Episode 318
We were in the neighborhood and we thought that we would drop off something
we bought for Erin, Elliot explained sensing the tension in the air
after his son had let them into his home. I know we probably should
have called first, but
No, its okay, Russ glanced over at Avery who was now in
the middle of the living room with Erin in her arms.
Say hi to your grandparents Erin, Avery picked up Erins
tiny hand and moved it in an effort to wave to Elliot and Cheryl.
My shes growing up so fast, Cheryl noted walking over to
take a closer look at Erin, Shes beautiful. Elliot look at her.
Of course shes beautiful, Elliot stepped over to place his
arm around Cheryls shoulders, She takes after her mother and her
father.
In more ways than you can imagine, Avery couldnt help but
tease looking over at Russ to see his mood had suddenly darkened, She
snores just like her daddy.
She wasnt snoring, Russ tried to argue with her moving in
to look at his daughter more completely, And I dont either.
Yes you do, Avery laughed lightly before meeting his eyes again,
but Ive come to expect it from you. Its almost like its
part of the territory with you and its just become background noise
to put me to sleep. Im lost without it at this point.
He gets that from his father, Cheryl confessed patting Elliot
on the arm as Russ cleared his throat uneasily.
You know I think Im just going to get something out of the kitchen,
Russ blurted out in a tense tone walking past the group to get away before
what Cheryl had said got to him. He was still hurting about learning the truth
about Elliot and it was clear to all of them by his quick exit.
How is he doing? Elliot asked seeing by Averys expression
that Russ still had a lot on his mind. On second thought I think Ill
just go in there and help him with what hes working on.
That sounds like it might be a good idea. I think he needs to talk with
you, Avery nodded in agreement feeling Elliot lean in to give her and
Erin a quick kiss on the cheek before turning to Cheryl and doing the same.
Ill be right back, Elliot promised squeezing his wifes
hand before moving into the room after his son.
Why dont you have a seat? Avery suggested seeing the sadness
behind Cheryls eyes. You can hold your granddaughter.
Id like that, Cheryl forced a sad smile doing as Avery instructed
before Avery walked over and placed Erin in her arms. Shes so
very beautiful. She reminds me of Russ when he was smaller. He was always
such a good baby too and
Erins wonderful. Were so very blessed to have her,
Avery added moving in to sit beside Cheryl and Erin.
He hates me now you know, Cheryl tipped her head up to meet Averys
gaze. Even though Ive tried to pretend that nothing has changed,
I know he hates me.
He doesnt hate you. He just hates the situations that weve
all been put in, Avery tried to offer up in the hopes of consoling Russells
mother. He experienced a lot that none of us will ever truly understand
and thats something that is going to stay with him for a long time.
The fact that I lied to him about everything didnt help either,
Cheryl sighed heavily thinking about her decision to keep the truth from Russ,
I just never wanted him to have to face what I had done. I didnt
want him to live with the pain that I had caused everyone by doing what Id
done.
You made a mistake and it could happen to anyone, Avery offered
up seeing how upset Cheryl was. The important thing is that you and
Elliot worked it out and were together as a family all these years. All of
Russs life Elliot has been the only father hes ever known and
even now after he knows about Nicholas, that hasnt changed. I know he
still loves the both of you ever much.
I just never meant to hurt him, Cheryl explained fighting the
tears that threatened, It wasnt like I had planned on what happened.
It was when Elliot and I had been going through that rough period in our relationship--right
after we lost our baby
You dont have to explain yourself to me, Avery touched her
arm gently, I would never judge you especially considering that youre
the mother of the man that I love the most in this world. I honestly can say
that I know why you did what you did to protect him. I would do anything to
protect Erin as well and as a mother I couldnt imagine it being any
other way. What you did wasnt something that you did to set out to destroy
Russ. You are no where near like the mother that Brooke was to me and when
the shock of the news blows over, Im sure that Russ will find it in
him to be okay with things.
I just hate breaking his heart, Cheryl admitted painfully, Hes
always been our little boy and
He still is. Nicholas doesnt hold any power over him, Avery
piped in firmly thinking about the monster that had fathered Russ, Hes
not at all like Nicholas or the Ashfords and Russ and I have both decided
that were not going to bring Erin up that way. Were going to raise
her as a Denton and that isnt changing. Other than Augustus, well were
keeping our distance from the Ashford family considering all thats happened.
Augustus is a good man, Cheryl nodded thinking about Russells
grandfather, Hes a very caring spirit and I can see how Russ could
bond with him. In fact Im glad that he has considering that Augustus
is the one person who has been able to stop Nicholas in the past.
I dont know if thats possible now, Avery felt a tiny
shiver race over her at the thought of all Nicholas and Brooke had done to
keep her and Russ apart. Nicholas is an evil man and I know hell
stop at nothing to have his way. Hes hurt his children so many times
over that I can understand why you kept Russ a secret from him.
It was the best thing to do--at least I thought it was, but if he had
known--if Nicholas couldve seen that Russ was his son, then maybe he
never wouldve taken him away--maybe he wouldve refrained from
hurting him--from hurting the both of you
Cheryl explained in
a pained tone.
No, it wouldnt have made a difference, Avery squeezed her
shoulder gently, You did the right thing in keeping Russ away from him.
After being married to Brant, I saw first hand what Nicholas did to his children
and I can honestly tell you its better that Russ was kept from that.
Nicholas may have hurt Russ, but when I think about what he did to Ken and
to Brant, I thank God each day that Russ had Elliot in his life and you.
I just wish that Russ could see it that way, but I know now that he
believes Im nothing more than a liar, she let out an ironic sigh
before glancing down at Erin, Though hes right. I am a liar and
a horrible person and I deserve for him to hate me from here on out for what
Ive done. He shouldve been given better than what Ive done.
I hate that he had to find out about all of this because of what happened
with Brant--because
Hey, Avery stopped her before she got lost even further inside
of herself, Cheryl now isnt the time for looking back, only forward
in trying to heal. We have to be thankful for what we have because heaven
knows if we keep dwelling on our mistakes its only going to take us
under all over again.
Youre right. I know youre right, Cheryl nodded in
agreement wondering if her son would ever find it in him to forgive her again
for what shed done in lying to him all of the years hed been alive.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Brant, what are you doing here? Angela couldnt help but
ask, her breath catching in her throat. She went from frustrated, to annoyed
once her meeting fell through to confused in seeing Brant right in front of
her. Shed expected to meet with a woman, but now that Brant was there,
it threw her for a loop. How did you get here?
I could ask you the same thing, but something tells me I dont
want to know, he replied taking a small step forward, his dark eyes
taking a long look at her, How did you
How did I what? she asked taking a look at the bruising on his
face. She thought about it for a long moment relieved that Kevin hadnt
hurt him more than what it seemed, yet in that moment of relief another thought
carried over her. She stood up straighter irritation overtaking her, What
are you doing? Following me now?
Im not even close to following you, though maybe I should since
I found you here, he frowned moving in closer to her, his eyes searching
hers long and hard, What are you doing here?
Thats none of your business, she huffed impatiently tapping
her foot on the carpet, but now that youre here I can assure you
that I wont be staying.
Why is that? Afraid youre going to ravish me again and then like
it too much before leaving? Brant taunted arching a curious brow. He
saw the flame of a fire spark behind her eyes and she let out a long, nervous
laugh.
I wouldnt give you the honors of touching me again. I think last
night spoke for itself, she answered flatly, her dark eyes burning with
mixed emotions, I told you last night was the end of it for us.
You also told me last night that you were having my children which indicates
to me that you and I are far from over, he folded his arms in front
of his chest. He took a step back pressing into the door again to bring it
to a close behind him. So
What are you doing? she asked her eyes widening as she watched
him lock the door behind him.
Im making sure that you cant run out on me this time,
he explained matter of fact taking a confident stride towards her, I
believe that you and I have a few things to discuss that go above and beyond
your being here--things that I was going to tell you later at your hotel,
but now I think it is more than appropriate for us to get into them.
I told you I was leaving Brant and I meant it, she stated tipping
her head up ever so slightly in a defiant motion, I have nothing further
to say to you. I would have thought that youd catch the drift last night
after Kevin asked you to leave the hotel.
Oh I caught the drift alright, Brant nodded in response, his gaze
sweeping over her curves greedily.
Even though hed been ready to lash out at the person in front of him,
in seeing her standing there in that short skirt and flirty blouse, he knew
that lashing out about anything was going to be difficult. He could see the
way her eyes widened, her lips parting as if she too was remembering everything
about last night and for a second he couldve sworn shed thought
about licking her lips. He saw the tip of her tongue dart out of her mouth
before she stood taller clearing her throat.
Then why are you here? she questioned stubbornly, her voice demanding
a response out of him.
Well since that was what she was hoping for he was going to give her one,
he decided. He took another small step towards her, his gaze locked on hers
letting her know silently that he wasnt about to let her get away twice
in two days. She was here. He was here. It wasnt something that hed
planned on, but hed have to applaud fate for giving him something to
work with.
What do you think? he questioned taking a smooth step in front
of her standing practically face to face with her. He saw her lips part, a
breath fall from them, but he was in no mood for hesitation. He was going
to lay it out on the line starting with something shed never forget.
He tugged her into his arms in neither a gentle, nor rough movement, yet commanding
enough to let her know what his intentions were. Her hand fell to the front
of his chest, fingers trembling as his arm curled around her waist. With a
squeeze, he lifted her up closer to him, to where their mouths almost met,
but instead of kissing her, he kept a small distance between them.
You know you keep telling me that you dont want me and that youre
done with me, but Im not feeling it from you Angela, he spoke
up in a small whisper daring her to deny the attraction between them.
Your instincts are off Brant because youre reading me all wrong,
she mouthed in a shivering exhale, her hand flattening out over his chest
despite her words. Her gaze dropped down to his lips again before she let
out a small breath.
Oh I dont think so, he shook his head knowingly, squeezing
her bottom in his large hand. He pressed her firmly against his straining
body knowing full well that she wasnt about to ignore the fact that
his everything was readily accepting the idea of finding her in this empty
building in this even more secluded office.
I think they are Brant because I dont think you have the first
clue what it is that I want or need, she challenged tipping her head
up ever so slightly so that their mouths were a fraction of an inch away from
one another.
Oh I know exactly what you want, he brushed his fingers against
her face nudging her back into the desk behind her. His lips curled upward
in a grin as he used his arm to pull her up onto the desk in one quick, determined
sweep, and Im certain that I can give you all that you need.
Youd be wrong, she mouthed unable to refrain from letting
out a small whimper when he stepped in between her now parted legs, bringing
his warm hands up over her trembling thighs. Their gazes locked again and
she spotted the victorious grin that swelled over his handsome features.
I dont think so, he eased the tips of his fingers underneath
her skirt pushing it up over her thighs in a slow, painful movement before
his fingers curled over her hips. His grin expanded causing her to let out
another soft, stifled sound. Silently he nudged her soft curves, bringing
her to the edge of the desk where their bodies met in one quick jolt of lightening.
He moved in against her ever so slightly watching her eyes fill with desire,
Im not wrong about something Im so sure of.
So thats what I am now? she half questioned her fingers
betraying her. She reached out to tease her finger tips over the lapels of
his jacket, bringing them out over his shoulders, dragging the material off
of his arms. The jacket fell to the floor in a whoosh and her hand returned
to the center of his chest seconds later, A sure thing?
The surest thing Ive ever known, he blurted out wrapping
his hand around the back of her neck and claiming her lips in an explicit,
youre all out of options other than to admit that you want me
kind of kiss that left no mistaking about just how far from truthful shed
been being with him. In fact, the longer the kiss continued the easier it
was for Brant to put his plans for them into motion now that he had her complete
attention all over again.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is ridiculous, Sarah rolled her eyes leaning into Kyle and
feeling his arm wrap around her tightly. I cant believe she saying
all these lies about him.
Just hold on a second honey, Kyle hushed her listening to everything
Cori was telling the officer. She could really get worked up easily, this
girl must have a good time in drama club back in high school. She isnt
telling the truth I know it.
How come someone isnt doing something to try and help Diego?
Sarah questioned seeing Kyle shake his head as if he didnt know the
answer. Everyone knows that he didnt do this, he is a good guy
and doesnt deserve
Calm down, Kyle stepped forward placing his hands on her shoulders
gently looking into her dark eyes, his hazel eyes not showing one bit of worry.
I know Diego didnt do this and you have to trust me when I tell
you I am going to get your friend out of this.
I know Kyle, Sarah took in a deep breath reaching out to place
her hand against his cheek as a small smirk appeared over his rough features.
If anyone could do this and help him--I know you could.
Exactly, because Im that damn good, Kyle pointed out with
a small laugh before reaching out and pushing a small piece of hair back behind
her ear. Now, you will have to trust me if you want me to try and help
him out. Thats the only way it will work is if you trust me.
I know Kyle and I do trust you. Its just, there is no way this
is real. What she is saying has to be a story because I know he wouldnt
do this, Sarah spoke up seeing Kyle look down at her as she pulled away
from his grasp and took a few steps back. I think I should find out
what has been really going on from Diego.
Are you going to go see him? Kyle questioned seeing her nod slowly
as he took in a deep breath and looked over towards Cori blurting a few things
out again. Ill go in to talk to him later too, Ill just
see if I can find anything else out.
Okay, Sarah looked back towards one of the officers, seeing Kyle
fold his arms out in front of his chest eyeing the scene that was happening
before him. Ill be back.
I know where I can find you, Kyle didnt even take a moment
to watch Sarah leave as he watched Cori throw her hands up in the air once
more.
There was no way that Diego could ever do the things Cori was claiming he
was doing. Diego was a nice guy that would never want to hurt anyone, let
alone beat someone. That was not something Kyle pictured Diego doing at all.
Kyle, Julian placed his hand on Kyles shoulder seeing Kyle
look back at him slowly before turning to face him completely. I take
it you are here because of Diego.
Yeah, I am, Kyle took in a deep breath looking back at Cori before
shaking his head slowly. What can you tell me about this? What is she
saying happened?
That she came home and he was there pissed about his girlfriend leaving
him for another man, Julian tried to explain seeing Kyles eyebrows
tense up at the mention of a girl friend. There were so many things Cori blurted
out and Julian was just trying to make sense of it all. He was angry
with her so he hit her over and over again.
Diego doesnt have a girlfriend, Kyle chuckled to himself
thinking about what Julian was telling him. Kyle took in all the details thinking
back to some of the cases he had to do for some clients. Ive seen
plenty of cases like this and the person is always lying. You can just tell
she is lying by looking at her.
Really? Julian stepped up next to Kyle after he turned around
and watched Cori calmly answer the questions that the officer was asking her.
How can you do that?
Its something I was taught from my father, he taught me how to
trust someone when the time came, Kyle noticed every movement Cori was
making as he slipped his hands into his pockets. Shes making up
a story because her eyes are looking up to the right and she keeps moving
her hands in a circle to bring her answers together. I dont know why
she is trying to hurt Diego like this, but I think Im going to find
out.
Hey, if there is something more you can get out of her, Julian
shook his head thinking about all the things he had asked her over the last
hour, but never really got a straight answer. Be my guest and try and
find out because I have no clue what she is coming up with, so if you can
put something together go ahead.
So, I do have permission to talk to her right now? Kyle watched
Julian nod slowly as Kyle took in a deep breath and thought the situation
over carefully. Obviously Cori wasnt going to be caving in anytime soon
and it was going to take him a while to get her to say Diego didnt do
anything, but sooner or later--he would get her to. He knew it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Diego, whats going on? Sarah questioned unable to mask
the worry that swept over her at seeing him locked up in jail. He looked tired
and bruised as he sat across from her at the table. Whats happening?
I honestly dont know, Diego replied dropping his head down
to avoid her gaze, I never touched her Sarah.
I know that, she nodded reaching out to squeeze his hand in hers,
but why would she do this? I thought that she was over what you two
had.
So did I, but maybe I was wrong, his dark eyes met hers once again,
Maybe Im getting exactly what I deserve for hurting her like I
did.
Diego just because werent in love with her doesnt mean that
you should be locked up like this, she shook her head at his acceptance
of the situation, Cori is lying to everyone and you shouldnt be
in jail because of it.
But Im lying to everyone too Sarah. We both are, Diego reminded
her in a harsh whisper, You know as well as I do that I was a horrible
boyfriend to Cori. I slept with you when I was dating her and maybe this is
her way of letting me have it for doing that.
You made love to me because it was what we both wanted--what we both
needed, she brushed her index finger over his hand tenderly.
And what about now, he asked his gaze drifting to the ring on
her finger, What does that bring for us now that youre about to
marry Kyle and Im here?
You wont be here for long and as for Kyle, she paused finding
herself at a loss. She pulled her hand away from his, Thats not
important right now. Whats important is finding a way to get you out
of here because I know you never touched Cori.
I may not have hit her, but obviously I did something to her that would
cause her to react like this, Diego answered guiltily, She was
a normal, balanced, beautiful, fun-loving woman before I did this to her.
I shouldve been honest with her, but instead I lead her on because I
was too consumed with my thoughts of
Of what? she asked watching him turn away from her.
Of you Sarah, he blurted out in frustration, and even now
all I can think about is you--about what this has to be doing to you. I think
about how Ive upturned your life and how Im the one who is making
things difficult for you. You and Kyle had everything in order with one another
before I got in the middle of that. I never shouldve let things get
as far as they did with us and
You werent the only one. Diego, I could have said no, she
watched him stand up from the chair and walk over to the far end of the room.
She followed him without hesitance, I couldve told you that I
didnt want to be with you--that I didnt need you
But I shouldve known you were upset about Kyle. I shouldve
thought about him and about Cori and
he shook his head throwing
his hands in the air, Sarah, look at me. Im turning into a complete
disaster and Im dragging down everyone who ever cared about me with
it.
No youre not, she touched his shoulder gently, Diego
listen to me. This is not your fault and while you want to blame yourself
for whats happened, this is all Cori. Shes crazy and I think that
soon everyone is going to realize that. You arent a bad guy. Youre
a good man with a kind and loving heart
Who has been so miserable so long that hes hell-bent on destroying
everyone elses happiness, he sighed heavily, Face it Sarah.
The best thing that you can do right now is just walk out of those doors and
forget all about me.
I could do that, but Id only end up hurting the both of us,
she replied squeezing his arm gently, Diego, we will find a way to fix
this situation. Im not turning my back on you.
Youd be smart if you did, he decided feeling her reach out
to embrace him.
Yeah, well if I did, Id miss you too much, she mouthed hugging
him tightly hoping that somehow she could find a way to get him out of the
situation that Cori had brought on. Even if it wound up getting her into trouble,
she was going to clear Diegos name one way or the other!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Hey Barbara, Don smiled widely walking into the hallway to see
Barbara sitting down at the front desk looking either very shocked or worried.
He couldnt truthfully place the expression on her face rightly. Is
something wrong?
Im just worried about Diego, thats all, Barbara whispered
seeing the confused look spread out through Dons features. His blue
eyes searched hers and she knew he didnt know what she was talking about.
Earlier he got arrested because some girl is claiming he hit her.
Diego? Don chuckled at the thought of Diego actually hurting someone.
Please, all the flies would still be in his house to this day. Diego
wouldnt hurt anyone. Who said he did it?
Cori Warner. If you ask me that woman is a real nut, Barbara informed
Don with a small shake of her head before resting her elbows against the desk.
Im just worried that he might actually be put in there for something
he didnt do.
Everyone knows Diego, Don took in a deep breath reaching his hand
out to place it over hers gently. Her light eyes looked up into his as he
offered up an assuring smile. Its her word against everyone that
knows Diego. We will all stand up for him when it gets down to it because
we know he wouldnt hurt anyone.
Thats the thing though Don--we know he would never hurt anyone,
she felt his hand move away from hers as she traced her desk slowly with her
fingertips. In all honesty, not everyone is like you and they dont
care who gets put into jail. Diego could have done nothing wrong and he could
still be put into jail.
You cant think like that though, Don frowned folding his
arms out in front of his chest, trying to think of a way to make Barbara feel
better. In all honesty, if you have all these people saying Diego is
harmless then there is no way they will think he could have done something
like this.
Even so, Barbara thought the situation over carefully before shaking
her head slowly. There were so many worries she had right now, but all she
could keep thinking about was how Diego felt. This was the worst possible
thing that could happen to him right now, he didnt need all of this.
Sometimes, one voice is stronger than a million.
I dont think this is on of those cases Barbara, Don offered
up a small wink before folding his arms on in front of his chest. If it came
down to it, he would step up for Diego too. He didnt know him as well
as most people, but every time he talked to the guy he seemed like a great
person. There was no way that Diego would ever do something like what he was
being accused of. I can promise you that.
Don saw Barbara nod agreeing with him as a blonde caught the corner of his
eye. She was stepping off the elevator and he felt his chest tighten up right
then seeing her face again.
You have to be kidding me, Don took in a quick breath his eyes
following every move of Michelle Sprite. Michelle walked over towards one
of the doctors as he leaned in closer trying to see what she was up to. What
in the world is she doing here?
Can I please see Dr. Zack Vaughn? Michelle questioned as the doctor
motioned her to wait and went into one of the rooms that soon Zack walked
out of. Hey you.
I knew there was a reason I didnt like that stupid son of a
Don cut himself off before he finish his words and learn to eat them later
now that he was working. What are they doing together?
That doesnt look good at all, Barbara stepped in next to
Don seeing his blue eyes widen in anger as he stared out at the two before
him. What do you think is going on?
I have no idea, Don cleared his throat uneasily clenching his
fists at his sides before shaking his head slowly. There had to have been
a reason Michelle was here and it had to have been big, but the question was
what? And why was she here to see Zack? None of this made sense to him, but
soon enough--it would. But I am going to find out why she is here because
she doesnt belong here.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Hey, Michelle greeted Zack with a bright smile once hed
pulled her into the lounge to speak with her, Hows it going?
What are you doing here? he frowned ever so slightly taking a
look around the room to make sure they were alone.
I thought Id come by and ask you how your romantic surprise for
Blake went, she explained brightly, Did she like the flowers?
Unfortunately shes being stubborn, Zack sighed thinking
about how he and Michelle had worked together to cook up a romantic scenario
for his former flame.
In other words she shot you down, huh? Michelle frowned snapping
her fingers in the air, What is it with that family? Why are they so
stubborn?
Im not sure, but I will get her back, he paused eyeing her
intently, What about you? Make any progress yet with Ken?
Not exactly, but I did have an idea, she divulged with a tiny
grin, and I was hoping you would have a few minutes free to help me
iron out the details.
Zack looked at his watch for a moment, I was kind of busy, but I suppose
I can take a quick break if its a good one.
Oh trust me itll be good, Michelle tugged on his arm urging
him to sit down as she laid out her plans for getting back when she wanted--what
she felt was rightfully hers!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Blake walked through the doors of Heathers offices not really sure
what had prompted her to come on over, but the more she thought about Zack,
the more she found herself wishing that she could see Seth. He always had
a way of making everything okay for her and she was hoping that now wasnt
the exception to that rule. She just hoped he wasnt too busy catering
to Heather to give her five minutes which she so desperately needed.
Well look at what we have here, Kellen rubbed his hands together
before rushing over to greet Blake, Hey girl, what are you doing here?
Kellen, Blake smiled embracing him readily, hey how are
you?
Im doing good. You know doing the working hard thing here,
he waved his hand before watching a group of male models pass on by.
Yeah Ill bet, Blake shook her head at him, You would
so be in trouble with Kipp if he could see you right now.
Oh honey I can look, but just not touch, Kellen remarked with
another wave before looking to her again, but seriously what are you
doing here?
Im looking for Seth, she explained with a heavy sigh, Ive
had a long day and I just want to talk to him for a bit.
Is something wrong? Kellen eyed her intently, Scratch that.
I know somethings wrong. What is it? Whats going on Blake?
Nothing, she lied throwing her hands up into the air, Oh
hell Im having a horrible day. I ran into this guy that I used to date
rather
he tricked me into running into him and
And youre not too happy about it, huh? Kellen watched her
closely.
Im furious, she revealed with a huff, I mean can you
believe the nerve of that creep. He just thinks that Im going to come
running back to him again after I moved on with my life. He set me up and
put together this whole romantic scenario yet it failed to register in his
mind that maybe just maybe I wasnt interested.
So what happened? Kellen couldnt help but ask seeing how
fired up she was.
I told him to take a hike and then I left, she explained simply
with a shake of her head, Zack just doesnt know when to quit.
I mean I thought that he got the point before especially when he and Johanna
went off and got married, but
Wait hes a married guy and hes chasing you around,
Kellens eyes widened, I mean sure thats common these days,
but
His wife left him and now I can see why, Blake balled her fingers
up into fists at her sides, I cant believe that I used to have
a thing for him. I mean the more I think about it, the more I realize what
an idiot I was. I never should have gotten involved with him in the first
place.
Hey if the creep cant take a hint, then Id be more than
happy to have a word with him, Kellen suggested with a small smile,
I could beat him up for you if youd like.
Right now Id just prefer to find Seth and talk to him, Blake
admitted with a small sigh, He always knows how to make a day better.
In that case, let me take you to him, Kellen offered up his arm
readily hoping that he could help his friend out, but you know the offer
is always out on the table if you need help with this Zack guy.
Thanks I may take you up on that one day, Blake replied with a
small smile wondering why in the world Zack had picked now to try to come
back and make her life miserable. It just didnt make sense at all.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So, where are we going? Zane questioned from the backseat of
Gradys car seeing Gradys green eyes look back at him in mirror.
I hope we arent going out to eat because Im still stuffed
from that big breakfast.
I know, me too, Deana replied placing her hand over her stomach
and giving it a small rub. That was a really great breakfast the two
of you made. I especially loved the eggs, that was my favorite part.
Oh yeah, me too, Grady spoke up knowing that it might boost up
Zane to hear that his food turned out good even though it was the crunchiest
eggs he had ever had. That had to be my favorite part of the breakfast,
whoever made them did a great job.
Really? Zane questioned itching his head as he saw Deana and Grady
quickly nod. Thats funny because I thought they really sucked.
I didnt like them at all, my favorite part was the bacon. I took one
bite of the eggs and they tasted horrible. I think I going to stick with my
mom making the eggs because they taste horrible if she doesnt make them.
Alright honey, Deana offered up a small laugh looking back at
her son who was playing his handheld game system in the backseat. I
can still make you your eggs, but you can always help me out if you would
like to.
That sounds like a good idea mommy, Zane looked up from his game
for a minute before looking back down to the skateboard game he was playing.
I think I will let you do most of it though because cooking is really
hard sometimes.
Were here, Grady announced hearing the sound of Zanes
game stop telling him that Zane had paused the game to look up. I thought
you two might like a nice trip to the zoo. I know its not much, but
if you look around it really is.
Oh wow, Zane pulled off his seatbelt right away and opened the
backdoor quickly once they parked. I love the zoo, I like the monkey
place. Oh, and the polar bears. I dont like the elephants though because
their poop smells so bad. One time, I accidentally stepped in horse poop,
that was so stinky.
Well kiddo, Grady chuckled letting out a small laugh as he helped
Deana out of the car and Zane closed the door letting out a small squeak.
I think we can stay away from the horses if you would like.
Before we go, Zane took in a deep breath leaning forward and letting
out another small squeal. Grady looked down at him and kneeled forward as
Zane took in a tight breath. Can I please get your help?
Sure little man, Grady nodded reaching out to play with Zanes
hair seeing Zane struggle with his arms as Grady frowned. What is it
Zane? Is something wrong?
I think I shut my coat in the door and Im stuck, Zane tried
to move as Gradys eyes widened and he stood up and unlocked the car
helping Zane get out of the trap he had gotten himself in. Thanks Grady,
I do that a lot. Im sorry.
Its okay Zane, Grady laughed picking Zane up and holding
him in his arms tightly. So, now that we are at the zoo, what animals
do you want to go see first.
Uh, I think the monkeys or maybe the polar bears, Zane pondered
to himself looking over at Deana who was right next to Grady. What about
you mommy? What do you want to see?
Yeah mommy, what do you want to see first? Grady wiggled his eyebrows
up and down at her before offering up a wide smile. The Zebras or the
lions.
Sorry, not a big fan of those teeth on a lion, Deana shook her
head slowly before thinking about the question and nodding slowly. How
about the butterflies?
That sounds like a great idea mommy, Zane exclaimed seeing Deana
smile as he looked to Grady and smiled widely. The butterflies are very
pretty, I like them.
Alright then, Grady let Zane down for a moment so he could pay
for them to in it. Then I guess the butterflies is what we will hit
first then. That sounds great.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Russ we need to talk, Elliot cleared his throat seeing the way
his son was avoiding any and all eye contact with him while Russ continued
to put together a plate of cookies and some tea for everyone in the other
room. Russ please.
Dad Im just busy right now, Russ kept his gaze focused on
the task at hand, but Ill be out in a few minutes. Just let Avery
know that the tea is on and
Russ stop, Elliot walked over to Russ placing his hand on his
shoulder in a firm, yet comforting movement, Please son just talk to
me.
About what? Russ spun around to face his father, his frustrations
mounting behind his green eyes as he let out a long sigh, what do you
want me to say?
Be honest with me, Elliot pleaded with his son sensing that there
was a great deal weighing on Russells mind even though hed fought
to keep it inside.
About what? About the fact that it kills me to know that youre
not my father? Or about how every time I look at mom I think about that monster--how
I think about what hes done to destroy Avery and I? Russ questioned
his voice cracked with emotion, Or how I cant find it in me to
understand how she could willingly make love to that man knowing what a monster
he is.
Russ, Elliot spoke his name a pained expression crossing over
his own face.
See, we cant do this, Russ stepped away from his father
to walk across the kitchen, I dont want to do this to you. Youve
already clearly been through enough pain over this and I dont need to
be bringing it up in your face again as a constant reminder of what she did.
Son, there were circumstances at the time and
Elliot started
with a pained expression, We were both confused and
And Im sure each and every time you looked at me you saw him.
All of those years that you were beside her bringing us up, Im sure
that you saw me as a reminder of what they had with one another. I was a constant
symbol of how hed hurt you and she betrayed your love. Admit it, thats
why we grew up hating them like we did. Thats why we loathed the Ashfords
because each and every day you were forced to face one of them in me,
Russ blurted out shaking his head as he let out a long sigh. He ran his fingers
through his dark hair before shaking his head again, You saw me as one
of them and it killed you.
No, Elliot cut him off abruptly, his voice stern and commanding
as he stepped forward, I never saw you as one of them. Youve always
been my son. Biology was irrelevant to me.
You keep saying that, but I know better. I know how having me mustve
killed you all of these years, Russ explained in an anguished tone.
Would it have killed you if Avery wouldve had a child with Brant
instead of you? If Erin was Brants would it have made you love Erin
or Avery any less? Elliot tossed out at him watching Russells
reaction closely.
Thats not the same. Avery and I are different, Russ mouthed
stubbornly reaching for a chair and taking a seat at the table.
No its not. Would you have loved her any less if she wouldve
had another mans child? Elliot repeated the question moving in
to take a seat beside Russ.
Dad, its different. You were married to mom and
Russ
tried to further argue with him.
Just answer the question Russell. Would you have loved Erin any less
had she been Brants and not yours? Elliot cut him off abruptly
seeing Russ shake his head.
No of course not, but she isnt Brants. Shes my daughter
and Avery never slept with Brant when she thought I was alive. Mom willingly
went into that mans arms and broke her vows to you when
Russ explained with a frustrated groan, She betrayed your love and Im
the result of that.
Russell listen to me, Elliot grabbed Russ by the wrist before
he could get up and walk away. Sit down and listen to me.
Dad
Russ started to protest, but knew better by the expression
on his fathers face.
Your mother and I havent always had things easy for us in our
relationship, Elliot informed him honestly, a raw, pained tone carrying
over in his voice. Youll find the longer youre married,
the more problems arise and whether or not you want to deal with them, they
are there. Nothing worth having is ever going to be perfect.
I understand that, Russ blurted out thinking about his own relationship
with Avery.
There are many ups and downs on the road to happiness and sometimes
even when two people love one another things keep them from being together,
Elliot explained with a heavy sigh, Your mother and I were very young
when we were married. We werent together for long before we discovered
she was having Grady. I was struggling at the time to get my business up and
running off the ground and she was trying to go to school. Things were hard--there
were bills and other stressors that neither you nor Grady have had to face
in your lifetime--and I wouldnt want you to have faced them. Still,
when we were starting out we were living in this hole in the wall apartment
above a bar in one of the most seedy parts of town barely making rent because
it was all we could afford. Here we were two kids hoping to find a way to
keep what we had going strong so that we could make a better life for our
child and things werent going as wed planned. There was no house
around the corner--no way of being able to anticipate what would be next.
Here I was trying to prove that we could make it in this world, yet I had
nothing to offer my wife and child.
Dad, thats not true, Russ tried to argue with him thinking
about all his father had gone through. I mean really
Its true Russ. Here I was trying so hard to try to find a way
to make ends meet--to put my business in the right direction where I could
promise your mother the kind of life that Id sworn to give to her, yet
when it came down to it, I couldnt make ends meet for us. Cheryl wanted
to get a job, but I refused at first. Then I had no choice, but to cave in
to the request, Elliot admitted thinking back to all that had happened
in the past, It still wasnt enough. As I was trying to push my
company off of the ground and break out on my own while I was doing sales,
your mother was working all day long at a diner trying to make something that
would be enough for us to put food on the table. It still wasnt cutting
it and when the Ashfords offered her a job, she saw it as our way out of the
situation we were in. I wanted to have so much for my family, yet there was
nothing there.
Still, you never asked for her to run to him, Russ mouthed stubbornly.
You never asked for her to bring this into your life.
Russ, you have no idea what having nothing will do to a marriage. Sure,
you might say that you understand the ups and downs that people go through,
but there we were barely old enough to experience life ourselves and we had
our son to think about. We couldnt just focus on what was best for us
any longer. We needed to find a way to be able to provide for your brother,
which was always what was important to us. We wanted to make sure that our
family would never, ever have to endure the hardships that we experienced
in our early years of marriage. At the time there was nothing to fall back
on and I hated that. I never, ever wanted my family to feel that way or live
through that
I know dad which is why you taught us early on the value of a dollar--about
saving and always being careful with investments, Russ nodded in confession,
Ive always respected that about you.
Even so there was a time when I wasnt as thrifty as you knew me
to be. When your mother took that job working at the Ashford company we were
more in debt than I cared to admit and that put an incredible strain on our
marriage. People will try to tell you that not having money is something you
can pull through, but it became increasingly harder when I found myself reaching
dead ends with work and after Grady was born things only got harder. We still
werent making it and she started putting in more hours at the office.
I wish I could say that it didnt have its effect on us, but it
did. Grady was our top priority and we were barely able to cover the costs
of having no insurance and a baby in the house. It was beyond anything you
could ever expect when you finally decide to get married. Here I thought that
everything would fall into place when we said I do, but it doesnt
work that way. Life never works that way.
Russ opened his mouth to say something further, but stopped as his father
continued to recount the past with him.
Needless to say during the time when things were their hardest, your
mother was doing all that she could to keep it together for us. She was trying
her hardest to make the money that would put food on the table, while I was
finding myself more distanced from her and resentful that I hadnt been
the one to be able to make ends meet. It was around that time that she found
out that she was pregnant again and even though thats something to be
joyful about, it was only another source of tension between us considering
that we could barely provide for Grady. One thing lead to another and by the
time she had the miscarriage it seemed that our relationship had hit rock
bottom, Elliot sighed heavily, pain crossing over his features as his
eyes told the story of days gone by, Your mother needed me after we
lost the baby, but I couldnt be there for her. Shamefully I turned to
drinking much like your brother did in the past when times were tough and
I emotionally put up a barrier between us. I was isolating her from what we
were experiencing in our marriage to the point that when we lost our baby
she was alone and endured the pain of that without me at her side. I was drowning
my own sorrows and feeling self pity in alcohol and she was carrying the weight
of the burden and the loss on her shoulders alone. Grady was too young to
remember it, but he was stuck in the middle of our endless fighting and our
battles over money, my drinking and her career. Needless to say the more I
pushed her the way, the closer Nicholas was to her. By my abandoning her at
the time when she needed me the most, it opened her up to his attention and
in turn I am to blame for what had happened. Had I been the husband that I
promised to be to her, then she never wouldve felt so alone and
You never told her to sleep with him, Russ added stubbornly catching
the look his father gave him.
I may not have wanted it, but I sure as hell didnt act like I
gave a damn. Russ, Ill be the first one to admit that if I had been
your mother I wouldve taken Grady and left never looking back. I treated
her horribly because I refused to let her in, Elliot closed his eyes
fighting to contain the demons of the past that haunted him, When she
told me about what had happened with her and Nicholas, I was furious, but
more so with myself because I realized just how much Id missed out on
by pushing her away. Ultimately I took what we had and destroyed it because
I was too busy focusing on what we didnt have with one another. I kept
harboring all of this anger inside of me that I lead her into his arms. Im
the one who hurt her and made her feel like she had no alternative.
So her sleeping with him was okay then because you made a few mistakes,
Russ shook his head firmly, I dont buy that.
Russ, listen to me, Elliot warned him once again, As I said
before when youre in love with someone nothing is ever black and white.
I was far from being the easiest person to deal with at that point in my life.
I was like Grady had been if not worse. I would do things to upset her--things
to hurt her and then when she was with Nicholas--it was the hardest reality
check I ever had to face, but it did something to me. I felt angry, betrayed
and hurt, but most of all I felt like a failure as a husband. I promised her
the world and in turn I gave her heartbreak and misery.
So for your punishment you were forced to live with having me around
day in and day out to remind you of what youd done in pulling away from
her, Russ half questioned seeing how much remembering the past was hurting
his father.
No, Elliot blurted out firmly. He sat up straighter shaking his
head again, When your mother told me that she was pregnant with you,
I wanted so hard to believe that you were mine. I wanted to have you in my
life because you were our miracle child. You were what happened after everything
had fallen apart. When we learned she was pregnant again I realized it was
a sign that I needed to turn my life around. I needed to stop blaming the
world around me for what I wasnt doing in my professional life and I
needed to forgive myself and your mother because we had this whole new life
to bring into this world. We had everything ahead of us and with you and Grady
we had something to hold onto--something to keep fighting for.
But you knew that she slept with him and that there was a possibility
that I would be his and not yours, Russ mouthed feeling a stiffness
in his neck and shoulders.
Your mother being pregnant with you saved my life son, Elliot
placed his hand on top of Russells and squeezed it gently, I stopped
drinking and started getting my priorities straight again. Business picked
up and your mother was able to quit working for the company. We started working
together and planning for you and Grady. We saved enough to move and start
over and we owe that all to you. If you werent a part of our lives,
then there is no telling whether or not we wouldve survived in our relationship
with one another. While you might think that you were the thing that caused
me pain over the years, you and Grady were my greatest joys and the best accomplishments
of my life. If I hadnt had you, I may have wound up in a very dark place,
but Russ from the moment you made your way into this world I knew in my heart
that I had finally found my purpose--that I had finally found my reason and
that was as your father. I love you son and I dont give a damn about
what happened with your mother and that man. He never, ever could give me
anymore grief than what I wouldve experienced had I never had the chance
to have you in my life.
Dad I
Russ felt a lump forming in his throat when he saw
tears in his fathers eyes.
I love you son and your mother loves you too. You and Grady are the
greatest things that have ever happened to us, so dont think for a second
that I could ever look at you and see anything other than the son I am so
very proud of--the son that I have always wanted and the son that I thank
God each and every day that I have in my life. I love you Russ and nothing
could ever change that for me, Elliot confessed with a broken tone.
I love you too dad, Russ reached out to embrace his father knowing
full well that regardless of what had happened, he would always in his heart
be Elliot Dentons son and only Elliots son. Nothing would ever
change that.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Don watched Zack and Michelle talking to each other carefully as he tried
to make out some of the words they were saying. It was no use though because
whatever they were talking about, it was obvious that he wouldnt be
able to hear it from being so far away. Just the thought that Michelle might
be planning something bothered him. There was no way he was going to let her
do something to hurt someone he loved again. An idea passed through his mind,
but then he remembered where he was and realized what he thought would have
worked really wouldnt considering that he was supposed to be civilized.
Without wanting to worry about what Michelle was talking about anymore Don
walked over to Zack and Michelle, pulling Michelle away from Zack and to the
other side of the hallway. The look on Zacks face said everything as
Michelle pulled away from Dons grasp, but Don didnt let her other
wrist go.
Let go of me you big idiot, Michelles teeth gritted together
as she tried to get out of Dons grasp seeing his blue eyes staring into
hers. What do you want?
What do you think you are doing here Michelle? Don questioned
seeing her eye him over carefully and she stopped trying to get out of his
grasp. I told you
I dont care what you said Don, Michelle bit down on her
bottom lip stepping in closer to Don, seeing him staring down at her. You
think Im scared of you?
If I were you, I would be scared of me, Don replied with a strong
stare feeling her hit him roughly in the shoulder as he let out a small laugh.
That didnt hurt Michelle, but nice try.
You think your funny dont you? she questioned seeing him
wiggle his eyebrows up and down before a smile pulled at the corners of his
lips. You are just as weak as anyone else Don, you cant scare
me with you steroid enhanced muscles.
Steroid enhanced? Don laughed looking down for a moment before
going silent for a minute. He looked into Michelles eyes seeing her
confused expression as he let out a small laugh. Oh, Im sorry,
I must have got lost thinking about your plastic surgery. So, how much did
these things cost you?
Youre funny, Michelle rolled her eyes seeing Don look down
as she pushed him back against the wall seeing him let out a small laugh.
Actually, my ex-husband paid for these. You like them?
No, I was just about to say whoever did it did a really bad job,
Don replied seeing her eyes fill up with anger as he let go of her wrist knowing
he had her attention. Obviously your husband liked you a lot too. I
mean, he felt that bad to give you something so small. I mean they could have
at least picked two sizes up.
I just got his wallet, he didnt have a say in what I did,
Michelle flipped her hair back thinking about Kevin and how many times Kevin
didnt even care what she did as long as she left him alone. He
made the money and I spent it.
That doesnt sound anything like you, Don rolled his eyes
fixing his white jacket before clearing his throat uneasily. So why
are you really here? Out to ruin someones life again?
Maybe yours, Michelle pointed out digging her heel into his foot
hearing him let out a small hiss. I bet that didnt hurt you either,
right Don?
Nope, that didnt hurt, Don bit down on his bottom lip feeling
the heat from her dig going all the way up his leg. Actually, okay--that
hurt a little bit. What kind of heels do you have, spike? You might want to
be careful you might fall on one of them one day and poke a hole right through
your head. That might almost be horrible.
You know what, Michelle clenched her fists at her sides before
biting down on her bottom lip to try and control her anger. Im
done with this, Im done with you.
You better leave town now that you are done with me, Don pointed
out seeing her eyes narrow out at him as he nodded slowly and moved his leg
to try and get it to feel better. Me and Brant warned you that if you
come anywhere near town, you would win up in jail.
Go ahead Don, try and get your wife Shannon to arrest me, Michelle
folded her arms out in front of her before letting out a wide smile. If
you do that, I will have no problems telling the FBI that Shannon abused her
power.
I should just try, Don whispered stepping in closer to her before
letting out a small laugh. Who are they going to believe? A stripped
like you or me and my wife. Let me think this over, I think you already know
the answer Michelle and you better be careful with what you say.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Now that weve cleared up that little conflict between us,
Brant murmured falling in over Angela now that she lay over the top of the
desk hed just had his way with her on, I think maybe its
time we started talking about things here.
I dont want to talk, she mouthed closing her eyes and feeling
his head settle in over her body, pressing warmly against her chest.
She ran her fingers lazily through his dark hair, feeling the dampness over
the strands brought on by their earlier lovemaking. She kept her legs around
him having taken him down with her on the desk top knowing full well that
shed once again given into her more primal urges with him. Feeling him
over her, inside of her was too much and now, well now the last thing she
wanted to do was dwell on the negative which included what was inevitable
once they started talking to one another again.
Baby, youre not listening to me, Brant chastised laying
a small, teasing nip over the swell of her breast while his hand traced lazy
circles over her upper thigh. I said I want to talk to you about things.
We need to talk.
No, we dont, she argued biting down on her lower lip in
feeling his hand curl over her inner thigh brushing over her heated flesh
once again.
Angela I can go all day with you like this if youd prefer, but
sooner or later Im going to wear you down enough to get you to talk
to me, his words were muffled by his lips pressed in over her breastbone.
His tongue curled over her soft curves and she arched up into his body once
again.
Brant, she gasped his name, feeling his fingers trace over the
soft warmth of her femininity reminding her all over again about how much
he knew about her body already.
I can give you a lot to think about in a great many ways, he whispered
his words buzzing over her body, his touch bringing her up to the melting
point all over again, tension sweeping over her. He raised his head to meet
her eyes with a renewed hunger, but Id prefer we do this like
rational adults here.
Theres nothing rational or appropriate about what youre
doing right now, she dropped her hand down to prevent him from clouding
her mind any further, but instead of stilling his touch, she found herself
guiding him on further.
I dont think appropriate is what youre looking for today,
he smiled proudly seeing her coming undone all over again at his touch, but
then again thats not really anything that worked for me either.
So then were in agreement that neither one of us is rational or
appropriate right now, she ran her heel over the smoothness of his spine
nudging him in closer to her in a longing movement.
It would seem that way, he nodded sliding up to claim her lips
again with a hungry intensity. He brought his free hand up to touch her cheek
gently, feeling the soft cries of her bodys response to him falling
from her swollen lips again and again.
Brant, oh God, the things you do to me, she cried out curling
her legs around him, not wanting to let go of the sensations that were roaring
over her.
You make me so hot baby, he assured her nibbling on her bottom
lip again and again seeing her face grow flushed with the desire that rocked
over her in tiny tremors. She arched her head back crying out in release.
He settled in over her hips, bringing his hand up over her waist before he
eased himself just barely into her. He caught the way that her lips parted,
the sound that came from them just by that one small movement between them,
yet there was something more he wanted--something he needed.
Dont stop, she pleaded, in a needy, aching voice, her brown
eyes drowning in desire.
Im not going to stop, he assured her moving in over her
a bit more completely. He sank into her a bit further before his eyes fixed
upon hers commanding what he was searching for, Under one condition.
Anything, she blurted out thoughtlessly, her breaths more urgent
as she hugged his body over hers, thighs pressing him closer towards completion.
Once I have my way with you, I want to spend time with you beyond this.
I want us to sit down and talk about whats happening here--about each
other and then, he paused fighting to keep his thoughts even when her
body was threatening to tear apart what little control he had left. Still
he had to stay focused, Then I want you to see that we do have something
together--that we have a chance at making this work
She seemed to stiffen at the comment, her eyes suddenly wrapped up in confusion,
Brant, what are you saying?
I want to be more than your lover, he dropped down into her a
bit further, I want to be more than this. I want for us to be together
I think that is already a mission accomplished, she arched up
against him, writhing beneath his weight above her.
No, youre not getting it sweetheart, he brushed his finger
over her bottom lip gingerly, I want to go beyond having phenomenal
sex with you. I want another chance at the boyfriend thing.
The boyfriend thing, she repeated in a pinched squeal knowing
full well that the last thing she wanted to be doing was talking about the
labels of their relationship when he was driving her crazy wanting more from
their union. Brant, I think its a little too late for the boyfriend
thing.
Its never too late to make an investment in the future, and right
now Id like to take the opportunity to do just that for the both of
us, he whispered over her lips dropping a gentle kiss over them, for
our children.
Brant, I just dont know if we can really make something out of
she started to object finding everything about him to be a distraction until
she felt him break the connection between them. Her eyes widened in protest,
Brant
Promise me youll give me that, he searched her eyes again
knowing that he had her almost where he wanted her, Promise me that
youll give me that much.
Brant I, she bit down on her lower lip feeling him so very close
to her, yet so far away. She closed her eyes once more and nodded, I
promise. Ill give you a chance. Ill listen to whatever it is you
have to say.
Thats my Angela, he whispered dropping down to kiss her
heatedly as all of his control slipped out of the window. He gave himself
completely into the reality of making love to her in ways hed only dreamt
about before they were reunited again at the party. Now that they were together
again, he promised himself that there was no way he was going to let her go.
Not now and not ever because despite all his misconceptions about where his
life would have been, there was nothing he was more sure of than the woman
in his arms. She was it for him and that was something he wasnt about
to let slip away from him. Never again!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So have you been keeping Seth busy today? Blake couldnt
help but ask as she and Kellen walked through the corridor with one another
to the studio where Seth had been working.
Surprisingly I think Heather had really gotten him into something good,
Kellen added with a bright smile, I wasnt sure what she had on
her mind earlier, but
Oh Im sure I can guess what she had on her mind, Blake frowned
thinking about the way her rival thought. Heathers trouble Kellen
and I still cant figure out why you bother with her.
Well for starters she and I have a certain history, Kellen added
weaving his words mysteriously, and beyond that shes Charless
mother. Since Kipp and I are together now
I feel sorry for you, Blake interrupted with a simple shake of
her head, I mean Heathers something alright. When she was engaged
to my brother, she was playing him like she played Kipp. Did you know she
actually slept with some movie producer in our home on the night Brant was
throwing a big party downstairs? Talk about cheap.
Heathers not perfect, Kellen added with a simple shrug of
his shoulders, but then again none of us really are. Besides, shes
changed.
Women like Heather never change, Blake added stubbornly with a
small frown.
And women like you never know when to quit, do they Blake? Heathers
voice sounded out from the room in front of them. She had her arms folded
in front of her chest and her green eyes narrowed down at Blake, Still
trying to convert the world to seeing things your way, are you?
Im just trying to get the men around you to open up their eyes
before you wind up taking them for a ride, Blake snapped back at her
icily.
Yeah, well from what I recall your brother happened to more than enjoy
the ride I gave him when we were together, Heather answered in a snide
voice not about to let Blake one up her.
Oh please, the only thing he truly enjoyed giving you was the one way
trip to the curb he gave you after he saw what a lying slut you truly are,
Blake stepped forward a bitterness in her voice.
Oh yes, thats one little thing I never did get to thank you for
there Blake. By the way, did you ever end up telling Brant that you orchestrated
that whole little scenario? Heather arched a curious brow, I mean
Im sure hed be more than curious to know how his little sister
set me up to ensure that he couldnt be happy with me.
He never was happy with you. Youre beneath him, Blake wrinkled
her nose at Heather.
Come to think of it, I believe he was very happy with me beneath him
time and time again, Heather scratched her chin lightly, And with
me over him as well.
You are such a slut, Blake snarled up at her in disgust.
And youre such a pathetic little girl who doesnt have anything
real to cling to in her own life that shed much rather intrude upon
her brothers love life for kicks, Heather answered flatly with
a shake of her head, Its a wonder Seth hasnt found his way
to being bored with you yet, though maybe if he works here a little while
longer that might change. Maybe Ill show him a thing or two about what
it was your brother enjoyed the most with me.
Why you! Blake lunged forward ready to attack Heather when Kellen
jumped between the two of them keeping them separated before they tore each
other apart.
Thats enough! Kellen snapped at both women. He glared at
the both of them finding himself less than thrilled with their callous behavior,
I think its time to stop this. Blake, Heather is not the enemy
and Heather, calm down.
Calm down! Heather repeated with a huff, This little tart
started it. Come to think of it, how did she get in here? I dont recall
having her on the list of people who were allowed to get into the studio area.
I brought her in here, Kellen tossed out a warning look at Heather
before facing Blake, and you, well youre my guest and I expect
you to treat Heather with respect and courtesy here.
As if, Blake rolled her eyes, I dont respect anything
about that little
Ah! Kellen cut her off holding his finger up in the air, We
will have none of this. Girls you do realize when you call one another nasty
names, it only lets the rest of the world think that they can treat you both
like far less than what youre worth. You two are both divas in my mind
and divas should unite instead of being catty with one another. So put the
claws away and lets call it a day, shall we?
Not until she apologizes, Heather remarked sourly, folding her
arms in front of her chest, She has no right coming into my business
and starting trouble when she wasnt even invited in the first place.
Im here to see Seth and not you, so why dont you just go
do whatever it is or whoever it is you do in order to stay in charge here?
Blake suggested snidely standing taller in an attempt to show Heather she
wasnt about to be railroaded by her.
Seth is working and the last time working hours werent the place
for personal time, Heather challenged daring Blake to take another step
forward into the studios.
You cant keep me from my fiancée, Blake took a small
step forward only to watch Heather move in front of her.
I can do whatever I want to when its on company time, Heather
reminded her sharply, So why dont you take a hint and get lost?
Im not leaving until I see Seth and theres nothing you can
do to stop me, Blake replied reaching out to shove Heather aside.
Sure I can. Ill just call security and
Heather started
reaching out to tug on Blakes arm only to feel Kellens arms crushing
in around her.
Group hug! Kellen announced squeezing both women together until
they were face to face. Both tried to bounce out of the embrace, but Kellen
kept his strong arms around the both of them keeping them firmly in place.
Kellen let me go! Heather huffed.
Kellen, stop it! Blake added with a groan trying to wiggle out
of his hold again.
Now listen you two. Im not going to bring this group hug to an
end until you both stop acting like PMS bitches and you start behaving like
proper ladies. You are both bright, beautiful women who have a lot going for
you and youd accomplish so much more as friends than snide little enemies.
Its a trend that is so last year and this time around I think we need
to break the habit. We need to empower ourselves by letting go of the negative
thinking and dwelling on the positive.
Im positive Im about two seconds away from kneeing you in
the balls Kellen, Heather warned in a pinched voice trying to ignore
the fact that Blake Ashford was a mere few inches from her face.
Heathers right. If you dont let go of me right now, Im
going to have to seriously hurt you, Blake added with a huff.
See and now this is what I was looking for, Kellen beamed with
a wide grin, his blue eyes sparkling at the both of them. Two minutes
ago you were bitter rivals, snarky enemies with the need to tear one another
down, but together youre working to accomplish a goal and look at this
He took a step back and held his hands up in the air. You succeeded
in your mission easily in joining forces.
Both women took a quick step back and glared at Kellen for a long minute.
Hey, you two can hate on me for wanting to help, but the fact to the
matter is that you would make great pals and were going to keep working
on making that happen.
Youre crazy Kellen, Blake shook her head at him spotting
Seth out of the corner of her eye before marching off towards the photo lab.
Once she left Heather glared at Kellen like she could easily murder him on
the spot.
I cant believe you did that, Heather scoffed shaking her
head at Kellen, You had no right to
Heather, honey while I know that youre not exactly on Blakes
top ten list and shes not on yours, the fact to the matter is that you
two would make wonderful friends. You could both help one another to evolve
and I think thats important, Kellen walked over to Heather and
put his arm around her, If for no other reason, you need to mend fences
with her for Charles. She is Kipps cousin you know.
So, Heather frowned at him, That means nothing.
Maybe not to you, but it will to Charles, Kellen pointed out with
a heavy sigh, and besides, what did I tell you about changing your life
around?
Im not going to take crap from those who thrive on making me miserable
Kellen, Heather pointed out with a frown.
Maybe not, but at the same time you need to really think about who your
real enemies are. Blake is harmless in the grand scheme of things and given
that Seth is probably one of the most talented photographers that we know,
well it wouldnt hurt to be polite to the woman he loves.
Shes a bitch Kellen. Shes a spoiled brat plain and simple,
Heather huffed still keeping her arms folded around her chest while her eyes
darted towards where Blake and Seth were with one another.
Even so, youre working on trying to be less of a one, so take
a tip from me sweetheart and let go of the old feud you two have going. If
you think about it, she did you a favor, Kellen added encouragingly,
Sure it mightve sucked when things ended with Brant, but look
on the bright side, it freed you up to be with Kyle and we can work on making
that one happen together.
Kellen, youre insane, Heather shook her head at him letting
out a long sigh before groaning, Please dont start on this one
again.
Face it Heather. You two are destiny and as soon as you admit it, then
well be able to find a way to get him to stop pretending with Sarah
so he can be with you, Kellen added rubbing his hands together excitedly.
Heather just gave him a look and then groaned walking away before she started
taking what he was saying seriously. There was no way that she was going to
cause a rift in Kyles happiness. Sure, she might have a reputation for
being a bitch, but she wasnt about to destroy someone who had always
been good to her. Kyle deserved happiness and if he had it with Sarah, then
so be it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Honey, you have to calm down, Rob hushed Cori running his hand
through her hair soothingly feeling her cry against his chest as his heart
broke just seeing her like this. There was no way he could stand someone like
his daughter being hurt in such a way. Diego had to pay for what he did to
Cori, there was no way Diego could get away with this. You are going
to give yourself a heart attack if you dont stop Cori.
I just
I dont know what to do Rob, Cori stuttered trying
to find the right words to say as she looked up into Robs light blue
eyes. Dave caught the corner of her eye as she quickly got up from the seat
and ran over to her brother wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Oh
my god Dave, Im so glad youre here.
I know honey, Dave hushed her quietly giving her a small squeeze
feeling her tears against his shirt. He pulled back gently caressing her shoulder
gently. Honey, you have to do something for me right now.
Sure, Davey, Cori nodded wiping away her tears before letting
out a deep sigh. She felt Daves thumb brush away one of her tears as
he shook his head slowly. Ill do anything.
Honey, can you go get Mr. Leveski a bottle of water because I have a
few questions to ask him, Dave pleaded with her feeling her slip out
from his grasp as she nodded slowly. Do you think you are going to be
okay?
Ill be fine, Cori assured him taking in a deep breath and
walking over towards the soda machine.
Come with me Mr. Leveski, Dave urged Rob into his office as Rob
took a seat and Dave took a seat at his desk. I just need to ask you
about Diego. What happened?
Your sister told me what he did to her, Rob took in a deep breath
wrapping his fingers around the arm of his chair before taking in a deep breath.
I couldnt believe a man could hurt a woman like that. She is like
a daughter to me Dave and you know that.
I know Rob, Dave took in a deep breath thinking about everything
Cori had done in her life including her basketball life that Rob helped her
out with. I just need to know--did you really hit Diego?
Yeah, I hit Diego, Rob nodded not caring if he did or not because
Diego deserved everything. In fact, Diego deserved more than what he got because
he wasnt a nice guy at all and he didnt deserve any kind of sympathy.
But I dont care about it Dave because he hurt your sister and
I did the right thing.
He did do the right thing Dave, Cori spoke up taking a step into
her brothers office and handing Dave over a water and one to Rob. Diego
hurt me, you cant get Rob in trouble for something he did right.
I just need to ask these questions Cori, Dave took in a deep breath
eyeing his sister over slowly and then Rob. It was obvious that Rob believed
everything she was saying, but Dave wasnt so sure about Cori. There
were a few pieces of the puzzle missing and he was trying to fit them together
perfectly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Kyle spotted Cori walking out of Daves office in the corner of his
eye and a frown overtook him. Unable to quell the urge inside of him brought
on by his instincts in this particular situation that was happening with Diego,
he decided it was time to have a talk with Ms. Warner up front. Sure, she
may have been lying to the police and giving them reason to believe that Diego
had attacked her, but Kyle wasnt buying it.
Cori, Kyle called her name seeing the surprise register in her
dark eyes when he walked up to her, we need to talk.
I dont have anything to say to you, she snubbed her nose
at him in an attempt to walk away from him. Im not going to stand
here and be lectured by you after what that monster did to me. I dont
care if hes your friend, hes going down.
Cori, youre lying, Kyle blurted out seeing the shock behind
her dark eyes before she recovered.
I am not. You dont know what happened. You werent there,
she argued with him her voice a shrill hiss. You didnt see what
he did to me.
Yeah, well neither did you because it didnt happen. Diego wouldnt
hurt you. Hes not that type of guy, Kyle argued further with her,
and if youd stop lying about this, youd find that this will
go a lot easier on all of us.
Easier, Cori huffed in response shaking her head at him, You
dont know the half of what he put me through.
Cori, I know that youre upset with him and I dont blame
you for the way things ended, but lying about a man and putting him in jail
is a serious offense, Kyle warned her sharply seeing in her eyes that
this was all a hoax. Sure, she was denying it, but he could sense that she
was in this for altogether different reasons than she was letting people believe.
Cori, Diego was your friend for a long time. Why would you do this to
him?
Oh thats right, she let out an ironic laugh shaking her
head at him. Im surprised that you of all people would be defending
him considering all that hes done to you.
Diegos done nothing but be a good friend to myself and Sarah,
Kyle shook his head at her, and hes been a good friend to you.
Sure, maybe you two broke up, but thats no reason to do this.
Funny you should mention Sarah, Cori spotted Sarah walking out
into the lobby area. She saw panic register in Sarahs eyes as she moved
forward to see what was going on with Cori and Diego. Shes just
about the last person Id be listening to right now if I were you especially
where Diego is concerned.
Look Cori, I realize that youre upset, but
Sarah started
her eyes narrowing at Cori with firm warning.
Upset? Oh Sarah you dont know the half of it, Cori screeched
at her before her brown eyes fixed directly on Kyle, but I think that
Kyle should. Kyle, did you know that your oh so moral friend Diego has not
only hurt me, but that hes been sleeping with Sarah right under your
nose? Now hows that for friendship?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...