Dakota remembered the story about Stiless dead teenaged daughter. Ive already said Im not going to take her away from you, Martha. As a matter of fact, I cant think of anyone better suited to take care of her.

Stiles nodded, looking slightly stunned. Just how long are you going away for?

Im not sure. Dakota forced a brittle smile. Which is one reason why it was important to me to have this opportunity of seeing Evie. In case I never get another chance.

Stiles suddenly looked weary and old beyond her years. Then at least promise me that no one else will come and try to threaten or hurt either of us. Ive had quite enough of that kind of thing for one lifetime.

Thats not going to happen, Bash reassured her. But, just in case, Im personally sticking around here for a while.

Stiles peered at him. Youre not going together?

Ive decided to stay here on Jar, he explained. Ive missed out on a lot of living over these past ten years, so I want to settle in one place and get to know it. And, besides, he nodded towards Evie, I could help out, if you ever wanted me to.

Dakota watched Stiles sizing him up before nodding hesitantly.

She stood up. We should probably be going now. Were staying at a place in the centre of town for the next couple of days. Dakota recited the address. If you need us, youll find us there.

Before you go, said Stiles, I want to know more about just why my friends died. What Gabrielle told me wasnt enough for me really to understand all of it. Its been . . . hard to find any real closure, not really comprehending the details.

Whenever you want to know them, Miss Stiles, said Bash, you and I are going to go find somewhere we can sit down over a couple of drinks. Because its the kind of story that takes a long time to tell.

Having said their goodbyes, they headed down the stairs and out into the night, without looking back.

After walking a few blocks, Dakota pressed her back against a doorway and clasped her hands over her face. Bash knew enough not to say or do anything, beyond resting a comforting hand on her shoulder.

It doesnt have to be this way, you know, he said quietly, once she was ready to start moving again. By now they were almost at their hotel. I know youve told me to shut the hell up often enough, but let me say it just one last time: You could stay here and make a new life for yourself.

Even this late at night, there were still a few revellers left, as they trudged together through the alcohol-sodden debris. No, Bash, she said quietly. I told you why I cant do that.

Dak

Not now, she said firmly.

Bash once again showed his good judgement by saying nothing more.