Lost and Found

Lost and Found By Breanna Hayse ©2011 by Blushing Books® and Breanna Hayse

Copyright © 2011 by Blushing Books® and Breanna Hayse All rights reserved. No part of the book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Published by Blushing Books®, a subsidiary of ABCD Graphics and Design 977 Seminole Trail #233 Charlottesville, VA 22901 The trademark Blushing Books® is registered in the US Patent and Trademark Office. Hayse, Breanna Lost and Found eBook ISBN: 978-1-60968-790-8

Cover Design by Korey Mae Johnson Images provided by BigStock Photo

This book is intended for adults only. Spanking and other sexual activities represented in this book are fantasies only, intended for adults. Nothing in this book should be interpreted as advocating any non-consensual spanking activity or the spanking of minors.

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Chapter One The young woman sat up on the ground, holding her throbbing head in her hands as she tried to clear her mind of the fog that filled it. She was surrounded by rocks- rocky mountains, rocky soil, and even the dry air felt rocky. Where was she anyway? The bright light hurt her eyes and skin. It burned terribly. She twisted around to see a yellow sign posted just ahead. She knew it said something, but she could not read it. What had happened? She stood up slowly, trying to keep her balance. Tentatively, she put one foot in front of the other and tried to walk. The ground felt strange, foreign under her bare feet. It hurt and she struggled not to fall. She did not know where she was going, or where she had been. Two men appeared over the ridge, holding something long and dark in their hands. They shouted at her, but she could not understand them. A shot rang out and, feeling searing pain in her right shoulder, she fell wordlessly to the rocky ground. *

*

*

“How is she doing?” “She’s wavering in and out, Doctor. Did the neuro results come back?” “Yes. No brain damage, thank God. She’s lucky those idiots didn’t kill her,” Lance Callahan growled, sitting on a chair next to the woman’s bed. He peered into her unusual violet colored eyes, then checked her reflexes and listened to her heart. Tenderly, he brushed a strand of hair from her forehead. Poor kid, he thought. Why would anyone do this to such a pretty, little thing? “No one’s claimed her yet?” the nurse asked, writing some notes. Lance shook his head. “Nope. It appears that Miss Jane Doe here fell out of the sky.” “I found this in her pocket,” the nurse said, handing him a silver necklace. The word Noelle was inscribed on it. “I’ve been calling her that. I’m assuming it’s her name.” “Either that or she stole it,” Lance sighed. “Ok, let her rest. Get me immediately if she starts talking.” “Yes, Doctor. Um, I hope I’m not being too forward, but you look pale. Are you feeling ok?” “I’m just tired, Eileen. Don’t worry, I’m healthy as a horse.” “Dr. C, even horses can be run dead into the ground. Please, get some rest. You’re going to get old before your time. You’re too young to take on all the worries of the world and way too handsome for those frown lines,” she chided affectionately. Lance hugged the old nurse, kissing her cheek fondly, “Yes ma'am, thank you for caring.” “Someone has to watch out for you since you’re too busy watching out for everyone else. Just because you have the name of a knight, doesn’t mean you have to constantly be dressed for battle.” “That’s what you think, my dear. My suit of armor just happens to be white and made of cotton,” he plucked at his lab coat. “As for battles, wish me luck. I’m heading for a nasty one right now.” With an exhausted smile and another peck on the cheek, Lance picked himself up and walked back to the physician offices where he was meeting the management team to discuss the case.

“Hi, Lance. How’s she doing?” the social worker asked. “No changes yet, Meg. Brain scan was clear; CNS findings were normal. Except for the gunshot wound to the right shoulder and an ugly lump on the back of the head, nothing appears to be wrong. Any luck in finding someone to claim her?” “Nope. I’m sorry. I have the police working on it too.” “We don’t even know if she’s from the U.S. She could be an illegal immigrant,” another voice said gruffly. Stuart Hart, the general surgeon, sat at the head of the conference table and looked bored. “I put a request for a missing person report through the Interpol as well as here in the states, Dr. Hart. I know my job,” the social worker said with her eyes narrowed. “We can’t keep her here once she regains consciousness and is medically cleared. What are our options?” Lou Black, the hospital administrator queried. “Just send her to County and let them deal with her,” Stuart said stiffly, glancing at his watch. Lance glared at him. “In her condition, she’d be raped before nightfall. I know that place: I’m the Psych Director. Absolutely not. She’s not a criminal or a mental case.” “That you know of.” “Now listen here, Hart…” “Gentlemen, please. Stu, I agree with Lance. County is too dangerous for a little thing like that. How about a shelter of some sort?” “They won’t provide the after-care she’ll need. We’re also calling her Noelle. One of the nurses found a necklace in her pocket with that name on it,” Lance announced. “There he goes: Sir Lancelot to the rescue of another innocent maiden! How about we wrap this one in a pretty red bow and give her to you as a Christmas present?” Stuart guffawed. “Watch your mouth, Hart, before I forget I’m a gentleman and that there is a lady present.” “Lance, please don’t feel you need to hold back on my account,” Meg glowered at the surgeon. The administrator held up his hand. “Enough! Stuart, how is she physically?” “She’s fine to go. The bullet just grazed her shoulder. She’s severely dehydrated and underfed, otherwise seems to be in decent condition.” “Fine. Lance?” “Neurologically, it’s still hard to determine the extent of damage she’s suffered with that blow to the head. Brain scan was normal; CNS response good. CBC shows what we’d expect in her present condition. Once she’s awake, I can perform a better neuro-eval.” “Ok, so this is what we will do. She’s staying here until she wakes and is coherent and self-functioning. We’ll run an assessment at that time and try to determine her acuity level. Meg, keep trying to locate family or friends and an alternate living arrangement that can provide some after-care. Stuart, your job with her is finished. Dr. Callahan will monitor her. I also suggest you review your reasons for becoming a physician, other than the bankroll. Dismissed.” Stuart flipped off Lance as he left the room. “I don’t know what’s wrong with that jerk,” Meg said, gathering her papers. Lance shrugged. “He’s a spiteful, lonely, insecure old man. Let’s try to ignore him. Do you have any ideas about how to help her?” “I do have one. The question is, will you go for it, Sir Lancelot of Callahan?”

“Very funny. Try me,” Lance said, locking his steel blue eyes to her brown ones. Meg took a breath and presented her idea. *

*

*

Noelle slowly scanned the room. The walls were light blue with plain furnishings scattered about. Groggily, she sat up, rubbing her eyes and trying to focus better. Her shoulder protested the movement and she felt tears coming because of the pain. The back of her head hurt as well and she tenderly touched it, feeling the egg-sized bump. She looked up as a woman, dressed in light green scrubs, walked in. She panicked, pushing herself against the head of the bed while pulling the sheets high to her chin. The woman gave her a kind smile. “Don’t be afraid, I’m not going to hurt you. My, you are a pretty thing. My name is Eileen. You were injured and brought here to the hospital. Can you understand me?” Eileen asked gently. Slowly, Noelle nodded her head. “Do you speak English?” Noelle looked confused. What else would she speak? Just the words wouldn’t leave her mouth. Eileen patted her arm. “I’ll be right back. Can I get you something?’ Noelle shook her head, staring. Eileen smiled and hurried to find Dr. Callahan. Lance slowly approached the girl, his rugged face soft with concern. Noelle shrunk back fearfully. He was so tall! Lance noticed her fear and sat quickly in the chair next to the bed. He was used to that look. At 6’7”, and a prior professional basketball player, ‘normal’ people were unaccustomed to his height. Especially smaller women like Noelle. “Hello, sweetie. I’m Dr. Callahan, but you can call me Lance. How are you feeling?” Noelle just looked at him, hiding under the covers. He kept his voice soft. “I’m a neurologist… a brain doctor,” he said, seeing her confusion. “Can you understand what I’m saying?” Noelle nodded, looking fearfully at Eileen, who winked. “It’s ok to be scared. You don’t know us. Dr. Lance might look like a giant with his head high up in the clouds, but he has a heart of pure Twinkies and tootsie-pops. I promise, we’re here to help you,” Eileen assured. Noelle seemed to relax a little with the woman’s words. Lance held out his hand. “May I check your pulse? It won’t hurt. It’s just like holding your hand.” Timidly, she stretched out her hand. Lance stroked the back of it gently before pressing his index and third finger to her wrist. “I’m not hurting you, am I?” She shook her head, watching him. “Very good. Does anything hurt?” She nodded, pointing to her shoulder and the back of her head as she stuck out her lower lip. “You are much too adorable. Ok, we’ll get you something to help the pain. Do you remember what happened?” She shook her head. “Do you know your name? Is it Noelle? How old are you?” She shrugged. “Do you come from around here?” Again, a shrug. Lance frowned, looking at Eileen. “It looks like a case of severe traumainduced amnesia. I want to see how much she remembers regarding ADLs. Bring occupational therapy and speech up here and have them run her through. Be very careful, she’s terrified.” “Yes, Doctor. Diet?”

“Anything she wants. Let’s get some meat on her before Lou ships her out,” Lance sighed, glancing at the frightened young woman. “Is it ok if I call you Noelle? We found this in your pocket.” He handed her the necklace. She slowly took it from him and looked at it closely. “Pretty,” she said. Was that an accent he detected? Lance’s face lit up. “Yes, it’s very pretty. Would you like me to put it on you?” Noelle nodded. Lance gently latched the delicate jewelry around her throat, pulling her shoulder length light blonde hair out from under the chain. “There you go. I’ll be back in a little while to check on you. Nurse Eileen will get you something to eat. Anything you want? Maybe some ice cream?” Noelle nodded. She grabbed Lance’s hand. “Thank you,” she whispered in a little girl’s voice. Lance wanted to jump high and grab a basket rim, he was so pleased. The mysterious patient responded! His glee was quickly quashed when Leo approached him in the hall. “I hear she’s awake. What did you find?” Lance briefly gave him a synopsis of the assessment and response. Leo sighed. “I can only justify her staying here for another two or three days, tops. Is Meg still looking for a place to accommodate her?” “Yes, we found one,” Lance informed him. “Son, please don’t tell me you’re planning on taking in a stray. Last time, Hart tried to get your license yanked for unprofessional conduct.” Leo lifted his eyebrow. “Not me, Katherine. And last time, I put the girl into a hotel for a week until her parents were able to claim her.” “You are so full of it. Ok, I don’t want to hear about it. Just do what you think is best for that child. Something terrible has happened to her and, until we can find someone to take care of her, we need to be responsible. God… if she were my daughter, I’d be sick with worry.” Lance patted Leo’s shoulder. “You’re a good guy. Thanks. I’m sure Katherine will take good care of her. It would be good for both of them. I think something like this is exactly what both of them need to heal.” He ignored the warning chill of his sixth sense. *

*

*

“Katherine? Where are you? I’m home,” Lance called out as he dropped his keys on the table in the foyer and removed his coat. A tall, pretty woman dressed in running shorts and a green tank top greeted him. She was covered with flour. “I’m baking,” she announced, touching her flour-coated hands to his face as she planted a quick kiss on his lips. Lance grabbed her wrists, grinning. “So I see. What are you making?” he asked, smacking her on the backside as she scampered in front of him. “Blueberry and apricot muffins. Here, these are done,” she said, handing one to him. Lance plopped at the kitchen table, taking a bite. “You, little sister, are the world’s best baker.” “You always say that,” she giggled. “Keep baking like that for me and I’ll never stop saying that. Where’s Todd?” “He’s stuck at the office. Any news on your Jane Doe?”

“Her name is Noelle. At least, we think it is.” He told her about the events of the day. “That’s wonderful! Are they going to let you bring her home?” Kathy looked excited. “Sounds like it. Are you sure you want to do this?” he asked her sensibly. Kathy nodded with enthusiasm. “Absolutely. Todd still has a month left at the Las Vegas office before we have to go back to Arizona. It will give me something to do other than clean your house and cook for you.” “I like it when you cook and clean for me. What will I do when you desert me?” Lance pouted. “Either learn how to cook and clean, or you can starve to death and live in a filthy house. You could also stop being such a cheapskate and hire a maid and a cook. You have the money.” “You’re mean. I thought I was your favorite brother.” “No, Alan is my favorite brother. He cooks for ME and he’s not a cheapskate,” Kathy giggled again. She loved her brothers more than the world and was thrilled beyond words when they had instantly adopted her husband, Todd, into their ‘man-circle’. The three had formed an immediate bond and it tickled her to death. “No more muffins, Dr. Callahan, you’ll spoil your dinner. I made chicken and mushroom ravioli.” “Yum.” His brother-in-law appeared at the front door thirty minutes later. Todd’s custom-made suit was immediately covered with flour as Kathy jumped into his arms to say hello. He walked into the living room with Kathy in his arms, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist. “Look what I found at the door.” Lance laughed, nodding. At 25, Kathy was seven years younger than he was and never quite grew out of her teenage years. She was free-spirited, funny, intelligent and had a heart of pure gold. Her husband of three years, Todd Makin, was 36, an ex-cop, and a very successful businessman in real estate ventures and financial investments, with a side interest in private investigations. His focus, self-discipline, and determination were the perfect balance for the often-flighty and spontaneous woman. Lance approved of Todd; Kathy could not have done much better. Especially now. His sister had been involved in a serious motorcycle accident right after she and Todd had gotten married. She had sustained significant internal injuries and, after three years of trying to conceive, she was informed that the scar tissue was too extensive and would prevent her from having a child. This news had broken her heart and sent her into a deep depression. Todd knew she needed her big brothers around to help heal her heart, and had planned a ‘business trip’ as a means to allow her the time she needed. Lance just wished they lived closer to him and his older brother, Alan, who was in Henderson. It was hard to be as physically supportive as they wanted to be when the couple lived in Scottsdale, Arizona. “Let me throw on some sweats and I’ll be right back. Aren’t you cold?” Todd tenderly asked his wife. “I’m baking and the heater is on. Carry me.” Todd chuckled, “I’ll carry you when I come back down. Don’t be such a baby. I’ll be back in a flash.” “I can’t believe you make that man carry you, little sister. You’re too old for that,” Lance reproached her as she slid off Todd and pouted as he left the room. “It’s your fault. If you and Alan hadn’t carried me all the time when I was little, then I would have learned how to walk earlier.”

“You couldn’t keep up with us, your legs were too short. Does your husband know what a brat you are?” Lance looked at her with a slight hint of disapproval. “Of course,” she giggled, “Why do you think he married me?” “Because you’re smart, pretty, sexy, and can cook like a chef in a five star restaurant,” Todd stated, catching her from behind and kissing her neck as he lifted her into his arms. “That was fast. So, you didn’t marry her because she’s a brat?” Lance asked, handing him a glass of merlot. Todd winked, “Maybe just a little. So any more news on your little fawn? “Jane Doe is now Noelle Doe. No fingerprints back, no dental records. I don’t know, Todd, it’s too strange, this whole thing.” “At least you know she isn’t a convicted felon, a licensed worker, or a military affiliate. Prints would have come up if she had a record or a passport.” “True. You should have heard her. Her voice sounded like a child’s. I first thought she had an accent. I’m wondering if we will be dealing with regressive issues from whatever occurred.” “No apparent mental disorders?” his brother-in-law asked, sitting on the couch and positioning his wife onto his lap to cuddle her affectionately. “Not that we can see. I will not be able to tell until she becomes more active. There is something peculiar about her though. I can’t explain it. It’s that weird sixth sense thing I get sometimes.” “Besides the fact you are a knight in shining armor and see a damsel in distress? Oh, don’t give me that look, big brother. You’ve always been my hero. You were all the girls’ hero.” “I get enough of that crap at work, Katherine. Besides, I thought Alan was your hero.” “I thought I was your hero.” Todd sulked. “Sorry, but no one could ever do the things Lance does. He could always make all the hurts go away and all the frowns turn to smiles. If he cooked for me, then he’d be my favorite brother.” “But I can’t cook.” “Learn. You’re reasonably intelligent, it’s not that hard. You’re going to have to do it eventually. Todd won’t let us stay here forever.” “I wish you would reconsider that. There is nothing in Arizona that you won’t get here in Nevada. Heat, wind, sand, snakes… we just don’t have state income taxes.” “I promised I would think about it, Lance. I would never see my wife, though. She’d always be here with you, trying to make you fat, or with Alan.” “Alan is the one who never tells her ‘no’ when buying her things, so he’d be your problem. Not me.” “Oh really? Then how do you explain your credit card in her wallet? I’m sure she told you that I had to put her on a spending restriction for breaking her budget again, right?” Todd asked, raising his eyebrow. “No, she did not. Katherine!” Lance called. “Yes? More wine?” she asked, coming to him when he beckoned. “Did Todd put you on a spending restriction again?” “Oh, yeah. I guess I forgot to mention that to you,” Kathy said, trying to sound casual. “I just went a little over my budget for personal stuff. We have the money…”

“That isn’t the issue. It’s respecting your boundaries. I thought you said you had this under control.” “I got bored. No sour patch face, Lance. I didn’t charge anything to your card.” “Todd? I know she’s your wife now, but please forgive me for saying that it’s a good time to put your foot down with her. Take it from a voice of experience. Obviously, telling her ‘no’ isn’t working. I know Alan would agree with me.” “You can stop scolding now, Lance. I’m a grown woman. You can’t just keep bossing me around the way you did when I was a kid,” Kathy said contrarily as she made a gesture in his direction. “Sticking your tongue out at your brother certainly proves your maturity, dear. Any suggestions?” Todd frowned at his wife, who then tried to look innocent. “Oh, I have lots of suggestions. She would have never gotten away with this with either Alan or me. You know that. Have you ever asked her why?” “No. Kathy? So why don’t you defy your brothers like you do me?” “I love you more.” “Answer the man correctly, Katherine,” her older brother ordered sternly. Kathy wrinkled her nose and snuggled against her husband’s broad chest, “They scared me because they were so big and mean.” “You want this type of helper to care for a little, lost girl with amnesia? Are you sure?” Todd asked, his arm around his wife’s waist. “Without a doubt. Nevertheless, she still did not answer you. Tell him Katherine, or this time, I will show him.” “You’re such a bully! Todd, those Neanderthal Baboons spanked me! Unbelievable, right?” “Neanderthal Baboons? I think you just invented some kind of cross species, my darling. Spanked you? Like on the bare bottom?” Todd pretended not to know this fact and enjoyed Kathy’s embarrassed scowl as her brother grinned, playing along. “Yep. She got her bare bottom paddled almost weekly by either Alan or myself. It was the only way to keep her in line. When the folks left on their business trips, she managed to get into every sort of trouble she could. And boy, she could put up a fuss! Screamed like she was being murdered, especially when Alan used the wooden spoon on her little butt. I lost count as to how many of those spoons were broken over her behind. We finally moved on to using a nice wooden paddle that she hasn’t managed to break yet.” “You really don’t need to be putting this garbage in his mind, Lance Callahan. Excuse me, I have dinner to finish,” Kathy said, stomping off in a huff and completely discomfited. “You two honestly spank her? Even now?” Todd saw his brother-in-law nod, “I really thought you guys were kidding when Alan told me he would help keep her in line. Hmmm, I need to think about that. I can’t say the idea doesn’t appeal to me,” he snickered. “Now, back to Noelle… I made some discoveries behind the shooting incident. We’ll have to talk about that later. Away from Little Miss Nosey-Nose,” Todd added quietly. Lance frowned and nodded. He did not like the sound in Todd’s voice. It usually cost him some much-needed sleep. *

*

*

Kathy moped as she climbed into bed next to Todd that night. He and Lance had continued to tease her throughout dinner about her childhood spankings and discussed, very frankly, about how effective adult, over-the-knee spankings were. Todd was intrigued, Lance was amused, and Kathy? Kathy was furious! Todd patted his furry, bare chest for her to snuggle with him. “Come here and stop being a brat. You know we were teasing you, baby.” “It’s so humiliating! I can’t believe those boys still think it’s ok to punish me like a little kid.” “Well, honey, there are times when you do act like a little kid. But I still love you more than a billion cherry tootsie pops.” Todd rolled over to swing his arm around her shoulders, lovingly smiling at her, as he began to kiss the inside of her wrist and travel up her arm. “What is it with you and Lance, and your stupid tootsie-pops? No, you’re not getting anything nice from me tonight.” Todd climbed on top of her and pushed her on to her back, straddling her hips as he held her wrists above her head. “Wanna bet?” he asked, lowering his mouth over hers. Try as she did, Kathy found herself kissing him back. Since the day they met, she ached constantly for him and, even after three years, they still made love almost every night. Todd released her wrists and pulled her on top of him, his mouth still locked to hers. Kathy pushed away to study his handsome, rough face. “You’re so lucky I love you, and you better never forget that,” she advised before descending upon his nipples with her tongue. “I certainly am, my precious. I’m thankful for that every single day. Lady, your mouth is so hot,” he whispered, stroking her hair. “Let’s see exactly how hot my mouth is, Mr. Makin. What do you think of this?” Kathy asked as her lips grazed over his hardened stomach and across the smooth skin of his pelvis. She blew warm air over his bobbing penis, the head already glistening with a drop of pre-cum. She glanced up at him with a sinister smile before she wrapped her lips around the twitching head. Todd groaned as her mouth slowly descended over his thick shaft, her tongue swirling against his flesh as she held him in place. Carefully, she tightened her lips around him, pulling him with her as she moved her mouth up and down, caressing his rod with the flat of her tongue. Todd growled, feeling the surge of cum threaten to bubble over. He pulled his wife’s mouth away and lifted her body over his cock. “Ride me, woman. Ride me hard tonight,” he ordered, feeling himself slide deep into her moist, waiting womanhood. Kathy’s hair hung wildly about her face as her strong thighs lifted her to the tip of his hungry cock and then slammed down hard onto the full length of his throbbing manhood. She gripped him tightly with her muscles and, once again, lifted herself to the tip only to allow him to plunge into her again. She began to ride him like a bronco, her strokes becoming more and more aggressive as she drew near to her climax. Todd grunted, grabbing her hips and guiding her to go faster, harder, deeper. Kathy threw back her head and let out a soft moan as she began to cum in frantic waves. Todd, with one last deep thrust, joined her, sending a tidal wave of heat into her inner walls. Panting, Kathy collapsed upon Todd’s chest, his twitching cock still lodged inside her . He wrapped his arms around her, kissing her neck and moving to her mouth. “I never tire of you, my love. Every time we make love, it’s something new,” he praised, pulling her off of him and nestling her against his chest. “Just remember that next time you and Lance start teasing me, husband. One of these days, I really will cut you off. Only Saturday nights and birthdays.”

“Yes, dear.” Todd chuckled, kissing her head. Kathy just smiled.

Chapter Two The next evening, Noelle sat up in bed and stared at the tray in front of her that the nurse had left. She wrinkled her nose, sniffing it. She knew what everything was for, but could not get her body to cooperate. The occupational therapist watched her carefully. “Are you hungry, Noelle?” she asked. Noelle nodded, blinking back tears. Why couldn’t she do anything? The OT picked up a spoon and placed it in her hand, scooped up some mashed potatoes and directed it towards the girl’s mouth. On her other side was a speech therapist, observing her swallowing and ability to verbalize. “Is it hard to swallow, honey?” the ST asked, seeing the difficulty. Noelle nodded, tearful again. The ST patted her hand, “It’s ok, we’ll take care of you. How about this? It’s JellO. Any easier? Good!” Systematically, the two evaluated her abilities, then retreated to the office to conference call Lance. “Hi, Dr. C. It’s Julie, Noelle’s occupational therapist and Connie from speech. Sorry to call you so late, but the poor kid slept most of the day and we didn’t want to wake her. We finally have your results.” “Thank you, ladies. I was hoping to hear from you tonight.” Lance held his finger to his lips as he placed them on speaker so his sister and Todd could hear. “Go on, please.” “Well, cognitively, she seems to be completely intact. For some reason, she is unable to coordinate certain motor skills with her understanding. We did notice that she has a fast learning curve, so it shouldn’t take too long to retrain her to a fully functional level. Physically, anyway.” “What are you saying, Jules?” “She’s at a three or four year old physical level with an apparent adult understanding. She definitely needs retraining, but I think she’ll be fine.” “And her swallowing?” “Like her physical abilities, she needs to learn how to swallow again. Doc, it’s almost as if something blew the adult in her out of her head. I’ve never seen anything like this.” “Ok, list her as a choke risk and put her on maximum attendance with assist. How’s her mobility?” “It took her a while, but she’s fully mobile and able to tend to most of her personal needs with reminders and some assistance. She does not seem to know how to feed herself with utensils, although she’s fairly adept with a small spill-proof cup.” “Make sure she does not bathe unsupervised and see that she has a sit-by to help in toileting if she needs it. I will be sending her new caregiver over tomorrow to train for her care. What type of special equipment will she need?” “Probably nothing, Dr. C. Just things to keep her occupied and stimulated as she’s retraining. Of course, be mindful of safety. I know this sounds bizarre, but I think it might be a good idea to take her to a toy store and let her pick out some things of interest. Grant her as many choices concerning her personal care as you are comfortable with, too. It will help restructure her autonomy.” Julie suggested. “Me? Why would you suggest that?” “We already know you are taking her home, Doc. That’s why we all love you. You’re a hero.” Connie said over the speaker. Kathy elbowed her brother and mouthed ‘told you so.’ “I’m not a hero, I’m a person who cares about others. Take good care of her, ladies. We still don’t know what that child has been through.”

“We will, Dr. C. Good night.” “You have quite the staff there.” Todd smiled, accepting another cup of coffee from his wife. “They’re the best. I don’t know what I’d do without them. Katherine? Are you sure you can handle this? It sounds like you will be dealing with a three year old.” “I can do it just fine. Please, let me contribute something. You boys can look at it like I was repaying you for going over budget.” “I like that idea,” Todd teased, “Let’s see, at 10 bucks an hour, 16 hours a day, 5 days a week… it will take you ten weeks to pay what you owe.” “Pardon me? You didn’t fill me on this little detail yesterday. Katherine, how the heck did you manage to go eight grand over your budget? What did you buy? A new car?” “Don’t yell at me, Lance. No, I bought a motorcycle,” Kathy confessed, preparing for the outburst. “A what?! No, you certainly did not!” Lance’s handsome face darkened angrily. “Oh, yes, she certainly did. Good thing I like bikes. Don’t worry, she will never ride it,” Todd assured the over-protective brother. “Alan is going to blister your butt when he finds out, little sister. You had that argument with him just last year and he forbade you from getting one because you are so reckless.” “I’m a married woman and he can’t forbid anything anymore.” “We’ll see about that. You will call him tonight to tell him. If you don’t, he will find out from me and you know how he feels about that. I can’t believe you sometimes,” Lance was completely exasperated with her. “What time can you be ready to go to the hospital tomorrow?” “Snitch! I can go with you in the morning. I want some time to get things ready for her homecoming, too. Can I SPEND MONEY for that?” “No sassing me, young lady. Yes, of course you can. But give all the receipts to Todd so he can determine if they were necessary purchases.” “You… you BUTTHEAD!” “She’s pulling out the big words now, Lance. Watch out!” Todd laughed, smacking his wife’s rear playfully as she stomped away. “She’ll get over it. I’m serious, you really need to paddle her one of these days. Alan and I aren’t around enough to keep her behaving for you. She should be in there stewing for a while. Since we didn’t get a chance to talk last night, can you tell me now what you discovered about Noelle?” “I pulled together an investigations team from my agency to research this since the police don’t seem to be too interested. I found that unusual due to the fact it was a gunshot wound and abandonment. Usually something like that get cops in an uproar.” “That suggests someone wants to keep things quiet,” Lance frowned. “Exactly. Now, get this: apparently, the kid was shot right outside Area 51. There were no vehicles within 20 miles from where she was found and no one in the military has come clean about the situation. My guys tried to find the bullet, but the place was picked clean, including any blood she may have left,” he whispered. “I contacted an old friend, Detective Collins, who is stationed here in town. He’s going to probe a little deeper and keep his eye out for us. I hope you don’t mind.” “Of course not, I appreciate it. Please don’t tell Katherine, she’ll start to worry. So, you’re saying that Noelle was shot and left for dead outside a top secret military installation and there is no evidence as to how she got there or who did it?”

“That’s what it looks like. Maybe she’s an alien or a government spy.” Lance groaned as his brother-in-law shrugged with a goofy grin. “You watch too many movies. She’s a little girl who’s in a whole lot of trouble and we need to find out how to help her.” “Let me keep working on it, ok? Do you think you could stand having us around for another month? It’s good for Kathy to mother us guys and now have someone else to take care of. I’m seeing a positive turn for her,” Todd asked quietly. “I’ll buy you a house myself if you two decide to stay permanently!” That meant they would be around for the holidays. Todd winked, “You don’t need to. I’m already on it. Merry Christmas, Lance.” “Does Katherine know?” Lance fought to contain his excitement. “I’m saying nothing until we get in the car to leave and she is at her most appreciative, if you understand my meaning.” Lance put his hands to his ears, “TMI! That’s my baby sister you’re talking about.” “Buddy, too much information would be if I told you how she expresses her appreciation,” Todd teased. “Believe me, I really like it when your baby sister is appreciative.” “Are you talking about me, honey?” Kathy asked, sidling onto Todd’s strong lap while handing him a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. “Where’s mine?” Lance asked, pouting. He was a sucker for sweets. “Get it yourself, big brother. I’m on strike.” “Brat.” *

*

*

Noelle tossed restlessly in her sleep mumbling words that the aide could not quite understand. The words sounded foreign, childlike almost. The aide reached across to gently wake the fretful girl. “Hey Noelle, it’s me, Darla. Were you having a bad dream?” the aide asked, helping Noelle sit up. “Drink. Please.” Noelle whispered, looking as though forcing the words out was an effort for her. She started crying as Darla helped her sip from her cup. “What’s wrong, honey? Does something hurt?” “Daddy. I want Daddy,” Noelle broke into loud sobs. The floor nurse ran in to see Darla holding the weeping girl close with a look asking for help. “I’m calling Dr. Callahan. Just hold her.” Lance drove as quickly as he legally could to the hospital, praying it would be one of those cold winter nights that the Vegas cops preferred to stay in the donut shops, sipping hot coffee. He pulled into his parking space and raced up to the unit. Several women huddled around the stricken girl, who continued to wail for her father. Lance’s heart sunk as he saw her, face red and swollen, hair matted and eyes blinded with tears. The nurses moved aside for him. “Noelle? It’s me, honey. Shhh. Is anything hurting you?” “Daddy? You came back.” Noelle threw herself into Lance’s arms. He frowned as some of the women giggled. “It’s Lance, your Doctor. I’m not your Daddy, sweetheart.” “I need you, Daddy. Hold me.” Noelle announced, hugging him tightly around the waist as she buried her face in his jacket, still sniffling. Again, some of the women tittered.

“If you ladies can’t be professional, you may all leave,” Lance scolded, “Darla, tell me what happened. And stop with the giggling. It’s not funny.” “I’m sorry, Doctor, but it’s so cute. Compared to you, she looks like a toddler.” “Compared to me, Godzilla looks like a guppy. What brought this on?” Darla explained in detail as Lance continued to gently rock the small woman in his long arms after she climbed into his lap and snuggled under his chin. Without thinking, he kissed the top of her head and began to coo to calm her down. Darla paused, mid-sentence, staring. Noelle had quickly fallen back to sleep. “You have quite the touch, Dr. C. It looks like you have a new pet,” she beamed as he absently stroked the sleeping girl’s hair. “If I might slip away from my professional mode, much like you are doing, Miss Darla, I would tell you to bite me.” “If I wasn’t happily married, Dr. Callahan, I would gladly go ahead and do just that,” Darla smirked. Lance shook a finger at her, then placed Noelle back into her bed and tucked her in. “She reminds me of my little sister. I always chased away Kathy’s nightmares when she was a little girl. She had a lot of them,” he tucked the girl’s hair behind her ear. “There is something about this one, though. Darla? Do you sense it?” Darla frowned, “Not really, Doc. what are you talking about?” “I wish I could tell you. Call it my sixth sense, but there’s something unusual.” “Beyond instantly making you her Daddy? Maybe she was into that age-play stuff before she got hurt.” “What's that?” Lance asked. “It’s one of the alternative life-styles that some people are involved in. It goes beyond role-play. The partners actually assume a child and guardian type relationship.” “Um, I’m not quite following you. Are you saying the adults pretend to have sex with children?” His frown was deep, disapproving and he felt anger brewing. “No, no… nothing like that. When they have sex, the ‘child’ gets to be an adult again. I read about it in one of your psych magazines.” “What about the possibility that she was just close to her father? Or that he was involved in this accident with her and is lost, too?” “Could be. Either way, she assumed the immediate role of a child and until she retrains, she’ll have to be cared for as one.” “I don’t mean to be insulting, but how did you become so wise and get stuck working as an aide?” “I have three kids and I do this because I love it,” Darla smiled, “My husband and I also enjoy finding new things to spice up our marriage. We were thinking about giving this age-play thing a try.” “Off the record… you’re a kinky little bitch.” Lance grinned back. “Off the record… I know,” Darla replied. “Why don’t you take a break? I’ll sit with her for a while.” “Thanks, Doc. I’ll be back in a few. May I bring you something?” “Some coffee, please. Then take your time. It’s going to be a long night.” Lance sat back in the chair next to the hospital bed, studying the sleeping girl. Age-play? Where she would remain a permanent child to be cared for, loved and even disciplined? Hmmm, the idea appealed to him. His sister always complained that he was a control freak and she was

right. He liked being dominant, having things done his way (which were usually the right way, anyway), and being obeyed when orders were issued. His all-female staff adored him and treated him like an older brother or uncle, but still respected him as their boss. They brightened at his frequent praise and would come close to tears during his infrequent scolding, but all his girls knew he was there for them. He thought of Kathy and the relationship they had growing up. His brother and he were always very mature and responsible for their age. They had instinctively assumed a parental role with their baby sister even before their parents began to frequently travel overseas to continue their research as seismic geologists. He had taught Kathy how to ride a bike, kissed away all her ouches, chased the monsters from her closet, helped her with homework, and even disciplined her when necessary. He missed that relationship. It gave him a sense of self, one that had been lost a long time ago. “Who are you and what happened?” he whispered to the girl, holding her hand, “Don’t be scared. Daddy is here to protect you.” Noelle murmured something and smiled in her sleep as she pulled his hand to her cheek. Yes, there was something odd about this one. Once again, he felt his sixth sense tingling. *

*

*

Alan Callahan, Esq. leaned back in his large chair, studying the couple in front of him. “Are you absolutely sure that you want to go through with this?” “Mr. Callahan, you’re an attorney. Are you trying to talk us out of divorce?” “Mr. Cresnik, it’s because I’m an attorney that I have to ask you that question. I can put one of my partners on your case, however, I always insist on meeting the couple before we pursue it.” “Are you a marriage counselor, too?” the woman scowled at him. “Actually, yes. I have a Masters in psych and I am licensed to practice in Nevada. Please answer this question. Why, with all the attorneys here in Vegas, are you coming to my firm? Our specialty is corporate law, not family law.” “It’s because we joint-own a business and I want to make sure she doesn’t hose me.” “I helped make that business, you jerk! If it wasn't for me, it wouldn’t exist!” “Now, see here. You…” “Whoa, please. Not in my office. Mrs. Cresnik? If you could fix things in your marriage, what would they be?” “That he would appreciate me more and not take me for granted.” The woman had tears in her eyes. “I DO appreciate you! I just can’t stand your constant nagging and criticism of everything I do.” “You never bother to listen to me or put any value on my ideas. I feel like you stopped loving me and love the business more.” Real tears started to fall as the woman sobbed into her hands. Alan remained silent, handing her a box of tissues. The room was quiet for a few minutes. “I’m sorry,” the man said softly, reaching for her hand. “I never meant to make you feel that way. I didn’t know you were jealous of the business. You never told me.” “I tried, but you were always so busy. You never have time to talk to me anymore.”

“It’s really hard to talk when I’m constantly being yelled at. If I promise to make time, do you think you can tone down the nagging?” “I promise to try and be more aware of it. That’s all I can do. I’m sorry. I never knew it bothered you so much,” his wife sniffed, dabbing her eyes with a Kleenex as she looked up at him. “So, would you two like to give it another go? Maybe think about the things you said and show each other some more respect? You’ve been together for four years, another few months of serious changes can make a difference.” “Yeah, but what can we do about the yelling and nagging? Sorry, hon, but you are way out of control. I honestly can’t take much more of it.” “Mrs. Cresnik? Do you like that behavior?” “Of course not, Mr. Callahan. It’s a bad habit and I know I should stop. I just never catch myself in time. I have a pretty awful temper.” “I’m married to a redhead. Full blooded Irish Catholic girl with a disposition that can sometimes test the patience and grace of the saints. I know all about tempers, tantrums, and ‘tudes’,” Alan grinned. “How so you deal with them? Any advice would be appreciated,” his client asked. “I’m not so sure about that,” came the chuckling response. “No, seriously. How do you handle the fits?” Alan leaned forward, looking back and forth between them. “They are not so much of a problem anymore. Since you are neither my client or under my council, I think it’s not completely out of line for me to share my secret to a happy marriage. We practice Domestic Discipline. Go to the store, buy yourself a nice, flat, wide hairbrush, and apply it to this young lady’s bare bottom when she acts out. Bad habits are changed very quickly when we want them to be.” “Are you suggesting that my husband is to spank me?” the woman looked appalled. “No, I’m not suggesting, I’m telling him to spank you. You’ll both feel better. Trust me, it’s a lot healthier for a marriage than fighting. It has a financial benefit as well. A hairbrush is a heck of a lot cheaper than a divorce.” “Come on, Stacey. There’s a Wal-Mart close to home. We have some shopping to do, then how about if we go out to a nice, romantic dinner. Mr. Callahan? Thank you,” the man stood to shake his hand. His wife turned to Alan and smiled. “Yes, thank you. I hope we won’t have to come see you again.” “So do I, my dear. Good luck and watch that temper of yours.” Alan sighed as the couple left. Another marriage saved. Maybe his brother was right and he should go full time into family counseling. He picked up the phone as he reached around to rub his back. He had been sitting too long and his old disc injury was complaining. “Hey, little brother. Just thinking of you. What’s happening?” “Had a long night with Noelle. Some strange things happened. Oh, before I tell you, did your sister call you to confess?” “Damn, what did Mary Katherine get into this time?” Lance quickly told him, listening for the telltale grunt of annoyance. There it was! “When is Todd going to stop babying her and begin to paddle her little butt? We can’t keep doing it for him.”

“I know, I told him that. He’s considering it still. You know how protective he is of her, especially now.” “He’s not doing her any favors by waiting. She’s used to this type of discipline and needs it to keep her focused.” “You’re preaching to the choir, Alan. Hey, I need some counsel, counselor.” “Yes, Doctor? How can I help you?” Alan asked, doodling on a tablet. Lance shared the details of his evening with Noelle, including her ‘adoption’ of him. His brother chortled. “Sounds like Kathy all over again. She called both of us Daddy until she turned nine, remember?” “No, I actually forgot. So, what should I do? I don’t want to cause her any more damage or confusion.” “Lance, since we were kids, you’ve been the rescuer. Your sixth sense has never failed you. Follow it. If you say there’s something special about this woman, then I believe you.” “If you say so.” “Since when do you second guess yourself, little brother? Pull up some of that famous arrogance I hear about and put it to work. We’ll find an answer to this mystery, ok?” “You’re in on it?” “Sure am. Anything that has you and Todd so riled up beckons for my involvement. Now, you tell that kid sister of ours that I will be over tonight after work for a long talk.” “Poor Kathy,” Lance snickered. He stretched his long body and yawned, checking his schedule. No surgeries, just general rounds and follow-ups. It was Thursday and tomorrow was a regular half day. He looked up as Kathy appeared in his doorway. “Well, hello, Mrs. Makin. What can I do you for?” Lance smiled, pointing at a chair. Kathy hopped into it. “I wanted to stop by and see you before I met Noelle. What happened last night? You didn’t come home and your staff is doing a lot of giggling.” “Those ladies are going to send me to an early grave. We had an interesting episode that I hope you are comfortable enough to follow through with. Come with me.” They walked into Noelle’s room where she sat up in bed, coloring in a book with the OT next to her. She was freshly showered, her hair pulled back into a ponytail and tied with a pretty pink ribbon. Her face lit up when she saw him. “Daddy! Look! Miss Julie put a ribbon in my hair.” “It’s very lovely, Noelle. How are you feeling today?” Lance asked, leaving Kathy staring and mouthing the word ‘daddy.’ He held out his arms for a hug. “Good. We’re coloring. See?” “Very pretty. You are staying in the lines, too. I’m proud of you.” “Miss Julie said I didn’t have to, but I like to. When are we going home?” “Soon, honey. Probably tomorrow. I want you to meet someone. This is Aunt Kathy. She’ll be staying with you while I’m at work.” “Hi Noelle, it’s so good to meet you.” “You’re pretty. I never had an Aunt before.” “Can you tell me about your family?” Kathy asked, sitting down next to the girl. Tears started to well in her eyes. “No, only Daddy. I can’t remember…” “It’s ok, honey. Don’t cry. Oh, come here.” Kathy said, holding the sobbing girl in her arms and looking tearfully at Lance. His instincts were correct; this was exactly what they both needed. While Kathy tended to Noelle, Lance pulled Julie aside. “Did you get her to draw?”

“She only wanted to color, sorry. She learns incredibly fast, but seems to be stuck in this mode right now. Her vocabulary has increased exponentially since she started talking. She might benefit from a private tutor.” “Kathy taught elementary school before she married Todd. She can start with her. I’ll get materials for them ASAP. Thanks for the input, Jules.” “She’s a sweet young lady. It would be nice if…” “If what?” “I just thought that you two would look so cute together as a couple. She needs to grow up first. And you, Dr. C., need to stop frowning. It’s putting wrinkles on your gorgeous mug.” “One of these days, I’m going to remind this staff that I’m the boss and you need to stop treating me like your little brother. I don’t need to be set up.” “Don’t be so grumpy. We love you and know you love us. Why do you think no one ever leaves this place? I wish all facilities were like this one, sans Dr. Hart-less.” “Don’t let him hear you say that. You did well with her, Jules. Thank you.” Julie beamed, accepting his hug. “Call me if you need anything else, ok? And think about what I said. It’s time you moved on and found someone to appreciate you.” Lance pointed to the door, silently ordering her to leave. Giggling, Julie complied. Lance cursed under his breath. She was right. He knew he needed to move on. His last relationship had ended terribly two years ago. Rebecca, a lounge singer, had left him high and dry for a casino owner. It came as a shock, coming home and seeing her stuff gone with only a note telling him, “I found someone else. Good bye.” Alan had warned him about her, but he hadn’t listened. He put her through vocal classes, took care of her bills, and worshipped the ground the tall, willowy, brunette walked on. Alan offered to represent him to retrieve the lost funds, but Lance refused. He just wanted a clean break from the woman who had shattered his heart. Lance sat down, watching Kathy color with the odd girl. She seemed so innocent, but her violet eyes were old, knowing, mature. He could not put his finger on what nagged him about her. Hopefully he would, in time. “Since you girls are getting along so well, I’m going to get back to work. Katherine? Call me if you need anything. By the way,” he paused to look at her, “Alan wanted me to tell you he was coming over this evening to discuss your recent purchase with you.” Kathy’s face paled. “I can’t believe you called him! When are you two going to realize I’m an adult?” “Maybe when you start acting like one, little sister. Love you. Noelle? Be a good girl for Aunt Kathy, ok?” “I will, Daddy. Bye!”

Chapter Three “Mary Katherine! Get your little butt down here now!” Alan’s voice boomed from the living room. She had seen her brother drive up and had raced to the upstairs guest room to hide. Lance handed his brother a coke and offered him a seat. “She’s hiding from you,” Lance laughed. “Just like she did when she was little.” “She knows it won’t do her any good. Katherine! NOW!” Kathy winced, reluctantly coming down the stairs. “You bellowed?” “You have some explaining to do, missy. Plant your duff right here and start talking.” Kathy wrinkled her nose. “What do you want me to say? I screwed up.” “Young lady, do you remember the first spanking you got from me and why?” “No.” Kathy lied. She remembered it quite well. “Then let me refresh your memory. Mom and Dad were away on business. You were six and asked me to drive you to your friend’s birthday party and had borrowed money to buy her a gift. You said her mother was going to take you shopping. I was 17 and not allowed to drive at night with a passenger yet and I told you that you could only go if you were going to be done before it got dark. You promised to be finished by five. Now, do you remember?” “Not really,” Kathy squirmed, facing the ground. “Sure you do. I arrived at the house at five to pick you up and found out that you had lied about the party. You were also nowhere around and no one knew where you had gone. Lance and I were frantic trying to find you.” “When we did, you were at the arcade, playing games with the money you borrowed for the gift,” Lance added. “Mary Katherine, I do not abide with you breaking your promises, fibbing and being irresponsible with money. You gave your word that you would never purchase another motorcycle after your accident, and you also lied to Todd about your budget.” “I didn’t lie. I just didn’t tell him,” Kathy tried to weasel, avoiding the cautionary look in his dark eyes for her to stop while she was ahead, “I’m sorry, Alan.” “You will be. Go to my car and bring me my paddle.” “NO! Please don’t! Lance! Help me,” Kathy began to beg, looking fearfully at her other brother. “Alan’s your favorite, remember? Don’t come crying to me when you get yourself in trouble,” Lance commented, throwing her words back at her. “I’d hustle, if I were you. Alan’s not angry just yet.” “Since when am I her favorite?” Alan asked with amusement as she ran outside to obtain the dreaded instrument. “Since you cooked for her last time and bought her a new dress. You spoil her.” “So does Todd. When is he due home?” “Anytime now.” “Good. Thank you,” he accepted the wide, round paddle dotted with tiny holes from his trembling sister, “Mary Katherine, you are to stand in that corner until I call you for your punishment.” “But dinner…” “Is in the oven and won’t be ready for another hour. I know all of your stalling techniques, little girl,” Alan said, looking down at her from his own 6’5” frame. There were few

people that Kathy, at 5’10”, felt dwarfed by. Her tall, ex-basketball playing brothers were on the top of that list. With a stomp of her foot, Kathy obeyed. “Not very contrite, is she?” Lance teased, watching his little sister as she crossed her arms and tapped her foot impatiently while staring at the wall. “She will be. Trust me. So how did Noelle do today?” The two chatted until Todd walked in, coming to a standstill when he saw his wife with her face to the wall. “Hi Alan! Good to see you. What brings you to this neck of the woods?” Todd asked, hugging his brother-in-law affectionately. Alan thumbed Kathy, “Dealing with your little brat. Makin, it’s time you start handling her rebellion. You’re her husband and she needs to be able to respect you.” “I DO respect Todd!” “You, hush up.” Alan turned again to the man, who grinned as she kicked the wall, “I see couples in my office all the time that start off like you guys and end up divorced. I love you two too much to just shut my mouth and not say anything. After tonight, I’m renegotiating our contract.” “Contract? What contract?” Kathy demanded, turning around, Alan pointed and she again stuck her nose in the corner. “Todd and I have a verbal contract regarding your discipline, Mary Katherine. He observed how well you tended to behave around Lance and me and wanted to ensure it continued. Especially when he was away on duty so much. I knew he was not into D&D and was concerned about crossing the line, especially since he was a cop. When you two got married, I agreed to continue to partake in keeping you on the straight and narrow. Tonight, I am terminating our contract and encouraging your husband to start to give you what you desperately need from him.” “You… you thug!” Kathy hissed. Alan ignored her. “You probably think I’m a total pussy. I’m not. I just don’t like to hurt her. Especially…” Todd began to say, making sure he was out of Kathy’s hearing. “We know. We all almost lost her the week after you were married. I will never be able to forget that. And no, I don’t think you’re a pussy. This just hasn’t been your thing. However, letting her continue down a path that lacks self-control and boundaries invites another accident. It’s not right for me to fulfill this role anymore. I probably shouldn’t have done it in the first place, but I care about you guys so I wanted to help.” “Alan, I am so grateful for everything you two have done, and for being so supportive. And yes, you’re absolutely right. It IS time I stepped in. I’m ready to learn,” Todd agreed, eyeing Kathy as she turned to snarl at him. He twirled his finger. “You, back in the corner. No arguing, either.” Kathy huffed, kicking the wall again. Todd held back a grin as he followed the other two men into the kitchen where Alan checked on the casserole in the oven. “Any news?” Lance asked quietly. Todd shook his head. “Nothing. I’m sending the team out to search in both directions, but my instincts tell me that she wasn’t going towards the compound.” “She was leaving it?” “Possibly so. There’s a secret and she’s the key. Have any military reps been around?” “Not that I know of. No visitors or inquiries,” Lance responded. “I can’t get a warrant to investigate until we get some direction. Even then, the chances are iffy,” Alan said.

“We need to find that bullet. I suspect it will be the map to where we need to go,” Todd said seriously. “Ok, boys, it’s time to teach me how to paddle my bratty wife.” “I’m sure you’ll be a natural,” Alan laughed, clapping the shorter man on the shoulder. The brothers sat back on the couch to ‘supervise’ Todd’s first encounter with domestic discipline, and to add humiliation to their bratty kid sister in the process. Todd, being an ex-cop, had been hesitant due to the amount of calls he had followed concerning domestic violence. Despite his brother-in-laws’ reassurance that spanking, in love, did not apply, he had procrastinated. He had not realized that they were frequent subscribers of the activity. However, now it was not just a matter of keeping his household in order, but his pride and respect with his brother-in-laws as well. “Katherine? Come here please,” he said kindly, sitting across from the other two on the smaller sofa. Kathy turned and inched up to him, dropping herself in his lap to kiss and embrace him lovingly. “I missed you. Those buttheads wouldn’t let me give you a proper hello,” she said, ignoring the fact he had called her ‘Katherine’ in lieu of ‘Kathy’. “I missed you, too, my darling.” Todd kissed her back, arm wrapped around her slim waist, “But I don’t like coming home to this. Why were you standing with your nose in the corner like a naughty little child?” “Because I have a control freak butthead for a brother, plus his sidekick, Mr. Jerk Off.” “That’s not very nice. These are your brothers and they love and care about you. Why were you put in the corner?” he asked again patiently. “Alan thought he could come over here to yell at me about the motorcycle thing. Tell him it’s taken care of so he can go home and annoy his own wife.” “But we have not taken care of the motorcycle thing yet, honey. Only the budget thing. The motorcycle issue is an important one because it meant you were breaking your promise to all of us.” “I know how to ride the dumb bike, Todd. The buttheads taught me when I was a kid.” “Yet it didn’t stop you from being crushed in that accident, did it? More so, you bought one behind my back. Did you really think you could just sneak that by us?” “Oh please, you didn’t care about the bike as much as you cared about the budget being blown. It’s THOSE two who are bothered, especially the big, ugly one who’s glaring at me.” “That’s enough. Stop trying to provoke them, especially Alan. He’s been more than patient with you, and so have I. We are going to have to make some changes between us. I love you so much. You’re my heart, but this can’t go on. You’re going to help with Noelle and we all need to be able to trust that you will be able to stay focused and alert, and not get sidetracked like you always do.” “I will. I promise.” “Just like you promised to never, ever get on another bike for the rest of your life?” he asked, picking up the paddle that Alan had left on the coffee table. “Your brothers are right. Some old fashioned discipline is in order here. Don’t you agree, my sweet?” “No, I certainly do not! This is YOUR fault,” she yelled at the two men, again stomping her foot. “No, honey, this is your fault. Over my knee, right now. We are making some new promises this evening,” Todd said patiently, grabbing her wrist firmly before she escaped him. She was no match for his strength and quickly found herself with her head hanging close to the carpeted floor and her upturned bottom being bared.

“Stop it! Not in front of them!” “Mary Katherine, we’ve seen that little tush of yours since the day you were born, and we’ve both reddened the same one on more occasions than either of us can remember,” Alan informed her, sipping his coke. “Show Todd that you know how to take your punishment like a big girl and stop your kicking.” “She can kick as much as she wants to, she isn’t going anywhere.” Todd grinned, slipping his right leg over his wife’s knees to pin her in place. “She likes to reach back, too,” Lance added. “You might want to hold her wrist.” “I despise both of you!!!” Kathy yelled, unable to move under Todd’s strong hold. “No, you don’t. You’re just having a tantrum. Like usual,” Alan commented, winking at Todd. Without a word, the man lifted his hand, aiming for the center of his wife’s bottom. She squealed when the impact was felt. “Ow! That hurt like a mother!” “Oh? Let me try again to make sure I did it right,” Todd answered, leaving a second handprint on her right butt cheek. “You are SO not getting laid tonight, Mr. Makin!” “It’s not Saturday or my birthday, so I wasn't planning on it,” Todd teased, knowing the comment would infuriate her. “You… you… OOOOWWWW!” Kathy yelped again as his hand fell twice more, catching her on the backs of her thighs. “Lemme goooooo!” “I don’t know what all this fuss is about. I haven’t even used the paddle yet. Let’s see about bringing some color to this beautiful little backside, first.” Todd’s hand then fell in a flurry of hard, exact spanks, covering Kathy’s bottom, sit spots and her upper thighs. She yelled at him, throwing in a few choice curse words. “Now see what you did? I was enjoying myself but then you started to curse. Is that the foul mouth you use when you say your prayers or attend mass? I know your brothers forbade that kind of language around them, didn’t you gentlemen?” “Absolutely. She even got her mouth washed out with soap a few times for it,” Lance commented, sitting back and enjoying the night’s entertainment. “I also recall a few switchings as well when she would swear at church. We were in a very strict Parish growing up,” Alan commented. “Well, let’s see if this will serve as a reminder,” Todd balanced the paddle in his hand and then sent it firmly and without hesitation against the soft curve of his wife’s sexy behind. A string of curses escaped her mouth. “That was quite a response! Let’s try it again, without the cussing.” Kathy fought against his hold, twisting and turning to escape as the paddle landed ten times, back and forth across her left and right cheeks and sit spot. She fought back her tears, her embarrassment peaking as she started to kick wildly, exposing her dark blonde pussy to every man in the room. She knew her battle was lost as Todd continued to aim the flat of the paddle sharply against the center of each bright round mound. “Pleeeeeeease stop. I’ll be good! I’m sorrrry.” Kathy began to wail. Todd eyed her brothers, both who shook their heads. “No, honey, I don’t think we have quite learned our lesson yet.” The clapping sound of the paddle grew louder as it met flesh. “I like to spank to music that has a good beat,” Alan quipped, “Should I put on a CD?” “Screw you!” Kathy yelled, her eyes red with tears as she tried desperately to escape the punishing claps of wood that flattened her trim bottom. “Not nice, young lady,” Alan scolded. “Not nice at all. You know better than that, Mary Katherine.”

“I’m not ‘Makin Believe’ when I tell you I’m serious. Am I, Mrs. Makin?” Todd asked, eliciting a groan from both her brothers as he used the pun from back in the day when he played Ping-Pong. He always wore a T-shirt to the matches that said ‘No Makin Believe’. Kathy began to bawl pitifully into Todd’s dress pants as he upped her spanking another notch, putting his muscular forearm to work as he flipped the paddle sharply using his wrist. Kathy’s backside was soon glowing like a stop light with enough heat to warm up the cool room. She finally collapsed over Todd’s knees, hanging onto his leg as she cried, her fight spanked well out of her. Alan gave Todd a thumbs up with a smile. Todd placed the paddle back on the coffee table and began to gently rub the hot, swollen globes of his wife’s tender bottom. He was aroused and was eager to take her upstairs to ‘comfort her’. Alan had warned him, though, no sex after punishment. That was disappointing, but he understood the experienced man’s reasoning. Punishment needed to be separate from pleasure. He pulled her shorts and panties back up over her sore backside and then turned her to sit on his lap. Holding her close as she cried into his shirt, Todd kissed her cheek. “It’s over, baby. Don’t make me do that again anytime soon. I think it would be good for you to spend a little more time in the corner and think about how hard this was, for both of us. Go on now, be a good girl.” Kathy sniffed, painfully hobbling back to the corner, this time without the attitude. Alan stood, beckoning Todd and Lance to join him in the kitchen. “Well? How did I do? The old Ping-Pong champ is back!” Todd grinned, flexing his muscles. “Welcome to the RAC, my friend,” Alan snickered, pouring himself a glass of water and raising it in a salute. Lance noticed Todd’s confused look and whispered “red ass club” into his ear. Todd chuckled, “I wish I had taken your advice three years ago. I hate to admit it, but I rather enjoyed myself. Not making her cry, but seeing that sit-upon color up a bright red for me. Sweet. I do insist, however, that you two personally handle anything she does that concerns you, ok? It will keep her on her toes.” “Deal. Especially since she’ll be having to follow some very specific instructions about Noelle,” Alan shook Todd’s hand in agreement with a wide grin on his handsome face. Lance just chuckled. He knew they just created a new spanking monster. Todd excused Kathy from the corner to say good-bye to Alan so he could go home to his family. Her eldest brother held her tightly, kissing her forehead affectionately as they walked outside into the cold winter air. “Are you ok?” he asked quietly. Kathy nodded, “As long as he doesn’t learn how to swing as hard as you do, I’ll live. I won’t miss your spankings, big brother.” “You certainly won’t. We just agreed that Lance and I will continue, should you do anything that breaks our personal instructions or rules.” He noticed her unhappy expression. “I know you don’t believe me, but I hate making you cry, little sister. I’d rather spoil you. Here, use this for Noelle,” Alan said, slipping some money into her hand. “Lance already gave me his card. I don’t need it.” “Then save it for a rainy day,” “See? This is why you’re my favorite brother,” Kathy grinned as Alan kissed her again before driving off. She looked at the $500 he had given her and frowned. Rainy day? It never rained in Las Vegas! Even now in the dead of winter, it was dry as a bone.

Lance watched the two out the window and called Todd over. “Alan is such a pushover. I wonder how much he gave her to stop crying.” “You’re kidding? He really does that? I can’t have sex but he gives her money?” “Yeah, it relieves his guilt. I never feel guilty when I take a whack at her rump. I hope you don’t either,” Lance commented, watching Kathy slip the bills into her pockets. “Not now I don’t. Maybe I’m too frugal with her. She doesn’t need your brother’s money.” “Don’t get pissed, it’s between those two. As for frugal, you give her a budget of five grand a month to handle expenses. That’s more than enough until she gets her spending issues resolved. She has no idea how much it costs for you to run your businesses. Maybe you should tell her?” “Nah, I like her being free from worry.” “It’s up to you. Katherine? Is dinner ready? I’m starving,” Lance asked as she came in. She hugged him warmly, standing on her tiptoes to kiss his chin and receive a warm, comforting embrace. “I’ll bring it in. Could you turn up the heater? It’s getting cold in here.” “You could go put on some long pants… Oh, never mind.” Her brother grinned as she rubbed her bottom with a scowl.

Chapter Four “Are you excited to go home with Dr. Lance, Noelle?” Julie asked as she brushed the young woman’s hair. “Who’s Dr. Lance? I don’t like doctors. They give shots.” “Dr. Lance? Daddy? He doesn’t usually give shots. He has the nurses do it for him.” “I don’t like shots. They hurt,” Noelle said firmly. “Did you get a lot of shots when you were little?” Julie asked, jotting down a note. “All the time. Shots hurt.” “Do you remember why you had to get so many?” “No. I think I was going on a long trip. No more shots!” “You won’t get any from me, I promise. There you go. See how pretty you look?” Noelle smiled at the mirror. Julie had brushed her hair out until it shone and then pulled the sides up in a braid held by clips with sparkling purple stones. She had discovered that Noelle loved the color purple since Daddy told her it matched her eyes. Those big, lovely eyes brightened when Lance and Kathy walked through the door. She bounded into his arms, wrapping her arms and legs around him gleefully. “Daddy! Look! Miss Julie bought me hair thingies to match my eyes.” “So she did, my little princess. They are gorgeous. Jules? Anything new?” Julie nodded, handing him a list of her discoveries. Some made sense, others did not. He tucked it into his pocket and hugged her. “Thank you so much for all you’ve done. We’re going to stop by the toy store on the way home and see if there is anything she likes. You’ve done well, my girl. Thank you again.” “You know I would do anything for you, Doc. Call me if you need a babysitter, ok?” “For me or her?” Lance asked mischievously. Julie smacked his arm, grinning. “You’re bad. So much like my kid brother. Have a good weekend, ok? Try to get some rest; you look terrible. Oh, Noelle?” “Yes, ma'am, Miss Julie?” Lance raised his eyebrow. Manners? Another clue. Julie handed her something wrapped in My Little Pony paper. “I got you a little present as a thank you for letting me play with you. Open it.” Noelle stared at her, stunned. Was she supposed to tear this pretty paper? She looked at Lance, confused. “It’s ok to rip the paper. That’s what we do when we get wrapped gifts.” Noelle broke into a smile and excitedly yanked the paper from the present. Her eyes teared as she pulled out a plush purple rabbit. “Oh, Miss Julie! Thank you! He’s perfect!” “I remember you telling me you liked to color the bunnies. Think of me when you hold him, ok?” Noelle started crying as she hugged Julie good-bye, then followed suit on the other nurses and aides on the floor. They watched her leave, sad to see her go. Everyone had been so happy having the young woman there to care for and play with. She was like a ray of sunshine and always made them feel… special. Younger, even. Lance felt his sixth sense tingling again, glancing behind him at his staff. Something was definitely off kilter. *

*

*

“What are you going to name your bunny, Noelle?” Kathy asked, sliding into the back seat of Lance’s red SUV with the girl. “Bunny, of course! He makes me feel good,” Noelle said firmly. “Where do we live, Aunt Kathy?” “Daddy’s house is about twenty minutes away. Uncle Todd and I are staying with him right now to help take care of you. Uncle Alan lives about a half hour from us.” “Who are they?” “Todd is my husband and Alan and Daddy are my brothers.” “Do I have any cousins?” Lance’s ears perked to the question; she understood family dynamics. “Uncle Alan has twin girls who are nine years old.” “Do I have to share my coloring books with them?” Noelle looked cross. “Yes, Noelle. It’s not good to be selfish. We share everything and play nicely in this family, and try to help each other as much as we can. It’s the right thing to do when you care about people.” Lance said firmly, noticing the possessive expression. “Yes, Sir, Daddy.” Sir? She must have heard it from one of the staff, Lance thought, although he could not recall any one of his mischievous employees offering him that courtesy. Except, of course, when they occasionally elevated him to Knight Hood. Didn’t they understand his name was Lance NOT Lancelot? One of these days he would have to tell his parents about what they subjected him to, and find out what they were thinking when they did it. The car was quiet as he pulled into the large Toys R Us parking lot. Lance held out his hand for the tiny woman to take. Her eyes widened with disbelief as she scanned the large store. He was certain his expression was not much different as he looked up at the high shelves and walls that were packed to the ceiling with everything imaginable. If he felt overstimulated, he could only imagine how the young woman felt. “A little overwhelming, huh? You may pick three things, Noelle. We will be celebrating Christmas with the whole family in two months, so we need to leave something for them to get you. Katherine, only three toys, got it?” Lance said sternly. Kathy was quite at home in the giant store. She pulled Noelle with her as they strolled up and down the aisles, shopping cart in tow. Lance was examining the electronic games when they came up behind him, the basket laden with toys, games, and books. “Do you know how many three is, Noelle?” he asked with a frown, eyeing the piles. “This many, Daddy,” she held up three fingers, “I got three. Aunt Kathy got lots more.” “Katherine…” “Down, boy. These are educational games, puzzles, and books. Not technically toys. She also liked this comforter set, so I’m getting it too.” “You’re getting it? Oh, you’re gonna get it, alright…” Lance growled. Noelle looked scared and clung to her bunny. “Stop it, you’re frightening the child. Pay him no mind, honey, he’s just an old grumpy bear.” Kathy told the girl, stroking her hair while challenging her brother with her eyes. Lance relinquished his stand, “Very well. You might as well add these to the bill.” “What's that?” Noelle asked. Lance grinned sheepishly “Video games for my Xbox.” “Boys!” Kathy grunted.

The three stopped for milkshakes before going shopping for some clothes. Kathy ordered Lance to stay in the car and wait for them, which he was more than happy to comply. He was worn out and started to doze off when they returned an hour later carrying three large bags. “Did you buy out the store, Katherine?” “I swear, you are sounding more like Todd every day. She had nothing to wear, Lance! I’m warning you, though, I let her pick out most of the stuff. We had to go into the girls department because she is so small.” “Whatever. I’m tired and want to go home. Can we go?” “Why is Daddy mad, Aunt Kathy?” Noelle whispered, sticking her thumb in her mouth. “Don’t do that, baby. He’s not mad, just grumpy. He gets that way when he doesn’t get enough beauty sleep. And when I spend his money,” Kathy giggled, ignoring her brother’s warning look in the rear view mirror. “We’re home. What do you think?” Lance asked, pulling into the landscaped driveway of his large, custom built home with a mountainous backdrop. Noelle stared, eyes wide with astonishment. “It’s so pretty! I get to live here?” “You do. We even have a swimming pool, but it’s way too cold right now. Come inside and I’ll show you around. Katherine? Leave those things. I’ll get them later.” Holding his hand, Noelle took in her surroundings. The house had a wide entryway with a big living room, kitchen and dining area to the left along with the master guest room, Lance’s office, and laundry room to the right. She followed him upstairs where the master suite and two more large bedrooms, each with separate bathrooms, were housed. “This is your room. Do you like it? Aunt Kathy fixed it up for you,” he asked, opening the door to the room at the end of the hall. Noelle walked in and her mouth opened to form an ‘O’. All the furnishings were white with tiny purple flowers painted along the edges. The rocking chair and toy chest were padded with lavender gingham that matched the frilly curtains. In the middle of the bed sat a large purple teddy bear, with a huge pink bow, holding a vase of purple and white orchids. “Where did these come from?” Kathy asked, picking up the note. She smiled, reading it aloud, “To our little Noelle. Welcome Home. Love, Uncle Todd and Uncle Alan. How sweet!” she said, touching her hand to her heart. Pushovers, Lance thought. They haven’t even met the kid yet! “Daddy?” Noelle yanked on his pinky. “Yes, hon?” “I need to go potty,” she whispered, almost embarrassed. “You have your own bathroom right here. Do you need help?” “No. 'Scuse me.” Lance watched as she departed and then turned to his sister. “Manners, family dynamics, counting, and embarrassment about bodily functions…you don’t think she’s faking this, do you?” he whispered. “No. Not at all. Her reactions are too genuine. Even if she were, then it means she definitely believes she needs it. She’s very appreciative and it shows. Please try not to be suspicious. She’s not Becca. She worships you.” “I know. And it scares the heck out of me.” After putting all the new purchases away, the three sat at the kitchen table for lunch. Noelle stared at the food on her plate then looked at Lance helplessly.

“What’s wrong, Noelle? Don’t you like your lunch?” “It hurts to swallow,” she said. “Shoot! I forgot she’s a choke risk. Great physician I am.” He smacked his forehead. “I have some supplement powder that we can mix with milk until I get a decent formula ordered for her. Sit, Katherine, I’ll fix it.” He placed the glass in front of the girl and watched as she lifted it with difficulty to her mouth, spilling most of it all over the front of her shirt. She started to cry. “No need to cry, baby. It was an accident. I shouldn’t have given you such a big cup. Here,” he poured the drink into a travel cup that had a lid, “see if this works better for you.” He could tell it was still difficult for her to coordinate her hands to feed herself, despite her ability to color inside the lines and was fairly adept with other self-care. Kathy frowned as well. “Lance? Do you think she needs to use a bottle? Watch her. It’s like she’s never eaten solid food before and she tilts her glass clear up in the air.” “You’re right. Call Todd and ask if he can bring a couple home with him. The store is right by his office. Then would you mind running to the market and getting some more milk? I’m beat and I don’t want to spend another second driving.” “You do look tired and really washed out. Must suck getting old, huh? Love you! Be right back.” To Lance’s dismay, Noelle took a long time to finish her drink. He desperately needed to sleep and noticed that Noelle also appeared tired, as well as a bit pale. Lance reached for her hand. “Come with me, little one. You need to get cleaned up and then I want you to take a nap.” “I don’t wanna take a nap. I’m not sleepy,” Noelle whined as she yawned. “Of course you’re not, but I am. Come lay down with me so I’m not by myself, ok? I don’t want you to feel scared in this big house and I’m way too big to sleep in your bed.” “I like this house. It’s warm and happy. Bunny likes it, too.” “Good. I’ll make your bath and…. what's wrong now?” he tried not to sound impatient as she balked from the water. “No bath!” “Yes, bath. You’re sticky and covered with milk. Are you embarrassed in front of me? I’m a doctor…” “NOOOOO! No bath!” Noelle screamed, kicking at him. Lance frowned. This behavior was unacceptable and he knew she could control herself. “Young lady, you are to take a bath and then a nap. You will not raise your hands or kick me or anyone else again, either. Do you understand me?” he asked in his sternest voice. “I don’t wanna take a bath and I’m not tired!” she cried, plopping on the ground and kicking her feet on the floor. Kathy heard them as she entered the house and ran upstairs, milk still in hand. She stared at Noelle in disbelief. “What did you do?” she asked her brother, putting the carton down. “Nothing. I wanted to give her a bath.” “Noelle? It’s time for you to get in that tub. I’ll help you undress,” Kathy reached for her. Noelle slapped Kathy’s hand away and screamed. Loudly. “Oh, no way! Not in my house,” Lance announced, gently pushing his sister away from Noelle. “Move aside, Katherine. Noelle! This behavior will not be tolerated. I will not put up with any disrespect in this family. You will stop this tantrum this instant, young lady, or you will be getting a spanking! You are making Aunt Kathy very upset!” “No bath!” she continued to scream at the top of her lungs, heels hammering against the wall.

Lance reached down and grabbed her arm, easily pulling her off the floor. He carried her, kicking and screaming, to the bed and sat down, plopping her tiny body across his lap. Noelle continued to screech at the top of her lungs as his hand smacked the seat of her pants. He again spanked her, knowing that the impact through the thick cotton did not hurt her, but he was hoping to gain her attention so he could talk to her. She continued her high-pitched, ear-splitting protests, struggling wildly under his hand. “Lance, don’t hurt her!” Kathy said worriedly. “I’m trying to get her to stop her theatrics and, if we’re lucky, she’ll also wear herself out. You, of all people, know that I won’t put up with fits for any reason. Noelle, if you don’t stop this, I will lower your britches and spank your bare bottom.” Noelle froze. Lance stood her up and placed her between his knees to look at her firmly. “I don’t ever want to see another temper tantrum like that again, young lady. There will never be a time that you are allowed to hurt anyone here. Ever. Promise me! You can ask Aunt Kathy that my spankings on the bare bottom hurt a lot and if you act that way again, you will feel them. Do you understand me?” “Yes, Daddy. I promise,” whispered words were heard between sniffles. “Now get your buns into that bath.” “I don’t like baths.” Her lower lip puffed out. Lance fought not to hug her, she was so cute! He pointed to the tub, his face showing a lack of sympathy. “Too bad. Do it. Katherine? Could you please take over, I’m about to drop.” “Sure thing. Go lay down. I’ll wake you for dinner,” Kathy said as she kissed his chin. She turned to undress Noelle and help her into the tub, watching as the young woman stiffened immediately and refused to sit right away. Kathy said nothing as she started to gently cleanse the pale, slender legs with fragrant lavender soap. Gradually, Noelle sat down and let the water cover her to her small breasts. “Please don’t throw another tantrum around Lance. He hates that almost as much as lying. Trust me, I know.” “Lance? Daddy?” “Yes, Daddy. Promise me, no more fits.” “Kay, I promise,” the girl pouted. “We don’t break promises in this family. The results are very painful. I have a sore butt right now to prove it. You need to do your best to be a good girl. You won’t like spankings from him.” “Daddy spanks you?” the violet eyes were wide. “Unfortunately, they all do. My brothers are very big on manners and appropriate behavior. And none of them tolerate lying or cussing. But they will all be there for you if you ever need anything. You’ll love Alan and Todd.” “I don’t want spankings.” “I don’t want you to get them. That’s why I’m telling you this. Noelle? Why didn’t you want to take a bath? You showered at the hospital.” “Baths are bad.” “I love bubble baths. Why do you think they are bad?” “They hurt.” “Where do they hurt?” Kathy asked with her brows drawn. “All over. Stuff in water hurts.” “Did you tell this to Daddy?”

“No.” “Does this bath hurt?” “No.” Kathy was quiet, wondering if the girl had been abused. She also noticed one thing. She had no hair on her body from the neck down. Even her arms were bare. Could she have been soaked in something that fried her body hair straight off of her? That certainly would explain her fear of baths, but she saw no obvious scarring. In fact, she had no marks anywhere; her skin was pristine. As for her being a child, Kathy noticed that her small breasts were well developed and her figure, although slight, was no doubt that of an adult. She just needed a little extra padding to round out the angles. Lance was right. Even without his sixth sense, Kathy knew there was something different about this girl. *

*

*

Lance stripped out of his scrubs and stretched his back, glancing at himself in the mirror. Ok, he was way too tall but good looking, fit and muscular, not as scruffy as his older brother, and in serious need of a tan. I look like freakin’ Casper the friendly ghost, he thought. He also had a drawn, tired look to his face and could see tiny lines starting to form around his eyes, mouth, and forehead. He was 34, way too young for wrinkles. He was smart, successful, a gentleman, and knew how to treat a woman like a lady. He knew he could be a bit arrogant and bossy, but even Alan (who was far worse) had found himself a wife ten years ago. Why was he alone then? It’s time to move on, Julie advised. Was he just too particular? Or maybe, as his sister had suggested, he sought out damsels in distress and put himself in the role of rescuer to those who really didn’t need it. Noelle, though, was special. She truly needed help and did not come to him seeking it like the others. But that temper tantrum! She could certainly put up quite the fight for someone that small and frail. He felt bad for spanking her, although he knew it hadn’t hurt. Still, if he was to keep peace in his home, obedience and respect was necessary. He just hoped she wouldn’t try pushing him again. He didn’t relish the idea of actually leaving handprints on her cute little behind. Slipping into flannel PJ bottoms and a cotton t-shirt, he yawned as he slid under the cool sheets of his big, custom-made bed. He closed his eyes and felt himself sinking into the mattress when he heard a whisper in his ear. “I’m sorry I was bad, Daddy.” Big, violet eyes stared into his face, with soft pink lips that begged to be kissed. What was he thinking? “You’re forgiven. Come lay down with me, we’ll take a nap,” he said, moving aside for her to climb in next to him, her bunny in her arms. He held her to his chest, stroking her hair as she happily snuggled against him. Within minutes, they were both sound asleep. *

*

*

Kathy had smiled as she dressed Noelle in her new light pink flannel pajamas decorated with ponies. She could not resist purchasing the adorable things when she noticed the girl swooning over them the minute they caught her eye. Even Noelle’s clothing choices were very juvenile, almost as though she had never been exposed to such colorful, bright or pretty things. She couldn’t say no to the child, seeing her delight.

Kathy recalled that Noelle had been found dressed in drab linen pants with a drawstring belt, an oversized grey shirt, and a light brown hoodie. She was also shoeless. Kathy frowned, thinking. She needed to report her observations to Todd. She had done some snooping and had discovered that he was investigating Noelle’s case. She also suspected that big brother Alan had his fingers in the pie as well. After blow-drying her hair and putting it into a braid, Kathy tucked the girl into her bed, promising to wash and soften her new comforter as she napped. Noelle hugged Kathy warmly and settled under the blankets, closing her eyes. Kathy checked in on her 15 minutes later to find her missing. She knew Noelle had not snuck outside. Todd had insisted that Lance install a video camera and alarm system on the downstairs doors that would have sounded if activated. After searching for ten minutes and getting nowhere, Kathy finally stuck her head into Lance’s room. The two of them were snoring quietly, snuggling closely together. Kathy sat at the foot of the bed, studying them. All worry and stress were gone from Lance’s face as he held the tiny young woman protectively. Noelle had a sweet little smile on her lips as she curled against his long torso, clutching her rabbit and with a thumb in her mouth. Kathy reached over to remove it. She decided that this was exactly what her beloved brother and this sweet young woman needed to heal. He had been lost for such a long time and finally had a chance to move on and be happy. She prayed desperately that he could see that finding Noelle could help him find himself. She also feared that, if they discovered something important, it could tear these two apart. Yes, she needed to talk to Todd.

Chapter Five Lance sat up in bed, slowly dislodging Noelle’s limbs that were wrapped securely around his body. The little octopus, he mused, untangling her leg from his. She muttered something in her sleep, turning over and sticking her thumb back in her mouth. Bad habit, Lance thought, I’ll have to break that before she ruins her teeth. Glancing at the clock, he gently shook her. “Noelle? Wake up, baby. You’ll never sleep tonight if you stay in bed. Come on, brat. I know you’re awake, I see you smiling.” Lance reached under the covers to tickle her sides. Noelle shrieked, giggling hysterically as she tried to wiggle away from him. He straddled her, poking his fingers into her ribs and loudly laughing along with her. Hearing the commotion, Kathy ran upstairs with Todd right behind her. They opened the door to see the two having a pillow fight. Noelle stood on the bed, swinging the pillow at Lance, who ducked out of the way easily before tossing another one back at her, knocking her down. Kathy lost all composure and started howling with uncontrolled laughter. She grabbed Todd’s arm as he gaped at his typically solemn and stoic brother-in-law’s behavior. “He used to do that to me every Sunday morning before church to get me out of bed. It drove Alan crazy. Look at them!” Kathy had tears rolling down her face and was clutching her stomach. Todd just shook his head as he pulled out his iPhone and recorded the actions for Alan to witness. He hid his smile, knowing the older brother would want to have this special goody on file for when he had the need to pick on his kid brother. He stood in the doorway for about five minutes before Lance, now standing on the bed and completely disheveled, noticed him watching. The respectable physician turned bright red and slowly climbed off the mattress. Noelle giggled loudly as she dove under the sheets. “I, uh… she wouldn’t get up from her nap,” Lance stuttered, ignoring his sister who was on the floor, snorting hysterically. “I see. And jumping on the bed, having a pillow fight, is the way to teach a child how to be respectful of property and personal space?” Todd asked, eyebrow cocked, hands on hips. Lance reddened even more. Todd had snatched the opportunity to throw back the same words Lance had used when he caught his nieces pounding his brother with pillows one morning. Incidentally, those were the exact same words that Alan had used to lecture him when they were younger. The words made Kathy start to choke on her laughter, unable to catch her breath. “Todd, that’s Noelle hiding under the covers. Honey, this is Uncle Todd. Don’t let the frown on his face fool you, he’s just a big, old, marshmallow,” Kathy finally said, getting up from the floor and wiping her face. “Daddy? Are we in trouble?” Noelle asked shyly. “No, this is my house and if I want to jump on my bed, then I will,” Lance held out his hand. Noelle grabbed it and scooted out of the tall bed, propping her bunny on a pillow. Todd could not believe how small she was. Next to Lance, she was about as high as his ribcage and weighed less than a feather. “Hello, Noelle. No, you aren’t in trouble. I’m Todd,” he said softly, squatting on the floor to appear less intimidating. Noelle smiled, reaching her hand to greet him. “It’s good to meet you, Uncle Todd. Thank you for the bear.”

Todd glanced up at Lance, confused by her display of manners. “You are a very polite young lady. Where did you learn such good manners?” he asked, shaking her hand. “I don’t know. I’m sorry, but I can’t remember,” she said sadly, looking down. Todd squeezed her hand, slowly standing as Lance handed the girl her toy. “Well, wherever you did, you learned very well. Maybe you can teach some to Aunt Kathy,” he teased, hugging his wife. “Aunt Kathy has good manners,” Noelle quickly jumped to the older woman’s defense. “She said please when we went shopping, when she asked the lady not to put the long paper in the bag for Daddy to find. She also said thank you, when she took it from the lady and put it in her pocket,” Noelle said with pure innocence. “You told me you only spent $200, Katherine,” Lance commented, staring at his now straight-faced sister. “Did you lie to your brother, Kath?” Todd asked, also staring at her. “I didn’t really lie… I just withheld some information.” Kathy swallowed looking back and forth at them. “You’ve been doing that a lot lately. How much information, Katherine?” her brother asked. “About 400 dollars’ worth.” “You spent 600 dollars on clothing? For a child… uh, woman!?” Todd spouted. “What did you buy? Designer underwear?” “Pretty girls need pretty things, Todd. Isn’t that what YOU always say to Alan when you buy things for your nieces that he doesn’t think they need? She picked almost all the stuff out herself, too, so I couldn’t possibly say no!” “Noelle? Watch out what you say around here. This family loves to throw words back at each other. Katherine, we’ll talk later about this. Let’s get this kid fed.” “Talk or talk?” Kathy asked nervously. Lance hugged her. “Talk. Like in converse. I have a strong feeling that we are going to be doing a lot of that. Todd? Did you find any bottles?” “I did, in fact… no laughing. I stopped by one of those ‘adult’ toy stores on a whim. They have full supplies of stuff like that. I couldn’t believe it.” “What are you taking about?” Lance asked, walking downstairs with Noelle in his arms and Bunny pressing against his cheek. She was so much like Kathy as a child! “There is a whole market of adult sized nursery gear. Cribs, changing tables, bottles, diapers, clothing… even strollers, car seats, and swings. I couldn’t believe it.” “It must be about that thing Darla had told me. It’s called age-play,” Lance put Noelle on the couch and flipped on the TV for her. “Good thing we’re in Vegas. You can find anything here. Look, I got her adult sized bottles and a pacifier. Kathy told me she sucks her thumb,” Todd handed Lance a bag. “I also picked up a couple of cans of protein drinks from the pharmacy to try.” “Thanks, T. I’ll have to order some for her without all this sugar,” he read the label on the can, “That’s all we need is for her to be climbing the walls. I can’t believe they give this stuff to the elderly.” “Stop being a doctor for a minute and remember that it tastes nasty. Ok, I admit! I tasted them all and got the stuff that was least offensive!” Todd rebuffed, “I also got some frozen yogurt to mix with it. And some frozen fruit.”

“Anything else, dear?” Kathy asked slyly, but a little sadly. He would have made a great father for their children. They had wanted three. Todd wrinkled his nose as his wife pulled out a bag of tootsie-pops. “Are these for Noelle, too? Or for you and Lance? What? No Twinkies?” she teased. Noelle giggled, hiding her mouth behind her hand. “You two… Katherine, I’m famished. Dinner, please?” Lance asked, sitting next to Noelle and showing her how to find a program she would like. He grinned as his sister wagged her behind at her husband before racing to the kitchen. “She did well with our girl today. Someone doesn’t like baths and got her first spanking over her britches.” “Baths are ok now. I don’t like spankings.” Noelle pouted, hiding her face in against Lance’s arm. “That means I can get you lots of bubble bath and soaps, huh?” Todd asked, seeing her nod with a pretty smile peeking from behind Lance’s arm. “She’s as cute as a button, Lance. You already look less grumpy with her around.” “Oh hush your yap. It’s just weird how natural this is. It’s almost like it’s instinctive. I’ve never experienced this before, not even with Keren or Kelly.” “You were born for this. Our girl here is the perfect Maid Marion for Sir Lancelot,” Todd teased. “Maid Marion was Robin Hood’s squeeze. Lancelot had King Author’s chick, Guinevere. Get your stories straight, dude.” “What's frightening is that you know these stories. So, Miss Noelle, I have never met a girl who didn’t like bubble baths. Have you had one before?” Todd asked, hoping to get some more information. “They hurt. Not this one, though.” “Hurt? How?” Lance asked, turning to her quickly with a worried expression. “She said they hurt all over but couldn’t tell me why or what they felt like. She also does not have one bit of hair on her body from the neck down,” Kathy said, walking into the living room and handing both men a glass of wine. “I was going to talk to Todd about this, but didn’t you say she had no shoes on when she was brought in by those truckers?” “Yes, what about it?” Lance asked, glancing at the girl. She was completely absorbed in watching Bubble Guppies. “Think about it, Dr. Know-it-all. What kind of condition were her feet in?” Lance was silent. He inhaled deeply, and then answered her. “There was no evidence of cuts or scratches noted.” “Don’t you think that after walking over 14 miles from the compound that her feet would show something? Even if she had shoes on and lost them, I would think they would be callused or blistered. Nothing. Her feet are as smooth as a baby’s. She also is terribly thin, but her features are fully adult, if you understand my meaning. I would guess her to be in her early twenties. I thought she got shot. I didn’t see a scar on her, and that bump on her head seems to have healed, too.” “I underestimated you, Katherine. Good observations. She must have been placed there by someone,” Lance said thoughtfully. “That or she teleported herself to the gate.” “No more movie references, Todd. I mean it. She’s not an alien,” Lance scolded the grinning man. “Ok, before you boys get into a wrestling match, let’s feed you. Come on. Noelle, I made you something special for dessert if you finish your dinner.”

“Ooo, what?” Todd asked eagerly, tickling her as they walked into the dining room. “It’s for Noelle and Lance, not you. Egg custard,” Kathy said smugly, smacking his hand. “My favorite! Thanks, Katherine!” Lance noticed his brother-in-law pouting, “No, it’s mine and I’m not sharing it with you either.” Noelle tugged on Todd’s sleeve. “Don’t be upset, Uncle Todd. I’ll share mine with you. Daddy said I’m supposed to share everything with the family and that it’s the right thing to do if you care about people.” “She’s with us for less than 8 hours and has already learned to throw things back in my face,” Lance groaned as Kathy broke into another gale of uncontrolled laughter. “Oh, dear Lord, what have I gotten myself into?” *

*

*

Noelle did well with the bottle, drinking from it instantly. She made it clear, though, that she was not pleased with the taste. She tossed it to the floor, wrinkling her nose. “This is yucky! Bunny hates it too.” “Don’t throw things and use your words. What don’t you like about it?” Lance asked, tasting it. “Never mind, this stuff is terrible. You liked what I made you for lunch, didn’t you?” “Better than this,” the girl wrinkled her nose again. Lance got up to make her a protein shake, adding the frozen yogurt and strawberries to the blender. His sister watched, elbowing her amused husband, “He used to do that for me too. Aren’t they cute together?” “Slow down, lady. She’s a child in an adult’s body. Don’t push it.” “I’m telling you, Todd. Lance was right. There is something odd about her. Not in a bad way, but different. Look at him. I’ve never seen him so happy,” Kathy whispered back. “He looks healthier and more relaxed since he brought her home, too. He even has some color back in his face and his lines are smoothed out.” “He took a nap, Kath. Let it be. Your imagination is taking off into another galaxy, darling.” Kathy wasn’t so sure. Her brother did look different. “At least I don’t think she’s an alien sent to take over the planet.” Noelle listened to the two of them and smiled to herself as she hugged her toy. She had a secret! *

*

*

Lance awoke Saturday morning feeling refreshed and energetic. It had been a long time since he had slept so well and he contributed it to his nap, the extra glass of wine and getting to bed early for once. Noelle had fallen asleep in his arms while watching TV, and after he put her in bed, he said his own goodnights to his sister and brother-in-law. It was the first night in years that he hadn’t stayed awake until 2am reading neurology journals. Physician, Heal Thyself… Ok, he needed to start following his own orders. He threw on his sweats and running shoes and left for his daily jog. The morning was cold, crisp and promised another sunny Nevada day. He thought of Noelle, her situation and Kathy’s interesting discoveries. The bath issue bothered him, wondering if Kathy’s theory was correct about abuse. A skin biopsy would show if Noelle had undergone chemical treatments, but

he didn’t want to subject her to that unless necessary. She had also told Julie that she had gotten a multitude of injections for what she thought was a long trip. He could get a lab done to check her immunity status. That would tell them where she might have traveled. Yes, he would definitely order that test. Alan had also insisted that he be named conservator in order to protect the girl from someone who might not have her best interests in mind. Lance had quickly caught that hint. His brother was concerned that the girl had run away from an abusive situation or had been kidnapped. In this way, no one could come to claim her without going through legal hurdles. Her manners suggested that she had been raised in an environment that interacted with respectable people, possibly making her a target for ransom. Yet, why would a kidnapper just leave her at the doorstep of the infamous Area 51? Too many questions, not enough answers. The endorphins surged through his body as he trotted up the trail to the top of the rocky ridge that overlooked one side of his secluded neighborhood. He paused to look down over the valley and the Vegas skyline. The saying, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas tickled through his mind. In Noelle’s case, it seemed to be true. He wondered what Becca was doing as he looked at the Rio. What did he ever see in her? It’s time to move on. You have a new woman in your life to take care of and love, he told himself. Guilt flooded through him. Decency demanded he address the questions going through his mind. Was he taking advantage of the beautiful young woman’s innocence and utter dependence on him? What would happen if she snapped out of this regression and suddenly decided to grow up, wanting nothing more to do with him? What if he was presented with proof that she belonged to someone else? What if she never recovered an adult persona and was locked in this state forever, like a mental illness? He shuddered at the thought. He would never pursue a relationship with her in that case. It would be just plain wrong. But he would see that she was cared for. Lance sighed. Sir Lancelot of Callahan strikes again. It was who he was and nothing could ever change that. He sat on a rock, high above the city and quietly took in his surroundings. A hawk soared overhead, catching the thermals as it guided effortlessly in a graceful circle. Lance knew he had to be like that hawk, watchful, but taking the opportunity to just let life move him. Kathy was right, he was a control freak, and it was keeping him from being free. With new life lessons in mind, Lance resumed his jog. Noelle was sitting at the kitchen table with Kathy and Todd when he arrived home. She ran to him for a hug, and then pulled away, holding her nose. “You’re icky. Aunt Kathy! Daddy needs a bath.” “Oh yeah? You don’t like manly smells?” Lance laughed, grabbing the girl and squeezing her against him as she squealed and tried to escape. “You are so disgusting.” Kathy scolded, slapping her brother’s arm. “Are you trying to kill the child with your man-stench? For God’s sake, shower!’ “Let me guess, he did that to you, too,” Todd asked, sipping his coffee. “Both of them did. Noelle? Let’s get you cleaned up and see what plans Daddy has for you today. I think Uncle Alan might be stopping by later.” “What about Maggie and the girls?” Todd asked. Kathy gave him a dirty look and he grew silent. His sister-in-law was not always the most subtle of people when she had an opinion, and he suspected hers would not be favorable regarding Noelle or the circumstance that brought her to live with them. Further, saying that Maggie and Kathy did not get along, was an

understatement. Maggie disapproved of the relationship that her husband maintained with his sister, especially now that Kathy was married. She also felt compelled to compete with Kathy for Alan’s attention. Kathy, on the other hand, snubbed Maggie for not treating her brother the way she thought he deserved. Kathy was very domestic and adored waiting on her men hand and foot, especially when it came to cooking and cleaning. Maggie could not even make toast and rarely raised a finger to clean. Her only saving grace was that she was an attentive mother to the twins. Lance quickly showered and threw on some old jeans and his Lakers jersey, humming happily as he prepared to spend his first whole day with his girls and Todd. Noelle met him downstairs, jumping into his arms and kissing his cheek merrily. “You smell lots better. Did you eat breakfast? It’s good for you,” she asked, her pale eyebrows drawn in concern. “Not yet, Little Miss. I went running. Do you like to run?” “I don’t know how.” “You’ve never run before? Even when you were little?” “I don’t know. How do you run?” “It’s like walking really fast. Aunt Kathy used to go running with me all the time. Maybe she can do it again with us.” Lance looked at his sister hopefully. “I would love to. Maybe we can convince Uncle Todd to go, too.” “Don’t count on that,” Todd grumbled, opening the paper. “Hey, guys, it looks like there’s been a wee bit of trouble at Edwards Air Force Base. It says the military is being forced to practice aggressive maneuvers on trespassers and to warn civilians that deadly force is authorized. There’s a comment that 14 civilians have been taken into custody for questioning after being found wandering inside the grounds. There is also a disclaimer that the military will not be held responsible for those individuals who chose to disregard security warnings. Interesting that this comment should be published at this particular time, isn’t it?” “Noelle? Could you try to answer some questions for me? If you don’t know, that’s ok. Up on my lap,” Lance said, putting his coffee down, “Is there anything you remember from the time those men found you? Anything at all?” “My head hurt really bad and there were two men with something in their hands. I couldn’t understand them.” “Did they speak English?” “I don’t know. There was a yellow sign behind me but I couldn’t read it. I tried to walk, but it was hard. That’s when there was a real loud noise and I fell down. I’m sorry, Daddy. I don’t remember anything else.” “You did very well, sweetie. We’re just trying to find out what happened to you and where you came from.” “Will you make me go back there?” “I won’t make you go anywhere or with anybody that you don’t want to. Is there anything else you can tell me?” “Everything was rocky. And the sky hurt. It burned.” “I’m sure it did. We are known for our hot sun here. It doesn’t look like you went outside very much, you are very pale.” “I’ve never seen a sun before. I don’t like it. It hurts.” “You’ve never been outside?” Todd asked, “Is it because of your eyes? Are they too sensitive?”

“I don’t know. Is that bad?” “No, honey. Tell me, though, do you know the difference between good and bad?” Noelle nodded, leaning against Lance’s chest. “That’s easy, Uncle Todd. Good is when you’re not bad.” Todd smiled at her seriousness. “Yes, you got me there. So what do you think is bad?” “Not listening to Daddy and having temper tantrums. Not keeping promises and throwing things. Hurting anybody in the family.” “Beside what you’ve learned here, do you know anything else that might be bad?” “Yes. Saying no.” The three onlookers were silent. Her statement further led them to believe that she had been abused and unable to stop it. “What do you want to say ‘no’ to, Noelle?” Kathy asked gently. “Lots of things. Baths, shots, icky drinks, spankings….” “Besides those things, what else?” “I don’t like to be by myself.” the woman/child whispered. “I don’t like blue lights. They hurt. I try to say no, but they come anyway.” “Curiouser and curiouser…” Todd muttered, “Alice in Wonderland,” he explained. “For once, my friend, you got the right reference. Although, it was because Alice started growing and couldn’t see her feet. This little thing doesn’t have that problem. We know that our Noelle fell down the rabbit hole, but from where?” Lance asked, holding the quiet girl closely as she clutched her purple bunny. Once again, he felt his sixth sense going crazy. He wished he could pinpoint why. *

*

*

Alan came by that afternoon, pizza in one hand and a Jamba Juice in the other. Kathy greeted him happily with her standard method, jumping around his neck and clinging to him like a monkey. Todd laughed, rescuing the food. Wrapping his arms around his sister, Alan kissed her soundly before smacking her back-end. “Get down, kiddo. My back is killing me. Hey Doc!” “I wish you would let me look at it. I might be able to help reduce some of the pain.” Lance said, hugging his brother tightly. “I might just let you, it’s getting worse. You look good. Finally get some sleep?” “Yeah. Noelle? Honey, this is Uncle Alan.” “My God, Lance, she’s beautiful.” Alan exclaimed, staring at the tiny girl. She stood, put Bunny on the couch, and flashed a smile at him. She offered him her hand, “I’m very pleased to meet you. I’m very sorry that your back hurts. I can help you, if you’d like me to. I know how to fix things.” Everyone stared at her as she spoke in a soft, but definitely adult, manner. Alan squatted in front of her, taking her hands in his, “I’m sure you do, sweetheart, but this is something a doctor needs to look at. One like your Daddy.” Noelle shrugged, unoffended, “Ok, Uncle Alan, but let me know if he can’t make it better. I’m going to be a doctor one day, too.” “Looks like you got yourself a little shadow here, Lance. She really is stunning. I’ve never seen eyes like that. They almost shine.”

“She is a pretty one. Noelle, how about if I put your Jamba Juice in a bottle for you and let you watch TV while we talk?” “Can I color instead?” “You may color, if you prefer.” Lance corrected her gently. “Would you rather do that or watch TV?” “Oui, monsieur, si’l vous plait. Je ne veux pas regarder la TV dès maintenant,” she responded, her French accent perfect. “Holy crap. Where did that come from?” Todd asked. “Either she speaks some French or she is a perfect parrot. She probably heard that phrase last night while we were watching something,” Kathy said, sitting on the arm of the couch to stare at the girl. “Where in the world would she hear an exact response to the question I just asked her? She specifically said that she didn’t want to watch TV right now.” Lance stated. “Good thing she spoke in a language that you are pretty fluent in. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have understood her.” Todd commented. “Noelle? I’m going to read something to you. Can you tell me what I said?” Lance asked, picking up one of his journals off the coffee table. He read a sentence aloud to her and waited. She repeated them back perfectly. “Do you understand what you said?” “No, Daddy. Tell me what those words mean,” she sat crossed legged with Bunny in her lap. Lance explained the nomenclature and then found another sentence using the similar terminology. Not only did she repeat it back, but she was now able to extrapolate the jargon to accurately explain its meaning. “She must be a savant or have an eidetic memory. This is unbelievable.” Alan said. “Maybe she’s autistic.” “No, we ruled that out. She doesn’t demonstrate the social difficulties associated with the disorder. I told you I sensed something different about her.” “And I told you to trust your instincts,” Alan answered back. He thanked Kathy as she brought him an ice pack and placed it on his lower back, “I’m going to take you up on your offer, Doc. This is getting worse. I’m feeling it in my legs.” “You blew a disk and ignored it for ten years, you big dummy. What do you expect?” Kathy scolded, reaching behind him to rub the painful area. “Uncle Alan? Please let me help,” Noelle asked, standing in front of him and tugging his sleeve. Alan sighed and laid down on the floor where she could get to him easily. She put Bunny down and started gently massaging his back, quickly finding the spot which was causing him the most pain. “I’ll say this much, this young lady has great hands. I’m hiring her as my personal masseuse.” Alan praised as she kneaded the muscles and pressed into his spine with her fingers. He jumped with a yelp. “Ow! I think she hit my sore spot.” “Not anymore, Uncle Alan. You’re all better now. No more hurt,” Noelle announced, sitting back on the ground as she picked up Bunny. Alan turned to his side, “Holy Moses, it does feel much better! Did you use a pressure point or something? I felt that.” “Or something.” Noelle smiled. Alan slowly stood, stretching. He was still quite sore, but his back felt much improved. No one paid any mind to Noelle, her secret smile, or that she reached to rub her Bunny’s back.

Chapter Six “NOOOOOO! I’m not going!” Noelle screamed, throwing herself on the ground of the parking lot and kicking her heels. “Noelle, I’m warning you. If you don’t stop this right now, I will tell your Daddy. You promised not to throw anymore fits,” Kathy threatened, thankful there were no witnesses. “I don’t want to see the Doctor!!! I’m not going!” “Young lady, this is not an option. Daddy needs to get a follow up on you and he ordered it for today. Are you going to disobey him?” “I’m not going to the Doctor.” She sat, legs out in front of her, arms crossed tightly and clutching Bunny. “Noelle, I’ve been very patient with you, but you are pushing me now. It’s time you acted like a big girl and did what you are told. Don’t pretend you don’t understand me, either.” “I hate you!” “Get up and start walking, young lady.” Noelle just glared at her, planting herself against the car with pure defiance on her face. She screamed every time Kathy touched her. Fed up, Kathy called Lance and told him of her plight. He promised to be right down. “Daddy is coming and he is not happy with you. I warned you about throwing tantrums.” Noelle just scowled. She looked up as Lance marched over to them, a cloud of anger on his handsome face. He stared down at her, hands on his hips. “Noelle, you are to get up and go with Kathy to see the Doctor this instant.” “No!” “Why are you being so difficult? There is no reason for this.” “I hate doctors. I’m not going.” “I’m a Doctor and you don’t hate me.” “I KNOW you. You’re my Daddy.” “Are you going to mind me and go into your appointment?” he asked, his voice strained as he forced himself to be patient. Noelle shook her head. “Very well. You are to go home and stay in your room for the rest of the day. When I get home from work, you will be getting a spanking and then I will be examining you myself. I need to get a blood sample, so don’t you even think about fighting me.” “I hate you.” “No, you don’t. Get your rear end into the car,” Lance commanded, picking her up off the ground and setting her firmly in the front seat. He handed her the rabbit that she had thrown at him and then buckled her belt. “Katherine? She is grounded. No TV, no coloring, and no leaving her room. If she does, you are to tell me.” “I certainly will. I’m sorry I had to call you. She’s been so cooperative until now.” “She’s been with us for two weeks. She was bound to start testing us eventually.” “I know,” Kathy sounded sad, “Oh, Todd said he needed to talk with you tonight. I guess something came up in his investigation.” “What investigation, Katherine?” Lance asked suspiciously. Kathy reddened. She had slipped. “Have you been snooping in his office again?” “No, I just assumed….” “Katherine….”

“Ok, maybe a little. You guys weren’t telling me anything and I got suspicious when I would hear you whispering about things. I know all of you too well, and I didn’t like you hiding things from me. Please don’t tell him.” “I’m not saying anything. That’s for you to do.” Lance shook his head, “It looks like both my girls are getting spanked tonight.” “Not if I can help it,” Kathy remarked. “I’ll stop by the office and pick up the equipment to take the blood samples from my naughty little girl this evening and then be home by 6. I don’t need a fasting specimen, so she can eat. How’s the new formula working?” “We are still having issues with it. It tastes good, so she’s just being stubborn. I told her she can’t have ice cream with everything. I tried to get her to eat some scrambled eggs, but she refused.” “Ok, we’re going to nip this little attitude in the bud tonight. Noelle? I am very unhappy with you right now. Be smart and don’t push me any further.” “You’re mean!” “I can be. Drive carefully, Katherine. I’m sorry about this.” “We knew what we were getting into. Besides, you have lots of experience with tantrums. I threw a few good ones in my day,” she embraced her brother lovingly, holding his waist tightly. She knew he was very upset. “I remember them very well, and how they were controlled. Thanks, little sister. I’ll see you tonight. Let me know if you need me to pick up anything on the way home.” After saying good-bye, Lance swung by the lab for supplies then strolled over to the general practitioner's office to inform the receptionist of the problem. She promised to contact him with results once they were processed and then wished him luck. He met the OT, Julie, and the social worker, Meg, in the elevator on the way to his floor. “How’s Noelle doing, Lance?” Meg asked, greeting him with a hug. “We are starting to have temper tantrums when we don’t want to do things.” “I know YOU have them, but how is she?” Meg teased as Julie giggled. “Very cute. She’s going to get her bottom warmed tonight, that’s for sure,” he complained, telling them of the parking lot event. Both women were quiet as they looked at each other. His comment did not come as a shock. Everyone on the unit suspected he would handle things in this manner, simply because of his personality. Poor Noelle. “Maybe she’s bored, Dr. C. You could bring her by here and we’ll keep an eye on her. It’s pretty quiet right now,” Julie suggested as she stepped out of the elevator with the other two. “It would also give Kathy a break.” “My poor sister looks like she could use one. Noelle’s been very demanding of her time.” “Think about it. I’m up for it,” Julie volunteered. Meg nodded in agreement. “I’ll consider it. But, I’m warning you, don’t teach her any bad habits, like talking back to me. I’m already getting some lip. I don’t need more.” “Some lip is good for you, Lance. Teaches you how to be more patient.” Meg giggled, linking her arm around his as Julie took the other one. “I agree, Dr. C. Since you’ve been getting the lip, you’ve been smiling more and definitely look more rested. I think teaching that girl some new tricks to keep you on your toes will be a good idea.”

“Ladies, I’m warning you. If I find out that either of you teach Noelle more bad habits, you will both find yourselves over my knee for a serious tanning. Don’t do it.” “Lance, you really know how to make your threats sound like a challenge. I’m sorely tempted to defy you," Meg grinned, winking at Julie. “I agree, Meg. A good spanking sounds like it could be fun, Dr. C. Should we set a date?” Julie teased. His staff loved getting a reaction from him whenever they could, and they jumped at every chance. Lance blushed, saying nothing as both women squeezed his arms and then retreated to their work. “Sir Lancelot! How’s fatherhood treating you? Get into her pants yet?” Stuart asked, crossing him in the hall. He found himself held by the front of his shirt, pushed into the wall and lifted to his toes. “Don’t you ever speak that way to me again, Hart. I’ve had enough of your miserable comments and sick remarks. I have Noelle because I care about people, not to get laid. And, unlike you, I don’t have to pay for my bed partners.” Stuart’s face turned red as Lance let go of him. “You will hear from my lawyer, Callahan. Just wait!” he threatened, scurrying off like the rat he was. Lance turned as he heard someone clear his throat. “Sorry about that, Lou. He pushed the wrong button this time,” Lance looked abashed. “I saw it all. It was self-defense, right? He shoved you bodily into the wall,” Lou grinned, “Come sit a while and catch me up on things. I need to talk with you, too.” Lance nodded, following his boss to the administrative office where they both sat down. He started to spill his frustration and expressed his conflicting feelings, trusting Lou for advice. The older man was quiet, listening carefully. So, the brilliant, self-controlled, guarded, and purely rational Dr. Lance Callahan finally met his match. The man was falling in love and did not even know it! “Lance, I’ve known you since medical school,” Lou said softly. “A tough, arrogant little prick who thought that he walked on water because he played for the Lakers. I’ve watched you change over the years. Helping and healing is in your blood. It’s who you are, not what you do. Stop fighting and just go with what comes naturally. Admittedly, your involvement with this woman is highly unusual, but you seem to be blossoming because of it. I’m sure she is, too. If you feel she is as cognizant as you suspect she is, just see where it goes and stop fighting it.” “I just don’t know.” “Dress her up like a woman and take her out on a real date. See how she responds in public. Now, to serious matters. There was a gentleman hanging around here asking questions yesterday. Did you see him?” “No. What type of questions?” “The type that made your nurses immediately send him to psych. He was questioning the staff on information leading to the whereabouts of a young woman who might be claiming amnesia. His description of her coloring was different, but the height and weight was the same as Noelle’s.” “Damn. Who is he?” “He refused to divulge any personal information. Eileen tried to get his name under the guise of contacting him if anything was discovered, but he left.” “What did he look like? What else did he say?” “He was dressed in a suit, older guy. Gray hair, lean, glasses, well-groomed.” “No one told him about her?”

“Not that I know of. I don’t have your sixth sense, Lance, but this guy felt like he was trouble. Has your brother filed for emergency conservatorship yet?” “Yes, but we’re waiting for the hearing. It’s next week.” “Let’s see if there is any way to push it up. I’ll make some calls. I want to make sure this little girl is protected. From what you tell me, it doesn’t sound like that is a home she’ll want to go back to.” “Thanks. Lou? Do you mind if I take the rest of the day off? I can work on my reports at home.” “Go on, son. Keep your phone nearby in case I need you.” “I will. I appreciate it. Thanks again for everything.” *

*

*

Kathy firmly led Noelle into the house, closing the door loudly behind her. Noelle had repeatedly admonished her for being mean and unfair, and that she was no longer liked. Kathy felt absolutely terrible and more than a little angry with the girl’s mean-spirited remarks. “Go to your room, Noelle. Right now. I’m seriously thinking about spanking you myself. Don’t think I can’t, either.” “Screw you!” Noelle yelled, racing upstairs and slamming her door shut. Kathy stared. Where did she hear that? Lance walked in to find his sister on the couch, an ice pack on her head and drinking a glass of wine. He silently sat next to her and wrapped his long arm around her shoulders. “I have a headache,” she whined, looking at her brother with tension in her eyes. “I guessed so. And wine? You never drink. Let me guess, Noelle?” he asked kindly. “She hates me,” Kathy was close to tears. Lance kissed her cheek, “No, she’s testing you. I promise, after tonight, we won’t have any more problems like this one. What she did was unacceptable and she will be punished severely for it. I won’t have her being nasty to you either. It’s hard enough for you having to deal with Maggie’s garbage.” “You know about Maggie? Alan always acts like it’s my fault that we fight so much.” “She’s his wife, you know he can’t take sides in front of her. Trust me, Katherine, she pays dearly for her behavior once they get home. I suspect this is why she circumvents our family get-togethers. He’s not happy with how she treats you, and neither am I. You don’t deserve that.” “Thanks, big brother. It makes me feel a little better. I’m sorry I couldn’t control Noelle today. I felt so helpless.” “You were right to call me. Hey, it’s only been a couple of weeks. Now listen up, this is serious. There is a man looking for her. Please be careful and do your best to avoid him,” Lance said, giving his description. Kathy leaned against his shoulder with a sigh. “I promise. Make sure Todd knows so we can get an ID on him.” “Katherine, you should really talk to Todd about getting involved in his PI work. You’re very intuitive, pay attention to details and draw excellent conclusions based on found evidence. I think it would match with your strengths well.” “Really!” Kathy brightened. “Do you think so?” His praise made her glow.

“I do. But you still need to tell him about your snooping. I’m going to shower and change, and then have a long talk with my little lady. Don’t interfere.” “I won’t. For once, I agree that you know better than anyone else does when it comes to what to dish out. Never thought you’d hear me say that, huh? I’m just glad it’s not my butt that’s getting slam dunked by you this time.” Lance looked grim as he stood in the doorway to Noelle’s room. She sat on her bed, bunny in her arms, staring out the window. She sensed him standing there and turned to smile, which quickly vanished as she saw the look on his face. “Noelle, we need to have a long talk,” Lance said, closing the door behind him and pulling up the chair from her desk. “You know what you did today was wrong, disrespectful and completely inappropriate. I need you to think like a big girl right now and talk to me. Can you do that?” “I’m sorry, Daddy. Don’t make me go away. I’ll try to be better,” she beseeched him. “I would never make you go away, honey. But I can’t let you act like this, either. You hurt Aunt Kathy’s feelings very badly today. I told you that we are to be mindful of each other in this family and you disobeyed me.” “Why is she so sad all the time, Daddy?” Noelle asked after a few moments of silence. “Because she wants to have babies and can’t. That’s why she was so excited about being able to help me with you.” Lance was surprised that she had picked up on that. Kathy, for the past few days, had been very upbeat and seemed like she was again back to normal. “I didn’t know that. I’ll tell her I’m sorry.” “Yes, you will. But not until you and I are done here. Do you remember my promise to you after you threw that fit about the bath?” “Yes, Sir.” Noelle buried her face in Bunny’s head. “Put Bunny down and come over to me. You will be getting a very long spanking for breaking your promise and then another for your disrespect and disobedience.” “I don’t want a spanking. I promise to be good. Please let me keep Bunny,” the girl looked frightened as she met Lance’s eyes. “You broke that promise to me. Do as I tell you, Noelle. Bend over my knee and get your bottom in the air. No Bunny,” he said, gently wrestling the purple rabbit out of her arms and placing it on the pillow next to him. Noelle slowly and reluctantly obeyed, shaking as she rested her stomach on his hard thighs and clung to his jeans. She buried her face as she felt his fingers in the waistband of her pants and slowly dragged them past her thighs, falling to a puddle on the floor. “Please, not those too,” she pleaded as her purple cotton underpants found their way to her ankles. Embarrassment flooded through her, knowing she was exposed and very vulnerable to this pillar of a man whom she called Daddy. In this position, she felt the child meeting the adult. It terrified her. “Yes, these too. Tell me why you’re here, over my knee, with your pants pulled down and your bottom bared for a spanking, young lady.” “I broke my promise. OWWWW!” The first smack came, hard and heavy, his strong palm covering her left cheek. “Continue,” Lance ordered, tightening his hold around her tiny waist, hand raised for the next strike. “I threw a tantrum in the parking lot. NO! That hurts!” Noelle yelped, struggling to escape the next two swats that burned her right cheek.

“It’s supposed to hurt. Keep talking.” Noelle fought back her tears as she repeated back the day’s misgivings, each one ending up with more blows to her already reddening buttocks. “Anything else, young lady?” “No, Sir. Are you done?” she asked hopefully. “I’m truly sorry, my love, but this is only the beginning.” Tears poured instantly as his hard hand methodically laid a series of sharp smacks to the delicate creases of her sit spot. Noelle howled, kicking furiously to escape the next spank, but found herself pinned in place. Lance quietly concentrated on the discipline, watching her very pale, silky smooth skin quickly change into fire-engine red. He covered every white inch of her shapely little bottom, his hand not once showing mercy as he set himself to make this lesson be a good and proper one. He fought to ignore her pretty pink cunnie beckoning to him from between her kicking legs. His mind knew to focus, but his troublesome cock wasn’t as self-controlled. Noelle began to plead for him to stop, sobbing breathlessly as the burning in her backend grew to a fiery high. He paused, letting her cry as she laid over his knees. He placed his hand upon her hot flesh, letting it rest there to remind her that she was still in his control and would be going nowhere until he said she could. “That was for breaking your promise, sweetheart. We aren’t finished yet,” he announced firmly, producing a wooden spoon that he had acquired from the kitchen. “When Kathy was little, Alan decided that she needed a little more reminder than just his hand when he punished her. He used a nice, wide wooden spoon for years until he finally got a real paddle. I will do the same for you, Noelle. Kathy did not deserve anything you gave her today and this will serve to remind you that you are to show respect in this home to everyone.” “No, please, Lance. I’ll be good. I swear. Please, no more.” Lance? So there was an adult in there somewhere. “Right now, I’m Daddy and you are being spanked like an ornery, stubborn child. When I’m Lance, your spanking will be much, much worse.” Another shriek echoed from her lips as Lance applied the back of the spoon to the underside of her bottom. A white blotch appeared and then turned a deep, angry red. He knew her delicate skin couldn’t take much more punishment, but he needed to drive this lesson home. The spoon fell again, on the opposite side and Noelle wailed, lifting her head high. Downstairs, Kathy cringed. She was very familiar with that yell. It had come from her own lips for years when she displeased her brothers. The spoon crashed against the lower part of Noelle’s bottom four more times, promising some slight bruising and no sitting for a while. He did not stop the spanking until her kicking ceased and she was left bawling pathetically into his pants leg. Sighing, Lance rubbed his hand over the tortured flesh, saddened by the condition he had been forced to put it in. Her little bottom shimmered a deep crimson with some purpling blotches. He prayed that this punishment would help her choose to avoid any future incidents. With another deep, regretful sigh, he gently reached down and pulled her clothing back up and over her flaming hot bottom. Lance smoothed the material carefully while rubbing her back. “It’s over, Baby Doll. I hope you’ve learned something from this,” he whispered, pulling her into his arms and sitting her carefully on his lap. Still crying, Noelle was unable to speak and just curled up in his embrace. “I promise you, I won’t ever send you away. And never make you leave me if you don’t want to go. But this is how I will take care of disobedience for now on. Try not to make me do this too often, ok? I don’t like to make you cry.”

He thought of how the spanking had taken her to being an adult for a short time. His mind also drifted to the image of her soft, pink bare pussy as she laid across his lap, begging to be touched and tasted, and how her lovely pink bud cried out to be nibbled. No, stop it! he reprimanded himself. “Lance?” her little voice whispered into his neck. “Yes, Noelle?” “I’m truly sorry for my behavior. Please forgive me.” “You’re forgiven. I…” she interrupted him by pressing her lips hard against his, forcing her tongue between his teeth and boldly tasting him. Lance, surprised, slowly returned the embrace, his own tongue probing and seeking her sweetness. He pushed aside his confusion and, like the hawk soaring on the thermals, relaxed and enjoyed the moment. She kissed him hungrily, shamelessly and without reservation. She started to pull off his shirt, but he stopped her. “What are you doing? No, Noelle. Not now. And never after punishment. I’m kind of old-fashioned and will not have sex without a commitment. No,” he forced out, fighting back the throbbing erection that longed to sink inside of her softness. Damn, he thought, I should apply for sainthood! “Don’t you want me?” she asked sexily, her violet eyes still wet from tears, but filled with longing. “You have no idea how much. Dear Lord, you have no idea. But, now is not the right time. This little girl thing… why?” “Until this moment, I didn’t know what it felt like to be a big girl. I’m not lying to you, Lance. I’ve always been a child until you… you woke up this other thing. It scares me. It’s too hard. I’m so confused,” she began to cry again, hiding under his chin. He gently kissed her forehead. “Then stay a child. It becomes you.” “Will I be allowed to grow up and be with you?” “One day. But now, there are things that need to be taken care of. I need to know where you are from and what happened to you. I’m seeing you grow mentally day by day and it’s confusing me. I’m not the type of man who does well with unanswered questions.” “I don’t remember having a life until you found me,” she paused, her face leaning against his shoulder as she shifted gingerly on her aching behind. “Everything seems so new and different, like I’ve never seen it before.” “Let’s not dwell on that right now. Bottom sting?” “Yes, Lance,” she said shamefully. “I really liked you calling me Daddy.” Lance said quietly, holding her closely. “I like it too. I’ll try to be good. Sometimes, I just do things that I can’t stop right away.” “Were you able to control your actions this morning?” “Yes, Sir, I think so. I don’t know. I really hate doctors.” “You paid the price for your naughty behavior, didn’t you?” “Yes, Sir,” Noelle rubbed her bottom with a sniffle, reaching for Bunny and holding it tightly against her. “Was it worth it?” “No, Daddy.” “Maybe next time you’ll make a better choice. I still need to check you out and get that blood sample… Noelle?”

She suddenly jumped from him. “No! No needles. They hurt!” her little girl voice squealed. “Ok, this back and forth thing is going to drive me insane. Where did my big girl go? I need you to help me and cooperate. It will help us find out where you’ve been or where you might have been going. I’ll be gentle, I promise. You need to trust me.” “But they hurt!” “Let Daddy take care of you. Please. Then we need to apologize to Kathy.” “But…” “Isn’t yours sore enough right now? Or do I need to reinforce myself?’ Lance asked sternly. “Come sit down. Carefully. There’s my girl. Look away… I’m pretty good at this.” Noelle squeezed her eyes shut as he drew her blood. He popped off the tourniquet and then removed the needle before kissing her temple. “That’s a good girl. I didn’t hurt you now, did I?” “Not as bad as the spanking,” she admitted, watching him put a band-aid on her arm, followed by the wrap and a kiss on the spot. “I’m sorry I’m such a bad girl, Daddy.” There it was. With Bunny in her arms and a little pout to her lower lip, she had slipped back into the role of child so naturally he didn’t know it was coming. He wondered if she had a touch of schizophrenia, yet she was unlike any of such cases he had ever dealt with. “Noelle? Do you know that you go back and forth between being a big girl and a little one? Is it something you can control?” “I don’t know, Daddy. If I try real hard, I think I can be a big girl, but it makes me too tired.” “Ok, right now, don’t think about it. We’ll let things happen and see where they go. I’m just afraid that you may have had some damage that I didn’t detect after you were hit on the head.” “I didn’t get hit on the head. I fell down.” “Fell down? You told me you fell after the men yelled at you and you were shot.” “Yes, Daddy. But I fell down before and hit my head on something hard ‘cuz I didn’t know how to walk. I woke up and saw the yellow sign.” She didn’t know how to eat either. Curiouser and curiouser, Todd’s words echoed in his head. Further, most of her motor skills and communication she seemed to learn by watching and listening. It was as though she arrived at the hospital a blank slate, with the ability to acquire and integrate information at an inconceivable rate. Maybe Todd was right. Maybe she was an alien. Oh God, what was he thinking? Way too many movies. This was too much to take in right now. “Ok, I need to get this to the lab. You are to stay in your room until I get home and then you’ll go down to say you’re sorry to Kathy. I want you to think about why you were punished while I’m gone.” “Yes, Sir,” Noelle said sadly, looking down and fidgeting uncomfortably in her place on the bed. “I’ll be back soon. Behave yourself,” he said with a kiss on the head. Noelle watched the door close behind him. How could she make him believe that, until she saw him, her life did not exist? She turned on the bed to her tummy, holding Bunny close. She wanted to try to make the pain go away but knew, instinctively, that Daddy would not be happy with her. She cried quietly, wishing she had the words to tell him what her mind showed her, but they were not there. Lance met his sister in the foyer as he slipped on his jacket. “Going somewhere?” she asked with concern.

“To the lab to drop this off. I’ll be right back. Are you ok? You’ve been crying.” “I just felt bad for her. I know how that hand feels when you’re upset. Is she ok?” “We had a little breakthrough. I’ll tell you about it when I get back. Need anything?” Lance asked, kissing her cheek. “No. Be careful. I love you, big brother,” Kathy said, watching him leave. She sat on the couch and buried her face in her hands. She didn’t know why she felt so miserable, but she couldn’t stop. Her heart hurt for the woman-child, for her brother, for Todd, and for herself. She felt like she had failed all of them. “Aunt Kathy? Why are you crying?” “Noelle, honey, Daddy told you to stay in your room until he gets home,” Kathy said quickly, wiping her face. “I know, but I wanted to tell you I’m sorry for hurting you.” “I forgive you, baby. Come hug me, I need one right now,” Kathy requested, wrapping her long arms around the girls shoulders. “You really want a baby, don’t you?” Noelle asked quietly, putting Bunny down on the coffee table, freeing both her arms to embrace the sad woman. “More than anything. Todd did too, and I can’t give him one. It’s all because I was stupid and didn’t listen to Alan about staying off that damn motorcycle.” “What happened?” “It was a week after I got married. Uncle Alan and I were arguing about something stupid, probably my overspending, and I got mad at him and took off for a ride. I wasn't paying attention when a car ran a red light. By the time I saw it, it was too late. Alan has never forgiven himself for it. He blames himself for making me mad. That’s why he spoils me so badly.” “But, it wasn't his fault. You got mad and ran away.” “Yes, I did. And now look at what happened.” “But the car hit you. If you were watching, could you have stopped it?” “No… probably not. But it’s still my fault. Sometimes we make stupid choices that end up hurting us and others. Todd wanted children as badly as I did. He would have been a wonderful father.” “Aunt Kathy? If you could be fixed to have a baby, would you?” “Sweetheart, I’d give anything to have that, but it won’t even happen. My uterus is too scarred up. What are you doing?” Kathy asked as the girl placed her hand on the woman’s stomach. Very old, very violet eyes looked into hers. “I’m fixing you.” Kathy stared back at the girl, and then slowly lifted her little hand to kiss it gently. “Thank you. I know you want to and I appreciate it. There’s no such thing as magic, honey, and I need to learn to get on with my life. Now come help me with dinner. I’m making beef stroganoff.” “Yes, ma'am,” Noelle smiled her secret smile, picking up Bunny once again and following Kathy into the kitchen. *

*

*

Dr. William Hoffner sat patiently in the coffee shop. He lifted his head as he was approached. “Do you have the information?” he asked as the other man sat across from him. “Everything you need. You’ll be able to bust this jerk for kidnapping, right?”

“I need to approach this situation delicately, Dr. Hart. This is a matter of national security.” “Whatever you need to do, do it. I just want to see Sir Lancelot of Callahan lose his license and go straight to jail,” Stuart Hart announced, his eyes filled with hatred. Dr. Hoffner frowned. He needed to be careful and knew that this man was not one to be trusted. Noelle needed to be found and returned unharmed. He just hoped it wasn't too late and that she hadn’t started to evolve without proper direction. If she did, the results could be disastrous. There were already too many bodies left in her wake. *

*

*

Todd arrived home to find both women in the kitchen, happily making dinner. He leaned against the wall, unnoticed, seeing his wife show Noelle how to whisk meringue for her key lime pie. They also had Bunny sitting on a bar stool to watch. Kathy looked up and broke into a wide smile. “Look what I found on the driveway,” Todd said, handing her a bouquet of roses before kissing her deeply. “They’re beautiful. Thank you. What’s the occasion?” she inhaled the fragrance of the flowers. “You had a tough day, so I wanted to show you I appreciate you. Noelle? No hugs for Uncle Todd?” Noelle grabbed her bunny and raced to hug him tightly. “I’m sorry I was so bad for Aunt Kathy.” “I’m sure Daddy will take care of that, honey. I just don’t like seeing my wife get hurt.” “I already got a really hard spanking,” she said ruefully, looking at the floor. “I’ll be nicer. I promise.” “Todd, honey, it’s all over and done with. We don’t need to talk about it anymore. Noelle, would you put these in a vase for me, please?” Noelle nodded, putting her toy down and picking up the bouquet. She sniffed the flowers as she arranged them one by one in a pretty crystal vase. They were too pretty to die, she thought, touching their petals. She yelped as a thorn caught her finger. She glared at the rose. Except you. You can die for all I care, her thoughts raged. Stupid flower. Lance walked in the door just as she stuck her finger in her mouth. He handed her the bunny as tears threatened to spill, then pulled her finger out of her mouth. He looked at it, then kissed the tip. “There you go, all better. Why are you out of your room?” “I came down to tell Aunt Kathy I was sorry and to fix her tummy.” “Fix her tummy?” “So she could have babies. She let me help in the kitchen, too. Uncle Todd brought her flowers, but that one bit me,” she pointed to the rose. “As much as we would all love Aunt Kathy to have babies, I’m afraid it’s impossible. You were sweet for thinking of it, though. How’s your bottom?” “I didn’t make the hurt go away.” What did she mean by that? Lance chose to go with it, “Good, because when you’re punished you need to feel it for a while to remember your lesson. Hey, Todd, how was your day?” he asked, sitting down and holding Noelle snugly between his knees as he wrapped his long arms around her.

“Better than yours. Did Alan call you?” “I haven’t checked my voice mail. What’s up?” “We got the hearing moved up to Thursday, thanks to your friend, Lou. He called to tell me about the, uh, individual seeking information.” “Noelle, would you please help Aunt Kathy? Uncle Todd and I need to talk about some things in my office.” “Yes, Daddy.” Lance took Todd into the room and closed the door behind them. Sitting down, he shared the events of the day and Noelle’s response. “I told you she was an alien and this guy must be part of the MIB,” Todd said solemnly. “Cut it out and be serious. I get the feeling that her memory was wiped clean and given the chance to be refilled. Do you think she’s some sort of guinea pig for the government?” “Anything’s possible. But why would they let her escape?” “Maybe she didn’t escape. Maybe someone was trying to get her out of there. The girl said she didn’t know how to walk! Has she been carried her entire life? Or maybe she was in a wheelchair?” “Why, though? She’s physically capable of walking now. And what about her only being able to drink from a bottle? Did these people keep her in an infant-like state so that they could control her?” Todd questioned. He looked up as Alan walked in, unannounced. “Good, you two are here. I talked to Judge Marquez. Here, Lance. You are the proud father of a 22 year old baby girl by the name of Noelle Simone Callahan.” “What the hell are you taking about?” Lance asked, snatching the paper from him. “I told Judge Marquez about the situation and your concerns about abuse. He’s got four girls of his own and really put himself out. He assigned you full conservatorship and issued an ID file for her. We had to assume her age. I hope you don’t mind me giving her a middle name. It’s Mom’s, you know.” “You’re… unbelievable. Thank you, brother. Thank you so much,” Lance said, hugging Alan tightly, “I guess that makes you her godfather, huh?” “Guess so. Todd’s also a legal guardian. I have some papers for you to sign to make it official. I wanted to do that as well, but I knew that Maggie wouldn’t go for it. Sorry. I’m her executor, though, so she’s got legal protection.” “You are too much. After today, I needed some good news.” Lance proceeded to update his brother about everything, with Todd throwing in his ideas at the same time. Alan listened carefully. Suddenly, they heard a scream from the kitchen. Running in, they skidded to a stop. Kathy was staring at the floor with blood dripping down her leg. “Oh my God! What happened?” Todd rushed to her. “I don’t know. I was cooking and got a cramp. I just started bleeding,” Kathy started to cry. Lance checked her pulse, looking into her eyes. “Let’s get you to the hospital. Noelle? Come on, honey, we need to get Aunt Kathy looked at.” “Don’t worry, Daddy. I fixed her.” Noelle said quietly, taking his hand. Lance looked at her oddly. As they left, his eye caught sight of the rose that had pricked her. It was dead.

Chapter Seven Alan sat quietly next to Noelle as they waited in the emergency room. Lance and Todd were in with Kathy, leaving the two to fend for themselves while waiting for news. “Are you hungry, honey?” “No, Uncle Alan. How is your back?” “Much better, I must say. I’m going to let you rub it anytime it starts to hurt.” “It won’t hurt you anymore,” she said bluntly. “That would be nice. Come sit down next to me.” “I can’t. It hurts.” “What hurts?” “My bottom. Daddy spanked me today for having a fit and hurting Aunt Kathy’s feelings,” the girl confessed quietly. “I see. Guess you won’t be doing that again anytime soon, will you?” “No, Sir. I don’t like making Daddy upset.” “That’s a good idea. Do you want to take a walk?” “No. Uncle Alan? What’s wrong with that man?” “I don’t know. It looks like he has a tummy ache.” “No, he’s broken. I need to fix him,” Noelle announced, quickly walking over to the stranger. Her violet eyes met his. She reached to touch him. “Shit! Nurse!” Alan yelled as the old man collapsed on the floor, holding his left shoulder. Noelle knelt beside him, rubbing her small hand over his in comfort, as Alan brought a nurse back with a gurney. He gently pulled Noelle away as the team loaded him onto it and took him into the back. She stood there watching, clutching his hand and in tears. “Why are you crying, Noelle? Did that scare you?” “No. I couldn’t fix him. There was too much wrong and I was too late,” she whispered. Alan hugged her tightly, wiping her face gently with his palm, “There are some things none of us can fix, my girl. Even Lance, who’s a doctor, has limits. It hurts him too when he can’t make things right for people. Oh, you poor thing. Where’s Bunny?” he asked, noticing she didn’t have her toy. “There. I put him down to watch,” she sniffed, hugging her toy close as Alan handed it back to her. He rubbed the top of her head and sighed. “Mr. Callahan? Your sister wants to see you,” a nurse called out. Alan led Noelle with him into the small room. Todd was sitting next to Kathy on the bed while Lance reread her chart. “Why so serious, biggest brother? I’m ok.” “What happened?” Alan asked, sitting on her other side and watching Noelle lean against Lance lovingly. “The doctor thinks I just had a blockage that came undone. He said it’s nothing to worry about. We’re waiting for the ultrasound results.” “Are you sure? Lance?” “That’s what he said. Suggested we keep her off her feet for a couple of days and let her rest.” “I’ll take off work. Honey, prepare to be spoiled,” Todd announced.

Noelle reached for Kathy’s hand. “Don’t worry, Aunt Kathy, you’re all better now. I fixed you.” “Sweetheart, I know you want to believe…” “No, it’s true. You’re better. Just like Uncle Alan’s back and Daddy’s face.” “I was tired. That’s what made my face look that way. And Alan’s back pain comes and goes. I know you want to help, but….” “Why don’t you believe me?” Noelle broke into tears. “I couldn’t fix that man, but I fixed all of you. Bunny saw me!” “Honey, I….” “Excuse me, Mrs. Makin?” a nurse interrupted, entering the room, “Dr. Stover wants you to do a follow-up with OB/Gyn next week. He wants you to get a pelvic ultrasound.” “She just had one tonight. What did he find?” “Um, that’s the problem, Dr. Callahan. He didn’t find anything. He’s convinced that the equipment is faulty.” “What do you mean, he didn’t find anything?” “What I mean, Dr. Callahan,” Dr. Stover entered the room, looking around, “is that the ultrasound displayed no evidence of scar tissue or damage from the crush injury. It appears to show a perfectly normal uterus.” Everyone turned to stare at Noelle. She just gave them her secret smile as she snuggled her purple rabbit and giggled, wiping her eyes with Bunny’s purple paw. *

*

*

Sitting in his car in the dark hospital parking lot, Dr. Hoffner watched the family as they loaded into the red SUV. One of the men was carrying the long-legged woman. Noelle followed, clutching the hands of two of the tallest men he had ever seen. He watched as the blond one kissed her on the top of the head and then lifted her into the vehicle. So that must be Dr. Callahan. He had done some research on the man after getting his name from Dr. Hart. Interviews with the hospital staff led him to the discovery that the man was well-loved, caring and had a reputation of being even-tempered, decisive, and good-natured. Dr. Hoffner hoped that those characteristics would be enough to keep Noelle from losing her temper or trying to protect herself before he could be convinced to either release or neutralize her. If not, there was bound to be some problems for the good Doctor, and it had nothing to do with keeping his medical license. *

*

*

“Ok, maybe she really is an alien,” Lance said before Todd made a comment, glancing at the dead rose whose thorn had pricked the little girl. Kathy was asleep in her bed with Noelle curled up next to her, singing quietly and stroking Kathy’s hair with Bunny’s purple paw. “Don’t be ridiculous. This is completely coincidental,” Alan scolded, flipping open a coke. “Just keep an eye on her. I’m in surgery all day tomorrow so I won’t be able to come home. Will you be able to handle her?” “No problem. Don’t worry,” Todd reassured him. “You don’t really think Kathy was healed, do you? Like she’ll be able to have kids?”

“Todd, as much as I want to believe this to be true, we do have to be reasonable. For Kathy’s sake. Please don’t get your hopes up. I’m suspecting the equipment is malfunctioning and pulling up a prior screening,” Lance said sadly. Alan grunted, “Sorry, but I don’t believe in magic either. I’m going to bring the twins over to keep Noelle company. There’s an admin day at their school so they’ll be home. If Maggie doesn’t like it, too bad. I need to worry about my baby sister right now.” “I’d love for the girls to be here. They never give me the same problems they give Lance. They LIKE me,” Todd informed him. “I don’t let them jump on my bed, that’s all. Or fight.” “Oh yes, I forgot! Alan? Take a look see.” “Todd! Don’t you dare! Damnit,” Lance growled as Alan stared at the video before releasing a loud laugh. “Oh, man, this is good. Wait until the twins see it.” “You’re the one who made jumping on the bed a carnal sin!” Lance argued, trying to snatch the phone. “Only because you two kept waking me up. My room was right underneath Kathy’s and you would knock stucco off the ceiling into my face.” “Oh. I didn’t know that. Sorry.” “I doubt that it would have made a difference. You two did everything you could to annoy me.” “You made it easy, you know,” Lance grunted back. Alan just shrugged. *

*

*

The next morning, Alan came by with his nine-year old twin daughters, Keren and Kelly. Todd, Kathy and Noelle sat watching cartoons and the twins approached them shyly, unsure of how to act. Aunt Kathy was sick and this other lady was, as Dad had put it, different. He had also ordered his daughters, in his sternest voice, to be on perfect behavior. “My girls! Come give me a hug. Don’t be scared, I’m ok. I missed you,” Kathy exclaimed, holding her arms out for her nieces. The two gleefully joined her and then hugged Todd tightly. “Are you sick? Dad said you had to go to the hospital,” Kelly asked. “No, I’m fine. Your Dad and uncles are just being over-protective. You know how they are when one of their girls is under the weather.” “Yeah, like total bears,” Keren grinned at her father. “Just remember, this bear bites. Girls? This is Noelle,” Alan smiled, kissing the young woman’s cheek. “She’s going through some healing too, after an accident. She got shot.” “With a bullet? Wow.” Kelly was impressed as Noelle nodded quietly. She was looking at the girl carefully. “What happened to your face?” she asked gently. “Birthmark. I hate it, it’s ugly,” Kelly wrinkled her nose. “Mom said it’s the only way to tell me apart from Keren, so I have to keep it.” “Oh. Does it hurt?” Noelle questioned, touching it. Kelly shook her head. “It only hurts her when people make fun of it,” Keren said, “Is this yours? I like purple.” She picked up Noelle’s bunny and wagged it at her.

“Do you want this to go away?” Noelle asked, still enthralled with the large red stain that covered Kelly’s left cheek and neck. Kelly’s eyes watered as she nodded. Noelle hugged her and, with a kiss, pulled away. The mark was gone. Alan froze, his hand trembling as he touched his daughter’s skin while the others stared, mouths open. “Dad? What’s wrong? Why are you all looking at me like that?” Kelly asked, confused. “Kell… she… I… go look in the mirror, honey.” Alan stuttered, turning to look at Noelle. “How did you do that?” “I fixed her,” Noelle said, picking up the bunny that Keren had dropped on the floor. “Daddy said to share and I did.” A happy shriek was heard in the bathroom and Kelly came out, crying as she flung her arms around Noelle. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” The young girl wept joyfully. Kathy reached to touch her abdomen, wonderment stirring on her face. She met Todd’s eyes. He nodded, his own face brimming with emotion. Could this really be true? How was this possible? It did not matter, as long as it was. *

*

*

“It’s urgent. I must speak to Dr. Callahan immediately.” “Dr. Hoffner, if this is in regards to Noelle, you need to go through his attorney. Here is his name, number, and address. Please, do not return here,” Lou said firmly. “You don’t understand. He’s in danger. That whole family is in danger.” “From that little girl? I doubt it. If anything, they are so much happier since she walked into their lives. Are you the one who left her to die?” Lou demanded angrily. “No! Please, I’m begging you. Let me talk with him before it’s too late.” “Good-day, Dr. Hoffner. I trust I don’t need to call security to see you out,” Lou stood, picking up the phone. Dr. Hoffner shook his head and started to leave. He turned around, hand on the doorknob. “I just wanted to warn you about one of your employees, Mr. Black. Your Dr. Hart is seeking some sort of revenge on Dr. Callahan and is hoping I’ll be the one to give it. Keep Noelle away from that man. If she discovered that he is trying to harm her guardian, I can’t say what she will do to him. Whatever it is, it won’t be good.” Lou watched the man leave and then paged Lance. Eileen answered his office phone and explained he was still in surgery. Cursing, Lou stared at the card in his hand: William S. Hoffner, PhD. Molecular Geneticist Institute for Paranormal Studies The guy must be a total fruitcake. Paranormal studies? What would a molecular geneticist possible want with little Noelle? *

*

*

After several minutes of hesitation, Alan finally left for work. Todd quickly settled the three girls in front of the TV with cookies and milk, then rejoined his wife on the couch.

“Todd? How did she do that? I’m… scared,” Kathy whispered, watching the three girls carefully. Noelle sat between them, showing Bunny the TV. “I don’t know, but Lance is never going to believe this. What frightens me is that if she can heal, can she also kill?” “I can’t believe she would hurt anyone. She’s really sweet,” Kathy said in the girl’s defense. “Yes, but is she mature enough to know that killing is wrong? And must she touch to do it?” Noelle, sensing they were talking about her, turned to look at the two of them and frowned. She came over and sat on Todd’s lap. “Are you ok, Uncle Todd? Did I do something bad?” “No, honey. I’m wondering, though. Can you hurt things as well as fix them?” “The rose bit me, so it died,” she said simply. “That was a rose. What about people? Are you going to hurt one of us if you get angry?” Noelle’s face scrunched in pain. “No! You’re my family! I love you.” “Sometimes family hurt each other, though. What if you got angry with Daddy for spanking you?” Kathy asked quietly, not wanting her nieces to overhear. “I can’t hurt Daddy or anyone in the family. He said I’m not allowed to.” “Daddy forbade you?” “Yes, ma'am.” “Kath, you look tired. Let’s get you some sleep. Shhhh, no arguing. Noelle, why don’t you play with your cousins for a while. It’s nice outside if you girls want to play out back,” Todd interjected, seeing his wife becoming distressed. “We want to watch TV, Uncle Todd. Please? Mom never lets us,” Keren pleaded, her big brown eyes blinking innocently at him. “For a little bit and then get some fresh air,” Todd sighed, “And keep your hands to yourselves. No fighting, you two. I’ll be right back, I’m going to put your auntie to bed.” “Ok, Uncle Todd,” the twins sighed, eyeing each other. They were notorious for getting into arguments over TV, which was why their mother discouraged the pastime. It didn’t take long for Noelle to get bored of the show and take out her coloring book and crayons. Keren snorted. “How old are you?” “Daddy says I’m 22,” Noelle answered, outlining the picture of a horse. “You don’t act like you’re 22. You act like a baby.” “Keren, leave her alone. She got hurt and that’s why she’s like this,” Kelly said, scowling at her sister. “I don’t believe that. I think she likes being a baby. Why do you call Uncle Lance ‘Daddy’? It’s weird. He’s not your daddy, he’s your boyfriend.” “I dunno. Why do you call Uncle Alan ‘Dad’?” Noelle asked in return, starting to get annoyed at the child’s rudeness. “Because he’s my father, stupid. Don’t you know anything?” Keren rolled her eyes and walked away. “I’m not stupid,” Noelle growled, clutching her bunny tightly as she stood up. “Noelle, just ignore her. Please don’t cry,” Kelly said, watching Noelle fight back tears. “She’s just a big, old crybaby. Leave her alone. Mom was right. She’s a weirdo, just like Uncle Lance, and they’re into sick sex.”

“Don’t you EVER talk bad about my Daddy!” Noelle roared, charging after the girl. Kelly screamed as Keren was knocked to the ground. Todd ran in to find the two rolling on the floor, pulling hair and slapping each other. Kelly looked far worse for wear as he pulled them apart. “What the hell is going on here?” Noelle broke away from him and ran upstairs, slamming and locking her bedroom door. As he looked over Keren’s injuries, Kelly told him about her sister antagonizing Noelle and how mean she was, including the things their mother had said. Todd was livid. And frightened. With Noelle’s apparent abilities, the fight could have been fatal for his niece. He pointed to the couch. “Keren, you are to sit your little butt there and not move until your father comes to get you. I swear, I will take a switch to you if you even think about budging. Kell, come upstairs with me and let’s try to calm Noelle down.” “Coming, Uncle Todd.” Opening the door, Todd bit his lip. The room was destroyed. The bedding was overturned, furniture knocked over, drawers emptied out and clothes everywhere. Noelle was gone. “She must have climbed out the window. And look. She left her bunny. Is she going to be alright, Uncle Todd? She fell down far!” Kelly looked upset, clutching his hand while fearfully holding Noelle’s toy to her chest. “God, honey, I hope so. Call your dad and tell him what happened. I’m going out to go look for her.” *

*

*

Tears burning her eyes, Noelle stumbled up the rocky trail that she had seen Lance take every morning on his jog. Even with shoes on, the walk hurt her feet terribly, but she did not care. She had hurt her leg when she fell out the window, but she ‘fixed’ it, making the pain disappear. She needed to go far away from that mean little girl. Why was Keren allowed to hurt her family, but she wasn’t? Uncle Alan wouldn’t approve of his daughters acting that way, any more than her Daddy would, so why did Keren say those things? And Keren’s mother, a woman that she hadn’t even met, why would she say things that were so… so awful? Out of breath, dizzy, and feeling nauseous, Noelle collapsed on a rock wedged in the dirt at the top of the path. Tears threatened to spill again as the young woman clutched her knees to her body and began to rock herself. He isn’t your Daddy, he’s your boyfriend… the words haunted her. But he liked being called Daddy, and he liked having her as his little girl! What did Keren mean when she accused them of being weird? Sobs escaped her lips and Noelle broke down in a pitiful torrent of uncontrolled weeping. She didn’t hear the footsteps coming up behind her, and jumped when a large hand rested on her shoulder. “Hey kiddo. Are you alright? Did you hurt yourself jumping out that window?” “Uncle Todd, I’m sorry, but she was so despicable. I had to leave so I wouldn’t hurt her,” Noelle cried, burying her face in his shirt. He held her tightly, stroking her hair. They were quiet for a while. “I don’t know what to tell you, baby girl. Alan isn’t going to allow Keren to get away with this, but I don’t think your Daddy is going to be happy about you, either. Kelly said that you started the fight.”

“She said terrible things about Lance.” Lance? She sounded like a young adult at the moment. Lance had warned him that she sometimes slips out of her little girl persona when confused or angry. “Yes, but that doesn’t give you the right to hit her. And what did you do to your room? He’s not going to be happy about that for sure.” “I hate her! It’s all her fault.” “Noelle, she’s part of your family. A cousin, by all intents and purposes. She’s also a child and doesn’t think things through. Do NOT hurt her.” “Keep her away from me. And her mother, too,” Noelle growled. Todd kissed her temple. “Noelle, look at me. That’s a good girl. You are not to harm anyone, for any reason. Unless someone is trying to seriously hurt you or someone you love, you are never to strike back. Do you understand what I’m telling you? Words can’t hurt you or Lance.” “I don’t love her.” “Well, the rest of us do. If you hurt her, you hurt us.” “I can’t hurt her anyway. I just want to,” Noelle sounded resigned. “Uncle Todd, I don’t feel well. Can you take me home?” she asked weakly, looking pale again. Todd sighed, lifting her into his strong arms and carefully picking his way back down the steep trail. He tripped once, twisting his ankle, but continued while gritting his teeth. Alan was pulling into the driveway as they entered the yard. “Noelle? Are you all right? Todd? Why are you limping?” Alan asked, taking Noelle from his arms. “Sprained my ankle. She’s ok. So are the girls. Keren said some pretty awful things.” “Kelly told me. I’m sorry, Noelle. It seems that Keren has her mother’s judgmental attitude. She’s going to be punished and I will have a few words with your Aunt Maggie as well. Todd, I apologize. Next time, feel free to pull rank on them.” “I had to go find this one first. I’m putting her to bed for a while, she doesn’t feel well. When’s Lance due home?” “Not until he’s done with surgery, then he’ll be beat. I’ll talk with him about this. It’s not Noelle’s fault.” “I did strike her first, Uncle Alan. I’m sorry. I also threw another fit and destroyed my bedroom. Lance isn’t going to send me away now, is he?” she looked worried and tearful, clinging with her arms around Todd’s neck as he cradled her. “No, sweetheart. Please stop worrying about that. You really don’t look well.” Alan commented, also noticing how she addressed his brother. Her eyes looked dull and face very pale. “I’ll get my two together and take them home. We’ll talk later, ok?” he said to Todd. Kelly, seeing Noelle, ran to her and handed her the bunny. “Here, Noelle, you dropped him. Can I come over and play later? Without Keren?” “If our Daddy’s say we can. And if you don’t call me or Daddy names,” Noelle whispered, resisting the desire to stick her thumb in her mouth. “I like you. I don’t call my friends names. People called me mean things for a long time because of my face, so I know how bad it makes you feel.” “I would hope you don’t call anyone names, even those who aren’t your friends, young lady,” Alan said behind her, squeezing her shoulder. He kissed Noelle on the cheek, gathered his surly daughter from the couch, and said his goodbyes.

Todd had Kathy cuddling next to him on the couch when Lance came home at 7:30 that evening. “Hi, you two, how was your day?” he asked, dropping on the couch, “Where’s Noelle?” “You look tired, big brother. We had a little adventure,” Kathy said, slowly telling him about the trials of the morning before the fight broke out. “You witnessed her erasing that patch on Kell’s face?” “We sure did. What she does is real, Lance. We don’t know how, but we can’t pretend it doesn’t happen,” Kathy said, touching her stomach. “I don’t want to think about that right now. It’s beyond my ability to blindly accept. Give me some time, ok? What else happened?” Lance said, trying to change the subject. This ‘ability’ Noelle seemed to have was too much for his scientific mind to process logically. “Well, she and Kelly got along great.” “Ok, Katherine, what are you hiding?” “I’ll take it from here,” Todd said. He slowly explained the events, downplaying Noelle’s reaction to the bullying. Lance stood up quickly, irritation on his face as he glanced upstairs. Todd stopped him. “She’s not feeling well. She’s very pale, has no energy or appetite, and went to bed early. You should check on her.” “Her blood test showed she’s severely anemic, probably pernicious. Apparently, her hemoglobin and red blood count is genetically low and she’s B12 deficit. That might explain her memory of multiple injections. B complex, Procrit, and iron shots can hurt like hell. She’s going to need them, too.” “Great. So who gets to do the honors with that?” Kathy groaned. Lance shrugged, pointing to himself. He headed upstairs and tapped on Noelle’s door. He had to step around the chaos to get to her bed. “You did quite a bit of redecorating in here, my love,” he said, softly waking her. She reached up to him, kissing his cheek lovingly. “Are you here to spank me, Daddy?” she asked sadly. “Not right this minute, but it sounds like it might be coming. What happened today?” he asked, climbing next to her on the bed and holding her against his chest. Noelle told him everything, including her confusion regarding why Keren could hurt family but she was not allowed to. “My girl…” Lance sighed, drawing her close, “Keren is not permitted to hurt family, she just chose to do it. I’m sure Alan will see that she doesn’t do it again. For a while, at least. You are also capable of really harming someone, where she can’t. We want to make sure that never happens.” “But, Daddy, I can’t make anyone hurt since you forbade it,” Noelle said, still confused and rocking her bunny. “Are you telling me that you are unable to harm anyone if I tell you not to?” “Yes, Sir. I wouldn’t anyway, because it would hurt you. And I don’t want you to ever hurt.” “This type of thing hurts me, though,” he swept his hand around the room. “You can still do that.” “It’s different. Like,” Noelle thought for a minute, “Uncle Todd said words can’t hurt you but hitting someone can. I hurt Keren by hitting her, not by touching her. I hit her hard, too. I wanted to hurt her more, but I didn’t.”

“Don’t sound so proud of yourself. I’m not pleased about that. My parents never allowed us to fight and we won’t allow our kids to do it, either. Even our grown up ones,” he paused to lift her chin to face him. “You really don’t look well, darling. Did you eat?” “I don’t feel like eating. My tummy hurts.” “I’m guessing guilt. Ok. We’ll discuss this fighting later. Let me take a look at you.” Noelle bit her lip when he returned with his medical bag. She sat quietly as he looked in her eyes and throat, listened to her heart, and felt her pulse. She sat still as he popped a digital thermometer into her mouth and waited. “Damn things out of batteries. Shit.” “You said a bad word, Daddy,” Noelle observed slyly. Lance raised an eyebrow at her and she lowered her face, trying not to smile and pretending to kiss Bunny. “Don’t you be a smarty pants. I’ll be right back,” he scolded. He returned in a few minutes carrying a glass thermometer and a small jar of Vaseline. “What’s that for?” Noelle asked suspiciously, as he shook the thermometer down. “I need to take your temperature and I don’t have a working digital. It won’t hurt, I promise,” Lance said, patting his lap. Noelle scooted away from him as he beckoned to her, shaking her head. “Noelle, I’m not going to chase you down. Come over here, now and don’t make me upset.” “But it’s embarrassing!” Noelle protested, realizing what he was going to do. “I’m a doctor. It doesn’t mean anything to me. Let’s get this done with.” “No.” “Do you want a spanking right now, too? I’m tired and am not in the mood to argue with you. I’m going to count to three and if you don’t get your little bottom over my lap, there will be some serious consequences. One… two…” Noelle scrambled to obey, draping herself across his knees and hugging Bunny tightly. She closed her eyes as she felt him slowly lower her PJs and panties past her thighs and rest his large hand on her bottom, patting it affectionately. Very gently, he spread her clenched cheeks apart to expose the little pink rosebud and her silky smooth pussy. Lance forced himself to maintain his focus on the task, but her sweet fleshy lips kept trying to grab his attention. He carefully inserted the tip of the thermometer into her tight hole, pushing it in until it reached the hilt. Noelle whimpered, squirming. “Keep still. This does not hurt,” Lance ordered, holding her over his lap with his hand on top of her bottom. He held the tip of the thermometer between his index and middle finger to keep her from trying to push it out, all the while admiring her perfect hind end. He noticed she was finally starting to fill out a bit, and the extra weight on her did wonders to her figure. He enjoyed the little extra padding that was starting to form on her fanny, giving her a round, rather than angular, appearance. Her pussy cried out for his devotion, begging for his fingers, his tongue, his cock. Sighing, Lance reluctantly returned to the matter at hand and slowly removed the thermometer, wiping the Vaseline off before reading it. “Hmm, 100.5 Fahrenheit. I got your blood test results back and it looks like you have pernicious anemia. I….” “NO SHOTS, Daddy!” Noelle yelled, trying to slide off his lap as she saw him reach for his bag. Lance held her in place. “Easy now. That’s why you’re so pale, tired and don’t eat much. It’s also why you’re running a low-grade fever, honey. I’ll be as gentle as I can, I promise, but you need these.”

“NOOOOOO!” Noelle screamed, biting his thigh. She yelped as Lance popped a loud spank across her bottom. “Stop the fits, right now. And don’t ever even think of biting me again. If you just relax, it will hurt less.” “Please don’t, Daddy. Please!” she begged, unable to escape as he held her in place with his leg. “Shhh, baby.” Lance prepared the syringe and placed it on the bed to prep her hip. Noelle screamed again, louder and with an ear-splitting shriek, she began to kick wildly. She then started to swear as she jerked and twisted to get away. Lance lifted his hand and administered a no-nonsense swat to her bottom. He repeated the gesture ten more times to gain her attention and shift her screaming about the injection to one about a sore backside. “OWWW, Daddy, that hurts! Stop,” she cried out, trying to cover her bottom. “Then stay still and let me do this,” he ordered with frustration, dabbing alcohol on her right hip. He gently pinched the skin and plunged the syringe deep into her muscle, massaging as he injected the cold fluid. Noelle shrieked, bucking. He was too strong for her. “That hurts! Daddy, no more! Pleeeeeeease,” she sobbed, trying to block him. Lance finished quickly and then gently massaged the area. “I’m done. I can’t believe the fuss you make. Here, let me kiss it and make it better.” Noelle sniffed as he put her on the bed and softly kissed the injection site, rubbing his hands over her naked hip, waist, and thigh. He felt his cock starting to awaken and he stopped himself. Now was not the time. Not yet. Oh, but he wished it were!

Chapter Eight Alan was silent on his drive home, glancing occasionally at his two daughters in the backseat through his rear view mirror. Kelly still looked upset, looking out the window, while Keren had a perpetual dirty look on her face. She was so much like her mother, Alan thought. I love Maggie, but this has gone far enough. “Girls, you are to go to your rooms until I call you,” Alan ordered when they pulled into the driveway. “Dad? Am I in trouble?” Kelly asked, looking up at him. He shook his head, leaning down to kiss her temple. “No, honey. I just need a few words alone with your mom. Be a good girl and mind me.” “Yes, Sir,” Kelly said, trotting after her angry, silent sister. Alan took a deep breath and walked into the living room where Maggie was reading a magazine. “You’re home early. How was your day?” she smiled, scooting over to make room for him. “We had some problems at Lance’s. What have you been saying to the girls about him and Noelle?” “Nothing in particular. Why do you ask?” “Somehow I find it hard to believe that my nine year old comes up with comments about sick sex on her own, Margaret. She laid into poor Noelle today with no provocation.” “How can you believe anything that stranger told? You barely know her.” “Todd and Kathy were there and Kelly witnessed everything. Keren is going to have a very sore backside this evening and then you and I are going to have another talk. Like it or not, Noelle is part of this family now and I am tired of you treating my family so poorly. My kid sister was in the hospital last night after a uterine hemorrhage and you did not even call to see how she was feeling. That is unacceptable.” “I really don’t care, Alan. You know we don’t get along.” “Because you choose not to, and you are teaching that to your daughters. My family has been nothing but nice to you since the day you all met and you’ve been rude, insulting, and just plain juvenile. That must stop.” “So your perfect sister and your brother’s whore take priority over my feelings?” Maggie’s Irish temper started to rise along with her faint brogue. “Noelle is not a whore and your insults will cease immediately. Mary Katherine is not perfect, but she has some manners and she knows how to treat people decently. I helped raise her to be that way. What exactly is your problem with her?” “It’s always Mary Katherine this and Mary Katherine that. I’m SICK of hearing about how well Mary Katherine cooks and cleans, how she treats her men… she can’t even have kids and you still compare me to her,” Maggie yelled. “You will lower your voice and calm yourself this minute, Margaret Faye Callahan. Another sound out of you and I promise to get the cane out. I’m trying to have an adult conversation with you, but you are making it impossible.” “I have nothing to say to you! Why don’t you just move in with your brother and his slut and stay there,” Maggie hissed, shoving Alan away.

He grabbed her upper arm, pulling her towards him. “It’s been too long since we’ve had a disciplinary session, wife. I’ve let you get away with too much for too long. Get upstairs, strip and stand in the corner while I take care of our daughter and her smart mouth.” “Alan, honey, I’m so sorry,” Maggie suddenly withdrew, fear in her eyes. She knew she had pushed him too far this time. “You certainly will be. Grab a ginger root on your way upstairs.” “No! Not that! Please…” “Too late for showing manners, young lady. Get moving,” Alan said sternly, standing and looking down at her. “I would strongly suggest you think about ways to make things right with Kathy and Noelle while you stand in that corner waiting for me. Maybe after you see Kelly, you’ll think twice about bad mouthing your family.” “What are you talking about?” “You’ll see later. Obey me, wife. Leave the door cracked.” Maggie’s stomach rose in her chest at his tone. She loved her husband and never understood why she would push him to this point. Grabbing the ginger root he stored in the refrigerator, she raced upstairs. Trembling, she removed her clothing, and stopped to look at herself in the mirror. She was average. Maggie couldn’t say much more about herself than that. Average height, average weight, average intelligence, average looks. Except for her flaming red hair and bright green eyes, there was nothing special she could see in herself to have attracted a handsome, tall, intelligent, and sexy man like Alan Callahan. Even her temperament did not line up with a man who needed to exert his dominance. He should have had a quiet, submissive and obedient wife, one like his sister, instead of a woman that would scream like a banshee when angry. Maybe he saw her as a challenge? He certainly never allowed her to ‘get her Irish up’, nor did he tolerate the nonsense from her that her doting father had permitted. She knew she needed the boundaries he set upon her, and somewhere deep inside, she liked the forcefulness with which he ordered her to cease her ridiculous behavior. She was jealous of Kathy. Tall, stunningly beautiful, talented, loving, submissive, and the perfect homemaker. Alan never directly compared them, but she heard enough about how well Kathy cared for everyone to make her feel inadequate. And now Noelle. She never had even met the girl, but the whole thing was just plain weird. And, making it worse, Alan went along with it! Maggie, naked and embarrassed, shuffled to the corner of her bedroom, and planted her nose in place, hands on top of her head. She hated that Alan made her strip for punishment. She felt so vulnerable and well… unprotected like this. Maggie soon heard the telltale sounds of her daughter being lovingly but firmly spanked, and she was filled with a deep sense of guilt. Maggie knew that it was her fault, and a tear dripped slowly down her cheek. She should not have said those ugly things in front of the girls. Finally, the sounds stopped and Maggie knew that the spanking was over. Maggie closed her eyes, knowing her husband was now holding their daughter close to his broad chest, kissing away her tears and telling her how much he loved her. She knew Keren was curled on his lap and feeling very penitent. It was her turn next, and she knew Alan would show no leniency. Not this time. Minutes later, he entered their room and paused to gaze at her as she stood in silence, admiring the contrast of her naked, pale skin against the chocolate brown wall. He hid his smile, glad that he had won the argument about the colors to paint their bedroom. Cream carpeting, rich brown and camel colored walls, distressed cream oak wood, and dark brown and gold

fabrics. It was classy and very sexy, especially with his gorgeous little redhead standing in her ‘special’ corner with her bare, plump bottom waiting to be firmly and thoroughly chastised by a stern, but loving, husband. Alan stripped and walked into the shower, turning on the massage unit. He stood, feeling the nozzles hitting the full length of his neck, shoulders, and lower back. It was so wonderful not to jump with pain as the high-pressure spray pounded the area where his injury had been. Noelle had truly ‘fixed’ him. And now Kelly wouldn’t have to be teased for the rest of her life, either. Maggie had no idea how that young woman had touched their hearts. Lance was happier now than he had ever been and if it were really true, Kathy might have been ‘fixed’ as well. He thought of the strange message he received from his secretary. There was a man who demanded an emergency appointment to discuss Noelle. It was scheduled for tomorrow and he had no idea where it would lead. Alan turned off the shower and grabbed a towel, slowly driving off and enjoying the ability to lean forward without the horrible bite down his leg. He owed Noelle, and promised himself that he would do everything he could to protect her. If only he could make Maggie understand. He slipped on some sweats and loafers, then walked back out into the master bedroom. Maggie still stood shivering in the corner. Silently, Alan turned on the gas fireplace and then sat down on the bed to watch her as she shifted nervously, with good reason. She knew that she would be a very unhappy woman in a few minutes and had no one to blame but herself. “I’ll be right back. Stay where you are.” “Yes, Sir,” Maggie whispered, feeling his eyes on her. Alan gathered his daughters and brought them downstairs to the family room. He ordered them pizza for dinner, with instructions to save him a few slices, and informed them that he was having some alone time with their mom. He was very specific that they were not to be disturbed under any circumstance. Both girls nodded, knowing better than to question him. They were no strangers to the way he ran their home. Alan closed the solid wood door behind him and locked it. He had built the room for maximum privacy and very little could be heard outside, unless there was an ear pressed right under the doorway. He tapped the stereo and Ravel’s Bolero started to play. Maggie winced. Normal people made love to that piece. Not Alan. His punishments increased as the piece crescendoed. Boy, was she in for it tonight! “Maggie? Why are we here?” “Because I have a big mouth and have been incredibly rude to you and your family. I’m sorry,” came the quiet answer. “I love you, but I don’t like this part of you. It must change. I’ve put up with it for too long. No more of it will be tolerated. You will find a way to be nice to my sister and Noelle. That will start tomorrow, do you understand me?” “Yes, Sir.” “You will also provide a better example of grace and open-mindedness for our daughters. We take them to church and you seem to delight in undoing everything they are taught there. That will also stop.” “Yes, Sir,” Maggie whimpered, the music playing quietly in the background. Alan stood. “Come to me, Margaret.” Maggie obeyed, trembling as she stood in front of her tall, well-muscled husband. He lifted her chin to face him.

“I love you. I want you to be all you were meant to be, and a mean-spirited, rude brat is not who you are. Bring me the strap.” Maggie felt tears coming as she walked into the large closet and pulled the antique leather razor strap off the hook on the far wall. She picked up the bottle of oil and the soft cloth and handed it all to him. “Oil it, Margaret,” he ordered, arms crossed. Maggie silently poured the oil on the cloth and slowly rubbed it into the entire length of the wide strap, trying to hide her shaking hands as she did so. Well-oiled leather hurt a hundred times worse and Alan was planning on her feeling this for days. He took the strap from her to inspect it and then laid it on the bed. He pointed to the root. “Peel it,” he commanded. Maggie looked at him with pleading eyes, silently begging him to reconsider. No, he was determined to teach her a final lesson this time. Maggie held her breath, using the potato peeler he kept in their bathroom to shape the edges of the thick-fingered root. She handed it to him and he shaped it more, narrowing the base to fit her securely. “Go wash your hands. I don’t want this getting in your eyes. Then get on your knees and spread your bottom for me.” His low, commanding voice echoed through the room, the music still playing in the background. Maggie groaned, realizing that he had put on his ‘special’ rendition of the Bolero. It played for over an hour with the quiet introduction extended, giving him plenty of time to concentrate on preparation. Alan watched her fearfully obey and then washed his owns hands, putting the ginger on a towel. He also grabbed a bar of soap, chuckling. Maggie had changed from Ivory to French milled, probably after the last time he soaped her mouth. Brat. She was on their large bed, hands holding her cheeks wide apart and exposing her little brown pucker. Her neatly trimmed pussy with shocking red fur made him wish he could forego the punishment and just drive his cock deep inside of her and listen to her beg for more. She was a passionate lover, and exhausted him thoroughly, but not tonight. He had serious business to take care of. Walking behind her, he brushed his hand across her thighs and then down between the cheeks of her backside, lingering for a minute on the anxiously waiting hole. She shivered. Alan picked up the plug, seeing the juice already seeping from the plant and pressed the tip against her anus. Maggie gasped. This was a particularly thick one. He had bought it for the most serious of punishments and was planning on using it tonight to make sure his position was understood. It already started to burn the rim of her bottom hole and she tried to squeeze tightly to prevent its entrance. Alan did not relent, instead pressed it slowly and firmly. The harder she clenched, the more juice was released. She started to whine, the burning was growing. He did not stop. Deeper and deeper, he pressed the thick root into her rectum until the base was seated well, the narrow neck holding it in place. Maggie felt tears, wiggling to try to relieve the burn. “Please, Alan, take it out. I can’t stand it!” “No, you deserve this. Just remember, the more you fight it, the more it will burn. Let go of your bottom and raise it high in the air for me.” The music was starting to grow. Maggie lifted her bottom high, hugging a pillow to her chest as she tried to push the ginger root out away from her tight hole. It was pure agony, the burn and the horrendous sense of being filled at the same time. She listened as Alan picked up his strap, knowing he was going to double it.

Without warning, he flung the leather across her upturned buttocks. Maggie yelled into the mattress as a strip of fire leapt across her delicate skin. Alan waited patiently for her to return her bottom to its position, pulled his arm back, and cracked the wide strap loudly across her sit spots. He watched as the leather flattened her plump flesh, leaving behind an angry, red stripe. A small sob escaped Maggie’s lips as she repositioned herself for another stroke, the ginger root burning painfully. Grimly and with avid determination, Alan administered a third, fourth and fifth stroke, searing his wife’s bottom on each downbeat of the music. Maggie started to cry as Alan’s strokes increased with the tempo, the weight of the strap growing heavier as the music shifted in intensity. She collapsed on the bed, unable to hold herself upright. Alan continued the strapping, knowing that in her prone position, the figging would cause her even more discomfort. Sure enough, after three more stripes, she was trying desperately to raise herself back up into position. Alan waited, her cries loud in the mattress. “Open your mouth,” he ordered. “This is to stay in until I am done. Maybe you’ll think twice before you say anything mean to, or about, anyone else again.” Maggie gagged. Despite the lovely scent, the French milled soap tasted far worse than she thought it would! Alan aggravated things by changing the strap for his paddle. It was not the small, oval paddle he used on his daughters, rather the one he made specifically for his wayward wife. It was long, wide and thick, with holes drilled spelling the word ‘Maggie’ against the surface. He had only used it on her once before, when she had told him where he could put his cock. And it had not been said seductively. Maggie started begging, her mouth filled with soap. The music was peaking and she knew that he would not stop until the symphony was complete. She screamed into the pillow as the paddle impacted solidly across her already bruised flesh. She could feel welts pop up instantly. Guilt overwhelmed her when she realized how much her juvenile behavior had hurt him. Crack! The paddle left its impression on the backs of her thighs, making her fall to the mattress. He did not wait for her to rise up on her knees before landing another resilient whack to the crown of her cheeks. Yes, she would certainly have some nasty little bruises this time. Serves her right, he thought, aiming again. The final, and hardest, stroke angled to catch the very bottom of both curves, sending her launching forward on the bed and losing the soap. Still silent, Alan removed the plug and tossed it into the trash. He then picked up the soap and took it into the bathroom, bringing back with him a glass of water, a bowl, and a towel. He sat on the bed next to his sobbing wife. “Here. Rinse out your mouth,” he directed softly. Maggie scrambled to obey, rinsing and spitting with all her might to rid herself of the offensive taste. Her bottom burned unbearably inside and out, and she was unable to sit up as he reached for her. Seeing her predicament, Alan laid on the bed besides her naked body. “I love you. Have you learned your lesson?” His voice was soft and gentle. Maggie sniffed, nodding. The music was slowly quieting down and fading into the background. Her husband kissed her eyelids tenderly, pulling her against him. He stroked her sympathetically, calming her tears and reinforcing his love. “I’m sorry,” she finally sniffed. “I know. You plan on making things right with the family now, don’t you?” “Yes, Sir. Please, hold me.” “Of course,” Alan agreed, caressing her hair and kissing her soothingly. “Alan? Tell me about Noelle. What really happened to her?”

Alan launched into the story, sharing the things Maggie had not known because she had not been interested in them before. Her guilt intensified as he explained the circumstances, including the theory about the girls’ abusive past. “She was shot and left to die alone? That poor baby.” Maggie sniffed, suddenly feeling protective of the strange girl. “No wonder you boys are so concerned. Who would do such a thing?” “I don’t know, but I think I’m going to be finding out tomorrow. There’s a man who’s been asking about her. There’s one more thing, too. Get cleaned up and come downstairs. You need to see this.” Maggie walked into the bathroom, and splashed her face with cold water. She quickly got dressed and headed down the steps to the living room where her daughters were obediently watching TV. Maggie stood motionless as she stared at her daughter’s face. Not only was Kelly’s horrid birthmark gone, but also she looked brighter, prettier, and happier than she ever did before. Sobbing, Maggie threw herself into her daughter’s arms, kissing her face and exclaiming amazement. “How did this happen?” she asked, not wanting to stop touching the smooth, flawless skin. “Noelle fixed me, Mama. I like her. I want to go back and play with her. Please?” “Noelle? How? That’s impossible!” Maggie said, still touching. “Oh, I don’t care! Of course, honey. Anytime you want to.” Kelly smiled broadly, looking at her parents. “Really? You’ll let me? Oh, thank you! Can I go tomorrow after school?” “We need to make sure it’s ok with Uncle Lance, sweetheart. She might be in trouble for the fight your sister started,” Alan cautioned her. “Maybe we can all go over tomorrow night. I can bring a lasagna and salad,” Maggie said, looking at her husband hopefully. “Mom, Noelle can’t eat real food,” Kelly cautioned. “Yeah, she drinks out of a bottle like a little baby,” Keren commented distastefully. Alan started to unbuckle his belt, but was stopped by his wife. “Then I will bring her one of my special smoothies. It’s the least I can do. She’s family now.”

Chapter Nine “Thank you for seeing me, Mr. Callahan,” Dr. Hoffner said, reaching to shake Alan’s hand. His eyes widened at the firm, somewhat painful grip, the attorney offered him. It was a warning not to be taken lightly. He had researched Alan Callahan and Theodore Makin as well. They were both forces to be reckoned with in the professional world. Dr. Hoffner knew that he had to approach this issue carefully to ensure their cooperation. “What can I do for you, Dr. Hoffner?” Alan asked suspiciously. “I need to talk with you about Noelle. How is she?” “She is fine. Who are you and what do you want with her?” “I’m her… well… her creator.” “Excuse me?” Dr. Hoffner inhaled deeply. “This has got to remain between us. You need to promise me. It’s an issue of national security, but I can’t go to the government for assistance. Please, has she shown any signs of evolving? Doing things that might be a little unusual?” “She fixes things. Heals them. What do you mean you’re her creator? Are you responsible for trying to kill her?” “Oh, God, no. She was taken from the facility. Before I explain further, please tell me she’s alright.” “She’s very happy and adjusting well to life with my brother. She calls him Daddy, though. Is this your doing?” “Yes. It was, well, intended that she imprint with the first male she could actively identify with. It was supposed to be me, but she did not awaken soon enough to proceed.” He saw Alan’s confusion and continued. “Twenty-five years ago, I was recruited by the government to develop a cloning program in order to develop self-healing soldiers with the ability to absorb and assimilate information instantly. They wanted me to introduce foreign DNA into human cells to try to duplicate…” He paused, frustrated, “I don’t know how to explain this.” “Is she an alien?” Alan asked seriously. “No, not at all,” Dr. Hoffner quickly shook his head, “but she does have remnants of Roswell DNA in her. I took frozen cells from the corpse of the creature they had found and injected them into human mitochondria. That was then grafted into human tissue. The other specimens failed to thrive and ceased forming at 13 years. This particular one survived. It never underwent an infancy stage and grew to full adulthood before it awoke for the first time.” “It? She’s definitely a female.” “She is now. I didn’t know what she was going to be when she started growing, but I secretly used female tissue in the hopes that the clone would develop to that gender. I figured a female would be easier to handle in an experimental clone state than a male. Especially since it would be unpredictable. I used a molecular program to expose her to words, thoughts, ideas and specific rules while she was in-vitro.” “What was different between Noelle and the, uh, specimens you lost?” “The cell tissue was the only variable. I used male tissue from one of the soldiers the government had selected as a donor.” “And for Noelle? Who’s cells did you use?” Alan asked, seeing the man’s distress. “My daughter’s. She was only four. I lost her over twenty years ago. The necklace Noelle was wearing was in memory of my own Noelle. She was born on Christmas Day.”

“I’m sorry, Dr. Hoffner. I have two daughters of my own,” Alan said kindly. “Would you like some coffee?” “Yes, please,” Dr. Hoffner looked straight at Alan, “Mr. Callahan, I’m worried that her talents might cause someone harm.” “Here. Before we talk about that,” Alan said handing him the coffee, “I want to know who shot her and left her to die, and why.” “There were flaws with the clone that were noticeable as she started to awaken. Her liver functions and immunity system were compromised, so we had her under special bilirubin lights and hematocrit injections in order to up her red blood count. She was also very weak and anemic. When she woke up, she maintained the initial characteristics of an older infant of perhaps two years old. I also observed that her reactions were what one would expect from a child of that age group. She was highly intolerant of pain and would scream horrendously during lab draws and injections. One week after her awakening, she grabbed one of the techs by the arm. She killed him with only her touch.” “Damn.” “Exactly. I tried to calm her down, but she was completely driven by instinct. I pleaded with her to listen to me, promising to care for her, and told her I was her grandfather, but she could not comprehend what I was saying. She began to panic as she became more aware and more overstimulated. She did not harm me, but killed another tech who tried to restrain her. Within an hour, I got word from the government to ‘put her down’ because she was too dangerous. I couldn’t murder her. She was… part of me. She was my little girl.” Alan watched the man struggling, trying to hold back the anger that was building inside of him. This was a human being they were talking about, not a science experiment! “Since she was so new from the tank I had grown her in, she had no muscle strength, and could barely hold up her head or sit up straight. She was completely helpless except for being able to reach her arms and kick her legs. I dressed her and tried to get her to walk, but I didn’t have enough time. The feds broke into the lab and I ran, holding her in my arms as they shot at us. I climbed into one of our corridor shafts, lost my footing and slid down to another level. She fell, banging the back of her head against a steel rail, which rendered her unconscious. For two days we hid as I tried to find a way out. She grew weaker by the minute and I was terrified I was going to lose her. I finally found an exit and planned on leaving at nightfall, because her eyes and skin would never be able to tolerate the sun. I decided to try to sleep, and when I woke up she was gone. I haven’t seen her since.” “How do you think she got out if she couldn’t walk? Were you also aware that she was shot outside Area 51 before those two truckers found her?” “Shot? Oh my Lord, no.” “Grazed her right shoulder. She healed quickly from that, though.” “She’s able to self-repair. I’m guessing she may have crawled out before she was found. In her weakened state, plus subjected to direct sunlight with newborn skin, she would not have made it through the day. They probably shot to disable her and make it look like an accident.” “I gather the government is still searching for her.” “Yes. I hope to find her before they do. They will dispose of her.” “She’s under legal custody of my brother and our family. She’s not going anywhere. Not even with you. If I have to, I will take this to court and expose the whole operation.” “You can’t do that. The feds will silence all of you.”

“Dr. Hoffner, I did not achieve success in my profession by being stupid. Everything you said here has been recorded and sent to several recipients for protection. Should anything happen to Noelle, or one of us, this information will be leaked to the media. Now, you can either work with me to protect her, or not. Your choice.” “Mr. Callahan, when the word shark appears in the dictionary, I believe it has your picture next to it,” Dr. Hoffner frowned. “I’ll help you. But first, she has to be neutralized. We can’t risk her killing anyone else because she’s frightened or has a temper tantrum. If she comes into physical contact with them, they’re dead.” “Why doesn’t everything she touches die, then?” Alan asked doubtfully. “The clone’s… Noelle’s DNA is preset to use what may be best described as training wheels,” Dr. Hoffner explained. “It’s a protection mechanism to prevent burning herself out. She will instinctively find a way to keep from touching living things as she becomes cognizant and develops her abilities. Whatever methods she uses will prevent her from either healing or killing.” “So she won’t be able to do anything as long as she’s using her method?” “It will make it very difficult for her, Mr. Callahan, but I doubt it will completely cut her off. I don’t know how long it will take her to mature so she can voluntarily control herself. This is why neutralization is essential.” “Why the hell didn’t you think of adding Thou Shalt Not Kill to her program, you idiot?!” Alan bellowed. Dr. Hoffner winced. He cleared his throat and looked at Alan straight in the eye. “I forgot.” “Freakin’ moron! You need to speak with Lance about this. I’m warning you. Don’t hurt my brother. He loves that woman and she loves him.” “Loves him? But she’s…” “A woman. A human being. They are meant to be together. You talked about imprinting like Noelle was nothing more than a duck. Well, I have news for you. There is no imprinting. They love each other and I am NOT going to let anyone, including you, tear them apart.” Dr. Hoffner bit his tongue. How could the clone evolve so quickly? It wasn't old enough to be able to love. *

*

*

“Ok, young lady. Time for our talk about yesterday. Go up to my room and wait for me, please.” Lance said after coming home from work that evening. Noelle’s smile disappeared, and with Bunny in her arms she turned silently to obey. “Lance, normally I wouldn’t interfere, but she was provoked. She’s never been exposed to that before as far as we know, so she never learned how to ignore it,” Todd intervened. “I agree, Lance. She was quiet until Keren insulted you.” “Let me guess. She fixed your sprained ankle,” Lance lifted his eyebrow at Todd, “and sat with you to watch TV so you wouldn’t feel alone. Both of you know my rules and the reasons I insist on them. Now, excuse me while I tend to my charge.” He rolled his eyes at their disapproving expressions. “I’m not a beast. You know as well as I do that she needs strong boundaries, especially with this special ability. I just wish I knew how she does it. I’ve heard of

cases of damaged tissue restoration using telepathic manipulation to induce bio-chemical regeneration, but it’s been revealed as a hoax.” “Damn, Lance, you sound like a freakin’ science geek. Listen, buddy, this is no hoax. Freaky, yes. Terrifying, to say the least. But it’s real. And it needs to stay under wraps. We don’t know the toile it takes on her to put forth that type of energy,” Todd advised. “I’d rather her not do it at all. She’s not strong enough yet to take care of herself, let alone others. You really believe this?” Lance sat, hands on his cheeks. “We saw it. It’s real. She also said she could not disobey your orders regarding whom she can or cannot harm. It sounded like she… was programmed. A Prime Directive.” “Damn it, Todd, this is not Star Trek. Get your head out of the clouds and give me some advice as to how to protect her and this family.” “I don’t know what to tell you, sorry.” “Ok, unless you have something better, I am going with my original idea. And that is placing boundaries and enforcing them. Excuse me while I handle my little girl, please.” Lance trudged upstairs and paused before entering his bedroom. Noelle was sitting on the edge of his high bed, feet dangling and gripping Bunny tightly to her body. He sat down next to her, saying nothing for a few minutes. “I don’t know what to do with you, Noelle. How can I trust you not to harm someone? Can you even control it?” “I can’t. You told me not to.” “You need to explain further. I…. excuse me,” he pulled his cell phone from his pocket. It was his brother. Lance stood up, frowning as he spoke quietly and walked to the other side of the room. He met Noelle’s worried expression and winked at her, bringing a relieved smile to her face. He put his brother on hold. “Noelle, we will talk about this later. Will you please tell Kathy and Todd that Alan and his family are coming over this evening with dinner?” “Even Keren?” “Yes. Don’t look at me like that. We aren’t done with this. Move along, now.” After Noelle left, Lance returned to the call. “So what was this nut saying? That Noelle is a clone equipped with alien DNA and built to be a weapon? Did you call the cops on him?” “Lance… I believed him. Wait, I know it’s bizarre, but let’s look at the facts. He wants to protect his little girl. He said you can neutralize her abilities.” “We’ll talk about this when you get here. I’ll need Todd to help hold you down so we can get you ready to be hauled to the Looney bin.” “I want you to meet with him. Tomorrow. Bring Noelle.” “No.” “Lance, if what he says is true, are you willing to take the chance on her killing someone? He thinks she has the potential to evolve into an intuitive being. I think that has already started. When we were in the hospital, that man came in with a stomachache and had an aneurism. She knew it hit him before he even showed the signs.” “That was a coincidence. Stop it, Alan.” “I’m not going to stop it. You, Noelle, Todd and I will meet with Dr. Hoffner at 9am tomorrow morning in my office.” “I’m not taking Noelle anywhere.” “We’ll talk about this when I get there, but you will be going, little brother. As your legal counsel, and as Noelle’s executor, I insist upon it.”

Lance hung up the phone, fuming. He hated when Alan pulled the little brother/lawyer card. He looked outside, scanning the vast desert bathed in the late afternoon light. What if this were true? Then what could he do? Kathy noticed her brother’s solemnness as he straightened up the living room for company. She wrapped her arms around his waist and squeezed him. “Wanna talk?” Her heart jumped as she saw tears in his eyes. Something was dreadfully wrong. “I can’t right now, but thanks.” “Daddy? Can I have my bottle before Keren gets here so she won’t make fun of me?” Noelle asked, unaware of Lance’s depression. “Yes. I’ll make it for you,” he said quietly, going into the kitchen. He returned to the living room and sat down on the couch, patting his lap. “Sit here and let me hold you.” Todd and Kathy looked at each other as the tall man rocked the tiny young woman in his arms, holding her bottle like she was an infant Tears dripped down his cheeks as he embraced her. “Why are you crying, Daddy?” Noelle asked, sitting up and tossing her bottle and bunny down. “I’m scared, baby. For you… for us… for our family. There is a man saying he knows you and I’m afraid he’s going to want to take you away.” He looked at Todd and Kathy. “He wants me to neutralize her, whatever that means.” “Lance, don’t you worry about it. We won’t allow anything to happen to her,” Todd said, touching Noelle’s knee. “You don’t understand. He might have… rights… to her.” “She’s not a piece of property, Lance. No one is taking our girl away from any of us,” Kathy spouted. “It’s complicated. I just… I love you, Noelle. I don’t want to lose you. I just found you.” “I love you too, Lance. I love this entire family and I don’t intend to be lost. I won’t allow that to happen.” Noelle’s voice had an unusual strength to it that none of them had heard before. “How did this guy find you, Lance?” Todd asked. “Hart. The jerk hates me and wants to destroy me,” Lance said bitterly. Noelle’s face reddened angrily. “He was that mean doctor from the hospital who always says rude things about people. I will not allow him to hurt you, Lance! He’s not family. He’s nothing.” “You aren’t going anywhere near him, honey. Don’t worry,” Kathy said nervously. “I don’t need to be near him. He hurt my family!” Lance’s sixth sense started to tingle. “Calm down, Noelle. I don’t want to upset you by telling you these things. What are you doing?” “Fixing you. Your head and neck hurts.” “How did you know?” Lance asked, feeling her hand on his face. The pain disappeared immediately. She was becoming intuitive, just like Alan said she would. Damnit. He was right. Lance pulled the girl against his chest, resting his chin on the top of her head and began to pray. Alan and his family entered the house at about six that evening. Kelly immediately ran to hug Noelle before approaching her aunt and uncles. Keren held back with her mother while Alan said his hellos. He beckoned to his wife. “Maggie, this is Noelle.” “Pleased to meet you, ma'am. I’m sorry about your stomach. Do you want me to fix it?” “What are you talking about?” Maggie looked confused.

“You have something in your stomach. It’s not supposed to be there.” “I… uh… Lance?” Maggie looked at him helplessly. “What is she talking about?” “We’ll explain later. Meanwhile, it couldn’t hurt for me to feel around. Lay down on the couch. Tell me if anything bothers you. Where is it, Noelle?” he asked suspiciously, eying his brother’s worried face. She pointed to the lower right quadrant. Gently, he pressed. No reaction. That is, until he released the pressure. Maggie yelped painfully. “Great. You still have your appendix, don’t you?” “Yes, but nothing’s been bothering me… OW. Stop it, Lance.” “Noelle? Can you really fix this?” he asked, looking at her. She nodded with a smile, touching Maggie’s stomach gently. “You’re better. No more hurt,” Noelle announced, picking up her bunny and stepping back. Lance confirmed the absence of the rebound pain and stared at his sister-in-law. “Noelle might have just saved your life, Maggie. It could have ruptured without you even knowing it would happen,” he said quietly. “How can this be? I don’t understand,” Maggie said, sitting up and looking at the quiet girl on the couch. She still had a little smile on her face. “We don’t quite know. What are you smiling about? You look like the cat who just swallowed the canary, young lady,” Lance asked, eyeing her. Noelle stood up on the couch to whisper something into his ear. His eyes widened. “No way! Really? Maggie? Did you know you are pregnant?” “What?!” everyone in the room exclaimed. Maggie blushed, nodding. “I didn’t want to say anything until I was sure. Surprise?” Alan rushed her, covering her with kisses. “Oh, baby. Why didn’t you tell me? Can I get you anything?” “I’m fine. I’m better than fine,” Maggie eyed her husband. He bit his lip. Noelle had also healed her bruises. “Maybe you’ll get a boy this time, big brother. Congratulations,” Kathy said, genuinely happy for him. Noelle whispered something else in Lance’s ear, making him laugh. “Now what?” Alan asked. Lance hugged his brother tightly and whispered, “Try TWO boys.” “Another set of twins? Oh God… I’m too old for this,” Alan groaned, making his family laugh. The first set had him going around the clock and exhausted him. “Kathy? Can we talk? Alone?” Maggie asked, touching the younger woman’s arm. Kathy nodded, trying not to show her feelings regarding her sister-in-law or the disappointment that it was not her receiving the blessing. Maggie took her hand and led her into Lance’s office, closing the door. “I just wanted to tell you that I’m sorry. I misjudged you. I’ve been horrid to you and have no excuse except for jealousy. Please forgive me.” “Jealous of what? You have everything a woman could ever want, plus two more children on the way. I don’t understand.” “Alan raised you to be the perfect, submissive wife and I felt like I could never live up to his expectations. He never asked me to be you, but I assumed that was what he wanted because of how he brought you up. It was my insecurities that started this mess between us.” “Alan saw my strengths and just encouraged them. That’s all. I’m not as submissive as you might think. He’s broken plenty of spoons paddling my behind every time I defied him. Believe me, I did that plenty. I still do,” Kathy giggled, seeing Maggie’s surprise. “Do you think

he was coming over here to just hang out all the time? No, he was coming over to spank the daylights out of me…” “He was? I had no idea. But Todd…” “My wonderful brothers talked Todd into doing it now, too,” Kathy groaned. “You have no inkling as to how much trouble I get into. That is, until we got Noelle. She’s a special little lady, that one.” “She is. So, are we ok?” Maggie asked timidly. Kathy embraced her. “More than ok, mama. We’re sisters.” Todd elbowed the other two men as the women emerged from the study. “It looks like Noelle heals more than just the body. She also heals the heart.” “I’ll give her partial credit for that. The other half is the power of a good spanking,” Alan grumped, hiding his joy. The family sat happily around the dining table. Except for Keren. She looked angrier than ever and fidgeted uncomfortably on the hard chair. “Keren? Aren’t you going to eat?” Alan asked. “I’m not hungry, Dad.” “I can fix you, Keren,” Noelle offered. “Ok…” “No. Noelle, you are not to fix anything that was put there on purpose unless one of the adults here specifically tells you to, understand? And spankings are never to be fixed. Ever.” Lance ordered. “But Daddy, what if it’s one of the adults?” Noelle looked confused, eyeing Maggie. “No. Spankings are supposed to hurt for a while, otherwise they won’t do any good.” Keren blushed, sinking in her chair as Noelle looked at her. “Yes, Daddy. I’m sorry, Keren.” “Noelle? Couldn’t you make a little bit of the hurt go away?” Kathy asked, her eyes pleading with her brother, “It’s a happy occasion, Alan. I want Keren to enjoy it with us.” “No. She was punished and now she needs to deal with it.” “I’m sorry, Aunt Kathy, but I can’t go against what Daddy says. Not with fixing things.” “Can’t or won’t?” Todd asked with curiosity. “I can’t. If he tells me no, I’m turned off.” “You aren’t a machine, honey. What do you mean, turned off?” Todd leaned forward. “I wonder…” Alan pondered, “Maybe it’s Lance’s orders that neutralize her. Lance?” “What, Alan?” Lance asked, lovingly studying the beautiful girl across from him. “Give her an order to fix Keren.” “Fine. Noelle, you can fix Keren.” “No, Daddy. I can’t. Not anymore.” “It’s ok. Fix Keren.” “I’m sorry, Lance, but no. I cannot,” Noelle said firmly, tossing Bunny on the floor under the table. She looked angry. “You told me not to!” “Leave her alone. You are confusing the child,” Maggie scolded. “I’m sorry, darling, I… excuse me, I have to get this.” Lance said, his cell phone ringing. His brow wrinkled into a heavy frown as he listened to the caller, then his face paled as he looked at Noelle. She was still scowling with her arms crossed, looking down at her lap. “Certainly, Lou… ok, thanks for calling. Bye.”

Lance sat down slowly in his chair, staring at Noelle. Kathy grabbed his arm. “Lance? What’s wrong?” “That was Lou Black from the hospital. Stuart Hart is dead.”

Chapter Ten “Did you hurt Dr. Hart, Noelle?” Lance forced out. Noelle didn’t answer. “Noelle! Did you hurt Stuart Hart?!” Lance shouted, his low voice reverberating through the kitchen. Noelle’s eyes teared as she slowly looked up at Lance, her lower lips trembling fearfully. She tried to reach down for Bunny but couldn’t break from his stare. “Damnit, Noelle! Answer me!!!!” Lance slammed the table with his hand as he stood, leaning across it to stare in her face. Noelle burst into tears, too frightened to say anything. She broke away and sprinted up to her room, sobbing loudly. The rest of the family was silent as the upstairs bedroom door slammed. “Lance, calm down! You’re terrifying the children!” Kathy scolded. “Uncle Lance, Noelle wouldn’t hurt anyone! How could you be so mean?” Kelly yelled as tears spouted from her eyes. Kathy pulled her niece onto her lap to sooth her. “Lance, you need to think this out. Everyone she’s healed, she had to physically touch. The only thing she killed was that rose, and she even had to touch that. What was the cause of death? Did he say?” Todd asked, squeezing Keren’s hand. “No. How could I be so stupid? I put my whole family at risk because I was lonely. I’m sorry,” Lance muttered unhappily, sitting back in his chair and holding his head in his hands. He felt his heart breaking all over again. “Little brother, I’ve never known you to give up on someone so quickly. Todd’s right. She has to touch the individual. I think it was this stupid thing,” Alan held up the bunny, “that may have been her way to keep from touching.” “Big brother, that woman has been the best thing that’s happened to you and this family in a long time. You deserve her! Don’t screw this up because you’re jumping to conclusions,” Kathy reproached him. “Uncle Lance? I like her. Please don’t let her go away,” Keren said quietly, leaning against Todd’s shoulder. “The votes are in, “ Alan said firmly. “None of us want to lose her after we all just found her. Don’t do this to yourself, or us. You need her as much as she needs you. She’s everything you’ve ever wanted and more.” “Dad? Noelle can’t hurt herself, can she? Uncle Lance didn’t tell her she wasn’t allowed to do that,” Kelly said with concern. “Shit, she’s right! Excuse me,” Lance said in a panic, rushing from the table in fear that his precious little girl might have caused herself harm because of him. “Mom, Uncle Lance said a bad word,” Keren whispered, stunned. “Shhh, he’s scared. Sometimes grown-ups say and do things that we shouldn’t because we don’t have moms and dads to go to for help,” Maggie explained sadly, watching as Alan and Todd ran after the man, Bunny in hand. They skidded to a halt at Noelle’s door. Lance stood, staring at the window. “She’s gone,” he said numbly, blankly gazing at the back yard and the starlit sky. “Gone? It’s freezing out there! Hurry and get your jacket. I think I know where she might be,” Todd ordered, yanking Lance to follow and grabbing a blanket. The three ran to the jogging path and started climbing the steep incline. “I can’t believe you run this trail every day,” Todd panted, tripping on a rock. “I am so out of shape,” Alan complained, unable to keep up with Lance.

“Noelle? Oh Lord, Noelle! Please answer me, baby. I’m sorry,” Lance hollered as he ran up the path. “Is she up there?” Alan yelled. “I don’t see her. NOELLE! Answer me! I love you, baby. Please, forgive me,” Lance called frantically, his heart pounding. “I didn’t hurt him, Lance,” came a quiet, weak voice to his left. Noelle was curled up into a ball next to a boulder, shivering with cold. Lance dropped to his knees and pulled her close to him. “I’m so sorry, my love. I should not have acted that way. I was scared.” “I can’t hurt anyone without touching them. And you told me that you would get hurt if I did try to hurt somebody. I can’t hurt you,” Noelle tried desperately to explain. Trying to catch his breath, Alan leaned over and handed her the Bunny. “Do you need Bunny to keep you from touching people?” he asked, sitting on the ground next to his brother. “No, Uncle Alan. Daddy? Hold me. I’m so cold.” “Guys? It’s not the toy, it’s where the toy puts her. Look, she’s a child again.” Todd observed, joining them on the hard ground and wrapping the blanket around her shoulders. “Fascinating. Ok, let’s get home and figure out our battle strategy. I want to make sure this little girl doesn’t end up back in Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory,” Alan commented, standing. He tucked the blanket securely around the girl held safely in Lance’s arms and the four of them headed back to the house. *

*

*

Lance paced nervously in Alan’s office the next morning as they waited on the arrival of Dr. Hoffner. At Alan’s insistence, Noelle was dressed in her youngest looking outfit, hair in two ponytails and holding her ever-present Bunny. He wanted to make sure there were no accidents. He even suggested her wearing a diaper, but was quickly voted down. “Daddy? Can I sit on your lap? I need hugs,” Noelle asked, watching him march restlessly. Lance paused and nodded, pulling her onto his lap and sweetly kissing her neck. “I love you, baby girl. You’re mine forever, right?” “Yes, Lance. Through and through,” came the adult response, despite the attire and the toy. Both Todd and Alan gulped. The false sense of protection from her ‘gift’ was gone. “Promise me that you will not hurt anyone unless you or one of your family is in danger. I don’t want you to hurt this man unless I tell you to, ok? I don’t trust him.” “I promise, Lance. Do you want a big girl or a little girl right now?” “I need my little girl.” “I need my Daddy,” little-girl Noelle said. Lance tightened his hold on her when the knock came to the door. “Come on in, Dr. Hoffner. This is my brother-in-law, Todd Makin and my brother, Lance Callahan. You know Noelle, of course.” “Noelle? What happened to you?” the man stood, falling to the ground and placing his hands on her arms as he stared at her. “My God, you’re beautiful.” Dr. Hoffner looked at her, marveling at the change in her appearance. When he had last seen her, she was a pruney, little waif with stringy white hair and over-sized pale blue eyes.

“I’m supposed to call you Grandfather, aren’t I?” Noelle asked, holding her bunny, “I’m not leaving Daddy. I’m all his now.” “You certainly are. I can see that. You remember me?” “I remember your voice and your face. You hurt me.” “I know I did, I’m sorry. I really was trying to help you. Do you know what happened after I saw you last?” “I woke up on the ground in the sun and two men shot at me,” Noelle answered, chin held high as the violet eyes stared directly, and fearlessly, at him. “I can’t get over the changes in her. She is completely unrecognizable. This is your doing, Dr. Callahan. The clone has definitely imprinted with you. Amazing!” “What are you talking about?” Lance snarled, his sixth sense buzzing. He touched Noelle’s shoulder, comforting her agitation. “She’s genetically designed to develop the characteristics required by her creator. Since she imprinted with you, rather than me, she will evolve into your perfect mate- physically, mentally and emotionally. Even this, the child persona, came from your need to nurture, protect and guide. You’re probably a bit of a control freak, aren’t you, Doctor?” “Some people think so,” Lance grumbled. His perfect mate? That was too much to hope for. “Noelle, do you know how to fix things when you touch them?” Dr. Hoffner asked. “I’m not allowed to hurt you right now. Daddy said so.” “Can you disobey him?” “Not unless I want a spanking,” Noelle answered seriously. “I don’t like spankings.” “You spanked her? And she didn’t harm you?” Dr. Hoffner asked incredulously. “She was disciplined in love, and knows it,” Lance said, trying to control his fury, “What do you want with her? She’s not going back to you. Not ever.” “Dr. Callahan… gentlemen… please, believe me. I can’t have her back, even if I wanted to. She requires you to continue her growth, plus, the government will harm her if they knew she was still alive. I promise, after today, you won’t see or hear from me again,” Dr. Hoffner said with a touch of sadness, reaching for Noelle’s hands. “Access me, Noelle. You can do it. Touch my mind.” “What are you doing?” Lance asked. Todd grabbed him as he rushed towards the two to break up whatever Dr. Hoffner had started. “Let go of her!” Noelle’s eyes were locked with the old man’s, unblinking as she obeyed silently. His knowledge of her existence poured into her consciousness, giving her the information she needed to answer questions about herself. Her large, violet eyes grew sad and a tear fell from one. Dr. Hoffner released her and stood up slowly. “Don’t worry, she can perform a neurological synaptic transfer once. It simply gives her an understanding of her past, which will help settle any questions that might arise as she matures. Please, do whatever you can to keep her safe.” Everyone was silent as he touched the girl’s cheek and picked up his coat. “I don’t think you’ll have to worry about the government now. She no longer meets the description of the clone that turned up missing. With her new name and the fingerprints that she should fully develop soon, I’m hoping she can use this to create a new life.” Dr. Hoffner handed Alan a manila envelope. In it was his deceased daughter’s hospital records, birth certificate and social security card. Her date of birth was Christmas morning at 12:01 AM, twenty-two years earlier. “I don’t understand.” Lance said, looking at the papers.

“This is all that’s left of my daughter’s existence. I’ve erased all computer files referring to her and created this birth certificate to match the age listed on your court records. She can be legally identified now as Noelle Careen Hoffner.” “AKA Noelle Simone Callahan,” Alan said softly. “This neutralizing effect. What should we expect?” “I think as long as she is able to use her mechanism, she’ll be ok. You’ve already discovered the best way to do that. Noelle? I know you’re happy with this family. Treat them well, ok?” “Yes, Grandfather. I’m sorry. I know how much it hurts you to leave me. You loved your own Noelle very much. Now you have to lose her twice,” the girl said tenderly, clinging to Lance’s hand as he stood silently. The man’s eyes welled up with tears as he touched her face one last time. “Life is too precious to waste. Please take care of her. She’s all I have left.” He turned to leave, his sorrow evident. “Wait. Would you care to join us for dinner this evening? I’m sure my sister won’t mind cooking for one more person tonight,” Lance choked out, gripping Noelle’s hand tightly. “I’m confused. I mean…” “Lance is right. We would love to have you. Please consider it,” Alan said, wrapping his arm around his brother’s shoulders. “The three of us know what it feels like to face losing someone we love. Despite the, uh, unusual circumstance of her birth, you are still related to her. Join us. I insist.” “Plus, I think it would be good to have you available to identify any potential problems that we might experience as she, how did you express it? Evolves,” Todd said seriously. “Noelle? I know you don’t completely understand what happened when you were with me. Do I frighten you?” “No, Grandfather,” Noelle answered firmly, snuggling into Lance’s side. Dr. Hoffner looked up at the three tall men as they waited for his response. A grateful smile swept over his face, “I am forever in your debt for this. Thank you so much.” “You’re family now, Dr. Hoffner. Noelle? You know what that means, don’t you?” “He can spank me?” Noelle answered fearfully, looking up at Lance with her big violet eyes. He laughed. “One track mind nowadays. No honey, it means you cannot hurt him.” “I won’t, Daddy. I promise.” “She won’t. And please, call me William.”

Chapter Eleven William sat quietly, watching the family interact with one another. They had been warm and gracious towards him, immediately taking him in as one of their own. Even Alan’s twin girls started to call him ‘grandpa’ after their first introduction three weeks earlier. Mostly, he observed Noelle. She was shy and fairly quiet, completely immersed in her child state. “Noelle? Have you eaten solid food yet?” he asked, watching her drink out of her Sippy cup. “No, Grandpa. It’s too hard to swallow.” “Would you like to? I think Lance would enjoy taking you out to a big girl dinner one day, but he can’t until you can eat.” “Would that make Daddy happy?” Noelle looked at Lance. “Yes, I think it would. Maybe we can even get you eating before Christmas. Come sit on my lap and let’s try this. Lance? Could you hand me some bread, please?” “Do you think this will work?” he asked, sitting next to them on the couch. William nodded and placed the girl’s hand on his throat as he took a bite. Noelle watched him carefully, feeling his muscles move as he chewed and swallowed. He then placed her hand on her own throat and put a small piece of bread into her mouth. Slowly, Noelle felt herself copy his actions, concentrating on the movement and muscles in her mouth and throat. She swallowed and broke into a smile. William handed her a second piece, watching her carefully take a bite, chew and swallow. “This is good!” she exclaimed, going for a third bite of the roll. Lance grinned, “Tactile learning? Like how the deaf are taught to speak. Amazing. I never would have thought of it. Now, if I can get her to like hot and spicy food, I’ll finally have someone who won’t wimp out on me when I go for Szechuan or Thai.” “We’re nor wimps, Lance. We just don’t get masochistic thrills about having our mouths, or anything else, set on fire,” Alan commented, hugging Maggie. “Give her time, she’ll develop the taste for whatever you need. I have noticed something, though. She’s a little defiant. What’s with that?” William asked, watching the girl grab another roll from the kitchen and return to the living room to enjoy it. “Beats me. She’s completely obedient regarding her ability, but definitely seems to have a mind of her own with everything else,” Lance said, pointing at Noelle’s feet on the furniture. She quickly removed them. “Is that part of the programming?” “Not at all. The clones were supposed to be blindly obedient. Even when faced with negative consequences, you can tell she makes her own choices.” “Not always good ones, either.” Todd said, tugging Noelle’s ponytail, “She got herself spanked the other day for sassing back at me.” “Interesting. What did she say?” William asked, watching the girl blush. “She informed me that I was not the boss of her and to go screw myself. This was after I told her to clean her room.” “She did not! Why didn’t you tell me? Noelle!” Lance frowned, watching the girl shirk. Todd touched his arm. “It was taken care of. She was put across my knee, had those little panties yanked down and got a good thrashing on her bare bottom by yours truly. It was followed by corner time.”

“You’ve become such a meanie,” Kathy tsked. “You threatened to paddle me the other day, too.” “I’m sure you deserved it, little sister,” Alan grunted. “Is this unexpected? Her being able to make choices and think for herself?” “It is. She’s become her own person. There seems to be a distinct line between where the imprint works and where it has no control. Sorry, Lance. She might not be as perfect as we had hoped.” “She’s perfect to me. I don’t mind the occasional naughtiness. It keeps me on my toes,” Lance admitted, beckoning to the girl. She quickly climbed into his arms and softly kissed his lips. “So, William, you are planning on joining us for Christmas, right?” “Absolutely. What’s wrong, Noelle?” She was looking at the door with a frown. “Someone’s coming, Grandpa. Someone bad. They want to hurt us.” “Who, honey? Maggie, take the girls upstairs with Kathy, please. Call the cops and tell them to send Detective Collins,” Todd said quickly, “Stay up there until we call for you. I’m getting my gun,” he said quietly to the men. “Can you tell us who’s coming, Noelle?” Alan asked, peering out the window. Noelle stood up, her eyes a brilliant purple as she looked at the door. “They can’t hurt you. You’re family. Daddy? Let me protect you.” “Sweetie, I…” A loud noise sounded as the front door was kicked in and two men carrying guns bounded into the room. “Freeze!” one demanded, aiming his gun at Todd, “Drop your weapon.” “Who are you and how dare you come into my home!” Lance roared, pushing Noelle behind him. A third man walked through the door, scanning the room. “There’s the clone. Kill it.” “You will not touch her! She is mine.” Lance growled, standing angrily with his brother, Todd and William beside him. “No, we won’t touch it. It can kill us. But not if it’s exterminated first. Move aside, Dr. Callahan. You don’t want to accidentally get caught in gun fire,” the man said threateningly. Lance snarled and suddenly felt his sixth sense tingling. He had to trust his instincts. “I am not allowing you to harm her. Leave now and you’ll be safe.” “We’ll leave after that monster is dead and packed in a body bag.” “Daddy? May I have your permission?” Noelle asked behind him. “Yes, my love, you certainly may.” Lance answered, not removing his eyes from the guns aimed at them. The sense of something ‘off’ increased. He watched, dumbfounded, as the unarmed man’s eyes began to bulge as he lifted his hand to his throat. He slowly fell to the ground, gasping for breath. “Let him go, Noelle. Now!” Alan barked, staring as the man’s face turn from red to blue as his air was cut off. Noelle obeyed and the man lunged forward, hands on the floor, panting. Lights from outside indicated the police had arrived, and six officers barged inside, confiscating the weapons from the two frozen assailants. The two had blank expressions as they were cuffed and pushed outside, as their leader babbled about the ‘monster’ and how the girl almost killed him. Lance stepped forward, introducing himself as a physician and director of Psychiatry for CMH. “It’s my professional opinion that this individual has succumbed to some sort of mental breakdown. I wish to place him on 72 hour hold at County Mental for evaluation. He is not to be

released until I clear him,” Lance demanded, feeling his sixth sense continue to tingle and wondering what it was about. He reached around to pull Noelle tightly against his side, feeling her shake as she clung to him. “I also wish to file charges against these individuals for breaking and entering, destruction of private property, and assault with a deadly weapon.” Todd added, “This is our attorney. He will ensure that none of these men are released or files dropped. The house is under video surveillance and all actions were recorded the second they broke through the door. The media will be notified if any of these individuals disappear.” “No worries, Mr. Makin, we will take good care of these goons,” one of the men promised, winking at his old friend. “I’m also assuming you have your cameras set to duplicate files?” “Absolutely. Get that jerk out of this child’s sight. He terrified her,” Todd requested, shaking the man’s hand. After the police hauled the man out of the house, he turned to his brothers-in-law. “Detective Collins will make sure they go nowhere. I trust him. Are you ok?” “Pissed, but fine. Noelle? Are you alright, baby?” Lance asked, squatting down to face her as she trembled wildly under his hand. She broke into tears. “I’m sorry, Daddy. I’m sorry!” “About what, sugar plum? You didn’t do anything.” “I broke them. I broke all of them. I’m sorry!!!” she began to cry hysterically, slumping into a quaking ball at his feet. “I don’t understand. Shhh, it’s ok. William? What’s happening?” Lance asked, seeing the sadness on the old man’s face. “Noelle, my finger’s bleeding. Will you fix it?” William asked after slicing his finger on a sliver of glass. “I can’t, Grandpa. I broke them,” she continued to cried. “No, honey. You didn’t break them. You broke yourself. It’s ok. Everything will be fine.” William cooed, stroking her hair. He looked up at the three worried men that were joined by the rest of the family, “She burned herself out saving us. It’s gone. Her ability is gone.” Lance said nothing as he lifted Noelle’s face to his. His lips pressed gently against hers and he kissed her slowly and passionately, not caring that he had an audience. She joined him, wrapping her little arms around his neck. Everyone started to clap. “Stop it.” Lance ordered, his face flushed. He lifted the girl into his arms as he stood up. “Get that door fixed and let’s have dinner. I’m famished.” *

*

*

“Are you sure you are ready to do this?” Alan asked his brother as he prepared for his date. “It’s going to take things to a whole different level.” “Alan, it’s our first real date. I need to see how she does in public now that she’s not a threat. We’ll be fine. Hand me a tie, won’t you?” “Remember your first date? You were so nervous that you wanted to puke,” Alan teased, wrapping the tie around his brother’s collar and starting to knot it for him, “I thought you were going to pass out on me.” “You’ve always been there for me, big brother. I really appreciate you. Thanks for sticking this thing out with Noelle. I don’t know what I would have done without your help.”

“We’re family, Lance. The people who tried to hurt Noelle are permanently locked away in a mental hospital, we won the lawsuit against the government which should produce a nice fat check to make even our little sister do summersaults, and you are the happiest I’ve seen you since Kathy was a kid. I can tell something is still bothering you, though. What is it?” “Stuart Hart. Do you think she was telling me the truth? You saw what she did to those men.” “Yes, I believe her. Stuart died from a self-inflicted injury. He was a bitter old man who couldn’t be happy unless others were miserable. He was jealous of you, and his own insecurities and hatred put his neck in that noose, not you and not Noelle. Let it go, little brother. Tonight’s supposed to be a happy one.” “You always know how to say the right thing. How do I look?” “If I weren’t happily married, I’d date you,” his brother teased. The two men met Todd and William downstairs. “Where are the girls?” Alan asked. “All four of them are helping Noelle get ready for her date. You would think it was prom night or something.” Todd laughed, handing Lance a partial glass of wine, which was downed immediately. “Nervous, bro?” “A little. I… oh, Lord,” Lance froze mid-sentence as Noelle came downstairs in a formfitting violet cocktail dress. She had low heels on and her hair was done in ringlets around her face. She positively glowed. “You are breathtaking,” Lance choked out, his manhood immediately starting to grow. “Watch out before you embarrass yourself, big brother,” Kathy whispered. Lance blushed, feeling like he was 16 again. “I can’t believe how lovely you are. I want you to have this, granddaughter.” William said, handing her a long box. In it was a silver necklace shaped like a snowflake with a shimmering gem in the center. “It’s beautiful, Grandpa! Thank you. Put it on me, please.” “It’s a special stone. I found it in Roswell when I appropriated my samples. It stayed in your tank as you were grown and developed into this. I’ve carried it with me all this time and I had it placed in this setting. Consider it an early birthday present.” He adjusted it to hang under her ‘Noelle’ necklace and stepped back to admire her. “Noelle, it’s the same exact color of your eyes! It’s so pretty,” Keren and Kelly exclaimed, touching it delicately. Noelle hugged the twins happily. “Thanks for helping me. I don’t know how to do any of this on my own yet.” “Just relax and have fun. Don’t let him hog the conversation,” Maggie advised, adjusting a curl. “I feel like she’s one of my babies going on a first date,” she said as she started to cry. “Hormones. There, there, pumpkin…” Alan groaned, holding his wife between him and the newly forming baby bulge. He tossed the keys to his car to Lance, “Take my car tonight and get out of here before we end up having an emotional breakdown. She’s got Katherine crying already.” Lance quickly exited the house with Noelle on his arm and helped her into Alan’s BMW. “Are you as nervous as I am?” Lance asked as they started towards the city. “Yes. I’ve never been away from my little girl for very long,” Noelle admitted, longing for the comfort of her bunny.

“Me, neither,” Lance laughed. “How have you been feeling without your special abilities?” “Strange. Although… it’s nice not having to get those nasty shots… I hate shots.” “I know. William and I guessed that the chemicals in your body that enabled your abilities were draining you. You’ve also been behaving yourself so well. What’s with that?” “I hate spankings even more than I hate shots,” Noelle wrinkled her nose, unconsciously squirming in her seat. “I would think so. William talked me out of hot and spicy tonight, so we’re going to try something different. Do you still remember how to speak French?” “Oui, monsieur. Et vous?” “Tres bien!” Lance sounded happy. “Let’s have an evening in Paris, then.” He pulled into the Paris Casino, left the car with the valet, and escorted his date to the Eiffel Tower restaurant. Noelle stared silently from their window seat, watching the sea of twinkling lights below her. “I’ve never seen anything so beautiful,” she whispered, enthralled. “I have,” Lance whispered, encasing her hand in his and gazing into her mesmerizing eyes. Noelle blushed prettily, a tiny, pleased smile on her pink lips. “You’re not too bad yourself, Dr. Callahan,” she teased, testing the waters. His laugh relaxed her. “Before we get too comfortable complementing each other, let’s order. I’m famished.” “You’re always famished,” Noelle grinned. “I don’t know what to get. There’s too many choices.” “Since this is your first experience, we’ll get the Tasting Menu. Do you like salty?” “I don’t know. Do you?” “Yes. I’m indulging tonight. Two for the Tasting Menu and one Golden Osetra, please. Pair it for me as well.” Lance requested. He winked at Noelle’s confused look, “I’ll have the sommelier select wine to go with the meal. You only get a little sip, though.” “Grandpa said I shouldn’t drink wine because I’ll go crazy.” “You’re not going to drink, you will taste.” Lance watched the pleasure on the girl’s face as she experienced French flavors and textures for the first time. She delighted over the caviar, groaned into her Soupe d'Ecrevisse, sighed as the rack of lamb melted in her mouth, and giggled over the Petite Fours. Her eyes widened as she tasted the wines, thoroughly relishing the bouquet and sensation to her palate. Lance had never witnessed anyone appreciate the experience like she did. They were relaxing after the meal, sipping coffee, when they were interrupted. “Lance Callahan! Imagine seeing you here. And with… a child.” The tall, leggy brunette flashed a sensual smile at Lance. Lance stood, hiding his disgust. “Becca. This is Noelle. My date. Noelle, this is Rebecca.” “My, my, you are a young one. And fairly decent looking. Where did he find you? At a daycare center?” Becca released a throaty, demeaning laugh, ignoring Lance’s attempts to silence her without making a scene. “Oh honey, I’m sorry. You look surprised. Didn’t he tell you about us? We were practically engaged,” the woman announced haughtily, perusing Noelle with her eyes. Noelle did not respond other than the narrowing of her violet eyes. “So how have you been, my dear? Do you miss sleeping with an adult woman?” “Keep your hands to yourself, Becca. You’ve been drinking. Where’s your boyfriend?”

“Dropped him a while back. I got tired of slumming at the Rio.” She tossed her long, thick hair over her shoulder, turning her back to Noelle. “Other than this little girl, what are you doing?” “I’m enjoying an evening with a woman I care about. Now, if you would please excuse us, we would like to return to it,” his voice rumbled. “By all means. Watch out, little dolly, he likes to put his sugar in the bowl, but it doesn’t last very long,” Becca snickered before strolling away. “I’m sorry about that, sweetheart. I had no idea she would be here.” “You slept with her? Like in bed?” Noelle asked, her eyes flashing, “What did she mean about sugar and a bowl?” “Shhh, calm yourself. We were involved several years ago and broke up because she cheated on me. Noelle? Talk to me.” “I want to go home.” Noelle fought back tears. “I don’t understand. You have nothing to be jealous about.” “You’re lucky I can’t hurt her. Take me home. Now.” Noelle demanded, hissing under her breath. Lance frowned. “You are over-reacting. I love you. There is nothing between Becca and I.” “Fine. If you won’t take me home, I’m walking,” Noelle said, storming away from the table. “Noelle, come back here. Damn,” Lance snarled, quickly paying the tab and then leaving to find the incensed girl. He started searching, pushing down the anxiety in his heart as he realized this whole environment was beyond her ability to comprehend. He asked around trying to find her, but no one he asked had seen her. Desperate, Lance finally called home for help. “Todd? Put your PI hat on. Noelle got pissed and ran out on me. Where would she go?” “What did you do, old man?” “Becca showed up and Noelle got a taste of the little green monster. She reacted very poorly.” “Poor kid. Ok, look for something familiar. She should migrate towards that.” “She has no idea how to survive in the city, Todd, let alone this city. What am I going to do?” “Get a grip and look around. You’ll find her. She won’t go far. Kathy said her feet still can’t handle walking for long.” “Ok, I’ll let you know. Is Alan still there?” “No, he took your truck and dragged the family home. I was going to take Kath out to see a movie. Do you want me to hang around?” “No, go ahead. I think I know where she is. I’ll talk to you later,” Lance said, eyeing the huge pool at the base of the tower. It was quiet and secluded, with lights reflecting through the water much like his pool at home. Sure enough, he found Noelle sitting alone on a lounge chair, staring at the water with her back to him. Lance took off his jacket and draped it across her shoulders, and sat next to her on the lounge. “Why did you run off? You know that makes me worry.” “Leave me alone.”

“You don’t like being alone, remember? There is nothing to be jealous about. She’s part of my past. And not a good part.” “You didn’t tell me about her.” “We haven’t really had the chance to discuss my past relationships with you. This is your coming out, remember?” “I don’t belong in this world. It’s too much.” “It’s part of growing up, Noelle. Another part is not having tantrums when things don’t go your way. I understand you being jealous, but why take it out on me?” “I need my Daddy.” “I don’t think you want your Daddy right now. Daddy would be spanking you for your terrible behavior.” “I don’t care. I want my Daddy,” she whispered, holding her hands tightly together. Lance wrapped his arm around her shoulders, watching the pool water ripple in the darkness. “Noelle, I don’t want to be Daddy right now. I want to be Lance. I know it’s hard for you, but that is why we are doing this outing together. We need to be able to talk like adults and you need time to learn how to be a big girl,” he said patiently, kissing her cheek. “I wanted to hurt her,” Noelle said again. “She’s already been hurt enough. That’s why she’s such a mean person. Just like Dr. Hart was. I don’t ever want you to be like that, which is why I’m trying to teach you how to do things properly.” “Lance?” “What, sweetheart?” “If I asked you to spank me, would you?” “I can’t punish you for reacting to something that you’ve never seen before. You’re feeling guilty and I don’t know why.” “Because you wanted to spank me for how bad I was. I could tell.” “I did at first, but I have to be fair.” “Then I’ll tell Uncle Alan what happened and how I ran away and worried you,” she threatened, knowing Alan would not have tolerated her reckless behavior, no matter the reason. “Go ahead. You might regret it, but if you insist, I’m not going to stop you,” Lance warned. “Let’s go for a walk and clear our heads. Are you cold?” Both were oblivious to the Christmas decorations and enchanting holiday displays as they struggled with newfound emotions. Lance could tell Noelle’s feet started to hurt her and led her back to the car. “Noelle? Do you love me?” he asked as they started to drive home. “Yes, Lance. You’re my life.” “Then I need you to trust me when I make a decision about you. If I start to second guess myself, then things won’t turn out well.” “If you say so,” she sounded doubtful. “I do.” Lance pulled over on the side of the quiet road and turned the ignition off. He looked at the young woman next to him and saw the glisten in her eyes. “You really feel badly about what happened, don’t you?” “I ruined our date.” “No, Becca did that. You did not know how to act, that’s all.” “Lance, I might be new to this world, but I’m able to understand more than you give me credit for. I watch TV and movies, I see how our family behaves, I read books. I knew the best way to respond to her, I just didn’t want to.”

“Did you, now? You recognized the feeling of jealousy when it came up?” “Well, no. I just felt angry and the need to poke her eyes out.” “But you didn’t do that. See? You made a good choice.” “With her, but then I got mad at you. I’m sorry.” “You really want a spanking to clear your guilt, don’t you?” he sighed. Noelle lowered her face and nodded. “Very well, when we get home, go to my room.” “Yes, Daddy.” “No, Noelle. It’s Lance. Remember that I warned you that spankings from Lance are far worse than those from Daddy,” the man advised. The house was quiet when they arrived and Noelle immediately went upstairs. Conflicted, Lance called his brother. “Alan, I need some help. Do you ever feel this way?” he explained the situation and his contradictory feelings between his two roles. “All the time, buddy. Especially when it comes to Maggie. But I have to do what I feel is best for her and our relationship. If that little girl’s guilt is enough for her to ask to be disciplined, then you need to show her you love her enough to help assuage that guilt. I hesitate to advise this, but it might be one of those times that you break a certain rule. She desperately needs reassurance this time.” “I don’t know how you do it. It’s tough. Ok, thanks. Bye,” Lance hung up the phone and trudged upstairs to his bedroom. Noelle sat on his big bed, holding Bunny. He shook his head. “No Bunny tonight. You are a big girl and will be disciplined like a big girl. I’m reminding you that you requested this, so I don’t want to hear any complaining.” “Yes, Lance. I’m really sorry.” “Stand up and turn around.” Noelle obeyed, turning her back to Lance. He unzipped her dress and peeled it down to the floor. “Step out of your dress, Noelle,” she held his shoulder as he removed the dress from under her feet and tossed it aside. He walked around her as she stood in her shoes, bra and panties. Lance knelt to remove her shoes, glancing up into her face to see her reaction. None yet. She was used to him dressing and undressing her as Daddy. Standing in front of her, he lifted her chin to face him, then reached behind to unsnap her bra, pulling it slowly away. “Don’t hide from me. Put your arms down,” he ordered. He ran his hand slowly across her breasts, gently touching her left nipple. She inhaled sharply, closing her eyes. “Keep your eyes open, Noelle.” He hooked his fingers in the band of her panties and skimmed them down to her ankles, lifting each foot to free her from the material. She stood naked in front of him, the vision of perfection. “Lean over the side of the bed, feet on the floor. Do not move.” Shaking, Noelle obeyed. Lance’s brooding silence frightened her, and the embarrassment of her nudity made her feel completely vulnerable. She shivered as his large hand stroked lightly across the stretched skin of her bottom and her inner thighs. She started to long for the security of being across his knee with his low, firm voice lecturing her about proper and expected behavior. It was much easier to be forced to endure punishment instead of having to wait silently for it. He was right. Lance’s spankings were far worse than Daddy’s, and it hadn’t even started yet. Unsure of what he was going to do, Noelle trembled as Lance paced back and forth behind her. When the first slap of his hand fell, she shrieked with surprise more than pain. The

same hand that burned her bottom also reached to caress it. A second smack fell, catching her other cheek. This, too, was followed by a slow, lingering touch. Lance stood back, looking at the outline of his fingers etched into her snow white skin. He removed his shirt and stood, bare-chested, watching her softly padded rump try to wiggle away the sting. His hand fell again a third, then a fourth time, eliciting a little squeal. Lance pushed her forward and spread her legs slightly so he could clearly see her plump pink lips between her cheeks. She was already quite moist and that pleased him. Noelle looked up and noticed that the closet mirror reflected Lance standing behind her. Her violet eyes widened as he slid the belt from his dress pants and doubled it over in his hand. Frozen, she watched him raise his arm and bring the belt down across her buttocks. Shocked by the pain, she only gasped. The belt fell again, sharper this time, with a loud cracking sound as it welted the top of her backside. A cry escaped her lips. A third, then a fourth time… the belt bit into her tender, white flesh. Tears sprung from her eyes. Lance’s silence was deafening. Lance’s belt found its target six more times and Noelle’s cries could be heard throughout the empty house. She stayed in place and for that, Lance was satisfied. Her punishment was over and now was the time to reward her, and him, for her obedience. He knelt behind her as she cried softly into the covers, running his hands over the cherry red flesh and admiring the beauty of her perfect skin and shapely hind end. With the nimble touch of a surgeon, his fingertips traced the lines left by his belt and then began to explore the wetness that had begun to drip down her legs. Still silent, Lance lifted Noelle onto the bed and turned her onto her back. He held her wrists to her sides as he positioned himself between her spread legs to kneel once again. His mouth dove into her, his tongue rolling the tiny clit that begged to dance with it. Her tears of pain turned to purrs of pleasure as she arched her back to meet him, no longer struggling against the intense sensations that started to pulsate down the length of her body. Knowing she was close to her peak, Lance withdrew and pulled her across his knees. His hand began to strike her reddened bottom, firmly and methodically. He alternated his strokes- left-right-center, pacing the spanking to bring her to the precipice of sensation. He paused only to remind her clit that he was there, controlling her pleasure. She would not have relief until he was ready to give it to her. Lance remained silent. He felt her juices seeping through his slacks and saw her pussy contract wildly, begging for release. Once again, he flipped her to her back and straddled her, gazing hungrily into her face. “Do you still want to be punished by Daddy?” he growled, his erection throbbing painfully in the confines of his pants. “No. I want Lance. All of you,” Noelle begged, breathlessly. Her ache for him was strong and she felt like she would scream if it wasn’t satisfied soon. Lance pulled away and stripped out of his clothing, his long cock standing flat against his muscular belly. Noelle’s eyes widened. She had never seen this part of him before. She was not sure how it was to be used, nor did she care. She trusted him. With everything. Lance retraced his steps with his lips, teasing and tormenting her nipples as they begged for more attention. His skilled hands moved over her flesh, igniting new flames of passion in her very core. She arched her hips, wiggling her bottom and silently begging to be explored again. Lance grazed her pussy with his tongue, lapping up her sweetness, as his mouth left little love bites in its wake. Noelle groaned, her hands once again pinned to her sides as Lance nibbled and chewed her smooth folds. She shook her head back and forth, the pain of waiting was tortuous.

Lance hovered over her and gently inserted his cock into her saturated entrance. She lifted her hips again, trying to nudge him in deeper. He obliged, sliding slowly and carefully into her tight, silky smooth hole. Carefully, so as not to hurt her, he began shallowly stroking in and out, his movement and thick head stimulating her clit and g-spot. Noelle began to whimper and suddenly screamed, lifting her back off the bed. Lance rammed himself deep within her sweet, hidden treasure. Her powerful spasms clenched his cock and Lance released a guttural growl as he spilled within her. Sweetness filled his heart as he collapsed beside her, catching his breath. Noelle’s eyes were still closed and her body occasionally shook with a delayed tremor. Lance tenderly stroked her stomach, his head resting on his hand as he propped himself on his side. She finally opened her eyes to look at him. “I think I might like being punished by Lance, after all,” she panted with a smile. “Did you enjoy that?” “Uh huh. It hurt, but in a good way,” she answered, turning slowly to her side to look at him. “I’m really sorry about tonight.” “Did I just prove to you that I love you?” “Yes. Lance?” “What, sweetheart?” “I need more proof. Punish me again,” Noelle said seductively, reaching for his growing cock. Lance growled, pushing her down and once again, proved his love.

Chapter Twelve Noelle’s eyes opened quickly. It was Christmas morning and her official 23rd birthday. Lance had promised her a special present and she was excited to see what it was. She ran out of her room and into his, jumping on the bed. “Daddy! It’s Christmas! Wake up and give me my present!” she demanded with a giggle. Lance groaned, hiding his face under the blankets. He was drained. Between work, the trial against the goons who invaded his home, the onslaught of holiday parties and family gatherings, and Noelle’s frequent midnight demands for sex, he was sapped of energy. “Sweetheart, you’ll get your present from me tonight. Now go back to sleep, I’m too tired. This is the first chance I’ve had to sleep in for over three weeks, baby,” he pleaded. Noelle poked her finger into his side, giggling again, then started to pound him with her bunny. Lance plopped to his stomach, trying to avoid her playful attack, burying his head beneath a pillow. “Noelle, you do not want to start your birthday with a spanking. You’ve been so good lately.” “Get up! I have a present for you, too! Daddy!!!!!!” she insisted. “You didn’t have to get me anything, darling. Please, I’m begging you. Let me sleep. It’s only 6:00 AM.” Noelle would not relent. He warily sat up and rubbed his aching head, trying to focus his exhausted eyes on her excited face. “You don’t need to sleep more. Want my present?” she asked, kneeling in front of him. Sighing, he smiled softly, remembering this was her first Christmas and her first real birthday. “Let me give you mine first. I was going to wait. Stay here,” he said, climbing out of bed. He tiptoed downstairs and grabbed something from under the large, brightly lit tree then returned upstairs to where Noelle patiently waited for him. Lance sat down and held her hand. “I’ve waited my whole life for you. I know things are still new and that there is much to learn, but I wanted to tell you that I love you and want you as mine forever. Will you marry me?” Noelle’s eyes widened as he produced a shining diamond ring from the box he held. Happy tears fell as he slipped it on her finger. “I love you too, Lance. Yes! Yes, I’ll marry you!” She kissed him deeply, stroking his face. “Now for your present.” She touched him and his body felt renewed. She was no longer broken. “You’re healed? How can that be? Are you okay?” he asked, stunned. “Only for you. I don’t think I can touch anyone else. Is that ok?” “It’s more than ok. In fact, let me show you how ok.” Lance kissed her deeply again and slowly began to peel off her nightgown as she kneeled next to him on the bed. Noelle reached to pull off his shirt, every touch to his skin set it tingling. They made love, deeply and passionately, exploring one another as though it were the first time. After showering and dressing, Lance led Noelle downstairs with the whispered announcement that the two of them would be cooking a special surprise breakfast-in-bed for Todd and Kathy. The shock on Kathy’s face was evident as they brought the trays into their room. “YOU cooked? Lance Callahan COOKED?” Kathy exclaimed, clapping her hands. “And it’s good! You are now officially my favorite.” “Not for long, wife,” Todd announced, handing her an envelope, “I was going to wait until we were ready to go back home to give you this. Merry Christmas, baby. Go on, open it.”

Kathy’s hands shook with excitement as she pulled out the piece of paper. “Is this a deed to a house? Here?!” “Not just a house, my love. THE house right across the street. We’re staying.” Kathy broke into tears, hugging him tightly. Noelle waited a few minutes before she interrupted. “Aunt Kathy? Uncle Todd? I have a Christmas present for you, too. Here.” She presented Kathy with a small box. Kathy’s eyes widened as she opened it and then raced to the bathroom. A loud shout was heard several minutes later. “It’s positive! Todd!! We’re pregnant! It’s a miracle! Oh my God! Thank you!” she cried, hugging and kissing her two men and then squeezing Noelle, “I will never be able to thank you for this.” “Aunt Kathy, you and this family gave me a life. It’s the least I can do,” Noelle said modestly. “She’ll be born in August.” “A girl? We’re having a little girl, Todd! You’re going to be a daddy.” Kathy’s eyes kept tearing with joy. “What’s that I’m seeing, Miss Noelle? Is there something shiny on that finger?” Todd asked, holding his overwhelmed wife against him. “Lance proposed to me. We’re going to get married.” Noelle smiled shyly, showing them the ring. She turned towards the door. “We have company. It’s Uncle Alan and the girls. Daddy? Keren’s getting a cold and doesn’t feel well.” “How…” The bell rang. Noelle grinned, touching the stone on the necklace William had given her. Maybe her abilities weren’t back just for Daddy after all!

The End

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