“I’d like a seat at the counter,” Brianna replied softly, “if you will be the one waiting on me.”

Saphira smiled graciously while wondering what had sent Brianna running from Esmeralda to her. She nodded her head. “I’m sure we can work something out to make that possible. C’mon,” leading her around the counter to the far side. It was quieter here and Saphira suspected Brianna had come looking for sanctuary. Saphira went around to the back of the counter and poured Brianna a glass of ice water and placed that and a menu in front of her. “Here,” she offered. “You take a look at this while I go take care of those folks,” motioning to a nearby table. “All right? Then I’ll be right back.”

Brianna blinked and nodded. “Take your time, Saphira. I’m fine here by myself for now.”

“You sure?”

Brianna looked around again cautiously, realizing it was probably the dinner hour rush at the diner. Not wanting to cause Saphira to lose tips on her account, she nodded firmly. “Absolutely. As long as you don’t mind me hanging around for a while, I’m great.”

Saphira awkwardly patted her hand. “You’re welcome to stay as long as you need to, Brianna. Look over the menu and I’ll be back in a few.”

“Thanks, Saphira.” Then Brianna watched as Saphira melted away to take care of her other customers.

A few minutes later, Saphira returned to where Brianna was sitting. She arched an eyebrow in question, causing Brianna to blush and chuckle simultaneously. “I’m sorry,” Brianna said with only a hint of the embarrassment currently flooding her fair complexion. “I never realized....” Her voice trailed off thoughtfully and her expression sobered before her head dropped. “Doesn’t matter now, I guess.”

Saphira worried her lip between her teeth, contemplating her options. This was actually Esmeralda’s field of expertise and Saphira felt like a fish out of water. Still, she was an angel and there was a part of her that knew only too well how Brianna felt, having faced the possibility of losing Esmeralda for the rest of their immortal lifetimes. It wasn’t something she’d wish on her worst enemy and as an Angel of Retribution, that was saying a lot. The fact that this woman had chosen this path, thinking it was the right thing to do for the woman she loved more than anything simply made it worse.

Saphira took a deep breath and cupped Brianna’s chin gently but firmly in her hand. She urged Brianna’s face up, then stroked her jaw line, causing Brianna’s eyes to fly open and meet her blue ones in startlement. “It does matter, Brianna Walker. It matters more than anything else in the world.”

“How do you...?” Then Brianna sucked in a pained breath, seeing the depth of agony and sorrow Saphira was allowing her to witness. Brianna clasped the hand that still tenderly held her face and brought it down to the counter between them, covering it with her other hand. “You really do understand, don’t you? You know....”

“All too well, Brianna.”

A crashing sound brought them out of their private reverie and Saphira straightened, though she did not pull away from Brianna’s hold. Brianna, however, appreciating that Saphira was still at work, released her hold and made a weak shooing motion.

“Go on,” she encouraged. “I know you’ve got more important things to do than to mollycoddle me.”

Saphira met Brianna’s eyes fiercely and Brianna froze. “There is nothing more important than this,” she replied softly, putting a hand over her own heart. “But if you want to talk privately, I do need to finish up here first and get folks on their way.”

Brianna patted the hand that remained on the counter. “No one understands better than I do that responsibilities have to come first. Go on,” she said again. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Saphira gave her a long look, then nodded. “I’ll be back. You be deciding what you’re gonna want to eat in the meantime, all right?”

“Deal.”

Brianna watched as Saphira wove in and out of tables, expertly taking orders, refilling glasses and bringing plates as fast as Joe called out, ‘order up’. In a very brief amount of time, Saphira had been to every table and was back in front of her.

“You know what you want yet?” asked with a smile. Brianna smiled in response.

“Yep. I think I’ll have the blue plate special.”

“Great choice; lemme go put it in. It shouldn’t take but a few minutes. That’s been real popular today. You want something else to drink?”

“No, thanks – I’m good with water right now.”

Saphira nodded. “All right. I’ll be back.”

Saphira stopped at the window and placed Brianna’s order with Joe, then headed out around the corner to check on the other tables again. Just before she headed back to Brianna, Jade and Coral stepped into the diner. Her eyebrow arched, but she allowed them to seat themselves. She wasn’t surprised when they took a booth near the door that allowed them ample sight of the entire room, but particularly Brianna. Saphira scooped up two menus and headed over to them.

“Ladies,” she greeted. “This is an unexpected pleasure,” the question in her tone clear.

“Es called us as soon as she discovered Brianna wasn’t in her office. A call to Jas confirmed that Brianna came here before she dismissed Jas for the evening, so we came right over.”

“Is she supposed to see you, Cor? I thought part of your protection was the fact that charges never see their guardians.”

“She can’t see me, Phira... only you and Jade can. We just didn’t want to risk losing her, and if she hadn’t been here when we arrived, we’d have split up again. Now that we know she’s here, Jade will stay until she’s ready to go. I’ll take over once she leaves.”

Saphira nodded. “Go back to the house and get some rest and something to eat. She’s gonna be here a while.”

Coral frowned at her. “You’re sure?”

Saphira scowled. “She came here to talk and I have at least another four hours to work. Yes... I’m sure. Besides, I’d never do anything to put this mission in danger – it’s too important to them and too important to Es.”

“And Him?”

“I’m not as concerned about Him as I am Esmeralda and them,” Saphira answered honestly.

“Still a little residual anger, Saphira?”

“Drop it, Coral. You really don’t want to start something with me that you can’t possibly win and have little hope of even finishing.”

Coral met Saphira’s eyes, squelching a flinch at the raw emotion that was focused her way. She nodded her acceptance and rose, patting Saphira lightly on the shoulder as a form of muted apology. Saphira jerked her head once roughly in acceptance, keeping her eyes on Jade to keep up the pretense that she was alone at the table.

“Look over the menu, Jade,” she instructed. “I’ll be right back.”

Joe called out order up just as Saphira passed his window, and she snatched the plate from the ledge and gracefully set it in front of Brianna. Then she refilled her water and raised her brows. “Anything else I can get for you right now, Brianna?”

Brianna looked over her loaded plate and then at the condiments that were within easy reach. She shook her head. “I’m good; thanks, Saphira.”

“Anytime, my friend. Enjoy.” Brianna put a cautious hand on Saphira’s arm when she went to move away from the counter once more and Saphira tilted her head in question. “Brianna?”

“Seriously... thank you, Saphira. Do you... when do you expect Esmeralda?”

“Same time as always... a little after midnight.”

Brianna blew out an impatient breath. “Do you...?” She cleared her throat and started again. “Would you and Joe mind if I waited here for her with you? I’d really... I’d like to talk to both of you alone.”

“I told you, Brianna – you’re welcome to stay here as long as you need to.”

Brianna smiled tremulously and released her hold, her eyes watering this time though she didn’t allow them to fall. Saphira nodded and turned away, praying for Esmeralda to hurry with her own work and get to the diner quickly. She didn’t want to handle this alone.

Then she headed out to make another round of the tables, hoping beyond hope her prayer would be answered.

************

Esmeralda blew out a shaky breath as she returned her cart to its closet and donned her coat prior to going outside. She was headed towards the security exit when a hail made her pause and turn. She waited, knowing Rick was probably more concerned than upset – a state confirmed by his expression when he got closer. She tilted her head at him and offered him a tired smile.

“Everything all right, Es?” he queried, though the air around him lightened considerably as he returned her smile measure for measure. “It’s earlier than usual for you... especially a Friday night.”

“I know. But Senator Walker left very little for me to clean and Senator Tagherty dismissed me before I could even get started. Don’t be surprised if she requests a new custodian.”

Rick’s grey brows flew to his grizzled hairline. “Excuse me?” Esmeralda nodded but didn’t elaborate and Rick huffed out a breath. “Do you want...?”

“No, Rick. I’m happy where I am and I like the people I take care of. But I might have over-stepped myself with her tonight. So she may ask you for a change.”

“And if she does?”

Esmeralda shrugged tiredly. “You do what you need to, Rick.”

Rick snorted. “In that case, you’re staying put.”

Esmeralda smiled and she patted his arm. “Thanks, Rick. I’m gonna cut out early tonight. I’ll see you on Monday?”

“You betcha, Es. You be careful going home, all right?”

“Always,” she promised and headed towards the door. At least, she comforted herself, she’d get to spend a little more time with Saphira, acknowledging how much she’d missed that since beginning this current assignment where they were together for little more than sleeping most of the time. First, though, she needed to give Amber a quick update, angling herself to the bathroom. It would be where Amber would materialize when she arrived. And frankly, though no one would be able to see Amber, Esmeralda preferred to keep their conversation private. This was the best way to do that in a Senate office building. Besides, she didn’t need an audience to witness what looked like her talking to herself – no need to give Rick a reason to fire her for insanity, she thought wryly as she opened the door.

************

“What’s up, Little One?” Amber asked as Esmeralda entered, then yawned widely. She stretched and looked around, furrowing her brow as she realized where she’d been summoned. “Um... Es?”

“Sorry, Amber. This was the best I could do on short notice. Charisma threw me out of her office a few minutes ago, so I wanted you to be with her. I know this cuts your sleep short....” Amber waving her hand cut off Esmeralda’s apology.

“It happens, Es. Are you all right?”

Esmeralda nodded. “Just a little frustrated. Why would anyone *choose* to be miserable, Amber?”

“I don’t think she knows she is – remember, she’s been content in her life up to now. She’s trying to hold onto the status quo she’s known and been comforted by for twenty years. And since it’s worked for her up to now....” letting her thought trail off.

“You’ve been thinking about this.”

“Yeah. I was putting together what I’ve seen from her, what I know about human behavior in general and the things you said this morning. She’ll come around.”

“Let’s hope for sooner rather than later.”

Amber wrapped an arm around Esmeralda’s shoulders and guided her towards the door. “Go on – go see Saphira. I’ll be watching Charisma.”

Esmeralda rested her forehead on Amber’s shoulder. “What would I do without you, Amber?”

Amber brushed a kiss over the blonde hair tucked beneath her chin. “Let’s make a deal never to find out, all right?” Esmeralda nodded. “Good. Now go see your girl and let me get to work. I’ll let you know if anything comes up.”

“Have I ever told you how glad I am you’re my big sister?” Amber snorted and gave Esmeralda a noogie to alleviate some of the emotion she felt welling up inside her. “Hey!” Esmeralda protested, straightening and patting her hair back into some semblance of order.

“Send me a Hallmark card,” Amber snarked. “Now get out of here and let me get to work,” pushing Esmeralda out of the bathroom.

“Thanks, Amber,” Esmeralda whispered.

“Anytime, Little One.” Then Esmeralda closed the door and turned her steps towards Derek and the security outpost. She needed to see Saphira.

************

Jade had eaten quickly and left the diner, though she remained outside in her non-corporeal, angel form in case she was needed. So the diner was relatively empty when Saphira noticed Esmeralda approaching. She glanced at the clock with a frown, then turned to Joe who had also noticed Esmeralda’s arrival. He shrugged and motioned Saphira to the door.

Saphira had a brief thought to send up a prayer of thanks for Esmeralda’s unexpectedly early arrival before she crossed to the door and exited the diner. She noted Jade and Esmeralda in conference and took her time reaching them. Jade smiled and nodded before disappearing from their gaze, headed, presumably for the house to get some rest.

Esmeralda turned as Saphira drew closer and held out her hand. Saphira took it and pulled Esmeralda to her. “Everything all right, Sweetheart?”

“Rough night,” she replied shortly. “I’ll tell you about it later,” blowing her bangs out of her eyes. “Brianna’s inside?”

“Yeah – she got here about ten minutes ahead of Jade and Coral,” noting the widening of Esmeralda’s eyes. “Coral remained invisible to her and I sent her back to the house to get some rest. Jade ate and came out here to keep an eye on things in case Brianna decided to leave before you got here and before I got off. However, she wanted to talk to both of us, so she’s sitting at the counter just waiting.”

“Tell me she’s at least eaten something.”

Saphira grinned. “Not to worry, my love. Whatever she wants to talk to us about doesn’t seem to be adversely affecting her appetite.” She paused. “How are you?” noting the residual sadness in green eyes.

“I’ll be all right,” Esmeralda promised. “C’mon,” she invited, looping her arm through Saphira’s and tugging them gently forward towards the diner door. “Let’s go find out what our other charge has to say. Maybe she’ll be more willing to move things along than her counterpart seems to be,” growling low in her throat. Saphira chuckled.

“You about ready to try things my way, Es?” asked teasingly.

“Don’t tempt me, Phira. That much stupid should be painful,” her reply abrupt and sharp.

Saphira pulled them to a halt and took Esmeralda in her embrace again, waiting for green eyes to track to hers. “You sure you’re all right, Es?” knowing the response was unusual.

Esmeralda sighed deeply. “Just frustrated... and a little hurt,” she admitted. “I’ll get over it. C’mon,” tugging again. “Let’s go talk to Brianna.”

Saphira gave into the tugging, knowing they would revisit the subject again once they were alone. Then they entered the diner together and their attention focused on Senator Brianna Walker.

“You know it, Es,” she joked lightly, just holding back a moan when the rich chocolate hit her tongue. “I heard it calling my name.”

“Wow, Brianna!” tilting her head left and right before meeting green eyes with a hint of a twinkle in her own. “You should hire out to be a spy or something. With hearing like that....” letting the thought trail off when Brianna snorted and nearly ended up with cake up her nose. Esmeralda chuckled at the glare Brianna bestowed on her.

“That wasn’t very nice,” Brianna commented, carefully cleaning the chocolate icing from her fork before wiping her lips and taking a large swallow of milk. Esmeralda waited until she put the milk back down in front of her, then grinned cheekily at her.

“Maybe not,” she agreed, “but it sure was funny.”

Brianna chuckled and shook her head. “Not if I’d had to explain that to an Emergency Room doctor.”

“We’re well-versed in CPR,” Saphira assured her. “Not a problem,” locking the door and flipping the closed sign around before dropping the shade into place.

“Is it wrong that I don’t find that particularly comforting at the moment?”

“Nope,” Esmeralda assured her as she took the seat next to her even while Saphira went around the backside of the counter and started pouring up three glasses of milk. “I wouldn’t want to explain the presence of chocolate cake in my nasal passages either. And imagine the stir that would make in the press.” Brianna just groaned and dropped her head onto the counter, careful to miss her plate.

“That would be humiliating,” came the muted words from Brianna.

“And embarrassing,” Esmeralda concurred. She accepted the plate of food Saphira placed in front of her with a smile, immediately shifting half of it onto Saphira’s empty plate. Saphira mumbled a ‘thank you’ and picked up her fork, perfectly willing to let Esmeralda continue to lead the conversation with Brianna. Esmeralda took a bite of her pot roast, chewing slowly and holding up her thumbs to Joe who grinned at her assessment. She swallowed carefully and turned back to Brianna who was decimating her slice of cake bite by slow bite.

“So Brianna Walker,” the address garnering Brianna’s attention faster than almost anything else would have. “What brings you to our humble establishment, so to speak?” giving Joe another grin when he popped up in the kitchen window. He winked then returned his attention back to his food.

“Guess you wouldn’t buy that I came by for the chocolate cake, huh?” Esmeralda cocked an eyebrow, knowing without looking that Saphira had done the same. “Yeah, I didn’t think you would,” Brianna confessed. “I just felt the need for a couple friendly faces.”

“Rough day?” Saphira asked, feeling a distinct sense of deja vu with the question.

Brianna shook her head. “Not really... I mean, not what you’d probably consider rough. I spent the day putting my stuff away and reading the bills and policies I’m going to be making decisions on soon.” She gave them each a wry look. “Do you know the money the government could save just by joining the electronic age and doing away with paper?”

“Yeah,” Joe spoke up unexpectedly. “We’d be out of debt.”

Brianna laughed and Saphira and Esmeralda joined in. “Not quite, but it would be pretty close.” A beat. “Maybe I should suggest that.”

“Someone certainly should – better for the nation; better for the planet.”

“Hmm,” Brianna commented, letting the thought roll around in her mind for a few moments before shaking her head to clear it. “Anyway, I guess I was pretty engrossed in my reading, because when I looked up, it was getting dark and my stomach was complaining fiercely over the lack of sustenance I had provided it today. So I had my driver bring me over. I figured I’d find good food and good company. I was right.”

“Well, we’re glad you came to us when you needed a friend, Brianna,” Esmeralda said placidly, placing a hand on Saphira’s leg before Saphira could make a comment. “Is there something we can do to make things easier?” noting a haunting sadness she recognized in the green eyes that met her own.

“You’ve already done so much,” Brianna confessed, “just by making a place for me at your table, so to speak,” gesturing around the otherwise empty diner.

“But....” Saphira prompted impatiently when Brianna fell silent once again. “C’mon, Brianna – we can’t help if you won’t tell us what’s going on.”

Brianna sighed. “I’m not sure I know. I just… I couldn’t stand being cooped up in that office for another minute. And this is probably one of the safest places I have ever known,” hoping they would understand what she was saying.

Esmeralda and Saphira exchanged stares for a long moment before Esmeralda turned back to Brianna with a smile. “We’re glad you think so,” patting Brianna’s hand. “Did you see Charisma today?” going right to the heart of the matter when she realized Brianna wasn’t going to bring it up.

Anger flared in Brianna’s eyes for a brief moment, then she visibly deflated, slumping back into her seat. “How do you do that?”

Esmeralda smiled gently. “It’s a gift.”

Brianna returned the smile sadly. “And your hobby as a student of human nature.” Her smile became a little more genuine. “See... I *was* actually paying attention. I think it’s the reason that, despite your warning to the contrary, I am still inclined to trust you.”

“Why?”

Brianna shrugged. “I can’t explain any more than that – it’s just a gut feeling.”

Esmeralda swallowed the last of her milk and spared Saphira a grateful smile when she removed her empty plate from in front of her so smoothly it didn’t disrupt the atmosphere of confidentiality Esmeralda had created between herself and Brianna.

“And do you trust your gut, Brianna? Despite my warning, are you willing to risk it?”

Brianna held Esmeralda’s gaze for a long moment before nodding slowly. “Yes,” she finally decided aloud. “I have to.”

“Tell me about your day, Brianna.”

“I already did,” Brianna frowned.

“Tell me about your day.”

“What do you want from me, Esmeralda??” Brianna hissed as she jumped from the stool she’d been perched on. “Hmm??” leaning down into Esmeralda’s personal space, surprised when the other woman made no movement to get away from her. “What the hell do you want from me?” she added in a defeated whisper.

Esmeralda caught Brianna’s hand and guided her back to the chair she’d spent the evening in. “Brianna, I... *we*... don’t want anything from you. This isn’t about us; this is about you. If you trust me, you need to trust me with this - tell me about your day.”

“It was like I told you. I really did spend most of my day unpacking as I’m sure you saw,” smiling when Esmeralda nodded. “In fairness, it was necessary if only so I could begin my real work here in an organized space where I could find what I needed. I’m a little anal that way,” Brianna confided. Saphira snickered, causing both blond heads to turn in her direction.

“You don’t need to explain that compunction,” Saphira offered with a smile. “You’re talking to someone who cleans and organizes for a living.” Esmeralda ducked her head to acknowledge the truth of Saphira’s words.

“She has a point,” Esmeralda agreed. “Of course, it takes one to know one in this case,” she added.

Brianna chuckled. “When I grow up, I want to be just like you two.” She sobered and took a deep breath. “In truth, finishing my unpacking and setting up my workspace was as much for my peace of mind as it was something to keep me from having to leave my office yesterday. Aside from having promised you the chance to moderate between us, I just.... Charisma was on the warpath from the moment she stepped foot into the building this morning – enough so that security sent us a warning to steer clear of her.” She sighed and shook her head. “I knew when I accepted this appointment that it wasn’t going to be easy – I did walk away from my best friend without a word of explanation and for someone as passionate as Charisma Tagherty has always been, there still has to be a lot of hurt and anger over that. I just... I never expected it to spill over onto the rest of the world like it did today.”

“And you weren’t ready to be her main target yet,” Esmeralda stated with compassion.

Brianna looked at Esmeralda frankly. “I saw the expression on your face when you walked in here tonight, so I don’t even need to answer that question, do I?” She blew out a deep breath. “Sorry - I know it makes me a coward. I just don’t know how not to be... not in this. Twenty years of habit is hard to break.”

“Does this mean you’re going to keep running for the next couple years? Are you gonna play hide and seek to keep from interacting with Charisma on more than a professional level?” Esmeralda asked pointedly, though there was compassion in her gaze. Brianna studied her briefly before letting her eyes drop back down to the counter.

“It means, short of quitting, I’m going to do whatever it takes to get through the next two years.” She paused. “What I would like to do is to rewind time... to go back to that airport in Barcelona and tell Charisma the truth. Then at least it would have been her choice... her decision to leave, and I wouldn’t have to deal with all the backlash now.” She looked up and blinked the tears from her eyes before turning to face Esmeralda again. “However, until good ol’ Doc Brown builds that DeLorean time machine, complete with flux capacitor, I’m stuck living with the consequences of my actions. And if that means avoiding situations that put Charisma and I in the same sphere, then so be it. Because I know she refused your request.”

Esmeralda cocked an eyebrow. “How do you know?”

Brianna’s look was wry. “Because I’m a student of human nature too. And I heard her laying down the law to her staff... in no uncertain terms.”

“And it hurt.”

“More than I ever thought possible.” Brianna sighed. “I thought I had put this behind me twenty years ago.”

“You may have put it behind you, Brianna, but you never worked through it... never dealt with it. So now you have to deal with it and with Charisma’s reaction to it.” Esmeralda hesitated a moment, biting her lip in thought before nodding her head as though she had reached a decision. “I’m going to share something with you – something I’ve learned from experience over the years.”

Brianna looked at her skeptically. Esmeralda didn’t appear to be as old as Brianna herself, much less old enough to refer to her ‘experience over the years’. A hard glance made her pause – there was an agelessness in Esmeralda’s eyes – as though she had seen and lived lifetimes - and Brianna chanced to wonder just how old her friend really was. “Please,” was all she said aloud.

“You commented yourself on Charisma’s passionate nature,” waiting for Brianna to nod her agreement. “That passion has to be focused somewhere. Right now, it is focused on the anger and betrayal she feels in regards to you. It’s easy and it’s familiar. And as long as you were outside her circle, it was easy to maintain. Eventually, though, it’s going to have to come to a head – simply because you’re close enough to confront.”

“So you’re saying...?”

“I’m saying a confrontation is going to happen. You need to decide how you’re going to deal with it.”

Brianna sat silently, waiting for Esmeralda to continue. When she didn’t, Brianna sighed with exasperation. “That’s it?? That’s all you’ve got for me??”

Esmeralda squeezed the hands she still covered. “What would you like me to tell you, Brianna?”

“I would like you to tell me how to make this situation better. Or how to make it go away completely. Give me something... anything....”

“I can’t solve this problem for you, Brianna. Only you can make those decisions.”

“What would you do, Esmeralda? What did you do?”

“My situation was a little different than yours was, Brianna.”

“How so?”

“Because I made the decision that could have cost us everything,” Saphira said before Esmeralda could respond. ”I chose to seek vengeance where it was felt vengeance wasn’t warranted, and it nearly cost me... cost us... everything.”

“I don’t understand.” Saphira parted her lips to speak again, but the minutest shake of Esmeralda’s blonde head caused her to clamp her lips together and move away from them again without another word. Brianna turned back to meet Esmeralda’s eyes. “Did I say something wrong?”

“Not at all, Brianna. It’s just something that is very painful and very private and I won’t put Saphira through that pain again. I can’t... not even for you.”

“Will you tell me what happened then?”

Esmeralda held Brianna’s eyes. “Tell me, Brianna... do you regret having confided in me?”

Brianna opened her mouth to speak, then stopped short, giving serious contemplation to Esmeralda’s words. “No,” she said finally. “I actually feel... better... lighter. Like sharing with you made my burden less than it had been before.” She bit her lip thoughtfully. “I never realized how it felt... carrying that around for so long. It’s been such a part of me.”

“And now?”

“Now? It’s still there but not as great.”

“So you still feel confident in trusting me?”

“Yes... absolutely.”

“Then I am asking you to trust me again... right now. I will share with you what happened to Saphira and me one day, but not now and not when Saphira is around to hear the story.”

“All right,” Brianna drawled slowly. “Can I at least ask what you did?” When Esmeralda hesitated, Brianna hurried on. “You can trust me Esmeralda.”

At this, Esmeralda smiled. “Of that I am sure, Brianna Walker. I trust my gut too,” earning her the smile she was looking for. “I was trying to figure out the best way to put it because it doesn’t put me in a very good light. You see, I did nothing.”

“Excuse me?”

“I did nothing,” Esmeralda repeated, her head hung down in shame. “The reason Saphira takes all the responsibility for what happened is because she was the stronger of us. She did what had to be done to keep us together.”

Saphira glared at Brianna before taking Esmeralda in her arms from behind. Esmeralda didn’t start, though she didn’t see Saphira’s approach. Instead, she leaned back into the warm comfort of the strong body behind her.

“What she’s not telling you is that she was dying, and not really in a position to do much of anything except get well,” the tears in her fierce eyes not betrayed by the strength in her voice.

Brianna covered her mouth with one hand while squeezing Esmeralda’s with her other. “Oh God... I’m so sorry. This must make my situation look petty and selfish.”

Her words brought Esmeralda’s head up and green eyes bore into her own. “Never belittle something as important as this,” Esmeralda instructed in her firmest tone. “We don’t... not for anyone.”

“So what should I do?”

“Well, that really depends on you, Brianna. What do you want to do?”

“What are my options?”

Saphira groaned. “Lawyers!” she grumbled, then with another light squeeze of Esmeralda’s belly, she moved away from them once more to do a last check of everything so they could head for home as soon as Brianna and Esmeralda were done talking. A flash of lights caught her attention and she moved to the windows that overlooked the parking lot.

“As I see it, you’ve basically got two,” Esmeralda said in response to Brianna’s query. “Those two can be broken down further once you decide which route to go, but you start with two.”

“Let me guess – either Mohammed goes to the mountain....”

“... or the mountain goes to Mohammed... uh huh.”

“Guess I need to decide whether or not I want to be Mohammed or the mountain then.”

“You better decide pretty quick,” Saphira announced as she turned away from the window she had been looking out. She glanced at Brianna before facing Esmeralda head on. “Senator Tagherty’s limo just pulled up in the parking lot.”

Red-rimmed blue eyes stared back at her and Charisma bit her lip hard to keep the tears from starting again. Instead, she slipped her jacket from her body and hung it on the hook at the back of the door. She rolled her sleeves to her elbows and plugged the sink, then started the cold water running.

Charisma considered simply plunging her head in face first, knowing that would cool the fever she felt burning in her face and eyes. However, aware that she drew attention whenever she was in the public eye, Charisma settled for grabbing a clean washcloth out of the small, well-stocked linen closet. She tossed it into the sink and grabbed a towel, setting it beside the sink. Then she snatched up the washcloth, wrung the excess water from it, and started patting down her face.

It took a while, but eventually, the burning cooled and Charisma could feel the swelling in her eyes decreasing enough that she looked in the mirror again. She gave herself a wry smile.

“Well,” she commented, “it’s not perfect, but it’ll do. If anyone will understand my tears, Esmeralda will.”

She fixed her hair and rolled her sleeves down, shrugging at her reflection before sliding on her coat once more. Charisma shut off the lights, then stood in the doorway a moment as her eyes adjusted back to the darkness of her office. She crossed to her desk and removed her purse, then lifted the phone to call for her driver.

Turq pulled around and waited, opening the door as soon as Charisma stepped from the building. She closed it carefully, then slid behind the wheel, putting it in drive and waiting for Charisma to give her a destination. When Charisma didn’t say anything, Turq prompted, “Home, Senator?”

Charisma pulled her eyes from the window and turned her attention outward once more. “I’m sorry, Turq – what?”

“Where are we headed, Senator?”

Despite her earlier resolve, Charisma found herself faltering. She bit her lip a moment, then met Turq’s blue eyes in the rearview mirror. “Do you know of a place called Angel’s Diner?”

“I’ve heard of it, Senator. I’m not certain it’s open at this time of night, though.”

“Take me there,” Charisma commanded.

“Yes ma’am,” Turq replied, even as she wondered how to let Esmeralda know they were coming.

The ride was silent and fairly swift – this late at night, traffic was at a minimum and before Turq could figure out a way to alert Esmeralda that they were headed her way, they arrived at Angel’s Diner. Turq put the vehicle in park, then got out to open the door for Charisma. It took several minutes for Charisma to offer Turq her hand, but Turq was quick to take the hint and accepted the proffered hand with alacrity.

As Charisma emerged from the back seat of the limo, they heard the faint ringing of a bell, indicating someone had exited the diner. Dark and light heads turned simultaneously to find Esmeralda standing just outside the door. She didn’t appear angry or upset and Charisma blew out a small sigh of relief.

“Senator Tagherty?”

Charisma stepped forward. “Esmeralda, we’re not in the Senate building,” her voice shaking just slightly. Esmeralda nodded her acceptance and gave Charisma a slight smile.

“What can I do for you, Charisma?”

“Can we go inside?”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Esmeralda answered softly.

“Oh,” Charisma replied with more than a hint of dejection in her tone. “I came by because I owe you an apology. I was unfair to you and you didn’t deserve my harsh words. I’m sorry.”

The tender smile Esmeralda gave her almost broke Charisma’s heart. Esmeralda extended a hand and Charisma clasped it like a lifeline, allowing Esmeralda to tug her forward until they were only a couple feet apart.

“I really do understand, Charisma.”

“Do you, Esmeralda? Do you know what it’s like for your best friend to say goodbye one day and have it be forever? No warning... no explanation – just gone?”

“Yes, Charisma – I do.” Esmeralda held Charisma’s eyes and let Charisma see a hint of the life she and Saphira had shared. Blue eyes widened as they recognized the truth.

“How did you survive?”

“I nearly didn’t,” Esmeralda confessed. “But Charisma - when I had the chance... when Saphira walked back into my life, I didn’t hesitate. I couldn’t.”

“How could you?” Charisma smiled sadly when Esmeralda frowned and tilted her head. Charisma shook her head. “Nevermind, Es... it doesn’t matter. It’s late and I need to get home to Adam. I just... I just wanted to come by and apologize.”

Esmeralda put a warm hand on Charisma’s arm and Charisma stopped moving before she could take a step. “Charisma, you didn’t need to apologize, but I appreciate it and if it makes you feel better, I accept your apology. However, I would like to continue this conversation sometime soon.”

Charisma hesitated then nodded. “All right. I’d like to hear your story.” Before she could move away, Saphira stepped out of the diner.

“Everything all right, sweetheart?” glancing between the two women.

Esmeralda held out her hand and pulled Saphira towards them when Saphira twined their fingers together. “Everything’s fine, Saphira. Charisma...”

“... stopped by to apologize for being rude to Esmeralda earlier.” Saphira slid her free arm around Esmeralda’s waist, only to find herself pulled forward to stand beside her. She caught Esmeralda’s eyes and Charisma watched in fascination as they held a silent conversation. Then they turned to her and Esmeralda cleared her throat.

“Senator Charisma Tagherty, my mate Saphira. Saphira, Senator Tagherty.”

Charisma extended her hand and Saphira accepted it gently. “I’m delighted to meet you, Saphira. Esmeralda has told me so much about you.”

“The pleasure is mine, Senator. Es has spoken highly of you.”

“Please, Saphira... my name is Charisma. I’d be pleased to have you call me such.”

“Thank you, Sen... Charisma.”

“Look... it’s late and I really do need to get home. Can I offer the two of you a ride somewhere?”

“Maybe another time, Charisma, though we appreciate the offer,” Esmeralda said with a smile. “As you pointed out, it’s late and you should probably get home to Adam.” Charisma narrowed her eyes.

“This isn’t because you’re still upset at me for earlier, is it?”

“No, Ri... it’s because she made a promise to both of us and she’s doing her best to keep it without betraying either of us or sharing any secrets she’s been asked to keep.”

At the first sound of Brianna’s voice, Charisma had stiffened but she hadn’t moved. Only when Brianna stopped speaking did Charisma look around, finding her standing casually behind her leaning negligently against Charisma’s limousine. Charisma held her gaze for a fathomless moment, watching as a myriad of emotions flitted across Brianna’s face. Charisma felt several of them strike a sympathetic chord in her soul and she hardened herself to it, turning her back on Brianna as she brought her attention around to Esmeralda. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, then opened them and started speaking.

“This is why you kept me out here, isn’t it? Because you promised me no funny business.” Esmeralda nodded, holding her breath. Charisma stepped forward and took Esmeralda in her arms, the hug brief but fierce. “Thank you,” she whispered, brushing a kiss over the smooth cheek under her lips before she pulled away and offered her hand to Saphira.

“It was really nice to meet you, Saphira. Perhaps sometime soon we’ll have the opportunity to sit down together and talk.”

“Thank you, Charisma. We’ll look forward to it.”

Charisma smiled at them once more, then they watched the professional mask of polite courtesy fall over her features before she turned to face Brianna. Brianna straightened, but didn’t move away from the car, wondering what Charisma would do. Turq stood perfectly still beside her door and that gave Charisma the impetus she needed to look at Brianna.

“It was good to see you again, Brianna,” her tone one of courteous friendliness, though her expression was one of bland tolerance. “I hope you’ll enjoy your term here in Washington. Now if you’ll excuse me,” motioning to Turq, who immediately opened the door, “I must get home to my son. Goodnight, ladies,” she added, then disappeared behind the door.

Turq shut the door solidly, then ran around and crawled into the driver’s seat. Another moment and they were headed back down the road, three pairs of eyes following them until they vanished out of sight.

“Well,” Brianna commented, her voice full of tears though she didn’t allow them to spill from her eyes. “I guess we know which of us is Mohammed now.”

“Did you expect any difference?” Saphira asked kindly.

“I actually expected anger,” Brianna said plainly. “Not indifference.”

“Ah, but doesn’t that describe Mohammed perfectly? Wasn’t it his indifference that caused the mountain to go to him?” Saphira inquired, despite the look Esmeralda was giving her.

Brianna shrugged wearily. “It doesn’t matter tonight. I’m going to go home – I can worry about this tomorrow.”

“Let us walk you home, Brianna.” Esmeralda held up a hand when Brianna opened her lips to speak. “We don’t have to talk about Charisma anymore; we don’t have to talk about anything at all tonight if you don’t feel like it. But let us take you home. It’s too late for you to be out alone.”

Brianna smiled, the effort causing the tears to slide soundlessly down her cheeks. She brushed them off impatiently, though she never lost her smile.

“You must have old-fashioned parents,” she commented. “You have old-fashioned manners,” she added when their foreheads creased with frown lines at her statement. “That’s a good thing... trust me.”

“You do realize I’ll have to share this with Amber,” Saphira commented to Esmeralda. “She’s been saying for years that I needed to learn some manners.” Saphira turned to Brianna. “Amber is my sister. She thinks I’m rude and pushy.”

Brianna chuckled. “Don’t most siblings think that about one another at some point?”

“Maybe,” Saphira agreed with a crooked grin. “But it’ll be nice to be able to rub her face in this.”

Brianna laughed out loud. Esmeralda just covered her eyes with her hand and shook her head. Saphira looked between the two of them.

“What?” she asked in all innocence. “Whaaaaat?”

“You girls about done out here?” came Joe’s voice from the doorway. “I’m ready to lock up and head to the house.” Even though the home he shared with Matilda was just behind the diner, they couldn’t blame him – not with the hours he worked seven days a week.

“Sorry, Joe,” Esmeralda apologized as they stepped back into the diner to retrieve their purses.

“Not a problem, Little Es. I’d just rather be snuggled in bed with the old woman than hanging out here if I have the choice.”

Saphira snickered. “Matilda hears you calling her an old woman, the only thing you’re gonna be snuggling with is a pillow on the couch for the duration, old man.”

Joe glared. “That’s why you’re not gonna tell her about that,” motioning to the three of them. “I like where I sleep.”

The women snickered, then solemnly zipped their lips and tossed the imaginary key away. After grabbing their purses from the counter where they’d left them, they nodded goodnight to Joe as he held the door open for them. Then they made their way towards the Metro station, headed for home.

************

“That could’ve gone better,” Saphira commented to Esmeralda as she stepped from the shower.

“It could also have gone much, much worse,” Esmeralda replied. Saphira cocked her head in Esmeralda’s reaction, dropping the towel she’d been drying her hair with and picking up a comb.

“How so? I thought Charisma’s lack of reaction was more cutting than anything else could have been.”

“At least she acknowledged Brianna, and Brianna can use that. Nothing is worse than being persona non grata to the one who means the most to you in the whole world. Brianna exists to her and that’s more than Brianna has had to hold onto for almost twenty years.”

“So Charisma gave her hope today?”

Esmeralda hesitated. “I don’t know that I’d go that far. Charisma gave Brianna acknowledgement. What Brianna chooses to do with it will determine what happens next.”

“I’m not following,” Saphira confessed as she crawled into bed next to Esmeralda.

“Brianna has several options open to her – she can aggressively pursue Charisma, goading her into what in all likelihood will be an angry response; she can try to re-establish their friendship, hoping to break through Charisma’s barriers by essentially killing her with kindness; or she can leave it to Charisma to take the initiative in deciding their next course of action.”

“You don’t think she’d leave the initiative to Charisma at this point, do you?” Saphira asked, plumping her pillows and settling down as she reached over and snapped off her bedside light. Esmeralda finished rubbing in the lotion she’d applied and slid further down the bed, tucking the covers up under her arms and turning to face Saphira.

“Not really... not at this point. She gave Charisma twenty years to take the initiative to come and find her... to find out why she left without a word. Unless she’s given up the idea of them being together, I’d say she’s gonna push Charisma until Charisma pushes back.”

“You think she will... push back, I mean?”

Esmeralda laughed and Saphira smiled, even though she didn’t as yet know what the joke was. “Sweetie, she’s a passionate woman – do you really think she won’t?”

“Can she afford to? I mean... wouldn’t this destroy her career?”

“Phira, you did,” Esmeralda responded softly. “You risked everything when you came back to me, knowing the consequences... knowing you could lose everything you cared about.”

Saphira covered Esmeralda’s cheek with her hand. “Not everything, Es. When I knew you would stand beside me regardless, it was easy to risk the rest. Does Charisma have that assurance? Is she willing to give up everything she has worked for her whole life for the chance to be happy with Brianna?” She paused, but Esmeralda remained silent, seeing the thoughtful look on Saphira’s face by the moonlight that streamed through the open blinds in the room. Her patience was quickly rewarded.

“Given what you’ve already told me, Charisma gave up her chance for happiness with Brianna once by letting her go without finding out why she left, correct?” waiting for Esmeralda to nod. “Why is there any reason to think she wouldn’t do that a second time? After all, she doesn’t know what she’s missing.”

“Maybe she does,” Esmeralda started, before trailing off because of Saphira’s shaking head. “Saphira, she’s missed having her best friend in her life for twenty years.”

“But this, Es,” pulling Esmeralda into her body and embracing her completely. She smiled wistfully when Esmeralda naturally melted into her. “She doesn’t know what it’s like to have had this and then to have lost it. And she’s gonna have to be willing to risk everything she has and everything she’s known her whole life to take a chance on having this. Do you really think she will?”

“I don’t think Brianna’s going to give her a choice.”

“At least you made progress tonight. They both seem to be interested in talking to you now. Sounds like the next few weeks could be interesting.”

“Oh, they’re liable to be something all right. I hope the girls are ready for what’s coming down the line because I have a feeling there could be fireworks before it’s all over.”

“Yipee Ki Yay!”