Hey guys! This is my first Uncharted fanfic, so if I screw something up, which I most likely will, kindly point it out so that I can fix it later. I'm making this a SamxOC story as much as I love Nathan. Maybe I'll do a NathanxOC fanfic at a later date depending on how this one goes...ANYWAY, back on topic.

My OC is...

-Theresa (Tara) Walker

-She's about 5'5 in height

-Has green eyes

-Auburn Hair

For her back story, I want Tara to be very close friends to the Drake brothers since they were kids. It's basically your typical 'childhood friends become lovers' type of fanfic. I don't want to give too much away, but basically after Nathan, Sam, and Rafe go to Panama together, Tara realizes that she's pregnant with Sam's child (they were together for over two years as a couple, but were basically best friends before that). I don't really know much about Tara myself, but I'll develop more on her character at a later date!

So, enjoy this fanfic, hopefully you'll like it.

A feeling of dread takes over as I lock up my car and go towards the entrance to my home.

I need to calm the fuck down before I head inside.

Instantly, I get down on one knee before pulling up my pant leg and reaching into the edge of my sock where I pull out a joint with a single matchstick. After lighting it up, I take one large inhale and hold my breath for a one long second, before exhaling through my nose. I repeat this several times in the course of eleven minutes before putting out the joint and tucking it into the strap of my bra. After finding the correct key, I finally enter my home. I make a beeline straight for the fridge in my kitchen, going for that Smirnoff Ice that Elena Fisher had gotten me addicted to, and crack open the bottle before taking a swig.

"Aah fuck I needed that." I nearly groaned.

My god...I thought today would never end...

"Everything okay?"

I perked up and felt a smile form on my face as I put down my beer on the coffee table in front of the couch.

When did I walk to the couch? Oh wait...just a few seconds ago...I think...

"Hey, Anna-banana, what are you doing up so late?"

"You sound angry...and not like an annoyed angry, but absolutely pissed off type of angry." Anna noted before sniffing the air. "Plus you smell like weed."

"Well you're not wrong." I pursed my lips. "Come on over, tell me about your day, sweetheart."

I gestured for my daughter to sit on the couch with me, watching her in amusement as she almost tripped over her own shoelaces trying to get over to me. I almost let out a laugh from how clumsy she could be at times, but I managed to stifle my laughter. Finally, she plopped down on the couch, placing her legs on top of my lap as she laid back against the pillows. I put my arms over her legs and gave them a small rub before I grabbed my Smirnoff again.

"Well my day wasn't special or anything, everything at school has been boring and lame as per usual..." Anne started with.

"Oh don't give me that shit." I smirked. "How's your boy-crush Anthony doin'?"

Anne blushes as she can't resist the urge to crack a smile.

"Tony is fine." Anne chuckles.

"Have you made a move yet? Or are you still driving yourself insane by not saying anything?" I gave her a knowing look. "Don't be like your ma and chicken out. Learn from my mistakes, Annie!" I shout dramatically.

Anne bursts into laughter as I tickle at her feet.

"Okay! Okay!" Anne giggled. "I'll fucking talk to him!"

"All joking aside, don't let me pressure you. If you feel you're ready, I say go for it." I smiled at her warmly.

"I know." Anne twiddles her thumbs together. "So...how was work? You seem upset...more upset than usual anyway."

I throw my head back and stare at the ceiling as I purse my lips.

"That bad, huh?" Anne muttered. "What happened? Did that asshole make a move on you again or...?"

"It's nothing you need to worry 'bout, baby. It'll be fine." I assured her.

"You look like you could use one of those trips right now. You know, the one's you used to go on." Anne joked.

"Nah, that's the last thing I need." I chuckle softly. "Pretty sure your Aunt Elena would kick my ass if I did."

The next several minutes are spent in pure silence as Anne sits up and brings her knees up to her chest. Anne looks like she wants to say something, and when I finally glance over to her, I can tell something is eating away at her when she immediately averts her gaze from me.

"Hey ma?" Anne mumbled softly.

I merely raise an eyebrow at Anne and wait patiently for her to speak.

"When will you tell me? About those trips? Do you...ever intend to?" Anne barely gets out.

At this, I perk up when I see the look of sadness on her face. After sitting up straight, I place a hand on her knee and give her a look of seriousness and sincerity.

"Anne, baby...I know I probably haven't been the best mother but...I've tried so hard keeping you out of that part of my life. If you're really serious and that interested in knowing, maybe I'll tell you when you turn sixteen. Does that sound like a good deal?" I offered.

Anne is thrown back by surprise from my answer. Every other time that she asked me these types of questions, my answer would always be the same and firm no. Considering her birthday was a month from now, I could tell that she was excited and eager for the day she turned sixteen.

"Really? You'll tell me?!" Anne nearly squealed.

I can't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm and glee, but I respond with a nod.

Maybe it was finally time to tell her everything...including about her father...

"Holy shit!" Anne shouts excitedly.

Anne throws herself on top of me as she gives me a tight hug, and plants kisses to the side of my head.

"Thankyouthankyouthankyou!" She blurted out.

I return the hug wholeheartedly, knowing it was finally time to get my shit together. It was another process of actually moving on.

"Listen, I can't promise that you'll like anything I have to tell you, and some parts you'll have to be patient with. Because...some of it is a bit...painful for me." I smile sadly.

Anne nods in understanding as she pulls back from me.

"Okay, ma." She mumbled.

Glancing down at my watch, I realize that we've been up way too late. I can't help but chuckle to myself when I see that it's nearly 11 PM.

I always lose perception of time with weed.

"Alright, enough of this emotional shit." I joked. "You need to get ready for bed. You've got school tomorrow don't you?"

"Well yeah but- -"

"No buts. I saw your report card last month, you need to bump up your grades. Especially in that Geometry class of yours...I'm seriously considering hiring a tutor at this point." I pointed out.

Anne huffs lightly at this as she folded her arms together, but she nods in agreement.

"You'll tell me what happened at work today alright? That's not up for debate, ma. I can tell it's botherin' you." Anne told me.

"Yeah, I'll tell you. I just need some time to relax and gather my bearings." I replied.

Pleased with my answer, Anne finally gets up from her spot on the couch and leaves to go do her nightly routine before bed. I get up from the couch before going over to the double window doors of my home and shutting them behind me as I sit out on the small deck. Grabbing my joint again, I locate my hidden lighter and light up my joint.

Jesus Christ...I can't believe it's finally here...my baby is almost sixteen. Time fucking flies...

As I smoke my joint, I grab my smartphone and begin scrolling through social media. I see a message popup from Chloe Frazer.

11:25 P.M.

Chloe F.

Hey, China. How goes everything?

I take a minute to respond.

11:26 P.M.

Tara W. (Me)

Living the life of adulthood. Fucking hate it. lol

What's up? Haven't heard from you in awhile.

11:27 P.M.

Chloe F.

Oh you know, just...doing some small jobs here and there.

How's yours? I hear you've gone the straight and narrow.

How's that going, love?

11:29 P.M.

Tara W. (Me)

You know, it sounds like you want something from me. ;D

But tbh, I just quit. My boss was a bit of a dickhead.

Nathan's gonna kill me ha ha.

11:34 P.M.

Chloe F.

Oh really now? Do tell. ;)

You've got my attention.

11:42 P.M.

Tara W. (Me)

Oh well...you know. He uh...wanted me to do him a favor.

I basically told him to fuck off and left after that.

It's a shame too...I was gonna work my way up.

Maybe steal his fucking job.

But whatever. I wasn't happy there anyway.

11:57 P.M.

Chloe F.

Well shit, mate. That uh...wow.

That's just...

Fuck that guy.

I laugh at Chloe's last message and see her text me a GIF of a vine meme. It was one of my favorites. (Daniel, how could you have done this?)

12:03 A.M.

Chloe F.

Listen up, buttercup.

If you're interested, I'll keep you posted for any work.

Charlie misses the hell outta you.

Always mentioned that you were pleasant to be around.

12:06 A.M.

Tara W. (Me)

That's really sweet of you, Chloe. But...

I don't know if I can do that shit anymore though.

After Shambala...I'm not sure.

12:08 A.M.

Chloe F.

Tara. It was 3 years ago.

Are you still having...nightmares?

I'm not much for this shit, but...I can try.

Do you wanna, idk, talk about it?

I nearly jump when my phone vibrates, and I see that Nathan's caller ID show up on the screen.

12:11 A.M.

Tara W. (Me)

I'll ttyl. Nathan's calling me.

12:11 A.M.

Chloe F.

I'll have a chat with you about this later, love.

Take care. Tell Nate I said hello, will ya?

After answering the call, I hold my phone up to my ear.

"Nate, if you butt-dialed me while getting it on with Elena again, I swear to fucking God- -" I started.

"Ha ha. It happened one time. Look down below." Nate chuckles dryly.

I glance down and see Nathan down below. I can't help but giggle, at how ridiculous this seems, but I gesture for him to climb up. Nathan rolls his eyes that I won't bother going to the front door for him, but he complies and climbs up. He lands on my deck with a loud thud after hopping over the railing and gives me a dry look when he sees me smoking my joint.

"Seriously?" Nate raised an eyebrow.

"If you're here to lecture me, you can get the fuck off my property." I smirked.

Nathan rolls his eyes as he grabs my joint and inhales some of it as well. He coughs a bit before handing it back to me.

"Listen, I need your help."

I sit down on one of the patio chairs, gesturing for Nathan to sit down as well. For some reason, Nathan continues to stand, and even starts to pace around my deck. I can tell something is deeply bothering him if he's showing up this late to my damn townhouse. I wait patiently for Nathan to get on with it and tell me what's happening, and I pray to everything holy that this isn't about marriage problems with Elena.

Instead, I grab my wallet and pull out an old polaroid photo that I'd kept for years. It showed signs of age along the edges but it was taken care of. I trace my fingers along the edge and crave the old life I'd had. It was the year 1985, when Sam, Nathan and I were still living together at St. Francis' Orphanage back in Boston. Sam was 14 at the time, and Nathan was just 9 years old. It was my 13th birthday and it was probably the first time Sam had snuck out both Nathan and I right out of the orphanage. Sam knew my love for photography at the time and had somehow acquired a polaroid camera with some film enough to last me several months.

I knew that Sam had stolen it, but it meant so much that I actually got a birthday gift to begin with. Something I hadn't had at the time since my parent's passing. Thinking back on it now, sneaking out of the orphanage that first time with Sam and Nathan had struck something deep within me. A love for adventure and a bigger appreciation for the Morgan brothers for befriending me. I mean, I love Anne more than life itself but...

What if...what would have happened if Sam hadn't died in Panama?

"Tara, did you hear me?"

I snap out of my thoughts and quickly put the photo back into my wallet before giving Nathan my undivided attention.

"Sorry. Go ahead." I nodded at him.

"I need your help." Nathan looked anxious.

"Please tell me it isn't about your marria- -"

"I need your help finding Avery's treasure." He blurted out. "There's a St. Dismas cross in Italy, undamaged and intact- -"

At this, I'm thrown by surprise and stand up before giving him a small glare.

"Excuse me? Are you fucking stupid? No, no fucking way." I nearly shouted.

"I need you! And you're just as knowledgeable, if not more given your parents work- -" Nathan starts.

"Nathaniel Morgan." I snapped.

Nathan perks up at his original name, knowing full well that I meant business.

"I thought we agreed that we wouldn't get involved in that- -that shitstorm again. After your brother died." I hissed at him.

"Tara, I promise you that it's different this time. You have to trust me on this. I need you. You're my sister, my partner. I need your help." Nathan practically begged.

When I see how shaken Nathan is, my anger melts away into concern. Nathan places both hands on my shoulders, as if searching for something in my expression.

"Tara, this is important. Are you with me?" Nathan asked.

I pull away from Nathan and glance into the house. Thankfully, Anne is still sleeping and hasn't come out.

"Nathan, as much as I'd like to, I can't leave my daughter to go on this wild goose chase all over again. What's changed this time? Are you in danger?" I narrow my eyes at him.

"It's not my life that's in danger." Nathan mutters.

"That's not fucking helping your case!" I nearly growled. "You better buck the fuck up and tell me or you can forget it and leave."

I can tell from Nathan's fidgeting that he's nervous, more so than when he was freaking out about proposing to Elena. I knew that this had to be serious, but like hell was I gonna fly in blind for Nathan. I wasn't as young as I used to be, and I had to find a stable job to provide for Anne and I.

"He's...he's alive, Tara." Nathan gives me a small smile.

I can hear my heart pounding through my ears as I stare at Nathan incredulously.

No...no fucking way...

"Who's alive?" I reluctantly asked.

"...Sam." Nathan finally admitted.

I stumble back until my back hits the glass door with a small thud, blinking away tears. I pull my joint up, inhaling deeply before passing it to Nathan. I can't even imagine how he's doing with this news. Exhaling a shaky breath, I run a hand through my hair as I feel lightheaded. Whether it was from the fucking joint or from the news of my lover and Anne's father being alive.

"Holy goddamn shit." I breathed out.

Nathan inhales the joint, and hands it back over to me. He's blinking away tears as well, and his smile increases.

"Yeah. My thoughts exactly." Nathan mutters. "He came to me after work yesterday. I thought I was fucking dreaming."

"So he was stuck in that prison all this time?" I sniffled. "How did he get out?"

"That's where things get...hinky." Nathan's smile falters. "Hector Alcazar. He was Sam's little roommate at the prison. Broke him out. Now he wants the half the treasure in exchange for breaking him out."

My eyes widen at the familiar name.

"Hector fucking Alcazar?!" I nearly shouted. "You're serious?!"

I can feel my vision spinning and quickly put out my joint before tucking it away in my bra strap once again.

"Jesus Christ. I need...air. I feel like I can't breathe." I groaned.

Nathan looks at me worriedly, putting a steady hand on my shoulder.

"In and out. It's gonna be okay." Nathan assures me.

I feel myself leaning against Nathan before I grip at his shirt tightly. It's taking everything within me not to break down right then and there.

He's been alive this entire fucking time...and we had no idea...

"It's no one's fault." Nathan replied. "Those guards lied to us about Sam because of Vargas. They wanted him to pay for it...I think it's easy to say they got what they wanted."

It was then that I realized I had voiced my thoughts aloud, and feel my eyes brim with more tears. Nathan rubs soothing circles in my back as he lets me cry against him.

"Alright...I'm with you Nathan. I'm always with you." I murmured against him.

I stopped by Anne's room after making an urgent call to Elena, telling her that I'd been offered a deal of a lifetime and needed to leave, and technically...

It wasn't a complete lie.

I hated hiding anything from Elena considering that she had grown to be one of my closest female companions over the years. After Nathan and Elena had become a couple, and before they even considered marriage, Elena would often help me take care of Anne. I could admit that Elena was a lifesaver and that she practically helped me raise Anne. Elena had taught her things that I wasn't really capable of teaching Anne myself.

Fifteen years ago, I was the adventurous adrenaline seeker that loved travelling the world to find treasure. It was something I had acquired a taste for after being with the Drake brothers for so long. When Anne came into my life, and she was an absolute blessing in the darkest time of my life, it was hard to push away those old feelings of adventure despite my attempts. When I became a mother, I had to start thinking about my daughter's life, and about what was better for her.

But it was hard just walking away from what I had known for most of my life.

It's regrettable to admit, but every time Nathan and Sullivan needed my help, I actually dropped everything to go and help them. I'd leave Anne with an old neighbor I trusted, and collected trinkets and took photos from all of our previous adventures. Some trinkets I'd sold to bring more money back home, and others I brought back as souvenirs for Anne. For the money I made from previous adventures, I actually put some of it towards Anne's college funds as well as used it for important things that Anne needed. Despite everything though, I always tried giving Anne the best childhood that I possibly could.

It was something that often kept me up late most nights, feeling immense guilt for leaving my daughter to discover lost civilizations. It's not as if I was gone for years on end, but those adventures did often take up a lot of my time. After my last adventure with Nate, which ended up being a close call for me, it was like I had received the wake-up call I desperately needed. I promised myself that I wouldn't be doing this to Anne ever again, not that she ever knew where I had been, and give up those days of being a treasure hunter. Nathan had soon enough followed my example after he saw the physical and mental state I was in.

"Mom? What's up?"

Anne sat up in her bed, rubbing her eyes as she let out a yawn. I could see Nathan standing just outside her door, but I put my attention back towards Anne.

"Hey, sweetheart..." I smiled warmly.

I began running my fingers through Anne's hair, noticing how her eyes fluttered from the touch from being barely awake

"Anne. I just wanted to say goodbye before I left." I told her.

"Where ya goin'?" She mumbled tiredly.

"I have some business that I need to take care of, but I've called your Aunt Elena, and she said she'll be coming to pick you up after school tomorrow." I replied.

"But why?"

I bit my bottom lip, trying to keep a straight face as I brushed hair out of her face.

"I was just offered a job, an opportunity of a lifetime. I wanted to go and check it out. It might turn up to be nothing, but I'll have to go and see."

I glanced out of the corner of my eye, seeing a look of guilt flash across Nathan's face.

"You'll call right?" Anne asked.

"Yeah. I'll call you every chance I get." I nodded.

I leaned down, kissing Anne's forehead before giving her a hug.

"God, I love you..." I murmured softly. "Be good for your Aunt, alright?"

"Love you too, ma..." Anne yawned.

After realizing Anne fell back asleep, I gently laid her back down on her bed. I stood up, and stared at her for the longest time. Nathan came into Anne's room before pulling her covers up over her until she was all tucked in. Nathan put his hand on my shoulder after that, giving it a gentle and reassuring squeeze. I placed my hand on top of his, and squeezed back.

Soon enough, Nathan and I had made it to Italy within the next several hours with an express flight. We got settled into the motel we checked into, and I decided to make sure we had everything we needed before we left after getting the cross. Nathan left, informing me that I had to be ready to go with Sullivan at a specific time, and that Nathan would be sneaking into the Rossi estate while Sully and I attended the auction together. I opened my large suitcase I had brought, opening it to reveal one of my lovely guns I proudly owned as well as a holster that attached to my thigh, knowing I'd probably need it.

It was better to be safe than sorry.

When I saw a dress sent into my room from Sully, I nearly blushed from how elegant it was and was also thankful that I still went to the gym these days. It was a navy dress that was covered in sparkles, and it almost reminded me of that dress from that animated movie Anastasia.

Anne and I used to watch that movie so many times when she was younger...

I ignored the feeling of butterflies in my stomach and got ready as quickly as I could before Sully arrived. It was hard to believe that it had only been several hours since I left. I could barely sleep a wink on the plane.

I grew anxious as I met up with Sullivan and went to the Rossi Estate with him. Sullivan gave me a cigar to try and put me at ease, and it did for about fifteen minutes throughout the drive. It was almost hard to focus, but I knew I would have to get my act together soon. I was probably a little rusty, considering it's been years since I've done anything like this, but I knew I would pick up on everything quickly.

"So...did uh...Nathan explain everything?" Sullivan reluctantly asked.

Knowing full well that he was referring to Sam, I nodded.

"Yeah...you could say that."

I can feel myself shaking as I smoke from the cigar Sullivan gave me, staring out the window as he pulls up to the Rossi Estate.

"If we're here for the cross, you can bet your ass that Rafe Adler's gonna be here. He hasn't made any leeway since Nathan and I left him. I did my research." I mentioned.

"I'm praying that you're wrong, but...well, I can't name a time that you weren't wrong." Sully gives me a knowing look.

After stepping out of the car, Sully puts the car in park as he opens the door for me. He tips the man that's ready to park the car generously before looping his arm with mine and walking in. We have no problems getting inside the Rossi Estate in regards to the security at the door. Sullivan and I, having already studied the blueprints, head straight up to a room that's easily accessible to the guests with a window for us to let Nathan and Sam through. I grab a drink from a passing server, but nothing seems to shake my nerves.

"You need to calm down, darlin'." Sullivan warns me. "I can practically feel you shaking like a leaf."

"Well can you blame me? The father of my child has been alive this entire fucking time and I'm about to see my old boyfriend after fifteen years." I hissed into his ear. "Excuse me for being a nervous wreck."

"Fair enough." Sullivan smiles nervously.

When we make it to the room and make sure no one else is inside, we carefully shut the doors behind us and try to make ourselves comfortable. As Sully flickers the table lamp in view of the windows to signal Nathan and Sam that we're inside, I can't help but pace around.

"What if he's fucking moved on from me? Oh fucking hell, how the fuck do I tell him about Anne?" I nearly groaned.

"Would you relax?" Sullivan glared at me. "Tara, you're being ridiculous! You need to focus on why we're here, darlin'."

I nod at Sullivan and run a hand through my styled curls.

"Do I look okay?" I hesitantly asked.

"You look like a drop dead gorgeous model, Theresa. Now. Relax and play it cool, would ya?" Sullivan rolled his eyes.

"Yeah, you're right. You're right." I muttered.

I try to ease my anxiety by walking over to the bookshelves nearby and looking through them by title and author. That's when I hear the window open and tense up.

"Sully?" Nathan called out.

"Know what I love about partying with a bunch of crooks?" Sully asked.

Sully turned on the lamp beside him, smirking at Nathan.

"Nobody cares if you smoke indoors." He finished.

"It's been a while." Nathan smiled.

"Too long boyo." Sully chuckled.

Nathan and Sully embraced for a minute, knowing all too well how long it's been since they've seen each other. Nathan turned and saw me just as I turn to face him, and a small blush forms on his cheeks as he stared in awe.

"You look great Tara, holy shit..." Nathan complimented.

Well, well. Look who's finally here.

"You clean up nicely yourself. But you gotta fit in right?" I can't help but smile at him.

Another figure hops in behind Nathan and my smile quickly fades when I recognize the silhouette of the man.

Holy fucking shit. This is real. This is actually happening. What the fuck? Okay, play it cool.

Memories began flooding back to me, and it was almost overwhelming enough that I could have stopped functioning. It was right there and then, that my heart had started to pound rapidly, almost loud enough that I could hear it. My surroundings began fading into nothing as I continued to stare at Samuel Morgan Drake, a man I had longed to be with for so long, a man I thought had died 15 years ago. Sam looked just as shocked as I was as the both of us stood still, not knowing what to do.

"Tara..." Sam breathed out.

"Hey stranger." I smiled warmly.

Sam let's out a faint chuckle as his eyes brim with unshed tears. He quickly wipes at his eyes and finally moves towards me. He then embraces me like his life depends on it, and I return it with much enthusiasm. To me, this moment felt so surreal, and I was almost afraid to even blink in fear that Sam would disappear before my very eyes and only be alive in my memories.

"God, I missed the hell out of you, babe." Sam let out a tearful laugh. "You still got that old lighter of mine?"

I can't help but chuckle from his question, and reach down the front of my dress between my breasts before pulling out his old lighter. It was custom made, something that Sam had treasured since he was younger, and it was the one reminder of Sam that I gladly kept for myself.

"You bet your ass I do." I sniffled.

"Hey hey...no need for the water works, doll face." Sam mumbled softly. "I'm back and I don't intend on leavin' this time."

"I'm sorry, Sam. I never...I just- -" I stammered. "I'm so sorry."

Sam gently grips my chin and forces me look him in the eyes. At first glance, I'd say that Sam aged really well but looked more weathered and toned. I wasn't sure if it was comforting that Sam was acting like nothing happened, or if it was unwelcomed. I say nothing as he gently places a kiss to my forehead.

"Sweetheart, don't you ever blame yourself for what happened." Sam told me in a hushed tone. "And don't say that's not what you're thinkin'. It's 15 years later and I can still read you like a book."

I merely nod, not trusting myself to speak in fear of breaking down in front of Sam. That's the last thing anyone needed right now. So instead, I close my eyes and take a deep breath, unintentionally inhaling Sam's familiar scent of cigarettes and beer. For some reason, that was all the comfort I needed at the moment.

"We'll have plenty of time to catch up after this is done. I promise." Sam assured me.

"Yeah...you're right..." I breathed out. "Let's get that cross huh?"

"Listen uh...about that." Sully started.

"What?" I paused and turned to look at Sully.

"Come on. I've gotta show you all something." He merely responds with.

All of us followed Sullivan out of the room, until we were looking down at where the auction was taking place on the main floor.

"Take a look."

We all looked down until we saw the items being sold at the auction, one of those items being the St. Dismas Cross.

"Shit." I cursed.

"That's Avery's cross." Nathan realized.

"They brought it out of storage just before you guys got here." Sullivan said.

"I didn't know that..." I scoffed. "Why didn't you say anything to me?"

"It was clear you had other things on your mind." Sully mumbled in reply.

He's not incorrect...

"They changed the lot order." Sam sighed deeply.

"It would have to take a whole pile of cash to make that happen." Sully pointed out.

"So I was right then." I hummed thoughtfully. "Rafe's here just like I predicted he'd be."

"All right, well how long before they start bidding?" Nate asked.

"Fifteen minutes tops." Sullivan guessed.

"Well, there's gotta be some way we can grab it." Nathan said.

"There's just the small matter of a few hundred eye witnesses down there." Sullivan scoffed.

"Okay, well, we just...need a diversion." Nathan stammered.

"Like?" Sully raised an eyebrow.

"Like um...like I don't know. But there's gotta be something."

"Well if the guards see us making for that cross- -" Sullivan grew frustrated.

Finally, I have enough of Sully and Nathan's bickering and intervene.

"My god, you guys act like you've never spent time in prison before." I chuckled.

Ah prison...I'm never goin' back there again.

Sam lights up immediately as he quickly catches on to what I'm about to say, and wraps an arm around my waist as he gives Sully and Nathan a huge smirk.

"If you want something dirty done...then you wait for- -"

"Lights out." We all said in unison.

"Now you're catching on." I winked.

"Where's that electrical panel for this place?" Sully asked.

Nathan pulled out a copy of the blueprints for the Rossi Estate from inside his tux, laying it out on the table we're gathered at.

"There's ventilation, electrical. That's it up here." Nathan pointed on the blueprints.

It's a faint touch, but I nearly gasp as Sam rubs small circles on my hip with his thumb. I glance at him from the corner of my eyes to see that mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

That bastard knows how much that gets to me...

I pinched his hand, trying to get Sam to focus on the task at hand, but all he did was flinch slightly before he moved his hand towards my posterior and squeezed. I nearly let out a moan, not used to his touch for so long. It felt so familiar yet new all at once, and despite my many flings over the years, none were as satisfying as Sam as much as I hated to admit it. Sam just knew me so intimately, since we were teenagers. He knew my body more than any other man did.

Damn it, Sam..I might jump you before the bidding even starts if you keep that up.

"So we just have to climb up there and kill the lights." Nathan continued.

"And grab the cross in the dark." Sam finished.

"There will be an emergency generator." I mentioned.

"That'll give us a few seconds of darkness to work with." Nathan nodded.

"Meaning...we'll have to be right next to the cross when the lights go out." Sam said.

"Except there's no way we can get that close without being noticed." Sullivan argued.

"Scusate, signori. Antipasti?" A waitress asked.

"Nah, I'm all set." Nathan politely declined.

"Hi, how are you?" Sam winked.

"Ciao." She smiled tensely and walked away.

I smacked Sam across the head gently, hearing him chuckle a bit.

"Would you focus?" I glared at him.

"You know I only have eyes for you..." Sam kissed my temple. "Besides, she gave me an idea...you know, a waiter wouldn't get noticed."

"That could work." Sully agreed.

"Uh huh." Sam hummed.

"That will work." Nathan nods. "All right...all right, I'll get to the breaker room, kill the power."

"You mean I'm the waiter?" Sam pointed to himself.

"You're the best pickpocket." Nathan said.

"Yeah right." I scoffed. "You underestimate me, Nathan."

"Awe, doll-face. I sense some hostility." Sam cooed.

I turned to look at Sam after rolling my eyes.

"I wonder why that is? You're not exactly off the hook, pal."

Sam leaned in, his lips just mere inches from mine.

"God, I love you." He growled playfully.

"I know you're religious and everything but come on, God's got nothin' to do with this." I teased.

Sam tried to lean in closer for a kiss, but I quickly pulled away as I gave him a seductive smile, knowing the effect teasing always had on him.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Drake, but I can't let you do that. You see, it might ruin my lipstick." I winked at him.

Sam bit his bottom lip as he stared at me with a predatory gleam in his eyes and leaned back after folding his arms.

"I've got fifteen years worth of love to give, darlin'. Just so you know." He lowered his voice with a smug grin. "And I won't be gentle either."

I can't help but stare at Sam in surprise as well as lustfully how deep his voice got.

Well holy hot damn.

"Are you both finished undressing each other with your eyes?" Nathan chuckled.

And that's how Anne was born. With lots of flirting, and pent up sexual tension...and fucking like rabbits when we were in our twenties.

"Not yet." Sam joked. "The night's still young after all."

"Alright. Let's get this shit on the road here. The clock's ticking." Sullivan told us.

I followed Sullivan as I blew Sam a small kiss from behind me.

Shit...it's like everything that happened fifteen years ago never even occurred.

"Alright, follow me, we'll cut through the cellar." Sully told us.

"I've gotta say Victor, the years have been kind to you." Sam spoke up.

"Thanks, I chalk it up to going vegan." He replied.

Vegan? Since when?

"Really?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Ha! Are you kidding me? No." Sully let out a laugh.

I walked ahead as Sully, Sam, and Nathan were conversing with each other and grabbed a drink from a waiter nearby as I sneakily snatched a key card from his back pocket. Soon enough, I saw them standing by the door that led to the cellar, and smirked when I noticed how conflicted and stumped they were when they realized the door was locked.

"Can't we pick it open?" Sam mumbled.

"We can't, it's electronic." Nathan explained.

"God damn would you boys be lost without me." I chuckled.

"Where the hell did you go just now?" Sully asked.

I downed the rest of the wine I was drinking and handed the glass to Nathan, reaching down the front of my dress discreetly to grab the key card and handed it over to Sam with a small smile.

"I didn't know we would need it, but I'm glad I pick-pocketed one of the waiters when I did." I joked.

"You, are a doll, you know that?" Sam kisses both of my cheeks.

"So I've heard." I replied.

After Nathan and Sam left, Sullivan and I were left to keep an eye on the cross until the bidding started, mostly to scout around for Rafe and stall if necessary. We both kept our earpieces on, making sure to stay in contact as we walked around the area. I had been careful to avoid any confrontations with Rafe, but I knew my luck ran out when someone else tapped on my shoulder. I can feel myself grow self conscious when I come face to face with the legendary Nadine Ross. A woman who was hellbent on running her father's business and controlling a literal army. Nadine was gorgeous in her current attire, dressy pants that flowed like a long skirt followed with a red shirt that hugged her curves just right.

She had to have known who I was or she wouldn't have approached me. She probably already knows why I'm here.

"I don't believe we've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Nadine Ross." She introduced herself.

Oh believe me, I know exactly who you are.

Knowing full well that there was no avoiding this confrontation and that Nadine knew my association with Nathan, I play along as I reach to shake her hand firmly.

"Theresa Walker. Tara for short." I politely respond.

"So, what brings you here? You came with Victor didn't you?" Nadine said with certainty.

I gotta give it to her, she's smarter than she looks. And she looks like she can kick my ass if she wanted to.

"Honestly, I think Sullivan wanted some arm candy for the event and you know how that shit goes. But truth be told, I didn't want to pass up the chance to go to Italy. I've always wanted to take in the beautiful scenery." I lied smoothly.

"It is beautiful." Nadine practically purred.

I felt myself blushing under Nadine's gaze and averted my eyes away from her because of her sudden change in tone.

Holy shit, is she trying to seduce me or something? What the fuck is happening here?

"I guess I should be getting back to Victor, huh?" I laughed nervously.

Nadine grabbed my wrist instantly before I could walk away, seemingly enjoying how flustered I was becoming. Nadine slowly walked forward, causing me to move back until we were both behind a pillar and out of everyone's view.

"W- -what are you doing?" I stuttered.

"You know, it would be a shame if you got hurt if you decided to get involved with all of this...treasure hunting business." Nadine breathed into my ear.

I shuddered from Nadine's breath gently fanning the side of my face, and didn't dare move. She was like a fucking cougar, beautiful but deadly and ready to pounce at any given moment.

"Though it would be nice to see you again." Nadine added. "It's rare having a woman in this type of field. It's a nice change of pace being around someone resourceful like you. Just a shame we're on opposite sides, aye?"

Holy fucking shit. I've never been so terrified and turned on all at the same time...

Nadine presses her lips to my cheek before quickly turning away, leaving before I could even say another word. I felt my face heat up to the point I actually thought I was on fire. I could practically hear my heart pounding and resonating in my ears.

"Well shit." I barely uttered.

"You can say that again. I could hear her breathing in your ear. Holy shit." Sullivan said.

My eyes widened when I realized that I still had my earpiece on, and that the others heard just about every word of that 'delightful' conversation.

"Okay, so now we know that Nadine Ross is here...and also working with Rafe. Doesn't she have that army for hire? Coastline- -" Nathan guessed.

"It's Shoreline, and yes. She does have an army." I cut him off.

"That's not the only thing she has..." Sam added. "You wouldn't happen to be Bi would you, babe? I'm not gonna lie...it's kinda doin' it for me."

"Sam, for the love of god, just shut the fuck up." I hissed into my earpiece.

"Ooh. I struck a nerve, did I?" Sam snickered.

"Sam, stop teasing her, she's probably just as weirded out by that as we were." Nathan snapped.

"Just shut up. All of you." I nearly groaned. "I've never been more sexually confused in my entire life. Then again, Chloe's proved me wrong before."

"Wait...you had a fling with Chloe?! When the fuck was this and how did I not know about it?!" Nate nearly shouted.

"This isn't the time for sex stories. All of you just drop it for now, okay?" Sully suggested.

"Yeah, for now." Sam chuckled.

"Okay, Nate. Where are you with shutting off the damn power? The bidding is actually going to start any minute now. I can see Rafe and he looks ready to go. He's not playing around." I said.

I could see Rafe Adler at a distance, looking impatient as he tapped his foot repeatedly while nursing his drink in one hand. He took a sip, most likely to calm his nerves, but I could tell that he was far from relaxed. It almost reminded me of myself to be honest. It was the first time I'd seen the man in fifteen years, but I could honestly say that he aged pretty well too. It was honestly a shame that he was such a pretentious asshole.

"Almost there." Nathan replied.

I finally calmed down after another minute, walking around and trying to see if there was anyone else in the crowd that was working for Rafe or Nadine. When the bidding started, I grew a little anxious again, not knowing how long it would be before Rafe would be walking out of here with the cross if Nathan was too late in switching off the power. My eyes widened slightly when I saw Sullivan raise his hand, realizing that he was now starting to bid against Rafe in order to buy us some time. I was momentarily distracted when my arm was gently tugged on.

"Hey, relax, doll. We'll be out of here soon."

When I realized it was Sam that grabbed me, I relaxed instantly.

"This isn't going to end well. Nate better hurry the fuck up." I hissed quietly.

"I'm trying!" Nathan sighed in frustration. "I'm almost there!"

Sam let go of my arm and lowered the serving tray down for me, allowing me to get a drink.

"Take a drink to calm your nerves." Sam told me.

"You know, you look good in that outfit." I chuckled.

"I thought so too. It just really brings out my eyes." Sam smirked.

"Kid, you better hurry the hell up. I can't bid anymore. That rich fuck looks ready to kill me." Sullivan muttered quietly.

"You better get ready." I told Sam.

I gently elbowed Sam, as I walked away, watching him inch a little closer to the cross looking as nonchalant as possible.

"Alright! I'm in! Get ready, guys." Nathan said.

Sullivan begins to walk away as well when he stops bidding against Rafe, lighting up a new cigar before making his way towards the exit.

"Let's ruin this asshole's evening." Sully referred to Rafe.

When the lights went out, everyone gasped in alarm.

Sam and I quickly walked together, watching out for guards.

"Sam! Tell me you got the cross!" Nathan breathed out.

"I got St. Dismas right here, you wanna say hi?" Sam joked.

"Yeah, we really kicked the hornet's nest down here. Ballroom's locked down, security's scrambling." Sully told us.

"Hey, Victor, where's our getaway?" I asked.

"Come to the driveway out front...just follow the spotlights. I'll bring the car around." Sully replied.

After a minute or so, I could hear Nathan struggling, or rather fighting someone and getting his ass kicked. Sam and I exchanged confused and worried glances when we heard that it was Nadine fighting Nathan to get the cross from him. The only thing was, she didn't know that it was Sam that actually had it.

"Give me the artifact!"

"Lady, do you know how many artifacts I've collected over the years? You're gonna have to be more specific." Nathan chuckled sarcastically.

"Let me see if I can clarify!" Nadine snapped.

I heard another crash through the earpiece and snickered when I heard Nathan groan in pain.

"That's what he gets for being a total smart-ass." I smirked.

"Are you finished? Or do you want to keep being a smart-ass?" Nadine asked.

Well I guess that's one thing we can agree on, that Nathan Drake is at least 85% smart-ass.

"Okay, come clean. You're no chiropractor. Your technique is really not helping my back." Nathan retorted breathlessly.

Better change that percentage to 95%

After hearing glass shatter, I grew nervous, hoping Nathan wasn't badly hurt or even worse.

"All right, I'm at the car. Where the hell are you guys?" Sully asked nervously.

"Ah, just met Tara's new friend, Nadine Ross. She's lovely." Nathan panted.

"She ain't my friend. We've only officially met in person tonight." I rolled my eyes.

"Yeah? Well, it's total chaos out here. They're trying to keep it contained, but everybody's freaking out. I don't wanna rush you but... hurry the hell up." Sully said.

"Nathan, where you at?" Sam spoke up.

"Good question, you?"

"Me and Tara are by the ballroom. Look for this round sign thing, it's on the way there."

"Round sign thing, check."

"Good news is, I got a gun. See you soon."

Sam pulled out a gun from his back pocket and loaded it up with ammo. I stooped down as we both heard guards before I followed Sam's example as well.

"I guess it's good news that I brought mine as well." I smirked.

Sam looked surprised before he grinned and pecked my lips.

"I love how we think alike at times. Where were you keeping that anyway?" Sam asked.

"That's why it's amazing to be a woman at times." I chuckled softly.

Sam's eyes widened a bit, before he flat out grinned and he bit his bottom lip, not bothering to say another word. Soon enough, we made it to the sign Sam was talking about and noticed Nathan struggling to hang onto it with guards shooting at him.

"Nathan! What're you doing?" Sam yelled.

"What does it look like?!" Nathan groaned.

I immediately started shooting at the guards, feeling triumphant as they stopped shooting at Nathan and scattered to take cover.

"Nathan! Catch!" Sam shouted.

Nathan managed to catch the gun and began shooting at the guards while they were focused on us. Nathan shot at the guards and laughed as he successfully took them all down.

"You all right?" I asked.

"Yeah, hanging in there!" Nathan replied.

"I can't get to you from here, you got a way down?!" Sam looked worried.

"Yeah! Yeah, I think so!" Nathan said.

"Okay, we'll meet you at the driveway, just head towards the ballroom!" I told him.

"All right, see you both there!"

Sam and I ran, but not before I yelped, tripping over my own dress and began sliding down the roof. Sam quickly caught me, pulling me away from the edge before I could fall off.

"Damn it! I can't run in this thing." I cursed. "Hold on."

I leaned against Sam and grabbed at my dress, using my strength to rip apart the expensive and soft fabric which now exposed my left thigh.

"Fuck, I really loved this dress." I pouted.

"Yeah. It did look great on you." Sam smiled suggestively.

I blushed from his compliment and shook my head as I returned the smile.

"Let's get going, cowboy. At least I'm more mobile now."

"Victor. We're kinda stuck here, got any ideas?" I lowered my voice.

"Fastest way is through the ballroom!" Sully informed us.

"You said the ballroom's locked down." Sam said.

"Yeah, well now that they know it's you guys, they've cleared the place out."

"Ballroom it is. You get that, Nathan?" I asked.

"Yeah, got it."

As soon as Sam and I made it to the ballroom, we were ambushed by dozens of guards, all of them shooting at us almost immediately. I took off my high-heels, recalling how I had extra ammo clips that were disguised along the heels. I quickly ripped them off, and reloaded my gun, and shot at some more guards as I went barefoot. It might have been several more minutes before I grew impatient and got reckless as I was grazed in the arm with a bullet. I felt myself get dizzy but snapped out of it quickly, after slapping myself on the cheek. I came out from hiding running to another area as I kill three guards right in the head with practiced shots.

I refuse to die here. I'm getting back to Anne, no doubt about it.

I yelped as I slid along the marble floor, managing to make it to a pillar I could hide behind and take cover. It wasn't long before Nathan made a big entrance, crashing in through the windows right across from me.

"IT'S ABOUT DAMN TIME YOU SHOWED UP!" I snapped.

"Shit Tara! You're bleeding!" Nathan gave me a look of worry.

"No shit, Sherlock! Now let's get the hell out of here before we're cornered like rats and killed!"

"All right, kids, change of plan! Too many people are trying to leave, so the driveway's all jammed up!" Sully spoke up.

"Shit, what's our backup?" Sam asked.

"There's that fountain just outside the ballroom! I'll meet you there!"

"Got it. Let's go!"

Soon enough, we're all running outside, bullets coming from all directions as we all struggled to get out of this place with our lives. I never recalled running so much in my life, but then remembered how many similar situations I had been in with Nathan before when we searched for other treasures and lost cities. Suddenly, an explosion sent me flying sideways, until my back hit a wall. I fell to the ground, my ears ringing as I struggled to stand up, my vision growing blurry.

"TARA!" Sam yelled.

"Sam! Get her while I cover you!" Nathan told him. "Sully! Damn it, we're running out of time here!"

"Hold on, kid! I'm nearly there!" Sully replied.

"Shit! Tara! I'm so sorry this happened- -" Sam yelled frantically.

"Sam! For the love of god, I'm okay!" I snapped.

After crashing the limo through the damn wall, Sully had managed to get all of us out there in one piece. We were all a little shaken up from tonight's events, but we were alright overall considering we had gotten the cross successfully. Sam wouldn't let me out of his sights though, as he patched my arm up and continued to worry about me as if I was some fragile doll.

"Hey! Look at me!"

I grabbed Sam by his hair on the back of his head and turned him until he made eye contact with me. Sam actually looked scared, and that alone actually made me feel bad for my aggressive behavior.

"Sam. Listen..." I loosened my grip on him. "I'm not gonna break. It only grazed my arm, alright? Everything is okay, and we're all alive. That's what matters in the end."

"But you coulda' gotten yourself killed- -" Sam started.

"You act like I'm new at this! But the truth is, I've had a lot of experience with getting shot at, your brother also. Just drop it." I cut him off.

Sam sighed deeply as he ran his hand through his hair after I released him and sat back in my seat, not saying another word after that. Soon enough, we all made it back to the hotel. Nathan and Sullivan already went into the room with the cross in hand, but before I could follow them, Sam had pulled me back.

"Hey...listen...can we talk?"

I froze, my hand hovering over the door handle. I let my hand drop when I saw Sam standing behind me, looking a little bashful.

"You don't still feel guilty about earlier do you? I told you, it's not your fault- -" I sighed.

"It's not about that." Sam shook his head.

"Then...what is it?" I mumbled.

"I didn't know..."

"Know about what?" I asked.

"I didn't know that Nathan was going to involve you with all of this. I didn't even know you were coming tonight." Sam answered.

That's why he looked so shocked to see me earlier.

"Well Nathan's my best friend. After I thought you died, Nathan was the only family I had left and I'll always have his back." I told him. "He's done so much for me." I blinked away tears. "He helped me when I..."

Sam appeared to be taken back from my words about his brother, but also seemed pained that it wasn't him that I relied on anymore.

"When you what?" He mumbled softly.

Sam took a hold of my hand, squeezing it gently in a way that urged me to continue.

Fucking hell...I...shit- -

"When I was..."

I was interrupted when Nathan came out of the room, and grew nervous when he saw the look on my face.

"Guys, you ready to open the crossshit...was I... interrupting something...?" Nathan asked.

"No. It's okay." I spoke up.

Sam gave me a pointed look before turning over to Nathan.

"We can talk later." Sam muttered.

We both followed Nathan to their room, the tension between us being higher than it ever had been before.

I hope you guys enjoyed this first long ass chapter! I had so much fun writing it! And in case I get shit about Nadine flirting with Tara, I just want to say one thing. I mean, we don't really know what Nadine's sexual orientation is really, but I thought it would be interesting if she was bisexual, not that it even matters to begin with, Nadine's an awesome character still. I thought it would be a little cute and funny if she made Tara flustered. Anyway, let me know what you think, I might change the rating for this fanfic to M later to be safe. For obvious reasons...regarding Tara and Sam...I don't know! I'll figure it out!