Episode 192
Anger grew in Gradys body as he saw his mother and Susan begin walking towards him.
What is she doing here? Grady questioned demanding an answer as he stood up.
Calm down son, Elliot hushed grabbing his shoulder so he could hold him back.
Why should I? Grady wondered shrugging his shoulders, All she ever does is cause trouble.
Grady, Susan frowned as Grady glared right through her, I found that very harsh.
Harsh? Grady questioned with a sarcastic laugh. Ill show you what harsh is.
Stop it Grady, Elliot pleaded as he held his son back from making a big mistake with Susan.
She has something that could help you, Cheryl informed Grady with a sigh seeing the confusion on Gradys face. She knows where Jade is.
What? Grady questioned with emphasis behind his voice, What do you mean?
You heard right Grady, Susan smiled as she folded her arms out in front of her. I know where Jade is.
What are you waiting for then? Grady wondered as he sat down on the couch watching her take a seat.
For you to calm down and take the time to actually listen to me, Susan informed him as Grady nodded.
Im listening, Grady smiled sarcastically before rolling his eyes, Are you just screwing around because if you are, you can get out of my house right now.
I know where she is Grady, Susan repeated as he shrugged and she shook her head, If you give me
Susan, Elliot called out catching her attention, Stop playing games, this is a serious thing.
Fine, Susan rolled her eyes before getting ready to explain what was going on. Cameron has Jade.
I couldnt have guessed that, Grady snarled sarcastically before standing up, Where does he have her?
Thats the thing, Susan frowned before biting on her bottom lip, I dont know.
What? Grady questioned yelling out, startling everyone, You said you knew where she was.
Well, I knew who had her, Susan replied with a frown, Cameron has her and he wants to make sure that no one ever sees her again.
Im going to get that Grady began as he walked to the door furiously.
Wait, Susan called out making Grady turn around, If you go now he will know I told you.
What is your point? Grady wondered with a shrug before seeing her frown.
Well, I think the best thing to do right now is just wait and get some help, Susan suggested with a frown.
She is probably right, Elliot, agreed before shaking his head lightly, I really dont know what is going on, but I think we need some more evidence before assuming things.
Grady wanted to go get Cameron and make him pay for what he did, but he knew his father was right and thats what killed him inside. The best thing he could do now is just wait.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I cant believe it Ben, Diane began with a sigh shaking her
head, My best friend is out there and there is nothing I can do about
it.
She will be okay, Ben promised her as he wrapped his arms around her lightly, You know that Jade is a strong woman she will be fine.
I know she is a strong woman, but there is just a fear inside of me that I cant get rid of, she began to explain with a small frown, A fear that I will never get to have another laugh with my best friend again let alone ever see her again.
Trust me, Ben began with a sigh as he shook his head slowly, You will get to see Jade again, I promise.
I know that you, Diane began before she was cut off by the ringing of Bens phone.
Give me one second, Ben paused with a sigh as he took his phone out of pocket. Hello. Yeah Ill be there.
Who was that? Diane questioned with a frown as Ben took in a deep breath.
That was my boss, Ben informed her shaking his head slowly, They want me to come into work. Will you be okay, if you arent I could call them back and say I cant make it.
No, Diane refused as she shook her head, You need to go to work, that is really important.
Are you sure? Ben questioned uneasily, I mean I could stay here with you, I would love to.
No Ben, she hushed before beginning to talk again, I will be fine you dont have to worry.
Well, what will you do when I am gone? Ben wondered worriedly before seeing her smile.
I dont know, maybe I will go see Blake and Seth, she suggested to herself, You know, to see if anything else has changed.
Alright, Ben sighed as he slowly pulled her to him, Ill miss you.
Ill miss you too, she smiled before kissing him lightly, Now you should get going.
Alright, I promise I will be back as soon as I can, Ben declared with a wide smile before walking out the door.
Diane took a seat on the couch as she shook her head slowly. How could something like this have happened?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I cant believe it, Deidra sighed as she took a seat next to Judy, I am so in love with this man.
Dean? Judy questioned seeing Deidra turn and look at her like she was crazy.
Of course Dean, she laughed before starting up again, He is so romantic and he is the perfect man.
Dean is really special to you then, huh? Judy wondered seeing Deidra fold her hands out in front of her and nod.
He is so great to me, Deidra informed her closing her eyes picturing his face, He is the man of my dreams and I think I really love him.
Wait one second, Judy, sighed holding her hands up in the air, catching Deidras attention, Dont get hooked too easily.
Im not, Deidra, protested shaking her head, I know what Dean is all about. You dont have to worry.
I always have to worry about you Deidra, Judy informed her as she took in a deep breath. I just want you to be safe.
I am safe with Dean, Deidra insisted before holding her hands up in the air. I couldnt be happier.
I can see that, Judy smiled before enclosing her fingers together in her lap, I just want to make sure that you are being careful and keeping yourself safe.
Believe me, I am safe with Dean, Deidra sighed thinking back to the moment when Dean saved her, I feel like I am always safe with Dean he is like my protector.
Your protector? Judy questioned with a laugh. What am I supposed to be?
Believe me, you are on my top too, Deidra smiled before Judy look towards her slowly.
So tell me more about Dean, Judy replied before seeing Deidra shrug.
There are so many things about him, Deidra stated before seeing Judy shrug.
Tell me some of the things he has done for you and maybe I wont be so worried about him, Judy suggested before seeing Deidra nod.
Alright, good enough, Deidra sighed before trying to think of one of the many things that Dean has done for her. Dean was just a great guy and he was perfect all around.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I cant thank you enough for what youve done for me today,
Mindy began with a small smile tilting her head up to meet Hunts bright
gaze. I know this wasnt on your top ten list of things to do,
but
But what? he questioned with a small smile of his own, Dont
you think by now that Id find any excuse I could to spend the day with
a beautiful woman like you?
Oh youre good, she swatted at his chest playfully, An
insatiable flirt even at the end of a long, grueling day of apartment hunting.
Now, now, when you say it like that it makes me feel as if you think
all my praise is insincere, which by the way is as far from the truth as you
can imagine, he continued watching her and loving the way her eyes seemed
to sparkle when she looked at him. There was just something about being near
her--something about having spent the day prancing all over town with her
that made him realize that life was truly worth living after all. He could
sense that she still wasnt quite sure how to take him, but for what
it was worth, he was going to try and find a way to convince her that he was
the real deal--even if it took a lot of convincing, Besides, Im
thinking about finding a place myself since the whole idea of staying at a
hotel isnt exactly working with me or my checkbook there.
Oh you seem to be doing just fine, she motioned to the outfit
he was wearing, Youre always in the best of the best.
Cheap designer knockoffs, he revealed with a small shake of his
head, though if they convinced you
They didnt, she threw out a pointed look, I was just
being polite.
Oh is that what you call it, he laughed lightly pulling her into
an embrace before teasing his fingers in over her rib case to make her laugh.
He continued to tickle at her, until she bucked in against him.
Hunt stop, she squealed back at him, Hunt
Not until you admit that you didnt have a first clue about the
clothes being a knock off.
What does it matter, she laughed wildly spinning in his arms only
to face him. She saw the mischief burning behind his own handsome features
as she slid her fingers in underneath his shirt and felt the smooth expanse
of his body burning beneath her touch. It was in that moment that all thoughts
of what they were fighting about were lost--the tickle torture ceased to be
something of interest as she shivered beside him. He too seemed to ease up
on his jabbing and as Mindy felt his fingers curl in over the small of her
back, she realized shed been breathless.
Mindy, he spoke her name in a soft, sexy whisper.
Hunt, she fluttered her eyelashes fighting to come up with some
kind of reasonable, logical something to say, but she found herself at a loss.
The only thing that she could focus on was the strength of his arms that surrounded
her, the scent of him as their eyes were locked upon each other and in that
instant, Mindy felt an explosion of sensations touching from the top of her
head to the tips of her toes. Her face was burning hot and as the outer side
of his palm grazed her cheek tenderly, she forced herself to look away. How
about a truce?
A truce, he questioned blankly watching her pull away from him.
She took a step or two back before clearing her throat uneasily.
For the tickle torture, she nodded in confession before giving
him a long once over, I really didnt know they were a knock off.
Good because they arent, he chuckled with a sexy wink, I
was just testing you.
Yeah well, Im surprised that you know so much about fashion,
Mindy eyed him intently, I mean dont get me wrong. I like a man
that knows how to dress and has a sense of style, but not many men have that.
So what are you trying to say? That its a rare quality in men?
he arched a curious brow.
Not necessarily, but with most men that I know who possess that quality,
well they are
she stopped herself.
Are what? he questioned again.
Usually gay, she bit on her lower lip nervously before asking
the dreaded question that suddenly racked over her brain. Hunt, I need
to know, are you gay?
Gay, he blinked back in confusion seemingly shell-shocked by what
shed just asked, Youve got to be kidding me, right?
Well, I really enjoy being with you. You have an eye for fashion and
youre an interior designer, she started to reason feeling her
hopes build only to fall again at the thought of what was happening. Could
it be she was falling for yet another gay man?
So youre saying all interior designers are gay, he questioned
with a wry expression.
No, thats not what Im saying, but
she shifted
on her feet nervously.
Then what are you saying? Hunt asked again, Mindy I wouldve
thought by the fact that we have this chemistry and we kissed
Look Hunt, its not you
its just, she paused feeling
a moment of apprehension overtake her, Look, my last relationship, well
it ended badly. You see he and I had something really special, or at least
I thought it was special. Things were normal for a long time--hell, better
than normal and we had this chemistry, but
But he was gay huh? he questioned watching her nod.
Yeah, thats about where it was, she confessed with a small
sigh, and it took me a long time to get over him. At one point in my
life I kind of figured that the whole idea of getting over him wasnt
ever going to be happening, but now
Now what? he asked seeing her inner struggle.
Now Im thinking that I was wrong to be thinking that in the first
place. I mean sure, maybe Im jumping the gun here, but when I first
met you I thought we had a spark going between us, but then, well then I wasnt
sure and now that weve gotten closer and Ive really started to
like you, well I just see so much happening here. Of course Im afraid
Im seeing what I want to see and not whats really there and if
Im jumping the gun or reading things wrong and
Her words were brought to an abrupt halt as Hunt leaned forward, curling his
arm around the back of her neck to pull her to him. Their eyes connected for
a brief moment before his lips descended over hers in an urgent, passion filled
kiss. She felt his left arm slide in around her waist, pulling her in against
his hard, lean form. As his mouth tasted of hers, sparing no expense in kissing
her completely and thoroughly, she felt her knees grow weak. She arched up
into him and just when she thought shed fly away to the heavens, he
pulled away from her.
She was breathless--her heart pounding, mind reeling with possibilities, lips
longing for another kiss and when he smiled the warmth and sexiness of him
nearly bowled her over. He slid his thumb over her swelled lower lip before
flashing her another sexy smile.
Now I should hope after that kiss, you can see exactly where this is
going for us Mindy, he mouthed in a small whisper, his breath washing
over her skin and setting her body ablaze, because Id hate for
my intentions for us to be anything, but clear.
Oh theyre clear alright, Mindy managed to get out realizing
that as much as shed hated to admit it, Hunt was the real deal and with
each passing second she found herself falling harder than ever for him.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Avery stood on the patio feeling Heathers words come back to haunt
her. As much as she hated to admit it, Heather was right. She shouldve
known the difference. Shed known Brant and Ken long enough to decipher
between the two of them. Hell, she and Ken had gone to college with one another.
Shed even kissed Ken by mistake one time and in kissing him, shed
felt the difference, so what had made that one night cause her to forget that?
How could she have given herself away to someone other than her husband when
shed been so sure that she knew what she was doing? She shouldve
felt it--shouldve been able to reason out what was happening, but instead
all shed managed to do was screw up the last best thing in her life.
Oh God, how could this happen, she questioned clenching her hands
around the railing on the patio ledge. She felt her tears spill down her face
in a damp heat, but it did nothing to erase the chill that had consumed her.
She shouldve known--shouldve felt that something was wrong. She
shouldnt have allowed herself to fall into the trap that Ken had set
and ultimately she was as much to blame as Ken. She shouldve known.
She shouldve stopped it.
Keeping her eyes closed, she felt the whisper of the night winds upon her,
haunting her every breath as her heart ached. Shed wanted so badly to
refrain from making the mistakes that had torn her life apart in the past,
but now she was down in it further than ever. Shed lost it all and it
was only a matter of time before her history of bad choices lead her to destroy
her daughters life. Shed lost Russ, she lost Brant and now she
felt more alone than shed ever been in her life. After shed made
love to Ken, there had been an emptiness, but it was nothing in comparison
to what she felt right here and now. It was truly a hollow, dull, incomprehensible
ache that filled her all over.
She broke down into tiny sobs, dropping her head down as she tried to think
about anything, but the expression on Brants face right before he walked
out on her. It was just too much, too overwhelming and as she could clearly
see that look of disappointment in his eyes, she knew too well that shed
failed him. Shed promised to be the kind of wife hed longed for--the
kind of wife that hed needed, but even with her attempts, shed
brought him nothing but misery. Heather was right. He should just cut his
losses now and never look back. That would be the smartest thing to do. Hell,
she couldnt blame him if he was out filing for the divorce right now.
Maybe even an annulment given that shed taken the time to sleep with
his brother, but not even bothered to let him touch her.
Hearing footsteps behind her, Avery tried to rouse up enough fight in her
to defend herself as she was certain that Heather was back for more, but she
just couldnt do it. She couldnt find it in her heart to stand
up to the truth and try to defend her reasoning. She was wrong and nothing
she could do would ever change it.
Just say what you have to say and get it over with, Averys
weakened voice blurted out as she tried to brace herself for what she deserved.
Instead she felt the warmth of a hand upon her shoulder and a slight nudge
urging her to turn around. She pulled her head up, reluctantly facing what
was waiting for her. Turning around slowly, she opened her eyes to discover
Brant standing behind her, his dark eyes now filled with a concern and poignant
sense of loss.
Brant Im
she began with shaky words, only to feel
his large hands cup her face in a tender, protective movement.
Im sorry Avery, his own eyes were clouded over with tears.
His words were a muted whisper, but they were raw with the overwhelming emotion,
Im so sorry for all of this.
Oh Brant, Avery leaned into him, feeling as if shed fall
to pieces as his arms enveloped her. She buried her head in his chest breaking
down into tiny sobs as he squeezed her tighter. She wasnt sure how or
why, but hed come back to her. He was there with her holding her and
kissing the top of her head as she felt his own tears falling freely from
his face into her dark hair.
Im so sorry, he repeated over and over again, the strain
in his voice cracking with each emotional apology he delivered, I never
meant to fail you. I tried so hard to keep you from hurting, but I couldnt
stop it--I couldnt save you
Brant, this wasnt your fault, she tried to reason with him
in between broken sobs, but as they clung to one another, she knew that there
were no words for what was happening between them. There was nothing to say
that fit the moment between them as he had her wrapped up in his arms. He
squeezed her closer to him, taking in her grief and in turn offering his own
as the night surrounded them.
I just wish Id known--that I wouldve been there for you.
Avery, I never, ever wouldve put you in that position if I couldve
helped it. I wouldnt have let him touch you--wouldnt have let
him hurt you, he confessed with an achingly painful tone.
You were doing what you needed to do, Avery trembled in his arms,
her words rising from shaky lips, You saved Grady.
But I shouldve saved you, he curled his index finger underneath
her chin, tilting her eyes up towards his, You shouldve been my
first priority.
You saved a mans life Brant, Avery reminded him desperately,
What you did that night
Was something Im always going to live to regret, but as much as
I know how hard it has to be for you to look at me--to see me like this before
you after what Ken did, I couldnt stay away, he revealed with
obvious agony behind his twisted expression, Avery, I know that the
kindest thing I could do for you right now is let you go--to let you get as
far away from me, from this family as possible, but when I walked out that
door
well, I just couldnt do it. I got into my car and I kept thinking
about Ken
about you and about what I couldve done to stop this
Brant
she began feeling him press his index finger against
her lips to silence her as his words continued.
I just couldnt do it Avery. I wasnt strong enough to keep
you safe. I wasnt able to be the man you needed--to give you the protection
that I promised
to
to spare you from this curse, he blurted
out, his words pouring from him like a river of guilt, I swore to myself
that Id never allow another woman to be hurt like that--to be broken
to pieces by my family, by the man who destroyed our lives. Avery, I thought
that wed overcome it. That wed evolved past the monster that Nicholas
was, but in reality were all so far gone. Sure, Blake hasnt been
touched by it, but
He stopped himself as another harsh reality hit him, She has been. I
spent so many years trying to keep this from Blake--to hide what that bastard
did and now, now when Blake has everything shes ever wanted, she has
to face the fact that the man she loves will always harbor that hidden animosity
about our father raping his sister. Shell never have him look at her
like shes something that hasnt been tainted by our father. Sure,
Seth loves her, but hell never think of her like the rest of the world.
Shell always be the daughter of the man who raped his sister and Ken,
he groaned in agony, Id thought that he could deal with this--that
if any of us would be able to rise above it, it would be him, but after what
hes done to you
Brant released her feeling his own body overtaken by the powerful realization
of how his family had been damned. He couldnt help but shiver slightly
at the thought of what his brother had become.
I saw the signs. I knew he was falling into darkness, but I wasnt
there
he trailed off lost in his own moment of contemplations.
Silently Avery moved forward, easing her fingers up over his chest, over onto
his face. She caressed the side of his face, wiping at a tear as his dark
eyes fell upon hers. She clearly felt sympathy, pity or perhaps something
more, but Brant couldnt give her that much of a burden to carry with
her. He tried to look away, but the force of her touch was too powerful to
release him.
I shouldve found a way
to spare him
to spare you
he was broken by his emotions, All I wanted was for a second chance--for
a way to find the kind of life that the Ashford curse wouldnt allow
us to have. I wanted to prove myself to you--to show you that I could love
you like you deserved to be love, but ultimately I failed you as well. Youll
never look at me the same way knowing what my brother has done. As much as
I want to kill him right now, at the same time I know what he has to be going
through. Ive tasted the darkness--Ive seen the beast inside myself
time and time again, yet
Youve held back, Avery spoke up solemnly, Youve
fought the battle against him, and you didnt let him win. Even now youre
not letting him win.
Ken was always so strong. He was always the one who was above it. He
didnt seem to be destined to be like dear old dad, but now when I think
of what hes done to you--of how he hurt my wife
Brant shook
his head poignantly, Avery, I know this is something that well
never be able to get over. I cant imagine how you must feel in being
this close to me--in being near me when I have the face of the man who hurt
you
of a man who violated you in ways that
Brant, she pressed her fingers over his lips, tracing the outline
of them in a slow, tentative fashion before she fanned her thumb out to catch
one of his tears. I dont see him
How can you not, Brant questioned painfully, How can you
not see the man who destroyed you? Avery, Im just like him. Im
still prey to the curse
No, Brant, you arent, she shook her head adamantly, You
arent anything like Ken. You didnt hurt me and you havent
let me down. I was the one who made the choice
You thought you were with me. My God, you were deceived into believing
that my love for you was what was alive in that room--in that bed
he shuddered at the thought.
But it wasnt real. It wasnt real at all. Even when I came
to you Brant--when I came to Ken, she shivered at the memory, I
wasnt coming to you because I wanted to be there. I was doing it because
Because what? he watched the distance build behind her eyes.
Because I thought it was what I had to do, she blurted out painfully,
her eyes glazing over once again, I did it because I thought it was
what you wanted and I wanted to be the kind of wife that you needed. I made
lo
She stopped herself from finishing the phrase and corrected herself, I
gave my body to him because I wasnt ready to give you my heart. I thought
that youd be happy with what I could offer then, but it was wrong. It
wasnt about love. It was going through the motions and now that I look
back upon it in a way Im relieved that it was Ken. Yes, I hate what
happened, but in its own way, this situation has changed me
Its changed all of us and I know now that its something
that youll never be able to forget and I cant expect you to do
that. After what my brother has done, he started apologetically.
Brant, what Ken has done hurts. It still hurts, but it wouldnt
ache nearly as much as losing you now would, Avery blurted out honestly,
I wasnt ready to give you my heart then. I wasnt ready to
give you the love you needed or deserved because I was too damned set on talking
obligation--on thinking about this as a contractual deal and I wouldnt
invest myself in it.
You had no reason to given the way Ive been behaving. Ive
been an ass Avery, and after what Ken has done, well I cant blame you
if you want to walk away and never look back, he began caught up in
the overwhelming realization that fell upon him.
Thats just it Brant. I dont want to walk away--I cant
walk away, she confessed, her words rising up from the night as she
gazed up at him, Brant, this isnt about all those false pretenses
we had about our relationship. This isnt about saving me from Brooke.
This is about saving me from myself and youve done that.
Brant, youve turned my world around and as much as Ive fought
to keep you in the dark, the truth is that if I lost you here and now, it
would truly be the end of me. Losing you would be the death of all those dreams
that Ive been too afraid to share with you. When I was with Ken, I lost
a huge chunk of myself, but Brant, when Im with you--when were
together like this, I realize that its in being with you--in touching
you and holding you that I feel alive again, she confessed in a shivering
inhale, her touch sweeping in over his damp cheek, Brant, being with
you is the only time in my life that I feel alive anymore and its a
feeling that I cant let go of. I wont let go of you and when I
thought I lost you tonight
You didnt lose me Avery, he replied whispering warmly over
her lips. He stepped in closer to her, his palm curving in over her hip to
draw her nearer to him, far from it. I was afraid that Id lost
you.
Thats just it Brant, Avery answered with a muffled sob,
you couldnt have lost me because before tonight--before this time
weve spent together, I was never yours, but now
now
Now, he repeated watching her tremble with emotions.
Now I want that to change. I want it to change for us
tonight,
she revealed throwing her arms around him in a moment of sheer desperation
and neediness. She curled her arms around his neck and rose up on her toes
as her lips devoured his. He felt the hunger behind her touch, the fire behind
her kiss as his arms draped around her body.
The winds whispered their warm promise of passion as their kiss continued.
He felt her heart pounding relentlessly against his. He steadied himself on
the patio as he lifted her in his arms, bringing her up off of the ground
over onto the picnic table. Carefully he set her down just long enough for
him to take a step back and look into her eyes. He could see the love behind
them, the raw intensity of her emotions, of the impact of what she was telling
him and in that moment, he realized hed never loved her more than he
did tonight. When hed thought about what it had meant to be faced with
losing her, he knew that he wouldnt be able to bear such a fate. He
couldnt bring himself to lose the one good thing in his life.
Moving forward, Brant smoothed his fingers through her dark hair, watching
as it slowly danced in the twilight, moving with the breeze that surrounded
them. In the first hints of the amber sky, she was radiant, truly inspiring
as his lips caressed hers with a gentle ease. He didnt want to make
another mistake--didnt want to do something to erase the feelings that
had brought them closer together. Tonight he wanted to share the world with
Avery and explore what it was that had brought her to passion--to heaven--to
the heart of who she was. He wanted to learn all about the woman hed
pledged his life to and as he swept her up into his arms, he felt her holding
onto him, leaning into him for support, for comfort and with the truth burning
in her soul. She had faith in him and she was opening herself to him completely
even after the horrors his brother had inflicted upon her. She wasnt
afraid to hide from him any longer and in turn he would find a way to give
her all that she deserved tonight. He would find a way to make things right
for her. As he carried her into the house and up the long, winding stairs
to his bedroom, he vowed that tonight he would find a way to keep his wife
from ever experiencing a moment of misery ever again at the hands of the Ashford
curse.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Are you feeling better about yourself now? Shannon questioned walking over to Kyle who was now staring out the window as if he was in some type of daze.
Not really, Kyle shook his head before looking back at her only to see her frown, Am I supposed to feel good after I almost killed a man?
Kyle, stop it, Shannon demanded watching Kyle look down at his bloody shirt, You need to change your shirt.
Yeah, Kyle nodded before looking out the window once more as Shannon walked over to her bag grabbing something out of it.
Here, Shannon called out making Kyle turn around catching a shirt she had thrown at him, Put that on.
Okay, Kyle nodded pulling off his bloody shirt and setting it down on the desk. Who does this shirt belong to?
Don, Shannon informed Kyle watching him pull the black shirt down his body.
He wont get mad that I am wearing it? Kyle questioned smoothing the shirt down.
He may get a little paranoid, Shannon, laughed before shrugging, But if I say it is okay, it is okay.
Since you put it that way, Kyle grinned before sitting on the edge of the desk as Shannon snapped her fingers, What?
You just smiled, Shannon stated seeing Kyle shake his head, Yes you did.
This isnt about me smiling, Kyle replied with a frown, This is about me almost killing a man.
Well, that is a big thing, Shannon nodded before rubbing her hands together, But you need to forget about it and cheer up.
Cheer up? Kyle laughed sarcastically, Ill be sure to put that on the list of things to do. Ill put it at the bottom.
Come on, Shannon pleaded before walking towards him, You have to be ticklish or something.
No you dont, Kyle slipped off the desk before she could touch him, You are not going to tickle me.
You need to cheer up, Shannon repeated before circling around the desk after him as he began to laugh as she chased him, Alright, I am done now you are laughing.
Im not laughing because I feel better, I am laughing because you are an idiot, Kyle informed her as she frowned.
That wasnt nice, Shannon shook her head, I was just trying to help you out.
I think I am going to need a lot of help after what I did, Kyle replied looking down to the ground as she frowned and shook her head.
The only person who is going to need some serious help is Ken, Shannon began trying to cheer him up, One, he needs a psychiatrist and two, he is going to need one heck of a dream catcher.
What is that supposed to mean? Kyle questioned raising an eyebrow in curiosity.
It means so he can get you out of his dreams he will be wetting the bed every night if he thinks about you, Shannon laughed hearing a tiny laugh come from Kyle before he became serious.
That is not funny, Kyle protested as she rolled her eyes nodding slowly.
Thats why you laughed, Shannon pointed out before Kyle heard his cell phone begin to ring.
Just a second, Kyle held up his finger hushing her before answering his phone, Hello?
Kyle, it is Elliot, Elliot spoke clearly as Kyle nodded, We need to talk to you.
Is everything okay? Kyle questioned in a hurry, Is Grady alright?
Grady is okay, Elliot promised him before he began to speak up again, I just think we need you here right now.
I will be over in a couple of minutes, Kyle replied as he looked down at his watch. Im coming right now.
Is everything okay? Shannon questioned as she saw Kyle hang up his phone and put it back in his pocket.
Yeah, Kyle nodded before turning around quickly, I have to get going.
Are sure everything is okay? Shannon questioned as Kyle walked up to her. Are you going to be alright?
Ill be fine, Kyle promised hugging her lightly, Thanks for everything.
Dont worry about it, she sighed as she watched him walk out the door quickly.
Kyle took things too hard he always blamed himself for everything. If Sarah wasnt with him, she had to cheer him up. She couldnt just let him worry all the time. She was a good friend to him; she just wished he was going to be okay.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Diane grabbed her purse walking through the hallway to the door. She was about
to go and visit Seth and Blake before the doorbell caught her attention.
Who could that be? Diane questioned to herself before looking down at her watch. That cant be you Ben.
Diane walked to the door opening it as a frown spread over her features.
Diane, JT smiled before shaking his head, You dont seem too happy to see me right now.
Thats because Im not, Diane informed him with a sarcastic smile, What do you want JT?
You of course, JT winked before she rolled her eyes and rested her arm on the doorframe.
Dont be stupid, she replied before shaking her head, Tell me what you want or else I will shut the door in your face.
You look like you are about to go out, JT pointed out before she nodded.
I could have been, she stated before shaking her head, What do you want JT?
I already answered that question, he replied licking his lips slowly, I dont think you understood that.
Alright, better question what are you doing here? she questioned one last time. Alright, I am closing the door in three seconds.
Alright, Ill talk, JT frowned before rubbing his hands together slowly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Angela stepped into the semi-crowded bar realizing that it had been a while
since shed been in here. Sure, Kevin had tried to drag her in the other
night, but she hadnt actually absorbed the atmosphere until tonight.
The scene was buzzing with activity and Angela had to laugh at how wild a
night could get on this little island considering that it was kind of an escape
from reality.
An escape, she thought to herself with an ironic laugh. That thought in itself
made it seem as if this place was a place for those who wanted to leave the
past behind. Of course taking a long look around at those who were at the
bar, you might think that other than those that grew up on the island, it
was a place for folks to come to forget their past. Perhaps in some ways she
could almost even understand them coming to forget what was behind them. Sure
there were days where she wished she could do that herself, but tonight, well
tonight was about enjoying herself.
Scanning the bar, she spotted Nick pouring a beer to one of the locals and
immediately she felt a smile spread over her features. Sure shed thought
shed keep a distance after the strange morning shed had with Nick
and Kevin, but tonight, well tonight shed found herself drawn to this
place--drawn to the man without a memory as she wondered how hed be
doing with his new position behind the bar.
Taking in a slow breath, Angela stood up straighter before making her way
over to the bar with a confident stride. Sliding into one of the bar stools
before the counter top, she leaned forward, just watching Nick in action.
Regardless of the reasoning hed landed behind the bar, he seemed to
be doing quite well at entertaining a few of the local ladies who clearly
couldnt keep their eyes off of him. Okay, so maybe he wasnt the
best with the bartending, Angela chuckled to herself watching him nearly drop
the bottle hed been holding when hed tried to toss it in the air
to impress the small crowd around the bar, but he was certainly something.
Just as soon as hed almost lost the bottle, hed recovered and
did a little spin to try to offset his clumsiness. In his spin he spotted
Angela out of the corner of his eye and he said his polite good-byes to the
other bar patrons. Grinning, he approached her before leaning in over the
counter.
Youre impressed, arent you? he flashed her a sexy
smile reaching out to casually touch her fingers with his before pulling back
to lift his hand up over the corners of the towel hed had carefully
placed around his neck.
What with you? she wrinkled her nose with a small laugh, Nah,
I was just wondering how many bottles youve broken tonight and how long
itll take before Marta fires you.
Fires me, he repeated with wide eyes, Why Angel Baby, I
dont think shes going to want to fire me given that Im good
for business.
Angela followed his nod as he motioned over to the bar where a group of young
women were clearly gossiping about the hot new thing behind the bar. Angela
let out a tiny laugh before shaking her head at him, So youve
got your own fan club already?
So it would seem, but they dont interest me nearly as much as
you do, he leaned in over the counter reaching for her hand, Besides,
if I had a fan club, well lets face it, Id want you to be president.
She rolled her eyes at the line before pulling her hand away from his, I
think youre impossible Nick. You really are.
Impossible is a step up from irritating though, he winked at her
once again before giving her a sideways glance. His fingers tugged on the
ends of the small, white towel around his neck before he puffed his chest
out proudly, and we all know that impossible is one step below irresistible.
Oh boy, she groaned inwardly, and to think that I was afraid
youd still be feeling like hell after your eat off against Kevin.
Pfft, he waved his hand dismissively, thats nothing.
Nothing? she repeated with a hearty laugh, You two were
both ridiculously idiotic this morning in doing that.
Ridiculously idiotic? he repeated with a cryptic smile. He leaned
in over the bar once again before his intense eyes fell upon hers, I
wouldnt call it that at all considering that you were worried enough
to come on over and check in on me.
Oh so this was just a twisted ploy of yours to get me here to take notice
and worry about you, huh? she lifted a curious brow, How shameful.
Oh its not shameful, he reached out from behind the bar
to get her a glass, Besides Im touched by the gesture.
Well dont be because I wasnt out here to see you,
she lied holding back on her true thoughts by offering up a bit of sarcastic
wit, Youre not that important you know.
Oh yes I am, he laughed lightly setting the glass on top of the
bar before reaching for one of the hoses and pouring a drink inside, Besides
if youre nice to me Ill have drinks on the house for you all night.
All night huh? she repeated with a small smile, Well as
much as I appreciate that, you and I both know that I couldnt possibly
drink that. Pregnant, remember?
Its cranberry juice, he assured her sliding the glass closer
to her, with an added bonus.
Yeah and just what might that be, she questioned reaching for
the glass and instinctively fingering the rim.
As long as you swear not to share it with anyone, he curled his
finger in towards her urging her to lean in closer to him. Reluctantly she
did as he instructed and as his mouth was just above her ear he whispered,
Its my own secret ingredient.
And this tells me nothing, she turned her head towards him, almost
catching his mouth with hers in the process given the close proximity between
them. Quickly she sat back in her seat, putting an emphasized distance between
them. She grabbed the glass, lifting it to her lips before fighting to find
something to say, but much to her dismay nothing came out.
Its lime juice, he explained out of the blue before his
smile faded and he turned suddenly serious, So tell me about the father
What? she questioned in confusion.
The babys father, Nick repeated with a tone that lead her
to believe while hed been trying not to intrude up until this moment
in time, that trend wasnt about to continue.
Id rather not, she shook her head in refusal, I already
told you too much.
Yeah that you met the guy and had something brief and it went sour,
Nick nodded remembering the small confession shed made to him, and
Ive heard Kevin make cracks about the jackass that hurt
you, so am I to assume they are one in the same?
You know Nick while you get paid to be the pop psychiatrist behind the
bar, I really dont think youre in a position to be doctoring your
doctor tonight, she replied sharply, curling her lips in a scowl in
the hopes that hed get a clue and back off. Remember its
my job to try to fix you, not the other way around.
Why cant it be mutual, he inquired opening his mouth to
say more, but he was stopped by the sounds of one of the locals at the other
end of the bar calling for him. Holding up his finger he alerted to Angela
that hed be right back before he zipped off to the other end of the
bar.
Shaking her head Angela let out a breath of relief grateful that shed
been taken off the spot. While she knew that Nick meant well the last thing
she wanted was to have to get into a whole lengthy discussion about how shed
met Brant when shed felt vulnerable and caught up in her own misery.
Hed walked into her life at a time when shed given up on the world
around her--when shed decided to lock herself away, yet in those couple
days theyd spent together, hed turned her world upside-down. Even
now she found that her nights were haunted by the memory of their passion--of
the fire that burned between them and that in itself made it all the more
aggravating. If hed have been a horrible lover--a vile and disgusting
person, then maybe just maybe she wouldve never looked back, but the
truth was that even in her fury, she found herself longing for him. She couldnt
honestly say that there wasnt a day when she didnt at least think
about him once or twice--didnt wonder where he was or how hed
react to knowing that their weekend had resulted in a new life.
No, she mouthed to herself catching a glimpse of her reflection
in the mirrored wall behind the bar. Brant was a married man with a wife that
clearly was something of, well of a sick kind of joke that shed fallen
victim to. Brant hadnt been interested in her. Hed just been fulfilling
some kind of twisted fantasy that married men liked to do every now and then
to spice up their lives. While shed really started to fall into the
traps that romance had tried to warp her mind with, for Brant it was just
a fling--just another romp before returning to wedded bliss.
Hey, wheres the fire, Nick questioned catching Angelas
wrist after shed slammed down the glass shed been drinking from.
His concerned gaze fell upon her as hed noticed a difference in her
demeanor from the time hed walked away from her, Whats wrong?
Nothing, she sighed emphatically, Nothings wrong Nick.
Nothings really right either, so I guess you could say that Im
in a moment of stand still.
Hmm, well I think I have a remedy for that one, he pretended to
think it over for a moment before taking off the apron hed been wearing.
He held up his finger to silently request a moment before he walked behind
the bar. A few seconds later he returned stepping out from behind the bar
to move in beside her.
Nick, what are you doing? she questioned feeling him pull her
up off of the bar stool and into his arms.
Just come with me, he urged leading her out towards the dance
floor.
What about work? Youre supposed to be tending the bar, she
protested heavily as he weaved her through the crowd towards the center of
the dance floor.
I told Martha this was an emergency and she didnt argue with me,
Nick explained pulling her fully into his arms, Now dance with me before
I have to start singing to you, which I can promise you is something that
youll absolutely loathe. If you thought you were feeling bad before,
well
Youre not going to really give me a choice in this matter, are
you? Angela replied knowing it was a fruitless debate to begin as Nick
started to move with her in his arms. While shed wanted to protest--wanted
to argue with him or come up with something witty, the truth was in being
in his arms it felt right. Together they moved on the dance floor dipping
and swirling to the beats in that moment Angela realized that Nick was exactly
the kind of mystery she needed in her life. Sure, okay so maybe shed
experienced attraction first hand and it blew up in her face with Brant, but
with Nick, well maybe just maybe having someone on the outside would help
ease her mind off of the reality that had surrounded her since shed
walked away from Brant. At least thats what she was hoping for.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brant pushed open the door to his bedroom with a small, carefully positioned
kick. Once inside, he nudged the door back into position with his behind as
Avery nibbled on his lower lip, lovingly doting on him while her fingers spread
over his dark hair. He could feel his desire for her mounting with each passing
second, but as he gently lowered her onto the center of his bed, he vowed
that tonight hed do his best to take things slow. He didnt want
her to remember what it had been like when shed been deceived by his
brother, but rather he wanted to make a night shed never forget.
Moving in over her, Brant braced himself up on his elbows keeping a distance
between their bodies for fear that hed lose control completely at the
faintest brush of her body against his. He turned to his side, opting to lay
beside her while his fingers eased in over the base of her throat. He circled
his index finger up across her chin, making a small path to her lips before
he leaned in closer to her, caressing the sweet swollen flesh with his own
ravenous mouth. She tasted like liquid fire, like all the temptations in the
world that had been forbidden thus far, yet as her tongue massaged his gently,
he knew he would never be able to resist.
Sliding in a bit closer, he dropped his hand down over her hip, tracing and
retracing the curves that so beautifully shaped her exquisite body. She was
warm, welcoming and as he touched her he thought about all the nights he lay
in bed awake thinking about doing just this. Carefully he brought his hand
in up over the soft, elusive patch of skin just beneath the hem of her shirt.
Her body seemed to sizzle with excitement, her flesh alive with the passion
that carried over her. He continued to tease his fingers over her abdomen,
moving over the soft swell of her body where the realization of her daughter
came to mind.
Avery, he pulled back, seeing the longing look behind her eyes,
I want
you, she finished throwing her arm around his shoulders
to draw her in against him again. Her lips were scrumptious, her body ablaze
with desire and as Brant melted into the kiss, he thought about how long hed
waited for this.
Avery, I just dont want to
he started breaking away
from the kiss.
To what? she questioned confused by his hesitance--worried about
the expression on his face.
To hurt you, he explained sliding his palm up over her swollen
abdomen, I know that youve been under a tremendous amount of stress
lately and with your daughter
Brant, she spoke his name, a slightly amused smile spreading over
her face despite the seriousness in his tone, are you trying to say
that you dont want to make love because of the baby?
No, he shook his head adamantly, his eyes perusing her body greedily
as she lay beneath him, its not that because believe me I want
this more than anything--more than you can imagine, but
But what? she questioned curiously.
I just dont want to
he searched for the right words,
I mean I dont want to do anything that could, well
you know
No, I dont know, she shook her head incredulously, Brant,
what are you trying to say?
I just dont want to do anything that could hurt her, he
motioned to her abdomen once again, I mean given all that youve
been through, well, if this is going to put her at risk somehow
Brant, she spoke his name fighting to suppress the amusement she
had at his apprehension, just because Im pregnant doesnt
mean that we cant
Are you sure, he gave her a long look, because I mean I
know that you clearly have
well, never mind, were not going to
talk about it because its an off limits conversation, but
Brant, she extended her hand up to caress his face gently, just
because Im pregnant does not mean that this is off limits. Russ and
I read up on this and I can do this, well, we can do this until pretty much
my due date.
Oh, was all he could say as she fell into silence. He watched
her look away for a moment before he cleared his throat uneasily, So
Yeah, she sighed meeting his gaze before she dropped her head
back on the pillow, so nothing like a mood killer than my being pregnant
and our mentioning your brother and my dead husband, huh?
Well, I wouldnt call it a mood killer, but more of a buzz kill,
he groaned finding himself falling back onto the mattress beside her. He closed
his eyes wondering why the hell hed been stupid enough to bring up her
pregnancy in the first place. Sure it was a fact of life that was unavoidable,
but to bring it up right before they were about to
He shook his head
again thinking about how stupid he was for even asking. He shouldve
known that it was okay to
Brant, she spoke his name, breaking him from his thoughts.
Yes? he opened his eyes to gaze over at her. He found that shed
moved onto her side, bracing herself up on her elbow to stare at him. Her
dark hair surrounded her face, while her eyes were filled with a sudden seriousness.
You know
as much as I hate to say it, well
she trailed
off, dropping her gaze over his body before involuntarily licking her lips.
Maybe were rushing it, Brant finished watching the fullness
of her bottom lip as he thought about what they were about to get into with
one another. How he wanted to nibble and tease, tantalize and caress that
mouth of hers. To be lost in those lips for hours--oh what a piece of heaven
that would be.
Maybe we are, Avery nodded in agreement watching him for a long
moment of silence before she pressed her palm into the center of his chest
positioning him back on the bed again. She could see the surprise that registered
over his features as she climbed in over him. She dug her fingers into the
buttons on his shirt tearing them open as he leaned up to pull her shirt up
over her head. As she worked his shirt down over his arms, his mouth moved
in over the top swell of her breasts, tasting the temptation of her body while
they worked together to free his hands.
Once hed rid himself of the shirt, he planted his palms on her spine,
nudging her in closer to him. His lips traced over her body, his tongue making
swirling, sweeping motions over her collar bone as her head tipped back. She
arched slightly forward giving him more intimate access to her body as one
hand slipped up to unclasp her bra. In a matter of seconds, hed peeled
it away from her body, taking a brief pause simply to appreciate some of the
finer points of pregnancy and Avery.
The other night hed merely been eager to touch her, to have his dream
of them together come to life, but now as he noticed the fullness of her breasts,
he could see oh too well how pregnancy suited her. She was glowing, radiant
as she tossed her dark hair back over her shoulders. He raised his hand up
to cup her breast in hand, feeling her shape into his touch. Leaning forward,
he placed a kiss over her tip, nibbling upon her sensitive flesh as she began
to whimper. Flicking her with his tongue, he felt her body move over his writhing
and grinding over him in a torturous fashion. He lapped at her body, learning
all her amplified responses to his attention.
Brant, she purred his name in the most sensual melody that had
touched his ears. She scratched her nails down over his back as he divided
his attention between the intimateness of her femininity. The low hiss of
her breath escaping her lips drove him on, keeping him grounded as she was
being moved to the heavens above him. He felt her press in over his body,
over the ache that she had stirred up inside of him and he knew if shed
kept up at such a pace, it would be the death of him indeed.
Avery wait, he breathed her name, letting his words spill out
over her bare skin. He squeezed at her hips gently trying to curb some of
her movements, slow down
Brant, its just that
she started with a soft purr
before his hand found its way to her cheek.
Sweetheart, weve got all night, Brant assured her, we
dont have to rush this.
Im not trying to rush this, she explained scratching her
nails over his chest lightly before her finger tips pressed in over his belt
buckle, its just that
well
this is how I do things
He opened his mouth to speak, but instead was met by the feel of her teeth
pressing in against his shoulder. Her hands dropped down to the center of
his lap, feeling her fingers slip inside the zipper of his pants. Immediately
he was at full attention closing his eyes as her fingers stroked and teased
his yearning body.
I dont mind being here, she mouthed in his ear, tracing
a line up over his neck with her tongue before nibbling on his earlobe, just
as long as you dont mind my taking the reigns in this.
As much as I love the thought of you doing what youre doing,
he reached down to still her very eager hand over his body, were
going to have a big problem if you keep that up.
Oh Id say we have something big to work with, but its most
certainly not a problem. In fact, I think its something we should explore
for a bit before we get to the main event. What do you say, she licked
her lips before pushing him back onto the mattress, a sharp and determined
look crossing over her features.
Avery, he groaned feeling her return her attention to him again.
She worked his pants down over his hips, taking his boxer shorts with the
movement before her lips traveled over his naval. She kissed him tentatively,
her lips stirring up a fire inside of him, a primal desire that so readily
brought his fingers into her dark hair. He closed his eyes feeling his body
ease willingly into her hand, into the idea of what she was trying to do for
him. He teased his fingers through her hair, tightening his grip on her as
he felt her lips move dangerously close to meeting their mark on his body.
That was enough to get him over any of his previous fears about being with
her.
Swiftly, he pulled her up to meet his aching lips. He kissed her greedily
before pushing her onto her back. Climbing in over her, he devoured her mouth,
sinking all of his efforts into the kiss and trying to get her out of those
damned slacks that were seemingly stuck beneath his fingers.
Son of a
Brant cursed under his breath realizing that her
zipper was stuck. This cant be happening.
Whats wrong? she questioned feeling him move away from her,
Brant?
The damned thing isnt budging, he explained with a groan
tugging and tearing at it with no such luck. The fabric had bunched up in
the teeth of the zipper and there was no way he was going to be getting Avery
out of the slacks tonight or any night for that matter without taking drastic
actions. Groaning he got up off of the bed and stalked off towards the opposite
end of the room.
Brant, where are you going? she questioned in confusion sitting
up only to discover him pulling a pair of scissors out of the top drawer.
Her eyes widened with a look of sheer horror before she shook her head at
him, No way. No damn way.
Avery, Im just going to cut that thing open and, he started
to explain his remedy to her.
No, uh uh, she shook her head at him, youre not bringing
those things to bed with you. No way in hell.
Avery, itll just take a second, he continued to explain
nearly tripping over his own sagging pants that now bunched up around his
ankles.
No Brant, theres no way that, she stopped herself finally
realizing that he stood before her in all his masculine glory exposed to her
surprised eyes. She couldnt help but stare at him for a long moment
before she shook her head, no, Brant youre not getting near me
with that thing.
Avery, I swear it wont hurt. I mean okay, so there might be one
moment where youll be worried about it going in there, but once its
inside the hole, I swear to you that it wont be a problem for us. Hell
itll be just a small step in getting us to where we want to go. Trust
me on this, it wont hurt a bit, he insisted holding the scissors
carefully in hand.
No Im not about to let you slip up and get that thing inside of
me. Im not going to let you poke me with that, she sprung up from
the bed, Brant, if you even want to think about getting close to me
tonight, youll put that awful thing away.
Avery, Im telling you Im an expert at this sort of thing,
he moved in closer to her, Just let me just go for it and then well,
well we can get back on track here.
No way. Brant its not happening, Avery argued bringing her
own hands over her slacks, if its getting off Ill do it
myself. Im perfectly capable.
Trust me itll be easier if you just let me get inside and pop
it out, Brant moved forward again, feeling his pants catch at his ankles
before he groaned. He bent down and pulled his pants up realizing that once
again the mood had shifted for the night. Avery, come here.
No! she snapped at him, Youre not getting near me
with that.
Fine, but at least let me try to help you. If you stay in those, then
youre going to be feeling miserable, he insisted watching her
fight with the clasp.
I said I can get it, she insisted tugging again.
Let me take a look, he pleaded with her. He moved in closer to
her, but watched her retreat.
Just put it away Brant! Put it away because I dont even want to
look at that. Dont come near me with it! she warned with a screech
when the door burst open and Heather nearly collapsed onto the floor.
What is wrong with you? Heather demanded as she held a glass in
hand, I mean honestly Avery Brants a wonderful man and
Heather, what the hell are you doing in here? Brant questioned
quickly zipping his pants up as Avery squealed and ran into the bathroom slamming
the door behind her.
Saving you from making a big mistake with her, Heather explained
matter of fact, Brant if she cant appreciate how wonderful you
are, then its high time you find yourself a woman who can
Heather, thats not at all whats happening here and now if
youll excuse me, my wife and I were
Brant objected to her
arrival. He noticed the way she looked at him and immediately he was on edge.
Brant, if the little witch cant appreciate your finer points,
but shes stuck on Kens, well that just proves she doesnt
deserve you, Heather stepped in closer to him, her eyes filled with
a sudden determination, I know how special you are and I never once
complained about your wanting to be with me. I happened to like everything
you brought with you to the bedroom.
You would, Avery hissed stomping out of the bathroom in one of
Brants robes, and not that its any of your business, but
I wasnt objecting to Brant.
It was the scissors, Brant held them up to show Heather.
Heathers eyes widened, Oh my. Brant, I knew you were into kink,
but dont you think thats a bit much?
The scissors werent for that. They were for
, he started
to explain himself before a frown touched over his lips. Never mind,
its none of your business what they were for. What the hell were you
doing outside my bedroom door?
Probably hoping that you and I were filing for a divorce, Avery
folded her arms in front of her chest before glaring at Heather, and
its obviously not happening, so why dont you get lost?
Actually, I could care less about the state of your marriage because
I have my own problems to deal with, Heather rolled her eyes in response
before turning to smile at Brant, though it wouldnt hurt my feelings
if you two split up.
Go to hell, Avery glared at her again.
Go screw yourself, Heather spat out at her, oh wait youd
rather screw Ken instead.
You stupid little, Avery marched towards her only to be caught
by Brants hold on her. He pulled her in beside him before he directed
his attention to Heather.
What is it you want Heather since obviously you came here with a reason?
Brant asked impatiently.
I did, Heather adjusted her clothing, The hospital has been
calling every five minutes. It turns out theyre having problems with
Ken.
What kind of problems, Brant frowned.
Im not sure, but they said it was imperative that you get over
there and see him, Heather glanced over at Avery bitterly, maybe
he wants to compare notes on your wife.
Thats it. I swear to God that Im just going to knock you
down where you stand, Avery wrestled against Brants hold on her.
Tell them Im not interested, Brant tried to be calm against
his wifes anger.
I would, but Dr. Reynolds called and I told him youd be down there
shortly. I wouldnt have said it if it didnt sound urgent, but
unfortunately it did, Heather finished with a wicked smirk before giving
them both a once over, So whatever it is youre up to, you should
probably finish fast.
That stupid
Avery growled watching Heather prance out of
the room victoriously.
Ignore her, Brant pleaded with his wife letting her go as he thought
about his brother.
So what are you going to do? Avery questioned looking to him.
If they want me down there, well I should probably go, he hesitated
as a scowl pressed over his face, Its not that I want to, but
But hes your brother and you cant ignore that, Avery
nodded accordingly, Brant if he needs you, then you should be there.
You need me and I want to be here for you, he confessed reaching
for her hands. He brought her fingers up to his lips and kissed them tenderly
Avery I want tonight to be about us.
And if something happens with Ken, youll always regret not seeing
him, she paused thinking about her own issues with Ken. Despite what
hed done to her, he was still Brants brother and that was reason
enough for her to try to encourage Brant to be there. Kyle did a number
on him tonight and given what happened
He deserved all that he got and more, Brant grumbled before his
thoughts shifted to the look on Kens face when hed been pounded
on by Kyle. He seemed so out of it
so
Just go, Avery squeezed his hands in hers, Go see him Brant.
But what about you? he questioned worriedly.
Ill be here. I might have the door locked when you get back, but
Ill be right here waiting for you, she assured him with a soft
smile.
I hate doing this, he confessed with a small groan.
So do I, but maybe itll give us all the clarity that we all need.
Despite whats happened with Ken and I, I know that hes your brother
and you care about him. Hell, he was my friend for so very long and thats
what makes this difficult, she admitted painfully, I hated seeing
Kyle hurt him like that, yet
Yet he deserved a lot worse for what he did to you, Brant nodded
in complete understanding.
No one deserves what happened tonight, Avery revealed with a poignant
sigh knowing that this wasnt going to be easy now that the truth had
come out. Still when she thought about the way Ken looked when the paramedics
pulled him out of the house, not even Ken.
Maybe youre right, Brant sighed wondering how in the world
he was going to face his brother after Ken had done his best to try to destroy
one of the best things that had ever happened in Brants life.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
JT leaned against Dianes doorframe as he smiled widely down at her as she frowned.
Ive missed you so much, JT informed her with a frown, I was expecting you to call me sooner after we made love.
Shut up, Diane snapped before shaking her head, Dont ever talk about that again.
That hurts Diane, JT frowned shaking his head slowly, When we made love you loved it.
I didnt love anything about you, Diane replied sharply. I dont love anything about you.
Oh come on, JT sighed looking up at her with wide eyes, You love me and you know it.
Get over yourself, Diane rolled her eyes before seeing JT shrug. You were less than perfect.
You say these lies, but you know you want me, JT pointed out to her as she shook her head, You keep telling yourself lies so you will try and not believe your true feelings for me.
You mean the hatred I have towards you? Diane questioned with a snarl before he rested his hand over his chest.
Oh Diane, that breaks my heart to hear you talk like that, JT sighed before reaching out to touch her before she pulled back in time for him to miss her. How about me and you go back there and make up like we did last time?
Make up? Diane wondered with a laugh, You have to be kidding me right?
What else would you call it? JT questioned before she nodded slowly.
I could see where you get make up from, Diane pondered his answer before seeing him smile.
Really? he questioned seeing her nod, Does that mean you want to you know.
Actually, I thought of it more like a goodbye, Diane informed him as she slammed the door in his face making him jump back as he heard the door lock.
She loves me, JT laughed before shaking his head and he began to walk down the hallway slowly.
Diane rested against the door taking in a deep breath. JT was like a bad nightmare coming back to haunt her repeatedly. He was going to ruin everything if she didnt do something about it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kevin entered the bar hearing the smooth, strumming beats of music from the
80s filling his ears. The electric guitar and the metal waves mixed with some
of that trademark eighties synthesizer brought a smile to his face. This was
always a fun night at the club, he thought to himself soaking up the atmosphere
as he entered the bar. On a great many nights like tonight in the past hed
actually been able drag Angela out on 80s night and get her to enjoy herself.
Of course tonight shed refused his offer yet again and while Kevin wanted
to try to encourage her to get out and live a little, he decided to give her
some space. Top that off with the fact that he knew full well that Nick would
be working tonight and that in itself sealed the deal. Being around Nick was
the last thing Kevin wanted where Angela was concerned.
Feeling his smile fade as he thought of the man whod been the latest
interest in his best friends life, Kevin decided that maybe it was time
to lay down the rules with good old Nick. Heading directly to the bar, Kevin
was surrounded by the usual crowd. They all waved and smiled as Kevin stepped
in beside the bar. He greeted them all before surveying behind the bar for
Angelas latest buddy. Surprisingly Nick was no where to be found.
Well maybe things arent so bad after all, Kevin quipped
with a small smirk before seeing Martha come out with a couple of drinks for
a few regulars at the end of the bar.
Kevin, darling, its good to see you, Martha smiled up at
him, wiping her brow before moving in closer to talk, What can I get
for you tonight?
The usual, he replied with a smile of his own, Im
surprised you had to ask.
Well I didnt really. I was just making sure, she replied
handing him his drink before leaning in over the bar, So whats
on your mind Adonis? I can see youre just dying to ask me something.
Well, since you asked, wheres Nick? Kevin questioned with
a sly expression wondering if Angelas latest beach find hadnt
made the cut after all.
There was a chorus of laughter from the girls around the bar as Kevin wiggled
his brow at them. He looked to Martha once again before offering up a slightly
relieved smirk, Fire him already?
No, not when he draws in this kind of crowd, Martha replied with
a very pleased smile before motioning to the center of the dance floor, I
wouldnt dream of firing him, though hes really heating up the
dance floor with Angela.
What? Kevins jaw nearly dropped as he followed the direction
of Marthas giggly eyes. Spinning around he watched Nick and Angela completely
engrossed in a very sensual, very touchy feely kind of dance and it was then
that Kevin decided that Nicks fun was about to end.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Feeling better, Nick questioned keeping Angela close to him as
the slow, subtle tones of the power ballad rocked around them.
Of course I am, she smiled up at him, her dark eyes unconvincing
as he spun her around.
Youre a horrible liar, Nick wrinkled his nose at her, but
since youre not happy yet, well Ill have to keep working at it.
Nick, its not you. Its me. I mean tonight when I decided
to stop by, well I guess I was just kind of worried about you, but then
she trailed off her gaze wandering out over the dance floor.
Then what? he inquired dropping his hand down over the small of
her back, Whats wrong?
I guess I never really expected to be enjoying myself like I am,
she blurted out honestly before a color rose over her features.
Ah, so I am at least elevating your mood a bit, huh? he flashed
her a sexy smile, So we are making progress then, yes?
Dont let it get to your head, she warned with a small smile,
I dont need your ego getting any bigger than it already is.
I think Im about to object to that. I dont have a big ego,
but I can assure you what I lack in ego, I can more than make up for in,
he started suggestively before she placed her hand over his mouth to silence
him.
Now dont go and start getting cocky on me, she paused thinking
about what shed said. She shook her head at him unable to quell the
blush that burned at her face causing her face to scorch with embarrassment,
You know what I meant.
Oh I know what you meant, he nodded with a tiny laugh, and
judging by the expression on your face, you knew very well what you meant
when you
New subject, she cut him off abruptly taking the lead and twirling
around on the dance floor a bit when the speed of the music picked up. She
ran her hands over her body watching his eyes follow the movement before she
trailed her fingers in over his chest.
Okay, then how about we talk about you, he proposed bringing his
arm around her waist to pull her in flush against him, Tell me more
about who you are
And ruin all the mystery we have in our relationship, she shook
her head at him before spinning out of his embrace. Never.
Oh now come on, you know youre just dying to tell me something
youve never told another person before, he reached out to her
again grinding his body against hers only to feel her throw her arms around
his shoulders.
Shouldnt you be back behind the bar right now? she arched
a curious brow up at him.
Maybe, but right now its not about what I should be doing. Its
about what I want to be doing right here, right now with you, he confessed
with a certain sparkle behind his intense eyes.
The music seemed to set the room spinning as Angelas hips bumped in
against his to the pulsating rhythm of the music. She spun away feeling him
step in behind her, his hands moving up and over her hips, learning her curves
as she threw her arm back out around his neck. She tilted her head back seeing
the way his deep gaze penetrated her. Her breath came out in a shivering inhale
as he spun her in his arms again urging her to face him. Finally, her lips
parted as she spoke up with broken words.
Wh--what is it you want to be doing Nick, she questioned feeling
his breath over hers, the beginnings of their first intimate union sending
her mind racing with possibilities of what could happen if she let her guard
down long enough to take him on as a lover. Sure, shed tried to play
it cool, but as she remembered their suggestive conversation seconds earlier,
another altogether different heat spread out through her body. His hands curved
in over her waist, tugging her greedily in against him and as her fingers
fanned out over his shoulders, squeezing the muscled contours enthusiastically,
she knew that there was no mistaking the fire there. Leaning up ever so slightly,
she opened herself to the idea of kissing him--of the thought of tasting his
lips and of bringing an end to the obvious sexual tension burning up bouncing
off of the both of them.
This, he replied sliding his thumb out over her cheekbone to coax
her closer yet when all of a sudden the music came to an abrupt stop. Then
as if theyd stepped into a nightmare, Angela felt someone in the crowd
pull Nick away from her. Her eyes widened in horror as the music shifted and
the club roared with cheers. She heard a bell ringing from up at the bar and
in that moment she knew what was happening. With the first chords of the out
of tune, drunken slurs that surrounded her, she knew full well what was happening.
Happy Birthday to you
the people around her sang gleefully,
clearly out of tune, but too out of the realm of feeling insecure about it
to care. They continued to belt out the tune as Nick was helplessly dragged
over to the bar--to the ringing bell where Marta and the rest of the bar continued
to serenade him. It was a tradition around here for the birthday boy or girl
at the bar to be given such treatment--to be put on the spot and humiliated
as the center of attention when the moment arose. Of course while it was a
tradition on the island, it wasnt at all a tradition for Nick. No, this
wasnt something hed planned--something he was prepared for. The
look on his face said it all as he tried to tell them that he wasnt
in fact celebrating his birthday, but in traditional Marta fashion with her
enthusiastic wails of the song and in leading the rest of the bar along with
her, Nicks explanation wasnt heard. He just stood there like a
deer in the headlights seeking Angela out from the crowd.
Oh Nick, she began feeling a new sensation overtake her as she
thought to how this mightve happened--to who wouldve done such
a thing. Nick knew it wasnt his birthday. Angela knew that as well and
no one else wouldve thought to do such a thing. No one except
Kevin.
Angie, Kevins voice piped in gleefully in the back of her
ear as if hed known exactly the moment that hed popped into her
head. Immediately she stiffened at the sound of his voice, but she refused
to give him the satisfaction he was seeking out. She spun around to face him
with an unimpressed expression.
You did this, didnt you? she questioned watching that certain
sparkle of mischief behind his eyes as he shrugged his shoulders.
I dont have the first clue what youre talking about,
he lied shrugging once again, I guess someone thought it was Nicks
birthday.
Oh Im sure they did, she glared at him opening her mouth
to say something to him again, but instead she opted for a different approach,
though you know Id hate to leave Marta with false illusions about
what today is for Nick.
Now, you know I dont think shed mind, Kevin motioned
to over by the bar where someone had just dumped a beer over Nicks head
causing him to jump in a state of shock, I think Nicks probably
having the time of his life tonight. Who are we to spoil that?
You know, Angela stood taller, puffing her chest out as she glared
up at her best friend. Drawing in a slow breath, she felt the mood shift as
she nodded again, Youre right. Why spoil the night for Nick when
its full of so many possibilities?
Exactly, Kevin added ready to say something more when she leaned
in closer to him.
Maybe this is good for Nick because tonight is going to be a night of
new beginnings for him if you know what I mean, Angela patted his chest
briefly before winking up at him.
Oh Ill bet it is, Kevin laughed lightly before catching
the way shed delivered those words. His smile faded and before he could
reply he watched her weave her way through the crowd up to the bar where Nick
was being serenaded and doused with beer. Suddenly he realized his plan had
hit a snag. Angie wait!
But it was too late as Angela made her way up to the bar to push her way to
Nicks side. She saw someone else was about to dump another beer over
Nicks head, but instead she snagged the glass away at the last moment.
Now wait a minute here, Angela shouted out over the crowd waving
her hand to silence them all. It took a few minutes, but finally shed
captured the crowds attention. She lifted the glass again as if to lead
the bar in a toast before speaking up again. Now while Im sure
Nick appreciates all of you taking the time to take part in this celebration
for him, Im afraid that Im not going to let him be christened
in beer all night when hes got something bigger waiting for him around
the corner.
I do, Nicks eyes widened watching her lift the beer mug
higher. He was already working on trying to squeeze out some of his shirt
as he watched her tip the glass towards him.
Oh yeah, you do, Angela nodded confidently grabbing the center
of his shirt and yanking on it forcefully. She pulled an off balanced Nick
towards her before lifting the glass to the crowd, who as if on cue saluted
her. You see they have other traditions on the island that go along
with this.
Another one, he half gulped watching her nod before she set the
beer mug back on the bar. Her grin widened as she directed her attention to
him once again.
Another one indeed as its time for me to give the birthday boy
my gift, she blurted out throwing her arms around him and pulling him
to her in an impromptu kiss.
No, Kevin gasped watching Angela practically throw herself on
her latest find. As Nicks surprised shifted from shock to enjoyment,
Kevin watched Nick slide his beer soaked arms around Angelas waist.
She dropped her own hands down to Nicks bottom giving it a firm squeeze
before they parted.
Lets get out of here, Angela purred still clenching onto
the front center of his shirt before addressing the crowd once again, Sorry
folks, but the birthday boy is all mine. Its time for his spankings.
There was a muted whisper that fell over the patrons of the bar before the
crowd roared and cheered emphatically. Angela looked to Marta before winking
at her.
You dont mind if I borrow your bartender for a while, do you?
Angela questioned brightly watching Martas face light up with eagerness
and perhaps a spark of jealousy at what Angela was about to get herself into.
No, not at all, Marta shook her head before waving them on, You
two kids have a good time and let us hear all the details tomorrow.
Oh Im sure youll hear them tonight because Nick and I arent
going to be shy about enjoying ourselves so Ill just apologize for the
noise right here and now, Angela promised before rising up on her toes
to nibble on Nicks lower lip once again. She gave his bottom a firm
squeeze before motioning to the exit, Ready lover?
Nick remained speechless watching her with a curiously confused expression,
but as she laced her fingers in his bringing his hand up to her lips, he felt
his heart pounding in his chest. He felt her lips press in over his fingers,
all the while his throat constricting at the very sight of her clearly erotic
display. She slid one of his fingers into his mouth, suckling upon the small
trace of liquid upon them before she released him. She looked to the crowd
again before noticing Kevin watching in horror, Oh and by the way tonight
the drinks are on Kevin Adonis.
There was another cheer that rang out through the bar before Kevin stepped
forward to try to stop Angela from leaving with Nick, but it was too late.
He watched in horror as Angela lead Nick out into the night and it was in
that moment that Kevin feared hed made perhaps one of the biggest mistakes
in his life in trying to keep his friend out of danger.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brant stood outside the door to Kens room at the hospital and as he
felt himself preparing for this moment, he knew that there were no words to
truly describe what he was feeling at this point in time. Sure, he could march
in there and say what was on his mind, yet it would never be enough. Even
now as he flashed back to the twists and turns that had taken his brother
down this dark and horrifying road. There was no way that things would ever
be right again and yet Brant found himself wishing like hell that hed
been able to stop Ken from taking the path that lead to the most destruction.
You can do this, Brant instructed himself, pushing open the door
to his brothers hospital room only to discover Ken laying on the bed
before him looking like death warmed over. He inhaled slowly thinking about
all the things that his brother had clearly done since Caitlin died, but now,
well now in seeing his brother looking so miserable Brant began to feel sorry
for him. As awful as it sounded after Ken had hurt Avery the way he had, Brant
still wouldnt have wished this upon him. Carefully closing the door
behind him Brant began to approach Ken.
As if reading his brothers mind Ken spoke up gruffly, Dont
pity me Brant because when it gets down to it, youre just like me. Were
one in the same.
No, Brant shook his head adamantly, we arent.
Arent we? Ken challenged turning his head to face his brother.
Unlike what Brant had imagined Ken to be like when hed first stepped
into the room, Ken had a smug, wicked expression on his face. The lines of
his jaw were cold and taught with clear cut anger that he contained from within
and his eyes, well his eyes were a sure sign of the turmoil from within.
No, we arent, Brant insisted again, were nothing
like one another Ken. At one point in time I thought that
That what? That I was just going to bend over and take it like I always
do? Ken arched a curious brow before letting out a hollow laugh, Deny
it as you will, but the truth to the matter is that were one in the
same. Youve spent a great many months trying to manipulate Avery into
bed. Youre just upset that I was able to follow through where you couldnt.
You lied to her! Brant snapped back at him, You deceived
her into thinking she was with me.
Did I? Ken questioned venomously, Is that what shes
trying to tell you Brant? That I forced her into something? Because you and
I both thats not true. Sure, Avery might have a flair for dramatics,
but the truth to the matter is that she wanted me that night--every second
we were together she wanted me.
She thought you were me, Brant reminded him abrasively, She
never wouldve fallen into bed with you if
Brant, I realize youre trying to rationalize this one, but think
about it. Avery and I have been friends for years
Which makes this all the more horrible Ken. How could you do something
like this to her? How could you turn into the man that we spent most of our
lives hating? Brant questioned shaking his head at him, I feel
like I dont even know you anymore.
You never knew me Brant. You never wanted to know what I was. All that
mattered to you was what you could do to get ahead. You didnt care about
anyone or anything, but yourself and even right now as you stand before me
in a pathetic attempt to pass judgment upon me, the real reason behind this
is because youre upset about what my actions have done to effect you.
You could care less about Avery and what shes going through. This is
all about you and we both know that.
No Ken, Brants voice raised with anger, this is about
how you violated my wife--how you tricked her into sleeping with you and
Your wife has known me most of her life. Hell, shes kissed me
before Brant, Ken taunted him, long before the night I held her
in my arms and made her my own.
You son of a, Brant lunged towards his brother, his hands grasping
around Kens neck in a fury. He began to squeeze as Ken let out a high
pitched wail of laughter.
Go ahead and do it, Ken taunted him feeling the grip of his brothers
fingers over his neck, Show Avery how much you care about her by becoming
exactly what you despise. Do it Brant because Id love to see you try
to talk your way out of homicide charges.
Brant squeezed harder feeling the urge to strangle his brother grow with each
second the blood pumped through his veins, but as Brant thought about what
killing Ken would mean, he backed off. He reluctantly tore himself away from
his brother before standing up and adjusting his tie in an attempt to stay
calm.
Youre not worth it, Brant scoffed fighting the anger tearing
him apart inside.
Thats what I thought, Ken sneered up at him, Youre
not man enough to be a husband to your wife let alone a murderer.
You had no right to do what you did to her, Brant waved his finger
at him wildly.
I did what Avery wanted to do Brant. She was so needy and clingy,
Ken licked his lips, and I gave her everything she was asking for that
night. She wanted me to hold her--to be with her and I did just that.
And the world be damned right? Brant growled at him before shaking
his head with obvious disgust, What about Caitlin? What would she think
if she saw what youve become?
Caitlins dead, Ken answered flatly, She cant
see anything.
But if she could, shed be sickened by the monster you are. You
arent anything like the man she fell in love with, Brant lashed
out at him.
As I said, shes dead, so what difference does it make, Ken
answered coldly, The dead cant pass judgment on the rest of us
who are still trapped in hell.
Maybe, but then again, youre allowing yourself to be lead around
by a ghost. Youve turned into the monster of a man that you and I both
agreed to steer clear of. Youve become everything you hated and in the
process youve lost yourself.
Oh Im well aware of what I am. Its people like you who live
in denial Brant, Ken glared up at him from behind a black eye, The
world is cold and ugly and it only gets worse. You never wanted me to be happy
with Caitlin. You never wanted me to have love in my life and youve
won Brant. The only woman Ive ever cared about is gone forever and now
its your turn to suffer.
And what about Carly? I thought that she was someone special,
Brant threw out at him bitterly, I thought she was someone you cared
about.
Ken seemed to be effected by Brants words momentarily before he continued
on his tirade, Youve done nothing but try to destroy my life so
I thought Id return the favor.
You raped my wife. You took advantage of her in this quest to take me
down, Brant reminded him harshly, Youre nothing like the
man you wanted to be. Youre just another version of Nicholas.
Its in our blood Brant, Ken replied icily, Were
both bound to become him. Sins of the father as they say and one day, mark
my words youll be where Im at right now.
No, I wont be because Im not at all like you. Im not
going to become this, Brant added sharply, I wouldnt dream
of turning into what you are. You repulse me.
But I surely didnt repulse your wife, Ken jabbed twisting
the knife further.
Dont you dare talk about my wife again, Brant warned him
icily, because I swear to you if you even think of coming near her,
I wont hesitate to kill you myself.
Shes only with you because the man she loves is gone Brant. You
won her by default because Russ left her life and we both know that,
Ken watched as Brant started to turn away from him, We both are well
aware that if she loved you--if she had any inkling of consideration for you
and your marriage, then she wouldnt have fallen into my arms. She wouldnt
have made love to me if she cared that damn much about you. Face it Brant.
No matter how much you give and give to Avery, shell never truly be
yours. She doesnt love you and she never will.
I mean it Ken, Brant sneered ignoring his brothers harsh
words, if you even look at her the wrong way, itll be the end
for you. In fact, from where I stand you should really start thinking about
what comes next. Rape is a serious offense in the eyes of the law, but a sharp
witted lawyer like yourself should realize that. Granted dear old dad mightve
been able to get away with it, but you on the other hand, Ill make sure
that youre not so fortunate. Im not about to let this one pass
by.
Hmm, well you know in being a lawyer like I am, Im also well aware
that attempted murder is also grounds for some imprisonment time, Ken
challenged watching Brant stand still. Brant slowly spun around to face him
with angry, yet surprised eyes.
What the hell is that supposed to mean? No wait, I dont care what
it is youre after, Brant turned to leave again.
Avery told me all about what she did to Brooke--about how you helped
her cover it up by enlisting help to create a cover story, Ken blurted
out wickedly, and if you or your wife even think about trying to drag
our family business out in the legal system, then I swear to you Ill
go to the Feds and tell them everything I know about Averys lies and
her actions against Brooke.
Brooke told the FBI that Bruce was the one who tried to kill her,
Brant answered flatly, They already know what happened.
They know what you want them to know, but I can promise you that by
the time Im through with them, theyll know the truth. Theyll
know every last detail from the moment she pushed her mother out of that window
to your bullying Brooke Morrison into saying that Bruce Mathis was the man
whod hurt her. Theyll know all about your deceptions and itll
be the end of Avery
Ken warned him with a glare.
No one will believe you alone, Brant dismissed his words.
Oh, but they will, Ken promised him, because I know what
it takes to win Brooke over and by the time Ive let her in on whats
really happening, shell be more than happy to cooperate with me. Shell
have no choice, but to tell the truth about what her precious daughter did
to her.
Itll never happen Ken. Im not about to be intimidated by
you. Youre just grasping at straws, Brant replied with a sneer.
More like the facts that your wife threw out at me before I had her
screaming in a state of pure bliss, Ken licked his lips as if tasting
Avery upon them, One thing about your wife is shes got quite a
mouth on her. Not only does she use it very well in the bedroom, but shes
just full of gossip after a few orgasms.
You sick bastard, Brant snapped having had more than enough of
his brothers taunting. Unable to quell the urge to destroy him, Brant
moved forward again ready to finish the job that Kyle had started on Ken.
He threw himself forward tossing his fists out left and right at his brother--into
the man whod tried to goad him. At long last Brant had snapped and there
would be no turning back.
Brant! Dons voice roared through the room as Brant felt
himself being pulled off of Kens still form.
Brant struggled, but Don dragged Brant away and it was in that moment that
Brant realized that Ken hadnt put up a fight. Now laying broken and
battered on the bed, Brant realized that Ken was getting exactly what he wanted.
He wanted an out--a way out of the life hed been left with and Brant
was providing him with that.
Brant, Don seemed to shout his name again before Brant felt himself
being dragged out of the hospital room. Once in the hallway Don let go of
him.
Don, stop, Brant finally snapped out of his enraged daze.
Look, I was about to leave when I got the run down on what was going
on with Ken, Don shook his head poignantly, I was hoping the rumors
I heard werent true, but after seeing what I did
My brothers lost his mind, Brant tried to shrug off the
feeling building up inside of him.
I can see that, but right now your killing him isnt going to solve
anything, Don tried to rationalize with him.
What would you do if it was your wife? Brant challenged watching
the way Dons features seemed to darken at what his friend was saying
to him.
Brant, I honestly dont know what Id do, but as your friend
I have to stop you from doing something youll live to regret,
Don pointed out with a small sigh, Kens in a bad place right now.
Yeah, well something tells me hes never coming back from it,
Brant replied with a grumble.
Maybe not, but right now I think its best if you put some distance
between the two of you, Don urged him gently, Go home and be with
your wife. She needs you and I think thats really where you belong at
a time like this.
I know, Brant nodded trying to calm himself down a bit, Deep
down I know that.
Then go to her, Don suggested once again, As for Ken, well
let the doctors take care of that. Ill check in on him before I leave
and if you need anything, well call me and Ill see what I can do. Just
dont fall into Kens trap. Thats what hes hoping youll
do. Hes trying to bait you and its working.
Only because he used my wife to get to me, Brant sighed knowing
that his friend was right, but still as he thought about the way Ken was about
the situation, Brant realized that the problems were far from over.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Carly rushed into her hotel room feeling the walls closing in around her
as she flashed back to what had happened with Ken. The scene kept replaying
in her mind over and over again. It was there before her in vivid color--all
the horrible, disgusting details of what hed done with Avery coming
back to haunt her and in that moment she was overcome with a sudden nausea.
Feeling the bile up in the back of her throat, she rushed into her bathroom,
overcome with the sudden urge to throw up. Her body was shaking, heart pounding
in her chest and as the tears burned down her face, she fell before the toilet,
body rocked over with shivers and dry heaves. Her sobs poured out of her,
her face burning with frustration and embarrassment over the love shed
thought shed found, but shed been wrong. As always shed
made the wrong decision and it was coming back to haunt her.
It serves you right, she could hear a voice in the back of her
head saying over and over again as her tears consumed her. She knew better
than to get wrapped up in something with Ken. She knew not to go down that
road and yet shed fallen for him. Shed gone out on a limb and
made the single biggest mistake in getting involved with a man set out to
destroy the world around him.
What was I thinking, she thought aloud realizing that this was
about more than just her. When she thought about Avery--about what was happening
with her, she couldnt help but feel worse knowing full well that Ken
had clearly taken advantage of a situation. Hed somehow gained Averys
trust only to rip it down, and for what? For the satisfaction of knowing that
hed found a way to make everyone in the world miserable around him.
Was that what Ken was all about? Sick and twisted games that hurt people?
Was that why hed come to her? To hurt her? To hurt Dave?
Dave. The thought bore down on her in a long rush of guilt. Of all the people
in the world shed hurt, she knew that hed be effected the most
by this. Hed been nothing, but wonderful to her and this was what she
gave him. Sure they hadnt been a couple in a long time, but after their
newfound attempts at getting close to one another, only for her to go off
and do something stupid, well it was just too much. She had gone too far and
now she knew she would have to pay for her actions somehow.
I cant stay here, she thought to herself managing to do
her best to try to pull herself together after shed moved beyond the
chills that had rocked her body. Rising to her feet again she looked in the
mirror trying not to think about how this would be taking her under. Sure,
shed lost her job--she lost Ken, but somehow she would be able to move
on. She was a fighter--someone who could endure and this would be no different.
I just have to get out of here, she mouthed quickly brushing her
teeth and slapping on some make-up in a haste. She wasnt sure where
she was going to go, but she needed to get out. She needed to have some time
away.
Making her way to the hotel room door, Carly threw it open with the full intentions
of fleeing, but instead she was met by Daves wounded expression. She
saw him holding an envelope in his shaky hands as he raised it up to her face,
waving it at her in an attempt to try to push upon her the emotions that hed
been feeling in this moment in time.
How could you do this? he questioned, his voice broken by his
emotions as Carly stared at the envelope knowing full well what was within,
Carly, how could you do this to me? How could you
with Ken?
Dave, I can explain. I
she started in a feeble attempt to
explain herself, but instead only tears poured out. She felt him hold the
envelope out towards her, looking as if hed hit her with it, but instead
he threw them on the ground at her feet.
I thought that I meant something to you--that we meant something to
one another--that
Dave started to scream at her, when he realized
that her crying had been present since the moment shed opened the door.
He realized that something more was happening than his confronting her, Carly?
Im sorry, Carly stammered knowing she had no excuse for
any of what had happened, Dave, I didnt want to hurt you. I wanted
to tell you--to let you know about Ken and I, but
Dave, it was a mistake
Youre damn right it was. I mean first you seemed like you wanted
something with us, but then, he shook his head at her, Now I know
what it was that prompted you to ridicule me on the stand. All those talks
about Deidra, they werent about Deidra or me at all. They were about
you--about you and Ken and what you were doing. Thats what this always
was about, wasnt it?
Dave, I screwed up, she blurted out in between sobs, I didnt
mean to hurt you and I didnt plan for this, but I ruined everything.
I dont expect you to forgive me or even to not hate me because I deserve
everything you feel and more, but
But what? Dave questioned stiffly trying not to be effected by
her tears.
But nothing. Dave, you need to go. Just leave and pretend I was never
a part of your life. You deserve so much better than what you have in me.
You need someone who can love you--someone you love and someone who
she choked up before she could complete her words.
Dave stood in silence for a long time thinking about the other things he wanted
to say to Carly about her fling with Ken--about the news that had come his
way via the police station about Ken at the hospital, but instead he felt
an ache inside of him at her pain.
I failed you Dave. I screwed up and if its any consolation to
you, Ken played me. I made a mistake in trusting him because I now know that
all he wanted to do was to destroy the world around him. He wasnt with
me because he cared about me. He was with me because
Because he knew that I loved you, Dave finished bitterly. He shook
his head as he too had come to that realization once hed been faced
with the news of Carlys affair with Ken. He could still remember clearly
when hed walked into his office and found the envelope that contained
photos of Ken and Carly together. Hed been hurt--upset and wounded,
yet at the same time hed felt as if it was déjà vu of
his teen years when Ken had stolen Deidra from him. Only now it was another
time and another place with another woman that Dave had once loved.
I was too stupid not to see it. I really thought that it was something
special
that Ken and I were
Carly broke down completely falling
into the doorframe.
Taking in a slow breath Dave stepped forward surprising the both of them when
he pulled her into his arms. He felt her tears and in those moments of holding
her and listening to her sobs, he felt his own anger with the man hed
once called best friend consume him. There were no words to explain what he
felt in a moment like this. Sure, hed been betrayed--hed been
played for a fool and yet as Carly fell to piece in his arms, he realized
that there had never been a time in his life when he felt she needed him more.
Squeezing her in his arms, he kissed the top of her head gingerly wishing
like hell that he couldve somehow stopped this from happening--that
he couldve kept her from going to Ken. He remembered his own indifferent
attitude with her and in that moment Dave felt guilt over his own actions
knowing that he had played a hand in Carlys running to Ken in the first
place.
Im sorry, Dave whispered in her ear surprising her with
the gentle ease behind his words.
Carly stiffened in his arms before looking up at him, now completely aware
of the fact that he was holding her, What did you just say?
I said Im sorry, he confessed painfully, If I wouldve
quit trying to push you away, then you never would have gone to him. You never
would have
Dave, dont, she pleaded with him, Dont apologize
to me because Im the one who wronged you. Im the one who did all
the wrong things and
And Im the one who kept you at arms length, Dave continued
adamantly, I know how Ken works. All the signs were there when you voiced
your insecurities about Deidra. He played us against one another and then,
well he found a way to turn you against me.
I shouldve fought harder with what was going on inside of me,
but Kens not to blame for this. I went to him willingly. I was so lonely
and
And I left you open to him, Dave insisted with a sad sigh, Carly,
I know you and I know how you feel about things. I know how Ken feels about
the world around him right now and
And theres no excuse. I betrayed you and I cant be forgiven
for that. I wanted to tell you. I went to your office to try to break the
news to you, but you werent there and
she sniffled before
lowering her head, Now it feels like the world is falling apart around
me.
Ive been in that same place since I found those photos in my office,
Dave confessed heavily, his heart hurting with the admission.
I dont know who put them there. Chavez threatened me if I walked
out on the case. She said if I didnt win, that shed tell you about
Ken
that shed destroy me with you and
she began.
I dont care how they got there. I dont care what happened
with Ken, Dave insisted firmly, his finger curling in underneath her
chin. He urged her to look up at him once again as their eyes connected. All
that matters to me right now is what it is you feel about me--about us
Dave, I blew it for us. I threw away the best thing I ever had in my
life with you and I know now that we cant get it back ever again. If
you want to hate me forever
she began painfully, well I
cant say I blame you.
I dont hate you. As much as knowing about you and Ken is killing
me, the truth is that I dont hate you. I could never hate you Carly
and even now, he paused struggling with his nagging emotions, well
I dont ever want to go back. We cant ever do that.
No we cant, she nodded in the painful realization, and
Im so sorry that its come to this.
Carly, I need you to tell me something. I need you to be totally honest
with me about this one thing, he pleaded with her, and no matter
how much it hurts you have to be up front with me.
She nodded, Ill try.
Okay, he paused sliding his finger up and out over the hollow
in her cheekbone, his dark eyes reaching into hers, Carly, right now
the truth is all that I care about is what you feel for me.
How I feel for
she gazed up at him blankly confused by his
words, Dave, I dont understand.
I know you had something with Ken. I know that things have happened--that
hes found a way into your heart--into your life, but what Im asking--what
Im trying to say is
well, I wont lie to you and tell you
it didnt hurt when I saw those pictures. Im not going to tell
you that I wasnt bitter or angry or ready to lash out at you in a rage
because I was all those things. In some ways Im still feeling all of
that, yet
Yet what? she asked in a small voice.
Yet the idea of losing you forever to Ken is something I dont
want to face, he revealed with raw, unmasked emotion as his fingers
slid into her hair, I know that hes managed to seduce you in a
great many ways, but I need to know if somewhere inside your heart theres
still room for me. If maybe theres a chance we can fix this somehow.
You mean, her jaw dropped in astonishment.
Carly, I dont care what happened between you and Ken. I came here
to tell you that on top of everything else, he explained his voice impassioned
by his emotions, and regardless of what was going on between the two
of you, I came here today to tell you that it doesnt matter. Im
not about to let history repeat itself twice over. I lost you once and Ill
be damned if I lose you again to Kenneth Ashford.
But Dave
given what I did to you--how I hurt you
she
stammered seeing a different side to the man shed once been engaged
to.
It doesnt matter. I mean, yes, it does and Im not going
to lie to you about that, but at the same time Im not going to pretend
that I dont love you. All my life Ive been playing it safe--Ive
been living by the rules--by what the world around me wanted me to be, but
now, well now I know where my heart is and if its not too late, Id
like for us to start over. I want for us to get that second chance that we
shouldve had when you left town the first time. If I could go back to
that, well, I wouldve found a way to keep you from going because Carly
having you in my life was the only time I was ever really happy. It was the
only time I was ever really myself and when Im with you, well as strained
as its been, its only been because deep down I know that I didnt
give you all that you needed, but I want that to change. I want everything
to change for us and if its a battle for your heart, well then Im
going to do everything in my power to win you back because I love you and
I want to be with you.
Oh Dave, Carly threw her arms around him unable to contain the
surprise that rocked over her body, I dont deserve that. I dont
deserve you.
What you dont deserve is to be stuck in the middle of a war that
began long before you came into my life, Dave whispered holding him
in his arms all the while feeling the animosity over what Ken had done to
persuade Carly into his life. Regardless of what had transpired between Ken
and Carly, one thing was for certain, Dave was going to put an end to it starting
now.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So now that weve got that problem out of the way, Hunt
began lacing his fingers with Mindys before raising them to his lips,
Am I to assume that were okay now?
Well, Mindy pretended to think it over before a smile touched
over the corners of her mouth, I think we can work on getting there.
Of course I might need a little bit more convincing from you with a few kisses
here and there
I think I can arrange that, Hunt promised leaning in towards her
in the beginnings of a small, sensual kiss when the sound of his cell phone
invaded their moment. He groaned slightly before ignoring it and going in
for the kiss regardless.
Mindy squealed with a tiny sense of enthusiasm as she threw her arms around
him enjoying that hed thought she was far more important than anyone
who might be calling. Sliding her arms in around his neck, she kissed him
again with a newfound intensity and the phone silenced. Unfortunately it was
only momentarily before it began again.
Damn it, Hunt cursed under his breath pulling away from her with
a frown, just give me a second.
As long as you promise to come back to me, you can have all the time
in the world, she smiled at him watching him walk away as she sank back
onto the bench theyd been seated on moments earlier after their stroll
through the park.
I swear Ill be right back, he assured her before answering
his phone in an agitated voice, What?
Where the hell have you been? Brooke demanded, Ive
been trying to reach you for the last hour or so and youre no where
to be found.
Im busy, Hunt paused before realizing that Brooke was in
fact talking with him, Hey, wait a second I thought that you were
Laid up in a hospital, she questioned with a haughty laugh, You
didnt really think that a little fall out of the window could take me
out like that, did you lover?
Listen its not a good time, he began glancing over his shoulder
at where Mindy sat swinging her feet over the bench she sat on. She looked
so very beautiful and as Hunt watched her, he felt his heart flutter a bit.
Not a good time? I was just in a coma and when I woke up, you were the
first thing on my mind. I almost died and youre lucky that Im
still around, yet youre going to tell me its not a good time,
Brooke replied incredulously, After everything Ive done for you,
I wouldve thought that youd give me more than this considering
that
Look, I dont mean to be rude because thats not it at all,
its just that Im with someone at the moment and
he
began to explain feeling a moment of guilt ride over him at the memory of
all that Brooke had done for him.
With someone or not, its irrelevant. I want to see you at the
hospital right now. Hunt, please, dont make me wait, she begged
of him, I need to see you.
I just dont think that I can
he started with a heavy
sigh.
Hunt, I promise you if you come over here, itll be well worth
your while. I just received a call from one of my associates that Id
talked to you about. They wanted me to set up an appointment for you to come
and see them, but if youre too busy
she trailed off giving
him a crumb that she knew would entice him.
Look, I really cant
he began again.
Opportunities like this are once in a lifetime, but if its no
longer important to you, Brooke remarked sourly.
No, thats not it. Its just
he sucked in a sharp
breath before feeling his heart sink, Ill be there when I can.
That a boy, her voice purred with triumph, Dont make
me wait too long lover.
Ill get there when I can, Hunt replied hanging up the phone
knowing full well that he had to set things straight with Brooke once and
for all. As he returned to Mindy he could see her playing with a wildflower
shed picked from beside the bench.
For you, she explained holding it out to him. She noticed the
frown that touched over his features and as he approached her, her own smile
faded. Hunt, what is it?
I hate to do this, but something came up, he began apologetically,
I have to cut this short.
No, Mindy curled her lip in a pout, You cant be serious.
I wish I wasnt, but unfortunately I dont have a choice in
this matter, he reached for her hand pulling her up off of the bench
and into his arm, but promise me that well find a way to reschedule.
Gee, I dont know. It all depends on what youre running off
on me for, she teased lightly trailing her fingers over his chest.
I promise you that its not something that I want to be doing,
but I have to, he sighed heavily before embracing her, Just tell
me we can give this another try sometime soon.
I promise, Mindy hugged him in response as Hunt wondered how he
was going to be able to find a way to rid himself of Brookes place in
his life. Hed just spent the last few weeks with Mindy feeling wonderful
and as he longed to stay with her tonight despite his promise to meet up with
Brooke, he realized that it was time for things to start to change.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kyle knocked on the door to the Denton household before stuffing his hands in his pockets as the door opened.
Kyle, Elliot sighed before opening the door more and letting him in. Im glad you could make it.
What are you talking about? Kyle questioned with a slight smile. I wouldnt miss
Hello Kyle, Susan smiled as his eyes reached her, How are you this fine day?
What the hell is she doing here? Kyle questioned angrily before looking at Grady.
She has got some information on where Jade could be, Grady informed her as Kyle laughed.
Probably locked up in her basement, Kyle growled before Elliot patted him on the shoulder.
Calm down and listen to what she has to say Kyle, Elliot suggested as Kyle bit down on his bottom lip.
You have to be kidding me right? Kyle questioned looking over at Grady who shook his head.
I had to listen to it and now you do too, Grady stated as Kyle walked over and took a seat to listen.
Im all ears, Kyle snarled before Susan rubbed her hands together slowly.
Well, all I know is that Cameron has her and he is planning to take her away forever, Susan began trying to sum up all the things she had said earlier, I have a lead, but I am not completely sure where she is.
Bullshit, Kyle shot back shaking his head slowly, Give me some proof.
Kyle, Grady sighed looking over towards Kyle, I didnt believe her at first either, but as I am thinking about it what else do we have to go off of?
You are serious about this whole thing? Kyle questioned as Grady nodded slowly.
Yeah, I think I am, Grady answered as Kyle leaned back into the couch.
They had to be crazy to believe someone like Susan. Could she be telling the truth? All Kyle could hope was that Grady wouldnt end up getting screwed over in the end. Could this possibly help them any? On the other hand, could it turn out to be a disaster?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...