Behind Steel Bars

What happens when Texas's two most notable families meet in the most unexpected way, in the last place you would think? Will love blossom or will all hell break loose?

Bella/Jasper

OOC/AU/ALL HUMAN

Chapter 1: The Swans

In Texas the name Swan strikes fear into the hearts of those who break the law.

It all began in the early 1800s when the late, great Richard Swan was judge. Though a respectable family man, Judge Swan earned the name “The Hangman” due to the simple fact that not many men who entered his courtroom ever left it without a noose around his neck.

When Richard passed on his son Daniel took over.

Daniel wasn't a judge like his father, but a prosecutor. Still, his prowess in the courtroom was just as noted and Prosecutor Daniel Swan was quickly noted for being the master of convictions. He never lost a case but, sadly, that is also what finally lead to his demise. One of the men he sentenced swore vengeance, and found a way to retaliate. He was gunned down on the courthouse stairs, leaving his wife and son, David, to grieve for their loss.

While growin up, David Swan swore revenge on his father's killer. He joined the U.S. Marshall's so he could track his father's killer down, and eventually became the best in his field. As the years passed, David had finally began to settle down. He found himself a wonderful woman and built himself a life to be proud of. He also fathered a son Charles.

However, around the time of David's retirement, word reached him that the man who killed his father had been seen in the Dallas area. With vengeance in his heart, he took off after him. A gun fight broke out and, when the gun smoke had finally settled, both men lay dead.

David's son, Charles - what is there to say about the last male Swan to be born? He followed after the generations of great Swan men and became a Texas Ranger. Maybe not as prestigious as a Judge, Prosecutor or even a Marshall but, still, he was a man of honor.

Charlie - as he liked to be called - took his job seriously. It wasn't until late in his career that he met his wife, Renee Platt. As a prosecutor in the state's office ,she and Charlie worked together frequently. During these months of being close, they formed a relationship outside of work. It was two years after they were married that Renee gave birth to a beautiful baby girl:

Isabella Marie Swan, daughter of the last male Swan, was born July, 14th 1984.

Chapter 2: The Whitlocks

Another well known family in Texas are the Whitlock's. Not for the same reason as the Swans but their contributions to Texan society in the area is well documented. The Texas Whitlock's start with none other then Wyatt Whitlock.

Wyatt Whitlock was a quiet man. Hard working and honest - he owned most of the farm lands in and around Dallas, while several of the Whitlock ranches supplied horses to the military.

Wyatt also had two sons, Bill and Jasper Daniel Whitlock.

Their infamy all began just before the Civil War started. The Whitlocks recently bought up a few more acres of land and were surprised when they discover oil as they were plowing the land. They instantly became the wealthiest family in Dallas.

When the Civil War finally started, both of Wyatt's sons enlisted. The Whitlocks felt is was a right to fight for the cause since the family owned several, well-treated slaves.

Sadly within the first year of the war Bill Whitlock was declared K.I.A. (Killed In Action.) Jasper was allowed to return home to help his father bury his brother and, during this leave, he also met his wife Maria. She stole his heart and they were married before his 2 month leave was up. He was allowed to return at Christmas and then again around Easter time. During this last leave, Wyatt Whitlock passed away. After the funeral, Jasper was given the news that he had to return to base. As he departed his wife gave him the best news and reason for his returning home safely to her: she was with child. With a new pep in his step he made it back to base only to receive news that he was being promoted to Major.

That was until the winter of 1862.

Major Jasper Daniel Whitlock was M.I.A. (Missing In Action.) His body was never found and the military eventually declared him dead.

Maria gave birth to a son: Troy Peter Whitlock.

Troy grew up on his families farm. He learned how to work the land from the family farm hands and when he was old enough, he went off to college and learned to be a business man. It was during his time in college that Troy met his wife.

Returning to the farm the couple helped the farm hands and made it into a profitable business, adding on to the Whitlock assets. Troys wife later gave birth to twins named Leo and Jack Whitlock. The boys grew strong and spread their wings once of age.

Leo stayed at home on the farm, while Jack set out to travel the world.

It was in April of 1912 that the word got back to the Whitlock's the loss of Jack.

He was on his way home from Ireland, having obtained a job on a cruise ship as an engineer. Sadly the ship never docked and was said to have sunk in the North Atlantic. It wasn't long before the news hit the papers in every state around the country: the R.M.S. Titanic had sunk on her maiden voyage after being dubbed “Unsinkable”.

At the finality of the news, Mrs. Whitlock couldn't handle it and killed herself. It was a great loss for the Whitlocks leaving Leo alone with his father, Troy. The elder Whitlock had gone on to teach Leo everything he knew about the family business.

A year later Troy finally went to join his wife and other son, by means of a heart attack.

He left everything to Leo.

It took Leo years to finally find his future.

It was in a run down restaurant just outside of Laredo. His future turned out to be Rosalie Hale, a waitress. Blond hair and electric blue eyes, Rosalie was no pauper by any means.

The Hales owned most of the saloons, bars, and bed-n-breakfasts in the state. Leo went about courting Miss Rosalie and within a year he asked for her hand in marriage. They were married the following year, joining the two families. Two years later, in the spring of 1921, Rosalie gave birth to a set of twin boys, Anthony and Jethro Whitlock.

They perfect mix of mother and father: both were tall, blond haired and blue eyed. But most of all, they were full of the Whitlock charm - and pride. When the boys finished school at the age of 18 they both enlisted into the air force. World War II was in full swing and only the Americans remained uninvolved in the fight. Fly boys was what their mother called them, and they were some of the best pilots in the force.

Just before they were to be shipped out to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Jethro was given orders to head overseas to help out the British who were losing pilots left and right.

After months of being separated, Anthony got word that his brother was shot down and presumed dead.

It was weeks later while out with some of the boys that Anthony notice a man walking past the bar. The man looked strikingly a lot like his twin brother. Curious, he left the bar and followed the man. As he closed in, the man turned - and it was in fact Jethro.

After a heartwarming reunion the two brothers then drank themselves into oblivion only to be awoken on a beach the next morning to the sounds of gunfire. They rushed to the nearest planes and took to the sky, fighting gallantly against the enemy. When the smoke finally cleared the devastation was astronomical.

The war had come to them.

Somehow through all the madness, word got to Jethro that his twin brother's plane had been shot down.

Once the war had settled down, Jethro returned home to the fields they ran in as boys.

Jethro later met his wife Abigail.

Abigail was working in the war office as a historian and had arrived at the farm to question him about his family's participation in the wars spanning from 1800 to 1964. They soon fell in love while going over his family's rich history.

On October 2, 1982 - when Jethro was almost 40 - Abigail gave birth to their first son, Jasper Wyatt Whitlock; the boy was named in honor of Jethro's father and great-great grandfather.

Two years later, on November 27th , 1984, Abigail again gave birth to their final son, Peter Brian Whitlock.

This is where our story begins.

Chapter 3: Growing up Swan

Isabella Swan was a sweet child; she was tall for her age (she stood 5-feet at the age of 12) and also smart, shy, and very pretty. Her long fiery red hair hung down to her hips; her pale skin and high cheek bones drew great attention to her emerald green eyes. She was the perfect picture of a southern bell - until you got to know her.

Isabella was more boy then girl sometimes; her love of cars, motorcycles, and trucks could rival any man's. Most of the time, if her face wasn't buried in a book, it was covered in grease.

Her brain power meant that by the time she was 15 she had graduated high school. Isabella had an eidetic memory and therefore could retain more knowledge faster then others twice her age. She was often picked on by her peers, but Isabella was anything but weak - and often fought back. Yes, young Isabella was a fighter and this, of course, lead to many phone calls from the school to her father. But Charlie understood that it wasn't easy being so smart at such a young age.

By the time Isabella was 20 she had several degrees in criminal sciences, psychology, criminal profiling and mathematics.

It was just after Isabella's 21st birthday that tragedy struck the Swans once again: Charlie and Renee were killed in a car accident. A drunk driver ran a red light and swerved into their lane, hitting them head on. Both were killed instantly.

After the funeral Isabella was approached by the family lawyer, asking to speak with her. That was the day that Isabella learned of her family's legacy: The Swan Penitentiary. The prison was built in the early 1800's by her great-great grandfather, Richard Swan and was passed down from father to son throughout the years. However, seeing that she was the only surviving Swan left it was now hers. She was told by the lawyer that her father and grandfather never ran it themselves and they had hired others to do so - and if she would like she could continue to do the same.

Isabella thought it over and ultimately decided that she would take over as warden to the prison.

Seven years later, Isabella is still warden of the second most famous prison in the U.S. - right behind Alcatraz.

Chapter 4: Gone Whitlock

Growing up, Jasper and Peter Whitlock where inseparable. Whether they were doing chores or causing trouble, where one went the other followed. They however had their differences: Jasper was a rough and tumble fighter who was always protecting Peter when others picked on him. They say Jasper took after his namesake. He was tall (standing at nearly six feet by the time he was sixteen) with farmer tanned skin, blond hair that framed his face in waves, and glistening blue eyes.

Peter was also a blond haired, blue-eyed boy but was not quite as tall as Jasper. Peter was also the more laid back of the two, often the one to help clean Jasper up after on of his many fights. Both boys however were loyal to each other, often to a fault.

It wasn't until Jasper's senior year in high school that the boys parted ways: Jasper went through the JROTC program, while Peter sought out the sciences.

College years brought about an even deeper separation. Peter went on to medical school, while Jasper went into the military.

It was right after basics that Jasper returned home for two weeks.

During this break, Jasper had met Alice after a good friend of his mother's - Esme Cullen - was over for tea. Jasper and Alice hit it off almost immediately, and when Jasper shipped out after September 11th, they kept in contact through email, letters, and phone calls. The relationship grew and Jasper was deeply in love. When he came home for Christmas the following year he proposed. Alice, of course, accepted and started planning the wedding for the 4th of July the follow summer.

The wedding was marvelous: flowers, streamers, and sparklers in shades of red, white, and blue. Fireworks were set to go off when the preacher said kiss the bride. After their two week honeymoon, Jasper was set to ship off once again. Alice begged him to stay but he couldn't: he made a promise to the military when he signed those papers - and Jasper was a man of his word, if nothing else.

The years passed quickly. Once again, Jasper was sent home on one of his many leaves. He had been with the Marines for six years now, and married to Alice for five. They celebrated his return at the local bar owned by one of their friends, Edward Masen.

Edward owned Masen's Tavern since he turned 18 - he inherited the business after the death of both his parents. They were all good friends and spent the few weeks that Jasper was home simply hanging out and visiting with other friends. When it was time for Jasper to once again return to his duties, Alice and Edward were there to see him off. Kissing Alice goodbye and giving Edward a “man hug,” he turned and headed towards his plane. Just before entering the terminal, he glanced back at his wife and best friend to find her wrapped in his embrace. She was crying of course, so Jasper paid it no mind and shrugged it off as just a friend comforting another. Then he was gone.

It would be two long years before he returned home to his wife for good.

Now during all this we mustn't forget Peter.

While Jasper is out playing army hero, Peter is finishing his residency. It was one such evening  as Peter was finishing his rounds when a woman was brought in, looking like she had been beaten, and possibly raped. Peter took charge right away, cleaning and patching up her wounds. He had a nurse come in to do the rape kit before the police stepped in to speak with Peter. He told them his findings and that he would have more when the rest of her test results came back.

The following morning the woman woke up and told Peter that her name was Charlotte Walker and she was a prosecutor in Dallas. She told him that her boyfriend - well ex-boyfriend - did this to her when she tried to end things with him.

Charlotte again told her story to the police. After her all clear from Peter, she was discharged but stayed in contact with Peter. They soon got to know one another and over time, eventually fell in love. Two years later they were married. Jasper couldn't make it to the wedding as he had just returned overseas, however he did manage to send them to Hawaii for two weeks for their honeymoon.

Chapter 5: Meeting Isabella Swan

After returning home from her honeymoon, Charlotte Walker - now Whitlock - had a major case waiting on her desk. Besides meeting with the defense, she had several meetings with different wardens from the local prisons to see who had an opening. Her first meeting was with the local warden, he controlled one of the smaller prisons. He of course had no room, but drug out the meeting to needlessly flirt with her.

Her next meeting was smoother. This warden had a few openings but not what she was looking for. Charlotte decided to take a breather and have an ice cream at the local park seeing as she had time before her final meeting of the day. She bought a small vanilla cone and went in search of a place to rest. She was halfway down one of the paths when she spotted a lovely young woman reading a book under a shade tree. Walking over slowly so as not to startle her, she asked politely if she could join her. When the woman looked up Charlotte gasped, the woman was beautiful.

“Please,” the woman said, patting a spot on the grass next to her.

“Thank you,” Charlotte replied settling into the spot point out to her.

“What brings you here on such a lovely day?” the  woman asked.

“Just takin' a breather between meetin's.” Charlotte said her drawl coming out in full swing.

“Oh, and what is it you do if I may ask?”

“I'm a prosecutor for the state.”

“Oh.” the woman looked thoughtful.

“So, same question. What brings you here?” Charlotte asked.

“I have a meeting in a hour and I find that relaxing in a quiet place before hand often helps calm the nerves.”

“That sounds logical I guess. If I may be so bold as to ask, what is your meeting about?”

“I don't mind at all. I'm actually meeting with the state prosecutor about vacancies in my prison.” The woman smiled at Charlotte.

Charlotte was stunned, gaping like a fish for a few moments before her words caught up to her.

“Your warden Swan?” the look of shock on Charlotte's face caused the woman to giggle.

“Isabella Swan.” she put her hand out for Charlotte to shake.

“Charlotte Whitlock.”

“Pleasures mine,” Isabella said.

“So, since we are meeting each other perhaps we shall just do this here, in a much more comfortable setting?”

“I like that idea very much. I don't leave the office much so it would be nice to see the outside for a change.” Isabella supplied.

“I would usually agree with you but seeing as how I just got back from a two week honeymoon in Hawaii I can't complain.” Charlotte said.

“Well, congratulations.”

The two women spent most of the afternoon chatting happily and getting to know one another. Never touching the subject they were officially to meet about until the end. Isabella informed Charlotte she had what she was looking for and wished her luck on her case.

Over the course of the case, the two women met several times a week. Charlotte had won her case in the end and Isabella received a new inmate. Over the next year and a half the two would become close friends and as thick as thieves.

Chapter 6: Coming home from war and entering Hell.

Jasper finally got word that his tour was up after 8 years of service, now he was on his way home to surprise Alice.

When he arrived at the airport in Dallas he received a surprise of his own: waiting for him was Peter and a woman who he assumed to be his new wife, Charlotte - or at least he hoped so. He grabbed his duffel from luggage claim and headed toward them.

“Brother, it's good to have ya home.” Peter said pulling Jasper into a hug.

“It's good to be home, but how'd ya know?” Jasper asked.

“Ma.”

“I should have known, that woman could never keep a secret.” Jasper laughed. “Does Alice know?”

“No. We wouldn't of known either if we weren't at Ma's when ya called.” Peter told him.

“So, now Peter, is this lovely woman your wife or your mistress?” Jasper smirked taking Charlotte's hand and kissing the back of it.

“Peter, dear, you didn't tell me your brother was such a sweet talker. If I'd a known that I'da married him instead.” Charlotte chuckled.

“Oh, Peter, I like her.” Jasper chuckled at the deer-caught-in-the-headlights look Peter was sporting.

“Welcome home Jasper, it's a pleasure to finally meet you, names Charlotte, but your family so you can call me Char.” Charlotte said pullin Jasper in for a hug.

“Well big brother, now that you managed to charm my wife, shall we go get something to eat I'm starved.” Peter asked after coming back to his senses.

“Sure thing Pete.” Jasper said throwing his arm around Charlotte's shoulder and leadin her toward the exit.

“And get your hands of my wife Jas, you have one of your own.” Peter pouted.

“Yes ,but I think I like yours more.” Jasper said as serious as he could.

“Har-har... not funny.”

“I thought it was,” Jasper let Charlotte go and she made her way back to Peter. “So, where to oh starved one?”

“Ma's.”

“Really?”

“Yep, on her orders: I was to pick you up and bring you home for a good home-cooked meal.” Peter said proudly.

“Well then, by all means brother - lead the way.”

The filed into Peter's truck and headed toward the Whitlock farm. It took only 45 minutes, and by the time they were close Jasper was practically salivating to get inside.

“Chill Jas, I'm sure Ma made plenty for everyone.” Peter laughed.

“Yeah, well, I haven't had a home-cooked meal in over two years... and Alice can't cook nothin' like Ma.” Jasper said.

In all seriousness, Alice couldn't cook at all and if it wasn't for Jasper's Ma teachin him how to cook, they both would starve.

As soon as the truck was in park Jasper was out the door and running up the porch steps.

“Ma, I'm home!” he yelled as he entered into the house.

“Jasper, honey is that you?”

“Yeah, Ma.”

Jasper's Ma came running in to the living room. She stopped dead and looked at him, a tear falling down her cheek. Jasper opened his arms to her, and not having to be asked twice, she ran into his arms. He pulled her close and kissed her forehead.

“I missed you so much... I was worried you weren't comin' home and then you called and I could have flown through the roof. Your brother was worried I lost my mind when he came in and heard me say you was comin' home.”

“Well I'm home now Ma and I don't have to leave again.” Jasper whispered into her hair as he pulled her close again.

Somewhere in the middle of this Peter and Charlotte walked in. Not saying a word they headed for the kitchen to help out setting up dinner. After a few more minutes of hugs and whispers they both headed for the kitchen to join the others.

After a delicious meal of fried chicken, biscuits, corn on the cob, stuffing and homemade apple pie, Jasper decided it was time to head home to see his wife.

“Ma, I have to go home and see Alice.”

“Alright honey, but be sure to come round tomorrow for supper.”

“Yes, Ma.” Jasper yelled as he followed Peter out to his truck.

The ride to Jasper's home was silent with only the music on the stereo was heard. Pulling up in front of Jasper's house, they noticed Edward's car in the drive.

“He must be over to visit?” Jasper said.

“Yep, want me to help ya carry yer stuff in?”

“Yeah sure.”

Peter helped Jasper carry his bags into the house which, at first, seemed empty.

Peter silently set Jasper's bag near the door and headed to the kitchen to grab them each a beer out of the fridge. Jasper, on the other hand, headed to where he figured his wife could be found. When he passed the living room and she wasn't there, he headed toward the bathroom. Noticing no lights on, he proceeded to the bedroom. Not sure why Alice would have Edward in their bedroom, he slowly opened the door; taking a step in he wasn't prepared for what he saw: there - tangled in his sheets, on his bed, in his home - was his best friend and his wife.

“What the hell is goin' on here?” Jasper yelled causing the pair to break apart and Peter to come down the hall.

“Jasper, baby, it's not what it looks like?” Alice cried wrapping a sheet around her naked body.

“Oh, so I didn't just see my best friend fuckin' my wife in my bed?” Jasper asked extremely to calm.

“Jasper man, I swear it's not like that!” Edward tried.

“Don't you even think of talking to me.” Jasper growled. “I want you both out of my house.”

Jasper spun on his heel almost knocking Peter over in the process. Peter followed Jasper back out to the kitchen where he had placed the beers on the table. They both to a long swig of the cool beverage. It wasn't but seconds later that Alice was standing there.

“Jasper baby, please listen to me.” Alice pleaded.

“No Alice - I have nothing to say to you!”

“But Jasper, I love you - please don't do this.” she reached out and grabbed for Jaspers arm. Jasper spun around as Edward came around the corner - just in time to see Alice lose her balance and fall backwards onto the floor. Edward, assuming that Jasper had hit her, flew at Jasper.

“Don't you touch her, you ass!” Edward screamed as he connected his fist with Jasper's jaw.

Jasper of course lunged back. The fight broke out from the kitchen into the rest of the house. Both men taking and receiving hits.

“Stop both of you!” Alice screamed from where Peter was holding her back.

They continued back through into the kitchen once again. Neither was paying attention to what lay on the ground at their feet. Edward tripping over Alice's bag, fell backwards. It was like watching a train wreak in slow motion. Everyone could see that Edwards head was gonna hit the corner of the marble table top but couldn't move fast enough to stop it. He hit the corner full force. Everything stopped.

Peter let go of Alice and she rushed to Edward's side.

“No. no. no. no.” That's all she was saying over and over again. Peter, at least, had the proper state of mind to call 911.

“Alice, I ...” Jasper started.

“Jasper, how could you?” Alice cried.

“Wait, what? How could I Alice your the one that slept with him not me?”

The yelling began again and was still going when both the ambulance and cops arrived on scene. Edward was wheeled out and taken to the hospital - with Alice riding along. Jasper was cuffed and placed in the back of the cop car while the police questioned Peter. They decided to take Jasper to the police station.

“I'll call Jenks, Jasper and we'll have ya out by morning.” Peter yelled as they closed the door.

Watching as the cops took his brother away, Peter wasn't sure if this was gonna work out for any of them.

Chapter 7: Frantic Phone call.

Isabella was resting in her living room watching Court TV when her phone began ringing. Figuring she would just let the answering machine get it and call whoever it was back later, she continued to watch her show. She listened as the answering machine picked up.

You have reached Isabella Swan. I'm sorry that I'm unable to come to the phone right now but if you would please leave your name and number after the beep, I will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you!

 

Beep.

 

“Bella, Bella! I know you're there - please pick up! I have to speak to you - I don't know what to do. Peter came home in a tizzy saying something about his brother being at the police station and that he has to call our lawyer. He also said something about a fight and ambulances. I don't know what to do...”

 

Hearing the urgency in Charlotte's voice caused her to jump from the couch and grab the receiver.

“Char, I'm here. Calm down and tell me what is goin' on.”

“Oh Bella it's just awful... I can't believe she did that to him. Why would she do that...? And with his best friend! I can't believe she would stand up for that piece of...”

“Char, I don't understand what your rambling about. Now take a deep breath and start from the beginning.”

“Sorry Bella.”

“It's okay - now start over.”

“Well, the day started out okay. I went with Peter to pick his brother up from the airport. His brother is finally home after serving 8 years overseas. Any way, we came home to his Ma's house for dinner - as per her orders. Let me tell you, you don't go against that woman - she is scary as all hell when she is mad. So we came home and had a wonderful home cooked meal. Well it had become late and Peter offered to drive his brother home so he could surprise his wife. And all I can say is it was his brother who got the surprise: he walked in on his wife of 7 years with his best friend. It lead to a fight - the friend started it and ended up being hurt; he was taken away in an ambulance while Peter's brother got arrested. And now I have no idea what is gonna happen.” Charlotte started crying.

“Oh, Char, I'm sorry all this is happening. Do they have any proof that the other guy started it?”

“Well, I guess so. Jasper is a very protective person and his entire house is wired with camera's inside and out. It's all recorded so even all the times she cheated are on tape.”

“Are the tapes kept at the house? Could the wife have erased them?”

“No, the recordings are transmitted to his Ma's house. Peter has our home wired the same way. I guess it comes from growing up with money and being so well known; they are paranoid about people stealing from them.”

“Could be. The Whitlocks are well known.”

“What are we gonna do Bella? He just got home! He spent the last 8 years protecting our country and now he is sitting in a cell because his cheating- no good- white trash hoe of a wife couldn't keep her legs closed!”

“Well okay then - tell me how you really feel about her?” Isabella asked, causing Charlotte to giggle.

“Okay I guess that was a little overboard. But if you met him you would understand. He is the sweetest guy, and he seemed so excited to surprise her. Then he comes home to her with another man. That has got to be heartbreaking.”

“Yeah I understand. Not from experience but I can imagine how it feels.”

“I'm glad I can talk to you about this. Peter is still ranting in his office to our lawyer.”

“Who is your lawyer?”

“Jenks.”

“He's a good guy and should have no problem getting him out of whatever they try to charge him with.”

“I don't even know if they are gonna charge him since he was attacked in his own house. How much can they possibly charge him with?”

“Who knows. I have seem them trump up some dumb ass charges against people.”

“Well I hope they don't try pulling that shit. I have a feeling that Peter will hit the roof if they do.”

“I think you should go calm him down before he heads to the police station with the tapes. Make sure they are just copies and not the originals in case they want to keep them.”

“Okay Bella. Again - thanks for just pickin' up and lettin' me vent.”

“You're welcome.”

“Oh and Bella? Could you meet us at the police station...? I could really use a friend to sit with me while Peter deals with all the stuff down there.”

“Sure, which station?”

“The one are 24th street in Dallas.”

“Sure thing see you there in an hour?”

“Yeah that sounds about right. See you soon.”

“See you soon.”

The two woman ended the call. Charlotte went to calm Peter down while Isabella went to change into something decent.

Isabella arrived at the police station 40 minutes later to find Charlotte on the front steps waiting for her. She hurried over to her friend.

“Char, how is everything?”

“I have no idea. They won't tell me anything. Peter and Jenks are in with Jasper right now.”

“Jasper?”

“Oh sorry, I forgot you didn't know his name. That is Peter's brother.”

“Wow... Is he named after Major Jasper Daniel Whitlock?”

“Yes, how did you know?”

“I love history.”

“Oh. Well, I guess that would explain it.” Charlotte chuckled.

“Shhh don't tell anyone! I have a reputation to protect.” Isabella laughed. Charlotte laughed along with her.

“I guess we should go in and see if we can find anything out.” Charlotte said coming back to reality.

“Yes, I guess we could try.”

They slowly got up and made their way inside. Once inside they went to the front desk to inquire about any news on the Whitlock case.

“Excuse me?” Charlotte called.

No one seemed to be paying attention to what she was saying.

“Yo! Is anyone actually workin' here or do you always just stand around wastin' tax payers money?” Isabella yelled.

Every head in the place turned to look at her. Charlotte was trying to hide her laughter, and Isabella stood with an aggravated expression on her face.

“I'm sorry ma'am, is there something I can help you with?” one of the officers asked.

“Yes I  would like to know what is goin' on with the Whitlock arrest.”

“Who may I ask is inquiring?”

“Charlotte Whitlock and Isabella Swan.”

“Did you say Swan?”

“Did I stutter?”

“No ma'am.”

“Then you have your answer - now I want mine.”

“Yes ma'am. I will see what I can do.”

“You do that.”

Isabella stormed over to the seats draggin' an awed Charlotte with her.

“Char what are you lookin' at?”

“You. That was awesome.”

“It's all about who you know.”

“No it's all about who you are.” Charlotte corrected. Causing the girls to laugh loudly.

“What has you two laughing like loons?” Peter asked.

“Just that Bella here caused the best scene ever..”

“Oh and how so?” Peter again asked.

“Oh sorry Peter, you have yet to meet Isabella. Where are my manners. Peter Whitlock this is Isabella Swan...Isabella Swan this is my husband Dr. Peter Whitlock.”

“Pleasure is mine, Miss.” Peter said takin' her hand kissing the back of it. Isabella blushed.

“And mine.” she said.

“Did I hear the name Swan?” Jenks asked coming from behind the front desk.

“Yes, sir, you did.” Peter told him. Jenks looked up and caught sight of Isabella.

“Well if you ain't a sight for sore old eyes. You look just like your Mama.” Jenks said kissing the back of her hand.

“You knew my parents?”

“Well yes, I often worked with both your mother and father. They were great people.”

“Yes, I miss them dearly, but it has been a long time since they passed.”

“Yes, but the Swan name remains.”

“Yes it does.” Isabella blushed once again, not used to all the attention.

“So shall we go get something to eat and discuss where to go from here. They won't let him out for at least 72 hours anyway.” Peter said.

“Sounds good. Where to?” Charlotte asked.

“I was thinking the little Chinese place down the street.” Peter said licking his lips.

“Well let's get goin' then.” Charlotte said as Peter ushered the two woman out the doors.

As they walked together down the street, both ladies looped their arms on either side of Peter. Upon entering the restaurant, Peter growled lightly as the men in the restaurant would follow them with their eyes, obviously drooling and lusting after one or both of the ladies on his arms. They took their seats and looked over the menu. After placing the orders they began talking about what was to happen next.

“So Peter, what the hell is goin' on with Jasper?”

“Well they are keepin' him until they find out about Edward.”

“Why?”

“So they know what to charge him with.”

“Why are they charging him if he was defending himself?”

“Because after they saw the video they also thought the same thing that Edward did. They think that Jasper pushed Alice down and not that she lost her balance and fell. They believe Edward was protecting Alice and, you know, second person self defense.”

“That's bullshit. I saw those tapes you can see that she fell.”

“I know, I was standing right there.”

“So why are they waitin' to find out about Edward?”

“Well he fell and hit his head; they want to know if they are gonna have to charge him with manslaughter. It all depends on when - or if - Edward wakes up.”

“Huh?” Isabella asked confused by the whole conversation.

“Sorry Isabella, I forgot you don't know all that is goin' on. What all has Char told you?”

“Just that her brother was arrested after getting in a fight with his best friend for sleeping with his wife, and said best friend was hurt and taken away in an ambulance.”

“Well you got the cliff notes version.”

“Okay so what is the full story? Perhaps a fresh view on things could be helpful.”

“Sure it can't hurt.”

“Well...”

“Alright. Well Jasper, my older brother, joined the Marines fresh out of high school and signed up for two tours. He was right out of basics when he met Alice; they spent a year with the whole letters, emails, and what not. When he came home for Christmas he asked her to marry him and, of course, she said yes. They planned on getting married when he came home again for the fourth of July. All went as planned and then two weeks later he was shipped back overseas. Coming home for a couple weeks at a time when given leave. They spent all their time with friends hanging out at Masen's Tavern, which is owned by Edward Masen, said best friend. Well while he was away, I had met Charlotte here. He was already 6 years in and he came home for leave; when he left Edward and Alice were there to see him off. It wasn't a month or so later that Char and I got married. He couldn't come home for the wedding but he sent us to Hawaii for two weeks. Then when we got home, I guess, is when you met Char here.”

“Okay, so how does this all lead to a fight and prison time?” Isabella asked.

“I'm getting to that... So anyway, time flew by and we saw less and less of Alice at Ma's. I just figured she was busy working since she is a designer for some big company. Well the day before Jasper was to come home he called Ma; she wasn't supposed to let anyone know he was comin' home cause he wanted to surprise Alice. But since Char and I were there when he called, I told Ma we would pick him up. She gave direct orders that we were to bring him back home so she could see him and cook him a home-cooked meal since he hadn't had one in two years. We all know that Alice can't cook to save anyone's life and she orders in all the time, or they go out to eat. Anyway, we pick Jasper up and of course, he turns on the charm and flirts shamelessly with my wife.”

Charlotte and Isabella giggled.

“Yeah, he did. I told Peter if I'da known his brother was such a charmer I would have married him instead.”

“You didn't?” Isabella said through her laughter.

“Yes she did. Anyway, we took him home; Ma cried and Jasper reassured her that he was home for good. We all ate and then Jasper told her that he had to go home to surprise Alice. Ma told him to come round for supper the next day and with his agreement, I took him home. We saw Edward's car in the drive and thought nothing of it as he was their friend so he was probably just visiting to see how she was doin'. Walking inside the house, it seemed almost empty. I set his bag in and went to grab us both a beer. He, of course, went lookin' for Alice; he walked passed the living room, only glancing in so I guessed she wasn't there. He headed back the hallway toward their room and then I heard him yell so I ran to his side. Alice and Edward were standing there naked as the day they were born, trying to tell Jasper it wasn't what it looked like. Yeah right! Even I'm not that stupid. So, he told them to get out of his house.

Alice came up to him and tried to explain, but he told her he didn't wanna hear it. When he went to turn to her, she lost her balance and fell on her ass just as Edward came around the corner. He took one look and lunged for Jasper, thinking that Jasper had pushed her. They fought, managing to go from the kitchen to the living room and then back to the kitchen in their scuffle. Neither watching where they were goin'. Edward tripped on one of Alice's bags that were laying there. Everything seemed to go in slow motion;you could see what was gonna happen but were powerless to stop it. Edward hit the corner of the marble table top with the side of his head knocking him out. Alice rushed to his side, blaming Jasper for the whole mess which caused the two to fight, which is what was going on when the police and ambulance showed up.”

“Who called it in?” Isabella asked.

“I did. I was the only one in their right mind. And Edward was in no condition to be calling anyone.”

“So it was all self defense.”

“Yes. I have It all on tape. I made several copies before comin' to the police station with the lawyer. Jenks has a copy, the police have a copy, and I have several - including the original.”

“Well, if you don't mind... I would like to look at one?”

“Not at all perhaps you will see something that the rest of us didn't.”

“Perhaps...”

They didn't even notice that their food had arrived and they had finished eating throughout the whole conversation. Peter walked the girls back to the police station where they had all parked. Leaving a copy of the tapes with Isabella, they all went their separate ways. Peter and Charlotte heading home to let Ma Whitlock know what was goin' on and Isabella was on her way home to review her copy of the tape.

Chapter 8: Locked up.

Jasper sat peacefully in the back of the police cruiser on his way to the station. He didn't want to cause anymore trouble though he knew he was in the right since Edward had attacked him in his own home. He also knew the surveillance videos in his home would show the same thing.

Upon entering the station, they lead him to an interrogation room where he knew they were going try and pressure him into a guilty plea though there was no way he was going to confess to doing anything he didn't really do. He had been through worse situations overseas so there was nothing they could do to him that would make him confess to something that didn't happen.

He sat there for what seemed like hours before finally hearing some voices coming toward the room.

Peter entered first, quickly followed by Jenks.

“Jasper, are you okay?” Peter asked.

“Yeah, I'm just waiting for the never-ending questioning.”

“Well, I don't see that happening tonight.”

“Why?”

“The interrogator they have for this station is on vacation until Monday.”

“What! You mean I have to sit in this hell hole until Monday?” Jasper was getting pissed off.

“Sorry dude, it's the only option we have here.”

“Where's Charlotte?”

“Outside waiting for her friend.”

“Oh great, someone else to know my miserable downfall,” Jasper whined.

“She may be able to help since she has a lot of pull in the legal world.”

“Oh, how so?”

“I don't know for sure. I have never met her but she has worked with Char a few times and they have become friends over the two years you've been gone.”

“You have never met her? In two years?”

“I'm busy at the hospital and Char doesn't bring her work home.”

“Okay, I guess...”

They hear raised voices from outside:

“Yo! Is anyone actually workin' here or do you always just stand around wastin' tax payers money?”

The three men chuckled loudly at the outburst from the front of the station.

“Well, I think that is our cue to head out; I have a feeling whoever is out there is gonna be a handful. We will get you out as soon as we can, but for now: keep yourself out of trouble.” Peter chided his brother.

“Yes, Father.” Jasper said while rolling his eyes.

Jenks laughed at the boys as he led Peter out of the room. Once Jasper was alone he thought about the voice who disrupted the quiet of the station. Whoever it was was definitely female and very irate; calling that out in a police station is probably the best way to get yourself a night in jail. Unless you had pull, and knew the right people. He wondered what had caused her to yell like that.

Jasper's thoughts were soon invaded when an officer came in and lead him to a cell for the night. They asked if he wanted his phone call and he said no, that it was already taken care of. Jasper removed his over shirt leaving him in a white wife-beater and his fatigues. He was used to this since you didn't often get the chance to change clothes in the desert, let alone take a shower.

Still, he couldn't wait for Monday to come.

****Monday morning****

The days had passed quickly. Over the weekend, Charlotte had brought him food and his tooth brush and paste. Now he was just waiting for the stupid interrogator to show up so he could go home. He was somewhat glad to see Jenks, who showed up around 9am to let him know they were going to question him this morning; he knew that he would be going home soon - at least until they figured out what they were going to charge him with.

There was a knock on the door to the interrogation room Jasper was sitting in before a tall man, around 6 foot, walked into the room. He was dark skinned and had a Caribbean look to him; his heavy accent helped cement the idea that he was not originally from here. (AN: Think Sanka from 'Cool Runnings')

“So ya must be Jasper.”

“Yes sir.”

“So what bins ya here?”

“I caught my wife fuckin' my best friend on my first night home; we got into a fight and he got hurt while I got handcuffed.”

“Man dat ain't right. How long ya been home?”

“If ya count the day I got here 4 days.”

“So ya weren' even home long before all hell broke loose?”

“A few hours, if that.”

“Da ya have proof of da incident?”

“Yes actually, I do. My house has 24-hour surveillance inside and out. I have it all recorded at an off site location so that it can't be tampered with.”

“Do da police have a copy of dis tape?”

“Yeah actually, they do. So does my lawyer, and my brother.”

“So ya covered ya bases.”

“Yeah - and my ass.”

“Well then lets get down ta business den.”

“Sure.”

“How da ya know des Edward Masen?”

“He was a friend of mine and my wife's.”

“So ya were close.”

“Yeah, I guess ya could say that.”

“And did ya ever hold any ill will taward da man?”

“No. I was happy that Alice had someone she could hangout and talk to while I was overseas.”

“So ya didn't knaw dat day were havin an affair?”

“Not until the night I came home.”

“When was da last time dat ya checked ya system?”

“Two years ago when I was home on leave.”

“Well I guess dat is all for now, until I look at the footage.”

“Can I go home?”

“If ya Lawyer can promise to have ya back at the courthouse next Monday.”

“Sure he can. Right, Jenks?”

“Yes, he will be there.”

“Then ya are free ta go.”

After collecting what few things they took from him, Jenks drove him home. Once inside he went straight to the shower before changing into civilian clothes. Jasper felt at home, finally.

He then made his way to the bedroom and hauled his mattress – along with all the bed things still on it - to the backyard; he threw some gas on it and then dropped the lit Zippo that Alice had given him for their last anniversary onto the pile. He was so immersed in watching it burn that he didn't hear Peter come up behind him.

Standing next to his brother he finally felt at peace.

“So you feel better now?” Peter asked.

“I'm getting there. Would like to come in and have a beer?”

“Sure.”

“I will need your help or Ma's to get a new Mattress and bed things. Alice took care of all that stuff.”

“I'll send Char and Ma. They will have everything here and put together by tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Peter. I don't know what I would do without you guys.”

“You'd be in jail for killing Edward not just fighting with him.”

“That is so not funny Peter!

“Yeah actually, it kinda is.”

The boys settle down in front of the TV with a beer; before long the two brothers were fast asleep.

Chapter 9: To see the Unseen.

It was late when Isabella returned home.

Stripping out of her day clothes and into her pajamas; she made her way back to her living room. After rooting through her bag she found the surveillance footage Peter had given her from his brother's house. Retreating back to her bedroom, she grabbed her laptop and settled onto her bed, placing the disc in the drive and waited for it to load.

Peter wasn't kidding when he said his brother was thorough - the footage went all the way back to two years ago. She watched as the occupants of the house went about their day to day. At first it was mainly just Alice; Alice cleaning, Alice coming and going - with or without shopping bags - and delivery people of all sorts dropping off parcels. Then just as Isabella thought she could take no more, a man entered the house. He obviously was Peter's brother, Jasper since he was tall, blond and dressed in fatigues. Judging by the date stamped in the corner this was his last leave home before his final two year deployment.

Soon the screen was filled with movement; a party of sorts. The screen was split into 8 sections, showing several areas inside and outside the house. Isabella found it easy to locate Jasper and Alice. Jasper towered over most of their friends; and Alice was so small and vibrant you couldn't mistake her. Most of the time, Jasper could see Alice from wherever he was standing. You could see the love he held for her in his eyes as he watched her.

Isabella fast-forwarded through several days before stopping on the day of Jasper's departure. In the footage you could see Jasper, Alice, and another man. Judging by the description she was given at the restaurant, this man was Edward Masen.

She watched as the trio left the house together, most likely to see Jasper off at the airport.

Once again she fast-forwarded through the footage, not stopping until she saw movement on the screen. It was still the same day; just hours later. Shock radiated through her: Jasper wasn't gone but a few hours and there was his wife all over their best friend.

Moving through the footage the two were together often. Isabella felt sick to her stomach. How could anyone do that to someone they say they loved? Not able to watch anymore of the cheating spouse and her lover, she sped through until she reached the night of Jasper's return.

Watching intently, she saw Peter pull up in front of the house on one part of the screen, while another part showed Alice and Edward in the bedroom. Like any movie enthusiast, Isabella yelled at Jasper and Peter not to enter the house. But no matter how loud she yelled it wouldn't change what was to come.

She watched as Jasper searched for his wife while Peter got the drinks from the fridge in the kitchen. Soon Jasper was at the bedroom door. The door opening slowly and Edward jumping off of Alice when Jasper yelled. She saw Peter run from one end of the house to the other, coming up behind Jasper. He was just in time to hear his brother tell the cheaters to get the hell out of his house; Jasper then spun and walked back toward the kitchen, accidentally knocking Peter of balance.

Isabella paused the disc and braced herself for what she already knew was coming. She slowed the speed, going frame by frame. She watched as Alice lost her balance, just as Jasper turned toward her then Edward lunging as he came into view of the kitchen camera. Peter looked shocked but soon snapped out of it as the two men reappeared in the kitchen. Isabella watched in rapt attention as Edward tripped over Alice's bags and smack his head on the marble counter top, falling to the floor. Alice blaming Jasper, and Jasper yelling back, while Peter called 911. She continued watching as the Police and ambulance arrived. Alice leaving with her lover, instead of staying with her husband. She watched as they loaded Jasper into the back of the police cruiser, and Peter shouting that he was calling Jenks.

Finally stopping the video, Isabella realized Peter and Charlotte were right: none of this was Jasper's fault.

Closing her laptop Isabella settled into bed further and thought over everything she saw while waiting for sleep to claim her.

****Monday Morning****

The weekend passed quickly. Isabella spent her time with Peter and Charlotte and once again they went over the footage. This time she wrote down dates and times that Alice and Edward were together in the house since they knew Jasper would need this information when he filed for a divorce. Peter had revealed that all women who married into the Whitlock family had to sign a prenuptial agreement; the agreement clearly states that if either spouse cheated, they would receive nothing of the Whitlock money, assets or properties.

It was late into the night when Jasper called Peter to let him know he was finally home. The brothers spoke for a few minutes before Peter hung up. Peter looked thoughtful for a moment before excusing himself so he could go check on Jasper. He didn't return home to Isabella's knowledge; she had spent the night in Charlotte's guest room and, as a light sleeper she knew she would have heard him come in.

Isabella woke the next morning to the smell of eggs, sausage, and coffee. She made her way out to the kitchen and was greeted by a smiling Charlotte.

“Peter crashed with Jasper last night.”

“I figured when he didn't come home. Is that something that happens often?”

“Sometimes. If one of them is upset the other is always there to help make them feel better.”

“Have they always been like that?”

“Yes, as far as I know. From what Ma tells me, those two were inseparable growing up; that is, until Jasper went into the Marines and Peter went to medical school. But either way, they are still always together. Sometimes Peter stays there or you'll find Jasper camped out on my couch,” Charlotte chuckled.

“Alice never said anything?”

“Oh, they fought about it often but Jasper always won, of course. He would always say that wives come and go but family is there forever.”

“It must be nice to have someone like that... I never had anyone that close - I am an only child as were both my parents.”

“Well sugar, ya do now. Ya have me and Peter, and I can also say with certainty that you'll have Jasper too once y'all meet.”

“Thank you, Char.”

“You're welcome, Bella. Now eat up before them boys get here and eat everything in sight. I swear, they can smell home cooking from miles away! It's like a beacon or something.” They laughed together while finishing their breakfast.

Chapter 10: Meeting Jasper Whitlock.

Peter was awakened by the smell of coffee wafting up his nose. Sitting up and taking in his surroundings he remembered the night before. Standing up to stretch, he could feel his muscles protest; his back was sore and his neck stiff. Sleeping on the couch at his age was not the way to do sleep overs! Stumbling to the kitchen, he found Jasper already dressed for the day and leaning against the counter drinking a cup of said coffee.

“How'd you sleep?” Jasper asked.

“Like I was run over by a mack truck!”

“Well, I guess I'm just used to hard beds and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements,” Jasper chuckled to himself.

“Yeah well, I expect at least an air mattress next time,” Peter grumbled, while getting a cup of coffee.

“So, you think Charlotte has breakfast made yet?” Jasper asked, while peeking at Peter from the corner of his eye.

“Yep, I believe that she does. Why? Ya hungry or somethin'?” Peter smiled.

“ I haven't eatin' anything decent since Saturday when Char brought me those goodies at the jail.”

“Well hell then I suggest we make our way over their before the girls eat everything.” Peter said putting his empty cup in the sink.

Jasper went to mimic Peter's actions before stopping dead in his tracks, coffee cup half way to the sink.

“Girls. As in more then one. Peter, you dog!”

“It's not like that! You remember me tellin' you about Char's friend?”

“Some...”

“Well, she has been at the house all weekend helpin' us go over the footage and takin' notes. She is very observant and has picked shit out I wouldn't have even thought to look for.”

“Wow! So she doesn't even know me and is helpin' out?”

“Yeah, but I'll warn ya now: she is tough as nails - and her and Char are as thick as thieves. Not a pair I would wanna mess with.”

“Scared Peter?”

“You bet your all-American southern ass I am! Those two together are a force.”

“Okay, I will watch my back. But I think your over reactin' just a tad.”

“Oh, you'll see brother - you'll see.”

They headed out to Peter's house after that. It was only a few minutes away from Jasper's so it wouldn't take long to get there. As soon as they pulled up, Peter hopped out of the truck and made his way into the house with Jasper following closely behind. Walking into the living room, you could hear the girls' giggles from the kitchen.

“Honey, I'm home!” Peter yelled into the house.

“Peter hun, is that you?”

“Who else would it be, you crazy woman?”

“Hell if I know!”

“Come give me some love, I missed you.”

Charlotte ran from the kitchen, jumping into Peter's arms. They kissed passionately before letting each other go. A voice from the kitchen doorway got everyone's attention.

“Awe now Peter, that's not very polite. I thought I meant somethin' to ya?”

“You do sweet thang - come here.”

Isabella made her way into the room and over to Peter. He pulled her into a tight embrace and kissed her cheek.

“That's better.”

Jasper stood back watching the whole scene play out. He smiled as he watched the beautiful woman playfully banter with his brother and sister.

“So woman, where's the food?” Peter asked looking toward the kitchen.

“See I told you that they could smell it miles away.” the two women laughed as they entered the kitchen.

Everyone seemed to not even notice Jasper's presence in the room. At least he thought so. Until a warm hand touched his arm.

“Here.” the beautiful woman handed him a cup of coffee.

“Thank ya Ma'am.”

“Your welcome.”

They started heading for the kitchen; Jasper watching her hips sway as she walked in front of him. When he entered the kitchen behind her, they suddenly remember he was there.

“Oh shit, sorry Jasper! My manners seem to have left me with the smell of food in the way,” Peter said.

“Not a problem, bro. My brains get scrambled too when I come here and Charlotte cooks,” Jasper replied. The four laughed at that.

“So Jasper, this is my friend, Isabella. Isabella, this is my brother, Jasper,” Charlotte introdued them, as Peter had his mouth full.

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Isabella said.

“Pleasure is all mine I'm sure,” Jasper said, taking her hand to kiss her knuckles.

Isabella blushed slightly.

“You weren't jokin' when you said he was a charmer, Char,” Isabella said, while smiling at Jasper.

“You've been talkin' about me, Char? I'm flattered! But don't believe everything you hear.”

“Jasper, I only said good things,” Charlotte told him while blushing herself.

“Well then, Isabella, please feel free to believe everything she says,” Jasper chuckled while pulling Charlotte to him.

“It's good to see ya, Char. I hope I haven't been to much trouble.”

“Your never trouble Jasper. As for that thing you call a wife...well...”

“Ex-wife, Char. I filed for divorce yesterday afternoon as soon as I got out of jail. Jenks will have the paper work for me to fill out later today.”

“Well good! You shouldn't have any problems but if you do, we have proof of her infidelity.”

“Huh? What? How?”

“Oh shit, he hasn't seen the footage yet has he?” Char asked looking at Peter who shook his head no.

“What footage? What am I missing?” Jasper asked.

“Jasper hun, why don't you sit and eat first? Then we can go over everything.”

“Alright, but don't think I will forget.”

Jasper sat down as Charlotte made him a plate. It didn't take long for the boys to finish breakfast; they all made it back to the living room with fresh cups of coffee. Char went up to the TV and started a video. Jasper sat back and watched as Alice moved about his house like she would on any normal day. Then he saw when he came home on leave before his two year deployment; they paused the footage.

“This was when you came back for that week just before your last two years. Do you remember what went on that week?” Charlotte asked.

“Yeah we had a welcome home party that night. Then we spent the rest of the week out with friends and hung out at Masen's Tavern,” Jasper told her.

They started the video again.

The party that Jasper mentioned was happening right in front of their eyes. Jasper began pointing people out and Isabella was writing down names to go with the faces on the screen. He then told them what was going on each time someone came or left the house; it was amazing the things he could remember.

Then the day of his departure came. He explained that Edward had spent the night on the couch so they could leave early in the morning. They went for breakfast and then made their way to the airport. He told them how they said their goodbyes and how when he turned around one last time that Alice was in Edwards arms, crying. He thought it was just him comforting her. They paused once the video once again.

“So your telling me you saw your best friend with his paws all over your girl and assumed that he was only comforting her?” Isabella asked.

“Well yeah, that's what friends do when someone they love is crying, isn't it?”

“Most times. But when you assume things you make an ass outta u and me. Or in your case, just you,” Isabella said.

Jasper thought about what she just said and figured there was more to this statement than he knew.

“Can we just finish watching this?” Peter asked. He knew the next part was going to tear Jasper up.

“Sure.” Charlotte hit play once again.

Jasper watched as the time flew past. Soon the front door to his house was opened and Alice and Edward stepped  inside. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary yet, Jasper thought. Then as soon as the door was shut, Alice jumped into Edward's arms. Wrapping her legs around his waist and smashing her lips to his, Jasper was stunned. He wasn't sure how to feel about this, especially since he knew that at this point he had only been gone a few hours. Hell, he probably hadn't even touched down yet. He watched as his wife proceeded to rip the clothes off of Edward and Edward do the same to her. Then, as if they knew he was watching, they smiled at the camera. Edward then threw Alice on to the counter top and slid his cock into her; her moans and screams could be heard clearly through the speakers. He didn't know when he stood, but he found himself pacing back and forth behind the couch. Muttering to himself: “How could she do this to me? I thought she loved me? What did I do wrong to deserve this?”

Char started to fast forward through the two years of footage. Many times, the scene was the same but in a different room. The only room the two hadn't touched was Jasper's office but they couldn't get in there – though, from the looks of it, they had tried.

Jasper was a mess by the time they got to the night he was arrested. He was sitting in front of Charlotte with his knees pulled up to his chest, breathing heavily, and tear streaks down his face. Charlotte was running her hands through his hair in a comforting manner. She had seen his mother do the same thing to Peter when he would get upset about something. It seems it works on both brothers.

They watched the night unfold though Jasper turned his head away; he didn't need to see it again since he already lived it once. Once the video stopped, they all sat quietly, not knowing what to say. How do you tell someone your sorry for what has happened to them? Especially when you don't know what it feels like to have been betrayed by two of the people you hold closest to you.

“Well, what do we do now?” Peter asked, breaking the silence.

“We get my life back to as normal as possible,” Jasper said standing up. “I won't let her win. She can have Edward - I hope they are happy together. But I will tell you one thing: she won't be living off my dime anymore. I hope he can afford her.”

“Right on, brother.”

“So, where do we start?” Charlotte asked.

“We start by getting that bitch's shit out of my house and in the trash where it belongs.” Jasper was angry; you could see it in his eyes even though his posture seemed cool as a cucumber.

“When do ya wanna do that?” Peter asked.

Jasper turned and looked at Peter, “No time like the present!”

Chapter 11: Cleansing away the Memories.

Not sure how - or what - they were doing, they all headed over to Jasper's. Once they entered the house, Jasper headed straight for the bedroom. Following closely behind, Peter, Charlotte and Isabella entered the bedroom also. What they saw was somewhat... scary. Charlotte was the first to say anything.

“Uh Jasper, what are we doing exactly?”

“Charlotte, my dear, we are gonna erase Alice from my house - starting with her closet.”

“Her closet?” Isabella asked.

“Yes, none of these clothes are mine.”

“But they look like men's clothes?” Charlotte asked.

“Oh, they are. They were bought for me and I don't wear this dressy crap. What man in their right mind would wear chino's and polo shirts all of the time?” Jasper asked with a serious expression on his face, causing Isabella to laugh.

“What is so funny?” Peter asked her.

“He's absolutely right. I just met him and can't imagine him wearing any of this. You, Peter, possibly... for work, perhaps. But Jasper? No way! He strikes me as a jeans and t-shirt kinda guy,” Isabella said.

“I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship.” Jasper said, dramatically while pretending to wipe a tear from his eye. Charlotte smacked his arm while chuckling.

“Yeah, yeah - so what do you want us to do?” Peter groaned out.

“I want each of you to take a room. Box up anything that doesn't look like I purchased it and place it near the front door.” Jasper said, while shrugging then turning around to get back to work in the closet.

Each person took off to a different room: Peter went to the spare room, Charlotte to the kitchen and Isabella took the living room.

Peter looked around and noticed that nothing in this room screamed Jasper at all. So, he started throwing everything into boxes. Once the room was stripped down to nothing but the bare walls, he started moving everything to the front door.

Char wasn't faring much better. She looked through all the cupboards and drawers, noticing that mostly everything had a very feminine look to it - despite the fact that Alice never cooked. So she started boxing all the cupboards and drawers up, labeling each one before she moved on to the pantry. Healthy organic food was everywhere, stunning Charlotte. Not that she was against healthy food, but Jasper was a man of substance and none of this said meat and potatoes. So she grabbed a trash bag and began to empty the pantry. When she finished, she started to lug the boxes out to the entry way.

Isabella wasn't too sure of what to do in the living room since she didn't know enough about Jasper to make these types of decisions. But, as she looked around, she couldn't even tell that a man lived here. The furniture was all floral, the drapery was pink and lacy, and the decorations around the room screamed “bachelorette.” There was no way Jasper had any say in anything inside this room. So she began boxing up the nick-knacks on the shelves and removing any pictures with Alice in them from the walls and book cases. She packed away the curtains and window treatments, rolled up the Pepto Bismal pink carpet and stuffed it all into a box. Just as she was about to begin removing the cushions on the couch and chair, Peter and Charlotte joined her.

“So, I take it you came to the same conclusion that we did?” Charlotte asked.

“If the conclusion is that a very sick and twisted person of the female persuasion lives here, then yes. Or that a very gay man and is lover lives here? Even that I would agree with. But if you try to convince me that a marine and his wife live here, I would bitch slap you and tell you to stop lying to me.”

Peter was laughing so hard he had to grab the couch to keep himself upright. Peter's laughter brought Jasper out of the bedroom to see what was going on.

“What the hell are you laughing about?” Jasper asked with a small smirk.

“Oh, just something that Isabella said,” Char told him.

“And what, pray tell, is it that she said that made Peter almost fall over?”

“Well, we all came to the same conclusion but Isabella here took it one step further.”

“And what conclusion is that?”

“Well, unless your gay and have yet to reveal that to us, then this house screams sick and twisted female. Not Married Marine and his wife,” Bella gave him the short version.

Jasper looked shocked for a moment before doubling over in laughter. It took him several minutes to get himself under control. After looking around the room his gaze landed on Isabella.

“You know what? You're right. If someone was to walk in off the street no one would even know I owned this house. It screams single, white female. I guess the only way they would know I even lived here too would be to enter my office since it was the only room she was never allowed in.”

“You mean the door they tried to get into but couldn't? Why is that by the way?” Charlotte asked.

“That ,my dear sister, would be because it has a security code and retina scanner. Only I can enter that room.”

“What is so top secret that you have a security code and retina scanner on your office?” Peter asked.

“Nothing, really. I just wanted a place to myself that wasn't tainted by her love of all things pink,” Jasper said as if it was obvious.

“Well then, back to business. The spare room is empty, the kitchen is empty, and we are almost done with the living room. How is the bedroom going?” Char asked.

“Well, it too is empty,” Jasper told her.

“So, are you gonna start from scratch?” Isabella asked.

“I guess so.”

“Well then, I suggest we head to Home Depot and look for paint,” Char added.

“First let's get rid of all the stuff at the front door.” Jasper said.

“Already taken care off.” Peter told them.

“How?”

“I called Good Will to come and collect everything. Might as well make someone else happy. That, and it's a good tax right off at the end of the year,” Peter said.

“You definitely take after dad,” Jasper chuckled.

“One of us had to!” Peter snarked back.

“Alright, you two. Let's get going! Jasper don't you have a meeting with Jenks this afternoon?”

“Yeah, I guess we should get going then.”

Jasper and Peter started moving all the furniture out onto the front lawn, while Isabella and Charlotte stacked the boxes up against the house. Once the house was cleared, they locked up and got into Peter's truck, heading off to the store to get supplies.

It took three hours to get everything they needed to fix up the house. From drop cloths to paint brushes and rollers to cleaning supplies and disinfectants, Jasper spared no expense in making sure that nothing of Alice remained.

They arrived back at Jasper's just as another car pulled up outside. The lawyer Jenks had arrived with the divorce papers; he stepped out of the car, carrying his briefcase and quickly followed everyone inside.

“Doing some spring cleaning?” Jenks asked.

“Something like that,” Jasper told him.

“Good for you, boy. Now come sign these so I can take them to the hospital and have her sign them.”

“You're not gonna just mail them to her?” Peter asked.

“Nope, it's faster if I go to her and have her sign them right there. This way I can get them out of the office today to be processed. So by the end of the week, you'll be a free man,” Jenks answered, looking at Jasper.

“Well, thank you. I can't wait.”

They sat at the dinning room table since it was the only place left to sit. The table was Jasper's grandmother's so there was no way he was getting rid of it; besides his office, it's the only thing he wouldn't let Alice touch. It took him few minutes to finish signing all the paperwork but once it was done, he almost looked lighter. After saying his goodbyes and good lucks, Jenks left for the hospital.

Once they settled down, Peter ordered pizza for everyone. They ate and talked about how Jasper wanted the rooms done. Each person was assigned a room. Once again, Isabella took the living room and Jasper took the bedroom while Peter took the spare room, Charlotte the kitchen. After they wiped down the walls, they began to paint; Peter had a nice light blue to put on the walls; Jasper told him to pick a color that he and Charlotte would like since this was to be their room when they stayed over. Charlotte was painting the kitchen a pale yellow; Jasper told her to find a color that would make it seem warm and inviting. Isabella had one of the bigger rooms; Jasper choosing a neutral beige color that he said he could accent the room with other colors when he went for window treatments and furniture. Jasper had the daunting task of the bedroom; this room had the most memories to erase, but with each stroke of the brush he felt he was painting over the past and creating a new foundation for the future. The bright green of the room would give it a happy feel over the pale pink it was originally. He was enjoying the feel of control he seemed to have over his environment now that Alice wasn't there to dictate how she thought things should be, and look. He couldn't wait to see the finished product.

Hours passed and the group decided to regroup round the dinner table with some Chinese. Soon they were all laughing and bantering like they had knew each other for ages.

“So, who gets this room?” Peter asked.

“Well, who is all finished?” Char asked.

“I think we all are.” Jasper replied.

“I had the biggest of the rooms next to Jasper and if he is done then we are all done.” Isabella added.

“So, how about we all do it?” Char piped in.

“That sounds like a plan - we can each take a wall.” Peter said.

“Alright, we will just move the table into the living room and get started.” Jasper looked to Peter.

“Let's get moving then!” Peter stood to throw the trash away.

Charlotte and Isabella started stacking the chairs in the other room. Jasper waited for Peter to lift the other end and they both maneuvered it into the living room. As soon as they were back, they each took a wall. Somewhere amidst all the seriousness a paint war broke out. Char splashed Peter with paint, Peter went to get her back and missed hitting Jasper who turned and accidentally swiped Isabella with his roller. This is how it began; it ended with the walls covered in splatter and the four friends covered in paint, laughing hysterically on the floor.

Chapter 12: What happened to Happily Ever After?

****Hospital with Alice and Edward, Tuesday afternoon****

It has been four days since Edward was brought into the hospital and Alice has yet to leave his side. He hasn't yet woken-up but the doctors say that his vitals are stable so he should come around just fine.

It was early evening when the Whitlock attorney, Mr. Jenks, entered Edward's hospital room.

“Mrs. Whitlock, I hope all is well?”

“Yes Mr. Jenks, it is. They said he would come around when he is ready and will suffer no permanent damage - that they know of, at least. We should know more once he finally wakes up.”

“That is good to hear. Now dear, I have some papers here for you to sign.”

“And what papers would I need to sign?”

“Those would be your divorce papers that Mr. Whitlock filed this morning.”

“He did what?” Alice screamed.

“You heard me correctly Mrs., now if you could please fill out the papers so I can be on my way; you can go back to sitting with Mr. Masen.”

“I will not sign those papers. He has no grounds on which to file for a divorce.”

“Oh, but Mrs., he does: it is all on tape.”

“What do you mean it is all on tape?”

“Mrs., are you telling me that you were married to Mr. Whitlock for 6 years and never once noticed that your house was under constant surveillance?”

“Yes, I'm telling you I had no knowledge of any surveillance! Is that why that son of a bitch kept his office locked all the time? Is that where he keeps the video tapes?”

“Actually, Mr. Whitlock kept all the videos off site at his mother's home.”

“That son of a bitch! How much does he know?”

“By now, everything since I'm sure his brother has shown him the tapes.”

“I'll take that lying bastard for everything he has!”

“Well, I would like to argue with you over this but seeing that you signed a prenuptial agreement when you got married, I won't have the pleasure. I'm sorry to inform you that you will get nothing, except the clothes on your back.”

“What about all my things at the house? My furniture? My clothes? My pictures?”

“I'm afraid that since they were purchased with Whitlock money, after you are divorced you will own nothing. From what I saw at Mr. Whitlock's home this morning, I would say that he has disposed of everything else.”

“Are you saying that he threw my stuff away?”

“I believe that a Good Will truck was pulling away as I arrived so no, he didn't throw it away, he give it away.”

“I have nothing left.”

“I'm sorry Mrs., but I really need you to sign these papers so I can be on my way.”

“Fine.”

Mr. Jenks left soon after Alice signed the papers, finally leaving her to her thoughts. She had nothing! She had forgotten about the pre-nup she signed before they were married. There had to be some way for her to get money from him. She thought about what happen at the house and decided that just maybe, if she couldn't get money out of him, then Edward could. She decided she would just have to use Edward and convince him to get the money she wanted from Jasper. Now all she needed was for Edward to wake up...

****Jasper's house Tuesday evening****

The painting was finally finished and everything had been cleaned up. Isabella had left saying that she had work in the morning but Peter and Charlotte decided to hang around for a while.

“So, what now?” Peter asked.

“Well, I hope Alice doesn't give Jenks a hard time but other than that, I just need to wait for him to contact me.”

“Anything else going on?”

“I have to be at the courthouse on Monday.”

“Did they tell you what they were charging you with?”

“Assault, reckless endangerment, domestic disturbance..and a bunch of other useless crap that I forget.”

“So, they are charging you for someone attacking you in your own home?” Peter asked.

“I guess so. Jenks is gonna see if he can get the case thrown out by using the footage as evidence.”

“So, you might not have to do any time?”

“I hope not. That shit would suck!” Jasper said.

“Well, since you don't have anything to sleep on and no clothes here to wear, I suggest you come home with us until we can get to the store tomorrow. Ma and I will take you since Peter has to work.”

“Oh, I see how it is... I have to slave away saving lives and you get to spend the day with two beautiful women!” Peter whined.

“Yeppers. And stop pouting Peter - it's not very manly,” Jasper chuckled.

“Mule!”

“Nag!”

“Alright boys, let's go home.” Charlotte stopped their playful bickering.

“Yes, Ma'am!” they both replied.

After returning to Peter and Charlotte's house, the three went their separate ways. Peter went to their room to shower and get around for bed; Charlotte to the kitchen to make something for them to snack on; and Jasper went to the spare room to get ready for bed. After showering and returning to the room, there was a knock on the door. Peter had brought Jasper some sweats and a t-shirt.

“Thanks, man.”

“Not a problem. Char made sandwiches for you, they're in the kitchen. I'm off to bed since some of us have to work for a living.” Peter said winking at him.

“Yeah yeah, go to bed old man.” Jasper chuckled.

“Who you callin' old big brother?” Peter remarked back as he walked out of the room and across the hall.

Shaking his head, he made his way to the kitchen where Charlotte sat at the table with her sandwich.

“So, how are ya really doin' with all this?” Charlotte asked as he sat down.

“I don't think everything has set in all the way yet. Like I know what I saw, and then what you all showed me on the videos but I just can't wrap my head around the fact that she could do that to me. I love her with everything that's in me; she was what kept me alive over there. Then I come home and find her sleeping with our best friend? And that she's been with him since I left two years ago? That shit hurts!”

“I know sugar, but you have us to help you through it. Ma is happy your home to stay.”

“Yeah, me too but I just need time, is all. You guys helped a lot today so I guess it was something I needed.”

“Anytime, sug.”

“So, tell me about your friend Isabella. All Peter could tell me was that you work with her on occasion.”

“I see she caught your eye...”

“Yeah, well - spill it sister. I know you know stuff.”

“Nope... you will have to find out everything from her. I can tell you that, yes, I work with her on occasion and yes, she works most of the time but she also has her own money - so she's not a gold diggin' whore like your ex-wife. Oh, and I will kill you if you ever think of hurting her.”

“Alrighty, then I guess that ends that,” Jasper said, looking amused at Charlotte.

“You're right, it does. Now eat up and get some rest! Y’all know that Ma is a mad shopper so you will need your energy.” Charlotte said, standing up and putting her dish in the sink.

“Yeah, I already have a feeling that I'm gonna regret this.”

“Jasper Wyatt Whitlock. I'm tellin your mama ya said that!”

“Oh shit, Char - please don't tell Ma! She will whollop me good if you tell her.”

“Are you tellin' me you're still afraid of ya Ma?”

“Nope, I'm not afraid - I'm terrified. That woman may be on the golden side of age but she has one hell of follow thru on her swing. That, and she'd make me go get my own switch. And if I didn't go get it, she would use whatever was handy. So, please, don't tell Ma.” Jasper begged.

Charlotte was laughing so hard by the end of his plea that she could barely stand upright. She never seen a grown man grovel like that when threatened with his mother. She wonder if Peter would react the same way.

“Fine Jasper I won't tell Ma. But you owe me big time for this.”

“Anything Char anything. You name it.”

“I will hold you to it.”

Char walked out of the kitchen with a smug smile on her face at her new found knowledge of the Whitlock boys. This could work to her advantage.

Chapter 13: Shopping for furniture or torture in hell?

 

Jasper and Charlotte were up early the next morning; Charlotte because Jasper woke her up while making one hell of a racket in her kitchen and Jasper because that is what he has been used to for the past 8 years. They sat and had coffee while Jasper looked over the newspaper. It was about an hour later that Peter finally stumbled out of bed.

“What the hell are you both doin; up so early?” he slurred.

“Well, Jasper here was up at the ass crack of dawn and makin' one hell of a racket looking for all the stuff for coffee. So, I got up to help him and have been up ever since.”

“I'm always up this early.” Jasper said shrugging.

“Well, I'm gonna get ready for work.” Peter took his coffee and headed back toward his bedroom.

“So Jasper, do you know what your lookin' for or do we need to stop at your place and make a list before headin' to Ma's?” Char asked.

“I think we should make a list. Since I haven't had a civilian life in 8 years, I have no idea what is there or what I will need.”

“Well, at least you're honest.”

“Always have been, always will be.”

“Well, let's get dressed and head on over. You still need to buy clothes so I will get you some of Peter's things to wear for today.”

“Thanks again, Char.”

“You're welcome.”

Charlotte headed toward her and Peter's room after kissing Jasper on the forehead. He finished his coffee and headed back to the spare room; shortly after, Peter once again knocked on the door, this time to hand Jasper a clean pair of jeans, a button down shirt and boots.

“Don't say I never done nothing for ya,” Peter said.

“I won't,” Jasper replied.

After getting dressed he walked back to the living room, just in time to see Peter give Charlotte a kiss and her tell him to have a good day. That is what Jasper had wanted; that was the life he had pictured coming home to. Now what did he have? An empty house, a cheating ex-wife, and nothing to show for all his hard work.

“Jasper, hun, you okay?” Charlotte said waving her hand in front of his face.

“Yeah, Char, I'm fine. Just lost in thought is all.” Char gave him a sad but knowing look.

“Well, let's get to your place; Ma is expecting us soon.”

“Alright Char, let's go.”

The ride to Jasper's house was silent with only the soft music playing through the speakers able to be heard. Pulling up outside the house, they noticed an envelope taped to the door. Heading over to retrieve it, Jasper looked over the envelope to find only his name on the front: Mr. Jasper Whitlock

“Who is it from Jasper?” Char asked.

“I don't know, Char... There is no return address on the front.”

“Open it and find out.”

Jasper nodded his head as he slowly opened the envelope, pulling out the folded paper inside. Still not recognizing the hand writing, he opened it and began to read:

Dear Mr. Whitlock,

 

We are the legal representatives for one Mr. Edward Masen and one Alice Cullen, the former Mrs. Whitlock. Our clients are seeking retribution for damages - both physical and psychological – in relation to a recent altercation at your home between yourself and our clients.

 

You are to contact us about this matter as soon as you receive this letter.

 

Thank you,

Stevenson and Sons Attorney's at Law

1-800-454-0681 (AN: please don't call this number as it is NOT an actually phone number that I know of.)

 

Charlotte had been reading the letter over his shoulder and saw how Jasper became angrier with every word he read.

“What the hell is she up to?”

“This looks like a desperate attempt to get your money.”

“I think your right, Char. What do you think I should do?”

“Call Jenks and let him deal with it. I mean, that's what you guys pay him for, ain't it?”

“Yes Char, it is.”

Walking into the house, Jasper went directly to the kitchen as Charlotte went off on her own to give him some privacy. Picking up the land-line, Jasper dialed the number he and Peter had to memorize as children. Three rings later, a gruff voice came over the phone:

“Jenks here.”

“Mr. Jenks; I'm sorry to be bothering you this early in the morning, but when I returned home I found a letter from a Stevenson and Sons. They claim to be lawyers for Edward Masen and my ex-wife.”

“Do you have the letter on you right now?”

“Yes, it's right here.”

“Could you get it to me today?”

“I can drop it off at your office in about an hour.”

“Okay, I will see you then, Mr. Whitlock.”

The dial tone was the only thing Jasper heard signaling the end of the phone call. Jasper figured Jenks must be busy on some case and was in a hurry. Just as he hung up his phone, Charlotte came scurrying around the corner and began looking in cupboards and drawers, writing stuff down as she went. Minutes must have passed as Jasper watched his sister-in-law run rapid through his house. When she finally came to a stop, she asked how his phone call went.

“So?”

“I have to drop the letter off on our way to the store.”

“Okay, well I'm finished here unless there is something you would like to add?” Charlotte said handing him the list for him to look over.

“Nope looks like you got everything and more. No wait - I was wrong; I need to cancel Alice's phone and get a new one.”

“Alright then let's not keep Ma or Mr. Jenks waiting, shall we?” Charlotte said motioning toward the door.

“No, Ma'am - after you.”

“Why, thank ya.”

Jasper and Charlotte conversed playfully on the way to Ma Whitlock's house. The two were growing closer and Jasper was certain he could label her not only family but a friend as well. They arrived at Ma Whitlock's to find her sitting on a rocker on the front porch.

“What took y'all so long? I've been up since dawn; I ain't getting any younger ya know.”

“Sorry, Ma,” they said together.

Jasper got out and helped his Ma into the passenger seat, opting to take the back and let the women have the front.

“So Jasper, dear what are we goin' for today?”

“Everything Ma.”

“Everything? You didn't keep nothin?”

“Just Grandma's table, and the stuff in my office. Everything else went to good will.”

“I take it you didn't like any of it?”

“Well, as Isabella politely put it, the house screamed single white female or gay couple. So yeah, we got rid of all of it.”

“Who is this Isabella? I have never heard of her before. Where did you meet her?”

“She's a friend of Char and Peter's, Ma.”

“Oh, really now? Charlotte, why have I never met this friend of yours? She sounds like my type of woman.”

“Well Ma, if ya wanna meet her I'm sure she would love you, too. But Isabella works a lot and it's hard for her to get away all the time. She just happened to be off when Jasper got out of jail and offered to help him clean up.”

“Well, that was mighty nice of her. Why couldn't you have married her Jasper, instead of that stuck-up little twit you did marry?”

“Ma...” Jasper whined.

“What? It's a honest question!”

“Hell Ma - I didn't know her then and I barely know her now.”

“Maybe you should get to know her?”

“Yes Ma.”

Jasper knew it was no use arguing with her since she always got her way. When they pulled up to the store, Jasper helped his Ma out first and then ran around quickly to help Charlotte out. As they entered the store, Charlotte and his Ma both grabbed carts leaving Jasper to simply shake his head as he followed behind the two women. He knew he was way out of his depth with this one.

“So Charlotte, what does he need?”

“Well, he needs all new bedroom, bathroom, living room, and kitchen things.”

“All of it?”

“All but the main bathroom things.”

“Okay then, lets get started. Charlotte you get started on the kitchen and I'll go get the bathroom things. Oh Jasper, honey, why don't you go look at furniture?” His Ma took charge. She reminded him of his drill sergeant at basics.

“Yes, Ma'am.”

 Jasper made his way over to the furniture section. He looked around awhile before he found anything he remotely liked: a large hunter green sectional. It had two reclining seats with a table in between and ended in a chase lounge. That would be just enough for what he wanted - him and Peter would have the recliners to watch football on, and he would have the chase to nap on. It was perfect! He called one of the sales people over and asked them to load it up for him; they asked if that was all and he said no there was more. He moved along further through the area and found a long cast iron and slate coffee table and two stone lamps. He once again motioned to the sales clerk and had them load that up as well. Next he went and found his bedroom furniture: a large King size cast iron four poster bed caught his eye. He hopped on the mattress and bounced a little; then laying down he shifted his body some to check for softness. Smiling he stood and waved once more. The clerk showed Jasper the rest of the set that went with the bed and Jasper agreed that it was just what he was looking for.

He then went looking for Charlotte and his Ma. He knew it probably wasn't his brightest idea but he wanted to see how they were fairing. Finding Charlotte first he looked into her cart and saw that most of the items were either black or stainless steel; he nodded to her and then went to locate is Ma. Still in the section with the bath products, Jasper hurried to her side and gazed over her shoulder to see what she had found so far. His bath things were all in natural shades - greens, blues, and browns. The smile he felt fill his face was reflected back at him when his Ma saw him eying the things she picked - she knew her son better then any woman ever could.

“Ma, this is perfect!” he said kissing her cheek.

“Well, of course it is. I'm ya Ma - I know what my boys like.” She said tapping his cheek.

“Your right, Ma, you do.”

Charlotte had made her way over to them now.

“Did you get what you needed for the bedroom and living room Jasper?” Char asked.

“Yeah, I think so. But I still need to find bedding and maybe some throw pillows for the living room. What do you guys think?”

“Show us what you picked and we will go get the last of the things for your house,” Ma said with a smile.

Jasper led them over and showed them what he purchased. The girls told him they were proud of him, which he took to mean they thought he did a good job and didn't botch it up too bad. They headed to the bedding section where Jasper's Ma stopped at the end of the isle and turned, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Ya gonna go pick it out, boy, or do I have to do that for ya too?”

“No, Ma'am.” Jasper said moving into the isle. He looked over everything and slowly took in the sizes and colors.

“Ma!” Jasper yelled.

“Yeah, boy?”

“What is better - cotton or polyester?”

“Cotton. It breaths better.”

Jasper continued his search before finally coming to the end of the isle where he found just what he was looking for: a king size brown cotton weave comforter and sheet set. He grabbed it off the shelf and turned, grabbing two extra large pillows from the shelf behind him as he headed back to where he knew his Ma was waiting. When he got there, he placed the bedding in the cart and looked over at Charlotte who was placing some black throw pillows into her own cart.

“Those for the living room?” Jasper asked.

“Yep.”

“Where to next?”

“The Mall.” Char squealed as Jasper groaned, earning a smack upside the head from his Ma.

They paid and checked out, with the store promising that everything would be delivered later that day. As they headed toward the Mall, Jasper wonder just what else they had in store for him.

They spent the next several hours going from store to store, forcing Jasper into changing room after changing room trying things on. When they finally headed out, Jasper was carrying what he assumed was enough clothes to fill one whole store; not to mention the 4 pairs of shoes he now was the proud owner of. Just when he thought it was over, they pulled into the grocery store. Jasper wasn't sure how much more he could take.

By the time they had dropped Jasper's Ma off home and headed back to his place, it was almost 7 pm. Earlier, Charlotte had texted Peter to meet the furniture truck at Jasper's around 6. When they got to the house Peter was helping some of the delivery men to unload their truck; Jasper ran to help the guys, leaving Charlotte to unload her truck.

When everyone was finally cleared out and Jasper's house was put together, it was finally time to eat. Char had cooked some grilled cheese with tomato soup and chocolate milk. (dude don't knock it till you try it. Grilled cheese dipped into chocolate milk is the bomb.)

 After they finished, they sat for a while and talked.

“So Jasper, how was shopping with Ma and Char?” Peter asked.

“Go to hell, Peter! I'm never doin' that shit again.”

“Awe, what's the matter Jasper? Can't handle it?”

“Oh, hell no - I will go into battle and fight off insurgents before going shopping with them again!”

Peter was laughing so hard he couldn't respond. He knew what is was like to go shopping with them and most of the time, he just let Charlotte and Ma go and get whatever they wanted.

“Shut up, you ass!”

“Peter hun, I think it's time we head home. You and I both have work in the morning, and I'm sure that Jasper wants to sleep in that extremely comfortable looking bed he bought.”

“Sure, sure. Let's go sweet lips,” Peter said grabbing Charlotte around the waist and kissing her.

“Later, Brother.”

“Later.”

Chapter 14: A day in the life of Isabella Swan.

 

It has been a couple of days since Isabella had last seen Charlotte. The paint fight at Jasper's had been fun; she couldn't remember the last time she had felt so care free. However fleeting the moment was, it was now back to business. Isabella walked into her office to find a stack of files that looked like it would take days to go through. So she sat down and started the daunting task of filling out paper work. File after file were devoted to the criminals she looked after and each one she read made her queasy; some where transfer requests from other prisons, some where medical release forms, while others were status reports.

Each cell block had different guards and each set of guards had a foreman; Isabella herself had five different blocks to worry about. Each block was housed in a different building on the grounds and in the middle of it all stood a large courtyard. To an outsider flying over head, it might look like some kind of private resort but to those in the know, it was the best of the best - for the worst of Texas society. The Swans spared no expense: the prisoners had a private gym, swimming pool, tennis court, basketball court, football and track course; if sports weren't their thing, they had access to a very large, very expansive library, one that could rival any college library in the country. Anything an inmate would need in order to better himself and find a way to release any pent up anxiety. All inmates where scheduled a daily therapy session, one on one, with a shrink and then a weekly group session for those who weren't dangerous to others. The overall goal was to rehabilitate those who could be and send them back out into the world to become a better part of the populous.

However, that never seemed to be the case. Sometimes it felt that Isabella kept seeing the same faces and names over and over again - they would get released and then a year or two later they would be back. It was as if a revolving door had been placed on the front gate.

Isabella was so lost in her work that she had completely lost track of the time. It wasn't until Angela her secretary came and asked her if she wanted to go out to lunch or have something delivered that she finally realized the time. She decided that she would order in, but if Angela wanted she could go out. Once her food arrived, she began once again going through the files on her desk.

It was pushing 10 pm when Isabella finally made it to the last file on her desk. Cell block A. It was always the first file on her desk after the weekend and the last file she went over when she returned. Foreman Emmett McCarty was a very thorough man and he made sure to list each inmate by name and number. What complaints they had or if anyone sustained an injury. Most of the time his file wasn't very thick since Cell block A was often called the in and out Cell block so most of the criminals housed here were short timers carrying 1-5 year sentences at the most.

 Isabella and Emmett had become what some would call friends over the last several years. He had started at the bottom of the pole as a guard; working his way up through hard work and promotions. He earned his title and position so when it came time for him to be promoted to Foreman, Isabella gave him the choice of Cell blocks. He was the best in the business as far as she was concerned and he had the highest scores in all the classes and tests he had taken to get to be a guard as it was. The inmates respected him since he always treated them like people and not animals in a cage. Some of the other guards had so many complaints stacked against them she was hard pressed not to fire them and she definitely would have done so already if she could find replacements but it was hard to do so since no one wanted to work under a woman.

She closed up Emmett's report and turned out her light. Tomorrow was another day, another stack of files and monthly inspection rounds. On her way out she ran into Emmett.

“Ms. Swan.”

“Emmett. I thought I told you to call me Bella.”

“Fine, if you insist. So, how was you day today?”

“Same as always. Files to read, requests to allow or deny. The usual.”

“Read mine last again, huh?”

“As always.”

“Well, there wasn't much to report this time around. My block is almost empty seeing as how there are only 4 inmates in a cell block built to hold around 100.”

“I don't know what to tell you... Perhaps you should try to persuade some of those criminal types to do some bad stuff that will get them time? That way you fill your cells up and won't be so bored.”

“Now that wasn't nice, Bella. Why would I do that?”

“Sounded like a good idea to me.”

“You're so strange sometimes.”

“I know but you tend to go a little loopy when your the only woman warden in the state. Hell, several states for that matter.”

Emmett chuckled at her. He knew she was playing with him.

“So, did you enjoy your days off at least?”

“Yes and No.”

“Okay, wanna explain that?”

“Well, a friend of mine has this brother-in-law that recently came home after an 8 years stint overseas. When he arrived at his house, he found his wife in bed with his best friend; they got into a fight and the friend went to the hospital. The brother-in-law, of course, went to jail for the weekend. She called me all frantic and wanted me to come help her find some stuff out and to look over the surveillance footage from the house. And so I did. Turns out, the wife has been cheating on him since he left two years ago! It was all caught on tape so the bitch has no leg to stand on; not to mention that she signed a prenuptial agreement when they got married. Anyway, we all hung out until Tuesday when he came over to her house. We watched the video with him, and of course, he seemed really bummed about it all and you could tell he loved her. Well, after that he decided that he didn't want anything of her's in his house, so we went over and helped him clean out his house. I swear, Emmett, it looked like two gay men were living there, not a Marine and his wife! So, we boxed the whole house except the dining room table and his office and he sent everything to Good Will. Then we painted all the rooms and got into a paint fight in the dining room. It was a good weekend after all.”

“So, that explains the yes and no. The no part being the stressed out friend, and the yes part being you met a guy who actually may have caught your attention.”

“Wait, I didn't say that!”

“You didn't have to - it's written all over you face.”

“Is not.”

“Is too. You get all gooey eyed and wistful when you talk about this brother in law... does he have a name?”

“Yes, but I'm not telling you.”

“Why not?”

“Cause you're like an annoying little brother and you'll pick on me about it.”

“Am not - I'm an annoying big brother!”

Isabella laughed at the defiant look on his face. Emmett always made her feel better. He was right though; he was like the big brother she never had. Throughout their banter, Isabella never noticed that they had walked clear to her car.

“Thank you, Emmett - I needed a good laugh.”

“You're welcome! Just remember, I'm here if you ever need me.”

“I'll remember that when I need to move my furniture around and need some muscle to do it.”

“Just supply some beer and food, and I'll be there with bells on.”

“Hopefully, you'll have more then just bells on or you might be staying in your own cell block.”

“Ha-ha funny.”

“Good night, Emmett.”

“Night, Bella.”

Isabella went home and settled in for the night. Curling up in her bed she thought about what Emmett had said: Did someone finally hold her interest enough for her to notice them? Maybe, just maybe, Jasper was more than just Charlotte's brother-in-law.

Chapter 15: Back to Life

 

The morning after Alice signed her divorce papers, Edward finally awoke.

“What happened? Where am I?”

“You're in the hospital. What do you remember?” Alice asked.

“I'm not sure... I remember us together at your place.”

“And?”

“Jasper came in... oh shit! Jasper caught us - in bed together!”

Alice solemnly nodded her head.

“He yelled and told us to get the hell out of his house. After you got dressed, you followed him out to the kitchen and I came out in time to see you hit the floor. He pushed you away so I attacked him but I tripped on something...?” he finished with a question.

“You hit your head on the counter top.”

“How long was I out for?”

“You came in on Friday; It's now Wednesday.” Alice told him.

“Have you stayed with me this whole time?”

“Yeah.”

“Why didn't you just go home to Jasper?”

“I don't have a home with him anymore. I have nothing now!” Alice began sobbing.

“What do you mean you don't have a home? And what about all the clothes you have?”

“Jasper filed for divorce after he got out of jail on Monday.”

“He was in Jail?”

“Yeah.”

“Because of us?”

“Yeah.”

“Aren't you entitled to... I don't know... half of all the marital assets or something like that?”

“No.”

“Why the hell not?” Edward was getting angry.

“I signed a prenuptial agreement before we got married. I forgot about it until the lawyer reminded me.”

“So that means...?”

“It means that everything that was purchased after we were married is all his since it was purchased with Whitlock money.”

“He doesn't have his own money? What about your clothes? Your pictures?”

“No - it's all family money. Withdrawals are all made from one account and each family member is issued a card. Once married, the spouse is issued their own card.”

“Well, you can get a cash advance with all the credit cards! Go take one out!”

“He canceled the card the day he filed for divorce so I can't get at any of the money.”

“So what did he do with everything of yours?”

“His lawyer said it was all given away to Good Will.”

“Everything?”

“From what I understand, yes. He only kept the stuff in his office, and his Grandmother's dining set.”

Alice once again broke down in tears mutter “I have nothing left” and “What am I gonna do now?” over and over.

“Come here, Pix.” Edward cooed to her.

Alice crawled up next to him on the bed, snuggling into his chest.

“It's alright, I'll take care of you now.”

Neither noticed that while they were speaking softly to one another, a Doctor had enter the room.

“Alice?”

Edward and Alice's heads whipped towards the door.

“Daddy!”

“Alice - what are you doing here, sweetheart? Where is Jasper?”

Her tears appeared once again.

“We got a divorce 2 days ago. He kicked me out and gave all my stuff away!”

“But why are you here?”

“Daddy, this is my friend - Edward. He and Jasper got into a fight; Edward was hurt and ended up here.”

“Okay then, let's check on your friend. I'm Doctor Cullen by the way, and if you haven't figured it out yet - I'm also Alice's father.”

“Hello, sir.” Edward said.

“I have a few question that we need to go over while I check your vitals.”

“Shoot, Doc.”

“Full name and date of birth, please?”

“Edward Andrew Mason, April 15th 1983.”

“Okay, how are you feeling, Edward?”

“Like I was run over by a mack truck.”

“I imagine so. It says on your chart that you hit your head on a marble counter top?”

“Yeah, that's what I've been told.”

“You're lucky to be alive, then. Most would have died from a blow to the head like that.”

“I have a really hard head, apparently.”

“Good thing, too”

Dr. Cullen then finished with his examination.

“Well, everything else looks good! If you have no complications over the next 24 hours, you should be able to go home tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Dr. Cullen.”

“Thank you, Daddy.”

Dr. Cullen left Edward's room with more questions than answers. He couldn't believe that Jasper would simply divorce Alice and kick her out. He had seen how in love they were with his own two eyes. And when exactly did Jasper get home?

He retreated into his office in search of his cell phone. He had Jasper's number in there so he would simply call and find out exactly what had happened. Searching his contacts, he found the number he was looking for and pressed send. It rang twice before the operator picked up:

I'm sorry the number you are calling has been disconnected.  If you feel you have reached this message in error, please hang up and try your call again. This is a recording.

 

Sighing in frustration, he closed his phone. After a minute or so, he finally thought of something - why not try Jasper's brother, Peter? So once again he took out his phone and searched for the number. This time Peter's voice mail picked up so he must be here at the hospital and has his phone off. He then picked up the phone on his desk and dialed Peter's extension. Three rings later, someone picks up:

“Dr. Whitlock speaking.”

“Peter, this is Carlisle.”

“Hello, Carlisle - what can I do ya for?

“I just ran into Alice here at the hospital; she told me her and Jasper got a divorce?”

“Yes sir, that would be correct.”

“She was in a room with Edward Masen?”

“Sounds about right.”

“Cut the crap Peter, what the hell happened? One minute they are happily married and he is overseas - the next they are divorced and she is hanging all over this man in a hospital room?”

“Well, Jasper came home for good on Friday. Charlotte and I picked him up at the airport because Alice didn't know he was coming home since he wanted to surprise her. Well, he was the one that got the surprise - your darling daughter was fucking Mr. Masen in my brother's bed!” Peter's voice had risen as he continued his rant.

“She what!?”

“Yeah and then Eddie boy attacked Jasper. They fought, he got hurt and Jasper was arrested. He filed for divorce on Monday, as soon as he got out of jail.”

“I'm sorry to hear all this. Jasper is a good man and my daughter was raised better then this. Her mother will be heartbroken!”

“Yeah, I bet - Jasper is a mess.”

“Do you have a number I can contact him at? His cell is disconnected and I would really like to speak with him.”

“Sure, Carlisle.”

Before the two men said their goodbyes, Peter gave him Jasper's new number. Carlisle decided that he would wait till closer to lunch to call Jasper and hoped that they could meet in person. That would also give him time to let Esme know what is going on since she was supposed to go for lunch with Jasper's mother this afternoon.

Chapter 16: A day at the Whitlock Ranch.

 

Just like any other day, Jasper was up with the sun and starting out his day like every other; he made his way to the kitchen to make his coffee and walked out the front door to retrieve the newspaper while it brewed. Making his way back to the kitchen, he got his cup out of the cabinet and poured a full cup before heading to his office and sitting behind his desk. Sipping at his coffee, he read about the news of the day, glad that he had yet to read anything about his weekend getaway at the local police station.

Once finished with his coffee and the newspaper, he checked his email - nothing new there. He swung the chair around to the monitors that showed the house and reset the system to start taping today and realized it was barely 6:30.

Jasper sat at his desk for awhile, trying to decide what to do for the day. Peter and Charlotte had both returned to work, so that left either staying home and doing nothing or going to visit his Ma. Jasper decided on the lesser of the two evils: to the ranch it was.

After putting his coffee cup in the sink and making sure everything was the way it was supposed to be, he went to his room. After putting on a fresh pair of jeans, a t-shirt and his new boots, he was ready to go.

Jasper was almost out the door when he suddenly remembered he didn't have a way there. He was about to give up and just stay home when he remembered the storage shed down the street still held one of his old vehicles. Alice despised it, saying it was useless since they had no need for it in the city. So heading back to his office he recovered the keys that lay hidden in the upper right hand drawer of his desk before he headed down the street to the shed.

Unlocking the door to the shed wasn't as easy as he thought it was gonna be since the years of rough weather wore on the lock, making it rusty and stiff. Eventually it gave in and relinquished it's hold on door.

Stepping inside the wind entered with him and kicked up the unsettled dust, making him cough. He reached for the light switch that sat on the wall next to him and blinked at the sudden intrusion of light in the darkened space. His vision finally adjusted and his sights immediately landed on the tarp covering his once true love.

With great ceremony he removed the tarp and unwrapped his treasure. Smiling a little more as the fully-equipped, midnight blue 2001 Ford F250 with dual cab pick up was revealed - she was every farm boys wet dream: a lift kit that made it so he had to jump up slightly to get into it, the chrome cow catcher on the front adding to her beauty and handiness on the farm, and the roll bars with spotlights for better visual in the fields.

Jasper climbed up into the drivers seat and started her up; the engine roaring to life before settling into an idling purr. Looking around, he noticed everything inside was right where he left it. As he turned to put her into gear something caught his eye. A piece of fabric sticking up by the passenger side door. He leaned over grasping the material in his hand; yanking lightly he removed the item from it's hiding spot: his old black stetson. He had forgotten about it when he was forced to put the truck in storage. Smacking it off his knee to shake the dust out a little, he then settled it on top his head. Smiling to himself he put the truck into gear and drove out of the shed. Stopping only long enough to get out and seal up the shed, he was soon on his way back home to the ranch. He was finally going home!

* * * * *

After his phone call with Peter, Dr. Cullen went about his rounds for the better part of the morning. Soon enough, he realized he could put off the inevitable no longer and had to call his wife and tell her of the developments in their daughter's no-longer marriage. But how was he to explain that she cheated on her husband - while he was off fighting in the war for our freedom and his life - while she stayed home and was comforted by their supposed best friend? Carlisle did not know what he was gonna say but decided it was time. Making his way once again to his office he pulled his cell phone from his coat pocket. It rang only twice before she picked up.

“Cullen Residence, Esme speaking.”

“Esme, darling, how are you this morning?”

“I'm fine, dear. Just preparing for my lunch with Abigail.”

“Well, that is part of why I'm calling...”

“Oh, and why would that cause you to take time out of your busy day to call me?”

“Well, it's more about Alice then Abigail.”

“Have you seen Alice? I haven't heard from her in days.”

“Actually, I saw her just this morning here at the hospital.”

“The hospital! Is she okay? What happened? Why didn't you call me sooner?”

“Esme, Esme... calm down. She isn't hurt - she is here with a friend.”

“Thank heavens! Why didn't you say that in the first place?”

“Sorry, love, you didn't give me a chance to.”

“I'm sorry, too. I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. How is she? Where is Jasper? Is he home? Does he know what's going on?”

“She is fine! Her friend is a little banged up but should be fine to go home tomorrow. Jasper, I believe, is at his home - he knows exactly what is going on - at least as much as his lawyer tells him, anyway.”

“Lawyer? Why would he have to find out from a lawyer? What is going on, Carlisle? What aren't you telling me?”

“Dearest, it seems that Jasper and Alice got divorced several days ago.”

“They what?”

“I said something similar to that, I think, when I spoke with Peter.”

“Peter? As in Jasper's brother? Why didn't you just call Jasper?”

“Jasper phone has been disconnected but Peter gave me his new number and I had planned on calling him at lunch time to talk about what has happened.”

“What has happened?”

“Well, from what Peter has told me, Jasper came home on Friday. He and Charlotte picked him up but they didn't phone Alice because Jasper wanted to surprise her. Well, when he got home our daughter was in bed with another man; a supposed friend of theirs from the way it sounds - the same friend that she is here at the hospital with, Edward Masen. Alice said that this Edward and Jasper got into a fight and Edward got injured so he has been here since that night. Jasper, on the other hand, spent his first weekend home in the local jail.”

“Oh my! That poor dear... Have you spoken to him yet? Does he know that we knew nothing of her betrayal and that we still love him?”

“I have not spoken to him yet but I plan on asking him to lunch to talk it over. I just wanted to give you a heads up since you are having lunch with Abigail.”

“I hope she isn't angry with me over what Alice has done. She didn't seem to be when I spoke to her yesterday.”

“Well, let's hope she doesn't hold this against us. As for our Alice, what would you like to do about that?”

“If you see her again today, please tell her I would like her to come to the house for dinner tonight.”

“Will do. Anything else, dear?”

“Yes, could you stop at the bank on your way home? I have a feeling your daughter is gonna need to get into her old account now that Jasper isn't taking care of her.”

“Sure thing. I will see you when I get home. Love you!”

“I love you too, dear.”

* * * * *

When Jasper finally arrived at the ranch he went straight to work. It felt nice to feel useful again. He worked side-by-side with his mother's ranch hands: tossing hay and straw into the empty stall in the barn, cleaning out the stalls, brushing and washing the horses after running them and helping to mend the broken fences. It was almost lunch time when Jasper caught sight of his Ma waving him over from the porch. Moving towards her, he saw that she was holding a pitcher of lemonade and two glasses.

“Hey, Ma!” Jasper called to her.

“Boy, why didn't you come tell your Ma you was here? I wouldn't have even known you was here if it weren't for that monstrosity you call a truck parked in the drive.”

“Don't dis the truck, Ma,” Jasper chuckled, settling into the seat next to her.

“What ya doin' out here, anyway?”

“Needed something to do. You know how it is... idle hands and all that.”

“Yeah, now ya sound just like your Pa.”

“It ain't a bad thing.”

“No, it ain't. So, how ya doin', boy?”

“Better now that I'm on the farm and finally feeling at home.”

“This is always your home.”

“I know that, Ma and I'm thinking about coming to stay here for awhile. I'm might lock up the house in the city and crash in the small cottage at the back of the farm till shit settles.”

“Well, ya know you are welcome.”

“Thanks, Ma.”

On the horizon Jasper noticed a black SUV was coming up to the house, leaving a dust trail in it's wake.

“Ma, are ya expecting someone?”

“Yeah - sorry, Jasper, I forgot Esme was coming for our weekly lunch date.”

“Nah, Ma, it's alright.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah, Ma - you have your lunch with Esme. I have to get back to work anyway; there's still six more horses to take care off.”

“Okay, baby. You get back to work and I'll see ya later.”

“Be back by sundown like always, Ma.”

“Be careful.”

“Always, Ma.”

Jasper was heading down the stairs when Esme's SUV came to a stop. Esme stepped out and called to him before he could get to far away.

“Jasper?”

“Esme, it's good to see you but I have to get back to work.”

“Please, just a minute.”

“Okay - you have one minute.”

“Jasper dear, I just found out about what happened between you and Alice. Carlisle called me this morning to tell me about it, saying he ran into Alice at the hospital with that man.”

“Edward - his name is Edward.” Jasper growled.

“Jasper, I don't really care what his name is.”

“Sorry, Esme. It's still a sore subject for me.”

“Well I wouldn't expect anything less. You loved her with everything you had - I saw that. Anyone who knew you saw that. And as for my daughter, I will be speaking with her later this evening so I would like to know exactly what happened.”

“What do you know so far?”

“I know that you found Alice with that man in your bed and that you spent the weekend in jail because of a fight that you had with him. That he whacked his head off your counter top and that he woke up this morning... and that you divorced Alice on Monday.”

“So, the cliff notes.”

“I guess, is there more?”

“Esme, I think you and Ma should go in the house and have a seat - I have something I think you both should see.”

“If you think that is best.”

Jasper followed the two women into the house. While they headed to the living room, Jasper headed to the basement where he kept all the surveillance equipment that was connected to both his and Peter's homes. Reaching into a file cabinet, he pulled out one of the many copies of the footage from the last two years. Finding what he was looking for, he closed the drawer before heading back upstairs to meet with the women. Upon entering the room, Jasper's Ma spoke:

“Son you sure about this?”

“Ma, I think it's best if we are all on equal footing here, so everything is out in the open. I won't have to hide anything around yous and we can start to move forward from all this - I just want my peaceful life back!”

“Well then, get on with it.”

Jasper walked up to the DVD player and inserted the disc:

“This starts back from when I left two years ago so you will first see us all leaving together.”

“Who is us?” Esme asked.

“Myself, Alice and Edward.”

“Oh, my...”

“I will be out in the fields if you need me. I'll be back in a few hours, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask me when I return.”

With that, Jasper walked out of the house and back to his work. He took his time with the horses, finding it helped to calm him down. He wondered what his Ma and Esme would think once they watched the footage... How would his life change now?

 

 

 

Chapter 17: Courtroom Drama

 

“Objection! Your Honor, he's badgering the witness.”

“Counselor, please get to the question.”

“Yes, Your Honor... Mr. Andrews, were you or were you not at the Bayside Marina on Saturday June 12th between the hours of 1pm and 6pm?”

“Yes, sir, I was at the Marina.”

“No further questions, You Honor.”

“Mrs. Whitlock, you may proceed.”

“Thank you... Mr. Andrews, you just told the court that you were at he Bayside Marina on Saturday June 12th between the hours of 1pm and 6pm - is that correct?”

“Yes, Ma'am.”

“Then why is it that we have footage of you outside Masen's Tavern at the same time that you claim to be somewhere else?”

“I'm not sure, Ma'am.”

“So, you are saying that the footage is wrong?”

“No, Ma'am but perhaps the time stamp on the footage is wrong?”

“So, this is not you withdrawing money from an ATM outside Masen's Tavern?”

“I didn't say that, Ma'am.”

“Well, Mr. Andrews - either your bank, this time stamp from the camera or you are lying.”

“I'm telling the truth!”

“Save it for your preacher.”

“Objection!”

“Sustained. Mrs. Whitlock's last statement will be stricken from the records.”

“Nothing further, Your Honor.”

“You may step down, Mr. Andrews. Court is now adjourned. We will reconvene tomorrow morning at 8am to hear closing statements.”

Charlotte and the rest of the courtroom stood as the judge left for his chambers. Charlotte began packing her things in her briefcase, when a hand slithered up her arm onto her shoulder.

“You know Charlotte... just because I'm working for the other side now doesn't mean we can't go out for dinner, whatta ya say?”

“Newton, I say that if you don't take your hand off my shoulder right now I will be the one sitting in that seat over there - after I murder you.”

“Now sugar, don't be that way!”

“I'm married, Mike - just leave me alone.”

“I'm sure your husband won't mind. Hell, he won't ever have to know about it. He's a doctor right? Works long hours? You must get lonely?”

“I said: leave me alone!”

Charlotte quickly kneed the man in the balls bringing him to his knees; she grabbed her briefcase and made a hasty retreat out of the room.

Frustrated and pissed off, Charlotte headed to her car; throwing her things in the back. She needed someone to talk to and she could think of only once place to go: Bella.

The drive from the court house to the prison took an hour. Using the badge Isabella had given her, she enter the compound. Heading straight to the main building, she wound her way up the 5 floors to Isabella's office. Angela waved as Charlotte breezed past and with a quick knock - followed by a muffled “Come in” - Charlotte found herself once again in Isabella's domain.

“So, what brings you hear today?” she asked, without even looking up to see who it was.

“That vile creep Newton.” Charlotte said, pacing in front of Isabella's desk.

Finally looking up, Isabella noticed the state Charlotte was in.

“Char, when are you finally gonna tell Peter about this creep?”

“I don't wanna involve him. He'll only drag Jasper into it and he has enough problems right now.”

“I can see how you could worry about that but why didn't you tell him after the first time?”

“I thought slamming his hand in my briefcase would help him get the hint!”

“And the second time?”

“Closing his hand in the car door.”

“This time?”

“My knee to his nuts.”

Isabella smiled. She loved that Charlotte could handle herself, but this Newton character seemed to not know how to get the hint that Charlotte was not interested.

“So, what have ya got for me?”

“Mr. Andrews - a petty thief turned counter-fitter, now up for murder.”

“Damn! I was hoping to give Emmett some more company - he's been awfully whiny lately. How long you think he'll get?”

“We're pushin' for 25 but I have a feeling they'll deal and he'll get 20 – which means he'll be out in 15 for good behavior. Now, who is Emmett?”

“So, Cell block C with Ernie - he'll be thrilled. Emmett is a foreman on Cell block A. Wanna meet him?”

“Sure! But how's that gonna work?”

“Inspection.”

“Oh.”

Isabella stood from her desk, grabbed a clipboard and a legal pad, heading for the door before she turning once again to Char.

“Leave your case.”

“Sure thing, Boss Lady!” Charlotte snickered.

They headed out of the main building and turned toward the left side of the courtyard. Cell block E was in bold over the door.

“Why we starting here?” Charlotte seemed nervous.

“Faster to start here and work our way to Emmett.”

“If you say so.”

Charlotte watched in fascination as Isabella seemed to check off a number of things in her head while scribbling on the notepad; stopping to speak to a few of the guards, she took even more notes. Surprisingly, it only took about 20 minutes to go through the whole building.

“Cell block E is where we keep the death row inmates. They are actually much calmer then the others so I think they have accepted the consequences of their actions and made peace with themselves - and whatever deity they worship.”

“Okay, then - next.” Charlotte hurried her along, Isabella laughed at her antics.

Charlotte dealt with these people all the time, so Isabella could only wonder why she was so scared now. They entered the next building, this one however seemed much more sinister then the last. As they moved through the building, they received cat calls and whistles.

“Now boys, don't make me call for lock down.”

Instantly, an almost deafening silence fell through the building. Isabella went through the same routine as the last building. She nodded to the guard by the door on the way out.

“Cell block D. This houses some of Texas' finest criminals - murders, rapists, cartel leaders... you know the big-time sinners.”

“How lovely.”

“Next is Cell block C. This houses those who are your main streamers: drug dealers, human traffickers, counter fitters, the occasional hacker - if they get their hands into federal type stuff that is.”

Charlotte followed behind once again. Though she was not as wary as the last building, she was still slightly jittery. Taking only 15 minutes this time, they quickly moved on.

“Cell block B. This houses our regulars: petty thugs, gang bangers, robbers, pimps...”

“Such lovely company you keep.”

“I know, right?”

Another 15 minutes and they were out the door.

“Cell block A . This one is my favorite and not just because of Emmett, either. These are the ones who made a stupid mistake, or were in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“So, these are the ones who don't come back again?”

“Most times not.”

Entering inside the building you could hear something you don't usually find inside prison walls: laughter.

“Emmett must be entertaining.” Isabella said.

“Huh?”

“You'll see...”

Rounding the next corner you could see five men sitting around what looked like a poker table. The sounds of our heels on the concrete floor made them all look in our direction.

“Warden.” A large colored man said.

“Gentlemen.”

“To what do we owe the pleasure?” another of the men said.

“Inspection.”

“Ah, yes - that time again.”

“Same time every month.”

“Well, as usual, it's the same as it was last month.”

“Thank you, Manny.” Isabella said, to the large colored man.

“No problem, Boss Lady.”

Charlotte snickered, causing them to turn their attention to her.

“Who's your friend?”

“This, gentlemen, is Mrs. Charlotte Whitlock.”

“Hello, Mrs.”

“Hi, y'all.”

“Charlotte, this is Manny, Jose, David, Richie and of course, Emmett.”

“Pleasure, I'm sure.”

“Well fellas, it looks like the games' over for not. Got work to do.” Emmett said.

“Funny, Emmett.” Manny said, while cleaning up their card game.

“Boss.” Emmett said, nodding toward his office.

The three settled into the seating around the room.

“Poker, Emmett? Really?”

“We were bored! You can only clean the same spot so many times.”

“You're right. It seems everyone is doing well.”

“Of course.”

“Emmett, I'd like for you to meet Charlotte. She is a prosecutor for the state so... I didn't wanna say anything around the guys.”

“I understand. Hello, Charlotte, it's nice to meet ya.”

“You too.”

“Emmett is like the big brother I never had - nor wanted,” Isabella giggled. “We have worked together so long, we're practically family.”

“Now Bella, there is no need for sweet talking.”

“I wasn't just talking, I'm tellin it like it is.”

Charlotte watched as they bantered back and forth; much like Jasper and Peter would. You could tell they were close, but it was like Bella had said - they were family. The more she listened to them the more she realized that Emmett would fit in nicely with both Peter and Jasper.

After saying their good-byes; Charlotte headed home. It was late and she was sure Peter would be home already. When she pulled up outside the house she noticed a strange truck in the drive; it was huge. Upon entering the house she not only saw but heard the owner of said truck. Jasper was laughing with Peter as they watched Bad Boys 2 on the big screen.

“Hey guys, I'm home.”

“Hey babe!” “Hey Char!” they said at the same time.

“You boys hungry?”

“Nah... Ma sent over leftovers; they're in the fridge.” Jasper said then turned back to the TV.

“Alright.” Charlotte said as she headed to the kitchen.

After making herself something to eat, she grabbed three beers and headed back to the living room to settle in with the boys.

“So, how was your day?” Peter asked muting the TV.

“A pain in the ass but okay. Yours?”

“Same as always.”

“What about you, Jasper?”

“Spent the day working on the ranch. It felt good being home.”

“Anything happen?”

“Esme Cullen was there?” Jasper said quickly.

“What?” both Peter and Charlotte said together.

“Yeah, Alice's mom had lunch with Ma. I guess they do it every week.”

“And?”

“I showed them the footage.”

“How did that go over?” Peter asked.

“Like a lead balloon.”

“So, they know everything then?”

“Yeah... Esme is pissed. I also had lunch with Carlisle.”

“Hell, and I thought spending the day with Isabella was interesting.”

“You spent the day with Isabella?” Peter asked.

“Yeah, I needed to let her know she was getting a new roomy.”

“Oh.” Peter said.

“Huh?” was Jasper's intelligent response.

“Sorry, Jasper; I told you before... Ask her.”

“Fine.” Jasper huffed.

“Well boys, I'm off to bed - I have court in the morning.”

Charlotte gave a kiss to Peter. “Nite.”

Then kissing Jasper on the forehead, she headed off to bed. “What a day!” Charlotte thought to herself as she crawled into bed.

 

 

Chapter 18: Lunch with Carlisle

 

Jasper was just about finished with the horses when his cell phone went off in his jean pocket. He stopped what he was doing and answered, though not quite sure of who it was seeing as he had only given the number to Peter, Charlotte, his Ma, and Mr. Jenks.

“Hello, Whitlock here.”

“Jasper, it's Carlisle - Alice's father.”

“Hello, Carlisle. I have a feeling my brother gave you this number. So, what it is that you want to discuss?”

“I take it my wife has already spoken to you?”

“Yes, Esme is with my Ma right now.”

“Well then, I would like to have a chance to speak with you about everything that has happened since you've been home.”

“I'm workin' right now but we can possibly meet for dinner... Unless you have time to join me and the ladies for lunch?”

“That would be fine. Will you be going anywhere or is your Ma cooking?”

“I believe they have something planned for here at the ranch.”

“Then I will be there in say... 20 mins?”

“That will be fine.”

“See you then, Jasper.”

“Bye.”

Jasper hung up and got back to work. He had figured a nice relaxing day working on the farm would do him good. Boy, was that a joke! This day was turning out more and more stressful as the day went on. He may just strangle Peter when he saw him next - what would have crossed his mind to willing give his number out to the father of the enemy?

It wasn't that long before his Ma called for him from the porch.

“Jasper honey, would you come in here?”

“Comin' Ma!”

Jasper jogged up to the porch and followed her inside. They all sat around the living room.

“We watched the whole thing Jasper...” Ma said.

“How could we not have seen this?” Esme asked.

“It's not your fault, Esme.” Ma told her.

“I feel as if I should have known.”

“No one knew.” Jasper told them.

“Oh, Jasper, honey! I hope you don't hold her actions against myself or Carlisle. You know we still love you as if you were our own but as for that girl who is supposed to be my daughter... I will deal with her myself.”

“Esme, please don't start trouble in your own home because of this!” Jasper said.

“Even if he hasn't seen the video, I'm sure Carlisle will agree with me on this one, Jasper.”

“Yes, Ma'am.”

Jasper knew when he was beaten and going against either of these women was not something you do with out thinking it through completely.

“Jasper, honey? How long have you been keeping surveillance on you and Peter's homes?”

“Since we moved out. And I also have cameras set up here.”

“Where? How? When?”

“Since Pa passed. I hooked everything up before I went to Basics. There is a camera in every room of this house.”

“Even the bathroom?”

“Yes. It points over the shower toward the doorway so the whole room can be seen - except inside the shower.”

“You boys really got shook up after what happened with your Pa, didn't ya?”

“We don't wanna lose anyone else that way. But I guess my paranoia came in handy - for once.”

“Not in the way I would have wanted it to but yes, it did.”

“Is anyone hungry?” Esme asked, breaking up the seriousness of the room.

“Yeah, but can we wait a bit?”

“Why?”

“Carlisle will be joining us.”

“Oh...”

Jasper sat back on the chair, leaning his head back as he closed his eyes. As he rested, his Ma and Esme continued to talk about what they had seen. He could hear every word they spoke, though they were trying to whisper:

I can't believe she would do that to him!

 

My boy is the sweetest man I know! Why would she hurt him like that?

 

I don't know Abigail, but I plan to find out. What she did was appalling!

 

I know, Esme. But remember she is still your daughter.

 

Yes, I know that though I can't help but be angry at what she did to Jasper. He is such a wonderful man and did everything for her but what does she do? She throws it back in his face by sleeping with someone they called a friend! In his home! In his bed! If that isn't adding salt to his already deep wounds I don't know what is!

 

Yeah, I agree, but we have to be strong for him - he needs us all now more then ever.

 

What can we do?

 

I have an idea but it's gonna take some time since he is still hurting. However, Charlotte has a friend she works with that managed to get Jasper to not only smile but laugh as well - and not even a week after this all happened!

 

Do you know who she is?

 

I only have a name: Isabella.

 

And how do you know all this?

 

Charlotte and I talked when we took Jasper out to shop for new stuff. Her name was brought up and I thought poor Jasper's face was gonna break from that huge smile he got from just mentioning her.

 

Well I guess we can work with that.

 

Only one problem.

 

And that is?

 

Charlotte is tight lipped about her and won't even tell us her last name. She'll only say that she works with her on occasion.

 

Well, that puts a damper on things, don't it?

 

Jasper had fallen asleep not long after that so he couldn't tell you what else was said. Before long, his Ma was shaking his shoulder saying that Carlisle had arrived and dinner was ready.

They entered the kitchen together and sat around the small table, talking as they ate. You could clearly see Carlisle get more and more agitated as the women spoke of what they had seen on the DVD. Jasper was glad that he didn't have to participate much in the conversation and it wasn't long before the Cullen's left. Jasper stayed to help his Ma clean up:

“Jasper?”

“Yeah, Ma?”

“Will you be back out tomorrow?”

“After my court hearing, yeah. Why?”

“I wanna have a Bar-b-Que... You know, one like we used to have when your Pa was still with us?”

“That sounds nice, Ma.”

“Yeah, so I would like your help cleaning up the yard and such.”

“Not a problem, Ma. I'll come over as soon as I finish with the court stuff and then we can get to work. When do ya wanna have it?”

“Two weeks. That should be enough time to get everything done, right?”

“More then enough. Want me to let Peter know?”

“No, I'll give him a call later on in the week.”

“Kay Ma. Well, I'm gonna head out now, ya gonna be okay?”

“Now that I know your watchin, I'm sure I'll be just fine!”

Jasper kissed his Ma on the head before heading out the door. He jumped in his truck and was about to head home when he suddenly felt the need to go visit Peter...

Chapter 19: About the South

The two weeks before the Whitlock picnic flew by. Ma Whitlock had made a point of cornering Charlotte and asking her to invite her friend and – naturally - Charlotte caved, promising to ask her to come.

Today was the day of the picnic and the girls were getting ready together in Isabella's bedroom:

“So, who is all coming to this hoe-down anyway?” Isabella asked from somewhere in her closet.

“Peter, myself, my cousin Rebbecca, Jasper, Ma and the Cullens - Carlisle and Esme...”

“Don't forget Emmett!”

How in the world could she possibly have forgotten Emmett? Once someone met him there was no way you could forget him - he wormed his way into your heart and latched on to it like a leech.

“Not possible!”

“I know.” Isabella chuckled. “So, what kind of Bar-b-Que is this anyway? Formal or down home?”

“Down home, of course! Ma would be insulted if we got all gussied up.” Charlotte laughed.

“I'm likin' her more and more.”

“I have a feelin' she is gonna try and adopt both you and Emmett before the day is out.”

“I'm all for it.” Isabella smiled, leaning out of her closet to look at Charlotte.

She reentered her closet before reappearing a few minutes later completely dressed.

“Will this do?”

Isabella was dressed in a pair of cut off shorts, a red and white checkered shirt that was tied just above her belly button, leaving the top two buttons undone. Her hair was done in to braided pony tails that hung down the front of her. A  pair of well worn cowboy boots were on her feet and a tan Stetson was posed on top of her head.

“Yep, that looks great!” Charlotte said. “Poor Jasper” she thought.

Charlotte was dressed somewhat similar to Isabella, except she was wearing a skirt and not shorts, and a tank top instead of the flannel. She was also wearing cowboy boots and a Stetson, except her's were in black instead of tan.

After grabbing the potato salad that Isabella had made, they left to meet up with Emmett before heading to the Ranch.

Pulling up to the Ranch, they could see that everyone was already there. They all got out together making their way toward the tables that were set up around back.

“What ya got there, Bella?” Peter asked, strutting up to them.

“Potato Salad.”

“Yum.”

“So, y'all gonna introduce us or what?” Isabella asked, looking at Peter.

“Sure thing, Sweetness.” he said, wrapping his arm around both her and Charlotte's shoulders.

“Hey Ma!” Peter yelled.

“I'm right here, boy! No reason to yell – I know I taught you better then that.”

“Sorry, Ma.”

“Well, what'd ya need?”

“Ma, this here is Isabella. Isabella, this here is my Ma.”

“Well, hello there! Nice to finally meet ya.” Ma said.

“You too.”

“Now, who be this handsome slice of man meat?”

“Ma....” Peter whined.

“Names Emmett, ma'am.” he said, while taking her hand and kissing it.

“Well, ain't you just delicious!”

Emmett actually blushed at Ma Whitlock's comment.

“Wow, I didn't know you could change colors Emmett!” Isabella laughed.

“Quiet, Bells!”

“Alrighty then! Enough of that - lets go meet the others.” Peter said, leading them away.

“Hey everyone!” Peter yelled once again, causing everyone turn toward the sound of his voice.

“Everyone, this is Isabella and Emmett. Guys this is Esme and Carlisle Cullen, and Charlotte's cousin, Rebbecca.”

Hello's were exchanged between everyone. They all seemed to settle into easy conversation. Isabella looked around the group and noticed that one of the group was missing. Walking over to Ma Whitlock she asked:

“Ma, where is Jasper? Isn't he supposed to be here, too?”

“He is, dear, but I believe he had some work left to do in the barn.” She said, pointing to the barn down the way a little.

“Thanks! I think I will go see what is keeping him.”

Ma watched as Isabella went looking for Jasper and she wasn't the only one watching - Emmett to had his eyes on Isabella. Noticing him watching, Ma Whitlock motioned him over.

“Where's Bella goin'?”

“To get my other boy, Jasper.”

“Oh, I see - so he does have a name!”

Ma looked at him with a puzzled expression before asking:

“What ya goin' on about, boy?”

“Bella has been all googly over some guy for weeks now but wouldn't tell me his name. She won't admit to likin' him either. They are 'just friends' she tells me but I think there is more to it then that.”

“What's so bad about that?”

“Nothing. It's just that she doesn't usually show interest in guys, ya know. She is always all business so I was just wondering what was so special about this one?”

“You're about to find out.”

They turned around to see Jasper leading Isabella back to the picnic, arms linked together. They were whispering and laughing at whatever they were talking about and seemed oblivious to the world around them.

“Hey, Bells - who ya got there?” Emmett asked once they got close enough.

“Oh!” Isabella seemed startled. “Emmett, I would like to introduce you to Jasper Whitlock, Peter and Char's brother. Jasper, this is my best friend and big brother, Emmett McCarty.”

“Hello, Emmett - it's nice to meet you.” Jasper said, sticking his hand out to shake Emmett's.

The two men shook hands and then had what appeared to be a silent conversation between the them.

“Men...” Ma Whitlock broke the spell.

Isabella busted up laughing and started pulling Ma to the tables. It wasn't long before they were all eating and chatting.

“So, Isabella what is it you do exactly? Charlotte has been very tight lipped about you.” Ma said.

“Well, I work closely with the Prosecutor's Office. I find placements for the criminals who are found guilty.” Isabella said, still keeping discreet.

“That is so interesting. Emmett, how do you know Isabella?” Esme asked.

“I work as a guard at one of the prisons she works with. But I first met her in college.”

“Oh, what did you study?” Carlisle asked.

“Criminal Law.”

“So you always wanted to work in the legal system?” Peter asked.

“Yeah, my father was a Ranger.”

“Wow...” Rebbecca said.

Emmett smiled toward her; Isabella could see that he was crushing on her. She chuckled to herself, which apparently wasn't as quiet as she thought since Emmett elbowed her.

“What?”

“Cut it, Bells.”

“I didn't say anything.”

“You didn't have to - I know you all too well.”

“Sorry.”

“No you're not.”

“You're right - I'm not.”

“Do you two wish to share with the class?” Peter asked.

“Nope” they both said popping the “P”, causing everyone to bust up laughing.

Jasper hadn't said much since he arrived to the table with Isabella. Besides minor comments or answering direct questions, Isabella was unsure what to say or do; Jasper didn't seem to be the same guy that she had met before.

Suddenly, he looked up and locked eyes with her, it was as if he could feel her eyes on him. He smiled slightly up at her and she smiled back, blushing. They were unaware that they were being watched by more then just each other - everyone seemed to be closely observing the interaction between the two loners.

Ma Whitlock glanced at Emmett and then Esme; soon Peter and Char caught on to what they were all thinking: This could be good or bad, depending on what happened next... Only time will tell.

Chapter 20: Alice down the Rabbit hole.

Going home to her parents house for the first time in years, Alice was unsure of herself. She wasn't sure what or how much her parents knew. But her mother had asked her to come to dinner so it can't be all that bad could it?

She arrived at her parents house fifteen minutes early. She noticed her father's car was not yet in the drive so she assumed he hadn't arrived home from work yet. She cautiously made her way up to the front door; just before she could knock, her mother opened the door.

“Well, what are you waiting for? It's not like something is gonna jump out and bite you!” Esme said, stepping aside so Alice could enter the house.

“Sorry, I just wasn't sure if anyone was home yet.”

“Your father will be home shortly; he had a small emergency at the hospital.”

“Okay.”

The two women made their way into the living room to talk while waiting for Carlisle to return home.

“So, how have you been?” Esme asked.

“Good, I guess.”

“You guess? Either you're good or your not...”

“Well then, I'm not!”

“What's wrong, dear?”

“Did Dad not tell you?”

“Tell me what, honey?”

“Jasper and I got a divorce so we are no longer together. I'm living with a friend of mine. And Jasper gave all my stuff away!” Alice responded, starting to cry.

“Oh dear! No, he didn't tell me all of that. He told me you were with a friend in the hospital but he didn't go into details about anything. I just told him to ask you to come to dinner - and now here you are.”

“Mom, it is horrible! He threw me out and then got rid of my stuff! I have nothing! No money! No clothes! No home! How could he do that to me? He was supposed to love me forever! That is what we said in our vows... for better or for worse!” Alice began to cry harder now.

Esme was trying her hardest to stay as neutral as she could right now. She didn't want to give anything away till after dinner. This way Carlisle could be there with her when she confronted Alice about her betrayal to Jasper.

“I'm so sorry to hear that, Alice. We love Jasper too. Are you sure there is no way to work things out? Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding?”

“I don't think so, Mom. He changed his phone number, filed for divorce and got rid of all my things - all not even three days after he returned home from overseas!”

“Well, there has to be a reason Alice. Did you ask him why?”

“He said he didn't love me no more and that we had drifted apart while he was gone.”

Esme knew Alice was lying. She had seen how Jasper was with her own two eyes. Oh, how she wanted to call her daughter out on her lies...

Just as she was about to say something, Carlisle came home.

“Honey, I'm home! Who's car is that in the drive?”

He came around the corner into the living room and saw Alice sitting there with Esme. Esme saw the flash of emotion roll over Carlisle's eyes before he slipped back on the mask of indifference.

“Hello, Alice - it's good to see you again.”

“Hi, Daddy!”

“So, how have you been?”

“Not so good. I was just telling mom about Jasper and I.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah, I was telling her what happened between us, and why we can't work it out.”

“There was more then just him throwing you out?”

“Yes Daddy, he said he didn't love me no more and that we had drifted apart while he was gone.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, Daddy.”

Esme stood then.

“I'll be right back - I have to go check on the roast.”

Carlisle looked at his wife as she walked past him. He could almost see the steam flowing from her ears.

“Alice, will you excuse me for a minute? I would like to change out of my work clothes.”

“Sure thing, Daddy.”

Carlisle made his way upstairs to his bedroom all the while trying to get his thoughts in order. How could he honestly feel good about himself listening to his daughters lies after spending a wonderful day at a picnic with the Whitlocks? He couldn't! He knew this and so he decided that after dinner they would confront Alice on her lies. After changing his clothes, he made his way back down stairs to the living room.

“Dinner is ready everyone!” Esme called from the dining room.

The three settled in and started with some light topic conversation.

“So Alice, how is work?” Carlisle asked.

“It's okay. The boutique is allowing me to display and sell some of my designs in the store.”

“Well, that's nice to hear. And you're still depositing your earnings into the account we set up at the bank?”

“Of course.”

“I believe we should unlock the account so you have money to live off of.”

“Why would I do that?”

“Well, you need money to buy food, clothes, pay rent...”

“I'm staying with a friend of mine. As for clothes, I have some outfits I made and we eat out most nights.”

“Alice, you can't live off your friend forever.” Esme reprimanded.

“Well, Edward is more then just a friend.”

“Really now?”

“We have become closer since the whole Jasper thing. And he was there for me when no one else was... I think I'm falling for him.” Alice told her parents, not showing a single ounce of remorse for the terrible things she did to Jasper.

Once dinner was over they once again retired to the sitting room. Esme and Carlisle sat on the love seat together while Alice sat down on the lounge chair closest to the fireplace. Esme was finally tired of all the lies. She looked at Carlisle and he saw the resolve in her eyes, he nodded to her, letting her know that he was okay with her decision.

“Alice dear, could you start at the beginning and tell us what happened between you and Jasper?”

“I guess that would be okay.”

“It would help us understand more and that way we would know what we could do to help you.”

“Well, he came home almost a month ago, on a Friday. I was sitting in the living room with our mutual friend, Edward. I didn't even know he was coming home but if I did, I would have picked him up from the airport. As it was his brother Peter was with him and they immediately went to the kitchen to grab some beers out of the fridge. You could already tell they had been out at a bar somewhere drinking...” Alice said, spreading the lies on thickly.

“You're saying that Jasper and Peter were both drunk?” Carlisle asked, knowing that Peter was working all that weekend.

“Yes, Daddy - you could smell the alcohol all over both of them. So anyway, Jasper came in the living room and saw Edward sitting there. He asked what he was doing in his house with his wife when he wasn't home and Edward said that he was just there checking on me to make sure I was doin' okay.”

Esme rolled her eyes. She saw the video and knew this was all bullshit. Carlisle wore his mask well, not letting any emotion show on his face.

“Jasper got pissed off and told him to get out and I told Jasper to stop, that Edward was there as my friend. He turned to me then and told me to go with him then and that if I loved Edward so much that I could go fuck him. He then turned and headed toward the kitchen so I went after him to ask what had gotten into him. He was standing at the counter when I came into the kitchen. That was when he told me that we had drifted apart and that he didn't love me anymore, that I was to get the hell out of his house and take my two-bit lover with me. I reached for him and he spun around knocking me to the ground. I know he didn't mean to but Edward had come into the kitchen just as I fell and thought Jasper had pushed me down. The two fought and it only ended when Edward fell into the kitchen counter top, hitting his head and knocking him out. Peter dialed 911 and they took Edward to the hospital; I rode with him to make sure he was okay and the cops took Jasper to the station. I heard he was there for the weekend and he filed for divorce right after he was released on Monday. His lawyer told me he gave everything away to Good Will, canceled my cards and changed his phone number. I haven't heard from him since. Edward's lawyers sent him a notice that he was pressing charges against him but I don't know what had come from all of that. Jasper's lawyer was the only one that showed up to the court hearing.”

“Alice, how would you know if Jasper showed up or not?” Carlisle asked.

“I was there with Edward as support, and they also called me as a witness...”

“So, you testified against Jasper?” Esme said, shocked that her daughter would do such a thing.

“I didn't testify against anyone! I just told them what I saw and then I went back to my seat.”

“Alice - do you remember how your mother has dinner dates with Abigail Whitlock, right?”

“Yes Daddy, every weekend for as long as I can remember... They were friends long before Jasper and I even got together.”

“Well, she was at one of those dinners and ran into Jasper on the Ranch.” Carlisle said, waiting for her reaction.

Alice paled considerably. He knew that she now realized that they knew the truth.

“Whatever he said, Daddy, is a lie.” Alice was suddenly on the defensive.

“So, you're saying that you never slept with Edward Masen before your divorce?”

“I didn't say I had ever slept with him - he is just a friend.”

“Alice Diane Cullen - don't you lie to us anymore! We know that whole story you just told us was a lie - well, except for Jasper telling you to get the hell out of his house, and Peter being there. We also know that the reason your divorced is because Jasper caught you in bed with that man! Plus, Jasper and Peter were not drunk when they confronted you.” Esme was pissed and it was showing - her sentences were short and blunt, as if she were attempting to stifle her growing anger.

“Mom, I am not lying! They are - I told you the truth!” Alice was yelling back at Esme.

“You will not speak to your mother that way, young lady!” Carlisle said.

“I don't have to take this - I'm leaving!” Alice said, starting to stand and head for the doorway.

“SIT DOWN, YOUNG LADY!” Carlisle yelled at her.

A stunned Alice immediately sat down. Her father had never before raised his voice or yelled at her for any reason.

“Sorry, Daddy.”

“Don't you Daddy me, young lady! What you have been doing is unacceptable! You have lied to your mother and me - cheated on and used poor Jasper... I don't know what happened to my little girl, but the person sitting in my living room right now is no child of mine!”

“Daddy?” Alice asked on the verge of tears.

“No Alice! You don't get the right to call me Daddy. My daughter was raised to respect others - not to cheat and deceive those she claims she loves!”

“Alice, your father is correct... we thought we taught you better than that!” Esme said.

“But Mom..”

“No, Alice - I'm with your father on this. He may not have seen the video footage but I have, and what I saw was appalling! For two years you found comfort in the arms of a man who was not your husband – a wonderful husband who was fighting to keep himself alive in a war zone, so that we can have the freedoms we have today. Do you know what he told me?”

“No, Mom...” Alice whispered.

“That thoughts of you were what kept him alive over there - the thoughts that he was coming home to you! You ripped that away from him! You destroyed that wonderful man! And then you tried to make him out to be the villain when it was you all along!”

“I'm sorry...”

“It's to late for sorry, Alice.” Esme finished, turning away from her daughter.

“Your mother is right, sorry isn't gonna fix anything. Here. I went to the bank and opened “Your mother is right, Alice - sorry is not going to fix anything. Here - I went to the bank and reopened your old account for you. All the information you need is in this envelope. I wish you well Alice, but for now, your mother and I would like you to leave. Maybe some day we can forgive you but right now... I just can't bear to even look at you.” Carlisle said, handing her an envelope.

“I'm so sorry - I really never meant for any of this to happen... I hope one day you both can forgive me and we can get past this... Goodbye.” Alice said, leaving the house.

Esme broke down into Carlisle's arms. It took almost an hour before she calmed enough to talk.

“Did we do the right thing, Carlisle?”

“We did what was best for her. She needs to learn a couple hard lessons – one, that she can't have everything her way and two, that our actions always have consequences.”

“I know, but she looked so broken.”

“She did it to herself, Esme.”

“I hope she will be okay.”

“Only time will tell...”

The two parents headed upstairs to retire for the night. Thinking over everything that happen in the short amount of time that Alice was there, they hoped they did the right thing.

Chapter 21: Can Somebody tell me what the Hell that was?

A week after the Whitlock picnic, the final day of Jasper's court hearings arrived. Everyone came to support Jasper; Edward and Alice sat on one side of the court room while everyone else sat behind Jasper:

Directly behind him, Esme and Carlisle sat with Ma Whitlock and directly behind them sat Charlotte, Peter, and Emmett. Isabella was running late, attending a hearing in another part of the courthouse but she had promised she would be there.

Everyone stood as the Judge entered the room, and took their seats again after the Judge took his spot behind his desk. As the Bailiff called the proceedings and read out the charges, the court room door opened and Isabella silently stepped inside. However, everyone seemed to notice her arrival as the Judge met her eyes and a shocked expression overtook his face. The Judge and Isabella nodded at one another as she made her way to her seat, sitting beside Ma.

*****skipping boring blah blah blah********

After the footage of the night in question was played, the Judge called recess for one hour. The group got up and exited into the hall. Peter, the ever so observant one, decided to ask the question swirling around in everyone's mind:

“What the hell was that all about Isabella?”

“What was what?”

“Don't play coy with me! We all saw the Judge go all wide-eyed when you came into the court room. How do you know him?”

“He knew my father before he died and he hasn't seen me in years, so I suspect it was a bit of a shock. I do have a tendency to be a bit reclusive.”

“Oh!” was Peter's intelligent reply.

Charlotte winked at Isabella over Peter's shoulder, while Emmett was trying to hide his chuckles. They both knew that anyone who worked in any branch of law enforcement in the state knew who she was so it's not like she was lying exactly - she just wasn't telling the whole truth. If she were to be completely honesty, the Judge not only knew her father - since they had worked together often - but he also knew her whole family and their contributions to Texas history.

A man dressed in a court uniform came up and addressed Isabella:

“Miss? The Judge would like a word with you please?”

“Uh... Okay.”

They all were looking at her strangely.

“Be right back - then we can grab something to eat.”

After Isabella disappeared from sight, they all turned toward Charlotte and Emmett. Well, all except for Jasper.

“Okay, I call bullshit!” Peter said.

“Huh?” came Emmett's response.

“I saw the look on the Judge's face! It wasn't one of recognition - it was one of surprise. Who the hell is she? And how does that Judge really know her?”

“Peter, that Judge knew her father. Hell, most Judges did - he was a Texas Ranger!” Charlotte said.

“Yeah, and Bella wasn't joking about the whole reclusive thing either. Until she met Char, she never went out much at all. She has seen more of the outside world now then she did since we were in college together.” Emmett added.

“Fine! Don't tell me, but I will figure it out.”

“Just let it go, Peter.” Charlotte said.

Jasper was oblivious to the whole conversation. He was still staring off in the direction that Isabella had disappeared. No one noticed that he hadn't said anything during Peter's little rant session and he was fine with that since it left him to his thoughts. He had never felt this type of reaction to anyone before, not even Alice. Sure, he and Alice had connected but now it seems that connection was only made out of infatuation and common interests. There was no spark, no feelings of depression while they were apart. Of course, he loved Alice and would never have betrayed her but looking back now he realized that there was always something missing.

He was suddenly pulled from his musings by Isabella touching his arm.

“Time to go back in, Jasper.”

“Okay.” he mumbled.

“You okay?” Isabella asked.

“As good as can be expecting under the circumstances.”

“Let's get this over with then.”

“Thank ya, Isabella.”

“For what?”

“Just bein' here.”

“Wouldn't wanna be anywhere else - and you're welcome.”

She led Jasper back in, each silently returning to their seats.

“Will the defendent please stand?”

Mr. Jenks and Jasper both stood.

“After hearing all the evidence in this case and seeing the video footage, has the jury been able to come to a verdict?”

“Yes, Your Honor, we have.”

“Madam Foreperson, will you please read the verdict to the court?”

“Yes, Your Honor. We the people of the Jury have found the defendant, Mr. Jasper Whitlock, Not Guilty.”

The silence in the room was broken by the cheers of Jasper's friends and family. Hugs and congratulations were exchanged as Edward and Alice angrily stormed out of the court room.

“Let's go home and celebrate!” Ma Whitlock said.

“Sounds good!” and “Hell ya's!” erupted from the group.

Mr. Jenks declined saying he had to get home to his family. Everyone shook his hand and thanked him again before Isabella pulled him aside. After whispering something to him, she kissed his cheek and said goodbye.

“What'd ya say to Jenks?” Peter asked.

“If I told ya, I'd have to kill ya.” Isabella replied with a straight face. Peter, alarmed by the response, looked at her in shock.

Emmett was the first to loose it, followed by everyone else.

“That was priceless, Bells! The look on Peter's face was perfect!” Emmett got out between his laughter.

Once everyone settled down they all headed toward their cars. Carlisle escorting Esme and Ma Whitlock since they were parked side by side. Emmett being a gentleman offered to ride along with Ma. Peter and Charlotte ,of course, rode together, bringing Jasper with them. However, before Jasper could reach Peter's truck, Isabella called out to him:

“Jasper, would ya mind riding back with me?”

A small smile appeared on his face but just as quickly it disappeared.

“Sure thing, Isabella - I'd love to accompany ya.”

Isabella blushed and turned leading Jasper back toward her truck. Jasper stopped dead, gaping at her truck.

“Is something wrong, Jasper?”

Jasper shook his head no, unable to form any words.

“Well, get in then!” Isabella said, chuckling as she pulled herself up into the driver's seat.

Jasper climbed in the other side as Isabella started the truck. The purr of the familiar engine relaxed Jasper exponentially.

“Ya like?”

“Yeah, she's beautiful.”

“She's my baby.” Isabella said, patting the dash lovingly.

“I have one just like her at home, only mine has a cow-catcher on the grill and she's midnight blue.”

“Blue is nice but I'm more of a green kinda gal so I went with the hunter green.”

“Beautiful none the less.” Jasper said.

They rode in silence after that. It wasn't an awkward silence but one of comfort. Once they got to the Ranch the others turned to the roar of the truck. Peter, Emmett, and Ma shook their heads as Charlotte looked between the two occupants of the truck and then between the two trucks that were now parked side by side. Chuckling, she mumbled something that sounded like “two of a kind” or “made for each other”. The group settled around the dining room table inside Ma's home. Wine, food, and conversation flowed freely amongst the group of friends. The perfect ending to a strenuous day...

Chapter 22: If at first you don't succeed...try try again.

 

Edward and Alice were pissed that Jasper got off. If the verdict had been guilty, they could have pushed for more in a civil suit.

“What do we do now Edward?”

“We go with the civil suit - and if that don't work, we'll just find another way.”

“Another way?”

“Yes, love, another way. You want that money don't you?”

“Yes...”

“He owes you for all the things he got rid of right?”

“Yes...”

“Well then, just stick with me, Doll, and you'll get what you want and deserve!”

Alice was excited at the prospect of getting back at Jasper for not only getting rid of her things, but turning her own parents against her. Sliding across the seat, Alice began undoing Edwards slacks.

“Alice, love, what are you doing?”

She didn't answer him as she continued on with what she was doing. As soon as she had his pants undone, she reached into his boxers  pulling out his cock she began stroking it. Edward groaned, leaning back in his seat further.

“Alice?”

“Just focus on the road.”

Leaning down, Alice took Edward's now hard cock into her mouth. Licking and sucking in tandem, Edward was moaning as her ministrations picked up. She began humming around him.

“Oh god, Alice - don't stop, love... Please, don't stop!”

Alice brought her other hand down and began to play with his balls, rolling them between her fingers. Edward's body began to tense - it wouldn't be long now. Sucking harder and moving her head slightly faster, Alice could feel the pressure building as his cock seemed to swell and get harder.

“Alice... Love... I'm gonna... ALICE!” he yelled out as his body began to convulse, shooting his cum down her throat.

She continued sucking him until every last drop was gotten and he began to harden again. By now, Alice was already dripping wet and looking for her own release. She sat back into her seat after placing Edward's cock back into his boxers. Placing her feet on the dash and spreading her legs wide, she reached down and began fingering her clit. Rotating her fingers in a circular motion, going one direction for a few seconds before switching and going the other way.

Edward was continuously glancing over, watching as Alice pleasured herself. He could feel his cock coming back to life with a vengeance as Alice's moans of pleasure filled the car. By now, Alice was rolling her nipple in her other hand and Edward started looking for a place to stop, getting more and more turned on by the sight. He saw some old, abandoned warehouses up ahead and decided to park behind them. Coming to a stop, Edward turned and watched once again, removing his cock once more. He began stroking himself while watching her body flex and tense as her orgasm grew ever closer. A few more tweaks and pulls on her clit, and Alice brought herself to bliss. Edward loved how she looked at that exact moment. Unable to contain himself, he grabbed her legs twisting her body towards him. Sinking down between her legs, he gave a slow lick up her folds, cries falling from her lips, the sound spurring on Edward he dove in devouring her pussy like a dying man in the desert drinking his first glass of water in days. Alice moaned and whimpered, trying to squirm free but Edward held tightly to her.

“Oh... god... Edward... yes... make me cum... Yes!”

Her muscles tensed and her legs began to shake. Edward pulled pack just long enough to push two of his fingers deep inside her before starting his assault on her clit once more. Alice twisted and tugged on her nipples almost painfully before Edward began pumping his fingers faster and began humming, sending the vibrations rippling through her.

“God... baby... yes!” she screamed as she arched her back, thrusting her hips up into his face more.

Edward drank down her juices, letting them flow down his throat. As she descended from her high, he quickly crawled up her body to kiss her passionately. Mixing the flavors remaining in their mouths of each other, suddenly he thrust into her without warning causing her to gasp out. Digging her nails into his back, they began thrusting together in a fast rhythm. It wouldn't take long for either to fall again. Pounding into her hard and fast, he could feel her pulse around him.

“I can't hold much longer, Ali baby... Cum with me!” he demanded.

Reaching down between them, he pinched her clit hard, causing her to cum all over him. He fell soon after, spilling his seed inside her. Once they caught their breaths they dressed and re-adjusted themselves once again into their seats and pulled out of the warehouse lot, heading toward home; never once saying a word to the other...

Chapter 23: Just Ask Her!

 

Though a huge weight had been lifted off of Jasper's shoulders by the jury's not guilty verdict, he was he still moping around. Ma Whitlock has been watching her son for the past week or so and it looked like he was constantly battling with himself. Unable to deal with anymore of her son's moping, she decided to confront him about it:

“Jasper, could ya come here a moment? I wanna speak at ya.”

“Sure, Ma - be right up.”

Jasper put his gloves down on a hay bale by the barn doors and walked onto the porch, taking a seat next to her on the swing.

“Kid, what's eatin' ya? Ya were happy as a clam after that hearin', now ya mopin' round here like ya best friend died.”

“Isabella.” was all he said.

“Yeah, what about her?”

“I'm not sure how to explain it, Ma.”

“Well, give it a shot!”

“Fine. She makes me feel... different.”

“Different how? Is it a good different or a bad different?”

“Like I'm missin' somethin' when she ain't around.”

“Didn't ya have somethin' like that with Alice?”

“Nah Ma, I didn't.”

“Then this is somethin' special?”

“I think so...”

“Then why haven't ya done somethin' about it?”

“Don't ya think it's too soon? It's only been 2 months since the divorce.”

“Ya but your marriage has been over for 2 years. At least on her side.”

“I didn't know it was. So as far as I'm concerned, it's only been 2 months.”

“Well ya know now. So what ya gonna do about this thing with Isabella?”

“God... I don't know Ma! I wanna ask her out, ya know, courtin' and all that. Like daddy done with ya and like I shoulda done with Alice before we rushed into marriage.”

“No need to go over the shoulda-coulda-woulda's.”

“I know Ma, but I wanna do it right this time.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

“What should I do first?”

“I don't know... oh wait: Ask her out!”

“Ma... sarcasm ain't a good look for ya.”

“Neither is stupid for ya.”

“Point taken - but how should I do this?”

“Jesus, Jasper! Just ask her!”

“Alright, alright. I'll ask her.”

“Good, now get back to work - that hay won't bale itself, ya know.”

“Yeah, yeah. You're so bossy.” Jasper said as he kissed his Ma on the forehead and headed back toward the barn.

It was close to sunset when Jasper came back up to the main house to find Peter sitting on the porch.

“How's it goin', bro?” Peter asked.

“Eh... same shit, different day.”

“I see Ma's been keepin ya busy.”

“Yeah, the old bag's a slave driver.”

“Jasper Wyatt - I heard that! Is that anyway to talk about ya Ma?” Ma called from inside somewhere.

“How does she do that?” Peter asked.

“Don't right know how she does it, but it's been a pain in the ass since we was kids.” Jasper answered.

“Damn straight, brother!”

“So, what brings ya here? Where's Char?”

“Got off early. Char will be here later.”

Jasper looked at Peter's nervous twitching.

“This ain't some kinda intervention Ma put together is it?”

“Uh...” Peter could never lie to Jasper.

“Ma! What the hell?”

“Don't ya talk to me like that, boy! I'll tan ya hide for ya.” Ma said appearing in the doorway.

“But what are ya doin? I don't need no intervention.”

“Ya said ya needed help ropin' that there filly, and who better to help ya then ya brother and his charming wife?”

“Whoa there, Ma. What filly? What she talkin' 'bout, Jasper?” Peter asked.

“Isabella that's who!” Ma said.

“Oh, shit...” Peter said.

“My thoughts exactly.” Jasper added.

“Since when?” Peter asked.

“Not you too?” Jasper whined.

“When?”

“The day we painted my house...”

“Damn... I can't wait to tell Char - she'll have a field day with this!” Peter squealed like a girl.

“Won't have ta wait long - here comes her truck now.” Ma said.

They all looked up the drive and watched as Charlotte pulled the truck in front of the house.

“Hey y'all! What's goin' on that I had to rush over here after work? I was supposed to meet Bella for drinks!”

Jasper groaned, while Peter chuckled.

“What's a matter with Jasper?”

“Seems big brother here has a crush on a certain red head...” Peter said.

“Huh?”

“Jasper has a crush on Isabella!” Ma said.

“Oh wow, Jasper - that's great!”

“Huh?” Now it was Jasper's turn to play the dumb blond.

“I never really liked Alice anyway, and Bella is so much better for you.”

“What?” Jasper seemed to be stuck on duh.

Ma, noticing the glitch in Jasper's vocabulary, smacked him upside the head.

“Ow, Ma! What was that for?”

“Ya were stuck.” Ma shrugged and walked away.

“Since when?” Charlotte asked.

“Since painting!” Peter giggled.

“Shut it, Peter!” Jasper growled.

“Ya gonna ask her out?”

“I want to...”

“What's stoppin' ya?”

“Don't know how?”

“God... Jasper! Just ask her! I'm sure she'll say yes.” Charlotte said.

“Jasper and Bella sittin' in a tree...K-I-S-S-I-N-G!” Peter sang.

“Peter!” Jasper growled just before tackling Peter to the floor.

“Not on the porch, boys!” Ma yelled.

The two boys tumbled off the porch into the dirt driveway. Charlotte sat and watched the boys wrestle as Ma came outside carrying a pitcher of lemonade and 4 glasses.

“Who ya think will win?” Charlotte asked.

“Jasper. He always wins; he's a natural fighter, that one. Peter was always the calm one.”

The two Whitlock women watched them play fight well into the night before it finally got late enough that Peter, having work in the morning, called it quits. As always, Jasper called winner and Peter - never one to admit defeat - called do-over. That was just the way the Whitlocks were...

Chapter 24: Lock the door and Throw away the Key.

 

Isabella was concerned when Charlotte called and canceled their plans for drinks. So she called her the following day to make sure things were okay, Charlotte quickly confirmed that everything was fine and invited her out for dinner on Saturday night. Isabella was hesitant at first until Charlotte mentioned that Jasper was going to be there also. Her feelings for Jasper we still unclear at times; sure they had hung out on occasion since that first meeting, they got along great so she couldn't deny they had chemistry but still, Isabella was unsure of herself - she had only ever been on one date and that had turned out disastrous.

The week passed slowly - or at least that's how it felt to Isabella. As Friday approached, she couldn't decide if she was anxious or nervous. Dinner was set for Saturday night at eight o'clock at Roman's. Now Roman's wasn't high class but it wasn't McDonald's either. After digging through her closet for hours, Isabella decided she needed to go shopping, and she would need the perfect shopping partner to go with her: Charlotte.

Charlotte met Isabella at a strip mall in downtown Dallas. This being the first time either of the woman had shopped there, meant that they were less likely to be noticed.

*****skipping the boring shopping part*****

After finally deciding on what they were each going to wear, they exited the mall and exchanged goodbyes. Isabella returned home and hung her outfit on the back of her bedroom door, before settling in. After making and eating dinner, she finally headed off to bed.

Seven o'clock the following night, Isabella found herself standing in front of her vanity, freshly showered and dressed. Her problem was that she was unsure how she should apply make-up and do her hair. Just then her cell phone chimed, signaling that she had a new text from Charlotte.

Go Natural!

That was all it said... Now how in the world would she know what her dilemma was? Again, the phone chimed.

Because I know you!

Okay, now Isabella was officially creeped out! Laughing to herself, she decided Charlotte was right. She brushed out her long, red hair before leaving it to hang naturally. Then she added some clear lip gloss to keep her lips from chapping in the Texas heat. With one final look in the mirror, she deemed herself ready and grabbed her clutch and keys. Locking the door behind her, she left for the restaurant.

It was five minutes to eight when she pulled into the parking lot of Ramon's. She could easily make our Jasper, Peter, and Charlotte waiting by the doors. She parked as close as she could to them. She had just turned off the car when her door was opened.

“Please allow me?” Jasper said while holding out his hand for her. She placed her hand in his, smiling.

“Thank you, Jasper.”

“Not a problem, ma'am.”

“Jasper, please don't call me ma'am! It makes me feel old - call me Bella.”

“Sure, Bella.” he said while lacing her arm through his. She turned and clicked the alarm button on her key chain as they walked away. A low chirping sound signified that it had set.

Once they joined the others Charlotte hugged her while Peter kissed her cheek and told her she looked lovely, causing Isabella to blush slightly. They all entered the restaurant together. After being seated they talked happily together during dinner. The waitress brought the bill over as Charlotte excused herself to the ladies room. Peter decided it was a good time to go pay the bill, leaving Jasper and Isabella alone at the table.

“So, how is everything going?” Isabella asked.

“Okay. Alice and Edward are pissed I'm not behind bars for the fight, however I do have to pay for his medical bills and whatever other bills he got while in the hospital. Other than that, Ma has kept me busy on the Ranch.”

“So, that civil suit went through, huh?”

“Yeah but I'm not gonna complain - my house did almost kill the guy.” Jasper chuckled.

“Well, at least it's all over with now.”

“I wouldn't say that - I know them both well and neither will let this go that easily.”

“Just be careful...” Isabella said, giving him a pleading look.

“I will.” he answered, placing a comforting hand on her arm.

After a few seconds of staring at each other, Jasper broke the silence.

“Isabella, would you like to have dinner with me?”

“Didn't we just do that?”

“Yes, but I mean just the two of us... like a date?” Jasper's eyes dropped to the floor, he was nervous that she would say no.

“I would love to.” she replied as she lifted his face with her fingers under his chin.

“Really?”

“Yes, really!”

“Well then - how about Tuesday night?”



“I don't have any other plans so I don't see why not.” Isabella smiled.

“Then I'll call you with the details?”

“Sure thing! Where's your phone?” Isabella said.

Jasper and Isabella exchanged numbers. Almost as soon as they returned each others phone, Peter was back; followed closely by Charlotte.

“All set!” Peter said.

“We're ready.” Jasper said, looking at Isabella who nodded.

“Let's go then!”

They all left together. Jasper walked Isabella back to her car. Helping her in and closing the door, she rolled down her window.

“Jasper.”

“Yeah?” he turned.

“Tell Peter and Char that I had a great time.”

“Will do.” He started walking away again, only to stop when he heard her speak.

“Oh, and Jasper?” he turned to look at her.

“Yeah?”

“I'm looking forward to Tuesday.” then she rolled up her window and drove off, leaving him standing there with a goofy smirk on his face.

Seconds later, the sound of a car horn brought him back to reality.

“You just gonna stand there or are ya gonna get in?” Peter asked smiling.

Jasper just nodded and got in the backseat.

“So, did ya ask her?” Charlotte asked, turning around in her seat.

Jasper nodded.

“What did she say?”

Again, Jasper just nodded.

“Why does this seem like a one sided conversation?” Charlotte asked turning back to Peter.

“'Cause whatever she said to him before she drove off stunned him stupid!” Peter chuckled.

“Well apparently he asked her out and she said yes... She did say yes right?” she said, looking back at Jasper who once again nodded. Sighing in frustration, she turned back toward the front. The rest of the ride to the Ranch was silent.

Once they got back to the Whitlock Ranch, Jasper climbed out and went straight inside the house. He smiled at his Ma while picking her up and spinning her around. That was when Charlotte and Peter walked in. She laughed and told him to put her down and he did as told, kissing her on the forehead before heading upstairs to his room. Peter and Charlotte shook their heads at his antics.

“What in the Sam hill was that all about?” Ma asked.

“Jasper finally asked Isabella out.” Peter said.

“And it would seem she said yes.” Charlotte finished.

“What? He didn't tell you her answer?”

“Not really, all he did was nod.” Charlotte said.

“He was stunned stupid, Ma!” Peter chuckled.

“I see... well at least he asked her.”

“Yeah, now maybe he'll stop his mopin!” Charlotte added.

“I hope so...” Ma said.

                                                          ~BSB~

Alice was unhappy that she couldn't get any of Jasper's money, but figured the hell with it and would just find another way to get it. Edward on the other hand was livid, feeling cheated. He wanted a settlement, but since Jasper was found not guilty at the criminal trial, the court only made Jasper pay for his hospital bills and anything that occurred while he was in the hospital. So Edward spent the next couple of days following Jasper around trying to come up with a way to get the money he wanted out of him. It was a hard task, seeing that Jasper never really went anywhere.

It wasn't until that Saturday night that Edward got an idea: He overheard Jasper's conversation with the lady in the car - the same lady, he noted, from the court room - making a date for Tuesday night. Jasper would have to drive alone to either pick her up or to meet her there... Going home with a smile on his face, he crawled into bed and dreamed of what his plan could mean.

It was finally Tuesday and Edward had sent Alice away for a couple days to the spa. He knew she wouldn't approve of his plan but he didn't really care - one way or another, he was going to get his hands on some of that Whitlock money.

Waiting just around the bend from the driveway of the Whitlock Ranch, it was just after seven when he saw Jasper's truck pull out onto the main road leading into the city. Edward pulled out and followed behind him. The back-roads to the Ranch were dangerous if you didn't know them - even more so at night. As soon as they came to a straight away, Edward pulled up along side Jasper and rammed his car in to the side of Jasper's truck. Edward knew that Jasper wouldn't be able to tell it was him since the windows were tinted. Edward laughed as Jasper tried to pull ahead of him. Edward simply hit the gas a little more to come up along side him again. They sped around a bend in the road; seeing a car coming up ahead, Edward stayed right next to Jasper. Edward watched as Jasper tried looking for a way to get off the road and let the other person get by but couldn't. Since Edward refused to give, the other driver was forced to swerve off the side of the road. Coming to a stop the other, driver got out and called the police. Meanwhile, Edward was once again ramming into Jasper's side. It wasn't much longer before flashing lights could be seen up ahead and Edward decided that it was now time to finish this. He rammed Jasper one last time - only this time Jasper's truck ricocheted off the guard rail and came careening back at Edward, forcing them both off the side of the road and down the embankment. The last thing Edward remembered seeing was the trees right in front of him.

                                                          ~BSB~

Jasper was all dressed and ready to go on his date with Isabella. He'd been as antsy as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs.

“Boy, would ya settle yourself! Your gonna have me all jumpy soon!” Ma yelled at him.

“Yes, Ma! Sorry.”

“Well Jasper, it's time for ya ta go anyway. Ya have fun and treat her right, ya hear?”

“Yes, Ma.”

Jasper left and headed out to the main road. He was bout two miles out when a car he didn't recognize pulled up beside him. Then it rammed into him. Not knowing what else to do he sped up, trying to get away. The other car sped up too, and again rammed into him. He could see another car's headlights up ahead. He couldn't swerve to the side, and the other driver wasn't moving. The on-coming car swerved and stopped on the side of the road. The twisted game of bumper cars continued but soon the flashing lights of the police could be seen. The other driver must have called the cops. Once again, the other driver slammed into the side of Jasper's truck. The truck bounced off the guard rail and careened back out into traffic causing the other car to go off the road as well. As Jasper's truck went over the embankment it flipped. The last thing Jasper thought was that he wasn't going to make it to his date with Isabella.

Chapter 25: Where the hell was he?

 

It was now Friday. Three days had passed since the accident and Jasper still hadn't woken up. Esme, Carlisle, Charlotte, Peter, and Ma Whitlock had all been to see him. Isabella had been unreachable since Tuesday night and Charlotte thinks that Isabella believes that Jasper stood her up, so she is not answering anyone's calls. This was not something you leave in a voice mail or on an answering machine, so Charlotte didn't leave any messages.

                                                          ~BSB~

Edward had woken up the next morning. He had been taken to a hospital in Houston instead of Dallas since the police decided it was best to move him closer to his home. Edward had told the police that the other driver was trying to run him off the road and that he was merely trying to drive pass. The police asked if they should call anyone for him but he said no, he'd take care of it. Once the police left, he called Alice and told her where he was. She said she'd be there in a couple of hours.

                                                          ~BSB~

“Oh my lord,” Alice thought. “What has that crazy son of a bitch gone and done now?” she already knew that Jasper was in the hospital, and had yet to wake up. She was almost to the hospital in Houston. “Why would they bring him all the way down here?” Alice wondered.

She entered the hospital and asked for his room. The nurse on duty told her the room number but told her to wait outside - he already had visitors. Alice said that was fine and started off toward Edward's room. As she got closer, she could hear voices but the door was too thick to make out the words. Alice sat in the chair outside the door and waited. She didn't have to wait long before the door opened and a tall, beautiful strawberry blond woman walked out with two children next to her. Alice's mouth opened in shock. The woman must have caught movement in her peripheral and turned to Alice as the door closed:

“Oh, hello! Are you here to see Edward?”

“Yes, I am.”

“Who might you be?”

“Alice. Alice Cullen. And you are?”

“Alice. Oh yes! The friend Edward said was coming to see him. Cullen, you say? You would be related to Dr. Carlisle Cullen, would you?”

“Yes, he's my father. But you still haven't told me who you are?”

“I'm sorry, where are my manners? My name is Kate. I'm Edward's wife. These are our children, Tanya and Irena.”

“Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, I'm sure.”

“Yes, you too but I must be going - the children need to return to school.”

“I understand. Take care!”

“You as well.” Kate said and then disappeared.

Alice was fuming. So all his business trips to Houston were actually to come see his real family! She thought she had meant something to him but she was a fool. Entering the room, she was startled when he called to her:

“Ali, Baby, I've missed you! Come here.”

“No,”

“What do you mean, Ali? Come here!” Edward was getting angry.

“NO!” Alice said, more determined this time.

“What the hell is you problem Alice?”

“Your wife is lovely.”

“You met Katie? When? What did you say?” he growled.

“Yes, just now outside your door - I didn't say anything.”

“Good.”

“Did you do this?” Alice asked pointing to him.

“Yeah and Jasper will get all the blame. He won't even be awake to argue!”

“How could you be so stupid?”

“I'm not stupid, you useless whore! I'm getting the money from him that you couldn't.”

“So, I never meant anything to you did I?”

“Hell no! You were just a means to an end - and an occasional fuck. I was always after the money!”

“Your a worthless piece of shit, Edward Masen! I hope you rot in hell.”

“I'll save a spot for you honey - adultery is also a sin.”

Alice ran from the room as Edward laughed behind her. There was nothing she could do either - Jasper would pay the price, and she would feel guilty about it the entire time knowing the truth. But even if she told someone, no one would believe her because she burnt all her bridges with her actions towards Jasper.

                                                          ~BSB~

It didn't take long for the courts to find Jasper guilty. With Edward's statement and the eyewitness and police only seeing the part where Jasper's truck ran the other car off the road, poor Jasper was railroaded. He was sentenced to five years by the courts in Houston but with good behavior, he could be out in two years.

Since the court proceedings took place in Houston no one knew about it until the papers came across Charlotte's desk back in Dallas. Charlotte didn't know what to do, so she went to the only person who would.

With Charlotte's emotions on high, the normal hour drive to the prison only took her 40 minutes. After parking she rushed inside and then up the stairs to Isabella's office. Angela waved with a sad smile on her face; Charlotte returned it with a nod and went to Isabella office.

The atmosphere inside the office was somber, unlike it's usual joviality. When the door closed Isabella looked up, seeing who it was she almost screamed at her to get out - that was until she saw her face.

“Charlotte, what is it? What happened?” Isabella asked.

“Jasper...” was all she got out.

Charlotte's emotions over took her at that point and she fell to her knees sobbing. Isabella stood from her desk and went to comfort her friend. Only Charlotte pulled away.

“What? Charlotte why...” Isabella started but was cut of by Charlotte.

“Don't ya dare act like ya care now! Where have ya been the last week and a half? Why won't ya answer my calls? Don't ya even care about Jasper?” Charlotte couldn't finish. Isabella was mad and yelling back at her.

“Don't ya talk to me about Jasper! He's the one who stood me up, not the other way around! So right now, no - I don't give a damn about Jasper Whitlock!” as the last word left her mouth Isabella felt a sting on her cheek. Charlotte had smacked her.

“How dare ya say those things about Jasper! If ya'd pick up the damn phone ya'd of known that Jasper was run off the road Tuesday night on his way to see ya! He's been unconscious since then. He still hasn't woken up! And now this.” Charlotte said, throwing the file she held in her hands at Isabella.

Isabella was shocked. She didn't know what to say as Charlotte broke down once again. Isabella picked up the file and read the court reports. She hissed when she caught Edward's name in the proceedings; seeing the verdict and sentence made her even more angry. Her emotions were a mess - she was angry at this whole mess, angry with herself for not picking up the phone, upset and worried about Jasper. How she ever thought he would do something like standing her up was just stupid. She once again reached out to Charlotte. She didn't pull away this time, instead she leaned into Isabella and clung to her.

“What...are...we....gonna...do?” Charlotte sobbed out.

“Well, first things first - I have to go to see him.” Isabella said. “Then I'll make sure he is brought here to serve his time. He'll be in with Emmett.”

“Are....you...sure...that's wise?” Charlotte questioned with a small smile.

“Not really, no. But we don't have other options.”

Charlotte nodded her agreement. The two women then cleaned themselves up and made their way to the hospital. For Isabella, it was to see Jasper; Charlotte, on the other hand, had to tell everyone about Jasper's sentence.

Chapter 26: One Way Glass

 

The last thought Jasper had was that he wasn't gonna make his date with Isabella...

Jasper's awareness of his surroundings was faint and made him confused. Wherever he was seemed to be really dark... was he still in the truck? Had they not gotten him out yet? No, Jasper thought, that couldn't be right - the police were right there.

He began to hear distant voices in the darkness; voices that were too far away to hear exactly what they were saying. Jasper tried to yell out to them, but they didn't seem to hear him no matter how loud he yelled. Jasper's hope flared as the voices seemed to move closer. The one voice he didn't recognize, but the other one he would know better then his own: His Ma.

“Doctor, what is goin' on? What's wrong wit my boy?”

 

“Ma'am, it seems that your boy here has slipped into a coma.”

 

“A coma! Well, how the hell did that happen?”

 

“We don't know, Ma'am”

 

“Well, when's he gonna wake up?”

 

“We don't know that either...”

 

“Well, what do ya know then?”

 

“We know that he sustained multiple injuries when his vehicle crashed. He has two bruised ribs and a severe head wound which could have caused him to slip into the coma. Though the x-rays don't show any severe damage to his brain so this could just be his body's way of recovering.”

 

“So your tellin' me he probably made himself go into this coma?”

 

“Yes Ma'am. It could be the only way his body knew to deal with the trauma and allow his body to heal properly.”

 

“Can he have visitors?”

 

“Yes, Ma'am. If ya talk to him he may even be able to hear ya. They don't have proof of it yet but they say that most coma patients understand what the people around them are saying.”

 

“Well then, I guess we will just have to wait and see then, won't we?”



“Yes, Ma'am.”

 

It got quiet then. Jasper's mind was a whirl of activity; he was in a coma... and he could hear what was going on around him... but to the outside world he was simply asleep.

The time seemed to pass slowly. The only thing that marked the time for Jasper was the comings and goings of the staff and his family. Peter and Charlotte were always the last to leave; they would tell him goodnight and that someone would be there in the morning. From what he could tell, it had been almost a week since he first regained awareness.

The pattern seemed to repeat and became habit; always the same people at the same times, everyday. He could hear them talking and would listen to the conversations around him - but the one voice he longed to hear had yet to come.

Jasper's Ma was always the first of his visitors. She would come in the morning and stay till lunch time; she would read the newspaper to him and tell him all about the things going on at the farm. Then after lunch Esme would be there, talking about her job and how Carlisle was always busy here at the hospital. She would turn on the TV to the afternoon news channel. She would leave shortly before the dinner rounds were made at which time Carlisle would come in and do his regular vital checks and discuss everything that was going on before leaving. Jasper enjoyed the fact that Carlisle would tell him how he was doing physically. Closer to what he would call lights out is when Charlotte and Peter would arrive. As they told him about their day, they would work his arms and legs; their work would help in keeping his circulation flowing and prevent the muscles from getting too weak. He would look forward to their visits, always hoping Charlotte would let something slip about Isabella... but it never happened.

It was just over the one week mark when the atmosphere in the room changed. Jasper could feel it through his entire body that something was gonna happen today but didn't know what.  It was just after dinner time when he heard the tell tale voice of his sister, Charlotte. She seemed upset and angry, making him wonder if something at work had set her off. He knew that she was having trouble with another co-worker who couldn't take the hint. Yes, he knew all about Newton though he never told Charlotte that he knew. But he also knew that she could take care of herself and that if it ever got out of hand that Charlotte would come to him.

Jasper had been so lost in his thoughts that he almost missed the voice he had been longing to hear. She was leaning so close to him that he could feel her breath on his skin. She began whispering to him:

“I'm so sorry, Jasper! I should have been here sooner but I thought you didn't want anything  to do with me and that you had stood me up for some reason. I was an ass and avoiding everyone's phone calls so I just found out today that you were in here.”

 

Jasper wanted so bad to tell her that it wasn't her fault, that he would have thought the same thing. He wanted to scream out to everyone that he was here and could hear them. Then he felt something soft and wet on his cheek. He wasn't sure but he could almost imagine her lips on his skin. He sighed mentally... or so he thought.

“You felt that didn't you, Jasper? You are here with us, aren't you?”

Isabella had whispered once again in his ear. The other occupants of the room didn't seem to notice the exchange going on between the two. He wanted to answer her but didn't know if he could. So he tried to sigh again. It seemed to have worked.

“Thank God! I know you can't do much - and it's probably damn near takin' everything in you to just sigh - but I'm glad you can understand what I am sayin' to ya. Please forgive me, Jasper! I promise to make this up to you, but in order for me to do that you need to wake up - that and you're not going to like what you hear today... but know that I'm working on it.”

Jasper sighed once again and Isabella squeezed his hand. He thought that that had to be the weirdest one sided conversation on the history of the planet. Once again, his thoughts were interrupted by a very irate Charlotte:

“You won't believe what the piece of shit has done! I can't believe he would pull this shit! I will have his head for this! Just because Jasper is out of commission doesn't mean that he is gonna get away with doin' this!” Char was pissed.

“What are you talkin' about?”

“Ma, when I was at work this morning I came across a file on my desk. Now, I know that doesn't sound ominous but hear me out! Since I'm a State Prosecutor most of the criminal cases eventually come across my desk. Major crimes are the main ones I see the most of...”

“Get to the point, cupcake!” Peter said.

“Well, this one particular case came out of Houston. The file said Whitlock – and knowing that there aren't any other Whitlocks in the Texas area - I was curious. Good thing I was, too...”

“So, are ya gonna tell us what has ya so in an uproar?” Ma asked.

“This case is against Jasper! The file says that he deliberately ran someone off the road and they are gonna charge him for attempted vehicular homicide!” Charlotte's voice was raising steadily as she continued.

“But seeing has how the other driver walked away without barely scratch, he only got charged with reckless endangerment and criminal mischief. Since he was unable to attend the court proceedings, they only took the word of the other driver along with the police and a witness who was also ran off the road. Jasper has been already sentenced to 5 years.”

Gasps were heard around the room. Jasper was so pissed off that his blood pressure was starting to rise.

“That's not even the worst part!”

“Don't tell me there is more?” Peter said.

“There is - the plaintiff is none other then Edward Masen.”

Jasper was sure he heard every cuss word known to man come from the people in the room. He was also getting angrier by the minute.

A loud, fast beeping brought everyone's attention back to Jasper. His monitors were going haywire. Carlisle quickly looked over at the machines and told everyone that his blood pressure had spiked. They weren't sure what had caused this so Carlisle decided he would give Jasper something to calm him down but Isabella asked to try something first. She leaned and began whispering once again to Jasper:

“Jasper, you need to calm down hun, or Carlisle is gonna stab ya with that needle and who knows what else! I know it sucks what ya just heard but remember what I said: I'm workin' on it.”

 

She continued to whisper to him until the beeping settled back to a regular rhythm.

“There - now that's better! Keep your cool Jasper, we will figure this out. He won't get away with this. He is messing with the wrong girl! It wasn't just your date that asshat ruined. Now I come to find that he is the reason that you didn't show and that you were hurt. Now this shit. Oh, he has no idea the hell he is gonna be up against!”

 

Jasper again was thinking this whole one sided conversation was just strange as hell. He wondered how Isabella thought she could fix this? Then he wondered what the hell she meant by the wrong girl? This shit was to confusing. So he decided to just sit back and let them hash it all out. With another sigh he acknowledged Isabella.

“Everything is gonna be just fine, Jasper. Just hurry the hell up and wake up! It would be much easier if you were to participate in this conversation and let us know what really happened...”

 

Again with a sigh he let her know that he could hear her. Isabella once again kissed his cheek. Then seemed to get lost in the conversation with the others. Jasper decided that once again he would just lay there and listen...

Chapter 27: Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

Isabella had spoke to Jasper as he laid there on the hospital bed. She didn't really expect to get a response, but when he sighed she just knew that it was him responding to her. So she asked him if he could hear her just to make sure it wasn't just a normal reaction. When he sighed again she was utterly ecstatic and continued to talk to him until Charlotte's out burst. Charlotte was pissed that Edward had gotten away with this and wasn't going to stand around and wait for that asshat to do something else to her family. When Jasper's blood pressure spiked off the charts everyone got worried. They weren't sure of the cause, but Isabella was pretty sure that it was the conversation that had just taken place. Dr. Cullen was ready to give him something to calm him down but Isabella stopped him and whispered to him until he calmed.

They all continued to converse around him for hours before telling him goodnight once visiting hours were over. Isabella once again laid a brief kiss to his cheek before leaving with Peter and Charlotte.

The ride back to Peter and Charlotte's was quiet. It wasn't until they walked into the house and the door shut that Peter's Spanish inquisition started.

“So, do you wanna tell me what is really goin' on or are we still keeping everything all covert opps?” Peter asked with annoyance in his voice.

“What are you talkin' bout, Peter?” Charlotte asked.

Peter turned to Isabella and asked:

“Who the hell are you Isabella?”

Peter always called her Bella, so to hear him call her out with the use of her full name startled her.

“What?”

“You heard me who are you?”

“Peter, she doesn't have to say anything to you. Now lay off.” Charlotte got in Peter's face. Just as Peter was about to fight back Isabella stopped them.

“No, Charlotte - he's right. Y'all have a right to know who you are around. Char, you know because of work but they have no idea and I can understand why they want to know.”

“But Bella, you don't have to tell them anything! If they don't like you for who you are then what is the point?”

“I know, Char...”

“What the hell are you two ramblin' on about? Of course I like Isabella!”

There it was again. Isabella wasn't sure if it was because he was mad or that he was scared.

“I'm sorry, Peter. I should have been upfront about it from the beginning.”

“Upfront about what? What are you hiding?”

“First, can I ask a question then I will answer all of yours?”

“Fine.” Peter said, all huffy.

“Why do you keep calling me Isabella? You have never called me by my full name when we are alone together and now you have referred to me that way the last two times you have spoken to me.”

“I'm angry. I know you both have been hiding something from the rest of us. I've let it go until now and not been too worried about it since you seem to have a positive affect on my brother and I didn't want to upset him by callin' you out in front of him. But now he is hurt and Charlotte has once again had to run to you to fix what is wrong with him. So, I will ask again: Who. Are. You?”

“Fair enough, Peter. You have to promise you won't say anything to anyone else yet. I would like to tell them myself.”

“Fine. But you had better do it soon.”

“Okay.”

“So?”

“My full name is Isabella Marie Swan.”

“Whoa – wait - what? Swan? As in the Swan's?” Peter looked down right shocked.

“Yes, Peter.” Isabella whispered brokenly. She knew what comes next, once the shock and awe wears off then the fear kicks in and once again she would be alone. Peter wouldn't let his Charlotte near her anymore. She felt the tear slide down her cheek as she stared at the floor.

“Whoa there, sweet cheeks! What's with the tears?” Peter asked, lifting her chin up so she was eye level with him.

“This is how it always starts... Your shocked, then awed, then you get scared and then like all the others - you run. You won't let Charlotte be friends with me anymore and I will once again be alone. Like it always is. The only one who has never judged me was Emmett.” Isabella said, crying softly now.

“Bella, you look at me right this minute! I will never stop being your friend and Peter could never stop me from being your friend. He doesn't own me! And I love ya like my sister.” Charlotte said, looking right at Isabella.

Isabella jumped up and hugged Charlotte to her tightly. It seemed that both of them would have their share of tears to shed today.

“Bella, I'm sorry - I didn't mean to upset ya. It is a shock that you are a Swan. But that would never make me change my opinion of you. You have befriended me and Char without a problem; you treated my brother like your friend even though you had never met him before, and you helped him to smile again. Our Ma is quite taken with ya, too. I truly am sorry, Bella.” Peter finished.

“Oh Peter.” Isabella sobbed throwing herself at Peter this time.

He wrapped her in his arms and shushed her. He was never one for seeing a girl in tears. It tore him up, even more so this time as he was the one to cause it.

“Now let's sit down and talk about this shall we?” Peter said softly.

They all took a seat on the living room sofa.

“Where would you like to begin?” Isabella asked.

“Let's start with how you met my Char?” Peter said.

The girls explained how Charlotte had to meet with different prison wardens to find a place for a murderer to go. Her first two meetings were a bust so she decided to take a break and get ice cream in the park. That was where she stumbled upon a beautiful girl reading under a tree. Isabella blushed when Charlotte called her beautiful. They then told him how Isabella asked Charlotte to join her, how they both talked about their day and said how they both had a meeting that afternoon - and how it turned out that they were meeting each other. Isabella said how shocked Charlotte was when she found out that Isabella was the warden and not some big fat smelly ogre man who would hit on her and try to grope her. Peter snorted and the girls laughed. Isabella explained how they often got together for lunch either at her office or at the diner in between Char's office and the prison. Peter put two and two together and figured that that was how Isabella knew Jenks since Jenks would have to go for meetings with inmates if he was representing any of them. Peter laughed when Charlotte told him that Isabella was the one that caused the scene at the Police station the night Jasper got arrested. The rest, as they say, was history.

“So why would ya think that I would think any differently about ya if I knew who ya were?” Peter asked.

“Everyone does! They see me as the rich, stuck up, smart girl who was givin' everything.”

“I don't see ya that way...” Peter said.

“How do ya see me, Peter?”

“I see a strong, funny, caring person who is willing to fight for what she wants and protects her friends fiercely. Ya are tough cause ya have to be while working in an all-mans world. I respect ya for who ya are as a person.”

“Thank you, Peter.”

“Ya welcome, Bella. Ya have to remember who ya talkin' to - Jasper and I are Whitlocks. We come from money – hell, some of the oldest money in Texas! Our name is just as notable as yours - for different reasons of course - but we do understand. Why do you think Jasper joined the military? If he didn't, he would have met ya years ago since he would have been stayin' in ya reputable housing establishment.” Peter said, laughing.

“Peter, is that a polite way of saying your brother would have been in prison? And why would he have been?”

“Well, Jasper isn't known for sitting back and keepin his cool. He as always been a fighter, in the literal sense. That boy has more scars from fights then a double-D titted woman at Mardi Gras has beads.”

That caused them all to laugh.

“Anyway... If he wouldn't have been in the military I think he would have found out about The Bitch and her lover long before now. And he would have been stayin' with you for much longer then the 5 years that dick has him saddled with.”

“Don't you worry yourself none, Peter. Jasper will be accepting my southern hospitality soon enough; I'm gonna pull some strings and make sure he is stayin' here in Dallas and not goin' to one of those disgusting dog kennels out there in Houston.”

“Ya can do that?”

“I'm a Swan - of course I can.”

“I see you know how to use the name if ya need ta...”

“Very much so! And I will not let this asshat get away with ruinin' my date.”

“Is it just about the date or the man you were supposed to go on the date with?” Charlotte asked. Isabella blushed the darkest shade of red known to man.

“I knew it!” Charlotte cheered.

“Knew what?” Peter scratched his head.

“Isabella likes Jasper... very much.” Charlotte giggled.

“Really?” Peter asked, looking at Isabella causing her to blush harder if that was even possible.

“Well, I'll be damned!” Peter finished.

“Just don't say anything to anyone Peter... I don't wanna rush anything after the whole ex-wife debacle. Speaking of the Wicked Wench - why haven't we heard anything about her?”

“Maybe Edward left her ass since she could no longer get her hands on any of the Whitlock fortune, and she is off licking her wounds somewhere...” Charlotte answered.

“I don't think so... I also don't think were have heard the last from her either.” Peter said.

“She better stay away from Jasper.” Charlotte added.

“She has to get through me first.” Isabella hissed, surprising Peter and Charlotte. They both looked at each other and smirked.

“Nothing like a woman scorned to bring hell on earth to our doorstep!” Peter laughed.

“Watch it Peter, or you will find yourself sharing a cell with your brother!” Charlotte chided, causing Isabella and herself to laugh at the look on Peter's face.

Chapter 28: Back through the Looking Glass.

Alice was pissed that Edward would hide the fact that he was married with children from her. Apparently they were far more alike then she thought. But now that was over. She had no one. Well for now at least. Alice took her card from her pocket and flipped it over in her hand a couple times. Perhaps if she attempted to change who she was Jasper would remember the love he had for her and would take her back. She decided that a visit was also due.

Alice had made her way to the local mall in Houston. She planned on a complete make over. Dying her black hair blond, and getting it styled perfectly, and purchasing a whole new wardrobe. Once that was finished she started making her way back to Dallas.

Alice entered the hospital her father worked at, and went directly to the nurses station. Heidi the head nurse looked up.

“How can I help you?”

“I'm looking for Jasper Whitlock's room.”

“Are you family?”

“Yes, I'm his sister.”

“He is in room 714.”

“Thank you.”

Alice began walking back toward the elevators. No one seemed to notice her now that she looked different since she had made such a drastic change. Once Alice was outside his room she listened to see if anyone was with him, but it seemed that the room was empty. She walked in and saw how bad off Jasper was. She looked over the chart at the end of his bed quickly: a coma. What had Edward done? She took a seat next to Jasper, taking his hand in hers as she leaned over and whispered to him:

“Jasper, I know you don't wanna hear from me right now and that you probably hate me but I want you to know I had nothing to do with this - it was all Edward. He was using me to get to your money. He's married Jasper. Married! He has a beautiful wife and two lovely children. What the hell? I don't understand! I'm sorry I hurt you and I want you to know that I will do everything in my power to get you back. I will earn your trust back and once again we'll be together like we were meant to be. But I must go for now - I love you Jasper.” Alice kissed his cheek and disappeared from the room.

                                                          ~BSB~

Jasper couldn't believe that two faced bitch would have the nerve to show up here at the hospital.  The staff all knew to keep her away from his room. How did she even get in there? Why would she even try to win him over after what she did to him? Jasper wished he could tell her to fuck off and get a life; to get out of his room and never come back. He was also hoping that someone would appear with some bleach and wipe that bitches germs off his face. Why today of all days did Esme have to come late?

                                                          ~BSB~

As Alice drove away she knew it would take awhile to win Jasper back and that she had to prove to him that she loved him. But what could she do to prove it? Then the perfect idea popped into her head: Edward! She could kill two birds with one stone. She could get revenge for him lying to her all this time, and get payback for Jasper.

                                                          ~BSB~

Esme was running late to visit Jasper this morning. She wasn't worried about Jasper getting lonely because she was unsure if he even understood them. She pulled in the hospital's parking lot, parked in the visitors section, and made her way to Jasper's room. Once she entered the room she automatically knew something was wrong. Jasper's blood pressure was up slightly from normal, his facial features looked agitated, but what stood out the most was the bright red lipstick mark on his cheek. Esme knew it wasn't from any of his normal visitors, for none of the girls wore red lipstick. Isabella didn't wear lipstick at all, only a slight gloss. Esme instantly ran to the bathroom to get a wash cloth to clean it off. The moment the wash cloth hit his face he seemed to relax.

“That's better isn't it Jasper, dear?” Esme spoke as she wiped his cheek off. Jasper sighed in response just like he does for Isabella.

“Who was in to see you Jasper? I didn't know anyone else was scheduled to visit? Was it Isabella?”

Jasper sighed once again but his blood pressure stayed stable.

“No, not Isabella she doesn't wear lipstick does she. What about Charlotte?”

Again a sigh. But no blood pressure spike.

“No, I didn't think so either. Your Ma has never worn lipstick in her entire life so I know it wasn't her. A nurse perhaps?”

A sigh fell once again from his lips but it seemed to Esme he frowned some also.

“Wrong again, huh? Well, who could it be? No one but those on the list are allowed to come see you and all the nurses know what Alice looks like so there is no way it was her.”

Jasper's blood pressure spiked extremely high when Esme said Alice. Esme gasped.

“Jasper honey are you tryin to tell me that Alice was in here?”

His pressure spiked again and he sighed.

“So you are here with us! Oh Jasper, honey - that is a good sign! Who else have you shown this too? Isabella, I bet!”

Jasper sighed long and deep. Almost like the sound a baby makes as it finally falls into a peaceful slumber.

“Oh Jasper! You have it bad for her don't ya? Never mind, I already know the answer to that. So I take it then you heard the whole conversation about good ol' Edward then?”

Jasper's pressure spiked slightly this time.

“Well that explains the monitor freak out that day. You must have been really pissed off hearing all that!”

Jasper sighed once again. He was getting tired of this one way conversation shit - he wanted to be awake. He wanted to tell them that Alice was in here. He wanted to ask the questions that were swirling around inside his head.

“How did Alice get in here?” Esme seemed to be asking herself. “Jasper, honey - you sit tight; I'll be right back. I'm gonna have a talk with the nurse at the information desk downstairs.”

Jasper felt her leave the room and once again he was alone with his thoughts. Well, at least he and Esme could have some form of a conversation now. As long as she only asked yes or no questions. He could sigh for yes and spike his blood pressure for no, or vise versa.

                                                          ~BSB~

Walking up to Heidi at the front desk Esme was determined to find out how Alice got in to Jasper's room.

“Heidi, dear?”

“Oh hello Mrs. Cullen, what can I help you with today?”

“I would like a log of all the visitors that entered Mr. Whitlock's room today.”

“I'll get that for you right now.”

Esme watched as Heidi printed out a list of visitors.

“Here you are, Mrs. Cullen.”

Esme took the list and checked it over slowly. She noticed that Jasper's Ma was in this morning like always, Carlisle checked on him twice and his sister was in...

“Heidi dear, it says here that Mr. Whitlock's sister visited?”

“Yes Ma'am, she was here just before you came.”

“That can't be right? Charlotte is working this morning, she won't be out till later this afternoon.”

“Oh, Mrs. Cullen – No, it wasn't Miss Charlotte.”

“Did you recognize this woman, Heidi? Could it have been my daughter, Alice?”

“No, Ma'am - this woman had shoulder-length blond hair.”

“Are you 100% sure that it was not my Alice?”

“I'm positive, Ma'am.”

“Thank you, Heidi.”

“Mrs. Cullen, if you like you could go see Frank at the security office. He would have the footage from the camera's here at the desk so you could see for yourself and know for sure.” Heidi said.

“Thank you, Heidi.”

Esme left and headed back the corridor to where the security office was located. She knocked on the door and waited for someone to answer.

“Hello, how may I help you?” a tall man wearing a officers uniform asked.

“Are you Frank?”

“That's the name - who may I ask, are you?”

“My name is Mrs. Cullen.”

“Oh, your the head doc's wife?”

“Yes.”

“Well, what can I help ya with today?”

“I would like to see the security footage from the camera's at the front desk, please.”

“What exactly are we looking for?”

“A young woman got back to see one of the patients and they claim to be someone they are not. I want to check and see if I can identify the person who entered his room.”

“Well let's see what we can find shall we Ma'am?”

“Yes - thank you, very much.”

“It's my job Ma'am - no thanks needed.”

Esme and Frank looked over the footage. It didn't take long for them to find the young woman that proclaimed to be Jasper's sister. Esme had Frank zoom in on the girl's face: it was indeed Alice! No wonder nobody recognized her – she looked so different. Esme thanked Frank once again and - along with a newly printed picture of the new Alice - she headed back to Jasper's room.

Chapter 29: What Happens Next?

Esme returned to Jasper's room with the photo of Alice taken from the security camera. She was pissed that with just a simple change to her daughters' appearance could let her get passed the people on staff. Resuming her seat next to Jasper, she decided to let him know everything that was going on now that she knew he could really hear her.

“Jasper, hun - you're right, it was Alice. She got past the people at the front desk by claiming to be your sister. She has dyed her hair and styled it differently. I know, it's no excuse - they should have known better.”

Jasper's blood pressure spiked.

“Now, calm down! You do that too many times and they're gonna send Carlisle in here to see what I'm doin to ya! And I have a feeling your not quite ready to let them know you're awake yet, are ya?”

Jasper sighed.

“Alright, then. Well, I have had copies made of the picture I got at the security office and had it handed out to the staff at the front desk along with the staff here on your floor. So she shouldn't be able to get in again. Now from what I read of the log, you're gonna have a room full of visitors here shortly. I will be staying, of course, to let everyone know what is going on and show them Alice's new look.”

Jasper's pressure spiked only slightly this time.

“Do you want to know who is all coming to see you?”

A soft sigh.

“Peter, Charlotte, ya Ma, Carlisle and I do believe Isabella is on the list now as well.”

Jasper's heart rate picked up slightly at the mention of Isabella's name. Esme chuckled loudly and said:

“Boy, you do have it bad don't ya? Even her name sends your heart a flutter!”

A small rumble echoed from Jasper's throat.

“Oh, don't you growl at me, mister! I know young love when I see it! I think it's the sweetest thing ever.”

Jasper huffed.

“Well, at least I'm getting more reactions then just sighs and pressure spikes. We might be able to work with that - it might mean your coming round.”

Jasper sighed once again and relaxed back to wait for everyone to show up. He too was glad that he could communicate a little more then before and maybe Esme was right – maybe he was starting to come out of it.

                                                          ~BSB~

Isabella had spent the entire morning at her office making phone calls, pulling all the strings she could and calling in every favor she was owed. She was trying her damnedest to keep Jasper from having to go all the way to a prison in Houston. He belonged here with his family - with her. Not that she would admit that to anyone! Sure, Peter and Charlotte knew she liked Jasper... and they also knew that she might even be slightly attracted to him. Isabella knew it was more then that. She felt drawn to him. His voice called to her, his eyes saw through the walls she built up around her, his touch caused her skin to catch fire... She could only imagine what he could do to the rest of her senses.

She finally got the okay from the courts in Houston for Jasper to stay in Dallas. And to say she was thrilled would be understating her state of mind at that precise moment. Now all she had to do was prepare Emmett for his new companion. Isabella chuckled to herself at that one. He was whining about it being empty in his block now that two of his previous tenants had been released. She knew he was going to freak about this one though. She had yet to tell Emmett everything that had gone on with Jasper from the beginning so this was going to be one long ass conversation. She phoned the Cell Block A and Emmett answered. She asked him to come to the office and to leave one of the other guys in charge for a while - she needed to speak to him about a new occupant. Emmett said he would be right over.

Ten minutes later and Emmett was sitting in front of Isabella's desk in her office. Isabella wasn't sure how to start this conversation. She was fidgeting with her fingers when Emmett called her to attention.

“Bella, what's goin' on? You're as nervous as a virgin on her first date.”

“Way to break the tension, Em.”

“You know it! Now what's on your mind? And what's this about a new tenant in my motel for the criminally stupid?”

“Well, Em - first off, I guess I should ask you what you think of Jasper?”

“He's a good guy and his family is awesome. Why you got a thing for him?” Emmett asked, and Isabella blushed.

“I see. I knew ya were sweet on him since the picnic. Now, spill it!”

“Fine - I'm gonna start at the beginning. And no questions until I finish, okay?”

“Gotcha.”

“Okay - well, you know how I met Charlotte? Well it was the night Jasper first got back from overseas. I get this frantic phone call from Char saying that her brother-in-law got taken to jail 'cause he caught his two-faced hoe of a wife with another man in his bed. Yeah, I know - that's fucked up. Anyway, so I rush to meet her at the police station only to find out that they won't release him until the interrogator speaks to him and that he won't be there till Monday.”

Emmett nods and waves his hand in a please continue type motion. Isabella takes a deep breath and continues.

“Well, when he got out on Monday he filed for divorce. He called Peter and Peter went over and stayed with him that night. I wound up staying with Charlotte in her guest room. The next morning Peter and Jasper come in just as breakfast was finished. Charlotte said those two could smell it half way across town and would show just as she finished. She was right. So we all sat and talked and showed Jasper the footage from his surveillance videos of his house – which, by the way, is probably as secure as Fort Knox! So, after that he got quiet. I being me had to break the silence and asked what he was gonna do next. He said he was gonna wipe her out of his house. So we all went over to his place and striped it down - all except for his office and the dining room table, which belonged to Gramma Whitlock.”

Isabella stopped for a minute to breath and take a sip of her coffee which was now getting rather cold. Emmett looked like he was absorbing everything.

“You ready to continue?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay well after all that we had one hell of a good time repainting every room in the place. Let me tell you, if you would have seen it you would have swore either a single woman or a gay couple lived there. There was no sign what so ever that a Marine was ever in that house! That was the night before you busted me in the parking lot. Now Jasper has an ex-wife who was cheating on him with one of their best friends, she was only ever married to him for his money, and now the friend is trying to get it anyway he can...”

“Wait. Jasper's ex-wife cheated on him with his best friend? She only ever married him for his money? And what do you mean the best friend - whom I assume is no longer given that title - is trying to get his money? How the hell is he doing that?”

“Okay – yes, his wife cheated on him for two years while he was overseas. She was only after the Whitlock money 'cause, from what the lawyer said, when he gave her the divorce papers she was only worried about her stuff and what she was gonna get. As for the best friend - he is trying everything under the sun. He thought he could get some when they put Jasper in jail that first weekend cause Edward - aka the best friend - hit his head on the counter in Jasper's house after he tripped over one of Alice's bags when he tried to attack Jasper. When that backfired, he tried to sue him for personal damage in a civil suit but that too didn't work out. Now I have a feeling that he is trying another way: he is gonna use this recent attack on Jasper to try and sue again for a chance to get his hands on the money.”

“And again - how is he gonna do that?”

“Tuesday of last week I was supposed to meet Jasper for a date, he never showed. I was pissed and thought he stood me up. I avoided all of Charlotte's calls. Then, just the other day, she shows up here a blubbering mess and throws this file at me. It seems that Jasper was being charged with criminal mischief and reckless endangerment. He was sentenced to 5 years from a Houston court. I have spent all morning on the phone making sure that we could get him here and not anywhere else.”

“Wait! Are you tellin' me that Jasper is the new inmate on my cell block?”

“Yes, Emmett. That Edward douche bag played hardball by using the police and a witness against Jasper. And since Jasper has been in a coma, he wasn't there to dispute it.”

“Whoa - hold up! Jasper is in a coma? And I'm just now finding out about it?”



“Sorry, Em - I just found out the other day. I'm goin to see him later this afternoon and give them the good news that he will be staying here. Well at least I will be telling Peter and Charlotte.”

“Why just them?”

“No one else knows...” Isabella trailed off.

“You saying you haven't told any of them besides Peter and Charlotte who you are?”

“I only just told Peter that night; right after we left the hospital when I saw Jasper.”

“Oh, Bella! What are you so afraid of? They all love you already and your keeping things from them!”

“I know and it sucks, but I don't want them to be angry with me... I also don't want them to run like everyone else always does.”

“I didn't and Charlotte didn't.”

“I don't know why you both didn't... there must be something wrong with you two.”

“What did Peter do?”

“Well, he got all huggy with me when I started to cry... I thought he wouldn't let Charlotte be my friend anymore.”

“Bells, you know that would never happen. From what I have seen of little Charlotte, she would kick his ass and ask questions later!” They both laughed. Isabella knew he was right. She would have to tell everyone and maybe she would do so tonight...

“Your right, Em - I think I will tell everyone tonight. We are all supposed to meet there after supper cause Esme wanted to tell us something.”

“Well you tell the Jazzman that I will be there tomorrow afternoon since I have it off.”

“Sure thing... Wait no you don't! You have to work tomorrow.”

“I have tomorrow afternoon off.” Emmett stared at her.

“Fine! But only cause your going to visit him...”

“Gettin' soft on him, huh?”

“Oh, Emmett - we will talk about that some other time!”

“You are! Oooohhhhhh - Bellsy and Jazzman sittin' in a tree...”

“You know you sound just like Peter.”

“Well, like you said, we will talk about this later. Meet me at the bar around say... 8ish?”

“Deal.”

                                                          ~BSB~

Supper time had come and gone and Jasper was starting to feel crowded with all these people in his room. He knew that they needed to discuss this whole Alice thing, but did they really have to do it in his room? He listened as they all talked quietly amongst themselves. They were waiting for Isabella before they started the main conversation. Every now and then one of them would come talk to him for a while.

Once Isabella came in they all started in on the subject of Alice. Jasper was sure that Isabella's head was spinning off in different directions... He could almost feel her anger radiating off her. She came over to Jasper and sat down in the seat next to him. Taking his hand in hers she began to whisper to him:

“Jasper, I'm sorry that she got to you and I promise it will never happen again. Esme told me that you were pissed about it - what did she do to ya that had ya pressure so high?”

Her breath across his skin was calming until he thought about Alice's lips on his skin. His pressure spiked slightly, but enough to let both Isabella and Esme know that he was communicating. Esme came over to Isabella's side and asked her what she wanted to know.

“I asked him what Alice did ta him that had his pressure so high when you got here yesterday.” Isabella whispered to Esme.

“Oh, Isabella, hon - I'm not sure I want to tell you that... You might wind up in a bed next to him cause your blood pressure will go through the roof with as angry as you are...”

“Esme, what did she do?”

“Well from what he told me; in his own way of course, she spoke to him and then she...”

“She what - Esme?” Isabella whisper growled.

“She kissed his cheek. I saw the red lipstick mark on his cheek and rushed to wipe it off. I knew none of us wore that color so that is what originally brought about my search to find out who was here to see him...”

Isabella squeezed Jasper's hand harder then what she normally would and he groaned.

“Sorry, Jasper...” she whispered to him.

Suddenly Carlisle's voice broke through the threesome's almost silent conversation.

“Well, Ladies and Gentlemen - I got word this morning from the lawyers that as soon as Jasper wakes and is cleared to leave, he will be staying in a penitentiary right here in Dallas.”

“How did that happen?” Ma Whitlock asked.

Peter and Charlotte sent a covert glance to Isabella who smiled and gave a small nod. The grins that spread across their faces was almost enough encouragement for her to tell them all that she was the reason. But what Ma Whitlock said next pushed her to reveal it was all her.

“Well, once I find the person who made it possible for me to have my son stay so close to home, I may just kiss them...”

Charlotte and Peter bust up laughing, drawing everyone's attention to them.

“And what has ya to bustin' at the seems?” Ma asked.

Peter and Charlotte just shook their heads. Isabella knew that now was the time to come out so to speak.

“The person you may just kiss would be me...” Isabella said quietly.

Every head in the room turned to her. Isabella looked down not wanting to meet their eyes.

“Child, what are ya sayin'?” Ma asked.

Isabella finally looked up and met the eyes of Peter and Charlotte who nodded enthusiastically.

“I'm the reason that Jasper will be staying in Dallas instead of having to travel all the way to Houston.”

“How?” Carlisle asked.

“Yes - How?” Ma asked.

“Carlisle, did they tell you the name of the Penitentiary?”

“Yes, he'll be staying in the Swan Penitentiary - why?”

“Well... my name is Isabella Swan.”

The room went silent. She knew they all knew about her family. The feeling of hands on her shoulders pulled her out of her thoughts. She looked up to see Peter and Charlotte standing behind her. Neither said a word but stood giving her silent reassurance.

“So... you're saying that you own the prison that Jasper will be goin' to?” Esme broke the silence.

“Yes, Ma'am.”

“How?” Carlisle asked once again.

“I spent all morning on the phone calling in favors and pulling any strings I could to keep him from having to go to Houston... I know what the prisons are like down there and they are no place for him to stay. At least this way you all would still be able to see him, and know he was well taken care of...” she trailed off as she caught the look on everyone's face.

They were all in a state of shock. Well, all except for Peter and Charlotte who were standing with her.

“Charlotte? Peter? Did ya know about all this?” Ma asked

“I have known the whole time. Peter just found out the other day when we left the hospital after Isabella's visit with Jasper.”

“How did you find out Charlotte?” Esme asked.

“Well, y'all know I'm a state prosecutor and, well, I also have the fun job of meeting with the wardens of different prisons in order to find placements for the criminals that are found guilty. Well, Isabella was one of the wardens I met with and we just sort of hit it off and have been friends ever since.”

“Well, that makes sense...” Carlisle said. He was always the logical one.

“So, how did Peter meet her?”

“The night Jasper came home I called Isabella to have her come to the police station with me. She could get more information then I could. She gave one hell of a show and made the whole station scramble like cockroaches from a flame. Peter and Mr. Jenks came out and Jenks' jaw almost hit the floor when he saw her. They told us that Jasper would be staying the weekend so we gave Isabella a copy of the footage to look over after we went to dinner. Then she came over the following day and we hung out for the rest of the weekend.”

“So, when were y'all gonna tell us who she was?” Ma asked.

“Ma, that was my fault - I told them not to tell anyone because I wanted to do it when I was ready. I didn't want y'all to shun me just for what my name means...” Isabella said, sadly.

The shocked gasps rang around the room as Peter and Charlotte squeezed her shoulders tighter. The room remained silent for a long time before Isabella spoke again.

“I'm sorry to have hid this from all of you. I understand if you don't want me here... I will just be goin'.” Isabella leaned down and kissed Jasper's cheek then whispered a goodbye to him.

Isabella then hastily made her way out of the room not looking at anyone. Once she hit the hallway she ran. Not knowing where she was heading, she just let her feet guide her.

                                                          ~BSB~

Back in Jasper's room it was still so quiet you could hear a pin drop. That was until Peter spoke.

“What the hell is wrong with all of ya?”

“Peter Whitlock, don't ya talk to ya Ma like that!” Ma Whitlock said.

“I'm not sure that ya are my Ma! My Ma would have said something or done something wonderful for a one woman who in only a few weeks has made her oldest son smile more then he has in the last eight years... The woman who just guaranteed that ya son was stayin here in Dallas in one of the most prestigious prisons in the state instead of a warn down gutter house in Houston... The woman who I would love to one day call my sister, but that may never happen now.” Peter was pissed. You could here it when he spoke. He didn't yell and he didn't scream but his calm tone spoke volumes.

“But Peter - she lied to us.”

“No, Ma - she didn't. She just left some stuff out, and I don't really blame her. Just by the way ya's acted, you proved her worst fears correct. She knew ya's would cast her out if ya knew who she really was, so from the beginning she was always just Isabella. Our friend. Hell, I even made her cry when I found out who she was but then I thought about how close we are and that no matter what her last name was, she was still just my friend Bella. I have never in my life been disappointed in ya Ma... until now. You know how it is to be an outcast. The Whitlock name has always brought unwanted attention, glares, jealousy and many of the other unwanted emotions - that's exactly why Jasper was constantly in fights all the time.”

“I'm sorry, Peter...” Ma said.

“Sorry isn't gonna fix this! Char - I'm gonna go see if I can find Bella.”

“Okay, Peter - bring her back to the house I will meet ya there.”

Peter gave Charlotte a kiss and then glared at everyone as he left the room.

“I'm truly sorry, Charlotte - please give Isabella my apologies, but I must be getting back to my rounds.” Carlisle said.

“I will but I have a feeling she would appreciate it much more coming from you.”

He nodded and headed back out the door.

“Charlotte...” Esme looked sad.

“I know, Esme. It's a shock, but you have to understand that Isabella has gone through this her entire life. Her only real friend until Peter and I was Emmett.”

“I'm so sorry - I didn't mean to freeze up like that! Isabella is a wonderful girl and I hope she will forgive me...” Esme said.

“I'm sure she will once we find her... which could be hard. Seeing as if she doesn't want to be found ,there are thousands of places she could go.”

“I hope Peter finds her.” Esme said, sitting next to Jasper.

Charlotte looked at Ma. The two women stood staring at one another until Ma simply turned away and walked out. Charlotte looked to Esme and Jasper.

“Esme, I'm gonna go have a few private words with Ma. If I don't return be sure to give Jasper my love and tell him goodnight for me.”

“Sure will, Charlotte. Give Isabella my love also.”

“Will do.”

Charlotte left then leaving Esme alone with Jasper. Esme took the chance to talk to Jasper about everything that happened seeing as he simply just laid there taking everything in.

“Jasper, hun - what do you think of all this mess? Do you think Isabella did the right thing hiding who she was?”

Jasper had listened to the whole situation from beginning to end. He didn't let anything show in his features or emotions the entire time. He knew either Esme or Isabella would stay and ask him about it. What he didn't expect was what happened when Isabella told them her last name. After Isabella explained everything along with Peter and Charlotte no one said anything. Then Isabella ran. Jasper could almost feel her heartbreak as his own. He had never wished as hard as he did just then that he could talk to her, run after her.  He wasn't sure how to answer Esme's question. He understood how it felt to be an outcast. He protected himself and Peter from it everyday growing up. Coming from money, and not just any money but one of the more noticeable families in Texas was always a burden and a cause for others to ridicule you. So he knew how to answer her. Jasper spiked his pressure and groaned.

“Okay so I take it you aren't happy about any of this either?” Esme asked

Again he groaned.

“What are ya tryin to say Jasper? It would be so much easier if ya could just wake up.” Esme sighed.

Just then Jasper clenched his fist. Esme saw and gasped.

“Jasper - ya moved your hand! Try that again.”

Jasper tried again and succeeded in clenching his fist again. Esme squealed like a young girl.

“Jasper, that is great! You're getting closer to waking.”

Jasper sighed.

“Oh Jasper, don't be so pessimistic.”

Jasper grumbled.

“So are you angry that Isabella keep her name a secret?”

Jasper sighed, then clenched his hand twice.

“So, you're not angry?”

Again he clenched his hand twice.

“Wow, this hand thing is so much easier then trying to decipher your grunts and groans.”

Jasper grumbled again.

“Yeah, yeah - I know you would talk if ya could.”

Jasper sighed.

“Well, Jasper since you heard everything and I know your not angry, I guess I should be heading home. I will let Isabella know when I see her that you can now move your hands. It should make your conversations easier.” Esme kissed his forehead and told him goodnight.

Jasper laid there thinking over everything he had heard today. Isabella was a Swan - in more ways then one he thought. She was beautiful and graceful much like the majestic bird her name represented.  As well as the fact that her shortened nickname that Peter had given her meant Beautiful in Italian. 

The name Swan was respected and well know throughout Texas. Jasper knew all about it because of his bouts with the law before he joined the Marines. He was sure he was stopped and ticketed several times by Isabella's father growing up. Texas Ranger Charlie Swan... He was the one who put the idea in his head to join the Marines and use his talents for something good instead of the trouble he was constantly using it for. Now all he had to do was wake up and tell her that her father may have very well saved his life, and given him something even more special: Her!

Chapter 30: Come out come out where ever you are!

When Isabella finally stopped running she found herself once again in the park under the tree where she first met Charlotte. Unsure of how long she had been running, she sunk to the ground and pulled her knees up to her chest and began to cry.  Why did she listen to Emmett? Why did she let Peter and Charlotte get her hopes up that they would understand?What would Jasper think of all this? Was that the last time she would see him? These thoughts spinning around her head caused her chest to feel tight and her to gasp for breath. She was having a panic attack.  Her tears were flowing freely down her face as she tried to pull in air for breath and tried to calm herself. Nothing she did seemed to help and soon the darkness quickly enveloped her...

                                                          ~BSB~

Peter had called the prison and asked for Emmett, he told Emmett of what happened at the hospital and asked if he had seen or heard from Isabella. Emmett told him he hasn't heard from her and that she hadn't returned to the prison office. Peter gave Emmett his cell and told him to call if he heard anything. Emmett gave his word and disconnected the call. Peter continued to look everywhere he could think of she would go. As it got later and later Peter began to worry about the many things that could happen to her.  As he was about to give up and go home when the screams of an older woman caught his attention.

“Help - help! Someone please! This young woman needs help!”

Peter ran over to the woman.



“Who needs help, ma'am?”

“I found this young woman unconscious in the park. I tried to wake her but she wouldn't respond. I think she needs a doctor.” The elderly woman said franticly.

“Well, it's a good thing that I happen to be a doctor. Show me where she is.”

“Oh, thank you! Thank you! No one would stop - they all thought I was some crazy old bag lady.”

“I would have stopped no matter what. You could have been hurt yourself, and that's just how my Ma raised me.”

“Well, ya Ma must be a good woman.”

“She is but right now I'm kinda upset with her.”

“What did she do - if I may ask?”

“She upset a good friend of mine. A friend who was doin' so much for my family and she just shut her out.”

“I'm sorry to hear that...”

“Me too. I'm looking for my friend now. She took off before I could stop her and she has been gone for hours now.”

As they neared the spot that the woman was laying at, Peter gasped.

“Do you know her?” the older woman asked.

“Yes - my god that is the friend I was just telling you about! What happened?”

“I don't know. I was walking through the park here on my way home and saw her laying there. I walked over to her and tried to wake her but she wouldn't respond.”

Peter ran to Isabella. He took her pulse, finding that it was very weak but it was still there.

“I need to get her somewhere warm and lay her down. I think she passed out.”

“Oh dear!”

Peter reached for his cell and called Charlotte.

“Char, honey - I found her. She isn't well and I need for you to come pick us up at the park that you first met her in.”

…..

“No honey, I don't know what is wrong. She is unconscious and I can't ask her.”

…..

“I know, Char - could you just come pick us up? I have to get her some place warm.”

…..

“Alright, honey. Bye. Love ya.”

The older woman could only hear Peter's side of the conversation, but knew that the young woman was well taken care off.

“Well, sonny - I'm gonna be on my way if you have everything covered here.”

“Thank you so much for staying with her. I don't know how to repay you...”

“Just take good care of that young woman. Whatever put her into this state should not be allowed to happen to her again.”

“I agree. Would you like me to call you a cab?”

“No, thank ya - I only live on the other side of the park.”

“If your sure... I wouldn't want anything to happen to ya after you possibly saved my friends life.”

“I'm sure. Just take care of her and that is all the thanks I will need.”

“Thank you again.”

The older woman disappeared faster then Peter thought was possible for someone her age. Peter picked Isabella up and cradled her to his chest as he made his way out of the park to the road where Charlotte was already waiting. He laid her across the back seat can climbed in the passenger seat next to Charlotte:

“Is she okay Peter?”

“I don't know, Char. Her pulse is really weak and I don't know how long she was laying there exposed to the elements. I know it isn't cold out but still.”

“Oh, Peter! Is it possible she had a panic attack and passed out?”

“She has panic attacks?”

“Yes, it doesn't happen often and only then during times of immense stress or grief.”

“Well, that would explain everything! She must have had one and do to the lack of oxygen, she passed out.”

“Oh, Peter! You don't think she has been out here all this time?”

“I believe so... We just need to get her home and into something warm.”

“We'll be home in a few seconds.”

The rest of the ride home was silent. Once Charlotte pulled into their parking spot, Peter got out and carried Isabella up to the guest room she had stayed in the multiple times she had slept over. He stepped out of the room so that Charlotte could change her clothes and clean her up some. When he entered the room once again he walked over to Isabella's side and rubbed her hand calmly.

“Come on, Bella - come back to us. Your safe now. We have you.” Charlotte said from Isabella's other side.

Isabella groaned and rolled over.

“We had better let her rest and then we can talk to her in the morning when she is feeling more herself.”

“Oh, Peter - I love it when you go all Doctor on me... It makes me all hot and bothered.” Charlotte said, running her hand down her chest.

“Well then sweet thing, how about you go to our room and lay on the bed? You can play patient.” Peter winked at her. Charlotte scrambled off the bed and out of the room so fast that Peter was sure she left a dust trail behind her.

“Don't ya worry about any sounds ya hear, Bella - I'm just takin' care of my wife.” he whispered to Bella as he stood.

Isabella groaned again and rolled over once more to face Peter. Peter walked toward the door and just as it was closing he hear Isabella whisper: Jasper. Peter smiled and closed the door to the guest room. He made his way inside and just before shutting out the outside world Peter spoke: “Now Char honey, what seems to be the problem that you need good ol' Doctor Pete to take care of?” Charlotte's giggles filled the air as the door sealed shut.

                                                          ~BSB~

Isabella woke the next morning in a strange bed. She slowly sat up and looked around. She didn't remember how she got to where she was. The last thing she remembered was sitting under the tree at the park. She began to panic once again. Where was she? Who's house was she in? How did she get there? How did she get changed out of her clothes? That last one brought a blush to her cheeks. Then she heard the voice that brought back more fear: Ma Whitlock. Isabella stood quickly and began to change into her clothes, which she found folded on a chair in the corner. As she took in her surroundings, she realized she was at Charlotte and Peter's house. Someone must have gone looking for her, and found her in the park. She no more then finished slipping her shirt down over herself when the door to the room opened and in came Charlotte caring a breakfast tray with what looked like coffee and flapjacks.

“Awe, it's good to see you are awake! I have your breakfast for you... wait - what do you think your doing?” Charlotte asked as she saw that Isabella was dressed.

“Um... I was just gonna head home...?” Isabella said this as a question.

“Oh, no you're not! You just sit yourself down right here and have yourself some breakfast. Then, Missy, we are gonna talk about what happened yesterday.”

“Do we really have to Charlotte? I would much rather just forget the whole thing and get on with my life.”

“You would forget about me and Peter?” Charlotte seemed hurt.

“NO! Char, I could never forget about you and Peter. You're my only other friends besides Emmett, and believe me - I could definitely never forget him.” Isabella smiled a little.

“Well then, I suggest you eat your breakfast and then come talk to me and Peter. He was worried sick when he found you in the park unconscious.”

“I was unconscious in the Park?”

“Don't you remember?”

“It's really fuzzy.”

“Alright, don't force it now. Just eat your breakfast and we can figure it all out afterward.” Charlotte stood and made to leave when Isabella called out to her:

“Thank you, Charlotte. Tell Peter I said thank you as well. I couldn't have found a better set of friends.”

“You can thank him yourself later. As for me I got my thanks last night.” Charlotte winked and the girls burst out laughing.

“Oh, really?”

“Yeah - Doctor Peter was very attentive to my condition last night.”

“Doctor Peter?”

“Yes, Bella - Doctor Peter. He was in Doctor mode with you when we got home. He is so hot when he gets like that...” Charlotte sighed and got all glossy eyed.

“Alright, I don't need the visuals, thanks.”

“Okay - whatever you say Bella...”

“Get out so I can eat my breakfast, you perv! I'm losing my appetite.”

Charlotte giggled and closed the door just as the pillow Isabella was aiming for her collided with it. Isabella ate her breakfast while listening to the conversation going on in the living room on the other side of the bedroom wall:

“Ma, I don't care how sorry ya are right now. Isabella is my patient at the moment and she is far to fragile in this state, I won't let ya upset her more.”

 

“Peter, I just want ta apologize for bein' an ass yesterday. What that girl did for us is nothing short of wonderful. I couldn't have asked for a better person to care for our Jasper. Now, I wish to speak with her.”

 

“No, Ma - and I'm not tellin' ya again. She went through some traumatic shit yesterday and she needs to recover fully before I let any of ya vultures near her.”

 

“Ya did not just call ya Ma a vulture?”

 

“Yes, Ma'am, I did. Now if ya don't mind, I have a patient to check on.”

 

Isabella heard Peter's footsteps coming down the hall. She had almost finished everything Char had brought for her except the coffee. Peter knocked at the door.

“Bella, hun - can I come in?”

“Sure, Peter - I'm decent.”

“How are ya feelin' today?”

“Better, I guess. Everything from last night is a little hazy but it will come back eventually. I had a panic attack, didn't I?”

“From the looks of it, yes – and a severe one at that. Have you ever blacked out like that before?”

“Just once - the day I found out my parents died. Emmett was with me and caught me before I could hit the ground.”

“How long were you out for that time?”

“A couple hours. How long was it this time?”

“I don't know for sure. I was hoping we could talk about what happened and piece together a time line.”

“Okay. I think that's a great idea.”

“Do ya wanna come out to the living room or do ya wanna stay in here?”

“Ya Ma's in the living room?”

“Yes.”

“Then right here is fine.”

“Ya can't hide in here forever Bella.”

“No but I can until she leaves.”

“Fine. Now start from when ya left.”

“I couldn't take the silence; it felt like the room was closing in on me. It's one of the reasons I don't socialize much. The fear of rejection is so strong that it sends me into a panic attack. So I just ran. I didn't know where I was goin' and when I finally stopped, I was by that tree in the park. I sat down and cried. Then all these questions started whirling around in my head. I couldn't make them stop. But what sent my panic into override was the thoughts of Jasper.”

Isabella stopped and started to take slow deep breaths. Peter was piecing together what happened slowly.

“What thoughts about Jasper, Bella? Maybe I could help ya answer a few and that might stop the panic from getting out of control again.”

“Well, I wanted to know what would Jasper think of all this? Was that the last time I would see him? Would he even want to know me anymore?” her breathing was becoming labored again and Peter brought her attention to him.

“Bella, I'm not sure what Jasper would think of all this. But I do know that he will want to hear from you and see you once he wakes up. And of course, he would want to know you. Who wouldn't?”

Isabella focused on Peters words. It was helping to calm her down.

“There now, that's better isn't it.”

“Thanks, Peter.”

“Anytime, Odette.”

“Odette?”

“Yeah, ya know the Swan Princess?”

“Peter, I'm not a princess.”

“I bet your dad used to call ya princess all the time when ya were younger.”

“Actually, he called me princess clear up till the day he died.”

“Well then like I said - Odette!”

“Your such a goof, Peter.”

“I know but it made you smile.”

“Thank ya, Peter.”

“Now, back to business... You say it was after you sat down that you blacked out?”

“I think so - why?”

“Well that puts you out at somewhere around 8ish.”

“Oh shit. I was supposed to meet Emmett at the bar at 8.”

“It's okay, I talked to Emmett last night and told him what I thought happened. He also told me about your last episode. He wasn't angry, just worried.”

“I know that. He's like the big brother I never wanted but am stuck with.” Isabella giggled.

“Yeah, he said that too.” this time they both laughed. A knock on Isabella's door brought it to a stop though.



“Hello?” Isabella called.

“Isabella, could I have a word with ya?” Ma asked peeking her nose around the door.

Peter looked at Isabella and she nodded to Peter that it was okay. After all he was right she couldn't hide in there forever, and if she ever wanted anything to become of her and Jasper she would have to speak to his Ma eventually. Peter kissed Isabella on her forehead and walked toward the door. He stopped when he came to his Ma:

“Be nice!” he warned as he left the room.

“Come sit down, Ma'am.” Isabella hasn't called her Ma'am since they met that first time. Ma wasn't sure what to do. She fidgeted a little before going and sitting in the chair across from the bed.

“Ya wanted to speak with me?” Isabella asked.

“Yes - I'm sorry for the way I acted yesterday. It was rude and uncalled for. What ya did for my family was a wonderful thing and I treated ya like a stranger. Ya didn't have ta do that for us; ya could have let him go clear to Houston, but ya didn't. Ya fought tooth and nail for him to stay close to us. Again - I'm sorry for my actions.”

“You're welcome. I wouldn't have wanted Jasper to be so far away from his family. Peter and Charlotte mean a lot to me. I haven't known Jasper real along but I believe we were becoming friends. I would do anything for my friends. Peter and Charlotte are also the closest thing I have to family. Well them and Emmett, but they are all I have and I would fight through the fires of hell to make them happy and if keeping Jasper here is Dallas will do just that then that is what I had to do.”

“Ya fallin' for him, aren't ya?”

“What?”

“My boy. Ya fallin' in love with my boy Jasper, aren't ya?”

“I don't know what ya talkin' about...” Isabella blushed.

“Yeah that's what I thought. Ya can't hide that stuff from me. I'm his Ma and I learned along time ago how to read people, and it's written all over ya face. Ya have gone and fallin in love with my Jasper.” Ma smiled at Isabella.

“Alright - ya win. I have - I mean - I am in love with Jasper. I don't know how it happened. We barely even know each other. Sure we have been around each other a lot. But it was never just the two of us alone. We never actually got to go on our date because of the accident...”

“Yep, I knew it - ya friend Emmett owes me 50 bucks.”

“What?”

“I bet ya friend Emmett 50 bucks that I could get ya ta tell me ya were in love with my son.  He said there was no way; he knew ya liked him alright but wouldn't believe ya were fallin' for him already.”

Isabella chuckled. It was just like Emmett to bet on an outcome he couldn't guarantee.

“That sounds like Emmett.”

“Well, now - I won't be keepin ya. I have ta get to the hospital ta see Jasper. I should have been there earlier but I wanted to come and clear things up with ya first. Are we clear?”

“Yes Ma'am, I guess we are.”

Ma just shook her head. She knew it wasn't gonna be kittens and rainbows with Isabella right away but she was hoping that she would at least go back to calling her Ma like the rest of them do.

“Ya take care of yerself and come back to see my boy soon. He'll be missin' ya if ya don't.”

“I will.”

Ma left Isabella's room after that. She walked past Peter and Charlotte, with a wave and a kiss she was gone.

“Well, I wonder what happened in there?” Charlotte asked.

“Let's go find out shall we?” Peter said.

They both got up and made their way to Isabella's room. When they walked in they saw she was crying some.

“You okay, little swan?” Peter asked.

“Another nickname Peter?” Isabella sniffled.

“Yeah, I like this one better then the last.” he smiled and Charlotte just shook her head.

“So, how did it go with Ma?” Charlotte asked.

“You mean Mrs. Whitlock? It went fine I guess. She apologized for what she did and I forgave her.”

“Mrs. Whitlock?” Peter asked.

“Yeah, that is her name is it not?”

“Well, that explains a lot.” Charlotte said.

“Explains what?”

“The whole someone just shot my favorite dog look Ma was wearin' when she left. Hell she didn't even talk to either of us. Just a wave and a kiss.” Charlotte said.

“Why would she do that?”

“You do realized that, except for the first time you ever met her, ya have always called her Ma just like the rest of us.”

“And?”

“Bella it's the same as Peter callin' ya Isabella instead of Bella, or whatever cock-a-mamey nickname he has come up with for ya. Ya didn't call her Mrs. Whitlock when she was in here, did ya?”

“No, I called her Ma'am.”

“Oh, boy.” Peter said.

“What?”

“You're not really ready to forgive any of them are ya...?”

“I forgave her.”

“Not fully ya haven't. Ya are still harboring bad feelin's for them. If ya were completely comfortable with them, ya would go back to callin' them the way ya have all this time.”

“I'm sorry, Peter, but I don't know how long it will take for that to happen. I don't wanna let them right back in after they hurt me - whether they meant to or not.”

“I know, little swan. How bout ya get some more rest and ya can come with us to see Jasper later tonight?”

“That sounds great, Peter.”

Isabella laid back on the bed and drifted off to sleep. So far it had been a very draining day. She couldn't wait to go see and talk to Jasper though. She needed to know that they were okay.

Chapter 31: Time to Wake up Jazzman.

Emmett was surprised when he received a phone call at the prison from Peter. When Peter told him what happened at the hospital he was pissed. Why would they do that to someone who just pretty much got their son a stay at club med instead of some torture box in Houston? Emmett knew Isabella had feelings for Jasper and her solidifying him a place here at her prison was a huge step. Isabella usually doesn't get involved with anyone let alone men. Emmett was surprised when Isabella first introduced him to Charlotte that day during inspection and then when he was invited to go along to the Bar-B-Que, he thought she had lost her mind. However after meeting Jasper, he understood a little bit about why she liked him. He was quiet, and reserved just like her; they seemed to be able to communicate silently with one another, almost as if they had their own language; he made her social and she made him happy. When Ma Whitlock made that bet with him he thought for sure he was going to win since Isabella was far too protective of herself for that to happen. Then Peter called and told him that Isabella had a panic attack and that the reason was Jasper, Emmett knew he had lost the bet. He wasn't upset - actually, he was thrilled. Isabella deserved to find love and Jasper deserved to find someone to give his love to. They were a perfect pair.

Emmett waited until after lunch time to go see Jasper at the hospital. He didn't want to run into Ma Whitlock and say something he didn't mean. He was still angry with everyone for the way they acted when Isabella took a chance to trust them enough to share her secret. As he pulled into the parking lot, he noticed a young woman with blond hair pacing outside the doors. He walked up to her and asked:

“Ma'am, is there something wrong? Are you okay?”

“Oh, sorry – no, I'm fine. I just had some upsetting news is all.”

“Okay, as long as your alright...”

“Yes, I'm fine.”

Emmett turned then and headed inside the building. He walked up to the front desk and signed in. He asked the head nurse the room number for Jasper Whitlock. With a flirtatious smile she gave him the room number. Emmett hurried through the halls and stopped just outside his door. He couldn't hear anyone inside so he knocked and waited for someone to respond, when they didn't he entered. Seeing the strong soldier on the bed helpless like that sent a shiver down Emmett's spine. He thought of the strong presence and commanding aura that Jasper gave off the first time he met him - and this was not that man. He pulled the chair up next to the bed and began to talk to Jasper:

“Yo, Jazzman! I know we don't know each other well and we have only met a handful of times but you mean something to my Bells and I hate to see her hurting. I don't know if ya can even hear me or understand what I'm sayin', but ya need to wake up. I know she loves ya even if she don't. I don't know how ya feel about her but even if ya don't return her love, then at least don't hurt her...”

Jasper's heart rate went up and he clenched his fist. He groaned to get Emmett's attention.

“Dude, your awake?”

Jasper clenched his fist twice.

“So you're not awake but you can hear us right?”

Three clenches.

“Sweet dude! Does Bells know?”

Three more clenches.

“Wow! So you heard everything I just said then huh?” Emmett said rubbing the back of his neck.

Three clenches.

“I didn't mean to drop all that on ya- I just thought ya should know.”

Jasper sighed.

“Do ya love her too?”

Three clenches.

“Shit dude! Ya so definitely need to get the hell out of this stupor then and tell her!”

Jasper grumbled.

“Sorry, I know ya probably already thought of that shit. Anyway, wanna here some fuck awesome news?”

Jasper sighed.

“Okay - well, since Bells went all Alpha warden and called in all kinds of favors from everyone she has pretty much ever known, you get to spend your five years in Emmett's reform school for the criminally stupid.” Emmett said with a chuckle.

Jasper groaned.

“Okay, so it's not really funny but you have to admit that it is cool that you get to hang with me all the time!”

Three clenches and a sigh.

“Hey, it could be worse, ya know. Anyway, I can assure you that you will have ample one-on-one time with the warden.”

Jaspers heart rate spiked, dramatically.

“Calm down, dude! You act like it's a bad thing.” Emmett said laughing.

A rumble rang through Jasper's chest.

“Alright, I get the hint... Stop thinking dirty about your woman... Sheesh - even half out of it you're scary as fuck!”

Jasper chuckled mentally but apparently it showed on the outside as well.

“Hey, don't laugh at me! I have a healthy respect for men who can kill me with their bare hands. I may be a big guy myself but I know when I have met my match.”

Both guys chuckled this time.

“You know, you should really wake the fuck up. I hate looking like I'm talkin' to myself. Bells said I do that enough as it is... and if I keep it up one day someone is gonna see and have me committed to the looney bin. She said she would bring me crayons and stuff when she visits but that I had to smuggle her out a huggy jacket.”

They laughed together again. This was nice. It felt great to have a male besides his brother to talk to Jasper thought, and Emmett was a really funny guy.

“Ya know, man - Bells is like my little sister and I love her tons, but she hasn't been really happy. At least not completely. But since she met you I have noticed a difference in her. That and your brother and sister seem to bring out the Bells I met back in college. She was still fun then but that was before her parents died. Now you have brought that light back in her eyes. So come on man - give it a shot... open them eyes and join the rest of the world.”

Jasper listened to Emmett and thought about Isabella and how her eyes seemed to get a shine to them when he was near. He noticed how dull they were when he first met her to the beautiful glow they had the night he asked her out. He would fight to come back to her. He had to tell her everything. He had to tell her about her dad, and how he changed his life... How Peter was an asshole and always tried to win at everything... How he loved home-cooked meals and walks on the beach, under the stars... How her smile lit up his whole world... Most importantly he had to wake up and tell her that he loved her...

Slowly he felt his eyelids begin to flutter.

“That's it, man! Come on - ya can do it! Bells needs ya.”

He tried a little harder. His eyes flutter some more before a bright light shown through. Jasper quickly squeezed his eyes shut.

“Hold on, Jazz - I'll dim the lights.”

Jasper heard Emmett move about the room.

“Alright, give it a go now.”

Jasper tried once more and with little trouble, they opened. It took a minute or two for his eyes to become accustomed to the dim lighting but at least he could see. The realization struck Jasper hard and he gasped.

“Sweet - your awake!”

Jasper tried to speak but his voice was raspy and his throat was sore from not being used.

“Just a minute, man. I'll get ya something to wet ya whistle with.”

Emmett went and got a large cup of cold water for Jasper. Jasper took the cup thankfully. He was glad that Peter and Charlotte worked his muscles and joints everyday. He didn't feel weak, just overly rested. Once he downed half the water he tried again.

“Thanks.” it was low but he could work with that.

“You're welcome. Bells is gonna be pissed that she wasn't here when ya woke up. But she will be happy ya can talk to her now.”

“Why ya call her Bells?” Jasper said. His sentences were still kinda rusty but Emmett understood.

“When we first met she was singing in the music room at the college. She was in the room alone and when I heard her voice it sounded like someone playing the bells. So it just sorta stuck.”

“I bet she has a lovely voice...”

“She does - maybe one day she will sing for ya.”

“We shall see.”

The two men spoke for hours. Jasper's voice getting stronger as they continued. It was just before supper time that Carlisle came in to check on him. Carlisle was shocked to see that Jasper was awake and talking.

“Jasper son, why didn't ya page me when ya woke up?”

“Didn't feel the need to let the world know just yet. I was enjoying my quiet time talkin' with Emmett. If I would have paged ya, ya would have called everyone in and I wasn't ready to be invaded just yet.”

“I understand, and fully agree. I won't say nothing to anyone just yet. We will keep the visitors schedule as is for now and they can find out on their own when they come to see ya.”

“Sounds good, Doc.”

Carlisle went about his work and checked everything over.

“You seem to be just fine now. I would like ta keep ya for another day or two before we turn ya over to Ms. Swan.”

“Sure thing, Doc.”

Carlisle left once he finished writing on his chart.

“Ms. Swan? What is that all about?” Emmett asked Jasper.

“Did ya hear about yesterday?”

“Yeah, Peter called. I guess it shook Bells up real good and she had a panic attack. Peter found her passed out in the park late last night.”

“What?” Jasper yelled.

“Sorry! I thought you knew already.”

“No, I didn't know. You mean that they upset her so much she passed out - alone outside - in a park - where someone or something could have hurt her?”

“Sorry, man...”

“Where is she now?”

“She's with your brother and Charlotte, I believe. He took off from here right after she did and called me to see if I had seen her, but she hadn't come back to the office nor did she call me. I was kinda pissed that they would do that to her after everything she did to keep you here in Dallas.”

“I know man, I heard the whole thing. I may not have been able to see or move but I still heard it all.”

“She really does love ya, man.”

“I love her, too. I don't know how or why but I'm not fighting it. She's the best thing to happen to me since I joined the Marines... Shit, I need to talk to her - and soon. There is so much I need to tell her...”

“Slow down, Jazzman. I believe she is coming in with Peter and Charlotte later.”

“Alright, I guess I can wait that long.”

“What's so important that ya damn near jumped out of ya skin?”

“Before I went into the Marines, I wasn't the best behaved southern boy my Mama wanted. I got in trouble with the law a lot. Fighting, speeding, stealing, you name it. Well... the main officer I would get busted by was Charlie Swan.”

“Shit, man - you knew Bells' dad?”

“In a round about way, I guess you could say I did. He was the one who would always bust me. He told me that I could do better and that I should apply my natural talents more productively.”

“Oh, is that what he called it?”

“Yeah - I laughed about it too. But he told me that if I straightened up and didn't get into anymore trouble, he would help me make something of myself. So I did. Three times a week I would meet him at a gym down by the station - we worked out together, we trained together and he taught me martial arts and boxing. I thought of the man as if he was my own father. He talked to me about joining the military. We went over a bunch of brochures together. When I was about to graduate high school, I told him that if I were to join the military I wanted to be a Marine, and he agreed that it was a good place for me to start. It wasn't long after that when I heard he passed away. I had made a promise to him that I would join, so I did. If it wasn't for Isabella's dad, I don't think we would be having this conversation right now since I would either be dead or already serving time in your hospitable establishment.”

“Wow! So not only did he save your ass but now you're in love with his only child.”

“Yeah, I thought the same thing. I owe that man so much - if loving his daughter and taking care of her for the rest of our lives is what I have to do to repay him, then I am more than happy to oblige.”

“I bet ya are!”

Both men laughed. But their laughed came to an abrupt end when three gasps were heard from the door way.

“Jasper!” Char screeched and then jumped on him, causing Jasper to groan.

“Char.”

“Sorry, Jasper! I'm just so damn happy your awake. When did this happen? How?”

“Slow down, Char! Emmett here woke my ass up, sayin' I needed to stop bein' a lazy ass and join the rest of the world.”

“That's not how I said it... but close enough, I guess.” Emmett said when Jasper glared at him.

“What are we missing?” Peter asked looking at Isabella.

Isabella just shrugged.

“So, Jazzman - I'm gonna leave ya in the capable hands of... well, I'm gonna let ya hang with your fam. I'll see ya soon!”

“Later, Em. Pick me out a good one.”

“Sure thing, Jazzman.”

With a wave, Emmett disappeared out the door. Leaving Jasper alone with Peter, Charlotte and Isabella.

“Hey, guys - grab a seat.” Jasper said, braking the uncomfortable silence.

Everyone sat around the bed. Isabella took the seat that Emmett just vacated while Peter and Charlotte took seats on the opposite side of the bed.

“So, what's been happening in the wonderful land of Dallas?” Jasper asked, looking toward Peter and Charlotte.

“Same ole, same ole. You know - crazy ex's breakin' into the hospital, psycho ex-friends tryin' to get there hands on your money and little Swans swoopin' in to save the day.”

“I see... Would you care to elaborate on all of that? I'll fill in any gaps that I can.”

“You want me to start from the crash?”

“Yes, please.”

“Okay, well - from the reports they say you ran Prickward off the road.”

“Nope! I was ambushed after I left the ranch. He rode my ass until I got to a straight spot. Then he pulled up along side me and began ramming into my truck. This other car came down the road but he refused to move and I couldn't do anything 'cause the cliff face was right there. The other car swerved and went off the road. They must have been the ones to call the cops. Edward kept ramming into my truck and we were almost to the last set of curves when I saw the flashing lights up ahead. He must have seen them too 'cause he decided to ram me one last time. My truck ricocheted off the guardrail, careened into him and sent us both down the embankment. The last thing I remember was thinking that I wasn't gonna make it to my date with Isabella.” Jasper finished looking down. Isabella reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze.

“Well, that is not the story the Prickward gave the cops when he came to. Why did they take him to Houston anyway?”

“It was closer to his family.” Jasper added offhandedly.

“What family? I thought his parents were dead?” Charlotte asked.

“His wife and kids are in Houston.”

“How do you know that, Jasper?” Peter asked.

“Alice told me when she came to visit.”

“Shit! You heard everything then!”

“Yeah, I did.”

“Well then, you know everything else from there.”

“Yeah - Emmett also filled me in on what else happened yesterday.” Jasper looked pointedly at Peter.

“So you know about Bella...”

“Yeah, I do and I was not happy with how Ma acted.”

“She came to apologize this morning.” Peter interrupted.

“I don't care, Peter! She knows how it was for us growin' up! She had no right to judge Isabella for trying to protect herself.”

“I know, man - Isabella talked to her and they are working on fixing things. Isabella here isn't ready to let any of them back in just yet.”

“I wouldn't either. But now on to happier topics. I want to thank y'all for takin' care of me when I was out. If it wasn't for ya's doin' what ya did, Emmett would have had to feed me, and I'm not sure we're that close of friends yet.” They all laughed.

“You're welcome, brother.” Peter said.

“Okay, well - I got that out of the way. Now I love ya n Char a whole bunch - and all that girly shit ya are always spoutin' at me - but I'm gonna ask ya to get the hell out and let me have some time alone with Isabella. I have a lot of questions for her and we have a lot to talk about.”

“I can take a hint, Jasper.” Peter said.

“Good - then get out!” Jasper chuckled.

Charlotte leaned in and kissed his forehead. Peter shook his hand and said they would see him later. They told Isabella they would be in the cafe' when she was ready to go. With that, they left the two of them alone.

Chapter 32: Connections unknown.

Previously:

“Okay, well - I got that out of the way. Now I love ya n Char a whole bunch - and all that girly shit ya are always spoutin' at me - but I'm gonna ask ya to get the hell out and let me have some time alone with Isabella. I have a lot of questions for her and we have a lot to talk about.”

 

“I can take a hint, Jasper.” Peter said.

 

“Good - then get out!” Jasper chuckled.

 

Charlotte leaned in and kissed his forehead. Peter shook his hand and said they would see him later. They told Isabella they would be in the cafe' when she was ready to go. With that, they left the two of them alone.

                                                          ~BSB~

They both sat silently for a few minutes. The only sounds in the room were the beeping of the monitors still connected to Jasper. Neither of them knew where to start. Isabella had answers that Jasper had the questions too. They were both nervous of what the other one was going to ask and what the answers were going to be. Soon it became too much and Jasper asked the first question that came to his mind:

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why did you keep it a secret?”

“Because I had to protect myself.”

“From what?”

“The pain.”

“What pain?”

“Rejection. Abandonment. Loss.”

“Why?”

“I'm all I have left.”

“What about Emmett?”

“He's close but not too close.”

“Peter and Charlotte?”

“I let them in. They make me feel safe.”

“Safe from what?”

“Everything...?” It sounded like a question.

“Okay.”

Jasper let that question go since he knew what she felt like - it was that way when he was overseas. He would make friends and get close to them but then he would lose them when they were sent back home - some in an ambulance, others in a body bag - but gone nonetheless. He quickly learnt to not make friends. Though he would protect his group with his life, he didn't want to get personal with any of them. Of course, they would try but he would give them the bare essentials: his name, how many were in his family and where he was from... but nothing more and nothing less.

He was brought out of his inner thoughts:

“Where'd you go just then?”

“My thoughts.”

“About what?”

“Pain.”

“You've felt it too?”

“Yes - differently but still the same.”

“Overseas?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.”

Isabella answered the same way he had; an understanding they made between themselves silently. Jasper broke the silence once again with a new question:

“Why are you helping me?”

“You mean so much to Peter and Char... and they mean a lot to me.”

“No other reason?”

“Maybe...”

“Well?”

“You're my friend too... At least, I hope you are?”

“I am.”

“Good.”

“Isabella, please look at me.”

Isabella finally looked into Jasper's eyes. The emotions swirling in his stormy blue eyes told so much. Pain, fear, sorrow, anger, hatred, love... Could she believe what she was seeing or was it a trick? An illusion of what she wanted to see there? She looked down once again.

“We have a lot to talk about Isabella.”

“We do?”

“Yes. I have some very important things that you need to know.”

“You do?”

“Yes.”

“Are you angry that I kept my secret from you?”

“No, I understand.”

“Then you understand what it means to be me?”

“More than you know.”

Isabella's eyes flashed to his quickly. What did he know? How could he understand? Her pain. Her loss. Her fears. He had his Ma, his brother, Charlotte. He couldn't understand.

“You don't know anything.” Isabella huffed pulling back from him.

“Don't turn away from me, please.” Jasper pleaded.

“How could you know how I feel? How could you understand my loss? My pain? My fears?”

“I knew him.”

“Knew who?”

“Your father.”

The room got deathly quiet. The only sounds once again was the beeping and their breathing.

“How?” Isabella breathed.

“I was always in trouble with the law when I was a kid. Your father was normally the one to catch me. It was like he followed me. He knew me inside and out. Sometimes better then I knew myself. He saved me.”

“How?”

“He helped me become a better person. He taught me martial arts and boxing - giving me outlets for my anger while also teaching me to protect myself and the ones I loved. He was the one that put the idea in my head to go into the Marines in the first place. If it wasn't for him, I would either be dead or already in prison.”

“I never knew.”

“I didn't want anyone to know. Now the only one's who do are you and Emmett. And, of course, myself.”

“The year he died was the year you joined.”

“Yes. I promised him I would do better and I couldn't let him down.” Jasper had tears rolling down his cheeks.

Isabella slide onto the bed next to him and wiped them away.

“You cared for him very much, didn't you?” Isabella asked.

“Yes - he was there when my father wasn't. He became the father I didn't have.”

“I'm sorry, Jasper.”

“Don't be - he was your father after all.”

“Yes but now when I think back, I remember something else.”

“What is it, Isabella?”

“My father was called into work late one night when I was younger. I remember him telling my mother all about it. It was a break in and someone was killed.”

Suddenly, Jasper was having flash backs. He and Peter weren't home; they were staying at a friend's house. A man had broken into their home and their father tried to stop him. He was beaten to death by the robber and their mother was knocked unconscious. He remembered being woken up in the middle of the night and rushed to the hospital. That was the first time he had ever seen the policeman with the dark hair and deep eyes. He spoke to both him and Peter, explaining what had happened. He didn't sugar coat it or talk to them like they were mere children but like they were men. Looking back now, that man was Isabella's father. Charlie Swan was the officer who was called to the scene - the officer who talked to him like he was a man, not a child - the officer who changed his life more then once. Even now, that man is making changes in his life that are to make him a better man. He couldn't help but smile.

“Jasper... Jasper... JASPER!” Isabella yelled to get his attention. “Where did you go?”

“The past. I remember the night your talking about. That was the night my father was killed. A robber broke in when Peter and I slept over a friend's house. He beat my father to death and left my mother unconscious. Your father was the one at the hospital. He sat my brother and me down and told us what happened. He was straight up with us and never talked to us like we were only children. Your father has been a big part of my life for so long and I never knew...he's been guiding me all these years even after he was gone, and he is still doing it.”

“What do you mean, Jasper?”

“He brought me to you.”

“What?”

“Isabella... I don't know how to say this, so I'm just gonna go out on a limb here and tell it like it is: I'm fallin' for you! Hard. I know we haven't know each other long, and hell we haven't had time alone to really get to know each other but I feel it. When you're away, I feel this tightness in my chest. When your close, my heart beats faster then the wings of a hummingbird. You have made me smile and laugh during one of the lowest times in my life. Please tell me you feel the same way?”

Isabella was shocked. He felt the same for her. He was falling for her too.

“Isabella? Say something, please.” Jasper pleaded.

“Oh god, Jasper! I'm sorry...” Jasper's face fell quicker then a penny from the top of a building. He began to close in on himself. He couldn't handle the rejection, not after Alice. Not from Isabella.

Isabella wasn't sure what happened. What was going on? One minute Jasper was confessing his feelings for her and then she went to tell him she felt the same but she only got five words out before he started to close off from her. He pulled his hand from hers, and turned his head away, closing his eyes. He didn't seem to want to hear what she had to say. When she thought about that she had said she realized her mistake. He thought that she was gonna tell him that she didn't feel anything for him. That they were just friends. Isabella quickly jumped up onto the bed further and straddle Jasper's waist. Putting both her hands on his face and forcing him to look at her.

“Jasper, you didn't let me finish! Now what I was gonna say is that I was sorry I didn't answer you right away. You stunned me! I didn't expect you to feel the same way. I'm fallin' for you too.”

Jasper no more then locked eyes with her before her lips were on his. The kiss was soft at first until it registered in Jaspers' head that Isabella was kissing him. Then his hands flew up, one to her hip and the other into her fiery locks. Kissing her back with everything he had in him. The sparks that shot through his body from where their lips were joined would cause a fire to ignite on even the wettest of timbers. Jasper slowly ended the kiss – reluctantly, of course - since they still had so much to talk about.

“How did you get it so I don't have to leave Dallas?”

“Well, you know who I am... I have some pull in the system and a few people owed me favors. So now your bunking with Emmett.”

“Yeah, I know - he made sure to relay that tidbit of information. Do you know what he calls that place?”

“Yes, so please don't repeat it.”

“Do I really have to bunk with him?”

“Take my word for it - you would be better with him than in any of the other cell blocks... That and you're in his time-frame.”

“Huh?”

“My prison is set into 5 separate buildings - each building can hold up to 200 prisoners comfortably. Emmett runs building one - or Cell block A - where criminals convicted of petty crimes are held or those who are serving sentences of 1-5 years.”

“Okay, so the higher up the worse the criminals - gotcha. So yeah, I guess I will have to endure Emmett's sense of humor during my time in purgatory.”

“Hey, it's actually rather nice there! It's more like a rehab than a prison.”

“How so?”

“Well, we have sports courts and fields, a complete gym with trainers, a library that would make the library of congress jealous, counselors for those with emotional issues and both an indoor and outdoor pool”

“Okay, am I goin' to prison or taking a vacation to a spa?”

“Depends on how you look at it...”

“I see.”

“Well, as much as I would love to stay and converse with you all night long, Peter and Char are waiting to drive me home. We can talk more tomorrow, right?”

“Of course, Darlin'!” Isabella blushed deeply at the sweet endearment used. Jasper lifted his hand to lightly brush her cheek.

“Beautiful.”

Isabella blushed deeper. Jasper reached his hand around and wrapped it in her hair, guiding her to him. He brushed his lips against her. Isabella fell into the kiss, her hands going directly to his hair. The kiss was again deep and passionate. When they pulled apart they were both gasping for breath.

“I have to go.” Isabella sighed.

“I know. Come see me tomorrow?”

“Of course.”

“Then I will see you tomorrow. You better go before Peter comes and sees us like this. He would never let either of us live it down.”

“Yeah, he won't. Now that he has Emmett with him as well, we won't be able to escape it at the prison either.”

“I'm beginning to warm up to this prison idea. They can only come during visiting hours, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Good.”

Jasper kissed her again. The clearing of a throat caused them both to jump. There in the door way stood Esme.

“I thought I would stop in and see you since I was picking up Carlisle but it seems you already have company.” Esme giggled.

“Yeah but she was just leaving. Peter and Charlotte are waiting for her in the cafe.”

“Well then, by all means - finish up and I will be waiting outside.”

Esme stepped back outside the door. Jasper and Isabella both broke out into laughter.

“I feel like a teenager getting caught making out with her boyfriend in the back of his car.” Isabella said.

“Well, I ain't no boy and I don't drive a car.” Jasper said, nipping at her bottom lip.

“True but I do need to go. We have already been busted once and I have a feeling the rumor mill will be full throttle by morning.”

“Yes well, I will see you first thing then?”

“Sure thing.” Isabella kissed him again quickly and climbed off his lap. Jasper whined about the loss. Isabella laughed.

“I'll be back in the morning. Rest soldier, and that's an order.”

“Yes, Ma'am.” he saluted her.

Isabella giggled and passed Esme on her way out. Not saying anything to her, she made her way to the elevator and pressed the #2 button for the cafe floor. She was slightly more peppy then normal and she knew that she would be busted on it the moment Charlotte and Peter saw her. She was ready for it - she wouldn't hide her feelings for Jasper any longer and she didn't care who saw.

Chapter 33: Oh the things we do for love.

Alice paced in front of the hospital. She had wanted to see Jasper again but when she entered the lobby, she noticed her picture on the board behind the Nurse's Station. She quickly scrambled to get out before anyone saw her. She had been found out! And she knew only three people could have seen past her disguise: One was currently in a coma and the others? Her Mom and Dad.

She continued to pace until a tall, handsome man - who seemed to tower over everyone - came up to her.

"Ma'am, is there something wrong? Are you okay?”

“Oh, sorry – no, I'm fine. I just had some upsetting news is all...” she told him.

“Okay, as long as your alright...?”

“Yes, I'm fine.”

The man then left and headed into the hospital. After a few moments of thought, Alice decided that now was a good time to make her leave since there was no way she could ever see Jasper now. As she got into her car she thought about the reason she came to see Jasper again; she had to tell him what she found out: Edward had done this before! Jasper isn't the only wealthy person that Edward tried to swindle out of money and from what she overheard, he and his wife had both done this several times - and succeeded. Alice felt even more used after this information came to light. She thought Edward loved her and that he only wanted to help her get what she deserved. But she was wrong! Edward was only looking out for himself and his family. She needed to let someone know what was going on... But how? Her mom and dad were angry with her and now she couldn't get inside to tell Jasper... Who could she tell? Then it hit her: Jasper's new sister-in-law! She was a state prosecutor - she could use the information and track down the other people he had used! This could help Jasper in the long run and start her revenge on Edward. No, she wasn't finished with him yet - this was only the tip of the iceberg!

                                                          ~BSB~

Jasper had been awake for two days now. He was being discharged and transported to the prison. He wasn't all to upset about that like he should have been. The court official was there to oversee his transfer and Emmett was there to pick him up. Jasper quirked his eyebrow at Emmett but he just shook his head and nodded in the direction of the official. Jasper snorted and nodded in return. Emmett placed the cuffs on Jasper and escorted him to the prison van. The official took his seat in the front with Emmett. Once they were on the road the official started questioning Emmett:

“I was expecting the warden...”

“The warden has a prison to run and delegated me to pick up the prisoner. Are you questioning my ability to transport him to the facility?”

“No, you appear to be more then capable...”

“Then why question it?”

“We expected the warden since she fought so hard for this prisoner to stay here in Dallas.”

“His family is one of the wealthiest families in the state. They wanted him close to home and asked if she could make it so it happened. Plus, his sister-in-law is the state prosecutor... I guess a hefty donation to the prison switched hands in securing him a spot here.” Emmett spilled.

Jasper knew it was rehearsed but still snorted and shook his head; Emmett eyed him in the rear-view mirror.

“Something to add to that, Mr. Whitlock?”

“No, Sir.”

“Then keep it quiet!”

Jasper smirked and rolled his eyes. He could tell that Emmett was enjoying this way too much. He would be sure to let Isabella know all about it. As if Emmett could sense what Jasper was thinking he looked pleading at him through the rear view. Jasper chuckled to himself. This was gonna be more fun then he thought.

                                                          ~BSB~

Charlotte arrived at work a little later then usual. Today Jasper was being transferred to the prison and she was all in a tizzy. She knew that Isabella would take care of him and Emmett was the guard on his cell block... but still, she worried. Arriving at her office, she sat behind her desk and began to go through all the emails that were awaiting her. It took several hours for her to clear everything off and then she started on the stack of mail on her desk. About mid-way through the pile, she came across and envelope addressed to her but it had no return address or post mark. Someone must have delivered it by hand to the office. After slowly pulling out the letter, she began to read:

Dear Mrs. Whitlock,

 

I know you have no reason to continue reading this as you have no idea who I am, but I assure you that it is imperative that you please finish this letter.

 

I have information that may help you with your brother-in-law's case: The man known as Edward Masen is a career con-artist. He and his wife have both been doing this for several years and have successfully pulled off their scams against many other wealthy couples. I'm not sure of any of their victims' names or where they reside but I'm positive that with your credentials and connections you can find out everything you need to know to help in getting your brother-in-law released and his record expunged. And, of course, this will be able to put one Mr. Masen behind bars where he belongs.

 

Please, do not try to find out who I am. I have told you all that I know and I just hope that it helps you with setting things right.

 

Truly,

A friend.

Charlotte was stunned. She wasn't sure whether to believe what she was reading or just toss it in the trash, but the more she read it the more she got the feeling that it was true. She decided to call Peter and ask his advice. After dialing his number it rang three times before he picked up:

“Dr. Whitlock speaking.”

“Peter, it's me.”

“Char, honey - to what do I owe this pleasure? Aren't you at work?”

“Yes dear, I am - and that is one of the reasons I'm calling you.”

“Okay dear, spill it - your never this anxious.”

“Well when I got to work this morning I was running a little late, you know with today being Jasper moving day? Anyway, I went through my normal routine. I emptied my email and then started going through the mail on my desk. Well I got half way through and found the most peculiar letter. It was addressed to me but had no return address or post mark so I figured someone dropped it off. Well, I opened it and you won't believe what it said...”

“Well, of course I won't until you tell me...”

“Oh right, sorry. The letter said that this isn't the first time that Edward Masen has tried to get money from a wealthy individual - that he and his wife had been doing this for years! Now they weren't sure if the other people were here in Texas or elsewhere so I'm not sure what to believe. I don't know if I should look into this or just toss it in the trash but my gut is telling me to follow it. What do you think dear?”

“Well, I think you should follow your gut since it has yet to lead you astray. And if this letter is legit then Jasper could be set free sooner, rather than later!”

“I know, that is what I was thinking... I'm gonna give Bella a call and let her know what is goin' on. I know she is probably busy getting Jasper settled but she needs to know this - and so does he.”

“You're right, sweetness - now go do what you do best and get our brother out of there! Even though I'm not sure he won't fight you on this... His current situation is guaranteed alone time with Bella - without interruptions.”

“Yeah well, he can kiss my ass - he don't need to be there. He can have alone time with her at home!”

“Yes, dear! Now get to work - I have patients to see to. Love you!”

“Love you, too!”

As the line disconnected, Charlotte hung up the phone and then immediately picked it back up again. She was serious about calling Bella and now was as good a time as any. The phone rang once before it was picked up.

“Swan Penitentiary, how may I direct your call?”

“Angela, it's Charlotte Whitlock - is Bella in her office?”

“Oh, hello Charlotte! No, I believe she is down with Emmett helping to settle in the new inmate. He is a looker, by the way! Why can't nice guys be that good looking...?”

“I assure you, Angela, that the man they are settling in is a nice guy! Just mixed up with the wrong people.”

“How can you know that?”

“That man is my brother-in-law.” Charlotte giggled.

“Oh my god, I'm so sorry Charlotte! I didn't mean anything by it...” Charlotte cut her off.

“It's okay, Angela! I know how it looks but that is why I'm calling Bella. I have some information about his case that might help us get him out of there. Is there anyway you can patch me through to her?”

“Yeah, sure - I'll patch you through to Emmett's office.”

“Thank you, Angela.”

Charlotte waited on the line while Angela patched her through to Cell block A. The music that played while waiting was horrible and Charlotte made a note to let Bella know that it need to be changed. After a few minutes, Emmett picked up the phone.

“Cell Block A, Swan Penitentiary - Emmett speaking.”

“Oh thank god, Emmett! Where is Bella?”

“With the new inmate - who is this?”

“Emmett, you lug head! It's me, Char. I need to speak with Bella - it's important.”

“Important you say? What could be so important that I have to interrupt her time with Jazzman?”

“I may have found a way to get him out of there sooner - and with a clean record. I just have to talk to Bella about it first.”

“Wow, that was fast! He only just got here...”

“I know, but I'm not getting my hopes up just yet. There is still a lot of checking out and research to do - all before I even attempt to put together a solid case...”

“Okay Char, breathe - I'll go get her. I don't think she's gonna be happy about being interrupted - but it's your head, not mine.”

“Just go get her!”

Charlotte waited once again listening to the horrible elevator music they had playing. It wasn't but 5 minutes later that Isabella picked up the phone.

“Mrs. Swan, speaking.”

“Bella, it's Char.”

“Oh hey Char! Callin' to check up on Jasper?”

“No, I'm calling to let you know I may have found a break in the case! It will get Jasper out of jail and back home where he belongs – and put that ass-hat Masen behind bars!”

This peaked Isabella's interest...

“Really? Please, do tell!”

“Well I received an anonymous letter. It said that Edward Masen and his wife had done this sort of thing many times over the last several years. They scam wealthy people out of their money but the writer isn't sure if it was just here in Texas or other states... I wanna check into this but I wanted your opinion on it as well; I already called Peter and he said to follow my gut. What do you think?”

“I think you should listen to your husband! As much as I love having full access to Jasper all the time, I would much rather it not be in my prison. Find out what you can if you have problems let me know and I will make some calls. And if you need anything Char, you be sure to call me! I will let Jasper know what is goin' on and keep him up to date as well.”

“Thank you, Bella. Give Jasper my love and I will see you later tonight for lunch at my place?”

“You can bet on it! Bring that letter, too - I wanna good look at it. We can all decided what to do from there.”

“Great! I will see you tonight then.”

Both girls hung up. Charlotte got right to work, first making the phone calls she needed before looking through court records from across the state for the name Edward Masen. What she found would have caused someone with a weak heart to die of a heart attack. Isabella was gonna be livid when Charlotte showed her all of this! She started making copies of everything she found: it was gonna be a long night...

Chapter 34: Revelations

Jasper had been settling in nicely to his new surroundings. It helped a lot that with Emmett around it didn't seem like he was in prison. He met the two other inmates - Jose and Manny - and found that he got along well with both of them. They were in for stupid reasons: reasons that were because of money. Jasper shook his head. He knew how it felt to have money and the problems it causes – and more recently, he realized that it causes just as much problems when you don't have it. They all sat around talking and playing cards. It was around lunch time that Isabella stopped in and, of course, this set off a round of wolf whistles and cat calls.

“Hey there Warden! What brings ya down to our neck of the woods? Not that we ain't happy to see ya...” Manny said.

“I feel the love just pouring off ya, Manny.” Isabella chuckled.

Jasper watched as she moved closer to the table they were all sitting around.

“Emmett, what did I tell you about playing poker?”

“Huh? Not to?”

“I believe that is what I said. You cheat and it's not fair to everyone else.”

“I do not cheat! And, as it stands, your boy-toy hear is kickin' all our asses.” Emmett whined.

Isabella froze on the spot. She wasn't sure how the others would react to her being involved with an inmate - even though they were somewhat involved before he was imprisoned. All her fears were washed away when Manny rebutted Emmett:

“Why you gotta be such a sore loser, Emmett? It's all in fun - and it's not like we playin' for money! And the nuts we playin' for ain't all that good anyway.” Manny smiled, winking at Isabella.

She sighed and moved closer to Jasper.

“So, this here boy has caught your eye huh, Warden?” Jose asked.

“I'm no boy!” Jasper growled.

“Sorry...” Jose dramatized.

They all laughed.

“Well then - tell us soldier boy, how did you catch the un-catchable Miss Swan?” Manny asked.

“First off - I'm not a soldier boy: I'm a Marine. There is a big difference. One: we're better trained. And two: we're better dressed.”

“Well sorry there, jug-head. Didn't mean to offend your sensitive nature!” Jose said chuckling.

“Ha-ha! Funny.” Jasper replied.

“So now - how did you catch Miss Swan?”

“Hell, I'm not even sure I did catch her...? I think it was the other way around.” Jasper said rubbing the back of his neck, a nervous habit he seemed to have.

Isabella came closer and sat on Jasper's lap. Smiling at the guys.

“He's right, you know - it was like leading a fly to the web. I just spun it right and he stuck fast.” Isabella cackled evilly.

All the guys looked at her with stunned expressions. They didn't know what to say. Even Jasper was a little shocked. He had never seen her like this. But then again, he didn't think any of them had either. Their silent stupor was broken by the sound of a phone. Emmett excused himself to go answer it. Isabella picked up his cards and took over his place. A few minutes later Emmett came out to tell Isabella that the phone was for her - and that it was important. She vanished into Emmett's office for a while, leaving Jasper to question Emmett.

“So, she lured me in and trapped me like a fly?”

“No not really, I have a feeling she said that just to get a rise out of us and it worked. She is a devilish little minx when she wants to be though. I haven't seen her like this in years, You're good for her.” Emmett said.

“Yeah, and we ain't never seen her like this: she was always all business and no fun.” Jose added.

“She always had that look in her eyes. Ya know the one that says she has been through and seen to much. It doesn't seem to be there that much as of late - and if your the reason behind it, then you're alright in my book!” Manny said.

“You guys seem to care a lot for her...”

“She isn't only our Warden - she is our friend. We look out for her. Even though we are in here we have family and friends on the outside that look out for her for us. My wife helps to clean her house, my brother does her landscaping, my kids come help her shovel snow or rake leaves – they all keep an eye on her.” Manny said.

“Wow! It's great that you guys look out for her - she seems to not get close to people.”

“No, she hasn't ever since her parents died; she has closed herself off from everyone - except me, of course. But I've been there from the beginning. It's not easy being her. She was always so smart. She was the youngest student in our graduating class in college. And that's saying a lot being as it was her second... or could it have been her third time through...?” Emmett told them.

“What are you talkin' about, Emmett? She can't be any older then my brother, Peter!”

“Exactly - she was only 15 when she graduated high school. By the time she was twenty, she had several different Master's Degrees... I think she was working on one of her Criminal Science ones when I met her. The following year, her parents died and she took over this place. That was just over seven years ago.” Emmett said.

“Well, hell! It's no wonder most people feel intimidated by her...” Jose said.

“Yeah, and she has the right-hook to back it up! She was in the Dean's Office almost more then the Dean himself! She fought hard to protect herself since people didn't take to kindly to her; they often degraded her and picked on her - which is why I grew so protective of her. But, then again, she has kicked my ass several times for gettin' in the way of something she could handle herself!”

Jasper laughed, causing the guys to look at him like he had lost his mind.

“What so funny, Whitlock?” Emmett asked, causing Jose and Manny to gasp.

“You! Isabella can obviously look after herself and you go all brother bear on her - I could see how she could kick your ass!”

“Not funny! Now - why are you two impersonating guppies over here?”

“He's a Whitlock?” they said in unison - it was almost creepy.

“Yeah, so?”

“Well... um... we just didn't expect it.”

“Yeah well, neither did I! I didn't expect to wind up in here, either. Except my ex-wife and ex-best friend decided to fuck each other - on my bed - while I was away over seas for the last two years. Then the son of a bitch ran me off the road - putting me in a coma. Bastard even had the balls to take my ass to court. To top it all off, they sentenced me to five years – even though I wasn't there to testify on my own behalf! Now - here I am.”

“That shit ain't right - they can't do that!” Manny said.

“Well they did and that asshat is after my money. I figured it out when my ex-wife snuck in to see me and told me that he was tryin' to sue me for damages. Well, he ain't getting one penny of my money!”

“Right on!” Jose said.

Just then, Isabella returned wearing the brightest smile Jasper had ever seen on her face.

“Well, I guess that phone call went well?” Jasper asked

“More than you know!”

“Why don't you tell me, Darlin'?”

“Of course! It was your sister Char...”

“Hey, did you tell her we said hi and she that needs to come visit again?” Manny asked.

“No, this was strictly business - now you two, hush!”

“Fine.”

“Go on, Darlin' - you were sayin...?”

“Well, it seems that a little birdy sent your sister a letter saying that this wasn't the first time Edward and his wife have swindled money from rich folks. So, Char is tryin' to track down all their other victims and we're gonna use those cases as proof that he is just doing the same thing to you. If we can get enough evidence, we can have your record cleaned and you released from here. Then we'll go after Mr. Masen!”

“Oh, Darlin' - that is the best news I have heard in months!” Jasper stood and grabbed Isabella and kissed her hard, not caring who else was in the room with them. A throat clearing was the only thing that brought them back out of their bubble.

“Do ya mind?” Emmett asked.

“No, I don't.” Jasper said back.

“Don't you have a cell to go to?”

“Sure do - and I'm takin' this lovely hostage with me.” Jasper said, picking Isabella up and throwing her over his shoulder.

“What do you want for ransom?”

“I let you know in a couple hours!”

“Fine - but don't you harm one hair on her head!” Emmett called as they rounded the corner to the other row of cells.

“Not plannin' on it!”

Jasper took Isabella to the cell furthest from the doors. It was open so he didn't have to ask Emmett to unlock it. He slid inside and placed Isabella on the bed. Turning briefly, he closed the door behind him.

“Now, Mr. Whitlock - what is goin' on in that head of yours? You can't just kidnap the Warden in her very own prison and expect to get away with it!”

“Oh now, Warden - I expect to get away with a lot more then just kidnappin' ya in your own prison...” An evil smirk appeared on Jasper's face and Isabella shivered in anticipation.

She stood slowly and headed toward Jasper. He looked at her expectantly as she led him over to the bed and sat him down on it. She straddle his lap and placed his hands down behind him. She kissed slowly up the side of his neck to his jaw. His moans of pleasure spurred her onward. She finally came to his lips and kissed him with everything she had in her. A small almost inaudible click sounded causing Jasper's eyes to spring open. He tried to move his hands but couldn't. He looked down over his shoulder and noticed that she had handcuffed him to the bed. Where she got the cuffs from he had no idea - but what she did next caused his eyes to widen so much that he looked like an owl...

Chapter 35: Heaven in Hell.

Previously:

 

Where she got the cuffs from he had no idea - but what she did next caused his eyes to widen so much that he looked like an owl...

Isabella stood from Jaspers' lap and sauntered a few steps away, turning to look straight at him.

“Now Mr. Whitlock, what was it you were sayin' just a few moments ago? Oh, that's right - you planned on getting away with more then just kidnapping me. What is it that you planned on getting away with exactly? I truly am curious to know what you were thinking.”

“Isabella..Ma'am..” Jasper gulped.

Isabella threw her head back and laughed at the deer-caught-in-the-headlights look Jasper was sportin. Her laughter echoed through the near empty building, bouncing off the bare concrete walls. She had never known Jasper to stutter, he was always so in control. This was priceless. She would have to share this with Peter and Charlotte...but then again maybe this should be kept for her personal pleasure.

“What's a matter, Whitlock? Cat got your tongue?”

Isabella could of swore she heard him mumble “I know a pussy I would like to have on my tongue” but she simply shook it off.

“Ma'am?”

“Spit it out, Whitlock! I wanna know what your plans are before I agree - or disagree - with them.”

Jasper quirked his brow at her. Was she serious? He was hoping for a hot make out session...maybe some sneaky groping. How far was she willing to take this? Only one way to find out:

“I planned on tastin' every inch of your body. Teasin' ya ta the height of pleasure and then stopping only ta do it once again... Then I planned on plungin' my hard cock inta ya already throbbing pussy and fuckin' ya till ya saw nothing but stars. I'll be makin' sure ya scream out ma' name so loud, no one would confuse who ya belonged ta.”

The moan that slid out of Isabella's lips escaped before she could stop it, causing a devilish smirk to appear on Jasper's face: Isabella liked dirty talk! Well, he could work with that...

“What's wrong, Ma'am? Are ya okay?”

Panting heavily Isabella shot a glare Jasper's way, making him laugh.

“Do ya find something funny, Whitlock?”

Isabella smiled wickedly as she approached Jasper like she was stalking him. A slight shiver of anticipation rolled down his spine as Isabella straddled Jasper once again before leaning in to whisper into his ear:

“Well, I find this funny Whitlock...”

Isabella grabbed hold of his shirt and ripped it open. The buttons pulling off and pinging off the different metals around the room. She began to lick from his ear down his neck toward his shoulders. Sliding his shirt off of his body as far as it could go with him being cuffed. Continuing to lick and now nibble on his chest, Isabella took one of his nipples in between her teeth and rolled it slowly.

Jasper moaned; what she was doing to him was pure torture. He wasn't sure how far she was going to take things but no matter what, he knew it was going to be hell!

Isabella slid further down Jaspers' body; more moans and pants leaving his lips. She knew what she was doing was driving him insane. It was revenge: how dare he talk to her like that - and then laugh! She would make him pay for his fuckery. Reaching out, she slowly unbuckled his belt...

Jasper's eyes snapped to attention. What was this evil vixen doing to him? He locked eyes with her, watching every move she made as she slowly unbuttoned his pants and slid the zipper down with her teeth. He wanted to throw his head back and let his eyes roll into the recesses of his mind but he couldn't seem to tear his eyes away from hers.

Isabella slowly slid his pants down to his knees. Giving her enough room to do what she needed. She could see his prominent erection straining to break free of the confining boxers he was wearing. She smiled up at him, bringing her hand to gently stroke him through the fabric.

Jasper couldn't help it. His eyes rolled back and his head tilted toward the ceiling as a deep throaty moan escaped him. It had been over two years since anyone but himself had touched him intimately. It felt like an out of body experience to him.

Isabella grew wetter at the sight of the pleasure she was bringing him. Deciding now was the time, while he was distracted, she slid his boxers down to his knees to join his jeans. Jasper was a well endowed man. She was startled by the size at first but then licked her lips in delight. Licking the pre-cum from his tip, he jumped.

Jasper jumped at the feel of her tongue stroking across the tip of his dick. He hadn't even realized she had removed his boxers. He looked down to meet her eyes and the glint in her eyes told him her every intention. As he followed her movements he watched with rapt attention as she wrapped her lips around his member. He hissed at the contact at first but sighed as the pleasure shot through him.

Watching the pleasure spread across Jasper's face showed Isabella that he was enjoying what she was doing. This pleased her and pushed her to move faster. Hollowing out her cheeks, she caused a vacuum-like suction to pull Jasper's cock further into her mouth. Swirling her tongue around him as he got closer and closer to the back of her throat. Then his tip touched her throat she could feel him stiffen and shake slightly.  It wouldn't be long now.... she picked up her speed as she bobbed up and down on him. Pulling moans from deep inside him.

“Isabella....I'm...al...most...ple..ase...oh...god...ggooonnn..nnnaaa..ccuuumm.”

Isabella felt his muscles contract under her fingers and his body went ramrod-straight. Soon he was filling her mouth with his hot seed. She continued sucking him in, drawing out every last drop he could give her. When he started to go limp in her mouth she pulled back, licking him clean before removing him completely from her mouth.

“Mmm... you taste divine.”

Isabella smiled while licking his remaining juice off her lips.

Jasper couldn't move, let alone reply to her. His whole body was shaking from the intense orgasm she had just given him. He was sure he blacked out briefly for a moment at the end there. Never... never in his entire life - teenager or adult - has he ever had such a cataclysmic experience. Not even with his ex-wife - she never gave oral, saying it was dirty, demeaning, and degrading of a proper lady... Proper lady his ass! A proper lady would never disregard the vows they pledged to one another and allow herself to be bedded by another man in his absence.

“Jasper, you okay?”

Isabella's worried voice brought him back to himself some..

“Yeah...”

He replied in a breathy moan.

“I think I'll let you rest some then... I'll have Emmett come remove the cuffs in a little while.”

Isabella giggled. At the sound of Emmett's name Jasper looked over at her with a scared expression until he looked down and noticed she had redressed him... at least his lower half, anyway. His shirt still hung open, but it was at least up on his shoulders.

“I'll see ya later, Cowboy! I still have work to do.”

Isabella leaned over and kissed him with everything that was in her. He returned the kiss with just as much passion as she had.

“You were incredible.” He whispered in her ear before she pulled away.

Isabella blushed. The things this man brought out in her would get her in some serious trouble.

Jasper watched as Isabella sauntered out of the cell he was in. It wasn't until she was gone did everything that happened come rushing back to him. He tried to move his hands to rub his face but realized he couldn't: she really had left him handcuffed to the bed. Great! Emmett would never let him live this down. Just as he thought that, Emmett appeared wearing a mischievous grin that Jasper thought could rival Peter's...

“Speak of the devil an he shall appear...” Jasper said to Emmett.

Emmett laughed and replied.

“Not the devil, man - just the gate keeper!”

“Come ta do ya Master's bidding?”

“Of course.”

“And my torture for taday is what?”

“Nope. Judging by the way you look and the cat-that-ate-the-canary grin she was sportin' when she left, I'd say she done that already”

“Right ya are - she worked my ass over good. Now could ya uncuff me?”

“Sure. How'd you end up this way anyway? I don't remember her havin' cuffs?”

“Me either.”

“She really is the devil. Making that shit appear out of nowhere. I knew she was evil!”

Jasper just laughed along with him. What could he say? He couldn't deny it, nor could he agree to it – she had just brought Heaven to him when he felt like he was in Hell.

Chapter 35: The past come backs to bite you in the ass.

Previously:

 

“Speak of the devil an he shall appear...” Jasper said to Emmett.

 

Emmett laughed and replied.

 

“Not the devil, man - just the gate keeper!”

 

“Come ta do ya Master's bidding?”

 

“Of course.”

 

“And my torture for taday is what?”

 

“Nope. Judging by the way you look and the cat-that-ate-the-canary grin she was sportin' when she left, I'd say she done that already”

 

“Right ya are - she worked my ass over good. Now could ya uncuff me?”

 

“Sure. How'd you end up this way anyway? I don't remember her havin' cuffs?”

 

“Me either.”

 

“She really is the devil. Making that shit appear out of nowhere. I knew she was evil!”

 

Jasper just laughed along with him. What could he say? He couldn't deny it, nor could he agree to it – she had just brought Heaven to him when he felt like he was in Hell.

                                                          ~BSB~

Isabella had left work with a smile on her face. She was till glowing when she knocked on Charlotte's door, and blushed cherry red when Peter called her on it.

“What did you do to my brother?”

“I didn't do nothing. He grabbed me and tried to have his way with me in an empty cell.”

“Why do I not believe you?”

“What” Isabella said innocently.

“Char..Bella won't spill the juicy details on what she was doin to Jasper behind those steel bars.”

“Peter leave her alone. She is here to help me with the case against Edward now scat.” Charlotte told him as she entered the room loaded down with files and printouts.

“I take it you found what we needed without any of my help?”

“Yes. A few simple phone calls and emails and I had all the information I needed on one Edward Anthony Mason, and his wife Katerina Renese Danali.”

“Katie?”

“Do you know her?”

“I'm afraid so. I met her my first year in college. She was a retched thing back then too so it doesn't really surprise me that she hasn't changed and became worse.”

“I see. Well let's get to work shall we. I would like to get Jasper out of your humble abode before he goes stir crazy.”

“I think I gave him something to keep his mind occupied for the time being.” Isabella snickered.

“I'm not even gonna ask.”

“That's fine cause I didn't plan on tellin.”

Isabella and Charlotte set off to work. Each taking half the pile and sorting through the information they had. Both women armed with multiple colored highlighters, pens and notepads. Edward Masen was gonna wish he never set foot in Dallas, let alone the state of Texas.

Hours had passed and the women were finally done with the finer points, now all they had to do was contact the complainants and get statements from them. Then put together the case and take it to court. It sounded easy but it was harder then you would think.

Walking out of the room they were locked in they decided to grab something to eat. They found Peter in the kitchen cooking.

“Okay who are you? And what have you done with my husband?”

“Ya husband is standing right here and ya ladies were so busy with tryin to bring Jasper home I thought I would take some of the extra work of ya hands.”

Charlotte walked over and kissed him. Isabella followed closely behind and kissed Peter on the cheek thankin him. Peter turned several shades of red as the girls chuckled.

“Alright enough of embarrassing me, sit down dinner is done.”

They sat around talking about what they have done and what has to be done yet. Peter said he would help them make calls if they wanted. The sooner this got done; the sooner Jasper came home. After everything was cleaned up the three set to work calling all of those who were swindled by Edward and his wife. It took four hours to make all the calls and set up appointments with them individually. Some had to travel from other states to come see them. It would all be worth it in the end. They assured them that they would all be re-reimbursed for their travel expenses. It was almost midnight when the last phone call was complete. They looked around at each other with smiles on their faces.

“So once this is all done and we get back the money they stole from all those people what are we gonna do?” Charlotte.

“Well the settlement will be well over the amount of what was originally taken. So after everyone gets back what they lost and are re-reimbursed for their travel expenses; I think we should set the rest up in a college fund for Edward's kids. He may be an ass and his wife a bitch but the kids deserve a good education. We can't condemn them for the acts of their parents. It's bad enough that they will be put into the foster care system while Edward and Katie are in prison for fraud and multiple other charges.” Isabella told them.

“That sounds like a great plan...so now Bella ya wanna spill what ya did to my brother while ya had him imprisoned that had ya smilin like that and turnin cherry red when I asked earlier?” Peter asked.

“Peter! You are insatiable you know that right?” Isabella laughed.

“Yep that's what wifey says all the time but for different reasons.” Peter wiggled his eyebrows.

They all started laughing.

“Fine. I handcuffed him to the bed. Then teased the shit out of him and left him there.” Isabella grinned evily.

“When you say teased?” Charlotte asked.

“That's all you get. I'm not sayin anything else. I will let you take that as you may.” Isabella said giggling.

“Okay then. I think it's time we all go to bed, we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow as there will be a few of Charlotte's new clients arriving early.” Peter said.

“Sounds good to me.” Isabella said.

“You takin the guest room Bella?” Peter asked.

“Of course. I wanna be here for all the information too. I don't have any work at the prison and Emmett is more then capable of keepin them occupied. All my calls are forwarded to my cell anyway.” Isabella said.

“Alrighty then I say goodnight all and I will see ya in the morning.” Charlotte said grabbing Peter and heading toward their bedroom.

Isabella chuckled as she headed to her room. Knowing exactly how good a night Charlotte was planning on having. As she laid down on the bed she replayed her afternoon with Jasper.

                                                          ~BSB~

Edward felt as if all his plans were coming to fruition. Alice had been scarce since her blow up at the hospital but he didn't think of her as a complication. She was alienated from her family and Jasper wanted nothing to do with her, so no one would believe her claims anyway.

He was sitting in the lounge when his wife came in.

“Edward darling, do you think that girl will say anything?” Kate asked with a worried expression on her face.

“No dear, and even if she did no one would believe her. Everyone she knows has sided with her ex-husband.”

“Why did you have to sleep with her Edward? I know that is how we usually work these things but she seems different then the others.”

“She was weak and vulnerable. It made her an easy target. That and she had unlimited access to the Whitlock fortune at the time. I had to make her believe I cared for her.” he said as he pulled his wife onto his lap.

“That still doesn't explain why you had to? She seems to have real feelings for you, and you seem attached to her. You don't have feelings for her do you?”

“I do not have feelings for her at all. She is a means to an end and that is all. I love you more then life itself.”

“This just feels different this time. I have a bad feeling Edward and I don't like it.”

“Everything will be fine Kate. I always take care of you and the kids don't I?”

“Yes.”

“Then there is nothing to worry about. I will continue to do what I always do and we will be on our way to the next place in a few weeks.”

“If your sure.” Kate said still feeling uneasy.

“I'm positive.”

Chapter 36: Depositions and Statements

Previously:

 

“I do not have feelings for her at all. She is a means to an end and that is all. I love you more then life itself.”

 

“This just feels different this time. I have a bad feeling Edward and I don't like it.”

 

“Everything will be fine Kate. I always take care of you and the kids don't I?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Then there is nothing to worry about. I will continue to do what I always do and we will be on our way to the next place in a few weeks.”

 

“If your sure.” Kate said still feeling uneasy.

 

“I'm positive.”

It was an early morning just as Peter had predicted it would be. The first client called from the airport at 5am. Charlotte and Isabella went to retrieve them and they would all go back to Charlotte's office to write up the Statements. Mr. Tanner and his wife were a sweet old couple. It seems that Mrs. Tanner had a soft spot for young doctor's which is what Mr. Masen was posing as at the time they met him in Illinois.

“Mrs. Tanner, could you please tell us how you met Mr. Masen?” Charlotte asked.

“I was in a small fender bender on my way home from work. In all accidents they take all parties involved to the hospital. He was a resident there. He seemed so sweet and kind. We talked some. When I got out of the hospital he came to visit me to check up on me. We became what I thought was friends. My husband was away on business one weekend and I called Edward...a Mr. Masen over to visit. We sat around and had drinks, we went out to dinner and then to a local club. I'm not sure what happened then everything was a little fuzzy. I woke up the next morning next to a very naked young man. He didn't seemed fazed. I was devastated. I couldn't for the life of me remember what happened or how we ended up in my bed. He said my husband would never know, cause he would never say anything. It was a week later that a letter arrived addressed to me. I opened it and it was from Edward. He said that he had lost his job at the hospital. They were downsized or something like that and asked if he could borrow some money until he got back on his feet. So I lent him a few hundred to help him out. But then another letter came, asking for more money. When I told him I couldn't do it he called. He told me that if I didn't get him the money he would tell my husband everything. I was scared my marriage would end so I wired him the money. This went on for months. It wasn't until our bank account was over drawn did George come to me to ask me where the money went. I knew I had to tell him everything. When I did at first he was mad, but then he said we had to go to the police. When we did, they went to the hospital, only the hospital never had any record of a Dr. Masen. When I tried to call his number it was disconnected. The police looked everywhere for him, but turned up nothing but dead ends. It was like he disappeared.”

“Then what did you do?”

“We didn't have a choice, we filed for bankruptcy. We sold the house and all the things in it. We bought a small apartment close to George's base of work and have been living there ever since.”

“How long ago was this?” Charlotte asked.

“Two years ago.”

“Well Mrs. Tanner it seems as if your not the only one's he has swindled. I will be taking your case along with several others. Mr. Masen it seems is a very naughty boy.”

“Will we get our money back?” Mr. Tanner asked.

“Do you have the bank statements from the time you started the withdrawals till the time you noticed the discrepancies?”

“Yes I have everything here.” Mr. Tanner handed over a folder.

Charlotte thumbed through it quickly and then handed it to Isabella. Isabella looked it over and wrote a few notes down on a table she had perched on her lap. She had sat quietly during the whole interview.

“Now I'm going to ask you to please take this form and fill out everything you just told me as accurately as you can. I will double check the dates and times to make sure it is correct, then have you come in and sign the deposition so I can place it in the file.” Charlotte said handing them a stack of papers and a pen.

“Thank you Mrs. Whitlock. I hope we can finally get this settled and move on.” Mrs. Tanner said shaking Charlotte's hand.

“No Ma'am, thank you.”

With that Charlotte called her assistant in to lead the Tanner's to the next room so they could fill out the paper work.

“What do you think?” Charlotte asked Isabella.

“I think their story is heartbreaking and that if Edward thinks he is gonna get away with this shit for much longer he is sadly mistaken.” Isabella almost growled.

“Well put your game face back on cause our next complainant is about to be here in 5 mins.”

Isabella sat back comfortably and flipped the page on her notebook. She was ready...at least she thought she was.

“Mrs. Whitlock, your next appointment is here should I send her in?” Charlotte's assistant asked.

“Yes Autumn, thank you.”

When the door to Charlotte's office door opened and the young woman and child came in the gasp that slipped from their mouths was audible to even the assistant.

“I'm sorry....but..” Charlotte stuttered.

The child on the woman's hip was almost an exact replica of Edward.

“You may ask Mrs. Whitlock.” the young woman replied.

“Is she?”

“Yes Ma'am she is.”

“Did he know?”

“No Ma'am, and I didn't either till he was already long gone.”

“Please have a seat.”

“Thank you.”

“May I Have your name for the record?” Charlotte asked turning her tape recorder on again.

“My name is Emma Rose Sutton. This is my Daughter Ivy Rain Sutton.”

“Thank you. Now may I ask how it is that you came to meet Mr. Edward Masen?”

“It was four years ago, I was working as a waitress in a restaurant in New Orleans. He didn't go by Masen then, He introduced him self as Mr. Danali. He would come into the restaurant daily, order the same thing every time, always sitting in my section so I would wait on him. He would smile and say how I was sweet and kind. He was always a generous tipper. I needed the money as I was working my way through school. One night he came in and instead of leaving only a tip he left a card with his number on it.” she said handing Charlotte the card she had kept all these years.

“Go on.” Charlotte said.

“I thought he was so handsome and sweet, so I figured why not. We dated for months before he asked me to marry him. He even went as far as to ask my daddy if he could have my hand. I thought he was charming and old fashioned.”

“What exactly does your father do Mrs. Sutton?”

“My family owns several large factories in and around Louisiana. They manufacture steel parts for the railroad company. At least they did back in the day. Now they manufacture car frames and what not for the big car companies.”

“So you would say you come from old money?”

“Yes I guess you could say that.”

“Marrying into your family would have given him access to the family accounts?”

“It would. At least into mine anyway.”

“How much would you say was in your account at the time you met Mr. Masen?”

“Close to two million dollars. I never touched it though. I thought I would feel better if I was to earn my own way, without the family money.”

“I understand. Please continue.”

“Where was I. Yes he asked my father for permission to marry me. My father of course was thrilled that someone was willing to marry me seeing as I was only a waitress at the time.”

“What line of work did Mr. Masen say he was in at the time?”

“He said he was the heir to a mining fortune in the northeast. That his family owned several coal mines.”

“What happened next?”

“Well we married the following spring. Everything was like a fairytale to start out. We bought a small house, new cars. He told me to continue with my schooling and that I could keep my waitressing job if I so choose. I of course did and am glad too. The money I was making at the restaurant was in a separate account from the family's. But that didn't matter as he had a card to the family account. He would spend frivolously on the most outrageous things. A new wardrobe, new hair style. He used the excuse that it was so he could better fit into the family and not stand out as a northerner. Not like it would matter his accent gave him away.”

“Could you place the accent?”

“I believe his accent was definitely northern, like New York or New Jersey. It had something to it. It didn't have the slight like the southern states or the fullness of the Midwest.”

“Thank you. Could you tell us where things changed?”

“It was just before our one year anniversary. He had been traveling a lot. Saying that he was going to check in on his family and the business up north. Then one time he just didn't come home. I got worried and called my father. After twenty four hours they declared him missing. There was a state wide search for him. They even tried to track down the Danali family in the north but no one ever heard of him. The Danali family didn't even exist. It was three months after he disappeared that I found out I was pregnant, and the money was gone. I called the police and they added it to his file.”

“How did you discover his real name?”

“I was searching on line and found a picture of him in an old newspaper. He was from New York. The picture was  of him winning a state championship for his high school basketball team.”

“Have you filed for child support?”

“I would have but you have to have proof of paternity and I had nothing. So they said I couldn't file.”

“Well we will be sure to add that to the list of things we file against him. There is no doubt in my mind that your daughter is his.” Charlotte told the girl.

“Thank you.”

Charlotte turned off the recorder.

“Emma I'm gonna ask you to please fill out these forms in the next room. When your done I will double check all the information and add it to the file. Please be as accurate as you can. When you done I will call you back to sign the papers and they will be filed.”

“Again thank you Mrs. Whitlock. But may I ask. Why now?”

“Mr. Masen as wronged the wrong person this time. The family has ties in very high places. He will not be getting away with it this time.”

“Do you know where he is? Mr. Masen that is.”

“Yes we do.”

“Please when you see that bastard could you be sure he gets what's coming to him.”

“I will indeed see to it that he does.” Charlotte smiled as Autumn once again led another client out the door to the next room.

“Well now that was interesting. I wonder if he wife knows about her?”

“I don't think she does. Boy is she gonna be pissed at Edward when she finds out he has a child with another woman. Her children are what 7 and 9?” Isabella asked.

Charlotte flipped through some papers on her desk. Then nodded to Isabella.

“Yeah it seems that way. How old ya reckon that little tike to be?”

“I'd say two maybe three tops.”

“Oh he is a dead man...he best hope we put him away before she finds out. If not we won't have to worry about it. She's gonna kill him.”

“Now that would be something.” Isabella chuckled.

                                                          ~BSB~

It had been two days since Jasper had seen Isabella last. Sure Emmett kept him company but he wasn't the company he was hoping for. Manny and Jose constantly harassed him about his moping. Emmett would too until Jasper glared and threatened to tell Bella on him. Emmett would shut up and lope away to his office. Jasper laid around in his cell, reading or strumming on a guitar that he managed to get Emmett to smuggle in for him. Not like the Warden would say anything about it but the other inmates might see it as special treatment. Hell, they already knew he got special treatment as only Manny and Jose were the other inmates. They would often make requests as they all sat around playing poker with Emmett. Jasper would oblige and play it if he knew the song. He knew that Isabella and Charlotte were busy working on his case but what he wouldn't give to hear her voice.

“Oh Jazzman stop your pouting. I hear the Warden will be in to see you later tonight.” Emmett called from his office as Jasper was playing yet another somber tune.

“Really?”

“Yeah I believe she said something about an interesting break in the case.” Emmett said.

“Huh. Wonder what that could be.”

“You'll just have to wait and find out lover boy...” Manny snickered from down the cell block. His laughter was then joined my Jose and Emmett.

“Fuck you.”

“Come here pretty boy and I will.” Jose said back. Causing another round of laughter.

“Ya guys all suck ya know that.” Jasper laughed.

“How bad ya wanna find out?” Manny asked. While sauntering up to the door of Jasper's cell.

“Manny man leave him alone. You know if you hurt him you will have to deal with the Warden.” Emmett chuckled out.

They all were just having fun and Jasper didn't get worked up about it. He knew they all had wife's and families on the outside.

“It's all good Emmett. It does get a little lonely in here..ya know with the Warden not here to see I think I could have a good time with these two. Ya know there ain't many women over there in the war zones, so it has been a while since I've gotten any real love. I'm sure these guys could use some too. If ya know what I mean.” Jasper stood to his full height and moved closer to Manny.

Manny got a weary look in his eye as Jasper was almost upon him. Jose looked shocked. He wasn't sure if Jasper was just fuckin with them or if he was serious. He looked serious. Emmett was watching all this from his office and was trying his hardest not to laugh at the scene he was seeing play out in front of him. When Jasper ran his hand down Manny's arm and Manny damn near jumped out of his skin, Emmett lost it. He laughed so hard he fell out of his office chair. What happen next was what just about killed him. Jasper grabbed Manny's arm as Manny tried to move away, swung him around and planted a kiss right on his lips. Manny's eyes were the size of dinner plates. The very feminine cough brought them all to attention. Jasper actually dropped Manny right on his ass. Emmett was still laughing to hard to notice that Isabella had entered the building with Charlotte standing next to her. Charlotte looked shocked at what she was seeing.

“And what pray tell is goin on here?” Isabella asked. Amusement in her voice.

“Well Warden, your man here was about to assault Manny in ways that I don't even wanna think about.” Jose was the first to respond.

Isabella quirked an eyebrow at Jasper who just winked at her and smiled.

“Well don't let me interrupt.” Isabella said turning away to head in the direction of Emmett's office where he was still rolling around on the floor. Charlotte just shook her head and followed after her to Emmett's office.

“Wait Warden you can't be serious?” Manny stuttered from the floor where he was trying to squirm out of the reach of Jasper who was leaning toward him again.

Isabella turned around and looked completely serious when she said.

“I'm sure it's been a very long time since Major Whitlock has had any real form of pleasure besides his hand. It's not like they have brothels in the war zones. And since I don't house women with men ya will just have ta be a proper substitute. Now stop cowering like a girl and get ta it.” she then turned her back and closed the door to the office.

“Ya heard the Warden Manny your all mine.” Jasper said.

                                                          ~BSB~

Isabella was laughing so hard behind the door she thought her sides were gonna bust. Emmett was still on the floor and Charlotte stood by with a shocked look on her face. Almost like she couldn't believe what she just saw and heard.

“Isabella...ya..sure...about...that?” Charlotte stuttered out pointing behind her to the door.

“Oh...yes...char...i am... I'm positive..they have been harpin on him something awful.” Isabella said between her bouts of laughter.

“Oh Bells you have no idea.” Emmett said finally pulling himself up off the floor.

“What the hell did we just walk in on?” Charlotte asked looking at Emmett.

“Well first Jose propositioned Jasper and then Manny offered to show him how much he sucks. It's all really funny if ya think about it. They were bustin him about the Bells here, and he said fuck you after Manny called him lover boy, so Jose said for him to come to him and called him pretty boy. Then he told them they sucked and Manny bein the asshole he is came over to Jazzman's cell and asked him how bad he wanted to find out. What I didn't expect was Jasper's response.” Emmett said.

“And what was his response?” Isabella asked with a cheeky grin on her face.

“He told me it was alright, that it had been a long time since he got any real lovin and since you weren't here to see what was goin on that he figured those two could show him. Then he said almost the same thing you did. He told them there weren't many women in the war zone and then he stood tall and walked over to Manny. The guys' faces were priceless. You should have seen them then when Jazzman ran his hand down Manny's arm and he jumped I about died. Manny tried to get away but Jazz grabbed him and twirled him around like some fairy princess and lip locked him. That was where you came in.”

“I see. Well it's nice to know that they all get along so well.” Isabella said with a straight face, which finally caused Charlotte to loose it.

“Oh my god. I leave him to ya guys for a couple of days and ya turn him bi-sexual.” she shreeked.

“Char calm down he is only messin 'round....i think?” Emmett questioned.

“Charlotte I assure ya that Jasper is just playing with those two. They deserve it, if they have been harassin him like Emmett says.”

“If ya sure..” Charlotte said still a little unsure.

“Oh Charlotte I'm positive ya brother still enjoys the warm comfort of a woman.” Isabella smirked.

“I don't wanna know!” Emmett said covering his ears, while chanting lalalalalala.

The two girls laughed hysterically before they settled down.

“Well go wrangle him up before he gives Manny a heart attack and poor Jose an ulsur.” Isabella told Emmett.

“Yes Ma'am.” Emmett was out the door before she could say anything else.

Emmett found them cowering in Jose's cell while Jasper made kissy faces through the bars at them. Emmett just shook his head.

“Whitlock. Stop scaring my inmates and get to my office; the Warden wants a word with you.”

“Yes sir. Now don't ya two sweet asses go anywhere, I'm not done with ya yet. Once the Warden is gone I'll be right back to finish what we started.” Jasper said as he stood and started back toward Emmett's office.

Emmett chuckled as he caught up with Jasper.

“Dude what did you do to them?”

“Nothing. I just like fuckin with'em. They started all this so I plan on playin with them for a while...how long do ya think it will last before they figure out I'm a one woman guy?”

“Depends on how bad you scared them. What was with that lip lock by the way?”

“Oh hell that. Peter and I used ta do that back in the day before he met Char. We used ta sneak into bars ta watch the bands an' when women..an' I use the term loosely would try ta hit on us we would kiss an' pretend ta be gay so they would leave us alone. I don't think Peter ever told Charlotte any of those stories or they wouldn't be married today...hell I don't even think my Momma knows.”

“Next time I see your Momma, I'm so tellin her. And then I'm gonna give your brother a big kiss.” Emmett said laughing.

“Ya will tell my Momma no such thing as for kissing Peter...go ahead. I'm sure it's been a long time since he's kissed a man!” Jasper laughed.

They walked into the office still laughing.

“What did ya two do now?”

“Nothing Warden. But I think you might wanna send Manny and Jose to see the counselor. Jazzman here has them cowering in Jose's cell with the door locked. He promised to finish what they started after you leave.” Emmett laughed.

“Jasper ya are in such big trouble mister.” Charlotte chided.

“What did I do?” Jasper looked worried.

“How could ya kiss that man?”

“Not the first man I ever kissed.” Jasper said causing both Isabella and Charlotte's eyes to widen.

“Jazzman your not helping your case here.” Emmett said.

Jasper then walked over to Isabella, pulled her into his arms, dipped her back and kissed her with everything he had in him. It took a second or so for her to respond but when she did he was surprised at the passion she pushed back at him. It took Emmett clearing his throat to pull them back to the now.

“Missed ya Darlin'” Jasper said as he stood Isabella upright.

“Uh huh?” Isabella seemed dazzled.

“Jazzman I think you broke her.”

“Now what was I summoned for?” Jasper asked looking to Charlotte.

Charlotte shook her head and taking a deep breath, launched into what they had been working on for the last two days. To say that Jasper was thrilled and shocked was an understatement. Edward Masen was so screwed. Once everything was settled out Jasper gave Isabella one more kiss and a swat on her ass as he made his way out of Emmett's office. The three still sitting there broke out laughing when they heard Jasper call:

“Manny, Jose...where are ya my little dove's. Come to papi.”