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Fighting for a New Life Ch. 01

By: AshiraDatya



CHAPTER ONE

As the sun began rising in the sky, a small figure crept from a small house. The further the figure got from the house, the more confident it became. Finally, the figure straightened, revealing a young woman with golden blond hair and enchanting green eyes. The sun was shining brightly as she walked into the small town. She hadn't been to the town since she was a child, but she knew she had friends and enemies here. 

The young woman looked around carefully, her eyes lit up when she saw the small crafts store and hurried inside. An older woman set down her mug of tea. "May I help you?" she asked. The young woman smiled; relieved.

"Mrs. Kirk, it's Ari," she said. Mrs. Kirk's eyes grew wide as she studied the girl in front of her. 

"Oh my dear child! It is wonderful to see you!" Mrs. Kirk exclaimed, giving the young woman a hug. "Did your father bring you?" Mrs. Kirk asked. Ari shook her head.

"He is planning my wedding to Jack Jansten," Ari answered, relieved by the gasp her statement caused.

"Come Ari, we will go talk to Faith and Bethany," Mrs. Kirk said. Ari followed the older woman out the backdoor and into an alley. Ari kept to the shadows, hoping nobody would see her. When she and Mrs. Kirk entered a large home, Ari was greeted with hugs.

"We must act quickly. Your father is not a stupid man and he will assume you would come to us," Mrs. Kirk said to Ari. She nodded and listened to her mother's closest friends formulate a plan.

Ari jumped when the door opened. "Ari, this is Bethany's son Bobby. Bobby, this is Ariana. Her mother was a dear friend of ours," Mrs. Kirk introduced. Bobby nodded politely. Bethany explained to her son about Ariana's situation and Ariana was surprised to see Bobby's hands clench into fists. 

"What do you need for me to do?' Bobby asked. Bethany hesitated. 

"Ariana has two choices. She can either assume another identity or she can marry someone else," Bethany told her son, knowing Bobby couldn't stand Jack Jansten. 

Bobby studied Ariana for a moment. "When?" he asked. Bethany hid a smile.

"I call the mayor," Bethany said. Bobby shook his head, imagining his father's reaction. 

Ariana shifted her weight from foot to foot as she studied her reflection in the mirror. Mrs. Kirk appeared in the doorway.

"Are you ready dear?" she asked gently. Ariana nodded before smoothing a wrinkle in the dress. She followed Mrs. Kirk out to the back porch where Bobby waited with his parents. Bethany smiled as she watched her husband marry their son to the daughter of her oldest friend.

Faith stepped out to the porch. "Your father and Jack are headed this way," she told Ariana. Bobby signed the marriage certificate and handed the pen to Ariana who scrawled her name on the paper and allowed Bobby to lead her upstairs.

"Don't be nervous," Bobby chided as he pulled off his clothing. Ariana swallowed and slid her dress down her legs. "You are beautiful," he said gently as he pushed her back onto the bed. Bobby pushed his way into her carefully. Ariana cried out as he pushed past her hymen.

"Stop!" Ariana gasped, pushing up against Bobby. 

Bobby kissed Ariana's cheek. "I'm sorry I hurt you," he murmured, thrusting in and out of her. Tears streamed down her face. "Ariana, stop crying," Bobby said thrusting once more before spurting his seed deep inside her body. Bobby pulled away gently as the bedroom door was flung open. 

Ariana gasped as her father and Jack came to a stop just inside the bedroom.

"The priest is waiting downstairs to marry you and Jack," her father told Ariana. 

Bobby stepped forward. "Ariana isn't going anywhere with you," Bobby said, eying Jack carefully.

"That is my daughter young man!" Ariana's father exclaimed. 

Bobby shrugged. "That may be sir, but Ariana is my wife," Bobby said, his voice nearly a growl. 

"Excuse me? When and how the hell did that happen?" her father growled. He looked past Bobby to Ariana. "Cover yourself you little slut," he told her.

"You can't tell me what to do anymore father," Ariana said, her voice shaky. 

"You promised me your daughter Glen!" Jack exclaimed, walking over to the bed and pulling Ariana roughly to her feet. 

"Let me go!" she shrieked. 

"What is going on in here?" Bobby's father appeared in the doorway.

"Mayor Glass, your son raped my daughter the day before her wedding to Jack Jansten," Glen complained.

"It wasn't rape Glen, it was consummation of their wedding vows. I married them myself, not thirty minutes ago," the mayor told Glen.

"You little slut! Are you pregnant? Is that how you got Bobby Glass to marry you?" Glen screamed.

"No!" Ariana exclaimed, kicking Jack in the shin. He let her go and she grabbed a blanket and wrapped it around herself. "And there's my proof!" she told her father. Glen raked his eyes over the spot of blood on the blanket.

"That could have been faked," he sneered.

"I assure you, it isn't," Bobby said.

"I give you a year to produce a child or I will start working on an annulment and then Ariana, you will marry you I choose for you!" Glen shouted before storming out of the house, Jack on his heels. Ariana sank to the bed and watched silently as Bobby's parents left the room.

"Are you alright?" Bobby asked gently. She shook her head.

"That hurt Bobby," Ariana whispered. Bobby chuckled a little and sat down next to her.

"I'm sorry for that Aria. I didn't have the time to make it better, we needed to get rid of your virginity before he got here," Bobby told her. "Next time, it will be better, I promise," he added.

"I don't know if I want there to be a next time," Ariana whispered. Bobby chuckled again.

"Give me some time Aria, I promise it'll be better next time," Bobby repeated. Ariana's eyes met Bobby's and after a moment, she nodded. Bobby leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips. While she was distracted by the kiss, Bobby cupped his hand around a pert breast and teased it until the nipple was hard and pointed.

"What's happening to me?" Ariana asked, frightened by the sensations.

"Tell me what you're feeling," Bobby whispered.

"It's almost like I have butterflies in my stomach," Ariana answered. Bobby chuckled.

"You're nervous, relax," he told her, sliding his hands down her body. Ariana gasped as he flicked his tongue across her already hard nipple.

"What are you doing?" she wanted to know. 

Bobby looked up at her. "Does it feel good?" Bobby asked. Ariana nodded. "Then let go and enjoy," he told her. 

"Stop!" Ariana gasped a few minutes later, pushing him away with her hand.

"What's wrong?" Bobby asked, his brown eyes.

"I feel like I've ..." Ariana stopped, her face flushed with embarrassment.

"What's wrong?" Bobby asked again.

"I feel like I've peed my pants," Ariana whispered. Bobby slid his hand between her legs and pushed a finger up the hem of her panties and grinned when his finger slipped easily up inside her.

"You haven't peed yourself Aria, it's your body's way of preparing you for sex. Didn't your mother teach you about any of this stuff before she passed?" Bobby asked gently. Ariana shook her head.

"My father forbid it; told her that I didn't need to know until the night before my wedding," Ariana admitted. Bobby rolled his eyes. "So this wetness, is it a good thing?" she wanted to know. Bobby's grin widened.

"It's a very good thing. It makes it easier to do this," Bobby said, pushing his cock deep inside her. Ariana gasped and her eyes widened. "I told you it wouldn't hurt again," he murmured, before he began to thrust slowly, gently, letting her adjust to the fullness. After a moment, Bobby grasped her hips with his hands and helped her find the rhythm. Ariana moaned and closed her eyes as pleasure flowed through her. Bobby removed his hands from her hips and was pleased to find her still matching him thrust for thrust. He began to play with her nipples as he kissed her, thrusting hard, fast and deep. Ariana screamed into his mouth as she came, her muscles clamping down on him. Bobby shouted hoarsely as he again spewed his seed deep within her. Bobby rolled off of Ariana and moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her gently. 

"Bobby?" Ariana asked, her voice sleepy.

"Hm?"

"Why'd you marry me?" Ariana wanted to know. Bobby sighed.

"I know what Jack Jansten can do. I wouldn't wish him on my worst nightmare. 

"So you don't love me." Bobby pushed himself up on an elbow.

"No, but I could learn to," Bobby admitted, brushing his fingers down her back. Ariana sighed contently and Bobby lowered himself back down onto the bed.

"Thank you," Ariana said softly, turning into him. Bobby smiled and pressed a kiss to her cheek.

"There's no need to thank me Aria. Not for this," Bobby told her.

Fighting for a New Life Ch. 02-03



CHAPTER TWO

Ariana woke up slowly, blinking as she tried to figure out where she was. She wasn't home, or her father would have been yelling at her to get breakfast started. She gasped when she sat up and saw Bobby laying next to her. "What the ..." Ariana shook her head as the events from the day before flooded her.

"Good evening," Bobby murmured.

"Evening?" Ariana repeated. Bobby nodded.

"Yes, it's almost dinner time," Bobby told her.

"Seriously?" Ariana slid out of bed, wrapped a robe around her and walked to the window, wincing at how sore she felt. Her eyes widened when she saw the sun low in the sky.

"Are you okay?" Bobby asked, watching her closely.

"I'm a little sore," Ariana admitted. Bobby smiled a little. "We really got married, didn't we?" Ariana murmured. Bobby nodded and patted the bed next to him.

"We have some time before dinner if you need to talk," he told her.

"I can't believe you agreed to do this," Ariana admitted. She avoided Bobby's gaze.

"Aria, look at me," Bobby said. Ariana looked at him. "You're a beautiful girl, and like I said earlier, I know what Jack Jansten can do. You don't have to worry about him again," Bobby promised.

"But what about my father's ultimatum about only having a year to have a baby?" Ariana asked. Bobby grinned. "There's a very real chance that you're already pregnant Aria. But, the best way to ensure a baby is to have lots of sex," Bobby said with a sly grin. Ariana blushed as Bobby pulled the robe down; letting it fall to the floor before reaching for Ariana and pulling her to him.

"Bobby!" she gasped, feeling his hardness push against her. Bobby reached a finger between her legs and into her heat and he grinned when he felt how wet she was.

"Relax Aria," he murmured, thrusting hard and fast into her. 

"Is it supposed to feel like this?" she gasped, closing her eyes as she felt pleasure spiraling through her.

"Like what?" Bobby asked with a wolfish grin.

"This good," Ariana moaned, meeting him thrust for thrust. Bobby chuckled.

"Oh yes, it's supposed to feel this good," Bobby's voice rumbled in her ear as he thrust harder and deeper than he had before. "Let go Aria and cum for me," he whispered, sliding his hand to a point where he could brush his finger against her clit. Ariana came with a scream and Bobby followed as she clamped down on him. "Are you alright?" he asked after a minute. Ariana nodded as Bobby rolled off of her. "C'mon, let's go clean up so we can get down to dinner," he added. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"You told me Ariana would be mine Glen, and now she's married to that pain in the ass Bobby Glass," Jack growled. 

"I know what I told you. I don't know how she got out of the house! I'll figure out away to get the marriage annulled," Glen promised.

"You'd better because if I don't get what I want, you and your bitch daughter will pay," Jack threatened before walking away.

"Mom said you wanted to speak with us," Bobby said, leading Ariana into the study.

"You're going to need a house, there just isn't enough room for the both of you to stay here forever. You can stay until you can find another place, but this is a small house," his father told them.

"I understand. I'll start looking for property right away," Bobby said.

"Why property?" Ariana asked. Bobby turned and looked at her with a smile.

"So you can help design your dream house," Bobby told her. Ariana looked stunned.

"But you don't love me," she murmured. Bobby and his father glanced at each other and his father stood up.

"I'll leave you to discuss things then," he said before leaving the study and his newspaper behind.

"I want you to be happy Aria, it's as simple as that," Bobby said before Ariana could say anything. "I know you didn't pick this, I didn't either but we need to make the best of this," Bobby added.

"And if we can't be?" Ariana asked.

Bobby sighed. "Let's not worry about that until we get there," he said as his mother called them for dinner.

"What do you think?" Bobby asked as they reached the fourth property of the day.

"It's beautiful, look at the river!" Ariana exclaimed. Bobby nodded.

"Lots of space for kids to run around in," Bobby said with a grin. Ariana blushed. "I've been having fun trying," he added making her blush more. Ariana stood quietly and watched Bobby negotiate the price for the property. When he walked back over to her, he was grinning. "It's ours darlin," Bobby said. Ariana smiled and followed him back to the car and they rode in silence back to town. "Are you hungry?" Bobby asked. Ariana nodded and grinned as Bobby pulled into the parking lot of a popular local restaurant.

"I haven't been here since my mother died," she said quietly. 

"It hasn't changed. Except Molly's not running it anymore, her daughter is," Bobby said.

"Melissa?" Ariana asked. Bobby nodded. 

"C'mon, it's spaghetti meatballs night and they'll get packed fast," Bobby told her, parking. Ariana followed Bobby into the restaurant and was shocked when a woman ran over and flung herself at Bobby.

"Laura, Laura, stop!" Bobby exclaimed, holding his hands up to keep her at bay.

"What's the matter Bobby? Why haven't you called me?" Laura pouted.

"Laura, I never promised to call you, we went out twice," Bobby reminded her.

"Didn't you have fun?" Laura purred. Bobby glanced back and had to fight to keep an amused look from crossing his face when he saw the shock and horror on Ariana's face.

"Laura, I'd like you to meet my wife Ariana," Bobby said, grabbing her hand and pulling her forward.

"Your wife? When did that happen?" Laura asked slowly.

"Last week," Bobby answered, carefully not giving her any more information than that.

"How long have you known her?" Laura wanted to know.

"Our mothers were best friends and we ran into each other a few months ago and hit it off," Bobby said, telling a partial lie. He gave Ariana a glance that told her to keep quiet.

"Bobby Glass, is that who I think it is?!" Melissa shrieked from the bar. Bobby grinned.

"Mel!" Ariana exclaimed as her old friend hurried towards them. The girls squealed as they embraced. "I haven't seen you in forever! Your father kept you pretty sequestered," Melissa said.

"It's a long story, one I'll get into later, I'm still overwhelmed," Ariana promised. 

"When did you hook up with Bobby?" Melissa asked softly. Ariana smiled slightly and blushed.

"That's another long story, let's just say right now, I think Bobby's my guardian angel," Ariana said. It was Bobby's turn to blush.

"I'm no angel," he said gruffly. 

"I have a table in back that's perfect, c'mon," Melissa said. Bobby and Ariana followed Melissa to the back of the table that was sequestered away from the rest of the dining room. 

"What looks good?" Bobby asked after Ariana had surveyed the menu for a few moments.

"I'm thinking the Barbecue Beef sandwich," Ariana said.

"It's good, but I think I want the spaghetti, it's Molly's family recipe," Bobby told her. 

~~~~~~~~

Ariana stood in the tiny kitchen of the fifth wheel that her father had delivered while the builders began building the house she and Bobby had designed. "What are you thinking about?" Bobby asked, coming up behind her and placing his hands on her shoulders.

"Just over how things have changed and about what's happened," Ariana admitted, turning to face him.

"Are you okay?" Bobby asked seeing the dark circles under her eyes. Ariana nodded.

"I'm okay," she said softly.

"What's wrong?" Bobby asked.

"I thought I was pregnant but I'm not," Ariana murmured, looking at the floor.

"Don't worry about it Aria, we have time. Besides, your father's claim to be able to get the marriage annulled; there's nothing to it. He doesn't have that kind of power," Bobby told her. Ariana nodded and turned back towards the window and gazed out at the river. "I think I'm going to go for a run," she murmured. Bobby pressed a kiss to the back of her neck.

"Be careful, it's getting dark," Bobby told her. Ariana smiled, nodded and grabbed her jacket before running out the door.

"Aria!" Bobby called nearly an hour later, stepping out to look for her; Ariana had been gone for nearly two hours and he was beginning to get worried. "Ariana!" he shouted, waving his flash light in a slow arch. He walked nearly half a mile before he found her laying on the ground, unconscious, a bloodied rock next to her. Bobby scooped down and lifted Ariana into his arms and carried her back to the fifth wheel. He set her down on the bed before grabbing his cell phone and calling his father.



"Aria, wake up love," Bobby said softly, wiping her forehead with a cool washcloth. 

"What happened?" she asked groggily.

"Someone hit you over the head with a rock about a mile from here. Did you see anything?" Bobby asked. Ariana shook her head and groaned as pain rocketed through her head. "I wouldn't recommend doing that if I were you," he said gently. "Doctor Harmon is here to look you over," he added, stepping back to let the older man by.

"It's just a mild concussion, she'll be fine," Doctor Harmon said, patting Ariana's leg. "Watch her tonight, wake her up every hour and if you have any problems getting her to wake up, call for an ambulance immediately," Doctor Harmon added. Bobby nodded and showed the doctor out.

"How are you feeling?" Bobby asked a few moments later as he brought Ariana a cup of tea.

"Tired," she admitted.

"You need to stay awake for a little while," Bobby told her.

"But I'm so sleepy," Ariana complained.

"That's the concussion," Bobby said. "Drink," he commanded gently. Ariana took the mug and took a sip. He kept her up for a little over an hour before letting her go back to sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"What did you do?" Glen wanted to know.

"Just a little demonstration about what happens to those who anger me," Jack answered.

"I don't want my daughter hurt. Just because she didn't follow my plan for her doesn't mean I don't love her. And there is the matter of her being married, that means she's having sex. She could be pregnant," Glen said. Jack's eyes flashed.

"Then she will pay dearly," he promised.

CHAPTER THREE

"I don't like it Bobby. You only married her to save Ariana from Jack?" Melissa asked.

"Don't look at me like that Melissa," Bobby said.

"After growing up in a house with just her father, she deserves love!" Melissa exclaimed.

"She needs to be safe first," Bobby argued. They both looked up as Ariana walked into the main room. "How are you feeling?" Bobby asked.

"I'm still sleepy, and I have a headache, but better," Ariana said. Bobby smiled.

"Good," he said, handing her a cup of coffee. 

She wrinkled her nose. "Do you have anything that isn't strong? I'm kind of queasy today," Ariana murmured. 

Bobby frowned. "I'm calling Doctor Harmon back," he said, reaching for his cell phone.

"I'm fine, it's probably just from lack of sleep," Ariana protested.

"I'll tell you what, I'll take Ariana out for a shopping and pampering spree and if she's still feeling funny by this afternoon, I'll take her to see Doctor Harmon," Melissa said.

"That sounds like fun," Ariana said with a bright smile. Bobby grinned and nodded.

"Have fun," he murmured, brushing a kiss over her lips.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Melissa asked, looking at her friend with a concerned frown.

"I think so, I'm still really queasy," Ariana answered, nibbling on her toast.

"I think you should see Doctor Harmon," Melissa said worriedly.

"I think you're right," Ariana admitted, setting the toast back on her plate and wrinkling her nose. Melissa paid the bill and drove Ariana to the doctor's office.

"Does this have anything to do with my concussion?" Ariana wanted to know.

"I don't think so. Let me do a full exam," Doctor Harmon said before he began looking her over.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Did you have fun?" Bobby asked from the doorway of the bedroom.

"Yes," Ariana said carefully.

"What'd you buy?" Bobby asked.

"Some jogging suits," Ariana answered.

"Is that it?" Bobby asked, amused as he looked around and counted the bags. "There are almost ten bags here Aria," he added.

"I bought a few other things too," she admitted.

"Like?" he prodded. Ariana hesitated and pulled something out of a bag. "What is that?" he wanted to know. Bobby took a step towards her and studied the garment carefully. "Is that an outfit for a baby?" His eyes widened when Ariana nodded.

"I thought you said you weren't pregnant," Bobby said slowly.

"I didn't think I was, but according to Doctor Harmon, I am," Ariana said, hesitantly taking a step back, unable to read the look on his face. "I'm sorry Bobby," she whispered, turning around. 

"What are you sorry for?" Bobby asked finally.

"You didn't want to marry me, you shouldn't be saddled down by a baby," Ariana murmured. Bobby turned her towards him and pushed her gently down on the bed. "Aria, I may not be in love with you and marrying you may not have been my first choice, but we ARE married and I do care for you. The most important thing to me right now is your health, safety and happiness," Bobby said before wrapping his arms around her and pulling her in for a hug.

"What do you want Ari?" Glen asked, when he came to a stop in front of the table she and Bobby were sitting at. He glanced at Bobby's parents who were also seated at the table.

"Sit down please," Ariana said softly. Glen sat down across the table from his daughter.

"What is this about Ariana?" Glen wanted to know.

"You told me that I had a year to have a baby or you'd work to have the marriage annulled," Ariana began. Glen nodded and studied his daughter carefully.

"I take it you're pregnant then," he said. Ariana nodded, held her breath, waited for the blow up that was sure to come. "I hope you and your child will be well," Glen said before getting up and walking away. Bobby and Ariana looked at each other, almost in shock at Glen's reaction.

"That went well," Bobby's father commented.

"How are you feeling?" Bobby's mother wanted to know.

"I'm okay, tired," Ariana answered. Bobby frowned.

"Oh relax Bobby, it's normal to be tired," his mother chastised. Bobby grinned and shrugged.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Are you sure you want to go for a run?" Bobby asked as he watched Ariana pull on a jogging suit a little over two weeks later.

"I need some exercise. I've never been this still ever," Ariana said, zipping up the jacket over her tank top. 

"I'm going with you," Bobby said.

"Are you sure?" Ariana asked.

"The last time you went for a run, someone tried to bash your skull in," Bobby reminded her. Ariana shivered as she pulled her sneakers on. She waited for Bobby to change his slacks for jeans and a tee shirt and pull on his own sneakers.

"How far are we going to run for?" Bobby asked nearly an hour later as they stopped for a water break.

"Another few miles, why?" Ariana asked with a small smile.

"I'm exhausted, are you sure it's safe for you to run like this? It won't hurt the baby?" Bobby asked.

"It's fine," Ariana assured him. They ran in silence for the next two miles before Bobby leaned against a tree in exhaustion. "Are you alright?" Ariana asked, pulling another bottle of water out of her bag and handing it to him. Bobby nodded and chugged the water gratefully. 

"I don't run like this," he told her. Ariana grinned.

"We just ran about five miles," she told him and Bobby's eyes widened.

"Five miles," he repeated. Ariana nodded. "Are you sure you won't hurt the baby?" he asked. Ariana made a sound of frustration. "What?"

"I will not hurt the baby by running. Doctor Harmon said to continue to exercise, it'll keep me strong and healthy," Ariana told him. 

Bobby took another swig of water before he straightened up. "Are we heading back?" he asked.

"Not yet, there's a place I want to go," Ariana said. "I need to show you something." Bobby followed Ariana into the woods and after a few minutes of walking, Ariana stopped. "Where are we?" Bobby wanted to know.

"It's my favorite place. I used to come here almost every day when I lived with my dad, it was my escape," Ariana told him, unzipping the jacket of her running suit.

"What are you doing?" Bobby asked as she hung the jacket over a tree limb. 

"I'm going in the pool," Ariana answered.

"It isn't safe," Bobby said stubbornly.

"Bobby, I've been coming here since I was twelve, it's safe," she murmured. Before he could protest any more, Ariana had removed the rest of her clothes and walked quickly over to the pool and climbed in. "You could join me you know," Ariana called out. 

"Is it warm?" Bobby asked.

"It's heavenly," Ariana moaned before ducking under the water. Bobby pulled his clothing off and climbed into the pool.

"Oh wow," Bobby commented as Ariana surfaced. His eyes were glued to her breasts as the water streamed over them in rivulets.

"What's wrong?" Ariana asked.

"Nothing." He took the two steps that were between them quickly and cupped her breasts gently. "You're beautiful," he breathed before lowering his mouth to suck gently on a stiff nipple, causing Ariana to arch against him.

"Please don't tease me," she pleaded, wrapping her arms around his neck. Bobby lifted her up and helped Ariana wrap her legs around his waist before he thrust into her at the slowest pace possible. She moaned as he thrust in and out slowly, holding her hips firmly against him, rendering her unable to move against him. "Bobby please," she whimpered, feeling her climax climbing. She felt like she was climbing a waterfall and the pleasure kept mounting, increasing.

Bobby stopped thrusting for a moment and walked slowly to the edge of the pool and pressed Ariana gently against the ledge before he began thrusting slowly. The new position made it so that Bobby could snake a hand to where the were joined and flick gently at her clit. The sensation sent Ariana over the edge and she screamed loudly as she came, her muscles clamped down, triggering his own release and groaned loudly, his seed pulsing deep into her heat. 

They said little as they dried off with the towels Ariana had packed in her day pack and just after they had finished dressing when gun shots rang out. Bobby pushed Ariana gently to the ground, covering her body with his while they waited for the shots to stop.

"Are you okay?" Bobby asked, checking Ariana's body for bullet holes.

"I'm okay, just startled. I haven't been shot, but we need to get out of here," she murmured. Bobby nodded and they ran back through the woods, not stopping until they got back to the fifth wheel. "I'll call the sheriff," he said, unlocking the door and going inside.

"I don't like this Bobby. I think you and Ariana need to disappear for a little while. This is the second time that someone has tried to hurt her," his father said later that night over the phone. Bobby sighed. "She doesn't want to leave though, she wants to have the baby here and move into the house when it's finished," Bobby said.

"We'll take care of the house, but if these threats continue, you need to get her out of here," his father said.

"I know," Bobby sighed. He looked up as Ariana came out of the bedroom. "I have to go dad, I'll talk to you later," he added. "You look like you feel better," Bobby commented. 

Ariana gave a small smile. "I am. I'm still shaken up, but ..." before she could finish her sentence, bullets shattered the windows.

"Get down!" Bobby shouted. "That's it, we're getting out of here," Bobby said when the bullets stopped.

"But I want to have the baby here," Ariana protested.

"It isn't safe," Bobby said. He scrawled out a letter, stuffed it in an envelope, placed a stamp on it and set it on top the counter. "Go pack, we're leaving," he told her.



Fighting for a New Life Ch. 04-05



I apologize that it took so long for this update to be posted and regret to inform you guys that it may take awhile for future updates; classes begin for me on Thursday and due to previous events, if I do not get straight B's this semester and next semester, I won't have a high enough GPA to graduate and believe me, in my opinion, I've given the University more money and time then I want to. I will try to get in updates as quickly as I can, but my school work and my family take priority over my stories. I thank you all for reading and your comments. I also ask that if anyone thinks something in the time line or chapter does not make sense to please include an email address so that I may get back to you on an individual basis. And feel free to IM me.

Thanks!

Ashira

CHAPTER FOUR

"I didn't know you had that kind of money," Ariana said in awe as Bobby stacked four huge bank bags in a raggedy looking duffel bag.

"The joys of owning my own business," Bobby told her. 

"Where will we go?" she wanted to know.

"I'm not sure. As far away from here as we can," Bobby answered.

"Will we be back in time to have the baby?" Ariana asked.

"I don't know," he admitted, putting the rest of the things and putting them in the back of the car.

"Bobby, I'm tired," Ariana complained hours later.

"We'll stop in about a half hour for dinner and a hotel, I promise," Bobby told her.

By the time they stopped at a Holiday Inn, nearly two hours had passed and Ariana was asleep.

"Aria, wake up," Bobby said, shaking her awake. Ariana straightened and rubbed her eyes.

"So much for a half hour," she said grumpily.

"Sorry, there wasn't anything except fast food and that stuff just isn't healthy," Bobby told her. Ariana wrinkled her nose. "Don't tell me you're a health nut," she teased.

"No, but I know fast food has too much fat and calories and if they aren't good for a non-pregnant person, they won't be good for you," Bobby answered.

"Splurge every once in awhile," she grumbled. 

Bobby chuckled. "I'll be back in a few minutes with our room key," he promised. True to his word, Bobby returned a few moments later with a key, climbed back in the car and drove around to the side where the room was located. "Do you want me to order room service or do you want to go out?" Bobby asked as he carried their bags into the room. 

Ariana flipped through the dine in menu and pursed her lips. "Lets eat in," she suggested. Bobby nodded.

"Order anything you want. I'm going to make sure we weren't followed," Bobby told her.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Ariana looked up as Bobby returned to the room just moments after their food was delivered. "I ordered you a burger and fries," she murmured. Bobby smiled and sat down on the bed next to her and reached for the burger. "See anything of concern?" Ariana asked.

"No, but we shouldn't stay here for more than a night or two," Bobby answered. Ariana sighed.

"Are we going to spend the rest of our lives on the run?" Ariana asked.

"I hope not," he murmured, taking a large bite of his burger. "How'd you know what I like on my burgers?" Bobby asked. Ariana rolled her eyes.

"For starters, we've been married for over two months, almost three now and second, your mother gave me a list of your favorite foods and how to prepare them," Ariana said. 

Bobby chuckled. "Sounds like mom, I can be a bit stubborn about my food," he admitted. They finished their dinner in silence and Ariana disappeared into the bathroom. When she returned a few moments later, she was wearing a silky light blue night gown. "Is that new?" he asked. 

She nodded. "Do you like it?"

"You look amazing in it," Bobby told her. Ariana smiled and blushed a little when she caught sight of the look in his eyes. 

A knock at the door caused Bobby's eyes to be torn away from staring at her. Bobby wordlessly walked over to the door and opened it cautiously. "Yes?" Bobby asked.

"The manager asked me to deliver this to your suite," the bellhop told him. Bobby thanked him and took the proffered bottle and closed the door. Bobby turned around and swallowed his panic when he saw Ariana wasn't in the room. He scanned the rest of the suite carefully and sighed with relief when he saw she was on the balcony.  "Aria?" he asked, stepping into the doorway.

"I just needed some air," Ariana said. "Who was at the door?" she asked.

"The bell hop. The hotel manager asked him to deliver a bottle of sparkling cider," Bobby answered. "I guess he must have pegged us for newlyweds," he added with a grin. Ariana blushed again and backed up against the railing when she caught sight of the wolfish grin on his face. "We'll drink it later," he decided, unbuttoning his pants and letting them fall to the ground, followed quickly by his boxers.

"Bobby! Someone will see us!" Ariana hissed.

"No they won't, the walls are high and solid," Bobby told her, stepping towards her and pushing the hem of her night gown up over her hips. Before Ariana could protest again, Bobby's lips were covering hers and his fingers pressing up into her moist heat. Ariana moaned and arched against him. Bobby chuckled before replacing his fingers with his cock, thrusting hard, fast and deep. Bobby used his hands to keep Ariana's hips still as she attempted to meet him. 

"Bobby!" she wailed softly. Bobby groaned and let go of her hips, closed his eyes as she began to thrust with him. It was over faster than either of them expected, their cries of pleasure mingled and Ariana sagged against him, feeling as if every bone in her legs had melted away.

"Are you okay?" Bobby asked as he helped her back into the room. 

"Yeah, but I could use that cider now," Ariana murmured. Bobby chuckled, popped the top off the bottle and poured her a glass. 

Ariana took a long sip of her cider before Bobby had a chance to pour his own. He was just about to take a sip when a loud thump caught his attention. "Aria?" he asked, looking up. His eyes widened when he saw Ariana on the floor, a look of pain crossed her face as she struggled to breathe. He swore under his breath as he reached for the phone and called for help.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Mr. Glass, I'm Doctor Knight," Bobby looked up as the doctor walked up to him.

"Is Aria okay?" Bobby asked, almost afraid to hear the answer. Doctor Knight smiled.

"She should be just fine, the baby too," he answered before Bobby could ask his next question. "Do you mind telling me what happened?" Doctor Knight wanted to know. 

Haltingly, Bobby told the doctor about the events over the past few months and Doctor Knight frowned. "It sounds like you kids need a safe haven," Doctor Knight mused. Bobby nodded. "Let me make some calls. I want to keep Ariana over night for observation and then I want her under a doctor's care for the rest of the pregnancy. With the amount of stress that you are under is not going to do any good for that baby," Doctor Knight told Bobby.

"We can't stay in one place. We've only been in town a few hours and he already managed to get to Aria," Bobby argued.

"Like I said, let me make some calls. I may know of a safe place for you," Doctor Knight reiterated. "She's in room two, go on in," he added before walking away.

Bobby walked into the room and sat down in the chair next to the bed and watched Ariana sleep. He looked up when Doctor Knight returned to the room nearly an hour later. "I have a place for you to go and hide," he began. Bobby listened intently, a smile forming on his face when he realized the doctor's plan just might work.

CHAPTER FIVE

"Bobby, where are we?" Ariana wanted to know.

"We're in a town in Michigan near an Amish settlement. Doctor Knight has a friend that lives here. He and the Amish will protect us," Bobby answered. Ariana looked doubtful.

"I'm not living without electricity," Ariana said.

"We don't have to. We're not living in the Amish community, just near. The "English" community and the Amish community are very close in proximity. Doctor Knight called the doctor here who commonly treats minor injuries and he spoke with the Bishop of the community; if anyone even thinks to come looking for us here that we've been here for a few years," Bobby told Ariana. She still looked unsure. "Relax Aria, we'll be safe here," Bobby said softly. 

He pulled into a driveway in front of a small house. "This is where we'll be staying," he added, putting the car in park. Ariana looked around the house with a sigh; despite it's small size, it was quite cute; the walls were a cheerful pale yellow with eggshell trim. "The kitchen isn't as big as the one you designed, but it's functional," Bobby told her as he led her around the inside. After they toured the house, Bobby walked outside and grabbed bags from the back of the car. 

"Are you Bobby Glass? I'm Doctor Turner. Pat Knight called and said you'd be coming," a man who looked to be about thirty said, walking up to Bobby.

"Yes, I am. Ariana is inside. She isn't sure about this," Bobby answered. 

"That's understandable. I brought the Bishop with me to talk with the both of you, is now a good time?" Doctor Turner asked. Bobby nodded and led them inside.

"Aria, Doctor Turner and the Bishop are here," Bobby called out. Ariana walked into the kitchen where Bobby, the doctor and the Bishop waited. 

"Hello," she said politely.

"I understand you both have had quite a journey," the Bishop began. Ariana nodded. "It sounds like your father is not a good man," the Bishop murmured.

"No, he isn't. When my mother died, he kept me locked in the house," Ariana said.

"Then how'd you go on runs?" Bobby asked. Ariana avoided Bobby's gaze.

"I snuck out. And believe me, I paid dearly for that," Ariana answered.

"Your father hit you?" Bobby asked, his eyes darkening. Ariana lowered her eyes to the floor and nodded. "Remind me to kill him when I see him next," Bobby said.

"Violence is not permitted here," the Bishop told Bobby. Bobby nodded. Bobby and Ariana listened closely as the Bishop went over the rules of the community.

~~~~~~~~

"They're giving us funny looks," Ariana whispered nearly two weeks later.

"They'll get used to us," Bobby told her. Ariana shook her head and went back to looking at the produce from the stand. "These peaches look amazing," he told the woman at the stand. 

She gave a slight nod. "We had plenty of sun and rain this year," she agreed. "You're new here," she commented.

"They are the ones the Bishop talked about a few weeks back," another woman said, bagging up some tomatoes for another customer. 

"You'll be safe here. Have you stocked your kitchen yet?" 

"No, not yet. My name is Ariana," she answered.

"My name is Martha. Would you like for me and some of the other women to bring you some meat, and other foods? Fresh cheese and milk perhaps?" Martha asked Ariana.

"That would be great," Ariana said gratefully.

"We will be there as soon as we close down for the day, around four," Martha said. Ariana smiled and thanked Martha as Bobby paid her for the produce they had chosen.

When Martha and a few of the others from the community appeared at the house a few hours later, Bobby and Ariana were amazed at the amount of food people had brought. "I didn't mean for you to bring so much," Ariana told Martha, her eyes wide with awe.

"You need food, the Bishop said you are expecting your first child; nutrition is important for expectant mothers. Besides, if we want anyone coming and asking questions to believe you are one of us, we need to treat you like you are one of us," Martha answered, stocking the bread box full of loaves of fresh bread. "This is my sister Annie. I take it this is where you want the milk and cheese?" Martha introduced a young woman carrying a large basket full of eggs, cheeses and several glass jugs of milk.  

"Just set them on the counter and I will put them away," Ariana said. 

Annie looked around the kitchen in surprise.

"Why do you have two ice chests?" Annie wanted to know.

"Aria and I are Jewish, and it is our custom not to put meat and dairy in the same refrigerator," Bobby answered.

"That is a very strange custom," Annie said.

"Annie, don't be rude!" Martha hissed; she looked up as an older woman walked into the kitchen. "Mama, this is Bobby and Ariana Glass. This is my mother Rebecca," Martha said.

"She isn't being rude. It's very simple. Deuteronomy 14:21 states that you shall not boil a kid in its mother's milk. The Rabbi's interpreted that to mean that one shall not eat meat and dairy together," Bobby answered with a smile.

"My husband will be bringing over some meat for you. We have a nice pig we can slaughter," Rebecca said with a welcoming smile.

"Thank you ma'am, but I must ask that just beef and chicken be brought. Pork is considered treif, or un-kosher," Bobby said.

"Of course. We wish to respect your customs and will do so as long as you respect ours," Rebecca said. Bobby nodded. "I will have the men cut the meat down and I will wrap some of it so you may put it in the freezer," she added before saying something softly to her daughters and leaving the house.

"This is unbelievable," Ariana said as she washed dishes later that night.

"I'm with you on that one," Bobby agreed. "How are you feeling?" he asked, seeing dark circles under her eyes.

"I'm a little tired, but other than that, I feel fine," Ariana answered with a small smile as she rinsed the last dish and put it in the drainer. 

"Why don't you go to bed," Bobby suggested.

"It's only seven!" Ariana exclaimed. 

Bobby grinned. "Well, I didn't say to go to sleep," he reminded her. Ariana blushed but allowed herself to be led into the tiny bedroom.



Fighting for a New Life Ch. 06-07



CHAPTER SIX

"Why can't we call your parents or Melissa?" Ariana asked.

"Because we don't know if whoever is after you is watching them. I'll call mom later from a pay phone when I go into the city," Bobby told her. Ariana pouted.

"I hate feeling so cut off," she grumbled.

"I know, but it's for your own safety," Bobby said. Ariana let out a half shriek, stood up and ran from the house. Bobby shook his head with a sigh, knowing it was futile to run after her.

In the months that they had been in hiding, Ariana had become more and more quiet, as if she were unhappy with life or with him, he wasn't sure. She hardly spoke to him any more. Bobby shook his head again and went outside to chop wood for the fireplace. The nights were getting colder as October faded into November and the locals were talking about snow not being far off. A sudden noise in the yard had Bobby immediately on edge; he raised the axe over his shoulder, holding it like you would a baseball bat and crept around from the side to the front.

"Holy hell Aria, why didn't you saying thing as you got closer to the house?" Bobby asked, letting the axe drop to the ground.

"I didn't know you'd be out here," Ariana answered.

"Still, make some noise next time," Bobby grumbled.

"What the hell is your problem?" Ariana wanted to know.

"MY problem? My problem is the attitude you've had the last three months!" Bobby exclaimed. "You've been quiet, depressed, hell, Doctor Turner says you aren't even gaining enough weight!" Bobby shouted.

"I've gained ten pounds!" Ariana snapped.

"Where?" Bobby taunted. "I don't see any weight gain," Bobby said. Ariana rolled her eyes, looked around and pulled her tee-shirt over her head. "I still don't see any," he murmured, pulling her between a couple of trees, minimizing the chance that someone would see. Ariana moaned as Bobby's lips covered hers, his hands pushing down her jeans and panties. Bobby pulled away slightly and looked her over, his hands resting on her slightly rounded abdomen.  "You're beautiful," he murmured, pushing his pants and boxers down his legs and thrust into her making her gasp. She tried to stay as quiet as possible as she wrapped her legs around his waist; Bobby supported her weight with his arms as he thrust deeply inside her. They came together faster than they would have liked; it had been too long since they had enjoyed each other. Bobby set Ariana gently back on the ground and they reached for their clothes, hoping to put them on before they had company. They weren't so lucky, Rebecca and her husband Jacob walked into the yard, bringing fresh milk, cheese and meat for them. 

Ariana's face was bright red as she tugged her shirt into place before snapping her jeans shut. Bobby didn't seem as bothered. "Good afternoon," he said.

"Same to you. We brought you some more meat and milk," Jacob said, stating the obvious. Rebecca seemed nearly as embarrassed as Ariana and avoided looking at her in the face.

"Thank you," Bobby said, taking the carton of milk and cheese from Rebecca. Ariana and Bobby exchanged glances and Bobby hid a grin. "How is work going?" Bobby asked.

"Busy, but the days are getting shorter now," Jacob answered. Bobby nodded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-Months later-

"Where is she?" he roared. Melissa backed away, stopping only when her back made contact with the wrap around counter.

"I don't know where Ariana went, and even if I did, I wouldn't tell you!" Melissa exclaimed. "You leave right now Jack before I call the police!" she added.

"You listen to me Melissa and listen good. If I have to find Ariana on my own, I will, but it won't be pretty. If you help me find her, the only person that will get hurt is Bobby Glass," Jack warned. 

"And if I don't help you?" Melissa challenged.

"I'll kill Ariana too," Jack answered before turning and walking out of the restaurant. 

Melissa took a deep breath before grabbing a piece of paper and scribbling something down on it. She walked to her car and drove to the Glass' home. "Melissa, what can we do for you?" Mrs. Glass asked from the garden.

"I need for you to give this to Bobby, I don't know how or nor do I care, but Jack wants to kill Bobby, and if I don't help him find them, Ariana too," Melissa said, handing Mrs. Glass the note.

"I'll get it to him," Mrs. Glass promised.

"Bobby, your mom sent a note from Melissa!" Ariana exclaimed a few days later. Bobby put down the report he was working on and walked over to her. "Jack wants to kill you," she murmured softly. "He threatened Mel. Said if she didn't help him find us, he'd kill me too," she added.

"Not if I kill him first," Bobby seethed. Ariana looked at him in surprise. "I mean it Aria, I'll kill him before I let him hurt you," he told her. 

Ariana shook her head. "I hate violence Bobby," she reminded him.

"I won't let him hurt either of you," Bobby promised. Ariana sighed but gave a small smile and handed him the note. Bobby scanned it quickly before pulling Ariana in for a gentle hug. "How are you feeling? You were up really early this morning," he murmured.

"I'm okay. I just had a really bad leg cramp," Ariana answered.

"Why didn't you wake me up?" Bobby wanted to know.

"You were up really late last night working on the project," Ariana said.

"Aria, I don't care how little sleep I've gotten, if you need me, wake me up," Bobby told her. Ariana opened her mouth to answer, but a knock at the door drew Bobby's attention. 

"Stay here," he murmured, turning away. When he opened the door, Bobby was surprised to see the county sheriff standing there. "What can I do for you Sheriff?" Bobby asked.

"Are you Bobby Glass?" the Sheriff asked.

"Yes sir," Bobby confirmed.

"I need for you to come with me please," the Sheriff said.

"May I ask for what?" Bobby wanted to know.

"Suspicion of murder," the Sheriff answered, showing Bobby the arrest warrant.

"Bobby," Ariana murmured, her eyes wide with fear.

"It's going to be okay Aria. After I've gone, I want you to go to Martha's and stay there until I get back," Bobby said. He cupped her chin with his hand. "Be strong," he murmured, pressing a kiss to her cheek before turning back to the Sheriff who put handcuffs on Bobby's wrists and led him from the house.

Ariana stood there stunned for several minutes before stuffing a duffel bag and running the two miles to Martha's house. "Ariana, what's wrong?" Annie asked, pulling the door open.

"The police have arrested Bobby on suspicion of murder!" Ariana gasped. 

"What? That is crazy!" Martha said, coming up behind her sister. "Come in please," she added. Ariana slid into the house and Martha ushered her to the couch. 

"What is happening?" Jacob asked, looking up from the Bible. Ariana accepted the glass of water offered by Martha and took a sip before answering. "Did he murder anyone?" Jacob asked.

"NO! Bobby would never hurt anyone unless they threatened his safety!" Ariana exclaimed.

"Calm down Ariana, you won't do yourself or the baby any good if you become hysterical," Rebecca said, not looking up from her quilting. 

"I don't understand why this is happening," Ariana whispered.

"Tomorrow morning I will have Jonah drive you to the police station and you can find out exactly what is happening," Jacob told Ariana.

"Thank you," Ariana murmured, taking another drink of water.

"You should get some rest," Rebecca advised. Ariana nodded and allowed Martha and Annie to lead her upstairs. 

"You can sleep in our room," Martha told her friend. Ariana nodded silently and walked into the small room.

"Papa made the bunk beds to save space, of course when I get married in the spring, Annie will have it all to herself unless Mama has another baby," Martha murmured.

"Where will Annie sleep?" Ariana wanted to know. 

"On this." Ariana turned to see Jonah, Annie's twin brother carrying in a cot on wheels. "Father picked this up at a flea market last week at Mama's urging. She had a feeling you would need some assistance when your time came," Jonah said. Ariana blushed. "Good night," he added before ducking back out of the room.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Where is my husband?" Ariana demanded to know as she stormed into the police station the next morning.

"Ma'am, your husband is being held on suspicion of murder, he isn't allowed visitors," the sheriff said, walking up to the counter.

"Have you allowed him to see a lawyer?" Ariana countered. 

"Ma'am, he isn't allowed visitors," the Sheriff repeated.

"Bull shit! Miranda Rights grant him the right to an attorney," Ariana said matter of factly.

"You know your law," the Sheriff observed.

"She ought to her, father used to be one of the top lawyers in our county," a calm, cold and calculating voice said from behind the Sheriff. Ariana gasped and began backing away.

"How did you find us Jack?" Ariana asked, her eyes wide.

"Simple really. I threatened Melissa and followed the letter she wrote to Bobby and gave to his mother," Jack answered. 

"You're a pig!" Ariana spat. Jack just laughed.

"That may be, but I've got you now," Jack said, lunging for her. Ariana tried to get away, but her balance was off and he managed to grab her arm. "I think for now, I'll put you where you can't get away," he added, dragging her towards the cell Bobby was being held in.

"Aria, what the hell are you doing here!?" Bobby exclaimed when Jack pushed her into the cell.

"I didn't expect douche of the century to be here," Ariana murmured. Bobby sighed.

"Are you alright? Did he hurt you?" Bobby asked. She shook her head.

"I'm scared, but I'm okay," she answered.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Bobby asked again.

"I wanted to see you, to make sure you were okay," Ariana answered.

"You should have stayed with Martha," Bobby scolded.

"What, so you can be left to Jack's devices?" Ariana snapped.

"Better me then you," Bobby retorted. Ariana sighed and rubbed the small of her back. "You okay?" he asked softly. 

"It's just a back ache," Ariana sighed, sitting down on the cot. They both looked up as the Sheriff stepped into view.

"Sheriff, I didn't kill anyone, and Ariana hasn't broken any laws," Bobby started.

"Be quiet both of you." Bobby sighed but closed his mouth. "Jack out there is posing as a police officer from your home town. I did some checking and know it's bull shit, so one of you had better tell me what is going on," the Sheriff said.

"My father and Jack had an agreement that when I turned twenty-one that I would marry Jack. He's an abusive person, every woman he's dated has ended up in the emergency room with broken bones and internal bleeding. I ran away, and Bobby offered to marry me to keep me safe," Ariana began.

"After the wedding, Jack started trying to kill us so we ran. We figured this would be the last area he'd expect," Bobby added.

"But somehow, he followed the mail and even though we used a friend's name for the post office box, he found us. And if he ever looks at me closely enough to notice any differences, he'll kill us both," Ariana finished. The sheriff gave Ariana a closer look and sighed.

"Can you get us out of here?" Bobby asked. The sheriff looked around and once he was sure Jack was nowhere in sight, nodded.

"But not until he goes out," the sheriff said.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Okay, come with me and no matter what happens, don't stop!" the sheriff said as loud as he dared. It was nearly dark and Jack had left to go grab dinner at a neighboring town. "I've sent word to Martha's family so they do not worry," he added, closing the back door of his sedan. Bobby and Ariana looked at each other and if not for the seriousness of their situation, would have laughed at the sight of each other being wedged into the back seat of a tiny car. The sheriff drove for about twenty minutes before stopping on the side of the road. "There is a path that cuts through the woods about a hundred feet from here. You'll find yourselves at a river, there is a boat, get in the boat and head south. Go about twenty miles and you'll see a rental car, a mini van. I'll lead Jack north, telling him it'd be crazy to head south and yes Ariana, he noticed you're pregnant; he planned on killing Bobby after he finished dinner. Go now," the sheriff said. Bobby and Ariana climbed out of the car, thanked the sheriff and took off through the woods.

Ariana stumbled over a hidden branch and she landed with a soft thud. "You okay?" Bobby asked, helping her up. She nodded and they hurried along. After a few more minutes, they found the river and the boat. Bobby held it steady while Ariana climbed in. Bobby put the bag of supplies the sheriff had given him on the floor at Ariana's feet and climbed into the boat; untied the line and pushed the boat away from the dock.

"I'm cold," Ariana murmured, rubbing her arms.

"Here, take this," Bobby said, pulling a sweatshirt from the bag. Ariana pulled the sweatshirt over her head. "Better?" he asked. She nodded and watched their surroundings as it darkened outside. "There should be a flashlight, can you grab it?" Bobby asked her. Ariana rummaged through the bag and pulled out the flashlight. They sat in silence, the only noise to be heard were the crickets, the wolves and the motor of the boat. They finally reached the shore the sheriff had indicated to them and Bobby pulled the boat to the beach and helped Ariana out of the boat. "The car should be just over the ridge," Bobby said, flinging the bag over his shoulder and reaching for her hand. Ariana laced her fingers with his and followed Bobby up the hill. 

"There's the car!" Ariana said softly, excitedly. Bobby nodded and stopped, listening. "What?" she asked.

"Quiet," Bobby commanded softly. He stood there, listening. "Stay here," he added, dropping her hand. He set the bag at her feet and inched forward.

"You stupid bastard." Bobby turned to see Jack standing there, a gun pointed at his chest.

"Jack, you're breaking the law," Bobby warned.

"I don't care. Ariana is mine and you were wrong to take her from me. Come on out here Ariana, nice and slow and I won't hurt you," Jack called. 

"Stay there Aria, you don't need to see him kill me," Bobby's voice rang out, shaky, but firm.

"Fine, we'll do this your way," Jack growled. His finger squeezed the trigger and Ariana screamed as a loud shot rang out through the dark night. "You're next Ariana," he called, turning away from Bobby's now still body and towards where Bobby had left Ariana waiting.

Ariana grabbed the bag as if it were her lifeline, turned and ran as fast as she could back towards the boat. Just as she reached the boat, Jack grabbed hold of her ponytail. 

"It's a pity I have to kill you Ariana, I looked forward to bedding you," Jack said. 

"Fuck you!" Ariana shouted.

"Now what would your dear mother think of such language?" Jack tisked.

"She'd applaud the use of it under the circumstances," Ariana spat. She found the boat with the back of her legs and started to slowly climb into it.

"Don't even think about it Ariana. I could kill you before you finish getting that leg in that boat," Jack cautioned. "We're going to have some fun first," he added. Ariana dropped the bag and crouched down next to it, looking for something to use to fight him off as Jack fumbled with his belt. "I like a challenge," Jack said with a grin. "It's more fun for me if you struggle," he added. Ariana's hand closed over something in the bag, and a quick glance in the moonlight told her it was perfect.

"Go to hell," Ariana said, her voice even, scared, angry as she raised the loaded flare gun. 

Jack just laughed and walked towards her. "You don't have the guts," he taunted. Ariana ignored the fear flowing through her and the tightness forming in her abdomen as she waited for him to get closer. Finally, when Jack was at an arm's length away, she pulled the trigger, sending the flare into his neck. He screamed in agony as the fire of the flare ripped through him; his scream turned to a gurgle as he collapsed on the floor. Ariana grabbed the bag and ran.

"Bobby," she whispered, crouching down next to him. Bobby turned his head towards her, and she could see the pain in his glassy eyes. "It's over, he's dead," Ariana soothed, running a hand through his hair. 

"Aria," Bobby's voice was scratchy.

"No, don't talk!" she murmured, fumbling with the buttons of his shirt, exposing the wound. She paled as blood poured from it. "It'll be okay," she added, pulling the sweatshirt over her head and pressing it against the gunshot.

"Aria, look at me," Bobby commanded. She looked at him, her eyes wide. "I love you," he whispered, his eyes closing. 

"Don't do this to me Bobby Glass! Not like this," she pleaded. She heard voices calling her name as a wave of pain flowed through her; she grabbed the second flare from the bag, pushed it into the gun, raised it and fired. Bright sparks danced across the sky and Ariana sobbed with relief as Jacob and Jonah Long came into view, Doctor Turner right behind them. Exhausted, Ariana collapsed against Bobby and closed her eyes. Help had come at last.

~~~~~~~~

Ariana sat up in bed and let out a low moan of pain. "You're awake." Ariana looked up to see Rebecca sitting in the rocking chair next to the bed.

"Where am I?" Ariana asked.

"The farm," Rebecca answered, setting down her quilting. Ariana looked around the room; her attention was grabbed by a soft whimpering and arms waving in the air. "Be careful, Doctor Turner had to perform what he called a C-Section," Rebecca cautioned.

"Bobby, how's Bobby?" Ariana wanted to know.

"He is in a coma, in the Intensive Care Unit," Rebecca answered, helping Ariana sit up. "Would you like to see your daughter?" she asked. Ariana nodded and Rebecca lifted the infant from the cradle and into Ariana's arms.

"She's so tiny," Ariana breathed. Rebecca smiled.

"She won't stay tiny," Rebecca said. Both women looked up as Doctor Turner walked into the bedroom.

"How's Bobby?" Ariana asked.

"He's still in a coma, but he is stabilizing more every hour," Doctor Turner answered. 

"I want to see him," Ariana said.

"You need to rest and recover from your own ordeal," he argued.

"Doctor, my husband died trying to protect me, and I need to see him," Ariana said firmly, the tone of her voice leaving no room for argument. 

"Tomorrow," Doctor Turner said, resigned.

"There are a lot of tubes and IVs," Doctor Turner warned before he wheeled Ariana into his room. Her eyes widened as her wheel chair was wheeled up to his bed. "I'll give you a few minutes," he added before leaving. 

Ariana slipped her hand onto the bed and squeezed Bobby's hand gently.

"You need to wake up now. We have a beautiful daughter and she's going to need you," Ariana whispered. "I need you too," she added, lifting his hand off of the bed and pressing a kiss to his knuckles. "I love you too," Ariana whispered, setting his hand back on the bed and lowering her head, lay it down next to his hand. "Please come back to me," she murmured.



Fighting for a New Life Ch. 07b-10



CHAPTER SEVEN

"I thought you could use some home cooked food." Ariana looked up to see Rebecca, Martha and Annie walking into the room.

"Thank you, it smells wonderful," Ariana said softly. She accepted the basket of food from Rebecca and pulled the container of pancakes out of the basket.

"Has there been any change?" Martha asked.

"Not yet," Ariana murmured between bites of pancakes. Martha peered into the bassinet at the foot of Bobby's bed.

"She is so little," Martha marveled.

"They don't stay that little for long," Rebecca said with a chuckle. Ariana laughed and sighed.

"I just wish Bobby would wake up," Ariana whispered.

"If it is God's will, he will wake up," Rebecca said. Ariana resisted the urge to roll her eyes.

"It would be nice if it were sooner rather than later," Ariana muttered before taking a sip of the coffee; she nearly choked on it it was so strong. 

A knock at the door had them all looking up.

"Ariana, thank God!" Mrs. Glass exclaimed.

"Bethany, it's good to see you again," Ariana said, pushing herself out of the chair and giving her mother a hug.

"How's Bobby?" Bethany wanted to know.

"There's no change. He's stable which is good, but he hasn't woken up yet," Ariana answered. Bethany walked over to the bed and took her son's hand. Bethany's gaze landed on the bassinet. 

"When did that happen?" Bethany asked.

"Bobby didn't mention I was pregnant in any of his letters?" Ariana asked in surprise.

"Not a word," Bethany answered.

"That's strange, he seemed so excited," Ariana murmured.

"I'm sure he just didn't want to risk Jack getting wind of it," Bethany told her. 

Ariana shrugged. "Her name is Olivia Grace," Ariana said as she watched her mother observe the sleeping infant.

"She's very pretty; she looks so much like you did when you were a baby," Bethany said with a small smile. "And you named her after your grandmother, how sweet," she added. 

~~~~~~~~

Ariana's eyes fluttered open when she felt something brush against her hand. "Aria." She looked down and couldn't stop the look and tears of relief.

"Bobby, you're awake!" she breathed, pushing the call button. 

Doctor Turner walked into the room.

"Welcome back Mr. Glass," Doctor Turner said, performing a quick exam. "Don't talk too much, you need your rest," he added, before walking out.

"Aria, what happened?" Bobby wanted to know. Ariana ran a hand through her hair and sighed.

"I killed Jack, Bobby. With the flare gun. I almost lost you," Ariana answered.

"Are you okay? What about the baby? Did he hurt you?" Bobby asked, struggling to sit up. Ariana pushed the button to raise the top of the bed.

"I'm fine. As for the baby, see for yourself," Ariana said with a small smile. She stood up and pulled the bassinet over to the bed. Bobby looked at Ariana in surprise. "All the excitement sent me into labor. She's perfect," Ariana murmured.

"She?" Bobby asked. Ariana nodded.

"I named her Olivia Grace, I hope that's okay," Ariana told him. Bobby smiled and reached for Ariana's hand.

"The name is fine Aria. And as long as you both are healthy, that's all that matters," Bobby said. Ariana smiled.

"You should get some sleep," Ariana murmured.

"I want to talk with you," Bobby protested.

"I'm not going anywhere. Get some rest," Ariana insisted. Bobby pulled her hand to his lips and kissed her hand gently.

"I love you," Bobby said softly. Ariana smiled.

"I love you too," she murmured. She held his hand and waited until he fell asleep before she stood up and pushed the bassinet back over by the wall. With one more glance at Bobby, Ariana picked up the book she had been reading and opened it as she sank slowly onto the chair.

CHAPTER EIGHT

"Ariana!" she looked up as her name was screeched and grinned when she saw Melissa running towards her.

"Hey Mel," Ariana said, giving her friend a hug while she held tightly to the infant seat that Olivia was sleeping in.

"OOOHHHH, let me see her!" Melissa squealed. Ariana laughed and motioned for Melissa to come inside the house. 

They had finally returned home, after nearly eight months on the run and were delighted to find that their house was built and furnished.

"Please don't wake her up, she was up until eleven and woke up again at four this morning," Ariana groaned. 

"She's so beautiful," Melissa whispered.

"Yeah, but just wait till she wakes up," Bobby joked.

"She's beautiful until she starts crying," Ariana said, rolling her eyes.

"Or until she goes in her diaper," Bobby added.

"You are horrible, horrible people," Melissa teased. She gave Bobby a hug and when he winced, looked at him in concern.

"Jack shot him at point blank range," Ariana said quietly after Bobby had walked over to speak to his father.

"Oh my God!" Melissa covered her mouth in surprise.

"If Bobby had moved even a quarter of an inch, he wouldn't be here; he'd lost so much blood by the time the ambulance got to us, that I was afraid he wouldn't make it," Ariana whispered; noticing that Olivia was starting to fuss. Ariana placed the car seat gently on the ground, knelt down and unhooked the straps, lifting the baby into her arms. 

Ariana was pleased when Olivia stopped crying and settled against the warmth of her mother. Melissa picked up the car seat and followed Ariana into the house.

"What do you think?" Bobby asked, standing next to his father who looked pleased.

"It's beautiful," Ariana said honestly as she looked around.

"Come see your kitchen," Bethany grabbed Ariana by the hand and led her to the kitchen.

"It's amazing," Ariana breathed. "Is that the latest stand mixer?" she asked.

"Yes, it is. Bobby had us order the top of the line, he wants you to have the best," Bethany answered.

"It's amazing," Ariana repeated. She turned to Bobby and his father. "Thank you Mayor Glass for everything you've done," she added.

"It was my pleasure," Mayor Glass said with a smile.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

By the time everyone had gone home, it was late and Ariana was beyond tired. She watched from the doorway of the nursery and smiled as she watched Bobby change Olivia's diaper. He sat down in the rocking chair and rocked as he hummed a lullaby. Ariana slipped into her new bedroom, changed into a night gown and slid into bed. "Aria?" Bobby whispered as he walked into the bed. He wanted to speak louder, but he knew if he did that Olivia would wake up and demand attention. Bobby flipped on the light in the closet and opened the door, bathing Ariana in a halo of soft light. She moaned in her sleep and rolled over, turning her back towards the light. Bobby chuckled, pulled off his jeans and tee-shirt and after flipping off the light, joined Ariana in bed. "I love you," he whispered, pulling her close as he drifted off to sleep.

"Wake up sleepy head." Ariana's eyes fluttered open and she sat up, rubbing her eyes.

"What time is it?" Ariana asked as Bobby set a tray of food over her legs.

"Eleven," Bobby answered. Ariana's eyes widened and met his. "Liv's fine, she's downstairs with mom," Bobby told her.

"What time did she wake up at?" Ariana wanted to know.

"About seven. You looked like you needed more sleep so I got up with her. She's had a bottle, diaper change and a bath," Bobby ticked off the items on his fingers. Ariana smiled.

"Thanks," she murmured, taking a bite of the apple danish that sat on the tray. "Did your mom make this?" Ariana asked.

"Yup. She was here around seven thirty," Bobby answered. 

"Wow," Ariana murmured, taking a sip of her juice. They both looked up as Bethany appeared in the doorway. "Thank you for the danish," Ariana said.

"You're welcome hon. Would the two of you mind if I took Olivia out to town and show her off to the girls?" Bethany asked. Ariana and Bobby looked at each other.

"Go ahead mom, just don't stay gone too long," Bobby said finally. 

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Ariana asked after a minute.

"Aria, mom knows what she's doing, besides, you need some time to yourself," Bobby told her.

"But ..." Bobby rolled his eyes and pressed a kiss to her lips to silence her.

"Take a few hours and just relax," Bobby insisted. "I'm going to go catch up on some work in the office," he added, walking across the hall.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Bobby, can you help me with something?" Ariana asked. 

Bobby appeared in the doorway of the bathroom a few minutes later. "What do you need hon?" he asked.

"My back washed," Ariana answered. Bobby groaned as he watched the water cascade over her. 

"I have a lot of work to do Aria," Bobby reminded her.

"You need a break too," Ariana said softly.

"I need to get this done Ariana," Bobby argued before he turned and walked back into his office. Ariana sighed and sank back into the tub, her eyes filled with tears.

"We're back Bobby!" Bethany called a few hours later.

"Great." Bobby took his wide eyed daughter from his mother and gave her a gentle squeeze.

"Did Ariana enjoy her break?" Bethany wanted to know.

"As far as I know," Bobby answered.

"I didn't mean to be gone as long as I was, but I couldn't get away from Mrs. Kirk," Bethany apologized. Bobby looked at the microwave clock. 

"It's okay, I think Aria's sleeping anyway," Bobby answered with a small frown. It was nearly dark. "Here, take Liv for me for a second," he added, passing his daughter back off to his mother before running up the stairs.

"Is something wrong?" Bethany asked when Bobby returned to the kitchen.

"Ariana went for a run, but she isn't back yet," Bobby answered.

"Go look for her, I'll stay here," Bethany said. Bobby thanked his mother and ran out of the house.

"Ariana?" Bobby asked when he finally found her at the hot spring.

"What do you want Bobby?" Ariana asked, not turning around. 

"Are you okay?" Bobby wanted to know.

"Do you care?"

"What? What makes you ask that?" Bobby looked stunned.

"You haven't touched me since before Liv was born," Ariana reminded him.

"Ariana, that doesn't mean I don't care about you," Bobby said, rolling his eyes.

"You married my daughter to keep her safe from Jack, you've done that, you can let her go now." Bobby turned and looked for the source of the sentence; his eyes fell on Ariana's father.

"I'm your daughter's husband and I'm not letting her go because you think I should," Bobby argued. He looked at Ariana, pleading with her to step in.

"Do you want me?" Ariana asked Bobby.

"What?" Bobby asked.

"Do you want me?" Ariana repeated.

"Of course I do. Ariana, what is going on in that head of yours?" Bobby wanted to know.

Ariana started to say something but her father stepped forward.

"You saved my daughter from a horrible man, and I thank you for that. But there is no reason for your marriage to my daughter to continue. We will be collecting my grand daughter and returning to my home," Glen said.

"Over my dead body!" Bobby challenged.

"I don't want to kill the father of my grand child, but if you do not get out of my way, I will," Glen threatened.

"Bobby, I think you need some time to actually think if you want me or not. I'm taking Liv with me because she belongs with her mother," Ariana whispered.

"She belongs with both of us," Bobby argued. Ariana searched Bobby's eyes and sighed when all she found was anger.

"Take the time and think," Ariana insisted before she walked away.

CHAPTER NINE

"How are you holding up?" Melissa asked Ariana.

"I'm miserable. I miss Bobby," Ariana admitted.

"So what in God's name made you take Livy and move back with your overbearing father?" Melissa wanted to know.

"Bobby doesn't love me Mel. He said he did once, but that's when he thought he was dying. He's never said it to me any other time, and he doesn't want me," Ariana answered.

"Girl, that man is lusting after you," Melissa insisted.

"Oh yeah, sure. That's why when I was standing completely naked in the tub and invited him to join me he said he had work to do," Ariana said bitterly.

"He loves you Ari, he just doesn't know how to show it," Melissa said softly. Ariana shook her head and took a sip of her water before peeking at her daughter in the blanket covered car seat. Olivia sat sleeping, dreaming of something wonderful. Both Melissa and Ariana looked up as Bobby walked in with a woman, both of them laughing. She was clinging to Bobby's arm and kept reaching up to caress his cheek.

"Oh yeah, he loves me alright," Ariana said bitterly. Bobby came to a stop by the table.

"Hey Ariana. Hi Mel," Bobby said, shifting nervously from one foot to the other.

"Hey Bobby," Melissa said, giving Ariana a concerned look.

"How's Livy?" Bobby wanted to know. Ariana gave a smile.

"She's doing great, sleeping right now," Ariana answered, pulling the blanket off of the car seat to reveal the sleeping baby.

"Wow she's gotten big!" Bobby exclaimed. Olivia's eyes fluttered open and she gave an irritated cry. "May I?" Bobby asked. Ariana nodded and watched silently as Bobby unbuckled the straps and lifted his daughter into his arms. "She's three months old now, right?" Bobby asked. Ariana nodded again. "Where has the time gone?" Bobby marveled. 

Ariana chuckled and shrugged. "I don't know," she answered honestly. "Are you sure your date won't mind you bringing your daughter along?" Ariana asked.

"It's a business lunch Ariana, besides, what does it matter to you? You left me remember?" Bobby asked, his good mood ruined. He pressed a kiss to Olivia's forehead and passed her back to Ariana. "I have to get back," he added, walking away.

~~~~~~~~~~~

"Thanks Mel. I need a night to myself," Ariana said as she changed into a brown skirt that fell just above her knees and a spaghetti strap top.

"Just be careful," Melissa warned as she rubbed Olivia's back.

"I will," Ariana promised. She had moved out of her father's place and into Melissa's; she had felt suffocated at her father's and needed out.

"You look great." Ariana smiled at her date. 

"Thanks Mike, so do you," she murmured. She had met Mike at the library where she worked part time as she tried to find herself. At the bar, Bobby sat on a stool, seething as he watched his wife dancing, no, not dancing, more like having sex while still dressed with some random guy.

"Where's your daughter? Is she with your husband?" Mike asked. 

Ariana shook her head. "She's with my friend Melissa. Let's not talk about Bobby though," Ariana murmured.

"Agreed," Mike said with a grin. He bent down and kissed her lips hungrily. Ariana kissed him back and gasped as his hands slipped up the back of her skirt and squeezed both of her butt cheeks.

"Mike, not so fast," Ariana said, pulling away. 

"Sorry," Mike apologized with a sheepish grin. 

"You looked pissed as hell." Bobby looked up to see his friend Luke standing next to him.

"Ariana is practically having sex with that guy out there!" Bobby seethed.

"So do something about it," Luke suggested, taking a swig of his beer.

"I intend to," Bobby growled, finishing his beer. He slammed the bottle down on the bar and walked away as Mike led Ariana outside.

"Mike, slow down. I told you inside that I am not sleeping with you tonight," Ariana protested.

"Why not baby? You already have one brat at home, what's one more?" Mike asked with a wolfish grin.

"I'm not fucking you on the first date!" Ariana snapped, pushing Mike away. Mike reached out and slapped her across the face; the connection of his hand to her face sounded like a lightening strike against the noise of the crickets. 

"You fucking tease! You wear that come fuck me skirt and then tell me no? Well too bad baby! I'm going to take you places that Bobby Glass could never even dream of," Mike snarled, his voice low. Ariana's eyes widened. 

She pressed a hand to her cheek and backed up, stopping when she backed into the trunk of a car.

"I'll scream!" Ariana exclaimed.

"There's no one out here," Mike said with a laugh as he forcefully ripped her skirt and panties away from her body. Ariana opened her mouth to scream as the fingers from one of Mike's hands pushed roughly inside her; the other held her still, but he covered her mouth with his own; probing with his tongue only served for trouble as she bit down hard. 

Mike pulled away and back handed her again before pushing her fully onto the trunk of the sedan. "You little fucking bitch!" he shouted, hitting her over and over again. Mike pulled his slacks and boxers down and let them rest around his ankles and as he was about to push his way into her, he found himself being pulled away from Ariana and being flung through the air.

"Bobby!" Ariana exclaimed. Bobby wordlessly handed her his long coat and she shrugged into it quickly, pulling it around to cover her.

"The lady said no. That gave you no right to hit her and try to force her," Bobby said, his voice low, angry. His eyes looked as stormy as the Atlantic Ocean during a Hurricane.

"She's just a tease! Not even worth the trouble of defending!" Mike shouted.

"Good, then you can stay away from my wife," Bobby punctuated the words like one would hit a hammer against a nail. "If I see you anywhere near her again, I'll call the police myself," he added. Mike hurried away, pulling his pants up as he went.

"Bobby, I ..." Bobby turned and looked at Ariana; the look on his face stopped her speech.

"Are you okay?" he asked gruffly as he pushed her into the passenger seat of his car.

"I think so," Ariana murmured. Bobby turned on the dome light and looked at both sides of her face, his frown deepened.

"I'm going to kill the bastard," Bobby growled. 

"Bobby, don't. You stopped him, that's enough for me," Ariana said, wincing as she looked in the mirror.

"Where's Livy?" Bobby asked as he turned off the dome light and started the car.

"With Mel. That's where we've been staying lately," Ariana answered.

"Good." They rode in silence for nearly twenty minutes before Ariana looked out the window.

"Bobby, Mel lives a few miles back towards town," Ariana reminded him.

"I know. We're going to talk," Bobby said. He came to a stop outside their house and waited for her to follow him to the front door.

"Where are we going?" Ariana asked as she followed Bobby to the basement.

"To talk," Bobby answered. He opened a door and flipped a switch. "I had this made for you," he said, stepping back to let her into the room. Ariana gasped when she saw the small hot tub. "I had it designed based on your pool," he told her. 

"It's beautiful." Ariana turned to face him. Bobby smiled as he observed her. 

Despite the two black eyes forming and the bruises that marred her cheeks, Ariana was beautiful and he couldn't resist any longer. He pulled her to him and kissed her, fumbling to pull his coat off of her.

"Bobby," she moaned. Her eyes closed when he pressed his fingers inside her; he smiled to himself when he felt how wet she had become. He roughly tore her shirt away from her and ripped his own clothes off, didn't seem to mind when the pieces fluttered to the floor. "Oh God," she whispered as he lifted her into his arms and pushed his way into her. Ariana gasped and squirmed as Bobby began walking towards the heated pool and stepped inside.

"Aria," Bobby groaned as he began thrusting savagely into her. She winced at the force of it and tried to get him to slow down, but madness had overtaken him and he thrust harder and faster. His head bent and he took a pointed nipple into his mouth causing her to moan loudly.

"Bobby, please," she panted, the pleasure overrode the pain as he pushed hard and deep inside her. 

"Let go Aria," he whispered, reaching down to caress her clit. Ariana screamed as she came and bit down on his shoulder. Bobby winced but thrust once more before his own rapture overtook him and his seed spurted into her. They collapsed against each other, their breathing heavy. Ariana sniffled and Bobby pulled away, surprised and concerned to find tears streaming down her face. "Aria, what's wrong?" he asked.




Fighting for a New Life Ch. 07b-10



"Let me go," she pleaded.

"What?" Bobby asked, surprised.

"You don't love me so just let me go," she sniffled.

"What makes you think I don't love you?" Bobby asked in surprised.

"The last time you told me is after Jack shot you," Ariana answered. Bobby tried to turn Ariana's body so she was facing him and she winced.

"What's wrong?" Bobby wanted to know. He looked at her arm and his eyes widened when he saw the finger marks. "Who did this?" Bobby asked.

"Mike when I tried to fight him," Ariana answered.

"I'm going to kill him," Bobby snarled.

"Stop it! Are you angry that he found me attractive or that I went on a date?" Ariana asked.

"I'm angry as hell that you went out with another man, but I'm pissed as hell that he thought he could lay a hand on you without your permission," Bobby answered. 

Ariana sighed as she stood up and started to walk out of the pool; her legs felt as if they were made of rubber and she looked down as sticky fluid leaked out of her and sighed. "What's wrong Aria?" Bobby asked.

"We shouldn't have done that. Dad's working on divorce papers," she answered.

"I don't want a divorce Aria," Bobby said.

"Why do you want to stay married to a woman you don't love?" Ariana wanted to know.

"Damn it Aria! Stop saying that I don't love you because I love you so much it's killing me!" Bobby shouted. 

"What?" Ariana looked surprised.

"I've been going crazy here without you; without Livy, but more so because I haven't had you near me. I was afraid to love you Aria, afraid that this would all be a dream. The day my mother told me your father wanted you to marry Jack was the best day of my life because I met you!" Bobby exclaimed.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Ariana whispered.

"I don't know. Maybe I'm just stupid," Bobby answered, running a hand through his hair. "Please don't leave me again," he pleaded, pulling Ariana to him gently. "I love you Ariana," Bobby said hoarsely. Ariana smiled as Bobby pulled her in for a kiss. 

"Say it again," she murmured.

"I love you with all my heart," Bobby swore. Ariana wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tightly.

"I love you too," she whispered. Any doubt she had faded away when Bobby pressed his lips tenderly to hers before picking her up and carrying her up the stairs to their bedroom.

"Bobby?" she called sleepily.

"Right here," Bobby said, slipping his hand into hers.

"I need to call Mel," Ariana whispered, yawning.

"I already have. She'll bring Livy back in the morning," Bobby assured her. He had been watching Ariana sleep, afraid that if he closed his own eyes, when he opened them again, she'd be gone.

"Bobby?" Ariana called again.

"Yes love?" Bobby asked.

"Love me," she pleaded. Bobby groaned and obliged eagerly.

CHAPTER TEN

"Are you feeling better love?" Bobby asked as he watched Ariana put the finishing touches on Olivia's birthday cake. 

"I feel great," Ariana answered. 

"Are you sure? You're looking a little tense," Bobby murmured, walking up behind her and rubbing her shoulders. 

Ariana moaned and leaned into him. "Why don't you go up and rest. Mom and dad won't be here for another few hours and they're enjoying spoiling Livy," Bobby suggested. 

Ariana smiled. "Will you come with me?" she asked, giving him a come get me grin.

"Your wish is my command," Bobby said with a small smile. He let Ariana lead him up the stairs. 

"Close your eyes, I have a surprise for you," Ariana whispered. Bobby sighed but sat on the bed and closed his eyes.

"What are you planning Aria?" he muttered, hearing something rustling. Ariana giggled.

"Go ahead and open your eyes," she murmured. Bobby opened his eyes and the first thing they focused on was her now naked breasts.

"Aria, that's not exactly a surprise," he reminded her, reaching out and tweaking one gently. Ariana smiled. "Look lower," she told him. Bobby raked his gaze over her and came to rest on a piece of white paper that read, "Open me." tapped to her abdomen.

"What the hell?" he asked, puzzled as he reached out and flipped open the piece of paper. His eyes widened and met hers. She smiled, read the question in his eyes and nodded. "You're sure?" he asked. Ariana nodded.

"Nearly eight weeks," she answered.

"I love you," Bobby murmured, as he pulled her to him.

"I love you too," Ariana managed before his lips covered hers. "How much time before your parents and Mel get here?" she asked.

"About two hours," Bobby answered.

"That's enough time," Ariana said, pushing Bobby back onto the bed.

"What did you have in mind?" Bobby asked with a knowing grin. 

"This," Ariana said as she climbed onto the bed. She lowered herself onto him with a moan of contentment.

"Good God woman are you trying to kill me?" Bobby groaned, trying to keep up with the pace she set. Ariana giggled and moaned loudly as he took her hips with his hands and set the pace. 

Her muscles clenched him tightly and before either of them knew it, he was spurting deep inside her.

"I love you," Bobby murmured. Ariana sighed her contentment but didn't say anything. She didn't have to, he already knew it.

"Daddy, come push me!" Bobby looked up with a smile and headed towards the swing set.

"Not too high Livy," he warned.

"Me too daddy!" Bobby chuckled as two year old Erin climbed into the plastic swing and pulled the belt into place.

"Okay you guys, ready to go to the moon?" Bobby asked. The kids cheered as Bobby pushed the swings gently. Bobby looked up again when he heard Ariana call his name. 

"Bobby, we need to go," she told him, her eyes closed.

"Hey guys, aunt Mel is gonna play with you guys for a little while," Bobby said as Melissa walked over. 

"Is mommy going to have the baby now?" Olivia asked, her eyes wide.

"Soon," Bobby promised; he walked over to Ariana and placed his hands on her shoulders, slid them comfortingly down her back. 

"Bobby, we need to go NOW," Ariana panted. 

"I'll call soon," Bobby told Melissa as he helped Ariana to the car.

"Bobby, you are not touching me again, so you'd better hope this baby is a boy!" Ariana panted in between contractions. Bobby bit back a smile and a chuckle. 

"You said the last time too," he teased, brushing a damp strand of hair.

"I think I mean it this time," Ariana groaned. Bobby chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"The doctor said you're almost there," Bobby encouraged.

"I seriously want the epidural," she whined.

"I know love, but he said you're too far in for it," Bobby reminded her. Ariana let out a half screech; it turned into a low moan of pain as she was ripped in two by a contraction.

"How is she?" Melissa asked when Bobby called later that night.

"Sleeping. It's another girl," Bobby said with a sigh.

"Poor Bobby," Melissa teased. 

"Tell me about it," Bobby said. "She's beautiful, though. Aria's blue-green eyes and I swear she's a spitting image of Livy," Bobby added. "Eight pounds, six ounces, twenty inches long. She's a looker," Bobby said with a grin.

"Aww. What'd you name her?" Melissa wanted to know.

"Maggie Lynn," Bobby answered. He glanced over at Ariana. "I have to go, Aria's waking up. I'll see you later," he added before hanging off the phone.

~~~~~~~~~

"Aria? The kids are asleep, are you ready for movie night?" Bobby asked walking into the living room. "Aria?" The room was dark, save for two candles flickering on the bookshelf; the blinds were closed.

"I'm here," Ariana stood up from the couch and Bobby could just barely make out her silhouette. "I don't want to watch a movie," she murmured.

"Then what do you want?" Bobby asked, stepping closer. She smiled and inhaled the smell of his aftershave.

"How about we try for a boy?" she suggested, fiddling with his belt buckle. 

"How can you guarantee that?" Bobby wanted to know.

"I read a book that had a few position suggestions, how about we give them a try," Ariana whispered.

"I'll go anywhere and do anything you want baby," Bobby said huskily, pushing her back on the couch. Their cries and moans of pleasure mingled as the flame of the candles went out.

"I love you," they whispered together.

"Well, can you see what it is?" Bobby asked impatiently as the tech maneuvered the wand of the ultrasound machine over Ariana's abdomen.

"Yup, look right there," the tech answered. "There's no doubt about it," she added. 

Ariana grinned. "We have our boy," she said after the tech left. Bobby pressed a tender kiss to her lips and pulled her in for a hug.

"You're beautiful," Bobby murmured.

"Tell me that in about five months," Ariana teased.

-Five months later-

"What's the word?" Melissa demanded to know. It had been more than eight hours since Bobby had taken Ariana to the hospital.

"He's nine pounds eight ounces. Bradley Matthew," Bobby answered, looking over at his exhausted wife and new son.

"Congrats Bobby, I'm happy for you both and can't wait to meet him," Melissa said before hanging up. Bobby walked over to the hospital bed and pressed a loving kiss to Ariana's forehead.

"Bobby?" Ariana asked sleepily.

"Yes beautiful?" Bobby murmured, brushing a strand of hair back behind her ear.

"Can we stop with the babies now?" Ariana asked. Bobby chuckled.

"Yes love, if you want to stop, we can stop," he said, pressing a kiss to his new son's forehead.



Fighting for a New Life Ch. 10



CHAPTER TEN

"Ariana." She looked up, surprised to hear her father calling her name.

"What do you want?" Ariana asked, clasping her son to her breast as if to protect him from some evil force.

"To talk. To explain why I did things the way I did them," Glen answered.

"Explain what? Why you imprisoned me after mom died? Why you tried to force me to marry someone as despicable as Jack!" Ariana exclaimed.

"Yes, I would like the chance to explain," Glen told her.

"Explain then," Ariana said.

"Not here, inside."

"No way in hell," Ariana hissed.

"Ariana Jane, you will invite your father into that house, and you will do it now," Glen growled.

"Guess what  father, I'm not a child anymore! I'm a grown woman with four children and you don't get to tell me jack squat!" Ariana shot back.

"Ariana Jane, I want to explain everything, but not here when anyone could hear us" Glen told her.

"There's nobody here dad but me and the kids," Ariana said, glancing down at Brad who was falling asleep in her arms.

"Ariana, please. Inside," Glen pleaded.

"Fine. Once we're inside, you have twenty minutes to say what you want to say and leave," Ariana sighed. She looked over at the girls and smiled. Olivia and Erin were having a tea party on a quilt and Maggie was sleeping in the stroller. Ariana placed Brad in his part of the double stroller. "Girls, we need to go inside for a few minutes," Ariana called. Olivia and Erin protested loudly. "We'll come back out, I promise," Ariana told them. Olivia and Erin ran to the front porch, Ariana and Glen following close behind.

"Your twenty minutes start now," Ariana told Glen as she closed the door behind her.

"Your mother didn't die of natural causes. She was murdered," Glen began. Ariana's eyes widened. "Jack's father wanted your mother to marry him and instead, she chose me," he continued. "The reason Jack's father didn't try to steal her away at first, is that it was pretty evident to everyone in town that she was carrying my child. You. Despite the fact that he had gotten married, he tried to steal her away from us when you were twelve but she wouldn't go with him so he kidnapped her and tried to get her pregnant by raping her. 

He didn't know that she had had a major complication giving birth to you and had to have a hysterectomy and could no longer get pregnant. After she failed to get pregnant for two months in a row, his father hired a private nursing firm to come out and perform an ultrasound and when he saw she couldn't get pregnant, he killed your mother and dumped her on our doorstep," Glen said. Ariana closed her eyes as the flashback overtook her.

"I found her body," Ariana whispered. Glen nodded.

"Jack stood there with his father, gloating. A few days after your mother's funeral, Jack's father came to me. He told me that if I did not agree to let Jack have you when you turned eighteen, that he would kill you before another man could touch you and that he'd be watching. I knew you went for your long runs and so did they. Jack followed you on every single run. They wanted me to make you hate me; to punish you for going against my rule. That's why I had to hit you when you came back from your runs. I never wanted to and it killed me," Glen said, his voice shaking, his eyes full of sadness and unshed tears. "I loved your mother and I love you so much. It nearly killed me to have to treat you that way," Glen added.

"Why are you telling me this now?" Ariana asked, glancing at the stroller when Maggie began to fuss.

"I couldn't live with the guilt anymore and I had to tell you that this nightmare isn't over yet. Jack's father is back in town and he is beyond pissed that you have married Bobby and that Jack is dead, at your hands no less. He is dangerous and I want you to be careful. Don't go anywhere without Bobby or his father," Glen warned. "Not even outside to let the kids play," he added.

Ariana nodded, her eyes wide, unable to believe it. "I need to go now sweetie. No matter what happens in the future, please remember that I DO love you," Glen whispered before slipping out the front door.

"Can we go outside now mommy?" Erin asked. Ariana looked down at her daughter and gave a small sigh.

"No sweetie, we can't. It's nap time and mommy needs to call daddy," Ariana answered.

"After nap can we go out?" Olivia asked.

"We'll see," Ariana murmured.

~~~~~~~

"I had my dad do some digging. Your father wasn't lying about your mother. The state required an autopsy be done since her death was very mysterious. I'm so sorry Aria," Bobby murmured after the kids were in bed later that night.

"Dad said that Jack's father was back in town and very displeased at the turn of events," Ariana whispered.

"It's going to be okay. I won't let anyone hurt you," Bobby promised. They both jumped when the doorbell chimed. Brad began crying loudly. "You get Brad, I'll get the door," he suggested. Ariana nodded and headed up stairs. When she returned to the living room, Mayor Glass was sitting on the couch.

"Ariana, sit down please," he began.

"What's wrong?" Ariana asked, sitting next to Bobby.

"Your father is dead Ariana. He was attacked in his home; there are several knife wounds throughout his entire body," Mayor Glass answered. Ariana paled and glanced at Bobby.

"Jack's father," Bobby said. Mayor Glass nodded.

"More than likely," he agreed.

"Do we need to leave town?" Bobby asked.

"No. I'll have a marked police car sitting by your driveway with orders not to move for any reason without my permission," Mayor Glass answered. 

Ariana moved through the house, keeping the flashlight pointed at the ground as she checked to make sure the kids were okay. "Hello Ariana," a gravely voice said as she left Olivia and Erin's room. "Why don't we come downstairs and have a little chat," he added. Ariana started to protest until she saw the glint of the knife he carried. "If you even think of trying to call for help, I will kill each and every single one of your brats, starting with the boy," he threatened. Ariana gave one last glance to her bedroom door where the panic button waited. Bobby would be pissed that she'd left it in the room when she went to check on the kids.

"You cut the power didn't you? To lure me out into the open," Ariana accused. "You're Jack's father."

"Very good young lady. You're smarter than I gave you credit for," he applauded.

"What did I ever do to you?" Ariana wanted to know, making sure to keep him talking as they walked into the living room.

"You killed my son," he replied.

"He tried to kill me, it was self defense! And he nearly killed my husband!" Ariana exclaimed.

"He should have been your husband, not the pansy ass Bobby Glass," he sneered.

"Bobby glass is a million times the man your son was! Bobby loves and respects me; your son would have made a horrible husband, for any woman," Ariana said. Jack's father slashed at her with the knife and she jumped back just in time; the tip tore her shirt, but missed her skin.

"You're just like your whore of a mother! You're nothing but a fucking little cunt!" he shouted, lunging for Ariana. Ariana screamed and darted out of the way. She ran for the kitchen and as she grabbed the phone, she heard, "If you even fucking dial a number, I'll kill your precious children!" Before Ariana could set the phone down, it rang, startling her. "Who is it?" he asked.

"It's Bobby," Ariana answered.

"Answer it, put him on speaker and tell him nothing about me being here," he instructed.

"Hi Bobby, how's your day?" Ariana asked, hoping her voice wasn't shaking too badly.

"Are you alright Aria? The chief of police has been trying to radio the car out front of the house and they aren't answering," Bobby asked. Ariana thought quickly as she peeked out the window. She nearly screamed at the sight that awaited her; the two police officers were laying on the ground, bleeding profusely. Ariana could see one of them trying to stand up and quickly closed the curtain.

"Everything's fine Bobby, they came in to use the bathroom and get more coffee," Ariana answered.

"They weren't supposed to leave the car," Bobby swore.

"Well, we had a lightening strike out here and the power's out. They came to check it out and asked to use the bathroom and for some coffee," Ariana lied.

"I want to speak with Officer Smith," Bobby said.

"They're on their way back to the car, but it may take them awhile, Smith cut himself on the lock on the fence and his hand is bleeding pretty badly. He might need the hospital," Ariana said, hoping Bobby would understand what she was trying to say. The look on her capture's face told her to wrap it up. "I have to go Bobby, Martha is waking up," Ariana said. 

Bobby's eyes widened at her use of their prearranged code word as he realized that his family was in terrible danger. "Okay babe. Sit tight, I'm sure the crew will have the lights on soon and I'll tell the chief about Smith," Bobby said.

"Bobby," Ariana said before Bobby could hang up. "I love you," she murmured.

"I love you too," Bobby told her, hanging up the phone. He lifted the receiver again and dialed 911. "This is Bobby Glass. Roger Jansten is at my house with my wife and children and there are two officers down, possibly dead. Please hurry," Bobby said before hanging up the phone.

~~~~~~~~

"Damn, how the hell did they figure it out?" Roger snarled.

"I don't know," Ariana lied.

"Go get your brats," Roger told Ariana. Shaking, Ariana did as she was told.

"Livy, Martha, I need you to stay with me and do as I tell you," Ariana told the older girls.

"But mama, my name is ..." Ariana's hand went over Erin's mouth quickly.

"I know sweetie, but do you remember what we talked about? I need for you and Martha to let the man think your name is Martha. Say nothing to him, even if he asks you a question," Ariana said quietly. "Understand?" she asked. The girls nodded. "Good. Livy, I need you to help with Maggie and Brad," Ariana said. She watched carefully as Olivia helped Maggie walk down the stairs as she carried Brad in her arms, Erin holding tight to her hand, scared.

"I will say one thing, your kids are pretty damned cute," Roger admitted as Ariana sat the scared kids on the couch.

"Why is it so dark mommy?" Erin asked.

"The power went out," Ariana answered.

"I'm cold," Olivia complained. Ariana grabbed a quilt off the back of the lazy-boy and draped it over the kids' legs.

"When will the lights come back on?" Erin whimpered.

"Soon baby," Ariana murmured, remembering that her daughter was terrified of the dark. She walked over to the fireplace and light a large candle. "Is that better sweetie?" Ariana asked. Erin nodded, trying to be brave.

"Shut up Ariana and sit on the chair. Away from the kids," Roger instructed as the chief of police tried to negotiate.

-Hours later-

"Look, I'll do anything you want me to, just please, let the kids go out side to safety," Ariana pleaded.

"Anything?" Roger asked, doubtful.

"Anything," Ariana confirmed. Roger studied her carefully. "Please, they're just children, they had no part in what my mother did to you or what I did to Jack. Let them go," Ariana pleaded.

"You killed my son, why should I believe anything you say?" Roger snarled.

"Your son tried to kill me while I was pregnant with Olivia. I had to have a c-section because of what he put me through. He tried to kill me five times, and the fifth time, he was almost successful. Wouldn't you have died to protect your child?" Ariana pleaded, hoping that there was some sort of paternal instinct left in this horribly disturbed man. Finally, Roger nodded and allowed Ariana to turn the kids over to Bobby.

"I'm not leaving without you Aria," Bobby argued as Ariana gently placed Brad in his arms.

"The only way to keep the kids safe is for me to go back in there." Ariana leaned closer to him, as if to give him one last hug. "He doesn't know about the basement or he would have secured it by now," she murmured. 

"Thirty seconds," Roger warned. Ariana kissed Bobby gently and ran her hand over Brad's head one last time.

"I love you," Ariana whispered as she backed inside the house, her eyes never left Bobby's until she closed and locked the door.

Ariana choked back her tears as Roger began cutting her clothes off of her. "You said you'd do anything if I let your kids go so why the tears?" Roger asked harshly. She winced as the blade nicked her skin.

"I didn't say I'd enjoy it," she retorted. 

Roger slapped her across the face and grinned when he came to her panties and bra. "You are just as beautiful as your mother. You'd never know you have four children by looking at you," Roger admired. Ariana shivered as his fingers touched her now bare abdomen. Roger cut the panties and bra before laying the knife down to undo his own jeans. Ariana screamed as he pushed his way forcefully into her. "I guarantee you this: the next child you have will be mine," he growled. Ariana's fingers closed around the handle of the knife, tears streaming down her face as he thrust painfully inside of her.

"No, it won't," she said, her voice low and full of hatred as she slammed the knife into his back. Roger shouted in anger and continued to thrust savagely into her, trying to ignore the knife. The pain became too much for him, and he pulled out of her and reached for the knife in his shoulder.

"I'll kill you for that you little bitch!" Roger screamed, groping for the handle. Just as he pulled the knife out of his shoulder, the police stormed in through the basement. Roger whirled around, amazed that they had found away into the fortress he thought he had created.

"Drop the knife scumbag!" one of the officers shouted.

"Over my dead body!" Roger snarled, turning back towards Ariana, slashing with his knife. Ariana dove out of the way and screamed when shots rang out. When she looked up, Roger was laying on the floor, a pool of blood fanning out around him. It was over, he was dead.

EPILOGUE

Ariana knelt down in front of her parents graves and placed white lily's on her mother's and a yellow rose on her father's. The memories of finding her mother dead on the front porch of the house stayed with her, she couldn't lose it, and now it was combined with the horror of her experience with Jack and his father. She looked up at the sound of laughing children and smiled; they were happy and healthy and seemed to be getting over their ordeal and she was grateful that Roger hadn't hurt the children. "I miss you mom," Ariana murmured, brushing her fingers over her mother's name. She reached over and brushed her fingers over her father's tomb stone. "I'll see you both again," she promised before standing up and walking back to her life, her love, her future.