Just Before Dawn Chapter 11 (standard:mystery, 4561 words)
Author: Sarah Spenser	Added: May 22 2005	Views/Reads: 3404/2408	Story vote: 0.00 (0 votes)
conclusion to Just Before Dawn see how Allison and Connor's adventure ends!

Click here to read the first 75 lines of the story

about! He was here he confessed to Mom's murder! He practically told me 
that he hired Mark to do it.” “I believe you, sweetheart.” “He also 
told me something else, that you were the one that shot me.” She 
laughed thinking how ridiculous it was, but when she saw his face she 
quickly suppressed it. “Allie, I didn't want to tell you last night 
because you were under so much stress just having surgery and all. But 
I did shoot you, by accident. I was terrified that Jack was going to 
kill you, so I positioned myself in front of the window, and when he 
turned I thought I could shoot the gun out of his hand. But when I 
fired the bullet ricocheted and hit you instead. You know I would never 
hurt you, Allie! I love you! When you passed out in the ambulance I 
thought I'd lost you!” he waited for her reaction. She leaned her head 
against his shoulder. “I love you.” She said softly. “I know you 
wouldn't deliberately hurt me. I know how much you love me.” “I was so 
afraid you'd hate me. I'm so sorry, sweetness. I'm sorry for all the 
recovery you'll have to go through and all the pain.” “I know you 
didn't mean it, my love. It's going to be okay. It'll be tough for a 
while, but with you by my side I know I can conquer anything.” Just 
then there was a knock at the door. “Ms. Shure?” the nurse said softly. 
“Yes.” “Oh, you're awake, you have a visitor.” “Who?” “Charlie 
Chattum.” Connor knew what Charlie's visit meant and shuttered. “Oh 
send him in, please.” “Are you sure you're up to it?” “Sure.” She said 
with a smile. Charlie entered and Connor left to go get Allison some 
coffee. He knew that Charlie wanted to talk to her in private. “I'm 
sorry to bother you, Allison. I know you must want to rest, but I need 
to ask you a few questions. How are you feeling?” “I'm better, I'm in 
pain, but the pain killers keep it pretty much under control. From what 
Connor tells me, I'm lucky to be alive.” “That's right. They almost 
lost you twice, once in the ambulance and once in surgery.” “Well, 
believe me I'm grateful. What can I do for you, Chief?” “Well, you 
could answer a few questions for me. I'm not sure if Connor told you, 
but he's been suspended until our investigation is complete.” 
“Suspended? For what?” “You do know that he ... uh was ... responsible 
for your shooting?” “He just told me. But he didn't mean to shoot me! 
He wasn't even going for Jack, all he wanted to do was shoot the gun 
out of his hand and the bullet ricocheted.” “Yes, I understand that, 
but he also went against every police protocol and procedure that we 
have. He put countless lives in jeopardy  including yours.” “I know, 
Chief but he was just emotional. You know how he feels about me. 
Everyone makes mistakes. Can't you give him one more chance?” “I don't 
know. This matter needs a full scale investigation.” “Oh investigation 
my eye! All this is about is a man who thought with his heart instead 
of his head.” “Yes but, many people could've gotten hurt, Allison. You 
have to understand that. Not only you, but every member of the team.” 
“I know but ...” just then an announcement came over the loud speaker. 
“Would Mr. Charlie Chattum please call reception?” Charlie excused 
himself and went out to use a phone. When he picked up the call his 
secretary Marla was frantic. “Mr. Chattum! It's true oh my God it's 
true!” “What's true?” “Mr. Sams Ben Sams he's escaped!” Charlie hung up 
and raced back to Allison's room. “I'm sorry, that was business. Jack 
escaped.” “I was trying to tell the nurse that this morning but she 
wouldn't listen to me. They all thought I was hallucinating.” “He was 
here?” “Yeah, when I woke up he was standing here. He told me how he 
killed my mother, and enlisted the help of Mark Renson. Who apparently 
is my nephew.” “Oh my God! We have to call this in!” Connor returned 
moments later with the coffee. “Connor, did you know that Ben Sams 
escaped?” before Connor could speak, Allison interjected. “No, I hadn't 
gotten around to telling him yet. These drugs really knock me out 
sometimes. But I'm sure he'll help you find him.” “Not after what he 
pulled!” Charlie said unrelentingly. “But I can give you the upper 
hand. I know where he hides, or at least I know where he goes. I'll 
only tell Connor.” It was an ingenious form of blackmail and Connor 
knew that she was trying to secure his job. “Okay.” Charlie left 
waiting outside for Connor. “That was brilliant!” “Well, I try. I do 
know where Dad uh ... Ben hides out.” She told him all Jack's favorite 
places and he promised to search. Charlie also posted a police officer 
at the door just in case Jack turned up there. 

Hours later, Connor found Jack. He was nearly killed by the amount of
police officers and engaged in a shoot out, but eventually surrendered. 
As they drove back to the station, Connor got to ask him the burning 
question that had been on his mind. “Why did you kidnap Allie?” “She 
knew too much. I was afraid, Connor. That's why I killed Marie. She was 
going to go to the cops, and I couldn't let that happen. Tell Allison I 
love her. Is Grace going down as an accessory?” “I don't know, an 
indictment is scheduled to determine if there is sufficient evidence 
for that. You were blackmailing her, but she Is still technically an 
accessory since she knew about all of your murders.” “And Mark?” “Not 
sure yet, another indictment is scheduled. He'll probably do some time 
for the robbery. He's not a saint, Jack. But neither are you. How did 
you keep Allie in the dark so long?” “I'm not sure, I just never talked 
about my late night walks, or prowls as I called them. When she knew 
too much, she threatened to destroy everything I'd worked so hard for.” 
“So you decided to hold her hostage, and pay two goons to grab her?” 
“That's about the size of it.” “I hope you get life for what you did!” 

Two Weeks Later 

Jack was sentenced to life in prison, and Grace and Mark were charged as
accessories to murder. Connor was hailed a hero by all the local 
papers, and daily updates on Allison's progress were featured. Allison 
had come home from the hospital to a very enthused Scarlet, and was 
ordered to be on bed rest for at least a month. Dr. Margery Barton, one 
of the best surgeons in the country had warned her about going back to 
work too soon or doing anything stressful. Connor was glad for this, as 
Allison would stay out of trouble. He had a romantic dinner planned for 
that night and had invited his parents and Lynn for dessert. He took 
the engagement ring out of the gold box and gazed at it. It had cost a 
pretty penny, but Allie was worth it. He loved her more than he had 
ever loved anyone and he wanted to make sure she knew that. He had told 
Allison that he had invited a few friends for dessert, and that they 
would order dinner in. He wanted it to be perfect, and didn't want to 
propose in a restaurant. He walked around the apartment setting 
everything up, he had asked Lynn to get Allison out of the house so he 
could have the place to himself to set up for the party. He prayed that 
Lynn wouldn't spill his secret. 

Allison arrived home a few hours later, her arms ladened with packages.
Lynn followed, dragging a huge armful of bags. They set them on the 
floor as Allison kissed Connor passionately. “How's my favorite 
detective?” she asked smiling at him. “Great, how's my little 
reporter?” “Fine, better now. My chest isn't as bad today. The pain 
gets better each day.” “I'm glad.” Lynn took her cue and left. Once 
they were alone, Connor led Allison over to the couch. “Sit down, 
Allie.” “What's wrong?” “Nothing's wrong. I just want to sit with you.” 
Ever so gently, Connor removed the delicate gold box from his pocket 
and opened it. “Allison, you're the kindest, sweetest person I know. 
You bring laughter and joy to my life and to everything you do. I don't 
know how I lived without you, but after you were shot, I started 
thinking. I couldn't bare one more day without you by my side. I love 
you because you are funny, smart, brave and passionate. You have 
courage and conviction, I love you for all that you are, and nothing 
would make me happier then to spend the rest of my life with you. I 
will spend the rest of my life proving how much I love you. Allison, 
will you marry me?” she was rendered speechless, all she could do was 
glance from Connor to the ring. It must've taken her a long time to 
answer because Connor started to get nervous. “Allison?” “Oh, yes of 
course I'll marry you!” she kissed him passionately and they began the 
foreplay of making love. 

He began to caress her neck, kissing her mouth, her shoulders and
working his way down to her breasts. Allison kissed him gently 
unbuttoning his shirt and letting it fall to the floor, she kissed the 
places the shirt revealed and then moved to his pants. She unsnapped 
his jeans and he slid them off. He repeated the same process on her, as 
he mouth worked wonders on her. 

Connor dipped his tongue inside her mouth, letting it explore paradise
itself. Her lips tasted heavenly, like expensive wine, and he longed to 
hold her when she was in the hospital. Waves of passion coursed through 
him as he kissed her supple breasts again, making her want him more. 
She panted in ecstasy and exhilaration knowing the ecstasy that awaited 
her. “I want you, Connor! Make love to me!” “Be mine, Allie!” “I'm 
forever yours!” she said between passion drenched kisses. Once she 
could no longer stand his torment, he entered her. 

First their dance was sensual and slow, rhythmic, but as the tempo they
moved together in pure pleasure and passion. He gave his entire body to 
her, heart, mind and soul. She had awakened feelings he hadn't felt in 
years, and he was determined to show her how much he loved her. Allison 
gave herself freely and willingly to him, releasing her soul so that it 
could entwine and be forever one with his. She was thankful to have 
survived the gunshot, and even more grateful to have a special man like 
Connor in her life. Once they were sated in pleasure, they laid in each 
others arms gazing into each others eyes. “I love you.” She whispered, 
her voice was like a summer wind blowing through the trees. Gentle, 
soothing and angelic. “I love you too, Allie.” They just laid there 
holding each other. 

They ordered from Antonio's a little Italian restaurant down the street.
The food smelled heavenly and was fantastic. Allison wondered if Connor 
had anymore surprises in store for her as she finished her meatball 
wedge. Just then the doorbell rang. “I wonder who it is.” Allison said 
going to the door. She was surprised to see Lynn standing there with 
two strangers she'd never seen before. “Hi, Allison. These are Connor's 
parents.” They stepped inside and sat on the couch. “Hi, Allison, I've 
heard so much about you, I'm Thelma Connor's mother.” Allison shook 
Thelma's outstretched hand. “It's a pleasure to meet you. Connor speaks 
very highly of you.” Sometimes after making love, Connor would tell her 
stories of his childhood, his Mom's cooking or his Dad's guitar 
playing. “Allison, I'm Clint, Connor's Dad. It's an honor to meet you.” 
“Likewise. Would you like something to drink?” “Oh no thanks. We don't 
want to put you out.” Thelma said reclining on the couch. “Nonsense, 
I'll go put on a fresh pot of coffee. Allison went in to the kitchen 
while Connor stayed in the living room. “She's wonderful, Connor.” 
Clint whispered. He was a tall man, wavy brown hair, blue eyes and a 
wiry frame. Thelma was a little round, with salt and pepper, green eyes 
and a pretty smile. “Thanks, Dad. Allie's amazing.” “Did you ask her 
yet?”  Thelma asked softly. “I did and she said yes!” Clint and Thelma 
erupted into cheers from the living room. “Congratulations, Allison! 
Welcome to the family!” Thelma said hugging Allison. She returned the 
older woman's affection and sat beside Connor. “Thanks. I'll be a good 
wife, Mrs. Cassidy. I'll make Connor happy.” “That's impossible,” 
Connor said playing with a strand of her hair. “you already do.” 
Allison smiled, Thelma was captivated by how beautiful and absolutely 
charming she was. With Allison, there was no pretense, what you saw was 
authentic and true. “Do me a favor, Allison.” “What is it, Mrs. 
Cassidy?” “Stop calling me Mrs. Cassidy I feel like a grandmother. Call 
me Thelma.” “Okay, Thelma can I get you some coffee?” “I'll come and 
help.” While in the kitchen, Thelma inquired about Allison's gunshot 
wound. “You are better aren't you? Connor was beside himself when he 
told us.” “I'm better, the pain is lessening every day, and I should be 
able to go back to work next week.” “You know, Allison, I'm glad that 
Connor chose you. I never liked Grace.” Allison laughed. “Thanks, I'm 
In love with Connor, I think he's the greatest.” 

To accompany the freshly brewed coffee, Connor had ordered Allison's
favorite strawberry cheesecake. They all toasted Allison's miraculous 
recovery and the bright future that she and Connor had ahead of them. 
Clint loved Allison, and thought she was even better than Grace. She 
liked her youthful energy, and thought that she matched perfectly with 
the more mature Connor. They made a wonderful team, and he couldn't be 
happier. Allison was grinning from ear to ear, she couldn't believe 
that Connor's family liked her, and were willing to welcome her with 
open arms. 

Six weeks later, their wedding day finally arrived. They hadn't wanted
anything fancy, the only people that really mattered were Connor's 
parents,  Renee, Rick, Doug Stanton   and Lynn. They rented a small 
catering hall which served elegant and simple food. As Allison walked 
to the back of the church, she regretted that Marie wasn't there to 
witness one of the happiest days of her life. She also regretted the 
fact that Jack wasn't there either. Lynn was her maid of honor, and was 
thrilled to stand with her and watch her union with Connor. As was 
tradition, Allison needed someone to give her away. So she chose her 
uncle Rick. As she walked down the aisle to meet Connor, she thought of 
how her life had turned out. She had never imagined that she would find 
someone as special as Connor. After the priest gave his speech about 
the sanctity of marriage he turned to Connor. “We are gathered here to 
join this man and this woman in holy matrimony. Marriage is not to be 
entered into lightly. But jointly, with care and conviction, and most 
importantly love. Allison and Connor have written their own vows. We 
will begin that part of the ceremony.” The priest nodded at Connor. He 
smiled at Allison who was beaming under her veil and simple white lace 
dress. “I Connor Clinton Cassidy promise to love you, Allison now and 
for the rest of my days. I love you for many reasons, for being you, 
but more than that. For being brave, true to yourself, your sense of 
humor, your gentleness and kind nature, your passion and determination. 
The best love awakens something inside us, and makes us strive for 
more. You make me want to reach for more every day, to be a better man, 
and to greet each day with a smile. Allison, I will spend the rest of 
my life making you happy and falling more in love with you each day. I 
promise to love, honor, cherish and stay true to you for as long as we 
both shall live. This is my solemn vow.” Connor ever so gently slipped 
the ring on her finger. Allison was crying and could barely regain her 
composure to recite her vows. “Allison?” the priest nodded at her and 
she began to speak, smiling at Connor the entire time. “I Allison Marie 
Shure promise to love and cherish you, Connor. I will spend the rest of 
my life making you happy, and fulfilling your every dream. You have 
made all my dreams come true. I never thought I would find such an 
incredible person like you. I love you for so many reasons, your humor, 
kindness, your strength of spirit, courage, determination, and most of 
all your passion and ability to forgive. You have virtues that I aspire 
to, you awaken my soul, and have melted my heart. I knew from the first 
moment I saw you that I was in love with you. I promise to love you now 
and forever, to honor, protect and cherish you for as long as we both 
shall live. This is my solemn vow.” With a tender touch, Allison 
slipped the ring onto Connor's finger. “By the power invested in me by 
the state of Connecticut, I now pronounce you husband and wife! Connor, 
you may kiss your lovely bride!” Connor kissed her long and hard, one 
of the most passionate kisses they had ever shared. The church erupted 
into applause and cheers as everyone greeted them. 

The reception was a whirlwind of activity, Allison spent most of the
night on the dance floor in Connor's arms and thanking the guests for 
coming. The band was amazing, and Connor never saw Allison look happier 
or more beautiful. The reception ended just before dawn. Allison and 
Connor were tired and anxious to get to their hotel and unwind. 
Tomorrow morning, they were going on a six week cruise, they thanked 
everyone for coming and were soon whisked away to Sweet Di L'amore. 

When they reached their room, Connor lifted Allison into his arms. He
kissed her gently and she returned his affection. She could feel the 
desire building within her already. “I'm going to carry you, Allison 
Marie Cassidy over the threshold!” she laughed as Connor unlocked the 
door and carried her in. He set her down on the bed and then closed the 
door. Connor returned to the bed and retrieved the bucket of Champaign 
he had requested. He poured some for Allison and then himself. They 
raised their glasses in a toast. “To a bright future together.” They 
clinked glasses and slowly drank the champagne feeling it linger on 
their pallets. Once they were finished, Connor set the glasses on the 
table and took Allison in his arms. He could smell the scent of her 
vanilla perfume and thought it was heavenly. “I love you.” She 
whispered. “I love you, Allie!” he kissed her long and hard. She 
returned his affection with a passionate kiss of her own. 

Connor let his tongue explore her mouth, caressing every inch of it. He
kissed her neck, and slowly began to unfasten her dress. Once it was 
off, he undid her bra and kissed her voluptuous breasts before 
reclaiming her lips again. She ran her fingers through his hair kissing 
her neck and unfastening his tuxedo. 

Allison massaged his chest, letting her fingers move in slow circles
driving him crazy. She kissed his chest, his neck, and stroked his 
hair. She massaged his body before taking possession of his lips again. 
“Allie, I want you!” “I love you!” she panted as the passion began to 
course through her. “I love you too.” Connor said as she drove his 
passion to new heights. They embraced and locked in a long passionate 
kiss before he slowly sipped into her. 

Their dance started as usual, slow and rhythmic, but as their passion
and desire increased, so did the rhythm. They gave themselves freely, 
consummating their marriage with as much passion and fervor they had in 
them. Allison was in ecstasy as Connor continued to kiss her, 
whispering words of love in her ear. When they were sated in pleasure, 
they just laid in each others arms. Allison stroked his hair while he 
caressed her cheek. “Allie, I love you.” “I love you, Connor. Thanks 
for standing by me through everything. You make me want to be a better 
person. You're my northern star, my guiding light.” “You're the light 
of my life, my compass, my heart and soul, Allie.” She smiled thinking 
of how blissful their lives would be as they spent every day together. 

As she drifted off to sleep, Allison dreamt of future children, and
thought about the journey they would take together. She knew that as 
long as Connor was by her side, anything was possible. Connor watched 
her for a while, thinking of his beautiful Allie, and the life they 
would share. This is where he was destined to be, with Allie by his 
side, he was complete. They were like pieces of a puzzle that came 
together to form one complete person. Whatever lay ahead of them, 
Connor knew that Allie was forever and he embraced her as he drifted 
off to sleep. 

End of Just Before Dawn 


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