new girl b

###

The next day Dean, Kari, and Johnny listened to all the details of Sarah's moving to LA. She needed to go down a couple of weeks before January 3rd's orientation to get an apartment and a car. Johnny knew from his own experience that moving from a small town to the big city, was a hard transition. He had an idea that could make things easier. "I've got a suggestion that could help." Johnny hadn't known her long but between their shift schedules they probably wouldn't see each other that much anyway. "I've got a ranch on the outskirts of LA. You could stay with me."

Sarah was shocked. Okay, he's family, but only recently. "I don't know. It's a nice offer but, I think we're pushing it here."

"Listen, I work 24 hour shifts and your shifts will be changing every few weeks. Chances are we won't be there together that much."

Sarah knew he had a point and she wasn't looking forward to apartment living. " Okay, but I pay rent. I also will pay 1/2 of the utilities and groceries. I'll help keep the place clean. But, you do your own laundry." Sarah wasn't finished with her conditions. "Also, anytime either one of us feels crowded I will move out."

"Alright, I can live with those conditions. I think." Johnny wasn't sure if he was going to survive. 'Well no more walking around in my underwear,' he thought.

The Gages stayed a few more days and Sarah showed them around town. Sure enough, the gossip hounds had already spread the news that Sarah's dad was back. So, wherever they went the looks and whispers followed them. Those people who thought highly of Sarah were happy for her.

Two weeks and many phone conversations later Sarah moved to LA.

"Well, welcome to Casa de Gage." Johnny was all smiles as they pulled into his driveway. Meanwhile, Sarah was all nerves, but doing a very good job of acting cool. As they approached the house Sarah saw Roy and a woman on the front stairs.

"Who's that with Roy?"

"That's Joanne, Roy's wife. They came to help move you in." Johnny got out of the car and went to greet the DeSotos. Sarah took a deep steadying breath, put on a smile and got out of the car.

Johnny came around to Sarah's side of the car with Joanne. "This is Joanne DeSoto, Roy's wife. Joanne, meet Sarah Gage."

Joanne had seen the pictures of Sarah but they didn't do her justice. "Hi, welcome to LA.. Let me show you around the house while the guys get your stuff." Joanne wanted to make Sarah feel more comfortable so she gently placed her hand on Sarah's arm.

"Yeah, that sounds good." Sarah followed Joanne to the house.

Roy and Johnny watched the women leave. Roy turned to Johnny, "So, how's it going? She seems pretty nervous. The drive down gave you plenty of time to talk."

Johnny leaned up against the Rover. Running his hand through his hair he let out a deep sigh. "Sarah is so open about a lot of things. Like work and the Metzs'. But when I try to learn more personal stuff-nothing . Her personality runs in all directions."

Roy was trying to understand all of John's frustrations. "Maybe as she trusts you more she'll open up. You are going to be living under the same roof."

Johnny stood up straight and turned to look at his house. "Maybe this was a mistake. I let my heart get ahead of my head. Man, what was I thinking?"

Roy smiled and shook his head. " You were thinking how great it could be to have a sister. To help her out and to be a big brother." Slapping Johnny on the back Roy continued. "Remember I know a little about Sarah and from what I've seen, this will all work out."
The two men climbed the stairs and went inside. Johnny didn't see Roy raise his head and look to the sky, mouthing a prayer.

"Well, that was easy." Joanne stated handing an ice tea to Sarah.

"Yeah, there wasn't much to move in." Sarah replied with a forced grin. " I never lived on my own. So besides my clothes and some momentos I really don't have anything."

Joanne watched Sarah walk over to the mantle where Johnny kept photos of family and friends. The words rung in Joanne's head, 'I really don't have anything'. Joanne went to where Sarah was standing. "You've got a new family and special new friends who are willing to help you adjust to being here." Joanne's voice became as serious as the look on her face. "Let us help you."

Sarah looked at Joanne and was about to speak when Roy entered the room.

"Hey Jo, we told the sitter we'd be back by six," Roy said pointing to his watch.

Joanne let out a sigh for her husband's poor timing. "Sorry, gotta go. Call me for anything at anytime." Joanne said taking Sarah's hand. Sarah nodded. "Sarah, I genuinely mean it."

Johnny walked his friends out to their car. "See ya tomorrow Pally."

"Be yourself Junior, and everything will be alright." Roy patted John's back. Johnny waved as the car pulled out. Once the car was out of sight he went back into the house.

Seeing Sarah in the kitchen going through the fridge he said, " I think Joanne stocked the basics for us."

"I see she left all the fixins for sandwiches. How about that for dinner?" Sarah said holding the packages of deli meats Joanne left.

"Yeah, I'm too tired to try to make a big meal."

"John I'd make it for you, but I don't know what you like." Sarah said pleadingly. 'Man, I don't even know if he likes mayo or mustard.'

Johnny knew he had to try to make her feel comfortable in her new home. He had an idea even though he was tired. It would be a great way to learn about each other. Or at least their eating habits. "It's quarter to six, the grocery store is still open. Why don't we go shopping together?"

Sarah couldn't say no. Johnny was trying so hard to help her. "That'll be good. I can get my bearings and the only juice Joanne got is orange juice. I hate the stuff." She made the 'gross' face.

Johnny laughed. "You're in California now, orange juice is the preferred drink."

"Well, I 'prefer' apple juice." Sarah laughed at her own comment. "Let's go John. Hey you drove all the way down here, why don't I drive and you navigate."

"Only I drive the Rover." He said with a little more attitude than he intended. He saw Sarah nod and with her head down she passed him. 'Dammit. I keep forgetting she just not use to me yet.'

"Sarah I don't even let Roy drive the Rover" Johnny said with a chuckle, going after her.

When they arrived at the store Johnny drove the cart too. They started in produce.
"Okay, what vegetables do you like?" Simple question Johnny thought 'til he looked at Sarah.
Johnny couldn't believe how large her eyes looked. "Hey, is something wrong?'

"John I feel like an idiot."

"Huh, why?"

Sarah continued. " John we only had a general store. The whole store would fit in this produce section."   She waved her arms. Johnny had to stifle a laugh. This might be fun after all.

"Just take it slow and we'll get through this." Johnny said in a condescending tone while taking her arm.

Whipping her arm from him, "Oh you think <laugh, laugh> this is funny?"

"In a word, Yup."

"Let's see how funny you think it is when we get to the feminine products." She wiggled her eyebrows at him and smiled. Johnny hadn't thought about that stuff. The expression on his face was too much for Sarah. She laughed so loud other customers stared.

"I'll be gentle with you John. Seeing that it's your - first time." She giggled.

Regaining his composure and the color to his face. "Let's go back to my question about vegetables."

"No broccoli, cauliflower, or brussel sprouts." Sarah said. "If you like any of those, I just won't come home for dinner that night."

Johnny hated those same vegetables. "Well, that was easy. Let's get stuff for salad and some carrots."

The meats were easy. Sarah couldn't understand why her liking hamburgers seemed to relax him. Paper products were no sweat. Then came the aisle of women's products.

"Aren't you coming?" Sarah nodded her head in the direction of the dreaded aisle.

"I'll meet you on the other side." And he was gone.

Sarah got what she needed then went in search of John. She saw him and was about to call his name when someone else called to him.

"Hey Gage, a little late to be shopping isn't it?" Chet asked. "Or you trying to pick up girls with the best melons?"

Of all people it had to be Chet. "I just got back into town and needed some basics." 'Thank God Sarah isn't around, especially with her products.   Just then Johnny saw Sarah and she pointed to the next aisle and nodded. 'Good girl, get outta sight.'

"Gage you are no fun. Comin' to work tomorrow?" Chet asked as he turned to continue his own shopping.

"Yeah."

"Okay see ya then Gage." Spinning around Chet yelled. "Don't forget the feminine products."

Johnny finally found Sarah in frozen foods. "That was close, if he'd seen you it would have made the news."

Sarah was looking at all the choices. "The phantom, right?" Johnny nodded. Sarah continued. "What the hell is a tater tot?"

"Toss me a bag and we'll have em for dinner." Sarah tossed the bag and a piece of ice came off the bag and landed where Johnny was about to step.

"JOHN!" Sarah didn't have time to say anything else before Johnny executed a twist and fell on his backside. "Oh, John I'm so sorry." She bit her lip so as not to laugh. "Does anything hurt?" Sarah noticed nothing was bent the wrong way.

Johnny felt Sarah's hand rubbing his back. "Nah, just my pride." Johnny brushed himself off and went to stand up. Sarah noticed he was favoring his left leg.

"Hey, now wait a minute you're limping. What hurts? Straight answer." Her tone reminded him of his mother.

"My foot kinda hurts. But nothing serious." He started pushing the cart.

Sarah knew his job needed him to be in top shape or lives could be at risk. "Listen you're working tomorrow. Let's get that foot checked out, please, for me?" Johnny didn't think he hurt himself badly, but it was starting to throb. And the way that she asked him, just showed how concerned she really was. 'Is this what it's like to have a sibling?' He wondered.

"Alright, but you are going to have to drive."

Sarah came to his side and wrapped her arm around his waist. Johnny put his arm around her shoulder. The sound of Sarah's laughter could be heard again. Limping out of the store Johnny turned to her, "Okay, what's so funny NOW?"

Looking up at his face. "I get to drive the Rover, I get to drive the Rover." Sarah kept singing to the tune of pop goes the weasel. Johnny grimaced and just tried to ignore her.

The trip to the hospital was uneventful. Sarah was a careful driver. Once at the hospital they realized they had a problem.

"How do we get you in there without someone seeing me?" Sarah inquired.

"Oh boy." Johnny ran his hand through his hair.

"I gotta plan. When I get out of the truck you slide to the driver's seat." Sarah looked around and got out of the truck. "Help will be here shortly, Bro."

"Sarah, what are you going to do? Sarah?" Too late she was already in the emergency room.
Next thing Johnny saw was Sarah running past the truck waving. She disappeared into the parking lot. Security and Dr. Brackett came flying out of the hospital looking around frantically.

"Hey Doc can you give me a hand here?" Johnny said opening the door to the Rover and gingerly placing weight on his foot. Dr. Brackett noticed that Johnny was injured and went to his side.

"What happened to you?" Brackett shoulder Johnny's weight and ordered the security officer to get a wheelchair.

"I fell at the grocery store, no comments please." The wheelchair arrived and Johnny sat down. "Hey, doc why were you and the security guard running out here?"

"Johnny some woman came yelling into the hospital about somebody being hurt out here? Damndest thing I've ever seen. She moved so fast we didn't even see her face." Brackett said looking around while wheeling Johnny into the hospital.

"Hey Doc," Johnny waved his hand so Brackett would lean in close. When Brackett was only a couple of inches away Johnny continued. "It was Sarah, she didn't want to be seen."
Johnny gave the doctor an apologetic look.

"Sarah, Sarah Gage." Brackett was angry. "She was the crazy woman. When I see her I'm going to.. to.. Where is she now?"

Looking at the doctor sheepishly, "I don't know. But she's got to drive me home."

Brackett moved Johnny into an empty examination room to look after Johnny's latest injury.
Dr. Brackett took care of Johnny's foot and said he could work his shift but he should try to take it easy. The nurses were shocked that Brackett himself helped Johnny back out to the Rover. Neither one of them saw Sarah anywhere.

"She should be close by Doc. I mean how else would she get home."

Brackett was getting really annoyed with the new Gage. "Johnny when you…"

"Hey Doc, how's his foot?" Sarah popped up from the back of the Rover.

"His foot is fine. However, I'm about ready to admit you to psyche." Johnny made good his escape to the passenger side of the Rover.

Sarah opened the door and was climbing in when she said, " Doc, calm down, no harm no foul. You keep getting this mad you'll be an admit to CCU." With that Sarah drove out of the parking lot, leaving behind an open mouthed Kel Brackett.

Johnny was angry that Sarah would behave that way. "Hey, you can't just do things like that. It's not right."

"I got you in and out without anyone being the wiser."

"What if that guard caught you? They just might fire you from the sheriff's department. Nevermind looking crazy to all my friends. Brackett is my boss. You embarrassed the hell outta me."   Johnny noticed that she had a death grip on the steering wheel. Her knuckles were white. What she did next he never anticipated.

"You're right." Sarah pulled the Rover over and got out. " I'll find my own way home."
With that she disappeared into the night. By the time Johnny got himself into the driver's seat and pulled out into traffic she was gone. Johnny drove around and around hoping to spot her but no luck. He needed help, so he drove to Roy's.

Roy and Joanne just finished tucking the children in when they heard Johnny's Rover in the driveway.

"Hey, Johnny long time no…..What's wrong with your foot?" Roy stated.

"My foot is the least of my problems. Sarah's gone. Man I blew it."

Roy directed Johnny into the house and to the den. Once there Johnny explained the night's events to Roy and Joanne.

"I really went off on her. Damn I should've waited 'til we got home."

Roy couldn't believe someone in Sarah's line of work could behave so impulsively. "Johnny she's been under a lot of stress maybe the thing at the hospital was a release, not a good idea but a tension reliever."

Joanne tried to comfort Johnny. "She's probably needs sometime alone to straighten out things in her head."

"Johnny, I think Joanne's right. Sarah knows that you care. She'll realize you had her best interests at heart." Roy couldn't tell if he was getting through. "John, she's a cop, and a good one. She couldn't do that job if she was always so impulsive."

Johnny nodded. It was true, but Sarah was still out there alone. "I'd better get going home. Maybe she'll be there."

Joanne patted Johnny's back. "You call us and let us know. No matter what time." She hugged him. "We're here for you and Sarah."

Johnny drove home faster than he should have. He replayed the night's events over and over in his mind. Arriving home, he saw no lights on. "Dammit where are you?"   He called Roy and told him she wasn't at the house.

"If she doesn't show up by morning, you come over here and we'll call Vince, okay?" Roy waited for Johnny's reply. "John, you there?"

Finally, Johnny replied shakily, "Roy she may be a cop but she's still a woman alone on the streets of a city known for …"

Roy mustered all his reserves and interrupted Johnny's thoughts, "She's no fool John. You yourself have told me about reservation life. She survived that, she certainly can handle LA."

"Thanks Roy, I'll call you if she turns up. Bye."

Morning came with no sigh of Sarah. Johnny drove to Roy's. True to his word, Roy called Vince and told him everything. Vince told Roy that until Sarah was missing 24 hours, he could not do anything officially. Johnny's depression was not lost on Roy.

"Are you able to work?" Roy asked an obviously exhausted Johnny.

"Yeah, I'm gonna go nuts just sitting around."

Roy and Johnny left for work. Joanne got the children off to school. Joanne was angry at Sarah for upsetting Johnny so. She went into the kitchen and opened the drapes on the sliding glass doors. Joanne practically jumped out of her skin. There on the lounge chair was a sleeping Sarah Gage. Joanne unlocked and threw open the door startling Sarah.

"YOU HAD US SCARED TO DEATH. ROY EVEN CALLED THE POLICE. YOU SHOULD HAVE CALLED JOHNNY. WHY DID YOU COME HERE?"

Sarah's answer was low and weepy. Joanne couldn't understand her. Grabbing Sarah by the shoulders Joanne demanded, "What? What did you say?"

"I'VE RUINED EVERYTHING WITH JOHNNY. HIS FAMILY IS NOT GOING TO WANT ANYTHING TO DO WITH ME, ---I'VE GOT NOWHERE ELSE TO GO!"
With that outburst she collapsed into the arms of Joanne. It took the better part of an hour for Joanne to calm and reassure Sarah all was not lost.

"Come on, let's call the guys and let them know you're okay."

Sarah splashed cold water on her face. "Joanne I don't normally lose it like that. I'm sorry."

"Sarah the bumps you've had in life's road recently -I think it's about time you let it out" Joanne rubbed Sarah's back. "How about some tea, breakfast, and a friendly ear?"

"Change tea to coffee and I'll take you up on it." Sarah said drying her face. "Oh, and could I have a glass of milk first." Joanne just shook her head and rolled her eyes at Sarah.

Throwing the towel on the counter Sarah couldn't understand Joanne's reaction. "Could we call John after I eat? I'm gonna need the energy."

"Sure, but let's not make him wait too long. How about eggs, bacon and toast?"
"Joanne whatever is easy for you." Sarah said.

Joanne busied herself getting Sarah's breakfast while Sarah went to the bathroom to clean up. Wait a minute, Joanne thought, how did she know where Roy and I live. She's never been here before.

A few minutes later breakfast was on the table and Sarah came back into the kitchen.
"I didn't realize how hungry I was, thanks Joanne." With that Sarah began eating.

Joanne watched as Sarah quickly cleaned the plate. Well, she doesn't eat with her mouth open.
"Sarah, how did you know where our house was? I mean you've never been here."

Sarah finished chewing before answering. "I'd love to claim brilliant detective work. But I can't.   I just looked up DeSoto, Roy in the phone book." Sarah smiled and shrugged her shoulders.

Joanne laughed and smiled. Such a simple answer. "Sarah why didn't you ring the bell? We wouldn't have had to worry.'

Sarah took her plate to the sink. She then turned to face Joanne. "I needed time to think." Sarah began to pick at nothing on her hand. "John was right. I acted very badly at the hospital." Sarah walked back to the table and sat across from Joanne. Joanne could see an intensity in the young woman's eyes. "You see Joanne a lot of people back home made my last weeks there pretty miserable. They kept saying how I'd be 'out of my league' and I would come begging for my old job back." Sarah looked down at the table. "I will never give them that satisfaction. I'd rather dress in feathers and buckskins in a Wild West show."
Sarah laughed at her own comment.

"Sarah I have a feeling those people have drastically underestimated you." Joanne put her hand under Sarah's chin. Forcing Sarah to lift her head and make eye contact with Joanne.
"They also underestimated your new friends."

Letting out a deep sigh Sarah nodded and smiled at Joanne.

"I think we better call the guys and let them know you're okay." Reaching for the phone it suddenly rang. Joanne answered. "Hank" 'Oh God, his voice is shaky.' "What happened?…..I can drive myself…..you're sure he's alright….Johnny…."

Sarah knew this type of conversation and where it might be going. She listened intensely.
Joanne continued on the phone. "..so they're both on the way to Rampart…I'm leaving now. I won't be alone Hank I .." Joanne took Sarah's hand.. "…have a friend with me. Oh, Hank tell Johnny my friend's name is Sarah. Bye."

Sarah stood up, straight and tall. When she spoke her voice was strong. "Do you need me to drive?"

"No I'll do it." Both women quickly exited the house, got into the car and headed to Rampart.

"Joanne, what happened?" Sarah kept looking straight ahead.

Taking a deep breath to center herself Joanne told Sarah about the early morning fire and the explosion that knocked Roy and Johnny down a stairwell. " Hank said they were both conscious when the ambulance left the scene." Joanne ventured a look at Sarah. Sarah's eyes never looked at Joanne.

###

"No, I can't stay I've gotta find Sarah." Johnny was doing his best to fight off Brackett.

Hank entered the treatment room when he heard Johnny yelling. "Johnny, Joanne is coming down here with Sarah. You've gotta calm down buddy."

"Sarah's with Joanne. Is she alright? Where was she all night?" Johnny was still fighting Brackett to sit up.

"Gage lay back down or when they get here I won't let them see you." That did it. Johnny had to see that Sarah was all right with his own eyes.

"Hank, leave the room now, I need to examine him," Brackett asked politely. Once Hank was gone Brackett turned back to Johnny, "do you care to tell me what that was all about?"

"Doc, I just want to see Sarah."

"Okay, let me check you over, but I'm sure you'll be spending at least one night with us." Brackett poked and prodded and diagnosed a mild concussion. Johnny had a hard time keeping his eyes open. Being up all night and today's fiasco with the fire wore him out.

Sarah and Joanne entered the hospital and all earlier worries forgotten. Joanne looked around, hoping to see Dixie or Hank. But neither were around. Sarah was far bolder; she actually started looking in treatment rooms.

"Joanne, Roy's in here." Sarah pointed to room 3. "There's a doctor talking to him. Roy sounds alright."   Sarah continued looking for Johnny as Joanne went into room 3.

Dr. Brackett exited his office with Captain Stanley. "It looks like they both suffered mild concussions and will be spending the night with us." Brackett noticed Joanne going into room 3. Pointing Joanne out to Cap. "Well, you better go tend to Joanne and Roy. I'll check on Johnny. They will be moved to a room shortly."

"Thanks Doc." Captain Stanley headed into room 3.

Brackett noticed a figure heading into Johnny's treatment room. He immediately realized who it was.

Sarah stood just inside the doorway and watched Johnny sleeping on the examining table.   She felt horrible about making him worry. Sarah approached the head of the table. Hesitantly she began running her hand through his hair. "John, I'm here." He slowly opened his eyes and reached for her other hand.

"You okay?" he said

"Hey, I should be asking you that. You're the one on the exam table. So, how are you?"

"I'm fine. Just a headache. Knowing you're alright helps." A slight grin appeared on his face.

"John, I'm so sorry about worrying you. I just had to clear my head and try to…"

John put his hand to her face. " Hey, I understand the pressure you've been under. I should have been more understanding."

Sarah laughed and shook her head. "Okay, it's all your fault.   Feel better now."

John tried to laugh but it made his head hurt.

Brackett entered the room. "Well, maybe you will relax now that you know Sarah's okay."

"Hi, Doc. So, how is he?" Sarah inquired still running her hand through John's hair.

"Mild concussion. Should be able to go home in the morning." Brackett turned to Johnny. "And before you ask, Roy has the same diagnosis. So, the two of you will be sharing a room."

Brackett took off his lab coat and handed it to Sarah. "Here put this on."

'Excuse me."

"I'm trying to help you preserve your secret. Now put on the coat and get a surgical mask out of that cabinet. Better get a cap too."

Sarah held the lab coat out to the doctor. "This isn't necessary. I could care less about our little secret right now."

Johnny took Sarah's hand. "You are not depriving me of trying to get one over on Chet."

"John"

"Put on the coat, mask, and cap. If Dr. Brackett is willing to help, let him."

Sarah put on her disguise feeling a bit like an idiot. "John I feel ridiculous. The things I will do for family." Sarah winked at him. Turning back to Brackett, "Okay, now what?"

Dr. Brackett told her to go wait in his office until Johnny and Roy were settled. Then he would come get her and take her to their room. True to his word, he did just that.

Roy was holding Joanne's hand when Dr. Brackett and another doctor entered the room he was sharing with Johnny.

"Hi, Doc. Hi Sarah."

Roy and Joanne watched as Sarah pulled down the mask. Laughing Sarah said, "Thought I'd have to go to med school to get to wear this get-up." She immediately went to John's side. "You look better." Turning to Roy, "How are you feeling?"

"Got a head ache. But other than that everything is just fine." Roy looked over to Johnny and winked.

"Ladies I think it is time these two got some rest." Brackett watched as Sarah and Joanne said their good-byes. "If you ladies use the stairs and go out through the front of the hospital we might just keep our little secret." Following the doctor's advice, sure enough Joanne and Sarah avoided running into anyone who might know them.

Back in the room Roy could tell Johnny was not as relaxed as he was letting on. "Johnny, Sarah looks like she survived her first night in the big city just fine." Johnny only nodded his head. "Hey, come on partner, things are gonna work out."

"Roy, remember yesterday when I said this might be a mistake," Johnny finally looked at Roy. "I mean letting her stay with me.   Roy when I couldn't find her last night I was kinda glad." Johnny began playing with a thread on his blanket. " I figured maybe she'd find somewhere else to stay, and I would be off the hook."

Confused by Johnny's statement Roy could only wonder why Johnny felt this way. "Johnny how could you say that? What hook would you be off of?"

"The 'family hook'."

"What?"

"If we didn't get along I wouldn't feel obligated to help her out so much." Johnny was staring at the ceiling. "I sometimes find myself thinking how much easier it would have been if I didn't know about her-or she didn't exist."

"Oh Johnny, you're letting yourself get worked up over something that can't be changed." Roy was careful about what he said next. "Johnny it will be difficult to allow someone to be as important to your parents as you are."

That did it. Johnny was now looking directly at Roy.

"Johnny do you ever doubt that I love both my kids equally." Johnny shook his head 'no'. "That's right. I have enough love for both of them."

"But Roy I'm not use to sharing - especially my parents. I feel guilty about all I've had and all the hardships she's had." Taking a deep breath, he continued. " She's coming with me to spend Christmas with my parents. That's always been 'family time'. My parents and me. Now this stranger is going to be there."

Roy hesitated, then shook his head. " Sarah will only be a stranger if you don't allow her into your family. Johnny take it a day at a time and see what happens. I don't think Sarah would be the type to stay if she is not wanted." Laying his head down on the pillow Roy felt his eyes begin to close.

"Roy she is special, isn't she? I mean you and Joanne like her, so she can't be all that hard to deal with."

"Johnny, Jo and I are use to dealing with the little idiosyncrasies of people named Gage. And yes Jo and I like her."

Both men finally fell asleep.

Christmas that year was spent at the Gage Ranch in Montana.

This time Dean showed Sarah around town. It was easy for Sarah to see that her father was a well-respected man. Kari also invited the Metz's, but they couldn't attend. Johnny and his dad planned on giving Sarah a special gift that Christmas. Dean spent many days trying to find just the right gift. So, on Christmas morning Sarah was led to the barn. Johnny brought out a jet-black mare. Sarah was overcome with a feeling of acceptance. She had come to believe the Gages were happy to have her around but she doubted whether she was totally accepted. Now she knew they truly loved her, not because they should, but because they wanted to.

The day after Christmas Dean heard someone walking through the house. It was still dark outside. Turning to look at the clock, it was only 4 am. Then Dean heard the front door open and close. Dean went to see who could be up at this ungodly hour. Johnny's door was shut but Sarah's was open. Looking in he could see that no one was in the bed. Dean went back to his room and changed. Dressing warmly, he went in search of Sarah. Seeing a light on in the barn, that's where his search began and ended. He could see her brushing her new horse. He also realized she was talking to the horse. Quietly he stepped into the barn.

"…so keeping you may not be the best thing. I'd hate to get attached, then have things not work out."

"What won't work out?" Dean Gage asked of his daughter.

Sarah just stood there holding the grooming brush looking at him. "Aren't you a good Injun. You made not a sound walking in here." By the look on Dean's face Sarah knew she needed to apologize. "Sorry, shouldn't have said that." Sarah looked down at the brush and picked at the bristles. "See that's exactly why I shouldn't take the horse. You don't even know whether I'm someone you want around. I can be downright mean and nasty sometimes. There are things you don't know about me and probably wouldn't want to know. The Metz's don't even know half the stuff I pulled. If they had, they would've thrown me out." Finally she took a breath.

"I thought only Johnny could talk without breathing." Dean and Sarah laughed. Dean went to stand next to Sarah. "You are my child. I may not like what you have done, or will do. But I do love you."

"How come?"

Shaking his head, "What?"

"You've just met me. People who've known me my whole life have never said that." Sarah wore a serious expression upon her face.

"You are a part of me. If I didn't love you, I couldn't love myself." Dean continued. "A parent's love doesn't happen over time like it does for a man and a woman. A parent's love is instantaneous and unconditional. The moment I knew Kari was pregnant with John; I was in love with the baby growing inside her. The moment I knew about you-I loved you."
Dean picked up another brush and started grooming the horse. Sarah watched her father and joined him. The rest of the time Dean and Sarah spent in the barn that morning healed both of them.

The one thing that remained to do was to introduce Sarah to Johnny's friends in LA. Sarah asked Johnny to still not tell anyone about her until she had time to settle in. Johnny reluctantly agreed. Roy and Dr. Brackett would also respect her wishes. Joanne had made it her business to show Sarah around. Roy and Joanne's children would also not be told until Sarah gave her okay.

Sarah realized Johnny was right about living in the big city. Just driving around was a challenge. The noise and the people were unbelievable. She was thankful to have the ranch to go home to. She spent many days just driving with Roy, Jo, or Johnny to learn her way around. The rest of Sarah's time was working on learning the different radio call signs and penal codes. It is standard procedure that new officers are placed on probation pending evaluation of their skills. Sarah's probation was for two months since she was an experienced officer transferring from another department. Johnny asked if at the end of the probation he could finally show her off. She agreed.

Part 6 present day

Joanne dialed the station's phone number. She needed to know if Sarah agreed to the picnic on Saturday.

"Station 51, John Gage speaking."

"Well, hello Johnny. You sound happy. I guess Sarah okayed the picnic." Joanne loved the girl. And she couldn't wait for her children to meet her.

"Yeah, everything is set. Since her car is in the shop, she's gonna swing by here and pick up the Rover around midnight and hit one of those all-night groceries. Then she'll pick Roy and me up in the morning." Johnny didn't see the short Irishman listening in the doorway. "Oh Johnny, after working she expects to go shopping?," Joanne couldn't believe the energy these Gages had. "No, Joanne, she doesn't mind. Sarah would rather run out after work than have to get up earlier in the morning. She's a real night owl. Sometimes she'll even go for midnight rides."

"Johnny Gage, you tell that girl to sleep in. I'll pick you and Roy up once I get the kids on the bus."

Johnny, nodding his head, started laughing. "Joanne no… Sarah will pick up Roy and I in the morning."

Joanne was not going to back down. "Johnny, I insist."

He knew he was beat. " Okay, Roy and I will wait out front for you. I can't wait until everyone meets her. Jennifer and Chris are going to love their new aunt." Suddenly the tones went off. "Gotta go Jo."

Just then the squad was called out. Chet couldn't believe his ears, Johnny had some girl living with him named Sarah and she was going to be 'aunt' to Chris and Jennifer. Gage married. It must have been when he left work abruptly after his last injury, Chet thought. He was going to make sure to be up around midnight to get a look at this girl.

At dinner that night Chet decided to try to get some information on the new chick in Gage's life. "So, Gage, haven't heard you talk about any dates lately. The chicks in LA all gave up on you, huh?"

"If I want a date I'll get one. I've been busy with the ranch and other things lately. So, what's your excuse? Can't find a girl short enough for you?"

"Hey, Gage at least I get along better with women than horses. Lately the only girls you hang out with have four legs."

After dinner as their shiftmates were watching the news, Roy and Johnny cleaned the kitchen.

<This is just into the newsroom. The sheriff's office has just announced that an officer has been shot and critically injured trying to apprehend a robbery suspect. It has also been reported that the officer is female. No further information is available at this time pending notification of the officer's family. Also, today in Los Angeles…>

Roy took one look at his partner and saw the color drain from his face. "Johnny, Johnny I'm sure it's not her. Come on, let's go to Cap's office. The other members of the shift couldn't understand why Johnny took the announcement so personal. Chet had an idea that maybe Johnny's 'new girlfriend' might be a deputy sheriff. Johnny and Roy went to the cap's office.

"Oh God, Roy what if it's her? How do I tell my parents?" Johnny sat down and put his head in his hands. Before Roy could answer, Cap came into his office.

"Is everything okay Johnny, Roy?" Captain Stanley could see Johnny was extremely upset.

"Cap, could you take us out of service for about ½ an hour? Johnny needs to check on something." Roy asked the captain.

"Sure, Roy."

The station's phone rang a few minutes later. Roy and Johnny listened to Cap answer it. "Roy, it's Joanne, she sounds upset."

Roy patted Johnny on the back. "I'll take it in here Cap."

Roy knew why she was calling. "Hello Jo, yes we heard. He's upset. No we haven't heard anything from anyone." Roy heard the second phone line ring. "Hang on Jo." Roy listened as Cap answered the phone again.

"Okay, I will but don't you want to…. Yes I'll tell him you'll call back…what name…. He'll know?"

Captain Stanley went to his office to relay the mysterious message to Gage. "Johnny, some woman just called to tell you that 'it wasn't her and she's alright'. She also said she'd call you back later." The smile that spread across Johnny's face and the hug he gave Roy told the Cap he just delivered good news.

Roy remembered that Joanne was still on the line. "Jo it wasn't Sarah. She just called the station ...no, she didn't talk to Johnny. She said she'd call him back later. I love you. Gotta go." Roy turned to see a more relaxed Gage.

Captain Stanley had crossed his arms over his chest. Looking back and forth from Roy to Johnny, "Do either one of you wish to explain what just happened here?" Roy decided to take the pressure off Johnny.

"Johnny thought he might know the deputy that got shot and, um, just needed time to find out if it was her." Their secret was still safe and the explanation made sense.

"So, it wasn't John's friend who was hurt. I can put the squad back in service, yes?" Stanley knew the explanation was purposely vague but trusted his men.

Johnny stood and thanked his captain for his understanding and concern.   The captain left his office, followed by his two paramedics.

Around 8pm, Gage received a phone call that he took in the cap's office. Chet tried to eavesdrop, but Roy was tenacious about keeping him away from Cap's door. When Johnny finished his conversation, he and Roy made a supply run to Rampart so they could talk alone.
No sooner did Roy pull onto the main road than Johnny was telling him about Sarah's call.
"Sarah said it was a routine traffic stop and the guy pulled out a gun instead of his license and shot her." A chill ran down both there spines. "Roy, it could have just as easily been Sarah." John stared out the window of the squad. "Roy, we could be on the way to the morgue to identify her body instead of getting supplies."

Roy knew Johnny was right. "Johnny, she probably worries about the same thing happening to you."

Johnny turned towards Roy with a somber look. "Roy, how does Joanne handle it?"

Roy pulled the squad over, turned off the engine and just stared out the windshield. Johnny and Roy never discussed this before. "Mostly, I think we both don't dwell on what could go wrong. I mean if we spent all our time worrying about what could go wrong we'd miss all the stuff that goes right." Roy turned to face Johnny. "I mean she and I make a point of," Roy was getting embarrassed but felt he needed to tell Johnny the rest. "..saying 'I love you' before I leave for work." Johnny smiled at the tenderness his partner and wife shared.

"I don't think that would work for Sarah and I." Johnny said smiling. The smile quickly faded. "It's hard to believe it's only been a few months, and yet if something were to happen to her…" Johnny was looking out passenger window again. "….I think I should have a talk with her. Make sure she knows what she means to me."

"Junior, I think she already knows. But you're right. For people in our line and her line of work-heck for anyone-you should always tell people how you feel." Roy took, and released a deep breath and started the squad. Both men were quiet the rest of the trip to Rampart.

The station had two runs that night, both before midnight, and the men were tired. So, around 10:30, they went to bed. Chet waited until the dorm was quiet, then made his way to the rec room. He was gonna get a look a Gage's new girl. Chet's patience and several cups of coffee paid off. Around 11:45 he noticed a figure walking into the back parking lot. The silhouette was that of a woman, but due to the lighting he couldn't get a good look at her face. The woman retrieved the keys from the tire well and opened the door. The interior light came on. But that still did not give Chet enough light to see her by. As the Rover pulled out of the parking lot Sarah could see someone peeking out the window of the station. Has to be Chet thought Sarah. Time to have some fun. As she passed the window she slowed down and blew him a kiss. Sarah knew he couldn't really see her face but would see the gesture. Chet was shocked. Whoever this girl was, she certainly was bold. Chet still did not get a good look at her, though.

At breakfast the next morning, Marco noticed that Johnny's Rover was missing from the lot. "Hey Johnny, your car isn't out back."

"It's okay Marco, a friend had to borrow it." Johnny replied swallowing his spoonful of cereal.

Chet saw an opportunity and took it. "Yeah, Johnny she was sure a looker."

Johnny stopped eating and looked at Chet. "You saw her?"

"Yep, you sure got lucky Gage, what a woman."

Johnny managed to think before he spoke again. 'If Chet really got good look at her, he would have noticed the resemblance to me. He's bluffing, digging for information. Well, two can play this game'. "Well Chet, you got me. I was going to wait awhile before telling anyone about her, but what the hay." Roy practically choked on his cereal.

"Her name is Sarah and she has blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes."

Chet fell for it hook, line and sinker. "Yep, that's the girl that picked up the Rover. So, Johnny, when did you meet her?"

"Well Chet, I'd love to discuss this with you but Roy and I have to get going. Come on Roy, we don't want to be late for Joanne." Johnny patted Roy on the back, and taking his arm, led him to the locker room. Once in the locker room Johnny couldn't contain his laughter any longer. " I'm finally gonna pull one over on The Phantom."

"Junior, I thought we were done-for." Roy said, starting to change.

"So did I. But when he said 'he saw her' well everyone talks about the family resemblance, so I figured he was digging, and I just went along with it." Johnny was so excited, Roy thought he was going to bounce out of his skin. "Tomorrow is going to be great." They heard a car horn beeping from the front of the station.

"Junior, I think our ride is here. Let's not keep Jo waiting." Roy and Johnny quickly made their way to Jo's car.

Chet watched Roy and Johnny leave. 'Thought you outsmarted The Phantom, huh Gage. When the interior light of the Rover came on, I may not have been able to see her face, but I did notice the color of her hair…. Very dark, almost black ...Certainly not blond, Johnny baby. What are you up to? Perhaps a phone call to a friend in the sheriff's office can spread some light on the situation.'

When Chet got home he called an old girlfriend in the sheriff's office, but she didn't like Chet and in no uncertain terms told him where to go. Next he tried a friend that worked at the DMV. BINGO! Sarah Gage, new to LA, listed as a deputy sheriff, formerly of South Dakota, license issued three months ago, and the address was the same as John Gage. Chet knew Johnny had family in Montana but he never mentioned any family from South Dakota.   'Three months ago he had gone home for vacation, maybe that's when he met her. Yeah, that's it, and now they're married. That's why the same name, and why that news report scared him.'

Later in the day he called Marco and shared his suspicions.   Marco wasn't as convinced but he agreed to meet Chet at a local bar to discuss it further. Chet also called Mike and Cap. They also couldn't believe Johnny would get married and not tell them. They would join Marco and Chet at the bar.

Chet was waving his arms trying to make the others see what he saw. "Think about it, he hasn't talked about any girls in three months. Johnny's not the type to just move in with some girl. We all know he's an only child and never talks of any other family but his parents and his aunt. He has never let anyone drive the Rover, except maybe Roy. And let's not forget about her name, Sarah GAGE. Also, the picnic tomorrow, could be a reception. Put all this together and I tell ya, Gage got married."

Marco, Mike and Cap had to admit his arguments were valid. Everything was true. Cap spoke first. "I just don't think he would get married and not tell us."

"Johnny can't keep a secret for an hour let alone three months," Mike chimed in.

"Well 24 hours from now we'll have our answer. And if it is true I say we let Johnny tell us." Marco looked at his shiftmates. Cap and Mike nodded in agreement with him. Chet shook his head, "I'm telling you, tomorrow we will be meeting Mrs. John Gage." With that said, Chet left to go shopping for a wedding gift for his favorite pigeon and his new wife.

Sarah and Johnny worked hard all day Friday getting everything ready for Saturday's barbecue. The house was spotless and the fields around the house were mowed. The barn was as clean as the house. Sarah washed and brushed her mare, Fury. Johnny took care of his horses as well. Sarah also took special care to disassemble her side arm and lock it away since the DeSoto children would be coming over tomorrow. By dinnertime, everything was set and both Gages were worn out.

Johnny watched as Sarah collapsed on the couch. "You ready for tomorrow?"

"Are you? After all you're going to have to make the introductions." Sitting up, Sarah looked at him. "Johnny, how are you going to introduce me tomorrow? I mean, people know you have no 'true sister'. They will of course realize that I'm just a skeleton from dear old Dad's closet." She rose and went to look out the front window.

Johnny thought she was beyond feeling like she was a mistake that had to be hidden. He ran his fingers through his hair. Sometimes she had more confidence than ten people did, other times she had none at all. "My friends are going to love you for who and what you are." He said walking up behind her. Turning to face him Sarah could see his confidence in what he was saying. "Nothing else will matter. Be yourself tomorrow and everything else be damned." With that, they headed off to separate beds.

The DeSoto's were on the way to the Gage ranch by ten Saturday morning. Everyone else would arrive around noon. Jennifer and Chris couldn't wait to ride Johnny's horses and spend the day with their favorite uncle. When they pulled into Johnny's driveway, Roy and Joanne saw Sarah leading Fury into the corral. Jennifer saw her too. "Daddy, who's that?" Jennifer wanted Uncle Johnny to herself today.

"Well, there's Uncle Johnny. Why don't you ask him?" Joanne said seeing Johnny wave to them from the barn. When Roy stopped the car, Jennifer flew out the door running toward her uncle, right past Sarah. Johnny picked her up and spun her around. Sarah just laughed at the sight. Johnny had talked about this little girl constantly. It was easy to see Jennifer had stolen Johnny's heart. Hearing someone cough behind her, she turned to see Roy, Joanne and Chris standing there.

"Oh, hi Roy, Joanne. This must be Christopher. Chris, I'm Sarah." She stuck out her hand for Chris to shake. Chris just stood there looking her over. Cocking his head to one side and back again.

"Gee, you look like Uncle Johnny. You related to him or something?" He finally shook her hand.

"Chris, you are a very observant young man. Yes, I am related to Johnny… I'm his sister, Sarah Gage."

"Hey cool. Jennifer come meet Uncle Johnny's sister." Chris yelled to Jenn.

Jennifer looked at Johnny.   "She's your sister, not your girlfriend?"

"Yep. Want to meet her?" Johnny put Jennifer down. Jennifer nodded her head. "Okay, let's go."

"Hello Jennifer, it is a joy to meet you. Johnny's told me a lot about you." Sarah put out her hand for Jennifer to shake.

"Uncle Johnny doesn't have any brothers or sisters, does he Daddy?" Jennifer crossed her arms across her chest and put her chin down while staring at Sarah.

Roy looked to Joanne then to Johnny. Sarah put her hand down and took a deep breath. Sarah then got down on one knee to be eye-to-eye with Jenn. "You see Jennifer, Johnny didn't know about me until a few months ago. Johnny's daddy knew my mom a long time ago. Only thing is my mom never told him about me. So, surprise, about three months ago we found out about each other. We decided to get to know each other better and I moved here." Sarah waved her arm towards the ranch. "Since Johnny and I are real happy about finding each other, we want to share it with our friends. That's why the barbecue today." Sarah looked deep into Jenn's blue eyes trying to see if Jennifer would accept her.

"You're pretty. You do look like Uncle Johnny. Can I call you Aunt Sarah?" Jennifer practically knocked Sarah over with a hug.

"Sure if you want to. See that horse over there? That's my horse, Fury. Here, go give her some sugar cubes."

The adults watched Jennifer go over to Fury. Roy moved over next to Sarah. " Well, I guess I should say 'welcome to the family!'" Roy and Joanne hugged Sarah. Johnny watched his sister just and enjoyed the moment.

"Okay what do you need us to do?" Joanne inquired, rubbing her hands together.

"Nothing really. We just have to put the food out when everyone gets here." Sarah said as she watched Jennie with Fury, not noticing Chris coming up next to her.

"Sarah, Aunt Sarah, what do you do? As a job I mean." Chris asked.

"I'm a deputy sheriff for LA County. How's that grab ya?" Sarah answered standing tall.

"Hey that's cool. A lady cop." Roy, Jo, Sarah and John shared a laugh over the comment.

"Did you ever shoot someone?" The laughter stopped.

"Christopher, what kind of question is that?" Joanne reprimanded.

Sarah spoke next. "An honest one." Sarah looked directly into Chris' eyes. "Yes, Christopher I did shoot someone, but only because I was left no other choice. I didn't like it but it had to be done. You said a moment ago that it was 'cool' that I'm a cop. Well, sometimes it's not so 'cool'."

Chris nodded his head and went off to play with his sister. Sarah never shared that information with Johnny. Roy and Joanne were stunned right along with Johnny. "I'm sorry, but I couldn't ignore, nor lie to him. If you're angry, I understand." What started out as a happy occasion became very somber. Sarah started to walk towards the house. Johnny, Roy, and Joanne followed. Once inside Sarah started up the stairs.

"Where are you going? You've got company coming shortly." Joanne commented, touching Sarah's hand on the railing.

Sarah's demeanor showed her depression at having to remember that event in her life.

"Come on. I can't do this without you," Johnny encouraged.

"Yeah, Johnny's cooking is horrible. Hopefully you're a better cook," Roy added.

Sarah looked from face to face. Each one was showing understanding, caring, and love. Closing her eyes and sighing deeply, Sarah shook off the negative feelings, then answered Roy. "I make no promises. I grew up on hard tack, venison, and sometimes possum. So, my expertise in the kitchen is marginal at best." A smile returned to Sarah's face as she headed back down the stairs. 'With friends and family like this I might just make it through the day,' she thought.

The time was fast approaching when the rest of the guests would be showing up, and Sarah was doing her best to act calm. But she needed to burn off some of the nervous energy.
"Hey Jenny, want to go for a ride with me?" Sarah knew a ride would help distract her.
Jennifer was thrilled with the idea. Looking at her parents for approval she was not disappointed. Sarah mounted Fury, and Roy gave Jennifer a leg up. When Sarah was sure she had a good hold on Jenny they started their ride.

Johnny came out of the house just in time to see the two riding off. He knew Sarah was still apprehensive about meeting all his friends and maybe going for a ride would ease her mind. A few moments later two cars pulled into the yard. Johnny went over to greet his guests. He shook hands with Dr. Early and Dixie. Dr. Brackett was looking around for Sarah.

"Kel, you're being rude to our host."

"Oh, sorry John, just looking at all the work you've done since the last time I was here."
Dr. Early and Dixie went over to greet Roy and Joanne. Dr. Brackett then asked, "Where is she? I haven't seen her since your trip to my hospital. Isn't she supposed to be here?"

Johnny was about to respond when the Stanley's approached. "John Gage, you have done wonders with this place," Mrs. Stanley commented. Johnny thanked her. Seeing another car pull in, John excused himself to greet the new arrival.

"Hey, Mike, Marco." Johnny thought Chet would be with them. Shaking their hands he asked, "Where's Chet? Isn't he with you?"

Mike and Marco exchanged worrisome looks. "Chet said he'd be by later."

"Well, he's gonna miss the fun." With that, Johnny announced that the food was in the house and that there was plenty of beer and cola in the fridge. 'Where is Sarah? Kinda hard to have a party without the guest of honor,' he thought.

Suddenly, the sound of hoof beats and laughter could be heard coming over the hill. Sarah had Fury going at a respectable speed while still holding Jennifer. All eyes turned to see a beautiful black horse come racing into the yard. Everyone recognized Jennifer but not the woman holding her. The group walked over. Dixie noticed first that this woman bore a striking resemblance to Johnny.

"Nice to see you again, Sarah." Dr. Brackett reached up to help Jenny down.

"Good to see you, Dr. Brackett." Sarah said, getting down from the horse.

Everyone was staring. They all were now seeing what Dixie noticed earlier. Johnny walked up to Sarah grinning from ear to ear. "Well everyone, I would like to introduce my 'little sister', Sarah Gage." For his 'little sister' comment Johnny promptly received an elbow to the ribs and a smirk from Sarah.

"Sarah, this is Dr. Early and Dixie." Sarah extended her hand to them.

"Nice to meet you sir, ma'am."

"If you call me ma'am, we are going to have a problem," Dixie commented, taking Sarah's hand. "It's just Dixie." Turning to Johnny she said. "Where have you been hiding her? Why haven't you told me about her before?" Dixie gave Johnny her best leer. Smiling, she turned to face Sarah. However, Sarah's face looked embarrassed and guilty.

Dr. Early also noticed the change in Sarah's attitude. Dr. Brackett decided to come to the Sarah's rescue. "Well, when Roy and I went to South Dakota we happened to discover Sarah." Sarah nodded to Brackett that it was okay to continue. "After some talking it came to light that John's dad spent some time with Sarah's mom."

Sarah decided to finish the story. "And I came along nine months later. So, to make a long story short, Johnny's family was kind enough to allow me to become part of their family." Sarah looked from face to face.

Dixie turned to Kel. "You knew about this and you didn't tell me." With that she hit him in the arm.

"Well Johnny, she sure is a great addition to your family." Marco came up to Sarah. "I'm Marco and this is Mike."

"I recognize you from the pictures John has shown me. Nice to meet you." Looking around Sarah added, "Hey, aren't we an Irishman short here, no pun intended?"   The group laughed at her comment.

"Oh, you're going to fit in just fine." Captain Stanley said laughing.

Sarah heard some laughing behind her. Marco and Mike had suddenly remembered what Chet thought of Sarah.

"Sarah, Chet thinks…<laugh>… you and Johnny <laugh> are married." Mike couldn't contain himself. "You took the Rover the other night, right?"

Sarah smiled and laughed. "Yeah, I'm the guilty party. Let me guess, it was Chet I blew the kiss to."

"We are going to get The Phantom with this after all." Johnny was barely able to contain himself. "But I never thought he would think I got married. Oh man, this is just too good."

Sarah placed her hand on Johnny's arm. "Stop laughing," she said, laughing. " Where did he get the idea we were married?"

Mike explained. "He called a friend at the DMV. He heard you and Roy use the name 'Sarah'. Then the way Johnny reacted to the news about the deputy getting shot, he just asked his friend to check the name 'Sarah Gage'." Suddenly, that night at the station when Johnny got so upset made sense. "Sarah, are you a deputy sheriff?"

Captain Stanley, Mike and Marco were staring at her. "Yep, but I don't fix tickets."

Cap looked a Johnny. "No wonder why you were so rattled." Johnny nodded looking at Sarah.

Dixie decided it was time to change the subject. "I thought I was getting fed here today." Dixie started moving the friends toward the house. "Come on, let's eat and tell Sarah some stories about Johnny." She winked at Johnny.

"Now that could be fun." Sarah had a very mischievous grin on her face. "I want to know everything."

Dixie placed her arm around Sarah's waist and said, " Well, did he ever tell you about…"
Johnny desperately tried to pull Sarah away from Dixie. "Hey, watch it or I'll arrest you for assaulting an officer. Now Dixie, please go on with the story." Sarah turned and made a face at Johnny.

The afternoon went wonderfully. Dixie, Joanne and Mrs. Stanley, who all promised to show her around town, corralled Sarah. Mrs. Stanley offered to help her shop for more California-style clothes. "Hey, jeans and T-shirts do me just fine." Sarah defended her lack of style.   "Do you really think I'd like to wear plaid or striped pants like some dark haired paramedic I know. Please shoot me first." Mrs. Stanley just shook her head.

Mike and Marco told some of the hair-raising things Johnny did on rescues. Marco's story about Johnny getting bit by a rattlesnake made Sarah laugh so hard she had tears in her eyes.
Johnny got defensive. "Hey, it wasn't funny."

"True," said Dr. Brackett. "He was in rough shape when he was brought in."

Sarah had to hold her hand over her mouth to stop from laughing too loudly. Roy remembered that day too well and didn't find it funny. Actually, he was getting annoyed with Sarah's reaction. "Sarah, he almost died."

"I'm so sorry. I know how dangerous rattlesnakes bites are." She was still trying to stifle the laugh. "I'm not laughing at you getting hurt John. It just that of all things to have in common." That was it. Sarah was laughing again.

Dixie caught on to what Sarah was trying to say. "You mean you were bitten by a rattlesnake also?"

"Yep, I was reaching for a tire iron in a friends garage and POW. Damn thing got me on the forearm. I had to drive myself into town. I smashed the car into the front of the general store when I passed out."

Dr. Brackett found the story amusing since she did survive. "How old were you?"

Sarah sheepishly answered, "Thirteen."

"You were too young to drive," Joanne said amazed by the story.

"That was the least of my problems at the time. Since I had to hot-wire the car. You see it wasn't my car." Sarah was enjoying the looks she was getting.

Brackett thought back to something Dr. Metz had said, 'sometimes we thought she'd be the criminal element.' "Now I know why Dr. Metz thought you might be the criminal element."

"Hey, I only did it once." Sarah defended her actions. She rolled her eyes and shrugged her shoulders, "Okay, maybe a few times." She waved her finger in Brackett's direction and finished with, "but I always brought the car back." That drew laughs from everyone. Johnny enjoyed seeing Sarah so relaxed. Roy patted Johnny on the shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile.

No one heard the car come up the drive. Chet got out of his car with his gift for Gage and his new bride. Chet couldn't help but laugh at the gift. He wrapped the gift in tissue paper and then put it in a box. Chet used the Sunday cartoon section of the newspaper to wrap the box. Chris and Jenny, who were playing outside, greeted him.

"Hi Uncle Chet." They said together. Chris noticed the gift. "Who's that for?"

Chet smiled. "It's for your Uncle Johnny and your new aunt." With that, Chet headed for the house. He could hear the laughter and couldn't wait 'til his gift was opened for all to see.
"Hey, it couldn't be much of a party, I just arrived!"

Johnny crossed the room and greeted Chet. "Hey Chet, you finally figured out how to sit high enough in the car to see over the steering wheel." Roy was amazed Johnny made a direct hit with his first try.

"Gage, you didn't fool me. I figured this whole thing out. Don't try to outwit The Phantom." Chet couldn't see Sarah yet. Sarah stayed behind Brackett. She knew the moment Chet saw her he'd know who she really was.

Chet looked around. "So, where's the missus?" Everyone laughed.

"Is that for me and the missus?" Johnny asked, seeing the gift.

"Yep, I figure you're gonna need it, knowing your track record." Chet smugly replied.

Johnny whipped the gift from Chet's hand. "Oh Sarah, could you help me unwrap this?"

"Why certainly, anything for you, John," Sarah said, sickeningly sweet. Coming around from behind Dr. Brackett she blew Chet a kiss, then winked at him.

"Hey, she looks like she could be your sister," Chet said, waving his finger at Sarah.

Sarah looked at Marco. "Gee, you must have to use a leash on him or you'd lose him on the way to a fire." Marco shook his head.

"Come on Sarah, let's open the gift." Johnny tore through the paper. Sarah opened the box.

"NO! Don't open it." Chet tried to grab the package. "I didn't know she was your sister. Come on give it back!"

"Hey Chet, don't be an Indian-giver. Whoops, how insensitive of me. Forgive me John?" Sarah gave Johnny a puppy dog look.

"Of course sis, now what could this be." Johnny said, tearing the tissue paper from the gift.
Looking over Johnny's shoulder, Sarah saw the gift. Sarah began laughing so hard she was doubled over. Johnny was running his hand through his hair and laughing.

"Hey Chet, you shouldn't have given us a book about what women fantasize about after being with you." Sarah could barely get the words out.

Then Johnny held up the gift for all to see. The room erupted with laughter since they now understood why Sarah said what she did.

Johnny was holding the book by Alex Comfort-THE JOY OF SEX.

Chet just wanted to melt into the floor. Sarah came up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you Chet, that was the best laugh I've had in several months." Cocking her head to the side, she leaned in and gave Chet a kiss on the cheek. " Come on, grab some food and join in the fun."

The rest of the day passed quickly. Johnny enjoyed watching Sarah relax more than he ever saw before. She laughed and played with Jennifer and Chris. Johnny's friends kept telling him how wonderful Sarah was. Chet was already plotting revenge for the comment Sarah had made about his "gift".

As the night wound down, Sarah went out to the corral to bed Fury down for the night. Dr. Brackett followed her to the barn.

"Mind if I tag along." He said.

"Nope, just watch where you step." Sarah joked.

"So, you're enjoying the new job?" Brackett asked.

"Yes I am. I get to do rescues as well as the policing duties." It suddenly dawned on her who might be behind a conversation she had earlier in the week with her sergeant. "You're the one who told my sergeant about the work I did for Dr. Metz."

Dr. Brackett smiled and nodded. "I just thought, what a waste all that experience would be."

"Uh huh." Sarah finished with Fury. "Come on back to the house. It's getting chilly out here."

Brackett could tell by her behavior that she was less than pleased with him talking to her sergeant behind her back. She remained silent until they got back to the house. Once inside, they noticed everyone was saying good-byes.

"Hey Johnny," Sarah called out. "I found out who the informant is." Sarah pointed her finger at Dr. Brackett. The tone in Sarah's voice expressed her displeasure.

Johnny crossed in front of his friends. "Doc, why couldn't you just come to us instead of going behind her back?" Johnny's disappointment hung on every word.

The friends looked from Brackett to Johnny and Sarah. It was obvious to Brackett he made a terrible error in judgement. "Sarah, honestly, I thought it would be a great opportunity for you to use all your skills. Dr. Metz thought the world of your medical skill."

Sarah was starting to feel guilty about how she was treating Brackett. She knew he was right, and she already took steps to begin the training program offered by the sheriff's department.

"Doc, it's alright. Before you talked to the sarge, I already applied to the program."

Brackett shook Sarah's outstretched hand. "As a matter of fact, I'll be seeing a lot more of you in a couple of weeks." Sarah raised and lowered her eyebrows flirtatiously at the doctor. Brackett was shocked, as he hadn't seen the new class list yet.

"Okay, what are you two talking about?" Roy interjected, looking from Brackett to Johnny and finally to Sarah.

"Well Pally, it looks like there's going to be another paramedic in the Gage family." The shocked look on Roy's face was well worth the wait. Johnny had been champing at the bit to tell Roy, but Sarah wouldn't allow it until today.

Sarah was quickly surrounded. Pats on the back and handshakes came fast and furious.

The months ahead were challenging, but Sarah enjoyed every minute of it. Sarah had everything she could want- a job she loved, people who truly cared about her, most of all, the family she always wanted.

author's comments: Hubby helped with some editing but everything else is mine. Even geographical errors. That Julie--raunchy lady--I like her even more. Linda

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