Episode 260
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This episode contains mature content, so for those easily offended or who shouldn't be reading it, you have been warned. Please refer to the recaps later in the week if you are uncomfortable with adult and or sexual situations. |
I see, was all Ria could get out as she struggled to come to
terms with Kevins admission. She took a step backward trying to ignore
the feeling that rocked over her. You know the one that happens when you feel
like you get kicked in the gut? Well that was exactly the best way to describe
what Ria was feeling at Kevins admission.
Ria please dont look at me like that, Kevin begged of her
rising to his feet again after having found himself in a slump on the bed.
Like what Kevin? she blinked back at him tears stinging at her
eyes, Like I dont even know you?
You do know me, he pleaded further, taking a small step towards
her only to watch her back away from him, Ria, please try to understand
where Im coming from with Angie. I spent almost half my life taking
care of her--watching over her and making sure that she was well taken care
of
And let me guess. With you she had all of that, right Kevin? Ria
gulped biting down on the tears that were rushing through the surface. She
clenched her hands at her sides. Damn her for getting emotional. She didnt
want to do this--didnt want to behave like a woman who was so lost in
love only discover the man of her dreams wasnt hers to begin with.
Look Ria, its just that with Angie she and I have a special connection.
Its always been there, he cleared his throat uneasily shuffling
on his large feet as he looked at her, Shes my best friend in
the world so naturally Im going to feel something for her. I worry about
her a lot--more than I know I should, but I still cant help it
Obviously not, she countered knowing how her jealousy mustve
made her look pathetic at this moment in time considering that she and Kevin
werent really dating to begin with, I mean I guess what I dont
get is why you never mentioned any of this before
Its because it didnt come up. It wasnt something I
wanted to think about--something I wanted to reflect upon, he groaned
inwardly making a small movement forward, but then thought twice of it, As
I told you before I spent most of my life trying to protect her--to keep her
safe and Ive been there for Angie so very long that its hard to
see her making another mistake. When she was younger she was married before.
The guy was a real jerk. He hurt her--hurt her in ways she doesnt even
realize. He did things--planned things
But the guy shes marrying is not that guy, Ria pointed out
fighting to stay calm about the situation.
No, hes not, but hes almost as bad. Ria he just washed up
on the island with no memory--with no inkling of a past, yet he was drawn
to her. He moved in on her and kept pushing her towards romance. Shes
vulnerable right now. Shes got so many things happening that
he paused thinking about his best friend and the state of her affairs. Shes
pregnant.
Pregnant, Ria practically choked on the words, how pregnant?
Pregnant enough that this guy shes with now doesnt need
to be near her or her child. Hes trouble. Granted its nothing
that hes done, but my instincts are telling me that theres something
about this that isnt right--something thats only going to hurt
her. I wish I could pinpoint what it is about him beyond the amnesia, but
Im telling you Ria, this guy is a stranger. She knows nothing about
the man he really is, but more so shes fallen into the fantasy dream
of what she wants him to be simply because shes looking for a father
for her child.
And that means that hes not the babys father, yes?
she eyed him suspiciously leaving him to realize where her thoughts were headed.
And Im not either, Kevin offered up quickly, but knowing
what I do about Angies tastes in men, well I have to worry. If you couldve
known her last husband--about the things he was capable of
Im sure shes a big girl and she can take care of herself
unless of course you want to be the one running out to her taking care of
her, she arched a speculative brow, Is that what this is really
about Kevin?
I have to help her. I have to keep her from making a mistake and marrying
Nick would be a huge mistake. Nick isnt trustworthy, Kevin sneered
unable to fight his instincts.
Gee, you must really have a problem with the women youre around
seeing someone named Nick, dont you, Ria tossed back at him flippantly,
I mean first you come into my life again after being gone so very long
and you shake my world up in ways I couldnt even begin to imagine. Now
Angela is about to marry a man she loves and gee, look you have a problem
with it.
Because I know something isnt right with Nick, Kevin argued
with her before tossing out a pointed look, and as for you, the guy
you were seeing was a creep. I could see in the way he was upsetting you that
he was never worthy of you. To see you in that kind of pain only told me that
he was completely wrong for you.
And what about now Kevin? What do you see when you look at me? A screw
buddy? A friend and a comfort lay when the mood fits? she couldnt
help but ask biting down on her lower lip. What am I to you Kevin? The
woman you wasted your time with while you were in Coral Valley until you could
return to the woman you really want to be with?
No Ria, thats not it. Its not that way at all, he
shook his head firmly his heart tangled in knots, I do want to be with
you Ria.
But not as bad as you want to go back and stop Angelas wedding
right? Ria challenged seeing the color drain from his face, Yeah
thats what I thought. So much about this being something weve
both worked towards with one another. Obviously this was one sided from the
start
Ria wait, Kevin finally reached out to her turning her in his
arms. Despite her protests, he pulled her closer to him, his thick fingers
pressing in through her long, dark hair, please dont walk away
from me
dont walk away from this
How can I walk away from something that we never really had in the first
place, she questioned tearfully a small sob breaking past her tight
lips.
Damn it Ria I love you, Kevin bent down to capture her lips with
hungry urgency, his mouth absorbing the taste of her with everything he had
in him. His arms crushed her close to him never breaking the connection between
them as his heart pounded in his chest. He meant what hed said. He loved
her. He really, truly did and he couldnt even begin to imagine his life
without her. Her breath cast over his lips as she pulled back ever so slightly
to gaze up at him behind a tear-stained face.
But you love Angela too, dont you? she asked in a small,
mild voice as if she didnt want to hear the answer herself. Just the
way she was looking at him--the way her eyes were reaching down deep into
him, he felt as if all of his secrets were flowing to the surface. To see
her in such agony broke his heart--to feel her trembling in his arms only
made him want to wrap her up just like this and hold her forever, but more
so he knew that he couldnt lie to her. You love her Kevin. Dont
you?
He dropped his head down, Ill always love her Ria. Its part
of who I am and I cant escape that.
A long pause followed as if they both were trying to register what was happening
between them after his admission. He felt her step away from him detangling
herself from his arms. Picking his head up he saw her with her arms wrapped
over her chest as if that motion alone would shield her from any further hurt
that she could encounter in the next few seconds.
Then I guess theres only one question left to ask Kevin,
she mouthed in a small voice, her tone sounding so far from the carefree,
happy Ria he knew and loved. Do you want to be with her Kevin?
No. Yes, he shook his head somberly feeling guilt creep in over
his body as his past with Angela seemed to be betraying the future he had
here with Ria. He knew that a part of him would always be stuck in what mightve
been, yet with Ria hed found a new life--a new beginning and moment
by moment he felt it slipping away with his final admission, I dont
know.
Then I guess the question of the hour is does she want to be with you?
she turned away from him unwilling to let him see her cry.
I dont know about that Ria, but with us
that doesnt
change what we have with us
he tried to appeal to her, but the
sounds of her small sobs were tearing him into pieces all over again. How
he hated to be the source of this kind of pain with someone who meant the
world to him. Ria
Do you want to be with me Kevin? I mean was this about your wanting
something more between us or was this just something you were doing to keep
yourself busy until opportunity arose with Angela? she asked wiping
at her face in an attempt to push her vulnerabilities aside.
Yes, I do. I really, truly want to be with you Ria. I want something
between us--something more than what weve had. Making love to you has
been wonderful and after everything weve shared, I can honestly say
that I havent felt more connected to a person than I am with you. You
make me laugh and you even tolerate my corny jokes. You make me smile and
you gave me a whole new appreciation for wrestling, which by the way biting
is still not allowed, he watched her head perk up as she turned to look
at him wrinkling her nose at him, unless of course Im the one
youre wrestling with. Ria, youve been here for me in so many ways
and when Im with you I feel like Im a better man. I feel like
Im someone who can be loved and who deserves love in his life. When
were together you make me happy--so very happy and it killed me when
I had to walk away from you in the past
You chose to walk away Kevin, she reminded him poignantly, I
was always here for you wanting you and needing you. Youre the one who
walked away
I know that, but Im tired of walking away. I want more than leaving
things between us like this. I want something substantial--something where
I wake up with you each morning and fall asleep with you in my arms,
Kevin confessed his voice shaking with his emotions, I love you Ria
and I have a whole world of dreams ahead of us--dreams that I thought we lost
with one another when I walked away before
Dreams that could leave with you if you walk away again, she added
hating to bring reality to the conversation but someone had to. Kevin
if you love Angela and a part of you longs to be with her, how can we have
a future?
I havent worked out all the details yet, but Im sure that
we can make this work. Im sure that we can find some way to fix this
tension and
he stammered a bit struggling to find the right words
as his jaw flexed with the inner conflict tugging at him.
And a part of you longs to be with her right now, doesnt it? You
cant help but think about her as we stand here talking about a future
between us Kevin, can you? she inquired closing her eyes for fear of
giving him the opportunity to see her falling apart at the seams.
I wish like hell that I could say no Ria, but as you said before I always
promised you that I would never lie to you, Kevin mouthed knowing that
before the words were out, there was already a distance between him and Ria--a
distance he feared may never be fully bridged between them again.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nick stepped into the bathroom seeing a man before him. He watched closely
seeing the man shaking his head at him as he was now doubled over on the counter
top whimpering and sobbing in a drunken state of obliviousness. Nick let out
a small groan and quickly turned on the shower, bringing the water to a frigid
temperature before turning his attention to the man who was now incoherently
slurring about everything and nothing all at the same time. It was in that
instant that Nick realized that things clearly werent going to be any
easier in the room. He couldnt quite figure out what was happening as
the man before him was a clear cut wreck, but why this man was so upset Nick
had no idea. He just knew that the man was obviously shaken and for some reason
Nick found himself agitated with the man before him.
All I wanted was another chance
is that asking so much
the man began to sob as Nick helped him up off of the counter and shoved him
towards the shower, Can I help it if I care too much
Youre only destroying yourself with this, Nick sighed heavily feeling his frustrations mounting at the man whom he was trying to help, and I thought youd learned your lesson a long time ago.
I just wanted Jade I needed to have that in my life to find that happiness that she took away from me. Shes nothing but a manipulative the man continued as Nick pushed him into the shower.
Shes a good woman and if youd stop walking around with
your head up your ass, youd see my wife isnt your biggest enemy,
Nick shot back at him with a frown as the image blurred.
Nick shot up from where he lay on the bed--his head filling with jumbled images
as his breath grew harder to expel from his lungs. He pushed the sheet off
of his body feeling as if his skin was on fire after the dream hed had.
He could recall the mans face--feel the mans happiness threatening
to take away his future, but who was the man? Why had he upset Nick so much
in his dreams? Turning to look at a sleeping Angela he tried to make sense
of the dream. There was just something about it that was bothering him. Something
so real that
Nick, what is it, Angela questioned groggily seeing him seated
beside her. She stretched her arm out to tease her fingers up and over his
spine in a small soothing motion.
Nothing, Nick lied knowing full well she would see through his
pitiful attempt at keeping things low key.
Nick seriously
she shifted beside him. He tilted his head
back ever so slightly to see her moving up from underneath the sheet to reveal
her now naked body to his eyes. She scooted in closer to him, What is
it?
I just had a dream thats all, he sighed heavily closing
his eyes once again and straining to remember the mans face that had
haunted his dream moments earlier? Was the man a face from his past? An enemy
that would threaten his future with Angela much like that assassin had the
day hed come seeking Nick out or worse was it a hint of things to come
in the future for them? Nick had clearly spoken of his wife and felt protective
and on the defense with the man before him, yet it felt as if theyd
shared some kind of bond. However, the more Nick strained to recall what the
man looked like, the more the memory of his face faded away.
What kind of dream, she questioned worriedly, Like the others?
No, he shook his head again, This one was different. It
was about a man I knew. We were fighting over something and
And what? she prompted further, sliding her fingers in over his
shoulder. Nick what is it?
Its nothing, he sighed heavily turning to face her once
again, Its absolutely nothing Angela.
I dont believe that, she argued with him curling her lips
in a pout, If something happened, you have to tell me.
I dont remember much more than I was upset and worried about my
wife--about you, he reasoned reaching out to slide his finger tip over
her bare shoulder, about what would happen to you?
To me? her eyes widened a bit, What was going on in the
dream?
Nothing that I want to dwell on, he decided reaching out to pull
her onto his lap. She snuggled in over him readily before he sank back onto
the mattress again. Right now I just want to think about how good it
feels to hold you--to focus on how my dreams pale in comparison to how wonderful
it is to have you here with me right here and now.
It is very wonderful, she nodded teasing her fingers over the
center of his chest before closing her eyes and listening to the sounds of
his heart pounding beneath her.
I just want to hold onto this
he whispered tightly trying
to will the negative feelings that carried over from the dream into his waking
moments away as he held her. I just want to think about how right this
is for us
It is right Nick. So very right, she assured him snuggling further
into his arms as Nick reopened his eyes finding himself focused on the ceiling
wondering what in the hell was going on inside of him. He had this nagging
feeling that he couldnt shake, yet with Angela in his arms he knew he
should be content--everything should be okay, yet there was this little voice
inside of his head trying to get him to think about the dream--to remember,
but all his struggle gave him was a headache and a fear of what his dreams
were trying to tell him. If his past was anything like hed feared it
could be when that man had attacked them, then there was no telling what could
be ahead for them.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This cant be happening. Its only a dream, Avery tried
to reason with herself feeling her body tingling with heightened realization
as her hands traveled over Gradys oh so inviting body. Here he was beside
her, holding her as if hed never let go--as if everything had lead up
to this moment in time--to this feeling hed stirred up inside of her.
His touch eased over her hip, dancing over her thigh as he pressed her further
back onto the bed. His lips devoured hers, his tongue tangling with hers met
by the promise of passion and desire that hed initiated between them.
It all seemed so perfect, so dangerously delectable and as Grady leaned in
over her, nudging her further against the mattress, it suddenly felt oh so
cold.
Grady Im wet! Avery squealed his name practically jumping
out of his arms when she felt something distinctly wet and chilled beneath
her. She felt Grady slide his hand underneath her, squeezing gently at her
bottom, urging her hips up to meet his obvious ache for her before he pulled
something out from beneath her.
And heres the culprit much to my dismay, he laughed lightly
finding himself amused by the mock icepack shed made for him the previous
night. He dangled the damp washcloth over her for a brief moment before tossing
it onto the bed elsewhere. His thoughts werent at all on the ice or
about the cute way Averys nose wrinkled and her face had been pinched
upon feeling the ice beneath her, but rather he was fixated on the way it
felt to kiss her--on the irresistible taste of her that had fueled the fire
inside of him hed vowed to always keep a lid on. Now that she was in
his arms, well within his reach, he realized that there was no turning away
from it. He knew what he wanted--knew how close he was to finally having the
one thing that had been out of his reach for so very long and nothing--not
even a little bit of ice--was going to stop him now.
Eagerly he dove in for another urgent kiss, his hand dropping down to her
bottom again. He pulled her up off of the mattress grinding his body against
hers. The soft murmur that buzzed from her lips only fueled his fire, fanning
it to a fevered pitch as his fingers centered in over the small of her back.
He wanted her--needed her like the air he breathed. He felt her nibble on
his lip encouragingly as his hand slid up underneath her blouse making the
first contact with her heated skin. It was beautiful--everything hed
always fantasized about over the years as the very feel of her had awakened
all the repressed fantasies hed kept under lock and key. She arched
in against him, her creamy flesh warming beneath his touch. His lips dropped
down to gently bite over her earlobe, his hand sliding in to palm her breast.
He felt her arch up into him, her breath coming out in a low shallow pant
as his fingers pressed in over the buttons on her blouse.
Grady wait, she gasped, her chest rising and falling with the
weight of what was going on between them.
Avery, Ive waited years for this. After last night I dont
want to wait any longer, he mouthed moving in to kiss her once again,
his lips burning upon contact with hers. Gingerly he plucked open her blouse,
dropping his fingers in beneath to tease her eager flesh through the material
of her pink lace bra. His kisses tapered off over her neck, tracing his tongue
over her hot flesh as her body arched up towards his. He dropped one hand
out over her thigh urging her leg around him wanting her to know how hed
longed for things to be for them all those years ago when shed taken
him back to her apartment in a drunken haze. Sure they hadnt followed
through on passion, but hed never forgotten how close theyd come.
He never lost sight of how hot it had been when theyd let go of the
expectations upon them and just gave in to pleasure. Much like then, he felt
that heat between them now.
Grady no, Avery finally, reluctantly broke away from him placing
her palm in the center of his chest, We cant do this. Youre
drunk. Last night you were through a hell of an ordeal and I know full well
that you wouldnt want this--you wouldnt be doing this if you were
in your right mind. Things are confusing right now and
And Ill have you know that it takes a lot to get me drunk and
trust me Ive wanted this for years, he mouthed leaning in towards
her, Ive wanted it ever since that night we spent together and
even now Im wanting you unlike anything Ive ever imagined. I need
you Avery.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Honey, Zoë frowned, taking a step forward as she placed
her hand over her heart, Are you okay sweetheart?
I dont know, Kipp replied, letting out a small sigh as he
looked up to Douglas, How come you never told me? Why?
Because, I thought it was for the best, Douglas explained with
a small pain filled expression, I didnt think you knowing would
help anything. So, I let you believe that the woman I told you was your mother
was truly was your mother.
But, Kipp stopped himself before slowly rising up from the couch
and next to Kellen, Where were you my whole life Zoë? If you were
my mother
He tricked me, she pointed over towards Douglas as Douglas rolled
his eyes. He told me to put you up for adoption and I was young and
stupid.
Im confused, Kipp ran the back of his hand over his head
slowly before letting out a small sigh. None of this really makes any
sense to me. Nothing at all.
Im sorry honey, I didnt mean to drop this all on you at
once, but I thought you should know, Zoë explained, frowning at
the pain that Kipp seemed to be in as he thought.
I cant believe the both of you would keep this from me for so
long, Kipps eyebrows tensed as he spoke. He felt Kellens
hand on his shoulder as he continued to speak. If you knew he had me,
how come you never said anything?
I was stupid, I didnt know, Zoë tried to explain as
Douglas cut her off from going anywhere else.
This is all your fault, Douglas snapped, pointing his index finger
as Zoë as he spoke. If you would have just let things be, he would
be fine right now.
Dont you dare yell at her, Kipp ordered, snapping at Douglas
as Douglas eyes met his. Dont you dare blame all of this on her
because this is just as much your fault. You both are to blame. I just dont
understand why you all would hide something so big like this from me? Why
make it a lie?
I figured you could live a better life, Douglas tried to explain,
but realized that probably sounded really bad and he cut himself off. Kipp,
I never meant to hurt you.
Kipp, Zoë muttered his name slowly before taking a step in
towards Kipp. She reached out to touch his cheek gently before letting out
a small sigh. I always loved you, I never stopped loving you.
Then why did you try to put me up for an adoption? Kipp questioned
before shaking his head slowly and walking behind the couch. Just all
of you--give me some space.
Come on Kipp, Douglas frowned, giving Kipp a pleading look before
looking over at Zoë once more. She should have just let it be,
its all your fault Zoë.
Would you please stop, both of you, Kellen begged, placing his
hands on his hips as he spoke. You all act like this is some type of
game, to see who could win more brownie points. All I am seeing in front of
me between you two is like a soap opera. I feel like I am standing in the
middle of Days Of Our Lives. How about you all give Kipp some time and stop
pushing everything on him like this. Do you think you could do that? Because
I think the more you keep fighting, the more he isnt going to want to
be around either one of you. So why dont you both just stop for a couple
of minutes. Can you keep it under control for just a little bit?
Kellen, Kipp sighed, reaching out to squeeze Kellens shoulder
lightly. I appreciate all the help, but I think I can handle this. I
need to make something clear to the both of them.
Kellen nodded slowly before backing away from the group to look things over. What was happening right now could only turn a little worse before getting better. Kipp gave Kellen a small glance over his shoulder before nodding slowly. Kipp had to let everything out and he was about to.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dean stood outside of Judy Stevenss apartment knowing full well that
at this time of night he was probably the last person in the world that anyone
behind this closed door would want to see. Come to think of it at any time
of day he was probably the last person anyone would want here, but he couldnt
just walk away--not after the news that had come his way. He knocked again
pleasantly surprised to see Deidra on the other side of the door. Of course
judging by the expression on her face, she was obviously less than impressed
to see him.
What are you doing here? she questioned with a small scowl. how
did you find me?
I was taking a chance, he confessed with a small sigh, Deidra
we need to talk.
Dean, now is not the time to get into it about us, she grumbled
in response a yawn spilling over her lips alerting him that she mustve
been sleeping before his arrival. I really dont think that
Its about Bruce, he blurted out cutting her off abruptly
before she charted into a discussion about what was wrong with their relationship,
Deidra, youre not safe in Coral Valley. Hes back and
What? she blinked back at him awareness dawning in over her. How
do you know?
Hes attacked a few more women. One was fortunate enough to get
away, but the others
his voice trailed off as a shiver crept in
up over his spine, Deidra, youre not safe here. I think we need
to get you somewhere that he cant reach you. Somewhere that
Save it Dean, she huffed impatiently at him, Im not
going anywhere. I belong here in Coral Valley and I dont let someone
like Bruce steal my life from me.
Thats very noble Deidra, but if he comes after you again, which
I suspect he will, you wont be that fortunate, he explained seeing
the defiance behind her eyes, Look you can hate me as long as you want
to, but this isnt about us. This is about protecting you. I think you
need someone to keep an eye on you--someone beyond your mother considering
what kind of monster Bruce is
Dean I dont think
she started once more.
Deidra, please dont make this about us. Think about you--about
how he could hurt you. The last thing I want is for him to do something horrible
to you. It would kill me if
he paused knowing that right now the
last thing he needed to get into with her was his own tortured emotions. Hed
already blown his cover and screwed up his objective eye in this case by falling
in love with her and yeah it had also cost them a future together, but hed
be damned if he let anything hurt her now. Deidra if nothing else call
Dave. Have him post a guard on the door here so that youll be safe.
Please
if not for me, then for yourself
Dean I, she paused taking in his words. She finally nodded, Okay,
Ill call Dave.
Thank you, he replied with a relieved smile, I appreciate
that.
Im not doing it for you, she mouthed with a small scowl
giving him one last look before stepping back into the apartment saying nothing
more.
Maybe not, he whispered to himself thinking about the fear that
had overtaken him from the moment hed discovered Mathis was back in
town, but in knowing youre safe, thats all I need to be
happy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Now that Kayla is asleep, Dave began, letting out a small sigh
as he slid into the bed next to Carly. We can have a nice relaxing night
without anyone coming in to bother us.
Sounds nice, Carly replied with a small smile as she cuddled into
Dave as Dave wrapped his arm around her shoulders lightly. It sounds
very nice actually.
This has been my dream for the last few days, Dave yawned, knowing
that tonight he would be able to have a good nights rest without any interruptions.
His thinking was cut off as he heard the banging on his front door. And
now my dream is over.
Who in the world could that be? Carly questioned with a small
groan as Dave slowly got back out of the bed.
I dont know, he sighed, walking towards the bedroom door
before walking out into the hallway. Ill be right back.
He had to wonder the same thing that Carly was. Who in the world would be
coming over right now?
Coming, Dave called out as the person now began to ring his doorbell.
He quickly opened his door before seeing Cori just walk right into his house
and throwing her hands up in the air. Well, hello Cori.
I hate Heather Gibbons, Cori scowled, shrugging her shoulders
as she spoke. No matter what I do, I cant get that woman away
from Diego. Not her or her needy, clingy sister.
Hey sweetheart, Dave smiled as he shut the door and saw Carly
standing in the hallway. Carly finished tying up her robe before letting out
a small yawn.
Ill go put some tea on, Carly decided after hearing the
blow out that Cori just had. Ill be right back.
Okay, Dave nodded slowly before looking back into his sisters
eyes, Now slowly and very carefully tell me what happened?
Its just those two damn sisters, Cori blurted out, falling
back onto Daves couch as she let out an exaggerated sigh. They
never leave Diego alone. Its like a race to see who can get Diego to
cater to them the most.
Im sure he is just doing his job, Dave frowned, taking a
step forward towards Cori before sitting down next to her on the couch. Dont
worry sis, I know Diego isnt a bad guy. He wouldnt do anything
to hurt you.
Its not him I am worried about, Cori declared, letting out
a small sigh as she leaned back into the couch even more. Her whole body was
filled with rage as she thought about Sarah and Heather. Every time she had
the chance to be with Diego, Heather or Sarah would always have a problem.
It was like Diego liked solving peoples stupid issues more than being
around her. I am worried about the stupid two of them. They are just
evil.
Im sure everything will be okay sis, Dave promised before
hearing a familiar name spoken of over the television in front of him and
Cori.
Dave listened carefully as he heard the news about the Bruce killing once
again. Was he ever going to stop?
I have to do something about this, Dave muttered to himself as
he stood up from the couch. He could no longer sit back and watch everything
happen.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Don heard knocking on his door as he quickly got off the bed and turned the
television off. He walked over to the door and looked to see who it was before
opening the door.
Ken, Don smiled, opening the door as he smiled widely at his friend
before him. What can I do for you buddy?
Yeah, I was wondering--have you heard from Shannon? Ken questioned
worriedly seeing Don nod slowly. Ive tried to call Michelle a
couple of times, but I have been getting nothing.
Dont worry about it buddy, Don hushed, letting a small chuckle
as he held onto the doorknob tightly. You know how women are, they forget
to check in when they are having so much fun. I actually did get a call from
Shannon earlier. She told me how they were doing and all that.
Really? Ken watched Don slowly before Ken slid his hands into
his pockets slowly. So what did she say? Is everything going okay?
Oh yeah, I heard Michelle in that background and everything, Don
answered with a small nod. Don leaned up against the doorframe as he spoke
to Ken before letting out a small laugh. It sounds like they are having
a good old time.
Oh, Ken mouthed, looking down towards the ground as he thought.
Sure, he knew that Michelle and Shannon would be having fun, but he figured
that they would be back before him and Don. Thats nice I guess.
You want to come in buddy? You dont have to keep standing in the
hall, Don opened the door a little more as he led Ken to the sitting
area in the hotel room. Take a seat.
Thanks, Ken let out a small smile as he sat down before looking
down at his watch. Kens eyes looked up to see Dons eyes focused
on him.
You look perplexed, Don pointed out with a small frown as he sat
down next to Ken. He leaned forward in his chair, resting his elbows on his
knees. You got something on your mind?
Well actually, yeah I do. I have been thinking a lot lately, Ken
admitted, letting out a small sigh as he saw Don nod slowly. You see,
now that I am about to get married--I cant help but think about Caitlin
and how she died.
Right, Don nodded understandingly as Ken thought to himself for
a moment. It was like Ken couldnt find the right words to tell Don what
he was feeling. Whats up man? You can talk to me.
I know, Ken frowned, folding his hands in his lap as he leaned
back in his chair. I just, I am starting to think about Caitlin and
how Wendy left me. Its all getting to me you know. I have been thinking
about everything that has led me to here and now. And I cant help but
think about what could have been in my life if I would have stayed with them.
What would have happened if Wendy wouldnt have left me? What would have
happened if Caitlin would have survived that damn accident?
I understand the feeling you are going through. Hell, I went through
them myself, Don nodded sympathetically as he let his own memories return
to him. When I lost Matts mother Stephanie, I thought that my
world was over. I thought that there was no other woman in this world that
could give me another chance like Stephanie did. I know that no one is ever
going to take Stephanies place, but fate brought Shannon to me. She
changed everything for me. Sure shell never be a replacement for Stephanie,
but it was a sign. I mean yeah maybe I rushed it a little bit, but in matters
of love, you need to be sure about everything.
I know, Ken let out a deep sigh as his own confusion flew through
his mind. It was getting harder by the minute as this wedding got closer.
You know, if you have got second thoughts--maybe you should back out
of this one Ken, Don suggested, reaching out to squeeze Kens shoulder
gently. You dont want to live your life asking yourself, did I
make the right decision?
I dont want to back out of this one Don, Ken assured him
with a small sigh, I know Michelle is special. I cant walk away
from this wedding, not now.
To me man, you seem to be having second thoughts, Don pointed
out, shrugging his shoulders as he spoke, I dont think you should
rush things and that might be what you are doing right now. I feel for you
man, but you cant push things.
Ill be fine Don, Ken insisted before letting out a small
sigh, I think I will be okay to marry Michelle. In fact, I know I will
be fine marrying her. Thanks for caring though.
Yeah, I always be here for you man, Don promised letting out a
small sigh as he looked down towards the ground.
So he tried tonight more than anything to get Ken to give up on Michelle,
but it didnt work. Although, maybe something good would come from this
conversation because it did seem like Ken was having second thoughts. Hopefully
everything would turn out as planned and Ken would be able to see Michelle
for what she truly was behind her fakeness.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kyle bit down on his bottom lip as started driving back towards Russell and
Averys place. He promised Mindy that he would go apologize, but he just
couldnt. The hardest part about him apologizing, was that he did nothing
wrong. Every time a problem came along, Sarah was never good enough to be
there for him. She always broke at the wrong moments. Of course he loved her,
but every time she hurt him, another piece of his heart would break more and
more each time. Pretty soon there was going to be nothing else left. He wished
like hell she wouldnt have said those words to him that night, but thats
what made this his reality. She said those words, she broke his heart again
and yet--she really didnt care.
If she truly cared, she would have called. She would have tried to make things
right, not place the blame on him. Hell, she even said that they were broken
up. Now did he say those words? No, never. But the thought of her telling
everyone that is what got to him.
I told her to take it as she wanted and I guess she wanted us to be
broken up, Kyle muttered to himself before letting out a small sigh.
Sarah always seemed to let him down and he was always so damn blind about
it. When they were younger, she always broke him in half. He would try and
try all he could, but it was never good enough for her. He couldnt help
but think of the time on his birthday when they were teenagers and he asked
her to come over. That was one of the biggest heartbreaks he could have had.
He had something planned for her on his own birthday.
Lighten up Houston, Heather frowned, sitting on the edge of
the bed as she lightly elbowed Kyle in the side. Its not like
its the end of your life.
Yeah, I just cant believe she didnt come over, Kyle
frowned, feeling Heather place her hand over his gently. Im so
stupid. I knew she wouldnt show up--that guy is more important than
me.
Im here, Heather pointed out with a small smile as he looked
over at her and grinned. I wouldnt miss your birthday Kyle.
I know I can always depend on you Heather, he replied with a small
smile as he reached out to pull her into an embrace. He hugged her tightly
before letting her out of his grip. I dont know what I would do
without you.
Hey, if I were you, I wouldnt know what to do without me either,
Heather chuckled, getting a small laugh out of him. Anyways, you want
to see the gifts that I got you?
Of course I do, Kyle nodded slowly before letting out a small
smile as she sat up and walked over to his desk where she had put them earlier.
Okay, so some of them might be a little tacky, just give me a break,
Heather shrugged her shoulders as she handed him the first box. Alright
so, go ahead. Open it.
Im sure they are perfect, he declared, letting out a small
smile as he opened the first box. He pulled out what seemed to be a long jewelry
case. When he opened it, he found a silver chain necklace before him. Heather,
this must have been expensive. How did you come up with the money to get this?
That doesnt matter because nothing is too expensive for my best
friend, Heather pointed out a with a small smile, watching as he put
it on slowly. How do you like it?
I love it, he replied with a tiny smile before looking up at her
with amazing brown eyes. Im never going to take it off.
Yeah, right, Heather rolled her eyes before letting out a small
laugh, Heres the next one.
Okay, Kyle reached out to grab the present from her and slowly
opened it. His eyebrows tensed as he looked at the stuffed animals before
him. It was a groom bear and bride bear that were stuck together.
This was all your moms idea here, Heather declared, holding
her hands up in the air. Its kind of cute though, look at the
picture between them.
Hey, thats us at like six, Kyle laughed, seeing the picture
of him and Heather when they were younger. Thats the day we played
getting married. You had your Barbie wedding dress and I had that suit my
mom had for me. I remember we played video games for our honeymoon.
I cant believe you remembered that, Heather frowned, sitting
down on the bed next to him as he nudged her in the shoulder gently.
Hey, how can I forget getting married to the most beautiful girl,
Kyle smirked, wrapping his arm around her shoulder gently. You know
what? Im going to put this in my wallet and every time I am feeling
down--I am going to look at it so I can smile and think about this moment
with you.
Man, you are really doing good with this kissing up here, Heather
chuckled, feeling her cheeks become slightly warm. She watched as he pulled
the picture out and put it into one of the pockets of his wallet.
Im not kissing up, Kyle promised letting out a small smile
before holding his wallet up to show her the picture. Im always
going to keep it on me.
Okay, on to the next gift, Heather handed him the next one as
he let out a small chuckle.
How many gifts did you get me? Kyle laughed, watching her shrug
her shoulders as he began to open it.
Nothing is too much for you, Heather declared, watching as Kyle
pulled the video game out of the wrapping of his next present.
Hey, its a videogame, Kyle got off the bed and reached out
for her hand. She took his hand in hers as he pulled her up to him. You
know what this means right?
We have to beat it, Heather arched her eyebrow as Kyle nodded
slowly. Sarah isnt here to play third player though.
I think we can handle it without her, Kyle declared, letting out
a small smile as she went to walk away from him. He pulled her back towards
him as she looked up at him with her beautiful green eyes. Thank you
for everything. You dont know how much this meant to me.
It probably wasnt that much, Heather pointed out, his fingertips
ran down the side of her arm gently.
It meant everything to me, he declared with a small smirk as he
leaned forward to press a small kiss on her cheek. And hey, how about
after we beat this video game, we go to the hill to look at the stars and
hang out.
Sounds great, Heather smiled as Kyle pulled her out into the game
room so they could play his new game.
Kyle smiled to himself as reached for the chain that was around his neck.
He promised he would never take it off and he never broke that promise. That
was how it always went though, Heather was always the one that was there for
him and cheered him up while Sarah was off with someone. The promises that
were made were usually only Kyle and Heather. Sarah never could keep a promise,
especially for important things. That night on his birthday, he was planning
on giving Sarah a bracelet that he saved his money up for him to buy it for
her. When she didnt show, he just took it back the next day. There was
no use in letting it lie around because she would never care enough about
him to actually ever come over. It was actually a better thing that Sarah
didnt show up that night because his night turned out to be better than
he planned anyways.
Now he wished things were like the old days. Sarah would break his heart and
then he would have Heather there for him to forget that pain, but now he was
left having to sit and let the pain settle and stay stuck inside of him.
The traffic was ridiculous as he looked up to see the cars before him going
nowhere. A small sigh escaped his lips as he reached into his pocket to pull
out his wallet. He flipped it open to see the first picture he had in there.
It was a picture of him and Sarah. He had to admit that he still loved Sarah,
but she hurt him. How was he going to love someone who obviously didnt
care about him as much as he cared for her? He wanted things to be better,
but the power was in Sarahs hands now, not his.
I guess things dont end up like you hope, Kyle sighed, running
his finger along the outline of Sarahs face in the picture. He let out
a small breath as he flipped to the next picture.
A small smile escaped his lips as he saw the picture of him and Heather. The
one he promised he would always hold onto. Sure, it was a little faded out
at this point, but it still worked to make him smile.
Kyle, someone called out his name as they knocked on his window
making him jump.
What the hell, Kyle jumped, dropping his wallet as he saw Shannon
outside of his window. He picked his wallet back up as he let his heartbeat
slow down a small bit. He rolled his window down before looking at her awkwardly.
You want to join me? The cars wont be moving anytime soon,
Shannon informed him, seeing him nod slowly and give her a look like he was
crazy. The road is blocked off and I have to tell everyone to turn around
and go back.
Okay, just let me pull my car to the side, Kyle nodded slowly
before rolling his window back up and pulling to the side of the road where
no one would hit it.
He got out of the car before running back over towards Shannon who was standing
by the wooded area. She turned to face him as he finally reached her.
Whats going on here? Kyle questioned with a small sigh as
he saw her let out a small frown. Shannon? Whats going on?
There was another Bruce Mathis victim, Shannon informed him as
she saw the color over his features turn pale. We are trying to find
some clues. This is worse than before Kyle.
You have to be kidding me, Kyle gulped down, running his hands
along the back of his neck, Do you have any idea where he could be?
Does Avery know? Did you call her yet?
Im sure she will find out soon, she promised as he shook
his head slowly.
No, thats not good enough, Kyle stated with a small shake
of his head, If hes out there, then that means she could be in
danger. That creep cant get to her. Not now.
Kyle, I know she knows by now, Shannon promised once more as Kyles
face became more worried by the second.
We have to find that freak, Kyle declared letting out a small
sigh, I cant let him hurt her.
He hadnt talked to Avery in a while, but he couldnt let that get in the way. She was like a sister to him and he had to know she was okay. If she needed his help, he was going to be there for her.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I am so sorry about that, Sarah began feeling her face burning
with embarrassment after shed lead Diego out of the kitchen and into
her bathroom area. She glanced over her shoulder at him briefly wondering
if she was apologizing for squirting him with the sink hose or for kissing
him like she had when their playful laughter had transformed into something
a bit more dangerous. When theyd pulled away from that kiss, he hadnt
said anything and neither had she, yet there was no mistaking that this second
kiss they had shared was entirely not an accident like the first one had been.
Theyd both tried to be adult and chalk it up to nerves the first time
their lips had collided in a momentarily second of release, but the second
time, well deep down Sarah knew there were no excuses. She quickly focused
on the closet in front of her pulling open the door in a haste, Ill
get you a towel.
Sarah, thats not really necessary considering that I should probably
get going, Diego replied nervously unable to take his eyes off of her.
While he knew full well that he shouldve left hours ago--that he shouldve
ignored that nagging feeling burning inside of him to just be close to her,
he feared that it was already too late. He could still taste her cherry lip
gloss on his lips, could still feel the raw, untamed fire of her kiss upon
him and as his gaze traveled over the contours of her curvy figure admiring
the way the lines of her blouse clung to her, he knew that he sure as hell
should go running in the opposite direction starting now.
Nonsense. I got you soaked, Sarah spun around to hand him a thick,
white towel, The least you can do is let me help you dry off.
Sarah, look about before, he began reluctantly reaching for the
towel. Their fingers grazed up against one another for the briefest of moments
before he tugged the towel away from her, I know that was kind of unexpected
and
And its okay, Sarah cleared her throat uneasily. She dropped
her gaze to the floor before offering up a small shrug, I mean we were
both kind of just caught up in the moment, right?
Right, he nodded still unable to focus on anything, but her, It
was just all of the tension getting to us
Right and I mean it didnt mean anything, Sarah replied clearing
her throat again. Her dark gaze ascended from the floor, to see the sticky,
wet material of Diegos white button down shirt pressing firm against
his muscled torso. While shed always thought that he appeared to be
so proper and respectable in those kind of shirts, there was something about
the way that it hung to him now that was beyond sinful. Her throat grew tight
just thinking about what it would be like to peel the material from his bronzed
skin to lean forward and kiss his chest and
She let out a small cough, I think I might have something dry for you
to put on in my room. I can just go look for it and
Sarah, I dont really need you to
he started completely
on edge when she brushed past him, her arm barely grazing his in the movement.
Ill be right back, she blurted out refusing to look back
upon him as he stood in her bathroom looking yummy and so irresistible. She
could almost feel his eyes burning into her as she stepped into her room,
but she couldnt look back. She couldnt allow herself to travel
down that road especially when things in every other area of her life were
so up in the air.
Stop this, she warned herself trying to keep a clear head about
everything. She moved over to her closet opening the door and finding herself
at a loss. A few seconds ago she knew why shed come in here--knew full
well what she was looking for, but now all she could think about was Diego.
All she could focus on was the way that his lips felt against hers--the way
his mouth seemed to have a way of making her forget about all her troubles
and just melt into him. It was as if hed found that one place in her
that could erase all the hurting and
Sarah, I think I should get going. You dont need to worry about
the shirt, Diegos voice roused her from her lingering thoughts.
She spun around to see him standing in her doorway, his hair damp and stuck
to the side of his face just in front of his eyes. He reached out sliding
a hand through his thick, wet hair before speaking up again. I can just
dry off at home. You dont need to worry about it.
No Diego, I want to find you something. If I just have a minute to look
in here, she began to thumb through the clothes in her closet desperately
seeking out something for him. Shirt after shirt passed by her with each flick
of her wrist, yet she couldnt seem to find the right thing. Her breathing
grew uneven, her thoughts tapering off to the image of the man standing behind
her looking so very inviting and just when she thought she was going to lose
her mind completely she felt a hand on her shoulder suddenly grounding her.
Sarah stop, Diegos low, sexy whisper caught her off guard
as it held a husky, masculine drawl that had her wishing like hell she could
ignore the way it had seemed to turn her insides to Jell-O. She closed her
eyes for a moment feeling a light squeeze on her shoulder before he spoke
up again, I really should go.
No, she shook her head, her eyes still locked shut as she drew
in an uneasy breath, dont go. Please Diego
dont leave
Sarah, weve already been through this and, he started going
against what he was longing for in his heart. He prepared to do the right
thing, to walk away from her and forget about what it was hed kept inside
of him since the day hed met her, but when he felt her hand squeeze
over his, he realized he couldnt walk away.
Diego, I dont want to be alone right now, she replied in
a low, trembling voice. She opened her eyes and spun around to face him, her
lower lip quivering with emotion. She inhaled in a small, urgent gasp before
taking a step forward, I dont want you to leave me tonight.
Sarah, do you know what youre asking, he couldnt help
but ask, his arm sliding involuntarily around her slender waist to pull her
to him without thought or logic behind the movement.
She nodded tears burning behind her dark eyes. Her fingers teased up over
the front of his shirt thoughtlessly plucking open the buttons before her.
Diego, I want you to stay.
I want to stay, but thats the problem Sarah, his fingers
slid up against the hollow of her cheekbone, if I stay I think we both
know whats going to happen between us. We both know that I cant
be the friend that Ive tried to be.
I dont want you to be my friend Diego. I want you to be
she trailed off searching for the right words. Her hands pushed in underneath
his shirt, easing the sticky material off of his shoulders and down his muscled
arms, I need you to be
To be, he repeated his dark eyes desperately seeking out approval
for what he was certain was about to happen between them.
With me, she mouthed tipping up on her toes and kissing him in
a heated frenzy. Her hands tore at his shirt ripping it down over his arms.
She felt him shake his arms out of it before his hold on her waist constricted
and he pushed her back into the wall beside her closet.
His mouth collided with hers no longer in a chaste fashion like before, but
now it was strong and determined, his tongue teasing into the warmth between
her lips, caressing her with a newfound determination. She couldnt help
but whimper as her fingers tangled through his dark hair. He pushed again
bumping her into the wall behind her and before she knew it, his hands had
dropped down to her hips, curling around to her bottom as he pulled her flush
against his aroused form. Their mouths parted, lips met and in that moment
Sarah found herself filled with a hunger unlike anything shed ever known.
Ive wanted you since I first met you, Diego confessed, his
thick fingers tracing over her soft curves before he used his hands to pry
open the wet material of her blouse.
She felt him pull back ever so slightly, his eyes trailing over her body before
his index finger glided over the swell of her breast revealed to him over
the top of her pale blue lace bra. She sucked in a breath fighting to repress
the soft cries of pleasure that erupted in the back of her throat as his palm
caressed her, testing her fullness. His finger dipped in beneath the delicate
lace, teasing her sensitive flesh with his skilled caress. This time she couldnt
fight the reaction hed stirred up inside of her.
Diego, she mouthed arching back into the wall as his hands disposed
of her blouse. She felt his fingers slip in underneath her bra straps sliding
them down her arms, before he reached around to unhook her bra freeing her
up to his greedy attention. His breath skimmed over her collar bone before
his tongue whisked over her breast, catching her hot spot with his hot, wet
caress.
Mmm
Sarah purred tugging on his hair before her hands coiled
down over his shoulders scratching lightly down his back. She felt him tense
up beneath her urgings before he focused his attention on her other breast
driving her to desire again and again.
Sarah, her name buzzed from his lips over her body like a slow
burning torture. She cried out digging her nails into his skin until her palms
curved up over his shoulders and into his hair again.
Tugging on his hair, she pulled his lips up to hers in an urgent kiss. Their
mouths melded into one another with raw, unmasked emotion both of them refusing
to hide behind what was expected of them any longer. She felt his arm drop
down behind her bottom scooping her up off of the floor and into his arms.
Readily she hugged his shoulders kissing him as if shed never stop the
emotions that were pouring out of her.
She felt him kick down on her mattress kneeling over her bed. His lips eased
away from hers for a brief second before he moved in over her, his body was
over hers, pressing in against her. She curled her leg around his hips loving
the feel of his weight over her. There was something about his cologne, something
sexy and exotic about the way he kissed her--about the way his hands knew
all the right places to awaken those parts of her that shed thought
had faded away when Kyle walked out of her life. She felt a faint flicker
of guilt press over her at the thought of Kyle and for a moment she pulled
away from the kiss.
What is it? Whats wrong? Diego questioned worry pressing
over his lust filled eyes.
Nothing, she lied shaking her head before yanking him in over
her again. Boldly she rolled him onto his back, moving in over him. He lay
beneath her, the warmth of his body hers for the taking. She tossed her damp
hair back over her shoulders, feeling the way his gaze penetrated her, taking
in every line, every curve with a greedy need. He reached out to cup her breasts
in hand before he raised up to kiss her again, his lips devoting their full
attention to pleasing her. She rocked her hips against him feeling him hard
and needy beneath her. Oh how she longed to fill the emptiness inside of her
up with the breath of life hed offered her. Her hands traced over his
back, down to his waist before circling around to push open his belt buckle.
Sarah wait, Diegos fingers reached for hers pulling her
away from him for a brief moment, If we do this, theres not going
to be a way to take this back. We cant erase what happens if we let
this happen. Are you sure youre ready for this?
She nodded, Diego I want you, she assured him, her fingers escaping
his hold. She pulled open his belt before moving her attention to his zipper.
She watched the worry behind his eyes erase as her hand dipped in to touch
him, to feel the life and passion shed awakened inside of him. With
a small smile, she pushed him back onto the bed, her hands sliding in over
his chest, down over his abdomen before she yanked at his pants, pulling his
boxers down with them in one swift tug. She saw the mixed emotions on his
face, but before he could issue another voice of reason, her lips dipped down
over his thigh creating a hot, trail of desire leading to her first taste
of him.
Diegos fingers eased through her blonde hair, a low, guttural sound
building in the back of his throat. He closed his eyes feeling her doing her
best to drive any ounce of rationality out of him. With every movement her
mouth made over him, he found himself closer and closer to heaven. Hed
wanted her for so very long, yet he had thought it was impossible, but now
Sarah, he muttered her name pulling her in over him again. Their
eyes met for a brief moment before he rolled her onto her back and he quickly
tore her out of her jeans. He moved in over her again, his touch dipping in
over her soft, skin, feeling the warmth of her thighs against his caress before
he found her secret hotspot. His gaze fell upon her face, watching her bite
down on her lip now lost in waves of ecstasy and in that moment he realized
hed never seen her any more beautiful than she was arching up against
his caress, his name falling from her lips like a siren song causing him to
forget all about the rigid guidelines hed swore to keep in dealing with
her. Hed promised himself that hed be her friend, that hed
only allow things to go that far, but now as he watched a wave of tremors
pass over her, he knew that would never be enough.
With shaky hands he reached out across to the floor searching for his pants
shed discarded. He was almost there for them when he felt Sarahs
lips trace over his shoulder. She nibbled on his neck before holding up a
condom in her right hand.
This what youre looking for, she questioned breathlessly,
her face flushed from the first rush of sensation hed unleashed in her.
He nodded accepting it from her hand before their mouths collided in another
desperate union. Together they tore open the package and he fell back onto
the mattress allowing her to sheath him in it before she settled in over his
hips, her hands planted firmly on the center of his chest.
Ive wanted this for so long, he confessed reaching up to
touch her face, to memorize everything about being with her before his left
hand curled around her body, holding onto her waist securely before joining
them as one. Sarah arched her head back, a cry escaping her kiss-swelled lips
and with each movement they made, he felt his secret feelings for her surfacing
again and again. He captured her hips, guiding her movements before spinning
her beneath him on the bed, their bodies joined in complete passion, their
rhythm threatening to tear apart everything that existed for them outside
of this room, but as their eyes met, he felt her legs wrap around him. He
watched her eyes glazed over with passion, her lips pursed in soft, raspy
cries of pleasure and their hearts pounded with one another, it didnt
take long for Diego to realize that this was as good as it would ever get
for him. He hadnt felt this way about a woman since Maria and now that
he was making love to Sarah, he promised himself that he wouldnt hide
from this any longer. He couldnt contain that place in his heart that
hed always tried to pretend was dead inside.
I love you, he mouthed against her lips, his words breaking through
the surface in a heartfelt admission as her nails raked down his body, taking
their union to the next level while the world around them spiraled out of
control leaving them both with the realization that there would never, ever
be any turning back for them. From today on out, there would never be any
hiding from the truth that burned like a hot fire between them. There was
no denying what was there--what had always been there and what Diego believed
would always be there for them.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I understand that in some type of awkward way--the both of you were
trying to protect me, Kipp began, feeling his throat became dry as he
thought of something else to say. He wanted to try and talk to Douglas and
Zoë. Even if I dont understand either one of your ways, I
still have to respect the fact that Zoë told me. I respect the fact that
the both of you were thinking about my being hurt and trying to prevent that
from happening. But what cant understand is why would you both make
this build up so long? I would have understood.
If I could have, I would have, Zoë insisted, a small frown
passing past her lips before she shrugged her shoulders. I wanted to
tell you Kipp--I wanted to tell you so bad
But you didnt, Kipp pointed out with a small shake of his
head and throwing his hands up in the air as he spoke. No one ever told
me and thats why I am upset right now.
Kipp, I know its hard to believe, Douglas began before Kipp
threw his hands up in the air, cutting him off.
I dont want to hear it, Kipp stated with a small scowl before
looking between Zoë and Douglas. I dont want to hear anymore
of this. I want to talk to the both of you, but I need some time alone. I
need some time to myself so I can think things over.
So, it would be best if you left, Douglas pointed out, shooting
a look over at Zoë. So, if you would excuse us I think me and my
son should have a conversation.
No, I mean the both of you need to leave, Kipp declared, taking
a few steps toward his front door. I want everyone but Kellen out of
this house right now. Zoë, I promise I will talk to you soon, I just
need some time to think.
Alright son, Zoë nodded slowly before walking out the door.
She turned around and gave Kipp a small saddened glance before giving into
his wishes and leaving.
Now if you would leave, Kipp pointed out the door as a twist of
confusion overcame Douglass features. Kipp rolled his eyes before snapping
his fingers. Im not kidding--out!
Kipp, Douglas frowned, walking over towards the door before taking
a step outside, I dont understand.
Of course you wouldnt understand, you never really could understand
anything. Goodbye, Kipp got out before closing his front door and locking
it. He leaned his back against the door as small breath escaped his lips.
I cant believe they would do something like this to me. My own
mother
my own father
Hey, Kellen hushed, walking across the room and over to Kipp.
Kellen pulled Kipp into a small embrace as he rested one of his hands on the
back of Kipps neck . Its okay, dont let this kill
you inside.
I just cant believe that they would be so cold about this. You
would think that they would tell me, Kipp began, letting out a small
sigh as he rested his head against Kellens chest. You think they
would care
They care Kipp, Kellen hushed, leaning back as his hand slid into
Kipps. How about we just sit down and take it easy? Everything
is going to be okay.
Kipp followed Kellen to the couch and sat down before Kellen wrapped his arm
around Kipps shoulders gently. Kellen felt Kipps head rest against
his shoulder as he let out a small sigh. Never had he seen Kipp this upset
about something before. It was starting to worry him a little bit.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dave knocked on Judys door over and over again until finally, Judy
opened up with a worried expression over her features. She placed her hand
over her chest as she let out a sigh of relief.
Dave, honey, Judy let out small breath before taking a step back.
You scared me, whats wrong? You look so pale. Is something wrong?
Are you sick?
No, I came to check in on Deidra, Dave explained to her with a
small sigh as he shrugged his shoulders. He hadnt meant to worry Judy,
but his worries were becoming stronger by the minute as he thought about Bruce.
He knew that Bruce was crazy and would probably try to do something to hurt
Deidra again. With him standing on the porch that long knocking, he was afraid
that had already happened. Thank god that Judy seemed to be okay when he got
here. With the news on
Bruce killing again, Judy finished, seeing Dave nod slowly. She
folded her arms out in front of her chest before nodding slowly. She watched
as Dave tried to catch his breath, showing that he had rushed over here quickly.
You didnt have to worry Dave--we already know. The both of us
had found out about it a little while before you got here.
But how, Dave questioned slowly, thinking of how Deidra could
have possibly found out. So okay, maybe that was a really stupid question
because he had found out himself by television and she had just as great the
chance of finding out as he did. Did she hear it over the television?
No she didnt hear about it on the television, Judy answered,
thinking back to when they had found out about Bruce and how he was back in
town, causing more horror than needed. Dean came by here earlier and
told the both of us about everything. He was so worried himself, that he had
to come over here and let the both of us know what was going on.
Oh, I guess that means she is okay now that Dean told her, Dave
mouthed, looking down as he pulled his jacket in closer to his body. So
youre positive that she knows?
Yeah, I know it probably is scaring her a little bit, but its
best for her to know, Judy insisted, thinking back to all the horrible
stories she heard about Bruce. She needs to be aware that maniac is
around.
Well, if she needs anything--or if you need anything, all you have to
do is call me, Dave informed her with a small frown as he spoke, You
need anything and I will be here within minutes. I need to make sure she stays
safe, we cant let that psycho get his hands on her and hurt her in any
way.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Avery placed her hands firmly on Gradys shoulders thinking about what
hed just said to her. She started to back away from him in an attempt
to scoot up and out of the bed, but he pulled her in closer to him. Now
I know youre drunk because you couldnt possibly mean that.
And just why not? Grady questioned uneasily feeling his body grow
rigid at her blatant refusal of him. Here he was ready to delve into his fantasies
about her and there she was being obstinate as usual defying his own declarations
with her own twisted Avery logic. Why wouldnt I mean it?
Because I know you, she replied pointedly, her eyes searching
his for clarity or perhaps it was for an affirmation of her declaration. Either
way she didnt seem to be getting what she was hoping for. Youve
spent all these years making me miserable and
And Ive done a wonderful job of covering up for how I really felt,
he confessed, his voice raw and full of yearning as the underside of his palm
pressed in against her soft skin, teasing over her shoulder in a slow, sensual
movement, In hiding how much I wanted to kiss you that night that you
took me to the Beholder party. Right before Russ came in I found myself imagining
what it would be like to be that close to you--to taste your lips after all
the nights I spent dreaming about them. Id imagined even back then that
youd be like a culmination of fire and seduction--that your passion
for life would no doubt make you remarkable at kissing.
Grady
she dropped her gaze her eyes trying to focus on anything
but him.
And I was right, he curled his finger underneath her chin urging
her to meet his eyes again, Kissing you is like heaven. Its something
that I thought about time after time. When I was holding you that night--when
we were dancing together--the way that you leaned into me--the way it felt
to have you in my arms
it was like one of those fairy tales where the
prince takes his princess to the ball--where they danced the night away lost
in one another
But that night was
Avery stammered feeling her face grow
hot with an unexpected fire as she tried to process what he was saying to
her.
And then there were all those other moments through the years,
his words poured from him freely now that he was no longer a man with anything
else to lose but his heart, I always thought that you were by far the
prettiest girl on the playground and when you approached me to play baseball
that first day, I couldnt help but wonder what it was about you that
had me so upset--so infuriated
I told you to go to hell, she reminded him with a small laugh
nervousness rumbling in her abdomen.
Yes, he laughed lightly thinking back, Yes you did, but
it was something more than that. You had a spark about you--a fire and somehow
I couldnt quite get it out of my head that Id hesitated--that
Id just let you stomp off like that instead of going after you. Here
I spent so many years wishing like hell that I couldve gone after you
that day on the playground--that I wouldve been smart enough to walk
you home, but instead I had to live in the realization that I missed out when
Russ was the one that found you first. You have no idea how jealous I was
when I found out you two had something between you. I cant even begin
to tell you how many nights I lay awake wondering what it wouldve been
like if it wouldve been us together instead of the two of you
Grady, she blinked back at him, shock evident in her face, I
cant believe that Im hearing this
that Im
I cant believe Im telling you all of this, but its
the truth, his thumb skimmed over her bottom lip gingerly, I have
never met another woman who has made me feel as reckless and out of control
like you do Avery. You know how to get to me--to really make me want to react--to
lose myself in thoughts of only you--to surrounded myself by you even when
I dont want to
Thats because youre a hothead where Im concerned.
You said it yourself I infuriate you and
, she offered up with
a nervous smile not quite sure what to think about what he was telling her.
No, its because when Im with you, something happens to me.
I turn into this man that, he leaned forward kissing her quickly, that
just cant help himself.
Grady, I know what youre saying but
she pressed her
hand in the center of his chest once more.
But what? You want more? Grady questioned arching a curious brow,
Okay, how about we talk about the time I found you beside that tree?
You know when you broke your arm? Do you remember that?
She nodded, I remember.
Well when I took you to the hospital I was so afraid, he confessed
his fingers sweeping in to push the hair from her eyes as he spoke from his
heart, I kept thinking to myself that I didnt want you to cry--that
I didnt want you to be in pain. I kept praying to God over and over
again to keep you from hurting--to just see that you were okay because to
see you cry like that it killed me inside. I wanted like nothing else for
you to be alright and it was then that I promised myself that if you made
it through that experience that I would stop wanting you--would stop loving
you like I did
Grady, you dont love me. You might think that you do, but
her words were silenced by his finger in against her lips.
I spent a great many years resenting Russ for what he had with you--hating
myself for not making my move and even that night when we went home together,
you have no idea how hard it was for me to do the right thing. When I urged
you into leaving, the fact to the matter was that I wanted you to stay--I
wanted you to be with me--for us to give this a chance, but then I knew how
it would hurt Russ if we did, Grady confessed a sigh spilling over his
lips, I guess that was always the one thing that kept me from going
too far--from crossing any lines and maybe deep down that was why I treated
you so horribly--not because I hated you, but because I hated myself for knowing
how Id lied about what it was you meant to me, Grady continued
with an impassioned voice, but Im not going to lie to myself any
longer. Im not going to pretend that I dont care about you because
I do Avery. Im not going to act like this wasnt supposed to happen
for us because after last night, well Im done with living a lie. Im
not going to ignore my heart any longer. I have nothing left to lose and I
know what I want and the truth to the matter is that I want you Avery--only
you.
Grady I
Avery started not really quite sure how to take
what he was telling her. On some level she could see where he was coming from--understand
what he was feeling, yet with last nights experience fresh on her mind,
she worried about where this was headed. I dont think that
Dont think. Logic be damned, he collected her in his arms
dropping another hot kiss over her swelled lips. Just feel and follow
your heart--follow your instincts
If I do that, then I should leave, Avery began again knowing full
well that this was the last place she needed to be at a time like this especially
now after what hed said to her. However, before she could be the rational
one to put the brakes on what was happening between them, she felt Grady move
in for the kill. His lips came crashing down over her devouring her with the
promise of passion and pleasure. She pushed her hand out over his shoulder
to place a distance between them, but instead she dropped her hand out over
his body, taking in the warm lines of him.
I want to make love to you, he whispered heatedly nibbling on
her neck in between dropping hot, wet kisses over her skin, Avery
I
want you
Grady I
Avery stammered finding herself at a loss. He propped
himself up beside her, his intense green eyes reaching out into her and in
that moment she thought of what had happened the previous night--about how
terrified shed been at the thought of losing him--at the thought of
never being able to see him ever again. Memories of her time with Russ flashed
before her eyes and in that moment tears threatened to overtake her. Unable
to help herself, she reached out to him pulling him in closer to her. Her
hands were shaking, body trembling and as their mouths bumped and collided
in a frantic urgency, she knew there would be no turning back.
Gradys skilled caress tapered off over her body, driving her to a heightened
awareness of his body over hers. His lips above her, his solid strength pouring
out into his fingertips as he pulled open her blouse. He arched back ever
so slightly taking the time to look at her--really look at her in such a way
that it caused her to blush. She started to look away only to feel his fingertips
press in over her cheek urging her to meet his eyes again.
No turning away, he mouthed dropping down to slide his tongue
moistly between her parted lips. Her fingers coiled through his hair, her
body jolted with a thousand little sparks of electricity. He pulled away for
a brief moment tearing his shirt from his shoulders before moving in over
her clad in a sleeveless t-shirt. She reached out to him, squeezing his muscled
arms, feeling them flex and tighten beneath her touch.
Their mouths parted, hearts pounding in unison as fear and anxiety swept over
them. This was so far from where theyd planned to go with one another--so
out of reach for so very long, but now as Grady touched her, his fingers weaving
their magical spell over her body, she was held captive by the promise of
passion--by the way his eyes kept her so very close to him.
Things are getting hot in here, Grady whispered nibbling on her
shoulder before his thumb deftly plucked open the clasp on her bra. Her breasts
spilled excitedly into his eager touch. She closed her eyes, her soft murmurs
overtaking her when the distinct feel of something cool rushed in over her.
What the
Avery gasped seeing him hovered over her, his fingers
dripping as he held a melting ice cube in hand. Before she could say another
word he placed it between his teeth and leaned forward drawing a pattern over
her newly exposed skin. She cried out the combination of the ice and his lips
driving her to new heights of ecstasy. All that came from her lips were the
soft sounds of excitement that hed drawn out from within.
I want you, he mouthed his words buzzing over her body after the
ice had melted. Reaching for the waistband on her slacks, he eased the material
down slowly, his lips planting kiss after reckless kiss over her body, wanting
to know more of her to feel her in every way imaginable. Her hands were sliding
over his shoulders yanking at the t-shirt he was in. He leaned upward tearing
it over his head in a heated frenzy before he dropped down to claim her lips
again and again unrelenting in his quest for passion between them.
Grady, she spoke his name breathlessly, her words slurring into
soft sighs of surrender as his hands moved over her, his lips taking the time
to learn all the things there was to know about that secret part of her shed
kept hidden from him.
She arched back further into the bed, feeling his lips graze over her thigh,
hands pulling a warmth out from within and in that moment shed thought
shed died and gone to heaven or was it hell? Given the heat that was
scorching between them, she was sure that something was happening--something
that she was certain they were never meant to explore with one another. His
tongue traced over the contours of her body taking every inch of her in with
his erotic kisses. Just when she thought she was about to lose all control,
she felt him pull away from her leaving emptiness in his retreat.
She opened her eyes seeking him out in the room, but nothing prepared her
for the first glimpse of his muscular chest giving way to the corrugated leanness
of his flat abdomen leading to the heart of his straining masculinity. He
was beautiful--remarkable in so many ways that she was certain she was never
meant to know--never meant to experience, but when he moved in beside her,
she couldnt help but reach for him claiming him in kiss after eager
kiss. His arms curled around her, pulling her down with him onto the bed carefully.
His hands coiled off over her soft curves, sliding over her spine to the small
of her back before carefully positioning her over his hardened ache.
No turning away, he repeated sliding up to meet her lips again
before pulling her in over him bringing an end to the wondering for him as
the fantasy hed had in his mind for a great many years had finally been
given its first breath of life. Tonight would be about new beginnings--about
holding onto the woman who had been out of his reach for so many years. Last
night Avery had saved his life in ways hed never thought possible. Now
that they made love, their eyes focused entirely upon one another, he promised
himself that this would mark a fresh start for them with the opportunity to
make up for all the mistakes theyd made between them for so many years.
In holding her and loving her like this, Grady realized that this would probably
be the closest to heaven he would ever be now that the life hed once
clung to was long gone. Avery truly was his saving grace.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Nick felt Angela roll over onto her side of the bed, the soft sounds of her
snoring alerting him that shed fallen asleep once more. Unable to return
to sleep, he carefully slid out of bed reaching for his robe. Wrapping himself
up in the navy material, he glanced over at Angela seeing how beautiful and
peaceful she seemed lost in her dreams. If only his dreams were nearly as
tranquil. Taking one last look at her Nick tiptoed out of the bedroom carefully
closing the door behind him.
Walking out onto the back deck Nick felt the first whisper of winds over him
bringing another bout of worry over him. While he wanted to ignore his dream,
there was something about it that he couldnt let go of--something about
it that felt so real--so very like something he shouldnt ignore. Walking
over to the edge of the deck he looked to the sky wondering what in the world
was happening to him. Could it be that his past was coming back to him, but
if so why was he saying the things that hed said in the dream? Why did
he feel like there was something happening--something that involved his time
with Angela. His feelings for her were so very strong when hed met her
and they still ran strong, yet there was something nagging inside of him.
Closing his eyes he tried to remember the face in his dream again, but instead
he found himself lost in another moment with another man he was arguing with.
No thats a promise, Nick could see himself snarl his green
eyes filled with cynicism and bitter animosity, Stay away from my wife!
I cant control her actions anymore than you can and if she chooses to be around me, well Im not going to push her away as I care about her very much, the new man before him stated plainly adjusting the sleeve on his shirt, and the fact that she works for me is going to keep it vital for us to have a good relationship with one another even if you detest that.
My wife is a good person with a kind heart and I wont have you reel her in any further than you already have. Find someone else to fixate on Brant, Nick warned again, this time with a bit more emotion behind his words. He could see himself moving forward and then
Opening his eyes and finding himself back on the desk, Nick felt his head
swirling with thoughts, his mind bustling with activity offering him bits
and pieces that made no sense. The harder he tried to figure it out, the harder
it was to focus on. He stepped back hearing the name Brant echo in his mind.
Could it be that he was having dreams of Angelas former lover returning?
That in each vision Brants face changed, yet the threat was still there?
There was just something about seeing the man in the vision--something about
the way his body tightened up with rage.
What is happening to me, Nick questioned unable to make sense
of all that was happening in his mind. He felt a chill creep in over him--an
eerie sense of confusion and clarity jumbled together, but too far out of
his reach. He turned away from the night stepping back inside.
Making his way over to the kitchen he pulled out the small bag of things that
Angela had given him shortly after hed arrived on the island. While
the items made little to no sense at the time, he was wondering if perhaps
something could come to him now. He carried the small bag with him over to
the kitchen table and in the darkness poured their contents out before him.
He surveyed the trinkets before his eyes fell upon the key chain. It was truly
hideous in its bright mismatched colors, yet there was something about
it that had him curious. Lifting it up to take a closer look at it in the
moonlight shining in through the window he read over the words HOME SWEET
HOME printed down the front of the key chain. There wasnt anything really
special about it--nothing that really stood out, yet
What in the
Nick felt his finger brush up against the back
of the key chain. Instead of having a smooth surface it was rigid--rough as
if there was some kind of writing on it. He turned it around trying to take
a closer look at it. It did appear to have some kind of writing on it, yet
it was scratched. The letters were a bit blurred and hard to read with the
scratches it had obviously endured. Still he tried to make sense of what he
was seeing until his head started to hurt. Setting the key chain down in frustration
he let out a long sigh wondering what in the hell his mind was trying to tell
him. He wasnt sure if it was something from the past or his worries
about the future, but either way he had to figure out what these things that
Angela had found with him meant before it was too late to get a handle on
what was going on inside of his head.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
An impenetrable unwelcoming silence filled the space between Kevin and Ria
as they stood face to face with one another. So much had happened in such
a short time, yet things were so far from being right between them. There
was no denying that what they had with one another would never be the same
as it was before--there was nothing that could erase what had been brought
to the front burner tonight.
Kev, Ive just got to know, Ria finally broke the silence,
her words coming out shaky and uneasy, is this the end?
I dont want it to be, he replied in a low sound his heart
aching as he saw disappointment shining behind her eyes.
She stepped forward watching him sink to the bed. Her own heart was shattering
little by little each second as she moved in before him. She dropped down
on her knees reaching out to him as he sat on the edge of the bed before her.
I love you Kevin, she confessed unable to shield her tears any
longer. She felt vulnerable and helpless and suddenly everything that shed
felt secure about in her life since theyd been reunited seemed to be
ripping apart at the seams. She saw the way his chocolate eyes lifted upon
hearing her words. Knowing she had nothing else to lose, she continued, Ive
known for a long time that Ive loved you, but I wasnt sure about
what this was for you. I wasnt sure how you felt about me, but now I
see that you need time to figure this out.
I dont need time to know whats in my heart, Kevin
replied pulling her up into his lap. I dont need time to tell
you
tell you this
Kevin leaned forward his mouth moving in over hers tasting the saltiness of
her tears over his lips. He wrapped his arm around her slender waist holding
her near his body. The warmth of her filled him up inside as he prayed that
somehow she could understand the message he was trying to convey to her when
his words failed to reach that level of effectiveness. Somehow as their kiss
continued, he felt she understood--felt that she could clearly see it too
as her arms curled around his shoulders.
I love you, she whispered broken by her tears. Their eyes met
for a brief moment before Kevin brushed his thumb over her cheek lifting her
tears from her face. He leaned forward kissing her damp cheek, his lips moving
from her cheek to her forehead to the tip of her nose before their mouths
met in a hungry moment of longing.
I love you, he answered honestly feeling her hands squeezing the
solid strength of his body. He knew that he had a lot to face--a lot that
he was obviously going to have to deal with, but in being this close to her--in
being able to finally let her see how much he needed her--how much he loved
her, he refused to walk away.
His finger tips dropped down underneath her t-shirt, deftly sweeping it up
over her head in a lightening quick movement. He saw something spark behind
her eyes before she reciprocated the gesture moving in to pull his t-shirt
off of him. Halfway through the movement, Kevin reached for her wrist shaking
his head at her.
No, it wouldnt be right if you did it that way, he laughed
lightly guiding her hands over the neck of his t-shirt before their eyes connected
in a tense moment of silence. He wiggled his brow at her before flashing her
a sexy smile, Come on. Whats one more t-shirt?
Just another memory for us, she leaned forward kissing him as
if shed never stop.
Together their hands ripped open the front of his shirt parting the material
with great ease before Kevin pinned her on the bed beneath him. He braced
himself up on his elbows, his dark eyes swept over her wanting to memorize
every single second of being with her as the raw emotion still lingered between
them. His lips beckoned hers once again, doing his best to absorb every single
sensation of this now that theyd burned down the barriers between them.
He held himself up over her not wanting to overtake her with the weight of
his emotions. He wanted to keep her with him for always--to keep this moment
alive between them forever.
I love you, she promised in a heartfelt whisper, her finger tracing
his broad jaw line, imprinting every masculine feature of his perfect face
in her mind as she feared this may be the last time she was with him in such
a setting.
I love you, Kevin replied readily knowing that truth in his heart.
Yes, he loved Angela, but it was something completely different than what
he and Ria had. He had both women in his heart, yet here and now all he could
think about was Ria--about holding her and being with her--about showing her
everything that he wanted her to know--needed her to see before he went off
after his best friend in an attempt to keep her from ruining her life. He
saw doubt behind her eyes as his fingers played over her smooth skin sliding
her thigh up over his hips hugging her body beneath his ready to seal in the
promise of his words with their union, Ill always love you.
Ill always love you too Kevin, Ria gasped feeling him ease
into her as her fingers sank into his shoulders, breaking into his flesh.
She cried out wrapping her legs around him wanting him to know just how deep
this ran for her. Yes, making love to him had always been wonderful, but now,
with everything that was riding on their being together, she promised herself
that she would take in every second of this--every breath, every whisper and
keep it with her forever should she never have him again. Her dark eyes sought
out his and found them as they moved together in slow, drawn out movements.
Please dont think that this is anything less than love between
us, he stilling himself inside of her. His lips dropped down over her
neck, tasting her heated skin in feathery-light kisses before whispering in
her ear, Youre everything Ive waited for.
And youre everything worth waiting for Kevin, she murmured
tangling her fingers through his dark hair. She forced herself to face him,
to look into his dark eyes as their connection was still so strong--before
their passion got in the way of what she was trying to tell him. With tears
burning behind her eyes she spoke up again in a small whisper, I know
you have to go to Angela
to resolve whatever it is thats still
there between you, but I need you to know that when youve done that
that Ill still be here waiting for you--wanting you--loving you
Ill never stop loving you Ria. I promise, his breath came
out ragged over her lips knowing full well how hard this situation was on
the both of them, Ill come back to you. Ill always come
back
I really hope so, she replied squeezing him in over her bringing
their passion to a new level altogether as they made love whispering promises
of a future to one another--of a life they had ahead of them while both feared
that this could be their last time to love one another--that after tonight
things could never go back to what they were between them.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...