on Claire’s bed wrapped in a huge soft towel while she gingerly brushed her hair pulling faces as it snagged in the brush prongs.  Suddenly she stopped and looked up “I know you’re there” she said quietly.  She could feel someone moving about the room Matt stopped and stared at her.  “You’re a good guy I can tell.”  She said standing walking towards the warmth in the air, “I guess something is gonna happen.  I think you should know someone is in a great deal of danger.  One of us I know they’re gonna get hurt.”  Matt studied her, her eyes moved about the room as if her sense were confused when she standing toe to toe with him “I don’t want it to be Claire and if you can stop that.  Just do what you can to take care of us all okay.”  There was a knock at the door it made Sammy jump she smiled as Patsy stepped inside “You okay?”  Sammy nodded “Yeah I am now” she smiled Patsy nodded “The others will be here ten” Sammy nodded “I’ll be right down.”  Patsy nodded and shut the door behind her Sammy smiled “Don’t worry they think I’m nuts anyway.  Claire is the sane one!” she laughed as she grabbed her clothes and went into the bathroom. 

 

Claire was sitting watching the TV her eyes were heavy she checked her watch it was one am everyone else was asleep she had sneaked down after they all went to bed.  Sammy wanted everyone to have an early night.  Claire agreed knowing she would have to keep herself awake.  She stood and walked into the kitchen she picked up a glass and filled it with juice the least she could do was avoid caffeine she’d need plenty of it in the morning.  “Can’t you sleep?” Lesley whispered from the door Claire shrugged “More like I don’t want to.”  Lesley watched her intently as she walked into the lounge.  She sat on the table in front of Claire “Come on tell me?” Claire sighed and sat back “Nope” Lesley kicked her legs Claire smirked “Bully” Lesley stuck out her tongue “Now tell me so I don’t worry” Claire sighed and let her head drop back against the couch.  She had never found it hard to talk to Lesley about anything, why would this be any different.  “You see that” Claire began clicking the TV on to the news channel it was reporting on the recent deaths.  Lesley nodded; she wondered how anyone could be oblivious to the story.  “I watched her die” Claire said flatly, Lesley stared at her tempted to laugh “What?”  Claire sighed clicking off the TV “I dreamed she died and then she did.”  Lesley shook her head “It’s just a coincidence!  A nightmare, it’s understandable you would have” she stopped as Claire fixed her with a stern cold gaze “When have you ever known me to have nightmares?”  Lesley swallowed hard, Claire was right nightmares were unusual for her.  She could watch the scariest horror film and sleep like a baby.  “You’re serious?” Claire nodded “I see the women who are being killed before they die.  I see them dying in my dreams and then they do.”  Lesley shook her head Claire wondered what was going through her friend’s head, she had a fair idea.  Disbelief a feeling Claire had hit her head harder than they thought.  Lesley looked up at her “Who’s killing them?” Claire took a deep breath and sat forward “The gentleman killer.”  Lesley did laugh, “He’s dead Claire!” Claire nodded “But he’s not gone.”  Claire watched as Lesley shook her head “When did this all?” Claire half smiled “The accident.  He was in the same hospital same emergency room.  Look I don’t understand it myself all I know is he’s still here and we have to stop him.”  Lesley’s eyes were wide “We?”  Claire nodded “I’m not on my own.  There’s someone else” Lesley was confused “You told Patsy?” Claire shook her head “Come off it she hates Mark enough.” Lesley sighed and threw up her hands “So this Mark guy he’s in on this?” Claire nodded “Kind of.”  Lesley rubbed her eyes she wondered if delusional people always sounded so coherent.  What was scaring her was she knew Claire was completely lucid. 

 

 

Claire sighed as she walked into her room, Lesley had given up trying to understand and Claire couldn’t explain anymore.  They were both tired and this wasn’t the best of nights to be talking about murders.  Claire climbed into bed and sighed, “You okay?” Matt asked Claire sat up slightly “Where are you?” Matt smiled he shoved his hands in his pockets “By the window” he said quietly Claire nodded looking towards him “Will you” she stopped closing her eyes Matt watched her intently “I don’t want to be on my own.” Matt walked towards her “I’m not going anywhere” Claire nodded “I figured that.”  She smiled as he continued to approach her “But I just” Matt sat on the bed “I’m right beside you.” He finished knowing she just wanted some comfort, knowing he was close to her made her smile and he was relieved that he could do something to help at last.  Claire lay down “Tell me about your brother?”  Matt smiled as he lay down next to her looking into her eyes “He’s younger than me, three years.  He’s the best brother I could ask for.  He’s a pain sometimes and he has wacky ideas but I love him. “  Matt continued describing his brother he watched as Claire smiled slowly fading into sleep.  He watched her for a few moments wondering if in some small way she were still listening to him.  He sighed as he lay watching her rhythmic breathing he thought about his brother.  How he had wanted him to come home so badly, Matt had been stubborn and staid away too long it made it harder for him to come home.  There was so much he wanted to share with Jeff, so much he missed and so much he had to learn and now he would never have the chance.  He wouldn’t even get to say goodbye.

 

 

The hospital walls seemed to bend and warp as Dean walked through them.  It was as if the present and his memories were melding uncomfortably into one.  He made his way to the emergency room, it had happened there before a very uncomfortable memory and he was willing to risk it again.  Risk fighting with whatever that thing was to find out why he was still here.  The emergency room was empty; as he stood afraid to breach the safety he knew he had on the outer side of the door.  He took a breath and stepped inside, all the air he sucked in was knocked out of him as the room spun and his two worlds collided.  Dean stood trying to regain his balance and quell the sick feeling inside as the merry go round slowed and he could focus.  His stretcher was there again; his body being over ran by the black tentacles he backed away as they reached for him.  He watched as they flowed through his mouth in to him, his eyes rolled and they shot out of the sockets twisting and writing it was as if they could sense him there.  He took another step back hoping they wouldn’t reach him.  His legs buckled as he felt the cold of metal seep into his legs, he jumped fearing what was behind.  He turned ready to fight, whatever it was it was getting him.  He laughed at himself he had crashed into another bed and almost jumped out of his skin, he was ready to karate chop a mattress.  A mattress that wasn’t empty.  He let his eyes adjust it was as if whatever was there wasn’t for him to see as if the shape was fighting to melt away.  Dean reached out and yanked the white sheet.  His world flashed the lights the shocks of electricity he reeled backwards as the images hit him in quick succession like a boxer reigning blows on him.  He staggered as the final image hit and there she was. 

 

          Claire heard the door creak but paid no attention to it; she was in a warm cocoon that she was all too willing to stay in.  “Claire!” Sammy yelled running to the bed, Claire sat up quickly in time to see Sammy leap on to the bed and start dancing around on it.  Claire swallowed hard “You got to get up!” Sammy yelled excitedly “Come on!”  Claire nodded slowly biting her lip “Everyone else awake?” Sammy shook her head “Then go wake them I’ll be right there!” Sammy jumped off the bed and ran to the door “Come on hurry up breakfast then I get married!” she squealed.  Claire smiled as Sammy closed the door behind her “Matt?  Are you still in one piece?” Claire asked wondering if Sammy had trampled him to death in her excitement.  Matt chuckled from the floor where he had fallen as he scrambled of the bed he knew he couldn’t touch Claire but he didn’t want to find out if Sammy could really hurt him by standing on him.  “I’m okay,” he said as he pulled himself up he sat on the edge of the bed “Big day huh?” Claire nodded he sighed regretfully he had done a lot with his life but there were things he would regret he never achieved.  “I should go.” Claire said quietly she pushed back the covers and grabbed her dressing gown “Are you coming to the wedding?” Matt looked at her he wasn’t sure whether he caught the look right; it was as if she wanted him there.  “I don’t know” Matt said quietly “You’ve got enough to deal with today I thought you’d appreciate the day off.”  Claire nodded she looked disappointed “It’s on the beach, ceremony is at four if you change your mind.”  Matt nodded as she left the room.  He sighed and closed his eyes, he almost yelled out in pain as it radiated through his body it was as if someone flicked a switch everything tingled with heat and burning.  Matt fought the black spots in front of his eyes he gritted his teeth as he fought to keep himself together.  It was as if someone were ripping him apart, he could feel his heart contract as if someone were holding it squeezing it so tight he felt they would crush it.  Matt pulled back from the pain he clenched his fist and grabbed for a calming image.  He turned his head looking at the empty bed and there she was, her eyes closed so serene in slumber it seemed to seep into him and dull the pain like an aesthetic.   Matt lay for a long while just breathing wondering what the hell was happening to him.

 

9.

 

          The breeze blew gently as the guests gathered and took their seats.  A wood floor covered the sand and the aisle marked by a red carpet, which would lead Sammy to the archway of white flowers where Shannon would be waiting in his black round neck suit.  Sammy couldn’t believe it, the sun was holding and the breeze was warm, as she stood ready to walk into her future.  She looked around her at her friends, as they made ready to precede her.  She nodded as Shane knocked on the door of the house they had rented for the occasion.  “We ready to go ladies?” he asked a beaming smile on his face Sammy nodded at Jennifer and squeezed her hand as she stepped up “You look amazing” Jennifer whispered as she kissed Sammy on the cheek.  Sammy nodded and whispered ‘thank you’ she watched Jennifer take Shane’s arm.  They stepped out into the sunlight and walked down the garden towards the sand.  Paul peaked in and winked at Sammy she gave him a thumbs up as Shelly smiled at her “Good luck” she said as she took Paul’s hand.  Sammy was starting to tremble when Lesley took her hands in hers “Don’t worry he’s already there waiting for you.”  Sammy nodded and smiled as Lesley stepped away and met Jeff he smiled at Sammy and nodded before escorting Lesley into the sunshine.  Patsy smiled, as she finished fiddling with Sammy’s veil “Okay girl you better not keep your future waiting.”  Sammy nodded slowly as Michael kissed her cheek “You look beautiful” He took Patsy’s arm and escorted her out.  Sammy studied Claire “He was there this morning right?” Claire nodded “Yeah he was. “  Sammy beamed “He’s the one huh?”  Claire shook her head “I have no idea what he is.”  Sammy nodded “But the one for you is waiting for you.” Sammy smiled and giggled, “Scary isn’t it.”  Claire shook her head as Adam stepped inside “No it’s how it should be.”  Claire kissed Sammy’s cheek and walked over to Adam. 

 

 

Jennifer and Shane walked steadily down the aisle the lilac dress floating around Jennifer as she walked her hair fell in lose curls with white flowers decorating it.  She smiled up at Shane as he looked at her; he looked handsome in his black suite.  Jennifer felt her heart flutter as they reached the alter.  Shane leaned in and kissed her cheek “I love you” he whispered before stepping back and taking his place next to Shannon.  Shelly felt Paul squeeze her arm as they walked he beamed at her; his blonde hair tied neatly back, his eyes shone with a contented loving gaze.  Shelly couldn’t help but smile back as she glided along her dress fit her perfectly she smiled feeling her own curls bounce on her bare shoulders.  She could smell the flowers from her hair as the breeze danced around them.  She let go of Paul’s arm reluctantly as they reached the alter; they stared intently at each other as they waited.  Lesley looked up at Jeff as they walked he looked amazing in his black suit, his red and blonde hair held back neatly, his green eyes shone in the sun shine.  He looked down at her and winked reassuringly.  He couldn’t help but smile at Lesley as the sun played with her hair highlighting the blonde and making the red shine as the lose curls moved with the breeze the delicate white flowers entwined with two thin plats pulling the hair from her face.  He thought she looked like an angel.  They reached the alter and he paused before letting go of her to gently kiss the back of her hand Lesley smiled at him as he backed away from her not letting his eyes leave hers.  Patsy and Michael glided down the aisle Patsy looked at all the faces in the crowd she could pick out the odd wrestler and the odd friend she knew.  Her dress played at her heels as she stepped Michael beamed at her as they drew approving comments from the guests.  Mark stared intently at Pasty from his seat, her eyes seemed to play off everyone, the changed colour as she walked her hair fell in lose curls down her shoulders the flowers fell in trickles down the curls so no one knew where the ended and her hair began.  Her eyes fell on him her smile faltered as her breath caught quickly, a flush of red came to her cheeks but was quickly banished as she looked away from him.  Michael kissed her cheek at the alter and Patsy stepped close to Lesley fighting the urge to look back at Mark with every fibre of her being.  Claire took one last glance back at Sammy as Adam gently pulled her with him she saw Sammy a few feet behind her beaming at her father.  Claire turned back and smiled at Adam as they began their walk.  She knew Adam was a handsome man; his blonde hair fell loosely around his shoulders in a natural wave.  His eyes shone as he grinned she smiled at him.  Matt watched from his spot a little way do the beach he could see her clearly she was the only thing he did see.  All the other faces blurred together he wasn’t interested in them.  The dress fit her stunningly; the curls that had been so tight in her hair as he watched her silently dress were now falling out.  The single delicate white flower held her hair from her face Matt knew she’d taken his breath away.  He felt a twinge of jealousy as Adam kissed her gently at the alter, Matt found himself imagining he was the one there holding her hand kissing her softly making her smile. He had seen all he wanted he walked up the beach to see her come down and now he could go, he wouldn’t torture himself watching someone else’s day when he knew he would never have that now.   He walked away as the wedding march began.

 

Sammy floated down the aisle she was walking on air.  She beamed at her dad as he escorted her along the soft white cloth.  She could hear all the coos as she passed by her friends and family but all she could see was Shannon in his black suite his blonde hair tied back and his face lit by an amazing smile.  Sammy could tell he was taking in every inch of her.  She looked amazing in her white silk gown. The bodice was delicately pattered and the white silk floated down her body to her ankles she felt like a princess.  Her father handed her over to Shannon and Sammy beamed at him.  The ceremony seemed to last a minute and before she knew it Sammy was whispering “I do” Shannon seemed to glow with pride as he turned to kiss her finally Sammy had said the words he’d been longing to hear since the day Michael brought her in.  It wasn’t enough that she accompanied him to the ring and cheered him on he wanted to know she’d always be there waiting for him her arms open welcoming him home.  His lips brushed hers and they both smiled as they sunk into the kiss while their audience cheered.  Shane and he grooms men clapped while Claire and the bridesmaids laughed.  Sammy blushed as everyone egged them on while photos were taken.  As they walked up the aisle now officially together forever the guests showered them with confetti. 

 

 

The party was in full swing by the time the photographer had finished with the bridesmaids.  It amazed Patsy that he had managed to get Sammy and Shannon to stop kissing long enough to take their photo the pair were glued together.  Patsy turned smiling and found herself staring into Mark’s green eyes she opened her mouth to speak but stopped when she shook his head “Just come with me” she refused his hand scared he would feel her trembling instead she followed him out of the marquee back on to the sand once out of ear shot of the party Patsy found her voice “What the hell are you doing here?” She spat Mark smiled “I was invited” Patsy flushed red he always had a smart answer and it was starting to annoy her.  “Look I don’t know what game your playing but I have to get back” she said shortly and turned to leave him hoping he wouldn’t follow “You honestly think they’d miss you!” he called Patsy turned and glared at him infuriated “Yes they would!” She said indignantly “Then we better hurry so I can get you back before they notice.” Patsy gasped as he was in front of her in two steps; he took her hand and pulled her with him even though she protested loudly. 

 

 

Claire watched as the partygoers danced and ate.  She smiled as she watched Adam flirt with another guest.  Lesley and Jeff danced slowly even to the fast songs.  Claire slipped out of marquee and walked along the sand, the sun had recently set and the sky was tinged with pinks as she walked to the shoreline.  She slipped out of her sandals and carried them as her feet sank into the warm sand.  She looked up enjoying feeling the breeze on her skin she found she wasn’t the only one to have snuck out.  “Hi” she said softly, the man turned to face her, he was over six feet tall with long black hair and deep brown eyes.  He stared at her as she smiled at him, he seemed stunned “You must be a friend of Shannon’s?” she asked politely.  The man just stared at her; Claire began to notice he wasn’t dressed for a wedding.  He wore a black shirt and blue jeans, she could tell he was strong she could see his muscles under his shirt.  “You see me?” he whispered Claire’s eyes opened wide that was one voice she would always know.  “Matt?” she whispered a soft smile crossed his face she smiled back at him tears in her eyes.  She had never imagined he would be so handsome just looking in his eyes made her shiver.  “I’m glad you came” she said softly Matt seemed sheepish “I wanted to see you in your dress.” She giggled, “It’s not something I’d wear everyday.” He smiled he had never thought how gratifying it would be to have her look at him.  To look in his eyes, to really see him, he wondered how she’d react and so far he couldn’t have imagined it better, her eyes never left his and she seemed to glow.

 

 

Shannon hugged Sammy close to him “Ok Mrs Moore I think it’s time we bailed on the party” Sammy giggled at the thought of her new name “You got it Mr Moore lets get out of here!” Shannon pulled her with him through the crowds, they said a quick goodbye to their parents and then grabbed Michael.  He was their taxi to their hotel.  He smiled as they giggled like teenagers in the backseat, their plane left in five hours, he was sure they’d need at least three wake up calls, even if they never slept they would need a definite reminder to get on the plane otherwise the hotel room would be their honeymoon and not the secluded cabin he had booked for them.  Sammy thanked him as she climbed out of the car “I’ll see you in a couple days” Michael nodded “Remember to get on the plane!” he joked as they walked into the hotel.  Shannon shook his hand and hugged him thanking him for everything before he and Sammy walked inside and booked in.  Their room was the honeymoon suit, the bellboy dropped off their bags as they kissed and cuddled in the elevator.  Sammy couldn’t wait to get out of her dress and under the cool satin sheets.  Shannon was all too willing to help her slip out of the delicate fabric.  As it slid from her body he beamed slipping off his own jacket and shirt with less ease.  Sammy giggled as she undid his belt while his fingers gently tickled her arms with their light touch.  As he gazed at her white lace bra and panties he pulled her into him he wasn’t willing to wait any longer.  He lifted her as he kissed her and laid her on the bed.

 

 

Patsy stared at Mark he had dragged her away from the lights of the party to a small cove filled with candles.  They were in their own little world cut off from everyone.  The waves were their music as Mark pulled her close to him “Now you listen to me.”  Patsy glared at him determined not to melt at his efforts to seduce her “I’m not a bad guy, hell I’m not a good guy either but this is how it is.  I love you” Patsy swallowed hard wondering what he had really said she was sure her mind played tricks on her “I didn’t come here to fall in love but I have and I’m not going any where.”  Patsy gapped not sure how to respond to him “Just answer me one question” she nodded slowly unable to find her voice her head was spinning “Do you love your friend enough to want her to live a very long and happy life?”  Patsy blinked “Of course I do!” Mark nodded “Then let me help her.” Patsy looked deep into his eyes there was a steal resolve there but also a trace of vulnerability “Trust me to do what’s best for you, for her and for me.” Patsy nodded slowly Mark let his fingers trace down her jaw line his lips followed softly caressing her skin, she felt herself quiver in his arms as he nibbled at her neck.  His fingers gently pulled the straps from her arms and let the dress tumble away from her body.  She let her hands slips under his shirt to feel his quivering physique.  She smiled as he brought his lips to hers and they slowly sank to the ground.  

 

 

 

Matt and Claire had walked along the beach for hours; the party had long since finished.  Matt smiled as he caught her glancing at him she smiled shyly back as she quickly looked away.  “Hey!” Adam called from the house “You ready to go?”  Claire sighed “Not really” she whispered Matt smiled “Got to go home sometime Claire nodded “Yeah” she shouted in reply Adam nodded and jogged down to meet her Matt hung back “You have to come” Claire said turning her head to look at him Matt shook his head the last thing he wanted was to be a third wheel “There’s something I want to show you” Claire said quietly so Adam wouldn’t hear her.  Matt looked in her blue eyes and even though his head told him to make and excuse and leave he nodded.  Adam rubbed Claire’s shoulders “Your freezing” he commented taking off his jacket and wrapping it round her shoulders “Where have you been?” Claire shrugged “Just walking” Adam nodded wondering why Claire was staring intently into space.  “Everyone else has gone.”  Claire blinked and looked at him “Oh okay.”  Adam nodded “You okay to drive?” Claire smiled “Keys?” Adam beamed as he slipped his hand in his pocket and produced the keys to his car.  Matt followed them to the car and slipped into the backseat.  He could see Claire glancing at him in the rear view mirror he realised how strange it must be for her to finally see him.  After all she had slept in the same bed as him the night before. 

 

 

Lesley snuggled up to Jeff on the couch; she had changed out of her dress into her purple silk pyjama bottoms and his white T-shirt.  He smiled at her and wrapped his arm round her shoulder as they listened to the music playing softly from the stereo.  He hadn’t bothered to change he had just discarded his jacket and loosened his shirt; he closed his eyes as he played with her hair.  They had spent the night slow dancing, they hardly spoke to anyone else and he thought they had the best day, for him the bride had looked beautiful but not as beautiful as Lesley had.  He smiled and kissed the top of her head.  They heard the car pull up “That’ll be Claire” Lesley said softly Jeff sighed a positive reply “Where did Patsy go?” he asked suddenly curious Lesley giggled “With that Mark guy.  They’re probably having a slanging match. They seem to get off on shouting at each other.” Jeff laughed as Adam came inside and waved at them before going up to bed.  Claire had hung back on the porch she offered him an excuse and he left her watching the stars.  She had been acting weird all day; he figured weddings did that to women.  Claire waited till he was inside before she dared look at Matt he was looking at the stars “Matt Hardy” she said he turned looking at her puzzled he nodded she seemed to smile as she beckoned to him.  He stood close to her looking down in to her eyes she turned her head to the window and looked inside.  Matt followed her gaze and felt his heart stop.  “Jeff” he whispered Claire smiled as Matt stared at his brother “How did you know?” Claire shook her head “I didn’t I just hoped.  I guess you get to say goodbye after all.”  Matt looked at her there were tears in her eyes he nodded and looked back at his brother.  He looked so happy curled up on the couch playing with Lesley’s hand entwining her fingers with his.  Matt smiled “She’s good for him” Claire nodded “They’re good for each other.” Matt nodded as he watched Lesley lift her head and softly kiss Jeff.  He looked back at Claire but she was gone, he watched as Lesley turned and stood, she walked out of the room smiling.  Matt walked to the door he saw Claire leading Lesley upstairs she cast a glance at him and nodded. 

 

 

Lesley closed the bedroom door behind her “Where did you disappear to?” she asked as Claire took off Adam’s jacket “Just took a walk on the beach.”  Lesley nodded as she undid the buttons on the back of Claire’s dress “Patsy isn’t back” she said tapping Claire on the shoulder Claire turned picking up her pyjamas and walking into the bathroom “I don’t think she’ll be back tonight” Lesley grinned as she sat on the bed Claire came out of the bathroom carrying the dress over her arm Lesley handed her he clothes hanger.  “You okay?” Lesley asked quietly as Claire hung the dress on her closet door “I’m fine” Claire said turning and smiling at her friend.  Lesley nodded “I just thought with what we talked about.” Claire sighed “It’s okay if you don’t believe me. I’m not so sure I would if I were you.  Just, I don’t know” Lesley nodded “Just be there right?” Claire nodded and hugged her friend “Yeah just be there.”  Claire closed her eyes tight not wanting to cry.  Matt looked at Jeff as he sat on the couch listening to the music.  “Hey man” Matt whispered Jeff didn’t move as Matt sat next to him “I’m so sorry I couldn’t tell you this before.”  He began feeling a lump grow in his throat “But I think you know it anyway.”  He sighed looking at his brothers face he smiled “I love you bro, I’m sorry I didn’t come home when you wanted me to.  I’m sorry I didn’t give you the chance to show off your girl or your life to me.  But I can see it now.  I can see you’re happy and that’s good enough for me.  I want you to know I’m gonna miss you and you’ll always be the best bro I could ever wish for.  I love you man.”  Matt said as Jeff opened his eyes, Jeff shivered Matt smiled as he stood, Lesley jogged into the room and Jeff beamed at her “Hey baby” he said as she cuddled up next to him he kissed her and held her close as Matt smiled at them.  “Goodbye bro.”

 

The waves rolled in as Patsy lay in Mark’s arms, they were both wrapped in a soft cover he had laid on the sand.  She didn’t want to move, she could feel him breathing in her scent as his cheek rubbed against her, “We’ll have to go soon” he whispered Patsy nodded reluctantly here in this cove nothing mattered here.  All the problems that stood in her way were nil and void.  She sighed Mark rested back, lightly lifting her hair from her face “What is it?” Patsy shrugged she didn’t want to start an argument; this had been so perfect she didn’t want to ruin it.  “Don’t talk,” she said quietly “Just hold me” Mark obliged pulling her soft skin closer to his warm heartbeat.  Mark gently kissed her cheek as she melted into him.  He felt content holding her he didn’t want to let her go but he knew there was worse to come.  He wondered how she would react when she actually found out what was going on.  Mark closed his eyes, the thought of losing this woman aggravated him he didn’t want it to matter, he wanted to remain cold to it but it was too late.  He had admitted he was in love and he couldn’t, wouldn’t take it back.  Kane had laughed at Mark when he admitted he loved Patsy.  “It’s about time!” Kane chuckled, he had been on at Mark for years to settle down and find someone to take care of.  Mark wasn’t sure he’d be taking care of Patsy, more like arguing one minute and making up the next.  He smiled at the thought if this was the way they made up they would have a good relationship. He felt Patsy move she turned to face him and looked deep in his eyes Mark wondered what she was thinking she was unreadable.  “I love you” she whispered, Mark couldn’t help but smile as he leaned down to kiss her she stopped him quickly “But you cant bribe me with that!” she warned Mark chuckled as his lips brushed hers “I wouldn’t dream of it.” He whispered back before slipping his tongue into her mouth. 

 

 

          Matt stepped into the room, his eyes immediately settling on Claire as she sat curled up on the window ledge.  He stepped towards her silently, she knew he was there she quickly wiped her eyes she didn’t want him to see the tears she had been crying suddenly all this had become very real to her.  Matt sat on the ledge and looked at her “Thank you” he whispered, Claire looked at him “What for?” she replied quietly as Matt’s eyes locked with hers “Giving me my brother back.”  He watched as a tear escaped her eye she wiped it away quickly and stood up Matt watched her as she paced across the room Matt felt an urge to wrap her up in his arms and hold her there,  “Claire” he whispered she turned and looked at him “I never thought about it before, I guess if figured if I didn’t think it, it wasn’t true.”  Matt stood and walked over to her “I can’t do this” she confessed “I can’t stop him” Matt shook his head “That’s no true!” he protested firmly Claire shook her head “There’s only one way out of this.”  Matt was lost she seemed so grave he felt his whole body shiver suddenly “No!” he said decisively “That’s not the only way!” Claire shrugged and turned away she couldn’t stand the intensity of the look on his face.  “You got a better idea?” she asked Matt opened his mouth to speak but in truth he had no answer for her.  “I wont let that be the only way!” he said through gritted teeth.  Claire sighed and flopped on to the bed she closed her eyes “If there was any other way I’d be open to it but I can’t see it.”  Matt sat on the bed beside her “You can’t consider that!” Claire sat up slowly and rested on her arms on her knees she sighed, “I have to consider it Matt, there might not be another choice.”  Matt shook his head “You’re not meant to die!” he said flatly “I wouldn’t be here if that was the answer!” Claire looked at him “Maybe that’s exactly why you’re here.  To show me it’s not all that bad.”  Matt moved and crouched in front of Claire “Look at me” he said softly Claire lifted her eyes and looked at him, she studied his features, his soft black hair pulled back from his face, his tanned skin and dark eyes she could tear her eyes away from him.  “You think I would want this for you?  You think I want you to leave your family your friends?  Can you honestly say you’re willing to give all that up?”  Claire shook her head she closed her eyes “Think of them, huh your friends, look at how happy they were today can you willingly inflict of them the kind of pain death would cause?”  Claire opened her eyes she looked deep in his she suddenly realised why Matt was there. 

 

 

Patsy climbed into the car; she had pulled on her dress and was wrapped in the blanket from the beach.  Mark looked at her as he started the engine they were both silent as Mark drove her home, he dimmed the lights as he rolled on to the driveway.  Patsy sighed “Back to reality” Mark nodded as Patsy moved she stopped and looked at him “Thank you.” She said Mark smiled and nodded “Any time” Patsy had a feeling this was as romantic as it got for them she sighed “What surprises you got for me tomorrow then?” Mark smiled and chuckled “Wait till tomorrow” Patsy rolled her eyes as she got out of the car “Don’t think I wont kick you butt if you pull any stunts” Mark smiled “I’d expect no less.” Patsy nodded and smirked as she closed the door.  She walked up to the house and went inside closing the door quietly.  The house was dark and silent as she walked upstairs.  She paused by Claire’s door she could hear her voice “I don’t know anymore” Claire said weakly Patsy sighed something was definitely up with that girl and she would have to find out what in the morning.  Patsy walked to her room and opened the door, she sighed as she walked inside and flopped on to the bed Patsy was too tired to contemplate anything.

 

 

  

 

 

Jeff sat up he couldn’t sleep something was bothering him.  He climbed out of bed being careful not to wake Lesley.  He walked out of the room and closed the door as quietly as he could.  As he walked down stairs hoping a hot chocolate would help him sleep he saw the lights on in the kitchen.  He walked in quietly Claire was sitting at the table nursing a cup of steaming tea “Hey” he said quietly Claire looked up and smiled at him “Hey” Jeff smiled and slipped into the chair opposite her, she seemed pretty down “What’s up?”  He asked as she stood and fetched him a mug of hot chocolate, “You read my mind” he commented, “Nah, I just know your girlfriend” Claire replied.  Jeff smiled “You still haven’t answered me.” Claire sighed she looked at Jeff’s face how could she not tell him.  “Jeff” she said quietly “There’s something I have to tell you.”  Jeff was intrigued he waited patiently as Claire struggled to find the words “This is gonna sound crazy but hear me out okay?” Jeff nodded Lesley had said something about Claire was absorbed in the recent spate of serial killings, Lesley wasn’t worried she just thought Claire was having nightmares.  “I was talking to your brother” Jeff lifted his head and studied her, Claire had never met Matt “You were?” he asked confused Claire nodded “He call the house?” Jeff asked coming up with a plausible explanation Claire shook her head.  “Where was Matt when you last talk to him?” Jeff shrugged “Getting off a plane, he was gonna drive his way back here.  Why?” Claire looked at the table “He never made it.”  Jeff shuddered his mouth dried out “What?” Claire looked up at him, “There was an accident he was hurt.”  Jeff shook his head “No!” Claire nodded and Jeff felt a sickening thud inside, Claire sighed and walked out of the kitchen while Jeff tried to straighten out his crumpling world.  She returned with some papers he stared at them and slowly began to realise something was definitely not right.  “How do you know this?”  Claire shrugged “That’s the really weird part, I can see him talk to him.  He’s upstairs right now in my room.” Jeff stared at her open mouthed he felt like he should laugh at the absurdity of it but something was ringing true.  “Something happened when he was hurt he was sent here.” Jeff shrugged “Why?  Why to you?” Claire shook her head “I don’t know.  Not really.  All I know is he’s here.”  Jeff shook his head “There’s more to this.” Claire sighed she didn’t want to go into all the gory details but Jeff was turning in to a dog with a bone.  His eyes were determined as he studied her he had to know everything. 

 

10.

 

The thud on the door woke Claire from her work she stood glancing at Matt as he sat looking at the papers reading about the latest murders.  Claire opened the door for Mark, she smiled weakly as he removed his dark glasses “You wanted to talk?” she nodded “Yeah but not here.” Mark nodded and waited while Claire grabbed a jacket, Matt followed her out of the house.  They took her car a drove for a while Mark made her stop after fifteen minutes.  They turned off the road and drove in to the middle of the woods Claire stopped the car and climbed out she sat on the bonnet and waited for Mark, “So?” he asked resting his foot on the car and resting his arms on his knee.  “Tell him” Matt said as he rested by Claire she glanced at Matt, Mark waited “What?” She shrugged “I had an idea last night Matt doesn’t like it.” She said flatly gesturing to Matt “You can see him now?” Mark asked Claire nodded “Yeah” he looked up at Kane who had perched himself on the roof of the car “You know what that means” Mark said Claire studied him not sure if he was talking to her, “Kane’s behind you” Matt said explaining Claire nodded.  Kane put his head on one side and looked at her “Yup, Dean can see her.  Did she dream last night?”  Matt shook his head “You have to sleep to dream” Kane nodded and repeated the message to Mark.  Mark shook his head “You’ll make yourself sick kid” Claire smiled weakly “She’s got worse than that in mind.” Matt muttered Claire looked at him and sighed, “What’s this plan?” Mark asked Claire she looked up at him “I figure I brought this guy here right?” Mark nodded wary of what she was about to say “Then surely if I go he goes too?”  Kane hung his head, as did Matt “No” Mark said quietly “That’s not how it works.”  Both Claire and Matt stared at him as he looked at Kane who nodded it was time to tell her the rest. 

 

 

The clothes were packed in Jeff’s usual fashion, crumpled up and shoved in his sports bag, Lesley watched him pack “What are you talking about?”  Jeff just looked at her and smiled “I think Matt might be in trouble” Lesley looked worried “What kind of trouble?” Jeff sighed and sat next to her taking her hand in his “Claire said something and I realised there might be something to it.  She reminded me of something and I need to go check it out.”  Lesley nodded “This doesn’t have something to do with the wacky way she is acting?”  Jeff smiled sweetly “I think wacky is the best way to be.” Lesley stood and pulled his stuff out of his bag and began packing it properly “You need to do this?” Jeff nodded “Yeah I do.” Jeff rubbed her shoulders and rested his chin there “I know you sceptical about what Claire says is going on but I think there’s something to it.” Lesley shrugged “She says she’s seeing people die Jeff!” Jeff shrugged and folded his arms “Maybe she is, stranger things have happened” Lesley threw up her arms and laughed Jeff grabbed her and hugged her.  “I’ll be back soon” She nodded as he kissed her then grabbed his bag. 

 

 

“You’re telling me if I die he can kill anyone!” Claire was exasperated Mark nodded he sighed turning and sitting next to her “If you die while he’s with you he’s free.” Mark said confirming her worst fear “Right now you’ve got him cornered he can only kill when you let him so to speak” Claire rolled her eyes “Thanks!” she scoffed Mark half smiled “I know it doesn’t sound good.  But look at it this way, since you figured out what’s going on and started physically trying to stop him the best way you can you’ve stopped him killing as freely and frequently as he wants.” Claire nodded “Still doesn’t sound too good.”  Mark put his arm round her shoulder “Now you got this dying idea out of your head?” she nodded Mark smiled but Kane shook his head and jumped off the car Matt studied him and followed him as he walked away from the car.  “What isn’t he telling her?” Kane shrugged and kept walking Mark reached out and pulled him back “Tell me!” Kane sighed, “Think about it!  If she dies he’s free!” Matt suddenly felt very cold “Does he know that?” Kane shook his head “Not yet but as he gets stronger he’ll figure it out.  She can see you right?”  Matt nodded suddenly feeling very week “Yeah well he can now see her.” Matt shivered “What can I do?” Kane shoved his hands in his pockets “Get in her head.  You’re the only one who can stand in his way.”  Matt nodded “How do I do that?”  Kane sighed and looked at Claire as she talked things over with Mark “When she dreams you have to get in there with her.  Look kid once he knows she’s there he’s gonna try and pull her with him.  He needs her asleep he needs her to see the death if she wakes up he’s cut off.  You have to get her out.  Every night he gets stronger because she’s pulling you both further away from death.  That’s how come she sees you.”  Matt studied Kane “You mean the longer I’m here” Kane nodded “You’d be almost alive with her.”  Matt swallowed “But the same goes for him.” 

 

 

Patsy opened the door of Claire’s room she was starting to get worried, she had seen the papers on the table covering the recent murders and now Claire was nowhere in sight.  Patsy walked downstairs and caught Lesley as she took off her jacket.  She had dropped Jeff at the airport Patsy dragged her into the kitchen and sat her down “We need to talk!” Lesley sighed and sat down “What’s up?” Patsy showed Lesley the papers Lesley rubbed her head “Oh that.” Patsy felt her eyes open wide “You know?” Lesley nodded “Well I know Claire is dreaming about these murders” Patsy felt herself go limp “Okay run that by me again.”  Lesley sighed as she ran through the story the way she heard it from Claire.  By the end of the story Patsy was livid “You’re telling me she was treated in a hospital with a serial killer and now she thinks he’s haunting her?” Lesley shrugged “Not haunting but he’s not gone.  Look I was tired she was tired I don’t think I got the whole story in fact I know I didn’t” Patsy sighed “I bet Mark has something to do with this!” Lesley nodded “Yeah well I would say so.”  Patsy shook her head and stood pacing “I can’t believe he’s filling her head full of this crap.”  Lesley shrugged as she dog-eared the paper “She told Jeff something happened to Matt.”  Patsy stopped seething and stared at Lesley “He believes her I think we should too.  I mean even if we don’t believe in the things she says she sees we have to believe in her.”  Patsy sighed, “Yeah and I have to kill Mark!”

 

 

Shelly looked at Paul as she massaged his back, she had trained as a physical therapist and her talents always came in handy as far as Paul was concerned.  He would sometimes complain of an ache that wasn’t there just to feel her hands on his body.  Shelly sighed as she rubbed his shoulders, which glistened with oil.  “What are you thinking?” he asked Shelly shook her head “I’m just worried about Claire I mean she hasn’t been herself recently.”  Paul sat up and looked at her “You want me to talk to Michael?” Shelly nodded “Yeah” Paul nodded and kissed her cheek as he fastened his white towel around his waist “I’ll call him.” Shelly nodded “How does she seem to you?” Paul half smiled “Lonely.” Shelly nodded as Paul took her by the shoulders “Give the kid a break okay she’s had a rough couple of months.  I’ll talk to Michael. Maybe you should talk to Patsy and Lesley and if they’re worried then we will.”  Shelly nodded as he kissed her cheek and went to change.  She checked her watch and smiled it was almost time for brunch with Jennifer at Shawn’s place.  At least there she could sound the others out see if they were thinking along the same lines as her. 

 

 

The gravel crackled beneath the car as Claire pulled on to the driveway, Patsy stood glaring from the porch as Mark climbed out of the car he looked at Claire “How do you think she’ll take it?”  Claire held up her hands “She’ll freak and then call me a nut.” Mark nodded as they walked up to the house ready to face the music.  Patsy didn’t speak she just glared at Mark “Pasty” Claire said softly Patsy smiled at her “Go get your stuff we’re going to Jennifer’s remember?” Claire nodded “Yeah but” Mark stopped her “Don’t worry about it we’ll talk later.” Claire nodded and went inside.  Patsy stared at Mark he could tell she was biting back anger restraining the urge to take his head off.  Mark nodded at her “I’ll come back when you don’t want to kill me” Patsy nodded she had discussed this with Lesley and she knew she had to be calm before she could get into this with Mark.  Mark smiled as he turned to walk away “You look good” he said as he walked down the steps Patsy sighed and walked back into the house she wasn’t going to let him get to her again.

 

 

Jeff sat on the plane recalling his talk with Claire the night before, he would have dismissed everything she said as a bad concussion like Lesley feared if she hadn’t of known things about him that only Matt could’ve told her.  She knew about a bump he tool as a kid when he fell out of a tree.  She knew that once he almost broke Matt’s nose during a play fight and she knew that he nearly gave up wrestling after his first two professional matches.  She even sounded like Matt when she talked about his matches.  He shook his head as the airhostess offered him a drink he hoped he wouldn’t be too late.  He looked at the pictures of the car she had given him and knew she thought Matt was dead it seemed like a far assumption after all if she was seeing him he had to be dead.  Jeff crumpled up the paper and wished the bad feelings that built inside him away. 

 

 

Shelly handed Patsy a drink and studied her face, Patsy looked flushed as she watched Claire and Jennifer playing with Connor outside.  “Come on then?” Shelly said Patsy looked at her and sipped her iced water “Is she okay?”  Patsy shook her head “I don’t know.  She seems fine most of the time but there is definitely something going on and I intend to find out exactly what it is.”  Shelly watched as Patsy grabbed her coat “And I’m gonna find out now.”  Shelly protested as Patsy walked to the front door “Look” Patsy said silencing her “Just say I got a call okay!” Shelly nodded reluctantly.  Matt shook his head as Patsy walked out of the house, he knew where she was going and he knew she wouldn’t get an answer she’d like.  Matt walked through the house intending to tell Claire what was going on when the sight of her stopped him.  She was sitting on the deck Connor on her lap talking to him as he played contentedly.  The intention left him as he crouched down and studied her Connor turned and giggled at him.  Jennifer looked out from the doorway “She’s gone where?”  Shelly poured herself a glass of water and shrugged her eyes moving from Lesley to Jennifer “She said she’s going to find out what’s going on.”  Lesley threw up her hands “I knew she wouldn’t be able to do it.”  Shelly smiled and giggled, “You know Patsy” Jennifer shook her head “But she seems okay to me.”  Lesley nodded “Yeah she does most of the time.  It’s just” Lesley shook her head and pushed herself on to the bench Shelly nodded “She’s talking to herself like there’s someone there.”  Lesley nodded and looked at Jennifer “She’s also talking about these deaths like she has something to do with them.”  Jennifer rubbed her arms feeling a cold chill “I think you’re over reacting.”  Lesley shrugged “Maybe we are but do we want to sit back doing nothing and just wait for something bad to happen?”

 

 

“Uh oh” Kane said as he watched Patsy’s car roll up the drive way “We got company” he called inside, Mark strode out of the door wiping his hands on a towel “And she looks pissed!” Kane chuckled as Patsy slammed her car door and stormed up meet Mark.  Mark greeted her with a smile which she didn’t seem to like she glared at him as he turned and walked inside she followed him while Kane laughed.  “Well?”  Patsy said as if she had already posed the question Mark turned and smirked at her “Well what?” Patsy felt herself snort, “What the hell is going on!” Mark nodded his face finally serious.  “Sit down” Patsy shook her head and paced while he sat on the arm of the chair.  “You were with Claire when she had her accident right?” Patsy nodded and stood still folding her arms and waiting “And you know she was treated in the same room as a killer” Patsy let her eyes fall that was the only thing that bugged her about the accident, it was very creepy to think Claire had been there with him.  “Yeah well the guy died while Claire was out cold and when she woke up his soul came back with her.”  Patsy raised an eyebrow Mark nodded “You want to hear the rest or you want to start yelling at me now?”  Patsy sighed and waited.

 

Claire studied Matt as Connor mimicked the faces Matt pulled at him, “You okay?” Claire asked Matt looked up at her and winked.  Jennifer watched from the door smirking as Connor stuck out his tongue she turned and walked back to the table “Okay so what are we gonna do?”  Lesley sighed, “This might sounds really corny but I think if we had a girls night we might be able to talk to her.”  Jennifer nodded, as did Shelly “Yeah sounds okay to me.”  Shelly agreed wondering if it would seem like they were ganging up on her but at least they’d all be there to see how she responded.  “How about tomorrow?” Shelly nodded “Sounds good to me.”  Jennifer nodded and smiled as Shawn walked into the kitchen he looked at their faces and smirked “The witches coven meeting?” he mocked grabbing a soda from the fridge as Shelly pulled a face at him “Shawn it is okay if I stay over at Claire’s place tomorrow night isn’t it?”  Shawn nodded “Course it is.  I’ll be back around six tomorrow that okay?”  Jennifer smiled “I’ll pick you up on the way there?” she looked at Shelly who nodded.  Shawn smiled as he stepped outside, he walked over and sat down on the deck opposite Claire, Connor turned his attention from Matt and crawled towards him.  “How’s it going?” Shawn asked Claire smiled and nodded “Okay.  You know how it is.”  Shawn nodded as he pulled faces at Connor “Kerri phoned earlier” Claire smiled and nodded as Shawn tickled Connor as he tried to escape back towards Claire, he wanted to play with Matt some more.  “How is she?”  Shawn smirked “Yeah she’s good, she’s catching a plane back tomorrow night.”  Connor clambered on to Claire’s knee and reached out for Matt “What are you doing?” Shawn asked as Claire held on to Connor as he tried to climb over her shoulder and dive on Matt.

 

 

“So my best friend is beating herself up over some murders cos you’ve told her it’s her fault!” Patsy spat slamming her keys on to the kitchen bench.  Mark threw down his towel and turned “That’s not what I said.” He sighed and stepped forward trying to take Patsy by the shoulders but she pushed him away.  “No you just said he’s killing cos she lets him!  What kind of sick person are you to hit someone when they’re hurting and vulnerable!” Mark shook his head as Patsy glared at him “I was right about you!  You are a con man!”  Mark thumped the bench with his fist he stared over her shoulder at Kane “She won’t believe you know matter what you say.” Mark nodded Patsy didn’t want to believe what he was saying was true because if she did it opened up a whole new consciousness she’d never thought about and that was scary.  “Ask Claire about Matt!” Mark said finally Patsy coughed “What?” Mark stared deep into her eyes “Ask her and if you’re as close to her as you say you’ll see this is real!”  Patsy huffed and laughed Mark held up a hand and she stopped staring at him “Ask her how she’ll feel when he’s not there and then you come back and tell me what she sees isn’t real!”  Mark stormed out past Patsy leaving her speechless. 

 

 

It was late afternoon when Patsy walked into the school; Claire was watching a training match assessing a new guy Michael had invited down for a trail.  He was sparing with Adam while Paul commented from the apron.  Claire looked over at Patsy and smiled, Patsy waved her over.  Claire excused herself Paul nodded as she walked over beaming at her friend “What happened to you?”  Patsy smiled weakly “I went to see Mark.” Claire swallowed hard and waited “Who’s Matt?” Patsy asked quietly she studied Claire, she seemed surprised, her face lost it’s colouring and her eyes were wide.  Patsy took her arm and led her out into the sunshine “We need to take a walk.”  Claire nodded still not able to talk, as they walked away from the school and across the street to the small green.  Patsy sat on a secluded bench Claire sat beside her and studied her.  Patsy rubbed her hands together nervously “Who is he?” Claire sighed and looked up Matt stood resting against a tree “Give us a minute?” Matt nodded as Patsy stared blankly at Claire.  She studied as Claire watched something walking away from them.  “Claire” Patsy said Claire returned her attention her friend and took a deep breath “He’s a friend.”  Patsy studied Claire “What kind of friend?” Claire sighed and stood up she shoved her fingers into the back of her leather trouser and rocked on her heels “A dead one” Patsy didn’t laugh or chuckle she didn’t make any sound at all.  Claire grew worried she waited for her friend to chastise her, tell her she was nuts but Patsy just sat rigidly waiting.  “The guy that hurt him is the guy who’s killing those women.”  Patsy stood and linked arms with Claire they started walking slowly.  “So he’s a ghost?”  Claire shrugged slightly “I’m not exactly sure.  He’s not alive I mean I cant touch him and he cant touch me.”  Patsy looked at Claire’s face she got the feeling Claire wished she could.  “I can see him and I can talk to him but that’s as far as it goes.”  Patsy shook her head “So why is he here?  Why is he bugging you?”  Claire looked at her friend and smiled warmly “He’s not bugging me” 

 

 

The police building looked like an old library as Jeff walked through the spinning doors and approached the desk.  “Hey” he greeted the officer “I’m looking for my brother I think you might be able to help me.”  The officer studied Jeff, his multi coloured hair tied up under a red baseball cap his shirt open showing off a white t-shirt beneath it and his mottled blue jeans looked like they had seen better days.  Jeff spent the next twenty minutes sitting on the old wood chairs that made him feel like he was at school waiting to see the headmaster.  Finally an officer dressed in neat blues came out to chat to him.  “How can I help?” he asked when Jeff explained who he was “My brother is missing I think he might have had an accident.”  The officer nodded patiently making notes “How long has your brother been missing?” Jeff sighed “A couple of weeks” the offer raised an eyebrow Jeff sighed feeling like he was being interviewed for a crime he knew nothing about “He was travelling around he said he’d check in with me he didn’t and I cant raise him on his cell phone or at any contacts I know he was going to.”  The officer nodded there was no sympathy in his eyes as he took down more information.  “Look Jeff said finally” pulling out the picture Claire had given him “That looks like his hire car all I want to know is what happened to him” The officer took the picture and stared at Jeff.   “Excuse me a moment,” the officer said standing and leaving the room taking the picture with him.  Jeff sat waiting nervously something was wrong he could feel it.

 

 

A cool breeze played with Claire’s hair as she walked Patsy had been silent for a long while finally she spoke up her voice not holding it’s usually strong tone.  “You like him?”  Claire stopped and looked at Patsy “He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”  Patsy stared at her “That doesn’t answer my question.”  Claire sighed rubbed her arms defensively “He’s a nice guy.”  Patsy shook her head “Claire” Claire looked up at her like a scolded child “What do you want me to say?” Claire asked innocently “What happens when he’s gone?” Claire looked away from her friend aware her bottom lip was trembling and her eyes were hot.  Patsy threw up her hands and walked towards Claire “You have got to be kidding me” she scolded quietly glad they had semi privacy in the middle of the woods.  “He’s dead and your” Claire shot Patsy a glare “You think I don’t realise that!”  Claire rubbed her neck and sighed blotting out the heat and tears that were stinging at her eyes, threatening to spill out into the open.  “Look he’s stuck and I’m the only one who can help him” Patsy was suddenly calm as she stepped forward she took Claire in her arms and held her tightly “I’m sorry” she whispered.  Claire stepped away from her and smiled weakly “What for?” Patsy shrugged “Being a pain.”  Claire smirked “I would have done exactly the same.”  Patsy sighed, “So Mark is right?” Claire nodded “Yep.”  Patsy pushed her hair from her face “And this Matt guy” Claire studied her friend for a second hesitating and then finding the courage to blurt out “Jeff’s brother.” Patsy stared at her and closed her eyes “Lesley’s Jeff?”  Claire nodded and started walking “Jeff has gone to find out what a happened to his,” Claire stopped swallowing hard Patsy stopped her walking “His body?” Claire nodded shivering as Patsy sighed and put her arm around her friend “I think we need a drink!”

 

 

Thud, Adam threw the young wrestler to the ground with arm drag.  The boy staid down catching his breath while Adam stood and looked at Paul who shook his head laughing.  Paul turned and smiled at Michael as he came out of the office “Can I have a word?” Paul asked approaching Michael Paul pointed to the office and Michael nodded barely looking up from his papers.  Paul closed the door behind him and waited while Michael dropped his papers on the desk “What’s up” Michael said looking at Paul with a large smile on his face Paul sighed and sat on the edge of the desk “Shelly is worried” Michael knitted his brow and stood arms folded across his chest “Oh?” Paul waved his hands softly “I’m just the messenger okay! But Shelly is worried about Claire” Michael waited patiently his mind ticking over about what could be going on.  “How does she seem to you?” Michael shrugged and thought over the time he had spent with Claire recently “She’s fine.  What is it you’re worried about?”  Paul scratched his head and pulled a face, which told Michael, this was something and nothing “Shelly heard her talking to herself.”  Michael chuckled “Is that all?” Paul shrugged “Well Patsy has heard her too.”  Michael shook his head “Sounds like you lot have too much time to worry!” Paul sighed and put a hand on Michael’s arm, as he was about to leave “Michael just have a chat to her just for mine and Shelly’s piece of mind?” Michael nodded reluctantly “Sure I’ll have a chat to her I’ll tell her you’re all nuts. “ Paul smiled “Yeah well I hope we are!” Michael shook his head as he walked out of the school. 

 

 

It was late evening when Claire got in; she savoured the walk from her car to the front door.  The air was calm and clammy, Claire felt tired but relieved.  Patsy had seemed to accept everything she said whether she totally believed in it Claire wasn’t sure but she knew Patsy believed her, which she could live with.  Matt was sitting on the step waiting for her, she smiled at him as he stood and shoved his hands in his pockets and smiled at her “How was your day?” he asked Claire smirked at the idea of him waiting for her.  “Fine how was yours?” Matt laughed “Ah you know did some shopping watched some TV floated about a bit.” Claire nodded smirking.  She cast a sceptical glance over her shoulder at the three cars on the driveway.  “Lot of cars here tonight” she commented Matt nodded “They got a party waiting for you in there.”  Claire shook her head “Let me guess they want to know I’m okay?” Matt nodded as she smiled he looked solemnly “They have good reason to be worried even if they don’t know it.” Claire sighed and smiled at him she reached out to touch his arm comfortingly momentarily forgetting she couldn’t.  Matt watched her ball her fist and lower it he sighed “You better get in there” she nodded wondering if the inability to touch hurt him as much as it was hurting her right that second.  She stopped at the front door and glanced back at Matt any comforting words that she could have come up with seemed out of place and superficial.  She slowly opened the door and stepped inside deciding it was better to say nothing.

 

 

Lesley stepped out of the kitchen already dressed in an old pair of cotton pyjama bottoms and an oversized white v-neck t-shirt that Claire knew once belonged to Jeff.  “Bout time you got in!” Lesley scoffed “We’re waiting on you?”  Claire shrugged as she removed her coat “Waiting on me for what?” Lesley smiled as she stepped back into the kitchen and grabbed a bowl of potato chips “The movie!” she said happily Claire smiled weakly “Oh” She turned seeing Shelly coming out of the front room “Hey finally!”  Claire smirked “I’ve had the lecture” Shelly chuckled “Yeah well get your butt upstairs get changed and get down here so we can do some serious vegging out.” Claire threw up her hands and walked upstairs slowly she knew her friends were watching her every move looking for any kind of sign that she was about to snap.  Claire shook her head as she walked into her bedroom and closed the door, she wasn’t surprised to find Matt already there sitting watching her from the window She walked over to her bed and flopped down Matt watched her and took a deep breath “You not in the mood?” Claire shook her head “Not for a grilling no” Matt watched her sit up and go into her bathroom “What will you say?”  Claire looked at her reflection in the mirror as she changed out of her top in to her white vest “I don’t know” she replied wondering how she could look exactly the same when all this was going on, the only difference was she looked tired.  Matt waited for her to come out “Will you tell them about me?”  Claire pulled a black fleece from her closet she turned and looked at him as she pulled it on “Patsy knows.” Matt nodded as Claire pulled her hair out of the collar “Sammy knows in a way but the others.”  She shook her head “They think I’m nuts enough” she walked to the door and stopped “Where do you go?” Matt hung his head “I don’t know” Claire glanced back at him “It’ll be strange here without you.”  Matt watched her leave the room, he felt his heart tighten “Not now” he whispered staggering to the bed as a wave of sickness passed over him. 

 

 

The music played out over his head Dean hummed along as he waited he finally had it all figured and he knew what his next move would be he just had to wait.  He watched as the waitress came into the locker room and changed out of her sweater and trousers into her tight black skirt and blue top.  Dean licked his lips as he caught sight of her pale pink bra this was his neck mark and this was one he was going to make sure he had.  He followed her out of the room and looked around, he needed to take in everything he needed to make sure he had it all in his head ready he had planned it meticulously.  He had sat in that poky little room for three nights, watching her as she came in and changed feeling the thrill of the chase.  He could almost taste it, his mouth watered in anticipation.  He knew this one was his he knew he could get her and he had planned it all out.  He was ready for it this time and he knew it would work; it made him shiver just to think of it.  This would be even more rewarding than the others he had had.  It would be a whole new thrill one he could hardly wait to experience. 

 

 

Resting against the window pain Claire watched the movie while Patsy stretched out on the couch Shelly curled up in the chair, Lesley lay on the floor and Jennifer rested against Shelly’s chair.  Claire turned her head away from the film she was hardly absorbed by the story line and the music hardly made it to her ears.  She looked out into the growing darkness knowing she wouldn’t make it through the night.  Her head ached crying out for sleep, her body was wracked with twinges it was in need of regeneration the kind only sleep could provide.  Even high-powered energy drinks were losing their effect on her.  Out in the darkness he waited and thinking of him made her shiver.  As she looked out at the strange shadows the moonlight cast Claire rested her eyes on something.  A man she wondered where she knew him from, he was tall, with long hair and a muscular physique.  She was sure she had seen him before she looked harder he seemed to nod at her and then he faded into darkness in front of her.  She rubbed her eyes and looked up at Lesley who was holding a cup out to her.  Claire smiled accepting the steaming mug of tea; she looked back to the screen and suddenly found she missed the rest of the movie and the start of the next.  If she was supposed to be showing them she was in perfect body and mind she was doing a poor job.  She knew Shelly kept looking over at her trying to figure out what she was thinking.  Patsy was the only one who acted unconcerned but Claire knew that cover all to well. 

 

 

Orange flames licked the air in the fireplace as Mark sat staring into them so hard his vision blurred and his eyes were almost blind.  He sipped his beer as Kane sank into the seat next to him, placing his feet on the table he rested his head back the beer bottle hanging loosely in his fingers.  “How is she?” Mark asked slowly dragging his eyes from the fire “Tired” Kane commented rubbing his own eyes “She’ll do fine” Mark reassured as Kane sighed he had a bead feeling.  Things in his world were changing something was coming and the mere feel of it made him apprehensive.  “I think we might have to intervene sometime soon” Mark shook his head “Let the kid take it as far as he can” Kane nodded “He wont finish it.”  Mark watched as Kane lifted the bottle to his lips “You sure?”  Kane nodded letting the empty bottle drop to the floor as he lowered his hand.  Mark sighed and rubbed his eyes “Guess we better be ready then.  Kane looked at him and nodded as Mark tapped his shoulder.  Mark stood and walked into his bedroom.  He dropped on to the bed and lay staring at the ceiling.  He could get Patsy out of his head, her scent filled his senses he could almost feel her soft skin at his fingertips.  He knew it was crazy to feel the way he did, how could he expect anything to come of it?  She thought he was nuts and maybe he was after all he travelled the country with his dead brother on a never-ending quest that was something he couldn’t back out of.  He sighed and turned over pressing his face in to the pillow still she was there in his head tormenting him.  Making him want her seducing him and making him wish things were different. 

 

 

The house was finally quiet, as Claire walked along the landing, the last one of the girls up.  She smiled as Jennifer closed her door after clicking off the light “Night!” she said Claire replied and stepped into her own room.  She closed the door quietly and rested her head against it, the last thing she wanted to do was fall asleep but she was drained of all energy.  “Hey” Matt said softly “It’s okay I’ll be right here with you” Claire turned and smiled at him he was standing on a few inches away from her, she nodded and followed him to the bed.  She slipped under the covers and settled down Matt lay next to her looking in to her eyes he smiled reassuringly as she closed her eyes.  He sighed as he watched her sleep wondering if she really knew how determined he was that she was going to survive this.  He closed his own eyes and wished himself into her dreams.

 

11.

His hands moved slowly round her waist touching the bare skin her top didn’t cover; Claire felt a shiver run down her spine as he pulled her into him.  The room was dark but she could see him perfectly, his shirt was open and she could feel his warm skin under her fingertips as she ran them over his chest.  She looked up into his eyes, as his lips brushed hers she felt herself melt into him.  His fingers ran up her back to the base of her neck where he unclipped her top his fingers trailed her skin as he brought the down.  As they slipped out of his hands he let his fingers dance on her collarbone before trailing upwards to her jaw line.  He tipped her head and gifted her a second lingering kiss.  Her fingers moved over his shoulder pushing his shirt from his body.  She could feel his heart beat quicken at her touch, his tongue slipped adventurously around her mouth as his hold on her tightened.  Her fingertips tickled his spine as she moved them slowly down to the top of his jeans.  He moaned softly as she let her hands drift slowly to the buckle.  His fingers moved down her body to the top of her trousers sliding the zip down his hands touched her hips slipping softly over her skin pushing the soft material from her body. He kissed her neck gently as she unbuckled his jeans he lifted her hands to his neck and gently moved her backwards.  She sank onto the bed pulling him closer to her, her fingers moving sensuously across his stomach, she kissed his body as his fingers played with her hair, his fingers moved down her body slowly pressing her back on to the bed, she welcomed his body on hers and was warmed by his heart beat against hers.  Matt opened his eyes and smiled at Claire as she slept soundly next to him. He wished he could feel her warmth they way she felt him in her dream.  He wished he could touch her the way she wanted.  He sighed felling his chest tighten as the impossibility of it all sank in.  He knew he wanted her the same way but he couldn’t even touch her he slipped out of the bed and stood staring out of the window hoping being away from her would quell his desire and quieten his pain. 

 

 

“No!” she whispered a panicked tone in her voice.  Matt spun round and watched her as she shook her head viciously.   A pain unlike any other he ever felt hit him as he envisaged it was something he did that hurt her.   He closed his eyes tightly and moved through the darkness of his mind in to the clear images of her dreams.  She was no longer in the warm room with the gentle breeze she was somewhere else somewhere cold.  Matt moved through the darkness wanting to find her, he could hear her whimpering somewhere ahead of him.  His movements where hindered as he hit into something, it scraped and squeaked.  Matt let his hands moved across the cool wood.  “Claire” he whispered “Claire make it light!” he said stronger and louder.  The darkness began to recede and Matt could see the chair he bumped into “That’s it” he encouraged as he moved through the bar.  He stopped when he saw it there in the middle of the dance floor was Claire.   She wasn’t alone; there standing in front of her was Dean Claire was shaking her head as he spat vicious words at her “You think I wont kill you!” Claire shook her head “I won’t do it!” she spat back.  Matt could see the door opening “Claire wake up!” he yelled, “He can’t touch you!” Claire looked at Dean and smiled he shook his head “No!” he yelled diving for her, Claire felt her heart quicken as the girl stepped out of the bar she shut her eyes tight.  Breathing heavily Claire opened her eyes and was relieved to be back in her own room even the darkness was comforting “You did it” Matt whispered.  Claire looked at him as he sat on the edge of the bed she smiled weakly.

 

Kane laughed as Mark walked into the room, “What?” he asked as he scrubbed his face and sat on the couch, “Just a feeling that someone isn’t too happy right now.”  Mark smirked “You felt something?” Kane nodded and studied Mark “Doesn’t look like you got too much sleep” Mark sighed and closed his green eyes “I’m tired of waking up alone” Mark said desolately Kane sighed he felt sorry for his brother it wasn’t easy on him to be dead but it wasn’t easy on Mark to be living as if her were dead too.  “Call her” Kane said Mark shook his head “And say what?  Do you want to be with a guy who talks to his dead brother and spends his life fighting dead bad guys?”  Kane sighed “One day this will all be over” Mark shook his head and pushed his red hair back “Yeah the day I die” Kane wanted to contradict him but he knew it was all to true.  Mark sighed and walked into the kitchen he downed a glass of water and then returned to the couch.  “Better see if you were right” he commented turning on the radio and scanning the police frequencies. 

 

 

Shane shook his head as Jennifer dumped her bag on her bed “So you’re still worried” he commented as he rocked Connor in his arms Jennifer turned and nodded “Ok Shelly might have a point.  Claire definitely isn’t herself.  But I’m not so sure she’s going nuts.”  Shane shook his head and laughed as Connor mimicked him “Well Paul talked to Michael he isn’t worried.  You guys ever thought she might just be stressed?”  Jennifer nodded and followed Shane down stairs “I was thinking maybe she was worried about that guy she made Michael fire.”  Shane nodded “Well technically she fired him.  You might have a point there I mean the guy was desperate to make it.”  Jennifer picked up Connor’s empty juice cup and filled it handing it to him as he reached for it “You think you could find out?” she asked smiling sweetly at Shane “I guess I could if you came to my match tonight” Jennifer smiled “I wouldn’t miss it for the world!” She kissed him lightly as Connor giggled at them.

 

The smell of coffee was potent as Claire walked into the kitchen Patsy was standing staring out of the window while the coffee pot steamed.  Claire walked over rubbing Patsy’s shoulder as she passed “You okay?” she asked filling two mugs with coffee Patsy sighed and tore her eyes from the garden “I couldn’t get the idea of some guy haunting your dreams out of my head.  Doesn’t make for a good nights sleep.”  Claire smiled, as they sat at the table “He doesn’t haunt them anymore.” Patsy perked up quickly “What it’s all over?” Claire shook her head “Oh” Patsy said deflating again and slowly looking confused “Then what do you mean?” Claire sighed and sipped her coffee slowly “Nothing just he’s now an active part of them.”  Patsy didn’t pretend to understand she just waited for Claire to continue “He’s trying to control them now.  Pushing me to see things I don’t want to see.”  Patsy sighed and sat back uncomfortably in her chair “You mean like women you don’t want to see.”  Claire nodded Patsy wondered why she wasn’t more shocked or horrified “So you dreamed about another one?” Claire shook her head “No.  Matt woke me up before I saw her face” Patsy moved slowly forward “He woke you?  I thought he couldn’t touch you?” Claire nodded she wasn’t exactly sure she wanted to understand this “He was in my dream too.  I don’t know how he did it but he got there and he helped me wake up.”  Patsy nodded “Guess he’s good for something then.”  Claire smirked as Patsy sat back and smiled to herself. 

 

 

The massage table was set up waiting for Adam, Shelly was warming her hands and setting up the oils she needed Adam opened the door and walked in a white towel wrapped around his waist “Okay babe how do you want me?”  Shelly smirked as a number of ideas popped into her head she nodded at the bed.  Adam walked over and lay on the cool grey leather of the table.  He positioned himself and loosened the towel “Man this thing is cold” he commented as Shelly approached she smirked and picked up a bottle of her own oil mixture.  She poured it into her hands and warmed it she applied it softly to his shoulders and worked her way down Adam moaned appreciatively.  Shelly smirked and enjoyed the feel of his soft warm skin under her hands.  “I took a whack to the lower back could you?” Shelly smiled as Adam grinned at her “Sure I can” she said in a cheerful tone.  She had to admit Adam had an exciting body.  She moved her hands down to his hips and slowly moved the towel, Adam swallowed a chuckle as Shelly realised he was wearing nothing under the towel.  She flushed red and then began her massage again “So how long are you hanging around?” Adam smiled “As long as you want me too babe!” he commented “Man that feels so good I might never want to leave.” Adam slowly sat up and rolled over, “There’s just one more thing I need your help with” he grinned as Shelly couldn’t help but admire the full frontal show he was giving her especially since he seemed to want something else massaging. She liked her lips and smiled wickedly at him “And what would that be?” Adam, motioned for her to come closer when she did he took her hand in his and placed it on the smooth skin of his stomach.  The temptation was there and Shelly pondered walking away but things had been so stressful lately.  She did love Paul but he wasn’t there for her anymore, he was too interested in getting back in the ring to notice that she felt neglected.  Shelly let her hormones take over as her fingers traced slowly over Adam’s skin she sighed and moved closer to him “You know I’m with Paul” she said softly Adam nodded and moaned as her fingers reached him.  He sat up and pulled her into him his hands ran over her skin making her shiver he slipped them under her top and hear her moan.  He pulled her closer and kissed the base of her neck.  Shelly felt herself weaken and she finally succumbed to his advances allowing him to pull her on to the table.

 

 

The wood of the porch creaked as Michael stepped on to it, Claire looked up from her space on the porch chair, she was checking over old paper work.  She smiled up at him “Hey pops” she greeted warmly.  Matt sat on the rail watching them as Michael piled the papers and sat next to Claire.  He tapped his chest and she scooted up close to him welcoming the fatherly hug he gave her.  Michael sighed as he kissed the top of her head “You know I always wanted a little girl.  Boys are okay but there is something special between a father and a daughter.  I never thought I’d have that, then you came along.”  Claire smiled against his chest “You know the guys used to think you were mine, I had this little picture of you in my wallet with all my family photos.  Your not my little girl anymore I know that but when your hurt I hurt when your upset I want to take away the pain.”  He sighed and rubbed her arm affectionately “So tell me do I have to hurt anyone?” Claire glanced up at Matt and held his gaze strongly “No pops there’s no one to hurt.” Michael nodded and sighed kissing the top of her head.  “Good” he said relief evident in his voice.  Claire closed her eyes relaxing in the warmth of her stand in dad.  Matt watched them for a long moment he was relieved to see how much love Claire had to fall back on.  He closed his own eyes and walked away, he knew she was going to need it.

 

 

Shelly was pulling her top back on quickly she could hear Paul’s voice outside.  Adam rolled over on the table and rearranged his towel.  Shelly went to the sink to wash her hands, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror she looked slightly flush as she rinsed her hands under the cold water.  She heard the door click and she turned to glance at Adam; she smirked, as did he as Paul walked in.  “Oh hey Adam” he said warmly Adam smiled and nodded as he stood up fastening his towel “Oh you don’t have to leave cos of me I wont be a sec” Adam shrugged no problem I think we were just about done.” He smiled at Shelly she fought hard to restrain a giggle as Adam walked to the door “Thanks for the work out Shelly!” she purred.  Shelly shot him a warning glance “Your welcome” she replied softly as he walked out.  Paul smiled at her as she wiped her hands on the towel “What’s up?” she said still slightly breathless Paul frowned “I have to cancel” it was now Shelly’s turn to frown “Oh” she said weakly walking to the table and straightening it out “I’m sorry babe but I have to drive out to Mickey’s place.”  Shelly nodded resigned to the fact no matter what she said he’d still go “You don’t mind?”  Shelly shook her head still not bothering to look at him “Course I don’t” Paul smiled not detecting the disappointment in her voice “Thanks babe” he said rushing out of the door “Yeah goodbye to you too.”  Shelly whispered as she heard the door clank shut. 

 

 

It was hard for Patsy to walk up to the door, she knocked quickly hoping he would answer before she lost her nerve and ran.  She fiddled with the ring on her middle finger nervously as she heard his steps striding towards the door.  Patsy turned and took a step away her will starting to dissolve “Hey” his voice rumbled she turned and smiled weakly at him “If I promise not to yell at you can we talk?” Mark smirked and nodded “Come on in.” Patsy took a deep breath and walked inside the room smelled of coffee and bacon.  She walked over to the couch and starred at the papers strewn across the table and pooling on to the floor.  She sat on the chair and waited for Mark to sit on the couch.  “You’ve been busy,” she said gesturing at the papers Mark nodded.  “Some things can’t wait.” Patsy nodded and glanced at the papers “How do you get police reports?” she asked Mark glanced over his shoulder “Let’s just say I have a special connection that helps me out.”  Patsy nodded wondering why he stared at a space on the floor.  “You talked to Claire?” Matt asked returning his gaze to her she nodded “I guess I owe you an apology.”  Mark shook his head “Don’t worry about it.  Not so sure I would believe me.” Patsy smiled and committed details of Mark’s face to memory.  “So you’re here to ask more questions?” Patsy found herself watching his lips move it seemed extremely sensual to her.  “Kind of.” She replied weakly Mark watched her, as she seemed to sway towards him.  “So why are you here?” he asked Patsy shrugged aware if she leaned any further forward she would fall off the chair.  “I don’t know” she admitted Mark looked at Kane who sat on the floor, Kane threw up his hands and moved he walked towards the door muttering “Hell I’ll just go bug someone.  Maybe if I move stuff around I might freak someone out.  Won’t that be fun.”  Mark smirked slightly as he watched Kane leave the house.  Mark reached out and took Patsy’s hand in his “I’m glad you came” he whispered pulling her on top of him as he lay back on the couch his fingers entwined in her hair pulling her face to his, his lips moved over hers making her moan slightly. 

 

 

          Kane kicked the dirt as he walked along the road “Not like I don’t have enough to do!” he muttered.  His eyes rose as a strong breeze hit him, he watched a car approaching it swerved off the road and ploughed through the brush.  “Oh shit” Kane muttered as the car ploughed into a tree.  Kane shook his head “Oh no you don’t!” he exclaimed looking at the unblemished tree and the quiet road the car he had just watched had faded with the breeze.  Kane turned and looked at the house, there was a definite up side to being in his position time and distance had no effect on him.  He smiled as he stepped on to the porch.  The door opened and he walked quietly inside, he could see Claire in the living room talking on the phone, Matt was sitting on the couch reading something on her computer Kane watched him until Matt turned and stared at him.  Matt stood and walked towards him “Kane?” he said almost in a whisper Kane looked at the front door.  Matt stood by the window gazing inside; Claire was still on the phone.  He watched her intently as she smiled and chatted.  “I take it last night went okay” Matt nodded finally tearing her eyes away he nodded at Kane and then shivered at the intensity of Kane’s gaze.  “What?” Matt asked suddenly feeling rather panicked “What do you know?”

 

 

          After her call Claire grabbed her jacket and headed out of the house, Matt was standing on the porch she turned and smiled at him he nodded and followed her to the car, taking one last look back at Kane who stood on the porch his arms folded across his broad chest.  Matt climbed in to the passenger seat and sighed.  “You okay?” she asked he looked at her his deep brown eyes looking so innocent he barely nodded as she pulled the car out of the driveway.  He watched her intently as she drove along the deserted road, every second he wished she would prove Kane wrong.  Claire shivered and slipped the car up a gear, she felt strangely warm as the car rolled rhythmically over the road.  Her eyes slowly began to close she opened them quickly blinking feeling herself yawn tiredly she covered her mouth and then blinked again.  The road seemed to be rolling out ahead of her as darkness crept into the sides of her vision.  “Matt?” she whispered beginning to feel scared as her arms seemed to grow heavy and the wheel became harder to hold on to.  “I’m here” he said, “He can’t make you do this!” he encouraged Claire blinked again her eyes becoming heavier as she struggled to hold on to the sound of Matt’s voice instead another voice was creeping through the deep tone made her shiver “Come back that’s it.” He encouraged Claire could see him now standing in the road beckoning to her.  “Claire!” Matt yelled reaching out for the wheel but his hand flowed through it.  “Damn it Claire!” Matt yelled at her, his face so close to hers he could see straight into her eyes as they shot open in response to him.  “Swerve!” he commanded knowing she wasn’t fully there with him.  She yanked labouredly at the wheel pushing herself even though it made her bones sting.  The car bounced out of the gutter and back on to the road as Claire slammed her foot on the break. “Damn you!” echoed in her head as she sat breathing heavily while the warmth seeped out of her body and the fog that blocked her sight cleared slowly.  She rested forward the coolness of the steering wheel spreading across her fevered brow.  “What just happened?” she stuttered Matt breathed out a heavy sigh of relief.  “He’s getting stronger.” He said quietly Claire looked at Matt and he smiled weakly “But so are we” he declared. 

 

 

 

Patsy could feel Mark’s fingers tracing patterns on her arm as she lay still pretending to sleep.  His chest was hot against her back as she lay in his arms. She felt his heart beat against her shoulder she felt him sigh, “I wish I could tell you everything but I don’t want to let you go.  I don’t think I can.”  Patsy opened her eyes and bit her lip she wanted him to say more. “If things were different I wouldn’t think about ever leaving you but how can I stay when you don’t even know me.”  Patsy sighed, “So tell me what I need to know.” She said feeling him tense at the thought of her hearing his words.  She rolled over in his arms and looked deeply into his green eyes her finger traced down his arm.  He was lost in her eyes, the green colour they had turned hypnotised him.  He lost all ability to speak momentarily and then he slowly stuttered, “I would never want to hurt you.” Patsy smiled encouragingly she wanted to know she wanted him to confide everything in her.  “You wont like what you hear.” He whispered trying not to lose himself in her eyes “Try me” Patsy said smiling hardly speaking but her breath made him want her more.  “I don’t know how to tell you” she brushed his lips with her fingers “You open your mouth” she whispered replacing her fingers with her lips sensuously brushing against his “And words come out” Mark sighed wanting to give in to her tender touch.  She pulled away slowly he moaned wanting her to come back, he looked into her eyes “I have a brother” he said softly, Patsy waited “He was murdered” her face changed sorrow filling her features.  “He’s dead but I still see him.” Patsy felt herself frown slightly “Now you know how I knew Claire could see Matt.  I’m the same as here.”  Patsy felt her jaw open slightly “The only difference being she’ll do what she has to.”  Patsy propped herself up “What do you mean?”  Mark sighed and sat up this was what he was afraid of pushing her away “That guy could kill Claire tomorrow and she’d be in a better place than I am.”  Pasty shook her head seeing an odd form of recognition on his face.  “What?” Mark sighed and touched her cheek “I’m a condemned man” he said as she stared into his eyes they held such loneliness.  She felt like crying at the thought of the pain he felt.

 

Shane was wrapping Paul’s wrists in the locker room when Michael came in “Guys” he greeted Paul smiled and nodded “Hey” Shane greeted. Paul changed wrists as Shane continued to tape them “How’s it going?” Michael shrugged and checked Paul’s wrist “I talked to Claire.” He said nonchalantly, Shane nodded “Yeah Jennifer is worried maybe something is wrong” Paul nodded and looked at Michael he didn’t seem bothered “Well? Paul asked Michael smiled “She’s okay tell them to stop worrying.  If something is bugging her she’s got it under control.”  Shane nodded “Maybe she’s just upset about the guy she sacked?” Michael nodded as Paul rubbed over the tape on his wrists making sure it held tight “Yeah maybe.” Michael studied him warily “What?” Paul shrugged as he removed his t-shirt “just seems that’s not like Claire to me.  I mean she knows the business she knows not everyone will make it.  She wouldn’t be beating herself up over that guy.  I mean everyone agreed he was a risk.”  Michael and Shane exchanged glances “Look tell your girls to stop fretting she is fine!” Michael said warmly before he slapped Paul on the back and walked with him to the ring.  Paul climbed in and pulled at the ropes stretching his arm muscles Shane stood in the doorway and watched he rolled off the frame and headed into the office he smiled at Shelly who was just finishing on the phone “Your guys getting back in the saddle.” He commented Shelly smiled coldly “Yeah well that’s what he loved best.”  Shane watched her walk out of the office he shook his head if it wasn’t one of the girls it was another.  He picked up the phone and punched in Jennifer’s number “Hey babe” he greeted laughing at the giggling baby in the background.  “He being a handful?”  He laughed as Jennifer commented on how much energy Connor had.  “Well I have some news.  Michael came by he talked to Claire he says there is nothing to worry about. “  He could hear Jennifer sigh with relief.  “Ok babe so we’re still on for tonight?” he smiled wickedly as she replied. 

 

 

The blankets suddenly felt very cold as Patsy wrapped it round her waist and kneeled on the bed, Mark stood at the base holding on to the wood rail.  “After Kane was murdered I lost it.  I was unreachable I didn’t want anyone to talk to me touch me nothing.  I thought I was going nuts.”  Patsy crawled forward and touched his hand reassuringly “I got myself so wasted I didn’t trust myself.  I wasted too much time.”  Patsy watched as he shook his head he seemed to be reliving all the guilt.  “I didn’t listen to the signs.”  Patsy held on to his hand she cold feel him trying to pull away.  There was a sense of mystery about this guy it turned her on in away but now she was getting bored with it.  Mystery was all well and good but it was time to stop and open up to her she was tired of him pulling away being detached mentally while they were physically close.  “Mark” she said her voice soft and warm he let his eyes drift into contact with hers “I left it too late to listen to what Kane told me.”  Patsy touched his face and edged him closer to hers “I was in a car park I was wasted and I thought I was going nuts.  I could hear Kane but I didn’t believe it I mean why would I? I felt guilty and I thought I was delusional.”  Patsy let her fingers slip into his glossy red hair.  “I didn’t see it coming.”   Patsy brushed her lips against hers “Sshh” she whispered as he softly kissed her back “Just tell me” Mark sighed as she pulled away “It was a mess this guy was raining blows on me I couldn’t defend myself.”  Mark held her face in his hands “Some other guy came out of the pub tried to help me out. He got in between the two of us. He took the shot meant for me.”  Patsy felt a lump in her throat Mark hung his head ashamed “Because of me someone else go killed when they weren’t supposed to.”  Patsy shook her head lifting his to look at her “No it wasn’t your fault.”  Mark was pale as he let her pull him round to the side of the bed.  “What happened then?” she asked as he stood playing with her hair his eyes remained distant.  Mark shook his head “We tried to find the guy.  We had to put it all right.”  Patsy let her fingers run over the tattoos on his chest and stomach “By the time we found the guy he was dead already.  He died without anyone knowing what he’d done.”  Mark rested his head against hers.  “There is no way to put it right now.”  Patsy pulled Mark in to a strong embrace as he held on to her not wanting to let her go.

 

12.

Darkness rolled in as Claire sat on the porch swing wrapped in her fleece she watched as the lights danced up the driveway.  Patsy climbed out of her car and closed the door.  Claire could tell from her body language she was upset.  “Hey” Claire greeted as Patsy stepped on to the porch Patsy looked through the darkness and walked towards the swing “Never heard of a light?” Claire smiled weakly as Patsy sat next to her “I talked to Mark.” Patsy said flatly Claire waited the only sound audible was the rustling of leaves in the garden “I get it now.” She said looking at Claire who nodded in return “I’m sorry” Claire hugged Patsy “You got nothing to be sorry for.”  Patsy sighed and felt tears in her eyes “Hey, what is it?” Claire asked concerned Patsy never normally let her emotions take over like this.  “He wont be sticking around.” Patsy confided wiping her eyes “The one guy I actually care about and I can’t have him.”  Claire felt her own heart tighten Patsy looked at her “You know how that feels right?”  Claire nodded Patsy chuckled “We make a right pair!” she hugged Claire and they both giggled. 

 

 

Clink, clink, clink, Mark aimed carefully throwing the metal bottle tops into a pottery cup.  Kane watched him from the porch steps “You could stay around.” He offered slowly sinking down to sit next to his brother “You don’t have to leave” Mark shook his head “You really think I want to wish this on someone I care about?” Kane sighed and slapped his brother’s knee “You love her?” Mark nodded “Then you have to do what you can to be with her.  Life is too short to waste it” Mark sighed and stood up resting against the wood of the porch “How am I supposed to do that huh?  I can’t turn my back on you on what we have to do” Kane stood up swiftly “Hey! Don’t you dare use me as an excuse!” he warned Mark stared at his brother “I’m dead Mark!  Me not you!  So stop acting like you are!  Damn it start living you think you were saved so you could spend the rest of your life mourning me?  You think that guy gave up his life so you could squander yours on feeling bad!” Mark sighed and chewed the inside of his mouth “I do my part!” he said his defence lacking conviction “You do shit!” Kane spat Mark snapped his head round to stare down his brother “Go to hell” he spat back Kane moved forward pinning his brother to the wood beam “Do you really think I want to stand here watching you die?” he growled.  Mark sighed and watched as Kane stomped away. 

 

 

The steam rose as Lesley stared at the phone she was praying for Jeff to ring.  Claire watched from the kitchen door, as Lesley forgot about her waiting tea cup and instead picked up the house phone Claire smirked as Lesley’s mobile rang and Lesley sighed with relief and frustration.  “He’ll call” Claire said walking into the room Lesley jumped and flushed red “Huh?” Claire smirked “I said he’ll call.” Lesley pretended not to know what Claire was talking about.  Claire smiled and shook her head “Ok have it your way.” She poured herself a drink and walked out of the kitchen.  Lesley shook her head and went back to making her tea.  Claire giggled as she placed the glass in front Patsy as she sat on the window seat “Storm brewing” Patsy said Claire nodded “Yeah bad one to” they watched as the clouds rolled through the night sky already starting to light up with the building electricity.  “You okay?” Claire asked Patsy was being quiet mulling over Mark Patsy nodded and smiled “Gonna have to be.” She commented as they finally heard the thunder break. 

 

 

Shane handed Jennifer a glass of wine as she hung up the phone “Keri’s flight has been cancelled. I told Shawn to ring if she manages to get on a later one.”  Shane nodded and smiled as he sipped his wine.  He took Jennifer’s hand and led her over to the couch “You know I’m enjoying this having you all to myself and no Shannon to wake us up in the morning!” Jennifer giggled as she sank on to the soft cushions “That boy has way too much energy” Shane took her glass and placed it on the table, he wrapped her arms round his neck “I think we could give them a run for their money.” He whispered against her lips as he pulled her into a long embrace.   Jennifer giggled against his lips as his fingers brushed her waist.   Shawn turned off the lights in Connor’s room, the baby was sound asleep the sound of the thunder didn’t bother him as it rumbled out overhead.  “The one night I don’t want you to rain.” He cursed as he jumped over the back of the couch and flicked on the TV.  He sighed as a black and white movie began “Well at least someone is getting some” he chuckled settling down to watch the movie.

 

 

Claire clicked off the light and lay on top of the bed she sighed as the lightening lit up her room.  She could see Matt staring out of the window.  “I never thanked you” she whispered he turned and walked over to the bed “Your welcome” he whispered he lowered his eyes and looked at her guiltily “There is something I should tell you.”  Claire watched him intently her innocent eyes made him feel even worse “When you were asleep last night” he whispered Claire waited watching a his deep brown eyes looked everywhere but at her “Matt?” she whispered when he didn’t speak he sighed looking up at her “I” he stopped watching her intently as she shivered uncontroably “Claire?” he sat up studying her, her breath was shallow and her skin pale “Claire!” he screamed as her eyes closed.  “Got you!” a voice whispered in Claire’s ear she shook her head and closed her eyes willing herself to wake up she felt something grabbing her arms “Ahah not this time!” he chuckled.  As he pushed her forward she hit the wall and felt it sting as he grabbed her hair and pulled her head back running his thick fingers down her neck Your gonna stay here and you’re going to watch!” he gloated as the elevator door pinged.  Claire felt him shove her once more she hit the floor as the door slid open she turned her head away and looked up the corridor.  An overwhelming sense of pain filled her and she closed her eyes tight knowing it was too late.  He stood astride her and pulled her to her feet he was laughing as the dragged her towards the open bedroom door.  Claire hit the floor hard as he launched her into the room.  She could hear the TV and the rain; she pushed herself up and looked around the room.  “I wont do it!” she cursed turning to face Dean, he raised an eyebrow “Oh really?” he mocked as his target walked out of the bathroom and between them.  “Now see what you made me do!” he mocked walking over and crouching by Claire.  “You should have let me have her last night” he whispered in to her hair “Now your gonna kill your friend.” He chuckled hauling Claire up and throwing her into the wall.  Claire was winded as she lay on the floor. 

 

 

Matt started to panic Claire was sleeping deeply her body jerked with impact shots, “Claire!” he yelled but she was too far under to hear him.  He closed his eyes determinedly and moved himself through the darkness.  He could see the light in the distance a warm orange glow.  He began running towards it “Matt” Claire whispered Dean turned and smiled at her “Not this time!” he looked at the bedroom door and it slammed it “No interruptions!” Matt heard the voice pushing himself harder the orange light faded with the slam and he was lost in darkness “Claire!” he yelled wanting to reach her but he was totally blocked out.  Claire pulled herself up using the wall for support she had to get out; she had to wake up before it was too late.  “She’s pretty” Dean commented as he reached out feeling the woman’s blonde hair Claire glared at him “I’ll kill you!” she spat Dean smirked “You forget?  I’m already dead!” Claire ran at him and he caught her by the throat he pinned her to the door as she scratched at him “I told you you give me what I want we get along.  You don’t well” he turned and looked at his prey “She dies” Claire stared at the bed.  Kari lay happily reading a magazine “Pity her flight was delayed might have been a bit harder to get to her on a plane but.” He laughed as he lifted Claire above his head and threw her across the room.  She landed with a heavy thud on the floor.  She could hear Dean laughing as he climbed on to the bed and savoured wrapping the scarf around Keri’s neck.  Claire pulled herself up “No!” she screamed as Dean began tightening the scarf, at first Keri swatted at her neck as if she felt an annoying itch.  “Leave her!” Claire demanded as she regained her feet she picked up the bedside lamp and threw it at Dean.  He shrugged off the impact and tightened the scarf.  Keri began to struggle and gasp for breath.

          Matt was looking round the room frantically there had to be something he could do.  Claire was writing on the bed as if she were in the middle of a fight.  He ran to the door “Patsy!” he yelled as he slipped into her room he knew she couldn’t hear him.  He closed his eyes “Damn it!” he cursed returning to Claire “Come on don’t fight him just wake up!” Claire pulled at Dean he let go of the scarf and swung round at Claire knocking her off the bed.  Keri scratched at her throat finally able to suck in some air.  As Dean stood above Claire “Your getting to be really annoying!” he spat kicking out at her before returning to Keri who was now sitting up the scarf still around her neck he grabbed it and pulled tight on it.  “No!” Claire yelled Dean turned his head and smiled at her blowing her a kiss.  Matt ran into the bathroom and reached for the shower tap he twisted it quickly and the water spat out he returned to the room running on pure adrenaline he had no time to think as he reached down and gathered Claire into his arms.  Her body was limp as he rushed into the bathroom and dumped her under the water.  Dean turned his head he felt a cold wind flow through him “No!” he screamed as Claire faded out and the scarf fell limp in his hands.  “Damn you!” he cursed as he was left alone in an empty hotel room. 

 

 

The water beat down on Claire as Matt stood waiting hoping breathlessly her eyes flickered and she coughed as the water ran into her mouth.  She gasped and wiped the water from her face she looked up at Matt confused.  “What the?”  He looked down at her his breathlessness finally subsiding “Come on” he said in a low tone.  Claire pulled herself on to her knees and looked up at him, and pulled herself up Matt nodded and stepped back out of the shower.  He walked out of the room leaving Claire leaning against the wall for support.  Mat paced in her bedroom his whole body tingling he couldn’t believe what he had just done. Claire walked out of the bathroom and grabbed the phone of her bedside chest.  Side punched in Shawn’s number and waited “Shawn it’s Claire.  Where’s Kerri?” Claire closed her eyes and let the tears roll “I think something’s wrong.  You have to call the hotel get the check on her.  Please Shawn just do it okay?  I just have a really bad feeling.”  She hung up the phone and slid down the wall as her chest heaved and tears flowed freely.  Matt turned and rushed over to her he pulled her to her feet by the shoulders and cradled her in his arms.  Claire welcomed his comfort and warmth.  She rested her head against his chest and let his strong arms wrap around her, his cheek resting against her wet hair.  Claire listed her head slowly to look at his face, he gazed down at her softly his eyes never leaving hers as her fingers slowly reached up and touched his cheek “I can feel you” she whispered Matt didn’t move as she let her fingers run along his jaw line he didn’t want to let go of the warmth she brought him.  He dipped his head his lips so close to hers he could feel the warmth of them.  He squeezed his eyes and pulled away letting go of her.  “You should change” he spluttered Claire watched as he walked into the room and sat on the bed.  

 

 

The door rattled under the thunderous knock as Claire ran down stairs and pulled it open.  Shawn stood damp from the rain Connor wrapped in a blanket in his arms “I called I” Claire nodded “I know” Claire took Connor from him “Go!” she ordered Shawn nodded “Thank you” he ran off down the steps and jumped in his car.  Connor murmured lifting his tired head slightly “Ssh” Claire soothed kissing his head and closing the door.  She turned to see both Lesley and Patsy standing on the stairs “What’s wrong?” Lesley asked while Patsy already had a bad feeling.  “Keri’s been hurt.”  Lesley almost slipped off the stairs with shock Patsy looked at Claire and felt something hit her hard in the mid-section.  The message passed without words as Patsy felt a part of their world crumble.  They both watched as Claire carried the drowsy Connor into the living room.  She laid him on the couch and packed cushions round him.  She sat on the floor as the little boy held on to her finger.  “Come on” Patsy said to Lesley “I think we all need some coffee” Lesley followed Patsy into the kitchen while Matt watched Claire from the doorway.   She wiped tears from her eyes as he walked over and crouched in front of her “How am I gonna tell him that I cost his mother her life?” Matt shook his head as Claire cried silently “You didn’t” he said finally “It wasn’t you.” Claire shook her head “It was don’t you get it it’s all down to me.  I brought this man here.  I gave him Keri on a plate.  I invited him to kill my friends so you tell me how I’m supposed to look at that kid and not feel guilty.”

 

 

Patsy grabbed the phone off the wall while Lesley busied herself with the kettle and cups.  Patsy turned away from her and lowered her tone as a sluggish Mark answered.  “Hey I think you need to be here.” She whispered Mark quickly assented and Patsy felt some relief.  Lesley handed her a mug and looked at her “What am I missing?” Patsy shrugged and headed to the door “Patsy!” Lesley asserted “What is going on and don’t tell me nothing cos I know you and I know her and your both hiding something” Patsy sighed and turned to face Lesley “I don’t know what’s going on!  I don’t know why Shawn brought Connor so don’t accuse me of lying!” Lesley sighed and nodded still feeling as though Patsy were hiding something.  Patsy took the other mug and walked into the lounge, she placed it on the table for Claire who looked as white as a sheet.  She motioned for Claire to move away from Connor; they walked to the fireplace “What happened?” Patsy asked quietly Claire fixed her friend with a cold scared gaze “I think I killed Keri” Patsy felt her jaw drop and she struggled to keep hold of her mug.  Lesley walked into the room “What is it with you two?” Claire looked at her and closed her eyes she didn’t have the strength for a fight.  “Hell where did you get that?” Lesley asked concerned Claire looked at her blankly as Lesley walked over and pointed to the bruise on her shoulder.  Pasty shakily placed the cup on the fireplace “Did he?” Claire nodded “Did who do what!” Lesley asked her voice low “You remember what I told you about the serial killer” Lesley nodded she remembered the conversation and how absurd it had been.  “Look I thought we settled that your mind was playing tricks on you.”  Claire shook her head “Does that look like a trick?” Lesley opened and closed her mouth like a fish unable to formulate and argumentative response.  “Look whether you believe it or not it’s true” Lesley shook her head there were no words she could find that she would even think of calling her friend “Claire” Lesley began slowly “It’s just dreams.  They can’t hurt anyone.” Claire looked at Patsy and shook her head “I wish I could believe that!” Claire said before walking out of the room. 

 

 

Mark walked up to the porch and looked at Claire as she sat on the porch rail crying helplessly.  He walked over and sat opposite her.  “You’ll catch your death out here.” Claire half smiled “Maybe that’s how it’s meant to be.”  Mark took off his leather coat and wrapped it round her shoulders.  “What happened?” Claire looked at the window where Patsy stood nursing Connor.  Mark followed her gaze he watched Patsy with the little bundle in her arms, he sighed, “You had another dream” his tone was low and resigned.  Claire turned away from the window, “More like one hell of a run in.”  Mark studied her he could see fading marks on her skin “He can touch you.”  Claire nodded “You know when you told me that and I was looking at Matt seemed like a good thing.” Mark sighed and moved forward taking her hand “Are you totally convinced it’s not.”  Claire lifted her red-rimed eyes as Mark stared at her intently.  She shook her head and wiped her eyes Mark sighed and turned looking in the window “What would you rather, never touching Matt or being able to comfort him and have him comfort you.”  Claire sighed and closed her eyes she knew he was right, she longed to touch Matt to hold his hand and now she could.  “You think it would of hurt less that way?”  Claire looked at him “You tell me!  You tell me what hurts more, letting them in or letting them go!” Mark looked at her cynically “Why do I think we’re no longer talking about you.”  Claire rested her head back against the cold wood.  “It hurts both ways.”  Mark replied stoically, Claire huffed and threw him a cold glare “I told you when you came here if you hurt my friend I’d hurt you.  Right now you’re well on track to making me keep that promise.  If you love her be with her don’t come up with some poor excuse cos your afraid!”  Mark turned and nodded “And you?  Are you coming up with a poor excuse to stop fighting?  Or are you gonna make sure he gets what’s coming to him?” Claire sighed and nodded “He’ll get his”

 

 

 

The hospital smelled of disinfectant and Shawn could taste it at the back of his throat, he coughed roughly trying to clear the nauseating flavour. He paced up and down the corridor waiting for the doctor, he couldn’t stop, if he stopped he had to think and right now that was the last thing he wanted to do.  If he kept moving he could pretend this wasn’t happening, concentrating on the white-flecked floor helped to keep him focused on not focusing.  He sighed and turned ready to pace the same ten-metre walk he had covered for the past four hours.  He stopped watching as the doctor walked towards him his pressed clean coat made Shawn shiver.  “Mr Michaels” the doctor said catching Shawn’s worried gaze.  “How is she can I see her?” The doctor nodded as he placed hand on Shawn’s shoulder and walked him towards the door of Keri’s room.  “She’s stable but condition is serious.”  Shawn sighed worriedly.  “Will she be okay?” He asked his eyes pleading with the doctor “It’s too early to say” the doctor replied calmly before walking out of the room.  Shawn pulled up a chair and set at Keri’s bedside, she looked so grey hooked up to the monitors.  Shawn took her hand in his and cried against her soft skin.  “You gotta make it babe,” he pleaded listening to the steady beep of the heart monitor.

 

 

 

The rain refused to ease and the girls were forced to keep an over active Connor occupied while each one worried quietly.  Patsy had tried to reach Jennifer since eight but Shane’s phone was off the hook.  Patsy sighed and looked at her watch and sighed it was too late anyway, they would be off picking Sammy and Shannon up from the airport.    She dropped the phone back on its cradle and moved to the table.  She could hear Connor giggling in the front room, she knew she had left Lesley gaping at Claire still unbelieving of the story wondering what part of her brain the electric shock had fried and if it had jack knifed in to Patsy because she knew they were both acting crazy.  Patsy placed her head in her hands and sighed she felt warm strong hands on her shoulder she accepted the warmth and stroking movements momentarily and then her eyes opened and she pulled away.  She walked to the bench and started messing with a juice carton and Connor’s cup.  “You don’t want me around?” Mark said quietly.  Patsy stopped what she was doing and stared out of the window.  “No I want you around but I don’t want to get used to something that won’t be around that long.”  Mark hung his head and gripped the back of the chair “Life isn’t fair.” He whispered Patsy turned tears in her eyes and stared at him “Life’s not making the choice you are!” she managed to choke out before she rushed from the room wiping away tears.

 

 

Matt watched from the doorway of the living room he sighed as he watched Mark grip the chair so tight it almost disintegrated in his hands.  Matt closed his eyes, when he opened them he looked at Claire as she sat on the couch Connor on her knee he was babbling away quietly he seemed to sense there was a sadness in her eyes and he was hugging her and trying to make her smile as she looked into his angelic face.  Matt watched the tear trickle down her skin Connor saw it too and touched it softly he drew the damp salt water on to his own cheek and smiled Claire choked on her tears and smiled at the little boy.  He laid his head on her chest and she held him tightly.  Lesley sat on the chair watching her friend; she shook her head and stood up “You have to stop this.” She said finally Claire shook her head as Lesley sat on the table facing her “If you think your seeing these girls die you should go to the police!” Claire shook her head determined to keep her voice low after all she could communicate more with a look.  “You think they would believe me when my best friend doesn’t” Lesley swallowed guiltily Claire’s eyes were a cold blue and Lesley hated being on the receiving end of such a stern glare.  “It’s not that I don’t believe you” she began Claire waited “It’s just” Lesley struggled to find the words she needed “You just think I’m crazy” Lesley shook her head emphatically “No!” Claire closed her eyes “Leave me alone.” She said coldly Lesley sighed, “I don’t think you’re crazy I just need proof that what you’re telling me is true!”

 

 

Jennifer sighed and leaned against Shane, they had hardly slept last night and now they were standing on the ideal day to stay in bed at the arrivals gate of the airport, Shane kissed her head “Here they come” he whispered into her hair.  Jennifer smiled as Sammy and Shannon wandered towards them looking radiant as they hugged and kissed.  They spotted Jennifer and Shane and walked towards them a spring in their step “Hiya!” Sammy greeted giggling and pulling at Shannon’s shirt.  Jennifer smiled at Shane as they walked with the two ‘children out to the car.  “How was the honeymoon?” Sammy giggled wickedly as Shannon blushed and chuckled “We had a memorable time!” he smirked at Shane who rolled his eyes and pulled Jennifer close to him “I don’t think we’re gonna get too many details.” Jennifer giggled as they climbed in the car.  “Where we going?” Jennifer asked casually “Home” Sammy chuckled I’m not ready to get back to it just yet.”  It was Jennifer’s turn to roll her eyes as she picked up her mobile phone and looked at the three missed calls message.  She pressed for the answer machine message and waited.  She recognised Patsy voice, she wondered what was so important Shawn had to shoot off.  “After we drop you guys I better go to Claire’s.”  Shane nodded then winced as Sammy hit him on the shoulder “Go now we can say hi!” Shane nodded and turned out of the car park “I will if you never do that again!” he joked Sammy scowled and then laughed as Shannon tickled her.

 

 

Claire rapped gently on Patsy’s door; she stepped inside without waiting for an answer.  Patsy was sitting on her chair pulling at the corners of a cushion.  “He still here?” she asked calmly although inside she was in turmoil “Yeah he’s playing with Connor” Patsy chuckled at the thought.  “He’s good with kids huh?” Claire nodded Patsy sighed and threw the cushion at the bed she wiped her eyes and smiled at Claire “Guess I should just deal with it.” Claire shook her head “Nope” Patsy giggled as Claire sat on the edge of the bed “You remember you always told me to go for what I wanted.  Cos if I wanted it bad enough I would get it.” Patsy rolled her eyes “No fair to use my advice on me!” Claire smirked “It’s very fair.  Now you want that guy?” Patsy let her head fall to one side “Go get him” Claire said Patsy smiled “Ditto” Claire shook her head “Don’t know what your talking about.” Patsy shook her head “You can’t lie to me.  He’s something huh?” Claire smirked and nodded Patsy smiled “Trust you to fall for a guy I can’t see!” Claire laughed and wiped her eyes “Isn’t that the point I won’t be able to see him soon either” Patsy sighed and moved across to the bed “We’re a right pair!” She rubbed Claire’s shoulders “You can see him right” Claire nodded “Talk to him, know him” again Claire nodded “And you can touch him.” Claire studied her friend as Patsy smiled “Then all you have to do is show him.”  Claire sighed and rubbed her eyes, “And then let him go?” Patsy nodded and fiddled with Claire’s hair “Better to love him now and let him go then never love him at all.”  Patsy pulled Claire into a hug as they both contemplated their impossible feelings.

 

 

“She what!” Jennifer stuttered as Lesley broke the news to her “Oh my” she sunk on to the couch and took Connor in her arms she studied the little boy and tried to swallow her heart which was now residing in her throat.  “Is she okay?” Lesley shrugged “We don’t know anything yet.” Jennifer nodded as she cradled Connor “Okay I err, I guess I should pack some things for them both.”  Lesley nodded as Sammy stood in Shannon’s arms as Lesley walked out of the room she touched her arm “Claire knew didn’t she” Lesley rolled her eyes “Don’t start Sammy.” Sammy pulled away from Shannon and followed Lesley “She did didn’t she, oh shit!” Lesley glared at Sammy as she picked up Connor’s bags “Stop it now!  Don’t even think of putting any more ideas in her head!” Sammy looked gob smacked “Hey!” she protested.  Lesley slammed the bag on the table in the hall “Now listen I don’t know what happened all I know is Claire is all screwed up and your not helping!” Sammy huffed and folded her arms “There’s someone with her!” Sammy stated Lesley shook her head “And she still believes in Santa!  Grow up Sammy!  This is no time for nonsense!” Matt sighed and rolled off the door he walked up the stairs slowly he knew his presence was tearing Claire’s life apart.

 

13.

 

The room was silent as the girls sat in the darkness, Patsy watched Lesley as she flicked through a book refusing to even broach the subject anymore.  Claire sighed still mulling over the guilty feeling she had deep inside. Patsy exhaled slowly Mark had left two hours ago and Patsy had felt like crying ever since.  She couldn’t believe he had messed up her world this easily.  They all jumped when the phone rang, Claire ran from the couch past Matt in to the hall and grabbed the handset “Hello!” she said breathlessly “Hey” came a weak voice “Shawn?” she asked she felt her breath catch in her throat as tears warmed her eyes.  Matt watched as Claire seemed to lose her breath and stumble Patsy was there in an instant grabbing the phone and continuing the conversation Claire could no longer hear, she felt like her ears need to pop all the sounds around her were so distant.  Patsy sighed and sank on to the stairs as Shawn spoke to Patsy.  Lesley stood in the doorway and waited impatiently Patsy hung up the phone and looked at them both “She’s doing okay!” Patsy said relief evident in her voice.  Claire covered her mouth and let the tears fall as Lesley sighed with relief “She’s okay?” Patsy nodded “Critical but stable, she’s still breathing Claire!” Claire closed her eyes and nodded she stood up shakily and ran up stairs she needed to stop the beating in her head and the tightness in her throat.  Lesley looked at Patsy “See she was wrong.” Patsy sighed not wanting to get into another argument. 

 

 

Claire stood by the window breathing in slowly she felt her body tense and relax in time with her breathing.  Matt walked into the room and closed the door quietly.  “She’s okay?” he asked Claire nodded not turning to face him, she rubbed her eyes and took a deep breath “She’s alive” Claire said confirming Matt’s hopes he sighed with relief and stepped forward he his hands paused above her shoulders, Claire watched his reflection in the glass.  She watched his face he seemed to lose the brief moment of happiness he had found.  She sighed as he pulled away she closed her eyes and swallowed hard.  Claire hung her head as Matt stepped backwards away from her.  He couldn’t believe what he was doing, he wanted to touch her so badly, his heart was in his mouth he wanted to feel her body against his and he knew she wanted that too.  He looked at his hands he knew that if he just reached out he could touch her, feel her; he wanted her near him so badly.  He knew if he stepped one more step closer he would taker her in his arms and never let her go.  His desire burned like a furnace, he felt himself sweat with a yearning he’d never known his body was capable of.  He couldn’t resist it any longer he told himself quickly ‘just a touch and then I’ll be strong’.  He stepped forward and his fingers lightly touched her shoulders, Claire lifted her head as he ran his fingertips down her arms.  Matt couldn’t believe how for granted he had taken a simple pleasure like this, it held the most intimate and intense power.  He stepped closer his head bowed he could feel her relaxing at his stroke.  Claire faltered melting backwards, Matt’s breath came ragged as he felt his brain kick in telling him to pull away, but no matter what he did he couldn’t move.  This sensation was too sweet to let go of, “Don’t fall in love with me” he whispered Claire closed her eyes tight and turned in his arms, she looked deep into his brown eyes and felt him lean into her.  “You have to be the strong one.”  Claire shook her head slowly knowing inside she hadn’t the will power to move out of his tender embrace.  Matt’s fingers were running up and down her arms making her shiver with a need and hunger no dream could ever replicate.  His lips brushed against hers and she felt herself falling into him and she knew that was what she had wanted for so long.  Matt tried to pull away his eyes still locked with hers, “I’m dead,” he said as though he were trying to convince himself “You cant make this choice.” 

 

 

Claire did the last thing he expected she pulled out of his grasp; he faltered almost falling as she walked away from him.  She had to distance herself from him she wanted to be with him her world was falling apart but she found herself thinking of him more and more.  It was becoming harder to imagine not being near him  “You think it’s a choice!” he stared at her the suddenness of her movement rocked him and burned like hot coals against his skin.  “Why should I be the strong one?  Why should I pull away” Matt stared at her he was rooted to the spot, his lips faltered “Because I cant.”  Claire stared at him; his face was filled with such love she had never seen before.  “What makes you think I can?” she said quietly Matt closed his eyes wishing he hadn’t seen the look on her face, wishing he couldn’t read her so well,  “Because you know it’s just a dream.  You think it would be any more real here and now than when you dreamed it.”  Claire stared at him the thought of him seeing that intimacy stunned her like someone hitting her in the chest.  Claire closed her eyes and searched her mind and remembered her dream, she remembered his touch and how there was no fear just complete trust she relaxed.  Matt watched she seemed to find something, a calmness.  She stepped forward into him, he took a breath as he felt her fingers caressing his stomach it made him shiver “I feel you that’s why it’s real.” She whispered looking up into his eyes, he felt his will faltering “Claire” he whispered trying not to touch her knowing the moment he did he wouldn’t be able to resist her.  

 

 

Matt stared into her eyes for what felt like an eternity, he felt her heart beat against him.  They were so close one unconscious step and they would be one and they both knew it.  They stood on the line waiting to see who would fall first.  “I don’t want to miss you” she whispered he looked deep into her eyes and swayed forward.  His fingers moved the hair from her face and gently moved across her jaw line he felt her shiver as he cupped her face and brought his lips to hers.  His soft touch warmed her, her whole body fell into him and she knew there was no going back.  As his tongue traced the line of her lips she opened her mouth slightly and welcomed him into her.  His fingers ran down her neck pulling her ever closer as he sighed.  Her hands rose slowly up his body, feeling his strong back muscles Claire had never wanted someone so completely in her life.  She moved her hands to his waist and pulled at his shirt Matt released her from his kiss long enough for her to remove his shirt, he stared at her as it floated to the floor, a smile tugged at the edges of her mouth as she let her palms explore his skin feeling every muscle and curve of his body.  He moaned as she gently kissed his shoulders moving slowly to the soft spot at the base of his neck, as he moaned she felt it it sent an amazing vibration through her.  Matt ran his fingers down her cheeks and neck; she shivered as they made the way to her waist.  His touch was so soft as his hands slipped under her top and caressed her waist, moving up slowly lifting her top, Matt looked down at her as he lifted her top over her head, he dipped down and brushed her lips with his.  His hands wanted to know every part of her as he pulled her closer.  Their bare skin touched, it seemed to rock them both to the core. 

 

 

Matt moved Claire backwards slowly he never stopped touching or kissing her.  They reached the bed and sank on to it, Matt sat astride Claire and massaged her rib cage with his hands, she arched her back and rose up to reward him with a kiss, her hands playing on the waist band of his trousers he moved slowly helping her push his trousers away from his skin.  He moaned and sucked in a breath as her hands travelled back up his thighs and drifted round his body.  He took his time kissing his way down her body loosening her trousers and pulling them down making sure he kissed each inch of bare skin they revealed.  Claire shivered and reached for him pulling his lips to hers, he looked deep into her eyes as their bodies became one and they moved together.  Their breath coming quickly as they held on to each other and let everything else slip away.  There was nothing in the world but them and the passion they were experiencing.  Matt’s eyes never left Claire’s as they both finally let go.  He melted in to her and she softly kissed him, they lay holding each other in silence locked in each others gazes their hands never ceasing to caress and experience the feel of the other.

 

 

The morning sun rose slowly and peaked through the veil of Claire’s window.  She sighed as she watched it; she was resting against Matt’s chest as she watched.  She could feel him breathing his heart beating in it’s natural home.  He sighed and played with her hair “I don’t want to go” he whispered, Claire lifted her head and looked at him he sighed and touched her cheek “I don’t want to leave you.” Claire smiled weakly Matt knew he was breaking her heart and he knew his was breaking too.  She gently kissed him and savoured the feel of his lips on hers “You better haunt me” Matt smiled weakly as she pulled back.  He swallowed hard knowing what he had to say would be the hardest thing he had ever had to do in life.  “When I’m gone I want you to remember something” Claire studied his eyes she was sure he was blinking away tears