Episode 203
Get talking Cameron, Grady hissed as Cameron sat up from the ground.
Alright, just give me a second to breath, Cameron coughed trying to regain the air he got choked out of him.
If you dont start talking soon, you wont have any time to breathe, Grady threatened watching Cameron roll his eyes, Im not kidding either.
Fine, Cameron cut him off sounding a bit angered as he began to tell Grady everything he knew, I can tell you what I know, but you probably wont believe me. No one seems to believe me in this town.
I wonder why. You should start explaining soon, Grady warned not taking his eyes off of Cameron.
I dont even know why I am here, Cameron informed Grady before shrugging, Sure I had my reasons to do all this, but how could I pull this all off Grady?
You can do anything Cameron, Ive seen it happen, Grady reminded him with scowl.
I didnt do this one though, Cameron shouted before smiling, If it was me though, I would have set up a nice play, but it wasnt me. I got framed.
Well, if you got framed who did it then? Grady questioned knowing fully well that he shouldnt be believing a word that came from this mans mouth.
Thats the point, I dont know who did it, Cameron replied feeling Grady wrap his hands around his neck again.
You better not be lying to be again, Grady hissed as Cameron shook his head.
Im not lying, Cameron promised trying to breath, I swear I dont know who has her.
Fine, Grady nodded releasing his hands from Camerons throat, What else do you know?
Not much, Cameron shrugged thinking back to what happened, First thing I know, I am going on a business trip and then I get caught by the cops saying I kidnapped someone.
They found evidence at your house Cameron, Grady reminded him seeing Cameron nod slowly.
I didnt even know what they were talking about, Cameron replied thinking back to what they found, I only found out what it was when I got here. I had nothing to do with this.
How can I believe you? Grady questioned thinking of all the things Cameron did in the past.
Believe me, as much as I want to ruin your life it wasnt my idea, Cameron restated slowly, I have had ideas, but never one quite like this.
So you are telling me thats the only thing you know? Grady wondered seeing Cameron nod as he stood up, Fine.
You believe me? Cameron questioned watching Grady walk towards the door.
I dont know what to believe, Grady shrugged before taking in a deep breath, All I do know is that Jade is out there somewhere and I have to find her.
Whoever did this must have some type of power to get me in here, Cameron suggested before slowly rising to his feet, Think about that.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jenna sat across from her father in the back of the small, yet busy coffee
house, not really sure how to approach the situation at hand between them.
She glanced over at the smoky bar across the way, looking beyond further to
see an amateur poet on stage pleading with the crowd to just take in what
he was saying. The man spoke of love and the woes that had seemingly followed
for the character in his poem, which no doubt were true life emotions himself.
Sure, this place was a bit hipper and edgier than shed planned on going
to with Doug, but it was busy and busy kept her from being truly alone with
a man she didnt quite trust completely. Turning her eyes to her father
again, she inhaled slowly attempting to find something to say to him, but
much to her surprise he beat her to the punch.
I guess sorry doesnt even begin to cover whats happening
with us, does it, Douglas questioned with a pathetic looking expression
attempting to open the air between them.
There are a lot of things that sorry cant fix, she hesitated
trying to come up with a witty comeback before she continued opting to let
go of wit, Im just not sure whether or not this is one of those
situations.
Im hoping its not, he admitted honestly, his eyes
traveling over the other patrons. He glanced over at the poet on stage, watching
the man writhe in the agony his words seemed to be presenting and Doug couldnt
help but offer up an ironic smile, Somehow as heart-wrenching as that
is for him, well I think Im feeling a lot more tangled than that.
Hes just expressing his emotions, Jenna shrugged not really
paying attention to the man on stage as her gaze lingered upon her father,
Theres really nothing wrong with that, is there?
Only when you choose to express the wrong ones going on inside of you,
he sighed heavily focusing on her completely.
How can they be wrong if youre feeling them? she quipped
behind an arched brow.
Given that my emotions are something Ive never been good with
dealing with, this might be harder than I thought, he took in a breath
as if lost in contemplation.
How about we cut through all the games and just cut straight to the
point, Jenna suggested trying to stay focused.
He let out a tiny laugh, Just like your mother in that department. She
was always a no frills kind of woman. She did what she wanted and spoke what
was on her mind regardless of how inappropriate it might be seen by others.
I dont think my wanting to know the truth about my father is inappropriate
at all especially when hes involved with two murder victims, she
shot back at him icily. His expression made her half wish she hadnt
as hed seem somehow hurt by her words--wounded in ways she wasnt
aiming for. Still, shed been hurt by him and he hadnt cared, so
why should she?
Is that really what you want to know about Jenna? About Rochelle and
William or did you agree to come out here with me tonight for other reasons?
he replied using his words to try to pull an effect out of her.
Instead of giving him what he was hoping for, she sat straighter, forcing
herself to let his words bounce off of her. If she was going to get what she
was seeking out from her father, she had to be firm and unyielding. It was
the last thing hed expected out of her and it could very well be the
key to honesty.
I take it that your silence indicates Im mistaken in the belief
that tonight was more about us than about the murders, he grew silent
again before finally conceding a bit, Rochelle and I dated for a while--if
you could really call it that. I told you that she was an up and coming starlet
who fell down the wrong path before her number came up.
Id say her number came up, but not in the way she was hoping for,
she frowned hating to think of the woman shed seen lifeless and tormented
on the beach. Even now Jenna sensed in Rochelle Winters final hours, shed
been a woman whod been terrified--tortured by whatever evils had finally
done her in.
That wasnt what I was trying to imply, he paused knowing
his words were ill-chosen. Rochelle and I had fun together--fun that
Im sure youd want to hear nothing about
Your sex life is of no interest to me Douglas. I mean if thats
what you were implying, she wrinkled her nose at the thought.
It wasnt just about sex, he saw her expression, I
know that you might find that hard to believe, but I genuinely enjoyed her
company. She was a woman of character and she had a lot of promise
But not enough to keep you interested right? Shes served her purpose
and you decided youd be done with her, yes? Jenna added trying
to weave the picture in her mind regardless of how painful the process truly
was.
No, he offered up a poignant half smile, Truth be told Rochelle
tired of me long before my interest in her faded away. She was special you
see. She gave me something that was worth believing in. Yes, she was young,
but she had a certain maturity about her--an ageless, timeless character and
beauty that went well beyond what the rest of the world saw. I was very unsettled
in watching her leave
So it ended badly, yes? Jenna arched a curious brow.
Does it end any other way, he questioned lifting his coffee mug
from the table top to take a drink. He caught her glare from across the table
out of the corner of his eye before he set the mug down again. Unfortunately
it ended much worse than Id liked to have had it gone.
Because of the drugs you say she was getting into? she questioned.
He shook his head, rubbing his palms together before dropping his head down.
His silence was unsettling, but as he looked to his lap Jenna discovered there
was something far worse than his silence--his words.
When Rochelle and I were together, I decided to go all out. I showed
her the best of the best in everything. She and I had fun together--lots of
fun together, but it went beyond that. We had a connection that Ive
very rarely had with women in my life. After your mother left me, well Ill
be kind to myself and say that I had a taste for relationships that were fated
for disaster. When Id met Rochelle I hadnt planned on anything
worthwhile or monogamous, but that soon changed when I learned about the baby,
he explained falling to silence again.
Baby? Jennas eyes widened with obvious discomfort at the
can of worms shed opened up figuratively. She noticed the darkness that
swept over her fathers features before he lifted his head up to face
her once again, eyes devoid of any and all emotions other than the pain that
clearly registered years after the fact.
Rochelle lead me to believe that our time together had produced a child.
She had me under the assumption that I was going to be a father--that she
and I were about to bring a life into this world and foolishly I decided to
make our relationship exclusive, he revealed.
Meaning what exactly? No sex with anyone else? she questioned
with a small shiver.
Among other things, he nodded rubbing his palms together on the
table top, I had her move into the mansion with me. We thought, or rather
I thought that it would be a good way to keep an eye on her and have her taken
care of in my absence.
So you two were ready to take things to the next level with one another,
yes? she asked not really wanting to hear this, but still she couldnt
help but try to paint a picture of it in her mind.
He nodded again, Id been working on a surprise engagement of sorts,
but after Id returned home after a European shoot, I found Rochelle
and JT in bed with one another. I dont know if youve had the pleasure
of meeting your other brother yet
Ive met JT, she nodded in confession thinking back to that
first meeting when JT had hit on her. A shiver raced up and down her spine.
Yes, well lets just say not only was that little shocker the first
blow to the relationship, but it turned out that Rochelle and JT had known
one another for quite some time. They had a very tortured history with one
another and Id cut JT off--I wouldnt allow him to throw away his
inheritance on whores and drugs you see, so when I tried to get him to grow
up, he rebelled. I refused to pay for his habits and out of spite he drug
up Rochelle knowing full well that Id be taken by her.
So youre saying that JT and Rochelle were playing you, Jennas
eyes widened.
Yes, he let out an ironic laugh, I suppose that was one
way of looking at it. The bitch was robbing me blind in the name of supplying
my sons drug and gambling habits. Naturally when I discovered the truth
I was upset, but I blamed JT more than Rochelle. Turns out there was no child
and the pregnancy was just a rouse to get me to hand over more of my fortune
to your brother.
So thats when you ended things with her? Jenna questioned
thinking about what hed said earlier, Though I thought you mentioned
that she was the one that
She was, he confessed painfully, I forced her to make a
choice between JT and I. I went to great lengths to keep her seeing as at
the time I thought I couldnt live without her. She had no choice but
to stay with me and JT was history shortly after. Our relationship continued,
but it was never quite the same after the lies, he paused thinking back
to the situation hed been in, After about six months Rochelle
became an addict herself and she ran off with some actor. That was the last
time Id seen her and I never looked back.
Even after youd gone to such great lengths to keep her in your
life? she asked skeptical.
Lets just say that some situations arent worth the price
you pay, he shrugged his shoulders before reaching for his coffee mug
again, Rochelle was far too much trouble, but my addiction to her kept
her around longer than she shouldve been I suppose.
So you never really had a chance to get over your addiction then, yes?
she hinted at a darker motive to his words.
I didnt have her killed if thats what youre asking,
he replied matter of fact, Had Rochelle shown up on my doorstep after
she left, well I mightve considered taking her in, but unfortunately
that opportunity never arose. A shame really.
Yet somehow her body washes up on a shore not far from here with your
photo in her wallet and not much else, Jenna replied skeptically, You
dont think that isnt just a tad bit ironic, do you?
What I think and what it means are two different things, he shrugged
once again, Given your reaction to the tale Im telling you, Id
imagine the idiots that run this town will begin to infer things that werent
or arent really there. Eventually Im sure that Ill be at
the top of their suspect list, yet I can assure you that I have nothing to
hide. My life is far from perfect and Ill be blunt and tell you that
a lot of it is quite ugly.
Thats not a surprise to me, Jenna scoffed back at him, her
gaze traveling over to the stage where a new poet took to the center.
I realize that, he reached across the table to take her hand in
his, but I also hope you know that Im trying to spare you all
of this pain that you may face due to some of my actions.
Are you? she replied in an accusatory tone.
I truly am, he released her hand realizing that hed moved
too soon to really get any other kind of effect from her than anger. He deserved
that he was sure, but still hed had to try.
So why should I believe any of this? I mean thats a nice story
youre painting here, but what are you hoping to gain by sharing it with
me? Someone to back you up when the suspicious eye roams in your direction?
No, he shook his head at her, Maybe I just felt like telling
you because I believed you had a right to know. You are my daughter and while
you are aware of some of my sins, that doesnt change who I am in your
life.
At this point in time thats irrelevant, she stiffened.
Im still your father whether you want me to be or not, he
hesitated again, a wave of sentimentality washing over his expression, and
had your mother stayed with me, well, things might not be as they are today.
Life wouldve been different for all of us.
You cant blame her for wanting to save herself, Jenna snapped
back at him, ready to jump to her mothers defense, but he surprised
her again with a nod.
No, I really cant blame her at all given what she had dealt with.
My family wasnt at all good in dealing with real human emotions. I know
that you probably think this is another line, but when I grew up, love was
for fools. You werent allowed to feel or to do what your heart longed
to do. There were rigorous standards you were expected to uphold--a reputation
if you will
That lead my mom to run as fast and as far as she could, Jenna
pointed out grimly.
And that was perhaps the smartest move she ever made in her life,
he confessed honestly, shaking his head again before his dark eyes fell upon
hers, I loved your mother with all that I was and to this day shes
the only woman who has ever truly held my heart. She saw me as I once was,
as I couldve been and as the man I always wanted to be. My time with
her was the greatest time of my life and if I could do it all over again,
then the second time around nothing would stop me from finding a way to keep
that forever.
Funny thing with time, Jenna replied leaning in closer to him,
her eyes narrowing in that moment, You can never go back.
No, but theres always hope for the future, isnt there?
he questioned in a pleading tone taking a bold move and reaching out across
the table to take her hand in his. He felt her resistance, but much to his
dismay she didnt withdraw from his attempt right away.
Jenna opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. Her eyes dropped to
where his finger pressed in over hers silently begging her for a way in, but
right now it was too much--there were too many things happening for her to
give into what it was he was seeking from her. Reluctantly she swiped her
hand away from his and rose to her feet. She threw a few dollar bills on the
table top before snatching up her purse and clutching to it desperately.
I have to go, she blurted out seeing his look of objection. Before
he could say anything more she left the coffee house--never once looking back
for fear that if she stayed a moment longer she may find herself giving in
to that one request that she knew was on the tip of his tongue. If she didnt
leave now, she just might let him into her life--into her heart and welcome
him as her father and right now--at this point in her life--it simply was
unacceptable.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Is that right, Hart questioned with a sardonic expression, spooning
in every second of Beths hissy-fit over the fact hed hired Sam
to work for him. Sure, hed been well aware that shed be more than
livid, but her expression at the moment was more than just a bit over the
top.
Thats very right. No daughter of mine will be working for a moral
free, hedonistic bastard like yourself, she shot back at him icily,
her eyes throwing daggers across the room with her bitter words.
Hedonistic huh? Hart placed his hands on his hips mocking her
very stance before him. He opened his mouth to sling a few insults of his
own, but instead it was Sam who spoke up in an uproar.
Um excuse me, but Im an adult, Sam waved her hand at her
mother with obvious anger, Im fully capable of making my own decisions
and I dont think that you or anyone else can tell me what I can or cannot
do career wise.
What kind of career is a secretary, Beth wrinkled her nose at
the thought before turning to address Sam. She stepped in closer to her daughters
side reaching out to fluff the edge of the pillow that Sam had laid upon,
Sweetheart, youre so much better than that and if youre
seeking out that kind of job, well you can work for me. Id be more than
happy to hire you as my own personal assistant here at the hospital and
Mom, dont take this the wrong way, but Im sick and tired
of hospitals. If I never step inside one again, itll be too soon for
me, Sams fingers coiled over the top of the sheet that lay over
her legs. I want to work for Hart.
Honey, thats really not a good idea considering that
Beth found herself at a loss. She could see the unsatisfied expression on
Sams face, but she refused to allow Hart the pleasure or power over
her in Beth blurting out an open confession to Sam about Hart being a father.
Instead she stood taller, clearing her throat again and trying to use a different
approach, But darling youve said that you and I havent had
much of an opportunity to spend much time with one another since weve
moved back into town. I think it would be a wonderful chance for us to get
closer if you were working with me. You might find that your time in the hospital
and the appreciation you could gain from working with others like yourself
could
No, not a chance, Sam shook her head adamantly, Im
working for Hart. Ive accepted already and thats all there is
to it.
Good choice, Hart smirked taking a step forward towards Sams
hospital bed, and just know that whenever youre ready to come
to work, that position is yours. Dont feel you have to rush yourself
because things have been a bit crazy around the office lately. My partner
is kind of taking an extended vacation of sorts since his fiancée died
and Im trying to kind of regroup a bit.
Im so sorry to hear that, Sam frowned slightly taking in
what hed said, I hope that your partner is coping with this better
than what Ive heard on the news.
I wish I could say he was, but at this point, shamefully I havent
had much contact with him, Hart admitted with a small shrug, which
reminds me I really should be heading on back there. I left one of my files
in the office and I dont want to get over there too late and trip the
wire on the alarm there. I did that one time already and it annoyed the hell
out of the company. Youd think security would just cut me some slack
since its my office, but I have to tell you theyre brutal. They
are who youll really have to look out for when you start working there.
Though Ive heard that a beautiful smile, great legs and donuts are the
key to their hearts. Since I dont have two of the above, well I have
to settle for donuts and hope they dont hate me.
Sam laughed lightly before offering her hand out to him, Thanks again
for this opportunity Hart.
Its my pleasure, Hart leaned down to kiss the top of her
hand politely before standing up once again. He shot a glare in Beths
direction before offering up a sarcastic smile, See you later Beth.
Oh you can count on it, she seethed wanting to tear him apart
limb by limb. Once hed exited the room, she turned to plead with her
daughter again, Sami, you cant really be serious about this honey.
Im very serious about this mom, Sam replied firmly in an
attempt to stand her ground with her mother, Im at the age where
I have to start making my own choices and I want to do that. I know that youve
tried to protect me most of my life, but I dont need your protecting
in this. I want to do this.
Your father is not going to approve at all, Beth wrinkled her
nose down at her, straining to get her daughter to listen to reason, Hes
not rather fond of Hart.
I realize that, but daddy doesnt have to be. Im the one
who is going to be doing this and I have to work with Hart, not daddy,
Sam shrugged her shoulders before reaching for the television remote control,
Besides Hart cant be that bad. Hes dating Waynes sister
and
All the more reason for you not to take this position. When you and
Wayne call it quits, Beth pleaded with her reaching out to tuck a strand
of Sams hair behind her ear.
Call it quits? Sam blinked back at her incredulously, Mom,
where would you ever get an idea like that? Wayne and I are very happy together
You say that now, but you never know what will happen in the future
with your both being of very different backgrounds and
Beth began
with a disapproving glance.
Different backgrounds? Sam repeated with an unimpressed huff,
Is that what youre really wanting to say Mom or is it that you
dont like the fact that Wayne isnt who youd choose for me
because hes not white?
Oh Sami, Beth rolled her eyes at the remark, Of course thats
not it, though I will say when you associate with those people, well, others
tend to snicker and sneer behind your back as that gives you a certain reputation.
And what the hell kind of reputation would that be mother? Sam
snapped in response.
One that a respectable young lady like yourself wouldnt like to
obtain this early on, Beth reached out to try to coddle her, but Sam
swatted her mothers hand away.
And what would that be? The reputation of a woman who found herself
lucky enough to have a good man in her life? A man who would move heaven and
earth to make her happy? Sam shook her head at her mother, hating everything
her mother felt about the relationship Sam had with Wayne. While you
might not like it, I love Wayne and he loves me. We have something that most
people wait a lifetime to have in their life. Sure, maybe its not what
you want, but heres a clue for you. Its not your life. Its
mine
Which is all the more reason why I dont want you to screw it up.
With all these horrible choices youve been making lately
Beth argued with her, the tone shifting with her annoyance.
My decisions are none of your business. In case you havent noticed
Im eighteen years old and fully capable of deciding what it is that
I want in my life, Sam argued back, a newfound stubbornness coursing
through her veins, Not only am I going to enjoy my life with Wayne,
but Im taking that job with Hart and theres not a damn thing you
can do to change it.
Youre making horrible mistakes and if you take this job itll
be another big one Sami, Beth shook her head furiously, Youre
going to ruin your life and youll be so tarnished that no one will want
to bother with you.
No Mom just because no one wants to bother with you, doesnt mean
Im the same kind of slut that daddy thinks you are, Sam remarked
harshly watching Beth turn on her--ready to lash out at her. She saw Beth
raise her hand as if she was going to slap her, but instead Beth just wiggled
her finger at her.
Dont you dare talk to me in that tone. You are way out of your
league little girl. You dont know the first damn thing about what happened
with your father and I, Beth snapped at her harshly.
I know enough to see you broke his heart, Sam replied sourly,
Thats something that I havent been blind to over the years.
And if you take this job, youll be following in my footsteps doing
the very same thing, Beth warned her before taking a step back, And
here I thought that youd grown up to become a mature, responsible young
woman
I have, but youre too busy trying to dictate my life to notice,
Sam replied with an angry glare.
Yeah, well you go ahead and ruin your life then Sami. See if anyone
is going to be there for you like I have. Im the best thing that you
have and even if you hate me for it, I do what I do to protect you. I love
you Sami and I dont want to see you hurt, Beth replied with a
wounded expression, Does that make me so horrible?
Silence surrounded them before guilt swept over Sams features, No,
it doesnt, but you have to trust me a little bit mom. I know what Im
doing.
I really dont think that you do sweetheart, Beth moved in
closer to her, reaching out to embrace her, but if you really feel this
is something you must do
Please dont argue with me on this, Sam returned the embrace,
I love you Mom, but I cant go through another fight over this.
I wont argue with you, but you have to promise me if you ever
feel uncomfortable--if you ever want to back out of the position
Beth sighed in frustration.
Then if it comes to that, Ill quit, Sam assured her, Just
let me try and stop getting on me about Wayne.
I cant offer any promises, but Ill try, Beth moved
back ever so slightly to look at her daughter, all the while vowing to find
a way to make Hart pay for this latest move. One way or another shed
find a way to take him down for trying to one up her. That much she was quite
certain of.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
What the? Kyles eyes quickly opened hearing the ringing of his cell phone. Figures.
You okay? Sarah questioned with a small laugh seeing how the ringing scared him.
Yeah, he grunted looking at his cell phone and opening it slowly, Hello?
Kyle, its Blake, Blake smiled widely to herself wrapping the cord of her phone around her finger slowly.
Well hello pretty woman, Kyle playfully laughed, I assume you would like to talk to Sarah?
You know me too well, Blake giggled as Kyle handed the cell phone over to Sarah.
Hello, Sarah took the phone knowing that Blake would be the only one who would call Kyles cell phone for her, What can I do for you Blake?
Sarah, you will never guess what I am about to tell you, Blake sounded very happy as Sarah shrugged to herself as Kyle got up and walked off to the kitchen.
Let me guess you and Seth broke up, Sarah joked hearing Blake laugh.
Of course not, its better than that, Blake began as Sarah could hardly understand what she was saying, Sarah, I am getting married.
Yeah, I know you and Seth will get married soon, Sarah nodded as Blake cut her off.
No we are getting married in less that twenty-four hours, Blake informed Sarah hearing her gasp.
Are you serious? Sarah questioned looking down at her watch before switching the phone to her other ear.
Dead serious, we are going to Atlantic City, Blake stated as she bit on her lower lip. Me and Seth were hoping that you and Kyle would come.
You want us to come with you? Sarah questioned feeling honored to have her best friend ask this.
Youre my best friend and well Seth thinks of Kyle as a really good friend, Blake replied before spinning around, So what do you say? Will you two come?
We would love to, Sarah answered with a wide smile, When are we leaving?
As soon as possible, Blake declared before wrapping her arms around a pillow, You two should get packed and call me when you are done.
Ill call you right back, Sarah agreed before laughing, This is going to be so much fun.
Alright, hurry up, Blake hung up with Sarah before going pack to packing her things.
What did she want? Kyle questioned with a yawn walking back into the room and grabbing his shirt from the side of the couch and sliding it on.
She wants us to go to Atlantic City with her and Seth, Sarah informed him as he nodded slowly.
When? Kyle questioned opening up his water and taking a slow drink.
They are getting married and we are leaving as soon as possible, she answered as Kyle choked down his water.
What? Kyle questioned unexpectedly, Today? They want us to go today?
Yeah, dont you want to go? Sarah wondered seeing him nod slowly. You say you want a break, what better way could you have it?
I guess it was just kind of unexpected, Kyle shrugged before tightening the cap on his water bottle, So you want me to get packed now?
Right now, she nodded as he shrugged once more, And hurry up we dont have too much time. Its Blake and Seths big day, they deserve as much attention as possible.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Hello, Ria answered her phone tiredly after just getting off her shift only to hear her best friends voice on the other side of the phone.
Ria, I need you to do a big favor for me, Seth stated smiling widely to himself.
Oh god, she sighed with a small laugh, What do I have to do now?
I think you will like this one, Seth pointed out with a wiggle of his eyebrow, I want you to go home and get packed up so you could come with me to Atlantic City.
Youre kidding me right? she questioned with a big laugh before realizing he wasnt. Right?
This is no joke, Seth replied before taking in a deep breath, Blake and I are getting married tonight and I would like you to be there for me.
Who else is coming? Ria questioned not knowing how she should answer his question.
Two friends of ours and you thats if you say yes, Seth offered up as she bit down on her bottom lip.
This all sounds great, but with work and everything, she began before Seth cut her off.
Come on Ria, he begged before starting up again, You have to come with me, you are my best friend.
Alright, she agreed before taking in a deep breath. I couldnt miss my best friends wedding. Ill have someone take my shifts.
Thank you so much, Seth smiled to himself before grabbing a few things, We are going to have so much fun. Now hurry home and get packed.
Alright, I will call you when I get home, she promised before looking down at her watch. Bye.
She took in a deep breath before thinking things over. As one of the nurses walked by her she called them back.
Hey, I have to split, Ria informed the nurse before smiling and rubbing her hands together lightly, My best friend is going to get married and I have to be their for them.
Alright, the nurse nodded with a small smile, Tell them congratulations.
Yet did Ria know, someone else had also heard the good news, JT who was standing in the back of the hallway.
Where are you Valerie? JT questioned to himself watching Ria get into the elevator. If you dont get back soon enough, you may lose Seth forever.
He had to do something to help her stop this wedding. He quickly walked pulled out his phone trying to call her again. To tell her the bad news so she might think about changing her mind.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I cant believe you two wont tell me what you were doing in that room, Angela shook her head in disbelief hearing Kevin and Nick laugh.
It was nothing big, Kevin shrugged tapping his fingers along the table lightly.
Nothing big? Angela questioned her eyes getting wide. Do you know what it sounded like you two were doing?
I dont even want to know, Kevin laughed before rolling his eyes and looking towards Nick.
Well, I can assure you it sounded like Nick had it out for you Kevin, Angela informed him as Nick choked on his drink.
What can I say? Im too hot not to love, Kevin shrugged with a small smile feeling her hit him in the shoulder lightly.
I know you guys only took me out to dinner because you wanted me to shut up about this whole thing, she insisted as Nick bit down on his lip trying not to laugh. What is it with you two? One second you hate each other and now you two are working together to keep something from me.
What can I say Angie? Kevin smiled holding his hand out to Nick for a high five.
Sorry Angela, Nick shrugged smacking Kevins hand lightly, Its a guy thing.
Im going to find out one way or another, she nodded slowly as Kevin shook his head.
Sorry sweetheart, but I trust Nick with this one, Kevin winked at Angela before feeling arms wrap around his neck lightly and plant a kiss on his cheek.
Hey there, Adonis, Marie smiled down at him as Kevin smiled, I believe you still owe me a drink and a dance.
I do, dont I? Kevin questioned with a sly grin before getting up from his seat. If you two will please excuse me.
Take your time, Angela held up her hands watching Kevin walk towards the bar with Marie.
That girl is the one who has it out for him, Nick sighed before taking a sip of his drink.
Okay, you have to tell me what you two were doing, Angela begged as Nick shook his head slowly.
I cant, Kevin and I made a promise to each other, Nick informed her with a small smile thinking back to what he had found out about Kevin and his writing, It is pretty interesting though.
You can tell me, Kevin will never know, she assured him as Nick shook his head.
How about a dance, he offered standing up and holding his hand out to her.
You arent going to tell me? she wondered seeing him shake his head as she took his hand in hers.
Not a chance, he smiled widely before leading her out to the dance floor knowing fully well that she was dying to find out what was happening in that room.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is amazing, Avery confessed thinking about how the last
time shed been on one of the Ashford yachts that she hadnt taken
the time to truly appreciate her surroundings. Much like the other luxury
liner, this one was first class in every sense of the word. The plush, lavish
surroundings were like a little piece of heaven swept from up above and delivered
to the water, where she and Brant were with one another on a night like this.
Youre the amazing one, Brant confessed stepping in behind
her. He enveloped her in his arms squeezing her closer to him before his lips
tapered off over the back of her neck. He nibbled gently, feeling the tiny
shivers that raced over her body. She tipped her head back into his chest,
her eyelids half-mast as a sigh spilled over her lips. Unable to resist an
opportunity to tease her, he whispered warmly in her ear, Still sure
about putting dinner on hold?
You know now that you mention it I think dinner would be fantastic,
Avery decided standing up taller and wiggling out of his arms.
She spun around to face him, her best poker face at hand, but it was too late.
Hed already called her bluff and was working on getting her to admit
to her devious nature. He stepped forward, arms spanning out onto the wall
beside where she stood. She felt the warmth of him nearing her as she pressed
herself back into the wall. Her dark eyes widened, fingers fanning out against
the wall behind her in an attempt to keep her grounded when his lips sought
out hers.
Liar, he mouthed claiming her mouth in a naughty kiss.
Avery savored the sexy taste of him for one blissful moment before pulling
away from the kiss. She winked at him before speaking up, Am not.
With those words, she ducked underneath his arm clearly ready to exit, but
he wasnt about to let her leave. He reached for her drawing her back
with lightening quick movements. Their eyes reconnected. He moved forward
pinning her to the surface behind her.
Going somewhere, he questioned in a sexy, mischievous tone all
the while watching the way her damp lips parted with breathless anticipation
of what came next for them.
I was just on my way up to the kitchen area and
she began
feeling him move in for yet another urgent, demanding kiss. This time she
felt no need to taunt or play with him. Her arms glided readily over his shoulders,
drawing him nearer yet while his hands roamed over her body greedily. She
felt her breath catch in her throat as his fingers found their way underneath
the hem of her skirt.
Shame on you for being such a tease, Brant shook his head at her,
making a tsking sound.
His hands traveled upward, over the silky smoothness of the black stockings
shed been wearing. His finger teased over the lace that topped off the
thigh highs shed sported shortly after hed announced he was taking
her away. At the time shed thought shed wear them to be sexy,
but shed lost the enthusiasm for such an event after their long ride
through the country. Sure, it had been beautiful, but it had been clear that
their ride wasnt about to lead to any earth-shattering moments of eroticism
for the both of them. However judging by the expression on his face, that
was about to change.
Whats this, he questioned with a small smirk, fingering
the lace gingerly.
Whats what, Avery replied casually attempting to feign complete
control and lackluster enthusiasm while his finger circled the lace trailing
dangerously between her thighs.
You know what, he threw out a pointed look, tearing his hands
away from her much to her dismay. However, before she could issue a protest,
she felt him drop down to his knees before her causing her to gasp.
Brant, what are you doing, Avery questioned feeling a blush rise
over her features when he began to pull her skirt up over her body, drawing
the fabric up over her hips.
I wanted a closer look, Brant admitted in a carefree, casual tone
loving the way that the tables had turned now that Avery suddenly was on edge.
He leaned forward, taking the time to truly appreciate the work of art that
her body was. Her thighs were beautiful, sun-kissed and soft to the touch.
He traced his finger over the top of the delicate lace pattern again before
he leaned forward placing a feathery-light kiss upon the skin that teased
out over the fabric.
Brant, Avery gasped clearly embarrassed by his blatant attention
now that his lips created a path over her skin. She dropped her hands down,
knowing that anyone on staff on the yacht could walk by at any moment and
find her in this embarrassingly humiliating position, skirt around her waist
and her husband dangerously close to turning this moment X-rated. She reached
out for him, urging him to get up off of the floor.
Is something wrong, Brant questioned tilting his head up just
enough to grin at her devilishly before his lips returned to her thigh.
I dont think that, she started feeling his mouth transfer
from one leg to the other and she let out a small pinched whisper, I
dont think that here is the place to
To what, he asked in a low, husky masculine tone his fingers sliding
up towards her hips. He released the skirt, allowing it to drop over her thighs
while his hands sought out a new target. He felt her uneasiness grow exponentially
when he issued a slight tug on the black lacy underwear shed had on.
To do this, Avery chastised feeling her panties slide down over
her hips centering around the top of her thighs before Brant yanked again.
Do what? he questioned innocently teasing the tips of his fingers
over the back of her thighs, circling behind her knees where the lacy fabric
now pooled around her oh so perfect body.
This, Avery practically squealed feeling the slight nudge he gave,
buckling her knees just enough to allow the lacy material to fall to her ankles.
Oh I dont see a problem with it, he replied with a small
shrug, reaching out to push on of her feet up against the wall to give the
material room to drop from her completely. He followed his movement with the
other leg before dangling the small panties over his index finger and flashing
her a sexy grin, You wouldnt be tempted to say that this is highly
inappropriate, would you?
I know it is, Avery replied reaching out to snatch her underwear
away from him. Instead she was met by the hungry urgency of his kiss as he
pushed her back into the wall. His body pinned her firmly beneath his, his
hips grinding against hers, leaving her no mistakes about what he was hoping
for between them. Lucky for him, shed been hoping for it too, but like
this, well this was something that was certainly going to be a first for her.
One that she found herself suddenly very uneasy about.
Brant, wait
Avery tore herself away from the kiss, fighting
to keep all rationality about her. She felt her breath fill the thick silence
that surrounded them before her eyes scanned the corridor worriedly, I
think I hear something.
Its your imagination, he murmured bringing his lips over
hers again, Dont worry about it. Were alone for now.
But for how long, Avery questioned feeling him rub up against
her once again with sinful intent.
Long enough Im certain, he tried to assure her, lifting
the front of her skirt in an attempt to gain easy access to her femininity.
How can you be certain, Avery questioned placing her hand in the
center of his chest to prevent him from making an embarrassment out of the
both of them.
I just am, he replied flashing her that million dollar smile that
had captured her attention back in the first days of knowing him.
She opened her mouth in protest, wanting with everything she had inside of
her to tell him to think this through--to really weigh out the probability
of them savoring a moment of privacy in the cramped quarters of the hallway
they were surrounded by, but instead all she could focus on was the first
feel of his hands touching her in all the right places.
Brant, his name spilled over her lips as she leaned her head forward
dropping it onto his shoulder.
See sweetheart, he murmured into the side of her neck all the
while taking his time to pleasure her, I told you that wed be
okay here.
No, she shook her head, fighting to suppress the small sounds
building inside of her at his touch, this is too dangerous--too
Amazing to ignore, he cut her off with another eager kiss. She
sighed into him, tasting the fire and recklessness he was bringing her to
from within. This was too much, too out of the norm for her and yet she was
drinking it all in with his kiss.
Mmm
she bit down on her lower lip to stifle her soft cries
of pleasure, but with each passing moment she found it increasingly hard to
contain it. She tilted her head up, seeing the way that Brant was looking
at her--the sheer delight he was deriving from watching her melt at his attentions.
Dont hold back on my account, he whispered, dragging his
thumb over her bottom lip in an attempt to unmask her sounds, I want
to take it all in--to hear all there is when you lose control
Brant, I
I
she stammered rocking her hips towards him
wanting nothing more than to get him into that damned bedroom to show him
what she really wanted. Yes, this was a nice start, but what she wanted, what
she found herself craving was far more than what hed started out here.
Yes? he replied in a sluggish tone, watching her face twist with
clear cut agony. He stopped what he was doing and found himself delighted
to see her squeal in protest. Leaning forward he nibbled on her lower lip
again, Thats my girl. Tell me what it is you want from me
To get
she spoke tightly, hoarsely fighting to stay in control
of herself, to get into the bedroom
Awe sweetheart, we dont need a bedroom for me to give you what
you need, he laughed lightly, amused by her attempts at self control.
Still, he was relentless wanting her to be wild and wanton and his. He knew
how easy it could be to get her to bend for him in the way hed been
hoping for in the safety and security of the bedroom, but right now Brant
wasnt looking for safe--he wasnt hoping to enter into familiar
territory. Right now he wanted fire--he wanted passion and damn it he wanted
that Avery that shed been back in his office when hed first made
his quest for her known--the one who could melt completely at his touch--the
one who wanted nothing more than to have him make her his in every sense of
the word. Thats what he wanted and tonight hed settle for nothing
less.
Brant please, she begged of him, fighting to maintain any semblance
of control as her hand slipped down over his wrist to stop his mind-breaking
advances upon her. Her words were meant to be firm, but they came out more
so as shallow pants when he seemed undeterred by her attempt to relocate.
Please what, Brant questioned with a certain spark behind his
eyes enjoying his newfound power over his wife. Yes, okay so maybe he was
gloating a little bit, but it felt good to see her overtaken with lust for
him. It felt, well, perfect.
The bedroom--now, she arched up towards him, wanting nothing more
than to continue their rendezvous behind closed doors, but that still wasnt
good enough for him.
Not yet, he shook his head at her denying her request.
Brant.. she bit down on her lip again this time unable to suppress
the whimpers that overtook her with the first wave of tremors hed set
off inside of her. She arched her body forward, her head falling back against
the wall as there was no more holding back on the nirvana hed set out
to take her to. Shed tried to fight it--tried to keep from falling to
pieces like an idiot in the hallway, but it was too late. Brant had been bound
and determined to get her to make a fool of herself in such a way that anyone
on the yacht could hear her. Now it was most certainly happening with the
whimpering sounds that escaped from her parted lips.
Thats my girl, Brant mused proudly feeling victorious in
his quest to gain Averys attention. Now that hed had it, he knew
damn well that he wasnt about to wait to get her into that bedroom.
That would come later, he reasoned as he undid his slacks quickly situating
himself before settling inside of her.
Oh, she gasped, leaning forward to meet his eyes as their bodies
were now in unison, bumping and grinding with one another with a sheer primal
force.
There was no denying the lust, the insatiable hunger behind their union and
yet regardless of Averys concerns about privacy theyd found a
way to ride the waves of passion with one another right to the very end with
a great deal of enthusiasm. Finally when the fire had crashed them to surrender
Brant leaned into Avery, kissing her flushed skin with silent appreciation.
Good girl, Brant mouthed against her neck, his words buzzing against
her skin as he felt her leg still wrapped around his body. She was shivering,
her heart pounding against his with that same wild, frenzy that hed
felt from the moment hed brought her below the deck with him.
I cant believe you did that
that we did that
Avery gasped, her words still a bit shaky after the experience theyd
shared with one another. The fact that you wouldnt just let us
move when I asked you to
Shh, he instructed placing his finger over her swelled lips to
silence her complaint. He saw her eyes still glazed from the passion theyd
shared with one another, you loved every minute of it.
Thats beside the point, Avery mumbled from underneath his
fingertip a blush turning her face a sexy crimson shade, Right now Im
sure everyone upstairs is getting a kick out of this knowing how much I enjoyed
it.
Even if they are, Brant replied cupping her face in his hands,
they arent getting nearly as much of a kick out of it as I did
with you.
Brant, she opened her mouth in an attempt to come up with something
witty and intelligible, but before she could utter a sentence she heard the
sounds of glass breaking from behind her.
What in the
Brant frowned reluctantly tearing himself away
from her when another sound followed.
What is that? Avery questioned feeling her skirt fall over her
again. She turned towards the source of the sound--the door in front of her
and almost as soon as the crash had sounded, silence followed.
Stay here, Brant urged pulling himself together again before he
slowly moved towards the door. He listened for a moment before pushing the
bedroom door open in a haste. He snapped on the light switch before looking
around for the source of the sound.
A broken window on the opposite end of the room gave him an indication of
what theyd heard and the brick on the floor filled in the blanks on
what had happened. Slowly his eyes traveled over to the center of the bed
where there lay some sort of dead animal in the center of the comforter surrounded
in a pool of blood. Brant moved forward seeing something else beside the now
deceased bird that had been left on the bed--something far more chilling as
a knife lay beside the birds body.
Brant, what it is? Avery questioned wrapping her hands around
her arms. She took a step into the room, attempting to see what was going
on when she noticed Brant near the center of the room, Brant?
Get out Avery, Brant warned glancing over his shoulder to wave
her dismissal, Dont come in here.
Why? What is it? she asked again taking another step forward.
Avery, I said get out, Brant growled back at her, turning around
in an attempt to block her from seeing what vile token had been left for them,
but it was too late.
Oh my God, Avery gasped in horror, feeling a moment of nausea
rush over her. Brant
Dont look, Brant pleaded pulling her into his chest in a
futile attempt to keep her from taking a closer look at the damage that had
been done, but he knew full well that it was too late. Shed seen the
worst and now, well now this was clearly a sign of what was waiting for them.
Someone wanted to make a statement and as Avery trembled in Brants arms,
he knew full well that the sadistic bastard whod put such a thing here
had accomplished his dastardly mission.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Hello Dean, Shannon smiled closing the door to his Deans office slowly.
Shannon? What are you doing here? Dean questioned quickly standing up from his chair.
I was just coming to see how things were going, Shannon informed him taking a seat on his couch.
Did anyone see you come in here? Dean questioned as she shrugged.
Does it matter? she replied with a simple shrug. Its not like anyone will care.
You dont think anyone would be suspicious? Dean asked seeing her shrug.
Let them wonder, she smiled before leaning forward in her seat before taking in a deep breath.
I never expected you would come here to talk to me, Dean sighed leaning against the corner of his desk.
Well, I am, she pointed out as he nodded slowly watching as she stood up.
What can I help you with? Dean questioned seeing her shrug. You must need something.
Your right, she nodded before biting down on her bottom lip lightly We need to have a talk.
Right now? Dean questioned seeing her nod slowly. Do we have to?
Yeah, she nodded slowly as he closed his eyes shut tightly, Its pretty important.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
What was that all about? Alicia questioned seeing the expression on her sons face as he sluggishly walked into the house.
She left mom, Don informed her before dropping down on the couch, She found out about Matthew.
That was the woman you married? Alicia questioned seeing him nod slowly. She is a very pretty woman.
Mom, Don yelled out catching her attention, She left me just now.
She left my baby boy? she questioned with a frown taking a seat next to him. She doesnt deserve you anyways.
Youre treating me like I am twelve years old, Don shook his head slowly before scooting over, I can handle this. I knew it was going to happen soon or a later.
Did I miss something? Rob, Dons father questioned as he walked through the door just getting back from work.
Yeah, your sons wife just left him, Alicia informed him as Rob frowned taking a seat next to Don.
Really? Rob questioned before smiling widely. I have to know this was she hot?
Dont ask that, Alicia frowned hitting Rob in the back of the head as he laughed.
I was just wondering, Rob shrugged as Alicia shook her head slowly.
Can I talk to dad alone a minute? Don questioned seeing his mother get up and leave the room.
So what was she a hot one like your mother? Rob asked once more as Alicia peeked her head out of the kitchen.
I heard that, she heard Rob laugh as he looked back at her.
I asked him if the weather was hot, Rob lied before seeing Alicia roll her eyes and go back into the kitchen.
It wasnt that she was hot dad, Don sighed thinking back to what had just happened, I love her.
What happened? Rob wondered seeing Don shrug. Did she leave after she found out about Matthew?
Yeah, Don nodded resting his elbows on his knees, I dont understand women sometimes. You love them and you would do anything for them then they just up and leave.
Dont worry son, Rob sighed patting him on the shoulder lightly, Your mother was like that for a while look at us now, and we love each other to death.
Shannon isnt like mom, Don informed his father before taking in a deep breath, She just doesnt know how to love someone.
I think she will realize what she is doing and come back to you, Rob assured him as Don shook his head.
I dont think so, Don frowned before seeing Matthew run towards him with a few toys in his hands.
Look daddy, Matthew giggled as Don picked him up in his arms, Grandpa got me these fire trucks.
Really? Don questioned with a big smile as the child handed him the toy. How cool is grandpa?
Very, Matthew giggled as Don looked back at his father. Why are you sad?
Im not sad as long as I have you with me, Don replied before swinging him around lightly, I love you.
I love you too daddy, Matthew giggle before Don set him down, You want to play with me?
I would love to, Don nodded sitting down on the floor smiling at the sight of his son before him. This little guy was more important to him than Shannon. If she couldnt accept Matthew then she wasnt good enough for him anyways.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You really arent planning on telling me anything, are you,
Angela questioned feeling Nicks arms slide leisurely around her waist
as the music in the bar shifted from the upbeat, frantic rock tempo to something
a bit more sultry--a bit more seductive. She tilted her head up ever so slightly
to see the glimmer behind his eyes offering up a cryptic hint of mystery,
yet she knew better than to prod for an answer from him. Tonight she wasnt
going to get one and as much as curiosity had swirled inside of her, her insides
felt an altogether different sensation stirring from within. She placed her
hand over his shoulder feeling the smoothness of his body burning beneath
her touch. Yes, this was nothing more than a dance--nothing that should spark
any kind of reaction let alone the one she was feeling within his arms.
Do you really think Im going to risk upsetting Kevin now that
he thinks Im almost okay, Nick teased with a warm, welcoming laugh
that vibrated over Angelas lips tempting her with the memory of the
last time shed kissed him.
I think its nice that you two have
she fought for
the right word before a devilish grin spilled over her features, bonded.
You say it like its something dirty, Nick arched an introspective
brow before pulling her in flush against him. The sultry, yearning sounds
of the vocalist filled the room that surrounded them, but there was more than
the music happening as they danced with one another.
Oh I dont know, Angela attempted to play it cool despite
the fact that shed like nothing more than to rip his clothes off right
here and now. Surely that wasnt asking too much, now was it? So what
if they were surrounded by friends and strangers? It all seemed worth the
risk when she felt his fingers dip in over the small of her back. She inhaled
slowly trying to quell the warmth that bounced to where his finger circled
the small patch of skin that remained uncovered by her dress, Something
sounded suspicious and with this sudden silence between you
Trust me its not what youre thinking, Nick tipped
his head in closer to her, his words taunting with his expanding grin, but
something tells me that youre not really contemplating what went on
with Kevin and I. Its more of a distraction.
Thats ridiculous, she half laughed, the nervousness resonating
in her voice, What else would you think I was contemplating after all
this cloak and dagger you two have been playing about dodging questions?
I think youre thinking about last night, he pressed the
issue watching the rose color that filled her features. She was embarrassed
or was it excited by the reference hed made? He wasnt sure, but
at the same time he found her absolutely charming. Bringing his palm up to
touch her cheek gently, he teased his fingers into her dark hair.
You wish, she laughed lightly making no move to pull away from
his intimate gesture.
Youre damn right I do, he nodded with a sexy smile that
made her insides melt in ways she swore shed refrain from after her
past mistakes.
You really do have a death wish, dont you, she questioned
nervously glancing over to where Kevin was up at the bar talking with his
friend whod pulled him away.
Maybe I do, but tell me something, he leaned forward to whisper
into her ear sinful words of temptation, tell me that youre not
thinking about finishing what we started right here and now.
And if we did, theres no doubt in my mind that wed be arrested,
she murmured stepping up on her toes to place a small kiss on the side of
his neck. She knew she shouldnt have done it, but shed been longing
to taste him--to feel every inch of him over her, under her, all around her
since shed left him earlier in the morning. Even now she could feel
herself anticipating more when his palms pressed in over her bottom squeezing
her into his body.
It would be worth the risk, he half growled undoubtedly turned
on by the idea of making a scene in the middle of the crowded dance floor.
Angela pulled back ever so slightly, her lips longing to merge with his again.
She curled her arms around his waist, reaching out to touch the firm, hard
lines of his body. She settled her palms up over the back of his jeans, letting
her fingers taper off into the back pockets.
It might be, she confessed with a nervous smile, although
I dont think youd be able to keep working here after something
like that
Then Id have to find another way to make a living, he shrugged
his shoulders before winking down at her, I can learn how to fish.
Fish huh? she wrinkled her nose at him, I dont know
if Id like that for you.
Why is that? he questioned feeling her reach for his hand, bringing
it up to place a small kiss over the center of his palm.
Because these hands are far too soft and welcoming to be spent on fish
all day, she tilted her head to the side lowering her voice to a seductive
purr, when Id much rather them be all over me.
Thats it, Nick growled before moving in to whisper in her
ear intimately, if I dont get you out of here right now, I really
will wind up in jail for the things I want to do to you.
There is a back exit, she informed him anticipation riding over
her body, driving her to explore all the deliciously wild ways she and Nick
could enjoy the evening with one another. Sure, she mightve considered
taking it slow, but with one look at the sexy specimen of man before her,
she decided slow could wait--until after a quick and mind-blowing romp out
back.
Shall we, he lifted a brow catching the way her expression had
shifted. She looked like she was about ready to eat him alive then and there.
It was all the encouragement hed needed to reach for her hand and tug
her towards him. He glanced over at the exit to the bar ready to make their
big escape when Kevin approached.
There you two are, Kevin greeted them with an overzealous smile.
He glanced between the both of them oblivious to what was going on before
hed arrived or working overtime to ignore it, You dont think
youre stepping out on me, did you?
Of course we
Angela quickly spun to face him, wanting to
find a polite means of saying good-night, but before she could bow out of
the evening gracefully Nick stepped forward finishing her statement.
didnt, Nick replied curling his arm around Angelas
shoulders, We were just soaking up the atmosphere while you were with
your friend
Oh yeah, Kevin grinned sheepishly before turning to look over
at the bar and wave at Marie, well Marie wanted to know if wed
all join her for a few drinks.
Dont you think shed rather you two spend some time
alone?
Angela suggested with a gentle nudge hoping her friend would find a way to
enjoy himself for the evening.
Nah, she doesnt mind. Besides the way I look at it, how often
do we get to do this together? Kevins grin expanded, I mean
you said you wanted me to take the time to get to know Nick better and this
is a perfect start. Dont you agree?
Of course it is, Nick replied politely as Angela found to keep
from groaning.
Okay, well, were over here, Kevin motioned for them to follow.
He began to weave through the crowd and Nick took a step forward.
Angela pressed her arm out in front of his chest to prevent any further movement,
I cant believe you just did that.
I cant believe I did either, Nick confessed painfully with
obvious torture burning behind his eyes, but you said before we could
really focus on something between us, you wanted me to make good with Kevin.
I know what I said, but I meant that when you know
when I wasnt
standing here thinking about ravishing you like I am right now, she
curled her lip in a pout, I think that the timing is just
well
Trust me on this one, Nick leaned down to kiss her tenderly, offering
up just enough of a taste to stir up even more longing from within. Reluctantly
he pulled back sensing that this was starting something that neither one of
them could finish on a night like tonight. This will be good for us
in the long run.
I think youre absolutely insane, but on some level--some completely
logical, not wanting to think about just taking you out back and having my
way with you level I can see you have a point, Angela groaned with mounting
frustrations, but promise me if opportunity knocks again, we wont
send it away without at least some consideration.
Oh believe me it wasnt tossed aside tonight without heavy consideration
either, but with Kevin, well Angela I know youve been burned in the
past and I dont want to be like the last loser who hurt you. Kevins
right about a lot of things and I think that if I go about this the right
way, well we might find that its going to be far more enjoyable for
us, he promised reaching for her hand and motioning to the table Kevin
was now seated at, Shall we?
She nodded unable to say much more as she wondered if there was some validity
to that statement. Sure there were all sorts of perks to be said about waiting,
but damn it, if she had to keep waiting much longer to get some alone time
with Nick, she was quite certain it was going to be the death of her. Yes,
it was a risk, but as she spent more time with him, she felt it was a risk
well worth taking. Now if she could only convince Kevin that this situation
was okay
Shaking the thought she forced her best polite smile and prepared
to spend the rest of the evening trying to ignore the fact that she wanted
Nick more than shed ever imagined when shed discovered him washed
up on the shore. Unfortunately for her tonight no matter how much she craved
him, no matter how much she was dying to explore those unspoken levels of
passion between them, she knew that it was going to have to be put on hold.
She just hoped that trend wouldnt continue indefinitely.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
How are you holding up, Brant questioned shrugging out of his
jacket and wrapping it around Averys shoulders. She stood out on the
upper deck of the yacht looking out over the water clearly lost in the memory
of what was waiting for them in the bedroom. Brant had taken his time to speak
with the security on staff on the yacht and naturally as to be expected no
one had seen anything that appeared suspicious. Theyd done a very thorough
search over the yacht, but it came up empty. Now Brant just hoped he could
find a way to settle Averys nerves until they were docked again.
I wish I could say that I was okay with this, but Im not,
Avery sighed closing her eyes. She felt his hands press in over her shoulders,
sliding down over her arms in an attempt to help ease the chill that had overtaken
her. She turned to face him at long last with a mixture of emotions behind
her sad eyes, Its never going to end, is it?
Avery, I wish that
Brant frowned knowing that nothing he
did or said could change the way this latest mishap had effected her. He felt
his anger boil as he knew full well the only man who would dare do something
so vile, Were going to find him and hell be out of your
life forever very soon. I promise.
Brant, its never going to happen, she sighed frustrations
mounting as she walked away. Hes been out of the FBI and the police
radar for so very long that I dont think hes going to slip up
now. He knew full well what he was doing tonight when he left that for us.
Hed been watching us biding his time if you will until he wanted to
strike.
Bruce isnt going to hurt you Avery. I know that you might not
believe me when I tell you that after what happened with Ken, but I swear
to you that this time Im going to be ready, Brant promised feeling
her slip inside herself at the fears that Bruce pulled out from within, Hes
not going to get another chance like he did tonight.
Damn it Brant. Why cant you see thats not how it is? Hes
someone that seems to always get away with what he does. No one has been able
to stop him--not the police, not Russ and not you
Avery, this time is different, Brant cursed under his breath,
I mean yeah I know hes a whack job, but Id hoped that hed
leave town with the money and just run. Since hed been gone for so very
long Id thought that maybe just maybe hed vanished without any
trace of returning
Money, Avery repeated tilting her eyes up to him again. She stared
at him blankly for a long moment before questioning behind a quivering lip,
What money?
Brant grew suddenly silent. His stomach was tied in knots, his throat dry
at being put on the spot. Looking away he shrugged his shoulders, It
doesnt matter.
Yes it does matter, Avery stepped forward watching the way his
eyes failed to meet hers, Brant what money?
The ransom money I gave your brother to pay him off when hed kidnapped
your mother, he confessed hating that hed had to tell her of the
one thing hed swore hed never let her know. I knew how upset
Guy was and when I thought of what that monster could be doing to Brooke
Oh my God, Avery gasped in sudden realization, Thats
why he hasnt been caught. Thats how hes been hiding out.
Hes got the ransom money and
Avery if I wouldve known how this was going to go, then I never,
ever wouldve given it to him in the first place. I just knew that your
mother was in trouble and
he began sensing the distance building
between them, I thought I was doing the right thing in saving your mothers
life. I had no idea that she would do what she did and
And it doesnt matter, she insisted clenching her fists at
her side, It doesnt matter what Brooke did or what you did in
trying to help. The fact remains that Bruce is out there and nothing is going
to stop him. He was furious when he thought that you and I were together.
He hired a private investigator to follow us around before I broke up with
him.
What? Brants jaw dropped in surprise, Youre
kidding.
She shook her head, Hes been keeping an eye on me from the moment
I first came into his life--from the moment that I was foolish enough to walk
away from Russ
she broke down into tiny sobs feeling her knees
growing weak, I brought this on. I let him in.
No, no you didnt, he stepped forward pulling her into his
arms, Avery, hes a monster and hes the one who is to blame.
He took advantage of you at a time when you were vulnerable and he deceived
you.
But I shouldve known--I shouldve sensed it, Avery
buried her head in his chest, If I hadnt walked out on Russ like
I did, then I never wouldve invited him into my life and Russ and I
would still be together. Hed be here to see his daughter brought into
this world and
Avery, Brant spoke her name feeling the tiny jab from her tears
over Russ. He inhaled slowly trying to remind himself to stay calm and not
to react to the reality that theyd found themselves in.
That day at the airport Kyle told me that Russ was meeting with someone--that
hed found a lead on Bruce and then, Averys tears fell freely,
Brant, my husband died because he was trying to save me. If we were
only together when the bomb went off
Avery, Bruce had nothing to do with the bombing. It was a horrible,
tragic event and theres no telling how any of it wouldve turned
out, he wiped at her tears hating to see her so upset.
But if I never wouldve invited Bruce willingly into my life, then
maybe Id be happy now. Maybe Russ and I would be
she stopped
herself when she saw the pained expression on his face. Taking a step back
she untangled herself from his arms, Im sorry.
Avery, its
he began wanting to tell her that it was
okay, but inside he knew he couldnt lie about the obvious truth that
was revealed in his expression, Look I know that you miss Russ and Im
not going to lie and tell you that Im not
never mind, the past
is the past and I dont want to go down that road again--not tonight.
Not after the way things were going before all of this happened
Brant Im sorry, Avery blurted out hating that the night
had gone from magical to disastrous, Im not trying to hurt you
with this, but
But youre still hurt about what happened, he nodded taking
a step towards her. Silently he reached out to take her hand in his. He pulled
her into his arms completely again before speaking up in a soft, comforting
tone, Avery I swear to you if I find out that Bruce was behind what
happened to Russ, he wont have to worry about the police because Ill
take care of him myself. He wont have to worry about hiding because
Ill be the one scattering his remains around the globe after hes
hurt you like he did.
Brant, I never wanted to pull you into this. I never meant to
she trailed off overcome with a great many emotions.
I know, he nodded cradling her against his chest. He closed his
eyes thinking to the progress theyd been making only to have Bruce Mathis
take them backwards. While he wasnt sure what was going to happen next,
he made it his mission then and there to find a way to put an end to Bruce
Mathis and his reign of terror once and for all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Thank you guys for coming, Blake smiled grasping her ticket tightly in her hands.
We want to see you two happy, Sarah hushed resting her hand on Blakes shoulder lightly, I cant wait until later.
Me neither, Blake giggled before looking back at Seth and Kyle, How are you guys doing?
Fine, Kyle faked a smile as he looked up at the plane taking in a deep breath.
Whats up with you? Seth questioned with a smile seeing Kyles face turning pale. You okay?
Lets just say I have a very big fear of planes, Kyle informed him only to hear Seth laugh.
You will get used to them soon or a later, Seth patted him on the shoulder lightly, Thanks for coming today I know it means a lot to Blake and myself.
No problem, Kyle smiled before biting down on his lip roughly as they walked down the isle of the plane.
You mind if we sit with each other? Blake questioned pulling Sarah in the seat next to her.
No problem, Seth smiled turning around to see Kyle looking out the window uneasily. Would you like me to take the end seat?
Yeah, Kyle nodded slowly before taking in a deep gulp, Thanks man.
No problem, Seth nodded slowly before smiling, You dont have to worry. You will be safe.
Yeah, Kyle laughed before shaking his head slowly, Safe.
I cant wait until later, when Seth and I can finally be together forever, Blake closed her hands together in her lap.
I love to see you happy, Sarah laughed as Blake nodded slowly thinking of the future.
Im going to be with this man for the rest of my life and nothing is going to stop this from happening, Blake insisted before taking in a deep breath. I have waited too long for something so good to happen to me and now I am going to get that with Seth.
In just a few hours, you two will be together forever and you will be happy as ever, Sarah informed her with a small grin.
I know, Blake nodded slowly before folding her arms out in front of her chest. It is going to be great.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Where are they, Valerie demanded marching over to the airport
terminal that JT instructed her to meet him at. Her eyes were narrowed with
determination and anger. She mightve just gotten off of a flight from
an assignment, but shed be damned if she would stay in Coral Valley
knowing what Seth planned to do with Blake. Well?
Theyve already boarded their flight, JT explained motioning
for her to follow him, If we get moving soon, then we can still make
it and put an end to this.
Oh theres going to be an end to this starting now, Valerie
declared chasing off after JT.
Where are your bags? JT questioned glancing down to see she hadnt
carried a thing with her.
To hell with my bags. If I need anything, Ill worry about it later.
Right now all I want to do is find Seth and stop him from making the biggest
mistake of his life, she explained rushing up ahead of him. She searched
the airport looking at the various gates, Which one?
Over there, he pointed to the left and in the blink of an eye
she rushed over to the woman standing behind the counter.
Excuse me, but I have to get on that plane, Valerie began urgently,
I simply must
Im sorry miss, but the plane took off about five minutes ago,
the woman sighed shaking her head at her.
No, it couldnt have. I have to get on that flight. I have a ticket
and
Valerie snapped her fingers for JT to come closer. He held
up the pair of tickets hed purchased in the rush over to put an end
to this situation.
Im sorry, but as I said the plane already took off, the
woman pointed towards the windows where the fading lights of the plane zipping
off of the runway into the sky surrounded them.
Damn it, Valerie cursed stomping her foot before she glared at
JT. I dont care what you have to do, were going to find
a way to Atlantic City tonight.
Hey, I can see if we can exchange the tickets, but that might take some
time and
JT started feeling her reach for his collar on his shirt,
seizing him in nearer to her.
I dont give a damn what you have to do. Just do it, she
shoved him away before glancing out to the night sky again. Shaking her head,
she glared at the red fading with each step the plane took away from the airport.
Tonight shed found her way to Coral Valley and next shed find
her way to Atlantic City if it meant keeping Seth where he belonged. Folding
her arms in front of her chest she let out a sinister laugh, Enjoy it
while you can Blake because after tonight Seth is going to be mine and there
isnt a damn thing you can do about it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...