carrie carr - [lex & amanda 2] faith's crossing

8/13/2019 Carrie Carr - [Lex & Amanda 2] Faith's Crossing

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Faith's Crossing

Carrie Carr

Regal Crest Enterprises, LLC (2003)

New lovers Lexington Walters and AmandaCauble have withstood many things to b

ogether, including raging floods and cattl

ustlers. But can they handle the one obstacl

hat now stands in their way - Amanda's parentsWhen Amanda decides to move to Texas fo

good, she goes back to her family's Californi

home to get the rest of her things - taking Le

with her. Even though her parent's have neve

understood her "lifestyle", they've not exactought against it. But when she brings he

ancher to meet them, all bets are off. After bein

offered something that she's always wanted, w

Amanda bend to her family's wishes? And is he


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ove for Lex stronger than her need for fami

acceptance?


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Faith's Crossing

Chapter 1

Lex woke at her usual time - before the sun had th

opportunity to rise. Groaning slightly to herself, the dar

haired woman used her right hand to rub her weareyes, debating with her more practical side that wa

elling her to get out of bed. Just when she had decide

o listen that annoying little internal voice, she felt th

mall body that was partially draped across her tnuggle even more tightly to her side. Lex sighed.No

ike I have a good reason to leave this. Her lip

urned upward into a small smile.Not like I'd leav

his even if I did have a good reason. She pulled th

mall woman closer, feeling the blonde head tur

upwards.

Morning." A sleep-roughened voice grumbled, the

oft lips kissed Lex's tan throat. "I've got to figure out


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way to make you sleep in until at least sunrise, ju

once." Green eyes tracked up the sharp planes of th

ancher's face, absorbing the relaxed look on he

companion.

Lex smiled, working her hand under the soft material o

he younger woman's sleep shirt, gently scratching th

mooth back. "I dunno if you can, but it will certainly b

fun watching you try."

Amanda crawled up the long body until their faces wer

nches apart. "You're on." She dropped her hea

lightly, brushing her lips gently against Lex's. Feelin

trong hands running along the inside of her shirt gent

mapping the route of her spine, Amanda deepened th

kiss, noticing that the body under hers trembled

Mmm..." she smiled against the older woman's lip

Cold?" She loved the way Lex responded to heouch, knowing that she responded to the taller woma

n much the same way.

N...n...no...not...at all." Lex stammered, unable t


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control her voice when she felt small hands explorin

under her shirt - hands that knowingly found just th

ight places to touch, leaving behind an almost electric

charge. "Amanda..." she cleared her throat, "w

houldn't..." But her body was happily rebelling

arching towards the younger woman's touch

Your...ah... grandparents..." she mumbled, losing th

battle as small, soft hands began tracing down toward

her stomach, closely followed by insistent bites anmall licks from the chuckling blonde's mouth. "The

might...oh, god..." her eyes closed as Amanda found

particularly sensitive spot just below her ribs.

Shhh..." the younger woman murmured. "It's okay

weetheart...they're at the other end of the hall, an

won't be up for hours." She slowly worked the soft shi

up the quivering body below her. "Besides, "sh

chuckled, "the risk of getting caught is half the funThen she stopped talking, and concentrated on th

enjoyable task at hand.


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Chapter 2

Lex had a small smile on her face as she followed th

young blonde down the stairway a few hours later.

had taken all of her considerable willpower to not clim

nto the shower with Amanda after their pre-daw

activities, especially after the younger woman had gon

nto great detail as to what she would be missing. She

uch a little tease, she smirked, unable to take he

eyes off of the gently swaying hips in front of her. Sengrossed in her perusal, Lex didn't realize when th

mall body stopped, and she had to grab the railing t

keep them both from falling when she bumped into th

ithe form.

Amanda turned around to peer into the rancher's dee

blue eyes. "Hey there. Everything okay?"

Snapping back to reality, Lex nodded. "Yeah, sure


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Her brows creased into a questioning gaze when th

maller woman grasped her arms and exchanged place

with her, putting Lex on the step below her. "What?"

Giving her companion a mischievous smile, Amandeaned forward, wrapping her arms around the olde

woman's neck. "Much better." She whispered, lookin

directly into Lex's eyes before she captured th

ancher's lips in a sweet possessive embrace.

Ahem."

Breaking off the kiss reluctantly, Lex slowly turne

around to find the source of the interruption. "OopsShe felt Amanda giggle.

At the bottom of the stairs stood Anna Leigh, a gentl

mile on her face. "Good morning, you two." Seeing hegranddaughter wrap her arms around the tall woman

her smile widened. "I trust you both slept well."

Amanda propped her chin on the broad shoulder

front of her. "Oh, yeah...like a baby." She gently pulle


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he dark-haired woman closer. "But, then again, I had

pretty good nap on the sofa last night."

Sorry... but you looked so peaceful, I didn't have th

heart to disturb you." Lex unconsciously leaned bacnto the embrace.

Amanda felt large hands entwine with hers, which wer

played across Lex's flat stomach. "Yeah, but you coulhave made me get up, instead of carrying me up th

tairs."

Anna Leigh saw the taller woman blush slightly. "C'mon

was just on my way up to tell you two that breakfast eady."

Giving the older woman a grateful smile, Lex starte

down the stairs. "Mmm...I was hoping that's what thagreat smell was."

Great! I'm starving!" Amanda skipped down the stair

topping next to the smiling woman and capturing he

hand, then dragging the grinning rancher into th


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kitchen.

There's a big surprise!" Lex mumbled to Anna Leigh

who laughed as the small blonde backhanded the ta

woman on the stomach.

They all entered the kitchen laughing, causing Jacob t

urn around at the counter from where he was pouring

cup of coffee. "Good morning, ladies." He pulled twmore mugs from the cabinet. "Coffee?" Hearing thankf

groans, he smiled and filled the cups, then turned bac

owards the women.

Good morning, Grandpa Jake!" Amanda wrapped hearms around his waist, squeezing tight. Snuggling he

face into his chest, she released a heavy sigh. "I've real

missed this."

acob enveloped her in his arms, returning the hug

Kissing the blonde head beneath his chin, he smiled

Me too, sweetie. Did you sleep well, Peanut?

Looking to Lex and Anna Leigh he nodded, "He

here...have a seat, ladies. Breakfast is ready." With


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final hug and kiss to his granddaughter, Jacob turne

back towards the stove. "Wanna help, Peanut?"

Lex looked at the older woman, a question on her fac

Anna Leigh shook her head and smiled. "Better do ahe says...sit down, or he'll never serve us!" She pointe

at a chair opposite her, and watched the younge

woman sit down gingerly.

While the two women got themselves seated at th

able, Jacob and Amanda brought over several platter

of food. Before sitting down, the small blonde hande

Lex a steaming cup of coffee, and gave her shoulder

gentle squeeze. "Here you go...hope you're hungry

Grandpa makes the best omelets I've ever tasted!" sh

winked at Jacob as he sat down next to his wife.

They spent the majority of the meal talking of the evenat the ranch for the past week, with both of the elde

Cauble's expressing their shock and concern.

...and then, after we get back to the house, Martha an

discover that tough-stuff over there," she points at Le


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with her fork, "got shot sometime during all that running

and never said a word to either one of us."

Lex sat her coffee mug down on the table. "You'r

getting it all out of proportion." She looked helplessly aacob. "I really didn't notice - it was barely a scratch."

Yeah, right...a scratch that even now, several day

ater, is still bleeding." The young blonde gave hecompanion a dirty look. "Which is why we're going t

ee Doctor Anderson right after breakfast, right?"

Rolling her eyes, Lex let out a heavy sigh. "Amanda."

Anna Leigh looked across the table at the dark-haire

woman. "Is that true?" not waiting for an answer, sh

expelled a long breath. "Lexington, you run the risk o

nfection with a wound like that...if it's not already."

That's what I've been trying to tell her, but she's just s

darn stubborn!" Amanda added, sensing another ally i

his ongoing battle. "She wouldn't even let me chang

he dressing on it this morning!" her voice sounde


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trained.

The tall woman looked over at Jacob, begging with he

eyes for some help. Seeing that he was keeping silen

he decided to try and change the subject. "Mr... ahacob - do you know of a good detail shop aroun

here?"

Sure, Lex...Shuman's on Fourth does excellent workwhy?" he had finished his breakfast and was leanin

back in his seat, one arm casually draped across th

back of his wife's chair.

Amanda leaned forward a bit. "Oh, that's right...yocan't see the driveway from here." She smiled broadly

C'mon, let's go out front and I'll show you!" sh

umped to her feet and stepped away from the table

Pulling the equally smiling rancher with her, Amandalmost skipped through the house.

As soon as they reached the door, she turned around t

face her grandparents. "Since you can't see th

driveway from here, how did you know we were her


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yesterday? You opened the door before we could eve

get to it."

Anna Leigh laughed. "You did call and say you were o

your way, so we were expecting you. And when wheard the slamming of car doors, we figured it had to b

you!" Hand in hand, she and Jacob followed the youn

women outside, stopping in shock when they saw th

ittle Mustang sitting in the driveway - muddy, buwhole. "Oh, my...." She stopped, her free hand over he

heart. "How..."

acob turned to look at his granddaughter. "But

hought you said..." he noticed that Lex was turning

very unusual shade of pink.

Lex pulled it out of the creek and then got it runnin

again...she gave it to me the night all the excitemenhappened." Amanda wrapped an arm around th

embarrassed rancher.

Didn't do that much, really...just let it dry out." Sh

mumbled, not at all enjoying all the attention that wa


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being focused on her.

acob came up on her other side, giving her a hug. "Uh

huh...and just how did you get the car out of the creek

Whistle, and it followed?" he enjoyed the look on botyoung women's faces - Lex's, which was one of pur

embarrassment, and Amanda's, who looked as if th

dea had never crossed her mind.

He's right." Amanda looked up at the rancher, wh

wouldn't meet her gaze. "The car was on the far side o

he creek...how did..."she paused, understandin

dawning on her features. "You didn't." she whispered

he closing of Lex's eyes telling her everything. "Yo

went back into that cold, heavily running stream, afte

you had your ribs broken? Are you nuts?" She spu

around to get face-to-face with the taller woman, he

voice quivering.

acob moved back over to where Anna Leigh wa

tanding. "I think we should go in and take care of th

breakfast dishes, don't you, sweetheart?" Seeing he


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nod, he gently grasped her hand and limped into th

house.

Lex opened her eyes, hearing the upset in the younge

woman's voice. "I...um...you were just so sad abouosing that car, and I wanted to do something to chee

you up. Especially after the story you told me on ho

you got it..." looking into the shining green eyes tha

ook her breath away.

But, God, Lex...you could have asked me to help you

anyway." Amanda felt her control slipping, and then th

callused hands cradled her face gently. "When di

you...?"

The day I went to get the jeep. I used the winch on

o pull the Mustang out of the water." She kisse

Amanda on the nose. "Piece of cake."

Amanda moved her arms up until they were wrappe

around the dark-haired woman's neck. "Yeah, righ

And just how did you attach the winch to th

Mustang?" she saw Lex trying to think up a goo


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answer. "Magic?"

How'd you guess?" Lex smirked. She felt her hea

being pulled downwards. "Not buying that, huh?" th

all woman asked, as she leaned down to meet Amandhalfway. Their lips touched, and to Lex time ceased t

matter - it was as if all the sounds around them stopped

and all she could hear was the rapid beating of her ow

heart. A motorcycle suddenly roared by, causing thdark woman to realize where they were standing, s

he slowly broke off the kiss.

Amanda brought her arms down and placed on

around the tapered waist. "Don't think for a minute tha

've been distracted from our little discussion - we

finish it later." She began to lead the older woman bac

nside. "But right now, we've got a doctor's appointmen

o keep."

Chapter 3


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Even though she protested about having to go, Le

eally liked Doctor Anderson - the elderly physician ha

aken care of her assorted injuries and illnesses he

entire life, and was one of the few people she truste

completely. She and Amanda arrived at his offic

hortly after the doors were unlocked, which mad

hem the only people sitting in the painfully cheerf

waiting room. Since Dr. Anderson was a famil

practitioner, his office had brightly colored sceneadorning every wall. One wall had a circus them

making the chairs look like they were inside the Big To

animals everywhere. Another had a large mural o

hot-air balloons, while the last looked like a corracomplete with several horses. Lex chose to sit in th

corral" area to her companion's amusement.

Always the little cowgirl, huh?" Amanda chuckled a

he sat down beside her.

The rancher looked around, and smiled sheepishly. "Uh

well actually, I just like looking at the balloons." Sh

pointed to the colorful wall across from them.


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Before they could continue their conversation, th

nterior door next to the receptionist's window opened

and a small, gray-haired man bent with age stepped int

he main room. "Little Lexington Marie! It's been

while, hasn't it child?" he greeted with a strong voic

Now get yourself in here, and bring your little frien

oo." He turned and headed down a brightly tile

hallway, gesturing to a door on his left.

Amanda chuckled at the chagrined look on th

ancher's face, as she followed after the old doctor. Le

topped at the door and waited for the younger woma

o enter the room before her. "Don't you start." Sh

whispered, getting a giggle in response.

Come in, come in...close the door behind you." Th

mall bespectacled doctor offered, sitting on a sma

olling stool. "Not get over here and hop up on thexamination bed, Lexington." He chuckled at her rolle

eyes. "Don't give me that look now, or I'll have to ca

Martha."


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Lex sighed, and gingerly sat up on the padded table

It's probably just a waste of your time, Dr. A., but..."

gnoring her protestations, he turned towards the youn

blonde still standing by the door. "Come over her anit down, honey..." he cocked his head at her an

miled. "I don't believe we've met before, have we?" h

held out a wrinkled hand.

Amanda grasped the offered hand, faintly surprised a

he strength in it. "No, I don't think so. My name

Amanda Cauble." She gave him an earnest smile.

The doctor held her hand in both of his. "Jacob anAnna Leigh's little Amanda?" Seeing her blush and nod

he laughed. "That's grand...they speak of you all th

ime. They are so proud of you, my dear." He allowe

her to sit down, then turned his attention back to hpatient, checking the clipboard his nurse had left in th

oom. "So...what have you gotten yourself into now

honey?" he laid the paperwork on the stool an

adjusted his glasses. "Broken ribs and a gunsho


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wound?" Dr. Anderson held the end of his stethoscop

o warm it up a bit. "I'll bet you really set Martha o

after that!" he waited patiently as Lex unbuttoned he

hirt, then gently placed the listening device to her ches

Have you made her mad? You look like you have los

a bit of weight."

No, just been real busy...she'll fatten me up again in n

ime." Lex sighed, then flinched when he began to probhe bandage on her side.

Hurts, huh?" he shook his head. "Got a nasty scrap

here, too..." poking the muscular side gently, "Wh

aren't your ribs wrapped up? Do you want anothe

punctured lung?" The old man began pulling the tape

bandage from her side.

Ow!" Lex jumped sideways slightly. "Could you pleaseave me some skin?"

gnoring the tall woman's complaining, the elder

doctor finished removing the gauze and let out a lo

whistle. "That doesn't look good at all." He mumbled


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haking his head in dismay.

Amanda jumped up from her chair to stand next to him

What? What's wrong?" she peered around the sma

man, trying to see what he was looking at.

Running a hand down his face, Dr. Anderson pushe

Lex onto her back, then lifted her legs until she wa

ying flat on the bed. "Might as well get comfortablgirl. We're going to have to open it back up to tak

care of the infection." He patted her leg. "Let me go ge

Laura - she's going to have to help me." He left th

oom to search for his nurse.

The small blonde took a close look at Lex's side. Sh

could see that the area around the wound was ver

wollen, and the skin had an unhealthy red shine to i

The bruising on her chest was fading, only showinmottled yellow and light purple, and the gash sh

eceived in the creek was almost completely healed

The older woman was lying still, her eyes closed

Amanda brushed the dark bangs off of her forehead


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Are you in much pain?"

Blue eyes opened, meeting her concerned gaze

No...that's what's so strange. It's only a slight ache

She captured the small hand running through her haand brought it to her lips. "Is this where you tell me,

old you so?'" she teased, trying to get a smile from th

worried young woman.

No, Lex...this is where I say, 'I wish I wasn't right

because I hate seeing you go through this..." Amand

ooked at the wound again. "That looks really bad..

can't believe it's not hurting you...I hurt just looking a

t."

Doctor Anderson came back in the room, followed b

a young woman about the same age as Lex. "See?

old you we wouldn't be long." He told the waitinwomen. "Laura, this is..." he was about to introduc

Amanda when the small red-haired nurse spoke up.

Amanda? How's your grandfather?" she walked ove

and gave the young blonde a hug, a huge smile on he


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face.

He's doing great, thanks." Amanda stepped back, bu

kept one hand on the nurse's arm. "Talks about yo

quite a bit...says you're the best nurse he had."

Laura laughed. "That's just because I snuck him

milkshake every now and then." She looked over at th

exam table. "Lex...it's been a while, hasn't it?" She gavAmanda's hand a gentle pat, then walked over to th

able. "What have you done to yourself this time

Wreck a car? Fall off of a horse?"

Doctor Anderson had put on rubber gloves, and pullea rolling tray next to Laura. "No, actually somethin

different, this time. Gunshot." He grinned as his nurs

paled slightly.

Gunshot?" She looked at the wound. "Dear Lord

Lex...do you thrive on trouble?" she gave the rancher

houlder a slight squeeze. Turning to Amanda, "You

don't have to watch...we'll come get you as soon a

we're done."


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The young blonde shook her head. "I'd rather stay, fo

moral support. If I won't be in the way." She saw th

grateful look on the rancher's face.

No...not at all." Laura pulled on her own gloves, "yocan sit right over there." She pointed at a chair by Lex

head. "Maybe with you here, we won't be subjected t

your friend's bad language." She almost laughed ou

oud at the nasty look the woman on the bed was givinher.

Hey! It wasn't my fault! That needle was huge!" Le

countered, glad that Laura was helping her in the effo

o distract the young blonde.

Laura reached over to the rolling cart and grinned. "Yo

hink that one was big...?" she took the protective ca

off of the syringe that she was holding, "I get to give yohree of these!"

The doctor laughed. "Laura, don't tease my patient." H

gave Lex a friendly pat on the leg. "Now, we're going t

give you a local anesthetic, so try not to kick my nurse


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okay?"

Rolling her eyes, Lex nodded. "Okay. But she could a

east pretend not to enjoy it so much." This with a moc

glare to the redhead. "I don't remember you being thadistic in school."

That's just because you didn't know me like you d

now." The nurse retorted. "Now sit still, and I'll try tbe gentle."

Chapter 4

Do you really think that's such a good idea, Lex? Th

doctor said you should just lie down and take it easy fohe rest of the day." Amanda sat up straighter, strainin

o see over the tall steering wheel. They had droppe

off the Mustang at the detail shop and picked up Lex

ruck before going to the doctor's office, and the youn


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blonde felt somewhat dwarfed by the large customize

Dodge pickup.

Lex turned her head to look at Amanda, who wa

itting with one leg tucked under her so that she coulee over the steering wheel. "The bank is on the sam

treet as the pharmacy, it won't take me but a minute t

go in."

Stopped at a light, Amanda looked over at he

passenger. Lex was unusually pale, and her eyes had

lightly glazed look to them. "Why don't you let me tak

you home, and then I'll go pick up your prescription?"

I really need to pick up that paperwork at the bank -

called Mr. Collins yesterday, and said I would be i

oday to meet with him." Shifting in the seat, she close

her eyes as another wave of dizziness washed over her

Amanda grasped the arm nearest her. "I'm sure he'

understand..."

Maybe...but I won't be able to get any rest until I ca


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ook at those papers." She maneuvered her arm un

he was holding Amanda's hand. "Please, Amanda..

promise to make it quick." Seeing the younger woma

begin to waver, she added, "You can come in with m

o make sure, okay?"

Amanda didn't say anything, but she pulled the larg

ruck up to the bank and turned it off. "Five minute

Lex...then we're going to pick up your prescriptionand I'm taking you home and putting you to bed

Seeing the smirk on the older woman's face, sh

groaned, "You know what I mean."

Lex laughed, then slowly got out of the truck. "What?

didn't say a word." She held the door open for he

companion.

A short heavyset man in an expensive suit met them junside the door. "Ms. Walters! What a pleasure to se

you again." He grabbed her hand and began to shake

wildly. "Please, come into my office." Pausing, h

ooked at the young woman standing next to the ta


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ancher. "Oh, excuse me, miss...?"

Lex turned slightly towards the smaller woman

Sorry...Mr. Collins, this is a very good friend of mine

Amanda Cauble." She gestured towards the bankeAmanda, this is Mr. Collins, the president of this fin

nstitution." She smiled as the banker blushed.

That is too kind of you to say, Ms. Walters." He lehem to a glassed-in office in the corner of the building

and gestured them inside. "Please, have a seat." Afte

Lex and Amanda sat down, the slightly balding ma

closed the door and then sat down behind an ornat

oak desk. "I received your email, Ms. Walters, an

personally gathered up the information you ha

equested. And..." He pulled out a small attach cas

from under the desk, "not only was I discreet in m

esearch, but I put everything in this case for you." Hpudgy hands shook slightly. "You don't believe tha

anyone here at the bank would be involved in any illeg

activities, do you?"


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Lex waved a hand in the air to cut him off. "No, o

course not, Mr. Collins...I just felt that the fewer peopl

who knew about this, the better off we would all be."

The bank president visibly relaxed. "Ah, that's fine...jufine. We will do anything to keep one of our bes

customers happy."

Amanda cleared her throat discreetly, then casuallooked over at the dark-haired woman sitting besid

her.

Lex smirked then slowly stood up, extending her han

across the desk. "Mr. Collins, it's been a pleasure doinbusiness with you, but I'm afraid I have anothe

appointment to get to."

No problem, Ms. Walters...you have my home numbef you need anything else, right?" he pumped her han

enthusiastically.

Lex winced, then disentangled her hand from th

beaming banker, and picked up the attach case


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You'll be the first one I call, Mr. Collins." The ta

woman turned and ushered Amanda out of the room.

Chapter 5

Amanda rushed out of the pharmacy as soon as sh

was given Lex's prescriptions. So intent on he

houghts, she didn't see the large man about to g

hrough the door. "Ooof! Excuse me..." Stumblin

back, she glanced up and saw whom she ran into.

Well, well...hello there, sweet thing." The deep voicdrawled. "Fancy meeting you here - come in to pick u

your birth control pills?" Rick Thompson blocked he

exit, standing in front of Amanda with his thick arm

crossed over his chest. "No, wait...I guess that yodon't need to worry about that sort of thing anymor

do you?"

Why do I have the sudden urge to go home an

hower? Yuck! "It's really none of your busines


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Rick...so if you'll excuse me, I have someone waitin

for me." She tried to edge past the big man, wh

grabbed her arm to stop her.

Wait! I just want to talk to you for a minute. When wiyou be coming back to work?" he let the small woma

wriggle out of his grasp, confident that she wouldn't g

anywhere. Amused, Rick decided to see just how fa

he could push the little blonde. "So...have you had nice vacation?" he sneered.

You sonofabitch!" Amanda pulled her arm back and

lapped him, hard.

Rick had actually been knocked back a step. "Why yo

ittle bitch...I'll..." stepping forward, he reached fo

Amanda, only to be stopped by a strong grip on h

houlder. "What?!?"

He spun around, ready to pound on whoever ha

decided to interfere.

ce blue eyes glared into his. "Problem?" Lex inquire


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coolly, even though it took all that she had not to knoc

he large man into next week.

Mind your own damn business, Walters." He ranted

the little whore slapped me!" his tirade was stoppewhen Lex grabbed two handfuls of his suit coat, pullin

him into her face.

So? Knowing you, you probably deserved it!" Legrowled. "Wanna try picking on someone your ow

ize?"

Why? What's it to you?" his bravado fading, Rick

one turned more wheedling.

She's a friend of mine, asshole!" Lex could feel he

heart pounding in anger, which in turn caused her newl

titched wound to throb painfully.

Amanda took the opportunity to step around Rick, an

moved to stand behind the agitated rancher. Placing

cautious hand on Lex's back, she whispered, "Let

go...he's not worth it."


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Releasing her hold on his jacket, Lex stepped back an

ook a deep breath. Seeing the big man begin to smil

he stepped back into his face. "And..." she droppe

her voice to a menacing drawl, "If I...ever...hear of yo

peaking about her that way again, they're gonna hav

o use Velcro to put you back together." She turned he

back on him to leave.

This ain't over yet, by a long shot!" he yellehalfheartedly, after realizing a small crowd ha

gathered. "You'd better be careful who you'r

hreatening around here!" Rick waved a fist at th

departing women.

either woman turned around, but Lex waved a bore

hand over her head. "Yeah, right." She followed th

mall blonde back to the truck, climbing inside.

Amanda closed her door and leaned on the steerin

wheel. She looked over at Lex, who was slumped

her seat, eyes closed. "Are you alright?"

The rancher visibly pulled herself together and sighed


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Yeah...that jerk has always been able to yank m

chain." She looked at the younger woman closely. "H

didn't hurt you, did he?"

Amanda gave her a strained smile, then started thruck. "Only the inside of my hand when I slapped him

She flexed the hand in question, then pulled the larg

vehicle out of the parking lot. "Let's go home." She gav

her passenger a real smile, "So I can tuck you into bed

Mmm...I think I can handle that," Lex returned he

mile. Then her eyes closed, almost against her wil

Damn, Laura musta gave me some sort of sedative..

can barely stay awake." She mumbled, her head fallin

back against the seat.

Yeah, she did say that she was going to give yo

omething to help you relax..." Amanda's voice traileoff when she saw that the older woman had falle

asleep. She felt a strong protective urge come over he

ick's real lucky he didn't start anything wit

her...or I would have done more than just slap him


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She drove the rest of the way home in contemplativ

ilence, taking her time and avoiding the main street

ince they were normally rougher riding, and she didn

want her companion jarred anymore than necessary.

Pulling up in the driveway, Amanda noticed that he

grandparents were walking out to the Suburban

Climbing out of the truck, she met them halfway, as the

had started towards her when she drove up.

Mandy! Sweetheart," Anna Leigh wrapped he

granddaughter up in a loving hug. "We were gettin

concerned...you've been gone for hours." She looke

owards the truck. "Is Lexington going to come inside?

acob had made his way over to where the two wome

were standing. "You just caught us on our way to th

car dealership...they called to say Anna Leigh's new cawas ready." He had been driving his wife's car when

drunk driver hit him six months ago. They had waited t

order her a new one until last month, since Jacob ha

not been cleared by the doctor until recently.


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Hi, Grandpa." Amanda stepped into his welcomin

arms. "I take it you've finally been given a clean bill o

health?" She backed off a step and smiled at he

grandmother. "Lex fell asleep on the drive back. The

had to reopen the bullet wound because it was infected

and Laura," this with a smile to Jacob, "gave her

edative to keep her calm."

acob smiled. "How is Laura? She was such weetheart to me...although I think I gained a fe

pounds from those contraband milkshakes she kep

neaking in to me." He looked at the sleeping figure

he truck. "Do you need any help getting Lex into th

house?"

Amanda followed his gaze, her eyes softening as sh

ooked at the dozing rancher. "No...I'll wake her up in

minute. At least I should be able to get her to resoday." She gave both of them a hug. "You two go

ahead and pick up that new car...I can't wait to see it

he ushered them back to the Suburban.


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Once Jacob and Anna Leigh had driven off, Amand

walked back over to the hunter green 4x4. She opene

he passenger door slowly, so as not to startle th

leeping woman. "Lex?" spoken quietly. "Honey, it

ime to wake up." She brushed the bangs out of th

dark woman's eyes, which slowly opened at her touch

Hey there."

Lex looked around, somewhat disoriented. "Umm..he cleared her throat, "Hi." Blinking a couple of time

he finally recognized where they were. "Sorry...didn

mean to drop off like that." She wiped a shaky han

across her face.

Don't worry about it." Amanda unclipped the seat be

holding her in. "Think you can make it into the house?"

Rolling her eyes, Lex sighed. "Relax, I'm fine...just ittle drugged up." She sat up and swung her legs out o

he truck.

Amanda took a step back, but stayed within arm

distance. "Okay...well, I'm staying right here, just i


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case." Daring the other woman to argue with her.

Waste of time..." Lex stepped down from the truck

but her legs began to buckle as soon as she put he

weight on them. "Whoa!"

Amanda jumped forward and caught Lex before sh

fell. Wrapping her arm around the taller woman, sh

chastised, "Teach you to not listen to me!" She starteowards the house slowly, "Of all the stubborn, pig

headed..."

Hey!" Lex complained, but held on tightly to the sma

blonde, "I just wasn't awake yet." She grumbledallowing Amanda to guide her into the house, and the

up the stairs.

Walking into their bedroom, Amanda wordlessly guideLex towards the bed, pulling the comforter back an

hen pushed Lex down gently. She lifted the rancher

feet up, removed her boots, and then began to unsna

her jeans.


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If you were trying to get me into bed, all you had to d

was say so." Lex teased, trying to gauge the othe

woman's mood. Reaching down to help, she wa

tartled when her hands were batted away. "What?"

Amanda pulled the jeans off of the long legs, folde

hem neatly and placed them on a nearby chair. "Hush

She pulled a well-worn nightshirt from Lex's suitcas

hen draped it over the bemused rancher. Lifting thcovers back over the tall form, the small blonde wen

nto the adjoining bathroom and brought out a glass o

water, stopping to grab the prescription bottles from he

purse. "Here...take these. I'm going to go downstair

and get you something to eat."

Puzzled, Lex did as she was told. "Okay...are you ma

at me?" She sat the glass down on the bedside table.

Stopping at the doorway, Amanda realized how sh

must have looked to the other woman. "No honey, I'

not." She walked back over to the bed and sat next t

he older woman. "I'm sorry...I just wanted to get yo


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ettled before you fell asleep again." She brought a han

up and caressed the tan cheek. "I'll be right back

Standing up, Amanda leaned over and kissed Lex o

he top of her head. "Behave yourself for a fe

minutes."

Yes ma'am..." Lex realized that she wasn't going to wi

any arguments today. "Could you do me a favor an

bring the bank papers back with you? I'd really like ttart looking over them." This with a pleading smile.

Sure...if you promise to get some rest first." Amand

countered, standing at the doorway. "I'll even help yo

f you want."

Lex leaned back against the pillows. "It's a deal." Sh

felt another wave of lethargy wash over her. What i

he hell did they give me? I feel like I could sleep foa week!Closing her eyes, the exhausted woman didn

even notice when Amanda snuck from the room.


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Chapter 6

Amanda was sitting at the kitchen table nursing a cup o

coffee, when Jacob and Anna Leigh returned from th

dealership some time later.

Peanut, is everything okay?" Jacob sat down next t

her, concern etched on his strong face.

Hmm? Oh, sure, Grandpa." She released a heavy sigh

Just thinking." Looking across the room to he

grandmother, she gave a wry smile. "Mother calle

while you were gone."

Anna Leigh sat down on the other side of the youn

woman. "Oh...is there anything wrong, dear?"

Amanda shook her head. "No...she called to see ho

Grandpa was feeling, and to find out why I haven

called her for so long. I told her that everything wa

great, and that you'd gone to pick up your new car

Taking a deep breath, she almost whispered, "Mothe

ays since I'm 'not needed' here anymore, she wants m


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o come back to Los Angeles and help her with th

gallery."

acob put a strong arm around his granddaughter

houlders. "Help with the gallery? She rarely spends anime there herself these days." He looked at his wife. "

wonder what she's up to now?"

Maybe she just misses you, Mandy." Anna Leigh trieo be tactful. Fact was, Elizabeth Cauble only seeme

nterested in her children when she needed somethin

from them. "Did she give you any other reason fo

wanting you to come back?"

Amanda ran her hand through her long blonde hair

agitation. "Not really...she did say that she and Da

were about to go out of the country again. But sh

usually leaves Jeannie in charge of the gallery, so I donknow why she wants me there." Her older sister ha

arely come to visit, spending most of her time traveling

much to Jacob and Anna Leigh's dismay. Amand

wiped a tear from her eye. "I told her I wanted to sta


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here permanently, because I've found someone that

ruly care about, and that I am happy for the first time

a very long time."

Anna Leigh squeezed her hand. "What did Elizabeth saabout that?"

She said that I was too young to know what I wanted

She sat up straighter. "And that this was just a 'phase'm going through." Amanda gave her grandmother

esolved look. "It's not a phase, Grandma...I've neve

felt anything more...right. And I'm not giving this up."

acob pulled her close. "We're both behind you onhundred percent, sweetheart." He looked over at h

wife. "Funny thing is, I think your grandmother was tol

he same thing when we first started dating."

"C'mon, Anna...hurry up!" the diminutive redhea

elled, jogging towards the lake.

nna Leigh laughed, and followed her best friend

not noticing the young man carrying an armful o


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wood crossing the path in front of her. "Ooof!" she

knocked him down, scattering the woo

everywhere. "Oh, my...I'm so sorry!" sh

apologized, helping the boy to his feet. Taking

close look, Anna realized that this was no boy...h

was probably seventeen, a good year older than sh

was. Tall, and very nice looking, the young man wa

now covered with a layer of dirt from the path

"Are you okay?"

acob Cauble looked at the young woman that h

had fallen for, literally. "Uh, yeah...I'm sorry I wa

n your way. Are you alright?" He dusted himsel

off, caught in her bright green eyes.

nna laughed. "I'm fine..."she looked up into h

hining blue eyes, "Where are my manners? My

name is Anna Leigh." She reached out with lender hand.

e wiped his hand on his shirt before shaking he

hand. "Jacob Cauble. Pleased to meet you."


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They spent the entire summer together, since both

of them were staying at the lake. She with her hig

ociety friends, and he with his job as assistant t

he maintenance man. Jacob thought that Ann

must work around the cabins, and Anna assume

hat he was there as a guest. As the summer cam

o a close, each found that they had been wron

about the other's background, but didn't seem t

care.

"Anna Leigh," Jacob felt her snuggle closer to him

as they watched the moon over the lake on

evening, "I love you with all my heart and soul..

ust wish I could offer you more."

She kissed his strong jaw. "Jacob, my love...yo

have given me more this summer than I eve

dreamed possible."

e backed away from her, then bent to one knee. "

can't give you much, but I would be honored if yo

would consent to become my wife." He pulled out


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mall silver ring, which normally graced his pinki

on his right hand. "This was my grea

randmother's wedding ring, and it would make m

roud if you would wear it until I could get you

roper engagement ring."

"Oh, Jacob..."she pulled him close. "I would b

roud to be your wife." She allowed him to plac

he small ring on her finger, which was a perfect fi"And if you dare try to replace this with something

else, I may have to thump you!"

They went to tell her parents together, hoping tha

heir obvious love would override any objection

hey may have.

"Absolutely not! No daughter of mine is going t

marry some money-grubbing carpenter!" RoberWinston roared, pulling the young woman from

acob's arms. "Get up to your room this minute!

he pushed her towards the stairs.

"With all due respect, sir..." Jacob began, trying to


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reach his beloved.

"Get out of my house!" Robert pushed the youn

man back, waiting for the butler to grab him. "An

tay away from my daughter!"

acob struggled, then stopped as he saw Anna Leig

begin to cry. "I love you, Anna Leigh. Don't give up

on us!" he yelled, as he was bodily drug from thhouse.

The next day, a weeping Anna Leigh was put on

assenger ship to Paris by her father, who hope

hat the vacation would bring the young womaback to her senses.

Anna Leigh laughed. "I'd forgotten all about that." Sh

ooked down at the small silver band on her right handSeeing Amanda's questioning look, she explained, "M

family was considered to be in the upper echelon o

Austin society at that time... Daddy thought you

grandfather was 'beneath my station' - he even went s

far as to send me to Paris for one summer." She smile


49/490

n remembrance. "I had been there for six miserab

weeks, when a certain young gentleman showed up o

my doorstep."

Grandpa?" Amanda whispered, mesmerized by thtory. "How did...?" she looked at her grandfather, wh

had a slight blush on his face - much to the delight of h

wife.

Well, since Jacob didn't have the kind of mone

needed for passage, he worked his way across on

hip. I believe it was a cattle ship, wasn't it dear?" sh

miled.

acob finally laughed. "Oh yeah...shoveling sh...er, by

product for almost five weeks - talk about a

adventure!" Seeing the delighted smile on h

granddaughter's face, he knew that they hauccessfully sidetracked her from her previou

depression. "To this day, I can't even look at a bag o

fertilizer without traumatic flashbacks!" he joked.

Guess that means you won't be out to visit the ranc


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anytime soon, huh?" A sultry voice teased from th

doorway.

Lex! What are you doing up?" Amanda jumped u

from the table and hurried over to the rancher. "Yohould be in bed!" she chastised.

The tall woman allowed herself to be steered to th

able and guided into a chair. "I feel much better nowespecially since I've finally got all that medication out o

my system." She grinned at Jacob and Anna Leigh

Remind me to get even with Laura next time I see her

acob chuckled. "She's pretty good at that, emember." He gave the dark-haired woman a ster

ook. "You really should be in bed resting, Lex. You st

ook pretty pale."

Oh, no...I hate lying in bed - makes me feel like I'

ick, or something." Lex raised a hand to stop Amand

before she could add anything. "I really feel fine

Besides, I've got some paperwork to start lookin

over." She quirked a brow at the young blonde.


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Amanda sighed, realizing she would not win this round

Okay, but only for a little while - then you're going t

get some more rest, or else."

Or else what?" Lex smirked, glancing over at Jacobwho was trying not to laugh.

Watch out, my young friend...little Amanda's a lo

ougher than she looks, he grinned, looking at his wif

The small blonde put her hand on Lex's shoulder, givin

t a gentle squeeze. "Or else I'll call Martha, and tell he

you're not taking care of yourself..." she loved the scow

hat replaced the cocky smile on the rancher's faceand I'm sure she'll be glad to haul you back out to th

anch for a little TLC."

You wouldn't...." Lex countered, "you would!" seeinhe gleefully evil grin that covered Amanda's face

Alright!" She let out a long breath. "You win, for now

anyway."

Trying to stop the battle, Anna Leigh decided o


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another tact. "Lexington, you are quite welcome to us

our office - the desk is more than large enough to wor

on, I believe."

The rancher gave the older woman a relieved smilThank you, Mrs. Cauble, uh, I mean Anna Leigh..." a

apologetic quirk of her lips. That's going to take som

etting used to, I think. "I really appreciate yo

allowing me to stay here while I get some businesaken care of, especially since my brother and I are no

getting along very well right now, and I couldn't ver

well stay at his house." Yeah, that's a

understatement.

C'mon," Amanda grabbed her hand and pulled th

aller woman to her feet, "I'll show you where the offic

s, and help you get settled." She smiled at he

grandparents as she tugged the rancher out of the room

Chapter 7


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Amanda led the taller woman through the house, pullin

her into a spacious room off of the main hall. Large ba

windows with cheery curtains brightened the room

which had a large antique cherry wood desk sitting

front of the windows, and several oversized chairs wer

cattered around the room.

This is where Grandma keeps track of things at the re

estate office, even though she officially retired a couplof years ago." Amanda explained, showing Lex th

arge computer occupying one whole side of the desk

She keeps after me to take over for her, but unt

ecently I really didn't have any good reason to live her

permanently." A sweet smile at the rancher. "C'mon

et's sit down for a minute before you get too engrosse

n paperwork." She sat the taller woman down on th

ofa, then dropped down beside her with a sigh.

Lex watched as the younger woman nervously playe

with their still-clasped hands, a small tremor of fea

unning through her. Something's bothering her...bit

he bullet time, I think. "Amanda?" she used her fre


54/490

hand to lift the small woman's chin up, so that they wer

ooking eye-to-eye. "What's the matter?" Seeing a sma

parkle of tears in those sea-green eyes, a lump forme

n her throat. "You know you can tell me, right?"

I know...it's just kind of hard to explain. I'm twenty

hree years old, and yet every time my mother calls,

feel like I'm sixteen again." She felt the reassuring gri

on her hand tighten slightly. "I spoke to my motheearlier today...she wants me to come back to Lo

Angeles and work in her art gallery."

Lex stiffened. "And..." she had to clear her throa

What do you want?" Feeling her heart pound, the olde

woman tried valiantly to appear calm. The woma

itting next to her must have noticed, because sh

cooted closer, almost sitting in her lap.

I want..." she pulled their linked hands up to her lip

to stay here." She kissed the large hand in hers, "I wan

o tell my grandmother that I would be glad to run he

office for her, and..." Amanda was unable to finish he


55/490

hought, as she was pulled up into Lex's arms, and he

mouth was captured in a passionate kiss. Giving u

words, the young woman tangled her hands in ebon

waves, pulling Lex to her with almost inhuman strength

She trembled as she felt strong hands begin to roa

across her back, mapping across her shirt with swee

urgency. Pulling back to look at Lex's face, Amand

whispered, "I just found you." Seeing answering tear

hine in those incredible blue eyes, "And I'm not reado give you up...not for my mother, and not for anyone

Lex looked into the younger woman's eyes, and saw

fierce determination there. She really means this

Feeling her misgivings crumble beneath that gaze, Le

ried to think of words to convey what she was feelin

n her heart. "I love you." Feeling totally inadequat

until she saw the answering smile break acros

Amanda's face.

I love you too." Amanda murmured, leaning forward t

place a gentle kiss on the rancher's mouth. Breaking of

he snuggled her face into the tan neck, happy to simp


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absorb the feeling of love that seemed to surround her.

They sat there quietly for a while, both content to ju

hold the other, until a ringing phone made them bot

ump. Amanda regretfully slipped off of Lex's lap, anhad just curled up next to her when Anna Leigh cam

nto the room.

I'm sorry to disturb you, Mandy...but your father is ohe phone, and he wants to talk to you." The olde

woman looked upset.

Grandma? Are you okay?" Amanda stood and walke

over to her grandmother. "Did Daddy say something tupset you?" She felt Lex come up behind her and plac

a comforting hand on the small of her back.

Anna Leigh took a deep breath. "I'm fine, sweetheartShe gave her granddaughter a wry smile. "God knows

ove my son, but he can be so small minded at time

've often wondered where we went wrong with him

But she did know...her parents, trying to make up fo

osing their daughter to a 'working man,' gave youn


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Michael the best of everything, even when Jacob an

Anna Leigh strenuously argued against it. He wa

howered with expensive clothes, fancy cars, and ha

decided at an early age that money was the mo

mportant thing in the world, no matter how much h

parents tried to tell him otherwise. And when h

grandparents introduced him to a young socialite from

wealthy family, Michael immediately saw h

opportunity, and proposed.

ow on earth did our sweet little Amanda com

rom such a business-like merger? Anna Leigh ofte

wondered to herself.

Guess I'd better get this over with." Amanda walke

over to the desk and picked up the phone. "Hello

Daddy." She listened for a few minutes, her normall

cheerful demeanor becoming more clouded by thminute. Looking across the room, she saw that Lex an

her grandmother were in a deep discussion. Putting he

hand over the mouthpiece, she whispered, "Lex..." n

other words need be spoken, as the tall woman crosse


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he room quickly to pull the small blonde into her arms

ooks like she's in good hands, now. Anna Leigh le

he room quietly, closing the door behind her.

I know what Mother wants, but as I told her earlie

oday, I'm staying here in Somerville." Tears welled up

n her eyes as she listened to her father's tirade. "I'm

grown woman, Dad... I love you and Mother, buhere's nothing there for me anymore." She took a dee

breath as Lex pulled her tight, kissing her lightly on to

of her head. "I've found someone I love very much, an

'm very happy here." She leaned back into the stron

arms now supporting her. "Yes, Grandma and Grandp

know about it. She's staying here with us now

Amanda pulled the phone away from her ear as h

father began to rant in earnest now. "NO! She's not lik

hat! They have accepted my choices, why can't you?Amanda felt tears of frustration fall down her face. "I'

orry you feel that way, Father." She slowly laid th

phone back on its base, then turned and tucked herse

nto the strong body behind her. "Oh, God..." she bega


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o cry.

Lex was at a loss. What can I say to her withou

ounding like a selfish fool? "Shhh...it's gonna b

alright, sweetheart." She whispered into the nearby ear

Amanda cried herself out, feeling a deep sense of los

He doesn't want anything to do with me until I 'come t

my senses'." She sighed. "He says all you want is mmoney, and that you're just using me." She looked up

expecting to see anger.

Laughing out loud, Lex gave Amanda a strong squeeze

You're kidding, right?" she continued to chuckleeleasing her grasp on the younger woman and steppin

over to a small table, where the attach case from th

bank was lying. Pulling out an envelope, she handed th

maller woman a piece of paper. "Read the balance ohe statement." She grinned.

Amanda gave her a questioning gaze, but did as sh

asked and looked down at the bank statement.N

wonder she's smiling...she has more money tha


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both my parents have combined! "You're kidding

ight?" Looking up at the grin stretched across th

ancher's face.

Lex shook her head. "Nope. My mother was evidentfrom a very well-to-do family...and with the investment

've made in the past few years, it's safe to say that

won't be trying to clean out your bank accounts in th

middle of the night." She smiled.

Not that I ever had any worries in that regard, Lex.

don't use my parent's money - which has also cause

quite a few arguments." Amanda crossed to where th

aller woman was standing and stepped into her arms.

don't care if you were just a poor ranch hand, I'd still b

n love with you."

Lex kissed her temple. "I know...and you should knowhat I fell in love with you the moment I pulled you ou

of the creek. I had no idea who you were, but ther

was something about you..." she pulled the smalle

woman closer. "So, are you going to help me read a


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hese damn reports? Maybe you can figure out wher

all the money is going."

Amanda allowed herself to be led back over to th

desk, sitting in a nearby chair. "Sure. I help with thbookwork at the office all the time - I love numbers."

Grinning at the younger woman, Lex handed her a pil

of papers. "Maybe I should hire you to do mpaperwork at the ranch? I hate sitting in an office whe

can be outside doing something instead."

I'd love to." Amanda smiled. "What are you willing t

pay?" She asked, sorting the papers into somemblance of order.

Lex gave her a sexy smile. "I think we could wor

omething out." She started dividing the papers she hanto neat little piles.

They worked quietly for almost two hours, each woma

tudying the papers before her. Amanda finally found

pattern to the losses, pointing it out to the older woman


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Look. This is the third time I've seen this." She hande

he paper to Lex.

Now that you mentioned it, I've seen it a couple o

imes myself." Lex dug through a pile, then jumped ther feet. "That sonofabitch!" She threw the paper

down and began to stomp through the room. "I'll k

him!"

Lex! Wait!" Amanda jumped up from her chair an

caught the tall woman before she could reach the doo

Latching onto a strong arm, she forced Lex to turn an

face her.

The angry rancher was almost to the door when she fe

a small hand grab her arm. Spinning around, she wa

about to sling off the annoyance when a quiet voice cu

hrough the red haze of her fury.

Lex?" Amanda spoke quietly, hoping to calm the angr

woman as one would a wild animal. "Hey...come ove

here and sit down, please?" She thought at first Lex wa

ust going to brush her aside and continue out the doo


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64/490

can be, I guess."

Look at me." A quiet demand. Taking a deep breath

Lex slowly raised her eyes to look into Amanda's

Expecting to see fear or disgust, the rancher waomewhat shocked at the amount of love an

understanding she was receiving through the shinin

green eyes across from her. Opening her mouth t

peak, Lex found her lips gently covered with a sofingertip.

If that's the best you can do to scare me off, you're

big trouble." Seeing the older woman taking a breath t

peak, Amanda shook her head. "No, wait...I know

you have a temper," she gave the rancher a wry smile

and if you ask anyone in my family, they'll tell you

have a pretty short fuse myself." Taking her hand awa

from Lex's mouth, she used it instead to caress the tacheek. "So, between the two of us, everyone else ha

better watch out!" Noticing that Lex's blue eyes wer

urning watery, Amanda threaded her fingers behind th

older woman's neck, pulling her head forward. Sh


65/490

gave Lex a gentle kiss, then pulled back and smiled

Would it help you to talk about it?"

Lex leaned forward again until their foreheads wer

ouching. "There's not much to say..." her voicdropped to a hoarse whisper as her eyes involuntari

closed, "It's about the missing money." Her hand wa

eleased, and she felt a heavy weight descend onto he

chest... until small, strong arms wrapped themselvearound her comfortingly. Pulling the smaller woman int

her lap, Lex buried her face in the soft reddish-blond

hair. "It's not the amount of money that bothers me..

he mumbled, feeling the younger woman squeeze he

ighter.

Amanda stroked the dark head tenderly. "Shhh..

know that honey." She felt the body under hers trembl

lightly.

My own brother..." Lex sniffed, trying to control he

emotions. "How can my own brother be embezzlin

money from the ranch?"


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ear god...no wonder she's so upset...Amanda coul

feel the quiet sobs wracking the slender form beneat

her. "Sweetheart...maybe there's another explanation."

Pulling herself together, the older woman leaned baco she could look into Amanda's face. "I coul

probably handle the fact that he's taking money from th

anch, since he really never got over the fact that Da

igned it over to me." She gave the younger woman weak smile, as soft fingertips wiped the tears from he

face. "But the way he's done it...I really never though

he slimy bastard was that smart."

He can't be too smart...since you've caught him at it

Amanda remarked, relieved to see that her companio

was feeling more like herself.

Lex shook her head sadly. "That's just it, AmandaLooking at the statements and receipts, we haven

caught him..." she helped the young woman off of he

ap, picking up some papers from the desk. "Look righ

here..." She showed the smaller woman the signature o


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Lex was sitting in a nearby chair with her head proppe

n her hands. "I know...it was totally irresponsible of m

not to have copies of the statements sent to the ranc

every month." She was feeling more and more foolis

by the minute.

Amanda, sitting on the arm of Lex's chair, rubbed he

back comfortingly. "I think what Grandma is wonderin

s why the bank hadn't figured out that anything unusuwas happening." She looked at her grandmother, wh

nodded in agreement.

Goodness, Lexington! I never meant for you to thin

hat..." she waited until the young rancher looked up a

her. "It's just that the only time I can see that you'v

withdrawn money without using a check is when you

brother has done it...and it was for fairly large amount

just can't believe they actually allowed this to happewithout some sort of verification."

acob looked up from the papers he was studying

She's right...those idiots at the bank should hav


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ealized something was wrong a long time ago...unles

omeone there is in on it too."

Lex closed her eyes, feeling a sudden exhaustion. "I'v

already called Mr. Collins and told him not to allow anmore withdrawals from this account without visu

verification." She leaned her head back against th

chair. "I'm going to take your advice and go dow

omorrow to open a new account, so Hubert wonhave any more access to the ranch funds."

Anna Leigh looked at Jacob, and they both looked a

he rancher in concern. Amanda looked down, seein

hat Lex had closed her eyes. "Lex?" She ran a han

gently through the dark hair, "I think you've done all yo

can today." She waited for the older woman to look u

at her. "It's getting pretty late, so why don't we g

upstairs and go to bed?"

Yeah, I think you're right. I'm beat." Lex sighed, the

lowly stood up. She smiled tiredly at the older coupl

itting at the desk. "I really appreciate all of your hel


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oday...I don't know what I would have done withou

you." She looked down at her feet self-consciously, "

hink I was just so shocked when I found out who wa

behind all of this, I couldn't think straight."

Anna Leigh walked over to the taller woman an

wrapped her arms around Lex's broad shoulders. "Oh

weetheart...you're part of the family. We'll always b

here for you."

acob stood beside them, giving Lex's shoulder a gentl

queeze. "That's right, honey. Now get yourself upstair

and get some rest."

Lex stepped back and gave them both a heartfelt smile

Thank you...I wish I had known my own grandparen

but I have a feeling they couldn't have held a candle t

you two." She then allowed Amanda to steer her out ohe office and up the stairs, leaning slightly against th

maller woman.

Lex...are you alright?" Amanda asked, as the ranche

placed an arm around her shoulders.


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Yeah, I'm fine. Just enjoying the company." Sh

chuckled, feeling Amanda swat her on the rear. "And

am a little tired...it's been one hell of a long day." Sh

patiently let the younger woman guide her to the bed

itting down with a grin.

Amanda began to unbutton Lex's shirt, not noticing th

mirk she was receiving. "Have you taken you

medicine this evening, Lex?" Not waiting for an answehe efficiently stripped the rancher, and picked up a so

cotton nightshirt from a nearby suitcase for Lex to wea

Here... put this on," she dressed the older woman as

he were a child. Before she could finish buttoning th

hirt, she felt her hands gently captured.

Amanda...?" Lex spoke softly, causing sea-green eye

o focus on her, "please stop fussing so much...you'r

going to wear yourself out." She brought the smahands to her lips and placed a soft kiss on the delicat

knuckles. "Why don't you get undressed and join me?"

Amanda blinked. "Oh." She gave Lex an embarrasse


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mile. "I didn't even realize what I was doing." Sh

pulled away slowly, grabbing her own nightshirt from

nearby dresser. Stripping efficiently, Amanda didn

notice the appreciative eyes watching her until she ha

lipped the long tee shirt over her head. "What?"

Have I ever told you how beautiful you are?" Le

asked, in a reverent tone. "Just looking at you make

my heart stop."

Oh, c'mon...I think that medication you're on

affecting your eyes..." Amanda chuckled, then looke

nto Lex's face, seeing that the older woman was quit

erious. "You really think so?" She walked back over t

he bed and sat down.

Lex pulled her close, then rolled over onto her back

ucking the younger woman against her left side. "Ohyeah..." she gave her a light kiss on top of her golde

head.

Amanda felt an unexpected surge of happiness flo

hrough her with that thought. Wow... "Thank you." Sh


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murmured, absorbing the feeling with joy.

You're welcome." Lex pulled her even closer, if tha

were possible. "Love you." She managed to say befor

leep claimed her.

I love you too." The fair-haired woman whispered, a

he kissed the strong shoulder underneath her cheek.

Chapter 9

The early morning sun was shining brightly through thwindows when Amanda opened her eyes, whic

caused her to groan and attempt to bury her face bac

nto her pillow. Feeling the pillow move, she reopene

one eye and realized the surface her head was proppe

up on was actually breathing.Amazing...I actuall

woke up first. Reaching up with one hand, Amand

ouched Lex's forehead.No fever...that's a good sign

She thought about getting up, but the older woman ha

her arm wrapped possessively around Amanda


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houlder, and she really didn't want to disturb her. So

uess I'll just suffer here in bed, she smiled to hersel

What a hardship. She wrapped her arms tightly aroun

he strong body beneath her and drifted back to sleep.

Lex woke up sometime later, pleased to note that th

fuzzy feeling from the medication was gone, and th

wound in her side didn't hurt at all. Amanda was sti

prawled against her, tousled blonde head snuggled uunder her chin. Looking towards the window, Le

could see the late morning sun streaming in.I can

believe I slept so late...peering down fondly at he

companion, she smiled. She's not gonna let me liv

his down for a while, I'll bet. Pulling the younge

woman close, she softly kissed the top of her head

Amanda," she felt a small arm squeeze her tighte

C'mon, sweetheart, time to get up. We can't loung

around in bed all day."

Mmm...no." the smaller woman grumbled, "don

wanna." She buried her head deeper into Lex

houlder.


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esperate times call for desperate measures, Le

grinned to herself, as she slowly edged a hand unde

Amanda's nightshirt, tickling her ribs.

Hey!" The young blonde squealed, jumping back, "Nonice!" Sitting up, she rearranged her shirt. "You look

ike you're feeling better today," she observed.

Lex rolled over onto her left side, and propped hehead up with her hand. "Yep...good as new."

Amanda mirrored her posture with a sweet smile.

wouldn't go that far...you still need to take it easy for

few days - doctor's orders!" Seeing the decidedly evgrin that broke out across the rancher's face, Amand

quickly rolled out of bed and started towards th

bathroom.I don't know what she's thinking, but

don't think I'll like it, she thought to herself. "Dongive me that look..." she warned, not turning around

Amanda was almost to the doorway when she wa

caught from behind. Strong hands reached under he

hirt and began tracing a gentle pattern on her stomach


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Absolutely! When can you start?" Anna Leigh laughed

hen sat back down at the table across from Lex

Would you two mind meeting me at the office th

afternoon? I can't wait to get rid of that sorry excuse fo

a human being."

Lex grinned. "I can't speak for Amanda, but I woul

ove to be there when you give that worthless son of

.goat, the axe." Looking at the back of the smablonde, she smirked. "Did Amanda tell you she had

un-in with him yesterday? He probably has a nice littl

bruise to show for it, too."

Really? What happened?" Anna Leigh smiled back a

her granddaughter, who groaned.

I couldn't help it...he started mouthing off, and I ju

ost my temper." Amanda placed the pancakes oplates and brought them to the table.

Aaand?" the older woman drew out the word

expectantly.


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I slapped him." Amanda sat down next to the rancher

embarrassed.

Lex snorted. "More like knocked him silly! He near

fell over!" she teased.

Good Lord, Mandy! That man is huge! He could hav

eriously hurt you!" her grandmother scolded.

Looking over at Lex, the fair-haired woman smiled.

wasn't worried - Lex got into his face and nearly mad

him wet his pants!" The all laughed. "But pleas

Grandma, wait until we get there before you d

anything, okay? I really don't trust him."

Certainly, sweetheart. That would work out better

anyway. Jacob has been going stir crazy, so he

decided to work in his shop for a little while, and hegone now to get supplies." She smiled. "He's just s

glad to be able to drive himself around again."

Lex laughed again. "I can sympathize, since I near

drove Martha crazy when I broke my leg a couple o


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years ago."

How did...?" Amanda shook her head. "Never mind.

don't think I want to know."

Anna Leigh gave Lex a sympathetic look. "Wasn't tha

when you rolled your truck during that nasty ice storm?

Yeah...that whole mess is the reason Martha insiste

hat I start carrying a cell phone with me...she ge

pretty upset when I forget to take it."Like the night

went to check the fence in a thunderstorm...Well, a

east that worked out. Seeing Amanda's questionin

ook, she shrugged. "It happened on a Friday afternoonand they didn't find me until Saturday night."

I remember...I swear, she nearly called out th

ational Guard!" Anna Leigh looked at AmandaMartha called everyone on the Historical Committe

and had nearly every able-bodied man in the count

combing every inch of the roads between here and th

anch."


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Amanda looked at Lex, horrified. "Dear god! That mu

have been horrible for you!"

It really wasn't that bad...I don't remember much abou

t." Lex looked nonchalant.

Anna Leigh slapped her on the arm. "That's becaus

you were unconscious for most of it, silly!"

The tall woman rolled her eyes. "See? I told you

wasn't that bad." She gave them both a smirk, the

tood up and put her plate in the dishwasher. "You

about ready?" she directed at the younger woman. "I'

ike to get my business with the bank done as soon apossible."

Yeah, I'm done." Amanda put her dishes away, then

kissed her grandmother's cheek. "See you at the officaround one o'clock, Grandma?"

That will be perfect, sweetheart. You two try and stay

out of trouble until then, okay?" Twin sets of rolled eye

caused Anna Leigh to chuckle. "I know it's a lot t


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ask..." she said as they left, laughing.

Chapter 10

They were sitting in Mr. Collins office, the pudgy ma

weating profusely as Lex sat there, silently glaring a

him.

I...I...swear to you, Ms. Walters," he stammered

wiping his forehead with an already damp handkerchie

I honestly don't see how this could have happened

His face was getting redder by the minute, and Amandwas afraid the poor man was on the verge of passin

out.

Are you doubting my word, Mr. Collins?" Lex aske

quietly, her intense blue eyes boring into the ban

president's face.

No!" he practically shouted, "I mean, of course not

he clarified, more quietly. "But our policy on an


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withdrawal is to get a visual identification - especial

with such large amounts."

Lex leaned forward in her chair. "Then," she paused

owering her voice even more, "unless my brother hachanged drastically," she looked down at her ow

body, "I suggest that one of your employees is eithe

not following policy, or they are in on his little scheme

She glanced back up, catching the sweating banketaring at her breasts.

He flushed scarlet, and began to stamme

M..m..m..Ms W...ww...Walters..." pulling his colla

away from his throat, "I can assure you that we will b

nvestigating this matter thoroughly. And these papers,

he held up several documents, "will insure that on

you..." he looked at one page somewhat puzzled, "an

Miss Cauble here..." not hearing Amanda's gasp ourprise, "will be the only people who have access t

his account."

Lex nodded and stood up. "Very good...and if anythin


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happens to this account..." she gave him an icy stare, "

will hold you personally responsible." She got a certa

enjoyment out of seeing the banker's face sudden

pale. "Good day, Mr. Collins." Lex gestured fo

Amanda to proceed her through the office door.

After Amanda signed the necessary papers, Le

ushered her out of the bank and back to the truck. Th

younger woman was unusually quiet as the ranchehelped her into the passenger seat and closed the doo

after her.

Getting in behind the wheel, Lex sighed. She looke

over at her silent friend with concern. "Are you alright

You seem awfully quiet."

Amanda blinked, then turned her gaze towards th

dark-haired woman. "You didn't tell me you were goino do that."

What?" Lex asked, puzzled. "Oh...that." She met th

green eyes with a hopeful look. "I'm sorry...I guess

wasn't really thinking. Does it bother you?"


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now, don't you?" Amanda tenderly cupped th

ancher's cheek. Resisting the urge to crawl across th

eats and wrap herself around Lex's body, she smiled

I'll try not to ever break this trust you have in me

Removing her hand, the younger woman sat back an

buckled her seatbelt. "It's almost time to meet Grandm

at the office, you ready?" She knew that this was no

he time or place for such a deep conversation,

and could also see that her companion was more than

ittle off balance by the whole thing.

Lex nodded somewhat at a loss for words. "Yeah...thi

ought to be fun, huh?" she backed the truck out of th

parking space in front of the bank, driving towards th

eal estate office.

Lex followed Amanda into the small building, ignorin

he curious looks that passed her way. The younge

woman led her into a brightly-lit room with sever

partitioned cubicles, guiding her to a comfortable cha


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next to a cluttered desk.

I would apologize for the mess and try telling you

normally doesn't look like this, but I refuse to lie

Amanda grinned, sitting down at the desk.

Lex leaned back in the chair, crossing her legs at th

ankles and resting her entwined hands on her fla

tomach. "They say a cluttered desk is the sign of busy mind..." she grinned, "when do you find time t

leep?"

Amanda stopped her cleaning efforts, and wadded up

piece of paper - throwing it at the smirking rancheOh, you!"

Lex caught the paper in mid air, tossing it back, only t

have it hit the smaller woman on top of her head anhen ricochet over the partition. "Oops!" she tried t

ook innocent as a small woman peeked over the wal

glaring. She had short, sandy-blonde curls framing he

ound face, and appeared to be a few years older tha

Lex. Her almost gray eyes flicked to the desk with


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cowl.

Her demeanor instantly changed when she saw wh

was sitting at the desk. "Amanda! 'Bout time you go

back!" she disappeared, then reappeared a momenater in Amanda's cubicle, encircling the younger woma

n a hug. "You look great!" Noticing for the first tim

hat they weren't alone, she gave Lex a tentative smile

Oh, sorry...I didn't know you had company." Shtudied the silent woman from head to toe - extreme

blue eyes, denim shirt, pressed jeans and worn but we

cared-for boots. "You must be Lexington...the whol

office has been buzzing about you."

Really?" the tall woman stood and held out a hand

You can call me Lex."

The older woman smiled, more genuinely this timLord, my manners are horrible! I'm Wand

Skimmerly...it's really nice to meet you." She shook th

ancher's hand.

Wanda?" Amanda interrupted her babbling, "what d


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Amanda chuckled, but was kept from answering by th

buzzing phone on her desk. "Amanda Cauble..." sh

istened for a moment, then broke into a wide smil

Hi, Grandma...sure. We'll be right there." She looke

at Lex as she hung up the phone. "Showtime." Offerin

her hand to the reclining woman, Amanda pulled th

ancher up out of her chair and led her towards th

office.

When they walked into the manager's office, Lex an

Amanda noticed that Anna Leigh was sitting behind th

desk, with Rick lounging in a visitor's chair with a sulle

ook on his face.

Hearing the door open, the large man turned the

umped to his feet. "I should have known..." he sneereas Amanda walked by him to sit on the corner of th

desk. "This is about yesterday, right?" the large ma

glared at the young blonde. "You went crying t

grandma because I hurt your little feelings?" Not gettin


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a response from the small woman, Rick looked over a

Lex, who was casually leaning by the door with he

arms folded across her chest. "She's got you on a prett

hort leash...eh, Kentucky?" using the old schoo

nickname to taunt the tall woman. "Maybe you'll do

few tricks for us, huh?"

Before Lex could reply, Anna Leigh spoke up. "That

quite enough, Mr. Thompson. Now please have a seat

Lex smirked, but wisely kept quiet.I'm really gonn

enjoy this. Looking over at her companion, she sa

he angry set to Amanda's face.It's nice to hav

omeone take up for me, for a change. Wanting t

ease the tense lines on the younger woman's face, Le

winked, and got a small smile in return. That's better.

Anna Leigh stood up, walking around the desk. "MThompson...first, let me assure you this meeting ha

nothing to do with the events of yesterday - that wa

outside of this office, and I feel that my granddaughter

more than capable of taking care of herself." Seeing hi


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elax, she continued. "However, it has been brought t

my attention that as of late, you have been abusing you

position."

Abusing, my ass!" he sputtered, ready to jump to hfeet once again.

Mr. Thompson!" Anna Leigh held out a hand t

forestall his outburst. When he sat back, she walkeback over to the desk and sat down. "I have ha

everal complaints about your treatment of th

employees of this office." She pulled several sheets o

paper from her briefcase. "These are the complain

from this past week." Handing the papers to Rick, sh

watched as he read over them.

Harassment? Lewd comments? Intimidation?" H

ooked up at the older woman, his face reddening witanger. "What the hell is this? Some sort of freakin

witch-hunt?"

Anna Leigh shook her head sadly. "No, Mr

Thompson, it isn't. And we're not even going to go ove


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what you did to Amanda last Friday."

What? I sent her on a call...it's not my fault the littl

brat can't read directions!" he blustered.

Pulling a discolored paper from her purse, Amand

finally spoke. "Funny...even though it's kind of water

tained, you can still make out the client's name...'L

Walters', and in the space below are the directions, iyour handwriting."

Mr. Thompson, as a woman who almost lost he

granddaughter due to your petty games, I am furiou

And, as the owner of this business who nearly lost very valuable employee, I have no other

carrie carr - [lex & amanda 2] faith's crossing

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