There 'ya go Myles... I just know Storm didn't really want you to stay away...

And Jack! Such sage advice - FOLLOW YOUR HEART - I think I'm going to get all weepy!

Tina

Storm not a "person of interest?" Ah, Myles, I beg to differ. She's definitely a "person of interest" to you!

And Jack's advice was beautiful . . . exactly what he wished he had done YEARS EARLIER!!

First off,I absolutely love Myles on a mission! Go to her, Myles! Tell her you can't live without her!

And second, I wonder if Jack and Sue new house has room for a nursery?

Lindsy

Attempting to catch up Marlene but it is going to take several days I fear. This is all I could read last night before my eyelids refused to cooperate and stay open.

P34-496 - Reread this post....So Jack and Sue suspect there may be something more going on between Myles and Storm and that is why Myles is so cryptic about Storm’s dad. Oh, and the Jack and Sue shower scene turned out to be nothing but a teaser!!! But husky Jack is a great way to start off any day. So much potential!

P34-505 – Myles handled his interest in Matt’s death very well when Morton asked. He also is slowly building a case for a developing interest of the heart in Storm. Excellent Marlene! Now, What in the world could Pete have found, and where, that would cause that kind of reaction in Morton?

P35-516 – Wow! What a bath! I don’t know how Jack could restrain himself. What a romantic gesture to order a Blackberry and have Sue call Lorna and give her desires for their wedding. And, of course, Lorna will know the exact questions to ask Sue, b//c Sue will be so distracted by Jack’s…um…hands, she won’t be able to think of the details to offer. Loved it!

Can't wait until this evening when I can read some more.

Lynn

Jacks right Myles follow your heart just hope you
know where Storm is cant wait to find out more soon please
Lin

Myles is finally taking action and I love it!! I hope he finds Storm soon and that she wants him to find her!!!

I'm sure there is plenty of room for a nursery in the new house!! And, when Sue doesn't get any better, Jack will take her to the doctor and then we will be officially told!! In the meantime, I'm knitting booties!!!

Joy

I'm so excited!

Em

As Myles drove out of town, the first ray of sun peeked over the valley. In the distance, he distinguished the barn. Acting like a beacon, the red roof shone in the rising sunlight.

He parked by the ruins, beside a blue pickup. Birds and insects sang his arrival. He avoided the large squeaking doors and sneaked in the back—using the same entrance they’d used to exit with the bikes.

He glanced around. Someone had retrieved the bikes from behind the trees, and let them lean against the wall. He advanced slowly. Dry hay crunched under the sole of his black shoes drowning out his breathing.

The stairs creaked as he climbed up. The sun peeked through the only clean window and illuminated the bales of hay transformed into a makeshift bed. He paused on the last step and stared in adoration at the enchanted creature.

“Sleeping princess,” he murmured, approaching in silence.

Her hair laid spread around her head, setting the golden hay in fire, and a smile adorned her lips. By her hand rested a new sketchbook, reminding him of the one he safely kept on his desk and needed to return.

He approached and reached for the book. Reverently, he flipped the cover and gasped in wonder at the first page. The cave she had sworn never to paint again opened in its entire splendor. Instantly transported back in time, his eyes searched for the bare feet behind the rocks amidst the greenish hue. No feet, no people—only nature in its glory—and a testimony to her desire to lay the past to rest—or so he hoped.

The next page provided the answer he’d sought since he’d met her. Myles hadn’t realized she’d been observing him while he’d watched their stalkers through the window of the barn. She had drawn him from memory and captured his worried expression in charcoal. He’d been eager to search the cave, afraid that every minute wasted might cost Jack and Sue’s lives. His eyes pierced through the page, and he could almost see into his soul. His eyes darted to the bottom corner. She had signed and dated it a week ago.

“Myles?” she murmured sleepily.

Smiling, he carefully set the sketchbook aside and sat beside her in the hay. She blinked, her hazy mind searching the path from dreams to reality.

With his fingers, he traced her cheek, the bruise that had covered it long gone. “Hi.”

“Are you real?”

“Yes, I’m real.” Leaning, he brushed her lips. “But I’ll leave if you don’t want me here.”

Yay! I'm so glad he went to find her!!

But Storm doesn't want him to leave, does she?

Kim

P36-526 – IT was the hunting vest. And Myles was too cavalier about taking a nap! I love the way he is steering the investigation right where it needs to go. I loved this Joy…. And I think we had a hint awhile back the sheriff might be involved! Either that or something made me think he might be involved.

P36-538 – What was the report from Tara on Storm’s mother’s death? P37-541 – She was killed with a U.S. Marshall? So, was Storm’s mom running off with the Marshall or was she a witness telling an officer of the law about the nefarious activities of her husband? I love the conversation between Sue and Lorna! A nice little side-trip to your marvelous story, Marlene.

P37-550 – Ah ha! I knew it. Storm’s mom was in protective custody. That rat, dad, to do such an evil thing to the mother of his child. And Roy…I hope they can pin the bombing on him thru the bomber signature. Maybe then he’ll finally start talking. Hmmm, they all seem so afraid of Storm’s dad. Could he be a direct mafia family member who has gone under cover in this little town instead of just some bloke who decided to get in the car stealing business?

P38-559 – Great synopsis by Myles filling in Jack and Sue. What fun Marlene to have the Marshall from the Wisconsin office. Will they have time to see his folks? And maybe a little side trip to see hers? P38-570 – Oh, she’s leaving Jack for DC…but then joining him, or he’ll join her. Now what does he want her and Bobby to do? I’m making some headway, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to stop for awhile. Be back later.

Lynn

Marlene, the description you gave of Storm's drawing of the cave put me right there all over again!! I would LOVE to have that sketch!!!

I'm glad Myles went after her, I'm glad he found her, and I'm hoping she won't send him away!!!

Joy

that was wonderful myles storm dasnt want you to leave
she"s really pleased to see you cant wait for more please pretty please
Lin

No! Say NO!

Tina

P39-580 – Marlene you just keep amazing us with one thing after another. Storm’s reasoning for wanting Myles to let her go….it had never occurred to me she would be in danger all her life if her dad thought she betrayed him. He has to be mafia. And she cares for Myles and knows he will go after Myles, or anyone, who tries to protect her. After all, he has killed everyone she has loved and those trying to protect her mom. So, I can understand why she would feel the way she does. And now her studio and all her work is gone, up in smoke. Was this a warning by her dad or the beginning of torture and revenge? You know, I hate to say this, but the only thing that will free her is for her father to die. B/c with his connections, he could have someone dog her even from prison. And you just keep piling it on…what about the car? This is spine-tingling, Marlene!

P40-589 – It must have taken a lot out of Myles not to have Storm brought in. But I agree with him. They have to play it this way to throw suspicion off Storm. And who says the person in the car has to be a bad guy? It could just be SOG keeping an eye out for her dad. P40-594 – Perfect timing for a little levity in the story! I’m confused…it sounds like they’re getting married in Wisconsin. I thought they were getting married in the cave in Montana. For some reason I had that in my head. Must have been all the stress I was under preparing to leave. Ah, so Bobby is in charge of getting Jack’s tuxedo! No wonder Jack wanted Sue to go with him.

P41-605 – NOOOOOOO! He shot her! “Family business!” He is mafia…isn’t he? NO WAIT….She Shot HIM…didn’t she? P42-616 – I knew it…had mafia written all over it. I think it is some big whig the FBI has been after for a long time. A lovely post…ring sizing, the tux…teasing by best bud and ending with a possible clue from the Marshall’s wife. Loved this line. Now, the 3 days are the same 3 days up to the point the gunshot rocked Storm’s body…right? So its that same evening and we still have 4 days to go to the wedding? So, did she shoot him?

P42-629 – Okay, so I was wrong….well, it was a good guess! I’m sorry to say this…but, I’m glad her dad was killed. Now maybe her nightmare of a life can end and she can begin a new life with Myles, eventually. I hope the agent, Don, recovers. I’m as puzzled as ever, Marlene…. We need to see that sketchbook. And why would she still want to protect Myles' identity? P43-635 – I know there has to be a clue in there somewhere…her mother (who was not her mother) was pregnant? Hmmm, would Storm’s sketch book possibly have a picture of THE leader of the "FAMILY"? If he came to visit her dad, she might have inadvertently sketched him. Don’t know why her mother being pregnant produced that idea!

Tbc

Lynn

I am SO glad he went to find her. Now, I just hope she wants him to stay.

Perfect!!

Tere

“Stay,” Storm whispered softly.

He joined her in the hay. “Did you know you’re the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met?”

She gripped the lapels of his jacket. “Somehow that doesn’t sound like a compliment, Leland.”

“He almost shot you,” he gently reminded her as he wrapped her in his arms.

“I had to take the chance, Myles. I needed to break free on my own. It was the only way I could sever the ties with my family without fearing retribution for the rest of my life.”

“I understand,” he assured her. “My ego didn’t approve, but I admire your courage.”

“You do?”

“Yes.” He ran his fingers into her hair. “What will you do?”

“I lost everything, but I received a pretty good offer,” she said, playing with his tie. “Do you have anything to do with it?”

“Yes.” Owing her the truth, he ignored her frown and explained. “But not to the extent you imagine. The director of the art fine arts faculty is a friend. I made copies of some of your drawings and showed them to him. I have nothing to do with the offer he subsequently made to you.”

“Nothing?” Her eyes widened in surprise. “He offered me a full scholarship. Do you know how much money this is worth?”

“I’ve never seen Albert make an offer to someone who didn’t deserve it. You’re very talented. You earned it all on your own. I just provided the courier service.”

“You... you wouldn’t lie to me, would you?”

“Have I ever lied to you?”

“No,” she acknowledged.

“Have you made up your mind yet?”

She nodded. “I mailed my letter of acceptance yesterday.”

He smiled. “You did?”

“I’ll be moving to DC in the weeks to come.”

“And when were you going to tell me?”

She shrugged innocently. “I figured you’d eventually contact me if you were...” She shyly bit her bottom lip.

“If I were what?” he probed, his hands gently caressing her back. “Interested?”

“Are you... interested? I mean, you’re... you’re a FBI agent, and my family tree is full of mobsters and killers and—”

“Storm, the only branch I’m interested in is you.”

Sparkles shined in her eyes. “Are you sure? I can be very infuriating, remember?”

His smile turned into a grin. “I know, but I still love you.” He hadn’t consciously intended to say it. The words just slipped out of his mouth. But for the first time in his life, he meant every single one, and if that made him a fool, then so be it. “If you’re ready to give love a second chance, I’d like the honor of being the lucky guy.”

“I’d like that.” She loosened his tie, and a mischievous little smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. “I’d like that a lot, Myles Carson.”

“Carson?” His laughter rose in the barn. “What am I going to do with you?”

“We could go for a swim,” she suggested, slowly unbuttoning his silk shirt. “The water would wake me up.”

“Has the creek warmed up?”

“Nope—Don’t you like cold water?” she chuckled.

“I can think of a much more pleasant way to wake you up.”

“Like what?”

Her fingers stroking his bare chest sent a jolt of electricity through his body. “Let me show you.”

Whoo Hooo, you go Myles... you dog you! (Sorry Levi)

This is perfect for Myles! Now he's close to another artist (along with Troy) who's talented and painting originals instead of fakes! Soon he'll have "Storms" hanging all over his walls. (He already has Storm hanging all over him....)

Now, how's Sue feeling?

Tina

ALRIGHT! Go Myles! I'm so glad we didn't have to wade through any angst with them. They deserve to be able to go for it if anyone does! I'm SO glad Storm isn't continuing to question him, but is finally accepting that someone like Myles can love her for herself. Very nice.

Now, as Tina so nicely asked, how's Sue feeling????

I'm glad I read both posts in one sitting, although I was pretty certain that Storm would ask him to stay.

Now, I'm with the others... exactly how is Sue these days?

Lindsy

Ditto to all of you!

Tere

Im so pleased storm said yes to myles staying they will make
A beautiful couple just like Jack and sue cant wait to find out
Lin

P43-644 – I could feel how badly Myles wanted to go to Storm. He’s right though, until this is over…completely over….she is not safe. Now, I can’t wait for Myles to get back to DC and give the sketch book to Tara. Maybe some of the faces in it will lead to Cluster. P44-650 - Sue’s on her way back to Jack and Lucy and they guys are moving her to Jack’s apt. Tara has the sketch book. But why is Myles being so mysteries? Isn’t it great to have the kids all back home again, Marlene? Oh, I like the whiteboard with chocolaty eyes drawing the family tree, Lorna! And, Linny, you are so smart…of course it has to do with the missing pages in the sketch book! Duh! I just couldn't resist quoting this....I'm a baseball fan and I love your analogy Duckfan! Perfection!

P45-662 – Wow! The sheriff killed himself? How could he do that in a cell? I guess hung himself? And what a wonderful homecoming for Jack. I suppose the note was from his mom warning him Sue was sleeping in his room. And it’s a foregone conclusion Jack will oversleep! Gee, this is heating up and I’m going to have to quit my morning reading in a little bit. P45-671 – Okay, since I’m so far behind…I’m going to go out on a limb here and ask…could this potential roommate possibly, by any chance, be Storm? Oh, my mind is reeling from all these new names, Marlene! I just may have to create that whiteboard myself and not wait for ole chocolate eyes! :banghead: I guess this would be as good a place as any to stop….before we get back to Jack’s bedroom and the fuzzies I feel are coming, which would cause me great anguish to have to stop. Maybe I can get to them tonight. I just have to say it again, Marlene, this story is fantastic!

Lynn

Thank you all ! You're great !

+++++

A YEAR LATER

That Storm had been invited to display some of her drawings in the prestigious gallery was an honor rarely awarded to a first year student.

A flute of champagne in hand, Myles watched his future wife mingle with patrons and benefactors alike. Her flushed cheeks and glowing expression weren’t caused by her inexistent makeup or the excitement of the night, though the latter might have added a darker shade of red, but resulted mostly from too much loving on his part.

“Myles.”

Myles diverted his attention from Storm and welcomed his friends. “Jack, Sue. Glad you could come.”

“We may not stay for very long,” Jack apologized. “Ariana isn’t feeling too good. She got her needle this morning.”

Myles peeked at the small bundle cradled in her father’s arms. The blond infant was nosily sucking her thumb, and fresh tears pearled on her eyeslashes. “She’s beautiful, just like her mother.”

Sue smiled shyly at the compliment. “Where’s Storm?” Her eyes widened in surprise as she spotted the young woman. “Myles Leland, when were you going to share the news?”

Myles followed Sue’s gaze and smiled. Chatting with an elderly gentleman that Myles didn’t recognize, Storm stood sideways to them. Her shimmering emerald dress hugged her alluring curves, including the little bump that seemed to have appeared overnight.

“To keep up with appearances, and not shock my mother, we’re trying to keep it a secret,” he admitted, not feeling the least guilty.

“And when is the wedding again?” Jack asked.

“Four weeks.”

Visibly amused, Jack arched a brow. “Good luck keeping that secret for another month.”

Myles smirked. “My mother wanted a memorable wedding for her oldest son.”

“I’m sure it wasn’t quite what she had in mind,” Sue chuckled. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you. Would you like a tour?” Myles offered his arm to Sue, and Jack followed a step behind.

It didn’t surprise Myles when they paused in front of the drawing depicting the cave.

“Is it for sale?”

“Sorry, Jack.” It hung in their bedroom, and an empty hook on the wall impatiently awaited its return.

“How about this one?” Sue asked, gazing in wonder at the purplish-blue frozen pond where little kids, with colorful scarves and mitts, skated.

“No—It also has an owner.” Not that the owner was aware of it just yet. Drawn in pastel and title “Innocence”, the scene was surrounded by a pink frame, making it the perfect gift for the upcoming christening of Ariana Hudson.

Thunder struck in the darkened sky and the lights flickered. Storm approached them. He snaked his arm around her waist. Beneath his open palm rested their son Carson, safe and sound in his mother’s womb.

“I love the skating ring.”

At Sue’s remark, Storm smiled knowingly. “Myles and I were driving through Vermont this winter when we stopped for lunch in a small town. From the window, we could see the pond.” Her hand came to rest over his. “Some of the little kids looked too young to walk, but they still skated.”

Rain thumped in the windows of the gallery, echoing the beating of his heart as Myles gazed with adoration and pride at the woman he loved.

She's my kind of rain
Oh, rain on me
She's my kind of rain

~~~FIN~~~

Well, I'd say Myles is going to provide a very memorable wedding for his mother to remember! But I think all will be forgiven when she has that baby to spoil...

Congratulations Marlo! Another wonderful story with enough twists and turns to keep us all off kilter for the entire ride... and an extremely satisfying ending! Little Ariana in daddy's arms was something to behold!

Thanks for writing, and sharing. It's always appreciated!

Tina

Thank you for a beautiful story, Marlo! I loved the way it came full circle - with Storm and Myles both engaged and expecting, with Jack and Sue's baby, with the paintings of things memorable to all off them.

I'm sure this story is one that will be enjoyed by many, and for a long time to come!!

Wow, what an amazing story Marlo.

Loads of twists and turns and some perfect romance as well. I'm so glad Myles got his woman!!

Thanks for sharing

Soph

Another masterpiece! Fantastic!

Kim

Wonderful Marlo!! Thanks for share!!

Tere

I'm so glad you let Storm storm into Myles life for good. Excellent mystery, delicious fuzzies, and riveting characters -- what more could a wedding coordinator want?

I'm soooo happy Storm wanted Myles to stay!! And, I'm glad she accepted the scholarship which has now led to a very successful showing of both her paintings, and of course Carson!! How very appropos to name their son Carson!! And, I do believe Myles is going to enjoy sharing his little surprise with his mother!!!

Well, I guess Sue is feeling better, but poor little Ariana!! She's a lucky baby though, and obviously has her daddy wrapped around her little finger already!!!

Marlene, this was such a wonderful, exciting ride, from start to finish!! The case was amazing and I love Storm!! The perfect mate for Myles!! This is definitely a tale I plan on visiting again and again!!!

Thanks for sharing once again!!!

Joy

Marlene, I love how you brought Myles back to Storm and she was so ready for him. So perfect.. You write such a romantic Myles. When Storm called him, Myles Carson, I thought, that would be a great name for their first son for the memory. And so it shall be...

Jack, Sue and Ariana, and the drawing 'Innocence' of the skating, for them. Oh how perfect. So precious.

Once again a wonderful story with all the turns and twists and surprises, angst and fuzzies and topped off with humor. Thank you!

Im so pleased for myles and storm and there little miracle but so pleased for Jack and Sue with there baby girl but im so sorry its ended marlene please pretty please can we have a sequel as ive loved this from start to finish and cant wait for more
Lin

Wonderful ending to yet another wonderful story,Marlo! I love how you always draw us into the story by creating such a wonderful world around our favorite characters... and of course, also inventing those who are perfect matches to said favorite characters.

I can't wait to see what's next from you!

Lindsy

Wow Marlo...yet again another great story!!
I just loved how you developed the relation between Myles and Storm...
I was like this while I was reading the last posts....perfect!

Thanks for sharing!
Josy

Another masterpiece Marlene! That was beautiful!

Em

That was a fantastic ride Marlene! I will never think of caves the same again, still really don't want to go in one but it made a great backdrop!

Happy sighs from me.

I do love a good read and that is exactly what this whole story was. Fabulous Marlo.

i love seeing that other side to Myles. I always thought if the series had run longer that Myles pehaps would have headed this way, albeit PG rated and on his best behaviour! Thank goodness for fanficland and Marlo!!!

What a wonderful character you created there Marlene!!! I love that Myles followed his heart and that Storm was open to receiving it after everything she had been through. I can just imagine how Mrs. Leland would take the news of their impending addition.....it would have made a funny scene!!! As always Marlene, you are the shining example of how good and truly entertaining fanfic can be! I'm so happy you are willing to share your amazing talent with us! And as always....I'm looking forward to your next adventure with Jack and Sue! We'll all be waiting!

this has been an amazing ride... and I loved every second of it... I can't believe it's over... and I hope you're going to write a new story soon again.. I really loved it.

law

Sorry Marlo, late again for the end. I've had to print the last half of the story and in the midst of reading to be ready for the vote-off!!!

Fingers crossed I get it read in time, but I suppose the few days off work at the end of this week will help!!!!

Back later with more!!!

Another wonderful story!

Hi Marlene. Finally catching up on your story. Only 11 posts to go. P46-678 – I love Irene’s sense of humor. I see where Jack gets his teasing humor.

P46-687 - Well, I was looking forward to the shower scene, but I might have known there would be an interruption and by Bobby, no less! Oh, wow! The family connection revealed. P47-701 - And not only did Candy’s sister recognize Mrs. Brewster as Candy, she verified her brother-in-law was using the name of Claude and they had a daughter named Storm. Gotch now, Cluster! Now, is Myles securing Storm a job at what? A school? University? Myles must know Albert thru his art collection? P48-712 – Well, even though it was only a prelude, that post has me all gooey inside. ***Sighing happily***
And I'm getting sleepy and tempted to stop here. (Its 1a my time.) This post would make for lovely dreams!
But the thought of the wedding coming up is spurring me on. P49-721 - I love a nervous Jack. And the color of the tux...is it a color from the cave? But, I too tired to remember the colors they encountered, unless it is white, from the phosphorous light in the cave.

P49-731 - Oh, green...well, at least I was right about it being a color from the cave...I just couldn't remember the color! Myles was so sweet to hide his presence in the cave. The reason for their choice of the color green will give Myles a bond with Jack and Sue that, I suspect, will last forever and make Myles a better person. I can just feel it!

Oh, I'm crying right along with Tara. A beautiful and unique wedding. ***sniff*** ***sniff*** You did good, Lorna...er...I mean Marlene! ***sniff*** ***sniff***

Ok, now we're into the following weeks...so I'm calling it quits tonight and I'll finish up in the morning....wait a min...it is morning...I'll finish up later on this morning...

Lynn

P50-743 - Another body huh? I wonder who it is....Renee? Storm's dad? Drat's! I can't remember what happened to Storm's parents. I knew I should have taken notes like I did on your previous road trip!
That's the only bad thing about reading on the internet instead of from a book...you can't flag the page and highlight all those important little/obscure details that make up the case! Well, you probably could, I just haven't taken the time to figure out the best and quickest way to do it! This line tugged at my heart too!

4 weeks hmmm? I wonder! ??????????
The song was so poignant, fitting Myles' feelings like a glove. I ache for him. She is!!!!!!!!!
Good thing they're buying the house....they're going to need it. Now I wonder, what is the favor? Marlene, I love how your taking this story on and on and on and on....

P50-749 - Ah, Myles wanted time off....and so like Jack to tell him to "Follow your heart." Just what I would have expected turtle Jack to say after finally doing just that and reaping the blessings.

Oh, he missed Storm, by one day!
Where did she go? Maybe back to the ranch and the barn?

Tbc
Lynn

P51-758 - Beautiful way for Myles to find her. And her portrait of him spoke volumes.

QUOTE

She had drawn him from memory and captured his worried expression in charcoal. He’d been eager to search the cave, afraid that every minute wasted might cost Jack and Sue’s lives. His eyes pierced through the page, and he could almost see into his soul. His eyes darted to the bottom corner. She had signed and dated it a week ago.

Now, this had to have been drawn by a woman in love, pining for her love! Then you still leave us hanging by Myles giving her an out!

P52-768 - "Stay."
A devine post! Loved it all, but especially... That's all she needed to hear to break down the last of those internal barriers and allow herself to really love again. Beautiful!

P52-775 - FIN...Boo Hoo! I hate it when your stories come to an end, Marlene. But this was a beautiful ending of another fantastic road trip with all the ingredients we love...spellbinding mystery dished out in tidbits tantalizing our psyche and stopping our hearts on occasion. And, of course, the fuzzies... And ending with Baby Ariana and baby Carson... I loved the painting, "Innocence", the perfect christening gift! Oh, my heart is so joyful I'm

Marlene, you have given me so many wonderful hours of pleasure in reading your stories. I'm building a file of them to go back and reread.

Lynn

Oh, there is just one other thing puzzling me though... What does "got her needle" mean?

Lynn

That's what we say when babies get their vaccine... that they get their needle. I didn't realize it was only said in my corner of the world... Ooops!!!

Thank you for everyone !!! You're a wonderful audience

I should have known that. Needle = shot

Thanks.

Lynn