Time Out
 by Krystina Stressman & Rilei S. Gateland
 (Tara and Grace are our creations and may not be used without our permission)

 The annoying insistence of the phone ringing by Tara's bed awakened her. It had been so long since her phone had actually rang, she had almost considered it a piece of furniture rather than anything that served as communication between people. She was so use to her global. Still trying to clear the fog from her head, which was become more difficult as the days passed, she reached for the phone and answered it.
 "Good morning, Tara!" came a happy, feminine voice.
 "Andrea," Tara replied, thrilled at the unexpected surprise, "How are you and Samuel?" she asked.
 Since she had originally met the Whitney's through Grace, they had accepted her as one of the family and was treated as such.
 "Well, we're doing fine," Andrea replied. "But you sound tired . . . Did I wake you?"
 "Don't worry about it," she replied, sitting up in bed. But suddenly a wave of nausea hit. Her CVI stopped many things, like the affects of alcohol, but the one thing it didn't stop was morning sickness. In a fluid motion, she placed the phone down, grabbed the basket by her bedside just for the occasion and retched. Trying to regain her composure she picked up the receiver. "Sorry about that . . ."
 "Are you sick?" Andrea asked with concern.
 "No more than I should be, I suppose," Tara replied.
 "I don't understand . . ."
 The CVI brought forth the memories of Ron and Ryan, and her stomach flip-flopped again. She almost had to reach for the basket, but was able to quell the response. "Well . . . as it turns out . . . I'm pregnant . . ." Tara explained.
 "Oh my goodness . . ." Andrea replied with a bit of shock. "Are you happy?" she asked, somehow knowing there was more.
 Tara could feel tears misting her eyes. "I don't know . . ." she answered.
 Andrea could sense that Tara needed some comforting, but knew that it couldn't be done over the phone.
 "You know, Samuel and I were thinking about having you and Grace come back up for a visit . . . and if you can manage the time off then maybe this would be the perfect time."
 "Well, I don't think it will be a problem for me," she replied. "Since my pregnancy, I have been placed on Light Duties, most likely because Zo'or spends all of his time on the Mothership now, and the Doctors have requested that I stay firmly planted on Earth . . . I imagine Zo'or is trying to figure out what to do with me now . . ."
 "Well, I'll call Grace and see if she can arrange the time. Maybe we could even get you two up here by the weekend," Andrea said, her excitement coming through in her voice.
 "That would be nice," Tara replied. "I'm sure Da'an will give her the time . . ."
 As the conversation came to a close, another wave of nausea hit Tara.
 ~Jen, am I suppose to be this sick?~ she asked.
 ~Why don't you come in and see me today and I'll see what I can do. It's expected to be a little sick . . . Have you been able to keep food and water down?~ she asked.
 ~A little . . .~ Tara replied, as she laid back down on the bed.
 ~Well, I'll want to see if you're dehydrated and I'll run a few more tests just to make sure all is well . . .~
 ~All right, I'll be there shortly.~
 Taking a deep breath, Tara once again tried sitting up, but more slowly. This time she managed without the wave of nausea. But as soon as she was on her feet, it struck again. She could only hope that Jennifer could do something to stop it. With that hope, she went to the bathroom to shower.
 

 Grace laid on her bed, her eyes closed. At some point today she had developed a horrible headache and Da’an had released her from her duties a few hours ago. He was genuinely concerned for her the last time they had spoken. Suddenly her phone rang .Grace answered it thinking that it wasn't someone associated with the Companions calling her.
  Hello?  she said.
  Grace, how are you, honey?  Grace immediately recognized Andrea’s voice.
  I'm okay. I'm doing better now that the morning sickness has finally stopped. How are you?  Grace replied.
  We're fine. Grace, Samuel and I are wanting you and Tara to come back up to Toronto for a week or two. Think you can make it?  Andrea said.
  I'd loved to, but I not sure either one of us could make it.
  Well I just spoke to Tara and she’s going to be able to take the time off. Do you think Da’an will allow you to do the same?
  He most likely would if I asked him. Tell you what .let me call him and ask. I'll call him right now. He should be at the embassy right now and he shouldn't be preoccupied, if his schedule for the day held up. I'll call you back in a minute or two,  Grace said.
  We'll be waiting.
 Grace opened her global and dialed in the number for the Taelon embassy.
  Liam, is Da’an busy right now?  she asked upon seeing the face of Da’an’s protector. Liam nodded no.
 [He’s in his private chambers right now. I'll transfer your call to him. Hang on.] Liam said. Grace nodded. Soon she was seeing Da’an’s face on the global.
  Da’an, I have a request to make,  Grace said.
  Please state it,  Da’an replied.
  My in-laws just called me. They've invited me to come up to Canada for a week or so,  Grace said.
  And you wish to have the time off to do so,  Da’an finished with a smile on his face. Grace nodded.
  Yes. Is it possible?  Grace asked.
  Doctor Belman has recommended that you be given ample opportunities to rest during your pregnancy.  You have been under many activities in the recent weeks. I will honor the doctor’s recommendation and allow you to visit your in-laws for the duration of their invitation,  Da’an replied. Grace smiled.
  Thank you, Da’an.  Grace replied and ended the conversation. She turned and picked up her phone, dialing the number to her in-laws’ house.
  Hello?
  Andrea, it’s Grace. Da’an has given me the okay.
 

 "Well, you are definitely dehydrated," Dr. Jennifer Christian said, as she stood beside the examination table where Tara was laying. "We'll have to give you an IV and run some Dextrose into your system before you leave."
 Tara grimaced. "If it must be done . . ." she replied.
 "I'm also going to give you something for the morning sickness. It should stop the nausea and vomiting."
 "They have something for it?" Tara asked in amazement.
 Jen smiled. "Yeah, it's Teminigan. It's similar to Tygan, Phenergan and Compazine, but it doesn't have any side effects for you or the baby."
 Tara nodded her understanding. "At least I'll be able to keep nourishment down now . . ."
 "How's your work load?" Jen asked.
 Tara shrugged. "Light, I suppose, but I'm going to request some time off. I want to get away and spend some time with the Whitney's . . . They've invited Grace and I up for a visit . . ."
 "That sounds like a great idea. In fact, if you'd like, I'll make it Doctor's orders. That way Zo'or won't say anything."
 "Sounds like a wonderful idea, though I doubt Zo'or will mind . . . After all, he placed me in this position . . ." Tara tilted her head down to gaze at the floor. Tears were springing to her eyes. "I don't understand why he did this to me . . . How did I become one of his experiments? For what reason . . . ?"
 Jen just placed a hand gently on her friend's shoulder. She had no answers for her.
 

 Before Tara left the Medical facility, Jennifer had given her a dose of that medication along with a bottle full of little pink pills. In half and hour, she felt much better and even decided to stop off and grab a taco from a nearby Mexican Food stand. She ate it with relish and felt better with each bite. After that, she returned home.
 ~So . . . were you able to arrange for the time off~ Tara telepathically asked Grace.
 ~ As a matter of fact, yes . . .~ Grace replied.
 Though Grace, herself wasn't telepathic, Tara was able to speak with her in this fashion by just thinking about it.
 ~When should we head up there?~ Tara asked.
 ~How soon can we get packed and get a shuttle?~
 Tara smiled. ~Call Andrea and Samuel and let them know we'll be up there by nightfall, if it's all right with them . . .~
 ~Will do.~ Grace replied.
 Suddenly Jewel rubbed up against Tara's leg. Instantly, she reached down and picked up her little bundle of fur. She was immediately greeted by a purr. Tenderly she held the cat to her chest as she stroked the soft fur. She sighed.
 "Well, my girl . . . I'll ask someone to check on you and make sure you get your food while I'm gone . . . I hope you understand that I must get away for a little while . . ."
 As if in response, Jewel nuzzled her. After a few more minutes, she placed the cat down. Jewel scampered away to play with her toy mouse in the kitchen. Tara then grabbed her global from one of her pockets and made a call to Ryan. He smiled tenderly as he saw her face.
 [How are you?] he asked.
 "I'm feeling better. Dr. Christian gave me something for the morning sickness . . ." she explained.
 [That's good,] he replied, [So what can I do for you?]
 "How about a shuttle ride up to Toronto for Grace and I . . ."
 [A trip to the in-laws, huh?]
 "Yes," she replied with a smile.
 [All right, just let me know when you want to leave.]
 "As soon as possible," she replied.
 Suddenly, the doorbell rang.
 "I've got to go. Someone's here," she said.
 Closing the global, she went to the door and peered out. Her breath caught in her throat as she saw who it was. Swiftly, she opened the door to see Ron Sandoval there, gazing at her. His cold facade was in place at the moment. She could feel it.
 "Zo'or requested that I come and check on your health and that of your baby's," he explained.
 Immediately, she invited him in. As soon as the door was shut, the coldness melted away, and he took her hands in his.
 "How are you feeling? I heard about your trip to see Dr. Christian this morning. She mentioned giving you an IV and some medication . . ."
 Together they walked to the couch and sat down next to each other, still holding hands.
 "She also informed Zo'or that you needed some time to recuperate."
 A soft smile lit her face as she sighed. "Yes . . . but I'm all right . . . She gave me something for the nausea and it's making me feel better . . . But I really just need some time away . . ."
 He looked down to the carpet for a moment before meeting her gaze once again. "Would you tell me where you're going?" he asked.
 "Agent Whitney and I are going to Canada to spend time with her in-laws. We'll be there for a week or so . . ." Tara explained.
 He nodded in understanding. They spent more time talking before he finally stood to leave.
 "I hope you find what you are looking for," he said as she walked him to the door.
 "So do I," she replied.
 Tenderly, he caressed her face. She felt her eyes close and wished that things were different for them as she savored his gentle touch.
 "I'll miss you," he said finally, as he opened the door.
 As she shut it behind him, the tears came again. ~I'll miss you, too~ she thought.
 

 Grace was in the middle of packing when her global sounded. With a sigh she picked it up.
  Ken? Is something wrong?
 [Hi .I was wondering if you'd wanted to join me for a Nu-Way hotdog.] he said. Grace smiled.
  Ken, I'm in the middle of packing. I'm going up to my in-laws with Tara for a week or two.  she said gently.  I'm sorry, but I think I need to take things slowly here.  she said after seeing the disappointment on his face. Ken nodded.
 [I understand. Just let me know when you'd like to take me up on that hotdog.] he said. [Have fun at your in-laws and do try and rest.]
  I will and thanks, Ken.
 Grace closed the global and after a moment resumed her packing.
 

 Tara and Grace met Ryan at the shuttle pad within the hour. They were both happy to be leaving their respective jobs for awhile. Both women had their minds full, and seeing Ryan didn't make things any easier for Tara, but it was the most convenient way to get to Toronto. Ryan suspected something was wrong as Tara's eyes were hidden by dark glasses, though the sun was setting in the Western Horizon. After he helped Grace aboard, he stopped in front of Tara and gently took hold of her shoulders to look her in the face after moving the sunglasses to the top of her head.
 "What's going on, Tara . . . ?"
 But he knew the answer before she spoke.
 "I can't come to terms with what's happened . . . You may have forgiven me, but I haven't forgiven me . . . and there is far more to deal with than just the encounters . . . It's . . . more complicated than that . . ."
 "Because of the baby?" he asked.
 "Partly," she conceded, "I mean, if this baby turns out to be Sandoval's how will that make you feel?" she asked.
 He turned away, not willing to think about the possibility for the time being.
 "I know . . ." she replied, "But to make matters worse, there are feelings present within me . . . I love you, Ryan . . ." she said, gently touching his face, "But I cannot say that you are the only one I care for . . ."
 He took a deep breath and released it. In the last few days they had talked a great deal about their feelings, and he knew this . . . but it still hurt . . . Part of him wanted to walk away from her, so that the pain in his heart would go away. But he couldn't bring himself to do it . . .
 As he fought back tears of his own, he released her. He couldn't even look at her, but his heart spoke it all to her heart anyway. "I love you, Tara . . . and I think I always will . . ." he said.
 Quickly she climbed on board with his help and took her seat next to Grace. Instantly, Ryan was in the pilot seat starting pre-flight. Tara was glad that Toronto wasn't far away. She had to get away from Ryan and Ron and Zo'or. She needed time to think and to heal. She needed to come to terms with what had happened and find some solace in her feelings. Was it possible to love two men at the same time? She certainly didn't chose this fate, but now that it was her's, she had to know . . .
 

 This time the girls’ shuttle would be landing on the Whitney’s front lawn. Grace closed her eyes against the silence of the shuttle. Everyone was lost in their own thoughts. She was looking forward to being with her in-laws again. She needed their love right now. Although it had been a few months since Arthur passed away, she still felt the sting of his death.
 Their child was healthy.
 Dr. Belman had run several tests on the baby, and their child was developing normally for its stage in life. Dr. Belman had even said that she could tell Grace the sex of the baby if she wanted to know. For the time being she told Belman that she'd rather not know. Grace wanted a boy, but she'd love her baby all the same if it turned out to be a girl.
 Arthur had often said that he wanted a daughter as their first born child. . . .
  Coming out of interdimensional in 5 seconds.  Ryan announced.
 Grace opened her eyes and waited. Soon the shuttle was settled onto the lawn, and she saw the faces of Samuel and Andrea. As soon as the virtual glass shielding was deactivated they had her and Tara in their arms. . . .
 

 After Ryan left and the girls were settled into their rooms, both Tara and Grace joined Samuel and Andrea in the front room. Andrea had made some nice warm herbal tea that had a scent of berries. Tara had her's with honey and a touch of cream, and grace had a cup with only honey.
 It felt so good to be there among family, Tara thought . . .
 "We're so glad the both of you could come up," Samuel said first. "We've missed you . . . Sorry we didn't get to see you on our last trip . . ."
 Tara smiled sadly. Their last trip was to see their son in secret before he died. "I know, but you had good reason not to," she replied.
 She could feel Grace's sadness start bubbling to the surface. The memories were still too painful. She could also feel how grateful Samuel and Andrea were to Grace and Tara for having rescued Arthur and given them that last chance to see their son . . .
 They talked a little bit, but didn't want to ask too much. Their daughters were tired. So after their tea they were sent to bed with a warm hug and a wish for a good night's sleep. Tara returned to the room she had used before. She had set up her many photographs, but they no longer brought her intense pain . . . except for the one of Ryan and the mental photo she had of Ron, that kept playing over and over in her mind. She slipped into her nightgown and laid down on the bed pulling the covers over her, but sleep seemed elusive. After an hour, she got up, slipped on a robe, wandered down the stairs and out the front door. The stars were shining brightly and the air was warm against her skin. She sat down on a chair and relaxed allowing her mind to focus on the stars. But as always, when she allowed her mind free reign, the visions of her nights with Sandoval began to play vividly. His tenderness . . . his gentle touch . . . She allowed herself to be lulled by the images. As she pulled herself free, she could feel the craziness starting again. Her baby was either Ron Sandoval's or Ryan MacLeod's . . . but if she found out, she would hurt one of them. She would hurt herself. She couldn't even believe she was in this situation!
 Suddenly, she caught sight of someone standing nearby. It was Andrea.
 "Couldn't sleep?"
 "I haven't been able to sleep for weeks," Tara replied.
 "Does this have anything to do with your pregnancy?" she asked.
 An bittersweet smile crossed her face. "To say the least . . ." she replied.
 "Would you like to talk about it?"
 "I don't know . . . where do I begin? Do I begin with who the fathers might be or do I start with Zo'or . . ."
 Andrea looked at her with a puzzled stare. "I don't understand . . ."
 "Well . . . I don't either . . . but one of the reasons I'm pregnant is because I became an experiment of Zo'or's unwittingly . . ."
 "And the father of this baby might be more than one man?" Andrea asked. She had known that Tara and Ryan were in a romance and had assumed the baby was his.
 "Yes . . . Zo'or set Agent Ronald Sandoval and myself up with some kind of pheromones that would react to our DNA . . . "
 "So he is the other potential father . . ."
 Tara nodded. "And I can't bare the fact that I have betrayed Ryan, but what's worse is that I have developed feelings for Agent Sandoval . . . He . . . isn't who he appears to be . . . I know that . . ."
 "How can you know?" she asked.
 Tara looked at her. "I never told you what happened on my mission to Atlantis . . ."
 "No you didn't," Andrea replied with a hint of worry, wondering if Tara had been hurt in some way.
 ~I was hit by a beam and given certain abilities, like that of telepathy and strong empathic abilities that grow stronger every day . . .~
 "Oh my Lord!" Andrea replied, realizing that the voice she had heard had come through her mind. "You . . . you can . . . do this . . ."
 "It's nothing to be afraid of . . . " Tara replied. "But that's how I know that Ron Sandoval isn't who everyone thinks he is . . . It's because I can sense his feelings . . . "
 "Does he know about the baby?"
 Tara nodded.
 "Does he want this child to be his?"
 Tara stopped and didn't know how to answer. Just like herself, he had mixed feelings, but . . . "Yes . . . he does . . ."
 "And what about Ryan?"
 Suddenly tears sprang to her eyes. "He wants the child to be his . . . but if it's not . . . I can't face this . . . How do I face them day after day and then tell one of them that they either are or are not the father of my child . . ."
 Tenderly Andrea embraced Tara, allowing the woman to cry on her shoulder.
 

 Grace discovered that she couldn’t sleep either. She was back in the room that had been Arthur’s when he was a child. She just couldn’t sleep.  Grace reached inside her luggage and pulled out Saul, her husband’s teddy bear when he was a child. Hugging the bear, she laid on the bed. She curled into a fetal position hugging the bear.
 The tears came. . . .
 Grace began crying and couldn’t stop. It had been weeks since she really cried like this. Suddenly a memory surfaced in her mind. . . .
 [Arthur smiled as her wife produced the teddy bear that had been his when he was a boy.
  Where did you get this?  he asked.
  Andrea gave him to me last time I visited her and Samuel in Toronto.  she replied. Arthur smiled.
  I'm glad she did. If I couldn’t have him with me then I want you to have him.  he said.]
 Grace hugged the bear even tighter, wishing for all the world that she could have her husband there instead. . . .

 Morning came and with it, Grace discovered that somewhere in the night she had fallen asleep still clutching her husband’s bear. Sometime during the night someone had placed a blanket over her. Her door was cracked open. She heard a soft knock at the door.
  Honey?  Andrea said coming into the room.
 Grace looked up at her.
  What time is it?  she asked.
  About 8 o’clock. Breakfast is ready if you'd like some,  Andrea said. She had sat down beside Grace on the bed.
  I'm not sure that I am very hungry this morning.  Grace said.
  All right. You don't have to eat but please come downstairs. Paul is here and he wants to see you this morning.  Andrea said.
  I'll be down in a few minutes then.
  All right, honey. I'll leave you alone so you can get dressed.
 

 A few moments later Andrea was knocking on Tara's door.
 "Sweetie . . . It's time for breakfast . . ."
 As Tara sat up, a wave of nausea coursed through her. Her hand flew to her mouth. As the feeling subsided, she reached for the glass of water on the side table and her bottle of medication. She quickly took one of the pills and smiled at Andrea.
 "Well, give me a few minutes to let the medication take affect and then I'll be down . . ."
 "All right," she replied, "Oh, and Paul's here. He can't wait to see you and Grace . . . "
 Tara smiled again as Andrea shut the door. It was wonderful to have a family, she thought . . .

 
 Five minutes after Andrea had left, Grace had slowly dressed. She felt so tired. She woke up like this every morning. It was the grief and pregnancy she realized.  Both were keeping her exhausted. . . .
 After making the bed and laying the teddy bear on the center of the pillows, Grace made her way downstairs. Paul's voice came from the kitchen and the smell of bacon hit Grace's nose. She entered the kitchen, intent on getting a cup of coffee.
 "Grace, good morning!" Paul said opening his arms to her.
 Grace hugged him back.
 "It's good to see you again. Where Monica and the baby?" Grace asked.
 "They're a way visiting Monica's parents in Montreal. They'll be back sometime next week. How long will you be staying?" Paul asked as he munched on some bacon. Grace poured herself a cup of coffee and grabbed a piece of bacon. When Paul went for another piece Andrea slapped his hand away.
 "Leave some to go along with the waffles. Both of you go sit down at the table already." she said.
 "Waffles? Hmmmm, I may eat this morning after all. Come on, Paul, let's get out of your mother's hair." Grace said and lead the way to the table. "Now to answer your question, Tara and I are here for two weeks."
 "You mean that the Taelons were generous enough to allow you to have two weeks off?" he asked.
 "Da'an is actually quite wonderfully believe it or not. He has been very considerate of my condition." Grace said.
 "Condition? What condition?"
 "You mean you weren't told?"
 "We haven't told anyone in the family yet." Samuel said walking into the room. "We figured you'd like to do that yourself."
 "Told me what?" Paul asked.
 "Paul, I'm pregnant." Grace said.
 "You're pregnant. . . .Really?" Paul asked.
 Grace nodded.
 Paul hugged her again.
 "This is wonderful. . . ."
 At that moment, Andrea walked in the room carrying a stack of hot waffles and bacon. . . .
 

 Fifteen minutes later, Tara was dressed and feeling better. As she walked down the stairs, she smelled the food and her stomach actually began to growl. This had to be a good sign! Plus, the little miracle pill had taken away her nausea. As she reached the table, she saw Paul. He immediately came up to her and embraced her.
 "And how are you doing?" he asked.
 "As well as can be expected . . ." Tara replied.
 He pulled away from her for a moment with a puzzled expression on his face.
 She looked at Grace. Her friend shrugged. "No one told him anything. They left it to us . . ."
 "Ohhhhh . . . ." Tara replied. "I see . . . So you have no idea . . ."
 "Idea about what?" Paul asked.
 "I told him my news," Grace added with a smile.
 "Then I guess it's my turn . . ."
 "What is this news?" he asked, looking at Tara.
 "I'm pregnant . . ."
 Paul opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out. It took him a minute, but he regained his senses. "You too??"
 Tara forced a smile. "Yes, me too . . ." she replied, fighting off the tears that were welling up in her eyes.
 He could see the turmoil on her face and pulled her into another hug. "If there's anything you need, you just let me know, okay . . ."
 She nodded. "I will . . ." she replied. "I promise . . ."
 

 A quiet morning was spent at the Whitney's followed by a quiet afternoon. After a nap, Grace and Paul sought some time alone, walking in the woods that surrounded the Whitney home.
 "Grace, Mom and Dad told me about seeing Arthur again. They wouldn't give the full details but they did say that they saw him just before he died." Paul said. Grace looked alarmed. "Don't worry. I swear I won't tell anyone outside our family that he was alive beyond the time that the Taelons thought that he was dead. I know your safety must depend on the secret." he said.
 Grace was silent, not knowing what to say.
 "Paul, how much do you know?" she asked after several moments.
 "I know that you are somehow connected to the Liberation movement and with Jonathan Doors. But as I said, that secret will stay with me. No one will know. Grace, just be careful. This whole idea of you being a double agent scares me to death, for you and the baby." he said.
 "Paul, I am being careful.  I am an FBI agent and I think I learned a thing or two while I worked for them." Grace replied.
 "I hope so." Paul replied.
 

 After dinner, Paul left. And as the sky grew dark, both Tara and Grace retired to the front porch to relax with cold drinks. Tara had iced tea, while Grace had ice water. The air was still very warm and the drinks felt good against the heat. Tara's thoughts were still troubled by her dilemma and each day made it worse rather than better. As she turned her attention to Grace, her friend seems peaceful and content . . . Something Tara desperately wished to have.
 "You must be excited about your baby," Tara said with a gentle smile.
 Grace smiled back. "Yeah, I am. She's a small part left behind of the man I loved," she replied, looking up toward the stars.
 "It must be nice to feel so at peace with everything . . ." Tara continued, looking into her iced tea. Memories intruded upon her thoughts. Images of Ron and Ryan played across her mind causing her to sigh with sadness.
 "Well, there are some things I am still having to sort out . . . I miss Arthur terribly and I wish that I could find some peace where things concern him."
 Tara nodded with understanding. "I simply wish I could find peace in my life . . . in any part of it . . . " She took a sip of tea and turned her eyes to the wood deck beneath her feet. Her heart aching . . .
 "What's in your thoughts tonight?" Grace asked, looking at her friend suddenly.
 "How simple life use to be . . ." she replied, "Before Zo'or stepped in and complicated it beyond belief . . . Half the time I feel as if I'm losing my mind . . . I mean . . . I am now caught between two men . . . A situation I would have NEVER willingly placed myself in!" She shook her head, fighting the emotions stirring within and gazed up to the sky . . .
 Grace looked away. At the mention of Zo'or's name, she knew that the name of Ronald Sandoval wasn't too far behind. Grace had really been avoiding dealing with her feeling regarding the man. But she harbored a hate for him that she could not easily forget. "I wish I knew what to say to you. Zo'or had no right to put you through that just to prove a point . . . ! Overbearing light bulb!"
 Tara could feel her friend's rage and gently placed a hand on her shoulder and smiled. "He certainly is!" she chuckled a bit. "But what's done is done . . ."
 "Exactly . . ." Grace's voice went cold.
 "What I am having the most trouble with is . . . and I know that part of you does not want to hear this, but I have to say it . . . I have feelings for not just Ryan, but for Ronald Sandoval as well . . . and I am having a difficult time accepting what has happened . . . Every time I think of either one of them my heart aches . . . as if part of me is going to be ripped away . . ." Tears misted her green eyes turning them into emerald pools.
 Grace didn't want to hear the name of Sandoval. She still blamed him for everything. And try as she might, she couldn't feel anything for her friend, because her hatred for Sandoval was getting in the way . . . "I wish that I could show you more sympathy where Sandoval is concerned . . . Lord, how did Will ever learn to work with him after he found out he was responsible for Kate's death?!!"
 "I understand . . . but there is something you don't know . . . he's not who he once was . . . and he's not what you perceive him to be . . . "
 Grace stared at Tara. "Tara, I am sorry, but I don't think that I will ever see him in that way. I can only see him as the man responsible for helping the Taelons hurt my husband by imprisoning him."
 "Just trust me for a moment," she said, taking Grace's hand.
 Instantly, Grace's mind filled with the emotions that had run through Tara the night of her brush against Sandoval. The night that had changed her life. Where she had learned about Sandoval's emotions and even his regrets . . . The feelings coursing through with the images were overwhelming, and Tara's heart also began beating faster, as the energy she put forth coursed through her.
 Grace closed her eyes as she felt such raw emotions. Guilt, Grief, Anguish, Regret . . . And the source of these emotions had been Ronald Sandoval! Grace did not want to acknowledge that he was capable of feelings . . . Remorse . . . He had felt REMORSE for every evil thing and all the innocent blood he had shed at the orders of the Taelons . . . "NO!" Grace cried, snatching her hand away.
 "Believe me, I didn't know what was behind the mask until that night I brushed against him, simply by walking by . . . I had never thought that he had regret. I believed him to be the mindless agent of Zo'or . . . but instead . . . I found a kindred spirit . . ." Tara explained, "I love Ryan, I do. With all my heart . . . But Ron and I share the mask of hiding who we really are . . . I may never have had a functioning MI, so I don't have the pain he does for what he's done . . . but I understand him and that's a stronger bond than I've ever shared with man . . . and that's what hurts . . . In the end, one of the men that I love is going to be hurt . . . and it's tearing me up . . ."
 Grace honestly didn't know what to say. The name of Ronald Sandoval was like salt in an open wound in her heart. All she could do was think of Arthur and how his life had come to a premature end, thanks to the Taelons. "Tara, I just can't handle talking about him right now. The wound he helped to cause is deep."
 "I don't expect you to like him . . . and I am sorry if my bringing him up hurts you . . . but he very well could be the father of my child. Just do me a favor . . . When the memories of what happened to your husband come up, think about who you should truly be angry with . . . The mindless puppet who carried out orders given him, or the Taelon who gave the orders to begin with . . .?" With that, Tara stood up and took another drink of her tea. "All I ask is that you think about it . . . Goodnight," she said, squeezing Grace's shoulder with the tenderness of a sister to a sister. Tara then headed into the house to leave Grace alone with her thoughts.
 Grace watched Tara leave. Tara's words echoed in her mind as she turned back to look at the stars. Without warning, tears started falling from Grace's eyes like rain drops. Did she have a right to judge Sandoval for what he'd done? She hated him and there was just no way to deny it . . . And then there was the aspect of the Taelon involvement. They had ordered Sandoval to imprison her husband . . . The Synod had ordered it. Da'an . . . Suddenly Da'an came to her thoughts . . . He was a member of the Synod and he once thought very little of humans . . . "How can I hate him as well as them?" she murmured. Grace was left very confused that night as she pondered about who was to be blamed for her husband's death . . .

 Tara stood at the window in her room wearing her nightgown. As tired as she was, sleep had once again evaded her. Though she knew that having Grace see Sandoval for what he had been and what he was now would eventually be beneficial to them both, she regretted the pain she had caused her friend. It seemed that no matter what happened in life, somehow she brought pain with her wherever she went . . . Wearily, she went to the bed and laid down, covering herself with a light blanket. After some meditation, she drifted to sleep . . .
 
 She was being chased! Tara stumbled over tree roots and rocks, but she had to hurry and get away from the men chasing her down. She stopped for a moment to catch her breath, when she suddenly saw the ground beneath her being covered with blood. It was her blood!
 "No! Not my baby! Please not my baby!" she cried as she fell to the ground and tried to cradle her belly. This can't be happening, she thought with grief. Suddenly, a warmth touched her and she looked up.
 "Do not be afraid," Ta'al spoke as he knelt beside her and gently touched her face.
 She sighed and nuzzled against him. It was a gesture they had repeated many times in life during their time together.
 "But I am afraid, " she replied. "I am afraid of losing everything . . . my friends, those that I love and now this child, who each and every day becomes more a part of me . . ."
 "Look," he said, as he motioned to the ground.
 The blood had vanished. In its place were beautiful, tiny pink flowers.
 "What you fear is nothing . . . for the life within you blooms . . . You won't lose love . .  . You will gain it . . . Take heart in that, Tara . . ." he said.
 For the first time in several weeks, she felt peaceful. As her eyes closed, she could feel his warmth, caring and love for her engulf her spirit. Soon her dreams were calm and peaceful.

 Grace sank onto her bed, having pulled back the blankets only moments before. Wearily she pulled her husband's teddy bear onto the pillow beside her. Her thoughts were so heavy with Tara's words.
 Sandoval shouldn't be blamed. . . .
 But Grace didn't want to let go of her hatred or placing the blame on him. She hated the Taelons just as much, but she also did not want to hold him blameless either. . . .
 "Honey, are you all right?" Andrea's voice called to her.
 It had been about 3 days ago that Tara and Grace had had their conversation about Sandoval. Tara's words had stayed with Grace until last night when she decided to push them to the back of her mind. Grace set up in bed.
 "What time is it?" she asked.
 "It's almost 10 o'clock. I've keep your breakfast warm if you'd like some."Andrea said. Grace nodded.
 "I'll be down shortly."
 Andrea nodded and closed the door behind herself. . . .
 

 As noontime approached, Tara decided a walk in the woods might do her some good. It would give herself time to clear her head. She had hoped that this trip would have helped her, but very little had changed, except that she had love and support up here and was surrounded by it. Taking a bottle of water and a snack of some grapes and cheese, she headed out to her favorite place. The waterfall . . . It took her about 30 minutes, but she again found it. Taking a seat on a flat rock to enjoy the view of the water gently cascading down the rocks she gently feel the spray of the water. She pulled out her knapsack and the snack of cheese and grapes. As she nibbled, she sighed. Stripping down to her underthings, she waded into the water like she had done on her last trip, which caused many memories of Ryan to surface, since this is where he had professed his love to her.
 Pain coursed through her heart. Taking a deep breath and diving under the cool water, trying to blot out all her feelings, she was still bombarded by their first kiss. Then the memory of his face when she told him of her indiscretion with Sandoval jumped into her mind. She pushed to the surface and took a breath of air, tears stinging her eyes. How could she have hurt him . . . How? She asked herself.
 

 A shuttle broke out of Interdeminsional near the Whitney's home and landed softly. As the virtual glass shielding deactivated, a man stepped from the shuttle. As he walked toward the house, the shuttle took off and disappeared the way it had come. Taking a breath, and straightening his jacket, he continued to the door. As he reached the door, he seemed nervous, as memories resurfaced of the man he had kidnapped for the Taelons. But pushing the memories away, he brought himself to knock on the door. Within moments, an older woman answered. She seemed friendly.
 "Hello . . ." she said.
 "Hello, yes, I'm Ron Sandoval" he replied, "I am looking for Tara Carmichael. I work with her."
 Andrea nodded with understanding. She knew who he was. The other man in Tara's life. "Well, she took off to the waterfall about an hour ago. If you want, you can follow that trail over there and it will take you to it . . ."
 "Thank you," he replied with a slight bow of his head.
 As he turned to head toward the woods, Andrea stopped him.
 "Why don't you join us for dinner tonight . . ."
 "That's a very gracious offer, but - "
 Andrea smiled gently. "Anyone who is part of Tara's life is apart of our's."
 With a bewildered look on his face, he continued to think about the response he had received. He had expected coldness, since his presence was usually greeted as such. He could see why Tara thought of this place as a safe haven from the world.
 "Very well," he replied.
 "Good," she smiled. "We'll see both of you later then . . ."
 As the door shut, he continued to the woods and to Tara.
 

 "Who was that?" Grace asked, as she sat in the kitchen helping out with getting the fresh peas ready for dinner that evening and slicing strawberries for the dessert.
 "Oh, just someone to see Tara," Andrea replied, with a soft smile.
 Thinking it was Ryan, Grace changed the subject.
 

 As Ron caught site of Tara, pain coursed through him. She was in her under clothes, wet, lying on the banks of the pond near the waterfall sobbing. He knew things had been difficult for her. On their frequent talks, he had learned more and more about her, and the fact that she had been involved with someone else. But their feelings for each other went beyond what either of them understood. And his heart ached to see her so upset. He went to her, knelt down and placed a hand on her shoulder. Instantly, she turned and looked at him and forced a smile as she wiped away her tears.
 "What are you doing here?" she asked, with her recent tears still shining in her eyes, but with a genuine smile on her face.
 "I missed you," he replied. "I had to see your face and touch you . . ."
 Gently, he caressed her face and she allowed herself to get lost in the loving gesture. Tenderly, she kissed his hand as it neared her lips.
 "I've missed you, too . . ."
 Sitting down he took her in his arms, comforting not only Tara, but himself. What would he do if he lost her? Could he ever return to that lonely existence he had before he allowed her into his life like a breath of fresh air?
 Tara felt his emotions and thoughts as if they were her own. She couldn't send him back to that loneliness . . . Not ever . . . Her heart wouldn't allow it.
 

 Andrea had roasted a large chicken for dinner accompanied by fresh peas, mashed potatoes, and fresh hot biscuits. For dessert there would be strawberry shortcake and coffee or milk. Grace smelled the biscuits cooking and she thought that she wouldn't be able to stand it. Finally she grabbed a few strawberries and spooned a small bit of the cool whip onto them.
 "Dinner will be ready shortly." Andrea said, smiling. She watched Grace through knowing eyes. Grace smiled at her sheepishly.
 "I just had to have something. I am so hungry tonight." she said as she bit into a strawberry.
 "I understand that. Just save a little room for dinner."
 "Speaking of which, who was that you invited to stay for dinner? Ryan MacLeod?" Grace asked. She had finished off the strawberries and whipped cream and was now drinking a little milk.
 "No, it wasn't Ryan." Andrea answered.
 "Then who?" Grace asked as the realization hit her.
 "He said that his name was. . . "
 "Ronald Sandoval!" Grace finished for her. The taste in her mouth went sour all of a sudden.
 "Honey, what's wrong?" Andrea asked.
 "What is he doing here?" Grace said with a moan.
 "Grace, I don't understand what's wrong. He seemed nice enough." she replied.
 ~Yeah for a wolf in sheep's clothing!~
 Before she could reply Grace heard the door open and she heard the sound of Samuel's voice locked into conversation with Sandoval's. . . .
 

 Tara could feel Ron's discomfort as soon as Samuel greeted them. It wasn't difficult for her to figure out what had caused it. After all, she had helped rescue Arthur and knew who had been the one responsible for carrying out the Synod's orders . . . But she desperately wanted him to feel at home here, just like she did. That this place could be a safe haven for the both of them . . . Samuel and Andrea weren't privy to all the details about what had happened to Arthur, but Tara knew that if she explained the fact that his MI had broken down, they wouldn't hold his past actions against him. They weren't those type of people. They were kind and forgiving . . . even after their son's death. It was what made them who they were . . .
 "Why don't I show you around the house," Tara said, squeezing Ron's hand tenderly.
 "All right," he replied.
 As Tara guided him out of the front room, she could feel Ron relax as they left Samuel there. As they made their way out to the back of the house, Tara lead him to an old, sturdy swing set. Tara sat in one swing while Sandoval, looking around for a moment, finally took the other.
 "I know you're uncomfortable here," she said, "But it does touch me that you came all the way up here to see me . . ."
 "Zo'or thinks I'm on some lead to track down a Liberation spy . . ." he replied. "He doesn't know I came here . . . to see you . . ."
 She sighed and smiled. "I just wish that you could allow yourself to just BE while you're here . . . No one here will expose your true self . . ."
 "It's not that simple," he tried to explain.
 She could feel the regret and remorse rising in him and she gently took his hand and held it to her lips for comfort.
 "You don't know what I've done to them . . . What I've taken from them . . ."
 "You mean, Grace's husband, their son?" she replied.
 A look of surprise crossed his face, the pain so evident in his eyes, and fear of what she might think.
 "How did you know?" he asked.
 "The same way I feel your heart . . ." she replied. "You can trust me . . . and you can trust them . . . "
 Slowly, he leaned toward her and caressed her cheeks, then kissed her. Tara's heart melted and she lost herself in the feelings of love that passed between them.
 

 Grace stared into Sandoval's eyes and she felt nothing but hatred towards him and she felt outraged at his invasion of her sanctuary. Instantly both of them assumed their cold masks, as the warmth that had been in Sandoval's eyes only seconds before vanished. Before Grace could say the decidedly rude thing she was thinking to him, Tara reached out to take Ron's hand and he immediately became distracted. He looked at Tara and his eyes became so soft. . . .
 At that moment Andrea chose to make her entrance carrying a basket full of piping hot biscuits. She sat them down on the table. As she looked around the room, she felt the tension.
 "Dinner is served." she said.
 Grace found a place sitting between Andrea and Samuel, unwilling to go anywhere near Sandoval if she could help it. Andrea noted her hostility but decided on saying anything against it. . .
 "So, Mr. Sandoval, would you mind telling me where I have seen your face before?"

 "Excuse me for a moment." Grace said during dessert. During most of the dinner she had kept her mouth shut, knowing once she opened it she'd saying something that would be rude or hurtful. Moments before, Sandoval had excused himself, asking for directions to the bathroom from Tara before he quietly left.
 Grace had every intention of avoiding the end of the house where the bathroom was located that Tara had directed Ron to. She went to another part of the house that passed a room that Samuel used as a study. As she passed the study, she saw Sandoval standing in there, looking at something on the wall. . . .
 Grace quietly made her way up to the door. He was staring up at a picture, a portrait of Arthur. It was a beautiful oil painting of Arthur that Samuel had had made when Arthur had graduated from medical school. Grace watched him for a moment, about to speak out when she watched him as he reached up and wiped away tears from his eyes.
 "I'm so sorry. . . ." she heard him murmur.
 Stunned at this display of remorse, Grace backed away from the door. She had NEVER seen this kind of emotions from him.  Suddenly she remembered something about what Will had told her about the time he had lost his CVI. The man underneath the CVI was only concerned for his wife and had shown her such devotion and tenderness. . .
 The man underneath the CVI. . . .
 Confused as she ever was, Grace continued to make her way down the hall towards the bathroom as Sandoval emerged from the room to see her retreating form. . . .
 

 Tara felt a shift in her mind. Something had happened. As she took another bite of her strawberry shortcake, she gazed around the room. Andrea and Samuel were talking among themselves quietly. She stood up with a smile.
 "Excuse me for a moment. I'll be back . . ." she said, leaving the table.
 Andrea and Samuel looked puzzled as they realized they were at the table alone.

 As Tara wandered down the hallway, she spotted Ron standing alone in front of the study. His eyes were red. She instantly knew he had been crying. Swiftly, she went to him and took him in her arms. He buried her head in her shoulder and she cradled him with all the love she could give.
 "What did I do, Tara?" he asked, pulling away to look into her eyes.
 From further down the hall Tara glanced Grace listening. But this time, Tara sensed that she wasn't listening to fuel her hatred . . . she had suddenly saw something in him for herself that had touched her. Something that made him a real person to her. Tenderly, she held his face and kissed him. As they walked by,  Grace's eyes met with Sandoval's.
 For the first time, he looked at her, his guard down, his mask gone and whispered, "I'm sorry for the pain I have caused you . . ."
 Tara then continued to lead him out the door. Once out among the coolness of the evening, she let all the tension she had felt melt away. They walked farther into the grassy backyard toward an old barn. It was no longer used for animal. But it was a good place to be alone. Once inside, they found a mound of hay and laid down together still holding and comforting each other.
 "I wish that I wouldn't have been so gullible when the Taelons arrived," Ron confided. "So much would have been spared in my life . . ."
 "I know," Tara replied. "Because of who we are suppose to be, we have to play some kind of twisted role . . ."
 "But you haven't done what I have, Tara," he continued, tracing her face with his fingers, relishing her every feature.  "I can feel that in you . . . I always felt that in you . . . That you had a goodness that the Taelons couldn't touch . . ."
 She sighed and cuddled into his arms further. His hand gently travelled down to her abdomen where Tara's child was growing . . . his child perhaps.
 "I hope this child gets your compassion and goodness . . . She'll be much better off taking after you."
 Tara shook her head. "You forget that what you have done was not YOU doing it . . . This is the real you. You love, have compassion, you feel regret, remorse . . . If you had none of these things, then I would be inclined to believe you . . . But you have everything . . . including a living, beating, loving heart . . ."
 Determined to show him his worth to her, she kissed him. He returned the loving gesture. They decided together that the barn wouldn't be a bad place to spend the night.

 
 ["I'm sorry for the pain I have caused you . . ."]
 Grace watched them go as Sandoval's words replayed in her mind. His words, and what's more, his eyes haunted her. For the first time since she had met him, she had seen a glimpse of the REAL man that laid underneath the CVI and the "implant façade" he was forced to maintain every day around Zo'or in order to survive. For the first time, she knew about what Will had been talking about when he had told her about the Ronald Sandoval he had encountered when Sandoval's CVI had burned out originally.
 ["I'm sorry for the pain I have caused you . . ."]
 He was just as human as she was. He was also being forced to maintain a façade that was not who he really was. Just like she was. For the first time she since had known him, Grace was able to see Sandoval in a different light.
 He was as much a victim of the Taelons as all those who had died under their hands. . . .
 Tears slipped from Grace's eyes as she continued on to her bedroom. Her remaining appetite was gone. She laid on the bed, clutching the pillow as she did so and her tears just flowed.
 "God, how could I have been so blind? How could I have allowed my hatred of the Taelons be focused on someone who could not control their own actions? How?" she murmured. She cried until she fell asleep. Andrea had long ago become concerned when no one returned to the dinner table and had gone in search of Grace, Tara, and their guest.
 She found Grace asleep on top of the covers of her bed, fully dressed.
 "Poor dear." Andrea muttered as she sought to remove Grace's shoes from her feet without waking her. After she removed the tennis shoes, she wrapped Grace in a blanket and closed the door behind herself. She went to find Samuel and see if he had seen Tara or their other guest since their mysterious disappearance at dessert. . . .
 

 Samuel wandered into the backyard which was the direction he saw Tara go. As his eyes spied the barn, a smile touched his face. Quietly, he made his way to the barn and to a window. From the light shining down from the full moon, he could see Tara and Sandoval in each other's arms, their bodies hidden in the shadows, but the look on their faces said it all. He sighed with a nodded and continued back to the house.
 As soon as he entered, Andrea met him.
 "Did you find them?" she asked.
 A chuckled escaped him and he nodded. "Yeah . . ." he replied, "I found them."
 With that knowing glance, she smiled. "The barn?" she asked.
 He nodded again. "I don't think we'll be seeing Tara and Mr. Sandoval until breakfast," he smirked.
 They both chuckled to each other as Samuel placed his arm around his wife.
 "I love you, you know . . ." he said, and kissed her.
 

 The next morning, as the golden rays of sunlight hit Tara's face, she slowly came awake. Her stomach churned, but she was able to quell the feeling. Her cheek rested on Ron's chest and she could hear his heart beat. Suddenly, he was caressing her back. She rose up on her arm to look into his face.
 "Good morning," She greeted with a smile.
 He returned her smile. "Good morning," he replied, leaning forward to kiss her. "How did you sleep?"
 "Very well," she replied. "And you?"
 "Something tells me that you already know . . ." he answered with his smile growing just a touch.
 Tara sighed and rested her head on his chest once more unwilling to give up the moment, but she knew that sooner or later they would have to rise and dress. However, she was going to delay it until she couldn't any longer . . . He seemed to agree as he continued to caress her.
 

 Grace awakened early the next morning before everyone was up except Andrea. She dressed before heading down to the kitchen to get a cup of coffee. Andrea was just getting breakfast started when she entered the kitchen.
 "Good morning!" she said.
 "Good morning." Grace said, pouring some coffee. A moment of silence passed before Grace spoke. "I am going into the city this morning. I want some time alone." she said.
 "You're going to Toronto? Don't you want breakfast first?" Andrea asked.
 "No, I want to go before anyone else wakes up. Would you give Tara a message for me?"
 "Of course, honey."
 "Will you ask her to meet me in Toronto at Miller's Bookstore this afternoon at 12:30? Do you think that Samuel will mind driving her there?" Grace asked.
 "I'll bring her if need be."
 "Good. Tell her that I have a perfect Italian restaurant in mind if she'll come meet me for lunch." Grace said.
 "Okay, honey. You can take my car if you want." Andrea said
 "Thank you."
 With that, Grace left. . . .
 
 

 When Tara and Ron finally exited the barn, they were arm in arm. But before they entered the house, he stopped her and looked into her eyes.
 "When I first got here, I saw you crying at that pond . . ." he said, "Would you tell me what's bothering you?"
 She looked at him. "I . . . I . . . This baby that I am carrying is . . . going to cause either you or Ryan pain . . . and . . . I . . ." Suddenly tears sprang to her eyes again.
 Instantly, he took her in his arms and caressed her.
 "Don't worry about causing me pain . . ." he said, "You have given me so much these last few weeks . . . that nothing will ever hurt me . . . Whether or not that child is mine, I will love it for being your's . . ."
 Tara's demeanor softened once more and she smiled. "I really love you, you know . . ."
 "And I love you . . ." he replied.

 Once in the kitchen, Tara poured them both cups of coffee and they sat down at the counter. It was a beautiful day, they both thought, though they also knew he had to leave. If he spent too much time away from Zo'or, suspicions would be aroused and he wasn't going to place them in danger.
 Andrea walked in smiling. "How was your evening?" she asked.
 A light blush crossed Tara's face and Ron smiled.
 "It was very . . . pleasant . . ." he chuckled.
 "Would you care for some breakfast. I made some fresh muffins . . . blueberry."
 "That sounds wonderful . . ." Tara replied, getting up to grab plates and butter.
 "I want to thank you for your hospitality," he said. "And I regret anything that I might have done to hurt you."
 Andrea gave him a puzzled look. "Will you be leaving us today?"
 "I have to," he replied, taking Tara's hand. "I don't have a choice . . ."
 After breakfast, he put the call into his pilot and he made ready to leave. Andrea could tell that Tara didn't want him to go. As the shuttle came out of ID, Sandoval hugged Tara quickly before the pilot could see.
 "I'll see you upon your return . . ." he  said.
 As he left, Tara's heart broke.
 "By the way," Andrea said, grace would like you to meet her in town today for lunch . . . She says she has a great Italian restaurant in mind."
 Tara nodded. The distraction would be nice.
 

 Grace stood outside of Miller's Bookstore, waiting for Samuel and Tara to arrive. She glanced at her watch again and saw that it was almost 12:30pm.  She was so nervous. While she waited, Grace's CVI replayed the previous night before in her mind. She saw Sandoval differently now . . . Slowly her hatred was melting away . . . At that moment, she saw Samuel's truck pull up to the curb. Tara got out as Samuel winked at his daughter- in-law.
 "Hello, there," Tara greeted.
 She was trying hard to be happy and greeted her friend with a smile. But she was already missing Ron.
 "Come on. The Restaurant is down the street. You don't mind the walk, do you?" Grace asked.
 Tara nodded no.
 Grace began walking slowly so that they could talk as they went.
 "Tara, I wish I knew how to begin this," grace said.
 "Begin what?" Tara asked, her curiosity peaked. But her intuition told her it was about Ronald Sandoval.
 "I've been acting stupid these last few days."
 "No . . ." Tara replied, "Not stupid . . . In fact, you responded very normally . . . Most of us have to have someone to blame for things that hurt us, and we usually pick the most convenient target," she continued, "I'm just sorry that I hurt you by showing you Ron's emotions . . ."
 "I wasn't hurt by them. I just didn't want to accept the fact that the man I saw as one of my husband's cold blooded murderers could feel such emotions as he does. I wanted to him to be like James Pike or some other cold serial murderer. But it was when I looked into his eyes last night . . . the truth stared into my eyes and I saw not a man like James Pike, but someone who was a human being like myself. I saw for the first time, a man who wasn't my enemy, but as someone to be pitied for all the guilt he's carrying around on his shoulders. His eyes are haunting me, even now . . ." Grace's voice broke as she spoke.
 Tears misted Tara's eyes and she smiled. "I know . . . Under that cold facade he is more human than you can possibly imagine," she replied, "And I wish that I could take that guilt away . . . But all I can do is love him . . . Now, you understand a little of what I have been feeling . . ."
 "It may take some time, but I think I will eventually be able to see him as you do."
 "Even just this small glimmer of understanding is enough for me," she said, placing her hand gently on Grace's shoulder.
 In moments they reached the restaurant. Grace could smell the food from the door.
 "Come on! I feel like a nice big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs."
 "Hmmmm, cheese ravioli sounds better!" Tara replied, following Grace inside.
 

 The following week proved to be uneventful. Grace and Tara were truly able to rest without any unexpected surprises. Paul brought Monica and the baby over to see the girls, but other than that, there were no visitors before the morning that Ryan came to pick them up and take them home.
 As the shuttle came out of ID space, Grace and Tara tearfully said goodbye to Andrea and Samuel. Ryan stowed their suitcases back onto the shuttle as the girls climbed aboard.
 Samuel and Andrea waved good-bye until the shuttle disappeared into ID space once more . . .
 

 As the shuttle landed back in D.C. Grace quickly grabbed her things and left. She had sensed that Ryan wanted to talk to Tara. She now understood another dilemma of Tara's all too well. As she walked away from the shuttle, Ryan took Tara in his arms and pinned her back against the shuttle hull.
 "How was your trip?" he asked.
 She smiled and caressed his face. "It was relaxing . . ."
 "I hear Sandoval came up to see you . . . needed some advice from Zo'or's Head of Security on some lead on a Liberation agent . . ."
 She knew he didn't believe it. Those that knew what had really happened wouldn't have believed it either.
 "He did come up to see me," she said and turned her eyes away.
 The pain in her began to rise again as she felt Ryan's hurt resurface. But he wasn't going to show it. Instead, he caressed her face and leaned forward to kiss her.
 "Do you need a ride home?" he asked.
 "Only if it wouldn't be a bother . . ." she said.
 "Not at all . . ."
 Quickly, he grabbed her things for her and lead her away from the shuttle and to his car.

 
 Grace was amazed at the paperwork that piled up during her absence. When Grace had left from visiting Da'an than morning she thought she had seen an amused smile on the face of Liam. . . .
 ~That little. . . .I'll get him back later.~ she thought as she finished another report.
 Suddenly there was a knock at her office door. Grace looked up to see Sandoval standing in the doorway, an actual slight smile of amusement on his handsome features.
 ~Like father, like son. . . .~
 "Sandoval, how can I help you?" she asked, not sure how to address him just yet. She motioned for him to come on in. He took a seat across from her after shutting the door behind himself.
 "I wanted to thank you." he said quietly.
 "Thank me for what?" Grace asked.
 "For allowing me to invade your sanctuary like that. I know that I'm not your most favorite person on the face of the planet. . . But being able to spend time like that with Tara. . . .It meant more to me than you will ever know." he said.
 Grace sighed.
 "Well, it was worth it, I think. Your invasion I mean. I think that for the first time since we've actually known one another, we actually see each other as fellow human beings. I won't lie to you, Sandoval, there have been times I have been so disgusted with you that I was tempted to find a way to. . . ."
 "To kill me?" he finished for her.
 "Well, yeah. I mean I DID work for the agency too. I could have found a way to be rid of you if I wanted to. But then I became convinced that you were a necessary evil. A friend actually convinced me of that. . . .As the saying goes `Better the devil you know -"
 "Than the devil you don't." he finished. She nodded.
 "I am taking a risk by even being here but I had to speak to you. How much did you see of what happened in your father-in-law's study?" he asked.
 "I saw your tears and I heard your words. I can never see you in the same way as I did before." Grace said.
 "Grace," he paused as he realized he had used her first name. "Grace, I meant every word I said. I am so sorry for all the pain I have caused you. I know what it's like to lose someone you love. If I hadn't been so gullible then my wife and I might still be together today, living the life that we were meant to have since the day I fell in love with her." At some point in the conversation he had laid his hands on her desk and Grace reached forward to lay her hand briefly on his.
 "Sandoval," She paused realizing that she was still calling him by his last name. "Ron, I know a lot more than you think. I know you are worried about Zo'or finding out all the things you've been hiding from him. I promise you, he won't hear them from me. You're important to Tara and I don't want to her hurt. What's more, for the first time, I see that you have rights as a human and that's what I am fighting for. . . .to better and protect humanity." Grace said. He smiled. His global beeped. With an annoyed sigh, he took it from his belt and resumed a cold façade before answering it.
 "Yes, Zo'or?" he asked.
 [Report to the homeship immediately.]
 "Of course, Zo'or." He said and snapped his global shut with disgust.
 "He never lays off does he?" Grace asked.
 "No, he doesn't." he said standing up. He turned to leave and then turned back to Grace. "How's Da'an?" he asked.
 "He's good. He still misses Boone I think, but he's adjusting to Major Kincaid." Grace replied. Sandoval nodded.
 "Good. You do whatever it takes to protect him, but please protect your child first.  Zo'or is ruthless and he has his sights on both Da'an and your unborn child." Sandoval said. He thought for a moment.
 "And Grace?"
 "Yes?"
 "Your secrets are safe with me."
 With a puzzled expression on her face she watched him leave. . . .
 

 On the mother ship, that afternoon, Na'ar wished to speak to Zo'or via the data stream. As Na'ar's face appeared, Zo'or greeted him. Sandoval stood nearby in case Zo'or wanted him for anything.
 "I have a request of you, Zo'or," Na'ar began.
 "What is this request?" he replied.
 "Since the Synod has appointed me Companion to the United Kingdom and Ireland, I have been in need of a Head of Security. No one here has shown me the qualities I am looking for . . . But then . . . It has come to my attention that your Head of Security has not been able to perform her duties for you as of late, due to her current condition . . ."
 Sandoval's eyes immediately filled with concern. But he tried to hide it.
 "Yes," Zo'or replied, "Dr. Belman and Dr. Christian have both informed me that Commander Carmichael should not join me aboard the Mothership. That she should remain on Earth during her pregnancy . . ."
 "Then, may I request her services as my Head of Security?" he asked.
 Zo'or gazed at his fellow Taelon in the data stream. "Why is it that you seem to favor my Implants, Na'ar?" he asked.
 "Is it not obvious?" he replied, "Your's are the best . . ."
 Zo'or smiled at this compliment as he thought things over.
 "Very well," he replied, "With Agent Sandoval as my Protector I have no use for a Head of Security . . . I will have her report to you within the day . . ."
 Na'ar bowed slightly before he closed the data stream. Zo'or shot Sandoval a tormenting glance.
 "And what do you think about Tara Carmichael being sent to the UK?"
 Hiding the deep breath he was taking, he replied, "As always, your decisions are the wise ones. After all, you have no need for her."
 Satisfied with his response, he wave Sandoval out of the chamber.
 As Sandoval left, he fought to keep his facade in place. Once Tara was transferred he would hardly see her . . . But she would be safer away from Zo'or . . . Taking a deep breath he continued down the corridor.
 

 "So you're leaving when?" Grace asked.
 "At the end of the week . . ." Tara replied. "I can hardly believe it . . . I'll miss you so much . . ."
 With that, she embraced Grace warmly. She was thrilled that she would be working for Na'ar and not Zo'or . . . but it also meant she wouldn't see Ron as much . . . It wasn't fair, she wanted to cry. But life was rarely fair . . .
 "You'll miss him . . ." Grace said, voicing Tara's feelings.
 Tara nodded. "At least Ryan will be with me. Zo'or decided to transfer him with me as well . . . But . . ." she sighed, "It seems that as soon as I find some shred of love somewhere, it's snatched away . . ."
 "But at least it's not to death . . ." Grace reminded her.
 Tara forced a smile. "You're right . . . At least Ron and I can somehow make time to see each other . . . We'll find a way . . ."
 As Tara left Grace's office, Grace got an idea. She would send her friend off with a few good memories. Immediately, she pulled her global from her pocket.
 "Augur, I need a favor . . ."
 

 That night, Grace surprised Tara at her home.
 "I have a surprise for you," she said, her warm brown eyes twinkling.
 "What is it?" Tara asked.
 "First," she said, "You need to put this on."
 She handed Tara a blindfold. As Tara lifted it up she cocked an eyebrow at her friend.
 "All right . . ." She smiled, placing it over her eyes.
 Grace moved behind her to tie it in place.
 "Can you see anything?"
 "Not a thing," Tara replied.
 "Good!"
 Grace then grabbed Tara's hand and lead her from the house and into her car. As Tara got settled into her seat and Grace started the car, music began playing softly.
 "I'm assuming I'm going to like this surprise?" Tara asked with a smile.
 "You'd better!" Grace laughed.
 They drove for awhile just enjoying each other's company. But soon, the car stopped, and Grace was leading Tara out of the car and onto the street. Then a door opened and they walked into a building. Though Tara couldn't see, her other senses were running high. She could hear muffled giggles and rustling of clothing. She could also smell food. Just then, Grace stopped her.
 "Are you ready?" she asked.
 "Of course!" Tara replied.
 Instantly, someone was beside her ripping off the blindfold. She was then surrounded by many of her friend's faces as they shouted "Surprise!" The one who had released the blindfold was Ryan. Tara's face lit up as she saw everyone. They had all gathered at the Flat Planet cafe just to wish her well . . . Of course, Ryan was leaving with her, but he had obviously been in on the plans.
 "Thank you! All of you!" Tara replied.
 She spent the next several hours, chatting with her friends and nibbling the food that had been supplied. She even made a special point to say a special thank you to Augur.
 "Anything for a friend," he replied. But Tara noticed the way his eyes traveled to Grace and she nodded to herself with understanding.
 Then, to her surprise, Liam entered with Da'an.
 "It has come to my attention that you will be leaving us," Da'an said, as Tara went to him.
 "Yes . . . as you know, I will be Na'ar's Head of Security," Tara replied.
 "My only regret is that you could not have worked for me."
 Tara smiled with understand. It had been Ta'al's wish for Tara to work under Da'an, but the Synod had chosen to place her with Zo'or. Tenderly, she reached out and touched his arm.
 "Mine too . . . I would have liked that opportunity," she replied, "But life is meant to take unusual turns . . . it helps us grow . . ."
 Da'an nodded.
 ~I promise I'll keep in touch~ she told him.
 A smiled crossed his face as he bowed slightly.
 Then, someone Tara didn't recognize came up behind her. He was dressed in black from head to toe.
 "Tara Carmichael?" he said.
 "Yes?"
 "I'm here to pick you up."
 Grace was next to Ryan and could feel him bristle a bit.
 Images touched her mind and she smiled. She knew what was going on.
 "I suppose that's my cue . . . Thank you, all of you . . . This has been a wonderful evening and I will not forget it anytime soon."
 As she began following this man out the door, Ryan moved to follow her. But Grace gently laid a hand on his arm to stop him.
 "Let her go," she said softly. "As much as I know it must hurt, you have to do it."
 Reluctantly, Ryan looked at her with the pain in his eyes then walked away.

 Outside of the Flat Planet Cafe, Tara was greeted by the site of a long black limousine. The man opened the door for her and she got in. Just as she had suspected, Ron was there, waiting for her, holding a bouquet of pink roses . . .
 "I couldn't let you go without our spending one last night together . . ."
 Immediately, she took the roses, placed them to the seat next to her and cuddled into his arms. He embraced her and she could almost feel the tears before they misted his eyes, joined by her own. Leaning back up, she looked into his dark eyes filled with all the emotions that he couldn't bring himself to express. She took a deep breath and ran her hand though his hair.
 "Let's not waste tonight thinking about what will come tomorrow," she said. "Let's only think about now and what we feel . . ." With that, she kissed him.
 

 Two days later, Tara Carmichael and Ryan MacLeod transferred to the UKITD.