Chapter 1

“Hey Tony, give me the usual.” Jensa said by way of greeting as she slid on one of the stools of her favorite bar, crossing one smooth, tanned leg over the other.  Long, honey blonde hair pooled down her back in waves, curling at the ends, while deep blue eyes studied her surroundings.  Her outfit was a simple strapless blue dress that went to mid-thigh, though still left plenty to the imagination, matching open toed heels on her feet. “Thanks.” She murmured quietly, sipping her wine thoughtfully.

“Jensa...” Came the voice of her ex-boyfriend, Randy Orton, as he slid onto the stool next to her; automatically procuring a cigarette seemingly out of nowhere and lit it, studying her thoughtfully. “Were you waiting on me or just bar hopping?” He made what was actually a scathing question sound so sweet, tone polite and warm; though his eyes were pure ice.

“Randy 'I like to fuck anything with two legs' Orton, how are you darling?” Jensa sweetly retorted, though her tone or eyes did not show it, having lit up her own cigarette at the bar while sipping her beverage.  She waved Tony off when he came over, smiling, letting him know everything was fine.  Randy always harassed her and, as usual, Jensa put him in his place with the utmost icy kindness.

“I'm peachy keen, precious.  How're you?” Randy used the same tone of voice with her as she did him. “And that wasn't very nice, I don't fuck just ANYTHING.” He exhaled smoke, right in her face all the while flashing a charming smile.  He looked so sweet and innocent, until knowing him.  Then...all bets were off. “What are you doing here?” He asked again. “Waiting for your flavor of the night?”

Jensa blew smoke right back at him, setting her drink down, uncrossing her legs briefly to switch them, her eyes never leaving his. “Actually, I decided I wanted to come here for a drink.  Unlike YOU, I don't have flavors of the night, I don't need them.” She smirked when he bit back a scowl, taking a long swig of her drink before flicking ash in the ashtray. “And you're just bitter because my 'flavor of the night' isn't you.”

His calm facade was interrupted by a flicker of anger and annoyance passing over his handsome features. “Well, that could change very easily.” He said after a moment, tapping his cigarette in the ashtray, nodding when a beer was placed in front of him. “You used to LIKE being my flavor.” He purred seductively, reaching out to run a hand up her thigh.

“That was before I found out about all of your other flavors.” She retorted swiftly, turning her chair to where she was facing the bar, his hand falling from her thigh at once.  Jensa wasn't a fighter, unless the situation called for it as she drained the rest of her glass before requesting a refill, biting back laughter at the look Tony was shooting Randy. “Now go away and find your flavor because it's not me, Orton.  I'm done playing with you; you need to move on, sweet cheeks.”

Growling angrily, Randy slid off the barstool.  Instead of disappearing like she was probably hoping for, he moved his hands onto her shoulders; squeezing gently but firmly. “Now Jen, is that anyway to treat the guy you admitted you loved at one time?” He purred, bending down so his hot breath hit her ear; sliding his hands down around her neck.

Jensa tensed, though she tried fighting it, not wanting him to know just how bothered she was by his words.  Still, she took the drink from Tony, her eyes telling him not to do anything because Randy was a dangerous man and could drop him like a bad habit. “You were a toy to me, sweetheart, didn't you know?  I used you Orton for my own amusement and made you THINK I actually gave a damn about you.  The dick wasn't bad, but I've had better.” She chuckled ruefully, putting her cigarette out, blowing smoke out slowly. “In case you didn’t hear me before, let me repeat myself: I'm done playing with you.”

Dangerous was right and Jensa had JUST pissed him off.  A sneer on his sensual yet cruel lips, he wrapped one massive hand around her throat; squeezing hard enough to let her know she was igniting his explosive temper.

“Boy, get your hands off the woman.” Came a deep; dangerous baritone from behind. 

'Taker had just been coming in for a damn drink, without getting knocked over by one of the punk band mates and what did he get to see?  Some moron with a bad crew cut trying to assault a lady.  He had heard the woman's put down and mentally cringed, feeling like his own boys were about to be sliced off or something just from being so close.  When said boy turned around, with a fist flying no less, 'Taker caught it, his acid green eyes narrowing.

Blue eyes widened as Jensa held her throat, blinking, having been whipped around since Randy released her and was currently on the floor with a broken nose.  She heard the crunch, a satisfying sound to her ears after the mother fucker put his hands on her. “I'm fine Tony, can I have some water?” She asked quietly when he rushed over to her from behind the bar, trying to learn how to breath and slow her racing heart.  Randy deserved what she said after everything he put her through.

“YOU BROKE MY FUCKING NOSE MAN!”

‘Taker shrugged once, resting his heavy boot on the kid's stomach. “Be grateful that's not all I broke.” He advised wickedly. “Apologize.”

“Are you FUCKING kidding me?” Randy groaned, cupping his broken; bleeding nose and howled in pain.  A second later he was screaming when the heel of that heavy boot actually pressed down.

Jensa couldn't believe what was happening, finally looking at her...savior...swallowing hard.   This man was HUGE and towered over anyone in the bar, especially her five foot, eight petite frame.   Though hearing Randy howl in pain was worth it as she rubbed her neck, thick blue and black bruises already forming, marring her beautiful skin.

'Taker glanced her way, assessing her quickly, noting those bruises.  He was a lot of things himself, but a woman abuser was not one of them.  Scowling, he bent down and grabbed Randy by HIS throat, literally jerking him to his feet by his neck. “Apologize.” He repeated gravely.

“Sorry...”

“And mean it.” ‘Taker brought his knee up, kneeing Randy in his ass so hard Randy yelped like a dog.

“I'M SORRY, JENSA!”

Eyes narrowing, Jensa stared at him for a long while before finally nodding stiffly, taking the ice pack Tony handed her, pressing it to her neck. “If you EVER lay a hand on me again, Orton, I will make sure your fingers are permanently broken.” She slid from the stool and slapped the taste out of his mouth, the sound resonating around the bar, and spit right in his face for good measure. “Apology NOT accepted asshole.” She threw the ice pack at him before storming out, heels clicking violently.

Smirking, 'Taker dragged Randy through the bar, right out the back door and hurled him head first into a dumpster.  After shutting and locking the door behind him, he stepped back into the bar.  Well, so much for gratitude; the woman had taken off.  Shaking his head, he took her spot at the bar, nodding when Tony slid a beer and a bottle of Jack his way.

“Jensa wait!” Natalie came after her before she could walk out while ‘Taker had taken care of Randy, her eyes widened. “Honey, you've been drinking remember?”

“I wasn't planning on driving, Nat.” Jensa sighed when she was dragged back to the bar, rolling her eyes.  She didn't want to be here right now, knowing she wouldn't be able to talk tomorrow, and took a fresh ice pack from Tony. “Thanks...”

“I told you if he...”

“Tony, not now okay?”

“Yeah, she's been through hell already.  That Orton has a lot of balls for doing that shit in here!  He's banned!” She was the owner of the bar.

Jensa actually cracked a smile and hugged Natalie, thanking her.

'Taker just sat there and took a shot from the bottle, wondering just how many times Orton ‘The Pussy’ had been banned.  Apparently he had pulled this shit before on Jensa, now that was a name you didn't hear everyday.  He grunted when he seen the two women hugging from the corner of his eye; now that was a delicious visual.

“Don't thank ME!” Natalie gestured to the man sitting a few stools down, her grey eyes narrowing slightly. “He's the one you should be thanking for putting that fucker in his place.”

Jensa's blue eyes moved from Nat to the man who saved her from Randy doing further damage, nodding. “You are right.” Sliding off of her stool that Nat forced her in, Jensa walked over to the man, extending her small hand. “I want to thank you for what you did, sir.  May I buy your drinks for the evening?” It was the LEAST she could do, flashing a beautiful smile, the lighting above causing the golden specks in her hair to glisten slightly.

'Taker didn't even bat an eyebrow, knowing they were now talking about him.  Or at least the exuberant one was, nodding when a second beer was placed in front of him.  It took quite a bit to get him drunk.  He turned when Jensa appeared behind him, taking her hand in his briefly; damn but she was a tiny thing.

“Pleasure was all mine.” He said, grinning briefly before shaking his head; his black as ink hair moving with the gesture. “I can drink a lot.” He said by way of explanation, trying not to sound amused.

“Drink as much as you want, I have it covered.” Jensa assured him softly, winking, slowly slipping her hand out of his before sitting in the stool beside him.  Natalie was busy prepping a salve to get rid of her bruises, Jensa hated being marked up.  She was a picture of beauty and sometimes used it to her advantage.  She wasn't vain, though when it came to Randy, all bets were off. “Nat...” She groaned when she was turned around on the stool and let the woman doctor her up, rolling her eyes. “Is this really necessary?”

“Woman, those bruises are BAD, yes.”

Jensa sighed and just sat there, crossing her arms in front of her chest, scowling.

'Taker shifted on his stool to openly watch him; arching an eyebrow when Natalie arched one at him. Most people didn't say shit to him because of his size.  And his long black hair, and the tattoos that covered his arms from wrist to sleeve.  Or maybe it was the black jeans and black vest...Or perhaps just the way he carried himself, he exuded danger.

“That happen a lot?”

“No, Randy normally just harasses her for a bit and then moves on.  I don't know what got into him tonight...”

“Maybe because of what I said.” Jensa didn’t sound the least bit sorry as Natalie finished, thanking her with a nod, and turned back around in her stool. “He deserved it, the prick.” She flipped her hair over her shoulder, crossing one leg over the other again. “He ruined a perfectly good evening for me, I hope he never recovers.” Her voice was pure ice along with her eyes as Tony handed her another drink, but Jensa declined. “I'm going to decline, Tony.  It's been a hell of a night.  I think I'm just going to go home.”

“Your cab is outside waiting for you, honey.”

“Thanks.” She turned to the man who saved her, extending her hand again as she slid from the stool. “Thank you once again for everything you did, sir.  Good evening.” She slid her hand out of his after briefly shaking it, heading for the exit.

'Taker arched an eyebrow, wondering if she was planning on driving or what, knowing she had been drinking.  How much, that he didn't know, but...she was beautiful and he was intrigued.  He got up and gently caught her hand, turning her around.

“Need a ride?” He asked huskily.

Damn he had a voice that could melt ice in an instant, her eyes locking on his, clearing her throat since it was still sore. “Natalie called me a cab.” Maybe the man had selective hearing, like most of them did, a smile crossing her glossy lips. “You've helped me enough for one night, sir.  Enjoy the free drinks.” Winking, Jensa slid her hand out of his slowly, feeling the electricity rush up her arm and headed out of the bar, the night air assaulting her.

She felt that, the rush of electricity between them; he knew she did.  He ALMOST went after her, almost.  But 'Taker usually did not chase women; they came to him.  That and considering what that moron boy had put her through, she'd probably assume he was out for 'sex as a reward' or some shit.  He was patient; she'd probably be back in a night or so as it seemed she frequented this place.

He managed to gain a few points when he didn't chase after her, which amused Jensa to no end.  She felt the spark between them, knowing if they went to bed together, it would be explosive.  Still, Jensa did NOT chase after men, they came to her. 

She didn't sleep around like a common whore though; Jensa had standards.  They had to be tall, dark and handsome.  So far, her savior matched every one of those qualities.  Smiling, Jensa slid inside her awaiting cab and told him the address, which took her to her expensive condo on the other side of town.

After finishing off his whiskey and leaving a tip that surpassed the bill, 'Taker called it a night.  Walking just fine, not even buzzing, he walked out of the bar and headed for his Harley Davidson.  Sadly, his mind was STILL on Jensa...and the way her ass swayed with each step she took.

“Damn...”

Jensa inherited a lot of money from her deceased grandmother she used to take care of, so she didn't need to work.  She did anyway though, as a local writer for the newspaper.  Nothing big and she had a different name, not wanting people to know it was her.  Sighing, Jensa walked into her Park Avenue condo and threw her keys on the table before kicking her heels off, the soft plush blue carpeting squishing between her toes.  What a night!  She changed into a black nightgown, sliding into bed with her window open, instantly drifting off to sleep with thoughts of her savior.

Chapter 2

“Jensa, answer your phone.” Ashley sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose; hating it when she got the damn answering machine. “Jensa...there's a new tattoo parlor I want to check out and I need someone with a level head to go with me.” She pleaded excitedly. “Answer the phone!”

Great, what did Ashley want now?  Jensa sighed as she picked up the phone, only half paying attention to the message, but couldn't ignore the urgency in her voice. “What do you want chica?” She demanded, working on her latest project for the newspaper, raising a slow eyebrow as Ashley explained about the new tattoo parlor that just opened. “You know that's not my scene...” She sighed; why was she ever friends with this woman? Finally reluctantly nodding, Jensa didn’t have a choice. “Fine, fine, I'll go.  Give me an hour to get ready.” She hung up and went to change, wondering what a person of her stature wore to a tattoo parlor.  Deciding on a jean skirt and bluish shimmery tank top, Jensa went to shower, knowing Ashley would be there shortly.

Ashley was soon there looking like the punk she was, grinning broadly. “You know you love me.” She teased, when Jensa opened the door, ignoring her friend's exasperated sigh. “LOOK, it is run by some guy who's supposedly very good, but a bit scary and I don't wanna go by myself!” She stuck out her lower lip. “So...”

“So you call your rich bitch friend?” Jensa laughed when she began pouting, draping an arm around her shoulders, shaking her head.  In truth, Jensa was as down to earth as most people, hiding her wealth well.  Her white tennis shoes clomped on the marble flooring as they headed outside, after taking the elevator, since she was on the top floor.  She slid into Ashley's economy car and they were off toward the new tattoo parlor. “Oh joy, oh rapture!”

“I know, right?” Ashley shouted, cranking up the music, which was an alternative rock band, driving like the madwoman she was. “So, you should consider getting one, you know?” She shouted, glancing at her hand, where she had written down the directions to this joint. “Deadman?  Who the hell calls them self that?”

“No idea sounds morbid and NO THANK YOU.” There was no way in hell she was inking herself, was Ashley out of her mind??? Jensa was scared to death of needles; she only had her naval and ears pierced because she got drunk and let one of her friends in college do it for her.  NEVER AGAIN. “No, you stick with your tattooing and just let me tag along okay?” She patted Ashley's hand, smiling when they arrived. “Here goes nothing.” They stepped out and headed inside.

“Wow, this place is...wow.” Ashley said, looking around, and actually gasped when she seen the man behind the counter.  He was sitting on a stool with one leg propped on a rung.  While that wasn't anything special, his size and look was.  He had long black hair that spilled over his bare shoulders and tattoos that made her eyes pop as she tried examining them all from a distance.  When he stood up, she blinked again, nudging Jensa.  He was sexy in a dangerous sort of way and, the fact that he wasn't wearing a shirt, only a pair of skintight black jeans, didn't help. “Did I say wow?”

‘Taker almost smiled.

Jensa felt her breath catch in her throat at the sight of her savior, not believing he was a tattoo artist.  Then again, it wasn't all surprising since he was inked heavily.  Damn, he had an incredible body with muscles in places she'd never seen before, those jeans hugging him like a second skin.  She could already tell he had a great ass too and raised a slow eyebrow.

“Well hello there again.” Jensa finally greeted with a soft smile, seeing Ashley's jaw drop. “I met him last night; he's the one who beat Randy's ass.”

'Taker did smile, nodding at her, before examining her friend.  If they were here for a tattoo, he guessed the punk was his customer. “Ladies, what can I do for you?” He asked, propping an elbow on the counter, green eyes moving back onto Jensa, mentally adding, ‘Or what can I do to you?’  ‘Taker wasn’t that stupid to say it aloud.

Jensa grinned back at Ashley, who still gaped at the man, nudging her. “Come back to earth, Ash.  The man just asked you a question; it's rude not to answer.”

Jensa walked over to a chair and sat down, the skirt going two inches above the knee as she crossed one leg over the other.  Ashley stammered out what she was thinking about getting on her lower back, which made Jensa smirk.  Why the woman tortured herself for decoration was beyond her as Jensa took one of the biker magazines, beginning to sift through it uninterested.

Ashley was giving Jensa looks that said 'go to hell', gesturing her friend to follow because while the guy was sexy; he was also scary.  Swallowing, she stepped back into the hallway, arching an eyebrow when she seen a bald guy, who was sexy in a less scary way.

“Steve, feel up to...What the fuck are you doing, cue ball?” 'Taker demanded, growling.

“Remodelin', jackass.” Steve grunted in return.

Jensa raised a slow eyebrow when Ashley practically came over and DRAGGED her out of her chair, pulling her toward the two big men. “Ashley, if you don't release me I'll stick my foot up your ass sweetheart.” She threatened in a deceptively sweet voice, smiling when the woman loosened her grip. “He's not going to bite you, that wouldn't be good for business.” Chuckling, Jensa rolled her eyes when Ashley scowled at her. “Are you getting inked or wasting his time?”

“Wastin' 'Taker's time?” Steve snorted, ducking a jab to his shoulder. “Try that again, jackass, and I'll stun you so damn hard yer grandmother's gonna feel it.”

'Taker wondered why the hell he kept Steve around, inwardly rolling his eyes. “Don't you have work to do?” He inquired, keeping his voice even.

“Depends.”

He folded his arms over his chest, arching a black eyebrow.

“On how much yer payin' me.”

“Two cases of beer and a day without me beating the shit out of you.”

Jensa ignored their bickering, both her and Ashley looking over a tattoo that was sort of punkish, knowing that's what she wanted.  It would require a LOT of pink...but whatever she wanted.  As long as her friend was happy, Jensa smiled and wrapped her arm around Ashley's shoulders.

“Tell you what chica; consider this your birthday gift.”

Ashley gaped. “Really?!  Jen, you don't-”

“I can and am.  Now we just have to wait for these two to stop their antics.”

“Did you decide yet?” ‘Taker asked Ashley, snorting when Steve smirked, and smacked his friend upside his bald head. “Enough with that.  Back to work.  I'll handle this.”

“Bet you will.” Steve chuckled, appraising both women, trying to figure out which one ‘Taker was interested in.  He rarely took on annoying customers and he had a feeling the blonde was...interesting.

Jensa simply smiled sweetly, patting Ashley on the back encouragingly. “Get anything you want, I got it.” She winked before Ashley looked down at the paper, pointing out the pink skull with a black rose wrapped around it.  Totally Ashley's style; Jensa grinned as ‘Taker nodded before guiding them both to the back. “Happy early birthday, honey.”

“Jen you are the BEST!” Ashley was ecstatic, eyes sparkling. “I want it on my left shoulder.”

“Do I seriously have to watch this?”

“Yes, pretty please?”

“Fine and if I faint, it's on you.”

Pink, she wanted pink.  Well...he'd just have Steve do that.  Steve was better at filling in, while 'Taker's expertise was detailing, something Steve couldn't do worth a damn.

“Sit down.” He grunted, muscles flexing as he rolled his shoulders, glancing at Jensa.

Jensa could FEEL the heat radiating from his eyes as they seared through her, but didn't show it.  She was a master at hiding how she felt and simply took a seat beside Ashley, who hesitantly lay down on the sterilized bedding.  She made sure to bring the magazine with to look at something, instead of undressing this man with her eyes.  She could only imagine what his name was and flicked through the magazine while he prepped the instruments.

“Any second thoughts?” She teased, laughing when Ashley stuck her tongue out. “How very fifth grade of you.”

“So...I heard you were, um, good.” Ashley said, glancing over her shoulder at 'Taker, then back to Jensa, wiggling her eyebrows.

‘Taker did not miss the way her shoulders moved, like she was laughing. “Been told I'm the best.” He replied with a straight face, voice going husky.

Ashley groaned and hid her face.

Jensa was trying so hard not to laugh, but it was nearly impossible as she buried her face in the magazine, Ashley doing the same to the bedding.

“Just shoot me right now.”

“Now why would I do that when you amuse me so much?” Jensa laughed when Ashley's jaw dropped, giggling, trying to stop. “You know I love you chica.”

“Yeah, sure...”

Steve walked in, arching an eyebrow. “Threesome?”

“Just stop talking before you put your foot in your mouth.”

“Foursome, if you count yourself, was there something you wanted?”

“Just wonderin' who dared to laugh in your personal domain, Satan.”

‘Taker narrowed his eyes, pulling on a pair of gloves. “You are now down to a case and a half, Austin.”

Jensa needed a new change of panties due to this man’s voice.  Of course, he didn't need to know that, but somehow knew just how he affected women.  Ashley looked like she was about ready to crawl in a hole and die while Steve snorted, causing her to bury her face in the magazine again.

“I'm not holding your hand by the way, Ash.”

“I didn't ask you too.”

“Good, you want the pain, you're going through it.”

“Yeah, yeah bite me.” Ashley snorted, rolling her eyes.

“I would honey, but your ass is too boney.”

Steve looked like he was caught between a rock and a hard place, groaning when they kept bantering.  When the blonde said, 'bite me', again, he nipped her backside, hearing her squeal. “Now stop teasing.” He growled, walking out.

‘Taker snorted, trying not to find that amusing and lowered his head; knowing he couldn't work until he was done trying not to laugh.

“He bit your ass literally!!” Jensa was ROLLING with laughter, trying not to fall out of the chair, but it was close to impossible as she held her stomach, doubled over. “Oh my god, I'm crying!!  Damn it, my makeup is going to smear, you bitch!!” Tears streamed down her cheeks.

Ashley was red in the face from the top of her head down to her damn toes, feeling like crawling in a hole and dying. “He bit my ass...”

“Literally!  Damn I should've taken a picture!”

“Shut the hell up a'fore I come in there and bite you next!” Steve bellowed, sounding amused.

‘Taker got up, slammed the door shut and locked it, just in case, sighing. “Whenever you're ready.”

“Just...don't bite my ass.”

He actually slapped her ass.

Jensa completely lost it as she ran out of the door, needing air before she ended up dying back there.  Ashley was insane; she found the restroom, pissing and then went outside for a smoke, still laughing.  Oh the irony, ‘Taker was doing her best friend's tattoo.  Jensa flicked ash away and knew Ashley was probably cringing right about now.

Ashley was actually chatting him up and found out quickly ‘Taker wasn't having it.  But that didn't do anything to dissuade her.  Though, when the needle dug into her back a little bit, she shut the hell up and waited for Jensa to get her ass back and rescue her.

Jensa walked in about twenty minutes later, needing two cigarettes and to stop laughing.  Steve was busy trying to do the remodeling, only to end up smacking his thumb with a hammer.  What an idiot!  Jensa knocked and walked back in, seeing Ashley was CLINGING to the bedding and went back to her seat, not saying a word.

‘Taker didn't glance up when Jensa comes in, though he was well aware she had; her scent for one.  That and the electricity was back in the air and he knew it had nothing to do with his tattoo gun.  On the bright side, her friend had shut the hell up and gotten the message that he wasn't interested.

The tattoo took three hours; Jensa knew her ass was probably bruised from the hard chair she sat in, having taken several smoke breaks because ‘Taker lit her body on fire with just his presence.  She found out from Ash that was his name.  Morbid, yet very sexy at the same time, though Jensa would never admit it.  Ashley was in a lot of pain as she walked out, Jensa paying at the register with a smile on her face.

Steve was grinning, having done the shading and watched as 'Taker shrugged on a vest, ringing Jensa up. “Going out?”

“Visiting your mother.”

Steve rolled his eyes, looking at Jensa. “Gotta love his sense of humor.”

“Indeed.” Jensa took her credit card back from him, before placing it back in her wallet, nodding when Ashley hugged and thanked her again, grinning. “Not a problem chica, its chump change.” She just dropped nearly six hundred dollars on a tattoo; she was well off thanks to her grandmother, though EARNED every penny left to her. “You ready to go, Ash?”

“Chump change?” Steve echoed, almost spitting out his beer and glanced at 'Taker, who just shrugged. “Woman...” He trailed off, deciding not to say anything, and just cleared his throat.

‘Taker was going to have to put a muzzle on Steve, next sliding on his riding gloves.

Ashley giggled softly and winced as she tried looking over her shoulder. “How does it look?”

“Painful.” Jensa stated, before taking out her cigarette and lighter, needing another smoke. “Come woman, I'm starving.” She pulled Ashley gently toward the door, nodding back at the guys. “Thanks for everything.  Have a good one.” They walked out and Jensa allowed the air to assault her; it was surprisingly cool in New York in the middle of Indian summer. “Do you regret it?”

“Not in the slightest.”

“Okay,” Ashley froze and looked at Jensa. “You need to go back in there and try getting ‘Taker's number.  He's gorgeous, hot, sexy, dangerous and…and…and…he's right behind me isn't he?”

“My number is on the business card you got with the receipt.”

Chapter 3

Jensa started laughing softly as Ashley turned the color of a strawberry, before mumbling something under her breath, vacating to her car. “You enjoy embarrassing her don't you?” Jensa turned around to stare at him, heart pounding furiously in her chest.  The sun made her lips glisten from the clear gloss she wore, stopping herself from devouring him with her blue eyes as she lit her cigarette up, before sliding her shades on.

“She sets herself up for it.” ‘Taker replied with a one shouldered shrug, the left corner of his mouth turning up into the hint of a smile, but it was quickly gone. “You don't have any body art?” He asked softly, having noticed the way she reacted to the suggestion of being tatted.  And that's what tattoos were to him: Art.

“No, definitely not.  Not my style.” Jensa slowly inhaled, blowing the smoke out away from him, being polite. “You did an incredible job on her tattoo though if it's any consolation.” This man was definitely different from her, but Jensa still found him drop dead sexy.  The tattoos just added to his mysterious mystique he possessed and the danger he naturally emanated.  Though, somehow, Jensa wasn't afraid of him. “Well I better get going before Ashley has my ass.” She walked around him, heading to the Ashley's car, trying to stop her racing heart.

‘Taker reached out and stopped her, much like he had the night before.  Only this time, he slid something into her hand and just let go. “See you around.” He said softly, his eyes piercing hers before walking away.

“What the hell did he do?” Ashley shouted, having been watching from the car.

Jensa watched him walk away before looking down at her hand, arching an eyebrow.  Did he just give her his number?  Jensa heard a motorcycle roar in the distance, knowing it was him, and bit her bottom lip before sliding the piece of paper in her jean skirt pocket, sliding in Ashley's car.

“Nothing, drive.” Now the question was, did Jensa call him or let him come to her?  She honestly didn't know what the hell to do as Ashley drove her home, deciding she would just eat there since her friend had a date that night.

“You do realize,” Ashley said before Jensa could get out of the car. “That 'Taker isn't the kinda guy to come looking for a woman...” She gave Jensa a meaningful once over. “So I'd call him, unless of course...those sparks I was feeling were just the electrical shit in that room.” She winked at her friend before nudging Jen out of the car and taking off.

Jensa scoffed as she stood on the sidewalk, rolling her eyes and walked into her condo, wondering if Ashley was right.  Jensa wasn't the type to chase after a man, so this was a problem indeed.  Maybe she would call him, maybe she wouldn't.  Thought the more she thought about that bare chest, those strong tattooed sleeved arms, his long, ebony hair, and deep dark green eyes...Jensa fanned herself as she walked in her condo, cranking the air up full blast before making some barbeque chicken wings for lunch.

‘Taker figured Jensa wasn't the type of woman to be calling or hunting down a guy, which was a little thorn in his side considering he didn't call or hunt down women, as a general rule.  Though given the sparks between them, he might change that.  Might.  He let the wind cool down his boiling blood; trying not to think about her in case he crashed and destroyed his Harley.

~*~*~*~

Jensa decided she was going out again that night, dressed in a black cocktail dress that was spaghetti strapped, hair swept up on top of her hair with minimum hairspray and curls.  Clear gloss painted her lips, black eyeliner bringing out the blue in her eyes.  She wasn't calling ‘Taker; Jensa was stubborn on top of everything else.  If he didn't want to make the effort, even with as gorgeous as he was, then she wasn't going too.  Diamonds adorned her neck, wrists and ears as she took one last look in the mirror before walking out, smiling at the bellhop, sliding in her black Jaguar, taking off.

Against his usual rules, he had peeked at the address on file and watched as she drove off.  She was a rich bitch; he definitely was not chasing her down.  Just on principal.  He knew that type.  They wouldn't go after anyone; you had to go to them and even then...He shook his head.

“Well ain't that a bitch.”

Jensa decided to go to Tony's knowing Randy wouldn't show up, sliding in her usual stool before ordering the usual.  The diamonds were small; they didn't take away from her beauty at all, just accented it and made small chatter with Tony and Natalie, telling them she was feeling a lot better.  They were the ONLY ones, besides Ash, that knew about her writing for the local paper.  When someone asked Jensa to dance, she declined politely, not able to get her mind off of a certain tattooed biker.

“Where's the mystery man tonight?” Natalie asked, setting a fresh drink before Jensa, smiling innocently when she got a look. “We found Orton outside this morning, still knocked out by the way.  That should make your night.”

Chuckling softly, Jensa shrugged her shoulders, and stirred her drink with a straw.  Why did he affect her so much?  Jensa suddenly excused herself and walked out of the bar, the cool night air blowing through her hair as she let it down by taking the clip out, biting her bottom lip.  Digging in her purse for her phone and the piece of paper, Jensa began pacing back and forth, troubled over what to do. 

What if she made this call?  Would that automatically tell him she wanted to fuck his brains out?  Did it matter?  Taking a deep breath, Jensa pressed the phone to her forehead, heels clicking softly on the sidewalk.

‘Taker had spent a lot of time riding around aimlessly, mood dark.  He could not get that woman out of his damn head and knew he wasn't going to be at the shop for awhile, simply because he wouldn't be able to tolerate Steve's mouth.  The man would be going on about the two women for awhile just because it wasn't often he got ladies of that...class, in there.

Her heart was pounding furiously in her chest as she made the call and put the phone to her ear, pursing her lips tightly together, closing her eyes.  If he didn't answer, Jensa would feel like a fool and felt her heart nearly leap in her throat when he answered on the third ring, wondering if she should say something. “Hello ‘Taker.” Her soft voice resonated through the phone, not believing how nervous she was and nearly melted at the sound of his voice.

“Jensa.” His mood went from dark to something else entirely; his tone automatically changing to a low, seductive pitch. “Where are you?” He tried his hardest not to make it a demand, though it did come out that way. “I want to take you for a ride.” He had wanted to take her a ride since he first laid eyes on her, but he actually meant a motorcycle ride…to start things off.

Dear god his voice was doing something to her body that Jensa couldn't even describe, nodding. “The place we first met.  I'm standing outside.” The wind blew through her lightly curled hair as it pooled down to the middle of her back and framed her face.  She had a feeling he meant a motorcycle ride, but it sounded so seductive she wasn't sure. “I'll be waiting.” She clicked her phone shut and leaned against the wall, grinning.

Tony's.

‘Taker made excellent time getting there and probably pissed off several cops in the process.  He was actually grinning when he roared to a halt, extending a hand to her.  He had a rush going currently and didn't want to waste it, knowing it would probably get worse -or better depending on how one looked at it- with her behind him.

Jensa never did anything like this before and the exhilaration she felt was incredible, out of this world.  She couldn't ignore it and slowly slipped her hand into his, feeling him draw her against him as their eyes locked.  With his help, Jensa straddled the bike; glad the dress was long enough to where she wouldn't flash anyone when he took off.  Her entire body melted when he rumbled 'hold on', wrapping her arms around his waist and felt him take off moments later, hair flying behind her.

The feel of Jensa holding onto him, her body pressed against his was enough to set his blood to boiling again.  And not in a bad way at all, more like a 'I'm going to park and fuck you till you see stars' way, which he was considering.  He had no idea what it was about her that was drawing him in, but was damn sure going to find out.

Jensa couldn't stop smiling to save her life, slowly lifting her head and closed her eyes as the air flowed through her.  This was insane and crazy...but it was also exciting and something she never wanted to end.  Jensa scooted forward, snuggling against him as she pressed her cheek to his back, sighing in contentment.  What was it about this man that intrigued her so much?

After a few minutes, ‘Taker pulled over and reached around to catch her arm.  After a moment of situating, Jensa was soon sitting on his lap; her legs draped around him, facing him. “Much better.” He murmured, bending down to brush his lips against hers before taking off again.

Jensa gasped when he did that, not believing how strong he was, having lifted her to sit in front of him like she was a feather.  That kiss sent shocks throughout her entire body as she clung to him for dear life, her face buried in his bare chest since he was wearing a black leather vest, nothing else.  Dear god this man in leather was making her panties soaked, she hoped she didn't stain his beautiful bike, hair blowing all around her.

The feel of the Harley rumbling beneath them, the wind in his face and her clinging to him was enough to almost overwhelm his senses.  Almost.  Her face right against his chest, he was in Hell.  When he felt her hot breath against his skin, he groaned; the sound low, but she probably could feel it.  Thank God for the tight jeans.

Scooting even closer to him until her legs were firmly wrapped around his waist, dress bunched up, but still not flashing anyone, Jensa inhaled his scent, loving the feel of leather against her fingertips, not caring how forward she was being. ‘God he is gorgeous in every way...’ She thought, wondering if it was legal for a man like him to walk the earth freely. 

How did he NOT have a girlfriend already?  Or maybe he did and he just wanted a good time?  Whatever it was, Jensa was surrendering as her eyes closed.

“You're killing me...” ‘Taker moaned, the wind carrying his words away and knew he had to find a relatively safe place to park and soon.  He turned down a street, unable to keep from inhaling sharply when her fingers strayed from leather to flesh; wondering if she even knew what the hell she was doing to him.

She somehow heard that over the roaring motorcycle, a smile curving her lips as she continued exploring, massaging his chest very lightly.  She wanted him to pull over so she could do more exploring...so she could do more to him period. “You're killing me too.” She whispered, knowing he couldn't hear her, and pressed a soft kiss to his bare chest.

That was the last straw.  Ride was over.  The moment he felt her lips on his chest, he came to a halt.  Parking the bike on the side of the road, he pulled her off of it and into his arms; drawing her legs around his waist.

“You're driving me insane.” He growled right before claiming her lips.

Jensa moaned, instantly melting and wrapping her arms around his neck, pressing herself fully against him.  She wanted to be molded with him and he tasted so wonderful, smelled heavenly.  The man was going to the death of her.  Jensa simply knew it and felt his hands slide her dress up, where it was fully bunched around her hips.  Their heads moved from side to side before finally breaking it when she couldn't breathe anymore.

“S-So are you, ‘Taker...”

“Not yet.” He promised darkly, carrying her up over a lawn.  Soon they're inside a house, 'Taker carrying her up the stairs, without dropping her or letting her change her position.  He liked having her legs locked around his waist and planned on keeping them there for the rest of the night. “Do you want me?” He demanded in between kisses, halting at the foot of the bed.

“W-Where are we?” She moaned when he kissed her again, cupping his face in her hands, their tongues entwining together before pulling back against. “Y-Yes, yes I want you...”

Oh did she want him; she wanted him more than anything in this universe.  Her back hit the soft, comfortable huge bed, having a feeling they were at his place.  She was fine with that, honey blonde hair splayed all around her and slid his vest from his shoulders and arms, moaning uncontrollably.

He didn't tell her where they were because he was fairly certain this was one of the houses he owned, but he didn't know which one.  He usually rented the places out but this one had been standing empty, furnished but empty of people. “Mmm...” He rumbled, bending down to run his tongue along her pulse point, chuckling darkly at how fast her pulse was.

“Oh god...” She moaned out, hand sliding up his bare back, nails gently grazing skin and felt his muscles ripple.  Burying it in his hair while he assaulted her neck, Jensa arched herself up against him.  Ohhh...he knew exactly which spots made her quiver, hissing at the feeling of his fingers brushing against silk black panties. “‘Taker...” She breathed, crying out when his fingers probed her, testing the waters so to speak and arched her back against him.

For a moment, he wasn't sure if he had gotten past the silk fabric then smirked, it was her.  Growling huskily, he brought his fingers to his mouth; letting her watch as he licked them clean.  He made a low, purring noise from the back of his throat.

“Undress for me.” He ordered softly, pulling her up so she was on her knees.

Her eyes were midnight blue, clouded over with pure desire and lust for him, nodding while licking her glossy lips, which was mostly gone by now.  She slowly slid from the bed and turned her back to him, the straps coming down after unzipping, letting the material fall down her body.  She didn't care if it was Prada, she could afford almost anything in this world, winking over her shoulder at him, black bra and panties clinging to her body, running her hands up and down her sides.

“I could use a little help with this...” She snapped the back of her bra against her skin, the sound resonating around the room, needing to feel his hands against her skin again.

Chapter 4

‘Taker arched one black eyebrow, feeling ready to shed his own clothes; mainly the jeans, his erection straining against the material painfully.  He considered her as he moved over to stand behind her, placing his large, calloused hands on her shoulders and ran them down her arms, up her sides and finally to her back, tracing the bra clasp thoughtfully.  With a wicked grin, he lowered his head, beginning to kiss and nip her shoulders while he removed it; his hands moving around to cup her breasts as the bra fell away.

Letting out a half hiss, half moan, Jensa rested her head back against his shoulder, her hand reaching behind to run through his beautiful hair, gasping as he spun her around, their bare chests clashing together.  His eyes were nearly black and that just made her more breathless as he captured her lips again before bending her over the bed.  Oh dear god he even knew the right position to go for!  Jensa was in heaven as she gripped the comforter, ready for the sex of her life.

‘Taker didn't even bother with removing his jeans.  He just unfastened them and shoved them down past his hips, giving himself some breathing room and sighed at the relief.  He took in the beautiful sight before him, licking his lips as he reached out to place his hand on her hip.  With the other, he guided began running the head of his cock up and down her wet slit.

Just feeling his cock, she KNEW he was MUCH bigger than any man she'd been with, taking a deep breath.  Jensa trusted him, soaking by now, and nearly cried out when he slammed inside of her.  Filling her to the core, her hands and nails dug into the comforter.

“Yes, oh yes!!” She whipped her hair back, getting lost in the feelings coursing through her body, and let him set the pace, knowing he was dominating in the bedroom. “‘Taker please, oh please!!” She was already cumming and he'd barely begun!

‘Taker held onto her hips, pulling her back to meet each and every one of his thrusts; loving the way she cried out his name.  He could feel her cumming in waves, already, and knew she was in for a very long night.  Damn but she felt good wrapped around him.  Flicking his head back, tossing his hair from his face as he began pounding in her harder.

“Cum for me, Jensa.” He ordered.

“Right there...don't stop...” She moaned out, feeling his hand bury in her hair and yanked her up in a seductive way, not hurting her.  Her back pressed against his chest while he moved in and out of her at a fast pace.  Their lips met and she cried out against them when his finger began playing with her clit before pushing her back down, pounding into her as hard and fast he possibly could. “‘Taker!!”

After making her cum several more times, he pulled away, a fine sheen of sweat glistening on his body and stood up; finally shedding the rest of his clothing. There was plenty of light to see her, streaming through the window, taking in her flushed and quivering body.  With the look of a predator, he kneeled on the bed and crawled towards her, catching her ankles and drug her underneath him.

Jensa was breathing heavily, her body glistening with perspiration, feeling her legs wrap around his waist again as their lips met in another heated, passionate kiss.  Moaning, Jensa wanted to be nowhere except in his strong, tattooed covered arms, gasping when he filled her to the core again, taking her to the heights only he was capable of.  In the morning, she would definitely have no voice from all the screaming she would do, not to mention her body would be very sore.  All of it was worth it though as she moved in time with him, feeling as though they were meant for each other.

He wasn't even thinking ahead to the morning, he was just enjoying the moment and having her in his arms.  He rolled onto his back, careful not to harm her and ran his hands up her sides. “Ride me.” He whispered huskily, running his thumbs over her rosy nipples; groaning when she rolled her hips against him.

Moans spilled from her swollen lips as Jensa ran her hands up and down his chest.  Nails began leaving small scratches, not caring as she rode him as hard as she possibly could.  Whipping her head back as his hands massaged her breasts, her own running from his chest and arms to her hair, Jensa gripped it and cried out as his hips snapped up, meeting her thrust for powerful thrust.

“That's right...Like that, Jensa...” He hissed through gritted teeth, thrusting his hips up to meet her.  'Taker suddenly sat upright; feeling her legs going around his waist while his hands moved down to her waist.  Guiding her on him as their lips crashed together, ‘Taker knew he was almost there, having lost count of how many times she came.

Jensa lost count after twenty, her head spinning, ignoring how sore her thighs and inner walls were.  She kissed him back with equal amount of passion, her body still lit on fire, begging him to end both of their torture.  She was on birth control so he had nothing to worry about as far as having a kid went. 

She wasn't the mother type and pulled back as their fingers laced together, slamming into each other as hard, fast, quick and powerful as they possibly could.  Taker's end finally came as he exploded inside of her, sinking his cock deep inside, growling her name.  She bellowed his hoarsely, both of them completely spent as they fell back on the bed with her on his chest, hardly able to breathe or freaking move.

Normally, when he was done, he was gone.  As it was, he barely had the strength to get up; even if so inclined.  Sighing contentedly, he wrapped his arms around her, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.  If she thought she was leaving...Well, he'd change her mind.  He wasn't done with her just yet.  He just needed a breather.

They sexed it up until the sun rose over the horizon, falling asleep in each other's arms, curled and tangled up.  Around noon, Jensa slowly opened her eyes, seeing ‘Taker was already gone.  He didn't leave a note, nothing. 

Scowling darkly, feeling tears sting her eyes, Jensa ripped the comforter from her body and quickly dressed, slipping her heels back on, thankful her jewelry was still on and stormed out of there.  Luckily she had her cell on her and flipped it open, calling her driver, explaining the location.  Within twenty minutes, Jensa was in her limo and headed back to her condo, tears streaming down her face, not believing he actually used her. 

What did she honestly expect though?

‘Taker pulled up into the drive ten minutes after she had left and walked into the house, groaning when he approached the bedroom door and the scent of sex, and her, assaulted him. “Jensa?” He pushed it open and frowned; temper instantly going through the roof when he realized she was gone.

~*~*~*~

“Thank you William.” She said softly, stepping out of the limo about a half an hour later, and walked inside the building, face tear streaked. 

The sun was just rising over the horizon and luckily there wasn't a lot of tenants out.  She didn't want people seeing her like this as she hurried up to her condo, slamming the door shut and threw her purse to the side.  Stripping out of her clothes, Jensa first took a shower, scrubbing her skin until it was raw under hot sprays and crying at the same time.  Why did it hurt so badly?  Jensa didn't nor wanted to understand it as she shut the sprays off and wrapped herself in a towel before collapsing in her bed, instantly falling asleep.

~*~*~*~

Steve looked up when 'Taker stormed through the door, arching a pale eyebrow. “Who the fuck-” He swallowed the words when he seen the venom in his friend's -and he used that lightly- gaze.  He bit his tongue, watching 'Taker storm to the back and winced when he heard something break.

~*~*~*~

Later that night, instead of going out and getting herself into trouble again, Jensa decided to stay at home in her lavish condo, vegging out on empty calories that would later be worked out.  Her head snapped to the side at the sight of her cell phone, slowly picking it up, and bit her bottom lip at the sight of a familiar number flashing back at her.  Silencing it, Jensa went to pop in a movie, not wanting to talk to anyone about what happened while she worked on her article that was due tomorrow.

Why was he trying to call her?  Oh yes, because he had ingested a fifth of Jack Daniels...and Southern Comfort...and a case of beer.  Because he wanted to know why the hell she had taken off without even leaving a damn note!

“Hey Jerry.” Jensa greeted the following day as she walked inside the newspaper office, wearing a pinstriped blue and black skirt suit.

She had one in every color, hair swept up in a smooth ponytail, the usual makeup on her face.  She handed her article in and sat down while he looked over it, nodding when he approved it, and walked right back out after receiving her check.  Sliding her black sunglasses on, Jensa headed outside to her Jaguar, deciding some shopping was in order.  After all, she saw some recent movies she wanted.

~*~*~*~

“Look, yer scarin' off the damn customers.  Go AWAY and let me handle the damn business.” Steve ordered, keeping the counter between him and 'Taker, having no idea what the deal behind the man's mood was and honestly not wanting to know.

'Taker snarled and took the suggestion, storming out of the parlor.

~*~*~*~

After nearly buying out Best Buy -though not really, just dropping a few hundred on movies on her credit card- Jensa decided to go to the mall, humming softly as she walked.  She had all the money in the world, but didn't know what to do with it all.  Sighing, Jensa spotted a St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital fundraiser going on, immediately whipping her checkbook out. 

It took one million dollars a DAY to keep this place running, so she was giving them a year’s supply.  Not only did she have all the money in the world, thanks to her grandmother, but Jensa hardly splurged as she walked over, dropping the check in the box without a second glance.  It was her favorite charity and was worth three hundred and sixty-five million dollars.

“JENNIE!” Ashley shrieked, running and all but tackling Jensa, grinning when she got an 'I will KILL you if you ever call me that again' and shrugged. “My bad.  What's up chicky?  Like?” She twirled, showing off her newest plaid skirt. “I SO killed my other one.  Whatcha up too?”

“I don't want to know.  I'm just shopping, bored out of my mind.” Thinking of ‘Taker for the millionth time that day caused Jensa to sigh. “It's nothing Ashley.” When her friend didn't believe her and pulled her aside into a women's bathroom, Jensa knew she wasn't getting out of this without spilling her guts. “I fucked ‘Taker last night, your tattoo artist.” She stated bluntly. “Can I go now?”

“You...fucked...'Taker...” Ashley repeated, trying not to think about that one. “Well...” She cleared her throat, her eyebrows darting together for a moment then grinned. “How the hell was it?  He's not REALLY you know, like, dead, is he?”

Jensa's cheeks BURNED as the memory swept her away, lowering her head. “No, he's definitely not dead...” She murmured, trying to calm herself down, and actually had to walk over to the sink to splash cold water on her face. “Look, we fucked and when I woke up, he was gone.  No note, nothing.  So I left and went back to my condo, end of story.  Now I really have to go.” She walked out before Ashley could get another word in, not wanting to show her the tears that were filling her eyes.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa…” Ashley followed, grabbing Jensa by her arm and grew serious when she seen the look on her friend's face. “It happens.” She said softly. “Fuck him; he's a moron and move on.” She sighed and shook her head, the perked up. “I know you need a GNO!”

~*~*~*~

Dear god, how the HELL had Jensa ever let Ashley talk her into this. 

She couldn't believe she was doing this, staring in the full length mirror of her condo while Ashley happily teased her hair in curls.  And why the HELL had she agreed to let Ashley dress her?!  Jensa currently sported a black tank dress that went two inches above the knee along with fishnet stockings. 

The dress had purple hem lacing throughout it to give it style, zipping it in the back.  She had two inch knee high boots on that had buckles on them for style, but that wasn't the only frightening thing.  Her makeup consisted of deep dark purple lipstick with thick black eyeliner and dark eye shadow, making them look smoky.  She had a black and purple choker around her neck.  Nails painted black as well and her hair was half up, half down in curls in a wicked hair style that she wished she'd never agreed too.

“Dear god I look like a gothic whore...”

“You look sexy as hell and, if I had a dick, I'd fuck you.” Ashley said bluntly, looking her usual punk ass self, adjusting her lip ring with her tongue. “We're going out to a place of my choice and you're going to have a good time, trust me.  A change in scenery and pace will do you some good.”

Why did Jensa highly doubt that?

She signed resignedly as Ashley tugged her out the door, her black purse in hand, trying not to stumble in these damn boots.  This was the LAST time she allowed Ashley to 'dress her up', snorting under her breath as they headed toward the limo.  If they were drinking, they were NOT driving.

“Thank you William and DON'T say a word.”

William bit his bottom lip hard, shutting the door, and drove off moments later toward Miss Ashley's destination of choice.

Ashley's choice was a cross between a bar and a club.  It was sort of like a place for 'Goths', bikers, any anyone in between.  It was awesome.  She adored it and that's where she had met Matt at so...Once they arrived, she caught the astonished expression on Jensa's face and waited until William had opened the door, all but dragging her friend out.

“You promised you'd TRY it.” She reminded in a grin.

“Yeah...yeah...yeah...” She grumbled good-naturedly, flashing a smile, though she was scared out of her mind.  This place looked wild and...Freaky.  She fit right in with the outfit she wore, thanks to Ashley.  Biting back a scowl, they headed inside, Jensa looking back at William in a 'HELP ME' glance, the music instantly pounding around her, vibrating the floor.  This place was HUGE and there were hundreds of people dancing. “I need a drink!!” She shouted in Ashley's ear.

“Yes, you do!  Try the Alien Secretion!” Ashley shouted back over the music, pulling Jensa away from the bar she had been about to go too. “No, you want that one!” She pointed across the dance floor where bodies were thrashing about to the heavy music and led the way into the 'pit'.

Chapter 5

She was going to die in this place as Jensa tried not to hit anyone, but that was impossible.  What the hell had Ashley been thinking bringing her here and why were they going through the damn wall of people who wouldn't stop and nearly bowl them over?  Snorting, Jensa was surprised they made it after being shoved halfway through the crowd and finally landed at the bar Ashley pointed too, letting Ashley order the drinks while she scanned the place.

Soon, a glass of something tinted green was set before each woman followed by two cans of 7-Up and a pack of Starburst.  Ashley automatically handed over an apple flavored one before nudging the glass towards Jensa.  Popping a candy into her own mouth, she took a drink, made a face and washed it down with the soda, shivering.

There was NO way in HELL Jensa was drinking that, shoving it away, shaking her head. “I draw the line there, chica.” She stated evenly and instead ordered a glass of Tequila on the rocks, crossing one leg over the other.  She took a few sips of it, ignoring Ashley's muttering about 'being a pussy' and was dragged on the dance floor as the strobe lights came on.

Come HELL or HIGH WATER, Jensa was going to have a fucking good time even if Ashley had to kill someone to do it.  She knew this wasn't Jensa's scene, but the girl honestly had to do something different -other than fuck mysteriously sexy and totally dangerous men- and mix it up a bit.

The only reason 'Taker tolerated this place was because on the rare occasion, he got amusement from this hellhole.  Occasionally.  Tonight, he was there because nobody knew him and he was being left alone; his acid gaze taking in the people out there 'dancing'.

Once she loosened up a little and had a few shots of Tequila inside her, Jensa began having a good time like Ashley wanted, jumping up and down, getting lost in the music.  Maybe this wasn't so bad.  She laughed when Ashley began grinding playfully against her, bumping hips before going back to their normal dancing.  Jensa laughed when Ashley shouted in her ear 'isn't this fun?!' and Jensa nodded, truly meaning it. 

This is exactly what the doctor ordered.

By this time, he had spotted her.  At first, he had been tempted to go out onto that dance floor and drag her off of it by her thin throat, then throttle her somewhere privately.  When she had started dancing with her friend...He remained seated and watched, eyes darkening with each move she did.

She didn't see him and laughed as Ashley dragged her off the dance floor to get some much needed water, a thin sheen of perspiration covering her neck, arms and face, though the makeup wasn't running surprisingly.  Ashley excused herself to use the bathroom, leaving Jensa alone at the bar as she took another shot of Tequila, feeling a nice buzz going on, but still coherent.  She would be cutting herself off soon and fanned herself, trying to cool down.

“Hey there honey.  Hot, isn't it?” Steve smiled down at the woman next to him.  He had come here looking for 'Taker to try to kick the man in the ass and get him out of his PMS, but hadn't found the bastard.  On the bright side, whoever this chick was, she was pretty good looking and could definitely dance.

‘Taker decided right then and there, he'd be working alone after tonight as Steve was going to meet with an accident.

Steve from the tattoo parlor; she remembered him and smiled, chuckling softly. “You probably don't remember me, but I came in with my friend, Ashley, to get a tattoo a few days ago.” When Steve's blue eyes widened, Jensa started giggling uncontrollably, patting his shoulder. “I normally don't EVER dress like this, but Ashley begged me to let her do my look for tonight.” When Steve picked his jaw up from the floor, Jensa switched legs. “So what brings you here?”

Steve decided not to go with the truth and just shrugged, nodding when the beer he had ordered was placed in front of him. “New settin'.” He said finally, reaching for her hand and smiled when she hesitantly took it.  He twirled her around once, whistled and let go. “You sure as hell...” He cleared his throat, fairly certain she wouldn't appreciate the comment he'd been about to say. “You look damn good, honey.” He finished, not noticing that they were being watched by glittering green eyes that were currently spitting venom.

Jensa felt her cheeks flush, smiling back at him and looked down at the outfit, wondering if she could get used to dressing this way.  Hell no! “Well, don't get used to it...” She chastised playfully, winking, and sipped more of her drink, noticing for the first time how handsome this man was.  He was bald with beautiful blue eyes and he was muscular, though nothing like ‘Taker. “You don't look so bad yourself, Steve.”

“Yer going to make me blush, honey.” Steve chuckled, running a hand over his bald head and grinned at her, eyes doing another once over of her, just to make sure this was the woman from the other day.  ‘DAYUM!’ Was all he could think, knowing he was going to have to rub this in 'Taker's face, just a little bit. “Want to dance?” He asked when a moderately understandable song came on.

Her blue eyes glittered back at him, even through the smoky makeup, nodding. “I'd love too.” He was incredibly handsome and sweet, something she wasn't used to being with, and slipped her hand into his as he guided her to the dance floor.  It was a moderately slow song and Jensa felt Steve's arm wrap around her waist, her hands wrapping around his neck, the boots making her taller than she really was, adding two inches. “This doesn't seem to be your atmosphere, Steve.”

“It's not, but then again, it doesn't seem to be yours either, honey.” Steve replied, looking down at her; wishing the damn lights would stop flickering colors so he could determine what color her eyes were.

‘Taker was now up and on the prowl, green eyes narrowing to dangerous slits. 

Steve was NOT dancing with Jensa; he simply was not doing it.

“You're right, this isn't my type of scene, but Ashley dragged me here to get me to try something new.” She rolled her eyes playfully, a breathtaking smile on her face as they slowly swayed back and forth, his hands on her hips, glad he wasn't trying to cop a feel.  She would hate to hurt him since he seemed like a really nice guy. “So how did you get in the tattoo business?”

“I'm still not entirely sure, honey.  Met 'Taker in a fight, him trying to knock my head off.” He grinned. “We stopped scrappin in order to have a beer, got to talkin' and one thing led to another.  He does the detailin’; I do the shading, and basically put up with his moody ass.  What do you do?”

Steve was really going to die as 'Taker was close enough to catch some of their conversation.

Jensa chuckled softly, finding that amusing, though the fighting part didn't surprise her when it came to ‘Taker. “That sounds...interesting.  I'm a writer actually.  I write for the local newspaper, an article a week.” She was leaving it at that; nobody had to know she inherited a shit load of money from her grandmother that set not only her for life, but generations after her.  They continued moving slowly to the music, resting her head on his shoulder.

Steve didn't pry because her tone indicated that was it and just changed the subject; he was an easy going man, easy to get along with. “Whew, this place is hotter 'n hell!” He shouted, when the song changed, something he definitely couldn't dance too and smiled when she nodded.  He felt a hand on his shoulder and sighed, turning. “Oh...hi.”

‘Taker promptly punched him.

Jensa's eyes widened as Steve hit the floor like a sack of potatoes, blinking, looking back at ‘Taker, seeing how dangerous and deadly his eyes were.  She immediately bent down to check on Steve, eyebrows furrowed together. “What did you do that for?!” She shouted at him angrily, Steve was dancing with her innocently, nothing more! “Steve, are you alright?” Jensa groaned when she felt ‘Taker's hand wrap around her upper arm, yanking her up.  Scowling, she yanked it out of his grasp before disappearing through the crowd.

Following her wasn't that hard to do as he was damn near seven feet tall and had a sight advantage.  Getting through the crowd wasn't difficult either; he just moved people aside if they weren't smart enough to do it themselves.  He let her make it as far as the door before grabbing her again, spinning her around to stare down at her.  He was torn between throttling and kissing her.

Jensa was terrified by now, but refused to show it, swallowing past the lump that formed in her throat, eyes narrowed. “Let go of me!” She ordered gravely, managing to free her wrist, but that was until they were outside, the cool night air flowing over her.  What the hell did he want?  She felt him grab her wrist again and resignedly stood there, eyes on the sidewalk below. “What do you want?”

Good question.  Before seeing her, it had been an easy answer: her head.  Now that she was here, in the flesh, it wasn't so clear cut. “You.” He said finally, bending down to kiss her; feeling her fists on his chest trying to push him away, which obviously wasn't happening.  He knew what would come next, a knee to his nuts.

No!  She couldn't let this happen again!  She couldn't let him use her! 

Her body was reacting differently, ignoring her mind's screams and reminder of what he did, the flying fists slowly diminishing until she melted his arms.  She wanted him too and couldn't deny it, wondering how he managed to spot her in this getup when she NEVER dressed like this.  When he broke the kiss, Jensa could barely speak, knees growing weak, while those smoldering green eyes bore right into her very soul.

Now that he had gotten THAT out of the way, he was back to business. “Why'd you leave?” He demanded, unable to keep the husky note out of his voice and mentally cursed, but didn't tear his eyes from hers, needing to know.

“THERE YOU ARE!”

“Man, you broke my goddamn nose...” Steve came stumbling out after Ashley, wincing and looked at Jensa. “You alright, honey?”

Jensa opened and closed her mouth, hearing Ashley behind her and turned around to face her friend with swollen purple smeared lips, raking a hand through her hair. “I should be asking you the same thing.” Jensa was still angry at ‘Taker for doing that to his partner and started walking over, Taker instantly stopping her. “I just want to check his damn nose, stop it!” She ordered, shoving his hand from her shoulder and rushed over, taking the paper towel Ashley handed her. “Tilt your head back, Steve, and hold this to your nose.  You need to get that checked out at the hospital.”

“It's broken, honey, I know just how too-” Steve groaned when he seen 'Taker's hand in his line of vision and clenched his eyes shut.

Ashley started puking when she heard the snap.

‘Taker just turned to look at Jensa, arching an eyebrow as if to say 'can we leave now?'

Well her night was officially ruined, Jensa scowling darkly back at him through narrowed blue eyes.  They had to talk, big time, so she reluctantly nodded before turning to Ashley. “Chica, I'm leaving with ‘Taker.  I'll talk to you later.  You going to be alright?” She smiled when Steve offered to take care of her, holding her hair, and wondered what would happen if they hooked up.  Sighing, Jensa allowed ‘Taker to guide her away to his bike, shaking her head. “If you think for a SECOND I'm jumping into another night of sex with you, think again.”

“Why not?  You practically dived into the first.” He sneered, not amused with her attitude.

When Jensa opened her mouth, he silenced her with another kiss.  Feeling her melting against him again, ‘Taker growled against her lips, inhaling her intoxicating scent.  This woman was going to drive him insane; he was already teetering on the edge as it was and didn't need her help falling.

Jensa whimpered helplessly, not believing he was forcing her into submission, trying to find some kind of resistance, anything!  There was none and his own scent was enveloping her.  Jensa couldn't just jump into bed with him again, not after abruptly leaving her high and dry!  She felt him pull back; staring into his eyes, and took a step back to regain her composure, pushing him away when he went to touch her again.

“Stop, I can't think when you're doing that!”

“Why the hell do you want to think?” He growled, reaching for her again, and smirked when she held out a hand as if to stop him.  Seriousness was creeping back, and yet again, he felt his temper flare.  Forcing it back, he knew if he harmed her in any way, he was going to regret it. “Why'd you leave?” He demanded again.

“Because you did first.” Her voice was softer, low, trying like hell to hide the hurt that was clear as day in her tone. “Its fine, I get it.  I woke up and didn't see you anywhere, no note, nothing.  So I left...and now we're here again.” Jensa was confused, pulling the clip out of her hair as it cascaded down her back in a ton of curls, sighing. “So why are we crossing paths again if we've already had our passion filled night?  And don't touch me...” She backed away again. “I can't think when you touch me.” She was NOT proud to admit that, but it was the truth.

“I left to go run an errand, I came right back and you were gone.” He spit, not amused with her 'why are we crossing paths' comment and was slowly backing her up until her body rested against the brick building.  Planting his forearms on either side of her head, ‘Taker’s eyes searched hers intently, not touching her.

Her knees were growing weak as she pressed against the building, swallowing hard, big blue eyes staring back into his acid filled ones.  What was she supposed to say now?  He didn't leave a note or anything, how the hell was she supposed to know?

“Usually when a person leaves and coming back, they leave a note.  I didn't know.  I'm not apologizing for going with my instinct.”

Given that she didn't have a vehicle and had ridden with him, that didn't say much of her opinion about him outside the bedroom.  What kind of man left a woman stranded at a strange house with nothing but the shit she had come in with?  What kind of men did she normally date?  Snorting, he bent down and kissed her once more, intent on screwing up her thinking.

Jensa knew she should've pushed him away or something, but his lips felt too wonderful against hers, her mind growing fuzzy again.  What was it about this man that turned her on to the point where she couldn't even think rationally?  That NEVER happened to her...until now.  Jensa felt him pull her from the wall, wrapping his arms around her waist, their bodies pressing together and slowly broke the kiss when she couldn't breathe.

“Y-You're making this very hard for me, ‘Taker...”

“You're not walking or running from me again, Jensa.” He informed her darkly, lifting her up so her feet left the ground.  Feeling her legs automatically wrapping around his waist and groaned, his eyes closed briefly. “You want me just as much as I want you.” He murmured huskily. “Admit it, Jen.”

Chapter 6

Her heart thundered in her chest, hoping he didn't hear it, and licked her dry lips.  He kissed her softer this time, hoping she wasn't flashing anyone with the dress she wore. “Of course I want you.” She whispered knowingly, biting back a snort. “I didn't know what to think when I woke up and you were gone.  I thought you just wanted a one night stand with me or something...” Her eyes lowered, clearing her throat. “Not that I have a lot of them because I don't...”

“I don't care about what you did before me, but...” He cupped her chin, gently but firmly raising Jensa's head so she was staring back at him. “Now it is JUST me.” 'Taker didn't know what it was about her, but his possessive streak had already kicked in and she was going to be his.  She already was; it seemed she just didn't know it yet.

The look in his eyes took her breath away as she swallowed incredibly hard, wondering if she could be tied down to someone.  Jensa was nodding before she could stop herself, seeing just how serious he was.  Just him.

“Only if the same goes for you.  I'm not going to be the woman on the side or something to that magnitude, ‘Taker.” She was dead serious when she said that, their eyes never leaving one another's.

For a brief moment, he smirked.  'Taker had an extremely arrogant side that was just bursting to present itself, but somehow, he managed to keep it in check.  Especially when he saw how serious she was, tilting his head to the side, considering it.  Truth be told, he had never been a one woman only kind of man, but...for her, he'd...change.  Finally, he nodded.

“You don't seem so sure of yourself.  Why don't you think it over, weigh the pros and cons?” She finally suggested, pressing her finger to his lips when he went to speak, shaking her head. “Don't answer me now and I won't answer you now.  We'll both think about it, take a week, when we both have clear heads.” This was a HUGE step, a HUGE thing to ask of each other, and Jensa didn't just want to jump into this guns blazing without thinking about it first.

Was she fucking with him?  'Taker regarded her for a moment, before shaking his head and pulling her right back into his arms, ignoring her attempts to speak, kissing her senseless. “I don't NEED a week to decide.” He rumbled against her lips.

Her head was SPINNING and she wasn't thinking clearly, damn it!  She needed a week because she wasn't sure if she COULD be tied down to a man like this.  But the way her body melted against him, the physicality was there and they connected, but what about emotionally and mentally?  Jensa kissed him back like her life depended on it, moaning uncontrollably, burying her fingers in his hair before pulling back.

“‘Taker, I can't think...” He kissed her again, this time deeper, and knew she belonged to him in every single way.

Tearing his lips from hers, he forced himself to take a step back, eyes glittering in the darkness. “You have ONE week.” He informed her, voice harsh with passion he was trying to keep under control. “When you know...” He reached out to trail a finger down the side of her face, watching her eyes close. “Find me.”

“‘Taker...”

She felt his finger press against her lips, which were basically back to normal, the purple lipstick gone from how much kissing they'd done, locking eyes with him when her eyes opened.  Abruptly, Taker turned and walked away, leaving her standing there in the street, knowing William was still waiting for her.  She had one week to decide. 

One week. 

What the hell was she going to do?  The distance roar of a motorcycle penetrated through her as Jensa closed her eyes, inhaling the air, his scent barely lingering before heading to her limo.  This was going to be one hellacious week.

~*~*~*~

“You look like the cat that ate the damn bird.” Steve grunted the next morning by way of greeting, looking like hell.  He had black eyes and a bruised nose. “You owe me, by the way.”

“For what?”

Steve rolled his eyes, pointing at his nose.

‘Taker bent over to examine it, finally snorting and tweaked Steve's nose. “There, it was crooked.”

~*~*~*~

Jensa made the decision, now she just had to figure out a way to tell Taker, chewing her bottom lip.  Did he just want her because of her looks or was there something deeper?  It didn't matter, she wanted him and she knew it when he walked away that night. 

She spent the entire night crying herself to sleep, begging for his arms to be around her, to inhale his scent.  Did she do this face to face; over the phone...She looked at the clock, seeing it was nearly striking ten.  She wouldn't even know where to begin looking either so she whipped her phone out and made the call.

'Taker had been hoping she'd leave her castle in the sky and come hunting him up, but had also been expecting the phone call.  After the third ring, he answered; fairly certain he could feel her hesitation seeping through the distance. “Well?” He demanded gruffly.

“I want to do this face to face.” She was chewing her thumbnail thoughtfully, pacing back and forth in her 'castle', rolling her eyes. “I would've come to you, but I don't know where you are right now since I know the shop is probably closed.  So where are you?” She asked, already dressed in a black skirt with a wine colored halter top, her hair down, curled at the ends, minimum makeup on her face.

“The shop.” ‘Taker said promptly, sitting in his office in nothing but a pair of black jeans; his feet resting on his desk.  When she sighed exasperatedly, he chuckled. “I practically live here.” He informed her, licking his lips. “I want to see you, Jensa.” He all but purred into the phone.

Her entire body flooded with warmth, eyes drifting shut momentarily, nodding. “I want to see you too, I'm on my way.  Don't leave.”

She clicked her phone shut, a bright smile on her face, and grabbed her purse before rushing out of there in her two inch black heels.  She walked out in the parking garage and slid in her Jaguar, firing it up, and peeled out of there heading for ‘Taker's tattoo shop.  Her heart was pounding furiously in her chest like a rapidly beating drum, trying to calm down.  It'd been a week and she missed him more than words could say.

Knowing she was on her way, he pushed away from his desk and walked out to the front, unlocking the door.  He didn't keep it locked, Steve did it on his way out every night.  Nobody in their right mind would fuck with him and he knew it.  It wasn't bragging or being arrogant but a simple fact of life.  Rolling his shoulders, 'Taker let a smile flit across his lips briefly.

Twenty minutes later, a midnight blue Jaguar pulled up to the building, parking in the street, and Jensa checked herself one final time, having redid her lip gloss, thin black eyeliner outlining her blue eyes.  She looked nothing like she had at the club, refusing to EVER adorn that look again.  Taking a deep breath, Jensa cut the ignition and stepped out, her heels open toed and clicking as she locked her car before pushing open the door to the tattoo shop, a small bell dinging overhead, not seeing anyone as the door shut behind her.

He heard the bell, not moving from his spot against the wall, hidden in the darkness.  His eyes were well adjusted to it, the street lights offering some relief from the shadows inside. “You're beautiful.” He said quietly, watching in amusement as she spun around.  He liked this look on her much better than that Goth shit.

“Damn it...” Jensa held her chest, having jumped about a foot in the air, trying to see him through the darkness; cheeks flushing from his comment and being scared. “A little warning would be nice, ‘Taker.” She replied softly, not moving from her spot just yet. “Thank you...”

He watched as her head moved from side to side, obviously trying to spot him and slowly moved; silent as the dead.  He laughed inwardly at his joke, finally resting his hands on Jensa's curvy hips.  Stopping her from jumping, ‘Taker pulled her back so she was leaning back into his chest.

“Miss me?” He murmured, bending down to inhale her scent.

A shiver ran through her body, though Jensa managed to barely contain it, his hands searing through the halter top and skirt she wore, trying to keep her cool. “That depends,” Her voice was barely above a whisper, not turning as she stared straight ahead, feeling her back press against his bare chest, the heat rippling through her. “Did you miss me?”

“Mmm...” He murmured, letting her think he was considering it and smirked, kissing the side of her head. “Yes.” He answered simply, moving a hand around to caress her abdomen through her shirt. “Now, answer me.”

“Yes, I missed you very much, ‘Taker.” She murmured, hearing a satisfactory growl escape him, though she still hadn't given him her answer. “Yes to everything.”

She sighed in contentment when his arms wrapped around her waist, his nose and mouth burying in her neck, and instantly melted, eyes drifting shut.  They were complete opposites.  Somehow, someway, Jensa knew they completed each other as she turned her head to where their eyes locked, smiling.

He, of course, had already known that she was going to say yes.  Simply because if she hadn't wanted anything to do with him, she probably would have either not called or hunted him down at all.  Or stuck with just a phone call. “Come on.” He took her hand, leading the way down the hallway that led to the back, going past the rooms they worked in.

Jensa surveyed her surroundings until they were in what looked like a bedroom, blinking, ‘Taker truly did live at his shop.  It was his style too, all black with a tint of dark purple.  He lived on the dark side, she knew that.  God, they were so different, how was this working out?  Jensa couldn't stop smiling as he pulled her slowly over to the bed, the carpet feeling good against her toes, removing her heels so she could feel it fully.

‘Taker watched as she took in his bedroom, knowing she probably hadn't believed him when he said he lived at his shop.  He had no reason to live in a house and couldn't stand the idea of living in an apartment.  This suited his needs.  He sat down on the edge of the bed, pulling Jensa so she was standing between his open legs; staring at her intently.

Jensa smiled, not believing even with him sitting down he STILL towered over her, though not as much as standing up.  She felt his forehead press against hers and closed her eyes, hands gently resting on his broad, muscular shoulders.  What was it about this man that drew her in unlike no other?  She probably would never fully know the answer to that question and softly kissed his lips, just a gentle caress, nothing rushed or too forward before pulling back, blue eyes sparkling.

“What're you thinking about?”

“Surrealism.” He said instantly, turning his head to meet her questioning gaze. “This, us, it is surreal.”

‘Taker chuckled softly, as if at some private joke.  She was obviously from a very different class then him.  They were the kind of couple that happened usually when some rich cunt was looking to feel dirty and cheap for one night only, a walk on the wild side she could brag to her friends about later.  That wasn't who Jensa was and he knew it instinctively.

“Yes it is, but...” Jensa sighed softly, lowering her head, chewing her bottom lip nervously.  She had to tell him, there was no way out of it. “I'm not who everything thinks I am, ‘Taker.” She extracted herself from his arms and walked over to stare out the only window in the room, taking a deep breath. “I'm sure you're aware by now I have a lot of money and I know you're not with me because of that so don't worry, but I feel I owe you an explanation with how I acquired it.  You see, since I was fifteen years old, my grandmother was the one who took care of me.  My mother and father were killed in a drug raiding.  They were cokeheads, useless beings.” She snorted, not looking back at him. “I took care of my grandmother because she had a lot of physical problems, she could barely walk.  When I was nineteen, she passed away and left me everything.  She said I deserved it most because, no matter how much she complained and bitched at me, I took it with a grain of salt.  It's enough money to insure generations after me in my family will be set, but I've already given nearly half of the fortune to charities and whatnot.  And I work.  I write for the local newspaper because I refuse to sit around and just spend all this money my grandmother left me.  I'm not a squanderer.”

Taker sat there and thought about all that, idly wondering why she thought she owed him an explanation.  He had taken her as he found her, hoping she would do the same for him. “It changes nothing.” He said finally, getting to his feet and turning her around to face him, staring down at her intently. “I still want you, and your...fortune, means absolutely nothing to me.  It is YOU, I want.”

“I still don't understand that one.” She murmured quietly, wondering why she actually went into that whole schpeal, searching his acid pools for truth, for something.  As soon as his hands caressed her arms, Jensa couldn't think as she slowly stepped back, only for him to take one forward. “I can't think when you do that.” Why was that so hard for him to understand?  Her mind went fuzzy whenever he touched her, that was scary, and she just agreed to be with him. “I just didn't want you thinking of me like everyone else does, as a spoiled rich bitch that only cares about herself when that's far from the truth.”

“It's obvious that being a spoiled, rich, pampered bitch is far from who you are.” As far as the stereotypes went anyway; he smirked, keeping his hands to himself.  Lying back on the bed, ‘Taker folded his hands beneath his head and studied her. “What exactly, are you trying to figure out, Jensa?”

“Nothing, absolutely nothing.” She smiled back at him and slowly walked over to the bed, biting her bottom lip. “You bring feelings out in me that I've never felt before, and I don't understand it.  It freaks me out, make me wonder, maybe I'm just overanalyzing it.” She slowly began crawling from the foot of the bed until she was straddling him, skirt riding up and leaned over to brush her lips against his. “So what now?”

“Well, if you keep that up...” He drawled, reaching down to rest his hands on her hips. “Then what now will be me fucking you senseless.” He didn't pull any punches and definitely did not sugarcoat shit, saying what he wanted, thought and felt.  As if to drive the point home, he arched his hips, letting her feel what she was doing to him.

Jensa giggled softly, finding this amusing, gasping when he bolted upright to where her legs wrapped around his waist, feeling his lips on hers, instantly kissing him back.  Clothes flew everywhere, including ripped garments, but she wasn't too worried about it.  For hours on end, Taker made sweet, passionate love to her, made her feel like no other woman and they finally fell asleep in each other's arms.  Both promised to be there when the other woke up in the morning.

Chapter 7

“Deadman, you- What the fuck?” Steve regretted not knocking, but usually ‘Taker was up and about before anyone even arrived.  Well, he regretted not knocking as far as seeing 'Taker's naked ass lying on top of the blankets.  Seeing Jensa's naked ass sprawled on top of 'Taker...He cocked his head to the side.

Jensa's eyes slowly fluttered open, entire body aching deliciously from the hours upon hours of love making, fucking, whatever you wanted to call it.  A slow smile crossed her lips, feeling his rock hard body below her, and buried her face in his neck with a sigh.  She didn't even hear Steve, feeling Taker's arms wrap around her, and knew this is where she belonged, no matter how hard she tried fighting it.

Even though he was loving to her, 'Taker's acid green eyes were fastened on Steve; promising a painful death if the man did not remove his eyes from Jensa.  Pointedly, he ran his hands down her back and onto her ass, covering it from view.

“Alright, alright ya greedy sumbitch.” Steve muttered, walking out.

Her eyes FLEW open when she heard Steve's voice, immediately rolling off of ‘Taker and landing on the floor, groaning since it was wooden, not carpeted. “Oww...” She grumbled, looking up when ‘Taker looked over the bed, peering down at her through those dark green eyes. “Reflex.” She muttered, cheeks flaming, and snatched her shirt that was lying beside her.

“I'm going to unload my reflexes in his face.” ‘Taker said gravely, wondering if his...friend...had a death wish.  Obviously, the man did, gawking at her in that way.  Growling under his breath, he reluctantly got out of bed and stood up; stretching his arms over his head, not bothered with his own nudity in the slightest.

“He didn't know I was here, ‘Taker.  Just let him slide this once...please?” She batted her beautiful blue eyes at him, long lashes making them even more irresistible.  She giggled when he growled, yanking her up on her feet after she pulled her skirt on, kissing her breathlessly. “I know you have work to do, so...call me when you're done.  Maybe you could come over tonight and see my place?”

“TODAY DEADMAN, WE GOT CUSTOMERS WALKING IN!”

“That's fine.” 'Taker said, knowing as soon as she was gone, he was going to tattoo ‘The Deadman's Bitch’ on Steve's bald head in big, bold lettering.  Hell, he'd even add a cock and some balls if he had too.

When she was as close to decent as she was getting, minus the panties and bra, since they were ripped to shreds, Jensa walked out with ‘Taker following.  A smile spread on her face, cheeks growing hot at the sight of Steve. “I'll see you later.  Behave.” She squeezed ‘Taker's hand before rushing out of the parlor, heading to her Jaguar and checked her voicemail.

Steve smirked, shifting smugly on his stool as ‘Taker turned to him. “Your first appointment is in the back waiting.” He said in a falsely sweet voice.

“You're dead.”

Steve groaned when he was kicked off the stool, falling backwards into the wall with a crash.

~*~*~*~

Arriving at her condo, Jensa rushed inside and slammed the door before instantly stripping out of her clothes.  She gawked at all the love bites and marks over her body, shaking her head, knowing Taker got a little carried away.  Sighing happily, Jensa went to take a shower before beginning her article, hoping Taker didn't commit murder by killing Steve.  That wouldn't be a great way to start off a relationship, him in prison.

“Miss Talverson?” Came the voice of William when she answered the buzzer. “There's a man down here from St. Jude's who would like to speak with you.  Shall I let him in or...?” He trailed off.  He didn't let anyone into his building who didn't belong there, and had verified this all BEFORE calling her.

“Please find out what their name is.” She called through the intercom, hair pinned up with a few tendrils framing her face.  It wasn't ‘Taker; the man would probably knock the doorman down if he even TRIED being stopped from seeing her.  She was already slipping her black flip flops on, wondering who was here from St. Jude's, knowing it was because of her very generous donation.

After finding out the man's name and relaying it back to Jensa, the gentleman in question finally being admitted up to her floor. “Just wait here.” He instructed, glancing at her door. “She knows you're here and will be out in a moment.”

Jensa walked over to the door when she heard the knocking, saving her work and shutting her laptop down, opening it with a smile. “Thank you William.” Not only was he her personal driver, but also a bodyguard, which would explain how buff he looked in his black suit, black shades over his eyes. “How can I help you sir?”

“Mr. Anderson.” Ken held out his hand, wearing a light grey suit; though he preferred jeans and button up shirts.  When he had been informed of whom he had to go see and why, he knew a suit was in the works.  He smiled at her, having even forgone his usual chewing gum. “It's very nice to finally meet you, Miss Talverson.”

“It's nice meeting you too, sir.  Please come in and make yourself comfortable.” She shut the door, nodding once at William, knowing he would be just outside the door incase this man tried anything.  She was in black cotton shorts with a white and black tank top that had a wicked design on it, her face free of makeup except gloss. “Do you want anything to drink?”

Nodding, Ken glanced back at the bodyguard; knowing damn well this guy would probably beat his ass if he happened to scratch himself wrong and made a face.  Adjusting his tie, he followed her inside. “No, thank you.” He said politely, trying not to gawk, and fiddled with the briefcase he was carrying.

The place was something out of a movie it seemed, lavish in every way.  Black leather furniture with midnight blue carpeting and white walls, she was obsessed with blue, cobalt in particular, so her entire place was decorated in it.  After grabbing herself some water, Jensa took a seat, that smile never leaving her face.

“So what can I do for you, Mr. Anderson?”

Ken focused his attention right back on her, which wasn't hard to do, as she was extremely easy on the eyes and found himself smiling warmly at her, brown eyes crinkling at the corners. “Well, St. Jude's is having their annual fund raiser dinner and we would like you to be our guest of honor.” He pulled out an invitation from the briefcase, extending it to her.

Jensa’s eyes lit up as she took the invitation from him, treating it like gold, tears stinging her eyes. “I'm honored.” She whispered, delicately opening it, and began reading it, smiling wider and wider until she was grinning, nodding. “I graciously accept.  Anything to help out this wonderful organization.  Thank you Mr. Anderson.” She blinked the tears away, knowing this would be a formal affair with cocktails and class. “You came all the way here just to give me that?”

Ken rubbed the back of his neck, still smiling but now it was sheepish. “Well, Miss Talverson, when I seen how much you had donated, I just had to meet the woman behind the generosity.  I've been working in the PR department for awhile and that...amount, how much you donated...is just STAGGERING.  You have a very kind heart.” He said sincerely.

“Yes, well, this is the only charity I will donate too because it really gives kids a chance to survive horrible diseases.  It takes one million dollars to keep that place open for one day.  So I decided they need to be covered for at least a year, to help as many kids as they can.” Her voice was nothing but sincere and warm, eyes sparkling as she leaned back in her comfy chair, crossing one leg over the other. “I just wish I could do more for this organization.”

Ken smiled at her, not bothered with the fact that she had just told him everything he already knew.  He did WORK with the hospital after all.  It was his passion.

“You did more for those kids in one day then...” He shook his head, looking down at the carpet for a moment.

Reaching over, Jensa took his hand and gently squeezed it, nodding. “Just the mere fact that at least one child is living because of that wonderful place is enough for me, Mr. Anderson.  The children are the future, that's the way I look at it, and we have to do everything we can to help them prosper.”

He returned the squeeze, feeling like he could very easily fall in love with this woman.  She was just...wow. “You are...a beautiful person.” He HAD been about to say beautiful, but caught himself.  Smiling again, he stood up, feeling her hand slide out of his. “The invitation is for two, so...you can bring a date.  Formal attire is strictly enforced.” He almost made a face.

“I understand, thank you.  This is...amazing.” Jensa was very touched as they both stood up, walking him to the door with the invitation still in her grasp.  The Guest of Honor; that was the greatest gift St Jude's could possibly give her, besides healing more children.

Ken turned at the door to smile down at her, brown eyes searching her face, and knew she was wayyyyy out of his league. “I look forward to seeing you again, Miss Talverson.” He said, making a half bow, before flashing another one of his charming smiles.  Glancing at William and clearing his throat, Ken once more adjusted his collar.  That man was a bit...frightening.

Jensa smiled back at him sweetly before nodding at William, letting him know everything was alright, closing the door behind her and looked down at the invitation. “St. Jude's Guest of Honor...” Tears slipped down her cheeks as Jensa held the invitation against her chest before walking over; grabbing a frame she had on hand and placed it in there, right on top of her coffee table in the center.  Sighing, Jensa knew she had a problem and he was around seven foot tall with tattooed sleeved arms, black hair and incredible dark green eyes...who did NOT dress formally. “Damn, what am I going to do?”

~*~*~*~

“You are going...WHERE?”

“To her place.”

“This is also on the side of town you usually don’t venture.”

‘Taker shrugged.

“Because you can't stand-”

“You…now shut the fuck up.”

~*~*~*~

Jensa made sure to inform William, in detail, of the man who would be frequenting her place from now on while she got ready.  She called him after the shop was closed, telling him the address, having a feeling he already knew.  That didn't bother her...too much. 

Smiling, Jensa dressed in a pale blue tank dress that went two inches above the knee, hair done and curled at the ends, just gloss on her lips, staying barefoot.  She'd had a fabulous caterer make them dinner and was currently waiting for him.  The dinner consisted of steak and lobster, hoping that wasn't TOO over the top.

‘God, we are from two different worlds...but I can't stop myself from wanting him.’ She thought, lighting the long stemmed candles, deciding they would be eating out on her veranda under the stars and full lit moon with a swimming pool and Jacuzzi attached.

William CRINGED when he seen the Harley Davidson, cringed when he heard it almost squeal, before being cut off, and FLINCHED when he seen the man who had been on it dismount.  He almost didn't let the guy in, wondering if Miss Talverson had lost her mind and swallowed hard.  He wasn't a small man or easily intimidated by any means, but...When the 'evil biker' removed his shades and William seen slits of green acid, he opened the door.

Jensa's heart nearly lunged in her throat when she heard a knock, knowing who it was, and took a deep breath before padding over to answer it.  Standing before her was a specimen unlike no other, god could he get anymore gorgeous.  Jensa smiled, eyes sparkling.

“Hi.” She murmured, stepping back as he stepped inside, the door closing behind him. “Dinner is ready whenever you are.”

After looking her over, he almost said fuck dinner, he was in the mood for dessert, but when he seen she had tried to impose a 'mood' on her place, ‘Taker knew better.  Nodding, he bent down to kiss her; his eyes wandering over her home. “Nice.” He said dismissively, his gaze returning to her.

“I know it's probably a little bright for you, but I have an obsession with blue.” She giggled softly, feeling her lips tingle and laced their fingers together as she guided him on the veranda, inhaling the warm night air.  It was perfect. “I hope this isn't too over the top.” She bit her bottom lip, incredibly nervous and moaned when he kissed her a little deeper, letting her know everything was fine. “I hope you like steak and lobster.”

Steak and lobster?  He was a mental snark and wondered if she cooked it herself or ordered out, unable to stop himself but just nodded.  Seeing how damn nice her place was, he even took his heavy boots off at the door; arching an eyebrow when she looked at him.

“You don't have to do that.  That's why I got dark carpeting.” Jensa winked and waved him off when he scowled, hoping it was playful.  Her eyes were sparkling, barely containing her excitement with the news Mr. Anderson gave her earlier that day.  The table was glass with a gothic style to it, round and huge as she poured herself a glass of wine. “How was your day?”

‘Taker ALMOST laughed at that one, wondering if they were about to become a normal couple, and then dismissed that instantly.  There was nothing normal about them.  They were from two extremely different worlds, two extremely different people.

“It was entertaining.” He said, his green eyes sparkling with the recollection of what he had done to Steve.

They were different in every way and Taker would probably laugh at her for even MENTIONING the banquet for St. Jude's. ‘Maybe I shouldn't mention it to him and go by myself.’ She thought, smiling at him, hiding her thoughts expertly before placing the napkin on her lap. “That's good, at least it wasn't boring.” She took the lid from her plate and set it aside before beginning to prepare her meal with the sour cream, steak sauce, butter…the works. “I was extended perhaps the greatest invitation today.” Why not tell him?  He'd find out anyway. “I donated a rather...large sum of money to the St Jude's Children's Research Hospital and they're throwing a banquet with me as the Guest of Honor.” Her eyes lit up as she talked about it, still not believing it was actually happening. “The invitation says I can bring a date, ‘Taker...” She felt him stop preparing his own plate, eyes locking. “You can decline if you want, but I'm extending it to you and its formal attire.”

Chapter 8

He considered that, slowly cutting a piece of steak and then swirling it in steak sauce, chewing quietly.  Formal attire for the St. Jude's banquet; that meant a tuxedo...and probably less of a goatee so he didn't startle anyone. “I'll... consider it.” He said finally, looking at her intently.  This wasn't something he could make a split decision on.

She was actually shocked that he was considering going with her, nodding, a grin spreading on her face. “Thank you for at least thinking it over, ‘Taker.” She truly meant that and began cutting into her own steak, dipping a piece of lobster in the hot butter, sighing happily.  This banquet would be the greatest night of her life, aside from meeting ‘Taker, seeing him shatter Randy's nose would always rank the top of her list.

They ate in companionable silence, though one thing was nagging on his mind.  It wasn't even important in the sense that he would die if he didn't know, just him being curious. “How much did you donate for them to extend this invitation to you?” He asked, setting his plate to the side and stared at her.

“Three hundred and sixty-five million dollars.” She CRINGED when the glass slipped from his grip and smashed to the marble flooring of the veranda, swallowing hard, blue eyes widening as he stared at her bewildered. “It takes one million to keep that place running for a day so I gave them enough to keep them running for a full year.” Her voice was low and quiet as she stood up from the table, furrowing her eyebrows together, knowing he would probably faint if he knew how much she inherited from her grandmother.

He suddenly wondered if she was out of her mind or insanely rich.  Perhaps both as they usually went hand in hand.  After a moment to recompose himself, as well as pick up the shards of glass off the damn floor, he stood up.  Well...He thought, lips curving into a sensual smirk; now he knew why she was such a fox in bed.  Her pussy was gold plated.

She was already helping him clean it up, not even concerned with dinner anymore, biting her bottom lip.  Jensa wasn't ashamed; she was proud of herself and knew her grandmother would be too.  She finished, gesturing to the table, and dumped the broken shards in the trashcan before rejoining him at the table, sliding a piece of meat in her mouth.  She didn't know what else to say, the silence between them tense.

He didn't know WHAT to say to that honestly, which was amazing as he was usually never at a loss for words.  Anything he said would pale in that huge shadow.  Though...He moved off his chair and gently slid her away from the table; stopping Jensa from getting up and crouched down before her.  A second later her tank dress was riding up her hips and bunched at her waist.  He was going to find out about that gold plating.

Blinking, Jensa gasped as his finger probed her, ripping her pale blue panties right off of her, swallowing hard. “W-What are you-Ohhh...” She moaned out, hissing, feeling his mouth devour her as she leaned back against the chair, spreading her beautiful thighs wider for him.  Her fingers buried in his long black hair, eyes drifting shut.  God they were so different in every way except their sexual chemistry.

Well, he'd give her this, she had more room at her place for exploration then he did.  And he planned on using every inch of space, his experienced tongue bringing her to the edge over and over again.  Though, he didn't let her cum; wanting to hear her begging for him to let her release.

“Mmm...” He purred, looking up at her almost evilly.

Every inch of her place was christened with their sexual escapades, including the Jacuzzi before finally arriving in her master bedroom.  She was nearly dead by the time Taker was finished with her, breathing heavily, her eyes drifting shut.  She was trying to stay awake, but for the life of her, the man had drained her of her energy. 

Not to mention it was early in the morning when they finally did fall asleep.  How could two totally different people have incredible, mind blowing sex like them?  With that thought in mind, snuggling against him, Jensa drifted off into a deep slumber.

‘Taker stayed awake, just holding her and felt a contentment washing through him that he could honestly say: he wasn't used too.  She was so different from him; she was, sadly, also out of his league as much as he hated to admit it.  Inwardly groaning, he bent down to kiss the top of her head before letting himself fall asleep.

Jensa wasn't in anyone's league, she was a regular person and that would never change.  She just wanted to be loved for who she was, not what she was or what she had.  ‘Taker was that man, she simply knew it. 

Jensa woke up sometime later that day, hearing ‘Taker in the shower, sighing.  What if they didn't work out?  What if all they were good for each other was sex?  The thought saddened her as she slipped her robe on before going to get something to drink, parched.

He was in love with her shower.  Oh yes, yes, yes!  He had to actually have his own bathroom remodeled just so he could FIT in his shower.  Hers was like a damn cathedral. 

He could have probably made his baritone echo in here, repeatedly.  Sighing, he reluctantly vacated, wondering how much something like this even cost.  Money was something he didn't worry about as he had enough to satisfy his needs, but this cost a pretty penny.

‘Taker wasn't the only one in love with her see-through glass shower, which had its own temperature and three different sprays.  One in the ceiling, two on the walls, getting the person at all directions.  It was incredible, but none of that mattered to Jensa.  She sipped her coffee thoughtfully while sitting at the kitchen island, hair tousled, smiling when Taker stepped out towel drying his hair.  Damn he looked spectacular in nothing, but a black towel, her eyes devouring him whole.

“Good morning.”

“Morning.” He actually smiled at her, flipping his hair over his head, hunched in her kitchen as he toweled his hair. “I'm moving into your shower.” He informed her, in a...happy...mood, which wasn't his usual at all.  He flicked his semi dry hair back over his shoulders, straightening up, and lazily hitched his towel back in place.

Giggling, Jensa rolled her eyes playfully, expecting to hear that as she stood up and poured him a cup of coffee, the sugar and cream right in front of him in the island. “I'm glad you enjoyed it.” She crossed one leg over the other, wearing a dark blue mid-thigh robe that was tied since she wore nothing else underneath.  She was going to be taking a shower after her cup of java.

He eyed her robe, walking over to stand in front of her, and toyed with the ties.  When Jensa actually swatted his hands away, he snorted and backed off. “Wore you out, hmm?” He teased, green eyes sparkling lewdly.

“To put it mildly, yes!” She was sore from the top of her head to the tip of her damn toes, Jensa needed a BREAK.  That's all they did was have sex, which made her revert back to her earlier worry.  Sliding off the stool, she stood on her tiptoes and kissed him softly, running a finger down his cheek. “I'm going to take a shower now, help yourself to anything.” Jensa walked out and waited until she was in the bathroom before disrobing, not wanting to give him ANY reason to join her before setting the temperature of her shower, stepping inside and sighed.

‘Taker shook his head, knowing damn well he was probably sexing her up just a little bit too much, and sighed.  Was it HIS fault she was just so damn fuckable?  No.  He retreated to the bedroom to pull back on his clothing, groaning as he sank down onto the bed.

After a nice, hot shower to soothe her aching muscles and body, Jensa stepped out, wrapping a towel around her body, and proceeded to brush her hair and teeth.  She clipped it back to let it dry while doing her makeup, knowing she had to go shopping for an evening gown for her upcoming banquet with St. Jude's.  She still couldn't believe that was happening, grinning while applying foundation, blue eyeliner with clear gloss. 

‘Taker probably had to be heading to the shop soon, knowing he wouldn't be caught dead in a mall.  When she was finished with her makeup, Jensa took the clip out of her hair before flipping it forward than back, brushing it out again; straightening it, then curled the ends to give it bounce.  When she was satisfied, Jensa finally stepped out, smiling at Taker while going to her closet to pick out something to wear.

‘Taker had finger combed his hair, making it manageable enough to braid and then hid it away under a black bandana, knowing he'd have to go back home for clothes.  He had some down in the saddlebags of his Harley, but hadn't felt like trekking his ass all the way out there. “What're you doing today?” He asked, next dropping down to pull on his black, fingerless gloves, watching as she sorted through her wardrobe.

“Going shopping for a gown for the benefit.” She answered, tapping her chin in thought, knowing she would be trying on dress after dress today until she found the right one.  So what would be the easiest thing to wear?  She finally pulled out a red tank top with a dark blue jean skirt, knowing that would be easy enough to slip in and out of.  She placed the clothes at her vanity before grabbing new garments, slipping them on her body underneath the towel.  She didn't need to engage in another physical session with Taker after doing her hair and makeup. “What about you?”

“Work.” He sounded amused, watching openly as she dressed underneath her towel, and had a sneaking suspicion he knew exactly why she was doing it that way too.  Chuckling, he stood up and walked over to gently kiss her forehead. “I'll leave you to your day then, Jen.” He murmured, the amusement gleaming in his green orbs.

“Will I see you later on?” She smiled when he nodded, stopping him from leaving, staring deep into those hypnotic orbs. “Just...let me know what you're decision is if you're going with me or not to the benefit.  No pressure, its two months away.”

She kissed him again before watching him walk out of her bedroom, the front door closing moments later, and sighed while she finished dressing.  Flip flops were a definite today because they were also easy to slip out of.  She was shopping for a dress, shoes, jewelry, everything for this benefit, wanting it to be absolutely perfect.

~*~*~*~

“So, how it did go?” Steve asked when 'Taker finally had the grace to haul his big ol' dead ass through the doorway, having been running the shop by himself.

“Don't you ever shut up?”

“I just wanted to know if you enjoyed yer visit at the fairy princess' castle.”

'Taker cracked his knuckles, beginning to smirk as he approached the other man.

~*~*~*~

Jensa was losing hope as she tried on at least three dozen dresses, none of them quite standing out, until she walked into a dress shop in the mall and found it.  It was perfect, exactly what she'd been looking for.  Jensa quickly bought it, making sure it was placed in a leather zip up bag to prevent ANYTHING happening it to it. 

The dress in itself cost twenty thousand dollars, but well worth it.  Now she had to found jewelry and shoes.  Grinning, Jensa went into her favorite jewelry store and found what she was looking for again; it was almost calling to her, before finally picking out shoes. 

Once she had everything, Jensa went back to her condo to put everything away securely.  She was going to look absolutely STUNNING at the benefit, deciding to get her hair professionally done, maybe even call in a makeup artist.  She also had to get her nails and toes done since the heels were open toed.

~*~*~*~

Luckily, all 'Taker had done was broken one of Steve's fingers, the pinky.  Which he just snapped back in place and put some ice on it, he didn't use his pinky much anyway.  It was his middle fingers he was worried about.  Teasing the man had a price, but boy was it worth it and he usually dished out as much punishment as he took anyway.

“So, let me get this straight, she wants you to wear a tux and go to some fancy ass dinner?”

“Something like that.” 'Taker murmured, bent over a young woman's back, giving her a 'tramp stamp'.  Though, instead of the usual fairies or butterflies, she had asked for a graveyard scene.  This had been good; otherwise he would have thrown her out onto her ass.

“Damn, well what're you gonna do?” When ‘Taker just shot Steve a look that told him to drop it, Steve reluctantly did, shaking his head.  He had a feeling this type of thing would happen a lot, that just came with the territory for rich people.  Appearances and whatnot, though Jensa was a nice woman with a heart full of gold. “So, what's this benefit for anyway?” When ‘Taker told him St Jude's, and the amount she donated, he actually dropped the tattoo gun, jaw hanging open. “THREE HUNDRED AND SIXTY FIVE MILLION DOLLARS?!”

The young woman, arched an eyebrow and raised her head off the table, glancing back at 'Taker, who had stopped on the tattoo in order to murder Steve with his eyes. “Your old lady dropped over three hundred mill on a charity, in one day?” She demanded, clearly not believing Steve.

“Cass, I'll put 'Taker was Here' on the edge of this.” He threatened, glancing back at Steve. “You...go put two hundred in the till, those guns aren't cheap.”

“Neither is your woman.” Steve quipped, bolting.

Jensa decided to meet ‘Taker at the tattoo parlor later that night, after it closed, smiling upon seeing him.  She gasped when he pulled her into his arms, kissing her breathless, and began guiding her towards the door.  This wasn't happening, she was still sore from the night before.

“‘Taker wait...stop.” She ordered, breaking the kiss, gripping his arms, trembling a little while staring up at him. “This is all we've done since getting together.  It's been wonderful don't get me wrong, but I don't want this ALL to be about sex.”

He considered that for a moment, before nodding, raking a hand through his loose black hair and let go of her, feeling her trembling and sincerely hoped that was from unwanted passion opposed to fear. “What would you like to do then?” He asked huskily, knowing she was right, damned if he could stop himself though.  When he seen her, he wanted her; he couldn't help it.

“Well, we could go for a walk through a park I saw down the street and actually talk?  I want to know everything about you that you're willing to tell me.  I feel like I'm dating a stranger and, while it's incredibly mysterious, it's also a little unsettling.” She wasn't scared of him by any means because Jensa trusted him, but also knew if they were going to work this out, they had to know each other's backgrounds. “I want to know where you're from, how you got in the tattoo business, your favorite food, drink, movie, music, everything.”

Chapter 9

She had to be kidding.

One look at her face told him she wasn't.  While he wanted to know more about her, ‘Taker wasn't all that keen on discussing himself.  You didn't exactly tell an upper-class lady your favorite pastime was busting heads and all that.

“Alright.” He agreed, then hesitated. “The park down the road?” When she nodded, he looked her over. “You'll have to put on one of my shirts, a lot of young punks like to hang out there and harass women.” Of course, if they were ballsy enough to do in HIS presence, then they deserved the ass whooping they'd very likely be getting.

“No need.”

Jensa walked over to her Jaguar and unlocked it, pulling out a leather jacket since it was cool outside tonight, glad she'd changed into a pair of blue jeans, slipping it on.  She smiled when Taker's eyes darkened, cheeks flushing crimson, and walked back over to join him as their lips softly touched before he guided her over to his bike.  Jensa didn't mind, now that she was properly dressed for it, wearing white tennis shoes since she already planned on asking him to go for a walk with her.  After he helped her on the back, Jensa wrapped her arms around his waist as he fired up the engine before peeling out of there, squealing softly.

Well, it wasn't quite the same as having her wearing a dress and wrapped around him, but...this also meant less eyes to rip out for goggling at her too.  Half grinning, half smirking as he pulled away from the curb; glad she had had the foresight to dress for riding.  Soon they were flying down the road, though he remembered he had a passenger and abided traffic laws, not too keen on getting her in trouble if by chance a cop finally got lucky enough to catch him.

When they arrived, Jensa dismounted the bike with Taker's help, loving to ride.  It was exhilarating, though nothing would ever top her first ride with Taker as she slipped her hand into his.  The moon was shining down at them, stars glistening, giving them just enough light to walk through the park.  Together, they began walking, silence reigning between them, until Jensa could no longer stand it.

“So, what are your limitations as far as talking?  What topics should I steer clear of?”

“Previous relationships?” He said, then smiled quickly to make sure she knew he was joking. “You can ask me anything, Jensa.” He said finally, knowing if they were going to have more than just a relationship based on sex; then they couldn't limit themselves to what were obvious safe zones.  He squeezed her hand reassuringly. “What do you want to know?”

She decided to start with the family history as they slowly walked; knowing they had all night to do this, and it was wonderful.  Just the two of them taking a stroll, it was magical and the leaves were slowly changing, fall was rapidly approaching, Indian Summer dispersing.

Taker didn't usually talk about himself.  In fact, outside of Steve, he generally didn't talk period.  He never saw any reason too.  But after a little bit, he found himself quietly telling Jensa little pieces of his life.  Like how he had been born and raised in Texas, but preferred New York; the city that never slept agreed with his lifestyle and his attitude.

“I want to know more about you.” He said after awhile, stopping in the middle of a bridge to look down at the river that wound beneath them.

Jensa nodded as she leaned against the bridge ledge, looking out at the water with a sigh.  So many things she could tell him; where did she begin honestly? “Well, I'm a purebred New Yorker, born and raised.  When I was around six, I was sent by the state to live with my grandmother since my parents weren't fit to do it.  She raised me, but got sick when I turned fourteen, like I told you.  I basically spent my teen years caring for her, running errands, doing anything she needed even if it meant bathing her or clipping her nails.  It didn't matter; I was the only one she had since my...mother...was her only daughter and overdosed on drugs along with my sperm donor.  My grandmother was my parents, all I had.  When she died and left me everything she had acquired, I vowed then and there to help anyone out I could and to make her proud.  She was the only family I ever knew, my rock, and it took a long time to get over her death.  But eventually I realized that I had to move on and live my life, to continue on my journey.  She helped me realize that life is too damn short to fear and taught me that taking risks sometimes benefitted a person.” Jensa wiped a few tears away as she talked about her grandmother, still missing her to this day, and it'd been four years since her death. “Do you ever see your parents?”

“Don't know 'em.” Taker said thoughtfully, shrugging when she looked at him; catching the expression on her face. “I lived with a bunch of other kids for some guy that ran a cock fighting ring.  This, at the time, wasn’t too illegal.” Now he was amused, knowing how most people thought it was disgusting, raising birds up nice and fat only to set them loose on each other to die, but...It had been the life he'd known. “I ran around with some of the guys, taking bets for folks and all that.  Rural America, country upbringing.” They were so damned different the fact that they even managed to meet was astonishing.

Wow...that had been something she wasn't expecting to hear, having prepared for virtually anything...just not that.  He was brought up in a tough environment, border lining survival.  No wonder he dressed and acted the way he did, though she had no problem with it.  The man probably didn't even know what part of the country he was born in or what happened to his mother because, generally in those circumstances, the parents sold their kid.  How disgusting!  She wanted to change the subject, deciding to another route.

“Alright, now that we got the family history out of the way, how many relationships have you had?”

Taker got the general idea that his upbringing disgusted her, though, truth be told, he wouldn't have had it any other way.  Sure, it was tough and you learned to either fight or get his ass whooped.  How to do several technically illegal or unethical things, but it had also shown him early on that life was not a fairytale; that if a person wanted something, they worked for it. 

If a person couldn't get it by honest work, well...then there were other options.  Not that he had EXPLORED those other options since leaving Texas; he had gotten everything he had now -which was a considerable amount- above the table.  Mostly.

“Define relationship.”

“Girlfriends, like what we are right now.” Jensa didn't want to think about all the crazy and illegal things Taker probably had to go through in his childhood, her heart breaking at the mere thought, not looking back at him as the wind blew lightly through her hair.  Granted, she had been dropped with a lot of money, but at the same time, she had worked her ass off by helping her grandmother to acquire it.  She deserved it and worked even though she didn't have too, giving back as much as she possibly could.  Taker probably didn't understand that though, especially after hearing about how he was raised and brought up. “I've had five, you're my sixth.” She confessed, closing her eyes, and waited for another bomb to be dropped on her.

“You are my second, serious, girlfriend.” He admitted after several, long minutes of silence; clearing his throat gruffly. 

She'd either laugh and call him a liar or just gape; he wasn't looking down to see which one it was.  He had numerous flings, one night stands, but that was NOT something he told the woman he were seriously dating…ever.  He had known that from the get go and the lesson had been reinforced when he had seen Steve drunkenly spill his guts to his ex, who had promptly smacked him and stormed out, never coming back.  He'd pass.

Her jaw dropped and Jensa looked at him, wondering if he was serious, or just pulling her leg.  How in the hell could a man like THIS only have ONE other serious girlfriend besides her?  He was GORGEOUS, intimidating and scary at times yes, but the man was dripped sexuality, his voice could melt even the coldest person.

“You're serious.” When he nodded, Jensa lowered her eyes, biting her bottom lip.  He had to have had a LOT of one night stands then and after finding out how he was brought up, that wasn't surprising. “Why me?” She suddenly asked, looking back up at him. “Why, out of all the women in this city, do you want to be with me?” He could literally have his pick of any woman in this city, women who were in his league because she certainly wasn't.  They were COMPLETE opposites in every way, shape and form, except when it came to sex.

“Simply because I COULD have any other woman in the city, but I WANT you.” He said evenly, folding his arms over his chest as he regarded her; admiring the way the light breeze played with a strand of her hair, teasing it into her eyes. “You could have your pick of men who are in your class, why me?” He turned the question on her.

“Because you're different and unlike any man I've ever met or dated for that matter.  Because I...really like you and you make me weak in the knees with just a look.  No man has ever affected me the way you do, Taker.” She brushed the strand of hair away that was annoying her, eyes narrowing slightly. “And what do you mean 'my class'?  I am no different than any other woman walking the streets!  Just because I have a lot of money and live in a nice condo?  What is my class exactly, Taker?  Because let me tell you something, I'm NOT a rich bitch.  I'm a regular, normal woman who happened to have a generous grandmother.”

He was smirking by the time she had finished her impromptu rant, loving the way her eyes had lit on fire and the oh-so-obvious attitude in her voice. “Jen, you just donated over three hundred MILLION dollars to charity.  You work even though you're so wealthy, your children's children won't have to work and, yet, you DO act like any woman off the street.  You hear class and think poor, middle class and rich.  When I say class, I mean a person's character.”

“What makes you think you're not in my class, Taker?  You're a good, true, hard working man, who has earned everything you have.  You have a heart, whether you want to admit it or not.  You think you're rough around the edges and this badass, but deep inside, you're just like me.  You want someone to hold and love, someone who will be there for you no matter what, who wants to grow old with you and all that jazz.  Or am I completely deluded and wrong?  Am I making all this up in my mind?  Because, so far, all you've shown me is passion and kindness, you haven't hurt me once.”

Considering they hadn't been together officially but a few weeks, she was a very trusting and naive woman.  But...he was overlooking those flaws and, in his world, they were flaws because he already deeply cared for her.  Instead of answering her with words, he just reached out to pull her into his arms; holding her tightly and rested his head on top of hers.

Jensa already knew she loved this man with every fiber of her being and would give anything to have him in her life.  She hugged him back tightly, burying her face in his chest, inhaling his scent with a sigh.  Everything felt right when she was in his arms, no matter how different they were.  It didn't matter, opposites attracted all the time.  The truth was, Taker was in her class and they complimented each other well, even though their styles were like oil and water.

“Now I meant what I said, mister, I want to know everything.” She pulled back, a beautiful smile on her face, eyes sparkling up at him. “What's your favorite kind of music?  Mine's mostly country and rock, but every now and then I'll throw it some R&B and rap.” She giggled when he made a face, trying to stifle it. “There's nothing wrong with having a variety.”

“Variety is the spice of life and often the cause of indigestion.” He tossed back with a slight grin, wrapping his arm around her once more as they set off walking; the night getting a bit colder and knew they'd soon be making their way back to his motorcycle. “I like jazz, and blues.” He said after a moment. “Some rock, old rock, the classic stuff.  And I don't listen to rap at all.” He shook his head, growling playfully when she giggled again. “Woman...”

“You said variety is the spice of life.” She quipped with a smirk, laughing when he began tickling her sides, shaking her head. “Don't even think about it!” Jensa squealed when he lifted her up over his shoulder with one arm, looking down with a raised eyebrow. “Wow, has anyone ever told you that you have a nice ass?” She laughed when he froze, grinning from ear to ear as he looked back at her before being set down on her feet. “Okay, favorite food?  I'm going to assume your favorite color is black so we'll skip that one.”

“I don't have a particular favorite food.” He growled, not amused with her in the slightest.  Or, at least, he was trying not to be. “And what makes you think black is my favorite color?” He taunted, reaching out to push her head gently, laughing out loud when she ducked his hand. “My favorite color is green.” He informed her. “But...I prefer to wear black because it means I never have to think about what I'm going to wear.”

“Green, really?” Jensa actually felt embarrassed for assuming anything, but that smile never left her face. “If you can't guess my favorite color, then you seriously need to have your eyes checked.  When he grunted 'blue', she did the thumbs up with a grin, nodding. “Correct.  My favorite food is seafood, though I can't stand anything with tentacles.  I like lobster, crab, shrimp, oyster Rockefeller, things like that.  I'm also an Italian food junky.” Jensa made a mental note to buy him something green to go in his room at the shop, wanting him to have something to remember her by whenever they weren't together. “Let's see, what else?  What are you into as far as interests go?”

Now he was definitely amused, holding out both arms; which were bare as always thanks to his black leather vest. “Tattoos.” He drawled, a hint of an accent creeping into his tone before shaking his head. “Motorcycles.  Occasionally, I go to watch boxing matches and things like that.” He wondered what she'd say if he invited her to one, knowing that would mean he'd have to go out and rent a tux.  That was still up in the air.

Chapter 10

“I'm into anything cobalt blue, I kind of collect it.  Though my interests include anything dark and fascinating, like wizards and shit like that.” She shrugged, having quite the collection, knowing there were some things about herself that would surprise Taker. “Though I don't dress like it, I am fascinated with the darker part of life.  My best friend is Wiccan, though we hardly speak anymore.” She shrugged, refusing to let that get her down. “When you gain a lot of money, you find out who your TRUE friends are, and I'll leave it at that.”

Storing that nugget for a later day, he let her continue talking; now guiding her back around the park towards where they had left his Harley.  He sighed when four young punks came strolling along the path, already hearing the catcalls. “This was exactly what I was telling you about earlier, darlin'.” He said, gesturing at them, having absolutely no fear of any of them.  They were all scrawny, half men with pubic hair on their chins they to pass off as facial hair. “You boys best keep on moving.” He cautioned, his entire demeanor going from relaxed to deadly in seconds; though he never removed his arm from her, still keeping the casual stance.

Jensa swallowed hard, though she shouldn't have been scared since she was with Taker.  These guys were half his size for crying out loud, but it was four against one.  This wasn't good, Jensa felt sick as she slunk back behind Taker, slowly moving when he did, feeling him grab her hand as their fingers laced together.  They were having such a great time, why did these assholes have to ruin it?

Taker was old enough and experienced enough to know one simple thing.  All he had to do was hurt one of them enough to scare the others away.  So when of the young idiots got too close, he wrapped a hand around the kid's pencil neck throat and raised him up into the air with an almost frightening ease.

“See...when you frighten my lady friend, I tend to get...annoyed.” He said easily, squeezing ever so slightly.

When the giant literally tossed their friend into a nearby bush, they bolted.

Point proven.

Jensa's eyes widened to the size of saucers, hand covering her mouth as she watched in fascinating horror Taker handle that guy like he was a mere child.  She stumbled back when he turned around to face her, swallowing hard.  The slightest hint of fear shined in her blue eyes, though she tried hiding it.

“I'm fine.” She whispered reassuringly, taking his offered hand, trembling slightly as they headed back to the motorcycle, trying to keep the tears in.  It was all from fear of what COULD'VE happened and seeing the brute strength her boyfriend had.

What Taker wasn't admitting to anyone and especially not her was that wasn't something he wanted to do on a nightly basis.  Lifting someone and just holding them in the air like that, and then making it look easy on top of things, was basically all for show.  His arm actually hurt from holding that shit and then tossing him.  But...he would rather make an impressive demonstration and scare them off, rather then fight all four and possibly risk Jensa get hurt.

“Thank you.” She whispered in his ear, once they were back on his motorcycle, and wrapped her arms around his waist to show him she wasn't afraid. 

She had no reason to fear this man, who had been nothing but kind to her since they met.  Jensa was falling for him, fast, and she didn't know how to stop it as Taker nodded once before firing the engine up, peeling out of there moments later.  At least she knew some things about him and, over time, Jensa hoped she'd know everything.

Once they had reached his shop, he helped her dismount and let her lead the way inside, rolling his arm. “You're not afraid of me, are you?” He asked softly; that was the last thing in the world that he wanted.  He would never, could never, hurt her. “Jensa...” Taker murmured, reaching out to run his finger down her cheek, knowing that entire incident had frightened her in general.

“No, of course not.” She murmured softly, meaning it, and frowned as he favored his arm.  Maybe he wasn't as strong as she thought, eyebrows furrowing together. “You're hurt.” She noticed he was trying to hide it and took his hand, leading him back to where he slept.  The man really needed to get his own place, but somehow, she knew he loved it here.  Tattooing was his passion that was for sure. “Sit down.” She ordered gently but firmly before crawling behind him and began massaging his shoulder, pressing a soft kiss to the back of his neck.

He had to admit, she was very good at this and lifting that kid had definitely been worth it just to feel her fingers easing away the pain.  After a moment, he began to explain why he had lifted and then thrown the young man onto a bush, how it was just easier to scare them away opposed to fighting.  Contrary to his image, he didn't LIKE to fight, unless it was Steve.  But he didn't back away from them either.  He had even made sure the kid landed in a damn bush, just so he wasn't too banged up.

He really was a survivor at heart and that just made her fall for him even harder. “I understand, Taker.  Don't worry; I'm not scared of you.  I know you will never hurt me.”

Jensa smiled when he pulled her to where she was straddling his lap with his good arm, still working on the sore one, stopping briefly to stare into his eyes, showing him the truth.  She kissed him softly, tenderly, before continuing the task, wanting him to feel better.  She hated seeing him in pain and had taken up massage therapy in college as a minor for her degree.  Her major was, of course, journalism.

When the ache was pretty much nothing but a fading memory, Taker wrapped both his arms around her.  Forcing her to stop, he bent forward so his head was pressed against hers, closing his eyes.  He could already see himself falling in love with this woman, if he wasn't there already.  He still had a hard time believing that she was meant for him, that she was there with him.  It was like someone had given him a million Christmas's in one beautiful package.

~*~*~*~

Over the next two months, Jensa spent as much time with Taker as she possibly could, growing closer to him with each day that passed.  She declined, several times, to get a tattoo from him for obvious reasons, mainly because she was TERRIFIED of needles.  They bounced back and forth between each other's places, though Taker was starting to stay at hers more often than his due to her shower.  He absolutely loved it and Jensa wished he could have one like that. 

The ONE time she brought up him moving into a new apartment or condo away from the tattoo shop, he gave her the cold shoulder and Jensa never mentioned it again.  They had little tiffs, but nothing major, and make up sex became Jensa's favorite thing with him it seemed, besides talking.  He was a great listener, very smart and even funny at times.  All in all, this relationship was everything Jensa had been dreaming and hoping for.

Taker figured this was as close to Heaven as he was ever going to get and Hell, he'd take Jensa over Heaven any day.  She was everything he had given up looking for in a woman.  Funny, smart, active, sexy as hell and knew her way around the bedroom.  Add in her heart of gold...She was also his complete opposite, which garnered a lot of wisecracks from Steve and looks from people they passed. 

It was sort of Beauty and the Beast, he supposed.  Him being the Beast, which made him smirk.  But she filled the void in his life, the void he hadn't been aware he'd even had until she walked into it.  Oh...and her shower was an added bonus.

The night of the banquet finally arrived and Jensa was stoked as she stepped out of the shower, her straightener, curling iron, blow-dryer…everything set.  Her hair and makeup lady, Susan, was waiting for her.  Jensa wanted to look absolutely perfect for tonight and she only had three hours to get ready.  Brushing her teeth and hair, Jensa stepped out and sat down while Susan got to work.

“I think I'm going to do your hair in banana curls, leaving it down with a sapphire clip on one side, what do you think?”

“I trust your judgment, do what you want.” Jensa closed her eyes and leaned back, allowing the transformation to take place, straightening her honey locks being the first thing to happen.

~*~*~*~

“You're NOT going?” Steve had been so sure Taker would, considering he had seen the guy actually using the work PC to browse tuxedos.  And Taker and computers just didn't mix.  It was the third one they had had to buy this year.

“I go in there with her and they're all going to think she's on drugs or something, or that I'm her bodyguard.” Taker replied, calmly sipping his beer.  Instead, he had was sitting at the counter with a ledger, doing the monthly finances, just to occupy himself. “She understands.”

“Course she does; she's a sweetheart who has a shit for a boyfriend.”

~*~*~*~

“So where is your date?”

“Oh...he had some last minute things to do at work.  I understand, this isn't his type of atmosphere.”

In truth, when Taker told Jensa he wasn't going with her, it really hurt, but she understood.  This was the most important night of her life to date and he wasn't going to be there, but she would survive.  Nothing, absolutely nothing, was going to ruin her night as Susan finished straightening her hair before beginning the curls, using hairspray to keep them in place.

“Wow, sounds like a loser to me.”

“No, he's not a loser, he just had important business to attend to tonight.” Jensa sighed heavily, closing her eyes. “I don't want to talk about this anymore.”

Nodding, Susan didn't mention another word about it as she picked up the silver clip that had real sapphires in it, combing her hair back before placing it strategically.  The right side had curls framing her face while the other was bare, making her look stunning. “Now for the makeup…”

~*~*~*~

Taker actually felt bad enough without Steve badgering him, knowing damn well how important this was to Jensa.  The event was a charity dinner, another fund raiser, basically.  But they were announcing her as the guest of honor and presenting her with some kind of award or plaque for her extremely charitable donation.  He sometimes still had to stop and pinch himself whenever he remembered just how much she had donated.  Not so much the amount but the casualty of it.  She had just DONE it, just out of the blue without even batting an eyelash.  That kind of money and power was somewhat intimidating; not that he would EVER admit that to ANYONE.

“You chickenshit sumbitch.” Steve chortled, downing the rest of his beer and crushed the can in his hand; tossing it into the garbage bin. “Well, I'm goin' home to my woman.  You have fun sittin' here and squirmin' about bein' a coward.” He waved as he walked out, making sure to move fast before his bald ass got snatched up.

~*~*~*~

Dark blue outlined her eyes, bringing them out along with shimmery silver eye shadow that matched her gown's color.  Her lashes were full and beautiful, bringing out her eyes even more.  Foundation covered up any blemishes, which she had nearly none, and clear gloss painted her full lips. 

Once that was completely, Susan helped her clip on the jewelry, which was silver with sapphire stones in the shape of teardrops outlining it.  It looked like a butterfly type design in front the front, sparkling, and would bring the dress out along with matching earrings and a bracelet.  Finally, it was time to put the gown on, Jensa's legs would be completely covered so there was no need for them, thank god. 

The pure silver gown had a scalloped sweetheart neckline that topped the strapless bodice made of pure satin.  It was shaped with full-length princess seams and a flared A-line skirt that swept to a short train at the back.  The dress showed her bare back to the middle of it before wrapping around, hugging her curves and flaring out at the knees.

“Wow...” Whoever her boyfriend was, he would be kicking himself for not taking her to this banquet.  She was stunning. “Okay shoes!”

~*~*~*~

'Taker glanced up at the clock, knowing she would probably be heading out to the event any moment now, and wondered just how much hurt and anger she was hiding for his refusal to go.  He hadn't been mean about it, he had just flat out told her it wasn't his thing and had some work related business he planned on doing.  Looking back, he probably had sounded like an uncaring asshole.  Jensa...was changing him.  Before her, he wouldn't have CARED about hurting someone's feelings and now…now he was sitting here contemplating it instead of handling his business.

“Christ on the cross...” He muttered, pushing away the untouched ledger.

~*~*~*~

“You look...incredible.” Susan knew that wasn't a strong enough word for it, but the best she could come up with at the moment.

“Jensa, the limo is here.” William's voice sounded through the condo, causing her to nod, glancing one last time in the full length mirror before hugging Susan lightly, handing her an envelope.

“Thank you for all you've done.” She murmured, grabbing her black fur coat since it was chilly outside before exiting her condo, ready for a red carpet appearance, grinning from ear to ear.

William's eyes widened at the sight of her, swallowing hard, and bowed before opening the door for her.

Giggling softly, Jensa nodded and bowed in return. “Thank you William, you know where to go.” She slipped in, the door closing moments later, not hearing Susan's scream.  She had given the woman a fair amount of money that would insure she wouldn't have to worry about finances for a good long while.

~*~*~*~

Being a PR for St. Jude's usually meant Ken was dressed up, casually, in blue jeans that were pressed and white dress shirt.  It also meant he got to put together events like this and make sure it was well promoted and he was very good at his job.  Considering they had a special guest of honor who had donated a mind boggling sum, he was making sure this was being covered by every network he could. 

Radio would even be covering certain parts of it and he had the World Wide Web on his side as well.  The amount alone was going to make headlines and it would all be used for good, to help St. Jude.  He glanced over his hair in the men's restroom and then straightened the lapels on his tuxedo, nodding.

William pulled up twenty minutes later at one of the most luxurious banquet halls in town and Jensa’s eyes were sparkling, heart pounding furiously.  She took a deep breath, her nails perfectly manicured and clear with sapphire blue tips, her toes the same thing, heels the same color as her jewelry.  Stepping out, taking William's hand, Jensa seen the press was alive and well as cameras flashed, an actual red carpet rolled out. 

Chapter 11

She entered the banquet hall, after being interviewed several times, and slipped her coat off before hanging it up, not believing how beautiful the actually hall was.  Lights were streamed and hung and a beautiful staircase lead down to hundreds of tables.  Taking another deep breath, Jensa slowly began descending, lifting her gown a little so she didn't trip on it.  Boy wouldn't THAT be embarrassing.

When Ken spotted Miss Talverson, he excused himself from the reporter he was conversing with and quickly made his way to her. “Miss Talverson.” He greeted, extending his hand to help her down the last few steps and raised it to his mouth, pressing a kiss to the top of her hand. “You look...exquisite.” He said, taking in her dress and jewelry, hair and make-up.  She was almost underdressed, but the elegance and unassuming beauty she possessed made her the crown jewel of the night.

“Mr. Anderson, how lovely seeing you again.” A blush crept in her cheeks when he kissed her hand again, a breathtaking smile crossing her lips, and looked around the banquet in sheer wonder. “No, this place is exquisite.” She corrected softly, giving him a quick once over, missing Taker more than anything, but she hid it well. “You don't clean up so bad yourself.”

“I have my moments.” He smiled, ducking his head almost shyly before looking back up at her.  He didn't see a date with her and a tiny frown creased his brow. “Did you...bring a guest?” He asked tentatively, inwardly sighing when he seen her quick shake of the head, wondering why not because she was stunning!  She probably had men lining up to...He let that thought slide and extended his arm to her. “Could I escort you around?” He asked hesitantly. “Maybe introduce you to some people?”

Her blue eyes sparkled back at him and nodded, taking his extended arm, deciding it wouldn't hurt anything.  It's not like she was going to bed with Mr. Anderson, he was just showing her around since she did not have a date. “Thank you.” She murmured softly, seeing him nod and proceeded to meet everyone involved with the St. Jude's Research Hospital, shaking hands and whatnot.  She glided across the floor, used to wearing heels, everyone telling her how incredibly generous she was for donating that amount of money.  Jensa waved them off dismissively and thanked them, stating over and over again it was for the children.

Ken made sure to introduce her to the right people; also making sure the amount she had donated wasn't allowed to come up.  THAT was for later in the night when everyone was seated, knowing it would be one HELL of a story.  And she handled everything so graciously, not faltering once under any of the questions or the flattery that was heaped on her.   If she wasn't definitely out of his league, he might have even made a play for her.  He was about to relinquish her when his name was called, gently turning her around.

“Smile!” The photographer chirped.

After the flash went off and the photographer was on his way, Ken started blinking rapidly.

Jensa blinked a few times as well, not expecting that before the photographer went on his way, snapping pictures left and right.  She was introduced to a few more people before it was time to be seated.  She was at the front at her own table, causing a blush to creep in her cheeks, and sat down with ease, sipping some champagne Mr. Anderson had been kind enough to get for her.

“Welcome ladies and gentleman to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital Charity Ball!” The announcer boomed throughout the banquet, everyone clapping. “Now then, before we begin the festivities, we have a very special guest among us this evening.  Her name is Jensa Talverson and this lovely young lady donated an unprecedented amount of money to this wonderful organization.  Three hundred and sixty-five MILLION dollars!!”

A spotlight lit her up as everyone began clapping thunderously, causing her to stand up and bowed her head, the brightest smile on her face, even though it was nothing to her.

“Miss Talverson, please come up onstage and say a few words.”

Nodding, Jensa left her table and walked up the stairs slowly, lifting her gown a little, and was finally standing at the podium, looking out at the massive crowd, the smile never leaving her face. “Thank you.” She softly said in the microphone, feeling her heart ready to leap out of her chest at any given moment.

Taker had actually gone out and bought a suit.  Not a tuxedo simply because he knew he would look like a fool in one, but a suit.  A black suit with a black undershirt and a black tie.  Knowing he was going to be extremely late, he had showered and shaved.  Well, actually trimmed. 

He had trimmed his goatee off until it was just on his chin and not a few inches down, sighing ruefully, pulling his hair back into a tail.  At the moment, he was standing against a pillar just off of the stairs, not wanting to interrupt the proceedings or draw attention to himself and get kicked out.  He watched as she made her way to the podium; his heart doing a funny leap in his chest when he seen just how beautiful she was tonight.

Before Jensa could open her mouth to say something else, something caught the corner of her eye as three children came walking up, two girls and one little boy.  They couldn't have been anymore than between the ages of five and seven.  The boy was in a crisp black tuxedo, looking absolutely adorable with a bald head and blue eyes.  The girls were in amber gowns, both of them bald as well, one with warm brown eyes, the other grey.

“Children, don't you have something to give Miss Talverson for her generosity?”

The little boy took a deep breath, holding the plaque, and stepped forward, looking at the beautiful lady before him. “Miss Talverson,” He said into the microphone, his sweet voice carrying. “We are from St. Jude's and would like to give you this and say thank you.”

Tears filled her eyes as Jensa bent down to where she was level with them, smiling from ear to ear. “Thank you.” She couldn't even find the words and hugged all three of them, trying not to let the tears fall before the children were escorted off-stage and back to their table.  Dabbing her cheek with her finger, sniffling, Jensa finally stood back up, holding the plaque and looked out at the crowd. “I would like to dedicate this award to my deceased grandmother, Willow Talverson, because without her, none of this would be possible.  Please keep donating and helping this wonderful organization because the children are indeed the future.  Thank you.” The crowd erupted in applause as Jensa walked down the steps, looking at her plaque and decided it was going in her living room, wiping a few more stray tears away.

Keeping to the shadows as the master of ceremonies began listing off the night's events and performers; recognizing several famous names.  This was DEFINITELY not his scene, but...Jensa was here, which made all the difference.  Sticking as close to the wall and out of people's way as possible, he made his way to her, coming to a halt at her side and crouched down since she was now back at her table.  He knew her well enough to know she was struggling to hold back tears, indeed a few had even fallen and reached out to grasp her hand, squeezing gently.

Jensa had been so lost in thought staring at her award that she didn't see someone creeping up to her, until she felt a hand grasp hers.  Jumping slightly, Jensa's head whipped to the side, eyes widening at the sight of Taker.  He was actually there in the flesh as her jaw dropped, covering her mouth as the tears began falling, heart filling with unconditional love for him.

“You came.” She whispered, leaning into his soft touch as he cupped her face, placing her own over his.  She set the award on the table before hugging him tightly around the neck, clinging to him.

He held her tightly against him, not caring who seen and pressed his lips to her hair; careful not to muss her.  Finally, he gently disengaged her arms from around his neck and moved to the empty chair, knowing it had been meant for her guest.  Him, who had been a jackass and not come with her from the get go like he should've.  But he was here now and better late then never, he hoped.

“You were beautiful up there.” He murmured raising her hand to his lips; planting a lingering kiss to it; his eyes locked with hers.

“Thank you, god I'm so glad you're here.” Her eyes were sparkling, not able to stop smiling now, and gave him a once over.  His long black hair was pulled back in a neat braid, slicked, his long goatee trimmed up to his chin.  He looked delicious in all black, not believing he was here with her. “You have no idea how much this means to me.”

He was late, but the important thing he was there with her and had watched her accept the award from three of the sweetest kids she'd ever meet in her life.  Jensa knew right then and there she loved Taker more than anything, more than the air she breathed.  He showed her just how much he cared about her by showing up.

Now Ken knew he definitely didn't have a shot at her and smiled, having known he never really did either.  So, her date had just been running late and, truth be told, the public relation's professional in him coming out, mentally sighing in relief that the guy HADN'T been with her for the first part of the program.  He just wasn't photogenic in the sense that was needed for tonight's atmosphere.

Because Taker loved her, he admitted it to himself.  He had come and out of love, he was going to stay and try to enjoy himself.  Well, he would enjoy himself as far as the company went simply because she was there.

Her eyes were only for Taker, nobody else, and blinked when he asked her to dance, a song flowing through the speakers that fit her feelings for him perfectly.  Standing up, Jensa allowed Taker to guide her to the dance floor, feeling his strong arms wrap around her waist, arms reaching up to wrap around his neck, never taking her eyes from his.  Matt Kearney was one of the performers for tonight as he began singing 'All I Need'.  Taker was all Jensa needed and wanted, sighing in contentment.

That was simply disgusting.  She had actually gotten with that big, burly biker who had the audacity to...Randy rubbed his nose; still harboring anger over that.  He was here, naturally, he was wealthy.  He had donated of course, but not because he cared all that much.

Sure, it went for a good cause and all but he was more interested in the tax break he'd get as well as the praise for 'being so generous'.  Over three hundred million dollars, so THAT'S what his darling ex was worth.  And to think, he had let her get away. Maybe it was time to renew their relationship.  Not tonight of course, no, that would be bad considering all the press, but soon.

Jensa was totally lost in the song as Taker twirled her around expertly, wondering where on earth he learned to dance, not questioning it.  When he dipped her, her heart lodged in her throat and moaned as his lips softly caressed hers before pulling her back up, cheeks flushing slightly.  After the song was through, Taker and Jensa went back to her table for a breather, laughing when he pulled her sideways on his lap.

“So, what do you think of my dress?” She asked in his ear, giggling when he growled, tightening his arms around her and leaned her head on his shoulder.  Jensa wanted to tell him she loved him, but not yet.  She would wait a little longer and shut her eyes briefly, hoping the bubble didn't bust between them.

After a moment, he held her out at arm's length, gently nudging her into a standing position between his legs; his emerald green eyes sweeping her over.  Slowly.  She looked astonishing, by far the most beautiful woman in the room, but he also knew he was very, very biased.

“You're gorgeous, Jen.” He said softly, pulling her back down onto his lap and wrapped his arms around her once more; smiling when he felt her head once more resting on his shoulder.

“So are you, Taker.” She murmured softly, snuggling, just wanting to be with him and nobody else. 

This night was perfect after all and that made her smile, her golden locks shiny under the lights.  They stayed for a few hours, dancing and talking to people, mostly Jensa doing the talking, introducing Taker as her boyfriend, refusing to leave him out in the cold.  People took to him easy enough and Jensa was astounded by how smooth Taker was with everyone.  Jensa finally bid everyone good night before walking up the stairs, arm in arm with Taker, plaque in the other.

He had brought a cab, which was something he never wanted to repeat, ever again.  So the sight of her ‘car’ was a welcome sight indeed.  A motorcycle simply wasn't a good deal in a suit, not if he wanted to keep the suit in perfect condition.  And he knew she'd of never managed it.  Unless she removed the dress...which he then thought wasn't a bad idea at all and saved that for later.

“Happy?” He asked as they walked out of the building, welcoming the fresh air and inhaled deeply.

“Immensely, I know this wasn't easy for you, Taker.” She stopped, turning to face him, eyes shimmering under the full lit moon and stars, her jewelry glittering as their eyes locked. “Thank you so much for coming.” Standing on her tiptoes, Jensa hugged him close before passionately kissing him; pouring every feeling into it she could muster up, pulling away when both of them were breathless. “Come on, I want to make it up to you.”

Taker blinked, not expecting that and kissed her forehead. “You don't have anything to make up to me, Jen.” He rumbled, a laugh in his tone, unable to hide it. “I do, I should've came with you instead of pussyfooting and then showing up at the last minute.  That was wrong of me, especially on such an important night in your life.  Forgive me?” He stared down at her intently, eyes locked with hers.

“There's nothing to forgive, Taker.  You showed up, that's what matters and means most to me.  You were there for me...” She sighed gently, caressing his face with the back of her hand. “You got up the courage to come here even though you weren't comfortable with this atmosphere...for me.  You did this for me; do you have any idea how incredible that is?” Jensa cupped his face in her hands and brought his lips to hers, brushing them softly. “You didn't have to come, but you did.  Now come on, I want to get out of this dress and I know you're dying to get out of that suit.”

Chapter 12

“I'll survive it.” He teased, his eyes lighting up with wicked intentions. “I'm more interested in getting you out of that dress.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her, leaving absolutely no room for doubt as to what he meant and genuinely laughed when she smacked his arm.

His upper lip curved into a sneer as the sickeningly happy and totally odd couple got into the waiting car.  Snorting, he took a long pull from his cigarette before tossing it down the stone steps, watching as it rolled onto the sidewalk and stepped out of the shadows, the car pulling away.

They never saw those dangerous cold blue eyes of Randy Orton's as the limo pulled away, Jensa too busy trying to keep Taker from devouring her.  She lost count how many times she had to smack Taker's hands away, glad when they finally arrived at her condo.  Taker slid out as she took his hand, guiding him inside after bidding William good night, opening the door and walked inside.

“Home sweet home.” She barely dropped her keys and purse when Taker's arms wrapped around her from behind, lips attacking her neck, instantly moaning as she pulled the clip from her hair, the rest of her locks pooling down her back and over her shoulder.

He wanted to try out her shower, with her in there with him, for awhile now so...Taker helped her out of her coat, restraining himself from attacking her long enough to scoop her up into his arms.  It was big enough for them both and everything he was planning on doing to her.  He set Jensa down on the sink counter and kneeled in front of her, reaching under her dress in order to run his hands down her calves and then to her shoes; his green eyes twinkling wickedly.

Her heart was pounding as she felt his warm, muscular hands remove her heels, their eyes never leaving each other's as he slowly stood up.  Taking his tie, Jensa removed it with ease before shoving the suit coat from his shoulders, licking her lips hungrily, eyes darkening to near black along with his.  She wanted him and knew the feeling was more than mutual, beginning to unbutton it.  Jensa gasped when he ripped it open, buttons flying and captured her lips, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck while his hand reached behind to unzip her gown, feeling it loosen with each second that passed.

William was doing what he did best; making sure nobody bothered Miss Talverson.  Especially since he knew she had her boyfriend up there and wouldn't take being interrupted all that well.  As a matter of fact, Taker wouldn't either.  So when he seen a car he did not recognize come on the screen, he arched an eyebrow and stood up. 

A second later the firealarms were going off followed by the sounds of glass breaking.  Cursing, he hit the 'panic' button which would automatically alert the police.  He looked towards the main entrance, wincing when he seen someone had set something rather big on fire and hurled it into the building.

Jensa heard the fire alarms going and immediately broke the kiss, eyes widening, sitting her bra and panties on the sink. “What the hell?”

Taker was wondering the same thing she was and Jensa knew she had to go check it out, especially when she heard William's voice sounding throughout the condo.  Pulling her ankle length blue silk robe on and tying it, glad Taker was still in his dress pants, they rushed out of the condo to see what happened.

Taker held Jensa close to him once they were outside, watching as the fire department and police swarmed the place, not surprised at the response time.  This was Jensa Talverson after all.  Luckily, it seemed the damage was going to be minimal, but it was the FACT that someone had done this.  Of course, it would happen on this night of all nights.  But then again, it HAD been announced how much she had donated and this was probably a hate crime or something.

“Are you okay?” He whispered softly in her ear.

“I-I'm fine, just a little shook up.” She quietly replied, raking a hand through her honey curled locks, tears forming in her eyes.

“Miss Talverson, you will need to find another place to stay until we can have the remodeling finished.”

“Did my apartment-”

“No ma'am, but the elevator shaft was caught on fire in the lobby, along with the stairs.  There is significant damage on the lower floor so there's no way upstairs until the damage is fixed.”

“Jesus...” She nodded; thankful she had grabbed her purse and keys on the way down, clutching them like a lifeline.  At least nothing was harmed in her condo; that would've shattered her. “William?”

“I will bring around the car, Jensa.”

“Thank you.” She looked up at Taker, tears shining in her eyes and buried her face in his chest, shoulders shaking.

Taker was pretty pissed off by the time they reached his place, carrying Jensa in through the back and automatically carried her into his bedroom; gently laying her down on the bed.  He wasn't angry with her, he was fucking pissed at whoever had done this to her.  The woman had never gone out of her way to harm anyone, quite the opposite in fact and, yet, some hateful son of a bitch, or bitches, wanted to harm her? 

Someone had set FIRE to her HOME. 

She could have DIED.  Oh yeah, his temper was boiling and he was going to explode, just not in front of her.  He had every intention of finding out who had done this and killing them outright.  Fuck the police; he had his own brand of justice…a slow and painful death.

There was another spare bedroom in the shop for William as Jensa laid there, wondering who could've done this.  Who wanted to hurt her by setting her home ablaze?  She didn't care about the money, the donation, because it was all from her heart. 

She sniffled as Taker joined her in bed, wrapping his arms around her waist, letting her know everything was going to be fine.  She turned and buried her face in his chest, tears soaking it, gripping his arms and shoulders while he crooned soothingly in her ear, rubbing her back.  This scared her to death and, somehow, Jensa knew it was far from over.

~*~*~*~

“Someone did WHAT?” Steve growled the next morning, sipping a mug of coffee at a table in the corner of the main parlor. 

He had wondered why the shop was still closed when he had come in, now he knew.  'Taker looked...wild.  He was dressed, hair loose, but it was the feral gleam in his eyes, the cruel and cold expression on his face.

“I'm going to find out who.” 'Taker said calmly, having let Jensa sleep in, knowing she deserved it after her beautiful night had turned into a hellacious nightmare.

“And?”

“Bury the fucker alive.”

~*~*~*~

When Jensa woke up and informed that Taker had gone out for the day, hunting as Steve put it, she decided to go rent a hotel room right down the street from the shop.  She made sure Steve would tell Taker before going shopping, changing into the clothes she bought, jeans and a black baby t-shirt.  She walked out and slipped inside the limo as it pulled away, heading for the hotel.  She wasn't even hungry and knew she would have to get William his own room, which she didn't mind.

Steve did NOT want to be the one to tell 'Taker that Jensa had opted to rent a hotel room opposed to staying with him.  No, not with the mood 'Taker was currently in.  HELL NO.  So…he wrote a note and tacked it to the case of beer in the fridge; knowing his friend would find it.  Then he shut everything down and headed home, knowing if something blew up over that way it would probably be on the evening news.

“Hellfire 'n brimstone...” He muttered, shaking his head as he stepped out onto the sidewalk, looking up when it began raining. “Aww hell.”

The only reason Jensa left was because she knew business had to be taken care of and felt uncomfortable at the shop.  There was no reason for Taker to be upset, she would go back there whenever he returned.  Sighing, Jensa sat in her hotel suite, looking out the window as the rain began pouring, lightening streaking across the sky. 

Where was he?  He wasn't answering his cell phone, which made it even worse.  Jensa was scared as she wrapped her arms around herself and pressed her forehead to the cool glass window, hoping Taker made it back safely.

~*~*~*~

Taker was gone for most of the night as well, finally walking into the parlor around three, or maybe four, A.M.  His boots thudded heavily as he crossed the floor, going for a beer, needing one.  The refrigerator light illuminated his bloody, raw knuckles and he flexed his hand, sighing. 

Pointless.

Going out had been absolutely pointless. There wasn't any word on the street, or whoever had done it was paying out good money for these morons to withstand the beatings he had inflicted tonight. He had scoured every place he knew that dealt with all types of underhanded illegal bullshit and, still, nothing.

~*~*~*~

Over the next several weeks, attacks kept happening wherever Jensa went.  She was nearly ran over with a car, the builders remodeling the building her home was in were attacked, Ashley was nearly raped and even Steve got in a car accident!  Everyone close to Jensa was being hurt and she didn't understand why.  Jensa was terrified Taker would be next and wondered if being with him was such a good idea. 

He was forcing her to stay with him in the shop with everything going on around them, and Jensa was going stir crazy.  She wanted out of here, she wanted to go shopping and have her life back.  She felt trapped, secluded, the only person having come to visit her was Ashley and that's only because Taker trusted the woman.

“You need to tell him to let you out.” Ashley said on one such visit.  She wasn't too pleased with that fact that some scummy son of a bitch off the street had actually tried raping her, and had even told her that she could thank her 'rich bitch' friend.  She had just BARELY gotten away, having co-cocked the mother fucker with a brick. “Like, we could go upstate or something, Jen.  What do you think?”

Truth be told, that sounded great, but there was no way Taker would let Jensa go without him.  He had a life here with his shop, there was no way he could leave it behind because all Steve did was the shading.  Jensa buried her head in her hands, feeling Ashley rubbing her back, and looked up at her through terrified watery blue eyes.

“I'm going to talk to him tonight about it.  This has to stop.  People are being hurt because of me and there's NO leads whatsoever on who's doing it.” Jensa was truly scared for her life and the people who were closest to her. “I'm sorry, I'm just so damn frustrated with this whole situation.”

“Don't apologize to me, this isn't your fault, Jensa.” Ashley soothed, rubbing between Jensa's shoulder blades. “Some asshole out there is just...” She didn't know.  She didn't know why someone would do this to Jensa. Why would someone WANT too? The woman was an angel, she was just... “Taker has to understand that you're a woman who's EXPECTED to be seen at least once a freaking month. How long has he kept you locked-” Taker was leaning in the doorway, one black eyebrow arched as Ashley continued on her little tirade.

“He hasn't kept me locked up anywhere!” Jensa didn't notice Taker as she stood up from the bed, wearing black cotton shorts with a matching tank top, wrapping her arms around herself. “I'm not his prisoner, I'm no one's prisoner!  I've chosen to stay here of my own volition, I want to get that straight right now!” When Ashley snapped her mouth shut, Jensa kept going, pressing her hand against the wall, back to everything. “I'm my own person, no man controls me...EVER.  I make my own decisions and tonight, I'm not asking, I'm TELLING him that I'm leaving and going out tomorrow, whether it be shopping, eating, anything.  I just HAVE to get out and get some damn fresh air before I suffocate.”

“Okay, okay!” Ashley grinned, glad to see some spunk flaring in Jensa. “You go right up to that old, dead bastard and TELL him you're going OUT and there ain't a goddamn thing anyone can do.  You're your own woman!”

He actually found this all mildly amusing though he wasn't showing it, keeping his face composed in an expressionless state.

“He is not an old, dead bastard by ANY means, Ashley.  He's quite alive with a heart of gold.  He doesn't like showing it.  He's a great man, I'm lucky to have him.  But I also need space, air to breathe.  It's not healthy for us to always be together like this all the time, we're going to get sick of each other and...” Jensa sighed, closing her eyes briefly. “I just need some air, just for a few hours and I hope he'll give it to me without making a fuss.  Either way, I AM walking out tomorrow while the shop is running.”

Ashley smiled brightly, bouncing on the soles of her feet. “You know something, you should go shopping.  It'd make you feel better, honey.  Buy a new pair of shoes; that always works for me.  And, make them spiked heels, this way if Taker DOES give you an issue, you can kick him right in the nuts.”

He crossed his eyes and covered his face. “I'd rather she didn't.” He rumbled huskily.

“OH SHIT!”

Jensa whipped around, gaping back at Taker while Ashley covered her mouth with her hand, both women knowing he probably overheard the entire conversation. “Ashley, I think it's time for you to leave...now.” She ordered, eyes locked on Taker, waving her friend off when Ashley went to speak, shaking her head. “Please leave.” She waited until Ashley was gone, the door shutting behind her, before her eyes iced over. “How much of that did you eavesdrop on?”

“Darlin', eavesdropping implies hiding somewhere and listening.  I stood right here.” He was STILL leaning in the open doorway, trying and failing to look amused. “It's not my fault you two were planning your liberation that you didn't notice me.” He made a face. “All I ask if that you DON'T kick me with spiked high heels.”

“I never said I was buying them to begin with, Ashley did.” She muttered, not amused in the slightest, and bit her bottom lip while raking a hand through her honey locks. “I was going to wait until tonight to talk to you about this, but... Taker I can't stand being cooped up anymore.  You know I love being with you, but this is too much.  I need AIR and space.  Just a few hours, I just want to go to the mall, maybe get something to eat.  I'm not asking either, I'm informing you that tomorrow I am leaving for the day, while the shop is open.”

Jensa had never been so scared in her life, feeling her stomach twisting violently, but she had to stand up to Taker and tell him what she was doing.  No man would ever control her.  That wasn't going to change now.

Chapter 13

Taker studied her thoughtfully, stroking his chin attentively.  He had even been keeping the goatee trimmed; figuring growing it out again was just a waste of time if he ever had to shave it off again. “Fine.” He said after a moment, not fighting with her; just nodded. “It'd do you some good to get out, darlin'.”

Blinking in surprise, Jensa stared back at him, not believing he wasn't putting up a fight with her.  For weeks, since the attack, Taker had been on her like white on rice.  If she mentioned going out, Taker somehow dissuaded her from doing so, usually in a sexual nature.

“Really?” When he nodded, Jensa smiled genuinely and closed the distance between them, reaching up, brushing her lips against his softly. “Thank you, Taker.”

“You're welcome darlin'.” He murmured against her lips; wrapping his arms around her and pulled her tightly against him in a hug. “Just enjoy yourself and BE careful.” He snorted when she groaned; looking down to find her head buried in his chest, and chuckled. “You knew it was coming, Jen.” He laughed softly, shaking his head.

“I know, I know.” She grumbled more good-naturedly before pulling back, wondering what she would do tomorrow.  New panties were a must since Taker ripped them off of her every time they went for a round.  Not like she couldn't afford it, but she was running low on them.  Not to mention she knew Taker was stealing the pairs he didn't rip off of her. “I really hope they find this asshole soon, so I can go back home.  No offense, honey, I love it here, but there's no place like your own bed, your own room, you know?”

“Darlin', I understand, really I do.  But have you noticed nobody fucks with you while you're IN here?” He asked gently. “No, they don't.  I know you want to go home, I understand it, and I don't blame you.  I'd probably go nuts if the situation was reversed.  But the fact is, whoever did this isn't afraid to attack you on your own turf.” But apparently they were scared to bring it to 'Taker's.  The chickenshit was running around now doing sneak attacks on them all, but not actually coming there directly.

Jensa groaned, knowing he was right, nodding. “I know I'm safe here, but the fact is whoever is doing this WILL come here eventually when you're not expecting it.  I'm afraid they'll hurt you, whoever it is, Taker.  I'm-” She was cut off as his finger pressed to her lips, hushing her, and replaced it moments later with his lips.  They had this conversation before and Taker told her, flat out, that he would go through hell to be with her.  He wasn't leaving her side and he wasn't letting her run away from him to 'save' him.  Jensa sighed against him and slowly pulled back, narrowing her eyes slightly. “I hate it when you do that.  Now I can't remember what I was going to say.”

“That's why I do it.” He replied with a smirk, catching her hand before she could smack him.  Granted, it wasn't an actual smack, more like a 'you're overbearing and annoying me' kind of smack, but he was amused.  Grinning at her, he brought her hand up and kissed her palm, then moved it so she was cupping his face. “Darlin', there aren't that many folks out there moronic enough to bring their...issues...here.  Whoever this is, is a coward and they'll be waiting OUTSIDE my door, not in it.”

Jensa wanted to believe that, running her thumb across his cheek back and forth, the words erupting in her throat, but she swallowed them down.  Jensa hadn't told Taker she loved him, knowing now wasn't the time.  Not to mention Taker hadn't told her yet.  She refused to put her heart on the line again, to wear her heart on her sleeve.  Pulling her hand away from his face, Jensa sank down on the bed, knowing the shop was still open.  She was a burden and Jensa hated feeling that way.

“You know, you don't HAVE to stay back here during business hours.” 'Taker told her, moving to crouch down between her legs, taking her hands in his. “You can come out there and keep Steve company; lord knows the man has too much damn-”

“Hey 'Taker, did you know you have an email account with over a thousand messages?  Yer a dipshit!”

“Free time.”

“His computer could crash!” Jensa stood up and walked past Taker out the door, a frown marring her features when she seen a MACINTOSH standing before her. “Oh no, no this will not do.  Do you have any idea how OLD this is?” Jensa decided she was going to buy the shop brand new equipment and upgrade their technology, though Taker didn't need to know at the moment. “May I?” She asked softly, smiling when the men nodded, and proceeded to start cleaning out Taker's email box, shaking her head. “You need to make sure any kind of junk mail you get is phished out or else it will keep coming.  Do you have anti-virus software on here?”

'Taker actually scratched the top of his head, a confused expression on his face.  He knew a lot of things; he knew ABOUT a lot of things, but the most he could do on the computer was play solitaire.  And usually he somehow screwed that up. “Um, what?”

Steve slapped his face, shaking his head. “She means, you moron, you need to learn the basics.”

“I know the basics of kicking your ass.”

“Yer a shit.”

Jensa giggled softly, trying hard not too, and shook her head as she continued deleting the files. “Taker, sweetheart, you need a new computer.” She held her hand up when he went to protest, shaking her head. “I don't want any arguments.  This computer is about ready to crash and not even the most brilliant technologist can fix it.” She sighed when it shut down, trying to turn it back on and jumped back when it literally fried before her. “Well, I definitely called that one.”

Steve held up his hands when Taker shot him a look. “Hey man, I've been tellin' you for ages you needed a new PC.”

Taker ran a hand down his face, green eyes rolling into the back of his head from exasperation.

“And as if you needed anymore tellin', it decided to say 'fuck you, I quit'.”

“You really, really want me to hurt you.”

“Well,” Steve caressed his mustache thoughtfully. “I suppose it just wouldn't be the same if ya didn't so…” He turned and bent over. “If you really must.”

He walked away before he actually kicked Steve right through the wall.

Jensa was laughing so hard, tears were in her eyes as she bent over, holding her stomach while Steve actually wiggled his ass in Taker's direction.  She was sliding off of the stool, catching herself, only to laugh harder.  It took her a good five minutes to calm down, but the sparkle was back in her eyes that had diminished weeks ago when she was first attacked.

“Now then, I need to make a list on all you'll need.” She held her hand up when Taker went to protest. “Shut it, I'm doing this.  I have all the money in the world and I want to do this for you.  Oh dear god, do you have any idea how old this fax machine is?” That was going too as Steve handed her a notepad and paper. “Steve, what else does this shop need to be brought into the twentieth century?”

“Oh honey, sugar, darling...” Steve shook his head, taking up his post again on his stool, the sparkle in his blue eyes clearly saying he was more than amused.  But he knew better than to laugh.  She could get away with it; he might wind up at the ICU for it. “His printer died off a long time ago, let's see...” He began listing off everything. But, on the bright side, when it came to the actual trade tools, those were all PERFECT. “Oh you know what, Taker at least this calculator works, right?” Steve held it up and pressed the on button, frowning when nothing happened. “Or not...”

Jensa wrote down everything that had to be replaced, which considered of: two computers, a fax machine, a cordless phone, a calculator, and a new table since there was a crack in the one the Macintosh currently sat on.  Just as Jensa walked past it, the damn thing cracked and literally IMPLODED, blue eyes widening. “Uhh...”

Taker had been trying, really; honestly trying, not to 'bust a vein' as Steve would say but when she walked past the damn table and it fucking...broke...He was ready to go drink himself silly or break something else. “Everything was FINE until TODAY!”

“Actually, boss, it wasn't fine and I've been tryin' to tell ya that for months but you've been um, busy...” Steve coughed. “So...”

Jensa shook her head almost sadly before surveying the other table, blinking when Taker pulled her away from it. “Are you afraid I'm going to jinx it or something?” She smacked him with the clipboard when he nodded, rolling her eyes. “Ridiculous honestly.” She tapped the pen against her chin as she walked around more, adding a few more items to the list, before finally turning to face them. “I'll have this all ordered and shipped here by tomorrow.” Without another word, Jensa walked past them to the back, knowing Taker was about ready to either lose his temper or come after her.

“Hey Jennie, you should also bring in an interior decorator 'n shit; this place is so dark and dank that people are scared to come in!” Steve called after her, dodging when Taker finally snapped and threw a punch at his head.

“Good point, jackass.  I'm thinking we start the remodel off with a six inch hole in your goddamn head!”

“SHIT!”

“Hmm...You do have a point, Stevie.”

She winked when he blushed, giggling, and decided it wouldn't hurt to brighten this place up a little.  If anything, Taker should have covered the walls with his artwork so the customers could see all he had to offer.  While Taker and Steve were bickering back and forth, Jensa was on her cell phone buying the equipment and anything else she felt was needed for the shop.

Now if Steve hadn't been a total and complete jackass about it, 'Taker would have been calm and thought this through.  In truth, having Jensa...doing whatever the hell she was doing -he was flinching just thinking about it- felt a bit like charity when he definitely did not need it.  It would have felt like she was joining him in the business and he could have offered her something to do, knowing she was bored.  BUT, since Steve HAD been a jackass, Steve was going to suffer his wrath.

It wasn't anything big, just a few appliances that HAD to be replaced along with a new table and some redecorating.  She was sticking with the black and purple, having a surprise for her boyfriend.  She was having a huge sign with his tattoo parlor's name on it.  It was a T with an X through it; she noticed the symbol all over the shop, deciding they would gain more revenue if there was a flashy sign outside, though it would be tastefully done.  His style.  Jensa finally finished and lay down on the bed, feeling satisfied that she helped someone else, and closed her eyes.

Taker was avoiding the topic at all, not wanting to know if she was going to take Steve's advice and redecorate, groaning at the thought.  It was a damn tattoo parlor.  It wasn't supposed to look like some damn boutique or some shit.  He was one day just going to snap and cheerfully murder Steve.  Hell, while he was doing it, he would grin and whistle some goddamn Disney song in time to snapping Steve's bones.

~*~*~*~

The following morning, Jensa was up earlier than usual, deciding she was taking the ENTIRE day to go out and enjoy her time.  She looked in the mirror, wearing a pair of black dress pants with a turquoise short sleeved dress top, hair down curled at the ends to give it bounce.  Black eyeliner and clear gloss with black boots on her feet.  William would be driving her around so Jensa wouldn't be totally alone.  She smiled at Taker in the reflection, seeing the worry in his eyes.

“I'm going to be fine.  It's just for a day.  I'll be back when the shop is closed.” She assured him softly, feeling his arms wrap around her waist, and leaned back against him. “You'll be so busy you won't even notice I'm gone.”

“Yeah, Steve purposefully booked some people who wanted very detailed tattoos for today.” He informed her with a chuckle, shaking his head when he heard Steve laughing from the front parlor, and sighed.  It was going to be a long day and it hadn't even started yet.  Hell, it wasn't even because of Jensa; it was that damn jackass out front. “Just be careful.” He reminded for the umpteenth time, knowing she was sick of hearing it but that was the brakes.

“I will be fine and be nice to Steve.  He's a good guy and your best friend.” She waved him off when Taker scowled; rolling her eyes, and fluffed her hair out before grabbing her purse, winking at him over her shoulder. “Stop worrying, I'll be in a crowded mall with William.  Nothing will go wrong.” Jensa smiled when he drew her into his strong arms, staring into those deep green eyes and sighed as his lips softly caressed hers, reluctantly releasing her moments later. “Have fun.” She walked out, nodding at William and waved to Steve before going out to the limo, starting her day off.

“So you're really gonna have her followed?” Steve asked, watching through the big front windows as the limo pulled away from the curb.

“Matt knows to keep out of sight.”

“You're havin' her followed...by a sneakin' thief.” Steve shook his head, trying and failing in looking amused.

“He owes me.” Taker grunted, flexing his hands when their first customer walked in.

William waited until Jensa was securely in the limo before looking to his right, seeing a figure dressed in all black, nodding once.  Taker had come to him, letting him know he was having them followed for extra precaution.  In truth, William agreed with Taker's method, though if Jensa ever found out...William shuddered, not wanting to know.  He only saw Jensa angry once and that was quite enough to last him a lifetime.  Sighing, hoping this asshole that was attacking her was caught soon, William slid in the driver's seat and drove away from the shop, seeing a black car tailing them moments later.

Chapter 14

Matt Hardy was known as New York's 'go to' guy.  Meaning, if there was someone a person wanted tailed, he could do it.  If there was something a person wanted stolen, he could do that even better.  Not the most honest of ways to make a living, but...He slept a solid eight hours every night regardless.

He just didn't steal from actual poor people; people who were working jobs for dick and still keeping their shit straight, he respected them.  Now the 'poor' people living off of welfare and not trying to better themselves, they were up for grabs, along with the rest.  So when 'Taker had contacted him about this job, he had been iffy. 

Tailing a rich woman around town, Taker had filled him in on the situation.  Matt had said no.  He was into self preservation.  Then 'Taker had threatened him with dismemberment and Matt had jumped aboard.

The first stop was to get some coffee and a bagel from Panera Bread, one of Jensa's favorite places.  After that, the mall was calling her name.  New panties were the first thing on her list so she ventured inside Victoria's Secret, walking out two hours later with a bag full of them along with matching bras, and some negligees for Taker.  She sighed; glad he hadn't fought her with going out for the day. 

It felt great as Jensa continued walking, spotting a few more stores she enjoyed.  After spending nearly five grand, it was time to get something to eat, knowing William had to be starving.  She treated him to a special lunch at TGI Friday's before doing even more shopping, this time at Best Buy.  She would have to leave most of this stuff in the limo when she returned to the shop, sighing, missing her condo.

~*~*~*~

Considering Matt had spent two goddamned hours watching her sort through shit at Victoria's Secret, he wasn't amused.  Jensa was a beautiful woman, most definitely out of his league to be sure but beautiful.  And seeing the wicked smirk on her 'kiss me' lips while she had been selecting lingerie hadn't been conducive to him thinking her as just a 'job'.  Now she was a job and a potential fuck, or would be, if she wasn't shacking up with the Dead Man.  On the other hand...he knew what she had bought and while she was having lunch, called to torment Taker with that, giving the big guy a quick rundown of her day thus far.

Steve raised an eyebrow when Taker's cell phone rang at the shop, wondering who it was while he finished up some shading.  He could help overhearing the conversation, blue eyes widening. “Whoa...lacey panties?  What the hell are you into now, Rigamortis?” He demanded, trying hard not to laugh when shot him a deadly glare.

Taker was trying not to explode, honestly he was.  Matt was good at what he did; he was valuable.  But if he didn't stop running his mouth, he was going to become expendable.

“I'm telling you,” Matt drawled with wicked amusement in his tone as he surveyed Jensa and William through binoculars, a cigarette dangling from his lower lip.  He was parked out across the street on a roof, watching them through the windows. “She was sorting through these teddies and mmm...I can actually SEE her in them, you know?  That fine mama has got an ass on her that I would love to get behind.”

“Boy, you are-”

“And her lips...They're begging for attention, you know?”

Taker had to stop himself from snapping the cell in half.

When Taker actually snapped his cell phone shut, with authority, Steve immediately dodged a fist that came directly at his head.  Instead, Taker's fist went through the wall, leaving a nice hole in it. “Nice one, moron.” He grunted, dodging another one, groaning.

“Excuse me, is this Deadman's Ink?” A soft voice sounded from behind, causing both men to turn around, staring a drop dead gorgeous blonde petite bombshell with warm brown eyes and a beautiful smile.

“It most certainly is, honey.” Steve walked over, entranced by the beauty before him, and took her hand as he pressed a soft kiss to the back of it. “And you are?”

“My name is Trish Stratus, I'm the interior designer.”

Steve made a mental note to get down on his hands and knees and kiss Jensa's feet when he saw her again.

Taker took one look at this woman, threw his hands up in the air, and stormed to the back.

“Don't mind him honey.” Steve said quickly, now planning on murdering the big guy.  Especially when he heard 'let's just turn the place into a fucking salon while we're at it', and mentally smacked his face. “He's going through menopause.”

“I'm not going to turn a tattoo parlor into a salon, honestly.” Trish rolled her eyes and started surveying the place, nodding.  She was an expert, one of the best, who had decorated Jensa's place from top to bottom.  She already had layout plans, the colors being stuck to black and purple, per the request of her favorite client. “If you gentlemen trust me, I promise you'll like the end result, and it won't be a salon.” When Steve nodded, Trish flashed him a heart stopping smile before handing over her card. “I will be back first thing in the morning to start the remodeling.” She walked out, blonde hair bouncing with every movement.

Steve stared down at the card and sighed, actually bringing it to his nose and inhaled; groaning. “Taker, man, I'm in love.” He called out, hearing Taker grunt a 'good for you' and walked back, wincing when he seen the massive tattoo he was doing on a guy's back. “Or at least in lust.”

“Working, Steve.”

“Think she'd date a bald guy?”

“Maybe if we give her a lobotomy first.”

~*~*~*~

After lunch was finished, Jensa decided to go to the park and write for awhile, even though her editor told her not to worry about the deadlines until this lunatic was caught.  She didn't want to let the newspaper down, refusing to let her personal life get in the way of her job.  Sitting down on her favorite bench, with a strawberry mango smoothie, Jensa opened her laptop and proceeded to start writing, letting the day carry her away with William not far off.

“Well this is fucking boring.” Matt sighed from his spot, staying out of sight and rolled his eyes. 

She led one INTERESTING life…not.  He was actually hoping for an attack or something; maybe liven up his day a bit and decided he was going to politely ask for a raise.  Providing he lived long enough to get out the words.

For hours, Jensa sat there typing, letting the day slip by her, though it did her some good.  She knew all the new equipment had arrived for the shop and got a phone call from Trish.  She wasn't happy to hear about Taker's attitude, but that was honestly to be expected.  The man thought this was charity when all Jensa wanted to do was do something great for him to show how much she loved him. 

Of course, she didn't have the courage to tell him and wondered if she ever would.  When the sun descended and her watch struck nine o'clock, it was time to leave.  The shop was closing and Taker would be expecting her back.  Emailing her editor the latest article, after reading it over several times, Jensa slid in the limo as William drove away.

“She's on her way back, lingerie included.  Hey, did I tell you about the black racy piece she picked up?  You should snap some pictures for me to beat off to the next time she decides to go to a fucking park for hours on end.”

Taker knew just by the irritation in Matt's voice that he was trying to irritate him as well, but didn't rise to the bait.  He calmly sipped his beer, going over the day's accounts and smirked. “Let your imagination do the trick son.  No problems today?”

“Besides me almost dying from boredom?  Nope.”

“Good.”

Pulling up to the shop, Jensa stepped out while William retrieved the bags, knowing she would have to go through everything, leaving everything she bought from Best Buy in the trunk, accept one thing.  Taker didn't have a television in his room so she was fixing that.  If she was being stuck here and hardly able to go out, Jensa needed something to preoccupy her time.  Walking inside, the bell dung overhead as she sighed, knowing Taker was near the bag.

“Just leave them there, I'll grab them.” She instructed William softly with a smile before venturing down the hall, tapping lightly at Taker's door before opening it.

“Did you buy the entire mall?” He asked after she walked in, poking his head out into the hall to watch as William brought in what seemed like bag after bag, arching an eyebrow. “Steve's still here.  He has a few questions about your...friend, Miss Stratus.” He snickered, sounding amused.

“Don't be talkin' shit about the future Mrs. Williams!” Steve growled from a chair in the room, the two men having been playing cards.

Taker arched an eyebrow and shook his head.

“I bought enough panties to last me a year because every time we have sex, they seem to disappear.” She stated bluntly, giggling when Steve snorted beer out of his nose, chewing her bottom lip. “And I bought some other things...” Jensa ignored Taker's incredulous look when a nice sized television was carried inside by William, setting it in the corner along with an entertainment center, DVD and blu-ray player, among other things. “Before you even say anything, this is for BOTH of us.  I'm not going to be sitting in here all day bored out of my mind while you work so I decided to get a few things to help with the situation.  When I can go back to my condo, if you want, I'll take it with me.” She kicked her boots off, sighing gently.

Steve shot 'Taker an 'are you kidding look' and rushed over to kiss the top of the television. “Can you imagine watching football on this?” He said in a hushed whisper.

“Just hump the damn thing and get it out of your system.” Taker sighed, his lips curving upwards into a half grin.

“Well I WOULD, but I'm kinda wantin' to um...”

“Hump a certain...”

Steve looked at Jensa and cleared his throat.

Jensa was laughing so hard, she could barely breathe, curled up in a tight ball on the bed.  These two were too much sometimes as she sat up, wiping her tears away, shaking her head. “Steve, if you want her number, you're going to have to ask her.  I'm not going to be a messenger.” She held her hand up when he went to speak, blue eyes glittering wickedly. “Though I will inform you on one fact...” When he leaned forward all interested, actually on his knees, Jensa rolled her eyes. “She is single and currently looking.” She covered her ears when Steve let out an ear-splitting 'YES'.

When Steve actually did this moronic jump thing, 'Taker had had enough.  He grabbed Steve by the back of his neck, walked over to the door, and threw him out into the hallway. “Go home and be an asshole.” He grunted, shutting the door in his friend's face and didn't turn around, shoulders shaking with repressed laughter.

“But, but, but,” Steve scratched at the door. “The TV...”

“HOME, AUSTIN, GO HOME!”

Jensa completely lost it and fell back on the bed, laughing uncontrollably while Taker tried restraining himself.  She settled down after five minutes, finally hearing the bell, signaling Steve left. “I'll have to buy him a TV just so he has one.” She giggled when Taker shot her a look, chewing her bottom lip, and raked a hand through her honey blonde locks. “How was your day?” She asked in a softer tone, knowing the TV wouldn't be hooked up tonight, which was fine.  She was exhausted from her day out.

“Besides Steve annoying the ever living hell out of me after Miss Stratus left?” He snorted, dropping down onto the bed with a groan. “Alright, we kept busy.” And of course, there were the oh so delightful calls from Matt he had gotten, always a pleasure.  He made a mental note to kill the little bastard after this was all over, when he didn't need Matt anymore. “How was yours?  Everything go alright?”

“Yes, not one problem occurred.  It was nice getting out and just enjoying the day.  I went shopping, obviously, and then took William out to lunch at Friday's before going to the park and writing my article.” She shrugged, that was a normal day for her, though she didn't do nearly as much shopping as she did today because she had televisions at her condo and whatnot.  The TV was a fifty-two inch Sony plasma, top of the line.  Jensa smiled back at him, a single strand of hair falling across her cheek as Taker brushed it away. “Thank you for trusting me to go out.  It meant a lot to me, Taker.”

He nodded, that 'trusting me' and 'it meant a lot' causing him just the briefest twinges of guilt.  Brief.  It was gone as quickly as it had come, the justification being that while she needed to get out and away, she also needed to be safe.  She got her wish, he got his way without making her feel crowded or anything.

“Any plans for tomorrow?” He asked casually, running his fingertips down her arm.

“No, I'm staying here tomorrow.  There is a lot to be done.  Don't worry, the revisions won't be girly or a salon.” She smirked when Taker lowered his eyes, chuckling. “Trish is magnificent at what she does.  Whatever you want done, tell her, and it will be done.  This is your shop after all...” Maybe she was pushing all of this on him too fast, which caused Jensa to sigh, closing her eyes briefly and looked away. “I'm sorry about the appliances and everything, I should've asked you first.  You've just done so much for me that I wanted to give back somehow, someway.  I just don't want you thinking its charity because that's not the case at all.  It's not charity when I deeply care for the person, when they are a huge part of my life.”

He didn't know what to say to that.  All day long he had been mentally practicing a speech that went something along the lines of: Thank you but no, I have my own money and if I need to replace something, I'll pay for it, but...He had a feeling he would smash her heart right about now if he did and nodded, bending down to cup her face in both hands; leaning in and kissing her gently.

“Thank you, darlin'.” He murmured huskily.

Her eyes sparkled when he said those two words, a bright smile crossing her lips, and kissed him back before giving him a huge hug, sighing with relief. “No need to thank me, I'm happy to do it.”

Her eyes closed, feeling his warm, strong hands run up and down her back, caressing her lovingly.  God she wanted to tell him how she felt, the words once again bubbling inside of her, but couldn't.  She couldn't do it, not yet.  When she pulled back and Taker kissed her deeper, Jensa lost all sense of reality and thought as he slowly undressed her.  They made love and fell asleep in each other's arms, content expressions on their faces.

Chapter 15

The next few days were straight out of Hell for 'Taker.  He had to basically close down the shop while the 'remodeling' was going on, which meant he lost money.  Not that he minded that too much.  He was set and he had a wealthy girlfriend who insisted on lavishing it on him.  Another thought he didn't like dwelling on. 

Steve was there, needlessly since he wasn't being paid to fucking visit, and only because Trish was around.  And she had Steve wrapped around her dainty little fingers, putting him to work and everything.  The quicker they found out who the hell was behind all these attacks, the better off things would be.

In the end, the shop looked immaculate from what it used to be.  The artwork hung, the walls painted black with purple woodwork and trim.  The floor was onyx stone, smooth to walk over and the new counters and office area was in the same colors.  Jensa was thrilled with how it turned out, ignoring Steve's grumbling, and knew Taker loved it, though he wouldn't say so. 

Before they knew it, another month had passed and Jensa went out three times a week for air, shopping, whatever came to mind.  Most of her time was spent in the park writing, having sent William home until the remodeling of her building was finished.  She drug her Jaguar out and went out alone, not believing Taker trusted her this much, and it did her heart good.

Matt had fallen into a routine.  He would follow Jensa wherever she went, usually drooling over her Jag -and had mentally promised himself he'd be 'borrowing' it sometime in the near future, just for a few hours-, and watch her do her thing.  He had gotten into the habit of sending pictures of her to Taker's cell phone, just to piss the big guy off.

“Heya mister, nice coat!”

“Go away kid.” Matt muttered, shooing the boy away.

“Jeez man, I was just-”

“Seriously, go play in traffic or something.”

“JERK!”

A frown marred Jensa's features, turning her head from her laptop, and spotted a man dressed in all black trying to look inconspicuous.  Who the hell did he think he was treating a child like that?  Scowling, Jensa stood from the bench, after shutting her laptop down, and pulled something out of her pocket before heading over in his direction.

“Excuse me?” She tapped him on the shoulder and when he turned around, he got a face full of mace for his troubles, satisfied at the screams that spilled from his mouth.  Jensa was getting a bad vibe from this man and looked back at the little boy, nodding with a smile. “Go on honey, he won't bother you anymore.”

“Thanks lady!” The kid grinned before taking off on his skate board.

“Are you the prick who's been following me around and trying to destroy everything?” She demanded, kicking him with her steel toed boots, wearing blue jeans and a long sleeved blue shirt, holding the mace threateningly. “I'm giving you to the count of five and then I'm blinding you PERMANENTLY.”

“YOU FUCKING BITCH!” Matt howled, using his coat sleeve to wipe at his eyes, the burning pain was pure agony. “WHAT THE FUCK IS YOUR DAMAGE LADY?” He turned his back to her, fumbling for the nearby water fountain and used it to wash his eyes out.  When he turned around, he could see, somewhat, and his eyes were severely red and swollen. “You fucking bitch; you're not even WORTH this shit!” He growled angrily, throwing his hands up into the air.

Her eyes narrowed upon hearing that, still holding the mace like a lifeline, scowling. “What do you mean I'm not WORTH this?” Jensa's heart raced while the man washed his eyes out more, trying to will the tears to stay in her eyes.  She couldn't start shaking, not now.  She would wait until after hearing what this man had to say, though her hand was trembling violently. “TELL ME!  WHO SENT YOU?” She exploded, the fear overtaking all sense of rationality, feeling as if she was losing her mind.  Maybe she was.  No, he said she wasn't worth this, which meant one thing:  Someone sent him. “Please...” She whispered, barely able to breathe. “Please tell me so I can put an end to this.  I'll give you anything if you tell me who's doing this to me...” Tears slipped down her cheeks, staring back at him helplessly. “I have all the money in the world, whatever you want.  Just tell me, please.”

“Christ lady, if I fucking knew, I wouldn't be here.” Matt grumbled, not even caring anymore that he was supposed to be following her, that she wasn't supposed to know he was there or who had sent her.  Fuck that shit.  She had just MACED him!  Taker could deal with her ass. “Jesus...Do you ALWAYS mace strangers?”

“Do you always attack small children who simply give you a compliment?” She shot back defensively, wiping the tears away from her eyes, knowing she couldn't snap at him.  He had answers, Jensa knew it, and lowered the mace as she took a step forward. “Look, you said that I'm not worth this, which means you were sent to follow me.  Who sent you?” When he hesitated, Jensa fished in her purse and pulled out her checkbook, cutting him a nice amount. “Please tell me who sent you.”

“Dear god lady, put that fucking thing away.  You can't buy everything and everyone you know.” He snarled, shoving the check away when she held it out. “That kid was interfering with a job, fuck him.” He rubbed his eyes again, blinking. “CHRIST!” He shouted, beginning to walk away. “Fucking take this shit up with your fucking boyfriend and make sure he knows to mail me my goddamn money.”

Tears instantly poured down her face as Jensa stood there, dumbfounded, not believing what she just heard.  It was...Taker?!  Taker sent him to follow her?  Whatever happened to trusting her? 

Not saying a single word, Jensa walked over to bench numbly, grabbing her bag before going to the car, sliding inside the driver's side.  She was almost in a trance, squeezing the wheel tighter and tighter until her knuckles turned ghostly white.  So Taker didn't trust her after all.

“I can't do this anymore.” She whispered painfully, putting the car in reverse, and sped away toward the shop.

When Matt calmed down, and that took quite awhile because he was so pissed about that bitch macing him, Matt figured shooting off at the mouth the way he had wasn't such a good idea.  Not because she now knew her darling boyfriend the freaking Undertaker had had her followed, but because he had called her a bitch, several times, and shouted her down like she was a common whore.  He then decided he was taking a vacation, maybe in Miami.

The Jaguar screeched to a halt twenty minutes later and Jensa was seeing COMPLETELY red.  She could NOT believe Taker went behind her back and had someone follow her!  Stepping out of her car, leaving her purse and keys inside, knowing she wouldn't be staying long, Jensa didn't walk inside the shop.  Oh no, that would construe as her not being pissed off.  She KICKED the door open, eyes burning with rage, and seen Steve's eyes widen in shock.

“Get out.” She ordered, voice deadly, honey locks frazzled, face tear streaked with a tightened jaw.  Everything spilled out as soon as she seen Taker, wanting to rip him to shreds over and over again, not caring why he had that man follow her. “YOU STUPID FUCKING BASTARD!” She shrieked, the sound ear-splitting, and picked a stapler up hurling it at him. “YOU SENT A COMPLETE FUCKING STRANGER AFTER ME!!  YOU NEVER TRUSTED ME!!  YOU LIED TO ME OVER AND OVER AGAIN!!  THANKS TO YOU, I MACED HIM IN THE DAMN PARK!!” Jensa wasn't rational at the moment, tears streaking down her cheeks, daring anyone to come near her.  She would fight tooth and nail. “I came here to tell you I'm DONE with this!!  I'm DONE with the over protectiveness, your overbearing ways!  You couldn't even come to me face to face and TELL me what you were doing!  You had to sneak around like a goddamn thief in the night and completely obliterated my trust!!  I want NOTHING to do with you ever again, do you hear me Taker? NOTHING!!  So you don't have to worry about protecting me or looking over my shoulder because, guess what, our relationship is OVER!!” She stormed out; slamming the door so hard the glass shattered, and ran to her Jaguar as her heart shattered.

All Taker could do was stare at the door, somewhat not believing she had just thrown a fucking stapler at his head, and turned to numbly stare at the dent in the wall where it had landed.  Snapping out of it, he took off after Jensa, stopping her from opening the door, not surprised in the least when she tried to elbow him.  Though, he drew a line when she actually went for his balls.

“Goddamn it Jen, will you just calm down and hear me out!”

“No!!  I don't want to hear anything you have to say!!  You lied to me for the past MONTH, saying how much you trusted me, when the truth is you only trusted who you could hire to WATCH me!!  What the fuck did you think I was going to do, Taker, go try and find the damn lunatic MYSELF?” She was so angry and so much adrenaline was coursing through her veins that Jensa actually shoved him a few feet away from her, vision blinded by tears. “After everything I said to you...” Jensa knew she had to end this with him, no matter how hard it would be, because she couldn't live like this anymore. “I can't do this anymore...I can't live sheltered and in fear.  That's no way to live, life is too damn short.  I can't handle your overbearing ways and over protectiveness.  I've tried, but I can't do it...What you did was the lowest thing anyone's ever done to me.” Her voice was merely a whisper now and ripped her arm out of his arm when he went to touch her. “DON'T.”

“I do trust YOU; it's whoever out there wanting to hurt you I don't trust.” He snarled, grabbing her arms again, trying to get her to just look at him. “Jensa, I trust you, darlin', I do.  But if you think for second I'm leaving your life to fate, you're dead wrong.” He said firmly. “You wanted to go out and live again, fine, but damn it, you think I was going to sit here worrying if that cocksucker had finally finished the job?”

She wasn't hearing him though, the heartbreak too much to listen to reason as she fought against him.

“You lied to me...you broke MY trust for you, Taker!  Trust is the one thing a relationship needs to flourish or it's NOTHING.  Let go of me.” She ordered gravely, eyes flashing coldly, and shoved him away for the final time. “Do yourself a favor and find a woman who can handle your overbearing ass.  I'm done playing games.” She slid inside her Jaguar while Taker stood there, refusing to look at him because she knew if she did she would crumble to pieces.  Shakily, Jensa put the car in reverse and pulled out of there, peeling down the road, finally allowing the pain and heartache to completely wash over her. “Goodbye Taker.”

Taker stared at the road long after she had disappeared, feeling several emotions welling up inside of him; all of them begging to be released in a very violent explosion.  Sadness and heartache competed with rage and frustration.  He clenched and unclenched his fists, green eyes flashing pure acid and finally threw his head back; an unearthly howl escaping him.  Matt Hardy was a dead man walking.

Chapter 16

Blue eyes slowly fluttered open as Jensa groaned; head feeling like a weight was on it.  Every part of her body was sore from the top of her head to the tips of her toes.  Jensa finally managed to pry her eyeballs open, the sun streaming through the window of a hotel room from the looks of it.  A bottle of Jack Daniels lay beside her, putting two and two together.  She felt an arm wrap around her waist and smiled, closing her eyes and leaned back against him, sighing in contentment.

“Mmm good morning Taker...” She murmured softly, knowing their fight was one big bad dream.

“No, not Taker.” Came Randy's hurt voice, a hint of sarcasm in it as he nuzzled her neck.  When her eyes flew open, he automatically tightened his grip on her so she couldn't break away; snorting when Jensa actually said 'let me go'. “Now, now darling, after the night we had, is that any way to treat me?” He taunted gently, biting her earlobe. “You were screaming MY name all night long, my beautiful; precious...wife.”

The color drained out of Jensa's face and chanced a look at her left hand, seeing the diamond ring sparkling back at her.  No...No it couldn't be! “LET GO OF ME!” She shrieked, shoving him away from her as she rolled out of the bed, pulling the blanket with her, tears already spilling down her cheeks, hastily covering herself up. “W-What are you talking about?” Her head was pounding something fierce, raking a hand through her hair shakily, and trembling from head to toe. “I-I would NEVER marry you!!” She took the ring off and hurled it at him.

“Actually, Princess, you did.” Randy replied calmly, pulling himself out of the comfortably warm bed and smiled sweetly at her. “You were so heartbroken by what Taker did to you, not trusting you, is what you said, that...Well,” He shrugged; his smile still deceptively warm and gentle. “We got married. It was YOUR idea to fly here, you know.  The receipts are in the drawer, check them, it's your signature or was…now it's Jensa Orton.”

Jensa couldn't breathe, feeling sick to her stomach, and pulled the trashcan over before vomiting, the tears pouring down her face like two rapid streams.  How the hell could she do something like this?!  When there was nothing left in her stomach, Jensa shoved the trashcan away, her back pressed against the wall, refusing to look at the receipts.

“I don't give a damn what's happened, I'm getting it annulled.” She stated, watching Randy freeze, eyes narrowed. “It was you, wasn't it?” That wasn't a question as she shakily stood up, clutching the blanket tightly to herself in a vice grip. “It was YOU who attacked my building, nearly had Ashley raped, force Taker to crash on his motorcycle and caused Steve to get into an accident, wasn't it?  WASN'T IT?!”

“I have no idea what you're talking about, darling.” Randy said, reaching down for his silver cigarette case; lighting up one of his cigarettes and took a deep pull from it, blowing smoke at her. “I've been in Los Angeles for awhile now, business.  And I can prove it.” He informed her, blue eyes glimmering wickedly. “I'm sorry to hear you've been having such horrible luck.  That'll all change though, now that you've come to your senses.  Oh...by the way...Princess, it CAN'T be annulled.  We consummated the marriage, several times, very thoroughly.”

“Then I'm divorcing your ass, whatever it takes.  I have all the money in the world, Orton, I'll have this done so fast it'll make your goddamn head spin!” She snapped, ignoring the pounding in her head, and stormed over to where a white cocktail dress lay along with garments, feeling sicker as she yanked them up. “I'm leaving; I'm going back to MY life in New York.” She began walking inside the bathroom, needing a shower to scrub his dirty, nasty, filthy prints off of her.

Sighing, Randy walked around the bed and sent her flying with one firm thrust of the hand right between her shoulder blades.  He watched as she went flying into the bathroom. “You tripped.” He informed her, leaning in the doorway, smoking casually as if he hadn't just sent her reeling. “And no, there won't be a divorce, Jensa.  That would just be DEVESTATING, really.  I don't know WHAT I would do if you left me, baby.  I just don't.” He shook his head, sighing, eyes flashing dangerously. “Or who I might hurt.”

Jensa was struggling to get up, not expecting Randy to actually strike her, and managed to scramble back as he began to slowly stalk her.  She could see the pure malice in his blue eyes, more tears falling. “W-What are you talking about?” Her heart lurched painfully, already knowing the answer to that question.  Taker, Ashley, Steve...the list was endless.  Could Randy be capable of hurting them? “I don't care what you say or do to me, I'm STILL divorcing your ass, Orton!  I hate you!!”

“See, Jensa, this is why you shouldn't drink; you just don't think straight.” He sighed exasperatedly, crouching down and reached out to poke her shoulder with a finger, doing it quite hard, cigarette now dangling from his lower lip.  When she actually cowered, he snorted and blew smoke in her face, standing upright again. “I won't do anything to you.  It's your friends or, more specifically, Taker.  He's not superman, one Teflon coated bullet from a sniper and...” He trailed off.

“No!!” Jensa cried out, shaking her head frantically, seeing the pure ice in Randy's eyes and knew he would do it. “Randy, please don't!  Don't hurt him!” She grabbed his arm, tears falling continuously, not believing this was happening.  It was Randy all along screwing with her life, and at her worst time, he struck like a snake and took advantage of her vulnerability. “Please, don't kill him.  Don't hurt them...” She pleaded, swallowing hard when he slowly began backing her up toward the shower.

“That's all in your hands, Jensa. What happens to them is up to you.” He informed her coldly, lifting her up and into the shower; reaching for the spray. “You are MY wife and that will NOT change.  Do you understand me?” He demanded, slamming his hand against the tiled wall, right beside her head, when she didn't answer. “DO YOU UNDERSTAND?”

“Y-Yes...” She breathed out, scared to death, not believing he was doing this to her.  What had she ever done to deserve this?  Randy had broken her heart when she caught him sleeping with someone else and now he expected her to stay married to him?  Jensa had no choice though, trembling from head to toe as he yanked the blanket away from her, not able to stop the tears. “Why are you doing this to me?” She whispered, squeaking out in fear when he slammed his other hand on the other side of her head, scaring her to death. “P-Please don't hurt me, Randy...”

“Why are you doing this to me?” He mimicked nastily, sliding his hands down the wall and moved them to her hips.  Forcibly, Randy jerked her against him, aligning their bodies and dug his hips against her. “Please don't hurt me Randy...Well then, Jennie, give me a reason not to.” He murmured, bending down to lick along her pulse point, having flicked the cigarette quite some time ago.

Jensa would've rather burned in the seventh circle of hell than do this, but she had no choice.  He would hurt Taker; possibly kill the man, if she didn't comply with this.  Closing her eyes, Jensa shakily held her left hand out as Randy slid her ring out, having been holding onto it since she chucked it at him, the diamond sparkling. 

Jensa knew she was stuck with this man as her husband, feeling sick to her stomach when his lips practically crushed hers.  Instantly growing numb, no matter how hot the shower sprays were, Jensa gave herself to Randy willingly, but felt absolutely nothing.  The only person she thought of was Taker, but didn't dare scream his name out when her climax forcibly hit.  Randy dropped her after he was done and Jensa just cried her heart and soul out, not believing the mess she'd gotten herself into. 

Never again would she see Taker's beautiful green eyes, never again would she feel his strong, secure arms around her.  Now she was literally in a forced marriage with his life on the line if she screwed up even once.  Numbly, Jensa finally pulled herself out of the shower and headed out, the life in her eyes gone.

~*~*~*~

Taker was losing his goddamn mind.  After giving her a few days to cool down, he had gone after Jensa.  Only to find she had left town.  Her manservant -William- was confused as hell, as she had actually given him his walking papers.  That made NO sense to 'Taker; she adored William.  Jensa had relinquished her condo and just left, and all on the same damn night she had left him.  So now he was trying to track her ass down, with very little luck.

~*~*~*~

A week later, the newspapers were out and on the cover was a picture of Jensa and Randy Orton, the newlywed couple in New York.  Randy's arms were wrapped around her while Jensa just stared in the camera, smiling, but there was no sparkle in her eyes.  The diamond ring on her left hand could clearly be shown too and there was an article that was written with Randy answering all of the questions in the interview.

After getting back from Vegas, Jensa was forced to give up her condo and give William his walking papers, which broke her heart.  She hated Randy so much, but knew whatever he wanted she had to do.  Though there was one perk in this marriage: He couldn't touch her money.  Only Jensa was allowed access to her fortune, thanks to her grandmother's specific and strict instructions. 

Jensa wouldn't hand over a dime to Randy either, though he didn't really need it.  So now she sat in a pure white Park Avenue condo while Randy was out doing errands and whatever else he could think of to torment her.  It'd been a month and Jensa had hardly been out, except when she was with Randy.  Knowing this was a huge risk to take, but not able to stand it any longer, Jensa left the condo.

“Darling, I'm home!” Randy's voiced echoed throughout their 'house', his footsteps purposefully heavy. “And I have WONDERFUL news.”

His tone was fairly excited, a hint of pure evil in it as he hunted her down, finally halting before finally realizing she had fucking left.  Oh that bitch; was SHE in some trouble.  Sighing, he dropped down behind his desk, pouring himself a healthy shot of bourbon and lit up a cigarette.  She had exactly one hour.

Jensa walked inside the condo forty-five minutes later, throwing her keys on the nearby table, and fluffed her honey locks out, taking her glasses off.  She froze, hearing a 'tsking' coming in her direction, and braced herself for what was coming next.  The next thing Jensa saw was stars as she crumbled to the pure white carpeting, holding her burning cheek, tears stinging her eyes. 

God her eyes felt like they would explode with how hard he struck her, though it hadn't been the first time.  Randy loved to beat and rape her repeatedly.  She didn't even beg him to stop, shrieking when he planted his boot right in her midsection.

“See, Jennie,” He was actually talking calmly and rationally, almost conversationally as he beat her.  He was mindful enough to not hurt her TOO badly, knowing a hospital visit was simply out of the question. “I had some wonderful news to share with you, I was so excited and happy too...and then, you weren't here.” He bent down, gripping a handful of her hair, and began dragging her towards their bedroom. “Why do you make me hurt you?”

She didn't speak a word before her head was slammed back against the carpeting, knowing better than to answer him.  He hated it when she talked back, Jensa learned that very quickly.  Not even saying sorry would stop him from hurting her, so what was honestly the point? 

All she wanted was some fresh air; she couldn't even have that. 

It was as if all the freedom and willpower had been sucked away from her in a matter of seconds. 

When Randy was done, Jensa could only curl up in a tight ball, willing the pain to go away while Randy went to drink himself silly with bourbon.  She would be in no condition for sex tonight, thank god.  Coughing quietly, Jensa tried to crawl, but ended up staying there, shutting her eyes tightly, envisioning Taker in her mind.

~*~*~*~

“She was heartbroken by her ex-boyfriend's total disregard for her mental and emotional well being and I was there to help mend the pieces.” Steve read and winced when he heard another smash, knowing that was the expensive computer Jensa had bought.  He was reading the marriage announcement and brief interview aloud, which was probably a bad idea, but Taker hadn't even been able to hold the damn paper, his hands had been shaking too badly.

“DISREGARD FOR HER MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL BEING?!”

Steve cringed when another smash sounded, sighing as he continued reading, letting out a low whistle. “The decision was fast and she was the one who proposed to me.  We went to Vegas to an all-night chapel before spending the entire night making love, showing each other how much we-” Steve couldn't even read anymore, feeling sick to his stomach, and looked at the picture of Jensa and Randy. “Why the fuck would she marry a piece of shit like that on a whim?  Something's not right, man...” Taker was literally destroying anything he could get his hands on.

“THAT COCKSUCKER!  HE FUCKING PUT HIS GODDAMN HANDS ON HER THE NIGHT WE MET AND SHE WENT AND MARRIED HIM!!” Obviously, Taker wasn't thinking rationally.  Sighing, Steve rubbed the top of his bald head, wincing when the fifty-two inch TV came flying out of the hallway, watching it smash.

Chapter 17

Another month passed...then another...finally three months arrived since Jensa's life turned into pure and utter hell.  She was forced to stay inside, unless Randy was with her.  Her articles were no more, Randy forced her to even give up that little bit of life she still had.  Jensa grew numb to the point where whenever he struck her she just kept quiet.  Maybe he would beat her to the point where she would die and she could finally be happy six feet under. 

That was wishful thinking. 

It was a cold, December night and Randy was surprisingly out of town on business.  Jensa's eyes narrowed; she couldn't take it anymore.  Pulling on a pair of black jeans with a black long sleeved shirt, leather jacket and black gloves, Jensa walked out of the condo, taking the back way.  Randy had a guard posted at the door, but Jensa always paid him off whenever she went out, nodding when he just smiled at her.  Jensa closed her eyes, allowing the cold air to whip over her as she walked down the sidewalk, knowing Randy wouldn't be back for a few days.

Taker had found out where she lived and driven by it several times, the anger always coursing through him.  So she was married to a rich prick, living in a fucking pure white condo, no doubt expecting the first of several rich little bastards.  Tonight, he was out, on his motorcycle no less, ignoring the icy roads as he rode.  Why he was going by Hell was beyond him, maybe just to feel the sharp stab of pain it would bring him, reminding him he wasn't dead.  Not yet anyway.

There would be no rich little bastards because Jensa couldn't have children.  She had a nine percent chance of ever conceiving and got beaten when she coldly informed Randy of that.  Makeup covered her marred face as Jensa kept walking, not even worried about the cold. 

It proved she still felt something, tightening the leather jacket around her, enjoying this little bit of freedom she could have whenever Randy went out of town.  He didn't take her with this time because of her 'ugly face', his exact words.  Jensa turned the corner, heading in a direction she didn't know and, honestly, didn't give a damn. 

She wanted to die.

Taker actually wrecked his Harley when he seen a woman he knew damn well to be Jensa emerging onto the sidewalk.  Grunting, he felt the motorcycle skidding and tried to control it, but lost control anyways.  It toppled onto its side and skidded down the slick road, taking him with it.  Thankfully he hadn't been going too fast and when it finally stopped, he wasn't that hurt.  Mostly his pride.

“Son of a bitch!”

Jensa's eyes widened when she heard a crash, spinning around, mouth dropping open when she seen who was emerging from it.  Dear god, it was Taker!  Without thinking about it, Jensa took off running down the sidewalk, only to slip and fall on her ass, groaning, hissing in pain.  Damn ice!  She slowly stood up, holding her back and the wall for leverage so she didn't fall again. 

That was the last time she wore these types of boots outside in the freezing weather.  Jensa froze when she heard and felt heavy breathing behind her, closing her eyes.  She couldn't be seen with him, she just couldn't!  His life was on the line.  She began walking away, willing the tears to stay in her eyes, but it wasn't happening.

She was NOT walking away from him.  Hell no!  Especially since he had SEEN her start running towards him.  Given that he had had an adrenaline rush and pushed that beast of a bike off of him and all but ran over here, on a fucking bleeding leg no less, on ice, and didn't kill himself, no.  She wasn't walking away.

“Turn around.” He ordered, meaning to make it an order, but it came out a plea.

“I-I can't...” She whispered, teeth chattering, having stopped mid-step when she heard his voice, swallowing past the lump that formed in her throat. 

His hand reached out, slowly turning her around until their eyes locked, dead blue on unreadable green.  Tears instantly began streaming down her face and Jensa knew she was really pushing her luck with this.  Hell, she wasn't even wearing her wedding ring, REFUSING to wear it when Randy wasn't around. 

As far as she was concerned, she wasn't married whenever he was gone, which was more often than not.  So many emotions flowed through her, remember they're last fight, and Jensa felt weak in the knees as he stared at her with such intensity, making her breathless.  It was as if the world had stopped and the piece that was missing inside of her was back.

He at first had been planning on railing at her, having played this scene out a thousand times in his mind.  Of course, it wasn't ten below and he wasn't chattering so hard he could have bitten his tongue off without noticing.  But he pushed everything aside just to drink her in.  His mouth turned down into a frown when he seen she was using make-up to cover her face.  Her...battered...face.

“Where the fuck is he?”

“Away on business.  He won't be back until Sunday.” Tonight was Thursday; she had the entire weekend without her 'husband', wrapping her arms around herself.  Jensa stepped back when Taker went to cup her cheek, knowing he would rub the makeup off and the deep, dark bruises that marred it would show.  She couldn't allow that to happen. “I-I shouldn't be here...” The tears kept falling, freezing to her face or so it felt like, but Taker didn't listen to her.  He cupped her face, his thumb wiping away the foundation she'd put on, only to reveal black and blue underneath as Jensa stumbled back. “Don't!”

Taker let her stumble but not fall, refusing to relinquish his hold on her and pulled her back.  Patiently, he continued wiping away the make-up surveying the damage he had noticed and felt his heart do two things.  Clench painfully and then spasm as another wave of anger coursed through him.

“I'm going to kill him, Jensa.” He said gravely. “I hope you didn't love him even a little bit, because you're going to be a widow.”

Shaking her head frantically, Jensa took a step back from him, breath showing in the bitter cold night air, wrapping her arms around herself. “You will do no such thing, Taker.  I...love my husband.” She spat those words out, trying to make them sound truthful, but couldn't.  Her heart wasn't in it as she stared back at the man before her, the man she loved, but would never with. “Just stay away from me.” Tears slid down her face, knowing she was hurting him, but this was the only way to protect him.  If Randy found out...Jensa began trembling and not from the cold before turning and rushing as fast as she could down the icy sidewalk, away from Taker.

As there had been no actual emotion in her declaration on the loving Randy bit, Taker didn't believe that for one goddamn second and took off after her.  Anger was fueling him, keeping the cold at bay as well as numbing the pain in his leg.  He caught Jensa by the arm and spun her around, steadying her so she didn't fall on the icy sidewalk.

“Bullshit.” He hissed down at her, refusing to let her just walk away from him.

Why was he fighting this so hard?  Jensa tried ripping her arm from his grasp, but it was no use.  It was like a tight vise grip that wasn't releasing her.

“Taker please...” She knew this was treading on dangerous ground, more tears falling, feeling her back press against the nearest brick building.  Taker couldn't find out the truth because then he would go after Randy, which couldn't happen.  Randy was rich and powerful, he would hire snipers and, no matter how strong Taker thought he was, his head wasn't hard enough to withstand a bullet. “I-I have to g-go back...” She chattered, the cold overtaking her body; she always grew cold whenever she cried, which Jensa did quite a bit of lately.

“Yes, you have to get back before your rich husband finds out you were seen talking to me.  You have to get back and let him beat the shit out of you again.  And you're trying to tell me you LOVE him?  Where the fuck is my Jensa?” Taker demanded, green eyes flashing pure acid. “Who the HELL is this cowardly, sniveling creature before me?” He figured he could piss her off into showing she hadn't completely lost herself.

A flash of anger swirled in her blue orbs; lips pursed tightly together, and yanked her arm out of his grasp. “I'm the same person I've always been, Taker.” She lied through her teeth, knowing she wasn't the same person, but merely a possession of Randy Orton's.  Taker didn't understand and she couldn't tell him the truth because of his temper.  Jensa knew if she came clean, all hell would break loose and that couldn't happen. “I don't belong to you.  You need to move on and forget I ever existed.  I'm married now.  Find someone else and be happy.” She was sacrificing herself in order to save his life, if Taker was smart he would take the bait and run, before she had to really shatter him. “Let me go.”

“No.” He said simply, knowing pissing her off wasn't going to get him anywhere.  He had seen that flash in her eyes and knew life still lived in her, somewhere.  Though it was pathetic and disturbing that he had to insult her to draw it out.  Instead, he pulled Jensa into his arms and bent down to kiss her, feeling her icy cheeks against his; her lips just as cold. “Tell me you don't love me.” He challenged huskily, knowing she couldn't.

Oh dear god, how the hell could she do that?!  How could she tell him she didn't love him, even though she never really said the words?  His lips felt wonderful against hers, sparking a fire within her that had been snuffed out for the past three months.  Being married to a monster did that to a woman, but Jensa couldn't back down.

“Who do you think you are?” Jensa was trying to inject anger into her tone, but all it sounded like was a pathetic murmur, moaning when his lips descended on hers for a second time.  No!  What was she doing?  She couldn't do this and tried shoving him away, finally breaking the kiss, lips swollen, breathing heavy. “I-I don't...” She stuttered out, sounding like an idiot, trying to look disgusted by that kiss, but the passion and fire that ignited in her eyes told Taker a completely different story.

He snorted, pulling her right back against him, their bodies molding together perfectly like always.  And the reason it was perfect was because they were meant for each other.  Until she told him she didn't love him, and meant it, she wasn't getting away from him that damn easily.

“What's he got on you, Jen?” He murmured, feathering his lips against her tear soaked face. “What's he holding over your head?”

Her face was icy from how much crying she was doing, closing her eyes as his lips continued feathering against her face, swallowing hard.  How could he read her so easily? “Nothing.” Jensa tried breaking his grip from her, but it wasn't happening, crying harder. “Taker please...you have to let me go.  You have to let me go back!  I-I don't love you!  I-I don't!!” No matter how many times she said it, Jensa would never mean it because she loved Taker.  She loved him with everything inside of her; he had her heart and always would until the day she died. “I don't love you.” She whispered heartbrokenly, keeping her eyes closed, head lowering.

“Then we're at a stalemate because I don't believe you.” He said simply, beginning to pull her down the street; mostly certain his Harley would still ride. “You're coming with me, Jensa.  I don't know what he's got that's keeping you tied to him but it ends now.” Randy Orton was now officially living on borrowed time.

“No!  You can't do this!!” Jensa tried stopping him, yanking on her arm, doing what she could.  She finally did the only thing she could think of when he yanked her against his chest, closing her eyes. “Forgive me.” She whispered before kneeing him directly below the belt, knowing she was doing it for his own good.  Jensa stumbled back as he roared out in pain, vision slightly blurred, wiping her tears away hastily. “I'm sorry.” Jensa then took off running as fast as she could, putting as much distance between them as possible.  She had to get back to the condo before Taker caught up with her again, feeling her heart shatter over and over again in her chest.

His eyes crossing, Taker literally dropped right there on the cold, wet sidewalk.  The pain of the ice chilling him was nothing to what he was feeling centered directly between his legs.  That pain however was a mere shadow of the knife stabbing repeatedly in his heart.  Groaning, he closed his eyes.

Jensa arrived back at the condo and slammed the door shut, shaking from head to toe, not able to stop the tears from falling.  How could she do that to the man she loved?! “I had no choice.” She whispered, reminding herself of what Randy held over her head, and stripped out of her coat, hanging it up.  She looked around the pure white condo, scowling, hating how pure it seemed when, in reality, their marriage was anything but.  Jensa kicked her boots off before crawling on the couch, absolutely refusing to sleep in the bed Randy raped and beat her repeatedly. “I do love you Taker.” She whispered and cried herself to sleep, wishing she could get out of this.

~*~*~*~

“Lemme get this straight...” Steve said quizzically, passing over the fresh ice pack and turned so 'Taker could have privacy, finally turning back around when he was sure the blanket was back down. “She told you she didn't love you and then KNEED you in yer balls after?”

Gritting his teeth, he could only nod.

Chapter 18

When Randy came home after the three days and didn't find out anything about Jensa's leaving, he decided to grant her a little freedom.  Jensa would have to thank Cody for keeping her secret, the guard Randy hired to watch her.  Jensa pulled on a long sleeved dark blue shirt with a pair of black dress pants and boots, slipping her black coat on and matching gloves.  Randy was out for the moment at a meeting and said she could go out shopping, a reward for being a 'good girl' while he was away. 

If he only knew...

Cody watched with solemn eyes as Jensa prepared to go out, finally clearing his throat. “I think I should go with you.” He said quietly, having seen the altercation the LAST time she went out.  She didn't need to know that though.  He had been in the shadows, prepared to shoot if he had too, but she had handled it quite well, if a little brutally.

Jensa looked back at Cody, a ghostly smile on her clear glossy lips, nodding. “Alright, that is fine with me.”

That would also help keep Taker away, which is what Jensa needed to happen.  She wanted Taker, but knew she could never have him, not with his life hanging over her head.  Blinking her tears away, Jensa walked out with Cody beside her.  She didn't know where she was going or what she was doing, but one thing was certain, at least she'd be away from Randy.

Cody had already been ready to go out, he always was.  A pair of nondescript black pants, black boots and a black leather coat over a black thermal shirt; a gun tucked safely out of sight.  He would use it, if he had too and had been tempted to shoot Randy on more than one occasion, but…Randy wrote his checks, not Jensa.

“We're not walking.” He informed her, knowing it would be his ass if she got sick.  Well, sort of, no doubt her husband would beat her and accuse her of doing it on purpose.

Nodding, Jensa slid inside the limo, telling the driver to head to the park.  She just wanted to be outdoors, always being trapped in that pure white condo, swallowing hard.  Before Cody could slid in the limo with her, it suddenly took off like a bat out of hell, causing Jensa to fly back in her seat, the door slamming shut, automatic locks going into place.  Her eyes widened, ducking as bullets fired, glad this limo had bullet proof windows throughout it.

“WHAT THE HELL?” Jensa looked up when the window suddenly went down halfway, eyes widening at the sight of none other than... “STEVE?”

“Hey there honey.” Steve flashed a grin through the mirror but it didn't meet his ice blue eyes. “So, Jen, how're ya?  How's the husband?” He asked sarcastically, engaging the locks and going fast enough where if she jumped, well...she'd make a lot of pretty red colors on the road and some skull matter probably as well. “Taker's good, just in case yer curious, his balls have healed up.  We need to talk.”

Jensa couldn't believe this was happening, knowing they were going way past the speed limit, tears already sliding down her cheeks.  She couldn't panic.  She had to keep a cool head.

“Steve, you have to take me back.  You have no idea what you're doing.” Her voice was shaky, trying like hell not to show it, but it was impossible.  She knew Cody was calling Randy at this very moment and he was going to FLIP his lid when he found out his wife had been kidnapped in their own damn limo! “Steve, please!!”

“Gal, didn't I just tell ya we need to talk?” Steve asked quizzically, glancing at her in the rearview mirror; one pale eyebrow shooting up and shook his head, reaching up to knock off the hat he had been wearing. “So here's what we're going to do, Jennie, you're going to talk and I'm gonna listen.  Yer going to explain to me why the hell you left my friend hanging and then came back married to that piece of shit, Orton.”

Steve was out of his mind as Jensa shook her head frantically back and forth, knowing she couldn't do that. “There's nothing to tell!” Jensa nearly shouted, grunting when he turned a corner too sharp, having a sinking feeling they were heading out of the city. “Steve, please, you have to take me back.  There's nothing to tell.  I...” She could see clearly that Steve wasn't being convinced.  Jensa didn't even believe what she was saying, more tears falling.  Randy was going to probably send her to the hospital for this and the mere thought made Jensa begin to tremble with fear. “Please take me back...” Her head lowered, wrapping her arms around herself, feeling sick. “I'm not telling you anything.”

“Well, then, I guess I'll have to go with plan B and just totally kidnap you then.” Steve said conversationally, fiddling with the radio and winced when some pop bullshit came on, quickly locating a station he could tolerate and lowered the volume until it was a background noise. “Already have a place set up 'n everything.  Trish decorated it herself.” He winked at her. “So you'll be fairly comfortable.”

“WHAT?!” Jensa practically shrieked, eyes widening to the size of potatoes, and scooted over to try opening the door. “No!  No you can't do this!!” Randy was going to go after Taker!  She nearly said those words, but bit her bottom lip, wondering if it would make a difference. “You will end up in jail for kidnapping!!  I'm not exactly a LOW key person around here.” She reminded him, in full blown panic mode. “YOU HAVE TO TAKE ME BACK BEFORE-” She stopped herself, seeing Steve's eyebrow raise, and looked away from him as she curled up in a tight ball.

Steve just shook his head and turned up the volume, now singing along, badly and kept on driving.  Once they were out of the city, he eased up on the speeding; though he refused to disengage the locks. “You might as well sit back and relax, Jen, yer not going anywhere and we have an hour drive ahead of us.  Good thing this baby was just filled this morning, eh?” He patted the steering wheel with another wink.

Jensa cried harder, the foundation slowly disappearing off of her face, the fading bruises becoming visible.  Her hair was down, covering it at the moment, swallowing hard.  How could Steve do this to her?  Why had she agreed to go out on this day instead of staying in the condo?

‘He's going to kill Taker, he's going to kill him.’ She thought, crying harder, wondering where she was being taken too.  Did Steve tell Taker about this kidnapping plan?  Jensa sniffled, hoping he did because if Taker was with her, that meant Randy couldn't get to him.

Actually, Steve hadn't told anyone about this kidnapping plan.  Well, he had told Trish and she was the one who had made the place look...comfortable.  As comfortable as a place with bars on the windows and reinforced doors...a state of the art security system that he had barely been able to cover could be.  When they arrived, it was...

“Snowing, damn it.” He grunted, walking around to open the door for her.  Taker was due to arrive in the morning, under the impression he was supposedly helping with something.  Well...Steve had only been half lying.

Jensa slid out, sniffling, and yanked her arm out of his grasp before looking up at the building. “You have no idea what you're doing.  You have no idea.” She murmured quietly, hair frazzled, and honestly didn't care about covering up her face. 

Randy hadn't struck her, though that was going to change once he had her back in his grasp.  Jensa hadn't worn her wedding ring either, refusing to do so, unless she was with Randy.  Jensa reluctantly walked inside the place, shivering, and seen a warm crackling fire before instantly walking over to it, boots clicking against the wooden flooring. 

Jensa knew she was trapped here, like an animal, but she was also safe. 

There was no point in fighting, no point in trying to convince him to release her.  Steve wanted answers and Jensa refused to give them up, knowing right now Randy was probably demolishing the condo and making calls to have Taker murdered.  Sinking down on the bearskin carpet, Jensa cried silently.

Steve rubbed the top of his bald head, frowning.  Why the HELL was she crying?  Taker had said -after recovering from the brutal ball attack- that Jensa had been banged up. 

Her face in particular, so...he was assuming Randy was an abusive husband, which made Steve's blood boil just at the thought of that slime bag laying his hands on Jensa in a manner that wasn't anything but adoring and loving.  The woman was like a sister to him or something.  A stubborn one but a sister nonetheless.

“Cheer up.  Taker'll be here in the mornin'.”

‘In a pine box.’ She added in thought, refusing to speak a word to this man.  Jensa couldn't believe this was happening, ignoring the rumbling in her stomach, and simply sat there for the longest time staring at the flames through blurred vision.  Randy was going to kill Taker tonight, thinking she had this planned with the limo and everything.  The more Jensa thought about it, the harder she cried, knowing she couldn't do anything to stop it from happening.  She couldn't get back to Randy before he made an irrational decision. “Why are you doing this to me?” Jensa whispered after awhile, still feeling Steve's presence behind her.

“Doin' what?  Bringing you on my vacation?” Steve asked innocently, quietly sipping a beer as he watched both her and the fire. “You're not stupid, Jensa, don't act it.  Unless of course, Randy addled yer brains with one too many slaps upside the skull of yours.  You hungry?” This place was loaded down with food, some of it questionable since Trish had bought it, but...he would try anything once, providing he was hungry enough.

The fire erupted in her blue eyes as Jensa glared back at him almost hatefully. “This is NOT amusing, Steve.  This is serious.  You have no idea what you've done and I'm not acting stupid!  You KIDNAPPED me!!  You expect me to have a good time here with you after being FORCED here?  Go to hell!” She stormed out of the living room and upstairs, seeing all the windows were barred, shaking her head.  All Jensa wanted was a bath and bed, hoping Taker did make it here safely in the morning.

Shrugging, Steve pushed himself up off the couch and headed for the kitchen.  He couldn't honestly expect Jensa to be jumping for joy, not if she was being abused, more like terrified her hubby was going to beat the ever loving shit out her.  But she was going to have to realize that she was safe, safe from Randy and as soon as 'Taker was here, they'd brainstorm a way for her to escape her marriage. 

Hell, she had money, just divorce him and send him to prison.  Steve licked his lips, glancing down at his now empty can, the last from the cooler he had brought with him that morning and opened the refrigerator door.  He groaned when he seen Trish had stocked him on...

“Wine coolers?  How funny.”

Deciding she might as well stop fighting, Jensa sighed and stripped out of her clothes before hopping in a soothing bath.  It was a black garden tub, one of her favorites.  Trish knew her style, the house being decked out in different colors of blues and purples. 

Sinking in the hot water, Jensa leaned her head back, placing a cloth over her puffy eyes.  This was the first night in over three months that Jensa felt safe, knowing Steve wouldn't hurt her.  She was scared to death for Taker's safety, trying to stop the tears from falling. 

After her bath was finished, Jensa stepped out and walked out into the bedroom, a towel wrapped around her body as she went over to the dresser.  Trish hooked her up and Jensa sighed with relief, pulling on garments with a wine colored nightgown that went to her knees, spaghetti strapped.  She then brushed her hair and teeth before sliding in the comfortable bed, staring at the wall.

~*~*~*~

“Is she here?”

“No hello honey, how was your day?”

Trish sighed. “Hello honey, how was your day?”

“Tirin’ cause kidnapping people is hard work.”

She smiled in spite of herself and kissed his head. “Well, you go rest then, my felony committing boyfriend.  Taker is on his way, just so you know.”

“You TOLD?”

“Yes.”

~*~*~*~

When a knock sounded on her door, Jensa didn't move or say a word as it opened, the familiar perfume flowing through the air.  It was Trish, but Jensa just didn't have the heart to turn to face her.

“Hey girl.” Trish hesitantly walked over, looking around at the decor, nodding silently.  She did a fine job, but then again, Trish was one of the best interior designers in New York City. “Look, I know you're really mad right now, but...”

“That's an understatement.” Jensa muttered, sniffling, face devoid of makeup.  Her bruises were fading, but they were still visible. “I want to be alone, Trish.”

Trish frowned, wondering what happened to her friend, and knew when Taker arrived all hell was going to break loose. “Alright.” She whispered, walking out, closing the door quietly behind her, bumping into Steve as their eyes locked. “This isn't going to be pretty.”

Steve nodded, already knowing that.  When 'Taker got here -and knowing the big lug, it would be soon- hell was going to seem like a picnic and hoped the guy remembered to pack a cup, just in case. “C'mon, let's go downstairs and let her rest up.  I have a feeling 'Taker isn’t going to be as nice as we are.” He sighed, taking her by the hand and quietly led Trish back down to the living room.

Chapter 19

Exactly one hour after Trish's arrival, they heard a motorcycle in the faint distance, causing both to look at each other.  Maybe it hadn't been such a good idea to spill the beans, but then again, Taker had ways...convincing ways.  She sighed, leaning against Steve, and sipped her wine cooler while Steve nursed a beer.  She was nice enough to bring a few cases.  Both cringed when the door swung open, heavy deliberate boots thudding against the wooden floor.

“I think I'll take my leave now...”

“Yer not leaving me here with these two!” Steve hissed frantically.  This had been his idea and he wasn't going to leave Taker alone with Jensa.  He didn't think the guy would hurt her though, on the other hand, he was pretty pissed off.

“Get the fuck out.”

“I'mma goin'.” Steve followed her right out the door.

Trish blinked when Steve was kicked square in the ass, landing in the snow and covered her mouth to keep from giggling, cringing when the door was slammed shut with authority.  She rushed over as Steve lifted his head up, spitting out snow, and guided him to her car. “Come on baby, I'll take you to my place for a nice hot shower and bed.” She smirked when his blue eyes lit up, shaking her head. “No sex tonight.” She looked back at the house as they both slid in the car, hoping Jensa made it out of there alive.

Now Steve was groaning for two reasons: His sore ass and his girlfriend's teasing.

“Okay, maybe if you're a good boy, I'll give you a little...show.” She laughed when Steve groaned more, smacking his hands away, shaking her head before they jetted on the road away from the two story house.

~*~*~*~

She was here.

She was upstairs right now and wasn't aware he was in the house.  She was about to get the surprise of her life.  Cracking his neck, Taker started up the steps, letting each foot fall deliberately, green eyes narrowed.

When her door opened again, Jensa sighed heavily, having turned the light off. “Trish, I told you I want to be alone.” She curled up tighter in a ball, closing her eyes, and felt her eyes shoot open when a familiar scent filled her nostrils.  Only ONE person, one man smelled like a mixture of gasoline and leather: Taker.

He snorted at that; she wanted to be left alone...Trish had spilled like there had been no tomorrow.  She had come into the shop to 'make sure he was alright', and he had noticed she seemed antsy.  All he did was ask what her 'fucking problem' was and she had burst like a geyser.  He did take a second to register what she was wearing; that her face seemed healed, frowning and shook his head.

“Get up.” He ordered gravely.

He was angry; she could feel it radiating off of him in waves, but Jensa couldn't stop the relief from flooding her body that he was here, alive and well.  Jensa bit her bottom lip and slowly sat up, back facing him, staring straight ahead. “You weren't supposed to be here until tomorrow morning.” Steve lied to her, causing her eyes to narrow. 

What ELSE had the man lied to her about?

“Yeah, well, there was a change in plans.” Taker shot back, arching a black eyebrow down at her. “Steve is probably suffering a broken assbone thanks to NOT fucking telling me about any of this.” He would have to thank Trish by letting Steve have an open casket funeral.  Her sitting with her back to him wasn't cutting it and he circled the bed, forcing her to look at him. “LOOK AT ME GODDAMN IT!” He roared when she closed her eyes.

Jensa trembled from head to toe, head lowered, not believing how angry he was.  She kneed him because he tried forcing her to go with him last time!  She did it to protect him. 

No matter what though, no matter what she did to him, Jensa knew Taker would never hurt her.  She wiped her tears away before slowly opening her eyes, heart lurching painfully in her throat at the look in his acid orbs.  He was really here, unscathed, and Jensa sent up a silent prayer of thank you to the stars.

The moment it SEEMED like she was going to go downstairs again, 'Taker had every intention of knocking her on her ass.  She had kneed him for no goddamn reason and he was still feeling the pain of it every time he thought of it, which was a lot since he thought of Jensa frequently. “What's he got on you, Jen?” He demanded, trying not to let his heart twinge at the sight of her tears.

She couldn't tell him, knowing he would fly off the handle and end up buried six feet under. “Nothing.” She whispered, cringing when he actually took the lamp from the nightstand and hurled it against the wall, shattering it into a million pieces. “Taker, please stop!” She cried out, trembling so hard her teeth were chattering, scooting back slowly on the bed.  He was here, Jensa could relax now for the time being, but knew eventually she would have to go back to Randy.  Taker's life was on the line as more tears slid down her cheeks. “I-I don't know what you want me to say...”

“The damn truth would be nice, Jensa!” He hurled at her, trying to control his temper, but it was so damn hard. “Tell me the goddamn truth!  You're MISERABLE and I KNOW you love me.” He challenged, eyes DARING her to lie and tell him otherwise. “So what the hell are you so damn afraid of that you go running back to him like a little bitch?”

“THERE'S NOTHING TO TELL!!” She shrieked back at him, shooting icicles back at him, not believing what he just called her.  A little bitch?  Is that would Jensa amounted to these days?  She was Randy's bitch...and that just fueled the anger within her further.  She completely disregarded the topic of love, knowing she couldn't tell Taker even if her life depended on it.  Jensa loved him, unconditionally, and was willing to sacrifice herself to save his life. “He has nothing on me, I married him because...I was heartbroken...and confused...and hurt...and...” She didn't even believe herself when she stuttered that lie out, scooting further back on the bed until she was standing up on the other side, knees shaking.

He couldn't believe she had just stuttered that lie out and folded his arms over his massive chest, wearing a long sleeved black thermal top to ward off the cold, which was suddenly below zero thanks to her frosty stare. “Bullshit.  So why are you STAYING with him since it's obvious he likes to smack you around?”

“I can't...” She gripped her hair between her fingers, shaking her head frantically, fighting back the urge to run out of there.  Jensa had nowhere to go, nowhere to run, nowhere to hide.  Taker had her literally cornered on all counts, thanks to Steve, and she had a feeling he was going to do everything in his power to get the truth out of her. “W-Why can't you let this go?”

She wasn't even wearing her wedding ring, left hand bare.  Jensa couldn't even breathe, swallowing hard when he slowly began walking toward her, eyes locking with his.  God he looked so good in that shirt, those black jeans hugging him in all the right places...Jensa seemed frozen solid to the floor.

“Tell you what, you start telling me the truth and quit with these bullshit lies and excuses, and then I'll consider 'letting it go'.” He offered coldly. “You're not wearing your wedding ring, why's that?  Is it in the shop getting a bigger, pricier diamond?” He taunted, knowing he was hurting her.  At the same time, however, she needed to explode so she'd practically scream the truth at him.

“You asshole!  You know that the money doesn't mean a damn to me!  It has nothing to do with money!” If he only knew, Taker would probably be on his knees in front of her, begging for forgiveness.  She sank down on the bed again, burying her face in her hands, clenching her fists tightly when he taunted her more about being the perfect trophy wife. “I'm not telling you anything!!  Maybe you should've thought about being HONEST with me before having that bastard follow me!” Jensa suddenly turned it around on him, wiping her tears away angrily. “Leave me alone!!  Just leave me the hell alone!!”

But it wasn't working. 

Taker felt absolutely no guilt whatsoever about having Matt Hardy follow her.  He had done it for a reason and she had gone making that reason a reality by running off.  He had been trying to protect her idiotic ass and she had STILL wound up...

“It was him, wasn't it?” He asked suddenly. “All that time, it was Orton.”

Her hands began shaking violently, knowing she shouldn't have said that, and couldn't look at him.  Jensa also couldn't lie so she didn't make a movement, just let the silent tears falling give him the answer he needed.  It was Randy.  Randy did it all to split them up, to get her in a vulnerable state and took advantage of the situation drastically.

“Please stop...” She pleaded heartbrokenly, the sobs overtaking her body.

“No.” Taker said coldly, refusing to show how badly he was hurting inside for hurting her with his cruel words.  But she kept saying she didn't love him and he was going to get her confess the truth one damn way or the other.  And the last time he had been gentle and loving, she had left him curled up on the icy sidewalk unable to breathe. “That little fucking maggot is the one who had Ashley almost raped, and fucked with my bikes.  So what's he holding on you now, Jen?”

Jensa remembered that, how Ashley called her crying and screaming that she'd been attacked and her favorite shirt was ripped nearly off her body.  How Taker had went for a bike ride and came back with scrapes of metal, miraculously unharmed.  How Trish had been rear-ended and her brakes had gone out, running three red lights.  Steve had been with her, on their first date, and that just made Jensa angrier.

‘That bastard...’ She thought, raking a hand through her honey blonde hair, staring straight ahead. “You don't want to know.  You CAN'T know, Taker.  I can't tell you, no matter how much I may want too...”

The fact that she had just said those words was enough to ensure she was never leaving this house again.  At least, not until she came to her senses and spilled whatever it was she was hiding...And agreed to file for an immediate divorce, and start the process of putting Randy's ass behind bars.  Or at least allow 'Taker to put him six feet under.

“Who's he threatening to kill?”

Her head shot up, staring back at him through tear-filled, bloodshot blue eyes, feeling her heart nearly leap out of her chest.  He was piecing this together quicker than she thought and Jensa was running out of excuses, sniffling. “Damn it...” What was she supposed to do?  Not tell him and be stuck here until she came clean?  Jensa was fighting a losing battle, especially now that she was kidnapped and cornered. “You.” She actually slid from the bed to the floor on her knees, wrapping her arms tightly around herself. “It's you!  H-He said he'd hire snipers and have you killed if I even THOUGHT about divorcing him!!  It was him all along, he did everything!!  I can't let it happen, I WON'T!!”

He was tempted to smack himself in his own face at hearing that and wondered if she was for real. “That's it?” He asked, bending down to grab underneath her arms and pull her to her feet. “Jensa, you've been with him all this time because you think he has the balls to kill me?” He arched an eyebrow. “That little shit hasn't actually tried to kill anyone, just seriously hurt them.” Now he was going to kill Orton.

“You don't understand...HE wouldn't do the killing, someone ELSE would!  He'll hire people, hit men, whatever it takes...” She trembled, remembering Randy's words.  He would not only hurt Taker, but anyone else she was close too. “Taker...I did it to protect you and everyone else.  Steve, Trish, Ashley, anyone who I associate with is in danger if I don't stay married to him.” The exhaustion was creeping up inside of her, feeling her knees grow weaker, Taker holding her up being the only way she was standing at the moment. “I-I'm sorry...”

He considered her, seeing that whatever bullshit Randy was feeding her she believed and nodded, knowing she needed to sleep. “Where's he at right now?” He asked softly, moving his hand to the back of her neck; gently squeezing before bending down to kiss her forehead. “Tell me where he is, Jensa.”

“No, you can't go after him!  You can't!” She gripped his shirt in her tiny hands, staring up at him through pleading, swollen eyes. “Stay with me, where I know you're safe.” Her eyes were drooping, feeling Taker massaging her neck and felt him sweep her up before laying her gently in the bed, honey blonde hair splayed all around her.  She didn't release his shirt, trembling, knowing he was still angry with her. “I love you, please don't go.” She whispered, closing her eyes, feeling him pull her hands away from his shirt.  There was no more fight left in Jensa as silent tears scorched her cheeks.

He had no intentions of leaving her.  He had every intention of calling up some 'friends' and calling in a favor since they dealt with scum like Randy Orton frequently and, soon, Jensa would be a widow. “I love you too, darlin'.” He said gruffly, bending down to kiss away her tears.  What was truly sad was the fact that this was the first time they had admitted they loved each other.

Under the circumstances, it was bittersweet.

Chapter 20

Blue eyes slowly fluttered open the following morning as Jensa sighed, blinking a little to clear her blurred vision.  She looked around, slowly sitting up in bed, covering her mouth with her hand.  It wasn't a dream, it really happened. 

She looked down, the comforter a dark midnight blue, instead of white.  There was hardly any white; it was color that surrounded her.  Jensa raked a hand through her hair, heart pounding furiously, and wondered what the hell was going to happen now.

His own arm shot out, wrapped around her and pulled Jensa back down onto the mattress.  Sighing contentedly, 'Taker buried his face in the crook of her neck, inhaling deeply. “Mmm...” This was the best night of sleep he had gotten in months and he wasn't keen at all on letting her out of the bed just yet.  While she had slept, he had placed several calls and now it was just the waiting game. “No rush to get up, darlin'.” He murmured huskily, having shed all his clothes save for his jeans the night before.

For months, Jensa wished to wake up and see Taker's beautiful green eyes; to feel his arms wrapped around her, to smell his intoxicating scent.  She couldn't push him away even if her life depended on it, snuggling against him, wrapping her arms around his bare back.  Jensa couldn't believe she was here and sighed in contentment when his lips began kissing up her neck to her ear, melting instantly.  Nothing else mattered at the moment, but Jensa couldn't stop wondering what Randy was doing at that moment, if Steve and Trish were safe.  Though when Taker's lips met hers, all of those thoughts flew out the window, wrapping her arms around his muscular neck, missing him more than words could say.

“Tell me you love me.” Taker demanded gruffly against her lips; moving so she was lying on her back, strong body hovering over hers. “Say it again, Jensa.” He murmured, his hands running down her sides, feeling the heat of her skin searing through the silk nightgown she was wearing.

“I love you, Taker.” She said without hesitation, arching her body against him; loving how his black hair fanned all around him while he stared down at her through those acid pools that made her weak in the knees. “I've always loved you.” She never stopped, but had been afraid before because she didn't know how he felt.  Did he love her?  He had too with everything he'd gone through, with all the chasing he'd done. “I'm sorry for hurting you.”

She had plenty of time to make up for it and he still wasn't apologizing for anything he had done…ever. “I love you.” He murmured, brushing his lips against hers again, before rolling onto his back and taking her with him.  Now she was sprawled out on top of him, one of his hands idly caressing the small of her back. “We're going to stay here a few days, darlin'.” He informed her quietly.

She had absolutely no problem with that, knowing they had to make up for lost time, and he wanted to protect her.  Whatever Taker had planned, Jensa didn't want to know, remembering his type of background.  She sighed, burying her face in his neck, loving the feel of his skin against hers.  Jensa NEVER wanted to anger Taker again, especially after last night, and pulled back as their lips met in a chaste kiss.

“I have to go to the bathroom.”

She slid from his body reluctantly, not before he stole another kiss from her and quickly went to do her business, staring in the mirror.  The light and life was back in her eyes; the fire that was diminished raging stronger than ever.  She was calling Stephanie later on and starting the divorce proceedings.

“Is it safe to come in?” Trish's voice floated up from the stairway.

“Damn well oughta be as the fuckin’ place is mine.” Steve grumbled, hoping Taker was in a better mood, because he wasn't going to take another foot to the ass.

Grumbling, Taker considered shoving his foot UP Steve's ass.

Jensa walked out a few minutes later, having heard Trish and Steve, sighing with great relief they were safe.  She looked over at Taker, who was grumbling, and bit back a smile as she walked over to the dresser.  They both looked in the mirror, their reflections staring back at them, his arms wrapped around her body, her head resting against his chest. 

They looked perfect, no matter how different they were.  Jensa smiled genuinely back at him, before pulling out a light tanned long sleeved shirt with matching pants, wanting to be covered since she had fading bruises all over her body.  Especially her stomach, from where Randy violently kicked her every time a beating came.

He had already seen the bruises, having taken liberties during the night and examined her.  This had only fueled his rage.  He had requested a 'slow' and 'violent' death for Mr. Orton.  Of course, the news wouldn't show footage so he'd just have to content himself with mental images.

“Come on; let's go get you something to eat.” He said, kissing the side of her head.  She looked like a damn stick figure.

Nodding, Jensa walked out of the room, feeling as though she could eat a damn horse.  With how much beating and raping Randy put her through, Jensa hardly felt like eating.  She ate enough to keep from going anorexic or bulimic, that was it. 

Now that she was back where she belonged, Jensa felt the desire to eat, to live again.  She knew Taker wouldn't be leaving her side for a long time and honestly didn't mind, knowing she would have to deal with his overbearing ways.  She was also calling Michael once this ordeal blew over, wanting to give him his job back, having truly missing him.

“Jen, I'm-”

“Thank you.” She whispered, hugging Trish tightly before moving to Steve, tears shining in her eyes. “Thank you so much.” She hugged him even tighter, sniffling.

Instinctively, Steve flinched, expecting a knee to the groin, but returned the hug instead when he realized she wasn't out to maim him for kidnapping her unwilling backside. “Anytime, honey.” He murmured soothingly.

“ONLY if there's reason for it, let's not make felonies a habit.”

“You're whipped.” Taker stated, patting Steve's head as he passed by to the kitchen.  He rarely cooked, but he was making breakfast.

“He's only whipped when it comes to me.” Trish replied sweetly, watching as Jensa walked over to the couch and sat down, smiling sadly. “I took the liberty of calling Stephanie for you.”

“How did you know?”

“Honey, you once described to me as Randy Orton being the lowest piece of trash on this planet.  When I saw your picture in the paper with him and read the article, that didn't sound like you.  Nothing did.  Stephanie has been waiting for you to get away from Orton.  I called her on the way over here.  The papers are already being sent to Orton, providing he lives long enough to sign the damn things.”

“I can't believe everything that's happened.” Jensa sighed heavily, burying her head in her hands, and looked when there was another knock on the door.

“WHERE THE HELL IS SHE?”

Jensa groaned when she was tackled on the couch by, her best friend, Ashley.  “Can’t…breathe…” She grunted out, feeling Ashley remove her arms from her neck, coughing a bit.

“Sorry, but goddamn woman!  You’re lucky I don’t kick the living shit out of you for everything that’s happened!” Ashley scolded, holding her hand up to everyone, including Taker, eyes narrowed. “You’re not moving from this spot until you tell me everything that happened.”

Jensa rubbed her forehead, knowing this was going to be painful to talk about, and it showed on her face. “I’m not going to tell you EVERYTHING, but…I will give you a summary of what happened.” She was compromising and leaned back against the couch, feeling Ashley take her hand, squeezing it supportively.

That’s what Jensa needed more than anything, at that moment, was support.

“After I yelled at Taker and basically broke it off with him, I drove.  I drove for what seemed like hours and ended up at the hotel I was staying at…the bar to be more specific.” She sighed heavily, releasing Ashley’s hand as she leaned forward, putting her head in her hands.

“Jensa, if you don’t want to continue…”

“No,” Pausing briefly, Jensa looked up to stare at Trish, shaking her head slowly, before staring straight ahead again. “I have to continue.”

Trish nodded silently, knowing she wasn’t going to like hearing this, and cracked a hesitant smile when Steve wrapped his arm around her shoulders in comfort.

Taker was listening very intently, having put a pause on the cooking, and walked over to lean over the couch, placing his strong hands on her shoulders.  He didn’t have to say anything because Jensa knew he would be there for her…no matter what came out of her mouth.  He knew he would want to kill Randy himself, but by now, he already knew that task was completed, especially when his cell phone buzzed and he saw the text message telling him what he needed to know.

He’s dead.

Steve didn’t even want to know what that smirk was about on Taker’s face; blue eyes moving back to Jensa, who was struggling with the words on how to describe why she’d married Randy.

“Jennie, we’re all here for you.” Ashley murmured softly, rubbing her friend’s back, and jumped when she noticed Taker behind them.

Taker simply smirked; glad his presence still intimidated people.

Taking another deep, shaky breath, Jensa knew she had to do this and reached back to grab Taker’s hand, squeezing it, knowing he wanted to hear this as well.  He had every right.  If anyone in this room deserved to know the truth, it was him, and she wasn’t about to deny him this explanation.

“I was so heartbroken and confused that I just kept doing shots.  I didn’t even notice that someone else was buying me shots…and to tell you all the truth, I really don’t remember much about the bar.  I don’t remember being lead from the bar, out of the hotel, and into a car that apparently drove me to an airport.  William had the night off, especially after tailing me all day while I shopped.” She had to stand up, feeling sick to her stomach, wondering how it truly happened without anyone noticing.  Then again, Randy wasn’t exactly poor and money talked. “The next thing I remember is waking up the following morning in a hotel room that wasn’t mine.  In a hotel room that wasn’t in New York…in a hotel room that I apparently paid for…in a hotel room that I apparently had sex with Randy Orton in…repeatedly…according to him.” Jensa felt a bitter taste in her mouth, feeling her heart begin to pound furiously in her chest.  “He drugged me, somehow, and took me to Vegas and married me.  I don’t remember any of it.  All I remember is I woke up in that hotel room, in his grimy arms, with a diamond rock on my left ring finger…and the cold, hard reality crashed over me that I made a huge mistake.  I told him I was getting in annulled and threw the ring in his face.  I told him there was NO way in hell I would EVER marry him.  Then, he gave me an ultimatum.” Jensa couldn’t look at anyone in the room, especially Taker, and walked over to stare out the window as she wrapped her arms around herself. “H-He told me that…if I fought him on it…if I tried divorcing him…that he would hurt and kill anyone who was close to me.  He threatened all of your lives, including Taker’s.  He wasn’t the only one I was protecting.” Her voice was a mere whisper, knowing she hadn’t told Taker that the previous night, hastily wiping her tears away. “I couldn’t have that on my conscience.  I couldn’t read in the obituaries one day that one or all of you were dead because I didn’t stay in the marriage.  So I did.  I did and every day I was beaten and raped…every day a piece of me was destroyed…” She slowly turned around to face everyone, knowing she would have to do it eventually, the tears falling constantly. “He broke me slowly but surely because he threatened the only pieces that ever mattered to me in my life.  That article I didn’t even know about until it was published. It was all him, if you didn’t read the entire damn thing.  That picture was taken, after he…forced me to give him a blowjob.  You have no idea how badly I wanted to bite his dick off and castrate him.”

As more tears fell, the faint bruising on her face was clear and Jensa took one step farther.  She removed her shirt, having a tank top underneath it, and showed them the bruises on her arms that Taker no doubt already saw, seeing Ashley stand up to walk toward her.  She gasped when Ashley pulled her into her arms, immediately crumbling as she hugged her best friend tightly, not believing this was happening.

“You don’t have to say anymore.” Ashley murmured soothingly, holding Jensa tightly, and looked back at Taker with murder in her eyes.

“Did they get the job done?” Steve demanded hoarsely, holding his crying girlfriend, and watched as Taker grimly nodded.

“Randy Orton will never harm another soul again.”

~*~*~*~

Jensa stepped out of the shower, after Ashley and Trish cooked dinner before leaving, so it was just her and Taker there.  Jensa didn’t even want to know what Taker thought of her, especially after that horrendous explanation.  She saw Taker staring out the window, in a pair of black skintight jeans, no shirt.  She remembered when she first walked into Deadman’s Ink; how sexy and dangerous he looked, though his eyes told her something completely different. 

“Hey.”

Taker slowly turned around to face her, a smirk curving his lips at the sight of a black towel wrapped around her curvaceous, healed body.  It’d been three months since they left the cabin and Randy’s body was discovered in the ocean, alcohol bottles all over.  They instantly ruled it suicide and closed the case, whoever he hired did their job and did it well.

“Hey.”

Smiling with the life back in her eyes, Jensa slowly walked over to the dresser to grab some garments and nightwear, only for Taker to stop her.  She sighed and felt him turn her around by the arm, staring up into his green eyes, getting lost in them. “May I help you with something?” She asked coyly, blue eyes sparkling; instantly darkening with desire when he ripped the towel from her beautiful body.

His chuckle was low and husky, yanking her against his strong torso, acid eyes scorching hers.  “I do believe you can, Jen.” His mouth crashed on hers, lifting her up in his arms, and carried her to the bed.  He removed his clothes briskly, wrapping her legs around his waist, and proceeded to take her for his own. 

Hours later, they lay in bed together, Jensa’s head resting on his chest, his heartbeat slowly lulling her to sleep.  “Do you know what I just figured out?” She asked quietly, smiling at Taker’s grunt, rubbing her hand up and down his muscular stomach, loving how the muscles rippled beneath her soft touch. 

“What might that be?”

Her head lifted from his chest, looking up into his eyes.  “I always get lost in you when we’re together.  I think that’s somewhat dangerous.”

Taker smirked wickedly, running a finger down her cheek. “Well, the feeling’s mutual darlin’.  I was lost in you the moment I met you at the bar…after the whole savior bullshit.” He snorted, causing her to giggle, and kissed her softly.

After everything they’d been through, it was nice to know that Taker and Jensa could just get lost in each other.  They had no idea what the future held for them, but one thing was certain, anything was possible and they were prepared even for the impossible.

The End.