I walked into the private gym area, letting out a large yawn.

Jasmine and Maria were already stretching and I joined them, lazily tossing my water bottle on the ground. The girls looked up and gaped at my appearance.

"Rosie, are you okay? You look like shit." Maria voiced her concern.

I couldn't be offended by the remark. I knew I looked like a hot mess.

My hair was tangled and my skin was paler than usual. The dark circles underneath my eyes didn't help either. My clothes were crumpled and one of my shoelaces was untied. I was more thankful that I was able to sneak out before Damon could see me in all my glory.

Hot Mess Central, here I am.

"I didn't sleep well last night." I tried to dismiss their concerns, when I finally tripped on my shoelace, face planting on the ground. Thank goodness it was on the mats. Maria and Jasmine pulled me up.

"I see. Well, how about we clean you up and have a chat?" Jasmine said before the girls ushered me to their bags, pulling out different beauty products.

After Erik found the chip yesterday, we all ran to Xavier's office so he could start examining it. Apparently, there were some safety measures and multiple firewalls, preventing others from accessing whatever was on the chip. Xavier expected it shouldn't take Erik that long to find a way past the encryption.

Damon took us back to his wing since there was nothing we could do but wait. At first, I felt a sense of satisfaction and elation. This all started and finished with me figuring out Angelo's request to get this information to his family.

I thought I would feel at peace, but it never came. Instead, I had nightmares and panic attacks throughout the night. Damon stayed in my room, doing his best to comfort me. I kept both of us awake and barely got any sleep.

"Why did you bring makeup if we're only going to get all sweaty?" I asked and Jasmine laughed.

"It's part of the career. Now hold still."

Maria slowly started brushing my hair and Jasmine started putting some moisturizer on my face. The sensations almost lulled me to sleep, relaxing and enjoying being cared for.

"Holy guacamole, this is nice," I sighed and the girls giggled at the dreamy expression on my face.

"Now, what's going on?" Maria prodded as she started braiding my hair. I closed my eyes as she played with my hair, one of my many weaknesses.

"Just dealing with the mental aftermath of nightmares and anxiety. I'm about 99% sure it's because of Angelo. In hindsight, I wasn't emotionally prepared to go into his room and then to finally find the answer to what has been haunting me for weeks...I don't know. I thought everything would go back to normal for me – that the anxiety and fear would go away. I did feel excited, but it was followed by a sense of dread and loss...am I making any sense?"

Maria and Jasmine pulled away and I opened my eyes to see them looking at me with soft expressions.

"After all the shit you've been through, I'm surprised you're as put together as you are. Especially moving to a crowded and noisy city like New York...I would've shattered into pieces if I was in your position. Your feelings are very much valid." Maria told me firmly and I nodded.

Maria and Jasmine both knew the truth, probably hearing it from Xavier or Damon. I probably should've been pissed that they shared my story, but I was more relieved that I didn't have to tell it all over again. Maria came to me furious, ready to tear Lorenzo a new one, before squeezing the life out of me. If anything, Maria had gotten more protective of me.

"I was thinking about doing therapy. I did it when I was in high school but eventually stopped. Now that I'm settled, I think I'm ready. Isn't there an online platform that offers services? Do you guys have a therapist?" I asked as Jasmine pulled me up and turned me so I could look at my reflection.

I looked more refreshed and I could feel myself gaining more energy.

"Well, I have a fake license, but I assume you would like to see a real pro," Jasmine winked. "The Organization has a group of therapists. We required each new hire to talk to them – just to make sure we are bringing in the right amount of crazy into the madness. There's a strong confidential agreement between the doctor and patients, of course. Damon can help set you up with one unless you want to look for one yourself."

"I'll ask Damon. Thank you for making me look less like a zombie." I said gratefully. Maria gave me a hug and Jasmine patted the top of my head.

"You are most welcome. Now let's give you some physical therapy. Nothing better than some dancing," Jasmine spoke, her accent thick. She pressed a button on the wall, and the poles descended into the room. "Let's start with warm-ups. Rosie, I want to see you moving your side, but don't overwork it."

I nodded. My side was still stiff from my healed wound, but Jasmine was slowly helping me stretch out and strengthen the muscles.

A few stretches later and Jasmine started teaching us some new moves.

"Okay, let's try them out with some music. Follow the beat. If you want to incorporate some moves we already learned you can." Jasmine instructed before counting us in.

I lost myself in the music, following the slow pumping beat. There was something calming about this activity, bringing a sense of confidence that I never felt before. Dancing was also helping shape my body. I was getting more graceful but still lost my balance every once in a while. My flexibility was getting better as well, something I was surprised by. While I was still a clumsy person, Jasmine was able to balance me out.

All my problems and nightmares vanished as I danced.

At the end of the lesson, we sat on the benches and talked. I enjoyed bonding with Jasmine and Maria, I never had girlfriends before. And...it was nice.

"How is Xavier now that he knows about your morning sickness?" Jasmine asked.

Maria rolled her eyes and gave me a side glance. I covered my mouth to hide my smile.

Maria was able to cover her tracks well until Xavier showed up with some take out for them to enjoy. It was game over when she took a whiff of egg from the fried rice Xavier offered her.

"You would think the apocalypse came. Xavier wants to log every single time I get sick. He lists every smell, food, and person that makes me nauseous. And yes, a person! One guard came by and I couldn't handle whatever cologne he was using. Xavier ordered him to stay at least ten feet away from me." Maria exclaimed before rubbing her stomach lovingly. "When Xavier is busy, he has Rosie doing it. There's a form and everything."

I nodded. "Erik makes very nice spreadsheets."

"Xavier is already setting up a nursery and reading every baby book known to man. Isn't that supposed to be my job?" Maria asked as she took another sip of water.

"I thought it was a combination of the both of you," I shrugged. "You can hop on the baby train anytime."

"I am on the baby train! Xavier just happens to be the conductor and left me stranded on the railroad track somewhere."

"You've mangled that metaphor. Anyway, don't worry. You just have to take charge." Jasmine laughed.

"Just like you're taking charge with Julian." Maria countered, wiping the smug expression on Jasmine's face. She began to flush at the accusation.

"I have no idea what you are talking about."

"For an amazing actress like yourself, that was a terrible lie." Maria snorted and Jasmine sent her a playful glare.

"Julian and I are close acquaintances. That's all."

I tilted my head in confusion. "I thought you didn't like him. You don't really talk to him and he gets upset by it. Is this like an elementary school thing?"

Maria laughed out loud.

"Rosie, nothing they are doing is elementary school-like. They are totally having sex. Jasmine is just scared of commitment and Julian is trying to win her affection."

Jasmine sputtered and my cheeks flushed at the new information.

"Julian loves you," Maria dragged out. "Jasmine and Julian, sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S–"

"All right! All right! Enough!" Jasmine said as she turned even redder than me. "I may have some feelings for the man, but I don't think a relationship is a good idea. I mean the man is insane and has a strange obsession with knives."

"That's a good quality?" I tried to defend him, although she had a point.

Jasmine threw her hands in the air.

"Physically, we are compatible, but I don't know what a real relationship would look like with him. He does a lot of questionable things that just make me want to smack him."

"Why won't you just give it a shot? Who knows, maybe you're into crazy men." Maria winked as we all stood up.

"How about I think about it? I won't dismiss it right away." Jasmine offered and the two of us nodded in agreement.

We opened the door and two forms tumbled onto the floor.

I winced as the twins went to get up. This wasn't going to help Julian's case. Luckily, the doors were soundproofed.

Maria put her hands on her hips, giving Josh and Julian stern looks.

"Julian and Joshua Anderson, this is why we don't allow you two inside. What the hell are you doing?"

The twins widened their eyes, trying but failing to show they were innocent.

"You guys are usually done by now. We just wanted to make sure everything was okay." Julian said before glancing over at an unamused Jasmine. Looks like the conversation we just had was about to be dismissed by Jasmine.

Julian opened his mouth again, but Jasmine covered his mouth with her hand before he could say anything. She turned to look at the both of us, exasperated.

"Julian, what do you care about the most?" Jasmine asked, seeming to know the answer as she pulled back.

Julian didn't disappoint.

"JULIAN LOVES KNIVES!" He gestured to the weapons strapped to his person. He pulled out his favorite machete strapped to his back. "Especially Bethany. She's beautiful, isn't she? The most beautiful knife in all the land!"

"I love knives too, but I prefer a nice flamethrower. It's harder to manage," Josh shrugged as he pulled out a large knife as well. "I haven't named any. They haven't come to me yet."

Jasmine gestured to the two crazies admiring their weapons. "You understand now? He only cares about the weapons!"

Maria shook her head in denial and I just shrugged helplessly. I didn't really give relationship advice. The only couples that I'd truly been around were either my parents or Xavier and Maria.

"What!" Julian cut in.

Jasmine swiftly turned her head, some dark hair from her ponytail escaping.

"What?"

Julian rocked back and forth on his heels with a dopey grin on his face, putting Bethany away.

"You asked what I cared about the most, not who." Julian argued and wiggled his eyebrows. "You know the answer to that question, Jaz. But if you wish for me to reassure you, I can."

Jasmine flushed and I covered my mouth to prevent the "awww" from escaping.

Before either of them could say anything, a phone rang. Josh winked at us before answering his phone.

"Yes?" Josh sang. His laid back look slowly turned serious as the person on the other end talked. It made my stomach clench with nerves.

"On it," Josh put his phone away and looked at us. "Detective Benson is at the gate with another warrant. Xavier wants you two with them," pointing at Maria and I. "Jasmine, you may want to get ready. We might need a lawyer if things go downhill."

Jasmine nodded and left quickly. The twins grabbed our things and led us across the mansion.

I clung to Maria's hand, suddenly really nervous. The last time I'd seen the detective, it left a bad taste in my mouth. Maria squeezed my hand as we were led to the entrance where Xavier and Damon were. I released Maria to run toward Damon.

"What's happening?" I murmured as Damon pulled me into his arms, his usual glower on his face.

"Benson is at the gate demanding to be let in. He's got a warrant, so we can't stop him from coming in without getting in more federal trouble. We'll play along until we've had enough. You're here because if we hide you, he'll get suspicious. Even if we did, it wouldn't benefit us in the long run since he knows about you. I'll be with you the entire time." Damon reassured me and I nodded, squeezing his waist to show my trust in him.

"The sooner we find out what he wants, the better," Xavier said, looking a bit pissed off that someone was coming onto his property. "Keep an eye out if you see anything suspicious. I don't trust that Benson is coming peacefully."

A hard knock echoed through the hall and the twins went to the door and opened it, knives at the ready.

"Freeze!" I jumped at the harsh voice and peered around Damon to see a dozen cops pointing guns at the twins. "Put down your weapons now!"

"I can have weapons if I want them, be-otch!" Julian said and Josh let out a "word".

Holy guacamole. They really wanted to get arrested again, didn't they?

"Everybody calm down. Andersons, stand down!" Xavier ordered, his face serious. It was a strange look to see on him. Gone was the laid back charmer, and in his place was a ruthless and powerful man. His posture and waves of dominance showed that there was a reason he was the boss.

The Andersons stepped back and the cops slowly lowered their guns, except for Detective Benson.

"Put the gun down, Benson. There's no reason for that nonsense." Xavier grinned mockingly, not bothering with the detective's title.

Detective Benson noticed. His jaw clenched, but after a moment, he angrily put away his weapon.

"Now what brings you back to my humble home? The last time you were here, you arrested three of my people. We have no involvement in the bombing at Rosaline's apartment."

"That's not why I am here, Monroe. We received a tip that Angelo De Luca is dead and require we go through any belongings that he had on the property."

My heart stopped at the announcement, squeezing Damon even tighter. I thought I even heard his back crack from the pressure.

"We have a warrant to go through his room and computers. That shouldn't be a problem, should it?" The detective said before trying to shoulder Xavier to get inside. Xavier didn't budge, narrowing his eyes at Benson.

"Actually it is. Angelo De Luca has not been involved in our company for years, much less been living on our property. While I am saddened by his passing, we have no involvement in this."

"I know you, Xavier. You have to at least be keeping blackmail material on De Luca. Lead me to his old room or I will storm through the entire mansion to find it. Who knows, maybe I will find more interesting things to look through."

Benson's threat hung in the air, making the atmosphere even more tense. The officers with Benson watched the twins warily, cautious of an upcoming attack.

"You are right, it so happens that we haven't cleared out his old room. In a big mansion like this, a room could easily be unused. Your little warrant can be used today," Xavier spoke calmly.

Benson looked at all of us, searching for any signs of deceit. He didn't even acknowledge Maria as Benson examined us.

Benson caught sight of me and shook his head.

"I see you made your choice." he sneered and Damon glared daggers at the man. I didn't think his scowl could get any deeper.

"There wasn't really a choice." I spoke as loud as I could muster, wanting to be brave in front of the detective.

Benson shook his head in disgust and disappointment.

"Then you'll fall with them. You know what they do, and yet you're willing to stay."

"You're not here for small talk, remember?" Damon snapped, looking ready to lunge to defend my honor. My heart melted a little.

"Take us to the room." Benson ordered. "If you keep me from searching, then I'm allowed to arrest you." Benson smirked and Maria had had enough.

"Stop being an asshole and let's go. I'm pregnant and just finished a workout. If you want to have a dick-waving contest, I'd rather not be here for it," Maria barked as she started walking down the hall.

She turned to look at the other cops. "I'm surprised you follow orders from this man. Talk about a suck-up."

The cops' faces ranged from being uncomfortable and angry as we all followed Maria.

"That's my Sugar." Xavier mumbled next to us, beaming with pride.

~*~

"Do you think Detective Benson is involved with Angelo's case? How did they even know about Angelo?" I asked quietly as they examined Angelo's room.

They have been bagging everything for the last twenty minutes, emptying the room. They took pictures prior to this before throwing it in carelessly. All the CDs that Angelo worked so hard to collect were all over the place. Detective Benson did nothing but watch the four of us as we stood against a wall. Julian and Josh were dismissed so they didn't cause more trouble.

"I'm not sure. All evidence suggests that he's not. He may have just volunteered to come. He's always eager to find some dirt on us. He's an idiot, so I doubt he has connected any of the fucking dots. I wish he was up to something, but God would never let me be that happy." Xavier grumbled and Maria elbowed him in the gut.

"But it's a sign they are getting closer. Someone gave them intel on Angelo and it led to us. We can only hope that our disassociation with him over the years doesn't bring suspicion." Damon muttered as he glared at every single police officer that came and went with the evidence.

"It will. There's a large gap between when he 'left' the company and when he joined the other group. We have always been discreet about it. I think it's also a sign that a certain someone is getting desperate enough to share information with the police. The question is how much is being shared without bringing suspicion onto him." Xavier said in vague terms, offering a fake smile to the officers who were trying to listen to our conversation.

I gulped, knowing that certain someone had to be Lorenzo. I leaned into Damon for support. I still knew that I was in the clear and that the Diablos didn't mention me, or else Benson would have taken me into custody again.

"The last thing we need is Benson directly interfering with your plans. It's a bad omen when he's shown up twice in a short time span," Maria said as she ran a hand through her hair. "And I need a fucking shower."

I agreed with her. I was still icky from our dance lesson.

I heard a knock and saw Jasmine in her business outfit, all clean and proper. The other officers left the room, leaving only the detective.

"I see that you've already made yourself at home, Detective Benson." Jasmine said as she eyed the room. "I'm guessing the NYPD wants to own a fine collection of CDs?"

Benson scowled at Jasmine. "Don't want to miss anything. It may happen to be useful."

"As long as you aren't bringing any of my clients to the station, we won't have a problem."

"You represent all of them now?" Benson pointed at us. "How convenient."

"If you are going to accuse me of something, then say it, Benson," Xavier drawled, letting out a lazy smile. He seemed to be back to that persona. "I've got nothing to hide compared to your bitterness and revenge-seeking ass – which you conceal terribly."

Hate brewed in the officer's eyes.

"I just think it's strange that the person who you were well acquainted with is dead and wasn't made public. Who knows how you may be involved. This would be a low, even for you, Monroe. You are killing your own people now?"

Xavier's smile curled up around the edges and a chill went down my spine. "If you did your damn job, you would find his killer instead of accusing me. And as I stated before, I have not talked to Angelo in years. How am I to know what he has been up to?"

"And that's a huge accusation Detective. You better have strong evidence for your claims." Jasmine added coldly. "If not, I suggest it is time to leave. You got what you wanted and now your warrant is going to be void. There is no reason to be here and we can charge you with trespassing."

The detective looked furious, knowing that the law was on our side this time.

"Mark my words, all you had done today was get me closer to the truth. Enjoy your luxury while it lasts. You are all a part of this and you will all rot," Detective Benson growled and looked at all of us individually. He looked at me and pointed. "And I will figure out what the hell you are doing here."

I tried to look unaffected as he stared me down before looking at Maria defiantly.

"Go to hell." Maria snapped and took a step toward him, but Xavier gently pulled her back.

"And good luck with that, detective." Xavier taunted him and Benson stormed out of the room. "Jasmine, make sure he and his buddies get off my property."

When Jasmine left, Xavier rubbed his face in exhaustion.

"No wonder God would never let me be happy. The Devil wants all the fun."

Damon snorted at the wording, but he was just as angry and exhausted. "He's not going to find anything, but he will be back. He's going to charge us with anything he can come up with."

"And we can file a harassment claim. He can't do any damage without the right tools. But we can't dismiss him completely. Just another thing to add to the list of shit." Maria groaned and Xavier rubbed her back soothingly.

"Why don't you girls get changed? Damon and I need to figure out a way to deal with Benson and you do not need the extra stress, Sugar." Xavier told her and kissed her forehead.

Damon kissed my lips gently.

"There's a reason why he and I are in charge. Don't worry, Flower. You were very brave." Damon murmured into my ear.

But I couldn't help but be worried.