ANTONY

I glanced at the wall clock. Eleven forty-five PM. I was sitting in the control room behind the pub awaiting my relief, the night guard who pulled what he called the 'graveyard shift'. I suspect he pulls a few beers as well, as the first few hours of his shift coincides with the pub's hours, but it wasn't my issue to be concerned with. Thorne and Biebe had hired the man, he was their problem.

I sighed, rubbed my eyes, wishing only to be in my own room with my woman. Gazing at the many monitors, I could see that again the Inn was peaceful. The Inn. My Empire … and I grinned. Not truly my Empire and like Caesar, when John dies he will not see fit to bestow this place upon me either … but it was a pleasant fantasy, one that suits me at this point in my life.

Reflecting on the way of things, I begin to clearly understand why I am here in Vermont. These men, these brothers of the same soul are much like me, no more and no less than creative fictions, a piece of fluff from the theater. This could be a horrible lot, but they have made it good and fine … and they have taken me into their protection. It is right and true what they have offered and I, in this strange place and time do most certainly require a safe and comforting place in which to adjust and learn. But this … this was not always so.

I was a Console of Rome, friend to one Caesar and enemy to another. I had loved and loved well. Loved Atia, loved Cleopatra. I loved Julius Caesar and even his adopted son, Octavian, although that … was difficult. I even loved my wife, Octavia. And now, I love Claudia more than life. Adjusting had been a mainstay of my days as a Roman; adjusting from simple man to soldier, from beloved of Rome to Roman turned Egyptian. I most wholeheartedly say, that adjusting to this life in Biebe's Inn has been at once the hardest and most simple thing I have ever undertaken. And I clearly see that this is a true chance to redeem myself, for before my death I had lost everything. Honor, respect and property. All lost at my own foolishness. I will not see the things of this existence go the same path; I swear by the gods, I will not.

Again I look to the wall clock. Nearly midnight and soon Butch would arrive. I sighed and scanned the monitors for one last look at the peacefulness of this place. I do understand that much could affect it, has already attempted to destroy the serenity. Thorne's work presents a threat as all who wish him harm know of his love of those here. I understand that there had been two abductions over the past year. It is the reason I watch these monitors and am vigilant. Peace is a precarious comfort that must be protected at all costs. I am thankful for the chance to watch over it.

Movement caught my eye and I stared at the screen trained on the front gate. A man, alone, dressed strangely and without conveyance. He was looking over the structure from the distance. My vision dodged to the other screens, carefully checking for others. Perhaps he was lost? But to be lost and on foot so far from anyplace else was most unlikely. I was leery but stared, my brow knotted. It was not until I watched this man step inside the gate that I stood and charged for the exit, dialing my cell phone as I ran.

"Biebe, we have an intruder."

"What? You sure?"

"I am. A lone man on foot, most suspicious and moving onto the property. I will stop him. He's at the front gate."

"On my way. Antony! Fuck, don't kill him … yet. See what he's doing here first."

But I had shut the phone and begun to zip my coat. The man saw me coming and stopped, casually glanced around then nodded, his black hat dusted with falling snow and his expression maniacally pleasant.

"Evenin' mister."

"Who are you and why are you here?" I spouted, reached out and patted him down for weapons. The man simply chuckled and allowed it.

"Was told to come here. Who are you?"

"Jesus fucking Christ!" John shouted, nearly at my heel as I held the stranger's arms tight behind him. "What the hell are you doing here?"

Again the man grinned. "Evenin'. If ya reach into my pocket there, you'll see I got a telegram from a Mr. Dino O'Leary telling me to come to this place. This how you greet all your guests?"

John rifled through the man's pocket and a bullet dropped to the snow as he dragged the paper free. I took it into my hand and quickly slipped the plastic zip binding around the intruder's wrists. Together we took the man inside.

JOHN

Well, Merry fucking Christmas. Just what I needed, God sakes. Ben Wade. Nice of Dino to tell us he was sending the spawn of hell to the Inn, ay? Knowing him, he'd have at least tried if he had the time. He went silent then deep into a case so fast even Terry wasn't sure where his partner was. Fuck, I hope he's not dead somewhere at the 'Hand of God'. I grunted to Antony and we took the guy all the way to the third floor, left tower. Room 21 was small, almost too small to offer and like usual, empty. Seemed a good place to sort this all out. "Cut him loose," I groaned, dialing the cell. Both Terry and Maximus were on their way. Seemed the least I'd need to handle the outlaw Ben Wade was the former S.A.S. and the General.

"Go ask the kitchen to send up a pot of coffee, maybe some sandwiches, okay?" I asked Antony but he didn't look like he was leaving. "It's okay. Believe it or not, this dude's one of us. Just new, that's all. Get him some food and coffee. Then you can go on, you're off duty, right?"

"I'll call for the refreshments and I'll remain here with you, John."

I blinked. That was a first. Don't think he ever called me 'John' before.

"Well … John. Just askin' again … this how you treat all your guests here?" Wade grinned, rubbed his wrists and I just shook my head.

BEN WADE

This was the first time since waking up in this dream that someone thought I was dangerous. Like they knew who I was. Up until now, I been pretty hidden in the crowd. Maybe I should've ignored the damn telegram after all.

Two more men came in, a powerful one named Max and another tough looking man by the name of Terry Thorne. Those two and John had some similarities about them, but the fourth, Antony, now he looked like a wild animal to me. Not someone I was willing to mess with. I chuckled, lounged on the bed and rubbed my wrists again. Looked around. The room was comfortable, looked like a room I could enjoy; 'specially with a woman on the bed beside me, groans and sweat and skin touching skin … yes, I could like it here. But it was sure I was no guest. The telegram said I'd be safe here. I wondered if it was gonna happen. Wondered if it was just a trap.

Thorne cleared his throat and eyed me carefully. I tilted a glare and he did the same damn thing, making me laugh.

"Where'd ya wake, mate?"

Did he know this was a dream? Was he dreaming too? I didn't show my surprise, just shrugged. "Chicago, least that's what they told me there. Hotel room. Real hard bed, but the food was good."

"Where's your pistol?" he asked and I just shrugged. The 'Hand of God' didn't come with me for this ugly dream.

Max fingered the telegram, spoke quietly to Thorne and I stood to look out the window.

"You're safe, Ben," John groaned, pacing. "Nothing's gonna happen to you; you're safe."

"Am I?" Three floors up, a nice ledge, but snow covered. It'll be a little tougher than usual to get out, but I could do it.

"Do you know where you came from?" This question from Max, his voice a lot kinder than I would've expected but I still didn't turn.

"Arizona."

"Yuma. So ya got off the train," Thorne grunted.

"I must've." I returned to the bed, doing my damn best not to look as worried as I was. I never let myself get into this shit. Never. "Why am I here?"

"Vermont?" John asked, his pace finally stilled.

"No … here."

The men all looked like they were about to swoon with relief and I braced for whatever they had to say. It wasn't pretty, wasn't possible but I let them talk. Let them show me those moving pictures in that television box. It was strange, seeing Max looking so big and violent, John skating on a frozen pond, Thorne in some jungle. Even Antony was staring at the screen as much as me when he appeared, doing something that was about to turn my stomach … taking a sword into his own damn gut.

"So, what's all this mean?" I asked, watching the dawn brighten the snowy landscape outside the window.

"It means your safe, we're gonna help you get adjusted and then you'll be on your own."

I snorted, did my own pacing. "On my own?" Nothing they said or I saw made sense and I wasn't letting go of my own idea. It was a dream. Just a dream.

"Yes," Thorne added. "You'll figure out what you're good at, get acclimated to twenty-first century life and simply move ahead. We're here to help ya, mate."

"So you lock me in this room?"

"For now," Max grunted.

"Right," John sighed and rubbed his eyes, pushed back his hair. "For now. Today, you stay in here, Ben. We'll send up breakfast, some lunch. Maybe dinner we'll take you down to the dining room. You gotta be exhausted. Get some sleep. You too, Antony."

The Roman huffed. "I'll watch him. Having seen his film my concerns are great. Acclimation takes some time, I know this well."

I glared. "You gonna hold my hand when I sleep? Or you thinkin' you're gonna sleep with me, 'cause Antony, I don't need my pistol to kill you."

"And I need no blade to finish you either," hissed Antony.

"Alright, alright, alright," Thorne stood. "Enough. Antony, you're off duty, get some rest. We'll set Butch outside the door. This'll be fine. We just need some time to get used to this. You're gonna be fine, Ben. Just a few days to get -"

"Acclimated," I interrupted.

They finally left me alone. I slept a few hours, but it wasn't likely I'd sit tight. After I got some breakfast, I waited and listened at the door. Quiet, like that guard had left but I still wasn't going out the door. Locked anyway. I slipped out the window and down to the opened lot. Damn … for a dream … the cold I was feeling was awful damn cold.

RILEY

I woke a little pissed off. John had left one hell of a mess in the living room; he was up wrapping Christmas gifts long after I went to bed. When he finally came to bed, I had no clue. This wasn't one of our 'cuddle together lovey dovey' times. There was so much on our plates today alone. We had to run to Burlington for Kim's presentation. We had to run out for a Christmas tree. We had to run around getting everything to trim the tree out of storage … and we had to run an Inn. Busy day, that's for sure. Busy, busy, busy.

And at that moment, I was busy grunting and huffing, gathering rolls of pretty wrapping paper and doing my damn best not to look inside the bags and boxes. Sheesh, did he get anything wrapped?

He came out of the bedroom just as I sat to eat my cereal. The baby was in his arms and he knew the routine. He'd keep T occupied until I gulped down breakfast then I'd take over baby duties.

"You look like crap, you feeling okay?" I asked, setting the bowl in the sink and reaching for little T.

"Yeah, yeah. Just lots going on."

His brow was curled and something about the worry in his puffy eyes made me want to just hold him. Less room to comfort John with the baby in my arms, so I simply tugged my husband's hand to join us on the sofa. I could nurse and comfort at the same time. Hell, I'm a master at multitasking. "John, come on, it's the holidays. There's always lots happening around the holidays and you're usually right into the thick of it all. You love Christmas. What's wrong?"

"Nothing," he kissed the baby's nursing cheek then snuck in a warm kiss at my cleavage. "Nothing."

"You didn't get your wrapping done last night," I sighed, sorry it really was going to be such a busy day, wishing we had time to put the baby back to sleep and make love.

"Ah … something came up. Sorry. I'll get to it later."

My hand cupped his face. I swear he looked like he got absolutely no sleep that night. John needed something to make him feel better and John Biebe is easy to please. All you gotta do is surround him with the people he loves. "I'm inviting everyone over to trim the tree tonight."

"What? No, not a good idea. Too much going on right now," he stood and searched for his boots, his voice trailing off into the bedroom before he returned with them. The only way I knew he wasn't pissed at me was that he sat close beside me to tie them on.

"What's going on, John? It's just normal holiday stuff. You need some fun and I need to throw a party."

"Not a good idea," he was up and moving to the door.

"John?" It was a reminder whine and he returned, kissing me softly on the lips. "Maybe I need to have everyone around right now. We have so many changes ahead."

"You got no clue," he groaned under his breath. "Gotta go."

And he was gone. Twice he came back over the next few hours just to run out again. You'd have thought the place was on fire. The last time he rushed away was after a tap on the door from Butch, the night guard who was oddly still on duty. John didn't even say 'bye' that time. This was starting to piss me off.

But I occupied myself all morning with shifting furniture around for the tree. Baking a few batched of cookies. Then I glanced out the window, down at a man talking to Emily in the parking lot. I blinked, rubbed my eyes, gasped and blinked again to be sure of what I was seeing. So that's what the hell is going on! I grabbed the phone, started with Natalie.

"Wade alert!" It was all I had to say and she never even responded. Within minutes she was waddling into my apartment door, panting from the exertion of running across the hall.

There are so few of us women who know what this is all about; know where our wonderful men came from. Just me and Nat, Monica and Mere. Mere couldn't get over to the Inn right away but would be here for the tree trimming party. Monna came up, all smiles with a notebook in her hand; ready to plan the festivity munchies menu.

"Ben Wade," Monna sighed.

"Yeah," Nat didn't sigh, she more like swooned. "Too bad Darcy's not around anymore. She'd have loved this!"

Suddenly the coffee pot beeper, the oven timer, the alarm clock in the bedroom, the television and three light bulbs went off.

We looked around, laughed.

"Oh, she's here. Bet my bottom dollar, she's here," I called as I ran to turn off all the buzzing, beeping and bonging alarms.

"Wonder if we'll get a chance to meet Richie soon?" Nat poured coffee the propped her swollen feet up on chair across from her.

Monna and I shrugged.

"We may have our hands full with the outlaw for a while," I scratched my temple. "Wonder why John didn't just tell me Ben was here?"

EMILY CARRERAS

I love my job at the Inn. I started out in the gift shop two years ago as a part time cashier after changing my major from Fine Arts to Business and the position was perfect - flexible hours and on the job training. It gave me an understanding of how a business operates and within a year I was promoted to store manager. It wasn't something that I just fell into; I've worked hard to learn the ropes. Inventory, accounting, working with vendors, customer service; I seem to have a knack for dealing with the public and nothing makes me happier than when I can turn a disgruntled customer into a happy camper. And believe me, with Christmas just around the corner, I get plenty of opportunities to do just that very thing.

What's really exciting is that there's a lot of big changes looming up ahead for the Inn. I'd been hearing the rumors for weeks, but finally got a chance to catch up with Riley during my lunch break and she confirmed that yes, plans to expand the Inn were currently in the works that would create several new jobs and key positions within the company. She went on to mention that there would be a new management infrastructure and I took that little tidbit and ran with it, letting her know that I had just started the Master's program at the University of Vermont and was interested in interviewing for just such a position. I probably came across as being rather presumptuous, but she smiled and asked me to drop off a copy of my latest resume before the end of the day, promising to get back to me to discuss it further before the end of the year.

I was in absolute heaven! My mind was running at a million miles a minute as I made my way through the parking lot, the morning Vermont winter air stinging my nose and ears and I adjusted my woolen scarf. I should have been paying attention to where I was going, but I didn't notice the gentleman in front of me until I barreled into him, almost dropping my laptop as I plowed head on into his chest.

"Whoa, where's the stampede?" A man's strong hand grasped my forearm to steady me as I caught my laptop by its carrying strap before it hit the ground, averting a sure disaster.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so…" My voice failed me as I raised my eyes to meet his and found myself looking up at a disarmingly attractive gentleman with a voice as smooth as warm honey.

"My, but yer a tiny thing. I'm surprised your mama lets you out of her sight."

He had the most beautiful blue eyes I had ever seen! I tried to remember how to speak and all I managed to do was giggle. I then tried to remember if there was a special event or theme wedding going on at the Inn, because he was dressed in old fashioned attire - the kind you see in movie westerns. Not like a cowboy, but like a banker or business man. Velvety black jacket and a brown patterned vest, a blue patterned shirt with a grandfather collar, dark slacks and boots - not the cliché-looking pointy toed ones, but REAL boots, the kind Clint Eastwood would wear. Could this then be the groom or maybe the best man?

"Don't worry, little girl. I don't bite." Winking as he let go of my arm I wondered if he'd maybe reconsider and take at least a little nibble.

"I'm okay … you just surprised me. I'm sorry; I should have been paying attention. Are you looking for your wedding party?"

He gave me a slightly funny look, but didn't stop grinning. "I look that outta place, ma'am?"

Obviously out of place and so good looking that it hurt. "Oh no, not at all! I work here and I'm used to seeing folks dressed up all kinds of ways for their weddings, but I really like what you're wearing. We had a western themed wedding here this summer and we had all these guys walking around dressed up like cowboys - you know, with the big ten gallon hats and spurs and I got so tired of looking at cheesy fringed jackets and plaid shirts. Your outfit looks really nice."

"I hate those cheesy jackets." It sounded kind of funny the way he said it; almost like it was a word he didn't like using and was maybe making fun of me. He then startled me by reaching for my hand and I surprised myself by not pulling away. "It's nice to know that women of taste and refinement reside here in this fair city of Stowe, Vermont. You look like a good girl - you'd better get yourself inside where it's warm and safe." With that he winked and nodded, his eyes sparkling.

"Are you sure you wouldn't like something warm to drink? You look kind of cold yourself. We have hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies in the gift shop where I work." I nodded my head toward the direction. "I'd be happy to fix some up for you."

He gave me the sweetest smile and shook his head. "Hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies. I'm sure they're delicious, but I think I just might like something a little more substantial."

"Well, there's the restaurant inside - it's a four star establishment and they serve a really good steak any way you'd like. There's also the pub. Not much to in the way of food, unless you just want to snack on potato chips and peanuts, but you could get a beer or something along those lines."

"Now that sounds like what I'm looking for. Would you be sweet enough to point me in the direction of this pub?"

I explained the layout and told him where to go and he held my hand up to his lips, his eyes watching me seductively. I felt as if I was standing naked before him, but it was a nice kind of feeling. I know that sounds cheap, but it wasn't. I can't explain it.

"Now I want you to go run inside to your gift shop and get warm. There's all kinds of folks here who are gonna want some cocoa and cookies, and I'd sure hate to cheat them out of looking at your smile." He let go of my hand. "Go on now. I'll watch till you get safely inside."

I almost laughed - the gift shop was less than twenty feet away, but I didn't want to hurt his feelings. "Okay, I'm going. Tell the bartender, Steve, to treat you nice."

"Oh, he'll be nice. But I'll tell him you send your regards."

I couldn't think of anything else to say, so feeling my cheeks grow hot despite the chill in the air I thanked him and forced myself not to look back as I walked over to the gift shop doors. I could see him watching me in the reflection of the glass, and turned quickly to give him a little wave good bye as I went inside. He nodded and smiled, and when I turned around and looked again, he was gone.

And I didn't even get his name.

KELLY

Normally I'd hire one of the courier services in town to deliver a local gift order, but Steve, the bartender for the pub up at the Inn had commissioned a set of 12 cobalt blue Irish coffee mugs and I needed a break from the hustle of the shop. Alison and Miranda, my two part time employees, assured me that they were capable of holding things together, so promising to return with a hot lunch for them, I donned my Santa Claus hat and braved my way up the hill.

The pub was unusually quiet when I arrived and Steve was nowhere to be seen. There was however, a gentleman sitting at the bar who gave me a nod of greeting as I came over to sit beside him.

"Hi, Merry Christmas." I placed the package containing the coffee mugs on top of the counter between us and glanced around for Steve.

He turned on the stool and grinned, his head tilted. "If you're lookin' for the bartender, he'll be back in a minute."

I turned to look at the gentleman and was pleasantly flattered to realize that he was checking me out. "And he left you sitting out here all alone?" I fought the urge to giggle. Damn, he was attractive.

"Not alone now, thanks to your lovely company. Good thing, too. Saloon is hardly the place for a lovely lady to be alone." His eyes lighted quizzically upon my Santa's cap. "Name's Ben Wade, by the way. And your name …?"

I found myself blushing. "Pleased to meet you, Mr. Wade. My name is Kelly O'Grady. Are you a visitor to the Inn?"

He gave a soft chuckle and took a sip of his drink, which I took to be either whiskey or bourbon. "You might say that. I'm a guest of John Biebe's, I'm more or less just passing through. But you never know; someone special just might be able to convince me to stick around for a while."

Oh, he was a smooth one. Trust me, I've had my share of come ons from men, but this guy was a pro, and dammed if he didn't know it. But I didn't mind. My ego's needed a boost lately and it was a harmless little bit of flirting. "Oh, I have the feeling that a man such as yourself wouldn't have to go far to find a girl who'd be happy and willing to do a bit of sincere convincing."

Just then Steve appeared from somewhere in the back and gave me a smile in greeting, shaking his head in amusement as he overheard my comment to Mr. Wade. "Thanks for bringing these by, Kelly. I've had a lot of folks asking for Irish coffee lately and these will make a fine presentation." He reached for the box and took out one of the mugs. "Want to give it a try?"

I was tempted, but decided to stay away from the alcohol. I had to head on back to the shop, but maybe … "How's about a cup of old fashioned hot cocoa before I go, instead?"

Steve grabbed up the box and sat it beneath the bar. "You're in luck - Riley dropped off a case of gourmet hot cocoa just yesterday."

Mr. Wade gave another wonderfully soft throaty chuckle. "Some things never change. Seems women are forever fond of chocolate."

"Well, a wise man knows it's the simple things that appeal to a woman's heart." I leaned my chin on my shoulder and gave him my sweetest smile. Steve snorted, but Mr. Wade grinned mischievously and leaned in a little closer. I picked up the scent of bourbon on his breath and something else; was it vanilla? Oh my God, I decided right then that I'd better ratchet back off on the flirting or one of us was going to end up in trouble. Probably me.

"You know, Steve, I didn't notice the time." I glanced at my watch purposefully. "I have a couple of hungry employees waiting on their lunches and I think I'll have to take a rain check on that hot cocoa."

"Ma'am, you just broke my heart." Mr. Wade reached for my hand and I froze like a deer in the headlights. The touch of his hand upon mine was almost electric.

"Somehow I think you'll recover, Mr. Wade." I removed my hand from his. "A man of your obvious charms is certain to attract another fine woman before too long. I'm afraid, however, that my heart's already spoken for." Whew! Good save.

"I do envy the lucky gentleman. To have the pleasure of looking into your lovely green eyes has been the highlight of my day. May I escort you back towards your carriage?"

Steve snorted again in amusement. "Now it's really getting thick."

"Oh no, please, I can manage. You stay here where it's warm and finish your drink. I hope you enjoy your stay, and please, have a Merry Christmas."

"Oh, I intend to, lovely lady."

I practically ran from the pub. Good Lord, I couldn't stop giggling, which was unfortunate because I didn't notice the light post directly in front of me and I slammed right into it, almost knocking myself down on impact. Thank God no one was standing around to witness my gracefulness.

When I got back to the shop Alison and Miranda gave me concerned looks as I handed over the bags containing their lunches. "What's the matter? You didn't want Taco Bell?"

Miranda reached into her purse and handed me her compact. "Did you run into something?"

"Um. … why?"

She motioned for me to look in the mirror and I gasped at what I saw. Sure enough, my eye was red from where I bumped into the lamp post and was already starting to turn purple. "Good Lord …"

"We let you out of our sight for an hour and look what happens …"

I could only imagine how I was going to explain the black eye to Jeff.

HANDO

The day before Christmas Eve. Did I really wanna be shopping on the day before Christmas Eve? My own bloody fault, mind ya. I'm the one who just keeps putting this shit off. But Mere handed me a list of who I'm supposed to buy for and sent me on my way. I hate the fuckin' cold, hate crowds, hate everything about shopping … but I gotta admit I wanted to make a nice holiday for my little family. I had a hundred ideas for what to buy Ruthie and baby T, but no ideas for anyone else.

The crowds seemed to clear when I showed up in the department stores, making way for me no matter what I wanted to get near. Guess I still got that effect on people. Blokes and sheilas alike spread like the bloody Red Sea. This might not be so bad. But no matter where I went or what I looked at, nothing seemed right so I made a fuckin' decision. Nobody was getting Chrissie gifts but the nippers. I headed to Toys R Us and spent all my budget there. It was like heaven; guess I'm really a kid at heart, then.

I loaded the car and headed home, feelin' real proud of myself that I got it all done, and done earlier than I expected. My cell rang just as I was turning the corner for home.

"H! Oh God, H, you are not gonna believe this!" Mere was breathless. I kinda like when she's like that but this sounded bad.

"What?"

"Wade's at the Inn! He's here! And tonight we're going over for a tree trimming party to meet him!"

"Fuck." First off, I didn't like the likes of Ben Wade. Studied that film and wasn't sure I wanted my family near a bloke like that. Second, I had a car full of toys to fuckin' wrap. Maybe I could get Mere to do it for me? Maybe?

"Sooo," she said softly on the phone. "What did you buy me?"

Fuck! Couldn't really tell her nothin' now could I? I pulled a U-turn and groaned. "Just on my way to pick it up, love. What time we gotta be at the Inn?" I needed to budget my time real carefully now.

"Seven. I'm so excited!"

"Yeah, yeah." We were gonna have our hands full with all the bloody excited women tonight, that's for sure.

"Did you get me that coat? Or the perfume? Oh, oh did you get me that diamond bracelet I loved! I can't wait to see what you bought me!"

"Gotta go M. Be home soon." Soon as I fuckin' buy a coat … and some perfume … and a diamond bracelet. Which diamond bracelet was she talkin' about? She never mentioned a diamond bracelet, I swear. Guess I'll just wing it.

KIM

I know what I'm doing.

The Inn is an absolute goldmine and I'm the man who can help develop it into something Riley and John right can only dream about. All week I've been developing my presentation, starting with the necessity of a web site redesign, a proposal for the implementation of state of the art technology to include an upgrade to the reservation and security systems, and an aggressive advertising campaign to reach a more global market while still maintaining the appeal of small town ambience. I have the hands on knowledge and background to make it all happen and I want this so bad I can actually taste it.

I had rented a meeting room at the Burlington Hilton for my business presentation and I wanted everything to be perfect as I ran through the Power Point presentation one more time. Purpose and Mission, Situational Analysis, Marketing Strategy and Objectives, Budgets, Performance Analysis and Implementation, Profit Ratio graphs and spreadsheets … bloody hell, I can recite this stuff in my sleep!

Arranging the platter of croissants and checking the coffee pot to make sure it was still hot, I heard John and Riley's voices above the drone of the piped in Christmas Music as they made their way down the corridor and I went over to the door to greet them.

"The desk clerk said it was down this way …"

I heard John grumble something but couldn't quite make out what it was that he was saying.

"Ah, here we are!" Riley gave me a grin as our eyes met.

"I hope the traffic wasn't too bad." I motioned for them to come inside and get situated, noting how uncomfortable John looked in his somewhat outdated blue suit. Poor bloke; Riley must have made him wear it. Riley, on the other hand, looked lovely in her black suit and bronze toned blouse.

"Would either of you like some coffee?"

"Um … can we just cut to the chase,ay?" Poor John; he looked like his shoes must have been pinching his feet.

Riley threw him a glare as she reached for a cup.

"Okay, let's get this thing rolling." I squared my shoulders and began the presentation, pointing out the projected figures through 2010. Riley sat there smiling throughout, nudging John on occasion, who responded by simply nodding his head.

"In short, the opportunities are limitless. You've done a stellar job running the whole operation while it was still in the early stages, but with the planned expansion you need a strong management team who understands and respects your vision. You want to keep the unique ambience while providing state of the art amenities. This would also include but is not limited to the redesign of the Inn's website - with all the advances in technology there's no reason why you can't take advantage of the benefits of e-commerce…"

"Kim …"

"You'll also want to more aggressively market the 1876 Manor House's logo; sweat shirts, tee shirts, gift items - get the name out there and …"

"Kim …"

"…but the major emphasis will be on customer …"

"Kim, you have the job."

I stopped short, needing to think a moment about what Riley had just said. "You'll hire me?"

Riley smiled. "Sweetie, you had the job from the get go."

"Really?" I felt like I'd just won the lottery.

John rolled his eyes. "Yes, really. You can start on January 2nd."

I needed a minute to catch my breath. "Bloody hell, I don't know what to say."

"Welcome aboard and let's get the hell out of here." John pushed out of his chair and reached for my hand. "You're coming over tonight to help decorate the tree."

It wasn't a question but an order, although I really didn't mind. It was a strange feeling to be part of a family again, but it also felt pretty good. "Of course I'll be there. Can I bring anything?"

"Just your smiling face." Riley gave me a hug and patted my cheek. "We want you to relax and enjoy yourself between now and New Year's, so you do just that, okay?"

I still don't know what to say. All I do know is that I'm going to try my best to make them proud. Really proud.

And I have this really bonzer idea for an ad campaign starting next fall…

JEFF

Kelly was pacing the front porch waiting for me as I pulled up into her driveway, glancing at her watch with a worried, irritated look on her face.

"You're late." She hopped into the passenger seat and fastened her seatbelt.

"Honey, I'm sorry. I got tied up at school."

She turned and gave me the arched eyebrow stare. "Really? Who gave those girls access to ropes?"

For a moment I thought she was serious, but she stuck out her tongue playfully for emphasis. It was then that I noticed her eye.

"Hey, what happened here? Deal with an unhappy Christmas shopper?" I reached over and cupped her chin in my hand to get a better look. I didn't like the idea of Kelly getting hurt or bruised by anything and I felt my hackles start to rise as I checked her out.

"No, nothing like that. Come on, babe … we're late and I don't want to miss anything."

I let go of her chin and took her hand in mine, reluctantly letting the matter drop. She seemed a little agitated right now and I didn't want to set her off. I'd wait until we got to the Inn and she had a couple glasses of wine before I'd press for more information on the matter.

We were midway through town when I decided to ask her about her day. "Was the shop busy this afternoon?"

"A little busier than usual. I had to run some deliveries and drop off a set of coffee mugs for Steve over at the Inn. You know, I met this guy over at the pub - a real character. Said his name was Ben Wade and … hey, what happened?"

I slammed on the brakes at the mention of that name, ignoring the honking horn of the car behind me. "Ben Wade?"

Kelly stared at me as if I were daft. "Yeah, Ben Wade. Shoulder length hair, trim beard and mustache, looks like an old time business man from something out of Little House on the Prairie …"

The car behind me honked again and I pulled over out of the way. "Shit."

"Babe, what is wrong?"

What wasn't wrong? Ben Wade? No way would Kelly ever believe the truth.

"It's nothing, honey." I patted her leg and gave her a wink. "Just nerves, I guess. Hey, you didn't ask me how my day went. Aren't you even a little bit curious?"

She gave me a beautiful smile. "Of course I am. I was worried about you all day and fought the urge to call you on your cell and check up on you. Tell me all about it."

I pulled back onto the road and tried to concentrate on what until just now had been a rather enjoyable and productive day. Kelly didn't seem to notice, but my mind kept coming back to Ben Wade. I never even considered the ramifications of his appearance until now. Did anyone?

PULLO

I would've been happy staying near the vineyard at that little motel, but Riley had called to beg me to attend something she called a 'tree trimming' party. Why anyone would drag a freshly cut pine up four flights, set it inside a room and adorn it is well beyond me. But it was a holiday, a ceremonial ritual and far be it from me to ignore any god that serves us well. Whatever gods watch over the Inn are kind and generous and I'll show my respect … beside, the food served at any gathering Riley arranges is wonderful and I'd grown tired of Burger King and Starbucks.

I packed up and returned quickly, deciding to resume residence in my room at the Inn until after the celebrations. Perhaps rest on the fine quality bed and think about my new vineyard and the woman who was stealing my attention without wanting it. Nothing confuses a man like a woman … and nothing feels better than being confused by a woman. Lesley Brookmeyer is by far among the most mystifying women I've ever come across … well worth whatever efforts I need to put out to get her to respond to me. Thinking of her, I was grinning as I hauled my bag up the steps.

"Legionnaire Titus Pullo."

"Sir." I dropped the bag, straightened my shoulders and turned to Antony's official voice.

"I have need of your assistance, man. Leave your things and meet me at room 22 immediately," and he turned at a near run. I felt my heart race, that old thrill of battle rushing through my veins. I unlocked the door and dropped my things inside then ran behind him all the way to the left tower room.

"What have we got, Antony?"

"Trouble."

Inside room 22 John looked exhausted. He groaned to his feet and nodded. "Thanks, I got shit to do in Burlington, then a fuckin' tree to buy. You two mind covering here until Butch gets back on duty at midnight? I'll check in when I get back."

"Nothing to concern yourself with, John," Antony grunted.

I turned and saw the man lounging casually on the sofa, his boots soiling the pretty cushions. He didn't look all that threatening to me and I grinned, put out my hand. "Titus Pullo," I introduced myself as Antony scowled, but the man seemed a pleasant enough sort.

"Ben Wade," he smiled.

BEN

Didn't take them long to find me at the pub and return me to the room. Hell, maybe I wanted to be caught. Biebe was doing his damn best to look mean but I could read through it all. He was scared. Maybe he should be. Who the hell knows what I might do, trapped like this? Nice as it was, the room felt like a cell. Ain't the first time I been held in a nice hotel room. But at least this time, nothin' real bad was about to happen to me … or anyone else … I hoped.

Now I faced Pullo and Antony. Shit, those two would've been a good start for my new crew, but they didn't look all that willing to do any following. This was gonna take time. I tried talkin', being real nice and social and Pullo was more congenial than the other. Verbal banter is my strong point and the big man seemed to enjoy it too.

"Enough. Shut your mouth, Wade," Antony growled.

"Now, as I see it, bein' new here and all, you might like to tell me more about how life works in this time and place," I sighed and sipped coffee that seemed endlessly provided for me.

"You sit tight, be quiet and wait until it's all figured out," he grunted.

"Well, I can't see why we can't give him a little help, Antony. We're all three new at this, right?"

"Silence, Pullo! You disgrace the thirteenth!"

"I do nothing of the sort," Pullo retorted and I just grinned. Things might work out just fine. Those two could kill each other and I could take me a stroll around the Inn again. But there was a snapping knock at the door before the fight really got started.

"Too early for Butch," Antony hissed and the big man shrugged and moved toward the door.

It opened before he reached it and the prettiest little thing was standing there smiling ear to ear. I sat up to watch. This was gonna be interesting. Just hope those two Romans don't get rough with her; I'd have to stop it. Didn't want to take my shot at already damaged goods.

"Hi!" she said, rising on her toes to kiss Pullo's cheek then wrapping a sweet hug around Antony's neck. This woman wielded some power; they were soft as kittens after her touch. I stood, grinned and put out my hand. Got a kiss on my cheek too. My arm wrapped tight around her little waist and I tugged her close.

"Now this is the kinda welcome a man likes."

"Well, we're all glad you're here. I'm Riley Biebe and -"

"Biebe? You John's daughter?" A man could hope, right?

She giggled. "No, his wife. I came over here to bring you all to the party."

"Riley," Antony cleared his throat. "I think it best -"

"Nonsense. You and Pullo and Ben are not sitting all alone in here. Everyone's at our apartment and we're waiting for you. Let's go."

She slid her arm around my elbow and grinned at me. Things just might be lookin' up.

***

We walked real easy, like I wasn't a prisoner, all the way to another part of the mansion. I saw all that luxury, all the money that must come through that place and wondered if now, knowing some of these people; did I really wanted to be stealing from them? Something to think on once they lock me up again. For now, I got a pretty woman on my arm and I'm looking at a room full of pretty women. Yeah, there were men there too, but what did I care? Riley may be married but …

No less than six lovely fillies walked up as soon as we entered. The first introduced herself as Natalie and shook my hand warmly. I thought to whisper something in her ear about those beautiful green eyes when my own eyes trailed down to her belly. Whoa, she was big! Really big but before I could step back in surprise, a mountain of a man slid between us.

"Captain Jack Aubrey, sir. And you are looking rather inappropriately at my wife."

I looked way up at this man, grinned nodded and took a hard swallow. "And a beautiful wife she is, Captain."

He led her away and I was surrounded by more women. I met Monica, another green eyed girl whose husband, Andy looked like he was maybe dying of consumption. Pity that but I'm good at consoling crying women. I smiled at Kelly, watched an old man protectively pull her away. Meredith was a bold one, wrapped a hug around my neck and whispered her welcome. Lucky for me, I didn't reach around and squeeze her perfect ass … her husband had the ugly look of Charlie Prince. Not someone I want as an enemy.

I turned to a dark, exotic woman who appeared to be alone. Ran a finger tenderly along her arm then leaned in to kiss her cheek as most here seemed to like that sort of thing. In return, I got a loud, stinging crack on the face. Spying Max across the room, grinning, I figured she was his. Were there any women I could have that night? I had an itch and was kinda hopeful.

A lovely one named Claudia offered me a strange red drink that tasted well liquored. I swallowed it down, let the burn relax me. "Thank ya, ma'am," I smiled but was dragged away, Antony's grip on my arm tight as a vice. He took me outside onto a porch and slammed me against the wall. "Not too hospitable, are ya, Antony?" I grunted, wiping the blood left from his fist to my lip.

"These women are not for you, Wade. Behave yourself or I will return you to your captivity."

"What are you all so fucking afraid of?" I hissed into his face.

"It is you who should be afraid," he counter-hissed and Riley came out.

"That's enough. Ben is family. He's our guest and I've had enough of all this. Antony, you remember how hard this was for you, don't you?" The poor little thing had a tear in her eye. John joined her and cuddled her close against the cold.

"She's right, Antony. It's Christmas. Let's get the tree decorated and eat, okay. Let's all lighten up a bit. Ben," he turned to me. "You're right, we are scared. It's gonna take some time for us to trust you. But maybe we've been a little too hard on you. The truth is … we really do want to help you. You just gotta help us do that."

I nodded, thinking that maybe this all wasn't a dream after all. The liquor was bona fide, the cold was harsh and that was real blood on my hand from a broken lip that really hurt a bit.

John sent his wife and Antony inside and lit a cigarette, offered me one too. It tasted strange, refined, not so harsh as I remembered. He ran a hand through his hair and looked into my eyes. "Ben, I gotta tell you, making the adjustment was the toughest thing I ever had to do in my life. But it all worked out great. I met my wife, managed to get this Inn put together. It wasn't an easy road though. Being here for you is all we're trying to do. But I gotta trust that you're not gonna fuck us over."

"John, you remind me of a man I knew. A good man, with a family and a ranch and enough heart to turn me around to wanna help him. It's not an easy road for me … going kind. But I can see what you got here, what you've all got." I drew in the smoke and looked at the cigarette. "It's a man's nature to take what he wants. But I don't really wanna take it from you."

He grinned. "You don't need to take it from anyone. You're well cared for here. Money, safety. All the help you need to figure out what you want to do with the rest of your life. It's a good life and a good time to be alive, buddy. You just gotta give it a chance."

"Money? What money?"

John grinned. "I'll tell you all about that tomorrow. For now, Riley has put together this whole shindig … against my wishes mind you … just to help you get to know everyone."

"Women," I joked. "Always doing what they want and never listenin' to their men."

"Thank God," John laughed. "Thank fuckin' God. Where would we be if we ran the show? I'm fucking cold. Let's get inside."

JACK

Leading Natalie safely away from our newest family member, I sat her down in a large, overstuffed chair. She protested, but quieted and honored me with a smile when I brought her a large cup of steaming hot chocolate. Standing behind her, I observed the others in our merry party, each happily adding their favorite ornaments to the fragrant branches. We had made much progress in the last year and I raised my glass of eggnog to the memory of those who were not present and to honor our future.

Natalie's cell phone, which she insisted on bring with her, rang and broke my reverie. After a brief, quiet conversation, she struggled to rise from the chair. I assisted her and wondered where she was going, but she just smiled and said she'd be right back. Must be one of those pregnant woman things of which I have no desire to know. Within a few minutes, she came huffing into the door and held it closed behind her. Winking at me, she caught everyone's attention and made her announcement.

"Listen everyone, listen. My Christmas present to Jack has arrived early and I wanted to share it with all of you." Standing aside, she flung open the door and there stood Stephen!

I was amazed. I had so missed my particular friend and was thinking about him that very day. And here he was, cello in hand. Shaking his hand in greeting, I left him to the others and hurried across to our apartment for my violin. Within a few moments, Stephen and I settled ourselves in a corner of John and Riley's drawing room, tuned our instruments and our first piece, Corelli's Concerto Grosso in G minor, was greeted so favorably by our audience that we continued on playing Vivaldi, Schubert, and a selection of Christmas hymns.

During our final piece, Ave Maria, I caught the eye of my wife. My heart was so full of her, of our twin daughters soon to be born, of Stephen by my side and of our family surrounding us that I swear I could almost burst. In my heart, I wished all of them a Merry Christmas … even Mr. Ben Wade.