Disclaimer: The characters you recognize as J.E. are hers. Any other character is a figment of my imagination and any similarities to real persons is merely a coincidence.

Thank you all for the reviews. I hope this chapter can tie everything together. Thank you once again Margaret for 'making me think'. Hope this answers all the questions.

Once Again From The Beginning

Stephanie's POV:

I'd gone away for a few days to think about the direction I wanted my life to go in. I'd been yo-yoing back and forth between my on again off again boyfriend Joe Morelli and my mentor, sometimes lover, and best friend Ricardo Carlos Manoso for the better part of three years. I'd finally decided it was time to make a decision. I'd spent a week in Point Pleasant making some hard decisions and finally I ended up listening to my heart. I knew it was going to hurt people, but when it came right down to it, I knew I could do no different. With my decision made I packed up and headed back to Trenton, New Jersey. My first stop was at Joe Morelli's house. I pulled into the driveway, sat remembering for a few moments and then finally got out and went to the door. I'd told Joe that although I loved him and always would, it wasn't they way he deserved. I told him I'd been with Ranger and that it was Ranger I was in love with. I asked Joe if we could remain friends and he said he didn't know if he could watch from the sidelines while I loved another man. We hugged and then I'd left. (The Talk)

I headed over to Rangeman. I let myself into his 7th floor apartment and sat down to wait. Finally, not able to stay awake any longer I made my way to the bedroom and stripped down before climbing into bed. I was sleeping peacefully when I felt the electrical currents running down the back of my neck. Ranger lost no time stripping down and joining me. We made love several times that night. When he left the bed to go for his run, I woke up. I quickly faked sleep when I saw the pain in his eyes. I figured I'd give him a few minutes and then I would think about it while he was gone. I wondered if he ever regretted the decisions he'd made in the past. I realized I was always happiest when we were together. I'd noticed Ranger seemed more relaxed and happier whenever I would come back to him but as time wore on he would get quieter. I made a decision and when I heard him come back in, I told him I'd broke it off with Joe for good. Then I'd told Ranger I loved him. I told him I didn't want safe if it meant I couldn't have him. He told me he was fine with my decision and he wasn't making another mistake by sending me back to someone else. He was keeping me. (Two Views Same Tune)

I moved out of my apartment shortly after that and moved into Ranger's penthouse apartment. Ranger went with me when I told my parents we were going to be living together. My mom wasn't happy that we weren't getting married before we moved in together, but grandma was thrilled. Daddy looked Ranger in the eye and asked, "Do you love my little girl?"

"Yes sir, I do."

"You'll take care of her?"

"I'll protect her with my life sir. Everything I have is hers."

Their eyes locked for several seconds before daddy nodded and said, "Leave them be Helen. They love each other and he'll make her happy."

Mom sighed but said nothing, just nodded.

We were happy. I continued to work for Vinnie, but I also started working for Rangeman. Ranger did his best to train me, and I know he was only doing it so I would increase my odds when I went after skips. He still did a job here and there for the government, but he only went when he felt it was really necessary. He was on one of those missions when my world was blown apart. He'd been gone for nearly three months and had made all his check in points. Tank had just let me know earlier that night that all that was left was for Ranger to make the pick up point and he'd be on his way stateside. When I was pulled from a deep sleep by pounding on the door, my first thought was Ranger. Please let him be okay. I wrapped my robe around myself and hurried to the door.

Tank was standing at the door and I knew something was wrong by the look on his face. "Not Ranger. Please not Ranger."

"No. Ranger's fine. He made his ride and should be headed stateside soon."

"Then what?"

"I'm sorry Steph. There was a fire. It's your parents and grandma."

I felt myself drop but his arms were there to keep me from falling. I was suddenly being held in his arms and he was carrying me back into the apartment. I didn't see him push the pager on his belt. My thoughts were spinning and I couldn't wrap my head around what he'd just told me. He set me on the sofa and a few seconds later Bobby was there. He checked me out and I thought I heard him whisper, "She's in shock."

I was wrapped in a huge blanket and my feet were propped. I turned pain-filled eyes to Tank. "What happened? How?"

He shook his head. "The Fire Marshall is going through the house checking to see how it started. He'll let us know as soon as he completes his investigation."

"I should have been there. I could have helped them."

"No. Honey, there is nothing you could have done..." He looked at Bobby silently for a moment.

"Did you see the house?"

He nodded.

"Why didn't you wake me so I could go with?"

"Honey, I'm responsible for you till Ranger gets back. I wasn't letting you go near there till I knew what you'd see."

"Val...I need to go tell Val."

"Alright. You get dressed and Bobby and I will take you."

I threw the blanket off and ran to the bedroom. I quickly dressed and came back out to find Tank and Bobby standing waiting for me. I followed them on shaky legs. We made our way down to the garage and Tank led me over to one of the SUV's. It seemed like forever before we made it to Val's house. When we got there there was a TPD vehicle in the driveway. I opened the door before Tank had fully stopped the vehicle and would have jumped out if Bobby hadn't grabbed me to keep me in the SUV till it stopped. I hit the ground running. When I made it inside, Val was standing in the middle of her living room screaming at the top of her lungs. Albert was trying to comfort her but was having no luck. The look in her eyes scared me more then I liked to think, and suddenly she grabbed a pair of scissors from the end table and made a lung for the police officer closest to her. It was officer Gaspicki.(spelling) He was able to deflect her arm and avoid being stabbed. Tank stepped forward and restrained her and Bobby gave her a shot to calm her down.

Officer Picky took out his handcuffs and went to put them on Val. He visibly paled when Tank glared at him. "What do you think you're going to do?"

"I'm going to arrest her for attempted assault."

"The fuck you are. Anyone can see she's over-aught with grief."

Bobby had finished checking Val out. "I think we need to have her admitted."

Tank nodded. He looked to Albert, "We'll take her to the hospital and have them check her out. You want to come with?"
"Yes...but the children."

Tank took out his phone and put it to his ear. A couple seconds later he said, "Hey Mamma Bear. Can you come over to Val's house."

He paused listening, then, "We need to get Val to the hospital. There was a fire at Steph's parents. They're gone Mamma Bear."

Another short pause then, "Can you look after the kids." then after a last pause, "I know Lula. I'll take care of our girl."

Tank closed the phone and looked to Albert. "Lula's coming to look after the kids. As soon as she gets here you can meet us at the hospital."

"Okay. Thank you."

Tank lifted Val in his arms and when Gaspicky(spelling) looked as if he was going to argue, Tank growled at the officer with him, "You get him out of my face."

With that we made our way out to the SUV. Tank set Val in the backseat and got in beside her. When I went to argue he shook his head, "She's not herself right now Steph. You're safer up front with Bobby. I'll take care of her."

When we got to the hospital, they took Val up to the psych ward to evaluate her. I wanted to argue, but Bobby whispered, "It'll be better for her this way. She tried to attack a cop."

Reluctantly I nodded. Albert had finally made it and was waiting with us when the doctor came out. He asked if we were Val's family and I nodded. "I'm her sister and this is her husband."

"Your sister has had a tremendous shock. Her system has shut down as a way of coping with the pain. I'm afraid she's suffered a breakdown. We'll need to keep her here for a few weeks at the least." Then he looked at me, "How are you handling all this?"

"I still can't believe they're gone."

He looked at me and then his eyes went to Tank and Bobby. "If you need to talk..."

I nodded. I looked over to Albert, "Do you want me to take the girls?"

He shook his head, "No. You have enough on your plate. You're going to have to take care of all the arrangements. I don't think she's going to be up to a funeral for awhile."

"Do you have someone to take the girls?"

"My sister would love to have the girls for awhile. I'll give her a call."

I gave Albert a hug and we left. Tank drove us back to Rangeman and asked Bobby if he would stay with me so he could go sit with Lula. Bobby nodded. I gave them a sad smile and said, "Nobody has to stay with me guys. I'll be fine."

Bobby wrapped his arms around me and said, "Of course you'll be okay. But I'm still staying with you tonight. No arguments."

I waved to Tank and said, "Tell Lula I'll call her tomorrow." He nodded and then I let Bobby lead me back up to 7.

I woke up screaming in the night and Bobby was there to wrap his arms around me and talk soothingly to me to quiet me again. Once I'd calmed down and felt my eyelids start drooping, I mumbled, "Thanks Bobby."

The next time I woke up it was morning. I got up and padded into the bathroom. I took a shower using Ranger Bulgari and then dressed in my Rangeman uniform of black cargos, black t-shirt, and black boots. I put gel in my hair and twisted it up into a ponytail. After applying my make up I made my way out to the living room where Bobby was laying on the sofa. I debated waking him when I heard sounds at the door. Ella entered with a cart holding breakfast. The minute she saw me she left her cart and came over to me. She wrapped her arms around me and hugged me tight.

"I am so sorry my dear. If there is anything I can do for you..."

I hugged her back tightly and the sobs suddenly were racking my body. I couldn't stop. I didn't realize Bobby had woken up and was watching me. Ella drew me over to the sofa and sat down with me. She held me for hours as my tears poured down my face. When my tears were finally drained, I blew my nose and winced, "I'm sorry Ella. I didn't mean to cry all over you."

"I'm here anytime you need me dear." Then she stood and pulled me up, "Now come and eat something."

"I'm not really hungry right now."

"I know dear, but eat a little something for me please."

I nodded. I let her take me over to the kitchen table and I sat down. She put a waffle in front of me and loaded it with strawberries, cool whip and pecans. She sat down and watched me eat, making sure I actually did eat something. I managed half of the waffle and Ella patted my hand. "That's a start."

Bobby joined us at that point and had a waffle himself. I drank coffee as I waited for him to finish his breakfast. When he finally pushed his plate away, he looked over at me and said, "Tank has arranged for the funeral director to meet us on 5. We're all going to be there when you make the arrangements."

I looked at him for several seconds and then just shook my head, "What would I ever do without you guys?'

Bobby grinned, "That's one thing you never have to worry about Bomshell. We'll always be here for you."

Bobby took my elbow when we entered the elevator and when we reached 5 he led me out and towards the conference room. They were all there. The guys who were working stopped and stood when they saw us. As Bobby and I made our way to the conference room, they each took a turn pulling me into their arms and hugging me. I couldn't stop the tears filling my eyes as I hugged each of them back. When we finally entered the conference room, the rest of Rangeman was there. They were sitting around the conference table and there were extra chairs to accommodate them all. Tank was sitting beside the funeral director and there was an empty seat beside him, and another beside it. Bobby sat me beside Tank and then he took the other empty seat. Lester sat across from me, and Hal, Woody, Cal, Ram, and Hector were there as well.

They all sat there with me as I chose coffins, flowers, prayers, songs and countless other details. When things got too much, the guys would insist I take a break and they'd take turns walking with me so I could get some fresh air. It was during one of these walks I found myself talking to Cal. He had an arm around my waist as we were walking around outside. I sighed and he stopped me and lifted my chin so our eyes met.

"What's wrong Bomber?"

"What will happen when Val gets better and realizes we had the funeral without her? I don't want her to have a set back."

Cal laid his hand on my cheek and said, "I think in time she'll understand. We could have another service when she feels up to it though. I have a cousin who dabbles in film making. I could ask him to record the funeral so when she feels up to it she can watch it."

I looked up to Cal and nodded. "I think I'd like that too. I know it's going to be an emotional day and I probably won't remember everything."

He gave me a hug, "We'll get two copies then."

We made our way back inside and Cal let the others in on what we'd talked about.

The funeral took place three days later. Lula had taken me shopping and I'd found a black dress and pair of shoes. Connie insisted on doing my nails. Mary Lou helped me with my hair and make up. Vinnie had made noise about my having so much time off, but Lucille had come in that day to express her sympathy and when she heard him nagging me she'd told him I was taking as much time as I needed and if he didn't like it she'd call her daddy and have him explain it to him. Vinnie was extremely sympathetic after that. Not only did I get the time off but so did Lula and Connie so they could help me in any way I might need it.

I found out the guys were screening my calls. Seems I'd had several from various people in the Burg. All asking how Val and I were holding up. Apparently the guys felt the calls weren't as sympathetic as they should be and leaned more towards I want the dirt on what's going on. I never knew about those calls. The only ones I got were from grandma Mazur's friends, daddy's lodge buddies and army pals, and a couple of the ladies mom enjoyed talking with. I'd had several requests from the ones who got through. Although I wasn't sure what everyone would think, I found myself agreeing to the requests. I knew it's what grandma would have wanted.

When we arrived at the church for the service, I was surrounded by Merry Men. Tank had called the other offices and explained what was going on. He'd had his choice of volunteers. He picked enough men to cover what was necessary so that all of Rangeman Trenton could attend the funerals. Tank was on one side of me and Bobby was on the other with Lester beside him. The others closed ranks behind me. Joe had come over, but the guys kept him from getting too close. He glared at them but they didn't budge. He told me he was sorry for my loss and went back to join his buddies. As the funeral service moved on I found my thoughts drifting away. "Oh Batman! I need you so badly right now."

The service finally ended and we made our way to the cemetery. I sat on a chair with Lula, Connie, and Mary Lou beside me. The guys were behind me. I looked around with tear-filled eyes. They were all there. There were several firefighters, police officers, daddies army buddies as well as his lodge brothers and fellow cabbies. The ladies mom spent time with were all standing with their bibles in hand. My heart caught as I looked over the ladies from the Cut & Curl. All grandma's friends were there. They were dressed in neon spandex outfits, their hair was died in neon colors that matched their outfits. They had party horns they would blow every now and then. Sally Sweet was there and so was Mooner and Dougie. Several more of my former skips that were now my friends were there. My gaze landed on Morelli. Our eyes met and I thought I glimpsed pain and regret in his eyes but I couldn't be sure. I noticed Gaspicky (spelling) was notably absent and I was grateful for that. Joe Juniak had read him the riot act for trying to arrest Val, and for the way he'd barged in to tell her about the fire. Seems he'd been but on administrative leave for a couple weeks.

Suddenly my gaze was caught by a man in black who'd just arrived. He knelt on the ground by the coffins and I heard him say, "Babe."

I felt my walls come crashing down, "Oh Batman! They're all dead." With that I launched myself into his arms and wept. After several moments he stood with me in his arms and carried me to his car. He drove us back to Haywood and carried me up to 7. There we stayed for a few days and he would alternately hold me and at other times he made such sweet love to me, letting me know I was still alive.

Tank's POV:

I was in my apartment getting ready for bed when the page came in from the control room. There was a fire in the Burg. It was bad. It was Stephanie's parents. There were no survivors. My heart stopped for a moment before I demanded, "Where's Steph?"

Woody came back with, "She's on 7."

"I'll go up and tell her."

I dressed quickly, but before I went up I knew there was a call I had to make. Ranger had been in the wind for nearly three months and I knew he was finishing up. He would be catching his ride and heading back about now. I made my way to my office and grabbed the secure phone and punched in the numbers.

"Yo."

"Ranger."

"What's wrong?"

"Steph's safe. There was a fire at her parents. There were no survivors."

"I'm on my way. Take care of her for me."

"Already on it."

I hung up and put the phone back in my safe. Then I made my way to the elevator and up to 7. When Steph came to the door she must have sensed something was wrong. All she said was, "Not Ranger. Please not Ranger."

I let her know Ranger was fine and on his way back. Then I had to tell her about her parents and grandma. I paged Bobby and once he got there, Steph wanted to go make sure Val was okay. I drove over there and things got worse. Val went off the deep end and tried to attack a cop with scissors. We took her to the hospital and she got admitted to the psych ward. I finally drove us back to Haywood and Bobby agreed to stay with her so I could stay with Lula.

When I got back to Val's house, Lula was resting on the sofa. She took one look at me and burst into tears. I wrapped my arms around her and held her close. The next day I arranged for the funeral director to meet us at Rangeman so Steph could make the arrangements. It took some talking but he finally agreed. I'd left orders for the control room to screen Steph's calls. Morelli stopped by and I went down to the lobby to see what he wanted. He said he wanted to see if she needed anything. I told him we were taking care of her. He wanted to see her and I told him that wouldn't be a good idea. He glared at me and said he wasn't a monster and had no intention of hurting her. I nodded and said maybe but I wasn't letting him near her on my watch. He didn't like it but he did leave after a fashion.

I called the other offices and told them what happened. I had my pick of volunteers to cover the Trenton office. After picking enough guys to cover so all Rangeman Trenton could be at the funeral, I went to 5 so I could be in the conference room in case she needed us. We all made sure she took breaks and tried to help any way we could. I was never so happy as on the day of the funeral when Ranger finally arrived. He looked to me and our eyes met. He thanked me for taking care of her.

"I had some of the other offices cover."

He just looked me in the eye and said, "No price."(Not In Time)

I nodded. I knew what he was telling me. There was no price he wouldn't pay for her.

Lester's POV:

I kept my eyes trained on Bombshell throughout the church service and at the cemetery. I was ready in case she broke down. No way was Morelli getting anywhere near her. When I'd heard about what happened, I'd given the order for the control room to screen her calls. I didn't want anyone upsetting her more then she already was. The guys had just laughed and told me I was a little slow off the mark because they'd already planned to make sure no one fucked with Bomber. The calls we let through were friends of grandma Mazur or Frank Plum. Only a couple calls through from friends of Steph's mom. I overheard Binkie fielding a call from Belle Morelli. He gave the spiel about the caller having reached Stephanie Plum's answering service, could he take a message. His face got redder by the minutes as he listened to the caller. Then his voice got deadly soft and he said, "Yeah, well I've got the eye too lady. Not only that but I got the finger and it's up. So sit on it and rotate your ass! You call Steph again and they won't find the pieces." With that he slammed the phone down. He turned to look at the rest of us and their was murder in his eyes. Our gazes locked and he said, "You gotta keep her away from me or she won't live long enough to see her precious grandson married with babies of his own. The nerve of that bitch calling Steph to say now was the time for her to Marry Joe and start her own family!"

That pissed us all of. That was the worst call. The others were just being nosy. Well, they could be nosy on someone else s watch. They weren't getting through to Bomber and that was that. We'd had a private meeting and planned out our strategy. Tank, Bobby and I would be in the inner circle and the rest of the guys would close ranks around us. No one was to get through except Ranger. The anguish in Beautiful's eyes broke my heart. I was ready to step forward, but I noticed out of the corner of my eye that Ranger had arrived. We all took a sigh of relief. Although we would have done what we could, we all knew we weren't him.

Joe's POV:

When I heard the call I couldn't believe it. Frank and Helen Plum and grandma Mazur were dead. They'd died in a house fire. My first thought was for Cupcake. She'd be devastated. I had to finish up on what I was doing before I could go to her though. When I finally made it to Rangeman, Tank came down and talked to me. The bastard wouldn't even let me up to see her. I wasn't happy about it but I left. The last thing Steph needed right now was more pain. I watched her on the day of the funeral. She came into the church with Ranger's men surrounding her. I shook my head. She had tighter security then Fort Knox. I watched her throughout the service. I kept thinking what if? What if I'd been the one she really loved? Then I'd be standing beside her now and she'd be in my arms. I still loved her. The sad thing is, I would have accepted it. She could have kept Ranger and I wouldn't have questioned her. I wished she hadn't of said anything. How week does that make me? I would have married her and accepted that she had a lover. A man she couldn't give up because she loved him too. I knew all along. That's why I never really asked. I didn't want to know the answer. I tried to get close to her again just awhile ago but they wouldn't let me near. All I was able to do is tell her I was sorry for her loss. Now here I stand watching her, not being able to go to her. They'd closed ranks and were protecting her.

Unknown POV:

Edna would have been so proud. Her granddaughter had done a good job with the arrangements. Poor dear. To loose all three of them at the same time. She was strong though. Not once had she broken down during the service at the church, or while the priest was talking here at the cemetery. She was close though. You could see the tears in her eyes. We would comfort her if they let us, but they weren't letting anyone close to her. I licked my lips at seeing all that beef-cake surrounding her. Edna was right. Those men in black had magnificent packages. We all gave a sigh of relief when her young man arrived. She launched herself into his arms and the tears broke through. He said something to that large tank like person and then he carried her away. I doubt he even saw us. She was his whole focus. I noticed the relieved looks on all their faces. They knew he was what she needed too. I let my gaze wander to the other girls. I'd called and asked her if she would be offended if we dressed up for Edna. Not in the traditional black, but in bright neon colors that she would love. The dear girl had told me she thought that was a wonderful idea and thanked me for thinking of it. Such a sweet girl. Not at all like her stick in the mud mother, God rest her soul. Stephanie was truly a throwback of her grandma.

I was glad to see Joe Morelli had enough sense not to bring his mother and that awful grandmother of his. We'd all heard Belle tried to call Stephanie and what she'd said to that man in black. Oh was she in for it now. She wouldn't find a welcome from any of us. I smiled, thinking about the plans we'd made for Belle Morelli. My eyes landed on the man I'd heard referred to as Binkie. I'd heard he wanted Belle kept away from him because otherwise he couldn't guarantee she wouldn't be in pieces that would never be found. Hmm... I shook my head and looked around. Every one was starting to leave. I looked to the girls and we all nodded. We made our way over to Edna's casket. The funeral director was there waiting for us. He smiled and nodded at us before nodding to a young man standing beside the casket Edna was supposed to be resting in. The lid was opened and we all let our gazes fall on the charred remains in the coffin. Each of us taking a turn placing the items we had brought into the casket. There was Edna's gun, various items she'd always admired that we'd been able to replace, and then the piece de resistance. We placed the photos we'd been handed by that Lester person. All the Rangemen had posed in provocative poses displaying their packages to the best advantage. We all felt a little sad, we'd promised all the photos would go with Edna. No copies. That was the concession we'd made to them for their doing this. I felt the tears falling down my cheek as we bid our friend a final good-bye. We clasped our hands together and said a silent prayer before I turned and nodded to the young man to let him know he could close the casket now. Once it was sealed again, we turned and made our way to our waiting cars. I noticed as we left that there was a man in black watching as the caskets were lowered into the ground. I'd bet he would remain until the graves had been filled in to make sure those photos didn't resurface. Not that they had anything to be ashamed of. The photos should the men fully clothed with their packages the focus of the photo.

We'd miss Edna. She was a breath of fresh air.

An Unfriendly POV:

How dare they. Ingrates. How dare they have this funeral without any input from us. Everyone knows Helen would have wanted a true Burg funeral. Instead that daughter of hers had made all the arrangements. Leaving us out of the loop. We couldn't believe it when Belle told us she'd been threatened just for calling her. Helen would have been mortified at the goings on at her funeral. We'd all agreed that Stephanie Plum was to be ostracized from The Burg for good. Let's see how she likes that. Her and those men in black...the way she carries on. None of understand how Joseph can still have feelings for the little slut. Poor Angie. To have to put up with the husband she had, and now her son still holding a torch for a little slut that's not worthy of the dirt under Angie's feet. We are all looking for the day when Stephanie Plum gets her just desserts.

The Home Guards POV:

Frank would have been proud today. His little girl did him proud. She'd held it together like a trooper. Only breaking down and crying at the end when her man had her back. We all smiled at the antics of Edna's friends. They were the bright spot in an otherwise dark day. Edna would have loved it. Frank would have been proud of his baby for making the day something all three of the deceased would have liked. We knew Rangeman would close ranks and protect Steph. That left us with the task of making sure the Burg gossips were cut off at the knees. We all got quite a chuckle when we'd heard what that Binkie character had said to Belle Morelli. As for officer Gaspickie (spelling), I grinned, we were all hoping he'd try pulling one of us over so we could explain how the Burg worked. Poor dumb bastard. He wouldn't know what hit him. I'd watched Joe Morelli during the service. He still carried a torch for her. She'd told him she wanted to be his friend, but it was easy to see he still wanted more. I could understand it. She was a one of a kind woman. A man would be lucky to have her love him. My job was clear now. I knew Stephanie would be fine with Ranger, but I'd made a promise to a buddy. It was now my job to look out for her. I was honored to have the chance to repay Frank for saving my life in the war. I knew my friends would join me.

Ranger's POV:

It was nearly three months since the funeral and I didn't feel like Babe was bouncing back like she should. It hurt me to see so much sadness in her eyes. So many firsts, and her family wasn't there to share it. I knew that made it hurt worse. I'd made a call today. I'd called my mom and asked if she could have a room ready for Babe and me. She just told me to bring her to them. I'd asked Ella to pack for us so I could surprise Babe, because I didn't think she'd go any other way. Although Ella and Luis had gone to the funeral to be with Steph, they stayed on the outskirts so that the guys could better protect her. Ella had been slowly making Babe some of her favorite desserts, getting her to eat little bits here and there. Babe had lost weight in the past three months, weight she never needed to loose in the first place. Babe hadn't gone back to work for Vinnie. When she'd told him her heart wasn't into it he'd started to go off on her until I slammed him into a wall. I held the little weasel up by his shirt collar and told him if he stopped then I might consider letting the guys take care of the skips for awhile, but if he kept it up all bets were off. He'd shut up and said Steph could have all the time she wanted. I was waiting for Babe to get out of the shower now. Everything was packed and we were leaving right after breakfast.

When she finally came out I hesitated a moment thinking maybe we could spend the morning in bed, but then I knew my mom was expecting us for lunch. I sighed silently and walked Babe to the breakfast table. Ella had made pancakes for Babe. She sat down and poured syrup on top of them, then added pecans. She dug in moaning over her food for the first time in I don't know how long. I felt relieved to see her enjoying her food again. I just hoped what I had planned was going to help her.

Stephanie's POV:

I pushed my plate away, not believing I'd eaten three pancakes loaded with syrup and pecans. I was so full, but they had been so good. Ella was magic. I sipped my coffee as I watched Ranger finish his breakfast. The past three months had been really hard. Ranger had hired a psychiatrist to help Val. Albert and the girls were also able to talk with him. The prognosis was guarded but favorable. I visited when I could but I was wrung out by the time I got home because Val and the girls would cling and beg me not to go. Lula was a God-send. She would pick Mary Alice up on Saturdays and take her to a riding stable. She'd wait for Mary Alice to have a riding lesson and then take her out for lunch and shopping. Then when she'd take her back home she'd order a pizza to be delivered and she'd put in a Disney movie for the girls. I asked Lula once why she did it, and she told me no little girl should have to grow up so fast. She'd told me Mary Alice wasn't going to lose all of her childhood if she had anything to do with it. I'd hugged her and thanked her for being such a wonderful friend.

I looked up and met Ranger's gaze. From the look on his face I figured there were tears in my eyes again. He took my hand and brought it to his lips. "Will you take a drive with me Babe."

I nodded. "A drive sounds good."

He stood and helped me up. He wrapped his arm around my waist and led me towards the elevator. We made our way down to the garage. He helped me into the Turbo and after making sure I was buckled in he went around and got into the driver's seat. We rode in companionable silence for quite awhile. I frowned when I noticed a familiarity about the neighborhood we were driving in. I turned to look at Ranger.

"Sorry Babe. I didn't think you'd agree to come. I thought we could stay with my parents for a week. Kind of take a break."

"I'm not sure I'm up to it..."

"You don't have to be. Just be yourself."

Ranger parked in the driveway and helped me out of the car. We made our way to the front door and it opened before we reached it. Ranger's mom stood in the doorway waiting for us to join her. She wrapped me in her arms and held me tight for several seconds. I don't know why, but I lost it. The tears just poured out of me. She led me inside and sat down on the sofa beside me. She held me for what seemed like hours. I was unaware that Ranger had gotten our luggage from the car and put it in our room, or that his father had come in and they talked quietly. At some point I fell asleep. When I woke I was lying on the sofa with a blanket over me. I looked around and listened, trying to hear any sound. I heard muffled voices coming from the kitchen. I got up and made my way to the kitchen. Ranger and his father were seated at the kitchen table and his mother was working at the stove. I stopped in the doorway and Ranger's head turned and our gazes locked.

"Hey Babe. Feeling better?"

"Yes. I'm sorry..."

Maria came over and hugged me, "You have no need to be sorry. Sit down and I'll bring you some lunch." She wagged her finger at me, "I don't want to here anything about not being hungry either young lady."

I gave a weak smile and did as I was bid. Maria brought me over a plate of the most delicious smells I'd ever smelled. I dug in and moaned with the first bite. I blushed when Ranger and his dad laughed. I didn't let their amusement ruin my appetite though. I managed to eat most of it before pushing the plate away. That day set the tone for our visit. We went for walks, talked into the wee hours, laughed, cried, hugged and most of all loved. Maria and Rafael gave me unconditional love. Sometimes Ranger and I would spend time alone but mostly we shared the week with his parents. I didn't realize it at the time, but this was exactly what I needed. When it was finally time to say good-bye, I felt a little saddened.

Ranger had loaded the car and come back to tell his parents good-bye. Maria took me in her arms and said, "I'm your momma now honey. Anytime you need me I'm here."

Rafael hugged me and said, "I am your pappa. You come to me if you need anything."

I hugged them both back and with tears in my eyes I replied, "Thank you for everything. I just want you to know you have both helped me so much. This was just what I needed."

We hugged again and then Ranger led me out to the Turbo. He made sure I was seat-belted before going to the driver's seat.

Seven months after the funeral, I was helping Lula bring in a skip when things went a little hinky. We had to chase the skip for quite a few blocks and as we neared him I saw the gun too late. I was hit and it knocked me back a few feet. Lula went into Rhino mode telling the skip, "Oh no you didn't just shoot her you mother fucker. When Batman gets through with you your goin' to wish you was dead! Then when he gets through with you I'm gonna have my Tankie start." She hand-cuffed him and sat on him before going on, "Now you just lay still while I get my girl hooked up." She'd called Tank first and then an ambulance. By the time the ambulance had got there, Ranger and Tank were there. They'd brought Binkie with them to take the skip in. Binkie had chained him to the back of his vehicle and drove to the police station making the skip run in order to keep up with the vehicle. He made sure he didn't once drag him with the SUV, but the skip was exhausted after running all the way to the police station. Who would have thought it would take 5 hours to get to the police station when it had only been two miles away.

When I came out of surgery, it was touch and go. The bullet had gone in close to a major artery and I was lucky to still be alive. It was touch and go for awhile. When I finally was out of danger and woke, Ranger dropped to his knees and held me tight. "Babe. Marry me. I can't live without you."

I smiled, "You know that's not what you want Batman. I'm okay with living together and having a committed relationship. I love you enough to accept what you can give me."

He had the funniest look on his face as I closed my eyes and fell asleep. A few days later I was released from the hospital.

Ranger renewed his efforts to get me to agree to marry him. It took him four months to convince me he truly wanted marriage. Candlelit dinners, weekend getaways, oh and the way he made love to me know. It was then there was no doubting his feelings for me. Oh the way that man made love to me...I'd never felt so cherished in my life. Today was our wedding day. In just a few hours Ranger and I would say our wedding vows. Lula was going to be my Maid Of Honor and Tank was the Best Man. The wedding was going to take place at Ranger's parents. They had a beautiful garden and they had been thrilled when we'd asked to have the ceremony there. Lula and I had driven up the night before and were staying with Maria and Rafael. All of the guys who weren't on duty would be joining us today, as well as Ranger's family. Rachel and Julie were flying in from Miami.

When the time came, I took a deep breath and glanced at Lula. There were tears in her eyes when she looked at me, "You are so beautiful white girl."

I grinned, "That's good to know."

"I'm so proud of you girl."

"Thanks Lula."

She hugged me, "Ready?"

I nodded. She opened the door and I was surprised to see one of my dad's old cronies. I frowned and tried to place him. I smiled when I finally put a name to him, "Mr. Olivers! How nice to see you."

"Stephanie. I promised your daddy I would look after you if ever anything happened to him. I talked to your young man and he agreed to let the boys come today. I hope you don't mind?"

"No. I'm happy you were able to come today."

He nodded. "I asked Ranger if he would allow me to walk you down the aisle. He told me that would be up to you."

I brushed away a tear, "I would be honored to have you walk me down the aisle. Daddy always spoke highly of you."

"You were your daddies pride and joy."

The wedding march began to play and Lula headed down the aisle in front of me. As I took Mr. Olivers arm he led me out to the garden where everyone waited for us. I gasped in surprise. Mr. Olivers chuckled, "I take it we surprised you?"

"Yes. How?"

"When we heard you were getting married, we knew we wanted to be here for you today. Your grandma's friends felt responsible for seeing to it you started out your married life happy. They wanted to represent Edna for you today. The guys and I are here to represent your dad, and there are even a few well chosen ladies to represent your mother. You might call us the Best Of The Burg."

I laughed and said, "That you are. Thank you all."

Mr. Olivers placed my hand in Ranger's and when the priest asked who gave this woman, Mr. Olivers replied, "It is my honor to act in her father's steed and place her into the safekeeping of Ricardo Carlos Manoso."

Ranger and I exchanged our vows and when the priest introduced us as Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo Carlos Manoso, we turned and faced our family and friends. They were right. We had the best here with us. I felt in my heart that daddy, mom and grandma Mazur were with us that day as well. Ranger and I kissed with love and passion, only pulling apart when the catcalls filtered into our consciousness. Ranger picked me up in his arms and without looking away from me he told Tank he was in charge for the next month. Then he carried me out to the Turbo and we headed for the airport.

Julie's POV:

I was thrilled to be watching my father and Stephanie get married today. Anyone could see they belonged together. One day I was going to grow up just like her. Oh, don't get me wrong, I love my mom and all. But Steph was super cool.

Stephanie's POV:

So much had happened since the day I'd had The Talk with Morelli. Ranger and I had admitted our feelings for each other and he and the Merry Men had helped me over the loss of my parents and grandma Mazur in a fire. We'd gotten married, and we now had three children. Our oldest, Dante Frank Plum was 6 and ½ years old. Alejandro Rafael was 4 and ½, and Kaitlyn Rose was 3. We were getting ready to head to Pino's to meet Joe and his family. Ranger wasn't thrilled with our monthly meetings, they had started after Joe married and his oldest Danny was born. Danny was now 5 years old and Joe had a daughter Melanie who was three. At times I would see Ranger look at me while I was talking to Joe. He knew it hurt me that Joe hadn't seemed to move on. Ranger would comment that Joe should be happy with his own family. Ranger indulged me these meetings, and as long as Morelli didn't step out of line I knew he would continue to do so. (Morelli's Regret)

We continued to get together with my dad's army buddies and cabby friends, as well as a few of mom's friends and of course the ladies from the Cut & Curl. I was able to watch the video of the funeral and I couldn't help but love the guys more for the photos they'd given the ladies to put in with grandma. I knew grandma would have been thrilled with what the ladies had done at her funeral. Ranger always watched it with me. By the time we reached the end we were both laughing. Me openly and Ranger silently.

A funny thing happened in The Burg. All those women who had nothing better to do then gossip about my life found themselves ostracized by those who remained loyal to me. Many of them had since then moved and now the Burg was filled with people like the ladies from the Cut & Curl and daddies friends.

Officer Gaspicki (spelling) finally decided to transfer out of Trenton. It seems every time he stopped anyone and charged them, the charges were dropped due to lack of evidence. He never figured out how all the guns he confiscated turned up missing when the defendant went to trial.

I worked at Rangeman full time now and had since before I was pregnant with Dante. The guys all made me feel like family. They were so good to me. Tank and Lula were godparents to all three of our children. The rest of the guys were honorary uncles. They would protect my babies with their lives, of that I had no doubt. We made it a point to spend every other Sunday with Ranger's parents and often the rest of the family was there as well. Life was good. Val had finally worked through her grief and was now stronger then ever. It had taken her three years to be able to accept they were gone and we had a second funeral to allow her to say good-bye. (Val's Story) Like I said, Life was good.

This is the story from the start. Hope it has answered all your questions.