Living on a Prayer by gbarton
Summary: Jarod wants Miss Parker back. Will she let him?


Categories: Indefinite Timeline Characters: Jarod, Miss Parker, Original Character
Genres: Angst, Drama, Romance
Warnings: None
Challenges: None
Series: None
Chapters: 4 Completed: No Word count: 8514 Read: 8677 Published: 30/05/05 Updated: 30/05/05

1. chapter one by gbarton

2. chapter 2 by gbarton

3. chapter 3 by gbarton

4. chapter 4 by gbarton

chapter one by gbarton
Living on a Prayer
By: G. Barton

Disclaimer: I don't own thwm just borrowed them. Please don't sue. Also the songs used in this fi belong to Michelle Branch. So Michelle please don't be mad. I'm just a poor fan.

Note: I know this fic really doesn't go with any kind of Pretender story line but I wanted something different. So I hope you will enjoy it anyway. Thanks.

Parker heard a knock at her door. She peeked out to see him standing there.

"What are you doing here?" She asked as she stood face to face with the pretender.

"I don't want *us* to be over." He reached out to touch her hand.

She jerked back, crossing her arms at her chest. "There is no *us* anymore, Jarod."

"Can I come in?"

"No."

He knew by the look on her face there was no way he was getting by her. "We need to talk."

"There is nothing else to say." She didn't move. She just stared into his brown puppy dog eyes. She wanted to hug him, tell him she was sorry for treating him that way. But she knew she would get caught. They had come close so many times before and she couldn't risk it again, especially now. "You need to leave. I'm expecting company."

"Wyatt?"

"How did you know...?"

"You would be surprised what I know, Miss Parker."

She gave him a look that could have shot him dead.

"For instance, you are carrying my baby."

She must have looked shocked by his words because the next thing she remembered Jarod was saying, "Now can we talk?"

"No." She slammed the door in his face. "How does he know everything?" She thought as she walked away.

"I'm not leaving until we talk!" Jarod shouted louder.

Parker tried to ignored him but he kept on talking about them.

"Parker, remember the night we spent in Florida. The way you took full advantage of me and I didn't care. Do you remember the way I touched your skin? You are so soft. Everytime, I would get close to you, you would kiss me. Remember the moans that escaped from your mouth every time I would.... it makes me warm inside....to touch you....to feel you next to me. Can you feel it too?"

Parker sat on the couch listening to his every word. She wanted so much to pull him into her arms and hold him. She missed him too but she knew she couldn't allow it to go on any longer.

She remembered what her father had said three months earlier....

"Angel, I have noticed that you seem distracted in your work."

"No, daddy." She tried to deny it but knew he could see right through her.

"There is only thing that gets you distracted....a man. Am I right?"

"I don't..."

"Now Angel, you know I will find out the truth. Don't lie to me! I'm your father."

"Yes. I have been seeing someone." She tried to make eye contact but failed.

"Angel, you are letting it interfere with your pursuit of Jarod and I can't have it. If you don't end this soon, I will."

"But daddy..."

"I won't have it!"

"Daddy, just listen to me..." She knew if he found out who the man was she would be dead. "Why can I be happy like everyone else?"

"Because you don't have time for it now. After you take over as chairman you can be happy with whomever you want."

"That is not fair!" She shouted.

'Cause you're everywhere to me
And when I close me eyes it's you I see

Then all of a sudden she noticed that Jarod quit talking. She ran to the door hoping he hadn't left. When she opened the door she saw him sitting on the steps, leaned against the railing.

She didn't know what she should do next so she stepped back into the house.

"No, I haven't left." He whispered as he heard her step back.

She didn't say a word.

"I know you don't want me too either." He turned to see her walk back inside. She left the door open inviting him in without saying the words. He got up and followed her, shutting the door behind him.

When Jarod saw her again she was sitting on the couch. He sat down next to her. He reached for her hand again. This time she didn't resist.

"Jarod, we can't see each other anymore. I wish you would just accept that." She spoke softly.

"Why?"

"Because it won't be right." She avoided his eyes.

"What?" He looked puzzled.

"The hunter and the prey....dating." She glanced up at him with her eyes only.

He ran his fingers over her cheek. "You have been crying. I hate to see you cry, Parker."

"Then leave."

"I can't."

"You have too." She stood crossing her arms again.

"Why? Because daddy told you to stop seeing me?!" He stood next to her with his face only inches from hers.

"Ye...no!" She changed her answer in the middle of her sentence, hoping he wouldn't have noticed but then again he was Jarod.

"Did he threaten you?"

"No."

"Me?"

She didn't answer.

"What did he say?"

"Nothing." She whispered. She turned to face to the wall but Jarod rotated her back toward him.

"I'm not giving up on you or this baby! I *will* not let the Centre take you away from me like they did my family!"

Parker heard a car pull into the drive way. "You have to go. Wyatt is here."

"I'm not going." He sat back down on the couch.

"Jarod, go. I promise I will meet you later and we will talk."

"No!"

"Look hard head, if you get caught here we will both die, do you want that?!"

They both heard steps coming up on the stairs.

"Fine but I will call you with a place to meet."

"Fine. Now go!" She pointed toward the back door.

Jarod got up and slipped out. Parker made sure he was out the door before she made her way to the front door.

She took a deep breath then opened the door. "Wyatt." She smiled.

"I'm sorry it took me so long to get here. The traffic seems to be worse today than usual." He gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"It's ok. I was trying to catch up on some last minute things."

"Where do you want to go tonight?"

"Surprise me." She grabbed her purse and followed him out.

******

Restaurant
Dover, Delaware

Wyatt pulled the chair out for Parker, then took his seat. As they looked over the menus Parker noticed someone very familiar sitting at the bar staring at her.

"Damn it." She said under her breath.

"Something wrong?"

"Oh...no. Order for me. I will be back. Little girls room." She stood and walked over toward the bar. "This way, NOW!" She snapped her fingers. Jarod quickly followed her.

"What in the HELL are you doing here?!" She asked they stepped in a small hallway.

"Having supper. And you?"

"You followed us!"

"No, actually I was here first."

"Impossible!"

"I did leave before you, remember?" A cocky smiled formed on his lips.

"You son-a-bit...get your food to go!" She turned to leave when he grabbed her arm. "I have the right to eat here just as much as you do!" He told her. Then he pushed her against him. He took a deep breath. "You smell the same."

"Let go of me!" Her eyes narrowed with every word.

"I guess we can pick this up later." He let out a small chuckle before he let her go.

******

Wyatt and Parker arrived back at her house. "You are being quiet tonight." Wyatt said as he opened the car door.

"Mmm." Parker appeared to be distracted.

"What is wrong? You have been distracted all night." He helped her out of the car.

"Nothing." She dug her house key out of her purse.

Wyatt opened the door for her. "Who was the man?"

"What man?"

"The man at the restaurant?"

"I don't know what you are talking about." She sat her things down.

"Parker." He cupped her face into his hands. "He is the father, isn't he?"

"How did you know?"

"Parker, I saw the way you two were looking at each other. There is more between you than you want to let on."

"I'm sorry, Wyatt."

"Parker, I knew going into this relationship you wouldn't feel the same about me."

"I didn't want to hurt you."

"You didn't. I hurt myself." He stared into her baby blues. "Good night." He kissed her cheek.

"Good night." She whispered as she watched him drive away.

Part 2
chapter 2 by gbarton
Parker no sooner got the door shut when her phone rang. She knew who it was before she answered it.

"What now, Jarod?"

"Will you still meet me?" He asked.

"When and where?" She sighed.

"1525 Oak St in an hour."

"Make it two." She hung up the phone before he had a chance to say another word. She knew she could be there in less than an hour but she didn't want him to think she would be at his beck and call. She laid back against the couch. It felt nice to finally relax. She propped her feet up on the other end of the couch and grabbed the TV remote.

"I'll watch a little TV before I go." She thought as she flipped through the channels.

******

Parker remembered the first time she saw Wyatt. 'He was really cute.' She thought as she laid her eyes on him. He sat down next to her.

"Do you mind if I sit here?" He asked as he took the seat.

"It's a free place." She smarted off.

"How about I buy you a drink?"

"No, thanks." She tried to blow him off but there was something about his eyes.

"Come on, a pretty lady like you won't let me buy you a drink?" He grinned at her. "What are you having?"

"Vodka on the rocks." Her eyes locked onto his. She didn't know why but she swore his eyes sparkled every time he looked at her.

He motioned for the bartender.

She had gone there to get over Jarod but found herself relaxing in his company. They sat there for hours talking.

******

The next thing Parker remembered the phone was ringing again.

"Jarod." She answered sleepy.

"I thought we were going to meet?" He sounded upset.

"I'm sorry. I fell asleep." She yawned.

"Parker, get some sleep." His voice changed from being upset to concerned.

"I can be there in a few minutes."

"No. I don't want you to risk it. Get some sleep and we'll talk later." He hung up the phone.

Parker turned off the TV and headed to bed.

******

The next morning Parker woke with the sun shining through the curtains. When she raised up, she saw Jarod sitting back in a chair staring at her.

"How did you get in?"

"The same way I always do."

"My key." She sat back against the pillows.

"Do you love him?" Jarod asked as he watched the sunlight hit her hair, showing her red highlights. He loved watching her sleep. He only wished he could have been holding her.

"What kind of question is that?"

"A simple one."

"Why do you ask?"

"Because I want to fight for you and I need to know what I'm up against." He got up and headed toward the bed.

Parker pulled the covers up over her chest. "I don't know." She answered as she licked her lips wet.

"You have to know, Parker." Jarod sat down next to her.

"I don't know what I want anymore." She pulled back the covers to exit the bed when Jarod grabbed her arm.

"I still love you and I know you still love me." He stared up into her eyes. "And we wouldn't be going through this if it wasn't for your father."

"I'm going to be late for work." She pulled loose and headed to the bathroom.

Jarod listened as she turned on the water. He closed his eyes and imagined the water hitting her naked body. It brought back so many pleasurable memories. He opened his eyes again. Then entered the bathroom. He saw the steam raise up over the curtain. He quietly stepped in, touching her arm.

"Get out!" She yelled without turning around.

"I can't." He whispered as his warm breath hit the back of her neck. Then he pulled her back against him, wrapping his arms around her. She tried to pull forward.

"Don't fight it." He spoke softly.

If you want to I can save you I can take you away from here

He kissed her shoulder as his hand moved down her arm. He took her left nipple between his forefinger and thumb until it became hard. Then he kneaded her breast with his hand. Parker began to relax in his arms like she used too. Jarod kissed her neck as she raised her right arm to play in his hair. He turned her around and took her into his arms. Parker's tongue found its way into Jarod's mouth. Pushing him against the shower wall, she pressed hard against him, causing him to get harder with her every touch.

His hand moved down her body and stopped when it reached its destination. Parker took a deep breath when Jarod slid two fingers inside her. She pulled back and stared into his eyes for a moment.

"Stop!" She paused. "We can't." She stepped out of the shower.

Jarod couldn't believe what just happen. He reached down and turned off the cold water that was now running. He stepped out. She stood against the counter staring into the mirror. She had her robe on.

I'm sinking slowly so hurry hold me your hand is all I have to keep me hanging on

"What happened?" He walked up to her.

"Please go before...."

"Before what? Before you can't control herself." He turned her around so she had to look at him.

"Yes."

"Tell me more about you and Wyatt."

"I can't."

"Why?"

Her phone started to ring. She went to answer it.

"Let it ring."

"I can't." She walked toward the bedroom to grab the phone.

"It's probably Wyatt. Let it ring." Jarod tried to stop her.

"I doubt it. You messed that up for me last night!" She shouted back as she picked up the phone.

Jarod wondered what she meant by that as her conversation ended shortly.

"What?" He asked.

"Wyatt and I are over thanks to you."

"Good."

"No, it's not good. You just ruined my plan. Thanks a lot Jarod!" She stormed out.

"Plan?" Jarod said to himself. "What plan?" He followed her.

"My plan to get out of the Centre." She turned around to face him. She was crying. "Now, would you please leave? I have to get to work. I *do* have a job, you know."

He turned around to gather up his clothes. When he returned she was still in the same place.

"I won't bother you again." He turned the door knob.

"Good cause if you come back I *will* have a sweeper team waiting for you."

He walked out her back door and never looked back. She knew he wouldn't believe that so she was expecting him to return later.

******

Wyatt's apartment
An hour later

Jarod stood outside the door debating rather to knock or not when the door opened.

"Jarod?" He stood face to face with Wyatt.

"Yes. How did you know?"

"Parker told me all about you."

"Can I come in?"

"Sure." Wyatt stood back to let him in. "What can I do for you?"

"I wanted to know what your plans are with Parker."

"Plans?"

"Yeah. I want her back and I'm willing to fight for her."

"You can have her back. I know she never loved me. Heck, she wouldn't even let me touch her."

"So, you knew about the baby."

"Yes. She told me after we were seeing each other for a couple of weeks."

"It didn't bother you."

"No. We both had just came out of a bad relationship and I wasn't really wanting to get into another one. We were more like friends. She needed someone to help her out and I was willing."

"Bad relationship? Is that what she told you?"

"Well, it was me with the bad relationship. She told me she had to dump the only man she truly loved because..."

"Of her father." Jarod finished his sentence.

"Something like that."

"Were you two going to get married?"

"That was the plan. She wanted to get away from her father and wasn't sure if he would just let her go."

"Did she tell you what happened to her last boyfriend when she tried to leave once before?"

"Thomas. Yeah, she mentioned something about it."

"I have plan to get her back and I need your help. Will you help me?"

"Maybe. What is it?"

Jarod paced as he told Wyatt his plan.

******

Parker kicked back on the couch. She couldn't believe she told Jarod to leave. Pushing the 'on' button to the TV remote, she flipped through the channels and stopped on one that showed a baby being born. She rested her hand on her abdomen as her mind turned back time...

Parker sat on the edge of the exam table waiting for the doctor to return.

"Good afternoon." The Doctor entered the small room.

"Afternoon." She waited impatiently.

"While I have some news for you. You are pregnant." He sat her file down on the desk.

"Pregnant? Are you sure?"

"Yes. About three weeks."

"Damn." She mumbled. "I can't be pregnant."

"Are you going to be okay?" The doctor replied as he heard her mumble.

"Fine. Is there anything else? I need to be going." She stepped down from the table.

"I want to see you back next month." He told her as she headed out the door.

***

She went straight to Wyatt's.

"Hey, you are here early." Wyatt kissed her check.

"I'm sorry I have to talk to you." She paced the floor. "Wyatt, I don't think we should see each other anymore." She faced him.

"Parker..." He held her hands into his.

"Wait. I'm not finished." She pulled loose and stared into his eyes. "I just found out something today and after you hear it, you will not want to be around me."

"It can't be that bad."

"I'm pregnant." She took a deep breath. "I think it will be the best if we end this before it is to late." She turned to the door, reaching for the knob.

"Parker...wait." He stopped her. "I want to keep seeing you. I don't care if you are pregnant or not. I really like you." He pushed a lock of her hair back from her neck and kissed it. "Please." He whispered.

Parker's attention returned to the present as she heard someone knocking on the door. "Jarod, I told you to go away!"

"It's Wyatt!" He yelled through the door.

"Wyatt." She opened the door. "What are you doing here?" She looked surprised. "I didn't think I would see you again." She wrapped her arms around his neck.

"We have to talk." He pulled loose and walked toward the couch.

"What is it?" She shut the door.

"Do you still want to carry out *our* plan?"

"Why?"

"Cause I had a visit from Jarod tonight."

"What did he do?"

"Nothing. He just talked mostly. It got me to thinking how much I want to be with you. Parker, will you still marry me?"

She let out a heavy sigh. "I'm not sure." She paced in front of him.

"Come on, you are the one that convinced me this would work." He stood, caressing her hand.

"I-I..."

"Think about. Please. That is all I am asking." He kissed her lips. "Please, for the baby." He whispered as he let go of her and walked back to the door. "I will be waiting for your answer." He opened the door and walked out.

Parker paced again. She couldn't believe what she just heard. A smiled danced across her lips as she thought of getting free from the Centre.

******

Two weeks later

Mr. Parker stood in front of his daughter. "You're looking beautiful today." He kissed her cheek.

"Thanks Daddy." She smiled.

There was a knock at the door and Lyle peeked in. "They are ready for you." He shut the door just as fast as he opened it.

"Ready?" Mr. Parker's hand reached out to his daughter.

She let a sigh and took one last glance in the mirror. "Ready." She looped her arm into her father's. He walked her out.

As she walked down the aisle, she couldn't keep her eye off of Wyatt. She couldn't believe in a few minutes she was going to be married. As she got closer to him she was thinking of Jarod. She wander what he was doing, where he could be.

As her father let go of her hand and handed it to Wyatt, Parker didn't remember much after that. She tuned to face Wyatt and saw Jarod standing in the shadows. She couldn't believe Jarod was there after all, he was wanted by the Centre and there he stood at her wedding. Her heart wanted her to run to him and pull him into her arms but her mind was telling her no because she would end up dead.

"Do you Wyatt take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife?" He gazed up into her eyes, "Parker," He whispered. "I can't."

"What?" Parker's attention was brought back to reality when she heard his words.

"I can't. You don't love me the way I love you."

The priest stood there waiting for an answer.

"That is why you should marry Jarod."

"Are you crazy?" She kept her tone down.

Wyatt turned to the guest, "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm sorry but I can't do this when there is someone else..."

Parker squeezed his arm knowing this was going to be the end of her.

"...she loves and should spend the rest of her life with." He then turned around to where Jarod was standing. "Jarod." He stepped aside. "I'm sorry, Parker." He dropped her hand. "You do make a beautiful bride." He moved to the other side of Jarod.

Lyle, Raines, and Sydney jumped up.

"I wouldn't even think about it." Sam stood between Lyle and Raines.

Broots sat nervously between the two older men.

Sydney stood up next to Mr. Parker. "You should let her be happy."

"Raines. Lyle. Sit down." Mr. Parker's voice was stern.

They followed his orders and took their seats. The priest turned back to the couple, "Are we ready to get on with the wedding?"

Jarod took his bride by the hand. "You look beautiful." He caressed her cheek. "Are *we* going to finish this?" He smiled at her.

"I'm dead anyway." She mumbled under her breath. She smiled back.

The priest began with the ceremony as the young couple joined hands. All Parker could think about was how Jarod was a dead man if they lived through this. The next thing she remembered was the priest saying, "You may the kiss the bride."

Jarod placed both hands on either side of her face, pushing a ringlet of hair back. He lend in toward her. His lips gently touched hers as they kissed.

"I would like to introduce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jarod Russell."

The couple faced the guest as they walked down the aisle. When they got behind the crowd, Jarod whispered in her ear, "I told you to trust me."

"We are not out of this yet, wonder boy." She hissed.

Mr. Parker walked up to the happy couple. "So you really love him?"

"Yes, Daddy."

Jarod took his new bride by the hand. "Honey, we should get going before they change their minds." He glanced over at Lyle and Raines who were exchanging looks.

"Daddy, I will call you later." Parker gave her father a peck on the cheek.

Jarod lead her to the limousine. As he held the door open for her a gun shot rang out over the air and Parker fell into his arms. "NO!" He yelled as he held her limp body.

"Jarod, what happen?" Her eyes blinked.

"Shh, it's going to be ok." He saw the red liquid flow from her abdomen. He quickly placed pressure with one hand. He got her in the back of the limousine and shouted for the driver to drive.

"I told you we wouldn't make it alive." She whispered as her eyes rested.

"Just trust me, my love." He kissed her closed eyes lids as the tears fell from his eyes.

As the limousine drove away Raines watched as Willie dropped the gun to his side.

Part 3
chapter 3 by gbarton
Parker no sooner got the door shut when her phone rang. She knew who it was before she answered it.

"What now, Jarod?"

"Will you still meet me?" He asked.

"When and where?" She sighed.

"1525 Oak St in an hour."

"Make it two." She hung up the phone before he had a chance to say another word. She knew she could be there in less than an hour but she didn't want him to think she would be at his beck and call. She laid back against the couch. It felt nice to finally relax. She propped her feet up on the other end of the couch and grabbed the TV remote.

"I'll watch a little TV before I go." She thought as she flipped through the channels.

******

Parker remembered the first time she saw Wyatt. 'He was really cute.' She thought as she laid her eyes on him. He sat down next to her.

"Do you mind if I sit here?" He asked as he took the seat.

"It's a free place." She smarted off.

"How about I buy you a drink?"

"No, thanks." She tried to blow him off but there was something about his eyes.

"Come on, a pretty lady like you won't let me buy you a drink?" He grinned at her. "What are you having?"

"Vodka on the rocks." Her eyes locked onto his. She didn't know why but she swore his eyes sparkled every time he looked at her.

He motioned for the bartender.

She had gone there to get over Jarod but found herself relaxing in his company. They sat there for hours talking.

******

The next thing Parker remembered the phone was ringing again.

"Jarod." She answered sleepy.

"I thought we were going to meet?" He sounded upset.

"I'm sorry. I fell asleep." She yawned.

"Parker, get some sleep." His voice changed from being upset to concerned.

"I can be there in a few minutes."

"No. I don't want you to risk it. Get some sleep and we'll talk later." He hung up the phone.

Parker turned off the TV and headed to bed.

******

The next morning Parker woke with the sun shining through the curtains. When she raised up, she saw Jarod sitting back in a chair staring at her.

"How did you get in?"

"The same way I always do."

"My key." She sat back against the pillows.

"Do you love him?" Jarod asked as he watched the sunlight hit her hair, showing her red highlights. He loved watching her sleep. He only wished he could have been holding her.

"What kind of question is that?"

"A simple one."

"Why do you ask?"

"Because I want to fight for you and I need to know what I'm up against." He got up and headed toward the bed.

Parker pulled the covers up over her chest. "I don't know." She answered as she licked her lips wet.

"You have to know, Parker." Jarod sat down next to her.

"I don't know what I want anymore." She pulled back the covers to exit the bed when Jarod grabbed her arm.

"I still love you and I know you still love me." He stared up into her eyes. "And we wouldn't be going through this if it wasn't for your father."

"I'm going to be late for work." She pulled loose and headed to the bathroom.

Jarod listened as she turned on the water. He closed his eyes and imagined the water hitting her naked body. It brought back so many pleasurable memories. He opened his eyes again. Then entered the bathroom. He saw the steam raise up over the curtain. He quietly stepped in, touching her arm.

"Get out!" She yelled without turning around.

"I can't." He whispered as his warm breath hit the back of her neck. Then he pulled her back against him, wrapping his arms around her. She tried to pull forward.

"Don't fight it." He spoke softly.

If you want to I can save you I can take you away from here

He kissed her shoulder as his hand moved down her arm. He took her left nipple between his forefinger and thumb until it became hard. Then he kneaded her breast with his hand. Parker began to relax in his arms like she used too. Jarod kissed her neck as she raised her right arm to play in his hair. He turned her around and took her into his arms. Parker's tongue found its way into Jarod's mouth. Pushing him against the shower wall, she pressed hard against him, causing him to get harder with her every touch.

His hand moved down her body and stopped when it reached its destination. Parker took a deep breath when Jarod slid two fingers inside her. She pulled back and stared into his eyes for a moment.

"Stop!" She paused. "We can't." She stepped out of the shower.

Jarod couldn't believe what just happen. He reached down and turned off the cold water that was now running. He stepped out. She stood against the counter staring into the mirror. She had her robe on.

I'm sinking slowly so hurry hold me your hand is all I have to keep me hanging on

"What happened?" He walked up to her.

"Please go before...."

"Before what? Before you can't control herself." He turned her around so she had to look at him.

"Yes."

"Tell me more about you and Wyatt."

"I can't."

"Why?"

Her phone started to ring. She went to answer it.

"Let it ring."

"I can't." She walked toward the bedroom to grab the phone.

"It's probably Wyatt. Let it ring." Jarod tried to stop her.

"I doubt it. You messed that up for me last night!" She shouted back as she picked up the phone.

Jarod wondered what she meant by that as her conversation ended shortly.

"What?" He asked.

"Wyatt and I are over thanks to you."

"Good."

"No, it's not good. You just ruined my plan. Thanks a lot Jarod!" She stormed out.

"Plan?" Jarod said to himself. "What plan?" He followed her.

"My plan to get out of the Centre." She turned around to face him. She was crying. "Now, would you please leave? I have to get to work. I *do* have a job, you know."

He turned around to gather up his clothes. When he returned she was still in the same place.

"I won't bother you again." He turned the door knob.

"Good cause if you come back I *will* have a sweeper team waiting for you."

He walked out her back door and never looked back. She knew he wouldn't believe that so she was expecting him to return later.

******

Wyatt's apartment
An hour later

Jarod stood outside the door debating rather to knock or not when the door opened.

"Jarod?" He stood face to face with Wyatt.

"Yes. How did you know?"

"Parker told me all about you."

"Can I come in?"

"Sure." Wyatt stood back to let him in. "What can I do for you?"

"I wanted to know what your plans are with Parker."

"Plans?"

"Yeah. I want her back and I'm willing to fight for her."

"You can have her back. I know she never loved me. Heck, she wouldn't even let me touch her."

"So, you knew about the baby."

"Yes. She told me after we were seeing each other for a couple of weeks."

"It didn't bother you."

"No. We both had just came out of a bad relationship and I wasn't really wanting to get into another one. We were more like friends. She needed someone to help her out and I was willing."

"Bad relationship? Is that what she told you?"

"Well, it was me with the bad relationship. She told me she had to dump the only man she truly loved because..."

"Of her father." Jarod finished his sentence.

"Something like that."

"Were you two going to get married?"

"That was the plan. She wanted to get away from her father and wasn't sure if he would just let her go."

"Did she tell you what happened to her last boyfriend when she tried to leave once before?"

"Thomas. Yeah, she mentioned something about it."

"I have plan to get her back and I need your help. Will you help me?"

"Maybe. What is it?"

Jarod paced as he told Wyatt his plan.

******

Parker kicked back on the couch. She couldn't believe she told Jarod to leave. Pushing the 'on' button to the TV remote, she flipped through the channels and stopped on one that showed a baby being born. She rested her hand on her abdomen as her mind turned back time...

Parker sat on the edge of the exam table waiting for the doctor to return.

"Good afternoon." The Doctor entered the small room.

"Afternoon." She waited impatiently.

"While I have some news for you. You are pregnant." He sat her file down on the desk.

"Pregnant? Are you sure?"

"Yes. About three weeks."

"Damn." She mumbled. "I can't be pregnant."

"Are you going to be okay?" The doctor replied as he heard her mumble.

"Fine. Is there anything else? I need to be going." She stepped down from the table.

"I want to see you back next month." He told her as she headed out the door.

***

She went straight to Wyatt's.

"Hey, you are here early." Wyatt kissed her check.

"I'm sorry I have to talk to you." She paced the floor. "Wyatt, I don't think we should see each other anymore." She faced him.

"Parker..." He held her hands into his.

"Wait. I'm not finished." She pulled loose and stared into his eyes. "I just found out something today and after you hear it, you will not want to be around me."

"It can't be that bad."

"I'm pregnant." She took a deep breath. "I think it will be the best if we end this before it is to late." She turned to the door, reaching for the knob.

"Parker...wait." He stopped her. "I want to keep seeing you. I don't care if you are pregnant or not. I really like you." He pushed a lock of her hair back from her neck and kissed it. "Please." He whispered.

Parker's attention returned to the present as she heard someone knocking on the door. "Jarod, I told you to go away!"

"It's Wyatt!" He yelled through the door.

"Wyatt." She opened the door. "What are you doing here?" She looked surprised. "I didn't think I would see you again." She wrapped her arms around his neck.

"We have to talk." He pulled loose and walked toward the couch.

"What is it?" She shut the door.

"Do you still want to carry out *our* plan?"

"Why?"

"Cause I had a visit from Jarod tonight."

"What did he do?"

"Nothing. He just talked mostly. It got me to thinking how much I want to be with you. Parker, will you still marry me?"

She let out a heavy sigh. "I'm not sure." She paced in front of him.

"Come on, you are the one that convinced me this would work." He stood, caressing her hand.

"I-I..."

"Think about. Please. That is all I am asking." He kissed her lips. "Please, for the baby." He whispered as he let go of her and walked back to the door. "I will be waiting for your answer." He opened the door and walked out.

Parker paced again. She couldn't believe what she just heard. A smiled danced across her lips as she thought of getting free from the Centre.

******

Two weeks later

Mr. Parker stood in front of his daughter. "You're looking beautiful today." He kissed her cheek.

"Thanks Daddy." She smiled.

There was a knock at the door and Lyle peeked in. "They are ready for you." He shut the door just as fast as he opened it.

"Ready?" Mr. Parker's hand reached out to his daughter.

She let a sigh and took one last glance in the mirror. "Ready." She looped her arm into her father's. He walked her out.

As she walked down the aisle, she couldn't keep her eye off of Wyatt. She couldn't believe in a few minutes she was going to be married. As she got closer to him she was thinking of Jarod. She wander what he was doing, where he could be.

As her father let go of her hand and handed it to Wyatt, Parker didn't remember much after that. She tuned to face Wyatt and saw Jarod standing in the shadows. She couldn't believe Jarod was there after all, he was wanted by the Centre and there he stood at her wedding. Her heart wanted her to run to him and pull him into her arms but her mind was telling her no because she would end up dead.

"Do you Wyatt take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife?" He gazed up into her eyes, "Parker," He whispered. "I can't."

"What?" Parker's attention was brought back to reality when she heard his words.

"I can't. You don't love me the way I love you."

The priest stood there waiting for an answer.

"That is why you should marry Jarod."

"Are you crazy?" She kept her tone down.

Wyatt turned to the guest, "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm sorry but I can't do this when there is someone else..."

Parker squeezed his arm knowing this was going to be the end of her.

"...she loves and should spend the rest of her life with." He then turned around to where Jarod was standing. "Jarod." He stepped aside. "I'm sorry, Parker." He dropped her hand. "You do make a beautiful bride." He moved to the other side of Jarod.

Lyle, Raines, and Sydney jumped up.

"I wouldn't even think about it." Sam stood between Lyle and Raines.

Broots sat nervously between the two older men.

Sydney stood up next to Mr. Parker. "You should let her be happy."

"Raines. Lyle. Sit down." Mr. Parker's voice was stern.

They followed his orders and took their seats. The priest turned back to the couple, "Are we ready to get on with the wedding?"

Jarod took his bride by the hand. "You look beautiful." He caressed her cheek. "Are *we* going to finish this?" He smiled at her.

"I'm dead anyway." She mumbled under her breath. She smiled back.

The priest began with the ceremony as the young couple joined hands. All Parker could think about was how Jarod was a dead man if they lived through this. The next thing she remembered was the priest saying, "You may the kiss the bride."

Jarod placed both hands on either side of her face, pushing a ringlet of hair back. He lend in toward her. His lips gently touched hers as they kissed.

"I would like to introduce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jarod Russell."

The couple faced the guest as they walked down the aisle. When they got behind the crowd, Jarod whispered in her ear, "I told you to trust me."

"We are not out of this yet, wonder boy." She hissed.

Mr. Parker walked up to the happy couple. "So you really love him?"

"Yes, Daddy."

Jarod took his new bride by the hand. "Honey, we should get going before they change their minds." He glanced over at Lyle and Raines who were exchanging looks.

"Daddy, I will call you later." Parker gave her father a peck on the cheek.

Jarod lead her to the limousine. As he held the door open for her a gun shot rang out over the air and Parker fell into his arms. "NO!" He yelled as he held her limp body.

"Jarod, what happen?" Her eyes blinked.

"Shh, it's going to be ok." He saw the red liquid flow from her abdomen. He quickly placed pressure with one hand. He got her in the back of the limousine and shouted for the driver to drive.

"I told you we wouldn't make it alive." She whispered as her eyes rested.

"Just trust me, my love." He kissed her closed eyes lids as the tears fell from his eyes.

As the limousine drove away Raines watched as Willie dropped the gun to his side.

Part 3
chapter 4 by gbarton
******

When Parker finally opened her eyes, she stared at the white walls surrounding her.

"Jarod." She choked.

"Shh." He raised from the chair. "I'm here."

Parker felt her pillow fill with a cool wetness from the tears falling from her eyes as she tried to stare into the pretender's eyes. She glanced down at his right hand and saw the gold wedding band that he was twisting around his finger. "It wasn't a dream." She barely sat up.

"You are going to be fine." He smiled back at her.

She placed her hands over her abdomen. "The baby?"

"We can still have more."

She had a steady stream flowing down her face. "We made it this far." She laced her fingers into his.

There was soft knock on the door. They both glanced up to see the older man enter.

"Daddy?" Parker cried as she wiped the tears away.

"Angel. I just want you to know that whoever did this will be held responsible."

"I don't care, daddy. Jarod and I just want our freedom."

"Angel, you can't leave me." He pleaded.

"Mr. Parker, you don't get it, do you? I love you daughter and in order for us have any kind of a life we have to leave and start over...together."

"Jarod, you can't take my daughter from me."

"I'm not. You have done it to yourself." He watched as the older man choked up over his words.

"She's my little girl!"

"She needs her freedom!" The words grew louder as the two began to shout.

"Stop it!" Parker intervened. She threw her hands in the air. "This is why I couldn't stay with you." She turned to her husband. "I knew this would happen."

"Baby..."

"Angel..."

"Stop it. Both of you." She sat up in the bed. "This is what is going to happen. Daddy, you are going to give Jarod his freedom so we can have some kind of life without the Centre always on our tails." Then she faced the young man beside her. "And Jarod I need some time to think about what just happen. I can't deal with the marriage and the loss of our child right now."

"I want you to take all the time you need. I'll take you anywhere you want to go. Just tell me."

"Jarod, I have do this alone. Please give me some time." She tried to hold back the tears.

"Child?" Mr. Parker was shocked. Glancing back over to his daughter, "Ok I will have the papers drawn up today for you to look over. Jarod you are free from the Centre." He lowered his head like he was ashamed to be defeated by his own daughter.

Please can you tell me so I can finally see where you go when you're gone

******

Six weeks later
Somewhere on the beach near the gulf

Parker was kicked back in a lawn chair reading a book when a shadow blocked her from the sun. She glanced up to see a man standing next to the chair.

"What you doing here?" She asked.

"To bring you home." He stood over her.

"I'm not ready to go back."

"Oh yes you are." He skimmed the area, looking at the young girls on the beach. "I can't take it there anymore."

"Why? You don't have anyone to annoy?"

"Yes."

"Well, I guess you will have to find your kicks else where." She flashed a fake smile at him.

"Please come back. I'm begging you."

"You, Lyle, begging." She stood from the chair and headed to the bar.

He quickly followed. "Please, sis. You don't know how bad it is."

She grabbed the fruity drink from the bar and headed back to the chair. "How bad what is?"

"Jarod." He sat down next to her.

"Jarod?" She couldn't believe he was talking about Jarod of all people.

He could hear the concern in her voice when he mentioned his name. "After you left and didn't call for a while, Jarod came back to the Centre. He won't leave. I don't understand it. Dad gave him his freedom and now he comes back." Lyle shook his head. "Just think after all these years of chasing him, who would have guessed your breaking his heart would have brought him back to the Centre." Lyle knew no one would ever understand that man.

"He what?" Parker couldn't believe what her brother was telling her.

"I'm telling you it is depressing. Torturing him isn't even as fun as it used to be. Please take him off our hands." Lyle begged.

"I don't believe you." She turned her head watching the waves come in from the ocean.

"Fine. If I can't convince you then I guess this will." He shoved a DSA into her hand and walked off.

Parker stared down to the small disc. "Damn it." She got up and headed to her room.

******

Two days later
The Centre

Parker stood in the doorway of Jarod's room with her arms crossed at her chest. He could smell the cologne linger in his small cell and knew who it was without looking up. She watched him lay on the bed not moving.

"They tell me they don't even have to lock the door anymore. You never leave." She uncrossed her arms and took a step into the room.

"What's the point?" He raised up to see her moving closer to him. "My life is over."

"I wouldn't say that. You finally got your freedom."

"If that is what you call it. Freedom? My wife left me and the Centre took *our* child. Yep, I would say it is over." He swung his legs off the bed and stared up at her. "Freedom or not."

"I'm sorry." She barely whispered. "I never wanted to hurt you."

"Well, they say it is better to have lost in love then to have never loved at all." He eyed the gold band on his left hand and twisted it around and around.

"I'm sorry. I made a mistake but I had to have time to myself in order to make my love for you stronger." She touched his cheek with the back of her hand. "I love you. I always have and I always will." She leaned in to kiss him.

He pulled back. "I'm not sure if I can trust you again." The tears swelled up in his brown eyes.

"Fine." She stood from the bed. "I guess I will be seeing you around." She headed to the door. "Just remember that I love you." She walked out the door leaving him on the edge of the bed.

Jarod watched her leave and wanted so much to get up and follow her out. He was so stupid to let her go like that. After all he never gave up on her that easy and she just left.

"Stupid. Stupid." He repeated as he hit his forehead with his hand. He got up from the bed heading toward the door then decided against it. He heard her high heels heading back so he jumped back on the bed like he had never got up.

She peaked her head in. "Are you coming?"

"What?" He tried to hold back the small grin forming on his lips.

"Are you staying or leaving? Because I don't have all day for you to make up your mind." She smiled at him.

Jarod jumped up and practically ran her over to get out the door. "I thought you were leaving."

"I was but then I knew Lyle would hunt me down and kill me for leaving you here." She laughed.

"Lyle?" He looked puzzled.

"It's a long story." She took his hand into hers as they walked down the hall and through the door.

And when I touch your hand
It's then I understand the beauty that's within
It's now that we begin you always light my way
I hope there never comes a day no matter where I go
I always feel you so

'Cause you're everywhere to me and when I close my eyes it's you I see
You're everything I know that makes me believe I'm not alone
'Cause you're everywhere to me and when I catch my breath it's you I breathe
You're everything I know that makes me believe I'm not alone

The End!
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