They were all in the waiting room, waiting to hear any news. Everyone was lost in their own thoughts. A short time later mark came in. They all looked at him hopefully. The look on his face said it all. He sat down and put his face in his hands. He let out with a deep shuddering sigh. He looked up and said, she lost the baby. It was a little girl.

lily and marcus went over to him. Lily, standing in front of him pulled him to her breast and held him. Marcus put his hand on his shoulder said, son, i'm so sorry. He held on to his mother and although he tried not to, he started to cry. Deep wracking sobs that came from his soul. Mom, it hurts so bad he sobbed. Lily held him and soothed i know son. We're all here for you and thunder. How is she doing? When she realized that the baby was gone, she asked what it was. When dr. Syms told her it was a girl, she started to cry, then she started to scream. He had to sedate her. He said.

Glenn and fyre came over to him. Mark is there anything we can do? Mark sighed and said just be there for her, be supportive. He released lily and stood up. He hugged his dad and said, i need to get back to her. Dr. Syms said she'll be released in a few days. He left the room.

"i can't believe it," glenn said. "dr. Syms said after the last miscarriage that if she could hold on to the baby past the forth month, things should be all right,"

Fyre said. "i'm staying here glenn. She's going to need to talk when she wakes up. Lily, can you stay with mike and lily, jr.?

"sure honey not a problem. I'll go over to your place right now. I'm sure john and annie will want to know and they can get on home."

glenn said, "i'd better get to the station. It's almost time to relieve george." he kissed her and told her to give his love to her and he'll stop by after work.

"i will honey," she said.

After everyone left, fyre sat down in the empty room. She leaned back, closed her eyes and let her mind wander.

CHAPTER 2

Two months later, Mark came into the cafe' a look of anger on his face. "What's wrong Babe?" Thunder asked.

He got himself a cup of coffee and sat down. "I don't believe it he said. I just got a call from the mayor."

"What does he want?" she asked.

"It seems we're going to have some excitement here in town for a month or so. A production company is coming here to make a movie."

Thunder said "And your point is?"

"Well, it's not the movie thing, it's the so called star.

"And the star is?" she asked, thinking along the lines of Harrison Ford or Tommy Lee Jones.

He looked at her and said, "The so called star is Donna Swan."

"Never heard of her," Thunder said. Then she made the connection. "Oh shit! You don't mean…?"

"Yep, my ex wife," he said. "She's the last person I want to see much less have to talk to. Damn! he yelled.

"Well, honey, don't worry about it. She's in your past and we're here in your present and your future." She took his hand and placed it on her rounded belly. He caressed her belly and said, "You always know the right thing to say to calm me down." He kissed her and said, I've got a meeting with the mayor and the city council, and I've got to pick up Glenn along the way."

"How's everyone over there?" she asked.

"Fine, Mike's finally unpacked his suitcase and now he's saying that he's a big brother. He's still not too happy that the baby turned out to be a girl though," he laughed.

"Hang on a second," she said. She went over top the cookie jar and filled a bag with his favorite cookies. "Give these to him and tell him Auntie Thunder loves him." Mark took the bag and said, "Will do" and left to pick up Glenn.

CHAPTER 3

Thunder was alone in the cafe,' John and Annie were working in the bar. She heard the bell over the door and she came out to take the order. A lone woman stood there looking around. She was tall, blonde, beautiful in a plastic flashy way.

Thunder immediately knew who she was. Mark's ex, Donna. She decided to practice what she'd been preaching to Mark and be nice. "Hi," she said, "Can I help you?"

Donna looked down her nose at her and she sat at a table. "I don't suppose you have a menu?"

Thunder bristled and said, "Why yes we do" and went to the counter and got her one. Donna looked it over and said, "It looks like Lily and Marcus finally joined the twentieth century. This menu's almost tolerable". Thunder's eyes flashed "I guess you must have missed the new sign outside. The cafe' and bar now belong to my partner and I. Let me introduce myself, My name is Thunder Calloway." Donna's eyes almost popped out of her head "Calloway? Which brother did you marry?" Thunder put her hand on her belly smiled and told her Mark. "Glenn's married to my partner Fyre". "My God," Donna said, "Is the girl blind? Who would want to marry that freak? "

Thunder, her temper on the edge of gone, said, "I guess you haven't been back in a while, but Glenn's had surgery on his face and he's back to his beautiful, normal self. He and Fyre have two beautiful children, and just in case you haven't noticed, Mark and I will be expecting our child on Christmas Eve."

"Well," she said. "Mark finally got what he wanted. A wife who's willing to have his babies. Tell me Ms. Thunder, Do you really like small town life?"

Thunder said, "Yes, I love it and I love being pregnant too." Donna told her, "I hated it here. I wanted out, I knew there was more and I wanted it all."

"Well, it seems like you got what you wanted," Thunder said. "Will you be in town long?"

Donna sneered at her. "Haven't you heard? I'm the star of this movie. Without me there is no movie. I expect we'll be here about a month to six weeks."

The bell over the door jangled and three men came in. Thunder excused herself and went to take their orders. They saw Donna and called to her. "Come and join us we have some things that need to be discussed." Donna turned and smiled. She got up and went over to their table. "Peter, Stan, David, when did you get into this hell hole town? I wasn't expecting you until tomorrow." Thunder came over to their table and asked, "Donna, will you be joining the gentlemen?"

"Yes, I will," she replied. "I'll have a chef's salad and an iced tea. Do you think you can handle that dear?" Donna looked at her with disdain.

"Well, Gee now, I guess if I run into any problems, I have my trusty old cookbook in the back." The three men burst out laughing. Thunder took the rest of the orders and went to the kitchen. She was just finishing the orders when Mark and Glenn came in the back door.

"Hello Darlin'," Mark said as he came up behind her. "Hey Sis," Glenn smiled at her. She turned and snapped, "What the hell do you two want?" Mark took a step back, surprise written all over his face. Glenn just stood there too dumb founded to do or say anything.

"What happened?" he asked her. She turned around and saw their faces and she immediately felt terrible. "Oh Babe, I'm sorry, Glenn honey, please forgive me. It's just that I had the wonderful experience of meeting Donna."

Glenn said, "She was here?"

"Oh yeah, and for what it's worth, Honey, you were right. She's a real piece of work."

Mark took her in his arms. "I'm sorry Darlin', I'll do my best to keep her away from you."

Glenn said, "I'll have John and Annie keep a watch too. If she tries any crap....."

"Glenn, it's OK," Thunder told him. "I think it was a one time thing. She got really pissed when she found out that Mom and Dad didn't own the cafe' anymore. She just came in to rub their faces in her so called success." Mark held her closer and said, "If she bothers you again, I'll rub her nose in something." Thunder and Glenn burst out laughing.

Just then there was a loud, "Oh Waitress!!!!" Mark's head shot up. "Oh shit! She's here?"

Glenn groaned, "Oh Hell here we go!"

Mark started for the door, Thunder put her arms around him and said, "No, let me." She went out and said, "Yes?" Donna said, "How much longer do we have to wait for our lunches?"

She looked at her companions and said, "I tried to tell you, You've got to hire a caterer. If this is any example of the service, no one will ever get fed. I'll tell you all one thing, If we ever get our orders, and if this food isn't up to my standards, I'm calling Barry and demand that he does."

Thunder, who had heard everything she said, had reached the end of her patience, she was about to tell her what she could do with her so called standards, but was stopped by Mark and Glenn. They came thru the door each holding a tray with their orders. They were in their uniforms and had donned aprons. They came over to the table and after finding out who had ordered what, served them. Mark placed Donna's salad in front of her. He then said softly in her ear, "Eat your salad, then get out and don't let me find out you've fucked with my wife again." He smiled and straightened up. "Enjoy your lunches," he said. Donna's face was flaming red with anger. Her companions laughed and asked, "Do the sheriff and his deputy pull double duty often?" Mark laughed and said, "Just until the baby comes."

Chapter 2

Two months later, Mark came into the cafe' a look of anger on his face. "What's wrong Babe?" Thunder asked. He got himself a cup of coffee and sat down.

"I don't believe it," he said. "I just got a call from the mayor. "

"What does he want?" she asked.

"It seems we're going to have some excitement here in town for a month or so. A production company is coming here to make a movie."

Thunder said , "And your point is?"

"Well, it's not the movie thing, it's the so called star."

"And the star is?" she asked thinking along the lines of Harrison Ford or Tommy Lee Jones.

He looked at her and said, "The so called star is Donna Swan."

"Never heard of her." Thunder said. Then she made the connection. "Oh shit! you don't mean..?"

"Yep. My ex wife," he said. "She's the last person I want to see much less have to talk to. Damn!" he yelled.

"Well, honey don't worry about it. She's in your past and we're here in your present and your future." She took his hand and placed it on her rounded belly. He caressed her belly and said, "You always know the right thing to say to calm me down." He kissed her and said, "I've got a meeting with the mayor and the city council, and I've got to pick up Glenn along the way."

"How's everyone over there?" she asked.

"Fine. Mike's finally unpacked his suitcase and now he's saying that he's a big brother. He's still not too happy that the baby turned out to be a girl though." he laughed.

"Hang on a second," she said. She went over top the cookie jar and filled >a bag with his favorite cookies. "Give these to him and tell him Auntie Thunder loves him."

Mark took the bag. "Will do" and left to pick up Glenn.

Chapter 3

Thunder was alone in the cafe,' John and Annie were working in the bar. She heard the bell over the door and she came out to take the order. A lone woman stood there looking around. She was tall, blonde, beautiful in a plastic flashy way.

Thunder immediately knew who she was. Mark's ex, Donna. She decided to practice what she'd been preaching to Mark and be nice.

"Hi," she said. "Can I help you?"

Donna looked down her nose at her and sat at a table. "I don't suppose you have a menu?"

Thunder bristled and said, "Why yes we do," and went to the counter and got her one.

Donna looked it over and said, "It looks like Lily and Marcus finally joined the twentieth century. This menu's almost tolerable."

Thunder's eyes flashed and she said, "I guess you must have missed the new sign outside. The cafe' and bar now belong to my partner and I. Let me introduce myself, My name is Thunder Calloway."

Donna's eyes almost popped out of her head and she said, "Calloway? Which brother did you marry?"

Thunder put her hand on her belly smiled and told her Mark. "Glenn's married to my partner Fyre."

"My God," Donna said. "Is the girl blind? Who would want to marry that freak?"

Thunder, her temper on the edge of gone, said, "I guess you haven't been back in a while, but Glenn's had surgery on his face and he's back to his beautiful, normal self. He and Fyre have two beautiful children and just in case you haven't noticed, Mark and I will be expecting our child on Christmas Eve."

"Well," she said, "Mark finally got what he wanted. A wife who's willing to have his babies. Tell me Ms. Thunder, Do you really like small town life?"

Thunder said, "Yes, I love it and I love being pregnant too."

Donna told her "I hated it here. I wanted out, I knew there was more and I wanted it all."

"Well, it seems like you got what you wanted," Thunder said. "Will you be in town long?"

Donna sneered at her and said, "Haven't you heard, I'm the star of this movie. Without me there is no movie. I expect we'll be here about a month to six weeks."

The bell over the door jangled and three men came in. Thunder excused herself and went to take their orders. They saw Donna and called to her. "Come and join us we have some things that need to be discussed." Donna turned and smiled. She got up and went over to their table. "Peter, Stan, David, when did you get into this hell hole town? I wasn't expecting you until tomorrow."

Thunder came over to their table and asked, "Donna, will you be joining the gentlemen?"

"Yes, I will," she replied. "I'll have a chef's salad and an iced tea. Do you think you can handle that dear?" Donna looked at her with disdain.

"Well, Gee now, I guess if I run into any problems, I have my trusty old cookbook in the back."

The three men burst out laughing. Thunder took the rest of the orders and went to the kitchen. She was just finishing the orders when Mark and Glenn came in the back door. "Hello Darlin'," Mark said as he came up behind her. "Hey sis," Glenn smiled at her.

She turned and snapped, "What the hell do you two want?"<> Mark took a step back surprise written all over his face. Glenn just stood there too dumb founded to do or say anything.

"What happened?" he asked her.

She turned around and saw their faces and she immediately felt terrible. "Oh Babe, I'm sorry, Glenn honey, please forgive me. It's just that I had the wonderful experience of meeting Donna." Glenn said, "She was here?" "Oh yeah, and for what it's worth, honey, you were right. She's a real piece of work."

Mark took her in his arms and said, "I'm sorry Darlin'. I'll do my best to keep her away from you."

Glenn said, "I'll have John and Annie keep a watch too. If she tries any crap....."

"Glenn, it's OK," Thunder told him. "I think it was a one time thing. She got really pissed when she found out that Mom and Dad didn't own the cafe' anymore. She just came in to rub their faces in her so called success."

Mark held her closer and said, "If she bothers you again, I'll rub her nose in something."

Thunder and Glenn burst out laughing at that comment. Just then there was a loud, "Oh Waitress!!!!" Mark's head shot up and he said, "Oh shit! she's here?"

Glenn groaned. "Oh Hell here we go!"

Mark started for the door. Thunder put her arms around him and said, "No, let me." She went out and said, "Yes?"

Donna said, "How much longer do we have to wait for our lunches?" She looked at her companions and said, "I tried to tell you, you've got to hire a caterer. If this is any example of the service, no one will ever get fed. I'll tell you all one thing, if we ever get our orders, and if this food isn't up to my standards, I'm calling Barry and demand that he does."

Thunder, who had heard every thing she said had reached the end of her patience, she was about to tell her what she could do with her so called standards but was stopped by Mark and Glenn. They came thru the door each holding a tray with their orders. They were in their uniforms and had donned aprons. They came over to the table and after finding out who had ordered what, served them. Mark placed Donna's salad in front of her. He then said softly in her ear, "Eat your salad, then get out and don't let me find out you've fucked with my wife again." He smiled and straightened up. "Enjoy your lunches," he said. Donna's face was flaming red with anger. Her companions laughed and asked, "Do the sheriff and his deputy pull double duty often?" Mark laughed and said, "Just until the baby comes."

Chapter 4

Thunder had gotten the job of caterer for the cast and crew. Donna was livid when she found out about it. She tried to talk Peter, the director out of it saying she thought the food was not fit for human consumption. He told her in front of Thunder and Fyre to please be quiet or go study her lines. Lord knows she needed to he said.

She stormed out of the cafe' saying that it was about time for her to call Barry. Peter said, "Fine, you do that dear. Tell him I'll expect his call around nine tonight." He apologized to the girls saying "she's such a prima Donna, no pun intended," he smiled. "Now, lets get back to the business at hand.

Breakfast will be served here at the cafe. Lunch on the set, and dinner, if we're running behind schedule (God forbid) will be served on the set also. Other wise dinner will be served at the cafe' also."

He placed a contract in front of Thunder and said, "Have your attorney look it over. I'm sure you ladies will find we're being more than fair."

Fyre said, "OK Peter. I'll take it to him tomorrow morning and call you if any changes are needed."

"Fine," he said. He shook their hands and he apologized again about Donna's behavior and he left.

Fyre looked at Thunder who was deep in thought. "Sis? Sis??" She snapped her fingers under her nose. Thunder came back to the present. She looked sheepish. "OK girl, what's on that mind of yours?"

"Fyre, I was just thinking and wondering what in the hell did Mark ever see in her?"

"Well, like he told you. They were high school sweethearts, and he was blind to her shit. You know, Eighteen years old, thinking with his Dick instead of his brain, and she saw him as a meal ticket and a way out of Brimstone or so she thought."

Thunder said, "That's true. I just hope she doesn't cause any trouble while she's here. It's been so peaceful."

"I know," Fyre agreed. "Well, girl, I'd better get this over to Franklin so he can look it over. I'll talk to you tonight."

"OK," Thunder said. "Kiss the babies for me."

"Consider it done cause I always do sis," Fyre smiled as she walked out the door.

Chapter 5

Thunder had everyone working to help her. Marcus, Lily, John and Annie helped out to. Everyone on the crew raved about the food telling her she should start a catering business in Hollywood. Donna who had done nothing but find fault with every meal served said, "You have got to be joking! If she tried to serve this swill in Hollywood she wouldn't last a week!"

Mark who happened to be helping Thunder said, "Kind of like our marriage huh?"

"You should know Mark," Donna sneered. "It's not like you ever cared about me. You always came first. Your wants, your needs. You never cared about me."

Marcus who was watching the food line came over and got in her face. "Seems to me, I remember when you told your husband you needed a female procedure done then you would be able to start your family. I think you called it a D&C. What you neglected to tell him was, it was really an abortion because you were already pregnant. You never wanted to be a wife and mother, so why don't you get off your high horse, shut up and give everybody's ears a rest? I for one am sick and tired of hearing your constant bitching."

Donna, seething said, "Old Man, your gonna pay for those remarks."

Mark stepped up and said, "Is that a threat Donna? If it is, I'll have no problems arresting your ass."

Donna stepped back and tried to laugh, "Of course not, It was just a heat of the moment thing. Marcus, I'm sorry. I just let my temper get the better of me."

Marcus told her, "You stay away from my family. If you come near any of them you'll answer to me."

Donna backed off knowing he meant business.

Mark took his arm and said, "Come on dad, you've got hungry people waiting for you."

He guided him back to the food table. Thunder who was quiet thru it all didn't notice Donna staring at her with hard, granite eyes. "Well, you two have had it your way for way to long. I think it's time that you both learned what it's like to lose. To lose something you've wanted for a very long time." She went to her trailer deep in thought.

Mark came over to Thunder, "How much longer?"

"Well, everyone's been served. I'm leaving a couple of coolers with beer, pop, and iced tea for them. As soon as we can pack up, we're outta here!"

"And it's rest time for you Darlin'" he said. "And don't even try to go there. While we were out here feeding these animals, Fyre, Mom and Annie are preparing for dinner and Glenn and Dad will help serve and clean up so all you need to do is rest. Understood?"

"Yes, sir," she said. He leaned down and kissed her deeply as he rubbed her belly.

Chapter 6

The last day of the shoot.

Thunder had planned the menu for the cast party. She had been cooking for the past two days. She had every detail covered. Everyone came in to help out. Lily and Fyre were going to serve, Mark and Glenn were there to make sure things didn't get out of control. John and Annie were handling the bar. Thunder and Marcus were taking care of the cooking. The party was in full swing. Everyone was having a good time. Donna was with Peter and she made it perfectly clear that she didn't want to be there.

She watched Thunder and Mark and she felt jealousy. They were so happy and it was obvious to anyone watching them that they loved and respected each other. She watched Mark caressing Thunders belly and that made her even madder.

Glenn came up behind her and he softly said, "Don't even think about it. I've been watching you all night and I don't like what I've been seeing. So you'd better hope and pray that nothing happens to her or the baby. If something does, Your the first person I'll go after. Got it?"

She turned and faced him. "I don't know what your talking about Glenn." She tried to walk away from him. He grabbed her arm and said, "I mean it Donna."

Chapter 7

The movie company had been gone for a few weeks and things were back to normal. The Ring Rust was still in operation and all the guys were very protective over Thunder and watched over her like she was made of spun glass. They also spoiled Shelby, Mike and Lily Jr. unmercifully.

There was a new wrestler in the federation, he called himself Trouble. He was six foot six inches, had long black hair and dead ice blue eyes. He had a cocky attitude and thought he was God's gift. All the Diva's avoided him saying there was just too much me, myself and I where he was concerned. Chyna was the only one who stood up to him and she gave him the facts of life.

He avoided her and told anyone who would listen that his girlfriend made the Diva's look like a bunch of boys. That she was drop dead gorgeous.

One evening everyone was at the cafe' having dinner, when there was a huge crash heard in the bar. "God dammit!" they heard John yell. Everyone ran to the bar. They saw Trouble fighting a huge man. John was trying to break it up. The stranger hit John and knocked him across the room. He sat up rubbing his jaw. He smiled and said "Oh yeah! Yo' ass is mine boy!" He got up and punched the stranger. Trouble had swung at the same time so they both ended up hitting him. He went flying into the crowd. No one noticed Thunder in the back of the crowd. When the stranger hit the crowd everyone fell into a heap. She landed on her back with everyone on top of her. Mark and Glenn arrived and saw the melee'. They broke up the fight and handcuffed Trouble and the Stranger. Everyone was getting up when they saw Thunder laying there. She wasn't moving.

"Oh shit!" said Mark He picked her up and carried her out to the squad car. Glenn told John to take them and lock them up. That he was going to drive Mark and Thunder to the hospital.

Glenn drove while Mark held Thunder in his arms in the back seat. She moaned and opened her eyes. "What the hell happened?" she asked. Mark told her "There was a fight in the bar. How do you feel?"

"I'm not sure," she told him.

"Don't move Darlin'. We're almost at the hospital."

They had just pulled up to the emergency room entrance when she doubled over and screamed. Mark held her while Glenn ran in to get help. A doctor and nurses came out with a gurney. They put her on it and rushed her inside. Mark followed the gurney while Glenn gave the necessary information to the intake worker. He found Mark outside the trauma room door. He asked, "How is she? Any news yet?"

"I don't know Glenn. All I know is she was covered with blood and in a lot of pain."

The door opened and the doctor came out. "Sheriff Calloway?"

Mark said, "That's me. How are they?"

"Well, sheriff we're taking her to delivery. She took a severe blow to the abdomen and she's in labor."

Glenn said, "She's only six months along, can't you stop it?"

"We'll do our best. You can wait in the lounge and I'll keep you informed."

Mark asked, "Can I be in there with her please?"

"Of course. Follow me," the Dr. said. He took him to the scrub room. He scrubbed and got into a set of scrubs then he went over to Thunder. She was on the table, her feet already in the stirrups. "Mark," she moaned. "Help me. It's way to early. Oh Lord please, don't take our baby, Please."

Mark standing by her head, took her hand. The Dr. tried to stop her labor. After an hour he said, "I can't stop it. We have to deliver."

Thunder screamed, " No! Please, No!" A contraction hit her and she screamed, "I've got to push!" She gave a hard push then the Dr. said, "It's a boy." There was silence. Thunder and Mark watched as the pediatrician worked on their son. They both had tears running down their faces as they prayed to God begging Him to let their baby live. After what seemed like an eternity the pediatrician turned to them and said, "I'm sorry." Thunder screamed "No! My baby! No! Please No!"

Mark held her and cried along with her. They gave her a heavy sedative and in a few minutes she was asleep.

Chapter 8

The nurses came over and asked him if he wanted to see the baby. He went over to the table where his son laid. He picked him up and looked at his angelic face. "My son," he said as his tears rolled down his face. He held him close to his heart. He kissed his forehead and then placed him back on the table. He broke down and he sobbed, "My son."

The Dr. came over and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Sheriff, is there someone you'd like for us to call for you?"

"My brother's outside. Please let him come back here."

"Of course," the Dr. said and left to go get Glenn. A few minutes later Glenn, His eyes red and swollen came into the room. He came over to Mark. He looked down at the sweet face of his nephew and the tears came again. Mark turned to his brother. They held each other and cried. The nurse came over to them and said, "Sheriff, We're getting ready to take your wife to recovery now."

"All right," Mark said. He said to Glen, "Please call Mom and Dad and Swanson's funeral home They'll handle all the arrangements."

"OK, Mark," Glenn said. "Go with Thunder. She's gonna really need you now. I'll take care of everything."

Mark hugged him again. He then picked up his son. He held him close and kissed his soft cheek and told him, "You'll always have a special place in my heart. I'll always love you my son." He placed him in Glenns arms and left with Thunder.

Glenn holding his nephew next to his heart, looked at his sweet face and vowed, "I know something's wrong. This was no accident. I swear to you by all that's holy, I'll find out the truth, and give you justice. I swear it." He then broke down and cried.

Chapter 8 B

Lily and Marcus were sitting beside Thunders bed when she woke up. Her hands went to her now flat stomach and she remembered. She started to cry. Lily took her in her arms. "Go ahead and cry honey. You cry as much as you need to. Dad and I will be right here we're not leaving you honey."

Thunder held Lily and asked, "Why Mom? I don't understand. My baby's gone. He never had a chance. Dad?"

Marcus held her hand and said, "I'm here daughter."

"Please help me to understand, Please help me."

Marcus said, "Daughter I know you think this pain will never end, but it will. You'll never forget, but it will get easier over time, and Mom and I will be right with you and Mark every step of the way."

"Where is Mark?" Thunder asked. Lily still holding her told her, "He and Glenn are making the arrangements for the services." Upon hearing this, she started sobbing. "My baby! Oh Mom, it hurts so bad! Please help me!" Lily held her and let her cry.

Chapter 9

They were all at the cemetery. Mark holding Thunder, Marcus and Lily, Glenn and Fyre. The whole town and all the wrestlers and trainers from the Ring Rust were there. The tiny casket was placed over the grave. Two small white roses were placed on top of the casket.

The minister lead everyone in prayer and told Thunder and Mark that their son Jesse was safe in the arms of Jesus. Thunder looked at Mark and said, "Amen." then she fainted.

Everyone was back at the cafe' for a luncheon. Fyre, Marcus and Annie had everything under control. Mark stayed close to Thunder. They accepted everyone's condolences. Glenn came over and kissed Thunder's cheek. "I'm here for you sis," he told her. She caressed his cheek and through her tear filled eyes, said "Thank you Glenn. That really makes me feel better."

Glenn straightened up and said quietly to Mark. "We need to talk."

Mark said, "After all this is over and Thunder's asleep."

"All right. I'll meet you in the kitchen tonight at ten. Don't say anything to Thunder. "

Chapter 10

Mark and Lily finally got Thunder settled in bed. When she finally fell asleep, they went to the living room. "Mom, will you stay with her until I get back?" Mark asked. "I have to meet Glenn downstairs. He says he needs to talk to me and not to say anything to Thunder."

"Of course I will," Lily replied. "I just wonder what he wants to talk to you about?" she wondered.

Mark had just finished brewing a pot of coffee when Glenn came in the back door. He poured each of them a cup and asked, "OK what's up?"

Glenn said, "Ever since that damned bar fight I've had a feeling that something wasn't right. I questioned Trouble and he said the other guy just came up to him and started swinging. The other guy, his name is Jack Norton, but he goes by the nick name Moose. Moose said that he was contacted by a friend who wanted to take Trouble down a few pegs. He said that this friend was tired of hearing his girlfriend go on and on about him."

Mark asked, "So what does this have to do with us?"

Glenn said, "When I asked for names and specifics he clammed up. He just keeps repeating the same story, no changes. It's almost as if it's rehearsed. Trouble is sticking to his story. The WWF has posted Trouble's bail and Moose is still sitting in the jail. Mark, I think this whole thing was a set up to get to Thunder."

Mark looked at him incredulous. "You have got to be kidding Glenn."

"No, I'm not. I think I can get Moose to talk. He's hiding something."

Mark stood there, his eyes dead, "All right, get on it. Give this Trouble a message, He's no longer welcome in Brimstone. Find somewhere else to train."

Chapter 11

Trouble tried to talk to Mark and Glenn about his being thrown out of town. Mark made sure he got the message, "If I see you anywhere in Brimstone, All bets are off." Glenn went to the Ring Rust to personally drive him to the airport. Trouble tried to talk to Glenn. "Hey Man, this is totally unfair. I was the innocent party here. All I was doing was havin' a beer for God's sake."

Glenn turned to him and with deadly eyes said, "Just shut the fuck up, no one wants to hear it. Just get your ass on that plane and go wherever your ticket takes you, and never, ever forget my brother's warning. If you ever show your face here again, all bets are off. Oh, and that goes for me too."

Trouble was quiet for the rest of the ride. When they got to the airport, Glenn went in with him. "Hey man, I don't need an escort," he said.

"Don't flatter yourself ass hole, I'm just making sure you get your ass on that plane and I'm gonna watch it take off. You got a problem with that?"

Glenn stood at the glass and watched the plane take off. When he was sure he was gone, he left the airport and drove to the jail. He told George to go to lunch. George left and Glenn went to the cell where Moose was being held.

Chapter 12

Glenn found Moose sleeping on his cot. He took his night stick and ran it across the bars. He didn't move. He used the night stick again. Still nothing. He called his name, nothing. He unlocked the cell and carefully stepped inside. He went over to the big man. He turned him on his back. His eyes were open seeing nothing, his face a deep blue color. "Oh shit!" Glenn said as he felt his neck for a pulse. Nothing, the big man was dead. He went to the front and called for an ambulance, then he placed a call to Mark.

Mark arrived just as the ambulance was pulling out. He went into the station. He saw Glenn talking to the coroner. He went up to them and asked, "What happened?" Glenn told him how he took Trouble to the airport then going to the station to question Moose. "It looks like a massive heart attack," the coroner said. "Of course I can't say for sure until the autopsy is completed, but that's my bet sheriff."

"Damn!" Mark said, rubbing his hand over his face. "OK Fred, let me know what you find out."

Chapter 13

ONE MONTH LATER,

Thunder was lying in bed, not seeing, she was lost in the past. She was thinking of how she and Fyre had come to Brimstone and how she first met Mark and had fallen in love with him. She smiled at the memories. She'd been to Dr. Syms the day before. He gave her a clean bill of health and told her that if she and Mark were ready, they could start trying for a baby right away. She told him that she wasn't ready yet and asked him for a prescription for birth control pills.

While they were getting ready for bed last night, Mark asked her how it went at the DR's. She told him what Dr. Syms had said, and how she felt she wasn't ready to try again. She told him about the birth control pills. She had never lied to him knowing that's all Donna did was lie and hurt him. Thunder swore that she would never do that to him. She had too much respect for him.

Mark told her that he understood and when she felt that she was ready to try again, he's be ready. He gave her a sly smile as he watched her get into their big bed. "You know Darlin' I've got quite a stack of Gift Certificates piled up. Think we might cash a few of em' in pretty soon?" Thunder looked at him loving him more than she ever thought possible. "How about we go for a little ride tomorrow night? I'm sure Fyre and Mom can cover the cafe'."

"Have any place special in mind?" he asked. She looked at him and with dark smokey eyes and said, "You get the wine, I know our afghan's still at the cabin. Remember how to start a fire honey?"

"Well, it's been a while but I'm sure it will come back to me." Mark bent down and kissed her softly. She pulled him to her and deepened the kiss. He put his hand on her hip and he started to move it up and down just the way he knew she loved it. She moaned as his tongue teased her lips. He slipped it into her mouth tasting the sweetness there. Thunder softly sucked and Mark groaned as he pulled her to him. He broke the kiss. Breathing hard he said. "I love you, Thunder." He buried his face between her breasts and inhaled deeply. Her scent driving him crazy. She held his head in her hands and she said "I love you."

Just then the door bell rang. "Damn!" Mark said. Darlin' I think you'd better answer it."

Looking down she smiled and got out of the bed. The bell rang again. "I'm coming," she said. She heard Mark say, "I should hope so it wasn't for lack of trying on my part!" She blushed and said, "You are so bad... I know he laughed with the devil in his eyes."

She opened the door and there stood Glenn and Fyre. "Hey!" she said, "What are you two doing here so late?"

Fyre said, "We got a sitter and went out to dinner, and Sis, it's only 8:30. Is Mark home? We thought we could talk you guys into a game of cards."

Thunder stepped aside and they came in. Mark came out of the bedroom with his jeans unbuckled, shirt unbuttoned, and barefooted and his hair hanging loose. Glenn said, "I think we interrupted something honey. Maybe we should go."

Thunder said, "No, come on in. I'll put on a pot of coffee." She gave Fyre a wink and they went into the kitchen. "So how did it go sis?" she asked. Thunder told her what the Dr. said and about the prescription. "How did Mark take it?" Fyre asked. "He told me that he understands and when I'm ready to try again, so is he," Thunder told her.

They sat at the kitchen table drinking coffee and talking. Thunder asked, "Think you can cover the cafe' for me tomorrow night?"

"Sure," Fyre said "What's up?"

Mark smiled at Thunder and said, "Well for one thing I hope to be."

Fyre's jaw dropped as she turned a deep shade of red, Thunder just put her head in her hand, and Glenn just burst out laughing. When he got himself under control, he said, "If she can't then Dad and I will cover for you guys." He wiped the tears from his eyes and asked, "Got anywhere special in mind?" Fyre said, "I bet I know." Thunder looked at her and said "OK, Where?"

Fyre smiled and said, "The Cabin! I'm right aren't I."

Thunder looked at Mark and said, "My sister knows me too well." She came back to the present and thought, "I think I'll make a special suprise for him," and she got out of bed.

Chapter 14

It took most of the day to get everything ready. Fyre and Lily helped her prepare everything. She drove over to the next town and went to the mall. She found a small store that carried uni~sex lingerie and she found the perfect negligee' for herself and a pair of black silk pajama bottoms for Mark. She then went to a candle shop and bought three dozen candles of different shapes and sizes. She stayed with soft rose and cream colors. Her last stop was at her favorite department store. There she got a bottle of her favorite perfume, White Shoulders. She also got a bottle of Aramis for Mark.

By the time she got back, Fyre and Lily had everything ready and packed in coolers. She hugged them and thanked them for their help. She went upstairs and took a long hot shower. She dressed in jeans and an off the shoulder peasant blouse. She then slipped on a pair of black sandals, her hair, she left loose and cascaded in a wild array of dark curls that fell around her shoulders. She applied a light make up and last, her perfume. She had just finished packing their over night bag when Mark came in. He stopped short when he saw her. "You look beautiful Darlin'"

"Thank you honey," she replied. "Why don't you go and take your shower while I go and load up the truck? Oh I left a little present for you. It's on the sink. I hope you like it. OH! and don't forget the gift certificates." She smiled seductively at him, grabbed their overnight bag and went down stairs. Mark just stood there watching her until the door closed. "OH YEAH!" he said as he ran to the shower.

They got to the cabin and Thunder said, "Will you take the coolers in for me honey?" She grabbed the overnight bag and she took it into the bedroom. She then went out and got the box that she wouldn't let him see. She took it to their room.

She then went to the kitchen and unpacked the coolers. She had everything unpacked and the wine chilling when she went into the great room. Mark was getting the fire place set up for later. She sat on the couch and watched him, loving the expanse of his wide shoulders she watched the muscles move as he worked. She then noticed their afghan folded on the end of the couch and she smiled.

Mark stood up and asked, "Am I ever gonna see what's in that box you hid in our bedroom Darlin'?"

"That's for later," she smiled.

He sat down beside her and said, "This was a great idea Babe. We needed to get away from everything."

"That's true. I know everyone's trying to help and be supportive, but I'm not a China doll. I'm not going to break."

He took her in his arms and held her close. "It's just that everyone cares sweetheart. Whether you realize it or not, Ever since you and Fyre took over the cafe' and bar, you two have become the heart and soul of the town. And everyone realizes it, so yes, they're gonna be protective. Hell, even the wrestlers go wacko if they even think that someone's trying to take advantage of you and Fyre. I wasn't gonna tell you this, but I think you need to know. Do you remember that wrestler called Trouble?" he asked.

Thunder shuddered and said softly, "Yes, I remember him."

"Well, after the funeral, all of the wrestlers, honey, I mean all of them sent a petition to Vince Mc Mahon saying if he didn't fire him, they would all quit the federation. Even the wives and girlfriends signed it to. "

Thunder looked at him with amazement, "Your kidding, right?"

"No, Sweetheart, it's true," he told her.

"I never realized," she said.

"I know because you and Fyre have so much love and compassion in you that everyone just naturally responds and are drawn to you two. The whole town may be drawn to you darlin' but you'd better be drawn only to me," he said with all seriousness.

"Not to worry. Your the only one who melts my butter baby," she smiled at him. 'Now, why don't you go for a little walk and let me get things ready. I have a surprise planned for you," she told him.

"Oh really?" he gave her a seductive smile. "And how long of a walk do I need?"

"How about a half an hour?" she asked.

He got up and went to the door. He looked at his watch and said, "Clocks running Babe," and left.

She got up and went to the bedroom. She got the box, she took out the candles and arranged them around the room. She then put the black silk pajama bottoms on the bed. Next she went to the great room, she started the fire that Mark had laid out earlier and spread out a large blanket. She put the wine in an ice bucket and placed it beside the blanket. She then took the food out of the fridge, fresh cut fruit, various cheeses, and crackers. She arranged it all on platters and placed them on the blanket. She then put their favorite CD in the player and turned it on. The music played softly. She looked around, pleased, then went to the bedroom to change. She took her negligee' out of the bag. It was a deep midnight blue, it was cut very low in front and had a slit up to her hip. She shook out her hair, spritzed a little White Shoulders across her shoulders, then she lit the candles that she had placed around the room. She went to the kitchen and got the extra bottle of wine and ice bucket with their wedding glasses. She put them on the night stand. She closed the door. She surveyed the great room, smiled and sat down on the couch to wait for Mark.

Chapter 16

Meanwhile Mark was walking and thinking about all that had happened to them in the past three years. He was thinking about his life and how empty it was before Thunder.

He swore that he would never let another woman get close to him after Donna. She had hurt him so deeply when he found out about the abortion, that he had put up a wall around his emotions. After the divorce, he just existed. He showed no emotion to the world.

Then the tragedy with Glenn and Barbara happened. Between protecting Glenn and his job as sheriff, he didn't even have time to think of a social life. He then met a dynamo named Thunder. She was so full of life and Lord, she didn't take any crap from anyone. He found himself drawn to her in spite of himself. He tried to keep his distance from her, but he knew he was lost the day she threatened to hit him with the ladle she was holding. He saw the fire in her eyes and all his defenses came crashing down. They matched each other in every way. From then on, he knew that he loved her. More importantly, he respected her.

They had been thru hell together and they came thru it, their love growing stronger. Then when Glenn and Fyre married, and he saw how happy they were, he wanted that same kind of happiness too. They were at the cabin after Glenn and Fyre's wedding. He had brought her out here for some much needed down time. He wanted her all to himself for a few days. They had been separated for over three months because of Fyre's ex boyfriend. He was a psychotic killer, a drug dealer, and a woman beater. Mark had to go undercover to help the FBI and the DIA finally bring him down.

When he learned that he had kidnapped Thunder and had almost killed her he realized the depth of his love for her. He proposed that night and they were married a month later. He never realized that he could be so happy and contented. When she told him she was pregnant, he thought his life was complete. When they lost the baby, a part of him died too. Like Glenn, he thought there was more to the story, but when Moose died and Trouble never changed his story, the investigation came to a stand still.

He came out of his thoughts and realized he was due back at the cabin. He smiled when he thought of Thunder's surprise. He wondered what she had planned. He was so happy when she started to come out of her depression and she started to show an interest in life again. He picked up the pace as he headed back to the cabin. He couldn't wait to get to her and get his surprise.

Chapter 17

The sun was on the horizon by the time he got back to the cabin. He saw the evening star as he went up the stairs. He opened the door and stepped in. He saw the fire burning, the blanket with the platters and the wine bucket. He heard her say, "Take your boots off Big Man." He saw her on the couch. The sight of her in the firelight took his breath away. Mark just stood there, he finally said, "Every time I think I've got you figured out, you go and do something that knocks me on my ass. "

"Don't you like it?" she asked.

"Darlin' that's one of the things that I love about you. Since you came into my life, things are never dull ," he told her.

He pulled his boots off and went over to her. He held his hand out and he pulled her up to him. He heard the song playing in the background. It was their wedding >song. "Mrs. Calloway, I've loved you from the time I saw you holding that >ladle. I knew then that my life would never be dull. You've made me complete."

He took her in his arms and kissed her. She pulled back and said, "Why don't you go and slip into something a little more comfortable?"

He laughed and said, "Isn't that supposed to be my line?" He kissed her nose and said, "I'll be right back."

He opened the bedroom door and saw all the candles. They threw off a soft rose glow. He looked and saw the wine and their wedding glasses. He then looked at the bed. He saw the black silk pajama bottoms and said, "You never cease to amaze me Darlin'"

Thunder had just finished pouring the wine when Mark came into the room. She looked at him and said, "Whoa Baby! You look good enough to eat."

Chapter 18

Mark slowly walked over to her. He took her in his arms. He held her to him and buried his head in the softness of her. "You know while I was walking earlier, I was thinking about how you've changed my life." She looked up at him and said, "Funny, I was thinking the same thing."

She pulled him over to the blanket and she asked, "Hungry?"

"Only for you Darlin'," he told her. "You look so beautiful in the firelight and that night gown, as much as I want to see you out of it...."his voice trailed off. She was looking up at him. He looked so sexy in black silk. The firelight dancing on the golden curls on his chest and belly. She sat on the blanket and she held out a wine glass. "Care to join me?" He took the glass and sat beside her. He started to kiss the back of her neck as he eased his hands around her. He stopped and held his glass up to her, "To you, my best friend, my wife, my lover. I love you." They sipped. Thunder took some grapes and started to feed them to him. He laid back and she put her hand on his chest. She ran her hand thru the soft hair, then she reached behind him and undid the leather band that held his hair back. She ran her fingers thru the soft silkiness and murmured, "I love you Big Man." She kissed his eyes, his nose, she ran her lips down his jaw stopping at the place that she knew drove him crazy. She gave him little love nips there then moved down to his chest. Her tongue leaving a fine trail. She took a nipple into her mouth licking and softly nipping it until it was erect. She played with the other one until it was erect too. She licked her way down his belly stopping to lick around his navel. Mark laid there loving the sensations she was making him feel. She raised up and smiled seductively. She sat on his hips. He lay there watching the fire throw it's light on her. It made her hair glow a deep auburn and her skin glow. He could see her nipples hard and erect thru the gown and he reached up to take her breasts in his hands. He sat up and kissed her, his tongue teasing then asking to be let in. He ran his hands down her back and he cupped her fanny. She could feel his erection as she ran her hands up and down his back, chest and arms.

He broke the kiss panting, "Thunder, I want, no, I need to make love to you." She stood up and held her hand out to him. "Come with me my love." He got up and she led him to their bedroom.

Chapter 19

She laid on the bed and he laid beside her. He reached over and pulled her to him. He slowly eased her gown up and over her head. She laid there naked in the candle light. He started to kiss her. He kissed his way down her neck, he kissed his way down to her breasts. He took a nipple in his mouth and he teased it with his tongue until it was hard and full. He turned to the other and did the same. He then moved down and teased her navel while he slowly played with her breasts. She laid there groaning, "Oh Yes, yes, Please don't stop!" He kissed his way back up and he felt her hands moving down his back. They stopped at the waistband of the black silk. She ran her hand down until she felt his erection and murmured in his ear, "Oh baby, Your gonna burst!" She rose up and then slid the black silk down his hips, her lips following. Kissing softly, nipping at him.

He tangled his fingers in her hair and moaned "Oh My God! Please Thunder, Please!" She raised her head ands softly asked, "What does my Big Man want?"

"More Baby! Please!" he groaned. She smiled and continued. A few minutes later he yelled her name, "Thunder! Oh my God! Yes," as he exploded. She stayed with him until his breathing returned to normal. He pulled her up to him. She laid on him and she listened as his heartbeat his heartbeat slowed. His hand ran slowly up and down her back.

"Darlin'?" "Hmmmm?" she replied. "I love you," he said. She smiled and started to slowly rub her hips against his. "Mmmmmm, that feels so good," he sighed. She continued until she felt start to respond. He pulled her up until they were face to face. "Woman, what are you doing to me?" he groaned. "You don't like it?" she asked. "No, I love it." he smiled. He turned and laid her on her side facing him. He placed his hand on her hip slowly rubbing up and down. She stretched like a contented cat. "That feels so good," she sighed.

"Well Darlin', I plan on making you feel real good." "Oh Yeah," she laughed. He took her leg and placed it over his hip and he slipped into her. She sighed "Yesssss." He cupped her fanny and pulled her closer to him. "Oh yeah Big Man, That's it!" she screamed as she felt him fill her. He started moving in and out slowly. She put her arms around him. He moved a little faster, she dug her nails in his back and screamed, "Oh Big Man, Yes that's it. Please don't stop! I love you Mark." He looked at her flushed face and said "Ready for more?" "Yes, Oh Yes!" she shuddered. He grabbed her fanny and pushed faster and harder. She ran her nails down his back, "More! I'm coming Mark!" She screamed as she reached her climax. Mark threw his head back and yelled "I love you Thunder" as he exploded in her.

They laid there, spent, sweat drying on their bodies. He started to move but she pulled him to her and said, "No! Don't leave me!" He smiled and said, "I'm not going anywhere Darlin'" He pulled the blanket over them and they fell asleep.

Chapter 20

They spent the rest of the night making love, cat napping and making love again. They laid in each others arms while they watched the sun come up. They were completely exhausted and neither wanted to move.

Mark looked at her and said, "You look so beautiful in the early morning light." She snuggled closer and kissed him. "Do we have to go back?" she asked. "Well, not until tonight," he told her.

"Mmmmm good," she purred. "Now how about you go and start the coffee?" she said. "I'm too pooped to move for some strange reason."

"You'd better be glad that I love you Darlin'," he said as he got out of the bed. He slipped back into the black silk and she softly whistled, "Nice ass Big Man." He looked over his shoulder and smiled, "Keep that up and you just might get breakfast in bed!" She winked at him and snuggled down into the comforter and watched the sunrise.

He brought their coffee to the bedroom and they talked as they sipped. They spent the day walking in the woods, talking and just enjoying each others company. When they got back to the cabin Thunder said, "Well I guess I'd better start cleaning up." She started in the bedroom, she was putting her negligee and the black silk in their overnight bag when Mark came in. "Darlin' leave them here." She looked at him, "Why?" she asked.

"Well, I like the idea that they're up here, knowing that they're here waiting for us the next time we can get away for another "nasty weekend." She blushed and took her gown and the black silk out of the bag and put them in the dresser. She ten took the bottles of White Shoulders and Aramis and placed them on the dresser. She looked in the mirror and saw his reflection, "Should I unpack the candles?" He gave her that seductive smile and asked, "What do you think?"

Chapter 21

They'd been back for a few days when Glenn came into the station. He had a strange look on his face. Mark asked, "Problems Glenn?"

Glenn sat across from him and said, "I got a call this morning. It was from a woman. She told me that she knew that the bar fight was no accident, it was planned. It was staged to make sure Thunder was hurt."

"What?" Mark yelled. "Did you get a name? Any more information?"

"She said she'd call back if she could get any more information. Oh! she said one more thing. She told me to keep a close eye on Thunder because they weren't done yet."

Mark sat there his hands shaking. "OK, get John in here. We need to deputize him again."

Glenn picked up the phone and dialed. A few seconds later he said, "Annie? is John around?" After a few seconds he said, "John, can you come down to the station? Mark and I need to talk to you. Don't say anything to anyone. Just get over here as soon as you can." He hung up the phone.

"He's on his way."

Ten minutes later John came in. He went into Marks office and sat down and said, "OK, What's up?"

Mark looked at Glenn and said, "Fill him in."

When Glenn finished telling John about the call, he slammed his fist against the desk. "Son of a Bitch!!" he yelled. "I always thought something wasn't right about that episode. What do you want me to do?" he asked.

L Mark said, "I want to deputize you and I'd like you to talk to the guys at the Ring Rust. We're going to need they're help. I want them to do what they did before. Watch the cafe' and the bar, and when I'm not around, I want someone with Thunder at all times, but I want it kept as quiet as possible. I'll talk to Thunder and let her know what's going on."

John stood up and said, "OK, Where's my badge and gun? I'm in. I'll go and talk to the guys at the Ring Rust and fill them in." Mark gave him his gun and badge. John said, "Mark, you know I love Thunder like a sister, and I'll be damned if I'm gonna let any ass hole hurt her again. I'm already carrying a heavy load of guilt over that night." Mark held out his hand and said, "John, you couldn't have known. None of us did." John took his hand and they shook. "Thanks, that helps," he said.

Chapter 22

Mark came into the kitchen and up behind Thunder. "Babe..." She yelped and jumped. He laughed and held her to him. "You must have been miles away to jump that high."

"Damn you!" she said her heart racing. "It's not coffee break or lunch time what are you doing here?"

"I just came in to tell you that Mom, Dad, Glenn, Fyre, John and Annie are coming over tonight for coffee and cake. Is it going to be a problem?"

"No, of course not," she said. "Are Fyre and Annie bringing the kids?" she asked.

"No, not this time honey," he said.

Just then Fyre came in the back door. "Hey guys," she greeted them.

"Hey girl," Thunder said as she gave her a hug.

"How'd the weekend go?" Fyre whispered in her ear. Thunder winked at her and whispered back, "We'll talk later."

"I want all the nasty little details sis!" Fyre laughed.

Mark smiled, looked at Fyre and asked, "Does my little brother need some pointers Sis?"

Fyre said, "I hardly think so, but it never hurts to get some new ideas >she laughed. Keeps him on his toes."

Mark turned to Thunder, "Babe, we need to talk. Fyre can you cover for a while?"

"Sure," she said. "Take as long as you need. Mom's watching the kids."

"Thanks Sis," he said. He took Thunders hand. "Lets go upstairs."

They sat at the kitchen table. Thunder said, "All right what's going on?"

Mark took her hands and said. "Glenn got a phone call this morning."

"And?" she asked.

"It was a woman and she told him that the fight at the bar was no accident. It was staged. Honey the whole thing was set up to hurt you.

Thunder's eyes got huge, "Hurt me? Why?"

"I don't know but I plan on finding out who's behind it," Mark told her. He watched as her eyes filled with tears and his heart broke when she said, "Well, it worked because I'll be taking the hurt they gave me to my grave." She got up and went to their bedroom.

He followed her and he saw her lying on their bed holding her pillow and he heard her crying softly. He laid down beside her, gathered her in his arms and they cried together.

"Our baby Mark. Who could be so vicious and cruel to hurt us this way?" She cried into his shoulder. He held her to him and thru his own tears he told her. "Darlin,' I promise you, I'm not gonna rest until I find out who's behind it and they're behind bars for the rest of they're lives." She held him tighter and cried.

They stayed there in their bed holding each other for the rest of the day.

It was seven o'clock when Thunder opened her eyes. She looked up at Marks sleeping face. "I love you Big Man," she whispered. She got out of the bed and went to the kitchen. She started the coffee and threw together a Mystery Cake. When she had it in the oven she went in to wake up Mark. "Hey Babe, Wake up. We're having company remember?" He opened his eyes and groaned, "Call and cancel. I want you back in this bed and in my arms."

She smiled and told him, "No can do. This is your party Babe!"

He sniffed and asked, "Is that Mystery Cake I smell?"

"Sure is and if you don't get your fanny out of that bed, You can't lick the frosting bowl." She saw the look on his face and said, "I know what your thinking, and you won't get to lick that either if you don't get out of that bed."

"Damn woman, You drive a hard bargain," he grumbled as he got up. "This is going to be the shortest family meeting on record." Thunder just smiled and went back to the kitchen.

Chapter 24

Everyone was sitting around the large dining room ble. Mark looked at everyone and said, "I have something to tell you all. Glenn got a call this morning telling him that the bar fight that killed our son was no accident. It was staged. The person behind it wanted to hurt Thunder."

Marcus stood up and yelled, "What are you saying son?" Lily took his arm and said, "Sit down dear, remember your blood pressure." Marcus sat. He said, "I want some answers, Who in the hell would want to hurt her like that?"

Mark said "Dad, calm down. Glenn, John and I have things under control."

Fyre took Thunders hand and held it tight. "Sis, I'm so sorry" she said with concern in her eyes.

Lily asked, "Do you have a plan or anything in mind son?"

Mark said, "Right now Thunder's not to be left alone at any time. I've deputized John and we have the wrestlers keeping watch like they did the last time."

John spoke up. "I talked to Vince earlier and he's sending some of the federation security to help out."

"Good," Mark said.

Glenn said, "While you were out this afternoon, you got a call. It was from Foley. Remember him?"

Mark smiled. "How could I forget? What did he want?"

"Believe it or not, he wants to come here for deer season and he wanted to know if we could get him a cabin for a week." He smiled at Thunder and said, "He also wanted to know if Ms. Thunder was still cooking at the cafe."

Thunder said "That man sure had a healthy appetite. I just hope he doesn't bring that awful Angle with him."

Glenn said, "I told him he could use our cabin for the week. I didn't think anyone would mind, but after we hung up, I thought maybe he could help with the investigation. You know off the record. As far as we know this doesn't come under the jurisdiction of the FBI, but it couldn't hurt to ask."

"When is he due in?" Mark asked.

"He said he'll be here on Friday," Glenn told him.

Thunder asked, "Is everyone ready for coffee and Mystery Cake?"

Glenn and Marcus said, "Oh Yeah, Mystery Cake."

Everyone laughed as Thunder went to the kitchen. Lily came in to help her get things ready. She said, "Daughter, I know your scared, but I know Mark, Glenn and John will get to the bottom of this."

"I know Mom," she said. "I just can't for the life of me figure out who hates me so much to do this."

Lily told her, "Well, I'm going to be coming back in to work a few days a week and Dad wants to come in to help out too."

Thunder started to protest, "Mom you and Dad have worked for so many years, you deserve your retirement."

Lily told her, "Daughter, Your safety is more important to us." Marcus stuck his head in the kitchen, "Where's the cake?" He came in and took the tray then he said, "Daughter, I'll be in tomorrow to open. Just tell me what the specials are then you can sleep in." Lily said, "And I'll be there to wait tables."

Thunder said, "You know I love you two" as she hugged them both. Marcus kissed her cheek and said "Lily you grab the coffee pot, Thunder, you get the plates and forks, Me? I got the cake."

Lily laughed and said, "Sweet heart, You take the cake."

Chapter 25

A few days later Mark came into the cafe.' Thunder could tell that he was pissed. She got his coffee and as she placed it in front of him. She asked, "What's wrong?"

"I got a call from the mayor this morning. It seems that those movie people are coming back. Something to do with retakes," he said.

"How long will they be here?" she asked.

"I was told about a week to ten days. The only good thing about it is Donna won't be coming."

"So what's the problem?" she asked.

"Remember, deer season starts Monday, so things are going to be crazy enough around here without adding a movie company to the mix," he said.

The bell over the door jangled. Thunder got up and went to the kitchen door. She smiled, "Well hello there, come on in. We're all back here." She went and poured a cup of coffee and put it on the table. She just sat down when Foley came into the kitchen. Mark smiled and said, "Hey," as he stood up and extended his hand. Foley smiled and the two men shook hands.

"How ya been?" Mark asked.

Foley sat down. "Fine, but I'm more than ready for a break and a lot of Ms. Thunder's good cooking."

"Well, not to worry, I'll make sure belly's kept full," Thunder laughed. "Any special requests? Like maybe a plain salad?"

Foley cringed. "Ms. Thunder, all I want is a week of your good cooking and peace and quiet. "

Mark laughed. "Well she can help with the cooking part, but the peace and quiet? Hunting season starts Monday and a movie company will be here on Tuesday."

"Damn!" Foley said.

Thunder had an idea. "Wait a minute. You want peace and quiet? Well, instead of the cabin, why don't you stay in Glenn and Fyre's old apartment upstairs?"

Foley asked, "Are you sure it won't be too much trouble?"

Mark said, "Not at all. It's been empty since Glenn and Fyre got married and moved to a bigger house. They have two kids now."

Foley smiled. "Two kids? Damn!" He looked at Mark and said, "What about you two? Any kids yet?"

Thunder excused herself and went to take an order. Foley looked at Mark. "Did I say something wrong?" his eyes full of concern.

"No," Mark said, and told him about the bar fight and the baby's death.

Foley listened and when Mark finished he said, "I'm so sorry Mark." He sat seep in thought while he sipped his coffee. "Mark,something stinks about this. Would it be possible for me to see the paperwork and the autopsy report on this Moose character? And, whatever happened to this guy Trouble? What the hell kind of name is that? "

Mark said, "Sure, just come down to the station after you get settled upstairs. I'll have it all ready for you."

Foley got up. "I'll go and get my gear and I'll see you in an hour." He left the kitchen.

Mark got up and saw him stop and talk to Thunder. He saw him take her hand as he was talking to her. She smiled and reached up and kissed his cheek. He blushed as he left the cafe and went to his car. Mark smiled. Thunder gave him the key and said, "Your apartment is the first door on the left." He thanked her and went upstairs. He came down a half hour later and said, "I think I'll just take a turn around town and see if anything's changed."

"Dinner starts around five-thirty," she told him.

"I'll be here," he said.

Part 7

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