Episode 216
Oh my god, Cori sighed after Diego took a seat next to her tiredly,
We finally got rid of her.
Yeah, Diego frowned thinking of all the times Shannon had come
to him about Don, She is having a lot of trouble with Don. I just dont
think she thinks she can fall in love with anyone. Its obvious that
she feels something for him, but I dont think she wants to believe it.
Tell me about it, Cori stated with a small laugh before looking
at the clock on Diegos wall, She really can talk a lot. So much
for not taking too long.
She can get a little overboard sometimes when she gets started. Dont
get me wrong, I really like Shannon, but sometimes she just doesnt see
whats best for her, Diego informed her with a small shrug, She
just needs a little push to help her along. Someone to help her.
A little push? Cori questioned with small laugh. I think
that woman needs a big push so she could get the guts to go to that man and
tell him how she really feels.
You would think she could do it, he shrugged before yawning and
stretching his arms out, but she just doesnt.
Hopefully she gets back with him, she folded her arms out in front
of her slowly, I think she needs to be with him so she can finally be
happy for once.
I hope so. So, you just want to watch a movie or something tonight?
he wondered after seeing her yawn widely. You alright?
Yeah, she nodded rubbing her forehead lightly, A movie sounds
like a great idea because I have a really bad headache right now.
You want some medicine? I can go get you some if you would like,
he offered up seeing her shake her head. Will you be okay for now?
Yeah, Im fine, she assured him as he got up slowly, What
movie are you planning on making us watch? It better not be boring.
It wont be, I promise. I dont know what we should watch,
he shrugged, walking over towards his movies, I have a lot to choose
from here.
Just pick one randomly, she suggested seeing him nod and reach
into the pile of movies, What did you get?
I picked out Con Air, he answered seeing her hands clap, I
take it that you like that movie
a lot.
I think it is one of the greatest movies around, she replied with
a small laugh, I think the main character is an example of the perfect
father. Oh, and the bad guy is great. I think that he
Okay, he held his hands up in the air before she could say anything
else, Well just watch this movie, since you like it so much.
Cool, she smiled back, watching him put the movie in the player
and then come back and take a seat next to her. Diego?
Yeah? he questioned looking down at her seeing her shrug. Everything
okay?
I just wanted to say that it feels really good to be hanging out with
you again, Cori sighed before starting up again, I really missed
seeing you while I was gone.
Me too, Diego winked before seeing the movie start, The
movie is coming on.
Okay, she nodded, snuggling in closer to him as he wrapped his
arm around her shoulder tightly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Home at last, Angela announced pushing Nick back into the front
door before assaulting him with enthusiastic kisses. They were not even half
way over the threshold before Angela had his shirt up over his head. She tossed
it across her living room before shoving him inside forcefully. Kicking the
door shut behind her, she marched towards him, reaching out to claim him in
another heated embrace.
Caught off guard by the movement, Nick stumbled backwards onto her sofa with
her in his arms. As they parted he let out a small chuckle squeezing her closer
to him, It feels good to be home, doesnt it?
It feels more than good to be here with you like this, she admitted
leaning in to kiss him again, fire burning through her veins like a spark
of electricity arching out of control as she longed to lose herself in him
especially after hed proposed to her.
Im glad to hear that, he couldnt help but grin kissing
her once more before shifting on the couch cushions with her in his arms.
Once he was settled in with her beside him, he touched her face gently, because
I wanted to see you happy like this for a long time.
Im beyond happy, she turned towards his touch kissing the
palm of his hand eagerly, and if you give me five minutes to get you
undressed, I intend to show you just how very happy I am.
And Im sure that Im going to enjoy that, he replied
feeling her hands tugging on the top button of his jeans. He reached out to
place his hand over her wrist, but before we get to that, I think theres
something else we should do.
Whats that? she questioned licking her lips as the memory
of his bar top dance flashed through her mind.
We need to talk about something that neither one of us can ignore in
all of this, he hesitated knowing full well that now wasnt exactly
the time to bring it up, but he couldnt leave it unsaid. He saw the
worry behind her dark eyes and in that moment he knew she was aware of where
he was headed with this halt on passion.
Kevin, she blurted out with a small frown feeling herself suddenly
uneasy. She shifted beside him, a small chill creeping in over her.
Yeah, Kevin, he nodded back, I dont think hes
going to be too happy about this turn of events, now is he?
Hell get used to it, she shrugged looking away from him
all the while knowing full well that her best friend was going to be just
a tad bit upset to learn that Nick had proposed and shed accepted while
he was away.
Yeah, Im sure he will. Hell be as used to it as he would
be having another hole in his head, Nick groaned inwardly, We
have to tell him.
I know, she nodded before inhaling slowly, but right now
hes got a lot on his plate with his cousin being missing and
And I know that you would want him to know. Hes your best friend
and I think he has a right to hear the news from you before anyone else,
he spoke encouragingly squeezing her in his arms, If he gets back here
and someone else decides to spill the beans before you have
Hes going to feel betrayed and hurt that I didnt include
him in on this, she nodded in agreement, Still, I dont think
that now is the time to
Im not saying right this minute, but were going to have
to find a way to at least break the news to him gently. I mean I know he hates
me and all, but
he began with a small frown.
He doesnt hate you. Hes just been protective of me most
of my life and
she started to explain Kevins action to him.
And deep down theres a part of him thats always kind of
been in love with you and that part of him isnt going to be happy about
us getting married, Nick replied matter of fact as he thought about
the way Kevin behaved around Angela. Dont tell me that you didnt
know.
Im not saying that, she pulled away from him sitting up
straighter before a shiver crept in over her spine, but with Kevin,
its complicated.
Complicated how? he asked rubbing his hand over her back gently.
I love Kevin, Angela confessed closing her eyes and taking in
a deep breath. She forced herself to look at Nick and explain, I really
do and Im not going to lie to you about that. Im not going to
pretend that I dont or that I dont consider him one of the most
important people in my life.
I wouldnt want you to feel that you had to, he answered
watching the turmoil behind her eyes.
Its just that
she paused contemplating how to say
things to him, You see Kevin was the first man I ever let myself fall
in love with.
I see, Nick nodded feeling the passion that had been between them
fade off a bit as the conversation grew serious.
When I was young, really, really young, my father brought him in to
protect me--to keep me out of trouble you see, she fidgeted with her
fingers in her lap, but I had other plans. I wanted like hell to find
a way to get Kevin to notice me. I did everything I could think of to get
him to want me. You name it and I did it. Every pathetic thing you could think
of I tried it, but he wouldnt budge. It took years for me to break him
if you will and on my eighteenth birthday I decided I wanted to celebrate
becoming an adult by making Kevin the first man I made love with. Sure, Id
dated a lot of guys and fooled around a lot, but Kevin was what I wanted.
He was so hell-bent on keeping me away because I was too young for him, but
I kept pushing and pushing
So you two were lovers, Nick questioned unsteadily feeling her
stand up from where she sat. She paced around the room bringing her fingers
through her dark hair.
Yeah, but not because he was trying to take advantage of the situation.
I was the one desperately trying to take advantage of him and eventually my
gamble paid off, she explained taking in a long, slow breath, We
were together for a while before it came to an end. My father wouldve
killed him if he had any idea of what was going on between us because it wasnt
allowed.
So you two ended things before either one of you had closure,
Nick questioned curiously not wanting to hear it, but knowing he needed to
have the truth if he and Kevin were ever going to find a way to be civil with
one another after today.
Not exactly, but after my father died, well, he was going through a
bitter divorce and we came together again, she explained further continuing
to pace around the room, We werent together all that long, but
it was enough for me to know how I felt about Kevin.
That you love him, Nick hesitated feeling a strange unsettling
feeling in his stomach, That youre still in love with him?
I love him yes, she explained with a nod, but Im not
in love with him. I thought I was for more than half of my life, but when
it came down to it Kevin was and is the best friend Ive ever had in
my life. I would be lost without him and to even think about not having him
beside me, well I dont know how Id go on.
And Kevin
he hesitated, Does he know how you feel?
I thought he did, but
she paused guilt riding over her,
After I found out I was pregnant I was a mess. I told Kevin about it
and no one else and I guess I leaned on him far too much than I shouldve.
I never shouldve been so dependent upon him and now, well now I feel
like I may have sparked up something inside of him that we had before when
Michelle left him. I mean with Kevin, were always going to be friends
first and foremost, but when hes single and Im single, I think
deep down we both at times have thought that wed just kind of wind up
together, but its not because were in love with one another. We
just like the idea of having someone to be in love with. Now that Ive
found you and Kevins been without someone
He feels like Im stealing the great love of his life, Nick
ran his fingers through his dark hair, which means that hes going
to want to kill me all the more when he gets back.
No, hes not going to want to kill you. Hes going to be happy
for us. Trust me on this one. Its just going to take him some time to
get used to this, she moved to sit in beside him once again, Its
going to take everyone some time to adjust.
Does that mean you regret saying yes? he questioned shakily turning
to look at her.
No, not at all, she half smiled reaching out to touch his face,
I wanted to say yes and Im glad that I did. I really do want to
marry you Nick.
Even knowing that it could upset Kevin, he replied searching her
eyes for the truth behind her heart.
I love Kevin and Ill always love Kevin, but Im in love with
you, she leaned in to kiss him tenderly, and with Kevin, he might
feel like hes in love with me, but hes not. Right now hes
just stuck in a rut and Im positive that sooner or later the right woman
is going to come along and when she does, I can promise you hes going
to be glad that you came by to keep me distracted so he doesnt have
to worry about me so damned much.
He likes worrying about you, Nick threw out a pointed look.
He does, but at the same time, hes already given up so much of
his life already. I dont want to see him lose his chance for happiness
in wasting his time waiting around for me to stop being such a drama queen.
He deserves to be happy, she shifted onto his lap curling her arms around
his shoulders before leaning in closer to him, and so do we Nick. I
do love you.
I love you too and I just want whats best for you, he whispered
kissing her lovingly.
Youre whats best for me. Im sure of it, she
whispered kissing him again, feeling the beginnings of passion returning to
them as she pondered how she was going to break the news about her engagement
to Kevin. Somehow nothing seemed appropriate, but sooner or later she was
certain that everything would work out for the best. It had to.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So there I was up to my knees in mud and they just left me there,
Trisha explained waving her hands around, Seth, Ben and Ria just took
off and never looked back.
We did not, Seth defended himself as Trisha told her twisted version
of their youth. We just went for help.
Yeah right, Trisha rolled her eyes, Thats why about
half an hour later Jade showed up and pulled me out of the mud. And they tell
you that its a lot of fun being the youngest. Yeah right.
Hey, you were the one who insisted that you walk that way home when
we told you clearly that it wasnt a good idea, Seth argued with
Trisha, Its your own fault.
Ah yes, spoken like a man. Everything is our fault, Trisha shook
her head at his words before waving her hand dismissively. She looked to Blake
with a sudden seriousness, Are you sure you want to marry this moron?
More than anything, Blake replied brightly leaning into Seth on
their side of the booth.
Wow, then hes got you more fooled than I thought humanely possible.
Hes not the hero he pretends to be, Trisha replied sipping her
drink again.
Hell always be my hero, Blake added tipping her head up
to kiss Seth briefly.
Oh boy, this is why Im so not getting serious about a man,
Trisha groaned shaking her head at Blake and Seth, As soon as you fall
head over heels, you really truly lose your head. Theres a perfect example
sitting right before me tonight. I mean Im sure Blake was reasonably
bright before she got caught up with Seth.
Hey now, thats my cousin youre badmouthing, Kevin
objected in a teasing tone, I taught him most of what he knows, so youd
better be careful with the insults.
Ah, so we know who is truly to blame, Trisha teased before swatting
his arm gently. Shame on you!
Shame on Kevin? Seth practically choked on his drink, No
shame on you. Did you not learn any good manners? It isnt proper for
you to insult the man who just paid for your drink.
Hmm, well in that case Im doing just fine here since Kevin was
the one that bought this, not you, Trisha stuck her tongue out at Seth
before resting her head on Kevins arm, Thank you for that again
by the way.
Its not a problem although I dont want you to think Im
into corrupting the youth of today because Im not, Kevin replied
feigning seriousness.
Believe me Kevin, Trisha leaned in closer to him resting her hand
on his leg, Im well beyond being the youth of today. Im
very legal and I have the identification to prove it.
Oh and what a line that is, Seth roared with laughter at Trishas
attempts at enticing Kevin. He motioned to his cousin with another wild laugh,
Well now we know that shes no longer jail bait for you--just barely
that is.
Bite me Seth, Trisha glared at him, I mean really youre
getting on my last nerve.
And Im sure your date thinks that you got lost in here,
Seth leaned forward on the table top, though what kind of man is he
if he cant even come back inside to check in on you?
Hes history, Trisha matched his glare, I text messaged
him a while ago and told him to split. Something better came along.
Is that right? Seths eyes widened before he looked to Kevin
again, Youd better watch out for her. Shes out to get you
in trouble with Ria tonight.
Not if I can help it, Kevin laughed lightly maintaining a bit
of distance between him and Trisha despite her obvious attempts to persuade
him into a night of sin.
Oh Kevin, come on I gave up a really good opportunity to be near you.
Dont tell me youre not going to at least give me a chance here,
Trisha flashed him a sultry smile once again.
Ill share a drink with you sweetheart, but theres no way
in the world Id face the wrath of your sister in giving you what youre
looking for tonight, Kevin replied with a sudden seriousness, Im
not that stupid.
Oh please, Trisha waved her hand dismissively once again, Its
not like Im a little girl anymore. The way I see it Im a woman
who is clearly capable of making her own choices and decisions and
Son of a bitch! Kevin cursed under his breath causing Trisha to
nearly jump out of her seat.
Gees, Kevin a simple no would have done, Trisha scoffed. You
didnt have to get so huffy.
Its not you sweetheart, Kevin offered up a sympathetic smile
before sliding out of his side of the booth.
Whats that all about? Trisha frowned at his retreat.
Im not sure, Seths gaze followed Kevin as he marched
out towards the middle of the dance floor, Oh boy.
Seth, what is it? Blake questioned feeling Seths arm untangle
from its place around her shoulders.
Were about to have some trouble, Seth answered quickly before
chasing off after Kevin, who was now making an obvious approach towards a
blonde in the crowd.
Who is that? Blake asked wondering what the fuss was about.
I dont know. One minute they were here and then the next
Trisha started ready to say something more when she caught a glimpse of the
object of Kevins interest. Oh boy.
Do you know her? Blake replied curiously as Trishas frown
intensified.
Yeah, I know the skank. Shes Kevins ex-wife, Trisha
explained sourly slumping down in her seat, which means Im really
going to strike out tonight.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
What the hell are you doing here? Kevin demanded not bothering
to excuse himself as he yanked Michelle away from the man she was dancing
with. He pulled her out of the thick of the crowd, his dark eyes full of rage
and irritation.
Kevin, Michelle spoke his name with the same condescending slur
that hed at one time thought to be endearing, but now, well now it was
like nails on the chalkboard especially now that hed encountered her
in Coral Valley. What a pleasant surprise!
The hell it is, Kevins jaw clenched tighter. While hed
thought that hed had something to say to her when hed first approached
her, now he found himself at a loss wondering why hed bothered. Here
he was miles from home--far from anything that would even come close to resembling
his old life and there out of the blue, in this place of all places here she
was--the woman who ripped his heart to shreds.
Still your same pleasant self I see, she rolled her eyes at him,
Whats the matter sweetheart? Are you still upset about that settlement
we made during the divorce?
You mean how you tried to rob me blind after you had the gall to cheat
on me, Kevin snapped back at her, the old wounds tearing at his insides.
Oh Kevin, you are always the drama queen, Michelle shook her head
at him, Honestly who the hell do you think you are bothering me tonight
when Im out trying to have a good time? What are you doing? Stalking
me?
You wish, Kevin snarled back at her, I was merely hoping
that you werent really here because I was starting to enjoy my night
for a change.
Ha, thats funny because from what I remembered you never enjoyed
yourself, or gave anyone else any type of enjoyment for that matter,
she spoke callously her eyes giving him a long once over.
No sweetheart, thats what they all said about you and unfortunately
I found out the hard way, they were right, Kevin added before looking
to the man that Michelle was dancing with moments earlier, Hey buddy,
you might want to end this date sooner rather than later because all she wants
to do is get into your pants--for your wallet that is.
Kevin! Michelle hissed at him ready to strike at him when Seth
pulled him aside.
Okay, I think weve seen more than enough here, Seth moved
in between the two of them in an attempt to calm his cousin down.
Oh would you look at this? Now Seth is playing your bodyguard?
Michelle taunted him further, Thats cute really.
Shut up Michelle, Seth glared at her.
Im telling you buddy you should be taking notes on this one,
Kevin continued to speak to Michelles clearly flabbergasted date, This
one is an ice queen and shes nothing but trouble. Big trouble!
Go to hell Kevin. You dont have any say in my life anymore,
Michelle threw another glare out at him before moving in beside her date once
again, Dont listen to him. Hes just a big, fat sour puss
who is angry that I dumped him.
In your dreams Michelle, Kevin called out after her watching her
move towards the door in the hopes of getting her date clear out of earshot
of Kevin, Fine. Youre on your own there with her buddy, but shes
a viper. Shell take you for all your worth if she can!
Kevin! Seth snapped his name trying to bring Kevin back to reality,
Forget about her. Shes not worth it. She never was.
Youre right, Kevin nodded, anger still burning through his
veins, Shes not worth it.
Exactly, so why dont we get back over to the table, pay our tab
and then well head on out of here? Theres no point in sticking
around to put up with that, Seth tried to persuade Kevin over towards
the table once again.
What a bitch, Trisha blurted out rushing over to Kevins
side, Hey handsome, are you alright?
Im fine, Kevin lied feeling her finger curl around his arm
in an attempt to coax him back to the table. He cast a glance out over towards
the exit seeing Michelle trying to talk her date into leaving with her.
No, youre not, Trisha shook her head, but dont
worry after a few drinks, you wont have to think about that bitch.
Im not thinking about her, Kevin argued pasting on a fake
smile before allowing her to take him back to the table, In fact, drinks
are on me this round.
Youre so on, Trisha squealed chasing him around like a lost
little puppy dog as Blake approached Seth.
Um, what just happened here? Blake questioned in a low voice.
Lets just say that theres someone out there in the world
who is a hell of a lot worse than Valerie and you just saw her up close and
personal, Seth replied knowing full well that having Michelle in the
same town with Kevin was going to lead to nothing but trouble for everyone.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It was kind of ironic how the both of us came here tonight, isnt
it? Kipp questioned as he leaned back against the stage seeing people
begin to leave.
I know, Jenna nodded before looking towards Kipp, I am really
glad you were here though because I really did want to talk to you.
What about? Kipp questioned looking towards Kipp and Kellen who
seemed to be having a chat.
About us, she answered seeing him look back at her, About
Douglas and us.
What about it? he wondered seeing her think of something to say
before answering.
Well, I know that our
father isnt a perfect person,
Jenna started seeing him nod showing her that he was listening, Well,
even though he kind of screwed up the family with his own quirks over the
years, I think that we should still be friends because I want to get to know
my brother more. If that makes any sense
It makes a lot of sense Jenna and truth be told I like that idea,
Kipp nodded before looking over at Hart and Kellen, I would like to
get to know you better considering that I feel like Ive spent most of
my life living in this world that Douglas created for me thats left
me kind of wondering about the sanity of our family.
I often wonder that myself, she admitted with a small smile, but that probably isnt that big of a surprise, is it?
Considering who our father is, no, it isnt, but hey on the flip side, I honestly always wondered what it would be like to have a sister. We have another brother you know, Kipp thought about JT for a moment.
Yeah I ran into him, Jenna replied stiffly.
I take it he made quite the impression on you, Kipp noted her expression, Yeah, JT is like that at times. Hes rough around the edges, but somewhere deep inside he really has a heart.
Jenna remained silent for a long moment before speaking up again, Really?
Kipp pondered it for a long moment before shaking his head, No, not really, but I thought Id try to be nice where hes concerned. I just cant do it though. Hes pretty much a chip off of the old block with Doug.
Thats what I was afraid of, Jenna bit down on her lip nervously, although I kind of already pieced that together myself.
Our fathers not all bad Jen. Hes just, well hes got a lot of growing up to do. Hell, I had a lot of growing up to do. If you wouldve met me six months ago, you wouldve probably hated me to. Even I hated the man Id become, he paused thinking to his old ways, but now, well I guess almost dying tends to change ones perspective.
I think life in general changes us and thats often a good thing. In some cases, its for the best, Jenna replied glancing over at Hart lovingly.
I take it theres a story behind that boyfriend of yours considering the rumors I heard about him had him lower on the food chain than I was at one point in time, Kipp noted with a small smile.
He was, but hes had an evolution, Jenna laughed lightly before looking to him once again, But what about you? What does the future bring your way Kipp?
Honestly, Im still trying to figure it out. Life sure moves fast around you when youre taking a step out of it, he sighed bringing his hands up through his hair, A lot has changed since I was in my coma.
And Im sure a lot is still the same, Jenna noted watching sadness creep in over his features.
Unfortunately thats more true than I care to admit at times,
Kipp sighed before offering up an encouraging smile, but Im working
on fixing that. With good friends and good company Im hoping to keep
moving forward and getting my life back on track again.
Im sure you will Kipp. You look like youre on the road to
recovery now, Jenna added.
I sure hope so, Kipp replied glancing over at Kellen.
So your friend Kellen is a pretty good guy, huh? Jenna questioned
seeing Kipp looking over at Kellen again.
Yeah, he answered before thinking back to when he was really hurt,
He was and is still one of the only people who still believe in me.
He is still helping me through physical therapy with my leg and we just like
to hang out
have fun. He likes a lot of the same things I do and hes
one of the first people Ive met who doesnt look at me like Im
their key to Douglas Mahoney. Hes just a really great person with a
big heart and I respect that about him. Hes a lot of fun and very supportive.
I realized that, she nodded slowly before seeing more people leave,
I think that he is a great friend if he brings you up.
He is a great friend, Kipp agreed before laughing, He would
probably love to be your friend too. He would probably spend hours fixing
your hair up for anything. He is pretty good at that you know and he loves
to brag about it. Hes got this whole style thing working for him and
hes constantly trying to help me makeover every aspect of my life including
my wardrobe. He loves to get involved in those sort of things. Hes quite
the planner.
Really? she questioned seeing Kipp quickly nod. I will have
to remember that for the next time I have something big coming up.
He wont mind helping you out, Kipp insisted before looking
down at his watch, Wow, the time really went by quickly.
I guess we should get going then, she suggested seeing him nod,
Well, lets go talk to them before we go.
Alright and Jen, Kipp began reaching out to touch her arm.
Yes?
I just thought you should know that regardless of what Douglas is--of what he chooses to do with his life, thats not who we are. Dont ever let anyone make you believe that for a second. I know sometimes its easy to get sucked into the drama, but I can see now that youre better than that, he offered up with a thoughtful expression, Maybe that was one of the perks of being raised far away from him for most of your life.
Youre better than that too Kipp, she added with a small smile, You just dont realize it yet.
Im trying to, but I have a lot of mistakes to make up for before I can live free with a clear conscience, but Im working on it, he admitted before following her towards Kellen and Hart. Hopefully she was telling the truth, he was never really close to anybody in his family, but maybe with her it would be different.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I still cant believe that she wore that costume, Hart growled
looking at some of the men who seemed to be checking Sam out. I cant
believe this?
Dont worry, Kellen came up from behind Hart, placing his
hands on Harts shoulders, Your daughter has her boyfriend with
her, she wont get with any of these losers.
Who said she was my daughter? Hart questioned seeing Kellen raise
his eyebrow. I didnt say she was my daughter.
Come on honey, Kellen laughed before pointing towards Sam, That
pretty woman is either your girlfriend or your daughter. Since your girlfriend
is with Kipp, I would guess that was your daughter because of the way you
are looking at her.
You cant just
Hart began stumbled on words to say,
only to see Kellen hold his hands up in the air.
Its okay, Kellen smiled, shaking his head slowly, I
wont tell, if you dont tell.
How did you do that? Hart wondered seeing Kellen shrug and take
a step back to look at Sam once more.
I have my ways, Kellen declared with a small grin, My guess
is that she doesnt know that you are her father.
Would you be a little quiet? Hart questioned turning them away
from Sam. I dont want her to hear anything and get suspicious.
Alright, Kellen held his hands up in the air, running his finger
across his own lips, My lips are sealed. I wont say a word.
Thanks, Hart sighed looking back at Kipp and Jenna who seemed
to be talking very closely.
Hey, I know you, Kellen snapped his fingers as Hart looked back
at him and raised his eyebrows in curiosity.
Of course you know me, Hart laughed, shrugging his shoulders,
We just met today.
No, I met you earlier than today, Kellen insisted seeing the confused
look on Harts face, You workout at my gym. I mean its not
my gym, but its the gym I work at I mean
Oh yeah, Hart nodded with a small laugh after thinking it over
for a moment, You are the trainer right?
Yep, thats me, Kellen nodded, rubbing his hands together
lightly, You can usually find me walking around that place.
That must be cool working there, Hart pointed out seeing Kellen
shrug, What could be wrong working there?
Well, there is this really annoying trainer named Burt that keeps following
me around, Kellen informed Hart before shrugging, Its like
he is obsessed with me and he just isnt my type.
If you ever need any type of legal advice, Hart began, rubbing
the back of his neck lightly, You can always come to me. Youre
a friend now, I dont mind helping out.
Really? Kellen questioned seeing Hart nod quickly. Wow,
thats really nice of you. I will most likely be coming to you next time
I see him.
It would be no problem to help you out, Hart grinned seeing Jenna
and Kipp begin to walk towards them, Hey there.
Hey, Jenna sighed as Hart wrapped his arm around her shoulder
tightly.
You ready to get going? Kipp asked Kellen seeing him shrug. Its
getting pretty late.
I would just hate to leave while I am having such a fabulous time,
Kellen frowned before leaning forward, giving both Jenna and Hart a hug, It
was nice meeting the two of you.
You too Kellen, Jenna smiled before hugging Kipp, I hope
to be seeing you soon.
You too, Kipp agreed before letting her go, I will see you
two soon then.
Alright, Jenna nodded seeing Kellen and Kipp walk towards the
door, That was fun.
Im glad you got to talk to him, Hart whispered before kissing
her gently, You finally set things straight with him.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You know as much as I hate to admit it, I have a small confession to
make, Dave pulled Carly in closer to him as they sat in one of the beach
chairs looking to the night sky above.
Whats that? she questioned dropping her head back lazily
into his chest.
That while being with Kayla feels like the greatest thing in the world,
this is a very close second, he confessed nuzzling his nose in the side
of her neck before placing a tender kiss against her soft skin.
Second best huh? she questioned tipping her head back to look
up at him as he held her.
Okay, well maybe third, he admitted with a tiny laugh. There
is one other thing that I remember between us that ranked up there off the
charts if I do say so myself.
Oh yeah and what might that be? she replied feigning innocence
as she looked up to him once again.
Well, it started with this, he tipped her head back a bit further
to collect her lips in his before he shifted her in his arms, and then
it grew into something a little like this.
I might have a vague recollection, she replied moving in over
him before a sound came from inside the house. Immediately she sat upright,
her body on edge as she registered Kaylas voice. Kayla!
Not hesitating Carly sprung off Daves lap and rushed back into the house
to discover her daughter crying in bed. Moving in over to her side Carly scooped
Kayla up into her arms. Kayla honey, what is it?
I had a bad dream, Kayla admitted tearfully, I was so scared
mommy and
Its okay princess, Carly kissed the top of her head, Im
here.
What about Dave? Kayla asked with wide eyes, Is he here
too?
Im right here, Dave announced making his way into the room,
and just so you know I happen to have an expertise in making bad dreams
go away.
A what? Kayla gave him a sideways glance.
It means you can tell me what your bad dream was and I will make it
all go away, Dave replied taking a seat beside her, So tell me
what your dream was about?
I dont remember, Kayla confessed rubbing her eyes, but
it was really, really scary.
Really, really scary huh? Dave scratched his chin pretending to
think it over, Well, I think I know just the solution for that.
You do? she asked wiping at her eyes again.
I think I do, Dave nodded, Tell me something do you like
to fly?
You mean like a jet plane in the sky? Kayla asked eagerly.
Yeah like a jet plane in the sky, he nodded.
Well, it sounds cool, but Dave I have to tell you something, Kayla
placed her hand on his knee with a matter of fact expression, Im
not a jet plane. Im a little girl and little girls cant
fly.
Says who? Dave replied scooping her up into his arms and carrying
her around the room in a flying movement. Kayla began to chuckle and wail
enthusiastically as Dave instructed her to hold her arms out so that she could
be a jet plane. He followed it up with buzzing noised that clearly helped
Kayla feel the full effect of the idea hed placed in her mind.
Look mommy Im flying! Kayla squealed excitedly letting Dave
guide her around the room.
Each time they got close to her bed, she repeated the words again and again
until the point that Carly was convinced Dave would drop from exhaustion.
Once they settled back onto Kaylas bed, Carly couldnt help but
find herself filled with a warmth in her heart at the bond forming between
Kayla and Dave.
Again Dave. We need to do it again, Kayla cheered with a bright
grin, and then I think you should read me a story. I heard they are
good at getting rid of bad dreams too.
Oh really? Dave couldnt help but smile realizing that while
Kayla was playing the situation for all it was worth, he was eating it up
readily. Seeing her smile was enough to get him thinking about all the things
he gave up in pushing himself full force into work. Hed almost had himself
convinced that he didnt need a personal life--that having a family was
a dream that wasnt meant for him, but now with Carly and Kayla that
was all changing for them.
"Yeah I heard you're the best at stories Dave. Will you read me another
one?" Kayla begged of him.
I dont know if Dave wants to read tonight, Carly began wondering
if Dave had enough of entertaining Kayla for the evening. He might be
tired.
Oh no Im not tired, Dave insisted brightly, I think
these arms are up for one more flight and then Im positive I can find
it in me to read a story.
The Perfect Little Piglet? Kayla asked eagerly.
Ive never read that one before, Dave replied as she pulled
the book out from underneath her pillow.
Oh youre going to love it. Its absolutely, totally the best,
Kayla promised holding the book out to him, but first we fly.
Yes madam, Dave nodded proudly before holding his arms out to
her, Ready for takeoff?
Boy am I ever, Kayla squealed excitedly ready to continue to have
fun with Dave for as long as hed give her his attention. Despite the
fact she should be sleeping, it was clear that she was having a good time
and Dave was exactly what both Carly and Kayla needed at a time like this.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You know youre more insane than I am, Grady chuckled with
amusement shaking his head at Avery after shed conjured up about half
a dozen ways to approach Cameron in the future.
Hardly, she rolled her eyes at him, They dont make
people any crazier than you are.
Is that right? Grady jabbed at her throwing one of his toss pillows
at her.
Thats absolutely right, she nodded in confession catching
the pillow before it hit her. She shook her head at him before throwing out
a small smile at his own laughter, Who knew that this was even possible?
Whats that? he questioned watching her lean back into his
couch a bit further.
That Id actually see you smiling, she confessed with a small
sigh dropping her head back on the pillow behind her, I guess I kind
of forgot what this feels like with us just hanging out together like this--even
if this wasnt what wed planned on.
Yeah me too, he admitted thinking it over for a long moment, I
guess life just tends to get in the way sometimes.
Yeah well once we stop it from doing that and all is normal again, I
hope that doesnt mean you and I will go back to being enemies,
Avery replied a sudden seriousness in her tone.
We havent been enemies for a long time Avery, Grady leaned
forward matching her movement. His green eyes saw the hint of sadness behind
her brown eyes as well. You know that.
Given the ups and the downs weve had, I wasnt really sure
for a while, she admitted watching him reach out to take her hand in
his.
Hey, I might enjoy giving you hell, but its only because you make
it so easy, he teased with a small wink.
See, there you go again making a joke of everything, she swatted
at him pulling her hand away from his, I mean really Grady, I just dont
know what Im going to do with you.
You want my honest opinion, he questioned with a sudden seriousness
that caused her to sit up a bit straighter.
Yeah, I wouldnt accept anything less, she nodded awaiting
his answer as he leaned towards her.
Well, if I were you I would, Grady inched in closer yet, his green
eyes fixed on hers in a deep, penetrating stare.
Yes? she half questioned feeling the weight of his words holding
over her.
Well for starters I would, Grady continued to ease in closer to
her, sending a few Oreos onto the couch with his movement.
Well? What are you waiting for? she asked arching a curious brow,
I dont have all day for an answer.
Its quite simple Avery, Grady remarked with a sly grin,
the one thing you should never do with me is trust me.
Before Avery could say another word, she felt a pillow come crashing down
on her head. She fell a bit backward before Grady tossed the pillow at her
before moving back to where hed been previously seated.
Denton rule number one trust no one, Grady mouthed reaching for
one of the discarded Oreos and plopping it into his mouth.
Yes and rule number two is especially not Grady, she launched
the pillow right back at his head, hitting him directly in the center of his
face before she got up off of the couch, You know youre still
the same bully that you always were.
And youre still the same repressed one that doesnt know
how to kick back and have a good time, Grady remarked with a frown.
I thought we covered this already. I know how to have fun, Avery
shook her head at him. She watched him stretch out on his couch putting his
legs up where she once sat.
Of course you do, Grady yawned bringing his arms back behind his
shoulders. He plopped one leg over the other before letting out another exaggerated
yawn. He closed his eyes and smirked, Its just keeping me on the
edge of my seat.
Ill give you the edge of your seat, Avery leaned over to
pull her half empty glass of milk up from the table. Stepping forward she
dumped it over his head with an enthusiastic chuckle.
Avery! Grady shouted her name, shock rising up over his body at
her attack. His eyes snapped open just in time to see her laughing hysterically
at his reaction. Oh youre so going to pay for that one.
I was just trying to have fun and besides we need to stay focused,
Avery chuckled again only to see him spring up off of the couch in a quick
snap.
Oh Ill show you focused, he reached for his own glass before
moving towards her in slow, calculated movements.
You know now that you mention it, I think that its well past time
for me to go home. You do look tired after all and I really think Ive
already overstayed my welcome, so Ill just be heading, she started
reaching for her purse and making her great escape towards the door.
Oh no you dont. Youre not going anywhere Avery Morrison,
he announced leaping over the sofa in an attempt to keep her from leaving
before he had his chance for payback. He raced towards her, but she was already
halfway out the door when he snagged her arm pulling her back into his house.
Just where do you think youre going? Grady questioned with
an arched brow nudging her into the living room wall once again as he dangled
the glass of milk over her head.
Grady, you really dont want to do that, Avery began with
wide eyes feeling the dampness of her own assault on him. He shook his head
sending droplets of milk flying at her as he lifted the glass higher.
Dont I? he teased wickedly feeling her writhe beside him
in an attempt to break free.
Grady, you really, really dont want to
Avery started
to protest, but it was too late, shed already created a monster and
Grady was ready to deliver payback. She looked up to see him tipping the glass
over and before she could think, she shoved her arm out from beneath him sending
the glass flying in the opposite direction not only causing herself to get
wet, but Grady as well in the process. Shock registered behind his eyes--behind
her own as well until their laughter surrounded them. For a moment she was
ten years old again screwing around with Russells older brother, with
the man shed considered like family for so very long and things felt
decidedly simple
that was until another sound arose from the foyer.
What in the hell
Brant gasped from where he stood in Gradys
doorway now drenched with the brunt of the flying milk.
Brant, Avery gulped weaving her way out from underneath Gradys
arm. Quickly she ran her fingers through her long, dark hair, what are
you doing here?
I was looking for you, he paused his gaze shifting between Grady
and Avery, though I could ask you both the same thing.
Oh we were just
Avery began with a small, nervous laugh.
Revisiting the past, Grady finished with a smirk of his own knowing
full well that Brant appeared to be less than impressed with that answer,
but hey it was all he was going to get. Moving aside Grady motioned to the
living room area, Care to join us?
I dont mind if I do, Brant replied stiffly before turning
to Avery, I was worried when I got home and you werent there.
How did you know I was
Avery began giving him a strange
look as she wondered why he was standing in Gradys foyer with her.
I figured you might be over here since you were worried about Grady
when I left, he explained matter of fact.
I was, she nodded in agreement, Grady showed up shortly
after you left and
And he thought hed find a way to get you into a whole new world
of trouble, yes? he replied skeptically.
Not exactly, Avery shifted on her feet before Grady spoke up again.
Actually we were just about to watch Jeopardy on the Game Show Network,
but now that youre here, we thought that maybe you could join us. Im
sure since you know almost everything, you could be a big help if we decide
to play along online, Grady remarked sourly reaching for the remote
control, So what do you say Brant? Are you in?
Given the day Ive had, I think Id just like to say to hell
with it and call it a night, Brant groaned inwardly, No offense.
None taken, Grady waved his hand dismissively, besides I
think your wife was itching to get back home anyways.
What happened? Avery questioned ignoring Gradys sudden irritability,
Is Blake okay?
Brant nodded, Shes fine, but its been a very long day,
he confessed with a shake of his head, Not only did she and Seth not
get married like they set out there to, but then it got worse when it turned
out Seth is married already.
Hes what? Averys eyes widened again.
Hes got a wife that apparently he forgot to tell Blake about,
Brant grumbled in response, though nowadays I guess I shouldnt
be shocked by something like that given what Ive seen in his family.
What the hell is that supposed to mean? Grady snapped tossing
the remote control aside.
Im just saying that between him and his Neanderthal cousin, Im
starting to wonder if my sister isnt better off without him, Brant
remarked sourly, It seems like the longer Blake is with him, the more
hurt she is these days.
I dont think its for you to decide who she spends her time
with, Grady offered up with a scowl, Seths a great guy.
You should be happy for her.
Happy that shes seeing a married man? Brant threw back at
him with a shudder, Pardon me if I hold back on my enthusiasm there,
but I dont see that as a plus for her. A man with a wife isnt
exactly what I dreamt for in my sisters life.
No, youd much rather she be as miserable as you and Ken are, right?
Grady challenged getting up off of the couch again. I mean who would
dream that an Ashford would get married for love?
Grady, Avery chastised shocked by his outburst.
No, let him go on. It only proves that Im wasting my time in helping
him considering that hes obviously not in the mood to be helped,
Brant countered with a sneer. Finding Jade isnt all that important
anymore, now is it?
You son of a
Grady marched towards him ready to launch an
attack.
Just stop! Avery stepped in between the both of them, Look
I know that none of us have had the best of days, but this isnt at all
how we should be behaving. Were a team here, not enemies.
Tell that to your husband, Grady snapped back at Brant bitterly,
since hes the one who is spouting off about things he knows nothing
about.
What I know is I need to do whats best for my sister, Brant
argued with him.
Which in Ashford terms means getting in the way of her happiness by
expressing your heavy disapproval of the man she loves, Grady tossed
back at him with a glare, Yeah that sure sounds like its going
to help Blake.
You werent there. You dont know what went down in Atlantic
City, Brant remarked sharply, You didnt see what happened.
I didnt have to. I know how much Seth loves Blake and if you want
my opinion, the best thing you can do for Blake is stay the hell out of whatever
is going on. They dont need you getting in their way, Grady added
with a glare before taking a step back.
Since when did you start playing devils advocate for my sisters
love life, Brant questioned gruffly watching Grady march back into his
living room.
When your sister fell in love with Jades brother. Regardless of
what you think you know, Seth is a good man and he makes Blake happy. Ive
seen them together and if you care about your sister as much as you claim
to, then you wont be putting in your two cents in like youre doing
right now, Grady insisted with a warning look.
Like youre one to talk. Correct me if Im wrong here,
Brant began taking a step forward, but when Russ was alive, werent
you the one who was constantly harping on him about Avery? About how wrong
she was for him?
And I was wrong, Grady threw an apologetic glance over at Avery
before focusing on Brant again, I made a big mistake in trying to rule
my brothers life and all it did was cost me time with him--time that
couldve been spent doing better, more productive things. Its time
I cant get back Brant and Im just warning you not to make the
same mistake with Blake.
Gradys right, Avery added touching her husbands arm
gently, She might be upset right now, but you cant go in there
throwing out your opinions on how you want things done. If you try to dictate
her life, all youre going to do is alienate her from yours.
Since when did you two become a team, Brant gave her a strange
stare.
Since Gradys right, Avery squeezed his arm again, and
hes right on this. Regardless of what happened today Brant, I have no
doubt in my mind that Seth loves Blake and she loves him. I know wife or not
that hasnt changed.
Even so it kills me to see her hurting like this, Brant sighed
letting his fears surface a bit more about his sister before he collected
himself, I mean I guess what Im trying to say is
That you love her and you dont want to see her in over her head,
Grady finished for him with a sympathetic nod, Hey, its what all
of us older brothers feel, but we have to learn to let go a bit. If we dont
were the ones who are going to wind up feeling like hell in the end.
Yeah maybe youre right, Brant nodded in agreement giving
up on his bitterness in the hopes of pushing the bad day behind him, So
what about you two? Any news on where Jade might be?
We found a few leads, Avery informed him eagerly.
But nothing substantial, Grady stepped forward cutting her off
before she could give him all the details on their adventure with one another,
We still have a few things to look into, but I think were closer
now then we were before.
I really hope so, Brant confessed with a sigh, I hate to
think of whats happening with Jade now that Camerons in jail.
So do I Brant, Grady replied exchanging knowing glances with Avery,
but one way or another were going to find a way to get Cameron
talk.
Of course we are, Avery nodded realizing that while Grady had
argued with her earlier about getting closer to Cameron, it was the only way.
She had to find a way inside and manipulate him somehow into telling her the
truth about what hed done with Jade. This was something they couldnt
afford to sit on much longer. Even if Brant hated the idea, Avery wasnt
backing out of it. With so much on the line, she couldnt and knowing
how much Grady loved Jade, she vowed she wouldnt let him lose that.
They had to find the truth.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ria entered her apartment wondering how in the world shed managed to
fly out to Atlantic City, watch Seths disaster of a non-wedding, fly
back and manage to still get called into work all in one day. It seemed unreal
and if she was superhuman, she might not be compelled to complain about it,
but now after spending half the evening working in the emergency room, she
was ready to just ignore the world for the few precious hours of sleep that
fate would provide her with before taking it on all over again. Throwing her
keys haphazardly on the table near the doorway Ria entered her apartment with
a small smile of exhaustion.
Home at last, she mouthed through the darkness making a beeline
towards her bedroom.
On the walk she made a mental note to herself to make sure that Valerie had
packed all of her things and left the apartment. The last thing Ria wanted
was to be stuck in the center of the fiasco Valerie had started, which brought
her back to what shed also have to do in the morning in checking up
on Seth. She wanted to check in with him sooner, but when shed gotten
called into work, she hadnt found the time. She was hoping by now that
Seth and Blake had time to talk--to figure things out if only for a little
bit.
Im sure they have, she spoke aloud pushing her bedroom door
open ready to fall into the welcoming comfort of her bed when she heard a
noise coming from the direction shed just come from. She stood frozen
for a moment wondering if Valerie was still lurking in the apartment, but
then another noise sounded.
Ria stood stiffly taking another long listen, but there was only the vibrations
of her breathing vibrating off of the hallway walls. Shaking her head at the
thought of anyone being around her, she pushed her bedroom door open too tired
to care about the world any longer. She took one step forward when she felt
someone reach out from behind her pulling her back into the hallway.
Ria opened her mouth to scream, but her cries were muffled by the feel of
a hand clamped over her lips. She felt another hand squeeze her backward further
into the warm body behind her. Her eyes strained to see through the blackness
of her apartment and as she felt fingers press over her breast, she did the
first thing that came to mind. She grunted before stomping as hard as she
could on the intruders foot. He let out a pinched wail of agony and
it was then that Ria realized that she knew her uninvited guest.
Damn it, he groaned again stumbling backward as Ria spun around
to face him.
What the hell are you doing here? Ria challenged with a sneer
feeling her pulse still leaping out of control in her throat, How did
you get in here?
I wanted to surprise you. I thought that you would be happy that I was
here, not trying to kill me, her companion remarked with another wince,
If I wouldve known you were on the attack, I wouldve called
first.
Well you shouldve. You have no right just barging into my apartment
like this unannounced. I thought you were a burglar or a rapist or worse one
of Valeries friends, she glared up at him.
You mean your roommate? he questioned curiously, I take
it you two arent getting along?
Try we arent living together anymore, she frowned at him.
When did this happen? he asked seeing the fear behind her eyes
slowly melting away after the initial shock had passed on.
Earlier today or last night. It doesnt matter, she waved
her hand dismissively before swatting at him once again, You scared
the hell out of me.
Obviously, he reached out in an attempt to draw her into his arms,
Im sorry that I frightened you. I was hoping that you might actually
be happy to see me.
I would be if you werent so damned creepy about it, she
reminded him bluntly, You cant just go in and out of peoples
homes jumping out of the shadows at them. Its a good way to get yourself
killed.
Im sorry. I didnt mean to scare you like this, he
leaned in closer to her, his lips teasing over her neck in a tempting movement,
Can you find it in your heart to ever forgive me?
No, I cant, she lied biting on her lower lip in an attempt
to stay angry with him.
Please, he kissed her neck again, I promise I will more
than make it up to you for my bad behavior.
Somehow I sincerely doubt that, she groaned closing her eyes regardless,
and even if you could, I really am not up to your trying to do so tonight.
Long day? he questioned feeling the tension riding over her body.
That doesnt even begin to cover it, she admitted with a
shake of her head, Try a long week. Last night I flew out to Atlantic
City for my best friends wedding and
Seths? he replied unburying his head from her neck.
Thats right, she nodded, and it was like a living
nightmare.
Why do you say that? he questioned curiously.
Well for starters, he flew out there thinking that he and Blake would
get married, but
she groaned again, Its not even worth
getting into right now.
Of course it is, he encouraged her to keep talking, Last
time we spoke you were telling me how upset Seth was about his sisters
disappearance and now youre saying he ran off to get married.
Well, he did, but it didnt work out as planned, she shrugged
her shoulders.
So hes not married? he questioned his gaze now fully upon
her.
Not to Blake, no, she shook her head once again before a sigh
erupted from behind her lips, and thats all thanks to Valerie.
Your roommate? he replied.
Former roommate, she corrected with another shrug, and you
know I shouldve known that shed pull something like this, but
I guess I just never saw it coming. Neither did Seth apparently.
I dont understand, her companion replied with a confused
look, How did Valerie stop Blake and Seth from getting married?
Its a long and complicated story, she waved again, and
right now I want to just get into bed.
In a minute, he reached for her arm pulling her back into the
hallway with him, but I want to hear this first.
Why? What does it matter? she frowned at him, Its
just one big nightmare that will lead to another headache.
I dont think so. I mean Seth is your friend and I know his happiness
is important to you, so if you want to talk about it
he tried
to encourage her again.
I really dont. At least not tonight. I just want to crawl into
the blankets and forget that Seth and Blake are having issues or that Valerie
is a pain in the ass, Ria explained motioning to her bedroom once again,
Id invite you to join me, but I can promise you that its
n going to turn out like you were hoping.
Well, as long as Im holding you tonight and we have the apartment
all to ourselves maybe we can work on it turning out the way I planned in
the morning, he suggested with a sly grin, and well, for tonight,
we could always talk about what went wrong with Seth and Blakes wedding
before you go to sleep.
We could, but I dont really want to get into it. Its a long,
complicated story that
she paused thinking about his interest
in Seth and Blake, Why does it matter to you? Why are you suddenly interested
in Seths relationships?
Hes your best friend, he replied wrapping his arms around
her waist and pulling her close to him, but if you dont want to
get into it tonight, I suppose we dont have to. I just know how important
he is to you and I want you to feel like you can talk to me--like you can
open up to me about everything
You know I already feel that way, but tonight, well tonight all I want
right now is a few hours of sleep before reality kicks in again, she
pleaded with him.
Then sleep shall be yours, he decided kissing the top of her head,
Lets get you into bed.
Thank you, she smiled at him weakly, Im sorry that
I couldnt be more up for whatever it was you had in mind tonight.
Hey, anything worth having is worth waiting for, he joked lightly,
and besides what I have in mind requires your full attention. Tonight
Ill let you get out of it, but in the morning, well thats another
story altogether.
Deal, she half smiled up at him ready to just push the world aside
for a little while. Still after hed brought up Seth, she couldnt
help but wonder if he was really doing okay. She hadnt wanted to think
about him, but now, well now she just prayed that whatever it was that wound
up happening to him, that Valerie would just get a clue and leave him alone
to enjoy life for a while. Of course knowing how Valerie was, Ria feared that
maybe just maybe that was asking too much of the situation.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Blake sat in the soft, blue chair waiting for Seth to return to the apartment
after hed walked Kevin downstairs to say good-bye. Even now surrounded
by silence Blake couldnt seem to find peace or comfort after the nightmare
shed been living through over the last few days. No matter how hard
she tried, she couldnt forget the way that things had fallen to pieces
at her wedding. Even being in jail paled in comparison to the pain shed
been surrounding by once Valerie dropped the bombshell in her lap that she
was Seths wife.
Its just not fair, Blake muttered to herself looking down
to see her bride magazines spread out over the coffee table before her. Seeing
the happy face of the woman before her only exemplified the fact that her
joy was never going for Blake and it sent a jolt of anger rushing over her.
She leaned forward and threw the magazine off of the table top in a fury.
Blake, hey, Seths voice broke her from her bitterness as
she saw him standing before her.
Its not fair, she blurted out unable to shield her anger
and hurt, This shouldnt be happening to us.
No it shouldnt and Im sorry that I put you through this
Blake, he replied poignantly before bending down to pick up the magazine,
I shouldve told you sooner about Valerie.
Yes you shouldve and though I know about her now, I still dont
understand why you didnt just say something, she admitted shaking
her head at him, If you wouldve just clued me in to the fact that
you were married before
I didnt say anything because I didnt think it mattered.
I told you back at the hotel that I wasnt married all that long. At
least I didnt think I was and
he tried to explain again.
Yes I know you were upset about what happened to Jade and you rushed
off to marry her, she replied feeling a bitter sting at the thought
of what had driven Seth to take such a step with Valerie.
Blake, it wasnt like I planned it. Hell, I dont even know
why I did it. It was just stupid and ridiculous and
he explained
himself with a frown.
Did you love her? I mean did you ever really love her Seth? she
tossed back at him almost fearing the answer.
No, never. I thought that I did, but I didnt. Valerie was far
too self absorbed to care about anyone other than herself, he stepped
in closer to her. Moving to kneel in front of her, he reached for her hands,
Blake I love you--only you.
I know Seth, but
she paused thinking about the things Valerie
had said to her in the jail cell, When you look at me, what do you see?
I see the woman I love, he replied reaching out to take her hand
in his, I see the one woman in this world that I know I could never
be without.
Is that really what you see or do you see someone who has only caused
you pain and misery? she questioned unable to suppress the tears that
threatened to overtake her. Do you see someone who has hurt your family
in ways that you never thought possible?
Blake, you havent hurt my family, Seth replied with a strange
look, Why would you even think that?
Because of whats happened to Jade. I remember what you said to
me about my father--about
she began tearfully.
Blake, what happened to Jade was a horrible, horrible tragedy and Im
not about to pretend that there isnt a day that goes by when Im
not haunted by that. To think of how I failed her then or even now
he shook his head at her before struggling to find the right words, Blake
this isnt about Jade. This is about you and me--about the two of us
together
I know that, but
she started once again.
But nothing. Youre the one that I want to marry and share my life
with, he leaned up on his knees to cup her face in his hands, Youre
the only woman Id ever want to share my life with and that hasnt
changed. It wont ever change.
Seth I
she began again only to feel his lips over hers.
She leaned into the kiss, tears spilling down her cheeks as he pulled her
down into the floor with him.
Blake I love you. I love you so very much and even if its complicated,
theres no where else in the world that Id rather be then holding
you just like this, he explained rolling her onto her back before moving
in over her, Do you remember what it was like the first time I held
you?
She nodded, I was terrified.
So was I, he admitted thinking back to their first meeting at
the auto shop. Here I was in this confined space with the most beautiful
woman Id ever met and all I kept thinking was that if I died without
ever getting the chance to get to know her--if I lost this before it began,
well then I knew I would always regret it.
You cant regret something when youre dead, she threw
back at him pointedly.
Of course you can Blake, he leaned in to kiss her gently, and
if it had happened that we wouldve died that day, I wouldve spent
the rest of eternity seeking you out in heaven because I knew that you were
the one. Youve always been the one.
But what if being the one doesnt always spell happily ever after?
she asked quietly.
Happily ever after is an idea that writers came up with to sell stories,
but real life isnt always that easy Blake, he continued to explain
kissing her thoroughly, his arms curling in around her, Life isnt
perfect and sometimes its messy, but when two people love one another--really
love one another, then nothing can ever take that away.
Not even circumstances like this? she questioned with sad blue
eyes.
Especially not circumstances like this, he nodded in confirmation,
Blake, a love like ours might be filled with its share of ups
and downs, but what we have is forever.
I thought you said that happily ever afters didnt really exist,
she threw his words back at him, that they were some made up notion.
The are in some ways, but in real life, well we have something better
then happily ever after, he mouthed his dark eyes reaching into hers.
We have each other and thats worth everything in the world.
I just dont want to lose you Seth, she sighed leaning into
his touch.
Youre never going to lose me. Thats the beauty of it Blake.
Given everything weve been through with one another, well you should
know by now that Im not going anywhere, he reminded her with a
small smile, especially when I have you to be with.
I love you Seth, she whispered reaching out to hold him in the
hopes that this would never end.
I love you too and hey, one day well be on that island taking
Kevin up on his offer to have a romantic honeymoon out there in paradise,
he assured her with a small, comforting kiss.
God I hope so, she mouthed kissing him again as she wondered if
things would really find a way to work themselves out for the two of them.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kevin walked through the lobby of the hotel, his body still overwhelmed with
what had happened at the bar earlier. He couldnt believe that he saw
Michelle there.
Seth was right, Kevin scowled as he thought to himself, That
piece of trash really isnt worth it.
Kevin felt something buzzing around in his pocket as he heard the song he
had special for Angie on his phone.
Hello Angie, Kevin answered with a small smile as he walked towards
his room. He felt like hell right about now, but maybe hearing Angies
voice would make his feel a little bit better.
God Kevin, Angie laughed hearing his voice over the receiver,
It has been so long since I have heard your voice. Its great to
hear you again.
I know, Kevin nodded to himself as he pulled the key to his hotel
room out, I really miss you.
Same here, Angie stated before realizing that she called Kevin
for a very good reason, I really need to talk to you.
Whats wrong Angie? Kevin quickly questioned as he shut the
door behind him. Is something wrong? If there is something going on,
I dont mind coming back there if you need me to.
No, I dont need you to, she assured him before biting down
on her bottom lip, You see I want to tell you that
I have been
thinking about you.
Right, Kevin nodded before thinking to himself, So, whats
really wrong with you?
Nothing, she chickened out not wanting to tell him what was up,
I just wanted to know if you were having a good time over there.
Not really, Kevin answered, lying back on his bed, It isnt
the greatest over here because I am missing my best buddy.
What happened? she questioned knowing that Kevin never really
hated going places. He was always the one who loved to travel.
Just ran into some people from the past, Kevin replied thinking
to himself, No big deal.
He knew he should of told her about Cameron, but something made him not want
to. He didnt want to hurt her in any way. She was with Nick right now
and she was happy
he couldnt ruin that.
So tell me, Kevin grinned, putting his arm behind his head, Tell
me about what has been happening with you and that punk over there.
Kevin, Angie chuckled as they began to talk. Forget about
me. Whats going on with you? You sound upset.
I am upset, he finally admitted having been pushed past his point of no return, I saw Michelle tonight.
Michelle? she repeated with obvious confusion, What the hell is she doing out there?
I really dont know, but I have to say that seeing here again--well I just wasn't prepared for how I would feel in being put in that position. I thought that I wouldnt react if I ever saw her face again, but I was wrong, Kevin sighed heavily feeling an ache throbbing in his temple.
Michelle is a witch. She never deserved you, Angela remarked thinking about all the hell that Michelle had put Kevin through. I cant believe that she just popped up out of the blue again.
Yeah, well thats just my luck, Kevin grumbled in response, That seems to be the name of the game for me lately.
Im sorry to hear that Kevin, she sighed wanting to bring up what happened between her and Nick, but she couldnt bring herself to do it. She didnt want Kevin to be too worried about her especially now that he was reeling from the first encounter with his ex-wife after a long time of pretending that she just dropped off of the face of the planet. She could tell that Kevin was still upset and she knew that now wouldnt be the time to tell him the truth. It would be okay if she told him when he came back. To tell him about her engagement tonight would be just plain cruel. Dont let Michelle get you worked up Kevin.
Easier said than done Angie. You know how she always grated on my nerves and got underneath my skin, he admitted tossing his hotel room key on the table top before lying on the bed.
Yeah, well lucky for you, youve got me to help you unwind, so lets talk about it and Ill remind you all the reasons why Michelle so isnt worth your time, she suggested brightly, and believe me I still have my list that you had me tuck away for a rainy day.
Is that right, he couldnt help but smirk, I thought that youd thrown that out.
Oh please, like I would do such a thing when I had a feeling that we might need it for an emergency occasion. If anything qualifies as an emergency, then tonight is it, she added hoping to help pull him out of his slump.
Yeah, well what about Nick? he questioned after a moment of hesitation.
Nick can wait for a little while. Youre my best friend Kevin. You cant, she informed him point blank before taking in a slow breath, So where do we start? How about Michelles horrible morning breath?
Dont even get me started on that, Kevin couldnt help but laugh feeling himself put at ease now that Angela had started her attempts to cheer him up. While he wasnt looking to bother anyone with his issues with Michelle tonight after hed left Seths place, he found himself very grateful that Angie was there for him. She always knew the right things to say at a time when things werent as smooth and easy-going as they should be.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
That was incredible, Carly remarked after Dave had taken another
look at a now sleeping Kayla. What you did in there with her
Was nothing, he shrugged his shoulders before offering up a small
smile, I used to do it every day with Cori when she was younger and
couldnt sleep. In fact it got to the point that I think that she could
easily recite the book without me, but it just wasnt the same.
I cant imagine it would be, Carly smiled up at him, Given
how mesmerized Kayla was by you, I can only guess how much Cori enjoyed spending
that time with you.
It was easy with Cori because she was a great kid. Kayla is too,
Dave replied thoughtfully, I just cant help myself when Im
with her. The more time I spend with her, the more that I want to be with
her.
She just has that effect on a person, Carly sighed thinking about
how much shed missed out on with her daughter over the last couple of
months, I dont know how I couldve left her in the first
place. I dont know what I was thinking trying to do this back and forth
shuffle when I really shouldve just stayed here with her.
You were trying to do what was best for her, Dave offered up sympathetically,
You were trying to get the pieces of your life together again before
the big explosion happened.
And what exactly did I accomplish in doing things that way? she
replied tilting her eyes up towards his once again, I only seemed to
make an even bigger mess of things.
I dont know if Id put it quite that way, Dave shrugged,
I mean look at how well things are turning out right now. Im here
with Kayla and so are you. She seems very happy about everything.
I know, Carly nodded, which is why I dont want to
take that joy away from her. Shes been so excited over the last few
days that I dont want it to end for her. She deserves so much more than
Than what? A mother who loves her and wants to put her needs first,
he questioned taking a bold step forward. Tentatively his fingertips traveled
to the side of her face, I can see how much you love her Carly.
I do. Shes the only thing I really have left to show for what
Ive done in this world, she offered up with a sad smile thinking
about all the mistakes she made back in Coral Valley.
Shes not the only thing, Dave replied in a tender whisper,
I hope you realize that.
What I realize is that Ive been given a lot of second chances
that I dont really deserve lately, she sighed heavily dropping
her head down to look at the floor. She felt him nudge her slightly urging
her to look up at him once again.
You do deserve it, but right now I know thats not what youre
feeling, he whispered leaning in closer to her, which is why if
you cant feel that youre worthy, then Id like you to think
that I deserve a second chance.
You deserve more than a second chance Dave. You deserve someone who
is going to love you with all that she is and give you all that you need.
What you truly deserve is
she began feeling him pull her more
completely into his arms.
A chance for a future again with you, he replied his lips closing
in over hers in a surprisingly heated kiss. She felt his palms fan out over
her spine crushing her in closer to him and in that moment she felt her heart
sputter in her chest. She curled her fingers around his shoulders biting gently
into his skin as their mouths collided with exploratory wonder. Tenderly his
tongue caressed hers offering up the first tastes of the fire that had once
burned alive between them. She moaned slightly feeling the very contact of
his hands upon her, over her awakening a passion that shed fought to
keep under wraps after shed made so many mistakes where their relationship
was concerned.
Carly, let me be point blank about this, he whispered nibbling
on her neck, feeling her shiver at the warmth of his breath teasing over her
soft skin, I know that Ive been skirting around the issue for
a while now, but the truth to the matter is that Im tired of being a
gentleman. Im tired of waiting around for things to happen for me when
all I really want to do is make my own fate.
I cant say I blame you one bit for feeling that way, she
started to reply feeling him slide his hand up underneath her shirt to touch
her. His fingers teased her excited skin, palm pressing in over the softness
of her femininity and as his mouth beckoned hers once again with an earth-shattering
kiss she knew exactly where Dave was planning on taking his destiny to with
her.
I want you, he murmured against her mouth, nibbling on her lower
lip greedily, I want to make love to you again--to feel you with me
in every sense of the word
But
she started knowing that there clearly shouldve
been a reason why she should be protesting, why his suggestion should seem
irrational and completely out of place as they stood only a few feet from
her daughters bedroom.
Carly, I dont want to hesitate anymore. Im tired of always
playing it safe, he slid his fingers through her hair, urging her to
meet his passion laced eyes, I want you. Ive always wanted you
and tonight I want to show you just how much I need you in my life.
But Kayla
she started with a tight, surprised tone, and
my mother
They dont need to know what were doing, he laughed
lightly charmed by the color that rose over her features, as far as
Im concerned we can keep this between us. What do you say?
I think that
she began to offer up a response only to feel
him dive in for another drugging kiss. His arms enfolded her, his body pressing
into hers offering up a sensual reminder of the passion that once burned between
them.
Lets go outside, Dave suggested a warmth behind his words
that easily hinted at far more sensual things to come between them.
Dave are you sure that
she half questioned feeling him take
her hand in his as he guided her out towards the back patio.
Of course Im sure, he laughed lightly as if some inside
joke had fallen upon him. Once they were out beneath the moonlight he turned
to face her with a sexy smile, Tell me something Carly. Why is it that
on television and pretty much everywhere in the media these days when two
people are about to share an intimate experience we always have one of the
two people asking the other if they are sure?
Well I um
she began feeling his fingers sliding through
her dark hair creating a mind-blowing sensation riding through her body that
left her thinking less and less about what hed just asked her.
I mean the way I look at it, he began cupping her face in his
hands, if two people are sure, dont you think theyd just
know when they reach that point with one another?
Youd think, she breathed restlessly seeking out another
kiss.
Well it would just make sense to think that if two people wanted to
be with one another that theyd just say, Hey this is what I want.
Obviously you want it too and since were both here doing what we want
to do, then whats the point of asking questions about it? I mean
that seems to be making the most sense in something like that, right?
he questioned pressing her up against the outside of the house. His lips beckoned
hers once again feeling the warmth of her beneath him, her body eagerly pressing
up into his.
Youd think, she repeated again, her hands sliding up and
down over his spine before squeezing around his waist. Their lips met in another
hungry union before her touch traveled over to the center of his chest, I
mean they should be asking things more like, My place or yours.
Or better yet, he kissed her again, his fingers dropping in underneath
the lace of her bra to tease her mercilessly, right here or out on the
beach?
On the beach, she replied in a low, throaty whisper, but
theres all that sand and
Good point, he hoisted her up into his arms more completely, out
in the water out by the rocks is an even better idea.
Dave, she squealed his name feeling him rush off of her mothers
porch out onto the beach with her in his arms.
Think of it this way, were embracing a new sense of adventure,
Dave teased tearing through the sand in the hopes of keeping up the spontaneity
that hed felt carry over him.
I do like adventures even if the person Im experiencing them with
has gone completely insane, she replied feeling him set her down in
the sand. Her toes dropped down into the grainy texture before her, but she
didnt have much time to register the feel much longer than a millisecond
because Dave had already ripped her shirt from her shoulders.
I thought you liked a little craziness every now and then, he
mouthed biting down on her shoulder gently. Eagerly he tore her shirt from
her body throwing it down into the sand.
Of course I do, but
she started reciprocating the movement
and tugging his shirt up over his head. She watched him step back once shed
discarded his shirt. The moonlight overhead seemed to glisten over his chest
and in that moment she felt herself breathless with anticipation.
But what? he questioned unhooking his belt, Afraid of taking
this kind of risk with me?
No, its not that, she shook her head at him reveling in
the moment of watching him strip down before her. She licked her lips full
of anticipation as he kicked his clothes aside, now standing before her in
his full naked splendor, now hers for the taking, Its just I guess
I never expected this.
Well thats the beauty of it, he marched forward, not bothering
for her to finish getting undressed before he scooped her up into his arms,
tonight with me expect the unexpected.
Dave, she squealed with laugher feeling him carry her into the
water with him ready to explore a whole new, rejuvenated side of their relationship
with one another. While this was the last thing shed expected, something
told her that tonight with Dave would be the start of something shed
never forget.
Oh come on, you know youre up for a little fun, Dave teased
dumping her underneath the water with a lightening quick movement.
Son of a
Carly squealed rising up above the dark surface
ready to kill him when she found herself surrounded by darkness. She was soaked
from head to toe, drenched in the water, but Dave was no where to be seen.
She scanned the area, searching through the moonlight for the man who was
now constantly full of surprises. This newfound playfulness wasnt the
norm for Dave, yet as she felt her clothes sticking to her body, soaked by
her surroundings she found herself more curious than ever to explore this
new side with him.
Dave, Carly called out to him, hearing her voice echo through
the night. She swam out a bit further wondering if he was under the water
waiting for her to make some kind of move. She swam a bit more, feeling her
jeans adding weight to her legs now that they clung to her. She leaned forward
ready to find a way out of them when she felt a distinct tug at her abdomen.
Within the blink of an eye she felt herself pulled under the water, but the
surprise was replaced with the warmth of Daves lips against hers. She
curled her arms around him, feeling the need to be close to him as his hands
moved in over the top of her jeans. They began to surface and with the movement
Carlys legs were freed from the thick, heavy material shed been
trapped in earlier.
Better now? Dave questioned in a low, sultry voice causing a ripple
of excitement to race through her.
Much, she nodded inching in closer to him all the while catching
her jeans floating away from them towards the shore, though I hope those
find their way to the beach because if they dont youre going to
owe me another pair.
If they dont, Ill take you shopping for whatever you want,
but right now, his palms pressed in over her bottom cupping her in against
his thick arousal, I know what I want.
So what are you waiting for, she questioned wrapping her legs
around his waist and kissing him as if shed never stop.
Their bodies seemed to move with the tide gravitating over towards the docks
where Dave collected her in his arms. He pulled her upward out of the water
just a bit seating her on something damp over the surface of the dock. She
looked down to where hed placed her, seeing a wet blanket laid out over
the shiny, wet surface of the dock.
It might not be the soft cushy bed you had in mind before, he
pulled himself up out of the water just a bit to claim her lips again, but
I hope itll do for now.
Im sure itll more than do, she nodded seeing a small
black bag over towards the far side of the smooth dock beneath her, Whats
this?
What can I say, he replied pulling himself out of the water and
sliding in beside her, I came prepared.
She plucked up the bag unzipping the waterproof material to see the condoms
inside. She tilted her head to the side giving him a strange glance, Just
how long in advance were you planning this?
Not that long, he confessed drawing her into his arms again, well,
long enough to get a bit of an idea of what wed be in for with one another.
But when did you
she blinked back at him.
When your mother thought it would be a nice time to talk to you--you
know give you the warnings about my getting too close to Kayla. She and I
were out here earlier and I just figured that this spot might be a good spot
to
To do something very indecent in a public place, she shook her
head at him all the while making a small tsking sound, Why Chief Warner,
what would the boys back at the police station be saying right about now if
they knew about the laws you were about to be breaking?
I think theyd never believe it if you told them, he mouthed
urging her in against the smooth surface beneath them. He moved in over her,
his lips teasing hers to sweet surrender as the soft night air swept over
their damp bodies. She curled her arms around him loving the feel of his warmth
over her.
You want to make a bet, she half questioned drawing lazy circles
over his spine as his tongue teased over her collar bone driving her mad with
aching desire.
You cant even believe it yourself, can you, he replied with
a pointed expression reaching out for a condom before kissing her heatedly
to let her know with full certainty that tonight he was ready to embark upon
a whole new kind of adventure with her.
I think Im pleasantly surprised, she confessed with a soft
whimper wrapping her legs around him in eager anticipation.
Youre going to be more than that by tomorrow morning because this
is just the beginning, he promised joining their bodies as one in a
firm, strong movement. Her lips parted in an exaggerated breath, her head
tipping to the side as he nibbled on her shoulder, tasting the heat radiating
from within her. It had been far too long for the two of them and now that
they were together again--lost in the insatiable hunger theyd suppressed
for one another, it felt too good--too familiar and in that moment Dave knew
he wasnt about to let go of this life. Never would he play second fiddle
to Ken or anyone else. Carly was his. She and Kayla were the life he always
wanted--the dream come true that had always been just out of his reach.
Dave, she spoke his name her lips beckoning his once again, her
breaths intensifying as her legs locked around him drawing him further into
her. Their union was wild, reckless and completely out of character for the
state of their relationship. It was something that held an unmistakable distinction,
something that would make a memory that neither was sure to forget--of course
this little beach side romp wasnt about to be an intimate act of seclusion
any longer between them when a loud, piercing sound flooded in overhead followed
by a blinding light above.
What in the
Carly gasped straining to see through the bright,
white light overhead. Dave
The winds whipped around them, moving with a new pounding frequency as their
moment was surrounded by chaos. There was another sound, a loud piercing fog
horn type sound that cut through the air and in that moment Dave looked up
to see the boat just a dozen or so feet in front of them.
Dont move! a strong, authoritative voice commanded.
I dont think thats going to be too much of a problem,
Carly groaned burying her face in Daves shoulder as she heard the sounds
of people coming out of their houses. She wasnt quite sure what was
happening, but there was no mistaking the fact that she and Dave were no longer
alone.
Put your hands up, the voice commanded once again as Dave threw
out an apologetic look at Carly.
So much for being reckless, eh? Carly threw back at him, her face
now a bright, crimson color. While it was dark outside before, the light overhead
did nothing to keep her embarrassment from showing as Dave moved off of her.
I can handle this, he tried to assure her, using the blanket the
best that he could to cover her up before he turned towards the source of
the light.
Yeah right, she groaned closing her eyes and wanting to just die
on the spot.
This is just a misunderstanding. Im sure if you will just give
me five minutes
Dave spoke up to the man behind the voice.
Put your hands up, the man ordered as the coast guard uniforms
came into view.
Believe me, you really dont want me to do that, Dave motioned
to his nakedness. He felt Carly shuffle in behind him in an attempt to keep
the eyes of those on the beach off of them, but as Dave could clearly see
Helen Matthews standing on her back porch catching every single second of
this humiliation that was taking place, he knew that this moment of mortification
was far from over for him and Carly. Even if he could sweet talk the man before
him, he knew full well that Helen was going to give him and Carly the lecture
of a lifetime. That in itself was something far worse to fear than the security
patrol ready to take him and Carly again. Then again, the more he thought
about it, the more he wondered if maybe jail was a much better option than
facing the wrath of Helen Matthews. That in itself could turn out to be quite
deadly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
That is a really good movie Cori, Diego smiled as the movie ended,
but he didnt hear her answer back, Cori?
As Diego looked down, he saw that her eyes were closed and she was asleep.
So much for a great movie, Diego laughed getting up from the couch
and going to turn the television off, It was so good that it put you
right to sleep.
He smiled as he looked back at her, she looked so beautiful right now. He
really was glad that she came back, he needed some time to break away from
the world and with her he could do that. She was fun and happiness all in
one. Every minute he had spent with her had been well worth it.
Ill put this away, he sighed, grabbing the movie and putting
it back in the pile.
He walked over to the couch and took a seat not trying to wake her up, but
failed when her eyes opened.
Is the movie over already? she questioned seeing him nod. Darn,
the ending is the best part.
Dont worry, he laughed seeing her look up at him with her
dark eyes, Well watch it again I promise.
Good, she yawned once more as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder
tightly, I guess I was really tired.
You still are, Diego pointed out as she rested her head on his
shoulder, I think the best thing to do right now would be to just go
to sleep.
Good idea, Cori replied before closing her eyes as he ran his
fingers through her hair gently.
Goodnight, he whispered kissing her forehead gently hearing the
heavy breaths telling him that she was asleep.
He pulled her closer to him before deciding to close his own eyes. It had
been a long time since he had been close to someone and now it felt really
good to be with someone.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So I think tonight turned out to be a success, Hart blurted out
finishing up with getting out of his costume as Jenna took her makeup off
in the bathroom.
Yeah you didnt kill anyone for gawking at Sam. Id say that
was a huge success, she teased from behind the hand towel she was drying
her face with.
Well yes that was part of it, Hart popped his head in to look
at her, but another part of it was the fact that you and Kipp were able
to finally have a talk with one another. It seemed to have gone pretty well.
It did, she smiled thinking back to the brief conversation with
her brother, I think hes really trying to change his life and
I respect that.
Yeah he seems pretty decent. Nothing like the rumors that were swirling
around about him when he first popped into town working for Stone Corp,
Hart shrugged before stepping in behind her to wrap her up in his arms.
I guess life changes a person, she snuggled back into his chest,
were living proof of that.
Yes we are, he agreed kissing her neck gently, and I feel
blessed each and every day for that.
So do I, she hugged his arms around her tighter than before, You
know for a long time I really believed that nothing good came out of Douglas
Mahoney--like I was somehow doomed by being his daughter given all the things
hes done in the past, but now, well now after Ive taken the time
to really start talking to Kipp, I feel like there is hope.
Thats because there is hope, he replied turning her in his
arms, Theres always hope Jenna. You cant ever forget that.
When Im with you I could never forget, she replied leaning
up to kiss him tenderly, Tonight was really wonderful Hart.
Youre whats wonderful Jen. You have no idea how blessed
I feel to have you in my life, he added kissing her tenderly as they
settled into a perfect end to an almost perfect evening.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Thanks for taking me Kipp, Kellen gushed over what they had just
done as they got out of the car, I had so much fun tonight. I dont
know what I would do if you werent my friend.
Well, you dont have to worry about that, Kipp smiled seeing
Kellen begin to walk backwards as he looked back at Kipp, I plan on
being your friend for a long time.
Good, Kellen laughed before turning back around and taking his
keys out, because I think you are one of the best friends I have ever
had.
You probably are the best friend I have ever had, Kipp pointed
out as Kellen led him into his house and smiled, I mean it Kellen. Ive
never met someone quite like you.
I know sweetheart, Kellen laughed, touching Kipps shoulder
lightly, I am on in a million.
Im not playing with you Kellen, Kipp raised his eyebrows
looking up at Kellens gaze, his light blue eyes showing clearly, You
really mean a lot to me.
You mean a lot to me too, Kellen replied looking down to the ground,
No one really accepted me as me. I always had to change when I was around
someone, but around you, I feel like I can be myself.
Thats how you should be buddy, Kipp smiled reaching over,
squeezing Kellens shoulder lightly, You need to be you because
you are the best person I have ever met.
Same goes for you, Kellen smiled before looking down at his watch,
You know, its getting late, but I had a really great time.
Me too, Kipp agreed with a small laugh seeing Kellen smile, Well,
I guess I will see you tomorrow.
Sure, Kellen nodded as they stood there in silence for a few moments
until Kipp leaned forward, wrapping his arms around Kellen.
Thanks for everything, Kipp grinned after letting Kellen out of
his tight hug.
No problem, Kellen waved seeing Kipp walk towards the door, Bye.
Kellen didnt know why, but something made him think that Kipp really
did have some type of feelings for him. Or maybe it was just his mind playing
with him with another round of wishful thinking?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...