The Don thanked us for our help in his defense, especially honoring Stella for her awareness and tactical assistance. As we left, I notified Mom to raise our defensive status to Defcon 5. On the way outside, we were surrounded by a dozen men, one of whom demanded my keys so he could start the car and take it on a short drive to test it. Apparently Diego didn't watch enough television, as there were no bombs on starting it, the tires and brakes were OK, and no other mischief had been committed.

We climbed into the Chevy and went home, chatting about the situation we'd just lived through from personal viewpoints and from the 'security' outlook. I made a mental note to talk to the Don about having his troops go through some training from Mom, specifically about tactics.

On arrival at the BAI, I noted the sign for the "Newly added convenience of lot attendants" had been put out to explain why security was roaming the lot. This was our first line of defense, and included some of my best security people. I also noted that Mom had troops on the roof in the mostly-concealed positions around the cameras and such. I was also sure that many of the "boobie-traps" installed around the edges of the lot were active, especially to the back where employee vehicles were parked. A large, open area to the rear led to a creek and parkway area; some of the 'improvements' to the jogging path we had made back along the creek included cameras, movement detectors, and some dirty tricks included directed-blast explosives which were hidden in benches, bushes, under decorative rocks, and elsewhere.

We got inside and safe... and were almost instantly surrounded by my staff 'family', who had heard varying forms of the story of what happened. Three people picked up Stella and carried her through the restaurant and bar, cheering her for her heroism and for 'saving' me. I was proud of her, too... and added my cheers and thanks. Mom made one of her rare appearances in public and hugged Stella with some private words in her ears. As her 'boss', it was appropriate and seemed appreciated.

Finally after about an hour of telling and retelling the tale, I got to our suite and turned on the hot tub... I knew we would both need the relaxation. Stella got there minutes later, and we merged into each others' arms, hugging and shaking from the emotions of the happening. In the tub, we lay close, and eventually made slow, gradual love together. We were safe again, in the protective walls of our home and castle.