[M] The Dark Truth---[Karma&Notty]

[.Karma.]

It was a gorgeous day, the sun shown down across the waves causing them to sparkle and shimmer. The sand under her bare feet was warm and relaxing. The seagulls above called out to her as if to say hello. Ainslie loved this beach. It usually didn't have many people and the scenery was something of dreams.

The scene and beautiful imagery just seemed to flow from her fingers onto the canvas in front of her, the beautiful blue green of the ocean mixing with the tans and yellows of the sand. Why was she here again? She had already painted this beach many of times, even a few times already this week.

She knew why. She wanted to catch a glimpse of him again. The incredibly handsome man that she couldn't get out of her head. Every day she had been here this week, he had came around lunch time. Always bringing Jerry something with him. Jerry was the homeless man who had kind of taken up residence under one of the benches. She could see why he would choose here.

It never failed, though, this handsome stranger always brought him something to eat and talked to him for awhile as if he was like a real human being. It was refreshing to see, and she couldn't help but be quite taken with this man despite her never having actually met him. His smile rivaled the scenery when it came to beauty. His eyes seemed to sparkle in the sunlight, to the point where she had actually considered painting him before. That would be creepy though wouldn't it?

Dark red locks hung down over her exposed shoulders, tanned from the many days in the sun. Her blue halter top sun dress hand just past her knees and blew in the breeze. It was almost that time, the time when he came for his lunch. Every time she saw him it just left her wanting more. What was it about him? She wasn't quite sure, but she knew she wanted nothing more than to see him again.

[Notty]

Grant leaned his head back and took in a deep breath as he started down the beach. He was just here on business, but that shouldn't keep him from enjoying himself, should it? Dressed in khaki slacks and a white button up shirt, his dark brown, slightly curly hair tousled in the wind. It was perfect here, and it disappointed him that he'd be leaving at the end of the week.

His eyes scanned the beach and he smiled. There was Jerry, waiting for him as he had been the day before. He gave him a quick smile and a wave as he walked towards him, a bag of sandwiches, chips and water in his hands. As he moved, he couldn't help but notice that she was back. She had been here the previous 2 days, if he remembered correctly. Always painting. Grant smiled and slowed down a bit as he passed her, and shook his head. If only I was able to capture that kind of beauty... he thought as he started walking again towards Jerry.

"Good to see you today, my friend," Grant said cheerfully as he sat down on the bench near the man. "How's life been treating you today?" he asked as he reached into the bag and pulled out a sandwich and a bottle of water for him. "I'm sure it's been rough sitting here, watching the waves and the beautiful women," Grant teased, giving him a wink before he opened his bottle of water and took a drink. "I'll be sad to leave it, that's for sure. Perhaps some day I'll come back and visit you." With that, Grant went quiet and began eating his sandwich, his eyes focused somewhere on the horizon, lost in thought.

[.Karma.]

He was here again. She had heard his voice, even slightly turning to catch a glimpse. God he was beautiful, and that smile. Ainslie was like a school girl again, butterflies in her stomach for a man she had never met. Something about him just drew her in and made her absolutely certain he was good.

As she got lost in thought, her paint brush dropped itself across the paper, putting the wrong color in the wrong area. Ah well, she would have to work with it now. If it didn't turn out perfect, it was no big deal to her. It wasn't so much the finished product that she enjoyed but the calming process of painting. Letting your thoughts wonder as you spread colors along a page. It was incredibly relaxing and freeing, at least to her.

Even as she fixed her mistake across the page, she couldn't help but give side glances to the handsome man over and over again, but never fully turning around. That would be creepy right? He was just trying to enjoy his lunch, not be disturbed by a staring lady with an unrealistic crush.

[Notty]

Grant leaned back a little and sighed, taking a bite of his sandwich and enjoying the peaceful and serene beauty that surrounded him. "You know, a guy could get used to a view like this," he smiled, glancing over at Jerry. The homeless man smiled and pushed the rest of his sandwich into his mouth, "why'd ya think I picked this bench?" he said, brushing a few crumbs from his shirt. "Can't ask for better scenery."

Finishing off his sandwich and the rest of his water, Grant pushed the bag of chips towards Jerry. "Here, you can have 'em, I've gotta head back to town. Got a presentation after lunch and I don't want to be late." He smiled and stood, brushing himself off. "Take care of yourself now, you hear?" Grant said, reaching out and taking Jerry's hand and shaking it before turning and heading back towards the boardwalk.

It was only a short walk back to town. He had walked alongside the highway down to the beach- probably not the safest thing to do, but he saw all the locals do it, and he figured it was easier than trying to find a spot to park his rental. He started up and across the beach, the highway just beyond already in sight. Glancing down to look at his watch, Grant looked up in time to see a car coming towards him, skidding on the sand, then all went dark.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie sighed as she watched him walk away, why didn't she have the confidence to have gone up and spoken to him this week. It was obvious that he wasn't from around here, which means he was either on vacation or here for work, judging by his attire it was work. Maybe it was that fear, that she would fall hard for him and he would have to go back home to wherever he was from. That seemed like unnecessary heartache.

Now, she was regretting it though, what if something would have sparked... What if...

She heard the tires squeal and whipped around just to see it hit him. His body went flying and everything after that seemed to move in slow motion.

The paintbrush dropped from her hand and she took off in a run, pulling her phone from her pocket and dialing 000, the Australian equivalent to 911. "Yes, yes there has been a terrible accident..." Was that her own voice coming out as she spoke to the Operator. She heard herself give the location, never breaking her speed as she ran to this man that she had admired from a distance.

He was bleeding from his head, and he was unconscious. All Ainslie could feel was panic, she had no training, no idea what to do, but she seemed to be doing it none the less.

Taking off her shirt she pressed it hard against his temple. That was what all the movies said to do, pressure. Also, to get him talking.

Her voice was as shaky as her hands that were pushing her shirt hard against the wound.

"Hey, sir... Wake up... Look at me!" She shook him slightly, still holding her shirt tightly to the wound. She did not care that she was standing in view of everyone in just her bra. She didn't know a lot except there was a lot of blood, and she was not going to let this man die, if she could help it.

"You're going to be okay... What's your name?" She continued to speak as she saw his eyes flutter just a bit under his eyelids. "Come on, what's your name?"

[Notty]

A groan escaped Grant's lips as he felt as though he was listening to the world through a long tunnel. You're going to be okay....come on, what's your name? even the voice was distorted. Grant could barely hear what was going on, and he was confused- extremely confused.

What had even just happened? Then he remembered. The car skidding towards him, hurtling him backwards into...well, something hard enough to knock him cold out, that was for sure.

Groaning again, his pale green eyes fluttered open, only to close again. I'm trying, I'm trying...can't you see that? he called out in his head, though all that escaped his lips were more groans of pain. A crowd had formed around them, all craning in to see what had happened.

Feeling as though his eyelids weighed a ton a piece, Grant was able to force them open. Slowly, things came into focus. The faces of the people standing around, looking down at him in shock and awe. Then, movement came directly above him and his eyes moved lazily and tried to make sense. Slowly a face came into view, and he couldn't help but smile a little. She was beautiful. Dark red hair, brilliant blue eyes. Was she the painter? The one that he had seen? Surely not...

"G-Gr-Grant..." he was finally able to choke out. "Grant....Hamilton..." His hand shifted from his side where it had lay, unknown to him that it was beginning to be reddened by the blood seeping from the gash on the back of his head. "You're....beautiful..." he mumbled, reaching up to hold the girl's arm, fighting to keep his eyes open.

[.Karma.]

A smile lit across her face, when he started to speak, not caring the a bloodied hand was placed on her arm. "No, you are..." She was about to ask another question when she was being pulled back by EMT. Ainslie had been so lost in what she was doing, that she hadn't heard the sirens.

They swooped in and quickly started giving him medical treatment. She was asked questions about the accident, but after she answered everything she could, it seemed as if she was just in the way. She wasn't family, he didn't even know her, but it didn't stop her from wanting to hop in the back of the ambulance with him.

One of the policeman had given her a blanket to keep herself from being exposed to everyone, but she still had cold chills running down her body. Her body shook, even as she made her way back to her painting supplies. The painting was unfinished, but she didn't really care. Grabbing everything and shoving it into her bag nearby and lifting it to her shoulder.

The adrenaline that had been coursing through her, was now making her body shake. The events running through her head. He had called her beautiful. Grant, that was his name. She found herself just aimlessly walking around, until she ended up in front of her home.

---------------------------

A few weeks had passed and she had been back to that same beach a few times. He did not appear there again. Surely he went home after the accident. Judging by his accent, that meant back to the states. She would probably never see him again.

For some reason, that realization in and of itself had left her sad, almost lonely. How could you miss someone that you really had never spent time with? Night time walks had become a regular thing, she could barely sleep thinking about those beautiful green eyes looking at her, and even in the state he was in she could hear the words "You're beautiful" echo in her head.

Stopping at the same fountain she did every time she took this route, she held the penny and closed her eyes before tossing it in.

"I wish... I wish that I could just be with him again. I know we would fall in love. Just to be given that chance..."

The noise of the penny hitting the water and joining all the other pennies almost resonated through the quiet night. If only these kind of things actually worked.

[Notty]

Grant didn't want to let go as other faces crowded around him, and he let out a cry of pain as he was lifted onto a stretcher and hauled away, the face of the young woman the last thing in his mind before he closed his eyes.

It would be a good 2 weeks before he was released from the hospital and able to fly back to the States. Grant didn't know anyone there, and the 2 weeks passed by slowly and uneventfully. He had hoped that the woman might come and check on him, but she didn't. Perhaps she was just a dream. He did have a concussion, with a nice gash to the back of his head that required staples after the swelling in his brain went down.

------------------------------------------------------------

Blinking several times, Grant opened his eyes and let out a soft sigh. It was a sunny Tuesday morning, and he had been back home in the states for almost a week now. His trip to Australia certainly wasn't what he had expected, but it was too terrible. There was still the girl- whoever she was. Grant couldn't seem to get her out of his head.

"You're delusional..." he told himself as he climbed out of bed and headed to the bathroom to get a drink. "For all you know, she was just a hallucination from that nasty hit on the head." And as if to make his point, he reached back and felt the back of his head, wincing slightly. The place was still tender, but at least the hair had started to grow back, and the staples were out as of yesterday.

Tugging some dark gray slacks on and a white button up shirt, Grant ran a hand through his shaggy brown hair and looked in the mirror. "Well, here we go..." he mumbled as he headed from his room and to the kitchen. A cup of coffee, a banana and a piece of toast later, Grant was pulling on his shoes and heading for the door. Perhaps today would be different.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie was about to head home when she saw a glow in the water. Furrowing her brow she moved a bit closer, was she seeing things? The glow seemed to come from her penny that she had just thrown in, but how was that possible? She must be tired, that was it.

As she looked closer the water seemed to swirl around, faster and faster in this fountain, but no water was spilling out. Okay, this was starting to get scary now. She was sleeping that was it! The whole walk is a dream. WAKE UP, AINSLIE! Still nothing happened!

The water was now seeming to almost come out of the fountain, taking a shape or form of something. What did she eat before she went to bed? She would definitely be avoiding that again. Stepping back a couple of steps, she watched as it formed into an odd shape. Almost like a woman with tentacles... but in water form.

Wow, her mind could think up some crazy shit. Ainslie reached down and pinched herself a few times, but it still wasn't working. If nothing else, this would provide her with an amazing painting when she woke up. It didn't take long before the Octowoman started to take on a more real look, actually seeming to have some substance other than water, but still looked almost flowy. Her eyes glowed, and she had a smile that would make anyone a bit uneasy.

Still, she felt as if she reached out and touched her, her hand would go right through, it was absolutely bizarre! Thoughts were flying a mile a minute through it all. So many things, panic, wonder, amazement.

Wait, did it's lips move? If the thing just spoke to her, she didn't hear a thing, probably because everything in her being was yelling at her to RUN AWAY, but still she stayed, too fascinated to move.

"W..What was that? I didn't catch that?" Now she was talking to it? Yep, Ainslie, it's decided. You're insane.

[Notty]

The water rippled and finally, after several minutes, smoothed into the form of a woman whose bottom half contained not legs, but tentacles. She was beautiful, but also terrifying, as if she was already forming a plan in her mind as to how to manipulate you.

"Good evening child..." she purred, her voice sounding bubbly, yet deep and resonating. "You have made a wish, and I am here to grant it." Her pale eyes looked at Ainslie and she smiled again, moving her form a little closer to the edge of the fountain. "Many people throw coins into my fountain, many people make wishes, though few are as.... exciting as yours is."

A bubble of laughter escaped her lips and she shivered, as if she was delighted in something, yet as to what that was- it was anyone's guess. "As a rule, I don't help people, I don't grant their wishes. But this...this I couldn't resist. A second chance, after you had already done so much..." Without letting Ainslie interject, the woman continued. "Oh yes, I know. I know what you've done for him. A wish isn't simply that. I know what you've done. How you saved his life. It's only fair that you should get the chance, yes?"

"Now then...." she murmured, smiling and settling down a little further into the fountain, leaning her elbow on the side and looking up at Ainslie. "It's quite easy you see, I give you 7 days with him- and he was quite handsome, wasn't he?" she smiled, "7 days in which you have to get him to kiss you- and not just any kiss, a kiss of true love." She gurgled and splashed in the water slightly, smiling even more to herself. "But, as always, there's a catch." Her eyes followed Ainslie's. "You cannot talk to him about what it is that you do. You cannot tell him that you paint, that you have seen him, or that you saved his life...Besides, look at you. You're gorgeous, what man wouldn't fall for that?"

"So...." she began, looking eagerly to Ainslie. "Do we have a deal?"

[.Karma.]

Well the offer didn't seem too bad, she just couldn't tell him about her painting or that she saved his life. That didn't seem too difficult, she would still get the chance to know him. To talk to him and get to know his hopes and dreams, his life. If it didn't work, what then?

"What if he doesn't kiss me?" Ainslie asked, still not sure this wasn't a dream. What did it matter what her dream self agreed to? Witches or whatever this thing was were not real. She would wake up and go back to her daily life soon enough. No harm in asking.

For now, she was willing to sign, given that the question she asked is answered. She was truly smitten with this kind man who fed the homeless on his lunch breaks. The man whose life she saved.

One week, what would it hurt even if it did work? She found herself still second guessing herself though, trying to talk herself into it. Why was her dream self being so rational when a witch just appeared out of the freaking fountain?

[Notty]

The witch smiled and moved forward, her glassy eyes meeting Ainslie's. "Of course, well, I suppose that is a possibility..." she said, shaking her head. Suddenly, from within the water, something began to glow, moving upwards to the woman's hand. Holding it out, it was a contract that read:


From sun down to seven days forward
A new life is yours to take
You can make it what you choose
Just be sure the rules not to break

Blinded by love, and quiet to your true life
A kiss of true love will seal your fate
Beware not to falter, lest ye tempt eternal strife
A slave to the waters below


"There, see? Easy and clean. Simply sign below, and you'll be on your way." The woman smiled, her eyes scanning Ainslie's face. Surely she would take the bait. Surely she would sign. It was an opportunity that she couldn't pass up, and it wouldn't come again. "Certainly you know, that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, I'll be dropping you into the lap of the man you love....you have time to think, but not much."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie read through it quickly, nothing seemed too crazy. Some of it she didn't quite understand, but she knew she needed to have this time with him. If nothing more than to put her mind at ease! To stop thinking about the what-if's or the maybe's.

"It's a deal..." She found coming out of her mouth before she could think too much on it. As soon as she said deal a pen appeared in front of her. Covering her eyes, she grabbed it and quickly jotted her name down before she could change her mind.

Why was she so terrified? Seemed that all she had to do was not talk about what she did for a living, or the deal she made. Shouldn't be too hard for a week, and then if things went well, after that week she could decide if she wanted to tell him.

Finishing her name, she dropped the pen, but it just dissipated before hitting anything.

It took her a minute to realize she was still covering her eyes, surely she would wake soon. This dream was becoming a bit too creepy for her tastes. Getting her hopes up.

So, now what?

[Notty]

Grant glanced down the road as he started jogging, his gray tshirt clinging to his muscular form in the light rain. It felt good to be out and running again. Granted, he couldn't go as fast as before, or for as long as before, but he'd soon get there. It had been several weeks since the accident, but he'd been back in the States and recovering. And now, now this rainy evening was his, and his alone.

His brow furrowed slightly, and he shook his head, his hair matted to his face. Still, he couldn't get the sound of the girl's voice out of his head. He had never seen the face of the one who saved him, and he had scanned the news for signs of her, but it was no use. She was a mystery, his guardian angel. Perhaps someday, no, no, that is a foolish thought, and Grant pushed his hand through his hair, heading back toward his house. A shower would put her from his mind, and soon, he'd forget her.

------------------------------------

The witch cackled and snapped up the contract, a cruel smile on her lips. "And see him? Well, I can't make any promises, but you will certainly be there soon, dear, have no worry of that." And with a crack of thunder, her form dissipated into the fountain, and Ainslie was gone.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt weird, maybe she was waking up from that weird dream! It was definitely dark, but this didn't feel like her bed. As a matter of fact, it felt like... concrete?

Shooting open her eyes, she looked around. But it was still darkness. Nothing but darkness. She brought her hands up to rub her eyes, making sure they were in fact open, but still there was nothing but black. Her heart beating in her chest she began to feel around. Rocks, gum, a crack. This was definitely not her bed.

Standing herself up, she felt around yet again hoping to regain her vision. Yet still, there was nothing but this terrifying darkness. Taking a few steps she managed to find her voice.

"Hello? Please can someone tell me what's going on?" Maybe it was another part of her dream, a nightmare. God knows she was terrified of the dark. "Hello?!" Her voice was more panicked now as she took a few more steps. There was a noise behind her, whipping her red hair around towards the noise, she lost her footing, trying to catch herself, but tripping over something else and toppling to the ground.

"Shit..." She mumbled, tears coming to her eyes as she laid there. There was a sharp pain in the back of her head and it was now pounding. Ainslie's hands were shaking as they moved to feel the wound and came back with what felt like blood and she let out a groan.

Would she ever wake up from this crazy dream?

[Notty]

Grant had turned the corner heading back towards his house, in enough time to see a girl stumble and fall, landing hard on the cement. "Hey!" he called out, jogging again towards her. His eyes widened when he saw that she was bleeding, and he skidded to a stop, immediately kneeling down beside her. "Hey there, slow down, you're okay..." Grant said, one hand on her shoulder and the other cradling the back of her head.

"What happened?" he asked, glancing around to see if anyone had tried to attack her, or what may have been the cause of her fall. Lifting her hair slightly, he could see a gash, but it wasn't very deep or big. "You've gashed your head, but I think you'll be okay, head wounds always bleed something terrible. Here, let me help you up..."

Lifting the girl easily to her feet, Grant looked her over, his brows furrowed slightly. She looked familiar....though he couldn't entirely place where. Shaking his head, he put an arm around her. "My house is about 50 feet from here, I can take you inside and you can sit down, okay? If we need, we can call for an ambulance..." Holding her gently to him, he began to walk, "my name is Grant, who are you?"

[.Karma.]

When Ainslie heard a voice and felt arms around her she nearly jumped out of her skin. Her eyes darting toward the voice, her whole body shaking. The voice sounded kind though, like she had heard it before. It couldn't be him already! Her pounding head brought her back to reality. She couldn't see!

"I...I hit my head and... I can't see, I can't see anything!" Her words all kind of ran together and were sporadic, being suddenly blind was panic inducing. "I don't know where I am... I don't know who you are... I can't see anything..."

She was meaning to mention that she was at a pond, and then she just appeared here, but the words wouldn't come out. They just wouldn't. They were in her head, but they would not come out of her mouth. Tears were now streaming down her cheeks and she lifted her hands up to feel all around his face.

"Please, can you please just help me?" Surely she was making barely any sense, but her head was pounding now and really it was quite terrifying being suck in this darkness when she could see fine just moments before.

Wait, he had asked for her name. In all her panic and pain, she almost missed it. "Ainslie, I'm Ainslie."

[Notty]

Grant stopped for a few moments as she reached up and felt his face, his brow furrowing as she did. "Is everything okay, Ainslie?" he asked, his eyes scanning hers. He frowned, looking into her wide eyes that were a cloudy sort of blue. Had they always been this way? Unsure if he should ask it or not, he spoke. "Can you see anything?"

Continuing to move again, he walked slowly, helping her down the street and then turned up a sidewalk that led to a large house (http://image.shutterstock.com/z/stock-photo-large-luxury-green-craftsman-classic-american-house-exterior-145201954.jpg). Helping her up the steps and opening the door, Grant helped her onto the couch. "Here, just sit here a minute, okay?" he said, moving to the adjoining kitchen and grabbing some towels and ice. "Let me try and clean you up a bit, then we can see how you are feeling, alright?"

The concern was evident in his voice, but there was also a strange feeling of familiarity. She seemed so familiar, like he had seen her before. But where could he have possibly seen her? Settling down on the couch near her, Grant's hands went to her shoulders, gently turning her. "Here, I'm going to see how your head looks, okay?" he said, "tell me if it hurts..."

[.Karma.]

Could she see anything. "No, no I can't see anything." Her voice shook with her fear as she continued to walk with the man. Her grip on him was tight as they walked, and she fumbled on the stair, she really had no choice but to trust him. God, her head was pounding. This must be the man she was looking for and this was how she met him? Gee thanks water witch.

As they made their way inside she felt herself set down on what she assumed was the couch, he was speaking again and fumbling around. It was like she could hear every little thing and that made her head pound even more. When he grabbed her shoulders she nearly jumped out of her skin for a second before trying to calm herself. Taking deep breaths was kind of helping, at least to subdue the absolutely panic.

When he said he was going to examine her, she stiffened waiting to see where he would touch her. Not being able to see or determine someone's actions did nothing for making you feel safe.

As his hands touched, she flinched, reaching up and gripping onto him. Although she wasn't sure what she was gripping onto. "Y..yes it hurts..." She clinched her teeth together, her head still darting around a bit at every noise. "Please... can you tell me where..." She sucked in her breath as she felt him touch again, flinching again. "...tell me where I am..."

[Notty]

Grant smiled weakly as she immediately reached up and grabbed his arms, his hand moving to rub her arm. "Shhh," he cooed softly, parting her hair and wincing when he saw the deep gash. It was worse than he had thought, and his hand went silently to his phone in his pocket, not wanting to alarm her. "You're okay, I've got you..." he murmured, dialing 9-1-1 and lifting the phone to his ear.

This is 9-1-1, what's your emergency? Grant's eyes went to Ainslie and he let his hand rest on her shoulder before running down her arm and finally taking her hand in his, squeezing gently. "Yes, I've foun- she's hit the back of her head, and has a pretty bad gash, and is telling me that she can't see..." Can you tell me how the accident happened, sir? Grant's eyes never left Ainslie, wishing that she would be able to see back into his, to see how concerned he was for her. Giving her hand a reassuring squeeze, Grant spoke. "I was coming back from a run, and when I turned the corner she was on the ground. I didn't see how it happened, but she needs help. We are dispatching an ambulance, what is your address? "It's 1541 North Lancaster," Grant said, taking in a deep breath and glancing around.

Hanging up the phone, he reached up and gently held Ainslie's chin with one hand. "They are sending an ambulance, we are going to find out what has happened, okay?" his voice was gentle and steady, though inside he was terrified. He hadn't seen that she had a purse- did that mean she had any sort of identification? He didn't even know who she was. What would happen if she never recovered from this? Where was her family? Her friends? Would he just leave her there at the hospital? Grant wasn't entirely sure why, but he felt drawn to Ainslie, a need to protect her.

Within minutes, the sounds of the ambulance sirens drew nearer and stopped in front of his house. Grant stood and squeezed Ainslie's hand. "I'm going to get the door, but I'll be right back, okay?" His footsteps faded away, and were soon joined by two other sets.

"I'm Joe and this is Maria, we are EMTs. We'll be checking you out and then taking you to the hospital for some further tests, okay?" the unfamiliar voice came, and then hands, reaching and gently lifting Ainslie from the couch and onto the stretcher. Grant stepped back, his heart pounding, his arms crossed over his chest. Now what?

As they started to wheel her out of the room, he jogged after them. "Hey, can I come with you?" Maria looked at him as they loaded the stretcher into the ambulance and shook her head, "I'm sorry, we can only allow family members to ride with us." Grant's mind immediately raced. He only knew this woman's name, how could he?.... "I'm her fiance," he said quickly and without second thought. Maria looked to Joe, then nodded. Climbing into the back of the ambulance, Grant knelt down beside the bed and took Ainslie's hand, squeezing it again. "You're alright, I'm here," he murmured softly.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard the sirens and then the EMT's but she still jumped when hands were put onto her. She didn't want to be alone with these people unable to see. She felt like a newborn baby scared of every noise and every touch. The only thing that sounded familiar to her now, was Grant's.

Her head was pounding harder now and she faintly heard Grant tell them he was her fiance. Ainslie almost opened her mouth to protest, but quickly shut it again. She wanted him along with her. He was comforting. When she felt him take her hand she let out a breath of relief and those words, the simple assurance that he was there, comforted her.

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After hours of tests at the hospital and lots of questions she was left just as confused as they seemed to be. She seemed to only be able to give them her first name. She couldn't tell them where she was from, what she did for a living, nothing that seemed to be able to place her. Almost as if she was Ainslie Doe. She still knew where she came from her address, everything, but she physically could not get the words out of her mouth.

They assumed form her silence that she just didn't know. It was frustrating and draining and it didn't help that she was blind and she couldn't tell them why. For one she didn't know, and her one guess was that witch that she thought was a dream and she couldn't tell them about that either. Not that she would try, they would think her crazy. Still she wasn't quite sure if this was all a dream.

With directions for her to rest, the doctor told her she would be out of there soon, the pain in her head was a bit less with the painkillers and she heard the doctor ask to speak to Grant outside, not wanting to upset her more. That just made her more frustrated, she didn't have amnesia! She wasn't some child to be protected, but she said nothing just laying back on the bed, wishing she could see her surroundings. Maybe then this would all be less frustrating and terrifying.

[Notty]

Grant stayed beside Ainslie for as long as he could, and did his best to fill in the answers with some information of his own. She could claim his own address as hers, and as for insurance, well hopefully if she was put under his name, it would take. While she was in for testing, Grant paced back and forth, nervous, and unsure if what he was doing was even the right thing. At any moment he could walk out, and really- who would blame him? She was a complete stranger, and yet, for some reason, she felt familiar. He had to help her.

Hearing the doctor call his name, he stood from the chair beside her bed where he had been sitting, and followed him out of the room. Shutting the door behind him, the doctor looked to Grant, studying him. "I...I don't know your story, but I feel like I can trust you." Grant's eyes scanned the doctor's, feeling as though the older man knew exactly what was going on here. "We couldn't find any conclusive results as to why she can't see. The brain can be a strange thing, and it may be nothing more than shock from hitting her head. But...I can't tell you how long she will be blind, or if she will ever regain her sight." He pursed his lips slightly and rocked on his heels, "otherwise, she's got a concussion from the fall she took, but that doesn't account for the blindness, or the amnesia she seems to be suffering from." Grant nodded, pushing his hands into the pockets of his shorts as he listened. "She needs to take it easy. And she will need a lot of help and support from you. Suddenly going blind can be, well...terrifying. She's completely dependent on you now, young man." The doctor placed a hand on his shoulder and squeezed slightly. "It shouldn't be too long and we will have her out of here, do you have a way to get home?"

Grant smiled and shook his head, saying that he would arrange for a cab to pick them up. With a slight wave, the doctor turned and headed down the hall. Grant stood at the door for a moment, his hand on the knob. Should he enter? Wait, no. How could he even think of leaving her? She had no one. No one but him. Pushing the knob, he stepped in and moved back to the bed. Sitting down on the edge, he smiled, his eyes moving over her face, slower now, taking in her features. She was beautiful. "Hey," he murmured, reaching up and cupping her cheek slightly, letting his thumb brush over her jaw. "Doctor seems to think you'll be okay," he continued, trying to be as reassuring as possible. "Just a little bit and we can head home, okay?" His heart pounded at the words. Home. Suddenly it was their home. Grant's entire life had changed.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt the bed sink and moved her head toward the feeling. Before he ever touched her she knew it was Grant, he had a scent to him that felt safe and she relaxed against the bed. When the touch came at first she jumped a little, but it was actually quite soothing and it was only moments before she leaned her cheek into his gentle strokes, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.

This man had taken care of her even though he didn't know her and he was being so kind and caring, she knew he was kind from his time at the beach, but she had never imagined that his compassion extended this far.

The gentle touches caused her mind to calm and her whole body to visibly relax. When he mentioned that they would be heading home though, she leaned forward. "You really don't have to do that... I'm really sorry about all of this." Now he was extending his home to a complete stranger, it was too much. She hadn't planned on being a burden. It seemed nothing was turning out how she expected. How was she supposed to get him to kiss her when not only could she not see, there were things she couldn't speak either.

Now, she was just a burden and although maybe he felt obligated to help her, she doubted it could ever be a romance. It was not the chance she had wished for at all, it was a disaster.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and slowly moved his hand from her cheek, pushing some hair back from her face and then tucking it behind her ear. The movements were gentle and soft, but full of concern. He didn't know who this woman was, but he felt a strange connection to her, and a need to keep her safe.

It was less than an hour after Grant had talked to the doctor when Ainslie was released, and Grant slowly pushed the wheelchair that she sat in out to the front of the hospital. Outside a cab was waiting, and after helping her up and into the car, Grant climbed in after her.

Now, in the silence of the car, Grant's mind began to race. How long do I let her stay? Until she regains her sight- what if she never gets it back? Perhaps her memory then- but what if she never gets that back either? His eyes wandered over to Ainslie's profile, and he watched her in silence for a few minutes. What must she be thinking? Feeling? What emotions were going through her right now? Terror? Fear? Anxiety? Sadness? Shifting in the plastic seat, Grant moved a little closer to her and took her hand, squeezing slightly. "It's going to be okay," he said, hoping to reassure her.

As the cab slowed and finally stopped, Grant leaned forward and paid the driver, then climbed out. Taking only a moment to compose himself, he leaned down and took Ainslie's hand, gently helping her from the cab, and then up the steps to his house. Feeling more settled with the fact that at least some of the oddities about this girl were settled, Grant pushed the key into the lock and turned it, opening the door and letting Ainslie in once more. "Well, uhm, here we are," Grant said somewhat awkwardly, unsure of what to say since she was unable to see. "Are you, uhm, are you hungry? Or tired?" His eyes went to her hair and shirt, both matted now with dried blood. "Do you want a shower or anything?"

[.Karma.]

There was a mix of emotions flooding over here on their ride home. Every sound seemed to be amplified, ever smell seemed strong. Everything was new, and although she was still quiet scared and anxious, for some reason it felt easier knowing he was next to her. When his hand met hers, she didn't even jump this time, just squeezed it gently. "Thank you." She said softly. The gratefulness was not only because he was reassuring her but a whole slew of things. For making her feel safe, for opening his home, for stopping when she was hurt to begin with. For staying with her in the hospital and more.

She felt so helpless as she was led into the house, her hands feeling around and eventually kind of gripping onto him. His home smelled like him, and again it felt safe. Then he started asking what she might want or need. How was she supposed to do any of those things when she couldn't see? She realized there were plenty of blind people that were able to function, but she had not had years to become accustomed or to learn. Ainslie didn't want him to feel bad though, so maybe she could at least try?

"Yes." She gave a small smile in his direction and a little laugh, answering all his questions with yes. She was hungry, tired, and definitely needed a shower. Clearing her throat, she ran a hand over her hair which was matted with blood and dirt. "If you could direct me toward the bathroom, I should probably shower first..." Her voice was soft as she tried to work out how she would do it in an unfamiliar bathroom, but again she didn't want him to be concerned or worried.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and put a hand around her waist, walking slowly with Ainslie to the bathroom. Opening the door, it revealed a rather large and spacious bathroom. "This bathroom has a stand up shower..." he said, slowly moving into the bathroom with her. With one hand around her waist to help keep her steady, the other took her hand and helped her to feel things as they walked. "The toilet is first, then the sink.." he murmured, moving her hand over the smooth marble of the countertop. "And then the shower."

Opening the door to the shower, he smiled a little and looked at Ainslie. "I'll start the shower for you. There is soap in there already, though...its guy stuff," he chuckled, his eyes scanning her face. "Uhm, I can leave a towel out for you, and you can borrow some clothes..."

Hesitantly he released her hand, and then her waist. "Uhm, let me start the shower and then I'll be out of your way." he said, leaning in and turning on the shower, making sure that the water was warm and comfortable. "If you need anything, just uhm, just holler, okay?" Grant looked at Ainslie, unsure of what she would be able to accomplish on her own, then gave a slight smile, even though she couldn't see it. "I'll stay close by so I can hear if you need help." Then he turned, placed a large fluffy towel on the counter of the sink, and stepped out of the bathroom.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie would never have thought that a shower could be scary, but as her hand ran over things and she tried to memorize where they were, she wouldn't admit it but it was in fact a bit frightening.

She nodded as he spoke taking deep breaths and waiting for the door to click shut before she began to take off her clothes. Her shirt came off okay, but as she was trying to undo her pants, she realized these were the pair of pants that had an odd clip on the side, she had problems with these even when she could see, not to mention the zipper stuck!

Ainslie tugged and pulled and twisted, but they the clasp didn't want to come loose. So then she thought maybe she would just push her pants off with them still clasped. Grabbing both sides of her pants, she pulled down hard, but not only was she off balance in her new blindness, but her hands slipped causing her to topple over.

Reaching out she tried to catch herself, but she just ended up knocking god knows what off the sink and pulling the towel that he hand hung up on top of her. Tears came to her eyes as she laid there in a heap on the floor. She couldn't even undress herself? God this was embarrassing, she felt ashamed of herself. One tear escaped her eye as she laid there and tried to think. She didn't want to call Grant in and make him feel obligated to help her do something simple like showering. Maybe she would just get in the stupid shower with her pants on. She just wanted to be clean, to feel less ashamed of herself.

Screw it. with her pants still on and her bra too(the clamps proved to be hard when blind too) she ended up just stepping into the shower and letting the now a bit too cool of water run over her. Feeling around yet again for some shampoo she knocked a bunch of things off the shelf yet again. She was sure she sounded as if she was causing an avalanche in here.

[Notty]

Grant stayed outside the door, pacing slightly. Would she be okay in there? With one hand crossed over his chest, the other ran through his hair, trying to figure out exactly what to do now. Though his house was large and had several bedrooms, he only had one bed- his. The other bedrooms served as an office, a library and a studio. He couldn't make her sleep on the couch....

Hearing crashing coming from inside the bathroom, Grant stepped a little closer and knocked on the door. "Everything okay in there, Ainslie?" he asked, concerned, one hand on the doorknob in case he needed to step in. Would she even want his help, though? He was a stranger, and asking him to come into the bathroom while she was showering- well it put her in a very vulnerable position. Even then...

It was a strange situation, that was for sure, and as he waited for her response, he continued to think. At least I work from home for the most part, that will help. I don't want her here by herself. That isn't safe. I'll have to find some clothes for her. Maybe we can work on finding her family or where she's from.

But hearing more items clatter on the floor, Grant frowned, his hand holding tighter on the doorknob. "Ainslie?" he called out, hoping that she had just knocked things over. "Are you sure you're okay?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie sighed, she heard his voice outside the door. Was she okay? How would she even be able to tell which was the shampoo? With a frustrated sigh and another tear which was well hidden with the water running over here. "I..." She cleared her throat. "I don't know which... which is the shampoo." She felt like such a child, fully dependent on a stranger.

It made her feel so helpless and vulnerable. "You can come in, since obviously I can't even shower by myself." She said irritated, she wasn't meaning to aim her irritation and fear at him, it was just inexplicable how she felt at this very moment. With her clothes on in the shower and still unable to wash her own hair. She just wanted to feel like she had a bit of control.

To feel clean and somewhat not like some crazy invalid that needed constant supervision, but that wasn't in the cards for her. Listening closely, she listened for him to enter the door, so as not to be caught off guard by him. "I know... I know it's a lot to ask, if you could even just hand me the shampoo, that would be enough. I'm not trying to be such a burden."

[Notty]

Hearing her allow him to come in, Grant slowly turned the doorknob and opened the door. He wasn't entirely sure of what to expect, and couldn't help but smile when he saw that she was still half dressed. Stepping a little closer and opening the door to the shower, Grant couldn't help but chuckle. "I suppose that's one way to cut down on laundry," he grinned, leaning over and grabbing the bottles that had fallen on the floor, his own clothes getting wet.

As he leaned up, he placed the bottles on the shelf again. "Here, shampoo is first, then body wash is second, okay?" He watched Ainslie for a moment, his clothes now getting soaked as he stood halfway into the shower. "Do..." he began, unsure if she would want to be undressed completely or not. "Do you want me to help you undress? Or...or would you rather stay like that?" he asked, looking at the clothes that now clung to her body. "I...I promise I won't try anything, I won't even look if you don't want me to."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie couldn't help but smile a little when he mentioned her cutting down on laundry. "Shut up, the button is difficult..." She chuckled a little, trying to imagine how she must look in here to him. Yes, all she saw was darkness, but he saw a half naked girl in the shower, with clothes clung to her and all the bottles on the floor.

She gripped his arm as he reached around her to put the bottles onto the shelf, realizing that his own clothes were getting soaked. God, this poor man, she wondered if he regretted stopping and coming to see what was wrong now. If he wished he had left her there on the sidewalk.

"I would rather not be in the shower with pants on, they are... kind of heavy. I just couldn't get them off..." She admitted trying not to cry and act like the big child she felt like. "Thank you..." She murmured as she nodded, feeling for the shampoo trying to remember which was which. Still she held onto him slightly for balance. His shirt was now dripping from the water.

"I um, your shirt is getting soaked...You don't have to..." God it was hard to express herself, she was normally such a confident person, it was odd how just losing her sight could make all of that crumble. "here.." She ran her hand down his face slowly, and then his neck, feeling where his shirt was, and then down his chest to see if there was buttons, and then reaching to the bottom of his shirt and pulling upward.

She was hoping to make him realize that she didn't feel as if he would touch her or harm her and also was concerned for him and his shirt getting soaked. She gave a small smile up towards face as she continued pulling upward, trying to help him get his shirt off, but she misjudged how tall he actually was and ended up getting it stuck on his face.

Feeling around yet again, her hands ended up touching his bare chest this time, pulling back again and then feeling up, ending up pressing his wet shirt against his face and letting out a bit of a laugh. "I'm sorry..." She laughed again.

[Notty]

Grant's smile turned to a grin when she laughed about her clothes, happy to see that despite what had happened, she still had a sense of humor and could laugh about things. When she reached to grab his arm, he stilled, waiting for her to try and figure things out on her own, not wanting to move and cause her to slip and fall. He nodded when she mentioned that she'd like her pants off, and his hands moved to her waist, holding her hip slightly.

When Grant felt Ainslie's hands on his face however, he stopped, looking up at her. Her touch was gentle, and moved down his face, to his neck, his chest and then his waist. He swallowed hard, watching her as her fingers felt for the bottom of his shirt. God, she's beautiful... he thought to himself, and for a brief moment, he wanted to lean down and kiss her. But her hands pushed the shirt up, starting to tug it off him, only to manage to get it to his head, and it get stuck. Grant chuckled and squirmed a little before he was able to pull off the shirt.

"There," he said, tossing the shirt out and onto the floor. "Now then..." he swallowed, taking in a deep breath as his hand moved to her hip again, holding gently as the other hand went to the button of her pants. In an attempt to break the silence, Grant let out a soft laugh, "these are complicated, how did you get them on?" he said, finally able to unbutton the pants after several attempts.

His eyes moved to her face, even though he knew she couldn't see him. Slowly, almost agonizingly slow, Grant pushed the pants down her hips, revealing at first the waistband- thin black lace panties. You aren't helping me here, Ainslie... Grant thought as he continued to push down her pants, revealing fully the black and red lace panties. He took in a sharp breath after he had helped her step out of her pants, and then tossed them out of the shower. "Are you, uhmm..." he said, "are you, uhm, you able to handle things from here?" he continued awkwardly, his hands having moved back to her hips, holding gently as the water cascaded over them.

[.Karma.]

This didn't show any more than a bikini would, right? Her tan lines now showed from days in the sun painting. Her hand on him was now touching skin and her breath quickened a little. She could still imagine what he looked like those days on the beach and how many times had she dreamt of a moment with him without a shirt on. She sucked in her breath as her hand ran along his shoulder and just a bit down his chest before she caught herself.

Clearing her throat and turning a little red in the cheeks. "You can go now if you want. Shampoo, and body wash..." She reached out and touche each, honestly not knowing if she was right this time. Honestly, she hadn't wanted him here to help her, but now that he was here she didn't want him to leave. "Can you maybe, make the water a bit warmer? I'm afraid I will make it too hot..." Mind you the cooler water was helping to cool down the steam she felt from their interaction but it was leaving goosebumps across her skin.

"Then, I mean... Yea... you don't have to stay here..." Her hand lingered on his arm before letting go and feeling around for what she thought was the shampoo. It felt good to have the water rinsing off the blood and dirt from her, it made her feel at least a little more appealing to him, as if he at least hadn't invited some hobo to stay in his house with him.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, able to see the flush on her cheeks. At least he wasn't the only one. He reached out and took her hand in his, reaching forward and touching each bottle as he spoke, "shampoo...bodywash." His hand slowly snaked up her arm and then finally let go. Yeah...you don't have to stay here.... Her words resounded in his head, and for several moments Grant remained there. Maybe he wanted to stay.

No.

He shook his head and smiled a little, his hand moving to her hip and rubbing slightly. "Alright, "I'll put those clothes in the washer and the towel back on the sink. Just call if you need anything, okay?" he said, his eyes moving over her quickly before he leaned forward again, adjusting the temperature of the water. As he did, his chest pressed against her back, his skin brushing hers.

Clearing his throat, he leaned back and stepped out of the shower, scooping up the clothes. He turned, his back to her, knowing that if he looked at her again, he wouldn't leave. "Towel's on the sink!" he called out, shutting the door behind him. For a few moments he stayed there, his back against the door, his head leaned back. "Grant...." he chided himself, "get it together. She needs your help not...." he chuckled and shook his head. "She needs your help, nothing else."

[.Karma.]

As his hand took hers in his, she felt the skin of his back against her. She had to stop herself from leaning back into the touch. He was so warm and he felt safe and even though it was terrible circumstances they had been brought together under, she also couldn't help but wanting to feel more of his skin on hers. No, Ainslie, pull yourself together. He's just trying to help you.

When he exited though, she let out a huge breath. It felt empty without him here, and definitely a lot more scary, this endless darkness and heightening of her other senses made everything awkward and unknown. Finally, she finished showering herself, hoping she had cleaned herself well. She had made sure to scrub every part of her body repeatedly so that way she didn't miss anything, as she couldn't see.

Feeling along the shower she managed to turn the water off and slowly but surely even step out of the shower and grab the towel, wrapping it around her body. She had taken off her panties when he had left, but the bra had still proven stubborn, so she had just left it on. Feeling along the sink and toilet she finally felt the door, opening it and shivering as the cold air enveloped her wet skin. Feeling along the wall, she shivered slightly, not really knowing which way to turn or if she would run into something.

"Grant?" Her teeth were slightly chattery as she spoke hoping she was heading the right way and not wanting to knock down anything that might be important.

[Notty]

Grant had stripped out of his clothes and carried hers to the washer and put them in. Now in a pair of gym shorts and a shirt, he headed back towards the bathroom- hearing her voice. He smiled when he saw her standing outside in a towel, and moved towards her. "Hey, I'm here..." he said, reaching out and touching her arm. Grant couldn't help but smile as he looked at her, his eyes moving over her face, and he reached out, pushing some of her wet hair back behind her shoulder.

"I uhm, I've put your other clothes in the washer..." He began, taking her hand and slowly leading her through the house to his bedroom. "I don't have any girls clothes here, but you can borrow some of mine for now." He could hear her teeth chattering and he pulled her a little closer. "I've got some gym shorts and tshirts that you could wear. And a sweatshirt if you're cold..." Grant added as he stepped into his bedroom.

"Here, stand right here.." he said, placing her hand on the edge of the bed so she could feel it. "I'm going to grab a couple things, okay?" Slowly he released her and went to the dresser. Returning with a pair of shorts, a tshirt and a sweatshirt, he placed his hand on her hip again. "Alright, do you uhm, do you need help getting dressed? Or do you think you're okay?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie smiled as she felt his hand on her, feeling that warm safe feeling again. A blush rose from her neck to her cheeks as he brushed the hair from her shoulder, pausing only a moment before being led to another room.

It smelled good in this room, it smelled like him, and she could only imagine that it was his room and she found herself wondering what it looked like. She ran her hand over the bed he had placed her hand on and smiled a bit. It was soft and felt good against her fingers.

"A T-shirt and shorts is fine. Better than just a towel." She smirked a little and waited for him to rummage through the drawers, every sound seeming amplified. Holding out her hands for the clothes he said he had.

Grant asked if she needed help and she almost wanted to tell him yes, if only to feel his skin on hers again. To feel his safe closeness, and the goosebumps he gave her. Again she chastised herself, he was just trying to help some stranger he found, and here she was having dirty thoughts. A blush ran over her cheeks again.

"I think I can get it, I'll be out in a moment."

Giving a slight nod she waited for the door to click before dropping the towel and putting the shorts on. Oh, damn... She had forgotten about the wet bra, she couldn't put the shirt on overtop her soaked bra. Reaching down, she grabbed the towel again holding it over her front, although she wasn't quite sure why she was practicing such modesty considering they had just been in the shower together.

"Grant, I... um... can you undo this clasp?" She said loud enough hopefully for him to hear, turning her back towards where she remembered the door being.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and smiled, rubbing her side reassuringly before he stepped out, shutting the door behind him. Once again he leaned against the wall outside his room, closing his eyes and taking in a deep breath. Would this be how things would be forever? With her here, needing help with everything that she did? Certainly, things would get easier for her, but for Grant...all he could see was a long and difficult road ahead of him.

His thoughts were interrupted when he heard her voice, and he turned, furrowing his brow slightly, not sure he heard her correctly. Turning the doorknob and opening the door, he couldn't help but smile when he saw her standing there- his shorts looking too big on her, and the towel pressed against her. Moving towards her, Grant placed his hands on her shoulders and gently turned her so that she was facing the bed. "Yeah, I got it," he murmured softly.

Grant let his eyes drift down her back, her skin soft and tanned from what he assumed were many days in the sun. His fingertips grazed up her sides and found the clasp to her bra. He was close, perhaps closer than he needed to be for the task, but it didn't deter him. Slowly and methodically, Grant unclasped her bra and then let his hands run down her sides to her hips, holding them steady for a moment. "There," he said, his voice nearly a whisper. Swallowing hard, Grant took in a slow breath before speaking again. "Is there anything else you need?"

[.Karma.]

As his hands hovered around her hips, she gasped a bit. He was close, she could feel his breath over her and even once it was unclasp her bra. His hands seemed to linger along her hips, causing her to gasp and lean back into him for just a moment before his voice made her snap into her senses again.

A blush rose from her cheeks. "No, no, I think that's it. Sorry... again." She sighed a bit. Would this be how she would be forever? Constantly needing help with miniscule things? Surely he was already tired of it. How long until he decided he took on more than he could handle. The witch had not been honest in most things about their deal, so how was she to know she wouldn't be blind forever? Or if even she would hold up her week deal.

When the door clicked it was only a couple seconds before she felt her way to the door and opened it. Maybe if she listened, she could feel her way to where he was? Wouldn't need him to drop whatever he was doing to simply help her walk. Guilt weighed heavily on her, to disrupt his life like this. Wearing his big shorts and tshirt she felt along the wall slowly but surely trying to listen to where he might be.

[Notty]

Nodding, Grant slowly let go of Ainslie and stepped out of the bedroom, shutting the door behind him. "You need a drink. A drink of cold water..." he told himself, moving quickly towards the kitchen in hopes that he would be back before she was finished dressing herself. Placing several ice cubes in the cup and filling it with water from the fridge, Grant took a long drink and leaned back against the counter. How would things be now? How long would she be here with him? How long would she need his help?

Hearing the door, he took another drink of the water and set the glass down on the counter, moving through the kitchen back towards his room. He smiled when he saw Ainslie carefully making her way down the hall. "Hey there, look at you," he smiled, reaching out for her hand and grasping it gently.

"Are you hungry? Do you want me to try and show you around the house?" It was getting late in the day, surely she was hungry, and eventually they would have to talk about sleeping arrangements. Grant doubted that she would want him to share the bed with her. There was a couch (https://a1.muscache.com/im/pictures/62530201/39330566_original.jpg?aki_policy=x_large) at the foot of his bed, he could sleep there and be sure that she was okay...

His eyes turned to hers and he frowned. She reminded him so much of the girl at the beach. The artist. He looked down at her hands and tried to envision a paintbrush in them. It actually....it seemed to fit. But how could she be that girl? There was no way that she was the girl. Shaking his head a little to remove the thought from his mind, he smiled. "Let's have some dinner, okay?"

[.Karma.]

When she heard his voice, she turned her head toward the sound and gave a small smile. She felt like a toddler who had just taken her first steps. When she felt his hand she gripped onto it and followed his lead. It seemed he was as unsure of all this as she was. Although, for him it was uprooting his whole life. This was definitely not what she had planned.

"Dinner would be nice, but you don't have to do anything special, truly. Just a sandwich or something is just fine... You know, I might be able to even make that on my own..." She didn't want him to feel as if she just expected him to do everything for her. It was just as irritating for her as it was him. She prided herself on her independence before, and now she was anything but.

"I mean, whatever you have handy is fine." She was kind of babbling now, but she couldn't help it. She just felt so helpless and that made her nervous and when she was nervous she tried to fill the space with words and it just went downhill from there. "If you don't want dinner though, I can wait to.. I um... just.. Whatever you want."

[Notty]

Grant smiled and shook his head, holding her hand as he led her down the hall slowly towards the kitchen. "It's okay..." he murmured, "I don't mind." Then, something strange happened. "I...I just...not that long ago, I was in a bad accident.." He looked at Ainslie and smiled, helping her to a seat at the counter. "I was out of the country, and heading back to my hotel and I got hit by a car. Someone helped me," he shrugged a bit and smiled. "Someone, I don't know who it was, helped me, and well...someone helped me when I was alone, so....I'm helping you."

His eyes lingered on her face, wanting to reach out and embrace her, but thought that she might not be ready for it. He cleared his throat a little, then smiled, "well, tell me about you, then." He turned and opened up the fridge, trying to decide on what he wanted to cook. "Do you like chicken?" he asked, turning to look at her. "I could do some chicken and pasta..."

[.Karma.]

Tears sprang to her eyes. She remembered that day like it was yesterday. He had called her beautiful. It some ways it was a fond memory for it was the last time she had truly seen him, but it had been terrifying and unlike him she hadn't thought on her feet and went with him. So, she hadn't been entirely sure he was alright. He was still perfect. What was shocking though was that he had remembered her! He had been so out of it, she didn't think he had actually caught that she was there. Opening her mouth, she was about to tell him it was her, but nothing came out. Again she tried, but nothing. Gritting her teeth she just let out a sigh and shut her mouth. Apparently, that was one of the things she couldn't talk about.

As he looked through the fridge, she felt her way to the table and pulled out a chair, at first knocking it down, but quickly picking it back up and taking a seat. When she set her hands on the table in front of her she felt a cup in front of her. Seemed like it was fresh water. Her headache was starting to return a bit now and water seemed nice. Taking a drink she realized she forgot to ask if it was hers or his.

Figuring it more embarrassing to ask, she just brushed it off, listening to his question. "Chicken and pasta sound delicious!" She smiled in the direction she had heard his voice in. "Did they by any chance send some pain meds home with me? Or do you have any Tylenol?" She would have understood if he hadn't wanted to pay for the pain medication it could be quite expensive.

[Notty]

Grant smiled when he saw that she had made her way to the table, and he nodded, then inwardly chastised himself. She can't see you nod, idiot. You have to talk to her. "Oh, yeah, they gave a prescription, I didn't know if you wanted it filled or not..." he said, trying to remember where he had put the paperwork. "If you want I can get you some tylenol though..." Grant turned and opened the door to a cabinet near the sink. Pulling out some tylenol, he carried them over and placed two in her hand. "Here, let me get you a drink..." he continued, noting with a small smile that she had drunk some of his.

With a fresh glass of ice water before her, Grant started to work on dinner. He seasoned the chicken while the water heated for the pasta. Every now and then he looked over to Ainslie, wanting to make sure that she didn't seem too uncomfortable. Certainly this wasn't the most comfortable of situations, she didn't even know him!

Clearing his throat slightly, Grant began to speak. "Well, uhm, I guess I can tell you about me then." With that he began to tell her about his life. His younger sister and brother, his parents. How he had moved here for a job and was incredibly successful. None of his words were filled with vanity or pride, but a simplicity, as if just telling her the cards that life had dealt him. And in fact, he had done very well for himself. Grant knew that Ainslie wasn't aware of it, but there was no need for worry at all in the way of medications or medical bills.

"Here, dinner is just about ready," he said after a few minutes of silence. "Do you want any fruit or anything? I can steam some broccoli for a side..." He felt a bit awkward, it had been a long time since he had a woman in the house with him, and even longer since he had cooked for anyone but himself.

[.Karma.]

She smiled and took the tylenol, drinking the water as he spoke about his life. She loved learning about him, even asked a few questions when it came to certain things he said. Honestly, she wasn't sure what she could talk about her life. The doctor had told him she had amnesia, so maybe he just thought she didn't remember anything to talk about. "I..." She started but seems that she couldn't even tell him that she was from Australia.

"I..." She tried again and gave and exasperated sigh. "I'm an only child... I don't really... have anything else to say." She couldn't tell him what her profession was. "I like the beach too..." Okay so she could say that. It made her sound shallow though, he was sharing things about his family and his job and she couldn't share those things.

Putting her head in her hands, she imagined how wonderful it would be to see him cooking at the stove, and to see his eyes light up when he talked about his accomplishments and the smile when he talked about his siblings. Running her fingers through her hair she had to fight this wave of emotion that was running over her.

"Broccoli sounds nice, maybe throw on some cheese? Everything is better with cheese." She tried to give him a smile and get over feeling sorry for herself.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, "you got it," he said, getting to work on the broccoli and cheese. He worked quietly, unsure of what else to say for the time being. As he waited for the broccoli to get finished, he set the table, placing a plate and fork in front of Ainslie. He began to set his place on the opposite side of the table, then frowned, realizing that she may need help eating. Scooting the plate down to sit beside her, he smiled a bit and placed his hand on her shoulder, giving her a gentle, reassuring touch.

After carrying the dishes over, he sat down beside her. Grant served Ainslie first, and then himself. "Alright, this might be interesting..." he grinned, reaching to help her grasp the fork. "Perhaps we should have started with sandwiches and worked up to pasta," Grant chuckled. He took several bites and then looked at her, his eyes scanning her face. "You're from Australia?" he asked curiously as he took another bite and then swallowed. "I just ask cause of the accent," his eyes brightened a little and he leaned back in his chair. "I was there, not long ago. That's where I had my accident."

Shrugging a little, he continued. "Not exactly how I had planned on spending my last few days there. Well, I was really there for work, but I was going to lengthen my trip and stay a little longer. I had found a beach there, I'd go on my lunch breaks. It was so peaceful. People were reading, playing, swimming, even painting." He smiled and let his voice go silent. "Anyway," he finally said after a long pause. "Maybe I'll go back someday."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie was able to nod about him mentioning her accent. Giving him a smile and wishing that she could tell him that was her painting on the beach, or at least tell him she had been there so they would have a topic of conversation, but this witch sure wanted this to be hard for her.

"That sounds like an amazing vacation, even if it was for work. Secluded beaches are the best, not much noise other than the waves crashing over the sand and the seagulls chirping." She smiled and closed her eyes trying to keep the image in her head.

When he finally decided where to sit, she let out a little chuckle. He wanted to be close to help her, but this was something she felt that she could do even without being able to see, but it proved to be a bit difficult. She dropped noodles on herself a few times as she listened to him talk.

"The feel of the sand between your toes and the beautiful blue and white sky meeting with the blue green of the ocean..." She continued, still keeping it all in her head to try and not lose it in her memory.

"Oh and I wouldn't have chosen sandwiches over this. This is delicious!" She smiled, feeling her shirt and picking a noodle off of it. "I'm even trying to save some for later..." She laughed again, trying to make light of their situation. "I wish there was more about me that I could tell you..." She dropped her head a bit and spun her fork around her plate, frustrated that she couldn't share that they actually had quite a bit in common.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, listening to Ainslie intently as she spoke about the beach. He could see it too, in fact, it sounded a lot like the beach he had fallen in love with. Shaking his head slightly, he chided, a lot of beaches look like that, Grant, don't be crazy. There's no way that this girl is from that beach. Besides, she's blind...

He reached out to help her try and clean herself up, but chuckled when she was able to scoop up the noodle herself from the shirt and placed it in her mouth. Grant grinned, shaking his head a little. "Well if you like it that much, I'll save some in the fridge for you," he laughed, reaching to wipe some sauce from her chin. "Sorry," he said almost immediately after doing it, letting out another laugh. "Sorry, just...wanted to help..."

It was nice having someone else in this big house. Too often it seemed too large and too lonely. It wasn't supposed to be, not when he bought it. Grant had dreams of a house filled with love, laughter, a family. Shaking his head and the fog that began to settle there, he focused back on Ainslie. Now there was laughter, but even then...he knew there would be pain. Right now things were okay, but would they be okay in a couple days when the reality of everything set in? When she got frustrated at not being able to do things for herself? Would he even want her around that long? Closing his eyes briefly, Grant took in a deep breath and let it out. Right now, he was going to help her. He'd take it one day at a time.

[.Karma.]

When he wiped some sauce from her chin, she blushed. Some because she liked his touch, but also some because she felt like a child. Surely he thought of her as one at this point.

"No, it's okay." She nodded. Ainslie ended up clearing her whole plate, and even though she was blind, she offered to wash the dishes. She thought it might be something she could do to feel like she was contributing at least a little. "That was wonderful."

Slowly she backed her chair out and grabbed her plate setting her cutlery on top of it. Standing carefully and walking into the table once before making it around she felt her way to the sink and put her plate inside. Turning on the water, and plugging up the sink feeling for the soap.

"Oh, I forgot your plate, sorry!" She turned around and held out her hand for it, keeping one hand on the counter so as not to lose the sink in the process. Finding the soap she poured some in, sticking her hand in the sink so she knew how full it was getting before turning off the water. "I love learning more about you... What is your favorite time of year? What is your biggest fear?" These were questions she could actually answer herself after he answered so hopefully she could be part of the conversation this time.

[Notty]

Grant chuckled as she stood and moved to the sink. He stood, following her as she moved, wanting to be sure that she didn't trip or fall. When she turned, she bumped into him slightly and he put an arm around her to steady her, letting out another laugh. "Sorry," Grant smiled, rubbing the small of her back slowly.

"Oh, yeah, here..." He said, stepping away from Ainslie and grabbing his plate. He smiled and leaned against the counter beside her, watching her as she worked on the dishes. "My favorite time of year?" He said, crossing his arms over his chest and thinking for a minute. "I really like summer. I like the warmth. I love the beach..." Grant ahifted and ran a hand through his hair, smiling even more. "And my greatest fear? Well, well I guess that would be to be alone. To have no one to share my life with." Swallowing hard, he shifted and shrugged. "Sorry, that's Uhm, well, yeah. What about you?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie let out a laugh when she bumped into him, noticing the hand lingering on her back, but surely it was just to steady her. She washed the dishes, although not without difficulty as they spoke. Feeling around for bits of food and smiling about his favorite season, but her face became more serious when he mentioned his biggest fear. How could he ever think he would end up alone?

"Oh, Grant, that could never happen to you. You're a man that can cook! She nudged him and even gave a wink with her blind eye before taking a pan that he had so kindly handed to her.

Thinking a bit, she answered while placing the pan in the other side of the sink, almost dropping it but catching it just in time. "My favorite time of the year is Winter, well at least where I'm from. Our winter is in the same months as your summer and the temperature is just perfect, a bit of a chill at night but nice during the day. When you're on the beach, the waves hit the rocks on the eastern side and you can feel that slight mist. It's wonderful." She smiled remembering painting every drop, almost painting them out with soap on the plate she was washing.

"My biggest fear? Well, you'd never believe it... but I'm terrified of the dark. Figures with the situation I'm in now, but no I slept with all the lights on at home, and I wouldn't call it almost a phobia. It's not so bad when there is others, but being alone in the dark... it's terrifying." She finished up the last dish, placing it in the sink and turning to where she had last heard him.

A small smile across her lips. "I'm afraid you will have to put them away, I'm not sure I could figure out where they go." She laughed a little as she dried her hands on her shirt.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, watching and listening as Ainslie spoke, his eyes moving back and forth between her hands and her face, curious to see how she worked without her sight. But, much to his surprise, she did an incredible job. Nevertheless, he remained near, wanting to be there in case she needed him. When she turned and dried her hands on her shirt, he smiled. "Well, I'm not sure how much I can help with the dark thing.." he said, reaching down and taking her hand. "But I can promise you that you won't be alone."

His eyes moved to the windows and he noticed that it was starting to get darker. He smiled a little and pulled his arm around Ainslie, "are you, uhm, are you tired?" he asked, knowing that he certainly was. It had been a busy and strange day, and he was ready to just sleep for a while. Maybe that would help to clear things up in his mind.

"You can have the bed, I think it would be safer.." he said, starting to walk slowly towards the bedroom, letting Ainslie feel as they walked so that she could get an idea of where they were, and how to get places in the house. "There's a couch at the end of the bed, I can sleep on that..." he continued, smiling and rubbing her side gently. "Do you want to change into some different clothes? I could see if your clothes are done in the dryer...if you want any..uhmm...things..." Grant's voice trailed off, vividly remembering how Ainslie looked in the delicate black and red lace panties.

[.Karma.]

When he mentioned that she would not be alone she couldn't help but smile. Her hand reaching up Grant's chest and his neck and then to his face and stroking it softly. "Thank you..." She looked up at him, and if her eyes weren't clouded it would seem that she was looking straight into his.

When he mentioned bed, she nodded, removing her hand from his face. She didn't even know if he liked her touch or hated it without being able to see it. Maybe he tolerated it because she was a blind invalid for all she knew. "I am quite tired, and my head is starting to hurt a bit again. I think sleep might do me well."

Following his lead, she did feel along, trying to make sure she didn't knock anything down on the way, she counted the doors so she would know how many before the bedroom and tried to pay attention to what he said at the same time. "I couldn't take over your bed! You've already done so much. I don't mind the couch, really it's okay. Or even the floor!"

Ainslie was being serious, she didn't want to kick him out of bed. First she drops in front of his house, then she takes over his bed? "Honestly, Grant, where is this couch you speak of?"

[Notty]

Grant grinned, shaking his head. "Nope, nope. I am not letting you sleep on the couch. My mother would have a fit." He laughed, starting to pull down the sheets and blankets on the bed, and then placing his hand on the small of her back, gently urging her towards the bed. "You are sleeping in the bed, and that is that. Besides, I'm more comfortable with you being on the bed. I don't mind it, really."

He waited there a moment before turning away and pulling his shirt off, then shaking his head, unsure of why he was turning away to change. It wasn't as if she could see him. Running a hand through his hair, Grant turned and moved to the closet, rummaging through it for an extra pillow and a blanket that he could use on the couch. "There's a bathroom in here too," he called out to her as he searched for a pillow case. "I can show you where that is. I'm not that heavy of a sleeper, so if you need anything just say something and I'll probably wake up."

In fact, the thought of her being here made him, well, uneasy wasn't the word. Perhaps more alert. Even more so than any other guest, Grant felt as though he had to be more alert with Ainslie around. She was in a position to hurt herself more than others would, and he didn't want anything else to happen to her. He'd keep her safe, that was a promise.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard him turn down the sheets, and listened as he rummaged through his drawers. A dirtier side of her wished she could see, wished she could watch him undress just as he had seen her in the shower.

As he spoke and seemed to be looking for things she smiled and crossed her arms, refusing to get in the bed. "I'm still waiting for you to show me the couch." She set her face stubbornly, her arms still crossed. "You're mother's not here, you wont get put in timeout if I sleep on the couch."

She stuck out her tongue in his general directing and gave a smile, and still did not move toward the bed. Maybe she could out stubborn him and still get him to allow her to sleep on that couch.

[Notty]

Grant turned and looked at her, unable to keep from smiling. She looked stubborn, but she was cute when she was trying to be stubborn. He chuckled and shook his head, moving closer and tossing the blanket and the pillow onto the couch. "You're right, she isn't here..." he murmured, stepping a little closer to her. "Though she's very persuasive, I could call her and you can talk to her...." he grinned, stepping even closer to her, his hands resting on her sides. "Do I need to do that?" he asked, a mischievous look in his eyes.

"Or..." he began, letting out a dramatic sigh, "I could do this..." And without warning, he reached down and scooped her up, lifting Ainslie up and over his shoulder. A few steps brought him to the bed and he put her down, landing on top of her slightly, both of them bouncing. Grant couldn't hold in his laughter any more, chuckling as he leaned up, his body over hers now. "Now...are you going to stay in bed, or do I have to think of more...creative ways of keeping you here?" He grinned widely, openly teasing her, and loving her reactions.

Then he softened a bit, one hand still holding himself up, but the other moved to stroke her cheek, brushing some hair back from her face. His eyes focused on hers. Clouded, yet he could sense sadness in them. It wasn't fair. It wasn't fair that this should happen to her. Grant smiled and pushed his fingers through her hair slightly. "I'm right here if you need me..." he murmured, slowly leaning up.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie stood stoically, hearing his voice get closer as he spoke. Offering to let her talk to his mother, it made her grin. What she didn't expect was for him to pick her up. Letting out a little scream she gripped onto him. "Grant you put me down this..." Then she felt herself plop onto the bed, him on top of her.

She let out a laugh and gave his shoulder a gentle smack. "You cheated!" She giggled and playfully struggled underneath him but when his hands moved to her hair she stopped squirming, her own hand moving to feel up his chest, over his neck and then across his cheek as well. She already felt connected to him, one hand traced his face as she tried to remember his features from the beach as well as take them in as well as she could with her hand.

When he spoke, she cleared her throat and nodded. "Fine, I'll stay." Ainslie gave him a small smile, almost wishing that he would stay in the bed with her. It felt weird and a bit scary to go to bed in this strange place, and since she had came here, he had been her safe place. "Goodnight, Grant." She whispered before rolling over and closing her eyes.

It took her some time before she actually fell asleep though, she could hear every unfamiliar noise in the house, and everything seemed scary. Grant said he was in the room with her though. So, she'd be okay, she was pretty sure.

[Notty]

Grant laid on the couch for a long time, staring up at the ceiling. He could still feel her fingertips across his face, almost like an electrical charge left behind. He couldn't help but smile as he thought about how she had looked there on the bed, and he took in a deep breath, closing his eyes and rolling over on the almost-too-small couch. She was beautiful.

The morning dawned cool and gray, with rain hanging in the air. Grant's eyes slowly fluttered opened and he let out a soft groan. It had been a while since he had slept on that couch, and he forgotten how small it was- or rather, how big he was. Leaning up slowly, he turned and smiled, seeing the sleeping form of Ainslie on the bed. Standing, he stretched as he moved to the edge of the bed, watching her for a few moments. She looked incredibly peaceful, and you would have never known that anything was wrong with her.

Resisting the urge to climb in bed beside her, he turned and headed to the kitchen. "Coffee. That's what I need..." he murmured to himself, filling the pot and listening as it moved through the maker, filling the air with the aromatic scent. Grant wondered as he worked what sort of things Ainslie liked. Did she like coffee? Was she a morning person or a night person? How would his life look now? He did still have some time off, he could call in today...

[.Karma.]

The smell of coffee woke her open. Stretching in the unfamiliar bed and fluttering her eyes open. Why wont her eyes open? It took her a moment to remember, she was blind. It was kind of saddening that she couldn't see the sun flutter in through the windows. To see the birds flutter through the trees. At least she could hear them right?

She needed to quite feeling sorry for herself, and just be happy with what she did have. She was here with Grant, and even blind he was such a beautiful person.

Slowly, she pushed herself up from the bed and scooted herself to the edge. She was still in his clothes, situating them a bit, she stood and slowly felt her way to the door and feeling along the walls of the hall towards the smell of the coffee. "I smell coffee!" She smiled as she continued down the hallway. Not the first door, the second one to the right was the kitchen.

Turning into the kitchen, she smiled. "Ah yes, this is where it's coming from!" She grinned, and walked toward where she thought she remembered where the table was. "Good morning." She tried to sound cheery, she had in fact told herself she wanted to make the best of this. It was hard not to wish to see how he looked with his hair all tossled from sleep.

She was sure she didn't look in the best shape, she couldn't put on make up blind and her hair was probably a mess from tossing and turning a bit last night. She made a mental note to ask him if he had a brush or something later. What if he didn't though? She didn't want to ask and for him to feel like he had to buy one for her, and when she appeared her, she had nothing but the clothes on her back.

[Notty]

Grant leaned up from his cup when he heard Ainslie's voice, and he smiled widely, moving towards her. "Hey, good morning..." He murmured, then quickly stopped himself from embracing her and kissing the top of her head- he wanted to, and it seemed natural, but he resisted.

"Do you want a cup of coffee?" He asked, starting to get a cup down for her. He grinned, watching as she made her way slowly to the table and sat down. Grant couldn't help but chuckle, setting the cup down in front of her. "You remembered well, I'm surprised..." He sat down beside her and rubbed the top of her hand and smiled. "What would you like for breakfast? Anything tickling your fancy?"

[.Karma.]

"I would love coffee." She smiled as she heard the cup set in front of her. The smell was so strong now, her mouth nearly watered. "I hope you're incredibly sore this morning." She said with a straight face, trying to not give away the joke. "Because I slept like a baby on the bed." It wasn't exactly true, but she was trying to poke fun at the fact that he had made her sleep in the bed.

Pushing her hair out of her face, she thought for a moment about breakfast. He was planning on cooking her breakfast? God, she felt like such a burden. "Something like cereal is just fine." She smiled and took a sip of her coffee. "What is the weather like today? Usually small talk includes the weather, but I'm afraid I can't tell..." She shrugged, trying to act as if it didn't bother her as she sat there twiddling her fingers. Hating that she could do nothing to help him.

"Is there... something I can do?"

[Notty]

Grant furrowed his brow, and then let out a laugh, smiling widely at her comment. He reached back and rubbed the back of his neck, stretching a little more. "You slept like a baby, hmm?" he said, looking to her with a smile. "Must be why I heard all that snoring last night..." Grant grinned even more, then let out a chuckle. "I'm kidding. You don't snore." He reached over and laid his hand on top of hers before giving it a brief squeeze. "Just teasing."

"Well, uhm, let's see..." He said, releasing his hand from hers and standing up and moving to the fridge. Opening the double doors, he glanced in, humming slightly as he did so. "Well, I've got bagels and cream cheese if you like that.." he said, glancing back at her for some kind of reaction. "I can cut up some fruit and we can have fruit and bagels, if you'd like."

He began pulling things out of the fridge and setting them out near Ainslie, wanting her to feel like she would be able to help. "I'll toast them if you want to put on the cream cheese..." he said, smiling at the thought.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie's face broke out into a smile when he found something for her to do. She loved bagels. "Sounds good to me." She said waiting for him to put the cream cheese in front of her. "Maybe after we make them, we could sit outside and eat them or something?"

When the cream cheese was set in front of her she felt around the lid and then ran her fingers over the knife gently hoping that she didn't mess up and make him not want to allow her to help any longer. She could hear him pushing down the toaster and the smell of the bagels filled the room. "Are those blueberry?" She smiled as they cooked away, holding her knife at the ready.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, "yep, they are, I hope you are okay with blueberry..." he murmured, taking one bagel from the toaster and placing it on a plate, then setting it before her. "Be careful, it's a little hot." He looked at Ainslie and couldn't help but smile. She looked so eager to help, and he was certain that it was incredibly frustrating to not be able to do anything or help out at all. Perhaps he could find a way for her to help.

With the second bagel toasted and sat before her, Grant began slicing up some strawberries and bananas, then adding them in a bowl with some blueberries. He smiled, popping one of the berries into his mouth before carrying the bowl over to the table and sitting down beside her.

He grinned, watching her work on the cream cheese. "Need any help?" he asked, his eyes following her movements. "You're doing a good job, really." Grant scooped some of the fruit from the bowl and placed it on the plate that Ainslie wasn't working with, his eyes dart up every now and then to meet hers. "Tell me, what do you like to do? What would make you happy?"

[.Karma.]

"No, I'm alright, I don't need help. At least... I don't think so." She shrugged and grinned. "What do you think?" She held up the bagel, holding it out and hitting him in the face with it. Her cloudy eyes shot open wide and she tried to stifle a laugh. "I'm s...sorry..." The laughter bubbled out of her and she set down the last bagle and knife and wiped at his face.

"Let me get that for you!" She swiped at his face, but gently and playfully. "Since you asked," She smiled still wiping at his face. But her face went a bit more serious as she wondered if she'd even be able to tell him. "I quite like..." painting wouldn't come out, and she gritted her teeth. "I like art..." Yes! She was able to say that. "I shall turn your cheek into a work of art!" She tried to pick back up the lighthearted mood.

Reaching onto the table, she found the fruit and popped one into her mouth. "Tonight, I'm cooking dinner."

[Notty]

Grant's eyes widened when the bagel hit his face, and he let out a laugh, cream cheese smearing across his cheek and lips. He looked at Ainslie, then reached down and grabbed the other bagel, smearing the cream cheese across her face. "There," he grinned, licking his lips as she sat there, looking rather stunned. "Now we are even."

He laughed, smiling as he reached for a towel, trying to clean her face off as she tried to clean his. He was happy, which was...strange for him. Not that Grant was usually a moody or grumpy guy, but he didn't usually feel this lighthearted. His eyes scanned her face, still slightly smeared with cream cheese, and he chuckled again, reaching forward and wiping some from her cheek before scooting a little closer.

What was it about her that made her so...intoxicating? He wanted to kiss her right now, but she was basically a stranger. And he was a stranger to her! What would she think of him if he kissed her? She might slap him, or yell at him, or leave. He didn't want to risk it. Not yet at least. Give her time to decide what her feelings are.

"Art, hmm?" he said, smiling and licking his fingers before taking a few bites of the bagel. "What sort of art? Are you a pottery fan, painting? Sketching?" His eyes scanned her face as he spoke, smiling. "Maybe we can do something one of these days..."

[.Karma.]

When the bagel hit her face, at first she was shocked, but then a whole-hearted laugh escaped her lips yet again. Staying still as he cleaned her face a truly happy smile across it. Ainslie wished that she could see his face. To judge his reactions through his eyes and his body language, it was so difficult to judge his actions and if he felt the same when she wasn't able to see.

When he started listing off different arts it made it difficult for her. She just wanted to tell him she could paint, she didn't realize it would be this difficult to keep that a secret when she agreed to this deal at the fountain. Taking a bite of her bagel and another piece of fruit.

"I've never tried pottery before, it always looked fun!" She smiled, there was one thing about her other senses being heightened. Everything tasted so good! "I think I would enjoy that." Ainslie wasn't sure he'd quite be comfortable taking her out yet. It had to be embarrassing, a woman that needed help like a child. Any activities they did was kind of at his discretion. She was completely dependent on him, and she didn't really like that. Men usually liked that the beginning, but not so much after awhile.

"I mean whatever you are comfortable really."

[Notty]

Grant smiled as she spoke, chewing slowly, popping a few pieces of fruit in his mouth every now and then as she told him about what she enjoyed. "I'm sure we can come up with something," he said between bites and sips of coffee. His mind wandered, and he smiled to himself, already making plans for going out with her.

"Wait, you said dinner?" Grant said, furrowing his brow slightly as he looked at her. "Are you sure you're up for that?" he said, reaching out and brushing a small smear of cream cheese from beside her lip. "I don't mind doing it, really. It isn't a problem." He was more concerned with her safety, and not wanting her to get hurt while she was making dinner.

Taking the last sip of his coffee, Grant leaned back in his chair and smiled. "What do you say to us getting you some clothes today, hmm?" he asked, his eyes scanning her face. "I know it'll be a bit...challenging, but I think that we can manage." He wasn't entirely sure if it would be easier to try and go to the store, or to shop online and hope for the best. Either way, it would be an interesting process, and hopefully not too awkward, for either of them.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard the worry in his voice when he mentioned dinner again. She could see why she was worried, but she still wanted to try things. "We can try something simple, if it makes you feel better?" It was in fact his kitchen and his stuff, she didn't want to impose. "If you don't want me to, that's okay... I was just thinking maybe a salad with some grilled shrimp? Or that leftover pasta from last night even?"

She suggested that so that way she wouldn't have to be doing too much and make him nervous. Ainslie finished up her bagel and picked up her plate, and cup. Moving toward the sink, again always moving slowly so she didn't fall down. "We could pick out clothes, but I mean, don't I look fashionable in this?" She smirked, setting her dishes in the sink. Again guilt hit her, he would have to buy her clothes if he wanted her to not wear his.

"Really I could wear anything and I wouldn't know if I looked bad or good, but if we are going to go out... Do you by any chance have a brush?" She knew he wouldn't have makeup, and even if he did she wouldn't be able to put it on, but her hair was all over the place it would feel nice to at least get it brushed down. She was almost positive that she wasn't even attractive at all to him.

[Notty]

He thought for a moment and nodded, "yeah, yeah, sure. You can do dinner," he smiled, reaching out and rubbing her arm gently. "Yeah, you can do dinner. I'll be here if you want any help. Maybe with the grilling part," Grant grinned, "I don't want you burning yourself." It would be good, right? She could practice becoming more independent, and that was a good thing.

Grant watched as Ainslie carefully carried her plate and cup towards the sink, and he stood, moving beside her, just in case she should trip or need help. Smiling, he shook his head. "No, I don't have a brush, but I do have a comb." He smiled and reached up, his fingers twirling in the ends of her hair. "You know, I do have a little sister, I can braid hair..." he said, stepping a little closer, one hand moving to her hip to hold her in place.

[.Karma.]

A comb, she nearly winced. Ainslie's hair was fairly thick and it would be tedious to comb through it with a small comb, but it was what he had. "A comb would be nice." She felt his hand on her hip and leaned into him a bit and then feeling another hand on her dark red hair.

"I would love a braid, it would stop it from getting so tangled and being an outright mess at least. I can't fix it much without being able to see."

With his hand on her hip, she didn't very well want to move, she liked it there. Taking a deep breath she could smell that safe and comforting musky scent that he had. Moving her head up, she yearned once again to be able to gaze into his eyes. Reaching up she stroked his face slightly for just a moment before taking his hand.

"So about that comb?"

[Notty]

Grant smiled and leaned into her touch, closing his eyes for a brief moment as she caressed his face. Her touch was....perfect. He turned his face in her hand and nearly kissed her palm before snapping himself out of it. A comb. You're getting her a comb. That's it, Grant. She just wants a comb.

Clearing his throat he gently took Ainslie's hand in his, letting his other hand remain on her hip, and slowly guided her towards his bedroom again. "I'll comb it out and braid it, if you don't mind," he murmured, walking slowly so that she wouldn't trip. Leading her to the couch, he helped her to sit down and lean back against the arm. "Alright, hang on just a minute."

Turning and stepping into the master bathroom, he grabbed a comb from the sink and came back in. He smiled, seeing the hair tie on her wrist, and reached down, gently taking it off. "Alright, hang in there while I comb out your hair. I'll try and be gentle."

Taking his time, Grant slowly and methodically combed out her hair, it took a bit of time, and he poked fun at himself while he did, about not being used to so much hair. But finally, it was combed out and shone, and he ran his fingers through it several times to make sure there were no more knots. "There..." he murmured, his fingers still slowly dragging through her hair. Carefully and surprisingly skillfully, he divided her hair and began braiding. He worked slowly, wanting to take his time, enjoying being near her. Finally he tied the hair band around the bottom of the braid and smiled, "there, not too bad if I say so myself."

[.Karma.]

Sitting on the couch she waited for his return, listening for his footsteps. She hadn't wanted to ask him to comb her hair, so she was glad that he had offered. When he came back and took the ponytail holder off of her wrist she smiled and slid down to the floor, letting him get behind her.

As he combed her hair, she leaned her head against his knee. Grant was gentle, even when he thought he might be hurting her, it was barely a tug. It made her smile how fragile he thought she was. The even strokes of the comb were very relaxing and she enjoyed his stroking of her hair. It was very soothing and it made her feel safe and cared about. That was one thing she had always loved, someone playing with her hair.

Ainslie almost groaned when he had finished and moved on to actually braiding it. She expected it to be awkward and slow, but no he made quick work of it and she was quite impressed. When he finished she reached back and ran her hand down it with a smile. It felt good to have it out of her face. "Thank you! What do you think?" She turned so she was on her knees on the floor facing him, still between his legs and tilted her head giving a silly pose.

"You are a man of many surprises, Grant. I would not have thought you to be an expert braider and coffee maker extraordinaire." She laughed, still running her fingers over the braid.

[Notty]

Grant smiled as Ainslie turned in front of him, and he shifted, scooting a little closer to her. For a brief moment, he leaned forward, wanting to kiss her then and there, but he stopped himself, shaking his head. Stop it Grant, she barely knows you. She doesn't want you to kiss her... He smiled and cupped her chin, then affectionately stroked her jaw. "And you, Ainslie, are a girl of many talents," he murmured, his voice a bit lower than before, more...wanting.

He shifted and smiled. "Here, let me help you up..." Reaching out he took her hands and stood slowly, helping her to her feet. As he did so, he stepped forward slightly, their bodies pressed together for a moment before he smiled, shifting a little. "Well, uhm, do you want to go out to go shopping? Or uhm, would you rather do it here? Online?"

Grant let his eyes scan hers, and before he let her answer, he reached down and took her hands. "I...I want you to know what I look like," he murmured softly, holding her hands near his jaw. "It's....it's not fair that I can see you all the time, and you don't know how I look."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt him lean closer, and she leaned closer to but then he shook his head. Maybe she had misjudged the signs. God she wished she could see him. A blush crawled up her cheeks and then felt his hand on her chin and a stroke on her jaw. It was definitely affection, he was feeling the same as her. She wished he would just kiss her!

When he mentioned she had many talents her eyebrows raised. Like not being able to take a shower? Or feeling her way to the kitchen? She hadn't been able to show him any of her talents, but he had shown her how kind he was and quite a few of his own talents.

With her hands in his she stood, feeling his body close, it made her breath quicken a little. He quickly moved away from her a bit though. She opened her mouth to answer his question when he stopped her, taking Ainslie's hands in his own and putting them on his face. What he said made her heart ache.

Desperately she tried to tell him that she did know what he looked like, but nothing came out. She was sure she looked like a fish out of water. Slowly she traced his features with her fingers.

"I know... that you have dimples right here when you smile." She stroked her fingers across his cheeks and then traced his face up to his forhead. "I know you have a scar right here from something." Her voice was almost as whisper as she spoke. "I know that when you're worried, you get lines right here." Soft hands stroked right beside his eyes.

Smiling she continued to trace his face. "I know the skin is softer on your nose than it is anywhere else on your face. That also you like to be clean shaven." She smirked a little. "Although I think you're getting a bit of a shadow here, sir." She chuckled and paused her words and cupped his cheek stroking gently. "Mostly I know that when you are concerned, the pitch of your voice goes down a bit. That your laugh is different when you find something truly funny, versus when you are worried. Your foot steps are confident, yet slower when they get around me. Your touches are kind and gentle and caring. You tone of your voice goes up a bit when you are nervous, but every now and then your voice get's a more huskier tone..."

A blush made it's way across her cheeks again as she mentioned the husky and deep voice that she had heard only a couple times. "I understand if you only want to shop online, we can do that."

[Notty]

Grant looked down at Ainslie as her hands gently cupped his face, and he swallowed hard, closing his eyes as her fingers began to trace over his face, almost as if she had already had it memorized. He couldn't help but smile as she brushed against his cheeks, mentioning his dimples that appeared with his smile, and his brow furrowed slightly when she mentioned the scar and the lines at the corner of his eyes.

How can she know this?

The lump in his throat grew, and he took a slight step forward, closing the distance between them. He wanted her. He wanted her now. Just like this. He didn't care if she couldn't see, she seemed to already know him.

He listened as she spoke of his voice, how it changed depending on what he was talking about, or who he was talking to. Slowly he opened his eyes, looking at her as she looked up at him, confident, as if there wasn't a doubt that she knew what he looked like. Then his brow furrowed again.

The beach? No. It wasn't possible. She was blind...

Her voice trailed off and quieted, and Grant was startled back to his senses, glancing down at her. He honestly wasn't entirely sure of what she had said, but without a word, he pulled his arms around her and hugged her against his chest, holding her frame tightly against his. Leaning his head down slightly, his lips brushed against the top of her head, and he took in a deep breath. "You seem to know me already..." he whispered, his mind racing to solve the riddle of who she was. "And I want to know you..." Grant smiled, leaning his head up and gently tilting her chin up so that she looked at him.

So close, Grant. Just a little kiss....

[.Karma.]

Ainslie wasn't expecting the tight embrace, but she melted into his arms almost as if she belonged there. Her arms wrapping around him and holding him close to her. If he only knew what she would give to have been able to see his face right then.

As a gentle hand lifted her chin and she almost swore she was praying out loud to regain her site, but it did not return. She could tell that the attraction was mutual, but she didn't want to push it. Didn't know what exactly he wanted, she couldn't see the desire in his eyes, and surely looking into her clouded ones was a turn off for sure.

Her breath was quick and her eyes searched around as if they were begging to even just get a glimpse of his features. She was hungry to see and know everything about him. Ainslie had seen him before, but it was such a short time, she feared she would lose the image. Not only that but he had been bleeding then, and the stress was high.

There was no good in wishing for something that wouldn't happen, she could feel his breath getting closer to hers. Closing her eyes she stood up on her tiptoes.

Suddenly a loud noise erupted through the house and she nearly jumped out of her skin, letting out a scream and covering her ears. "What is going on? Grant?"

[Notty]

Grant smiled, ignoring the voices in his head telling him to slow down, and he tilted his head towards Ainslie's, his lips nearly touching hers before she let out a cry. His eyes widened and immediately he put his hands up to his ears. "The alarm!" He called out, letting go of her and darting down the hall and towards the front door where the control panel to the house alarm was.

He frowned, shaking his head when he saw that the alarm hadn't been set off, and there seemed to be no reason why the alarm was blaring. But after pushing buttons for a couple seconds, it went off. Grant sighed, running a hand through his hair and closing his eyes. "Okay, okay..." he mumbled to himself, trying to catch his breath. "I won't kiss her..."

Heading back down the hall towards the bedroom, he stepped in, wide-eyed with concern for Ainslie. "Are you okay?" he asked, stepping close and cupping her jaw slightly. He knew that her other senses must be more sensitive now that she couldn't see, and so the alarm most likely seemed much louder to her than it was to him. He frowned a bit and shook his head, smiling. "I'm sorry, I...I don't know why it did that." He smiled again and stroked her cheek gently before dropping his hand. "Well, uhm, hopefully the company won't call, or the police won't show up," he chuckled, shaking his head and pushing his fingers through his hair. "I guess uhm, maybe we could look at some clothes for you?"

[.Karma.]

He said something about the alarm and suddenly he was gone, and she was alone in the dark. Her heart beat hard in her chest and her breath started coming in short gasps. Sitting on the couch, she covered her ears and brought her knees to her chest, her eyes squinched tight.

"No, no, not a panic attack now..." They had come so close! When the sound stopped she tried to steady her breath but once a panic attack had started, it was hard to stop it. Jumping again when she heard his voice she nodded to him, but it was only halfway true. She was okay physically, but inside, she was not. Ainslie did not want him to have to deal with her panic attack, he had already done so much.

When his hand touched her cheek, her own went to hold it there as she closed her eyes, counting to ten in her head and back down again. "It's okay..." She cleared her throat, her breath still a bit choppy, and she had not let go of his hand on her cheek. "Yea... clothes."

So close, yet so far away now. Surely this childish fear would definitely set them back even further. What could have caused the alarm to go off like that? For a moment she thought of the witch, considering they had been so close to kissing, but then thought herself just paranoid. Surely not? Although this witch was more conniving then she originally though, she wouldn't go as far as to sabotage her, right?

[Notty]

Grant's brow furrowed as he pulled Ainslie against him, and he glanced down at her, feeling her heart pounding against his chest, her breath catching in her throat. His fingers brushed against her jaw as she held close to him, and he smiled a little. He smiled as she held her hand to his, keeping it against her cheek. She seemed startled, scared, and he stayed close to her.

"Everything okay?" he asked, his eyes scanning her face, trying to read her. "Did it scare you?" He pulled his arms around her again, rubbing her back slowly and reassuringly. "I'm here, it's okay," he murmured, kissing the top of her head and then resting his head against hers, closing her eyes. "I won't let you go until you are ready."

Grant smiled, rubbing her back and pulling her close. He liked this, he wanted this, and something told him that Ainslie wanted him too. "Here, I'm staying here. We don't have to go anywhere, okay?" he murmured, looking at her face, trying desperately to let her know that everything was okay. What had happened that had upset her so much?

[.Karma.]

As his arms wrapped around already the shaking started to settle itself. Laying her head on his chest, she listened to his heart and tried to match her breathing to it and slowly calmed herself. "Yea." She finally said her words coming out a bit easier this time. "I'm just a little scared of the dark is all. It's okay."

Ainslie didn't want him to worry or feel bad, she stayed in his arms for a bit longer, just resting in his arms, wishing that it had been under different circumstances. That they were cuddled up under the stars or something, but alas he was again having to help her with something. He had to be the caretaker and help her with her panic attack. It was frustrating.

"I'm alright now, I believe." She looked up at him and gave him a small smile. "So, shall we pick out some clothes then?" She said we, but she knew basically he would have to pick out clothes for her, she would like to say it didn't make her feel like a dependent child, but it did.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, rubbing her back briefly once more before letting her go. "Alright," he murmured, his lips still near her face, wanting to kiss her forehead, but holding himself back. "I'll try not to leave you again, okay?" he smiled, and rubbed her side.

"Here..." he said, his arm still wrapped around her as he slowly led her from the bedroom into the office. "This is my office..." Grant explained, leading her in and sitting her down in a plush chair. "It's nothing fancy, but I work from home a lot, so..." he shrugged and grabbed his laptop, scooting a chair up beside her.

"Uhm, okay, so...I guess...just tell me where you like to get your clothes from?" He said, a little unsure of how to proceed with buying clothes for her. Would she be comfortable telling him her size? Grant knew that women could be very sensitive about their weight and what size clothes they wore, though why, he could never fully understand. He opened the laptop and pulled up a browser tab. "Uhm....yeah, just tell me what you like, and I'll see what I can find."

[.Karma.]

Grant let her into a new room and she ran her hands gently along things on the way, before being sat on a plush seat. "So this is your throne?" She tried to lighten the mood from her previous panic attack. He shouldn't have to stay with her at all times, that was unfair.

She had never really shopped online before, and american stores could be different than those in Australia. They still had a target though! "Let's just shop at Target?" She wasn't really sure, again she wouldn't be able to see it so it didn't really matter did it.

Ainslie had never really been self conscious about her body, but maybe that was because she had never had really any weight issues. "I wear a size medium in most things, and a size eight in pants. Shoes are size seven and a half." She wasn't sure what else she needed to help. She could probably use some more pairs of underwear, but that was something harder to just come out and say.

"I um, I may need a few more pairs of undergarments. Unless you'd rather I go without." She smirked as she teased and listened for the typing and clicking that she was sure to follow.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, pulling up the website for Target and going to the women's section. He pulled up shirts first. "Uhm, okay..." he murmured, starting to scroll through them. "Tell me sort of what you like. What kind of things do you like to wear?" He grabbed a sticky note and wrote down her pants and shoe size, then his eyes widened a bit when she mentioned going without panties. A soft chuckle escaped his lips, but he didn't say anything. At least not out loud.

After nearly an hour, the shopping cart held 3 pairs of pants, 1 pair of shorts, 6 shirts, 3 pairs of shoes and several pairs of panties that Grant had picked out himself. It wouldn't hurt, right? He glanced over at Ainslie, knowing that she was feeling uncomfortable about it, mostly because of the cost, but he had tried to explain to her that it didn't matter, that he didn't have to worry about money, but he didn't want to make her feel any worse. Putting in his card information and then picking the 1 day delivery, he closed down his laptop.

"Well, there's that. Hopefully we should have it here by tomorrow afternoon." his eyes scanned her face and he reached forward, cupping her cheek in his hand. "Well then, what would you like to do?" he asked with a smile. "Its not quite lunch time, and we've got the world at our fingertips."

[.Karma.]

The clothes shopping was finished and she tried to avoid feeling guilty as he mentioned it would be there the next day. Nodding she smiled and allowed him to lead her out.

--------

The afternoon had been beautiful, they had a picnic lunch out on the porch listening to the rain. Ainslie found Grant easy to talk to and always kind, although someties too concerned. His laugh sent butterflies into her stomach and whenever he reached out and touched her, she felt like fireworks exploded. He was everything she thought he would be and more.

After lunch, they had went inside and she laid on his lap while he softly read to her. Every now and then he would realize that he was stroking her hair and would quickly pull away which would cause her to smile because it wouldn't be long before he was doing it again. It actually ended up putting her to sleep for a short nap. He stayed by her side even while she was napping. They played a bit of a board game, although that had been a bit harder since she needed help with nearly everything. When she accidentally knocked everything over, they decided to give that a rest, he still did not get upset, always understanding.

Finally, it had been time to make dinner. They decided together which veggies they had both wanted and had them all lined up. Smiling, she set to work on chopping them. Slowly but surely, she chopped a green pepper. She about halfway done when he pulled a pan out to cook the shrimp and it made her jump, causing her to graze her finger. "Ouch, damn." She set down the vegetable and felt around for the sink, not wanting to make a big deal out of it. Honestly, she wasn't sure how bad it was, but it truly didn't hurt too bad.

[Notty]

Grant had enjoyed their afternoon together, loved reading to Ainslie, playing with her hair, teasing her about falling asleep on him, even had fun playing the board game- though she got a bit frustrated with it. He agreed to let her make dinner, but she shooed him out of the kitchen once he had helped her get all the ingredients she would need out. How she was planning on cooking...well that was a mystery to him.

He did, however, remain at the kitchen table, having got his laptop, and was working on some things for work when he heard her cry out softly. Leaning his head up and frowning a bit, he watched her turn and move to the sink, rinsing her finger off. Without a word, Grant stood and moved across the room, standing behind her. Gently he reached down, pulled her hand from beneath the stream of water from the faucet, and frowned slightly. "You cut yourself..." he murmured softly, his voice near her ear.

"Let me help you," he continued, gently turning Ainslie back towards the stove where she had been working. He didn't move from behind her, or take his hands from her. Instead, he gently guided her hands, making sure that she would be safe as she worked. Grant stayed quiet, except for every now and then he would whisper an encouragement to her, as if it were a big secret, and he wanted no one else to hear. It was very intimate, very gentle and somehow very private, as if someone else were to enter the room, the magic would be gone.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie did not even jump when he came up behind her, leaning back against him a little bit as he moved her back to the cutting board. It was odd how intimate the moment truly was, but it honestly was. They moved as one to cut the different vegetables. It was magical, and the whole time she had butterflies in her stomach.

She could feel his breath against her shoulder and it caused chills to go down her spine, and she purposefully even moved slower to the moment didn't have to end. Feeling his chest against her back, and his hands gently on hers, every now and then he would pull it away when he felt it was too close to her fingers. It was a private moment, and oddly sensual.

Breath was hard to come by, but this time it wasn't a panic attack, it was pure attraction. Never had she connected so well with someone that they felt like one person. Eventually though, there were no more vegetables left to cut. She still didn't move away though, rather she leaned back, laying her head back on his shoulder and shut her eyes.

Opening her hands, she made it so his fingers intertwined with hers, still on top of her hands and pulled them to wrap around her. She felt safe here, she felt home. Even in her darkness, she could see clearly that they were connecting. In this moment right now, she felt as if they were one.

[Notty]

Grant worked quietly with Ainslie, and smiled when she leaned back against his chest once all the vegetables were cut. As she laced her fingers with his, he closed, his eyes, happily pulling his arms around her and holding her close to him. He didn't want to move, he wanted to stay like this, exactly as they were. Leaning his head down slightly, his nose nudged her neck, his lips a breath away.

Closing his eyes, Grant took in a deep breath. He wanted her. And certainly, from the flush on her skin and how she pulled close to him, Ainslie wanted him too. Tilting his head slightly, Grant drew in a long breath and opened his eyes. "....think we should cook?" he murmured, his voice low and husky. Cooking was the last thing on Grant's mind, but he wasn't going to push it.

[.Karma.]

The breath on her skin made the hairs stand on her neck and a slight shudder run over her body. She would be okay with staying like this until she could no longer stand. That musky scent that he had only seem intensified and the lowering of his voice as he spoke had her weak at the knees. If he didn't stop she was going to jump his bones.

Finally his voice broke the trance that she was in, should they cook? Her mind was no longer on their cooking, but even though his voice showed his need, it seemed as if he wanted to stop. Maybe it was hard for him to justify desiring the blind chick, or one that was so dependent? She wasn't sure but taking a deep breath, she squeezed his hands and nodded.

"Yea..." She cleared her throat. "...cooking. Did you uh..." Her cheeks were red with embarrassment maybe it was pity that had him holding her when she grabbed his hands. Maybe she was mistaking his desire? You don't realize how much you rely on non-verbal cues until you don't have them to read anymore.

Stepping forward she felt around for the large bowl that already had the lettuce, adding the veggies in as best as she could. "Where is the shrimp?" Her own voice was still a bit husky as she spoke, but she didn't want to push him too soon or make him feel that she needed some type of pity desire because she was alone and blind.

[Notty]

Grant smiled a bit, and was glad that he was behind her and she couldn't see, for it was a rather sad smile. He didn't want to let go of her any more than she wanted him to. But he had, and now they had to move on. Grant remained close behind Ainslie, helping her every now and then, his hand brushing hers, but it wasn't as close, it wasn't the same as it was before.

When she was getting ready to cook the shrimp, Grant reached over and took hold of her hands again, pulling them back towards her and cradling her against him. "I don't want you to burn yourself," he murmured against her cheek, then slowly moved their hands back towards the pan. Gripping the pan with one hand, and the spatula with the other, the two of them sauteed the shrimp until they were perfect.

Smiling and happy with what they had done, Grant stepped back slightly. "Don't touch the pan okay, I'll move it. If you want to get the other bowl..." he murmured, gently pressing the bowl in her hands and urging her towards the table. If he had treated her like a child, he didn't mean to. Truly, Grant had the best intentions and he hoped that he was making her happy. After carrying the pan over, he quickly grabbed some plates and put them down, then had a seat beside Ainslie, his eyes scanning her face briefly. "This smells incredible, Ainslie," he commented, reaching out and rubbing her hand slightly.

[.Karma.]

Arms wrapped around her again when she went to cook the shrimp, and it felt like home. The magic though, from before, it was definitely less. The moment had been broken, and even though it was still beautiful, it was not quite the same.

Smiling she nodded, taking the bowl that was handed to her and making her way to the table before setting it down gently. Ainslie understood his concern, and honestly she didn't want to burn herself either. It wasn't that he was treating her like a child, she just couldn't help but feeling like one. In everything he did, she could feel that it was just concern for her safety, and she truly did appreciate it.

Sitting next to him she gave a smile at the compliment. Really they had done it together, he more than she, but he was definitely trying and it did make her feel a bit better that she was actually up and helping this time. She would not have given up that moment for anything, even if it had meant he was doing most of the work. The magic that had surrounded them was intoxicating.

Taking bites of their salad she smiled toward him. "This is lovely. We work well together." A few times she had to pick up pieces that dropped onto her again, but that was bothering her less now. With all the things he had to help her with, this was the least of her worries.

[Notty]

Dinner passed quietly- it was a combination of a peaceful and comfortable silence, and an awkward silence. Grant tried not to dwell on it. Insisting that Ainslie could not wash dishes if she had made dinner, Grant made quick work of it, wiping off the counters and putting away the dishes while Ainslie waited.

"Well then," he murmured, smiling and moving back to her side, putting a hand around her waist. "How about we wa-" his brow furrowed. Can't watch a movie. Playing a board game was near impossible. He could read to her again, but he wasn't sure she'd like that. Rubbing her side gently, Grant shifted near her. "Well, it's still raining a little, if you want, we could maybe go out on the porch, have a glass of wine..." he looked to her, trying to gauge her response. Seeing the smile, he gently squeezed her hip and told her to wait for him.

Returning with a bottle of wine and two glasses, he held out his arm for her to take and helped her outside. Helping her get settled on the bench, he sat down next to her, placing the glasses and the bottle on the table. Uncorking the bottle and pouring them each a glass, he snuggled up a little closer to Ainslie, the rain causing the evening to be slightly chilly, before he gave her the glass.

They spent the next few hours talking as they listened to the rain gently beat down on the roof of the porch. Grant kept an arm around Ainslie, rubbing her arm every now and then when she shivered. As the sun sank low and night began to set in, Grant let out a long, contented sigh, smiling against Ainslie's hair. "Hmmm, it's getting late, think we should head inside for bed?" he murmured, rubbing her arm gently. "I'll get the glasses and the bottle. Think you can make it in?"

[.Karma.]

The evening went by with mostly no incidents, they had pleasant chatter. Although it had been kind of awkward when he needed to figure out what to do next with the blind girl. Wine did sound nice though, and she loved the sound of rain. Thunderstorms on the other hand...

Ainslie didn't give him fuss this time when it came to where they would sleep, she knew it would do no good, she had felt proud that she had made it all the way in here from outside. In the darkness lying in the bed, she listened for his breathing. "Goodnight, Grant..." She whispered before turning on her side and slowly drifting off.

-------------------------------------

bzzzz bzzzz
bzzzz bzzzz

What was that god awful noise? It seemed so loud to her.

bzzzz bzzzz
bzzzz bzzzz

It took her a second to realize it was the sound a phone makes when it vibrates. Although she didn't think it was in this room. She couldn't very well make her way through his house searching out his phone and make it back. Surely she would just end up waking him up.

Instead, she decided she would just wake him to let him know. For all she knew, he was awake already.

Moving off the bed, she felt her way along to the couch, leaning over it. She moved so close that she could feel his breath, and he said he was a light sleeper. She smiled, putting her hand on his temple lightly. "Hey, sir... Wake up... Look at me..." The hand on his temple felt for movement in his eyes to see if he was going to wake. What she did hear was a sleepy groan.

She didn't know what time it was but that blasted phone was still buzzing. "You're going to be okay... Come on.. wake up..." She teased about the groans he was making. Ainslie was still close to his face, feeling his breath run over her as she waited for him to wake up so she could tell him his phone was ringing.

[Notty]

Grant groaned softly, first feeling Ainslie's hand against his temple, then hearing her voice. Immediately his eyes flew open and he cried out softly, his heart pounding in his chest. No, this couldn't be right. What? What was going on?...

I remember.

Forcing a smile, Grant leaned up, his heart pounding against his skin as he ran a hand through his hair. Reaching out, he gently took Ainslie by the shoulders and looked up at her. It could be her. But no, there was no way! Was there? He furrowed his brow and scanned her face, watching her, studying her.

Finally, he was able to speak. "Wh-what did you say?" he asked, slightly out of breath, and his voice shaking. He swallowed hard and took in another breath, gently sitting Ainslie down beside him. "Tell...tell me exactly what you just said..." His hands were shaking slightly against her shoulders, and he pushed a hand up and into her hair, cupping the back of her head.

Was it her? Had he found her? Had this woman who saved his life tumbled, almost literally, onto his doorstep? Was life that kind? His better judgement was telling him no, but a part, even though it was small, told him that perhaps, just perhaps, it was.

"Please, Ainslie..." Grant said again, his voice sounding almost desperate. "Please, please tell me what you said."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt his hands on her shoulders, and gave him a smile, but there was tension in his touch. It wasn't like it usually was, and he wasn't speaking.

When he did speak, his voice was shaky and he sounded out of breath. Had he had a nightmare? When he led her to sit, she turned his way with a concerned look. "Tell...tell me exactly what you just said... His hands were shaking, had she angered him? As soon as she thought that though, his hand cupped her hair, causing her to lean into his touch.

He asked her again and she nodded trying to think of exactly what she had said. Why was it so troubling to him?

"Yea, I um..." She cleared her throat. "I said 'Hey, sir...Wake up...'" She thought for a moment. "I told you to look at me that you were going to be okay, because you groaned." She gave a slight chuckle, but it was obviously strained. What was wrong with him? "I then told you that your phone was ringing, which it still is..."

Reaching out her hand, she ran it along his chest gently and then up to his face, feeling the lines of stress on it. "Are you okay? Did I say something?"

[Notty]

Grant took in a deep breath and leaned forward, his forehead resting against Ainslie's as he tried to collect himself. Those were exactly the same words the girl who saved him had said to him. There was no way that this girl was the same. There wasn't a chance....it couldn't be.

Sighing, he leaned up and smiled, brushing some hair from her face. "Sorry, uhm, just....a dream." He murmured, his fingers stroking her jaw slightly and then cupping her jaw. "A beautiful....dream."

Swallowing hard, Grant pushed himself from the couch and stood, stretching. "Let me get the phone, and then we can work on some breakfast, hmm?" he smiled, rubbing her side gently. As he turned, his face fell. He liked Ainslie, he really did, but the girl on the beach, the one who had saved him....he just wanted a chance to say thank you. His footsteps seemed heavy, and the events of the accident were now fresh in his mind. It had looked like Ainslie, but... no. It couldn't be. Still, he wondered...

[.Karma.]

Ainslie held him tenderly, her hands still on his face as he leaned his forehead on hers. He seemed upset, his words claimed it was just a dream, but something was troubling him. She could feel it in the lines on his face. Closing her eyes she leaned against the hands on her face, taking a deep breath.

It didn't seem as if he wanted to talk about it, and she didn't want to push him. When he stood, so did she. She had felt the swallow and she could sense his sadness. She couldn't fathom what he would be dreaming about to be so upset when he saw her.

Standing there for a moment she took a deep breath before feeling her way along the room and making her way out the door. Listening to him on the phone, she didn't want to seem like she was intruding... Maybe that's why he was upset, she was intruding in his household. Trying to swallow back the feelings, she made her way to what she remembered to be the kitchen. Opening the fridge and feeling around.

Maybe she could find some fruit in here, but really she was just trying to distract herself from listening to the conversation, and hide herself from her own guilty feelings.

[Notty]

Grant stepped into his office and picked up the phone, "hello?" His eyes widened a bit when he heard the voice on the other end, and he sat down on the edge of his desk, running a hand through his hair. "Have you had any luck?" he asked, eager, and finding it strange that he should get this phone call today. "Really? No luck at all?" Sighing he nodded, "thank you again, for all your help." Grant hesitated, then took in a deep breath. "Just....try, for one more week. If you can't find her within a week, I guess...I guess we will call it off. Thanks again, bye."

Sighing, Grant pushed his hand through his hair and took in a deep breath. "I just want to find her..." he murmured to himself, "if only to say thank you..."

Shaking off the sadness and despair that was settling in his heart, Grant stood and made his way into the kitchen. He couldn't help but smile when he saw Ainslie there, searching the fridge. No doubt she was trying to make breakfast for them, and he shook his head, standing in the doorway and just watched her for a moment. She was wonderful. She was helpful and kind.

"Hey," he murmured, moving up behind her and gently rubbing her sides. "Sorry about that," he said, pulling her a little closer and hugging slightly. "Are you hungry for some breakfast? What would you like? I can get the coffee started if you want..."

[.Karma.]

She had heard his footsteps across the floor and then stopping for a moment. Pretending not to noticed she continued to feel around, maybe they had eaten all the fruit yesterday.

Sucking in her breath a bit, she put her hands on top of his on her sides, leaning back against him. Why did he make her feel so safe, so cared for. This was more than just a friendship, but she wasn't quite sure what it was. It was so confusing.

"I was looking for fruit, but I didn't see any." She gave a small smirk at her choice of words, still leaning against him a bit. "Coffee? You sure now how to please a woman." Again she joked with him letting out a soft laugh. Ainslie shut the door to the fridge and turned around giving him a proper hug, her hand going to his face gently as was her habit now. Tracing it softly.

"Are you sure you're okay?"

[Notty]

Grant smiled, and this time he turned his face and pressed his lips quickly against the palm of her hand and then smiled rather sheepishly. He wasn't entirely sure why he had done that, it just felt right. He smiled and gently pushed his fingers through her hair, pulling her head to his chest and holding her close. I want you. I want you, Ainslie. I want you.

Letting out a long breath, knowing that this moment would have to come to an end, he pulled his arms around her and hugged her tightly, rubbing her back before nodding. "Mm, I'll start some coffee. How about you peel some oranges?" He offered, not wanting to let her go just yet. A smile crept over his face and he reached down, gently tilting her face up towards him. "Hey, I've got an idea. How about after breakfast, we head over to a studio....there's a pottery studio not far from here, and I know that you said you really like art, so maybe this could...sorta be a way that you get to do art..." Grant shrugged a little, smiling nervously. "If you want to, that is.."

[.Karma.]

Melting into his embrace, she closed her eyes and listened to his heartbeat. He had kissed her hand, a smile crept across lips and she just stood content in his arms.

The moment did have to end though. She always appreciated how he would tilt her face up to him when he spoke to her. It made her feel like even though she was blind, he was looking at her when he spoke. That he wasn't scared to look at her, that he didn't find her as some kind of monster.

Pottery? She had never tried pottery but her face lit up regardless. A big smile spread across it as she spoke almost a bit giddy. "Really?! I would love to try pottery!" It would feel good to do something normal again, and it helped in her degraded feeling, that maybe he wasn't too embarrassed of her to take her out of the house. Even if it was just a short distance away.

"Oh and yes... I can peel oranges." She laughed, almost having forgot that he mentioned that.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and smiled, "good! Now let's just hope it's as much fun as I've heard it is," he murmured, slowly letting go of Ainslie and placing a few oranges in her hands. Once she was settled at the table, Grant turned and filled the coffeemaker, grabbing 2 mugs while he waited for it to brew. His eyes rested on Ainslie as she worked, trying to figure out what he was feeling inside. Did he care for her? Did he just enjoy her company? Was there something else there?

Closing his eyes and taking in a deep breath of coffee, he turned, letting the thoughts die down for now. He'd worry about it later. Besides, perhaps the authorities in Australia would find something- perhaps they would find who the girl is, and then he would be able to talk to her, to thank her.

Pouring them both a cup of coffee and then carrying them over to the table, Grant sat down beside Ainslie and smiled. "Those oranges look good," he commented, reaching out and grabbing a slice and taking a bite. "They are good," he picked up another piece and offered it to Ainslie, smiling. "Do you want cream or anything in your coffee?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie set to work peeling the oranges, staying quiet and trying to figure out what he must be feeling and how she was feeling. Ainslie had adored this man from the moment she saw him on the beach, but he didn't know that. He didn't know who she was, so what was he feeling. His life had been uprooted, so surely he was feeling a bit apprehensive.

He was sending her mixed signals though, he was tender and kind, even holding her close at time, but was it just something of convenience. Was he just trying to make her feel better? Or maybe make the best of it since he was here. Something had troubled him this morning, yet he didn't want to tell her about it. She had heard part of his conversation in his office, and he seemed a bit down then too. She just couldn't make sense of all of it, and most of it she was physically unable to talk to him about.

"No, I like it black." She gave him a smile as he took one of her now peeled orange slices. Taking one herself she nodded they were quite good.

---------------------


Standing in front of Grant she struck a pose. "How do I look?" The clothes had come today, and it was nice to be in things that were her size. She had just chosen a random shirt and a pear of jeans. He had gotten her underwear as well. She wished that she could see what he had chosen for her, what he thought would look good on her. Really she had just grabbed at things and put them on and was now standing before him, hoping she at least look alright for her first time away from this house since the hospital.

"Could you braid my hair again please?" She stretched out her hand with the ponytail holder in it for him to grab.

[Notty]

Breakfast had gone smoothly, and Grant was surprised when he heard the package of clothes be delivered for Ainslie. He smiled as he opened the package and tried to explain what they all looked like to her. It would be difficult, but he would help her dress, he didn't mind.

It was strange, with Ainslie being blind, as she stood there in the bedroom adjusting and feeling her clothes, Grant stripped down to his boxers and rummaged through his closet, trying to find something to wear. Settling on jeans and a plain grey t-shirt, he tugged on the jeans before stepping over to Ainslie for her request for a braid.

"You know..." he began, his fingers gently combing through her hair as he stood behind her, "I can do other things too, not just braids." He grinned a bit and stepped closer, gently steadying her with one hand. "Braids are just what I'm best at, cause Katie wanted them all the time." Quickly and skillfully Grant put Ainslie's hair into another braid, then rubbed her arm. "Let me finished getting dressed and then we will head over there, okay?"

Twenty minutes later, Grant had helped Ainslie into the car and was headed towards the studio. He glanced over at her, giving her a small smile before reaching out and taking her hand. "Do you uhm," he began, unsure of how to say what he wanted to say. "Do you like me to touch you?" he asked, turning down a street and then looking back to her. "I just, I don't want to make you uncomfortable, and I guess I sorta thought that since you couldn't see..." He pulled his hand away slightly and chuckled uncomfortably. "Sorry, if I've made you feel awkward."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie was almost giddy with excitement as they headed for pottery. Although, she had to admit, it was a bit terrifying. Would people act weird around her? Would she make them uncomfortable? What if Grant found it embarrassing to be with her out in public?

It was also weird riding in a car without being able to see, it means she put full trust in Grant. Ainslie may have been holding onto the handle just a little too hard when they arrive, letting out a relieved breath. First, she had been excited but now she was a bit nervous, as she held onto him as he helped her out of the car. She wondered if people were looking at them funny, or if he was even worried about how they looked.

When she felt his hand touch hers, it was immediate relief. Squeezing it tightly in her own. When he asked her questions she stopped and look back up at him. "Yes, I'm... uh.. I'm actually a little nervous. You make me feel... safe." She didn't know how to say it without sounding weird, especially if he didn't like her the way she did him. It was dark and there was so much unfamiliar here considering it was a new country as well as the fact that she couldn't see.

Leaning her head on his shoulder, she took a deep breath. She was ready to get lost in some art, yes this was new, but she was hoping that it would give her a similar relaxing feeling that her painting did for her. Being able to let go of all your cares and create something. This would be like when she would close her eyes and paint, just this time she had no option but to be in the dark.

[Notty]

Grant couldn't help but smile when he felt Ainslie lean her head against his shoulder and he nodded, taking her hand again and gently squeezing it. "Alright," he murmured, happy that she enjoyed his touch just as much as he enjoyed hers. The rest of the trip was fairly short and quiet, but Grant didn't mind. He knew that Ainslie must be scared. She was alone and blind- what wasn't terrifying about that?

Parking the car, Grant let go of her hand and kissed the top of her head. "Alright, we're here," he smiled, unbuckling himself and then stepping out of the car. He walked around to her side of the car and opened the door, then helped her out. "An old friend of mine works at this studio, he said he could get us a couple tables..." he smiled and took her hand, leading her into the shop.

It was quiet and serene, and an older man smiled when he saw Grant. "Well hello there, stranger!" the man called, coming around from behind a counter and gave Grant a hug. He chuckled and shook his head, "never did I think you'd step foot in here again," he teased, then looked to Ainslie. "Ahhh, I see why," he said, reaching out and patting Ainslie on the shoulder. "He's a natural, but last time he was here, he sort of blew up my kiln..." Grant chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck. "Hey, I want her to trust me, not be scared for her life," he chuckled. "John, this is Ainslie, Ainslie, this is an old friend of mine, John."

After introductions and some more teasing, John led them back to the workshop area. "Alright, you're set up with some tables and clay. Aprons are hanging over there," he continued, motioning to Grant. "If there's anything you need, let me know."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie took it slow inside, every crack in the sidewalk feeling like potential danger. God she was sure she looked silly. Apparently there wasn't going to be anyone else here, that made her feel a bit less embarrassed of herself, but it also had her thinking of maybe Grant didn't want to be seen with her. Shaking her head, she smiled at this new male voice she heard.

It sounded teasing and happy. She bet he had laugh lines on his face. She wasn't expecting the slight pat to the shoulder, but even though she initially jumped, she gave a small chuckle afterwards.

The small chuckle turned into a laugh when he mentioned Grant nearly blowing things up. "At least I wont know it's coming, right?" She laughed, but then realized maybe it wasn't something she should joke about. "I'm sorry, I'm not trying to make people uncomfortable..."

As he pointed out things to Grant she just listened, she couldn't tell where he was pointing to so she figured Grant would get them all set up. Again she was having to rely on him and she wondered if it got frustrating to him.

[Notty]

"Well, what would you like to do?" Grant asked as he stepped behind Ainslie, an apron in his hands. "Here, I'm going to put an apron on you," he said before slipping it over her head and then tying it behind her. "He's got wheels, if you want to make a bowl, or you can just sculpt it, or...I don't know, really you can do whatever you want," he smiled and pulled his apron on, tying it around his waist.

He grabbed two large pieces of clay and set one on the table in front of Ainslie, a smile on his face. "Well, what do you think? I'm thinking..." he began, working the clay with his hands. "I'm thinking I'll make a uhm..." he furrowed his brow a little, trying to shape the clay, and then laughed. "I don't know what I'll make. What about you?"

[.Karma.]

Allowing him to slip on the apron, listening as the clay was set in front of her.

Smiling a sheepish smile, she poked at the clay. "I have no idea what I'm doing, but I'm making a giant bust of your head." She laughed as she gathered up the clay and worked on making head and shoulders, poking her fingers in for eyes and a nose.

"See it looks just like you?" She laughed turning it towards him, I think I really caught the emotions in your eyes." She nodded, giving a serious face before busting out into laughter again.

"Really though, Grant, how are you supposed to work with this stuff?"

[Notty]

Grant glanced over to her curiously and couldn't help but grin as she piled the clay awkwardly and pushed it together to form something like a bust. He laughed, shaking his head and leaned over, pressing his lips to her shoulder briefly. "It's perfect," he smiled, chuckling. Then for a moment, he went silent, thinking. His eyes moved over to one of the pottery wheels, and he smiled.

"Here..." he murmured, reaching over and taking her hand, and scooping up the clay with his other hand. "Come with me..." Slowly he led Ainslie over to the pottery wheel and set her down gently. "Stay right here for a moment, okay?" Grant said, placing the clay on the wheel and then moving to get another stool. He slid the stool behind Ainslie's and sat down, scooting forward, so that his chest was pressed against her back.

His face rested near hers, and the shadowy facial hair that she had spoken of brushed against her cheek as he smiled. There were no others in the studio, yet Grant felt that he needed to whisper. With a low voice, he began. "This, is my favorite," he whispered, his hands moving over Ainslie's as his foot began to push the pedal, starting the wheel. "To hold the clay, feel it moving beneath your hands." He smiled, the cool, wet clay moving slowly under their hands, starting to take shape. "What should we make?" he asked, his hands guiding hers. It was quiet, it was sensual, and Grant never wanted it to end.

[.Karma.]

Fireworks, that's what it felt like when she felt his lips on her shoulder and she couldn't help but get chills down her spine. Leaning back against him she closed her eyes for a moment before he took her hand.

Following him, she sat down on the stool curiously before she felt his warmth behind her, taking a deep breath in to smell his musky scent. The feeling of his rough face against hers caused a smile to come over her face as well and she rubbed her cheek against his softly. The feeling of his and was gentle, and she couldn't stop the butterflies in her stomach.

Grant's voice had taken on that low tone, and like the night before it felt like they were experiencing a secret between just the two of them. The feel of the clay molding in her hands and his hands on hers was like nothing she had felt before, and it gave her a satisfying feeling to be creating something again.

What should they make? She wasn't even quite sure. It didn't really matter as long as they could stay close like this.

"Maybe a vase, and we can get some nice flowers to put in it?" She spoke softly too, not wanting to ruin this intimate moment. Her body leaned back against him as they slowly molded the clay, they could probably go faster, but that would mean less time being next to him.

[Notty]

Grant smiled as Ainslie suggested a vase, and he nodded, his lips pressing to her shoulder again before he scooted a little closer, speeding up the wheel slightly. He kept his hands on top of hers, moving them, helping to shape the clay as it spun beneath their hands. He lost track of all else that was going on around them.

All Grant could think of, was Ainslie. How perfectly she nestled back against him, how she smelled like his soap, how small her hands seemed beneath his. He could even feel her breath, his own heart beating against her back as they worked. He wanted her.

Taking in a deep breath, Grant pressed his lips to her shoulder, then to the base of her neck. How was he to tell her how he felt? He had only known her a few days, though it had certainly felt like much longer. Swallowing hard, Grant took in a deep breath and tried to steady himself. Ainslie may not even want this.

"Ainslie..." Grant whispered against her skin, taking in another deep breath.

[.Karma.]

When she felt lips on her shoulder and then the base of her neck, she tilted her head a bit, eyes closed as she sucked in her breath. This moment was perfection, she could think of no where else she'd rather be than in his arms. No other touch she'd rather feel then his lips on her skin and his heart beating against her back. No other smells that she would prefer to his safe musky scent. The sound of his breathing so close to her ear was hypnotic.

She was so lost in the moment, that it nearly made her jump when he said her name. Maybe they were done? She had no idea when it came to the progress of their vase, but if it was finished, she almost felt like smashing it so they could do it again and not have to disturb this magic between them.

"Mmm, yes?" She turned her head a bit, tilting it against his face as she waited for him to finish.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and shifted a little closer, his lips brushing against Ainslie's jaw as he spoke again, his voice still quiet and hushed. "Are...are you happy?" he murmured, closing his eyes, not even paying attention to the clay that moved beneath their hands. "Do you want to be here? Is there anything I can do to make you happier?"

There was nothing else going on, no one else in the world, no other places that he would rather be. Grant shifted again, pressing his chest against her back, a little closer this time, and smiled.

"Tell me what you are thinking, Ainslie, tell me what you want..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie sucked in her breath as his lips moved even closer to hers, touching her jaw this time. She wanted nothing more than to turn her head and have their lips finally meet, but she didn't want to push something unwanted. It was obvious he was questioning things, maybe even questioning his desire for her.

"I..." Her voice caught in her throat as she felt his smile against her skin, her own smile matching his. "I have never been happier."

When he moved closer, his back against her, she turned her head and nuzzled his cheek with her nose before kissing it softly and another kiss further up his jaw until she got to his ear, whispering.

"Isn't it obvious?" She ran her tongue along the outside of his ear before biting gently, a smile crossing her lips, the vase totally forgotten now.

[Notty]

"Hey, Grant, I was ju-" John's voice came from behind them, and he grinned widely, seeing the two nestled up against each other, obviously enjoying each other's company. Grant jumped slightly, his hands pulling away from the wheel and the clay toppling over, broken, like the moment.

"Sorry about that," John mumbled, clearing his through and running a hand over his head. "I uhm, I was just gonna ask if you were planning on firing what you're making, or if you just wanted to...." he looked at Grant and then at Ainslie, smiling even more. "You know, I'm just gonna, uh, I'm just gonna turn it on. You know how to work it, Grant..." and with that, he turned and left the room, smiling and shaking his head to himself.

Grant looked at Ainslie and chuckled softly, his hands still around her, but allowing his forearms to rest on her thighs. "Well," he murmured, clearing his throat again. "Do you want to try it again, we almost had a vase. Or are you finished?" he asked, his eyes scanning her face. He wanted more. He wanted her, and he was pretty certain that she wanted him as well.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie jumped at the sound of another voice, a blush creeping across her cheeks. She had forgotten there had been someone else here! Burying her face slightly into Grant's shoulder, she hid, not saying anything until John left.

Their poor vase now was destroyed, but she honestly did want it as something they had made together. A reminder of their memory. "Let's do it again." She smiled and kissed his cheek before turning in her stool again. His arms were still around her and their hands were making the same motions, but the moment-like the night before- was gone.

Every single time they get close, something seemed to interrupt them. If there was a God, he must be angry with her. She shook her head, a smile creeping across her lips. The moment had still happened though and it had been beautiful, and his arms around her still made her feel safe and cared for their hands still moving as one.

Finally, he said they had finished, she found herself wishing she knew what it looked like. What they had made together. The finished piece was always nice to see after you work on a piece, but she would just have to trust that it was done and that he had guided her hands correctly. Even if it wasn't perfect, they had done it together and that's what mattered.

[Notty]

With a renewed smile, and his heart full from the pleasure of Ainslie's kisses, Grant had turned over the vase to John, who told him they could pick it up in a couple days. Grant helped Ainslie to the sink and washed her hands, only flicking her with water a couple times, before they finished cleaning up and headed back to the car. He was happy, really happy, and he wanted to make Ainslie just as happy as she had made him.

Back in the car, Grant started home, only to stop about 10 minutes from his house. He pulled over on the side of a somewhat deserted street, and looked over at Ainslie, grinning. "We're getting out here," he smiled, unbuckling his seatbelt and climbing out of the car. Moving around to her side, he opened the door and helped her out. Undoubtedly, even without the sense of her sight, Ainslie would have an idea where they were.

The field before them was completely full and covered with wildflowers, of every sort and variety that you could think of. Their fragrances were intoxicating, and their multi-colored heads swayed and danced in the breeze. "I've always wanted to come here," Grant smiled, taking Ainslie's hand and leading her down the path. "But I've never had a reason. Here, you pick any and all that you like..."

[.Karma.]

When the car pulled over, a smile spread across her face. She wasn't positive what they were doing, but spontaneity was something she absolutely adored. It had to be something outside as he had simply pulled over.

When she stepped out she could smell them all, imagining all the flowers in her head. How she would love to paint this. Picking wildflowers, doing pottery, cooking... how had this man not been taken already! Letting go of his hand she spun around slowly in the flowers, taking in all the smells and the sounds of the birds chirping and bees buzzing. It was gorgeous.

Smiling to Grant, she let out a girlish giggle. "It's beautiful!"

Kneeling down she began to run her hands over the flowers, feeling for the different kinds and picking them one by one. Holding them in her other hand. "You pick some too!" She said joyfully as she plucked another flower. Wondering again how this man had stayed single.

[Notty]

Grant grinned when he saw the huge smile come across Ainslie's face, and he squeezed her hand before letting it go, allowing her some freedom as she picked the flowers. He watched her, too distracted to pick flowers as she had urged him to. After several moments, however, he leaned down and began to absentmindedly pick some, moving back over to her side. Taking a delicate purple flower, he gently turned her chin to him and tucked it behind her ear, smiling as he stroked her jaw. "There, perfect."

With the flowers paid for, Grant helped Ainslie back into the car, a massive bouquet of flowers in her lap, and headed back to the house. Thunder rumbled slightly as they climbed out of the car, and they just made it inside before it began to pour. Chuckling, Grant took the bouquet of flowers from Ainslie and headed towards the kitchen to get them put into a vase. "Looks like we made it just in time," he murmured, smiling. "How about we order out for dinner?" he suggested, placing the vase on the table and moving back to her side. "Chinese? Pizza? Italian? What sounds good to you?"

[.Karma.]

As he placed a flower behind her ear, she smiled and kissed the air toward him, pushing her shoulders up to strike a cute pose.

The ride back home, was full of the scent of flowers and the feeling of being full of complete happiness. She could see their life being this way forever. Just being with him, caused a giddy feeling to stir inside of her all the time. Endless amount of butterflies in her stomach, like this happiness could last forever.

The thunder booming caused her to jump a little as it resonated across the skies, she hadn't realized it was stormy out and it had caught her completely off guard, but when she felt herself led into the house she knew she was safe with him. She had always loved rain, but storms she found a bit frightening when she could see, now that she couldn't and didn't know when any of it was coming it was even more so.

When he mentioned food her stomach grumbled in agreement, causing her to let out a giggle, a blush crossing her cheeks yet again. "Let's go with Pizza!" Pizza was the easiest for her to eat, and it would require less assistance from him and she figured he had to be growing tired of it. So, she chose the easiest option. Plus, who doesnt love pizza? "I want some sausage... maybe some pepperoni?"

[Notty]

"Pizza it is!" Grant smiled, picking up his phone and dialing the number. With an order in for a large pepperoni pizza, he placed his phone on the counter and took Ainslie's hand, gently leading her over to the couch and settling down with her. He pulled her close, wanting her near him as they waited for the pizza.

His fingers traced up and down her arm as they sat there, the thunder rumbling ever louder and nearer. Grant frowned a bit as the lights flickered several times, and he shook his head. "Let's hope the power doesn't go out," he murmured, kissing the top of her head as he kept her near. "Tell me more about you, about your life in Australia. Why did you come here?" he asked curiously, a smile on his face as he waited for the answer.

---------------------------------------
"Little skank," the witch growled, watching in a pool of water as Grant held Ainslie near him and pressed kisses to her hair. She sighed and took in a deep breath. "I'm not an idiot, I can see where this is going. I've already had to break it up twice, no- three times!" She growled and splashed the water in the pool, causing the reflection to ripple and finally dissipate.

"Looks like I'm going to have to take things into my own hands, if I'm going to keep her for myself, and him as well." She paced back and forth, a cruel smile growing on her lips. "I have the perfect plan..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie hollered while he was still on the phone. "Don't forget the sausage!" Hearing him quickly add it in at her holler. She snuggled into his arms on the couch, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.

I came here to meet you! She wanted to say, but nothing would come out. As a matter of fact, she couldn't tell him at all why she came here. The words wouldn't come out and it was almost painful to try, as if her throat was constricting. God damn it, this was not what I wished for.

"I don't know how I got here. Last I remember I was still in Australia and then suddenly I was in laying on the ground terrified." She sighed, it was as much of the truth as she was apparently able to say. It was frustrating, and she felt as if she was lying to him, and that was the last thing she wanted to do. She had already come to care about him so deeply. "I do know that I wished to come here."

Wow, she could actually say that one, but that was because he would surely think she meant coming to the states. "All I know is now that I'm here, I don't want to leave."

[Notty]

Grant smiled and rubbed her shoulder, then furrowed his brow a little as she couldn't explain how she got here. In fact, it was quite unnerving to think that she couldn't remember how she had gotten here. Was she the victim of a terrible practical joke? Human trafficking? Perhaps he had unknowingly saved her from a horrible fate. In fact, that made sense now. She was hurt. Scared. Alone. No identification. No memory. Suddenly Grant felt as though he should contact the authorities in Australia. Someone might be looking for her.

He nodded and pulled her a little closer, suddenly feeling more protective of her than before. "You can stay here as long as you need to, you're safe here, Ainslie. I won't let anything happen to you." He kissed her temple and held her close, closing his eyes and trying to figure out what he needed to do.

The doorbell rang and he sighed slightly, letting go of Ainslie and standing. He grabbed some cash from his wallet and went to the door, paying for the pizza before returning with it and a smile. "Here we go," he said, placing the pizza on the table in front of them. "You want something to drink? Soda? Water?"

[.Karma.]

God she wished she could see his face, to judge his reactions. It had to be hard for him not knowing why she was here and where she came from. He probably thought something awful happened to her. Well, it kind of had, she had gone blind and was left on the sidewalk, what if he hadn't happened upon her?

Squeezing him closer, she jumped a bit as thunder cracked again. "I.. I know, I would hate if the lights went out." She teased with a laugh, jumping again at the sound of the doorbell. The storm had her a bit on edge to say the least, but when the smell of pizza filled the room, she focused on that instead.

"I'm starving!" She smiled. "A soda would be nice, thank you." She smiled feeling around for the pizza box to open it. "God, this heightened sense of smell comes in handy sometimes."

[Notty]

Grant went to the kitchen and grabbed two rootbeers and then came back, settling down beside Ainslie with a smile. "Yeah, I bet it smells amazing," he grinned, opening her can and his before grabbing a slice of pizza and taking a bite. He leaned back on the couch and stretched out a little, sighing contentedly. "This is perfect, I can't remember the last time I had some pizza," he smiled, looking over to Ainslie.

With the pizza half gone, and both of them sprawled back on the couch, Grant let out a contented sigh, his eyelids feeling heavy. "Mmm..I must be more tired than I thought I was," he murmured, rubbing Ainslie's arm as she laid against him. "I think I keep drifting off," he smiled and kissed the top of her head. "Thunderstorms always seem to put me to sleep."

Shifting and standing, Grant stretched and ran his hand through his hair. "You ready for bed?" he asked, smiling down at Ainslie as she lay on the couch. Without even waiting for her response, he leaned down and scooped her up into his arms, chuckling. "Allow me, my lady." He grinned, starting down the hall towards the bedroom. Once inside he gently placed her on the bed, his hand moving to cup her chin. "There..." he murmured, his voice lowering slightly. "You're safe."

[.Karma.]

A little scream came out of her mouth when he lifted her. Grabbing onto him and letting out a laugh, she snuggled close. Just as he set her down onto the bed and told her she was safe a huge clap of thunder shook the house. With a jump, she gripped onto him, squeezing his hand.

Slowly she reached up further on his arm and pulled him toward the bed with her. She didn't want to be alone in the dark with the storm raging. They didn't make her tired, they frightened her, and even more so since she couldn't see. Ainslie also couldn't deny that she wanted him next to her. She craved his touch and how safe she felt in his arms.

When she pulled him low enough, she reached a hand up and stroked his face. Putting her hand around to the back of his neck, she pulled his forehead to hers so she could fell his breath run over her.

"Stay... please?" She whispered softly, not loosening her grip on him, nearly pleading with him not to leave her.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, then his brow furrowed slightly when she didn't release him. His eyes scanned her face, and he nodded slowly, swallowing hard. "Yeah, I'll stay..." he whispered, closing his eyes, his nose nudging hers gently. He was so close, his lips so close to hers, just a little further....

BOOM! A massive jolt of lightning struck near the house and immediately the lights flickered and then dimmed. Grant jumped, bumping his head against Ainslie's before he let out a groan. "Sorry," he mumbled, rubbing his forehead and leaning back. "Yeah, yeah I'll stay. Just give me a little bit okay? The power just went out, and I wanna make sure the house is locked up."

He kissed the top of her hand and then turned, heading out of the bedroom slowly and cautiously. Double checking the front and back doors, Grant tugged off his jeans as soon as he got into the doorway of the bedroom. He climbed up into the bed, shifting carefully so that he wouldn't bump into Ainslie.

"I'm here," he murmured, reaching out for her and gently drawing her close. "I'm here, you're safe. There's nothing to worry about. I've got you."

[.Karma.]

When the lightning struck, Ainslie jumped as well. Immediately her hand went to her head and she laughed albeit nervously. "No worries."

As he left, she pulled off her jeans and shirt, leaving herself in her underclothes and crawled under the blanket. She gripped onto the blanket tight as he went to lock the doors, letting out a sigh of relief when he returned. Her heart almost immediately calmed down when she felt his arms around her.

She cuddled in close, her back against his chest. With every beat of his heart and slow breathing, she drifted off in the comfort and safety of his arms. It didn't take long before she was fast asleep, still holding him close.

[Notty]

Grant smiled when Ainslie pulled close to him, and he let his fingers dance up and down her arms slowly, trying to calm and soothe her. Every now and then, lightning would flash and he would be able to make out her form in the darkness, but otherwise it was completely dark.

He could feel Ainslie's breathing slow, and finally her body relax against his as sleep took her. However, sleep was not as kind to Grant as it was to Ainslie. He shifted, though not too much- he didn't want to disturb her, and no matter what he did, his mind raced a thousand miles an hour.

Does she have a family looking for her back in Australia? A husband? Maybe children? Was she kidnapped? Stolen? Surely someone is looking for her. Would I get in trouble for helping her? I certainly couldn't explain the strange circumstance in which I found her...

He frowned and sighed, continuing to close his eyes, but sleep never found him. His mind was filled with situations and circumstances that surrounded Ainslie. He had only wanted to help. He only ever wanted to help. It wasn't fair. He was doing the right thing, wasn't he?

Each time he opened his eyes, it seemed as though no time had passed, and finally, as the sky outside started to lighten, sleep eventually took him.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie slept peacefully through the night, her eyes fluttering open just as the sun was coming up, but she had no idea truly what time it was. Grant still seemed to be sleeping, but she was at a loss. What does a blind girl do with herself when she doesn't want to wake someone?

It wasn't like she could go watch TV or make herself breakfast, it was kind of a hopeless feeling. She wondered if she could make her way to the porch, maybe just sit out there in the fresh air. Then again, she wasn't quite sure she could make it on her own, and if something happened when she was out there then what? What if he woke up and panicked?

Sighing, she slowly unraveled herself from his arms, and made her way over to where she had thrown her clothes the night before and made her way out of the room, trying to close the door quietly behind her. If she was going to just sit awake, then she might as well let him get some sleep.

After she had pulled on her clothes, she made her way into the kitchen, grabbing a glass that she had left in the sink and filling it with water for a drink, moving to sit at the table. Now what? She twiddled her thumbs as she sat there in the silence. She hadn't realize how much she had come to rely on him. He did so much for her and kept her company all this time. This would be how it was if he was not here.

She was sure it was taxing on him though, so she made a mental note to try and do more things for herself if she could.

[Notty]

Grant shifted and rolled over in the bed, groaning slightly as his eyes fluttered open. "Ainslie..." he mumbled groggily, then his eyes flew open. "Ainslie?" Immediately his heart began to pound, remembering how she had just been beside him when he had fallen asleep. Where had she gone? He pushed himself up and out of bed, and stubbed his toe on the corner of the dresser.

"Mmpfh!" he growled, reaching down and holding his foot for a moment before continuing on, already feeling like he was in a fog of anger. "Ainslie?" he called out, opening the door and stepping into the hallway. "Ainslie?" His voice was becoming more and more panicked, as the thoughts that he had the previous night began to run rampant. Perhaps she had been taken in the night. Perhaps she had left.

As he rounded the corner to the kitchen and saw her, he let out a sigh of relief. "Where were you? I was worried sick!" he called out, moving around the table to stand in front of her. "You scared me, something might have happened to you..." He gently grabbed her shoulders and held her for a moment. "Don't scare me like that, okay?" he murmured, letting go of her to run his hand through his hair.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie had been lost in her own thoughts until it seemed that Grant was already in the room with her. The way he spoke with her was almost like a child, chastising her for getting up and coming to get a drink without first telling him.

What could she do though? Demand to be treated as an adult even though she needed help with just about everything, after she had him sleep with her because of a storm. Clearing her throat she nodded and tried to give a small smile, taking another drink of her water.

"You had been sleeping, I wasn't sure what time it was..." She sighed, it was so frustrating, but she truly hadn't tried to worry him. His frustration surely had to do with his concern and that fact that she was his responsibility now. Responsibility, that's what she felt like a lot of the time, just a responsibility that he had taken on and now he must fulfill it.

"I didn't want to wake you, so I thought I would come in here for a drink so I didn't wake you up." Her voice was low as if she had been caught doing something wrong. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to worry you..."

[Notty]

Grant sighed and moved over to the coffee pot, putting some coffee grounds in and then pouring in a pot of water. He didn't say anything, trying his best not to get angry. It was strange- strange in that he usually didn't get angry. It wasn't really like him. But he hadn't slept well the previous night, and then he stubbed his toe this morning. That would make anyone a little irritable.

His phone beeped several times and he moved over to the counter where he had left it and looked at it. A groan escaped his lips as he read the group message.

Got the cabin for the weekend fishing trip. Mark you're in charge of bait, Jake you need to bring your boat, Grant bring the coolers and knives and I'll bring the drinks. We will meet up Thursday afternoon to go grocery shopping and then all drive up to the lake.

Grant sighed and leaned against the counter, glancing over at Ainslie. There was no way that he could go. Not for a 4 day fishing trip. He reached up and pushed his hand through his hair before texting back. Sorry guys, I can't make it this weekend.

Immediately, he got a call. Stepping out of the kitchen without a word, Grant picked up the phone. "Hey?" He murmured, knowing that he was about to get it. "Hey man," Jake said, "what's this about you not going? We've been doing this for 10 years! You've always come before. What gives?" Grant sighed and shook his head, running his hand through his hair again. "I just...I can't." Jake sighed, "a girl?" he said, chuckling a little. "It isn't what you think," Grant began, "I just can't leave okay? I can't come. I would if I could, but I can't, okay?" Jake shook his head, "okay man, you don't have to go into details. But...I mean, we're your friends." Closing his eyes, Grant sighed. "yeah, I know, I'm sorry, I wish I could, but....I just don't see that happening, or really, much of anything...." his voice trailed off and he sighed, hanging up the phone. He was trapped.

[.Karma.]

He didn't say anything else to her directly. Why wasn't he speaking to her? She truly had been sorry for worrying him. Her mind was flying, maybe he was tired of her, tired of worrying and doing things for her. Or maybe he was just tired? She couldn't fault him for that, surely he would just need a cup of coffee to wake him up a bit.

When she heard him answer the phone, she tried not to eavesdrop, but it was so hard. It sounded like he wanted to do something, but was declining. She couldn't really tell what it was.

I just don't see that happening, or really, much of anything...

or really, much of anything...

That part struck her, she was disrupting his life. He was unable to do anything simply because he had helped her. Ainslie had been trying really hard to take this all bravely, but it was becoming difficult.

When the conversation finished, she tried to put on a small smile. "What was that about?" She said lightheartedly, trying to keep the strain from her voice. "If you have something to do today, really it's fine. I can stay put and try not to touch anything." She gave a small chuckle trying to make a joke. She was be fine here by herself for a little while. It might be a bit scary, not to mention boring, but she didn't want him to feel stuck.

[Notty]

Grant glanced at Ainslie as he stepped back in, then furrowed his brow when she mentioned that he could go out and do what he wanted. "It's fine," he mumbled, moving over to the coffee pot and pouring himself a glass, and then one for Ainslie as well. "Just didn't work out." He stepped quietly across the kitchen and sat down at the table, this time, at the opposite end of Ainslie.

The morning went by quietly, Grant spending most of his time in his office, unsure of what Ainslie was up to. He just needed a break, no. No. He needed a nap. He hadn't slept more than an hour or so, and already it had been a rough day. Standing from his desk, Grant moved to the large, plush chair and settled down in it, closing his eyes, just for a moment...

THUNK. THUNK. THUNK. Grant's eyes fluttered open and he groaned. Then he heard it again. THUNK. THUNK. THUNK. Groaning, he reached up and ran a hand through his hair, looking to the clock. It had been nearly an hour, and he felt even worse now than he had before. Standing, he moved towards the front door, grumbling about why people didn't use the doorbell even though it was there.

When he opened the door, he was immediately grabbed by two sets of hands. "We got him, Mark!" Jake called out, laughing as they tried to pull Grant from the house. "Quick! Get him into the Jeep! Before he can say no!" The other two guys laughed as they pulled Grant out of the front door and onto the porch. "Knock it off!" Grant growled, thrashing slightly. "I said quit it!" He shouted, getting angrier. "I'm not coming! I can't! She can't do anything for herself!"

Suddenly the other two let go of him, looking a bit confused. "Huh? What are you talking about?" They asked, glancing at Grant and then in the house. Grant sighed and pushed a hand through his hair. "There's this girl, she's....she's blind. And I have to take care of her, because she can't do anything..." The other guys shifted a little, "man, that's...that's too bad, I'm sorry...we didn't know." Grant shook his head, "whatever, it's fine, just...leave me alone."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie had been laying on the couch, really not doing anything, but not wanting to disturb him. He seemed on edge today, and from her experience with people, he just needed space. Every now and then she'd hear noise from the office, but nothing particularly interesting.

Then there was a knock on the door, making her jump slightly after the general silence the house was in today. "Grant.." But it seemed that he was already on his way to answering it. Sitting up, she heard male voices and then laugher. They were trying to carry him off! It must have been whoever he was on the phone with. Laughter escaped her lips as shouts of "grab him!" came through the door.

The laugh was quickly cut short though when she heard. "She can't do anything for herself!" Ainslie had been really trying today, trying to not bother him and do the small things for herself. She had sat here in the dark in silence to give him his space. Maybe she had overstayed her welcome. It was hard to think that just the day before they had been picking wildflowers and making vases because today they felt so far apart.

Swallowing hard, she heard their claims of "I'm sorry..." and she heard it again. She's blind... I have to take care of her. She can't do anything. Leave me alone.

Ainslie didn't want him to come back and see how upset the words had made her, or know that she had been eavesdropping, so quickly she stood up from the couch. She thought she may have heard something drop, but she wasn't sure. She kept feeling along the wall until she got to the bedroom, shutting the door quickly behind her and letting the silent tears slide down her face as she laid herself on the bed.

She had been so stupid to think that he might have more feelings for her than just an invalid that could do nothing for herself. She was a burden on him and his life. The worst part was, there was really nothing she could do about it.

[Notty]

The others apologized again for bothering him, and told him that if he wanted to come later, that was fine too. They even offered for him to bring Ainslie along, but Grant refused. He wanted to be with his friends. This was the one time a year he got a chance to just take time away and be with them. But he wouldn't get that opportunity. Not this year.

Sighing, he gave them a small wave and a weak smile before turning back into the house. Shutting the door, he closed his eyes and ran a hand through his hair, trying to sort through everything that had happened. Perhaps he should just call the Australian police. He glanced around the house, then frowned a bit when he didn't see Ainslie.

"Ainslie?" he called out, glancing around the house. "Ainslie?" he stepped into the kitchen, but she wasn't there. And she hadn't been in the living room. His throat tightened a little as his heart began racing faster, and he moved through the house. "Ainslie?" He called out, a little more panicked now. "Ainslie, please, where are you?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard him calling out for her, quickly wiping away tears that were dripping down her face. Clearing her throat, she took a deep breath and called out to him.

"Yea, I'm just in the bedroom, I'm just resting for a bit!"

She didn't want him to see her upset, to feel guilty for being honest with his friends. He was right, she couldn't do things for herself, and she was a burden on his life. He just wanted to go spend time with his friends, and she was keeping him from even doing that.

Wiping her face again, she turned her back to the door and closed her eyes just in case he decided to come in and check or talk, that he wouldn't see her crying.

[Notty]

Grant heard Ainslie's voice and stopped, then glanced back towards the bedroom. He moved over and stood outside the door, his hand on the knob before slowly turning it and stepping in. "Hey..." He whispered, stepping in and glancing around until he saw her sitting on the floor.

He moved behind her, seeing that she had her back to the door. He reached out and placed a hand on her shoulder, rubbing slightly. "Hey, everything okay?" He murmured, his eyes scanning her face for any sign of how she was feeling. "What happened? Why are you crying?"

[.Karma.]

How could she tell him that she felt lost and unwanted, like a burden to him and unable to do anything to fix it. She had no where to go, no way to get there. She didn't even know where she was, nor did she have any form of identification or money to do anything.

"I wasn't crying, I'm just super tired, I thought I would have a little rest."

It was a blatant lie, but still she didn't want him to feel bad or guilty, he had taken her into his home and taken care of her. She was an invalid who couldn't function without him. He had been basically an angel and she knew if she told him that he would feel awful.

She couldn't tell him that she had completely fallen for him, and had just come to realize that she might be just a burden of a responsibility that now he couldn't get rid of.

"Really, don't worry."

[Notty]

Grant nodded slowly, his hand stroking her shoulder and then down her back slowly. "Okay..." He murmured, turning and starting out of the room. Heading to his office, Grant settled down at his desk and opened his laptop, starting to scan through his emails. He sighed, running a hand through his hair and starting to read through them.

His mind was full of work, he felt overworked, and he was exhausted. He sighed, leaning back a bit and then finally stood. He needed a drink. He needed coffee. Moving slowly to the kitchen, Grant poured himself another cup of coffee, and then grabbed a glass of water and headed back to his office. Maybe he would be able to get something done. Maybe he would be able to find something about about Ainslie. Pulling up the internet, Grant began a search for missing people in Australia, unsure of what he would find.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie actually did fall asleep for awhile, troubled dreams of being stuck in the dark forever and water witches. Waking up she rubbed her eyes a bit before standing, her heart still heavy, but at least she was no longer crying. God she was thirsty though.

Slowly she moved to the door and opened it. Listening, she heard Grant in his office, and again opted not to bother him. Making her way into the kitchen, she felt her way around the table. She didn't feel any glasses on the counter, so moving over she opened up the cabinet and felt for a glass up there.

Yes! She found one. Moving back to the sink she filled it up with water, turning and moving towards the table again.

When she got to the table, she held the glass in one hand and pulled out the chair with the other, but the chair was stuck on something! Pulling harder the chair slipped out of her hand before falling over, causing her to trip forward. Using her hands to catch her fall, the cup crashed onto the table underneath her hand, spilling glass and water everywhere.

Clasping her hand, and putting it behind her back she braced herself for Grant, as it wasn't likely that sound was missed.

[Notty]

Grant furrowed his brow slightly when he heard all the noise in the kitchen, and pushed himself up from his chair, heading in to see what had happened. His eyes widened when he saw Ainslie- looking rather white-faced and embarrassed. Trying to hold in the sigh, Grant stepped forward, seeing the broken glass on the table, he pursed his lips and started to clean it up. Then he realized that it had been full, and she had dumped water all over some documents that he had been working on.

"Oh, for..." he grumbled, grabbing a towel and trying to wipe them off as quickly as he could so that the ink didn't bleed or ruin the documents. "Ainslie, you've really got to be more careful!" he snapped, annoyed and angry with her. He looked over at her and sighed, "just...just be careful, okay? I can't watch you every minute of the day."

He hadn't noticed that her hand was bleeding, or how upset she looked. Grant was tired, grouchy, and most of all- feeling like he was trapped. Ainslie wouldn't be his. He was certain someone else was looking for her, and if not that- there certainly seemed to be someone trying to keep them apart.

"Just...be careful. Try not to break stuff..." he grumbled, sweeping the glass from the table and putting it into the trash.

[.Karma.]

I can't watch you every minute of the day.

The words hit her hard. She had really tried to stay out of his way today knowing that he had been upset. Swallowing hard, she heard him picking up something off the table and trying to clean up glass. She wanted to help, but she was so helpless.

Tears began to fill her eyes, so quickly without saying a word she felt her way with just her left hand along to the bathroom, shutting it quietly behind her before she let out the tears silently. She had cut her hand, but she had no idea how bad it was. Feeling her way to the sink she turned on the water and stuck her hand in it, but it wasn't long before the tears took over.

She was scared, and blind, and basically an invalid and this man was tired of being around her. She truly cared about him, but she knew it must be hard to care for someone you had to babysit like a child. It obviously wasn't working for him. After washing her hand for just a bit she pulled her shirt off, but was unable to take off her bra.

Of course she was wearing the same damn pants she was wearing the first day she came and she couldn't get them off either. With frustration she just felt her way to the shower, turning it on almost all the way to hot and go into the shower, shutting the door behind her. Putting her back against the wall she slipped down it until she was sitting, pulling her knees up and cradling her injured hand just sobbed. Letting out the frustrations from the moment she appeared here. Unable to see or care for herself, unable to tell this man where she was from or who she was, making her seem more like a responsibility than a person, being stuck in the dark and unable to even get her own fuckin' pant off. She was scared and heartbroken and she let it all out in the steaming shower.

[Notty]

Grant glanced up at Ainslie and saw the tears starting to fill her eyes, he reached out to grab her arm, but she turned away and retreated, obviously upset. He sighed, pushing his hand through his hair as he stood there. Nice one Grant, now you've upset her. She's blind. She's alone. And you pushed her away.

Once the glass was in the trash, he wiped up the table, setting the papers out to dry, and started through the house. "Ainslie?" he called out softly, glancing around and looking for her. "Ainslie?" he stopped near the bathroom, hearing the water running. His hand went to the doorknob, expecting it to be locked, but he was surprised to find that it wasn't. Pushing the door open, he stepped inside to see Ainslie curled up on the floor, holding herself as the water ran over her.

He couldn't help but smile when he saw that she was partially dressed, figuring that she probably couldn't fully undress herself, much like the first day. "Ainslie..." he murmured softly, looking at her through the shower. Without another word, Grant pulled off his shirt and tossed it aside, then did the same with his pants and boxers, then opened the door and stepped in. "Hey.." he whispered, reaching down and gently lifting Ainslie off the floor. "I'm here," He whispered, pulling his arms around her and hugging her close. "And I'm not leaving..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie allowed herself to be pulled up, the sobs still shaking her body. Burying her face in his neck, she wrapped her left arm around him and melted into his embrace, the right hand staying by her side.

"I know... I know you're here, you can't do anything with me here, and I..." She still sobbed on his shoulder as the hot water ran over the both of them. "...I can't do anything for myself, I'm trapping you here... I'm so sorry..."

She was sorry that she had even made the wish, disrupting his life and ruining everything that he may have had planned. She had been selfish and foolish to think that even once she got here and she was blind that they had a chance.

"I've been really trying today and I've just made it worse..."

[Notty]

Grant immediately felt sick at her words. She had heard him- heard what he said to her friends, and now she felt like he didn't want her. He pulled her closer, kissing her neck and whispering against her skin, "no, no...I'm....Ainslie I'm so sorry..." He reached down for her right hand, then frowned, seeing that it was cut.

Now he felt guilty. She had hurt herself, and he hadn't noticed. She had come in here, alone, scared and hurt, and he hadn't noticed. A knot grew in his throat as he looked at her, gently holding her right hand in his. "I'm so sorry," he whispered, kissing her shoulder. "Please, please forgive me..."

His hands moved to her back, carefully unclasping her bra that was now soaked, and he let it drop on the floor in the shower. Grant's chest pressed against her bare skin and he held her tighter to him, kissing her bare shoulders and up her neck. "I.." he began, taking in a sharp breath. "I'm sorry," he whispered again, his hands moving to the button on her pants, his voice low and husky.

[.Karma.]

"Shhh..." She whispered to him. She hadn't wanted him to feel bad for what he said, it's why she hadn't mentioned it. He was such a beautiful person, never would she want him to feel bad for wanting to not be suck around home all the time with a blind girl.

When her bra dropped to the floor of the shower, she sucked in her breath as she felt his skin on hers. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she pulled him even closer, her fingers running through his hair. Every breath set chills down her spine, as she held him close. Every kiss on her flesh starting to make her fears drift away along with the tears.

Ainslies hands slid over the side of his face and to his neck and down his chest as his own hands went to her pants. Soft lips slowly made their way to the curve of his shoulder and she gave soft kisses, grazing her teeth over his skin just a little. "It's okay..." She reassured, kicking her pants to the side, but she wasn't just reassuring him about her hurt feelings, but for his touches as well.

The hurt she felt was quickly turning into pure desire for him with ever gentle kiss he gave, to his hands on her skin.

[Notty]

Grant's eyes darted to Ainslie's face as she kicked her pants to the side, and his hands pushed down her sides, feeling the skin of her stomach and hips. Her skin was smooth and gentle beneath his fingers, and he wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of the day memorizing exactly how it felt.

The water from the showerhead now beat on his back, dripping down his shoulders and over Ainslie's body as well. His eyes scanned her, taking in every part of her as he held her close in the small shower. He wanted her. He needed her. She was perfect, and he had been so stupid for ignoring her.

"Ainslie..." he whispered, pushing his fingers through her hair, much like he had before when he was braiding it, but it was different now. "Ainslie...." his voice was a little more insistent now as he tried to get out the words that he so desperately wanted to say. Grant's fingertips dragged up her sides slowly, his lips still pressed at the base of her neck near her throat. "You're beautiful..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie's own hands slid over his chest, nails dragging along it lightly, trying to memorize every curve. She wished more than ever right now that she could see him right now. See the lines on his body, the water dropping off of it. To see the desire in his eyes beautiful eyes that she would never forget.

She gasped as his hands went through her hand, his voice insistent. She wanted nothing more than to explore his body and get to know him in a way that her sight didn't matter. To make their bodies one with each other.

The words caused a satisfied sigh to come from her lips, her ever breath running over his shoulder, and her hands running over as much of his body as she could. She just wanted more, to feel more of his skin against her. Pushing closer she gave his shoulder a gentle bite, dragging her teeth along the flesh.

Lifting his face a bit she whispered softly."So are you..." Her hand moving to trace the lines of it, as she did so often.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, turning his face slightly and kissing the palm of her hand as she traced his face with her fingers. His lips pressed against her forehead, then her temple, and finally her jaw before he pulled her close to him again, needing to feel her nearness against him. He let out a long, jagged breath, his chest hitching against hers. How was it that he had been so stupid? Why had he pushed her away?

It didn't matter now. She was here, and she was his. His fingers tangled in her hair and pulled her a little closer, his lips dragging up her throat, nipping gently. "Ainslie.." he whispered, kissing her throat again. "Ainslie..."

Without a word, Grant reached down and picked up Ainslie, urging her to wrap her legs around his waist. "You're beautiful..." he whispered, reaching behind him to turn off the shower, and then in front of him to open the shower door. He stepped out and waited a moment, letting his feet dry slightly before continuing to carry her towards the bedroom. While he walked, his lips drug up and down her shoulders and her neck, pressing gentle yet urgent kisses to her. "You're beautiful..." he whispered against her skin, gently biting her shoulder and then kissing where he did.

[.Karma.]

How could she have thought that he didn't want her? Grant had been so kind and helpful and she let one day completely shatter her confidence. She hadn't let him have one off day without sobbing in the shower.

There was a kiss to her palm, then her temple. It almost made her need for him greater, not knowing where each kiss was going to land. Nuzzling his chest when he pulled her close, feeling that safe feeling and the lust for him stirring inside, causing her to push harder against him, pushing his back against the shower as her kisses turning to small sensual bites along his chest.

Feeling herself lifted, she wrapped her legs around him. Her kisses now on his shoulder and neck and up to his ear, biting at the lobe as she was carried out toward the bedroom. Both of their touches and kisses were urgent, their need for each other evident. Softly she whispered, afraid to lose the moment, but it was becoming distracting to her.

"Your phone... it's been buzzing for ages..." She whispered to him before kissing his neck right below his ear and then running her tongue long his shoulder.

[Notty]

Grant had laid Ainslie on the bed and crawled over her, his lips pressing to her neck when she spoke. Your phone...its been buzzing for ages... His brow furrowed and he leaned up a little, listening. She was right. He could hear his phone vibrating in his office. He closed his eyes and sighed, pressing his lips to the base of her throat. "I'm sorry... he murmured, kissing her throat again. "Let me go turn it off..."

Pressing a kiss to her shoulder, then her chest, and finally to her stomach, Grant pulled himself away and headed to his office, picking up his phone. "Hello?" He murmured, running a hand through his hair, hoping that it would be a brief conversation. Hey there, it's Jim... the voice began, and Grant tensed up slightly. I've got some good news for you, mate. Seems we've found her. The girl you've been looking for! Immediately Grant felt himself tense up, his heart pounding in his chest. "You...you have?" he said, barely able to believe what he was hearing. Yeah, and you'll never believe this, she actually just left Australia 2 days ago, and she landed there- in your city just this evening.

Grant's heart felt as though it stopped. She's here. In my city. Then that means.... He swallowed hard, thinking back to Ainslie. She was waiting for him. She wanted him. But...she wasn't the girl.

Grant? You there, mate? Jim called out from the other side of the phone. "Oh, uhm, yeah, yeah, I'm here..." Grant mumbled. "Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it." he said, not entirely sure of what to do or say at this point. Sure thing, glad to help. Let me know how things go! G'day!

Grant hung up the phone and then turned it off completely. What was he to do now?

[.Karma.]

Ainslie let out a soft gasp as he laid kisses all across her body, every kiss leaving a burning sensation, her desire making breathing difficult to come by.

When he got up to leave, her hand stroked along his face and his arm and hand, as if losing the touch was the most difficult thing she had to do. Honestly, it did leave her feeling wanting, as if she was empty and the only thing that would be able to fill her was his touch on her skin. That his lips on her flesh were the only things that could calm the flames that were burning at her skin.

She waited his return, trying not to listen to his conversation, but really there was nothing she could make out of it anyways. She wanted him, needed him even, but his voice sounded tense on the phone. Maybe something was wrong?

[Notty]

Running a hand through his hair, Grant turned and headed back towards the bedroom. He couldn't hide from Ainslie, but what was he to tell her? That there was another woman? That he had been looking for her this entire time? He slowed and stopped outside his bedroom. He wanted Ainslie, what they had...the shower, her kisses and her touch- it was perfect. But how could he deny what he felt, the desire to find the other girl?

Grant stepped into the room and smiled, Ainslie still was there, eager and wanting him. He moved to the edge of the bed and slowly drew his fingers up the curve of her hip, gently gripping them and rubbing. "Hey..." he whispered, smiling sadly. How was he to tell her that he couldn't continue? Not when the other girl was in the same city...

Climbing up onto the bed, he laid down beside Ainslie, pulling her body close to his, and then gently urging her head to lay against his chest. Grant closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath, his fingers slowly dragging up and down her back and side. He was quiet now, his mind racing with fears and thoughts of the girl who saved his life. Now how did he tell Ainslie?

[.Karma.]

Ainslie could hear him breathing at the door, then his hands were on her again, causing her whole body to arch. The touches were different this time though.

Her hands ran over his chest and then she nuzzled him gently as her head was pulled to him, relaxing in his embrace. The fingers trailing her back only made her arch more, causing her to lay soft kisses along her chest. At his deep breath, she lifted her hand and rubbed his cheek softly.

"Is everything okay, Grant?" Concern was etched on her face as she turn it up to nuzzle him again. She didn't want to push him, regardless of how much her body needed him right now, it was obvious that his mood had changed.

Why though? What had the call been about? She wanted to ask, to plead with him to talk to her, but was it really her business? He obviously had not wanted to tell her, as with most of his phone calls. Sighing she rested her head and closed her eyes.

"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to." She whispered softly, still hoping that he would.

[Notty]

Grant smiled sadly and pressed his lips to the top of her head, pulling her a little closer. "It's okay," he murmured, not telling Ainslie what the phone call had been about- how would he even be able to tell her that? Would she even be able to understand? Would she even still want to be here?

He rubbed her side and pulled her a little closer, closing his eyes. "Just....let's sleep, hmm?" he whispered, gently tangling his legs with hers. Grant did like Ainslie, and he cared for her, but there was something about the girl that had been on the beach- the one that had saved his life. He needed to find her, to at least say thank you.

Grant knew he wouldn't be able to sleep that night, not with the knowledge that the woman who saved his life was so close. How he had wished that it had been Ainslie, but there was no way. A blind woman wouldn't have been able to save his life. Sighing quietly to himself and gently pulling Ainslie closer, Grant closed his eyes, praying that sleep would come.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie nodded, trying not to feel disappointed. Closing her eyes and matching her breathing to his. It took quite some time before she was able to sleep. She had taken a nap earlier that day, well actually it had only been a few hours ago. So, she just laid in his arms allowing her mind to wander.

What was wrong? Had she done something? What was he not telling her? Was there a girlfriend or something she didn't know about? Was there some deep dark secret that could have her in danger? The longer she thought, the worse and unreasonable her thoughts became. Maybe he was arranging for someone to come and take her away? What would she do then?

She didn't know when she drifted off to sleep, but there had been they were dark dreams of being trapped in the dark, water witches, Grant saying there was someone else and more.

-------------------------------------

This time when she woke up, she didn't leave, not wanting to upset him again or scare him. She just laid in his arms, slowly tracing his face with her fingers. It was becoming harder to recall the shape of his chin, or how his hair fell. It was a sad feeling. Eventually would she forget is bright green eyes? His kind smile? Both of which she had seen at the beach in what seemed so long ago. She sure hoped not.

[Notty]

Grant had barely slept either the previous night. He was too filled with anxiety and excitement over finding out that the mystery girl had been found. But each time he did sleep, he found that Ainslie was there beside him, and when he woke, she was curled up close, holding him tightly.

A soft groan escaped his lips as he felt the light, gentle touches of Ainslie's fingertips over his skin. He shifted a little and slowly opened his eyes, then couldn't help the smile that grew on his face when he saw Ainslie there beside him. She looked up at him eagerly, despite her blindness. He wondered if she could have been the girl. She certainly seemed like it, but there was no way that she was- not with being blind.

"Hey you..." he murmured, pulling an arm around her and rubbing her back. Grant smiled a little, chuckling to himself that even though they were both naked in bed, nothing had happened. "How did you sleep?" he asked, pushing some hair from her face and tucking it behind her ear. "How are you feeling?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard him groan, letting out a little laugh. "You're going to be okay." She patted him and moved her hand to trace his face. It was nice waking up to him. She could get used to it. The fact that they had slept together naked and done nothing was proof though that this may not be something she should hope for just yet.

There was something that had stopped him last night, and she couldn't get that out of her head. He had wanted her and then suddenly he didnt.

"Hey there." She nuzzled him when he spoke. "I slept okay, took me a little while due to the nap, but I couldn't have asked for better company." She winked at him and gave him a gentle kiss on his chest. "I'm feeling pretty good!" She sat up and stretched her arms out with a bit of a groan.

Since she came here the days had been like being on a roller coaster, and she was honestly curious whether today would be an up or a down day. So far, it was looking up.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, and almost out of habit, turned his face and kissed her fingers as they passed over near his lips. He smiled again and nodded, watching as she leaned up and stretched. His hand went to her side, gently rubbing and squeezing. He had to be honest, she was beautiful, and a part of him had wished that he had made love to her the night before.

But the other girl, the one who had saved him- she was here, in town. What if he saw her? What would happen then? What would he do with Ainslie? Grant wanted desperately to see her, and his brow furrowed a little.

"What if we went for a walk later?" he said, smiling a little, his fingers still tracing her form. "After breakfast, just a chance to get out and get some fresh air, what do you say?" Grant was looking up at Ainslie, and something inside him was glad that she couldn't see. She wouldn't be able to see the guilt on his face. Was it wrong for him, to be laying in bed with her, naked, and planning to go out to try and find another woman?

[.Karma.]

"A walk would be great!" She said, suddenly full of excitement. She missed spending her days outside with the breeze running through her hair, a paintbrush in hand. Back in Australia, she spent most of her time outside, mostly because that is what she enjoyed painting, but some because an empty house is lonely.

"Do I have any good outfits for that?" She looked at him questioningly, trying to remember the clothes he had described to her before. There were jeans, but she couldn't remember what all the tops had looked like.

Scooting herself to the edge of the bed, she leaned over and grabbed his hand, pulling him up with her. "Come on then lazy bones, you have me spoiled with your coffee." She laughed, letting him know that she needed her morning caffeine. Part of her just wanted to throw on her clothes and drag him out the door now, but she needed to be patient, not push him.

[Notty]

Grant chuckled as she reached down and tried to pull him from bed. "Okay, okay, okay," he laughed, leaning up and kissing her forehead. "We should probably put on some clothes, though..." he murmured, grabbing a pair of boxers for himself, and pulling a shirt off a hanger. "Here, it's one of mine..." he said, glancing to her.

He couldn't help but smile at the sight of Ainslie in one of his shirts, and it made him feel even more guilty for just...leaving her last night. Taking her hand, and then hoisting her up into his arms bridal style, Grant carried Ainslie into the kitchen, laughing with her.

"Here, I can spoil you a little, can't I?" he grinned, placing her on the edge of the counter near the coffee pot. "Now then, you just sit there, and I will make you your coffee, my dear." Grant wasn't sure why he was being extra kind and flirtatious. Was it because he was feeling guilty about his ulterior motives for their walk?

[.Karma.]

Maybe she had misread the signs last night because right now he was being super sweet and she couldn't help but smile as she put on one of his shirts. Maybe it was just something as simple as the phone breaking up the mood too much. Maybe she had been overthinking things.

Letting out a slight shriek, she gripped onto him as she felt herself lifted. Her laugh bubbling from her chest. "I quite like being spoiled." She smiled and kissed his cheek. When she felt the counter beneath her, she felt for the edge and held onto it. Grant was making her feel like they were an actual couple today, and less like she was just a responsibility or a burden.

"Next thing you know I'll be getting foot rubs and back massages." She smiled, closing her eyes and taking in the sweet smell of coffee. Today was going to be good, she could feel it. Reaching out she ran her hand down his shoulder and arm, not wanting to stay away from his touch too long, it felt like home.

[Notty]

Grant smiled, though it was veiled with sadness. Don't let yourself get too attached Grant, she may not be the girl you think she is...in fact, she isn't. He smiled and took her hand, squeezing it slightly, but remained quiet. The coffee slowly crept from the basket and down into the pot, the aroma filling the kitchen. "Here..." Grant murmured, grabbing two mugs and filling them with coffee. "First cup is for you," he smiled, kissing her shoulder.

"I was thinking..." he began, leaning back against the counter where he had set Ainslie. "There's a little park nearby, and a donut shop on the corner across from it. What if we walked to get donuts, and then ate them in the park before going for a walk?" He smiled and rubbed her thigh, hoping that she would agree. Grant wanted it to be a good day, even if it might be one of their last.

[.Karma.]

"I think that sounds wonderful." She smiled and sipped at her coffee, breathing in deep at how good the first sip always tastes. "I can't tell you how much I miss the wind through my hair." She reminisced about the days on the beach.

"Maybe later we can pick up our vase!" She said even more giddy, remembering that they had made a vase together. She would try to gather some flowers again in the park to put in it. His voice had just a slightly different tone to it again. Maybe he was worried about taking her out in public?

She was being silly again, he was probably just tired, he hadn't quite had his first cup of coffee yet... so that must be it.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, taking a sip of his coffee and leaning back on the counter. "Mmm, we could do that. It's a good idea," he said, taking another drink from his coffee. "Well, as soon as you are ready, we can get dressed and head out." He leaned over and kissed her arm again, then drank the last of his coffee.

"Now then, let's get dressed, shall we?" He murmured, reaching and taking her hand, helping her from the counter. He pulled his arms around her tightly, hugging her close. His eyes closed and he took in a deep breath, not wanting to let go, fearful that he would hurt her.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie finished her coffee in one big gulp and set the cup down, excited to be on their way. Reaching up and kissing his cheek, she stalled for just a moment.

"Thank you." She whispered before heading off to the bedroom.

-----------------------------------

It was a beautiful day outside, she could feel it. The sun kissing her skin, but it wasn't too hot. The breeze blowing her hair. It felt so good to be in fresh air. She hooked one arm through Grant's as they walked, trying to not be too slow that he got annoyed with her, but also trying not to fall.

"Do you think you could maybe describe it all to me?" She asked a bit sheepishly, she was in a new country and a new place, but she had no idea what it looked like, what was around her. She wanted to try and envision it. Maybe make a painting in her mind of what she thought it looked like. She had no idea how far it was to the park, or to where they were going to get donuts, but that didn't matter. She was just simply enjoying her time outside with the man of her dreams.

[Notty]

With her arm looped through his, Grant guided Ainslie down the street and towards the city center. It wasn't a long walk, maybe 3 blocks, and he took it slow, wanting to be sure that Ainslie wouldn't get hurt or trip. He smiled, "well, we are walking down a long road, if you can feel, it's cobblestones, that means we're in the oldest part of the city. The buildings around are tall, but they're old, with bright colors and large windows. Most of them have large flower boxes outside with flowers of every color."

He smiled and turned a corner, then stopped. "And now..." he said with a smile, helping her up a stair. "I will let your nose do the talking." Opening the door to the donut shop, he led her in. Immediately they were greeted with the warm and fragrant smell of donuts. He smiled and kept her close, moving towards the front counter. "What kind do you like?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie's smile grew wider as she began painting the picture in her head, and of her and him walking together down this cobble stone path. When he mentioned the flowers, she took a deep breath trying to catch their scent, imagining the tall buildings. It was beautiful, and he was so perfect for being willing to describe it for her.

Then he told her to let her nose do the talking and she laughed. The sweet aroma of donuts filled the air, and she thought that this was what heaven must smell like. Walking with him to what she assumed was the counter, she started to worry. Was he embarrassed to be with her? She couldn't tell without seeing. Was everyone staring at her? Were they uncomfortable?

"Something chocolate!" She smiled and said with a giddy tone, but this time it was just a little strained. She had definitely gained respect for people who have had to deal with this every day of their lives, it had only been four days for her and it had been such a crazy emotional ride.

"Oh! and sprinkles!"

[Notty]

Grant smiled and nodded, "your wish is my command," he smiled. After ordering 2 chocolate sprinkled donuts for Ainslie, and 2 old fashioned donuts for himself, Grant took Ainslie's hand again, carefully leading her out of the donut shop and back onto the sidewalk.

"Now then, we just have to cross the street and we are at the park." he smiled, squeezing her hand gently. "There are some park benches there that we can sit on, if you'd like..." he continued as he helped to navigate her across the street. "There are tall trees here, and green grass," he began, smiling as he described things for Ainslie. "There's a little lake in the middle, I'd like to take you there, maybe after we eat, okay?" He said, slowing down and stopping to sit on a bench. Once she was settled, he reached in and handed her one of her donuts.

[.Karma.]

Following along with him she sat down on the bench, listening to the water. "Yea, I'd really like that. I love being next to the water. Reminds me of home." Well at least she could say that much. Not feeling that tightening of her throat or her lack of being able to get out her words.

Taking the donut, she put it up to her lips and took a big bite, closing her eyes. "Oh my god, that's delicious!" She crooned, taking another bite. How long had it been since she had a chocolate donut with sprinkles? It was a childhood favorite, but since she had grown up, she had opted for other things.

"Are the leaves changing color in the trees? In the lake are their birds flying over it as the water ripples with the wind?" She spoke softly as she tried to paint the mental image while she ate.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and shook his head, "no, not quite, but we are almost there..." he said, taking a bite of his donut and leaning back, one arm around Ainslie's shoulders. "Right now, things are just barely starting to change. The tips of the leaves are just starting to look yellow, but the birds haven't picked up on it just yet." He smiled and pressed a kiss to her cheek before taking another bite. "But soon, soon....things will change...."

-------
Across the path and down, towards the lake, a girl who looked very much like Ainslie was setting up an easel and putting out a canvas and paints. She kept her eyes on Ainslie and Grant, chuckling slightly to herself. "She's gotten too cozy with him, and well...I just can't have that..." she giggled, tucking some hair behind her ear before she smoothed the pale blue dress she wore, much like the one Ainslie would wear to the beach.

"Now then..." she murmured, beginning to paint. "We wait..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie leaned her head on his shoulder as he spoke of the leaves on the trees, adding that detail to her mental picture. He was truly amazing. Most guys would have found what he was doing silly or embarrassing, but here Grant was explaining to her what color the leaves were.

Leaning her head on his shoulder, she smiled absolutely content as she finished her donuts.

"Do I have any on my face?" She sat up and turned toward him, making sure to make a silly face while he checked her. Brushing herself free of crumbs, she gave him a soft smile, so happy to just be with him.

[Notty]

Grant chuckled and shook his head, "nope, you look good," he smiled, kissing her forehead and then crumpling up the bag and tossing it in a nearby trashcan. "Shall we continue?" Grant asked, taking Ainslie's hand and helping her to her feet. "Let's go this way..." he said, pulling her close and starting down the path.

The witch smiled, watching as Ainslie and Grant got closer and closer to her. She flipped her dark red hair and concentrated on the painting- the very same painting that Ainslie had been working on when Grant walked by her on the day of his accident. Now, my pets....we wait....

Grant started talking to Ainslie about nothing in particular, little stories he remembered about coming to the park with his parents, funny things from his childhood, anything to keep her smiling. But as they rounded a corner, Grant stopped dead in his tracks.

"It's...."

It was her. It had to be her. Grant moved a little closer, bringing Ainslie with him, and stopped a few feet from the young woman. She had the same dark red hair, was wearing the blue dress that he vividly remembered, and even was painting the very beach that he had been at. This had to be her.

With a trembling voice, Grant spoke. "Excuse me?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie walked along laughing, sharing stories that she was able to and simply enjoying his presence and the fresh air.

Suddenly he stopped and she nearly toppled over by the surprise of it. "What? It's what? What are we looking at?" She smiled, curious as to what had stopped him in his tracks. She was almost excited to hear what had him so shocked.

Her words went ignored though and he seemed to be talking to someone else. There wasn't much she could do but stand and look confused. It was frustrating not knowing anything unless it was thoroughly explained to her. Who was he talking to? What was important about them? What were they doing? Maybe it was some kind of surprise!

"Grant..." She whispered. "What are we doing?"

[Notty]

Grant didn't seem to hear Ainslie, and the girl in the blue dress slowly turned, facing Grant. She smiled, and it was eerie...but she looked a lot like Ainslie. In fact, they probably could be sisters. Grant frowned a little, looking at Ainslie and then at the girl. "I'm...I'm sorry, I don't mean to be rude..." he began, slowly letting go of Ainslie's hand to move closer to her.

The witch smiled, her eyes on Grant, and then to Ainslie, which made her smile even more. She stood there alone, vulnerable. Grant was as good as hers. "Hello," she murmured, her Australian accent obvious. "What do you need?" she asked, her eyes meeting Grant's as she smiled.

Grant was entranced. This had to be the girl, there was no mistaking it. "I'm..." he began, chuckling a little and stepping even closer. "I'm sorry, but uhm, may I ask where that is that you are painting? It's absolutely beautiful..."

[.Karma.]

None of her questions were answered, as if Grant didn't hear her, but she knew she had spoken out loud and clearly. Then he moved away from her, she could still hear his voice, but he wasn't within reach.

Without him there she just stood frozen, almost lost as she had no idea what was going on around her. Whoever he was talking to had an accent like hers. Remarkable almost identical to her own. Everything was so confusing, as she tried to make out what was going on.

What was he talking about, where what painting was? There was a painting? Suddenly all the sounds in the park became nearly overwhelming as she tried to make out what was going on. Why had he left her here? There were remarks of excuse me as people walked passed her, some brushing her and causing her to jump.

"Grant?" She said, but this time it wasn't very loud as she tried to straighten out the confusion in the darkness.

[Notty]

Grant shook his head, unable to believe who was before him. "Are...you..." He frowned a little, taking in a deep breath. The girl furrowed her brow, and then let out a soft cry of surprise. "It's you! It's the man from the accident! Oh my god, you're okay!" She threw her arms around Grant and hugged tightly, and Grant found himself hugging her back, holding her close.

The witch smiled, holding Grant and looking back at Ainslie who stood there, helpless and alone. She pulled back and looked at him, smiling even more. "I can't believe you're okay! And that you're here! I was so worried about you, so worried about what happened with you." She reached up and stroked his jaw, then hugged him again. "I'm Annie," she smiled, her eyes fixed on his.

[.Karma.]

Annie... This was all so confusing. Slowly she moved forward towards their voices, reaching out her hand. It was shaky as she tried to make her way over the uneven ground of the park. The voices were closer now, she's the one. The one?

It clicked in her head suddenly as she mulled over the conversation. Moving faster toward Grant, she grabbed onto him, nearly falling into him. Desperately she tried to tell him that this Annie, was not the one because she was the one!

Desperation was written all over her face. What was going on here?! IT WAS THE WITCH! That conniving little bitch. Making her blind wasn't enough. Hell, making her so she couldn't speak about her life wasn't enough! Now she was here?!

In a split second, she went from gripping onto Grant, to jumping towards the voice that almost matched hers. Grabbing for her throat or her eyes, something that she could dig her nails into. The anger bubbling out from the very fiber of her being. This thing had done all of this to her! Left her here alone and unable to see! They had a deal, which she had already been tricked in, but now she was here? It was not part of the deal!

A few angry tears made it out of her eyes as she still tried to scratch and claw. Without vision, though, it wasn't doing much good.

[Notty]

Grant hardly noticed that Ainslie had stepped forward or that she had touched him, but suddenly she was attacking Annie, pulling and clawing at her. It was as if she had lost her mind. Annie screamed, trying to get away from Ainslie, and finally Grant reached in between and pulled Ainslie away, holding her tightly against him.

"I'm...I'm so sorry..." He panted, looking to Annie who was upset and distressed, but smiled weakly back to him. "I...I'm okay," she said, giving him another smile. Grant frowned and turned around, still holding Ainslie tightly against his chest. "What the hell is going on?" He growled softly, half carrying- half dragging Ainslie back towards the house. He had found the girl, the one who had saved him, and Ainslie attacked her.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt herself pulled off roughly, and although the voice was Grant's, the touches were not kind or gentle. Fair enough, she had just attacked someone.

Without warning she was being half carried and half dragged off somewhere. Harsh words were aimed at her and angry tears spilled from her eyes. Her throat constricted and no words would come out, causing her to scream in frustration. Several times she nearly tripped, and she had definitely lost all sense of direction in where she was.

"Grant, please just stop... Where are we going? Please..."

She took deep breaths as he continued to pull her onward. "I don't think she is who you think she is!" Ainslie yelled at him. Well, at least she was able to get that out. "I bet she has red hair, and blue eyes, but she's just not her!" Her words were pleading, begging him to understand, begging him to believe her. How she wished she could make this wonderful man see that SHE was the girl from the beach. The one he obviously had been looking for!

Growling a little, she planted her feet and ripped herself away from him the best she could. "Why wont you listen to me?!"

[Notty]

Grant had managed to get Ainslie almost completely out of the park before she pulled away from him, and he frowned. "Ainslie, do you even understand-" Grant started, but was stopped by her words, furrowing his brow as she was able to describe Annie. He shook his head, running a hand through his hair. "There's no way that you could know that, Ainslie!"

He was frustrated and upset, and the girl who had saved him, well Ainslie just attacked her. "You just....you need to calm down, okay?" He said, sighing as he looked back towards the park, wondering if Annie was still there, wishing that he had given her his number so he'd have some way of getting in touch with her again.

"Why did you attack her? What has she ever done to you?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie's perfect morning was now crumbling apart, along with pieces of her heart. She knew what this meant for her. Grant thought he had found his dream girl. She knew how it felt, he probably could think of nothing else. Her throat squeezed again as she tried to tell him again what she knew about this woman.

"I just know..." Her voice fell, surely this looked a lot like jealousy, and some of it was, but it was because she knew it was all a trick. "... I know that it's not her, and she's lying!" Ainslie turn away from him. It one moment she felt her whole world being ripped from her.

Her comfort, her safety, everything they had worked for in the past four days, she could feel it slipping through her fingers and there was nothing Ainslie could do about it. She was scared, but not just for herself, for him. He was dealing with the same witch that had made her blind and left her alone in the a foreign country. What could she do to him?

Quietly she pleaded. "Grant, just... just come home with me... we will get our vase and some flowers... eat dinner..." Honestly she already knew in her heart that everything was about to change, but she had to try.

[Notty]

Grant sighed, running a hand through his hair and closing his eyes for a brief moment. She was most likely gone already, wasn't she? He looked at Ainslie, her cheeks wet with tears. She looked terrified, angry and upset. What had this woman done to upset her so much? And how did she know what she looked like?

Reaching out, Grant took her hand and silently began to walk back towards the studio. They could pick up their vase and then head home. He was quiet as they walked, no more describing everything that he saw, or little kisses and gentle touches. Grant was simply helping her to walk and make sure that she didn't fall.

He stopped outside the door of the studio and looked at Ainslie, trying to understand what had happened, and what made her so upset. "Why...why are you so mad at her? What has she done to you?"

[.Karma.]

The magic of the morning was gone, he was no longer helping her create a beautiful picture in her head. He didn't have his arm around her, he guided her as if he was helping a stranger. Like they hadn't spent the night naked together. Swallowing hard, she just walked silently. Ainslie felt so scared, so vulnerable. Where would she be without him right now?

She had no idea where they were going really, she had to trust him, when they stopped her face still did not turn up to him. The words wouldn't come out. She couldn't tell him, it was so frustrating and hurtful that she couldn't even tell him the truth when he just wanted explanation. He deserved and explanation and she physically couldn't give it.

"I..I...It's right there, I just cant...." God, she must sound like a confused idiot and it was all because of this witch that was now trying to get her hands on her Grant.

[Notty]

Grant's brow furrowed even more and he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Fine, it's...whatever. Don't worry about it," he mumbled, guiding her up the stairs and into the studio. John smiled when he saw them, but the smile quickly vanished, and he gave Grant a knowing look. Grant forced a smile, "we're here for the vase."

John nodded and turned, stepping back into a back room. He emerged with the vase, only it was filled with beautiful wildflowers. "I uhm, I thought that you'd want to see it in all it's glory, and I thought Ainslie would like them..." he murmured, placing the vase in Ainslie's arms. "Thanks.." Grant muttered, pulling out his wallet to pay John. He shook his head, "nope, I don't think so Grant." Then he moved a little closer, "you make that girl smile like you did the other day, and it's on me..."

Grant looked at John and then at Ainslie, suddenly feeling guilty. "Yes sir," he said, pulling his arm around Ainslie and cradling her a little closer to him. John smiled and nodded, "keep an eye on him, Ainslie. You let me know if he isn't treating you like the jewel you are, hhmm?"

[.Karma.]

It hurt, she wanted him just to trust her, but she couldn't tell him why. The tone in his voice said it all. Before they made it up the stairs, she wiped her face quickly but she was sure it was still red. Putting on a small smile, it was nice hearing at least one more familiar voice.

Ainslie could smell the flowers when John brought out the vase and she smiled in appreciation. "Thank you, John!" The smile was a bit more genuine but still a little forced.

An arm wrapped around her again, and it was almost like it had been before and she nearly broke out into tears again. "I'll keep both eyes on him." She joked half heartedly and swallowed hard, taking in a deep breath to smell the flowers again.

"Thank you again for the vase, and the flowers, you're a beautiful person."

[Notty]

John smiled and nodded, then hugged Ainslie and then clapped Grant on the shoulder. "You take care of her Grant, if there's been anyone, it's this one." He smiled and waved as Grant walked with Ainslie out of the studio and back onto the street. He kept his arm around her, feeling guilty about what John had said. He had been naked in bed, he had wanted to kiss her, so many times.

Sighing, he moved slowly with Ainslie towards the house, not saying much as they walked, but he did keep her close, his arm around her protectively. His mind was swimming, and he had no idea what had just happened. Perhaps he should just focus on Ainslie, on what they had. But he couldn't help but feel drawn to Annie. He wanted her, she had saved his life. And she was who he needed.

[.Karma.]

It was quiet and there was such an awful feeling settling in her chest, that she didn't know what to say. She couldn't tell him why she was feeling this way.

Ainslie followed along with him. She didn't say a word, as she didn't know what to say. It had to be confusing for him. She knew it was hard, and she was asking for a lot of trust considering he had only actually met her 4 days ago.

She carried the flowers and their vase carefully, running her fingers along it and thinking about the memories that came along with it. His lips on her shoulder and his hand running along hers, holding her close. Their bodies moving as one. It should have brought her joy, but right now it just gave her a sinking, sick feeling.

When they made it into the house, she pulled away from him making her way into the bathroom and shutting the door. Feeling her way to the toilet, she almost didn't make it in time as she emptied her stomach contents into the bowl.

[Notty]

Grant's mind raced as he started up the steps and opened the door, letting Ainslie in. He was surprised when she immediately pulled away and made her way to the bathroom. Frowning, Grant followed and started to open the door when he heard her throwing up. Closing his eyes, he leaned his head against the door for a moment, then pulled it open.

"Hey..." He murmured, stepping in and kneeling down beside her, pulling her hair back. "What's wrong? You didn't tell me you weren't feeling good..." Grant said, oblivious to the fact that it could be because she was so upset. "Can I get you anything? What would make you feel better?"

Despite all that had happened that morning, Grant did still care for Ainslie. He had helped her when she was lost, alone and hurt. His hand moved to her back, rubbing slightly. "Can I get you a drink? Some crackers or something?" There was something about Ainslie that pulled Grant to her, something that made him want to know her more, but there was something else that connected him to Annie. It was strange. He just met her for maybe 5 minutes, and he couldn't stop thinking about her.

[.Karma.]

Once she finished, she sat back on the ground and gave Grant a weak smile. It was really hard to blame him, she cared about him so much. He was caught in the middle of a trickery and schemes and there was nothing she could do. It wasn't his fault.

"Something just didn't agree with me I think." She pushed her hair back and reached up to his face, tracing it sadly before she spoke again, clearing her throat as to hopefully not show how much her heart was weighed down right now.

"A glass of water would be really nice." She gave a slight chuckled. "And maybe a toothbrush."

[Notty]

Grant nodded, closing his eyes as her fingers moved over his face. He had come to love her touch, and it was more intimate that anything he had ever felt. Taking in a deep breath, Grant leaned over and kissed the top of her head. "Alright, give me just a second, okay?"

Standing, Grant quickly made his way to the kitchen and got Ainslie a glass of water, and then came back to the bathroom. "I think I've got an extra toothbrush here..." he mumbled, rummaging through a small closet. "Ah-hah!" he said, producing a new toothbrush. "It's all yours," he added, reaching down and helping Ainslie to her feet. He gave her the water and turned on the sink for her, placing the toothbrush in her other hand.

While she brushed her teeth, Grant leaned back against the wall and thought. He couldn't get Annie out of his mind, he had to see her again. But how? He couldn't just leave Ainslie alone here by herself, could he? It wouldn't be safe. He knew it wouldn't. There had to be a way for him to see her again, there just had to...

[.Karma.]

Ainslie took a drink of the water and then set to brushing her teeth. God it was hard not to love him. Even as confused as he must feel, he was still taking care of her. Everything about his was good, from feeding a homeless man at the beach, to helping a complete stranger who appeared blind and crazy, opening up his home. To helping a vomiting girl when where he truly wanted to be was somewhere else.

She could feel it, he wanted to be with 'Annie', he didn't want to be here with her. He had apparently been thinking about her except she wasn't the girl he was looking for. He didn't know that though and there was no way for her to tell him. It broke her heart because the girl he yearned for was standing right in front of him.

"Thank you." She gave him a soft smile after she finished brushing her teeth, a big change from just attacking someone in the park. She didn't know whether to reach for him or to leave him alone. Whether to say something or if silence were better. This whole little somewhat fairy tale world she had been living in had been turned upside down and she felt just as lost as the night she had been there.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and watched as Ainslie brushed her teeth, taking the toothbrush from her and placing it on the counter where it wouldn't get knocked over. "There," he smiled, rubbing her back slightly. "Do you feel any better?" His eyes scanned her face in the mirror, then he pulled his arms around her and hugged her tightly.

"Do you feel like eating at all?" He asked, unsure if she would want anything or not. "I was thinking about getting some lunch started, but if you don't feel like it, I'll wait..."

------
The witch sighed and glanced into a small handheld mirror, chuckling when she saw Ainslie and Grant together. "Now don't get too comfortable, Grant," she laughed cruelly. "I'll be here to take you away again, as soon as you two get too comfy. Which looks like it'll be pretty soon."

Closing the mirror, she put the easel and painting supplies into a car and started walking through the town, back towards Grant's house. She smiled cruelly, thinking how well her plan was already working. "Day 4 is nearly over, and I expect that by this time tomorrow, he will have forgotten all about little Ainslie, and will be completely head over heels in love with me..."

[.Karma.]

"Maybe something simple..." She didn't want to deny his hospitality, but her stomach was still in knots. She was worried for him, she was terrified for herself.

Thinking back the contract she wondered what would truly happen if she didn't get Grant to kiss her now? This seemingly harmless wish had made her blind and loss. Squeezing her throat when she tried to speak. This witch was powerful, and honestly she didn't want to know what would happen if she failed.

The witch though had intervened, again, she should have paid more attention to the contract. It was going to be hard now with his mixed feelings. In her heart she knew the witch had won, she had won something that she hadn't really realized was a competition. She thought it was just a wish that came at a little price and boy was she wrong. At the time she had even thought it a dream.

It was obvious her mind was on other things but she took his arm and headed to the kitchen with him. She barely even needed to feel around to get around his house anymore, but what about once his mind was all on her? Where would he put her? What would he do? All of this uncertainty was scary, and she couldn't even share it with him.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and placed a hand at the small of Ainslie's back, gently guiding her, though she didn't need the help, towards the kitchen. Once inside, he stepped to the fridge and glanced around, then pulled out some soup he had made a few days ago. "How about some soup?" he offered, pulling the bowl out and placing it in the microwave. "It's nothing fancy, just chicken noodle..."

Grabbing two bowls from the cabinet, he set them at the table and then grabbed some spoons while the soup heated up. "Do you want some crackers or anything?" he asked, grabbing a box and setting it on the table. Something had changed. She felt just like a visitor now, not like...well...whatever it was before. Grant wasn't certain that he would call it lovers, but it was definitely closer than now.

Once the microwave beeped, Grant grabbed the bowl and placed it on the table, stirring it slowly before spooning some out for Ainslie and then for himself. He glanced up at her as he began to eat. It was quiet. Almost uncomfortably quiet, and it was his fault.

[.Karma.]

"Crackers would be nice." She nodded, smelling the soup as it heated in the microwave. Everything was uncomfortable, probably because she had just went mad at the park. How embarrassing did that have to be for him. She hadn't even thought of that. No wonder he wasn't talking to her.

She had resorted to violence before even talking to him, although talking wasn't working, it made no difference.

"Grant, I... I'm sorry... I shouldn't have embarrassed you like that..." She cleared her throat and broke crackers into her soup taking a sip. It was like she had just got here, everything cordial and stiff. She hated it.

"This soup is delicious." She wasn't really eating it very quickly though, her stomach still tied up as she thought of the witch here and her own fate.

[Notty]

Grant nodded, taking in a deep breath and then leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed. "What happened? I mean, why...why were you so upset?" He asked, taking another bite. "I know you said that I shouldn't trust her, but why not?" He asked, confused and wanting answers. "I don't see what's so bad about her. She's the one who saved my life at the beach, I simply want to get to know her and thank her for what she did..."

He pushed a hand through his hair and watched Ainslie. It was a bit odd how similar Ainslie and Annie looked. Perhaps they were cousins. "Is she like your cousin or something? Do you not like her? An old enemy?" he continued, trying to figure out why she would have had that sort of reaction at the park. "I just want to understand, Ainslie.."

[.Karma.]

"So do I..." She said softly. It wasn't a family member, it was a witch! God she wanted to shout it to him. It was understandable that he had all of these questions, but she couldn't answer them. "I just know it, Grant." She spoke in a soft and pleading way.

Reaching out she stroked his face. "I can't tell you a lot about home." Her mind searched for things she was able to say, it was so hard. Her mouth kept opening and shutting. "I just can't, but you are being blinded!" Sighing, she knew she just sounded like some jealous lover.

He may chop it up to her supposed amnesia, maybe he thought she had finally gone off the deep end. Ainslie didn't know what else to say though as she took another slow bite of her soup.

[Notty]

Grant nodded and took in a deep breath, smiling slightly as her fingers brushed against his skin. He liked how she gently touched his face, and he turned, pressing his lips to the palm of her hand, as he always did. "I'm sorry, but I have no reason not to trust her..." he murmured, placing her hand on the table.

Standing, he took his bowl of soup and brought it to the sink, placing it in. He had barely eaten, his mind was busy elsewhere. Turning slowly, he looked at Ainslie, then pulled his phone from his pocket. Opening up a message to John, he began typing:

I've got to go out and can't take Ainslie with me. Mind coming over and keeping her company?

A few minutes later, John responded:

Sure thing, I can be over in about 10 minutes.

Pocketing his phone, Grant took in a deep breath. He was going to see Annie. Alone.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie just nodded and sighed, there was nothing she could say to stop him. As he placed her hand back on the table, she had to force herself not to vomit again. It was as if he was done with her, like some kind of goodbye and then he stood and moved away from her.

Swallowing hard she tried to take another bite, but just couldn't. Pushing the bowl away from her she rested her head in her hands letting out an exasperated sigh. She felt almost as panicked inside now as she did the night with the house alarm, or the night she arrived here.

It was a terrible lonely and vulnerable feeling, and she couldn't shake it. He hadn't even really said much, but she knew, she knew that his mind was on her and that she would win. The witch had all of her information, and she couldn't even spit out her own damn last name.

Soon, she heard a knock on the door. Did he really invite her over here? Surely not! Not with how she had attacked Annie the last time. Then who?

Still at the kitchen table, she listened and the voice sounded familiar. John? Why was he here? Her heart dropped as she knew it wouldn't be something she liked as she got up and tried to put on a smile as she walked into the living room.

[Notty]

Grant heard the knock at the door and stood without a word to go get it. He smiled and opened the door, greeting John and allowing him in. "Thanks again, I really appreciate it," he said, shaking his hand. "I just need to run out for a while, and Ainslie threw up earlier..."

John frowned, looking at Ainslie and then walked over to her, rubbing her shoulder. "I'm sorry, I'm here. I'll stay with you, besides," he chuckled, sitting down on the couch beside Ainslie, "you might find that you like me better than Grant," he teased, chuckling.

Grant smiled and nodded, silently mouthing "thank you" to John, and then slipped out the door. He took in a deep breath and let it out. He was going to find Annie.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie's face went angry when he told John he just needed to run out. It had to have been for her benefit. Grant couldn't even have balls enough to tell her he was going to Annie.

Glancing up to John, she tried to give him a smile, but as soon as the door shut her face fell. A few silent tears dropped down her cheeks and she slunk down to the couch. He was gone, and he hadn't even bothered to tell her. He got her a fucking babysitter and then took off.

Her tears were broken hearted, they were angry, and she felt so hopeless. What could she do? Clearing her throat she sighed.

"Sorry, John. You got babysitter duty and I'm afraid there's not a lot I can do. We could do a word search or something." She tried to make a joke, but it didn't come out funny at all. "You can feel free to turn on the TV or something too."

Now she felt like an awful hostess who couldn't even get him something to drink without help. Drinks. That's what they could do? "Does Grant keep any liquor here? I could sure use one or ten."

[Notty]

Grant jogged down the road and headed back towards the park- but would Annie still even be there? His heart pounded in his chest as he drew nearer, glancing around, almost panicking, hoping that she was still there. His footsteps slowed and finally stopped, resignation having settled within him. She wasn't here.

"Hey there, stranger," a voice called from behind, and Grant spun around, seeing Annie behind him. His face light up and he pulled his arms around her, hugging her tightly. "I was afraid you wouldn't be here..." he murmured, smiling and brushing some hair from her face. "What about we have dinner, just...as a thank you, for saving my life."

Hand in hand, the two headed out of the park and down the road, finding a small Italian restaurant and darting in, the rain almost catching them. Grant and Annie sat and talked for several hours, and Grant was entranced. Annie seemed to remember everything about the beach, and how she saved him. How she was fearful for him, but he was taken away so quickly and didn't know his name, that she knew she'd never see him again. And yet, they had found each other, and how lucky that was. Perhaps this was the girl that Grant had been searching for. Perhaps...perhaps she was the one.

[.Karma.]

John had got her a drink, but he wouldn't let her drown all of her sorrows. He was kind and funny, but it barely helped brighten her mood. They talked for awhile, John was easy to talk to, but he was a good friend to Grant. He listened but didn't take sides, telling her it would all work out in the end.

Eventually, she bid John goodnight, and he gave her a kiss on the forehead, still assuring her it would all be okay. Even he sounded like he wasn't sure though. Nodding to him she gave him one last small smile before going into the bedroom and shutting the door behind her.

Grant still wasn't back, and this house no longer felt like home. Every noise making her jump as she was stuck in the dark. Feeling her way long the bed she found the couch and laid down on it, she let silent tears flow as her mind raced with all the events. How much had changed from the time she woke up and he carried her to the counter... and now laying alone in the bed.

[Notty]

Grant had an amazing time with Annie, and he was smiling brightly and laughing as they exited the restaurant. His arm pulled around her and he held her close to him as they started walking back towards the park. "Oh, I'm parked at the park," Annie said with a small giggle, her hand resting on his chest possessively. "Walk me back?" Grant smiled and nodded obediently, "of course..."

Annie smiled to herself, it was all working as she had planned. Already Grant wanted her more than Ainslie, and soon, in just a few short days, the contract would be up, and she would have another soul as hers. She giggled softly to herself and rubbed Grant's chest again. "Well..." she whispered as they neared the parking lot. "I'm right here. Will I see you again?" she asked, pouting slightly. Grant smiled and nodded, "of course, I don't think I could stay away." Annie grinned and nodded, "good, that's the idea." Turning, she blew a kiss to him and disappeared into the parking lot.

Grant turned and headed back towards his house, his mind racing with what an amazing evening he had just had with Annie. As he climbed the steps to the front door, John opened the door and stepped out. His face was serious, and he stopped Grant before he could get inside. "What the hell is wrong with you?" John snapped, grabbing Grant's arm. "You...you leave Ainslie here to go out with another woman? What...what has gotten into you? This isn't the Grant that I know!" Grant looked at John, his smile slowly fading. "Well, she's uhm..." he began, only to be interrupted by John. "She's what, Grant? I saw the way you looked at her, how you held her in the studio! She needs you, Grant, she loves you! And what did you do to her? You sent me here to babysit while you went out with another woman!" He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "I'm ashamed of you Grant. I'm ashamed of how you used me. Please, don't ever call me for something like this again." And with that, John started down the stairs, leaving Grant alone.

Immediately, he was filled with guilt and regret. What had he done? It seemed like any time he thought of Annie, he sort of just....lost it. Stepping inside, Grant shut and locked the door behind him, pushing off his shoes. It was late, and with any luck, Ainslie was asleep. He didn't want to see the disappointment and sadness that had been written on her face all day. Slowly, he opened the door to the bedroom and stepped in, thankful for the darkness, and hoping that Ainslie was asleep.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard the door open and shut, was she alone? Did John leave because he thought her asleep? Then she heard a few more noises and the door open and she jumped a little.

"Grant?" Her voice was weak and a bit frightened, she was almost ashamed of herself. A fear of being alone in the dark was childish, and Grant had left her to go out with another woman, she shouldn't be hoping for him. Taking a deep breath she listened closely listening for his breathing.

It was definitely him, he could smell perfume. Swallowing hard she wiped her eyes from where she had been crying and rolled over, turning away from him, curling herself up on the couch. He had probably been hoping for her to be asleep so she didn't ruin his wonderful night. She was sure it was quite enchanting and Annie was perfect.

The witch was not dumb, she would have had to been perfect to ensure Ainslie failed and Grant's mind stayed on her.

[Notty]

Grant stood in the doorway for a moment and took in a deep breath. When his eyes finally adjusted to the darkness, he could see Ainslie on the couch. A pang of guilt hit him as he stepped closer, and finally he stopped in front of her, his hand moving to gently turn her face up. His eyes scanned her face in the darkness and he took in another deep breath.

"I'm sorry," he murmured, his other hand moving to wipe the remaining tears from her face. "I....I was a jerk." he murmured, settling down on the couch next to her. "I'm sorry that I just left you here with John...." He shifted a little uncomfortably, as if he was having to apologize after getting caught in a lie. "I'm sorry Ainslie. I shouldn't have left. But I'm here now..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie wanted to be angry. She wanted to scream at him and tell him how hurt she was. How he needed to trust her. When he lifted her face though, she couldn't be. He sounded so... torn. God, she couldn't imagine how he must be feeling right now.

"It's okay, Grant. I understand. Just... be careful." Ainslie wanted him happy, but after this week Annie would be no more and he would be hurt. She would be... well she didn't want to think what her fate was.

Her hand moved up to his face, tracing it lightly and wishing things hadn't changed so much. Already she felt as if they were mostly strangers. Pulling her hand away, she laid back and closed her eyes again. All she had wanted was to see him again. So much so that she had made a wish, signed a contract and now she had disrupted this mans life.

She never should have been so selfish as to make a wish like that, she had just been so head over heels.

She was still head over heels. Ainslie loved this man, how could she just let him go? But what other choice did she have, she couldn't give him any reasons to be with her, any reasons to not be with Annie.

[Notty]

Grant felt Ainslie's hand move to his face, and he turned his head to press his lips to her palm, as he always did, but she pulled away before he could. He sighed quietly to himself and took in a deep breath, then leaned over and scooped Ainslie up in his arms. Grant carried her over to the bed and laid her down, gently stroking her jaw with his fingertips.

"I'm sorry..." he whispered, continuing to stroke her jaw, standing near her beside the bed. Grant wasn't entirely sure whether or not Ainslie would want him there. Would she want him to stay in the bed with her? Or would she rather him sleep on the couch? He would understand completely if she didn't want anything to do with him any more. He didn't deserve her affection.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie didn't fight Grant when he lifted her. It felt good to feel safe after laying in her alone. She shouldn't still feel safe in his arms. Her heart was cracking and breaking into a thousand pieces, and she still looked to him for comfort.

"There's nothing to forgive." She cleared her throat and reached for his hand and pulled him down with her. Ainslie couldn't help it. She loved this man, she wanted nothing more than for them to spend the rest of forever with him. There was only a few more days though.

She should have had him sleep on the couch, but she needed his arms around her. Needed his caressing touches, regardless of how much she was hurt. There was only a few more days to feel these things before a terrifying unknown future.

Saying nothing she wrapped his arms around her and turned and closed her eyes. Silent tears continuing to drop as she lay in his arms, trying to pretend everything was as it was before.

[Notty]

Grant was surprised when he felt Ainslie gently pull him into bed with her. He shifted, scooting closer to her on the bed, and pulling an arm around her, holding her body close to his. With his other arm, he reached beneath her and found her hand, lacing their fingers together and then squeezing gently.

So he held her there in the darkness and silence, his chest rising and falling slowly, pressing against her back as she lay against him. Grant could feel her crying, the soft, gentle sobs that shook her shoulders. He knew that she was, and the hand that was holding her, reached up and brushed the tears from her cheeks, then gently turned her body so that she was facing him.

This time, he could see her face in the darkness. The pain. The sadness. The hopelessness. A lump grew in his throat and he took in a deep breath, his thumb brushing back the tears again. This was his fault. He had done this. His fingers now pushed through her hair, tucking it behind her ear before he drew his fingers along her jaw, then brushed his thumb across her lips.

He shifted a little closer, pulling his arms around her small frame, drawing her towards him. He had done this. He had hurt her. Grant swallowed hard again, fighting back the guilt and the tears that now formed in his eyes. He hurt her. How had he done this to the woman, that two days ago, he adored? That he wanted more than anything?

Several times he opened his mouth to speak, but his voice didn't seem to want to come out. Finally, his voice breaking, he spoke. "You're beautiful."

[.Karma.]

His hands brushing her tears only made more flow. Reaching her hand up, she reached up as was habit, her hands tracing along his forehead, down his nose, his jaw and chin and his lips. He was upset, she could feel it in the lines on his face, he didn't have to say anything.

Was it that evident that her heart was being ripped from her chest? Did he understand the pain? It was like she was constantly suffocating, but there was nothing she could do to lift the weight. She was lost and scared. How does one live without a heart? How do people live with the constant pain of your heart breaking into little bits? The only one that can heal it, is the one breaking it.

She couldn't even blame him, she wanted to be angry to blame him, but with the information he had... He was following his heart. She leaned her forehead on his chin and still ran her fingers over his temple. She felt the tears in the corner of his eyes and took a deep breath.

"Shh, Grant. I always want you to follow your heart. Always." She moved her hand down to his heart and moved her head to lay on his shoulder and tried to hold it all in, she didn't want him to cry. She wanted him happy. Always happy.

[Notty]

Grant turned his face and pressed his lips to her hand, taking in a deep breath, and then pulling her closer to himself. He didn't want to let her go. How was he to tell her, to make her understand, how sorry he was? It was never supposed to be like this. He was never supposed to hurt her, to cause her pain. How had he allowed this?

He shook his head and pressed a kiss to her wet cheek, his nose gently nudging hers, his lips so close, wanting just a kiss, but knowing that he didn't deserve it. Grant closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, then pulled back, hugging Ainslie to him and closing his eyes.

"I've got you," he whispered against her skin, pressing his lips to her shoulder. "I've got you, you're safe."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie just wanted her love to be enough, be enough for him to not think about her. Even if she wasn't the one that saved him. Why was she not enough?

His lips were so close to hers, her heart raced. So close, but so far away. It seemed the story of how her whole time here had been. What had she been thinking fairy tale endings only happened in children's books. She took a deep breath and just laid there with her hand on his face, never wanting to let go.

With his soft words and tears still streaming she drifted off to sleep in his arms, waking once from a nightmare but going quickly back to sleep.

[Notty]

Grant could barely sleep. John's words had cut deep, and he knew that what he was doing was wrong, yet...he couldn't seem to help it. Thoughts of Annie took over his mind, and he couldn't stop thinking about her. She consumed him, and he knew that he would never be the same.

He slept lightly, waking just about any time that Ainslie shifted or let out a soft whimper. And each time he woke, he looked down at her and felt the same pang of guilt. This was his fault. She was so upset and hurt, and he had done this to her. Closing his eyes again, Grant fell into a fitful sleep.

When the light of the morning finally streamed into his bedroom, Grant's eyes blinked open slowly, and he immediately felt Ainslie beside him, holding tightly. Closing his eyes for a brief moment, he leaned up and pressed a kiss to the top of her head before untangling himself from her arms. As his feet hit the floor, he stretched, then ran a hand through his hair and made his way to the kitchen to make coffee.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie felt his movement but waited for him to exit before she got up herself. She was still in the clothes from the night before and slowly but surely she made put some clean ones on, not really caring what they looked at. Her night had really not been restful, but she wouldn't be able to go back to sleep now.

Making her way to the kitchen, she no longer needed to feel along the walls, walking in and seating herself at the kitchen table. Her eyes were sore from all the crying she had done, and she definitely needed a coffee.

"May I have one please?" She sounded so cordial, like they hadn't been having showers together or sleeping in the bed, or making vases together for the past five days. It hurt, but she didn't know how else to act. They no longer seemed to be one as they were before, it was all broken and there was no way to piece it back together.

[Notty]

Ainslie had no more than spoken when Grant set the mug of coffee in front of her. Things were quiet. Awkwardly quiet, and Grant stayed behind the kitchen counter, watching Ainslie, not sure that she even wanted him around. Finally, after several long and awkward moments, he spoke. "Would you, uhm...would you like to maybe...go get some breakfast?" he asked, hoping to try and somewhat repair the damage that he had done.

"We can just..uhm, go to a little diner, if you want. Or we don't have to, if you don't want to either..." He moved slowly over to the table and tucked the tag into the back of her shirt, brushing her hair slightly with his fingers. "Or...or if you'd just rather not....be with me, I understand that too..." he murmured, swallowing hard and feeling even more guilty now that he had spoken it.

"Ainslie, I know...I know that you find it hard to believe, but....I'm sorry."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie raised her face as he spoke, it hurt her that he seemed so broken, defeated. Giving him a small smile she nodded.

"I'd love to go to breakfast." Her voice still held a hint of sadness, but she hoped she was masking it well enough on her face.

It took her a moment to think of how to respond to his words, especially without starting fresh tears when she had done enough crying already.

"Grant..."She took a deep breath, speaking softly. "I don't know how you could ever think that I wouldn't want to be around you. You are my safe place, the light in my world of darkness. I don't care what could ever happen, I could never say that I didn't want to be with you or around you." She cleared her throat as they started to get thick with emotion again.

Taking a deep breath. "I told you there was nothing to forgive, not because I'm angry or don't mean it... Really, I want you to be happy. I told you to follow your heart and I meant it. You don't ever have to be sorry for doing what you think is right. I'll be okay."

Ainslie didn't want to hear that broken sound to his voice anymore, no more sadness, that was something she never wanted to hear from him.

[Notty]

Grant swallowed hard, hearing her words. He knew she was upset, disappointed. There had been something in him that had hoped the girl at the beach was Ainslie, but there was no way that it could possibly be her. He nodded, reaching out and tucking some hair behind her ear. "And I hope...I hope that you are happy too," Grant murmured, swallowing hard again and going silent, knowing that if he spoke, his voice would most likely break.

He found his cup of coffee and took a deep drink, hoping that the kick of caffeine would help him and his mood, but it didn't seem to help. "Let me, uhm, let me change clothes and we can go, okay?" he said, trying to smile, but the sadness had fallen over his heart like a blanket.

In jeans and a button up light green shirt, Grant appeared out of the bedroom and back in the kitchen. He smiled a little at Ainslie and rubbed her shoulder as he walked by. "Do you want me to braid your hair before we go out?" he asked, his eyes scanning her face. Why do you even ask, Grant? She might not even want you to touch her, after you just dropped her like an old shoe. She may not even really want to be around you at all...

[.Karma.]

Ainslie longed for any moment that she could have with him for the next few days. She knew it would be ending in what? 48 hours? He just didn't understand, and she couldn't help him to. Any touch she clung to.

"I really would." She answered his question about braiding her hair. Was she just hurting herself more? Knowing that his heart was no longer hers, and his mind was not on her, but still craving his attention and touch? She knew she shouldn't. She should not let him touch her, but why couldn't she live in even this broken fantasy for just a little bit longer?

Taking his hand, she led him to the couch giving him a small smile before sitting in front of, lifting her red hair for him. She had not answered him telling her he wanted her to be happy. Her world was falling apart, she couldn't be happy, but she could do her best to pretend to be.

Like a painting, her face could be the work of art. Paint a smile on with red, a sparkle in her eyes with white. If only it was that easy.

When he sat behind her, she did as she did every other time, leaning her head against his knee and closing her eyes. Trying to paint such a look onto her face in her head and make it a reality.

[Notty]

Grant sat down on the couch and smiled a little when Ainslie sat down on the ground between his knees and settled. His fingers reached out and gently pulled through her hair, untangling it. He didn't want to let her go, not at this moment in time. Slowly he began to work, taking his time, not wanting it to end. They were here together, happy- well, as happy as both could be, and braiding her hair brought back memories of when she had first come.

He took his time, french braiding her hair, until he had reached the bottom, then secured it with a ponytail holder. "There..." he murmured, his hands resting on her shoulders, stroking her slightly. "There, all finished." His voice was quiet and low, but it was filled with sadness and regret.

"Now then," he said, clearing his throat a little. "What would you like for breakfast? There's a diner that has really good omelettes, or we could do waffles..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie ran her hand over her hair and gave him a smile. "Omelettes sound good, I'm not a fan of waffles." It took her a moment to get up, like him she didn't really want to get up. They had nearly had their first kiss when he was braiding her hair. It had become somewhat intimate for them, and she wanted to freeze in the moment, but they must move on.

Standing, she held out her hand to help him up. "I would also like a chocolate milk!" She gave a soft laugh and led him towards the door and opened it.

"With whipped cream!"

[Notty]

Grant smiled a little as Ainslie seemed in a slightly better mood, and he stood, taking her hand. "Alright, let's go," he murmured, pulling his arm around her and stepping out of the house. The morning was cool and crisp, and Grant pulled Ainslie just a little bit tighter to him. He navigated them down the street and to the older part of town where the small diner sat.

Opening the door for her, Grant alllowed Ainslie to step in first, and then he followed her in. He smiled, his hand moving to the small of her back as he led her over to a table near the window, and set them down. Moments later, an older woman stopped by and took their orders. Grant ordered biscuits and gravy with a side of bacon, and then allowed Ainslie to pick whatever she wanted- even chocolate milk with whipped cream.

But halfway through their breakfast, Grant's eyes went wide, when he saw Annie standing outside the diner, trying to get his attention with a wave. Immediately, it was as if he forgot that Ainslie was there. He smiled and waved back to her, trying to urge her inside the building. She shook her head and motioned for him to come outside, looking rather concerned.

Grant nodded, then looked to Ainslie, "hey, I'll be right back, okay?"

[.Karma.]

Ainslie smiled to the waiter, a bit more sensitive to the fact that she thought everyone was looking at her. "I would like country fried steak with scrambled eggs please." She close the menu and gave Grant a wink. "... and chocolate milk... with whipped cream!" She laughed.

When she heard him walk away she reached out for Grant, only for him to tell her he would be back. Where was he going? Was there something she missed? She didn't know anything unless he told her. Maybe he was just going to the bathroom or something, but her heart sunk she knew she was lying to herself.

"Yea, alright." She nodded and smiled slinking down in her seat a little, not really knowing what to do. Feeling quite vulnerable in a diner full of people, blind and by herself. "If your food is eaten when you get back, it was your own doing." She tried to joke, but her heart wasn't in it.

[Notty]

Grant smiled and gently squeezed Ainslie's hand back, then let go and made his way out front, smiling when he saw Annie. "Hey there, what are you doing?" He asked, smiling and hugging her close. Annie hugged back, looking up at him with a smile, then her brow furrowed, her voice low and quiet.

"Grant, there's....there's something I have to tell you, about...her..." she murmured, pointing towards Ainslie in the diner. Grant's brow furrowed and he looked at Annie, "Annie, I'm sorry about yesterday, I don't know what-" he began, but Annie cut him off. "No, no. It's not about that. It's..." she sighed and looked up at him.

"Before I left Australia, I had seen on the news where a young woman had been running around scamming men." she began, taking Grant's hand. "She would act like she was some kind of an invalid- crippled, deaf....blind..." Grant swallowed hard and looked back at Ainslie in the diner. "She would just magically appear at their doorstep, claim to have some sort of memory loss...and then..." her voice trailed off for a moment. "Grant, she would take all their money. They'd have nothing left."

Grant frowned and stared in the window at Ainslie. Could she be capable of this? But now that he thought of it, it was strange how she had just appeared here. And she couldn't- or wouldn't, tell him much about where she came from or what she did. Annie pulled herself against him in a hug, bringing him from his thoughts. "I just want you to be careful, okay?" she murmured, smiling slightly against him. "I'm going to do some looking around, to see what I can find. I don't want you to be tricked by her too, if she really is the criminal..."

[.Karma.]

Alone in a diner. It felt like a movie moment, stuck in a diner alone, eating by herself. Her food and drink had arrived as well as his.

"Everything look okay, miss?"

When she moved her head toward him, he immediately apologized. Regret in his tone.

"No, no, it's okay." Her cheeks were a deep red and cleared her throat. "I'm sure it's all fine. It smells great. Thank you."

This was not just a bathroom break, men didn't dawdle in the bathroom. Slowly she felt around for the silverware, finding one of them rolled up. Pulling out the fork and the knife, she felt around for the edge of the steak and cut carefully.

It felt like all eyes were on her, as if she had a big sign on her that said "IM BLIND AND ALONE". The bite was a little too big, so she ended up having to bite a bit off her fork, like she was raised in a barn or something. Her stomach was in knots again and every noise made her jump. It was a foreign place and she didn't know at all what was around her.

It's not like she could just get up and leave because she was left alone. She was stuck.

[Notty]

Stepping back inside, Grant made his way back to the table, a little more cautious this time. He stopped a little ways away, watching Ainslie. She didn't look like a criminal, though, they never do, do they? Putting a smile back on his face, he sat down across from her. "Sorry about that," he smiled, reaching over and rubbing her arm. "Looks like you got started without me, I don't blame you, it looks amazing..."

He was anxious now. Even more than before. If she truly was a criminal, and this was all a con- could she really see? Grant wasn't sure of the answer, but he did want to know more about her. He smiled, taking a bite and then washing it down with coffee, he began to speak. "Tell me about where you're from..." he said, his eyes focused on hers.

[.Karma.]

When Grant came back, she stiffened at his touch this time. He had left her alone in the restaurant and she could guess why. He had apologized over and over, yet he still left her in the middle of a public place all alone.

"Well, I'm glad it look good. I got asked that question and I wasn't sure."

It was a bit snarky, but she couldn't help it. It didn't take long before her anger dissipated though, she couldn't bring herself to just be hateful to him. She loved him and it just felt wrong.

Mid-bite, he asked her about where she was from. Scanning her mind, she tried to search for what she could tell him. She couldn't tell him about the beach or the painting. "Well, just down from where I live there is a fountain, one of those that you an throw pennies in for fun. I used to go there late at night." She couldn't mention the wish. "It was peaceful to listen to the water raining and sometimes people would come in and throw a penny and it was always fun to hear what people wanted most."

She gave him a small smile after finishing a bite of her food. "I'm not sure what you'd like to know. There is not a lot I can tell you..." Ainslie was always as honest as she could be with him, she knew it had to be frustrating for Grant, she knew it was for her.

[Notty]

Grant felt the jab at him, and even moreso at the fact that he left her alone. Of course she couldn't see anything. Someone could take the food, his money.... He shifted and took another bite of his biscuits and gravy, his eyes still on Ainslie as she sat across from him and worked on her food.

"That's it?" he said, frowning a little. "What town are you from?" He asked, starting to feel the suspicion sinking in deeper. "Just tell me where you're from, Ainslie!" he cried out in frustration. "It isn't that difficult of a question..." He shook his head and sighed, running a hand through his hair and leaning back in the booth.

"Maybe this was a mistake..." he mumbled, motioning to the waitress for the check. Now he was angry. Ainslie was a con artist. She was trying to take his money. She couldn't even tell him where she was from!

[.Karma.]

Why was he suddenly asking everything about where she lived? She couldn't answer before, and she can't answer now. She was doing her best. Confusion ran over over face as he started yelling, saying it was a mistake. They were fine just a minute ago. What had happened.

Tears filled her eyes. Her food was only half gone, but she was no longer hungry. Her chocolate milk forgotten as she pushed it all away from her.

"What have I done?" She was honestly completely at a loss. Yes, she had been a bit snarky, but that was frustration at being left alone to do whatever with Annie. "I told you about my home! I don't even know why you care, I'm sure wherever Annie is from is much more interesting!"

Anger flashed over her, but mostly it was confusion and hurt, why was he treating her this way all of the sudden? It was his idea to come out to eat.

"If you brought me here just to yell at me, then I would like to return back ho... back to your house."

[Notty]

Grant noticed the others in the diner turn to look at them, and he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Listen, Ainslie..." he began, leaning in a little closer to her, not wanting to cause a scene. He reached out and took Ainslie's hand, holding it. "I just want you to tell me where you're from, what you do..."

The waitress arrived and gave Grant the check. He nodded, leaning up a little and gave her a brief smile before handing her two twenties and telling her to keep the change. "Just...I don't understand why you can't tell me where you're from. I've told you all about me..." He sighed and leaned back, getting more frustrated. "Do you not trust me or something?"

Annie watched from across the street, smiling to herself as she watched the events unfold inside the diner. Taking another sip of her coffee, she chuckled quietly to herself. "Less than a day, he will be mine..."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie pulled her hand away from Grant. Why did he want to know now? He knew she couldn't tell him. The doctor had told him she couldn't remember, but she was physically unable! A knot grew in her stomach, and she crossed her arms in front of her swiping a tear.

"Why does it suddenly matter what I am able to tell you or not? Why am I being interrogated now. I'm telling you what I can. I'm doing my best."

Swiping another tear she stood up, her arms still crossed. It was frustrating that she had to wait for him to even go back or to leave. She couldn't storm out or get away from him. She was stuck.

[Notty]

Grant sighed and looked at her, then reached out, taking her hand and gently pulling her towards him. "Let's just go..." He murmured, leading Ainslie out of the diner and down the street, back towards his house. He was angry and frustrated, and now suspicious of the girl who has been living with him nearly a week. How could he have been so blind to what she was up to?

The walk home was quiet and slow, and Grant was still hungry. Once they were nearly home, Grant spoke again. "I just want to know. Why don't you tell me what your job was? Your family, anything?" He sighed, pulling his keys from his pocket. "You have to know how this seems...you just winding up oh my doorstep, knowing nothing..."

[.Karma.]

"Suddenly I'm suspicious Grant? I don't know what to tell you! I can't tell you what I can't tell you! Yelling or asking over and over again isn't going to change the answer."

Tears were streaming now, anger mixed with hurt stirred within her. "So now I'm suspicious because I know nothing. It's amazing that this suspicion didn't arise when we were in the shower together."

Last night she had kept her anger in check because she felt that he was just following his heart and that was something she could live with. Now, though, if running off with Annie wasn't enough he was attacking her too.

"If I'm so untrustworthy, why even keep me around, Grant? Rather, why are you still here? Why don't you go run off into the sunset with your blue eyed beauty, who you met yesterday but is apparently more trustworthy than me."

Once the door was opened, she stomped inside, misjudging the step, she fell forward catching herself on her hands. Shooing away any help that he may try to give her, she got back up and stomped toward the bedroom. His bedroom. There was not even a place for her to go in this god forsaken place anymore. Turning on her heels she went into the bathroom instead shutting and locking the door. Placing her back on the other side, she leaned her head back and slunk down to the floor.

The witch wasn't happy with just taking him away, she wanted him to hate her too?

[Notty]

Grant sighed, swallowing hard as he tried to explain to Ainslie what had happened. But they had no more than gotten into the house, that she darted away, heading towards the bedroom. "Ainslie, listen to me!" he called out, starting after her, but she quickly turned and darted into the bathroom, locking the door behind her.

Standing outside the door, Grant knocked several times and then leaned his head against the door. "Ainslie, please, come out..." He stood there, waiting for her. "I just want to know the truth about you..." His eyes closed and he rested his head against the door, taking in a deep breath.

[.Karma.]

"I've told you the truth, Grant. I'm not the one that has been dishonest here." Ainslie pulled her knees to her chest and let the tears flow. Letting her head fall back against the door. "All I ever wanted was to just be with you..." She whispered, it was more for herself. How much of a mess had she got the both of them into, all because of a simple wish.

It was all supposed to have been a dream, but this dream that she originally thought she was having, was turning into a nightmare. She wanted to tell him everything, that she was an only child that grew up in a small town in Australia. That she loved to paint, and mostly she loved to paint him. His beautiful green eyes that had looked up at her and told her she was beautiful, but it was not her that was beautiful.

Slamming her fist onto the ground she let out a scream of frustration. There was nothing she could say that would make her sound less 'suspicious'. Suspicious of what though? What could she possibly gain from being blind and stranded away from home, helpless and alone?

Their care for one another had been safe and beautiful, and now it felt like a battlefield where she was on the defensive.

[Notty]

The rest of the day was painful. Grant and Ainslie never spoke a word to each other, and eventually, she came out. He had heard all that she said in the bathroom, and it pained him to think that he had hurt her, but he couldn't get Annie or her accusations out of his mind.

Lunch was quiet, and neither of them ate much. Grant helped Ainslie as much as she would let him, but even then, it was stiff and formal, not the warm nearness they had experienced just a few days ago. He closed himself up in his office, overwhelming himself with work so that he wouldn't have to see the sadness in Ainslie's eyes. He still adored her, but he feared that she had ulterior motives.

Annie, however, was happier than she had ever been, and spent the afternoon texting sweet messages to Grant- making sure that she was constantly on his mind. He was becoming more and more obsessed with her, and it was perfect- exactly what she wanted. "Just a few more days..." Annie told herself, chuckling in the mirror, her fingers grazing the necklace that held Ainslie's sight and memories. "Just a few more days, and Ainslie is mine, and Grant will be mine as well...."

[.Karma.]

This place had become a sort of prison for her now. Her heart had been broken into pieces and she felt like she was walking around with an open wound that he just kept poking.

He hid himself in his office, while she... well she couldn't do much of anything. She was blind and alone in a country that wasn't hers. The only person she knew here was John and he was Grant's friend. Darkness surrounded her, every noise seeming foreign now. Any panic attacks that she had, she kept to herself though.

Ainslie knew it had to be getting toward night time, and she wasn't looking forward to it. Most of her time had been spent in the bedroom. Finally, she made her way to the shower, this time she had manageable clothes on, and was able to very slowly take a shower by herself. It felt so empty and memories kept flooding her of his hands stroking her, his lips on her shoulder.

Eventually she shut off the water, wrapping the towel around her and making her way back to the bedroom, she didn't know where he was, but she was not going to call out for him. He had easily grown suspicious of her, and she couldn't bring herself to do it. Feeling through the drawers she tried to find the pair of pajama's that he had bought for her, but eventually she got frustrated and just grabbed one of his shirts. Laying herself on the couch yet again, she pulled the shirt up and inhaled.

She had been so exhausted for the past few days, that it didn't take her long to fall into a fitful sleep, his shirt still slightly pulled up to her face, curled up on the couch in the bedroom.

[Notty]

Grant finally pulled himself from the office at nearly midnight. He had heard Ainslie shower and then the room went quiet- he could only assume that she had gone to bed without him. Stepping into the bedroom, he saw that she was curled up on the couch, and he couldn't help but smile a little bit. "Stubborn..." he mumbled to himself, smiling even more. He undressed and put on a pair of pajama pants, before leaning over and scooping Ainslie up into his arms. Placing her into the bed, he let his fingers trace along her jaw, and then his thumb briefly over her lips. "Beautiful..." he whispered.

This night, Grant finally slept, much of it due to simple and sheer exhaustion. The couch seemed too small and yet at the same time too big. He had enjoyed sleeping beside Ainslie, even if he knew that they could never be together. His sleep was dreamless, but when he woke the next morning, he was just as tired as he was the night before. Leaning up slowly, Grant ran an hand through his hair, and stood without even looking towards Ainslie, and got in the shower, hoping that it would help to clear his mind.

[.Karma.]

"No, you are..." She mumbled as he moved her, but she was still sleeping. Another dream of the accident that had brought their lives together. Those green eyes that looked at her and called her beautiful.

She slept soundly until the shower turned on. Groaning a little, she had to remind herself that all her dreams were just that. Dreams. Her reality was much more cruel. Slowly she woke, quickly realizing she was now on the bed. He was so stubborn. It almost brought a smile to her face.

Still in his shirt, she made her way out and into the kitchen. She couldn't make coffee on her own, but she did make her way to the fridge, finding herself an apple and getting a glass of water. Surely he would go see her again today. It would be two days full of sitting in the darkness, having nothing to do but feel the pain of her broken heart and think about everything she lost.

It was dreadful, she just wanted to forget, or at least not to think about it.

[Notty]

When Grant stepped out of the bathroom, Ainslie was gone, and a part of him sank. He had hoped she would still be there. But it didn't matter....while he wanted to, he feared that he couldn't trust her. Putting on some clean jeans and a plain white tshirt, he rubbed the towel over his hair, and stepped out of the room.

He could hear Ainslie in the kitchen, but he didn't say anything when he entered. Instead, he went to the counter and began making coffee. As soon as it had brewed, he poured himself a cup, and then one for Ainslie, gently sliding it in front of where she sat at the table. Grant made himself some toast, and leaned against the counter, trying to weigh his feelings, and how to tell Ainslie what he planned.

"I uhm," he began, clearing his throat and swallowing hard. Why was it so difficult to talk to her now? "I'm gonna head out for the day..." he said, looking at Ainslie, his eyes scanning her face. "You can, uhm. You can come if you want, or stay here if you think you'd be okay..."

[.Karma.]

It was her last day with Grant, and he was leaving. She swallowed hard, pulling her coffee towards herself. "Thank you." Running her fingers through her red hair, she tried to stay strong. He still couldn't tell her that he was going to see Annie.

"I know where you're going. No, I don't want to go with you..." She didn't care what he did. Ainslie was still going to try and make a beautiful evening. She had to try, even if it didn't work. Who knew what was going to happen to her tomorrow.

"Just... Can you just call John for me please. I want him here." Tears sparked in her eyes but she quickly blinked them away, taking a drink of her coffee. How could she stop him from being blinded by this witch? It wasn't only her life that would be changed tomorrow. Both of them were going to be taken away from him, and if nothing else he was going to be left here alone. It was heartbreaking to think how that was going to make him feel.

"You know..." Her voice was soft at first and she cleared her throat, twirling a piece of her hair in her fingers. "What do you know about Annie? I've been asked all these questions I can't answer. I just..." Swallowing hard, she refused to cry. "I just feel like you don't know anything about her. What do you know other then she has red hair, blue eyes and an australian accent?" She was trying not to sound catty or jealous, it was pure care for him. "Have you tried asking her anything that only she would know? What she said to you during the accident. Things that happened on the beach? Anything?"

Ainslie took a bite of her apple, not really expecting him to answer. "No, but please, text John for me. He can babysit."

[Notty]

Grant was surprised when Ainslie asked him to have John come over, and he felt a pang of guilt when she called it 'babysitting'. He pulled out his phone and began a message to John, but stopped when Ainslie continued to speak. I just feel like you don't know anything about her. What do you know other then she has red hair, blue eyes and an australian accent? He frowned a little, looking at Ainslie, and for a moment, he wasn't entirely sure what he knew about Annie. But just as quickly as he became suspicious, the feeling went away and he shrugged. "She knew about the accident and the beach," he said, trying to convince her, and maybe a little part of himself. He shrugged again and looked back at his phone.

Mind coming over?

John: I'm not babysitting, Grant. I already told you this.

Ainslie asked for you to come.

John: I'll be over in 15 minutes.

Grant ran a hand through his hair and drank the last of his coffee. He looked to Ainslie and shook his head. "John said he would come over," he said plainly, as if she were nothing to him. But she was....she was something. Grant wasn't sure entirely what she was, and part of him wished that he could simply turn off how he felt about her, but it wasn't that easy.

[.Karma.]

Ainslie nodded when he told her that John was coming over. Anyone who got a paper in Australia knew about the accident. He just seemed to shrug her off. How was all of this so easy for him? No, she would not cry, she promised herself no matter what happened. Tonight she was going to say her goodbyes in the best way she knew how.

John showed up right when he said he would. He had hugged her, it was like he knew what she was feeling. Then she told him of her plan. She needed his help with it though. Ainslie needed to go back to that field, she needed candles and donuts. She needed his help picking out some music.

Most of all she needed helping set it all up.

John was relatively quiet, he did as she asked, but he did question her a bit. Why she was doing all of this when he was with another woman. Why she seemed so desperate. Her only responses were that she was running out of time. It seemed to sadden him, but she was not going to let anything get her down. It took most of the day getting everything they wanted.

He even took her out to lunch, it had been nice to get out and about and take her mind off him with Annie.

When they got back to Grant's house, he helped her some more. Especially with the knives and using the oven. Then she shooed him out. Thanking him over and over and waited. Waited for him to get home.


----------------------------

The house had wildflowers everywhere, and candles illuminated the room. Soft music played and it was on repeat in case in stopped and she was not able to see to start it over. Spaghetti and meatballs were on the table that was set with two candles and glasses of wine in front of them. There was garlic bread and more flowers setting inside their vase on the table.

She was dressed in a blue dress (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/04/7f/f6/047ff6a0e047df33c3918d00a17fad0a.jpg) that was covered in lace. Something that John told her she would need with such a fancy dinner. Ainslie sat on the couch just waiting for the handle to turn. She had to give him a beautiful goodbye.

-----------------------------

Grant's phone buzzed a simple text from John on it.

Get your ass home.

[Notty]

As soon as John showed up, Grant ducked out, avoiding him as best that he could. He was headed to the park to see Annie. His face lit up when he saw her, and he hugged her tightly, then took her hand. "What should we do today?" he asked, rubbing her side.

Annie and Grant spent the day in the park, talking and laughing. He took her out for lunch, and then they went to the boathouse and rented a canoe, and spent the afternoon rowing around the lake in the park, simply enjoying each other's company. Grant felt connected to Annie, like he couldn't think of anything else when he was with her.

The day had seemed to be perfect, and he knew without a doubt, that she had to be the perfect girl- the one who had saved him at the beach. The beach. Questions. He remembered what Ainslie had said, about asking her questions. Grant smiled and looked at Annie. "What do you remember most about the day we met?" he asked, and Annie suddenly looked a bit uncomfortable. "I...I remember how you looked." she said, smiling and stroking his jaw. "You looked so scared, but I was there to comfort and save you..."

Grant furrowed his brow a little, but smiled and nodded. He had been scared, and he had been comforted. He felt his phone vibrate and he looked down at it, seeing John's message. He suddenly felt fearful, as if perhaps something had happened with Ainslie while he was gone. Bidding Annie goodnight, Grant took off back towards the house.

Grant climbed the stairs to the house and opened the door, but what greeted him, he could have never prepared himself for. His eyes widened when he saw that the house was lit with candles, and Ainslie looked....well she looked breathtaking. Slowly he shut the door behind him, his hand moving to her side. "Ainslie?" he began, confused as to what was going on. "What is all this?...."

[.Karma.]

Ainslie heard the door handle turning and took a deep breath. She had been preparing herself for this. Not a night of wallowing her in sorry of what could have been between them. Just making this night a perfect one. When he entered, she was standing a smile on her face.

Her red hair cascaded down her shoulders, and she moved his direction. Feeling his hand on her side, she reached up, tracing the outlines of his face. "I just... I just wanted to do something nice for you, to show you how grateful I was for everything you've done. To show you how happy I am to have had what we did have."

"Come on!" She smiled and let out a little laugh, taking his hand and taking him into the kitchen. "Tada!" She laughed. "It's not much, but I did it mostly on my own. Of course with John here to make sure I didn't burn your house down."

Pulling out his chair, she motioned for him to sit before seating herself down. Their plates were already made up, and the wine poured. She was actually surprised at how quickly he had returned, she had been afraid the food would have gotten cold, but it was still warm.

"John took me shopping a bit today, it felt good to be out and about." The topic of conversation just seemed strained though, like she was rubbing it in his face that he wasn't there, and that's not what she wanted.

"I um.. I thought I could tell you more about me. The things I know." She took a bite of her spaghetti wishing with all her heart that she could see what he looked like in the glowing light of the candles. "My favorite feeling in the world is the wind in my hair and the sand through my toes." She started, her heart was aching but she was ignoring it. "I'm very passionate. I put all of myself into what I care about. I love to take late night walks, where the air is crisp and nips at your skin. I love the rain, but I hate storms." She laughed a little as he already knew that. "I'm scared of spiders, which I guess I'm over now as I can't see them!"

She laughed again and then fell silent, dipping her garlic bread into her spaghetti before taking a bite.

[Notty]

Grant was surprised and confused at what Ainslie was up to, but he followed her into the house. His eyes widened when he saw the table set and prepared for them, and he couldn't help but smile. Ainslie's touch still lingered on his face, and he sat down in the chair, his hand reaching for hers and gently squeezing it as she walked past. He was thankful for this, though it wasn't necessary.

He opened his mouth to tell her that this wasn't necessary, but she began speaking. A lump grew in his throat as he realized what she was doing. She was trying to tell him more about herself, she was trying to make him trust her. But could he, really?

Taking a bite of the spaghetti, he smiled, realizing just how much work she must have done. And he knew that she was stubborn enough that most likely, John was only there to make sure she didn't burn the house down- all the rest she most likely did on her own. "This is great," he smiled, trying not to be too terribly awkward, but what was he to do? Profess his undying love for her? Tell her that he was suspicious of her? That he had just spent the entire day with another woman?