A Forever Love

Chapter One:

Amber woke up to her phone ringing. She saw Jason asleep next to her and she thought about promising to wake up next to him each morning. Looking at her watch, she saw it was 8 am and then her heart jumped. Something was wrong.

Hello?

Amber, are you okay?

Yes, Uncle Jake. What is it? What happened?

Jason sat up when he heard her and tried to listen to her side of the conversation and make out what happened. Something was very wrong.

Amber hung up and sat down, her hands shaking.

What is it?

She looked at him. Titan got his son out of jail and they are missing. Ben's house was surrounded by paparazzi yesterday, but Jake hasn’t checked on him yet today, she started to cry and looked at him. What if he goes after you or Ben or someone else I love? What can I do to be free of him? she got up and ran into the bathroom.

Fuck, Jason picked up his phone to call Luke.

I heard; Laurie called us. What do you want to do?

Why don't you guys come over and we can figure things out, okay?

Luke agreed and hung up. Amber walked out of the bathroom and she was white as a sheet.

Hey, come here. It's going to be okay, he stood up and she went into his arms.

I’m sorry Jason. This is so stupid. I can’t believe I’ve brought this to all of you.

We will figure this out; I promise.

******

Everything hurt, from his head to his toes. His leg felt like it was on fire and he could feel something wet on his face.

Greta.

Ben opened his eyes and went to get up when he realized he couldn’t move. He was tied to a chair.

What the hell? he said.

He tried to see where he was, but it looked like some sort of barn. Help! he yelled. Greta?

He heard moaning and turned to see two men lying on the floor, bleeding. He recognized them from his house. He saw one was dead and the other was still breathing, albeit very shallow. He turned a little more and saw a sight he knew he would never forget.

Greta? he looked at her, covered in blood and holding the gun at the men. She was frozen and he had no idea if she was shot.

Hey, Greta, can you look at me? Can you move? he struggled with the ropes and finally got one of his hands free. He reached into his pocket and grabbed his knife and cut the ropes the rest of the way off. He picked up his cell phone and dialed 911, letting it just ring as he put the phone down and walked to Greta.

Are you okay? he approached her and she pointed the gun at him.

Okay, I’m not coming any closer, he put his hands up and stayed back.

It’s Ben. It’s okay.

She didn’t blink. She didn’t move. She was frozen in a moment and he didn’t know what had happened.

Can you give me the gun? he asked from afar. No one is going to hurt you, okay? Can I have the gun? her hands were shaking and the gun was really unsteady. He was afraid she wouldn’t hesitate to shoot again.

He heard sirens and moved to go to the door of the barn. He flagged the police in and Jake and Laurie were right behind. The officers ran in and approached her and she pointed the gun at them, causing all of them to draw their weapons.

Stop it. She isn’t going to shoot you. She is afraid and you aren’t helping, Ben said.

Jake saw the scene and got the officers to step out. Laurie looked at the men and then at Greta. Leave us alone for a minute.

No, I can’t leave, Ben said brokenly.

Jake took his son by the arm and walked him out. Let her help Greta. She might not need a man right now, especially someone she cares about.

Ben looked at his dad and his face was full of anguish.

Oh God. What if they touched her? How could I let this happen? he collapsed into his father’s arms after they walked out and Jake motioned for the medic to help.

Ben? Jake said and tried to rouse him, but he was out. The paramedics rushed to attend to him.

Laurie walked to Greta and sat down close to her. Hey sweetie, I’m going to help you. Just like before, okay? If you give me the gun, I will make sure it is safe, she spoke soothingly to the shattered woman.

Greta still didn’t move. She did drop the gun and Laurie took it. Good, that’s good. Can we go out of here now?

Greta didn’t say a word. She just closed her eyes and fell back.

Jake? Come in here now, she screamed and he ran in with the officers.

She needs help, now, Laurie said, not leaving her side.

Go with her and Ben to the ER and I’ll stay here and make sure we properly secure the scene. I’ll meet you there.

She nodded and ran to the ambulance.

*******

Amber was pacing around the room after everyone had gathered. Evan was on the phone with his contacts in Michigan and everyone was trying to get word about Titan. Finally her phone rang and she jumped.

It’s my Uncle, she said and answered. Everyone waited to hear and when she hung up she faced them.

They found Ben and Greta and they are taking them to a hospital. Harold and Edward are both dead, she looked at Luke. Where is your dad?

He is with my mother. What aren’t you telling us? Why are they going to the hospital?

Jeannie held his hand and looked at Amber. Is my mother okay?

My uncle wasn’t sure, but they think Greta shot them both. She isn’t talking right now, but Laurie is with her and she won’t leave her side. I don’t know what happened to Ben exactly. He will call me with an update soon, but he seemed to think they will be okay.

Oh God. What happened to her? Again? I’m going to be sick, Luke paced in the room and Jeannie walked to him.

Come outside with me and let’s get some air. It’s okay, she rubbed his back.

Amber watched them walk out and looked at Jason. What have I done? How could this have happened?

He hugged her and looked at Evan.

I’m on it, he said and walked out to make a call.

Elizabeth walked to Amber and Jason and they all sat down.

We need to look at this in a different way. Both Titan’s are dead and that’s a good thing. We will figure out how to help Ben and Greta, but I doubt they assaulted her. They were after something, and it wasn’t her, Elizabeth said softly. I’m not saying it’s okay, but we all need to stick together and get through this.

Amber nodded and wiped her eyes. Okay. I know.

Luke and Jeannie walked back in. I’m going to wait to call my dad until we know more. We need to get Laurie on the phone.

Jason nodded. Evan is working on it.

*******

Let me up right now, Ben struggled with the nurses and doctor.

You have to relax, sir. You have a concussion and you lost a lot of blood. We had to restitch your leg and we are waiting for the MRI results to see if we need to do more, the doctor said.

I will relax and do whatever you want if you just let me see Greta. I am getting up with or without your approval, so please step aside.

Let me handle my son, please, Jake said as he walked into the room.

The doctors and nurses shook their heads and walked out.

Ben started to get up and Jake held him back. Stop being an ass and sit for a minute.

I need to go see her, dad. I need to help her, please, he said as his eyes filled.

You can’t see her right now, Jake sighed.

What? Why? What the hell aren’t you telling me?

Greta is in a severe state of shock. Laurie is with her, but she hasn’t spoken a word since we found you guys. She won’t let anyone touch her and I don’t know what to do. They are calling psych for her but her family is across the country and I haven’t been able to get a hold of her father, Jake sighed.

Let me see her, dad, please. I can help her, I know I can.

Jake nodded and helped him up, taking it very slowly. Ben leaned on Jake as they walked to the wheelchair and he sat down. Jake wheeled him down the hall and into the secured area.

I’ll go from here, Ben said and Jake helped him up. He limped to the room and Laurie was standing inside, on the phone.

Can I have a minute? he asked her.

She nodded and squeezed his arm before she walked out.

Ben walked to the bed and his breath caught in his throat. She was lying on the bed, her clothes still covered with blood and her eyes wide open. She was looking at him, but she wasn’t seeing him.

Greta? It’s Ben, he sat down and went to touch her hand when she moved away from him. Okay, I won’t come any closer.

She stared at him and her blue eyes were ice cold. He felt his own tears fall as he looked at her.

I’m so sorry I failed you. I’m so sorry this happened, he put his head in his hand and sobbed. My job has always been to serve and protect and I have been such a colossal failure. I’m so sorry.

Laurie walked back in and was surprised.

She hasn’t let me get that close to her without trying to get out of the bed.

What can I do? he asked her.

See if you can get her to change into a gown so we can examine her. We need to clean her up and check for internal injuries, she said gently.

Ben wiped his face and nodded. He looked at Greta. Can you let Laurie help you change? We need to clean you up and then you’ll feel better.

Laurie approached her and Greta moved away.

Okay sweetie, I’ll leave you be.

He looked at Greta and got up and grabbed a gown from the chair. He walked back to her and sat down. Greta, I can’t let you do this. It’s time you let someone help you. Remember what you told me before? While we watched the movie? You said that surviving was what you learned to do, but living is what you wanted, he put his hand close to hers and smiled. You can do this. You can find your way out of this.

He turned to Laurie and sighed. I think you should help her, he went to get up when Greta grabbed his hand. He looked at her and her chin quivered as her tears fell. It’s okay. I won’t leave, he looked at Laurie and then back at Greta. Would you like me to help you?

She squeezed his hand and closed her eyes.

He nodded. Okay. You just hang in there, he nodded for Laurie to leave and he took a deep breath. He could do this. It was the least he could do.

Chapter Two:

Ben put his gloves on and Laurie put down a tub of warm water and some washcloths. She stepped out and closed the curtain and he turned to look at Greta.

I'm just going to wipe your face and then we can change your clothes, okay? he took the washcloth and placed it in the water. He sat down next to her and went to wipe her cheek when she moved away from him.

Hey, you need to let me help you, Greta. I won't hurt you. No one is here and no one will see you, it's okay, he spoke softly and she kept her hands gripped tightly to the sheet. He leaned in again and softly wiped her cheek, smiling at her.

That's perfect. You're doing great, he rinsed out the cloth and continued to wipe her face. She watched him and it looked like she was trying to speak, but she simply couldn't.

Don't worry about your voice. It will come back, he said as he took a towel and gently dried her face. It doesn't look like you have any wounds on your face, so that's good.

She watched as he picked up the gown and he sighed. You need to change. Shall I get Laurie to come back in?

Still nothing. She was vacant and it scared him.

I'll get her, he walked out and looked at Laurie.

I am not taking her clothes off. You can go help her. I'll wait out here, he said, having trouble keeping his emotions in check.

Laurie walked in and saw Greta looked better with her face cleaned but she was still in the same position.

Hi sweetie. Let's change your clothes and then we can help you to feel better, she approached her and was pleased when Greta didn't fight. Laurie undressed her and noted the bruising on her torso and upper arms by her shoulders like they had grabbed her there and held on. Her bra was missing, but it was possible she hadn't been wearing one. She took Greta's pants off and was glad to see her legs weren't bruised.

Laurie smiled and placed the gown on Greta and sat her up while she fastened it. She covered her back up and smoothed her hair down.

You are doing great. We need to start an IV and give you some fluids and medication. Is that okay?

There was nothing. She just stared ahead and blinked every so often. Laurie walked to get Ben and a nurse.

Ben was on the phone with Amber and Laurie found the nurse for the IV. He watched them go in while he spoke to Luke and tried to explain what he could. He hung up and sighed when he heard a crash and yelling. He ran into the room and saw Greta on the floor in the corner, cowering while the nurse tried to coax her out.

We need a sedative. She is going to do far more damage to herself if we can't get fluids and meds into her, Laurie said and the nurse went to talk to the doctor.

Greta, Ben approached her and she held her knees to her chest and shivered from the thin gown. She had tears in her eyes and stayed closed off. The doctor came in with a shot and Ben reached to her to coax her out.

Come on, it's okay, he said and she held his gaze as she moved to him. He took her hand and she saw the doctor there with the needle. She went to move back under the counter but Ben grabbed her and held her while she struggled.

Do it, he cried and the doctor injected her. He held her as her body finally went limp and he sobbed.

I'm sorry, Greta, he said, as she looked at him, unable to move. He watched as they put her on the bed and began to put in an IV and give her the meds that would help her.

********

Amber? Are you okay? Jason walked into his bedroom and saw her sitting on the bed. She had excused herself for a moment and he was worried.

I’m not feeling so great, she said softly. I think it’s just stress, but I think I should go back to Michigan. I think it’s wrong that I’m here.

He sat down next to her and took her hand in his. What’s going on? I thought you wanted to stay here with me?

She took her hand back and met his gaze. There was a voice mail on my phone from earlier. I must have missed it. It was Harold.

What? What did he say?

Her chin quivered as she looked at him. I think I made a deal with the devil, Jason. I don’t think I’ll ever be free, even if he’s dead.

You need to stop being so cryptic. Please tell me everything already. You can’t keep this to yourself or it will destroy you, he cupped her face in his hands.

Jason? Get in here, Elizabeth yelled from the other room.

He and Amber walked back into the room and Jim was there, livid.

I just got a call from a doctor in Michigan who said my daughter is being admitted for a psych evaluation because she killed two people? What the hell is going on and why did I hear about this from a fucking doctor?

Dad, I left messages with you all morning. You need to calm down and let me tell you what I know. I spoke to Ben and he and Laurie are with Greta. She is going to be okay.

Who the hell did she kill? Why? What happened to her?

Amber stepped up to him. She killed Harold and Henry Titan in self defense. They hurt my cousin and they took them to a cabin and tied them up until they would tell where I was. Greta wouldn’t let them hurt anyone else. They came at Ben and she shot them. She saved his life, she put her hand on Jim’s arm. I’m so sorry she is dealing with this, but she is my hero.

Jim sat down, his body deflated. Why can’t I talk to her? Why won’t they let me talk to her?

She was sedated and will be asleep for a bit. I am sure as soon as she is able to talk to you, she will call. Ben won’t leave her side, Luke said.

I’m truly sorry. I made a deal with Titan a while ago and I just had no idea how far this would go. I’m so sorry it has hurt all of you, Amber said.

Jason put his arm around her. I think it’s time you tell us the whole story.

********

Laurie and Ben walked into the hall while the doctors examined Greta.

You did good, Laurie said to him. We had to do that.

He wiped his face and nodded. Can she come back from this?

She can and she will. She is just a little lost right now, but with help, she will find her way back. We need to perform a few more tests now that we can touch her and then we'll get her into a room. You should go relax as well.

I'm fine, he looked around. Where is my dad?

There was some info at the scene so he went to check it out. He'll be back soon.

Okay, he sighed.

Did you talk to Jim?

Luke is going to handle him. I told him what I could and he said he would talk to his dad, Ben looked at her. What do they need to do to her?

Laurie sighed. They will need to run a rape kit, she said softly and he sank to the floor. She knelt down and hugged him. You need to stay positive, Ben. Your father hasn’t stopped talking to me about you and how much he admires your strength and tenacity. He has missed you so completely and he is so proud of you. Just from listening to him talk, I know you have the strength to help Greta through this.

Ben wiped his eyes, embarrassed by his tears. I allowed this to happen. I wasn’t ready. I didn’t have my gun on me and I let them in.

Excuse me, but we’re finished. There is no evidence of any sexual assault, the doctor said.

Thank God, they both said.

She is resting now, but the sedative will wear off soon. If there is a therapist you would prefer for me to call, I will do that, but she needs to go through intense counseling.

Laurie nodded. Thank you. We need to make sure none of this gets out to the press because of her celebrity. We will move her as soon as we can safely do that.

The doctor nodded and walked out.

Why don’t you go sit with her and I’ll call Jeannie and see what’s happening out there.

Ben nodded and walked back into the room. He sat down next to the bed and held her hand, praying she would find her way back.

Chapter Three:

Amber sat on the couch and looked at everyone. I promised Harold that I would do anything he wanted if he got my mother the best treatment possible. We didn’t have a lot of money, and for some reason, her insurance stopped paying for her treatment. It didn’t make sense, but when I tried to get answers from the company, I kept getting the run around and it was taking valuable time away from her chemo, she sighed. I found out after she died that Titan owned the insurance company. He put a stop to her treatment, but I didn’t know until it was too late.

What a bastard, Jason said.

Amber shrugged. I figured when she died, everything would be over. I couldn’t stand the way Henry was harassing me and I was afraid after he went after me that one night that he would finish the job, she looked at them and shrugged. I was in a really bad place. My mom was everything to me.

Amber, you don’t have anything to be sorry about. This man tortured you and he deserves to pay. I just wish we could have helped sooner, Evan said.

She smiled sadly and looked at her hands. The day my mom died, I was sitting in the hospital chapel, just figuring out what to do next. Jake was making the arrangements for her burial and he was so upset. Ben was out of contact and he was so worried about him. I was getting ready to leave when Harold and Edward came in. Each one sat on either side of me.

I don’t believe the audacity of these assholes, Luke said.

They told me that I had to carry a baby for them. They said I signed a legal document and I had to go to the doctor they had chosen and be checked to be sure I was able to carry Edward’s child.

Jim shook his head. How do people like this even exist?

Amber looked at him and nodded. I was so stupid. I knew better than to sign anything and I also knew it wasn’t something legally binding, but with their money and power, I had no way to fight them. I told my Uncle Jake I needed some time to clear my head and I ran.

That’s when you came to California? Jason asked.

I had very little money and I didn’t want any way to trace me, so I stayed at the hostel. It didn’t matter. They found me that night at the party when I met you.

That was when we found you by the road, right? Evan asked.

Yes. It was a warning to remember what I was. I was property and they would collect on the deal.

Why not just find someone else? Why were they so set on you? Luke asked.

I’m not sure. I don’t understand what they saw and why they were so intent on me being the one. I don’t know why any of this happened, she cried.

Hey, it’s not your fault. We are going to help you through this. Both men are dead, so that’s something good, right? Jeannie said.

It is, but I got a message on my phone from Edward that was earlier today. He said he would find me no matter what and even if he wasn’t there to collect it himself, I would always owe him.

Jason pulled her into his arms. Okay, enough of this talk. We won’t let anyone hurt you again.

The whole family came over and hugged them and Amber felt the love. Thank you all so much. I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you’ve all accepted me and I just want Greta and Ben to be okay, too.

We all do, Jason said and he kept his arm around her while they waited for more word on Greta.

********

Ben stroked Greta’s hand as he sat and watched her sleep. It had been a few hours and he had fallen asleep for a few minutes but now he was wide awake. Laurie had them bring in a bed for him to rest and stretch his leg out, but he hadn’t moved from her side. He felt her hand move and he waited.

Greta? Can you wake up?

She blinked and opened her blue eyes, focusing on him after a minute. She tried to get up when he put his hand on her arm.

You can’t move. You need to rest, okay? he spoke softly, afraid of her reaction. She lay there and still didn’t speak, but he could see she was much calmer. I’m sorry they had to sedate you, but I was afraid for you. I didn’t know what else to do, he felt his chin quiver and she turned away from him.

Okay, I’ll leave you alone. I’m not going to leave the room in case you need something, but I’ll go in my bed and let you rest, he was exhausted and sad and scared for her. He limped over to the other bed and got in, stretching his leg out and letting his tears fall. He closed his eyes and listened to the silence of the room.

A little while later, he jumped when he felt something. He looked and saw Greta had gotten up and pulled her IV over. She stood there and looked at him, her tears falling. He moved over and she crawled into the bed and hugged him, crying softly. He pulled the covers over them and held her.

Shh, it’s okay. You’re going to be okay, he said softly as they lay there in the darkness of the room.

Chapter Four:

I just can’t believe all of this, Amber said as she and Jason sat in the family room with Evan and Elizabeth. Everyone else had left and Jim was waiting booking a flight back to Michigan. Luke had tried to stop him, but he wouldn’t hear of it.

I have an idea, Elizabeth said.

Evan looked at her and smiled. What’s that?

I think Amber needs to hear some stories of you and my brother growing up, she grinned and her eyes twinkled.

No she doesn’t. both Evan and Jason said in unison.

Amber laughed. I would love to hear a story.

Maybe another time, Jason stared at his sister. Perhaps a story or two about Elizabeth is better.

I don’t care. I have always been a perfect angel, she said and both men laughed.

You know, I think Amber and I deserve a bit more respect. We have been through a lot and I believe a little pampering is in order, Elizabeth crossed her arms.

Evan smiled. Is that right?

Jason looked at Amber. Are you up for some pampering?

She blushed and then smiled. Maybe I should pamper you.

Evan looked at Elizabeth and she rolled her eyes.

In your dreams.

They all laughed and each couple went their own way.

*******

So what did you have in mind? For pampering? Elizabeth asked Evan after they went back to his guesthouse.

You being here with me is all the pampering I need, he said and went to the cabinet to get some wine and two glasses. She sat down on the couch and looked at him.

I swear you have been reading romance novels or something, she took a glass and held it while he poured some wine.

Just trying to be more in tune with what you like, he sat down and took a few breaths, his face pale for a moment.

Hey, what is it? she put their glasses down and held his hand. Just breathe, okay? Do you need your oxygen?

He shook his head no and closed his eyes, taking a few deep breaths. I’m okay, he smiled at her concern. Really, I’m good.

She wiped her eyes and nodded.

Elizabeth, look at me, he said softly.

Smiling through her tears, she did.

It’s going to take me some time to get back to normal. I am feeling so much better every day, he wiped her cheeks. Please don’t worry.

We should not have had sex, she said. I was being selfish and you need to rest. I’m so sorry.

We didn’t have sex, we made love and it was the best medicine I could have had, he said.

She blushed and he grinned.

Are you embarrassed?

No, I just missed you, she shrugged. And I love you.

He pulled her to him and she snuggled gently against him. I missed you, too and I love you.

*******

Ben woke up and saw Greta sitting on her bed, watching him. She had let him hold her for a long time and when the nurse came in to check on them, she went back to her bed, still silent.

Have you been up long? You should have woken me up, he said.

She looked at her hands and then at him.

Still no voice? That’s fine. I’m not big on talking, really, he smiled. I think once you have something that needs to be said, you’ll say it.

She smiled a little and jumped when the door opened.

It’s okay, it’s my dad and Laurie, Ben said.

Laurie walked to Greta and smiled at her. How are you doing?

She made a motion by her throat and shrugged.

Your voice will come back in no time, she said. How is the bruising on your shoulders?

Ben sighed. Why did she have bruising? What did they do to her?

When can we leave? Ben asked.

I don’t know, but I want to talk to you about the results of the autopsy on the men, Jake said.

Greta became agitated and Ben looked at his father.

Maybe we could do this later?

Greta shook her head and motioned for him to continue.

Greta, you didn’t shoot both men.

What? Ben said.

Greta nodded and they all looked at her.

Do you remember what happened? Laurie asked her.

She looked at Ben and wiped her eyes before she nodded yes.

What happened? Jake asked her.

She tried to speak, but nothing came out.

Maybe I can just ask you some questions and you can nod?

Greta agreed and Jake looked at her.

Do you remember shooting the man?

She nodded and her tears spilled over her cheeks.

Was it before or after the other man was shot? he waited and then rephrased. Was it before?

She shook her head no.

Do you know who shot the first man?

She nodded yes.

Can you tell me who it was?

She shook her head no.

Ben was quiet and suddenly things were flashing before his face. He was remembering and he looked at Greta who could see it.

It was me, he said. I killed the first guy.

Greta cried and Jake looked at his son.

Why didn’t you say anything?

I didn’t remember. It all just rushed back and I remember, he felt the weight of what had happened wash over him and he wiped his face. They knocked me out at home and when I woke up, I was on the floor of the barn. They must not have thought I was a danger because I wasn’t tied up.

What did you see? What happened?

He looked at Greta and his own chin quivered. They had her pinned against the wall and they were taking all these measurements, he said as he remembered. They were angry that she was ‘tainted’.

Greta jumped out of the bed and ran into the bathroom.

He looked at the door and lay back in bed, his hand over his face. Oh God, how could I forget?

Laurie went into the bathroom and Jake looked at his son.

What happened? I need to know the truth.

They had their hands on her and were talking about needing someone who fit their requirements. They didn’t like that she was famous, he stood up and crossed his arms, his memories rushing back, his stomach churning.

Jake put his hand on Ben’s arm. Hey, it’s okay, just tell me the rest.

She was crying and I could see her fear, reliving all she went through. I don’t know how I let this happen, you know? I just can’t believe this, he looked at Jake and his face was expressionless. They wanted to take her clothes off and look at her. One grabbed her and I made a move. I tackled him and he dropped his gun. They were caught off guard and they both came at me. I got the gun and I fired, hitting the one closest to Greta. He fell on her and there was blood everywhere. I went to go to her when I must have blacked out again. I don’t know what happened next.

Jake hugged him. It’s okay, son, we’ll figure it out.

What if he took her clothes off? What if he looked at her and I don’t know? I know she wasn’t raped, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t do some terrible things, he walked back and sat down on the bed.

I really need to talk to her. Can you guys leave us alone?

Jake nodded and looked as Laurie walked out with Greta. She stood there and held her side and Laurie looked at Jake.

I think we need to give them some time alone, Jake said.

Laurie nodded and she and Jake walked out.

Greta walked to the closet and looked for something to wear. She had on a gown and nothing else.

Greta, please come here and sit down, Ben said.

She shook her head and continued to look for something to wear. She found nothing and slammed the door shut before she turned and picked up the cup of water and threw it across the room. The nurses came in at the noise and Ben put his hand up that they were okay and to please leave.

He walked to close the door and turned to her. She was looking at the mess she made and then she went to pick up the cup.

Greta, stop and come here, please, he said again.

She looked out the window and ignored him. He walked up next to her and sighed. I’m sorry.

She turned and looked at him and reached