Episode 341
You need to know why, Chris replied as Kevin picked him up again
and held him up to make sure he didnt fall over. Seeing Kevins
dark eyes staring into his Chris tried to speak up again. Its
not like you didnt screw me too.
Youre right, I did. I should ruin your life again, like you just
did mine, Kevin muttered letting Chris go as Chris looked out at him
and let out a small breath. Swinging his fist out of nowhere, Kevin hit Chris
right in the center of the face sending him back to the ground in a thud.
Hearing Chris let out a small gasp, he saw blood dripping down Chriss
fingers as Kevin shrugged his shoulders. Damn thats got to hurt.
Grabbing a hand full of Chriss hair, Kevin started to pull Chris toward
the center of the living room hearing Chris let out a small hiss as Kevin
got Chris to stand up again. Seeing Chris going to hit him, Kevin ducked and
speared Chris into the closet door seeing the door fall off its hinges
as Chris was laid out on top of it.
Damn, so much for those imported Italian doors here, eh? Kevin
knelt down his breathing getting heavier as he stared out at Chris. Grabbing
Chris again by the hair, Kevin shook his head slowly seeing the way that Chris
looked up at him almost scared. Why sink so low to actually go along
with Michelle? You ruined my life Chris.
You ruined mine, Chris spat seeing Kevin stare out at him angrily
as Chris shook his head slowly and bit down on his bottom lip. You stole
Angel from me when she was mine. Just because you were some stupid boxer and
you came back with that whole injured thing. I knew that I shouldnt
have trusted her watching you that night and when she said no to marrying
me--I should have gotten it. When I walked in on you two on the couch sleeping
together naked, it broke my heart.
I was young you stupid jackass, Ive grown up, Kevin muttered
tightly yanking on Chriss hair slightly hearing Chris let out a small
whimper as Kevin pulled him up again and threw him out onto the floor. Angie
loves Brant and I love Ria.
Oh bullshit, Chris tried to get to his elbows and he slid back
on the carpet to try and get a little bit away from Kevin. You two are
always going to have something together. Better you with her than Brant, but
you know--it could have been me.
Seeing Kevin roll his eyes and kneel down before him Chris nodded slowly.
Kevin tilted his head to the side, watching Chris nod slowly as he wiped at
his bottom lip pushing the blood away quickly.
Yeah, thats right Kevin. If you wouldnt have gotten her
pregnant than we could have been married, but no she was stuck on you because
you two lost a child before she came here, Chris pointed out arching
his eyebrows up to Kevin seeing Kevin look down toward the ground and his
jaw clenched in anger. You were twenty and she was eighteen and when
you got her pregnant, she was too hooked on you. I dont understand why.
Kevin looked up to Chris and stood up slowly, tilting his head to the side
and smiling. Letting out a small laugh he bent down toward Chris looking him
in the eyes almost tempting Chris to try and hit him.
Youre wrong Chris, Kevin shook his head slowly sliding his
hands into his pockets before letting out a small laugh. You dont
know how wrong you truly are.
Oh so now youre denying your own daughter I see, Chris let
out a small laugh seeing anger fill up behind Kevins dark eyes as Chris
slowly got to his feet. Pressing his hand in against the couch he saw Kevin
watching him very carefully and Chris bit down on his bottom lip. Look
at yourself, youre even giving up on your damn daughter.
You son of a bitch, Kevin moved forward pressing Chris against
the wall as he started to hit him over and over again, seeing Chris grow more
limp at his every hit. Seeing Chris fall limp to the ground Kevin got down
on his left knee and reached forward to hit Chris again only to see him block
his face. I loved my daughter more than anyone or anything and I would
do anything to have her back. Dont you ever damn her again because she
deserved to live and I should have her. Its people like you that stole
my happiness from me, do you even know how I got shot that night. Or how young
I really was and Angie was.
Yeah, Kevin, Chris felt Kevins hand wrap around his neck
as Chris took in a deep breath moving his neck up trying to make sure Kevins
grasp didnt fully get around his neck. She was eighteen and you
were twenty. I could have protected her more than you. I could have done something
more.
I almost died for her you dumb ass time and time again, Kevin
dropped Chriss head and stood up from the ground walking over toward
the corner of the room. Running his fingers through his hair angrily Kevin
fell to his knees and let out an angered hiss. I would die just to have
my baby girl back. I know I cant have her back, but I was going to have
a chance at getting something like that in my future. Ria was my only chance
to move on and live some type of happy life, but you stole that from me again.
Kevin, Chris saw Kevins body shaking before him on the
ground before hearing Kevin let out a loud roar and stand up throwing the
lamp into the wall as it shattered into pieces. Kevin, stop before I
have to do something to make you stop.
What are you going to do? Kevin snapped looking back at Chris
and seeing him get up on his feet. Seeing Chris stare out at him Kevin moved
in closer to Chris, his chocolate eyes glaring out at Chris. Seeing Chris
ball up his fist and go to swing it at him, Kevin grabbed a hold of Chris,
grabbing both sides of his neck. Dont tempt me.
Go ahead Kevin, break my neck, Chris dared Kevin feeling Kevins
fingertips dig deeper into his skin as Chris let out a small laugh. Come
on, do what Angels dad taught you. Bring back that old side of yourself,
come on mob boy. Break my neck and cover it up. You know what to do, clean
up--make it look like I just left town. Come on Kevin, dont hesitate.
Screw you, Kevin pushed Chris down to the ground and fell down
to the couch covering his head with his hands as he heard Chris scramble to
his feet again as Kevin shook his head over and over again. I hate people
like you. People that are willing to steal everything.
Kevin, Chris gulped down realizing what he really said as he took
in a deep breath and heard what almost sounded like Kevin crying. Kevin,
are you crying?
Just go fuck up someone elses life, Kevin snapped biting
down on his bottom lip and looking up to Chris before shaking his head slowly.
Quickly getting up he walked to the door and let himself out as he fell to
the step and let out a small breath feeling his eyes start to burn over as
he thought about losing every woman in his life. I dont have anyone
that loves me.
Kevin? a voice beckoned him from his own pain as he felt a gentle
hand move in over his shoulder and he looked up to see Heather in front of
him as he wiped at his eyes. Hey, are you okay?
Im fine, Kevin got up from the step and looked away for
a minute before looking back toward the house. Thinking things over Kevin
realized that he didnt want her to see him like this. I have to
go.
Alright, be careful, Heather called out seeing him walk down
to his SUV and get in quickly before pulling off. Looking back toward the
house she saw that the front door was still open as she took in a deep breath.
Okay, that was a little weird.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So wheres Kev? Trisha questioned walking into her sisters
apartment without bothering to know. She tucked her spare key to Rias
apartment into her pocket before breezing past Ria, who was seated on the
couch looking rather glum. I thought youd be gone already with
him.
Im not going anywhere with him, Ria sulked sinking further
into the couch and holding the throw pillow to her chest, and you can
leave my key on the table when you go as well.
Ouch thats harsh, Trisha frowned over at her, Besides
you werent supposed to be here when I came in to borrow your little
slinky red dress for a date that I have with Chase.
Take it, Ria waved her hand dismissively not bothering to look
back at her sister, Its yours if you want it.
Thats awfully generous, but
Trisha replied stopping
and deviating from her original plan to walk over to take another look at
her sister. Okay let me think about this one. Kevins not here.
Youre on the couch eating what strangely looks like a box of chocolate
covered ice-creams and
Just leave me alone, Ria swiped the box that shed been keeping
on the couch beside her onto her lap, I just want to be miserable right
now.
No one wants to be miserable, Trisha noted dropping down onto
the couch beside her sister. She reached for the box and stole a chocolate
ice-cream ball. She popped it into her mouth before eyeing Ria once again,
Okay Ill take it that you and Kevin got into a fight. Am I right?
Thats putting it mildly, Ria slumped further into the couch
swatting at Trishas hand before she could steal another treat from the
box.
Hey be nice, Trisha swatted back at Ria before taking another
ice-cream for herself, Im not the one youre mad at remember.
Im not mad. Im furious, Ria admitted with a heavy
groan, I mean of all the times for me to fall in love with someone completely
unobtainable
Whoa back up, Trishas eyes widened at her sisters
words, I know full well that you arent talking about Kevin because
that man is completely hooked on you.
No. Wrong, Ria shook her head stubbornly, Hes still
hung up on the glorified Angela and thats never going to change. Hes
still very much in love with her and I was an idiot to think that he and I
had a chance of working things out with one another.
No way, Trisha shook her head at Rias words, I know
thats entirely not true. Kevin loves you. Hes loved you for like
ever and there is no way that he would throw away what you two have together
for
For a woman that only seems to drag him down, Ria finished for
her with a huff clenching her hands into fists at her sides, Yeah he
did and the longer I stayed in denial about that the harder this would be.
But its over. Its just over and thats all there is to it.
Kevin doesnt love me and I obviously cant be with a man who is
like that.
Kevin does love you, Trisha argued with her letting out a small
groan, and I cant believe that we have to go through this all
over again. I mean honestly you two have more ups and downs than a roller
coaster and Im not talking about your life in the bedroom, which by
the way I would like to add you should try to keep in the bedroom since I
always seem to walk in on the two of you getting it on and
That wont be happening again, Ria informed her bluntly,
Im done with Kevin. He cant be honest with me about his
heart so why should I hand mine out to him to be shattered and stomped on?
Ria, I swear you are such a drama queen, Trisha couldnt
help but roll her eyes, Its Kevins ring on your finger,
remember?
Thats because Angie already has someone else in mind, but sooner
or later shell be back to sink her claws into Kevin. She always does,
Ria groaned with heavy exaggeration. Hes always running back to
her and this time I have proof.
What proof? Trisha couldnt help but ask.
I saw them together. I saw him kissing her, Ria turned to look
at her sister revealing the tears that had overtaken her since shed
given Kevin the brush off. Shortly after shed seen him leave shed
pulled back into her parking spot and headed right back to her apartment to
sulk.
When? Trisha questioned not believing it.
Someone sent me a tape, Ria explained matter of fact, a shivering
exhale sweeping over her, I saw them with one another and he had her
in his arms
God Trisha I was so stupid to think that he could actually
be with me and be happy. Its obvious that hes never, ever going
to get over that woman so whats the point in trying?
The point is that maybe you were mistaken. Maybe you read something
into the situation that wasnt there, Trisha offered up her voice
full of hope.
I saw with my own eyes that hes still in love with her and now
I just have to deal with that, Ria reached for a piece of chocolate
covered ice-cream in front of her, He doesnt love me.
Yes he does Ria and if youre smart youll stop whining and
work on winning him back, Trisha tried to encourage her sister, Kevin
Adonis is your man and if someone is trying to take that away from you, then
you need to fight back. You need to tell him like it is and let him see that
he wouldnt need to bother with Angie when hes got someone like
you.
Its not that easy, Ria frowned back at her.
Sure it is. You love him and I know he loves you, Trisha continued
in an impassioned tone, If you show him just how much he means to you,
then hes not going to give Angie a second look. Youre more than
twice the woman she is and Im telling you that Kevin loves you. What
you saw was probably nothing. It was probably just something in the past that
That has him holding onto hope that he can have a future with her one
day. Im telling you Trisha. Kevin loves her, Ria argued with her
younger sister.
Loved her Ria. They had a history and the last time I checked we all
have histories, Trisha reminded her point blank, but that isnt
something that we should allow to keep us from our future. You love Kevin
and he loves you. That alone should give you reason to stop making yourself
fat and start doing something about your life.
Im not making myself fat, Ria argued feeling Trisha pull
the ice-cream out of her hand.
Yes you are, Trisha took the treat for herself before getting
up off of the couch, and I think its time you stop being such
a baby and start doing something about your life. If you love Kevin and he
loves you, then stop whining about what it is you think you saw and start
working on the real issue you have going on.
Kevin kissed someone else, Ria reminded her sharply, I dont
think it gets anymore obvious than that.
Yeah, well what did he have to say? Trisha placed her hands on
her hips seeing her sisters uneasy expression. Yeah thats
what I thought. You didnt give him a chance to explain himself, did
you?
I didnt have to hear him to explain to know the truth, Ria
mouthed impatiently. I know that hes still in love with her.
And youre just going to let her have him simply because youre
being a brat, Trisha rolled her eyes at her sister. Youre
going to let the man of your dreams slip away all because you wont take
the time to realize that you need to follow your heart and start taking charge
of your own life.
Oh like youre such an expert on that, Ria rolled her eyes
in response.
From where I stand I look a lot happier than you right now and thats
because Im not too stubborn to walk away from a good thing when it enters
my life. You know you could learn a thing or two from me if you stopped trying
to be so damned logical. Being smart is great, but when it gets down to it,
it leaves you with no common sense, Trisha pointed out turning around
to go and get Rias dress, and if you dont stop sulking you
wont have Kevin either.
Oh shut up, Ria snarled at her sister despite the fact that she
was certain that Trisha was absolutely right. However, after remembering what
shed seen on that tape, she had to wonder if she could ever truly have
Kevins heart again or would she just be fooling herself in trying to
get their life together back on track again?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Have you seen my tie around here? Russ questioned walking through
the hallway searching for the tie hed set down when hed started
getting dressed earlier in the afternoon.
You mean this tie? Avery waved the tie in the air holding it out
into the hallway and dangling it in front of him, her arm stretching from
the door frame.
That would be the one, Russ reached for it only to feel her pull
it back into the room taking him with it. He opened his mouth to speak, but
found her lips over his in a playful kiss. Smiling, he curled his arm around
her waist before nuzzling his nose against the side of her neck, I take
it youve taken a liking to that one too, huh?
Its rather nice, Avery mused with a seductive purr, but
there is still something to be said about the old favorites. Then again anytime
I get you tied up
um, I mean in a tie, well its very nice.
Very, Russ leaned forward nibbling on her lower lip teasingly
ready to enjoy a few moments with her when Erin made a sound from where she
was in her playpen in the middle of their bedroom.
I think shes not approving of our behavior, Avery explained
in a muted tone watching Russ walk over to pick Erin up.
Oh of course she is approving, Russ collected his daughter in
his arms and kissed the top of her head. She just wants to be part of
the attention here.
In that case, Avery walked over to the both of them and wrapped
her arm around Russells waist before turning her attention to their
daughter. Hey princess, are you ready for a wedding?
Erins big eyes gazed up at her mother before she wrinkled her nose and
made a pouting face.
That doesnt look too promising, Avery couldnt help
but laugh at her daughters expression. If I didnt know better,
I would think that she doesnt like the idea of a wedding there.
Yeah well lucky for her, she doesnt have to be there when Uncle
Kyle gets married, Russ decided thinking about their plans to take Erin
over to somewhere other than the wedding so that she didnt have to get
in the middle of the fuss. Watching Erin let out a big yawn he could see that
she was obviously less than enthused about the idea of a wedding anyways.
Something tells me she wont miss too much today, Avery laughed
lightly reaching out for their daughter and bringing her into her arms, Though
when we decide the time is right I hope that shell be able to enjoy
our wedding right with us.
Im sure she will, Russ decided with a proud smirk, We
can get her set up in a stroller and let her Uncle Kyle push her down the
isle with flowers.
Or Kevin, Avery teased thinking about their daughters fondness
of Russells friend, She seems to have taken to him rather quickly.
She really has, Russ noted with a nod seeing the way Erin reached
out to play with a piece of Averys long hair. I dont know
what it is about him, but she really does like him.
Whats not to like, Avery offered up with a small smile,
he seems like a really great guy. I like him too.
Hopefully not too much, Russ leaned in to steal a quick kiss from
her, I would hate to think that both of my girls falling for him so
hard.
Worried that we might be taken in by his charm and good looks,
Avery teased with a small wink hearing the hint of jealous in Russells
voice. Oh please dont tell me youre being serious about
this.
Dont get me wrong I like Kevin. I do, but I know how he has a
way with women, Russ thought to himself remembering his time on the
island with Kevin and Angela, Im sure he thinks youre beautiful.
Well as flattered as I am to hear it, Im not interested in Kevin
like that or any man for that matter considering that I have the sexiest,
most wonderful man in the world with me, Avery assured him with a bright
smile, You are absolutely everything I have ever wanted and needed in
my life and now that youre home again, well I couldnt even think
about noticing anyone else. Even if hes as muscular and good looking
as Kevin.
Yeah thats what I thought, Russ shook his head at her fighting
to suppress the small smile that carried over him. He spoke to Erin in a small
whisper of a voice, We have to watch your mommy. Shes dangerous.
I think Erins the one we should worry about, Avery laughed
lightly in response, Shes the one who is extremely drawn to older,
mysterious men.
Something that I was hoping we wouldnt have to worry about until
a great many years from now. At least thirty, Russ teased hearing the
phone ringing. He looked over to the nightstand over where the phone was and
laughed, Thats probably Kyle and Grady wondering where we are.
Well be there as soon as Guy gets here, Avery added watching
Russ walk over to answer the phone, Once he arrives, then well
be able to be on our way.
Erin wrinkled her face before tugging on Averys hair again this time
with a bit more force.
Okay princess mommy will work on that bottle, Avery assured her
daughter turning to leave when she heard Russ say something that caused to
her stop walking away.
Okay. No problem Guy. Yes, we have it under control and Im glad
that you decided to do what youre doing. We wouldnt want you to
do anything but rest. Yes thats right, Russ finished up holding
his hand over the receiver of the phone. Guy thinks he has the flu.
Oh no, Avery frowned thinking about the luck her younger brother
had, Tell him to take care of himself. I dont want him feeling
bad.
He said thank you, Russ explained to her saying a few last words
to Guy before hanging up the phone, Well it looks like were going
to be taking Erin with us after all unless you want me to look around to see
if another sitter is available.
Nah, its okay. Well take her, Avery decided squeezing
her daughter close to her, Your mom bought her this beautiful little
white lacy dress that I know shell look cute in. Even if shes
not in the wedding spirit well find a way to have her enjoy it.
Erin wrinkled her nose again causing Avery to laugh lightly.
Kevin will be there, Avery tried to coax her daughter giving Russ
one last look before heading towards the door, You should call your
brother though and tell him well be running behind schedule now though.
Okay will do, Russ decided watching Avery leave as he wondered
if today would really turn out to be the kind of wedding that his friend truly
deserved. Something had him thinking that today was far from where Kyle expected
to be when he said his vows. Still Russ was going to do what he had to in
order to support his friend and his decision even if it meant standing at
his side and seeing the wedding play out.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Cori pushed open the door to the pawn shop slinging the garment bag over
her shoulder as her heels clicked on the tile floor. She kept her mind focused
knowing that today was going to be the day that everything fell into place
for her. Smiling as she glanced over at the portly looking man behind the
counter, she realized this was going to be even easier than shed anticipated.
Well hello beautiful, he slurred tossing the magazine that hed
been reading aside in order to gawk up at her, What can I do for you?
Its not so much what you can do for me, but what I can do for
you, she explained reaching into her purse and extracting a small box.
She handed it over to the man, taking her time in sliding it across the counter
before eyeing him expectantly, So tell me what do you think you can
do for me?
His lecherous gaze swept over her ravenously before he grinned so wide it
seemed to sink into his over swelled face. Oh I can think of plenty
of things Id like to do for you.
Thats great, she rolled her eyes impatiently before tapping
her finger nails on the counter top, but seriously take a look at what
I brought you.
Fine, but I can tell you I already like what Im seeing,
the man countered finally taking a look inside of the box that Cori had brought
to him. His eyes widened at the contents before he looked up at her again
curiously, Where did you get something like this?
Lets just say its an old family heirloom, she offered
leaning in over the glass counter before tapping on the top of it, and
its yours if you can help me find what I need today.
And just what do you need? he questioned inching in towards her,
a greedy grin pressing in over him.
A gun, she replied point blank, Not something too big, but
not too weak either if you catch my drift.
A gun? he repeated giving her a strange look. You?
Yeah Id like a handgun of sorts and a friend of mine told me that
you could cut me a deal, she explained expectantly.
Well of course I can. Over here we have a great many things that you
could look through and then we could get started with paper work once you
find something you like, he offered up walking over to another glass
casing area. He motioned for her to follow only to discover her at his side.
Ill take that one, Cori pointed to a gun inside of the container.
Thats the one I want.
Excellent choice, he nodded pulling out the firearm and holding
it out for her, Want to test the fit?
Im sure it fits just fine, she mouthed in an almost purr
sliding the gun into her palm and thinking about what shed need it for.
It was almost too perfect.
So shall I get started on that paper work? he asked giving her
a long look.
Yeah, um about that paper work, she swirled the gun around in
the air, How about we skip over all that since I have a wedding I dont
want to be late for?
I really cant do that because
the man started with
a puzzled expression.
Of course you can because I need this today, Cori informed him
point blank, determination behind her dark eyes, and I simply wont
take no for an answer.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is going to be perfect, Sarah muttered moving forward a
bit as Blake worked on her hair. As she moved she heard Blake let out an angered
growl as she tried to stay in place. Sorry. Im just kind of excited
in a way.
I can see that, Blake pointed out reaching for the hair spray
and pulling back Sarahs hair gently before putting it up the way she
wanted it. You seem to never be able to sit still when I try and do
your hair.
Im sorry, Sarah frowned covering her eyes as Blake put the
hair spray over the front of her bangs and Sarah let out a small cough. I
dont mean to move all over the place, I just cant believe that
in less that six hours Im going to be Mrs. Kyle Houston.
I really cant believe that either, Blake pointed out with
a small laugh looking her friend over slowly before shaking her head slowly.
I can still remember short haired Kyle, the one that was kind of smaller.
Its just weird to finally see the two of you getting married.
Its different, Sarah bit down on her bottom lip and closed
her eyes thinking about everything that had happened over the last few months
and she let out a small laugh. I cant wait, everything is going
to be perfect. Well be married and no one is going to stop us and soon
enough we will be having a family of our own.
Im happy for you, Blake pointed out seeing Sarah smile before
shrugging her shoulders. Putting her final touches on Sarahs hair, Blake
motioned her to stand up as Sarah looked at herself in the mirror and let
out a small gasp. That was either gasp--I like it or gasp--I hate it.
Which one?
I love it Blake, thank you so much, Sarah boasted proudly wrapping
her arms around Blake and giving her a big hug as Blake let out a small gasp.
What is it?
That is a perfect dress that you dont want ruined, Blake
pointed out shaking her head slowly before taking in a deep breath and moving
back away from Sarah. You just need to be careful with what you do with
that thing. You are all ready, now all you have to wait for is the wedding.
Im ready a couple hours early, Sarah pointed out with another
wide smile before moving over toward the mirror again to look herself over.
Im loving this Blake, you dont know how truly amazing I
feel right now.
You look it, Blake stated with a small nod before sitting down
on the edge of the table and taking in a deep breath. All that matters
is that you are marrying the right guy and you are going to be Mrs. Sarah
Houston. You are getting what you said is all you ever wanted.
Youre right, Kyle is everything Ive ever wanted, Sarah
agreed looking over to the clock in the corner as she took in a deep breath
and reached for her purse. Do you mind if I make a quick call?
As long as its not to Kyle, then sure, Blake nodded with a small
smile before seeing Sarah laugh as she pointed over toward the bathroom. Just
go in there for a minute because I still have a few touches I would like to
put on your hair as I look at it.
Okay, sounds great, Sarah chuckled taking a look over at Blake
one last time. Slowly walking into the bathroom, she quietly made sure the
door closed all the way before reaching into her purse and pulling out her
cell phone. Dialing the number she heard the constant ringing until she heard
the voice of Cameron on the other end. All I need to know--did you do
that favor I asked of you? Are you taking care of it?
Sarah, what kind of man would I be if I didnt? Cameron laughed
lightly before taking in a deep breath and reaching out to grab something
in front of him. Its not a problem Sarah, so dont worry
about it.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Cameron set the phone back on the base thinking about Sarahs request.
While it pained him to see Heather out of town, it would be something that
he would arrange for her--at least temporarily to help her feel as if she
had some kind of control over the situation, but sooner or later that illusion
would end. Cameron was sure of that. However, now was a time for planning
and planning he would do now that he had motivation.
Cam, there you are, JTs voice beckoned through Camerons
thoughts bringing him back to the here and now.
JT, what are you doing here? Cameron questioned surprised to see
his brother standing before him.
What? Cant a man come over to say hello to his brother?
JT shook his head with what appeared to be a small sense of disappointment,
Do I automatically have to want something when I come over to say hello?
Well I suppose not, but
Cameron gave him a strange look,
You do want something though, dont you?
Even if I didnt you would still think I did, so at least I have
some purpose in coming here, JT shrugged his shoulders opting to forget
about pretending that there wasnt some reasoning behind his arrival.
I need a favor.
Which is something Ive grown used to with you, Cameron nodded
in response, So what is it? What do you need this time?
Honestly, its not as bad as youre anticipating, JT
promised with a bright smile, I just need to know if its okay
for me to fly out to the beach house this upcoming week.
Youre asking my permission to go to the beach house? Cameron
half questioned a puzzled expression on his face. Thats a first
considering that you know you have an open invitation there at any time.
I realize that, but this time I was kind of looking for, well a bit
of privacy, JT informed him with a cryptic expression, You see
I have something kind of special planned and
Special? Cameron repeated arching a curious brow, You dont
say?
Actually, JT offered up a small smile, I have someone Id
like to take there with me.
Someone, Cameron paused before repeating his brothers words
with heavy emphasis, special.
Yeah that was the idea, JT nodded in confession, So can
I use the beach house or what?
That all depends, Cameron noted giving his brother a curious look,
Her name wouldnt happen to be Diane, would it?
JT shook his head quickly, Of course not. What kind of idiot do you
take me for?
Cameron exhaled a breath of relief, Thank God because for a minute there
I was starting to worry about you all over again. I was afraid youd
lost your mind and gone back to that
Dianes the past and as for the future, JT couldnt
help but reveal a small smile, Well Im working on that one too
and well just leave it at that.
Cryptic all over again, eh? Cameron shook his head at his brother
making a small tsking sound in the process, JT that isnt a good
thing to do with family you know.
Im not doing it intentionally. Its just that Ive met
someone--someone special and I thought that maybe I should take her away for
a little while--kind of show her how the other half lives when there isnt
a need for paychecks and long hours of overtime, JT explained matter
of fact thinking about his upcoming plans, Besides its not really
that serious yet anyways.
Its not serious, yet you want to take her to the beach house,
Cameron couldnt help but chuckle, JT who are you trying to kid?
I know you better than that.
Look Im trying to do things right this time, JT sighed thinking
about the way things had started off with Evie. I mean shes just
someone that Im positive rushing into things with wont help.
So what? Youre taking the gentlemanly route and keeping it strictly
platonic? Cameron searched his brothers eyes before laughing lightly,
I dont buy it JT. You wouldnt be taking her to the beach
house if there wasnt something more there.
Right now I dont want to screw this one up like I do with everything
else in my life, JT informed him point blank putting an end to whatever
direction Cameron was headed in with their conversation, Shes
really different than the other women Ive met and this time I think
itll be worth waiting the situation out.
Waiting huh? Cameron scratched his chin lightly, Okay who
are you and what have you done to my brother?
Im serious Cam, JT frowned up at him. Whats
so wrong with me wanting to take care of my life and stop acting like a child?
I wasnt saying that you
Cameron stopped himself before
letting out a long sigh, Hey if youre happy then that is all that
matters to me.
Thank you, JT smiled at him brightly, So can I take her
to the beach house or what?
On one condition, Cameron decided with a small laugh.
What might that be? JT asked curiously.
That you actually let me meet this mystery woman because I would love
to see the girl that has my brother acting so completely out of character,
Cameron teased him further causing JT to shake his head.
Youre terrible you know that. I mean seriously I am so tempted
to keep her away so that she doesnt hear all of the horrible tales you
could tell her, JT confessed with a small grin of his own.
I promise Ill be on my best behavior. Hell Ill throw a party
if youre really that concerned, but the fact to the matter is that I
would love to see just what this woman is like that had turned my brothers
life around. Thats something Id like to thank her for, Cameron
confessed thinking about how much happier JT seemed to be at this point in
time.
Yeah you and me both, JT smiled in response knowing that there
were big things ahead for him and Evie should their relationship continue
to progress as it had been over the brief period of time that theyd
known one another. Good things were ahead for them. They had to be!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is ridiculous, Diane let out an exhausted yawn as she rested
her head against the top of the desk after being alone for about an hour with
nothing to do. Looking up from her desk she looked toward the clock to see
what time it was and realized that she had been alone for a while. Ben wasnt
at work and without him there, there was nothing good to even try and do.
If I leave to go get some coffee for a little, no one will notice. Better
yet, no one will care.
Getting up from her desk chair Diane reached out to pick up the picture that
rested on her desk and she smiled seeing her and Ben together. The way he
was holding her in the picture made her remember what if felt like to be in
his arms. Feeling like the world around her would never fall apart and she
would forever be safe if she just stayed in that one place.
I love you so much, Diane placed a small kiss in over the picture
before setting it back down and reaching out to grab her jacket from the coat
hanger. Ill be back in a couple of minutes.
Moving toward the elevator she let out a small gasp as she roughly ran into
something and grabbed her shoulder feeling a small sharp pain.
Im so sorry, Diane apologized seeing the way that the person
was blocking their face in a way as she took in a deep breath and tried to
see them more clearly. That was my fault.
Dont worry about it, they hushed her before going towards
the door to the stairs and quickly walking out of her sight as she took in
another look before shaking her head slowly.
Okay, that was a little weird, she whispered getting on the elevator
and taking it down to the floor before walking out of the building and to
the coffee shop next door. Moving forward in the line she stared out in front
of her seeing someone familiar before her and she let out a small gasp. Andy?
Andy? Hello
Andy?
Reaching out touch Andys arm she saw him look over his shoulder at her
and smile widely before shaking his head slowly. Seeing the way he was smiling
at her she took a step back not knowing what to expect.
Diane, hey, Andy smirked looking over his shoulder to see if the
line had moved at all when he turned to talk to her. Looking back down at
her with his blue eyes he let out a small laugh and shrugged his shoulders.
Im sorry I didnt answer you, I was just thinking pretty
heavily.
Its okay, she muttered seeing him get to the register and
order his coffee before turning back to her, handing her the cup. What
is this?
I thought it was your favorite, dont worry about paying me back--its
all good, Andy gave her a small wink before taking a sip of his coffee
and nodding, following her toward the doors of the shop. So how have
you been?
Fine, Diane muttered looking him over before thinking back to
the person she ran into in the building moments earlier. Were you just
in the place I work at.
No, Andy paused not quite knowing what to say as he watched her
take a step back and he reached out to grab her arm in his hand lightly. Listen,
I think we should talk. I need your help getting Deidra back. I think Im
making some progress.
Wait, what? Diane questioned with a small laugh seeing his blue
eyes staring out into hers as she placed her free hand in over her chest.
You have to be kidding me, right?
Well, that all depends, Andy shrugged his shoulders biting down on his bottom lip and looking away from her for a moment. Running his fingers through his hair slowly he eyes met hers again. I wont go back to her if youll come back to me.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So, why are you so nervous about this wedding? Angela questioned
from inside the closet as she pulled her dress in over her shoulders, walking
out into the bedroom to see Brant buttoning up the last of his cufflinks.
Its like you arent very happy about what is going on or
something. You just arent acting like yourself.
I dont know, Brant muttered thinking about everything that
had gone on with Kyle and Sarah. When remembering what he told Kyle that one
night, he couldnt believe that Kyle would still go through with something
like this after what he knew. It almost seemed like one of the dumbest moves
a man could ever make. Im just not really understanding some of
Kyles tactics.
I dont know, Angela whispered walking toward the bed seeing
Brant sit down on the edge of it and run his hands through his hair as if
he was confused about something that was happening. He seemed kind of
weird when he was here.
Hes not so bad, Brant stated with a deep sigh trying to
recognize how good Kyle actually was back when Kyle was trying to protect
Avery when she was married to him. I mean he is kind of rough on the
outside, but on the inside--hes the kind of guy that always wants to
do something right. Hes a good guy, I just never really gave the time
to see that back in the day.
Awkward moment? Angela questioned arching her eyebrow up seeing
Brant staring out at the wall for a moment before his brown eyes looked up
at her and he smiled. You seemed out of it for a minute there.
Im okay, Brant smirked standing up slowly before moving
over toward her and moving his right hand in over her bare shoulder. Looking
over her slowly a wide smile spread through out his features and he nodded
approving what she was wearing. I must have been stunned by what you
were wearing. You look amazing sweetheart.
Yeah, I know. This whole fat look gets a man going doesnt it?
she rolled her eyes pulling away from Brant for a second and walking over
toward the mirror to look at herself. Brant could you pull up the zipper
please?
Sure, Brant smiled going to walk over to her before hearing a
loud crash that sounded like glass shattering and it caught both of their
attentions making them run over toward the bedroom door. What in the
world?
Opening the door to look inside the hallway they both stepped out to see glass
shattered from the table that was put off to the side and a gasp escaped Angelas
lips when she saw Kevin laid out on the floor in front of her.
Kevin, Angela moved in over to his side hearing him let out a
small groan before Brant came over too, kneeling at Kevins other side
as Kevin tried moving his head up from the ground. Dont move Kevin,
you could be hurt. What the hell happened?
That table came out of nowhere, Kevin muttered letting out a long
breath slowly moving up and getting to his feet before losing his balance,
feeling Angela catch him enough to press him in against the wall. That
kind of hurt.
Id imagine, Brant stood up slowly seeing the way that Kevin
was blinking as Kevin moved his hand in over the back of his head and let
out a small laugh. Are you okay?
Never better, Kevin nodded moving Angelas hands away from
him before moving forward and letting out a small laugh. Pushing his hand
inside his pocket, he held his finger up on his other hand. Ill
pay you back for that table--I didnt mean to break it.
Dont worry about it Kevin, Brant whispered seeing Kevin
pull out his wallet only to drop it to the ground and Kevin looked down toward
the wallet letting out a long breath. Seeing Kevin swallow down he watched
as Kevin bend down to pick up his wallet, but fell to his knees when he did.
Kev.
I think he hurt himself when he fell, Angela muttered seeing Kevin
grab his wallet, but fell to his behind and let out a long breath before resting
his head against the wall. We have to get him help Brant.
Hes drunk Angela, Brant pointed out seeing Kevin frown from
where he was sitting on the floor and shoot Brant an angered glance. Hes
got all the tendencies of a drunk person. He fell over a table that was way
out of his way, he cant walk right. Hes drunk.
What are you? A damn cop? Kevin questioned feeling Angela bend
down and wrap his arm around her shoulders as he got up slowly letting out
a small laugh. Reaching out to pat Brant on the head lightly Kevin smirked
and let out a small laugh seeing Brant push his hand away. Come on--arent
you going to give me a test or something?
Come here, Angela grabbed a hold of Kevins cheeks making
him look at her as he smiled widely and she moved in closer to him seeing
his eyebrows arch up. Yeah, hes drunk. The Malibu Maguires smell
good Kev and taste good, but they are going to get you drunk.
Oh come on--I only had a few, Kevin moved away from Angela and
walked into the bedroom seeing Angela move toward Brant as they followed him
into the bedroom. Rubbing his hands together, Kevins tone of voice changed
and he turned to face Angela with a small scowl. I actually came here
for an important reason.
Im sure its important, Brant shot Angela a worried
glance before reaching out to grab Kevins arm, trying to lead him over
toward the bed to sit down, but right now maybe you should sit down
and let that alcohol wear off.
Get your hands off me, Kevin snapped pulling his arm away from
Brant seeing the way that Brant stared out at him. Im not drunk,
Im just pissed off.
Kevin, sit down, Angela reached out to touch Kevin seeing him
pull away from her too like her and Brant were fire that was burning him with
their very touch. Kevin this isnt like you, listen to me and do
me a favor. Do it for me and sit down or lay down--I dont care, but
we arent going to let you leave when youre drunk.
Im not doing any favors for you, Kevin snapped moving forward
toward her, his dark eyes firing up with anger as she stared up into his chocolate
eyes. Especially when youre the person Im pissed at.
Kevin, lay down, she pushed him in the center of his chest seeing
him take a step back and smile, shaking his head slowly. Rolling her eyes
she went to walk away before feeling his fingers wrap around her wrist and
pull her back to him. Kevin, youre drunk and you dont know
what you are talking about.
Just back up Kev, Brant ordered pushing Kevin back seeing Kevins
brown eyes glare over at him before shaking his head slowly. Kevin,
sit down now. Before I make you sit down.
I have to have a word with Angie, Kevin firmly stated once more,
moving his glance over to Angela again before letting out a small hiss. Especially
since again she has been able to ruin my damn life again--ripping away the
one thing that meant the most to me. I lost Ria because of her and Im
not leaving or sitting down until we have a little chat.
Not while Im here, Brant replied stepping in front of Kevin
seeing the way Kevin glared down at him. Brant shook his head motioning Kevin
to sit down. You will talk to Angel later, but right now--Im not
going to let you.
Fine, Kevin grabbed Brant by the collar of his shirt and felt
Brant struggle as Kevin picked him up and walked over toward the door setting
Brant down in the middle of the hallway. Quickly moving back toward the door,
Kevin locked it and looked back at Angela going to say something else as he
heard Brant banging on the door. Give me just a second.
Kevin, listen, Angela felt a bit worried as she saw Kevin look
over at the door before walking to the side of the room and putting his hands
in over the dresser, pushing it slowly in front of the door so Brant couldnt
break his way through. I have no idea what you are talking about. I
didnt talk to Ria, I havent seen Ria. I have no idea whats
going on.
Come here, Kevin ordered wiggling his finger at Angela seeing
the way she looked at him as he walked into the bathroom and she took in a
deep breath before looking over toward the door where she heard Brant banging
on the door. Angie.
Ill be okay Brant, Angela called out hearing the banging
stop as she looked back at Kevin who was resting against his right arm as
he stood in the doorway of the bathroom. Well be right out.
Good girl, Kevin smirked motioning her into the bathroom and she
did before he closed the door behind her, glaring back at her over his shoulder.
You see, this always seems to happen to me because of you. I just cant
live my life when you are even around me.
Kevin, I dont understand what you are talking about, Angela
pointed out seeing him turn to face her before moving in closer to where she
was standing. Why dont you explain things clearly before jumping
off and going nuts on me.
Nuts, Angie you havent seen nuts, Kevin whispered reaching
out to touch the side of her face gently only to feel her push his hand away
and he let out a small laugh. You see this is what Im talking
about. I cant be happy whenever youre around me. I think I can
be, but them somehow, someway you always seem to ruin it. I get screwed every
single time Im even near you. Sometimes quite literally because you
seem to open your legs to any guy with a big ego there Angie, or just about
any guy.
Screw you Kevin, Angela brought her hand against the side of his
face the hardest she could seeing him stumble backwards and because he was
drunk, fall over and hit his head on the side of the sink. Seeing him grab
onto his head in pain she stayed still, balling her fists at her sides seeing
the way he blinked up at her and he let out a small laugh. Youre
screwed up.
You know what? Kevin slowly got up from the ground and rubbed
the side of his head slowly before shaking his head slowly. Moving forward
he grabbed her wrists in his hands seeing her brown eyes glaring up into his.
Moving her hands in over his chest he saw her staring up at him almost confused
by his actions. Hit me again Angie. Hit me again.
Kevin, you need to stop, Angela pointed out seeing him staring
out at her, breathing in and out heavily. Seeing a muscle in his jaw tighten
she felt the way his chest rose and fell as he breathed. I dont
know whats gotten into you, but something isnt right.
Youre damn right something isnt right. Youve ruined
life, youve broken my heart time and time again. When my heart gets
even a little bit of a chance to get stronger and bigger, you break it down
again. So come on, beat me up a little bit, Kevin moved back putting
his jaw out to her before touching the side of his face. Come on there
is no difference, breaking my heart was worse. So come on, ball up your fist
and punch me. Maybe after you do that you and me will get that whole thing
going like we used to. We could always hit the showers or something--like
you probably do with every man.
Letting her bad side get to her Angela balled up her fist getting ticked with
what Kevin was saying to her as she watched him laugh and stand up straight
and thats when she decked him across the face seeing him turn away from
her and look down toward the ground.
I figured thats the way you would go, Kevin wiped at the
bottom of his lip checking to see if it busted open after he bit it from the
impact of her hit. Looking at himself in the mirror he shook his head slowly
before looking back over his shoulder at her. I was always right about
you, you dont care what goes on as long as you are alright. You can
beat me up and tear me up inside, but you still wouldnt care.
I dont know what your problem is Kevin, Angela pushed at
the side of his shoulder seeing him turn to face her with a small scowl as
she poked him in the center of the chest seeing the way that she looked up
at him. Ria breaking up with you wasnt my fault because if you
were just acting like this around her, then I would have broke up with you
too.
No you wouldnt have, you would break up with me for telling you
I loved you, Kevin pointed out seeing her step away from him and look
down toward the ground as he chuckled. But you know what? You want to
know why she left me? You want to know why its your fault?
Yeah Kevin, I do, she snapped right back seeing him move in closer
to her as she took a few steps back until there was no more room to move when
the wall met her back. Why Kevin?
If you want to know why, Kevin muttered staring down at her seeing
her try to move away from him as he pressed his hands in against the wall
so she couldnt. Ill show you why.
Before she could say anything else she felt Kevin bend down a bit to wrap
his left hand around the back of her knee motioning her leg around his waist
as she let out a small gasp.
Kevin, what are you
, Angela muttered only to be cut off
my the hazardous way his lips met hers catching her totally off guard as she
stayed still. Pressing her hands in over his shoulders she tried to push him
back, but there was no use trying because he wasnt moving.
Moving her fingers in over the back of his neck, she felt his tongue push
past her lips and she closed her eyes moving her fingers in through his thick
hair. Pulling back, Kevin let out a small breath before sliding his thumb
in over the side of her neck and moving in to kiss her again, his lips moving
up against hers as she felt his hips move in harder against her. Just from
kissing him she could taste the drink he had earlier against his lips and
thats when she felt Kevin pull back quickly dropping her leg as she
still had her eyes closed, shocked by what was going on.
I think Im lost, Angela muttered trying to stand still not
knowing what he was going to be doing next as she started to hear what sounded
like cries coming from Kevin and she opened her eyes to see him sitting on
the floor, his back pressed against the cabinet as he had his face buried
in his hands. Kevin.
Just leave me alone, Kevin whispered feeling his own body shaking
as she stared down at him and he turned away from her. Im sorry
I treated you like that, just leave me alone.
Kevin, what is it? Angela got to her knees reaching out to touch
his shoulder, feeling his body shaking against her fingertips as she rubbed
his shoulder gently. Kevin, come on. Talk to me.
Hearing a silence come from him she decided that maybe in time he would talk
to her again as she went to get up and she saw him turn toward her, his eyes
red as he met her glance.
Why couldnt you just leave me alone? Kevin questioned feeling
the moisture against his cheeks as he pressed his hands in over his eyes again
feeling Angela sit down next to him. If you would have just left me
alone, I would have never fallen for you like I did. I would have never been
in love, I would have never had to go through all this pain. Why did you have
to do this to me?
Kevin, Angela was stuck on words as she heard his sobs fill her
ears as she caressed his shoulder gently watching him keep as much eye contact
he could away from her. Kevin, come on. You need to stop.
Im being serious Angela, he lifted his head up to shoot
her a glance to show her that he was really was in pain from what was going
on in his life. If I wouldnt have fallen in love with you so hard,
Id have a normal life. I would be married by now and I would have a
child. I wouldnt be here with you crying on youre boyfriends
bathroom floor. I thought I had a chance to move on and I loved Ria so much,
but she left me and Im alone again. Im never going to be happy,
no one loves me. No one.
Kevin come on, Angela hushed wrapping her arm around his shoulders
tightly, feeling his head rest against her shoulder as his body shook and she
held onto him tightly. You know Ria loves you, even I know that. I saw
you two and I know you love each other.
I thought so too, Kevin agreed closing his eyes tightly feeling
her give him a small squeeze before he shook his head slowly. I screwed
it up again because I thought I loved you. I thought my heart would never
give up on you and thats what happened. I wanted my heart to belong
to Ria and when it did, the want from wanting you was in my past, but it was
brought back for her to leave me again.
Kevin, I dont understand, Angela made Kevin look up at her
as she caressed his rough cheek gently, seeing the way that he was staring
up at her. You have to be more clear, I just--Im having a hard
time.
I love you and I will always love you, Kevin gulped down seeing
the way she looked out at him and he felt her fingers move in through his
short hair, but I love Ria more. Just loving you got me here and I cant
love you any longer. If I still love you, Im never going to move on
because of you dont love me and I have to deal with that, but Im
going to lose everything if I dont stop caring just the least bit.
Kevin, were always going to love each other. Its something
no one can stop us from having, Angela hushed him feeling his head rest
against her shoulder as she took in a sharp breath. Weve both
moved on though and if no one can see that, then they are wrong.
Have we moved on? Kevin looked up into her dark eyes seeing her
frown as he moved away from her scooting away from her a little. Hell,
you probably have moved on, but I have been stuck in this stupid world where
I loved you and it screwed me over. Even loving you less than Ria got me in
trouble and I loved her more than almost anything.
Kevin, I love you too, she answered seeing him look over at her
with his eyebrows tensed together as she reached out to squeeze his arm gently.
I mean come on, who wouldnt love someone like you? Youre
sweet, romantic, and youre sexy as hell.
Now youre just kissing my ass, Kevin pointed out with a
small roll of his eyes enclosing his fingers together before resting his elbows
against his knees. Staring out at the wall he let out a long sigh before dropping
his head down. I just wish you were right and Ria felt that way. Shes
my everything and I dont want to lose her. I just cant ever let
go of you which means Im screwed.
Kevin, you can let go of me, Angela whispered moving in closer
to him and seeing him lift his head up to look at her. She moved in front
of him reaching out to touch his cheek gently seeing the way that his brown
eyes stared into hers. I know you can, you just think you cant.
Thats easy for you to say because you already did let go. Im
not like you, I just cant let go of something that was my everything.
Something that is still my everything, Kevin replied seeing Angela look
away from him for a moment as he reached his right hand out to caress her
cheek with his thumb. Maybe I cant let go because youre
the only piece of her that I have left.
What? Angelas nose wrinkled as she met Kevins glance
seeing him nod slowly before she took in a deep breath and shrugged her shoulders.
Lets stand up, this floor is getting to me.
Alright, Kevin nodded getting to his knee and he saw her stand
up quickly and pressing his hand in over the floor, Kevin saw Angelas
dress slide from her shoulders and fall to her ankles as he looked down. Gee,
if you left the zipper undone like that--you might be the center of the wedding
there.
Sorry, Angela went to bend down, but saw Kevin start to pull up
the dress slowly motioning her to hold her arms out as he stood up. Feeling
him step in behind her she watched him slip the dress in over her shoulders
before moving his fingers in over the back of her dress. Brant forgot
to zip it for me.
Its alright, Kevin whispered looking into the mirror seeing
her almost looking worried as he stood behind her, sliding his right hand
in over her shoulder slowly. Going back to what we were originally talking
about--I think I have a hard time letting you go because I miss her. Youre
all I have left of her.
Seeing him glance at her once last time in the mirror she saw him shake his
head slowly before walking out of the bathroom and into the bedroom. Sitting
there for a moment she couldnt help but feel bad for him as she rushed
out into the bedroom seeing him walking over toward the dresser.
Kevin, hold on, Angela reached out to grab his arm as he looked
down at her and she frowned knowing that Brant would be listening closely.
Moving over toward the radio she turned it on and turned the volume up quite
a bit before motioning Kevin over toward the bed. We need to talk about
this Kevin. We need to know how to move on.
I cant move on, Kevin pointed out seeing her dark eyes staring
out into his after they had sat down on the bed. Taking in a deep breath he
shook his head slowly. Sixteen years---does that mean nothing to you?
There isnt one bit of love for me left in you and I cant believe
that. I love two wonderful women and I felt like an idiot, but how can you
let go of something that was your everything for sixteen years?
Kevin, she looked down toward the ground feeling his hand reach
out to touch the side of her face as she turned to look to him. Feeling his
thumb caressing her cheek gently she took in a deep breath and closed her
eyes. Ill always love you, just like you loved me. Like you said,
it was sixteen years. I just have to move on and so do you.
I cant when I every time I look at you I think of what could have
been, Kevin muttered in a half slur as he cupped her face in his hands
gently, his thumbs caressing the side of her face. Moving forward his breath
skimmed over her lips as she froze up, not knowing what to do as she felt
his lips press in over hers gently. Feeling his lips teasing over hers she
closed her eyes knowing that she felt bad for him, with what happened and
he was drunk--thats why he was saying all of this. If Ria didnt
break his heart, he would still be with her right now. A small breath escaped
her lips as she felt him tilt his head to the side and his tongue pushed in
past her lips and her eyes opened almost surprised as she felt his gentle
caress. Youve always meant so much to me.
Kevin, she muttered trying to get a word in only to feel his lips
press in over her neck as she ran her fingers through his hair, gently tugging
on it to get him to back up a bit. Kevin hold on.
What? Kevin muttered moving in over her and leaning her back against
the bed as his lips pressed in over hers again. Feeling her fingers move in
over his back, Kevin reached down and caressed her stomach gently before curling
his arm around her waist.
Kevin, Angela closed her eyes feeling his lips press in over her
neck again, his tongue caressing her skin slowly as she knew this would happen
with him so upset. Pressing her hands into the center of his chest, she pushed
him back roughly seeing the confusion behind his eyes as she shook her head
slowly and sat up. Youre going to have to let go of her and me
Kevin. We were young.
You think that changes anything? You think because I was young and I
was a teenager and so were you that Im going to stop thinking about
her? Kevin snapped staring out at her before shaking his head slowly
seeing her stand up from the bed as he sat up. Feeling a muscle tightening
up in his jaw he shook his head firmly. You expect me to let go of our
daughter? Shed be sixteen right now Angie and you know what? I may have
been young and yeah we made a mistake in not using a condom, but almost having
her wasnt a mistake. If she was here right now she would be my everything
and I know I have bad luck because I should have a child. I should be a father.
You will be one day, Angela hushed Kevin seeing him getting more
upset by the minute as she reached out to touch Kevin seeing him pull away
from her and stand up from the bed. You will, that was just one time.
One time? One time? You know as well as me that when Cary was still
around, Kevin began seeing Angelas eyes widen as he nodded slowly
and bit down on his bottom lip. You know that could have been mine too
and that was another one you lost. So hell, that probably was my child.
That wasnt yours Kevin, Angela pointed out seeing Kevin
roll his eyes before walking over toward the bedroom door again. Reaching
out she grabbed his arm before he could leave and he turned to her angrily.
Were not done, we have more we need to talk about.
You know, its not even fair, he muttered backing up against
the wall and staring out at her, moving his hand in over her abdomen. You
didnt even want kids and I have wanted since I was eighteen when I had
that chance. I want to be a dad and I have been with you longer which is why
it isnt fair that Brant is having them before me when you two didnt
even want kids. I wanted to have a child so bad and Ria was the woman I wanted
to have one with which really ended badly because of you and Chris. Since
he showed her a tape of me kissing you, Ive been screwed and Ill
never have a baby Angie. Im thirty-four years old and Ill never
have a baby of my own.
Kevin, Angela reached out to touch him seeing him pull
back from her again and hold his hands up in the air, shaking his head slowly.
Youll have a family one day, you know it.
Why did you choose him over me? Kevin questioned out of no where
as he looked down at the ground, his jaw flexing in anger as his light brown
eyes met hers. Why were Russ and Brant better for you than me? What
did they have that I dont?
Kevin, come on, she reached out to touch his arm seeing him look
down at her hand before his eyes met hers again. You know you are as
perfect as the rest.
Not perfect enough for you, Kevin pulled his arm away from her
shaking his head slowly before letting out a small laugh. What was it
that made them different? The fact that they were some random screw? The fact
that they werent someone who had been in your life since you were fifteen.
Was it because I was willing to give up everything for you so you just kind
of took everything from me? Im not quite sure what it was, but what
made them better than me?
They arent better than you, Angela snapped seeing Kevin's
glare shooting down upon her as she moved back seeing his angered eyes watching
her carefully. This isnt a competition. I love Brant and he loves
me.
Are you telling me that you never loved me? That what we had never meant
anything? Sixteen years worth of a relationship Angie equaled out to nothing
for you. Sure it was off and on, but still. Some married couples arent
even together that long and still some how you can just let go like nothing
ever happened. We had a daughter and we had a life, Kevin snapped seeing
the way she stared out at him as he shook his head slowly. I was always
there Angie, but you didnt care. You never cared, I always was there
for you, but it was like you had to rub these guys in my face. Cary and Chris,
yeah they were a pain for a while but after that, you were with me. I never
left, I was always there for you, it was you that turned your back on me.
Kevin, seriously, Angela went to say something more before seeing
Kevin roll his eyes and walk over toward the door as she called out to him
again. Kevin, dont you leave here when you are more confused than
I have ever seen you.
You know what? Screw you, screw your thoughts and leave me the hell
alone. Im not confused Angela, I just have a broken heart, youre
the confused one. Its obvious you moved on when it comes to our family
and our daughter, Kevin walked toward the bedroom door hearing her following
him as he pushed the dresser out of the way. Just leave me the hell
alone because I dont want to see your face.
Kevin, Angela tried calling out once more seeing Kevin open the
door and walk out as Brant quickly appeared running into the room. Moving
in closer to her she felt him move his hands in over her shoulders. Dont
worry, Im okay. Hes just upset. Let him go and hell be fine
later.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Still havent called him back yet, huh? Trisha frowned seeing
Ria still seated on the couch shed been at when shed arrived earlier.
Now carefully setting the clothes that she took the liberty of borrowing
from Ria aside she walked over to her sister and shook her head. Ria
youre hopeless. You know that, dont you?
Trisha its not like I can just ignore what I saw, Ria sighed
heavily feeling that moment play in her mind over and over again, I
know what kind of heartbreak Ill be putting myself in for if I dont
listen to what my head is telling me.
Yeah but what about your heart Ria? What about how you feel for Kevin?
Trisha questioned with a small frown, I know that you love him, yet
youre being so stubborn and
And if I go back to Kevin and he leaves me to go be with Angela
Ria started to complain again seeing her sister moving back over to where
shed set Rias clothing.
If you do nothing Ria, then youre only setting yourself up to
lose everything, Trisha explained with disapproval in her tone, If
you dont fight for the man you love you may as well be handing him over
to Angela. I hope you realize that.
Its not that
Ria started to argue watching Trisha
move over to her door, Hey where do you think youre going with
my things?
Unlike my stubborn sister who would rather mope alone I have a date,
Trisha smiled proudly before throwing out one last warning look to her older
sister, and if youre smart youll think about doing the same
after you call Kevin to talk to him.
Trisha you dont understand, Ria argued once again.
No, I do Ria which is why I really think you should call, Trisha
threw out at her one last time before leaving Ria alone in her apartment to
stew over what her sister had said.
Was it possible that shed been giving Kevin too much grief over something
that was really nothing? Could his kissing Angie been a mistake that he could
easily explain? Then again how could a man explain kissing another woman in
such a way that it would be okay and acceptable?
He still loves her. Thats why he did it, she heard a voice
in the back of her head telling her over and over again, yet her heart was
yearning to speak with him, to talk to him and find a way to get over what
had happened once shed watched that tape.
Damn it, Ria cursed tossing the pillow shed been holding
onto. Her sister hadnt helped the situation she realized as her gaze
was fixed on the phone in front of her. Before shed been ready to lock
herself up and keep her thoughts of Kevin inside--to stew over how upset shed
felt, but now
Shaking her head she groaned once more throwing her hands
in the air.
This is ridiculous, she cursed spinning around to look at the
phone again. Could she really do it? Could she call him and ask to talk? Was
that really something that she would be able to bring herself to do or would
she start to dial and then chicken out before she followed through? Would
she
?
Before her thought was completed the phone started to ring and Rias
heart flip flopped in her chest. She found herself filled with an anticipation
and a hope that maybe just maybe Kevin had decided he wasnt about to
give up on reaching out to her. Perhaps he too had been consumed with thoughts
of her like she had of him and he was calling to make another attempt. Maybe
he missed her like crazy like she missed him. That hope caused her to rush
over to the phone. She reached for it hearing it ring again, but found herself
frozen in the moment. Fear and eagerness filled her, but would she be bold
enough to just answer?
Its now or never, Ria mouthed to herself biting down on
her lower lip before sucking in a sharp breath. She grabbed the phone with
shaky hands bringing it up to her ear as she prepared to try to make things
work with Kevin. She could ask him to come over and talk and maybe just maybe
things would even themselves out. Yes, that wasnt totally out of the
question. However, as she started to speak into the phone she realized that
all her thoughts were irrelevant to the moment when she heard an unfamiliar
voice on the other end of the line.
Hello Ms. Merhan. I was just calling to confirm your reservations for
this week, the voice informed her, They werent clear at
the hospital as to whether or not you would be traveling alone or with a guest
for this event.
I never specified whether I was or not, Ria admitted in a low
tone bummed out that Kevin hadnt been the caller.
Well thats why Im calling, the woman on the other
end of the line explained, We were looking for an exact count for whats
ahead. I realize that this might be a bad time, but
No its not a bad time, Ria sucked in a sharp breath reaching
for the framed photo she had of her and Kevin on the table next to the phone.
She felt her hands still shaking, her heart still filled with so many mixed
emotions as she thought about the trip she was taking and how shed wanted
Kevin to join her. Now that seemed out of the question and as she heard the
woman on the other end of the line pressing for an answer again, she made
her decision about what she must do, Ill be traveling alone this
time. There will be just me.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Got the diaper bag? Avery questioned looking around the living
room to make sure they werent forgetting something for Erins first
appearance at the wedding.
Check, Russ proudly held the tote up over his shoulder and offered
a small smile.
And the bottles? Avery asked again seeing Erins favorite
blanket on the couch. She moved to reach for it when she spotted Russ beating
her to the punch and snagging the blanket before she had the chance to.
Got them, Russ winked at her taking a look around himself, I
think were pretty much set for Erins social debut in town.
Then I guess were good to go, Avery decided before a gasp
fell from her lips, but I still feel like were forgetting something.
No Avery Im telling you I have everything right in this baby,
Russ patted the diaper bag on his side before a thought occurred to him.
Erin! both of them spoke their daughters name in unison
hearing her voice her protest from the bedroom in her crib where they had
set her after they had gotten her dressed.
I can take care of this one, Russ decided hearing the doorbell
ring. Thats probably Kevin and Ria. I told them to meet us here
the other day.
Ill let them in, Avery decided watching Russ go off to collect
their daughter before she turned to open the front door. Unlocking it she
was surprised to see Kevin standing alone before her, his back turned to her.
Hey Kevin, come on in, Avery began only to watch him let out a
small shiver, his eyes still away from her when she heard a muffled sound.
She stepped forward seeing that he appeared to be shaking and immediately
worry pressed in over her. Tentatively she touched his shoulder only to feel
him spin around and reach out to embrace her.
Im so sorry, Kevin sobbed squeezing her tightly in his arms,
I dont mean to come over here like this and make a scene, but
Kevin, Avery made a strange face feeling his arms squeeze her
tighter than before.
Im so sorry to bother you, but Rias not talking to me and
Chris, well that jackass found another way to screw up my life once again.
Ive lost her and she wont talk to me, Kevin continued to
cry on Averys shoulder causing her to worry about the oversized man
on her doorstep.
Were ready to go, Russ started circling around the corner
of the hall only to discover Kevin bawling in Averys arms. He held Erin
close to him seeing Avery do her best to try to urge Kevin to come inside
while he continued sobbing. Once shed spun around still holding onto
Kevin, she and Russ exchanged looks.
Kevin, what happened? Russ couldnt help but ask moving over
to join the two of them.
My world fell apart. Thats what happened, Kevin bit down
on his words in an uncharacteristically miserable tone. His brown eyes raised
up to look at Russ and a small scowl touched over his frustrated features,
Chris managed to find a way to dig the knife right through my heart.
Ive lost everything now
Im sure thats not true, Avery offered up exchanging
another worried glance with Russ before motioning for him to help with the
situation.
Oh its true, Kevin mouthed shaking his head poignantly,
Thanks to Chris its damn true. Ria doesnt want anything
to do with me. She told me it was over and now all I can do is think about
how pathetic I am. I tried to move forward--really tried to get on with my
life, but each and every time I start to live again the past comes back to
haunt me and kick me right in the balls so to speak.
Kevin I
Russ found himself at a loss as he held onto Erin.
Sorry about that, Kevin tilted his head to the side to look at
Avery. He took a small step back and inhaled a breath slowly, Im
sorry for sounding so crude there in saying that.
Hey just because Im not a man doesnt mean I cant relate,
she offered up a weak smile before motioning to the living room. Come
on inside. Well see whats going on.
I just dont get it, Kevin decided walking through the living
room, I mean I tried to do the right thing--to keep from making an ass
of myself and get caught up in the trap again, but even when I try to do the
right thing something always happens.
Hey, its going to be okay. Im sure whatever misunderstanding
you and Ria had with one another it can be fixed, Russ offered up supportively
handing Erin to Avery and making his way over to where Kevin had plopped down
on the couch. Maybe she just needs time to cool down.
She saw me kissing Angie, Kevin blurted out painfully, Chris
made some damned video tape and made it look a lot worse than it was.
Wait a second, Averys eyes widened in response, Are
you saying that Ria found out that you were cheating on her?
Im not cheating on her. I never cheated on her and I never would,
Kevin insisted firmly bringing his fingers up through his thick, dark hair,
But damn Angie and all of her issues keep sucking me back into the dark
places I dont want to go back into. I mean first with her getting pregnant
and then with coming to town and
Wait you got someone pregnant, Averys eyes grew larger yet.
No, Russ quickly answered before Kevin had the chance, Angies
got some jackass she was sleeping with and they got pregnant. Kevin was just
trying to take care of her when the father of the babies wasnt around.
And I shouldve walked away before I got in over my head,
Kevin sighed dropping his head down to look at the floor, I always let
her get me caught up in her drama and by the time I can take claim on my life
again its too late. Chris already found a way to make sure that I lost
Ria too. As if everything else that happened wasnt enough
What does Chris have to do with you kissing another woman? Avery
couldnt help but ask curiosity pouring over her at what it was that
had Kevin so upset.
He was the one who taped it except he didnt let Ria see the whole
picture. He sent her some damned video tape that had no volume and Ria couldnt
hear that the kiss wasnt one that was meant to take away from our relationship,
Kevin tried to explain himself gazing up at Avery to see the same eyes that
hed found himself in over his head with where Angie was concerned. At
the moment the similarities between the two women was overwhelming and he
had to look away, After I saw Erin I went over to see Angie because
she and I were together once. We had a daughter that died
I remember you mentioned something to me about a daughter, Avery
suddenly realized what he was saying, and this Angie was your ex-lover
right?
Kevin nodded, We havent been together in years, but after I saw
Erin and how beautiful she was, I went over to see Angie and talk about my
daughter--our daughter. I had to get it all off my chest about what I was
feeling since I wasnt there to see her--to hold her just once before
she died. I missed out on that because of the work I was doing for her father
and it was something that Ive always blamed myself for. If I had been
there--if I hadnt gone away, then my little girl could still be alive
and
And youd still be with Angie, Russ realized seeing something
cross over Kevins features.
Thats not important, Kevin shook his head adamantly, What
is right now is that I cant change the past and I dont want to
go back. If I could make one thing different it would be for me to have my
daughter in my life. Shes the only part of my past with Angie that I
would want to hold onto and thats what I was telling Angie when Chris
took that video. It wasnt about my wanting to be with her or wanting
to have a future with her. Ria is my future. She is the only woman for me
and I wouldnt have it any other way. I love her.
Then tell her that. Tell her that you care about her--that it was a
misunderstanding, Avery piped in hating to see Kevin so upset.
I saw how you reacted to hearing I kissed another woman. Imagine how
upset Ria was in seeing it first hand, Kevin tossed back at her with
a pointed stare.
Okay, I see your point, Avery noted taking a step in closer to
him, though if you try to talk to her.
Whats the point? Kevin shrugged his shoulders solemnly.
Shes not interested in hearing it and I may as well just realize
that happiness isnt happening for me.
Sure it is. Maybe if I talk to Ria and explain things
maybe I could
help, Russ suggested as Erin made a small sound stretching her hand
out towards where Kevin was. She patted his arm in the hopes of getting his
attention.
I dont know if itll do any good, Kevin sighed heavily
sinking his head down again only to feel Erins touch on his arm. He
forced himself to look up and see her curious eyes upon him. She smiled and
clapped her hands together before stretching her arms out at him. He couldnt
help but smile, Hey beautiful.
Erin made a small sound before wiggling in her fathers arms. Russ and
Avery made eye contact with one another before Avery nodded and Russ looked
to Kevin.
Would you like to hold her? Russ questioned seeing how Kevins
face lit up upon seeing Erin.
Are you
are you sure? Kevin asked in a small voice, his brown
eyes still focused on Erin.
Sure, Avery answered for her husband, because I know thats
one little lady who would love to be in your arms right now.
Id love to have her in them, Kevin confessed carefully pulling
Erin into his arms. His face twisted with a wide grin as she reached for his
finger and giggled, Hey pretty girl. How are you doing?
Erin squealed and clapped her hands together again.
I think you have just made her day, Avery admitted walking around
to the back of the couch to take a seat on it. She looked down at Erin who
was focused intently on Kevin. She wasnt exactly thrilled about
the idea of going to the wedding.
I cant say I blame her on that seeing as my date wont even
speak to me, Kevin shuddered at the thought feeling his heart sink at
the memory of Rias face passed through his mind.
Just give her time. Shell come around, Russ suggested with
genuine concern behind his words. I know she loves you.
Very much, Avery piped in sliding her arm around Russells
waist and giving him a small squeeze. Im sure shell talk
to you sooner or later.
I just dont know, Kevin sighed again before facing Erin,
What do you think pretty girl? Think its hopeless for me?
Erin wrinkled her nose and made another sound that caused Kevin to laugh.
A second later she stuck her tongue out at him which was promptly followed
by a loud burp.
Well thats reassuring, Kevin couldnt help but chuckle
in surprise at how loud Erin was.
I think that is breakfast talking, Avery moved in to reach for
Erin.
I can handle this one, Kevin waved his hand at Avery before holding
Erin over his shoulder. He ran his fingers over her tiny back before whispering
warmly in her ear, Youre just trying to clown around for me arent
you?
Erin reached for his dark hair and tugged on it gently before laying her head
on his shoulder. She let out a long sigh and Kevin could feel her relaxing
in his arms.
You certainly do have the magic touch, Russ noted seeing how at
ease their daughter was in Kevins arms. Come to think of it, why
dont you go with us to the wedding?
I came over here to say that I probably shouldnt go now considering
that
Kevin began stopping only to hear the sound of Erins
breathing against his neck. He tipped his head back ever so slightly to see
her eyelids growing heavy as she snuggled in on his shoulder.
Erin would love to have you as her date, Avery tossed out at him
with a small smile, and besides I dont think you should be alone
right now.
I didnt come over here to bother you both, Kevin offered
up feeling a bit guilty for dumping his problems on Russ and Avery.
You didnt bother us. In fact, we could use you right about now
since Im standing up in this wedding, Russ noted the time, although
I might not make it in time if we dont get moving soon.
So what do you say Kevin? Avery asked again, Will you go
with us?
Well, I guess I can fit it in, Kevin finally decided knowing full
well that being with Russ, Avery and Erin was just the kind of distraction
he needed to keep him stewing over the fact that hed lost the woman
he loved forever.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
You cant be serious, Dianes jaw dropped as she realized
that Andy had flashed her his bright blue eyes indicating that there was more
behind his intentions than his mere words had expressed. Uneasily she took
a small step backwards and cleared her throat before gulping, are you?
What do you think? he questioned leisurely giving her a long once
over. He stepped in closer to her before his grin expanded.
I think if youre truly serious, you need therapy, Diane
scoffed in response feeling a tiny shudder carrying over her. While shed
once thought she couldnt be without him around her, there was something
about him that felt different lately. Maybe she had grown up, or perhaps it
was just something about him that had changed, but whatever it was she found
that shed finally reached a point in her life where she hadnt
been charmed by him. Andy if you think for a second that you and I have
anything ahead of us
Relax, he held his hands up in the air defensively, a laugh bubbling
over his lips. I was just joking. Honestly Diane Im not planning
on going down that road again anytime soon.
Excuse me, she blinked back at him with a huff.
Ever, he corrected himself with a frown, Obviously we both
learned from our mistake and regardless of how nice it was, we wont
go back.
If you were under some misguided impression that I wanted to go back,
then you have no clue about the way things really are, Diane challenged
standing taller and facing him down, As for Deidra, the smartest thing
you can do for the both of you is just give her the divorce. I seriously doubt
you want to be married to her anymore than she wants to be married to you,
so why bother making things difficult? You want your freedom and once you
have it I cant begin to imagine why you would want to even bother with
my sister. Youve both moved on.
Shes still my wife Diane, Andy corrected with a shake of
his head, and I would like to make some progress with her. I hate whats
happened with us and I was hoping that since you were part of the problem
in the past that you could help me smooth over the waters.
Whoa, just wait a minute, Diane blinked up at him in a state of
disbelief, Are you trying to pin what happened between us solely on
me?
If you hadnt tried to seduce me all those times, then maybe I
wouldve been able to resist what happened on my honeymoon night. Perhaps
it wouldve changed the whole direction of my marriage, so you owe me.
You need to help me fix things with Deidra, Andy tossed out at her with
a heavy frown.
What I need is to tell you to take a hike because its not happening,
Diane snapped back at him placing her hands on her hips impatiently, so
you can just leave now.
Diane, youre going to help me, he reached out to grab her
arm only to feel a hand clasp over his wrist.
Maybe you werent listening Andy, but Diane told you to take a
hike, Bens voice interrupted in a sharp, abrasive tone. Now
I could call security and have them escort you to the elevators if youd
like or we can just leave it at this and you can go of your own free will.
Andy glared at Diane for a moment before relenting and taking a step back.
He glared over at Ben before nodding, I was just on my way out anyways.
Glad to hear it, Ben watched Andy walk over across the area and
into the elevator in his retreat. Once he was gone Ben turned to Diane again,
Hey, are you okay?
Yeah Im fine, Diane nodded reaching out to embrace him.
She placed her head in the center of his chest. He offered up a small squeeze
of his arms around her. Hes such a jerk.
Clearly, Ben pulled back enough to meet her eyes. He touched her
cheek gently before speaking up in a low voice, What did he want?
To remind me all over again of why I was stupid to ever believe he was
anything special, Diane groaned inwardly thinking about all Andy had
said to her. Hes so full of himself and when it gets down to it,
hes nothing.
If he tries to bother you again, Ben started only to feel her
tip up on her toes and silence him with a kiss.
Trust me Ben I appreciate your help, but Im not going to let him
bully me. Hes not that lucky to get that kind of power over me,
Diane assured him knowing full well that while Andy wanted to be threatening,
she wasnt about to let him intimidate her. If he thought he had any
chance of reuniting with Deidra, then he was even more misguided than Diane
had thought. Still she wasnt about to feed into his warped delusions
about how the future should be where Andy was concerned. He wasnt her
problem anymore.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Made it back just in time, Kellen smiled proudly quickly walking
up the sidewalk to see that Kipps car was still in the same place it
was before he left. Quietly he opened up the front door and slowly sneaked
in before closing the door behind himself. When he turned around again he
ran right into something making him let out a small gasp. My dear Kipp,
dont sneak up on people like that.
What in the world are you doing? Kipp questioned seeing Kellen
shrug his shoulders before walking over toward the couch and sitting down
slowly. Seeing Kipp follow him Kellen closed his eyes and put his hands behind
his head. Seriously, what in the world are you and Kyle up to?
Were not really up to anything, Kellen pointed out with
a small yawn as he reached out toward the remote to turn the television on.
Setting the remote back down Kellen looked down towards his tie and fixed
it slowly before shrugging his shoulders. Were just friends hanging
out--thats all.
Oh bull crap, Kipp snapped seeing Kellen turn to face him with
a shocked look on his face as Kipp shook his head slowly. Sitting down on
the other side of the couch, Kipps jaw clenched in anger as he thought
about the things that were going to take place in just a couple of hours Before
this Kyle couldnt even stand you, so whats the change? Whats
going on Kellen?
Oh okay, Kellen rolled his eyes sitting forward and letting out
a small excited laugh and rubbing his hands together. Looking over at Kipp
with his blue eyes he wiggled his eyebrows up and down before speaking up
again. What we have been doing is something important for the wedding.
Youll find out soon what it is.
You know, how can you take part in something like this? Kipp questioned
angrily standing up from the couch and throwing his hands up in the air as
he spoke up again. I cant believe that you are taking such a big
part in this wedding when you know Heather loves Kyle. I thought that Heather
was your best friend and you are doing this to her. You arent the Kellen
that I thought you were and
,
Hold on before you get your panties in a total twist, Kellen hushed
Kipp standing up from the couch and throwing his hands up in the air. You
need to realize that I am doing this for Heather and I need to say these in
words to you that are kind of small. Heather is going to get what she wants.
What are you talking about? Kipp questioned angrily before shaking
his head slowly and taking in a deep breath seeing the way Kellen placed his
finger over his mouth to hush Kipp. Why are you telling me to be quiet?
You know that Heather loves Kyle and
,
Kyle loves Heather, Kellen placed his hand over Kipps lips
firmly before shaking his head slowly. Seeing Kipps dark eyes widen
as Kellen shook his head motioning him to be quiet. I cant explain
to you fully whats going on, but trust me baby. Youre going to
love this.
I dont know what you and Kyle are up to, Kipp muttered seeing
Kellen walk over toward the corner of the room to pick up a bag and throw
it over his shoulder. I just hope that the both of you actually know
what you are doing.
Trust me honey, Kellen smirked patting the bag gently and wiggling
his eyebrows up and down. I think I know just exactly what Im
doing and Heather will be able to forgive Kyle and me. Trust me when I say
that.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
So tell me are there anymore surprises in store for us tonight?
Heather couldnt help but ask watching Chris walk across his kitchen
to pull some ice out of his freezer. She watched him wince as he used his
hip to close the door behind him.
Not that I know of, though I must admit when I wanted our date to be
action packed I never imagined that it would start off by me getting my butt
kicked so to speak, Chris admitted with a goofy grin doing his best
to try to pull some ice from the tray in front of him.
Let me help you, Heather suggested seeing the difficulty that
Chris was having with the tray. She walked over to him gently and pushed him
out of the way and brought her hands to the chilled tray. A tiny shiver raced
over her as she closed her eyes and found herself thinking back to another
place and time.
Let me do it Heather, she could hear Kyles voice in the
back of her mind, his breath whispering over her neck and causing a new set
of tremors over her. Shed closed her eyes and tipped her head back only
to feel his hands pressing in over hers.
Come on Heather, his low, sultry tone had urged, his fingers coaxing
her to let him do what shed set out to start when shed invited
him inside for some lemonade.
Im perfectly capable of getting ice out of a tray, shed
pouted tipping her head back ever so slightly only to feel him rest his chin
on her shoulder.
At least let me help you, Kyles fingers pressed in against
her wrist, his thumb brushing her pulse point as a ragged breath escaped her
lips.
I said I could do it, Heather spoke up in a faint, raspy tone,
her insides turning to mush at the smallest contact between them.
Im sure youre fully capable, but I would much rather we
do it together, Kyle urged her on, his finger tip sliding up under her
arm until his arm snaked around her waist. He stepped forward, the solid strength
of his body firm and inviting against her.
Maybe there is something to be said about my taking the lead for once,
shed mustered up the courage to speak, her words nearly as shaky as
she felt in his arms, yet shed tried to play the role of the temptress.
As it stands I think Ive already beat you to the punch on that,
Kyle challenged his palm pressing in over her abdomen before she felt his
thick fingers slide up underneath the front of her loose fitting t-shirt.
Kyle, she spoke his name ready to fall to pieces in his arms when
shed felt the first contact of the ice cube hed managed to steal
from the ice tray on her skin.
She squealed in surprise and yelped as she reached for the rest of the tray.
She held onto it tightly, spinning in his arms and bringing it down over his
head. The ice splattered all over the kitchen, but not before Kyle collected
her in his arms again, chuckling with delight at having caught her off guard.
Youre such a jerk, she swatted at his chest lightly, half
meaning it as he held her.
Jerk or not, you still love me, Kyle noted leaning in to press
his lips to hers in a slow, exploratory kiss--a kiss that to this day Heather
couldnt forget.
Hey Heather, Chris cleared his throat eyeing her expectantly as
he tapped on the counter top, I think the ice is melting already.
Oh right, Heather snapped out of her daze refusing to go back
to that time in her life when shed been hopelessly in lust for Kyle.
Yes, shed thought it to be love, but if it was love then he would have
been with her, not Sarah. They would be together and life wouldve been
very different. Instead she was here with Chris and Kyle was
Hey, are you okay, Chris touched her shoulder gently seeing the
way she appeared to be distracted. I know you werent planning
on Kevin coming around and using me as a human punching bag, but I can assure
you that even with the bumps and bruises Im still ready for our date.
Its not that
she replied feeling a blush rise over
her features, I mean yes I was surprised to see you and Kevin fighting
come
to think of it what was that about exactly?
A misunderstanding, but I can assure you I wont let one like that
happen again, Chris smiled at her confidently though his words were
a bit more shaky than Heather was sure hed intended. Kevin wont
be a problem for our dinner tonight or anyone else for that matter, so why
dont I make us a couple of drinks first so that we can relax and enjoy
this evening ahead of us?
Yeah sure, Heather sighed glancing out into Chriss yard
thinking about how long shed waited to find this life that she was in.
Shed worked hard to pull herself up from the bottom where shed
been stuck for so very long and now that she had achieved that, she had been
hoping that life would be perfect. She knew how to play the game and play
it well, but then Kyle entered her life again and changed all the rules. He
had managed to turn her world upside down and make her see things that she
hadnt wanted to see.
You know I dont get it, Chris beckoned her once again. He
took a step towards her holding out the glass of wine hed obviously
poured for her, I mean here you are with me, yet I feel like youre
millions of miles away. What gives?
I guess you could say Im thinking about the past, Heather
sighed openly her thoughts returning to Kyle once again, I mean I dont
get how someone could have absolutely everything in front of them, yet they
dont get it. I mean how could he not see what we have with one another?
How could he not know how important our being together is?
Im not following, Chris replied with a strange expression,
Heather whats going on?
I just dont see why Kyle is going to marry Sarah today when its
obvious that they so arent right for one another, she shook her
head adamantly. I mean he wouldnt have kissed me if he didnt
love me, right? He wouldnt have been around me like hes been flirting
and teasing and
Did you just say kissed? Chriss eyes widened at her remark.
It wasnt just the kissing. It was the way that he made me feel
the
way I wanted to believe that there was something there. I thought he believed
it too, but instead of doing what I thought he would hes decided hes
just going to throw all that away and marry her. Her of all people! I mean
what is it about me and men? Why cant I just have the one Im interested
in finally just be interested in me? I mean I thought the interest was there,
but
Um Heather can we back up to that whole kiss thing? Chris blurted
out still surprised by what hed heard. Are you saying that you
and Kyle
?
I really tried not to fall for him again especially now of all times,
but it just sort of happened. There he was and here I am. We just kind of
got back into the old routine and
Heather shook her head adamantly.
I cant believe that Im letting this happen. I cant
believe that Im resorting back to the whole teenage logic where Kyle
is concerned. He doesnt love me. Hes not going to be with me.
He wants to be with Sarah because hes marrying her, not me and
And I think you had better slow down, Chris placed his hands on
her arms to bring her back to the here and now, maybe you should start
by telling me everything from the beginning.
Thats a story I really dont want to get into considering
that it is irrelevant considering that the beginning wont change the
outcome. It wont change how this ends or the fact that Kyle is going
to spend the rest of his life with Sarah and not me. He obviously has committed
himself to doing what he thinks is right with her
she sighed heavily.
And what about you? Chris arched a curious brow, What have
you committed yourself to Heather?
Being miserable, she groaned outwardly, It seems to be what
Im good at now a days. Besides, its fate. Its what I get
for not following my instincts all those years ago.
Um I hate to state the obvious here, but we make our own fate. We can
choose to take what life gives us or we can take what we have and work the
situation in our favor, Chris offered up encouragingly, The way
I see it you can mope about whats happening or you can actually stand
up and find a way to take charge of your life. You have to ask yourself what
it is that you want and how youre going to reach out and claim it making
it yours.
What I want
what I need
she stood up taller before
letting out a defeated breath, is Kyle.
Well then, Chris leaned in against his countertop eyeing her expectantly,
if thats really how you feel then why in the world are you planning
to go out on a date with me when its clear your mind and your heart
is focused on Kyle Houston?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
This is going to work, Kyle muttered as he looked at himself
in the mirror and rubbed at his cheek slowly thinking of how he was going
to approach everything. Taking in a deep breath Kyle walked back over toward
the corner of the room and sat down in the chair. You have to be able
to do this Kyle, come on.
Closing his eyes Kyle thought about his life and how much he had thought he
loved Sarah not long ago, but his new found love in Heather made him look
at everything differently.
This is ridiculous, Kyle whispered to himself trying to talk his
body down from getting any more nervous as he looked over toward the clock.
You can do this, you cant worry about whats going to happen.
Just try and go through with this.
Thinking back to a point in his life Kyle realized that the person he always
dreamed of being with the most was Heather and she was the one he always thought
he would end up with.
This is nice, Heather muttered staring out at the water as
she felt Kyle wrap his arms around her waist tightly and she rested her head
back against his chest. When you said vacation, I never thought you
meant a place like this. I dont know how I can pay your parents back.
Just you being with us was a big enough pay off, Kyle whispered
pressing a small kiss against her cheek, feeling her fingers moving in over
his as he grasped onto them tightly. You have nothing to owe us when
we wanted you here.
I know you say that, but I just cant help feeling bad, she
whispered turning around to face him as she looked up into his hazel eyes.
Reaching out to touch his face she saw him smile and grab a hold of her hand
gently. I just felt like I dont belong. I keep thinking about
what it will be like when I get back home.
You will be okay when you get back home, Kyle hushed her caressing
her cheek with his thumb gently as he moved forward and pressed his forehead
up against hers gently. I will be there to help you out so you have
nothing to worry about.
Alright, she nodded not knowing what else to say as she saw him
smile and motion her to sit down with him as he sat down on the ground. Pulling
her into his arms he felt her head rest against his chest as he wrapped his
arms around her chest. I like it here.
I figured you might, Kyle stated with a small smile as he looked
out at the ocean as the waves moved in closer to them. These have always
been kind of my favorite spots. Not like beaches or anything, but places where
its quiet. Places where you can think.
I like places like that, Heather smirked looking back at him and
seeing him smile. Feeling his fingers tighten around hers she looked back
out toward the ocean. Do you think about your future?
All the time, Kyle smirked running his free fingers through her
blonde hair slowly before feeling her move in closer to his chest. I
think about it every time I have the chance to.
What do you see? she bit down on her bottom lip and felt him rest
his chin against her shoulder. Looking over at him she smiled seeing his hazel
eyes focus in over her. Better yet--who do you see?
I see you, Kyle answered moving forward to press a small kiss
in over her lips as he felt her fingers move in through his short hair and
he smiled. I hope you feel the same way.
Youre the only man I can imagine myself with, she replied
seeing him smile and stand up slowly before motioning her to get up with him.
Grabbing a hold of her hands he helped her up and pulled her in closer to
him caressing the side of her face gently. Youre the only person
I want to be with.
Then, I guess were settled, he pressed another small kiss
against her lips before pushing back some of her blonde hair. Feeling the
water hit their feet Kyle let out a small laugh and nodded back over toward
their vacation house where his parents were out on the deck. Lets get
back before it gets too cold, I dont want my future wife to get sick
on me.
My future, Kyle nodded not quite knowing what to think as he stood
up from the chair and walked back over toward the mirror again looking himself
over. Pulling the velvet box out of his pocket he opened the box and looked
over what was inside before smiling. Its now or never.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
...to be continued...