Peace filled Helene as Miguel lazily stroked her back.

She snuggled closer to the warm strength of his body and he splayed his fingers across the small of her back to urge her even closer. She went willingly, basking in a serenity that filled a part of her that had been empty for so long, she hadnt known it could be any other way. But now she knew. And when he was gone from her life, as surely he would be soon, she would feel that emptiness even more profoundly. Helene? he asked. You okay? Yes, she replied, unwilling to allow him further entry into that space. Distracting him from probing deeper by saying, Im just thinking about the case. Well get a break soon. I promise. Such earnestness in his voice and the way his hand tightened at her waist. But then, she had sensed that determination in him from the first. Admired it. I know, Miguel. I just wish wed had that break a little sooner. Yeah. He moved so they were face to face, cupped her cheek and ran his thumb across her lips. It was hard to make the call to Lanies parents. Very hard. She recalled the words of comfort he had used, and the pain in his voice as hed said them. Which was only a fraction of the agony in the cries and denials from the girls parents when he had broken the news. But he had done it, gracefully and full of compassion. Raising her hand, she trailed it over the tight line of his jaw. You handled it well. Far better than she could have. In a few hours, they would have to speak to the roommates. Will you tell her friends? Im not sure I

Can do it right? he completed for her. He touched her chin with his fingers and urged her gaze upward. I know you feel for them. He moved his hand down to her heart. I see you hurting. I understand how much you want justice for Lanie. She glanced down to where his hand rested. She covered it with hers, pressed it tight, until he could feel the steady beat of her heart. A human heart that was filled with uncertainty. Not like her real heart. Her immortal heart knew no doubts or hesitation. Only black and white. Only true justice. Maybe the pain I feel is because Ive failed. Failed to find justice, she said, unwilling to believe it was about anything else. He shook his head. You know thats not true. You feel pain for the victims and their plight. And you havent failed. This was a setback, yes. But we will not fail. You know that. She wanted to believe him. She wished that she wouldnt disappoint his belief in her. And yet she knew she would. The only thing I know for sure is that I want this bastard to pay for his crimes. Thats the only certain thing within me.

FOR LOVE OR VENGEANCE September 2013

TO LOVE AND SERVE October 2013

BORN TO LOVE November 2013