The Captain of My Dreams

This story is a work of fiction. The events in this story are fictional. The characters in this story do not exist, any resemblance to real people is purely coincidental. Any use of celebrity or other real persons is entirely fictional and in no way reflects upon their actual sexual orientation. This story contains erotic and/or sexually explicit activities between consenting adults. If you are under age, find this type of work offensive, or it is illegal for you to view this, do not read it.

The Captain of My Dreams -- Part 8 By tmabare ©2012

• • • From Part 7 * * *

Edward was lying on his side behind Teddy on the couch, thinking about the day's events. He leaned over and as he was about to kiss Ted's neck he realized that he was sound asleep leaning against his chest. It made Edward smile that Teddy was relaxed and trusted him enough to do that. As much as he didn't want to wake him, he wanted to relocate to the bedroom. He reached up and turned the lamp on the end table off. The only light was now from the hallway and coming thru the windows.

He leaned over and kissed Teddy gently on the neck, below the ear. "Babe, it's time to go to bed."

Teddy snuggled back against Edward's chest. He didn't say anything and his breathing remained a steady deep rhythm. Edward quickly decided there was only one way to handle this. He moved out from behind Teddy and then stood up. He turned the stereo off and returned to where Teddy was asleep on the couch. He leaned down and carefully picked Teddy up, cradling the man in his arms.

Teddy didn't completely wake up when Edward picked him up. He did however wrap his arms around Edward and nuzzled his face into Edward's neck.

Edward walked them into the bedroom and gently placed Teddy on the bed. He carefully removed Teddy's clothes before removing his own and climbing into bed behind him. Edward fell asleep quickly after he wrapped his arms around Teddy.

• • • Part 8 * * *

Teddy woke up early the next morning in Edward's arms. He couldn't remember how he'd gotten in the bed. The last thing he remembered was being on the couch listening to music and leaning against Edward's chest. He closed his eyes and thought about what the past week had brought him. He was in the arms of the man he loved more than life itself and down the hall was a child he loved. For once in his life he felt that he had a true family of his own. Teddy didn't want to move, but his bladder was telling him otherwise. He tried to slide away from Edward and was instantly pulled back into the man's bare chest.

"Where do you think you're going?" Edward's voice was low and sleepy.

Teddy looked at the clock which said 4:07 AM, "To the loo. Go back to sleep."

"Why should I let you leave me?"

"Because, you don't want me to wet the bed?" Teddy was trying not to laugh.

"Promise you're coming back to me?" Edward said it directly into Teddy's ear and then kissed his neck.

"You never have to worry about me coming back to you. But, if you promise to kiss me some more, I will come back quicker."

"Oh, I think I can arrange that."

Edward released Teddy who quickly headed for the bathroom. As he finished he realized he wasn't alone in the bathroom anymore, Edward was standing there brushing his teeth. Teddy walked over and shoved Edward with his hip, as he grabbed his own toothbrush.

When he stood up straight again, Edward smiled at Teddy. "Someone is feisty this morning. I guess you have lots of energy, since you fell asleep on me last night."

"I'm so sorry... I don't know why I was so tired."

Edward had finished brushing his teeth and then he leaned over and started the shower. "Maybe it has something to do with the fact that we had a very long day. On top of the fact that we've traveled so much this week, and the stress of everything that has been going on. You want to make it up to me?"

Teddy looked into Edward's eye in the mirror, and smiled. He couldn't talk with his toothbrush in his mouth, so he just nodded his head slowly.

When Teddy was finished brushing his teeth, they climbed into the shower and started to lather each other up. Teddy wanted to take his time, but Edward was more than ready to take this back to the bedroom. When they climbed from the shower and were dry they moved to the bed.

Edward climbed on top of Teddy and started kissing him. He was still amazed at how his kisses were able to bring Teddy such pleasure. Kissing was something he had always enjoyed, but not like this. Kissing Teddy was unlike kissing any women and it was something he couldn't fathom ever getting tired off. Much like the first time they had shook hands in Savannah when they both felt an electric charge between them, Edward gets the same sensation every time he kisses Teddy. The man under him was already moaning and writhing, his whole body seemed to move as Edward kissed him. When Edward felt Teddy wrap his bare legs around his naked body, he knew Teddy really was going to make it up to him.

While he was over Teddy, Edward moved his mouth from Teddy's and started to kiss his lover's neck. He found that most sensitive spot and lightly sucked and nibbled on it. He was trying to be careful and not leave any new marks. The love bite from Savannah was finally barely visible and he wasn't sure how Teddy would react to a new one.

Teddy loved every second of what was happening. Just the simple sensation of having Edward's body on top of his was enough to excite him, but that coupled with Edward kissing his neck was almost more than he could take this morning. The feeling on Edward's soft lips and tongue on his neck was like shear heaven. Teddy's moaning was starting to grow louder, "Edward... I love you..."

"I love you too babe, more than you know." Edward moved lower to Teddy's chest and started to lick, nibble, and then suck on Ted's nipples. This was something he hadn't done before, and the reaction was immediate and powerful. He could feel Teddy's already hard cock swell even more as it was pressing into his abdomen. If his body wasn't holding Teddy down, he was sure that the man would have arched his back and chest right off the bed. Teddy's hands were suddenly rubbing Edward's head and neck, and Teddy's moaning was increasing in volume. Edward was again happy that he was able to give Teddy such pleasure and gratified by the reactions his lover showed. Even though he would be shy to admit it, he felt new found pride in his lovemaking skills since he'd been with Teddy.

Teddy's voice was heavy with lust, "Fuck... that feels incredible..." Teddy was trying his hardest to not be loud, but was not having very much success. Even though he knew the walls in Albert Court were very think and there was even an empty room between them and Elizabeth, he was afraid of waking her or Devon.

Just as Teddy thought he was going to start screaming, Edward released his right nipple and starting licking back to the center of his chest. Edward then reached over into the nightstand and gabbed the bottle of lube and a condom. He placed some lube on his fingers and moved them to Teddy's ass. He spread the lube around the opening and massaged the area.

When the first of Edward's fingers entered him, Teddy felt a rush which only added to the stimulation he was receiving from Edward's nipple work. As Teddy started to get louder with his moaning, Edward moved up and quickly covered his mouth in a kiss. By the time Edward had worked up to three fingers, Teddy could not remain still and had Edward not been kissing him, he would have been screaming for Edward to fuck him. He was starting to feel like Edward was just torturing him, so with every ounce of strength he could find he pushed Edward off of him.

With Edward now on his back, Teddy reached for the condom and lube. He ripped the package open with his teeth as he rubbed some lube onto Edward's rock hard cock. He was still amazed at the feeling of holding Edward's erection in his hand. The skin was soft and warm, but at the same time it felt like a steel rod was just underneath the surface. As soon as he had the condom unrolled over it, Teddy added more lube. As he was stroking he positioned himself over it and said a silent prayer laughing to himself that he hoped he didn't kill himself in what came next.

Edward was wide-eyed the entire time he watched Teddy prepare his cock for what was to come. When Teddy lowered himself onto it, Edward felt himself moving deep into Teddy's ass. The tightness of Teddy's ass was almost more than he could take. Edward couldn't help but let out a loud moan. "Oh fuck babe..."

Teddy's eyes were rolled back in his head at the pleasure he was getting when Edward's cock hit his prostate on the way in. He held still for a minute until he could relax enough and the feeling of being split in two subsided. As soon as the discomfort was gone, Teddy lifted himself up until he could feel the crown of Edward's cock at the entrance to his ass and then he let himself drop back down on it. As he felt Edward's pubic hair against his ass again, a loud groan escaped his lips caused by the incredible sensation he received.

Edward's back came off of the bed when Teddy let himself drop and he moaned as loud if not louder than Teddy did. Teddy repeated the same action again, this time coming down with even more force. Edward couldn't control his voice any longer, "Damn babe... You're fucking incredible... Come on babe, ride it harder..."

Teddy moved his hands to Edward's chest and started massaging the muscles as he continued to lift himself up and then let himself drop. Very quickly Edward's hands were on Teddy's hips and he was helping to lift Teddy up and then force him harder down onto his cock. Edward then started to thrust his hips up to met Teddy with extra force as he was coming back down. While Edward was all the way inside he was grinding his pelvis into Teddy's ass trying to reach even deeper. Both men were loving the added force and sensations.

Edward was starting to work himself into a groove. He realized he had never felt so sexual and was again in awe of the entire experience of having sex with Teddy. To him, it felt as if his cock was made to be inside of Teddy's ass. As much as he was enjoying having Teddy on top riding his cock, he wanted to take charge of the situation and quickly thought of how he wanted to do it. He suddenly used his greater strength to lift Teddy completely off of his cock and laid him on the bed. Edward rolled on top of Teddy placing the man's thighs over his upper arms. Teddy helped line Edward up and with a quick forceful thrust of Edward's hips, he was back buried deep within Teddy's ass. He started a hard pounding rhythm. Once again he was removing all but the head of his cock from Teddy's ass, before slamming it all the way home again with a quick forceful thrust of his hips. With each inward stroke his balls were hitting Teddy's ass and making a slapping sound, adding to the loud sound of Edward's hips smashing into Ted's ass and legs.

Edward released Teddy's legs, which were quickly wrapped around his waist and ass again. Off in his own world of ecstasy, Teddy's was using his legs trying to force Edward in further. His hands were on Edward's chest and abs rubbing and feeling the muscles as Edward was moving above him. "Fuck me... Damn Edward... I love you... Fuck me harder!"

Edward wanted more body contact with Teddy and he lowered his chest to lie on top of Teddy. He placed his arms under Teddy's shoulders and grabbed his head. While he entered into a faster harder rhythmic long stroke fucking, he started kissing Teddy continuously. With Teddy's arms wrapped around his back and his nails digging into it, Edward felt the powerful love and passion emanating from his partner.

For Teddy the feeling of having Edward's arms wrapped around him coupled with the hair on Edward's chest rubbing against his own bare chest was more than he could stand. When that was all coupled with the pleasure he was receiving from Edward's skillful fucking, he was close to exploding. He could feel every muscle in his body beginning to shake.

Edward could feel Teddy starting to tremble beneath him and he knew that Teddy was about to reach his first climax. "Come on baby... I can feel you getting close... Cum for me... Come on, let go..." He then picked up his pace and assault on Teddy's prostate by tilting his thrusts and hammering away at the man's button even more.

Teddy could not think of a time in his life where he felt the way he was right now. Not only was he on the receiving end of one incredible fucking, but he could actually feel the love that Edward felt for him. It was a raw and unbridled love. Edward's assault on his ass was about to send him over the edge. His whole body was now fully shaking, something that he had never had happen before. The building orgasm was growing stronger and Teddy knew that he wouldn't be able to hold off any longer. He literally screamed when the first shot left his cock, if Edward had not been on top of him, he knew it would have hit the wall. The intensity of his orgasm startled him and he was cumming so hard it actually made his balls ache when it happened.

When Teddy's orgasm started the muscles of his ass gripped Edward's cock and started to spasm. It took Edward great concentration to not cum from the added stimulation on his cock. When Teddy finally stopped convulsing from his orgasm, Edward lifted his chest up and looked down into his lover's eyes. "More?"

"Fuck yes... Don't stop... Please keep fucking me... Please..." Teddy's voice was rough.

"Roll over." Edward's voice was low and full of passion.

Teddy didn't speak, he just nodded his head quickly and got on his stomach. As soon as he was settled, he felt Edward push his legs together, place a pillow under his hips and a moment later he felt a freshly lubed cock start to enter his ass. Edward started to fuck Teddy even harder than before. His thrusts were powerful as he started to lick and bite Teddy's shoulders.

Teddy was shocked when his normally conservative boyfriend suddenly turned into a complete animal. Edward seemed to have lost the ability to speak and was simply making grunting noises as he was fucking. Just like their first time, Teddy felt himself quickly get hard again and after what seemed like no time at all he could feel himself getting close again. As Edward's thrusting became even harder it was also starting to become chaotic and Teddy knew that signaled Edward was himself ready to cum.

As his cock began to swell, Edward pulled himself from Teddy's ass and removed the condom just in time. With each shot, Edward just kept yelling "Fuck!" Thick ropes of hot cum were shooting out of his cock, the first one went up the center of Teddy's back and hit the back of his head. As more and more shots came out Teddy's back was crisscrossed with cum.

Feeling Edward's cum hitting his back sent Teddy over the edge again, and he shot his load onto the towel Edward had placed below them earlier. He was completely spent and he knew it was going to be a great day if this was any indication.

Edward collapsed onto Teddy as his own orgasm stopped. They both laid there for a few minutes with Edward kissing Teddy's neck. Neither of the men felt they needed to say anything at that moment. They both knew their feelings for each other and both were asleep before they knew what hit them.

About an hour or so later Edward stirred and climbed off of Teddy's back. It woke Teddy up and he rolled over to look up at his lover.

"I have never felt the things I feel when we make love."

Edward blushed slightly, "I know what you mean. I don't know what it is about you, but it's like I lose myself when I'm with you. I think that's what it must be to truly make love to someone you love unconditionally, that is something I haven't felt before in my life. I've never felt that close to someone and I certainly have never experienced the kind of power before I feel when we are together like that." Edward looked down like he was embarrassed about something, "I think I need to apologize to you. I keep getting more than a little carried away and it scares me. I don't want you to ever think that I am just using you when we have sex."

"This definitely is love babe. I can feel the love coming from you and I hope you can feel the same coming from me. I have never loved anyone the way I love you." Teddy reached up and ran his hand along Edward's face. "Edward, you NEVER have to worry about me thinking you are using me for sex. Trust me... I have loved every single second of it. I want you to feel comfortable enough with me to let go and have fun. So far I think we've both had fun, don't you? Speaking of fun, let's go take a shower and go back to bed."

They walked into the bathroom and threw the dirty towel into the hamper, as they started the water for another shower. Once they were in the shower, Edward took great joy in washing Teddy from head to toe. He took extra care in washing Teddy's ass, he knew it would be sore and he didn't want to cause any discomfort.

When it was his turn, Teddy loved every second of being able to touch Edward in this way that only he was allowed to now. To have his hands soapy and sliding over Edward's muscles made Teddy start to get hard yet again. He willed himself to not get fully erect, which met with mixed results. He tried not to think about what he was doing as he washed Edward's crotch and ass. Soon enough he had washed down to Edward's feet. Teddy had never really realized how sexy Edward's feet were until this morning.

When they were out of the shower and done drying each other off, they made their way back to the bed. Edward plopped down and reached up towards Teddy pulling him down next to him. As he wrapped his arms around Teddy his cell phone rang.

He started to ignore it, but saw it was Tony. "Morning, mate."

"Sorry, I hope I didn't wake you guys up. I seem to always call when you should be in bed." His voice said there was something serious happening.

"No, it's all good mate, we've been up for a little bit. What's wrong?"

"Somehow, Mary got out of the hospital during the night. They just found out she was missing. DS Morgan and I are going through CCTV footage, but I wanted to call and let you know. There should be no way she knows where you and Elizabeth are, but you need to be careful."

"Thanks mate. We'll have to take some extra precautions. I doubt she would try anything, but you never know."

"Let me know if you need anything. Andrew and I want to take you guys out to eat or something this weekend, if you're free."

"Yeah, let me talk to Teddy about it and I'll call you back. But, that sounds like a great plan. Thanks for everything Tony.

"I'll call you if I hear anything else. Bye."

Edward flopped on his back on the bed, as he dropped his phone on the nightstand. Teddy placed his head on Edward's chest and wrapped his right arm around it. "What's wrong babe?"

"Mary disappeared from the hospital last night. Tony wants us to be extra careful."

"Damn. Let me call Viktor, I think we're going to need his special skill set."

"Why Viktor?"

"Let's just say that Viktor is more than a driver. He's actually head of Corporate Security for our entire European Division."

"And he drives you around?" There was laughter in Edward's voice.

"He's a little protective." Teddy blushed as he looked up into Edward's eyes, "I'm actually shocked that he hasn't interrogated you by now. Knowing him, he's already vetted you somehow."

"Was he military or something?"

"Yeah, he was an officer in the GRU. He came to work for my father after the breakup. They met at some function dad went to at the Russian Embassy in Washington. Since dad died, he has become one of my most trusted advisors. Do you remember me telling you I could defend myself now?"

"Of course, how could I ever forget that conversation?" Edward`s face showed the shock, anger, compassion and love that his mind processed as he remembered the story of Teddy's rape and abuse.

"Well, Viktor is the one of the people who helped put me back together after I came here. He's also the first person who taught me to fight."

"I owe him then. Remind me to thank him."

Teddy laughed, "I will babe." He then because serious, "I want to add security here, until we know what is going on. I don't think Mary got out of the hospital without help and I don't think we should risk Elizabeth's safety."

"I agree... There you go being right again. Even though Mary doesn't know where we are. I don't want to risk it either."

"I don't think we can take it for granted that she doesn't know where we are."

After a few phone calls, Teddy had arranged for Viktor to station people in the building and escorts for Bess whenever she leaves the building. Within an hour everything would be in place.

Edward was standing in the bedroom looking at Teddy, "You wanna go for a run in the park? I'll take it easy on you."

"That would be a first..." Teddy laughed at what he was implying and Edward blushed when he got it.

They changed into their running gear and were soon out the door. They set out across Kensington Road into Hyde Park, as Teddy noticed there wasn't much traffic yet that morning. Edward decided to let Teddy set the pace for the first part of their run. As they ran there were several times he fell back a few strides just to look at Teddy's ass in his nylon running shorts.

The fact that Edward was checking out his butt was not lost on Teddy. He turned his head to look over his shoulder at Edward. "Are you checking out my ass?"

A grin came across Edward's face, "You know it babe. I think I'm in love with your ass and I can't wait until later when I can see to it again."

"See to it?"

"You know, give it another right good shafting." Edward burst out laughing as he ran.

"You dirty boy... I think I've created a monster." Teddy slowed down as they rounded the corner. Coming at him was a group from Knightsbridge on an exercise run. Teddy stopped and watched as the horses came closer. The look on his face was like a child on Christmas morning.

Edward leaned towards Teddy's ear, "I'm beginning to think you just like me because I'm in the Regiment." Teddy turned towards Edward and started to open his mouth when Edward started to laugh. "I'm just messing with you babe. Come on, let's go before they want to stop and chat."

As they started running again, one of the officers waved at Edward. Teddy saw the wave but didn't notice when the man pointed at him then gave Edward a thumbs up. It made Edward smile, and he waved again as he picked up the running pace. This time as they ran, Edward was setting the pace and Teddy was thankful he was keeping it to a reasonable speed.

A short distance later Teddy looked over at Edward, "Was that who I think it was?"

"Who are you talking about?" Edward knew who he was talking about, but he wanted to play with Teddy a little.

"The officer back there, that waved at you?"

"I couldn't see for sure. Who do you think it was?"

"It looked like Pri..."

"Lieutenant... Lieutenant Wales." Edward smiled.

"Damn..." Without thinking Teddy turned his head in an effort to see the man again.

"I'll introduce you to him sometime soon."

Edward changed their path so they would be running along Kensington Road opposite the barracks as they headed back to the flat. As they ran west past the barracks they both failed to notice the silver Lexus SUV that started to follow them. They wouldn't have been able to see the two figures inside anyway, the windows were too dark. The driver was making sure to stay far enough back so if they did turn around they wouldn't be seen so easily.

Crossing at Royal Albert Hall and making their way along Jay Mews they didn't know it, but they lost the vehicle following them. As they ran by Royal Albert Hall there was a man sitting on a bench on the way to Albert Court. Teddy couldn't help but feel the man was out of place, he wasn't dressed like someone should be who was homeless or lived in the area. He looked more like someone who was looking for trouble. Teddy instantly sized the man up and looked around for cover and anything he could use as a weapon.

As they passed the bench, the man watched them intently. He didn't try to avert his stare and he watched them as they entered the building. Teddy had noticed the staring and something about the entire situation made him extremely uneasy. He stopped in the lobby and spoke with one of Viktor's men that he recognized.

When Edward heard the conversation, Teddy had to grab his arm to keep him from going out and confronting the guy. Instead, the security man walked outside as the men headed for the lift.

When they made it up stairs and inside the flat they were greeted by the smell of breakfast cooking. Reaching the kitchen they found Devon cooking. Teddy smiled at the fact Devon was dressed in the unofficial uniform, cargo shorts and a polo shirt.

"Good morning, breakfast will be ready in a few minutes."

Edward smiled, "Wow, this smells great Devon. How did you know when we'd be back?"

"My keen military reconnaissance skills... I was drinking my coffee out on the balcony and saw you guys coming." Devon smiled and everyone else laughed.

As Teddy was standing there watching Devon finish cooking breakfast, he started to think of who he wanted to introduce to Devon. `Dustin would be perfect for him.' He continued to stand there watching, without realizing that he was being watched.

Edward was observing his boyfriend. He knew the look on Teddy's face, as he was watching Devon. It was something he had seen before from him. This was the look when Teddy was planning something, usually something devious. Edward stepped in front of Teddy, blocking Devon from his view. Edward mouthed, "What are you up to?"

It made Teddy smile wide and as he pointed at Devon he whispered, "Dustin."

Edward spun around and looked at Devon for a moment, before he turned and looked back at Ted again. "Oh yeah... I could see that."

Teddy leaned up and kissed Edward, "I love you."

He was rewarded by Edward pulling him into a hug and planting one of those kisses on him that left Teddy breathless. "I love you too babe."

Devon was smiling at them when they broke apart. Teddy turned and felt guilty for a moment, "Hey Devon, we're thinking about having some friends for dinner tonight. They work with me, and you'll be seeing them often."

"That sounds like fun. I don't have many friends outside the Regiment."

Teddy's mobile rang, it was Viktor. "Good morning, did he find him?"

"Nyet, he was gone."

"Ok... Keep me posted." He hung up the phone and placed it back in his pocket.

Over breakfast, Teddy and Edward brought Devon up to speed on the new security arrangements and the need to be extra cautious when they left the flat.

After breakfast and a shower, Teddy and Edward settled in the living room on one of the large couches. Edward was resting his head on the arm of the couch and had his feet in Teddy's lap. Teddy was massaging Edward's feet, something he hadn't done before. It was something he hadn't thought of, it was just an unconscious act and Edward instantly loved it.

"Wow that feels incredible. You don't have to do that though, I didn't put them there trying to get you to do it."

"Edward, I know. It's something I wanted to do. You don't mind do you?"

"Are you kidding me? Of course I don't mind. I just didn't want you to do something you don't want to."

While still massaging Edward's feet Teddy smiled. "Babe, let's clear this up right now. I love you more than anything in this world, but I'm never going to do anything I don't want to, even for you. If I do something it's going to be for me just as much as it is for you."

"I understand." Edward laughed and then got a serious look on this face. "I need to ask you something. When we have sex, are you satisfied?"

Teddy stopped and looked into Edward's eyes. His lover's face was blushing. "You're kidding right?"

"No babe, I'm serious. You know I've never done this before and I'm not sure if I'm doing it right. I also don't know if you want or need more, if you weren't really happy with what we've been doing." Edward paused and looked around to make sure they were alone, "I wasn't sure if you wanted to fuck me."

"Is that something you want?" Teddy was surprised to say the least, but he thought this subject would up come eventually. He just didn't think it would be this quick.

"I don't think so... I don't know... if you want to... I love what we've done so far. What I'm trying to say is, if that is something you want..."

"Edward, look at me..." When he looked up, Teddy continued. "I love what we've done. I thought I had been expressing that well enough. You are by far, the most incredible lover I've ever had in my entire life. If we were to never do anything different, I would still be completely satisfied."

"Oh..." Edward smiled wide.

"I guess we should have had this discussion before we ever started having sex. Let me ask you a question... Do you think it makes me any less of a man because I love you to fuck me?"

"Of course not... If you weren't as much of a man as you are, I don't think it would be as good as it is."

"Well then, I think we don't need to every worry about anything else... unless you decide you want to try it. I've always been more of a bottom, so until you think you want to do that we don't need to even think about it."

"Sorry, I guess I just wanted to make sure that you were as COMPLETELY satisfied as I am." The grin on his face made Teddy smile.

"Babe, trust me... I have NEVER been so completely satisfied in my life." Teddy's own smile grew as he thought about their love making from that morning. "Promise me something though... If you start to get bored or find that you need or want something different, don't be afraid to tell me."

"I don't think I could ever get bored... I need to tell you right now, I'm a completely monogamous man. I think it was the way I was brought up. You never have to worry that I will ever cheat on you. I was just worried I wasn't giving you something you needed."

"I know... I can't tell you what it means that you would ask. Edward, I don't want anyone other than you, ever. So, do you want us to go and get tested together?"

"Does that mean we can?" He didn't wait for a response as that mischievous grin came instantly to his face, "Do you know of a place?"

"Yeah, we can go to Freedom Health over on Harley Street. I'll call them and see if we can get in today. We've got a contract with them for our London staff."

Teddy got up and went to retrieve his cell phone. As he was gone Edward's cell rang, when he looked at it the caller ID showed unavailable.

"Edward Smythe."

"I want my daughter you son of bitch! You can't have her!"

Edward's voice immediately grew loud and forceful, "I'm going to make sure that you never see her again. What the hell has happened to you? Drugs, Mary? Hitting our child because she talks too much for you? Have you lost your fucking mind?"

"That little bitch! I told her what I would do to her if she told you... I don't want my daughter with the man that ruined my life. I talked to a friend today and wasn't I surprised to hear you're a fucking faggot now. Guess you had to fuck a man since no woman would want to be with you."

"I truly feel sorry for you. I will make sure that you can never harm MY daughter again. You are so fucking wrong, I finally found someone who loves me, not what I can do for them. By the way, the sex is so much better than anything you could ever manage. Now, don't ever call me again. If you need to speak to me contact my barrister."

"I'll kill you and that faggot before I let you have MY daughter. In fact, I would rather see her dead too, instead of with you. I saw you two running in the park this morning, should have killed you both then. Won't make that mistake again, the next time I see you... you're a dead man."

Edward ended the call without giving her a response or listening further.

Teddy had moved to sit next to Edward during the call and as soon as it was over, he just held Edward's hand. The large man beside him was nearly shaking with anger. Teddy wanted to comfort him, but he wasn't sure how.

Edward leaned over and kissed Teddy, before scrolling through his contacts. When he found the one he wanted, he pressed send and waited for an answer.

"Royal Protection, Inspector Price."

"Tony it's Edward. I just got a call from Mary." He went on to detail what was said during the conversation. Teddy was red with anger by the end but he remained seated and calm so he could support Edward.

"Shit. Was it a number you recognized?"

"Came in as unavailable, so I didn't see the number."

"I was just about to call you. I have been working with DS Morgan on the CCTV footage from the hotel and hospital. We were finally able to identify the guy that's been with Mary. His name is Marcus MacMullen, he is a known drug trafficker from Manchester. He has had several weapon charges in his past. He's tagged in the system so anytime we have contact with him an armed response is authorized. He's a very dangerous man, Edward. He's made statements that he wasn't going to be taken alive."

"Well, Teddy has turned this place into security central. But we'll take even more precautions now. Do we have any idea how they got involved with each other?"

"We're still trying to find the connection. That's a good about the security. I'll call a friend over at Security Services and see what they can come up with on the phone call. I think the best thing you can do right now is go to the Central London County Court and file for an Ex-Parte Non-Molestation Order and request a Power of Arrest be attached. When you get it, call me back."

"Ok, we'll head over there now and do that."

"Call Mr. Blackburn and let him know what is going on. I'll be waiting to hear from you. I'm going to call over to the Superintendent and bring him up to speed."

"Thanks Tony, I'll call you when we get it."

When Edward hung up he filled Teddy in on the conversation. They were very quickly out of the flat with all of them headed towards the Central London County Court on Park Crescent. With Viktor driving, the men were all talking to each other and playing with Bess. As they drove there was the same silver Lexus SUV a few cars back. This time however, Viktor saw the vehicle following them.

"Ted, we are being followed. Third car back, silver Lexus SUV, it's been behind us since we left the flat."

"Edward, call Tony. Viktor, don't lose them."

Bess didn't seem to get what was going on, but she did sense the increase in stress of the adults around her. She didn't say anything as she reached out and held Ted's hand.

"Tony, it's Edward again. Look, we were headed to the courthouse, but we're being followed. It's a silver Lexus SUV."

"That was the vehicle on the CCTV footage. It has to be MacMullen and Mary. Listen, head for the palace, Andrew and I are here. We have enough armed officers in this area, we'll be ready."

Edward looked at Viktor, "Head for Buckingham Palace." He then looked at Teddy, "Tony and Andrew are waiting for us."

Viktor made sure that the Lexus stayed with them, while Edward was on the phone updating Tony on their progress.

Devon was working his hardest to maintain his anger. Teddy and Edward had told him about the phone call and the information about MacMullen before they left the flat. Devon had made plans in his head for what he was going to do if he was forced into a situation where he needed to protect a member of his new family. Now the time was here and he knew that he would put himself between them and harm.

For his part, Teddy had not been this nervous in a long time. He wasn't scared for himself, but he was frightened for his family and friends. He sat there going through the possibilities of trying to protect Edward and Bess. If he could get close enough to either Mary or Marcus MacMullen, he knew he could eliminate the threat. Viktor had taught him much more than to simply protect himself. This would be something he would have to explain to Edward in the future.

Edward suddenly thought about the tourists that were always present at the palace. "Tony, do you think we should do this at the palace. If it is MacMullen, we don't want to risk..."

Tony was talking to Edward and also to Andrew who was coordinating with the Metropolitan Police dispatcher. "I'm already ahead of you Edward, head to Horse Guards. Let's make it look like you are going there for work. It would draw less suspicion than stopping near the palace and we can control the action at Horse Guards better."

"Ok..." He turned his head towards Viktor again, "Viktor, head to Horse Guards."

Viktor continued past Buckingham Palace, as they passed the gate Teddy saw Tony and Andrew along with two other police vehicles pull out in traffic a few cars behind the Lexus. Viktor made the turn onto The Mall, and headed towards Horse Guards.

After what seemed like an eternity to Teddy, they turned onto Horse Guards Road from The Mall. He looked behind them and just after the Lexus turned onto the same road it was quickly surrounded by a mixture of marked police vehicles and unmarked Range Rovers. Viktor stopped a short distance away.

"Armed Police! Get your hands up!" Several officers had jumped from two marked Metropolitan Police vans and were raising their weapons at the Lexus.

The driver of the vehicle thought about trying to get away, but the police vehicles in front and behind him told him that driving away wasn't an option.

"What the fuck? This is your fault! You stupid slag!"

"Shut up... Do something you useless son of a bitch..."

The yelling from outside of the vehicle grew closer and louder. Officers armed with automatic weapons were now approaching from the front of the vehicle.

"I'm not going back to prison, especially because of you..." The driver reached beside his seat and started to lift the gun which was hidden there.

The closest officer saw the pistol being raised, and yelled "Gun!" Before he or anyone else could react there were two shots fired by the driver. The officers opened fire at the now armed suspect. Within a few seconds it was all over.

The four men watched and heard the gunfire taking place behind their vehicle. Thankfully, Bess was too distracted by a toy to see or hear what was happening. Teddy closed his eyes and said a silent prayer, while Edward sat there in disbelief.

A couple minutes later, Tony and a group of armed officers approached the Range Rover. Edward opened the door and stepped out. Teddy did the same thing and walked around to where Tony was standing.

Tony shook both their hands, "Well, that didn't go the way we were hoping for..."

There was the sound of ambulances approaching and Edward had a concerned look on his face. "Were any of the officers injured?"

"No. I have to tell you that both occupants of the SUV are dead though."

"Was it..." Edward couldn't bring himself to finish the question. As much as he hated his ex-wife for the pain she had caused, he had been wishing that she would be able to get help and be a part of Elizabeth's life again.

"I'm afraid so mate. MacMullen shot Mary before the officers could react. I'm sorry Edward."

"No, mate... Nothing for you to be sorry about, they chose their fate. Now at least I know that Bess and Teddy will be safe."

Teddy stood beside Edward, who put his arm around Teddy placing his hand in the small of his back. Teddy smiled at Edward and then looked at Tony, "Why don't you and Andrew come to dinner tonight at the flat? Say about seven?"

"I think we'd both like that. Anything we can bring?"

"No, we'll take care of everything." Teddy looked at Edward who was smiling despite his feelings at the moment.

After an hour of giving statements and talking with various police officials, Viktor drove the group back to Albert Court. Teddy told him that he wanted the security detail to remain in place for the next several days. The entire experience made him feel uneasy, but he knew that Viktor's men were some of the best and they would protect Bess.

When they were at the flat, Edward took Bess into her bedroom to talk to her about Mary. They had been very careful to avoid mentioning her while Bess was around. While Edward was in there, Teddy called John at the office to fill him in on what had happened and see what he thought about Bess needing counseling about the situation.

His next call was to Dustin. As he waited for the phone to be answered, he felt like they were missing something, something important.

"Hello Boss."

"Hey Dustin. How you doing?"

"I'm good. Loving London, like always."

"Say, are Jake and Mark around? I need to know if the three of you doing anything for dinner tonight?"

"We are all here sitting outside a café having a drink. The two of them have plans with friends, I'm free of course. What did you have in mind?"

"Why don't you come on over and I'll make steaks. I want to introduce you to Devon Baker. He was in the regiment with Edward and he came to work for us this week."

"Really?" Teddy could hear interest in Dustin's voice. "Is he..."

"Yes, and before you ask he's single."

"Ok, what time?" Teddy could tell by Devon's voice that his mood was improving.

"We're going to eat a little after seven. Just come over whenever you want."

"I'll be there... Ted, thanks." Dustin was smiling wide as he hung up his phone.

"I'll see you soon." When he hung up the phone he walked into the kitchen and looked in the fridge. "Damn. Hey Viktor!"

Viktor came walking in from the living room, where he had been talking with Devon. "Let me guess..."

"Yeah, feel like going with me to The Ginger Pig?"

When Edward emerged from Elizabeth's room he went looking for Teddy. Instead, he found Devon sitting in the living room listening to the stereo. He fell onto the couch across from Devon and shook his head. "Well, that was something I would never have imagined having to do."

"Yeah, I can't even fathom what it must have been like in there."

"Where's Teddy?"

"He and Viktor went on a food run. They should have been back by now, traffic must have been bad."

"So, since we're alone... Tell me what you think of Teddy." Edward didn't want to put Devon on the spot, but he really was interested.

"Where do I start? I think he has to be about the most caring and giving person I have ever met. I can get what you see in him. I think you two make an amazing couple. I hope I can find what you two seem to have some day."

"You will Devon. I think of myself as incredibly lucky every morning I wake next to him. The way he has opened his heart to me, Bess, and you too tells me I made the right choice in following my own heart."

The ringing of Edward's mobile stopped their conversation. When he looked at the caller ID it was Tony. "Hey mate, you guys still coming right?"

The sound of Tony's voice was near panic. "Edward, I'm at Saint Mary's Hospital. You need to get here now, it's Ted."